Kingdom: Long Live the Princess, Blueblood Style!

[Forum Explorer]

Princess Celestia; Exarch of the Sun, Commander in Chief of the Pegasi, Monarch of the Unicorns, Supreme Chancellor of the Earth Ponies, Destroyer of Evil, and Protector of all Equines has finally died at the ripe age of 104 years old.

A wondrous mare, Princess Celestia appeared with her sister Princess Luna during the Reign of Discord, striking down the foul abomination, and sealing it in stone for all time. From there, she unified Equestria becoming the first leader to rule over all three pony tribes. Sadly that was not her last foe, as she later had to fight Tirek the Soulstealer, King Sombra of the North, Grogar the Necromancer, The Almighty Crackle the Dragon, and finally her own corrupted sister, Nightmare Moon. One and all she triumphed over these foes, and ensured that the ponies of Equestria lived peacefully.

Her victories were not only military in nature, but also on the political field. She formed alliances and trade pacts with every major neighboring nation, bringing in wealth and culture from all over the world. The establishment of her school, Celestia's School for Gifted Unicorns, promises to invent wondrous new spells. Even entire new towns were built at her command.

Despite all of this work, Princess Celestia remained an amazing pony to know. Countless individuals can attest to her compassion, grace, and beauty. Her sense of mercy was legendary, and her wisdom unparalleled. Her merest presence could inspire ponies to not only to do their best but to be better ponies as well. She was always willing to help, and whenever she could she would visit the poor and unlucky of our kingdom to give them a helping hoof in person.

Yes, Princess Celestia was truly a pony paragon, and the entire world is poorer for her absence. She left behind her a strong nation, rebuilt from the ashes of Chaos itself. The question is, can her successor continue what Princess Celestia started, or has the Equestrian Golden Age finally come to a close?

IMPORTANT RECORDS KEEPING POST
Check this often once play starts

GROUP TWO:
Dawn of a New Era (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=17632919&postcount=173) - Power
General Firefly (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=17627960&postcount=131) - Perspective
Prince Blueblood II (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=17629394&postcount=147) - Power
Fajer Al-Saddle (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=17626456&postcount=116) - Touchstone
Mutton Chop (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=17656175&postcount=305) - Touchstone


Crossroads
Will Equestria stay united?
[X][X][X][_]

Yes
Prediction: If Equestria stays united, the Pegasi will seek to limit the power the throne has.
Prediction: If Equestria stays united the unicorns will take their position for granted.
Prediction: If Equestria stays united there will be a bitter rivalry between the E.U.P. and the 'provincial' militaries (IE, the unicorn knightly orders, and the earth pony militia)
Prediction: The E.U.P. will have to fight against dragons if Equestria stays united.
Prediction: Equestria's military is prepared for a crisis after Firefly's reforms.
Prediction: If Equestria stays united unarmed combat will replace duels as a method of settling disputes
If Equestria is united, it's legal system will be a combined mess of three different systems, full of loopholes and even contradictions.
Prediction: Tribalism (AKA racism between pony tribes) will be a serious problem if Equestria stays united.
Prediction: If Equestria stays united, ponies from all tribes will settle new lands.
Prediction: If Equestria is united then Ponyville will become a hub of foreign cultures.
Prediction: If Equestria stays united, Donkeys will be even rarer and more marginalized outside of the new nation they've formed (think Ponyville's reaction to Zecora)



No
Prediction: If Equestria does NOT stay united, the unicorns will face severe economic troubles.
Prediction: If Equestria does NOT stay united Equestria will be attacked by opportunists who think the disunity is a sign of weakness.
Prediction: If Equestria does Not stay united the Crystal Pony Refugees will be absorbed into the other three tribes and their culture will die out.
Prediction: The donkeys will need to raid Equestria in order to survive if Equestria does not stay united.

Side Things:
The new donkey nation will not prove to be a profitable investment.




Crisis
[X][X][_][_][_]




Time Passes
[X][X][X][_]




SCENE:

Amish Pirate >XX
Pokonic >XX
Forum Explorer >X
Balmas > XX

CROSSROADS:

Amish Pirate >
Pokonic >
Forum Explorer >
Balmas >

[TheAmishPirate]

Location: Throne Room

The wedding of the pegasi nobles Autumn Breeze and Rumbling Thunderhead was all anypony could talk about. Or more accurately, their postponed wedding.

On the day they were to be wed, Autumn Breeze mysteriously vanished from her family estate. The wedding party turned into an impromptu search party, and after a day of harrowing chases she was discovered near the Equestria/Griffon borders; cloaked, disguised, and in the company of one Gadwyn Blackbeak (http://equestria-prevails.deviantart.com/art/Craggy-Eyries-428692963). Or as he was better known in the Griffon Kingdom, Captain Blackbeak. The two had stolen away in the night, intending to elope across the border and leave Equestria behind. Autumn Breeze was taken back to her family, placed under close guard, and her wedding with Thundhead was rescheduled. Blackbeak, on the other hoof, was arrested on charges of trespassing, kidnapping, and espionage, and thrown into prison.

Needless to say, the Griffon Kingdom was not pleased with this turn of events.

"You had no right to arrest him, and you have no right to keep him here in chains!"

A fact their delegation was all too eager to voice.

"And you have no right to steal away our mares!"

And a fact the pegasi delegation was all too eager to dispute.

Mutton Chop moved to get between the throne and the quarreling parties. No harm would come to Dawn on his watch. He fixed both groups with a fierce glower - though his gaze lingered on the griffons noticeably longer - and awaited an order from his Princess.

[Forum Explorer]

Firefly laughed as she floated down from her spot above the throne. Do you truly think that anypony could 'steal' a pegasus mare of Autumn's rank away without injury? The only scraps Blackbeak has are those your bounty hunters inflicted.

"He's guilty of seducing her! He used trickery and his wiles to make her abandon her duty!"

That isn't a crime Major Power. You just don't want to admit to the fact that your golden girl Autumn dishonored herself and her entire clan in the eyes Thunderhead and his clan. You can't erase dishonor with further dishonor Major. I recommend admitting to the truth right away.

"Bah! If that was true then she could have challenged the clan's decision to an honorable duel. No, it's clear that Autumn was not in her right mind to abandon her responsibilities like that. Blackbeak could have used any manner of techniques to force Autumn to come along with him. Clearly for espinoge reasons, as how could a brutish griffon ever love a pegasus?" he said, getting another round of howls and threats from the griffon delegation.

And if that's the case I'm sure the Royal Guard will find evidence of it. And I notice that you don't have Autumn here, decrying Blackbeak. Where is our not-blushing bride? Bring her forward and let's hear her explanation of what happened.

"She's not in her right mind," Major Power sniffed, getting an eyeroll from Firefly.

[Pokonic]

Fajer's first pony wedding attendance, apparently, was going to be a memorable one.

He was wearing his best clothing and had brought five of his more prestigious fellows with him, each dressed fully in a different color that was a sort of advertisement for the dyes that were taking up space in his new, drafty, home.

He wasn't too keen on how the Pegusus general was acting, and her general dismissiveness of the whole ordeal set in front of him. He wasn't one to complain about unwanted marriages, given that he wasn't married and had no plans on being so, but it struck him odd that it seemed like the bride's clan was almost more upset at her than her apparent fiancée. Even back home, there was a certain amount of agreement that, when two are supposed to live together forever, they should at least be able to at least tolerate one another.

It seemed quite clear to him that, if anything, the Griffons were on the right in at least letting this Blackbeak fellow free. Fajer wondered if this very same conversation would be happening if this fellow was one of those earth pony mercenaries, or, say, a donkey.

....

But, he was content in standing off near a corner and sipping at a fruity little drink that he was growing fond of, and keeping quiet, along with his companions.

[Balmas]

Prince Blueblood the Second, duke of Cantermotte, the power behind the throne, and Heir to the Lunar throne, stared disdainfully around the throne room at those assembled in it. Notably, he scuffed his hoof where the red velvet carpet failed to completely cover the marks of the other throne. The one that ponies strove so hard to forget.

The power behind the throne. Blueblood huffed, and tossed his mane.

"What evidence do you bring before the Combined Court that any of these obvious mind-affecting techniques happened?"

The two pegasi bristled. "Is it not enough that she fled her home?"

"An understandable response to being married off," the blue unicorn sniffed. "If she is truly under the influence of mind magic--an impressive feat for a griffon-- then let her be examined for such. Or call a physician to check for poison. But do not come before the Combined Court with nothing and charge our valuable allies with crimes that are grievous to bear. Your own general has proposed a fair test, do you not think?"

[Forum Explorer]

Major Power bristled, but the other pegasus, interrupted him with an upraised hoof.

"A love poison is easy enough to craft, so much so an unmarked foal could do so. I imagine a skilled alchemist could expand on the formula," she said politely to Blueblood. "Perhaps you unicorns can find a solution, I hope so. For now though, we are trying to keep her isolated in hopes that she will come to her senses." She turned to General Firefly and spoke once more

"Madam, surely you think Autumn's behavior odd? She gave us no hint of her intentions, and didn't even leave a letter behind to explain her actions. And do not forget the importance of the alliance between her and Thunderhead. It will be the final touches on Princess Celestia's efforts to end the feud between the two clans. And Autumn was a shining example of our clan, even if she did love this Blackbeak, she wouldn't put her own interests above that of the clan's."

Perhaps. Love makes ponies do strange things however. And it wouldn't be the first time that a bride has gotten cold wings right before a marriage. Particularly if her heart was set on another. Perhaps she merely intended to disappear for long enough for the clan to arrange a new marriage for Thunderhead, thus sparing her heart and the clan's honor.

"And perhaps it was all a ploy by Discord! If she was truly opposed to the marriage she could have challenged the decision by combat as an honorable pegasus should!" Major Power bellowed, only to be silenced by a glare from Firefly.

You and I both know that she wouldn't have stood a chance in a duel. She would have had to challenge you, and despite her youth, you vastly outclass her in one on one combat.

[Balmas]

"A love potion is even simpler to detect than it is to brew," Blueblood scoffed. "If one or the other took it, they'd not have gotten out of the county for their fawning over each other, never mind the country. I trust that it has been more than an hour since the two were separated? If so, then her words are her own. Much would be resolved by letting her speak for herself."

[Pokonic]

Fajer looked on at this talk of love potions and clans, sighed, took another drink. After a few moments, he saw that he was being motioned over by the single pony in his retinue at the moment, the one who was currently his assigned 'guide' within pony culture.

This guide is named Lucid Lance, and she was once the highest ranking non-commissioned earth pony officer within the EUP, serving as the Sergeant-Major of the united ground forces and the general equivalents to several of said existing ground forces. She was known for making up every fierce moment of battle she participated in with long bouts of sleeping and long naps, which might have been the main reason for her not getting promoted; out of the military, this has translated to her getting a repute for laziness and slow-mindedness. When she retired after several years of service, mostly served on the field of battle, she got a nice pension and modicum of respect.

This easy-going personality and relative middling status made her a optimal choice to be Fajer's 'handler', per say, and it was assumed that she wouldn't object to this relatively important task, given her years of relative inactivity.

These ponies were right, for the wrong reasons. Lucid could care less about the prestige associated with serving as some horses overseer; she simply found being around a friendly face who didn't see her as a walking pile of medals. She didn't especially like the military and she didn't especially like being caught up in the general hubbub of court life; sitting around in dark rooms and smoking that funny stuff Fajer brought with him suited her just fine.

Her hair was a dark purple and her mane was a light blue-green, and the ornamental armor she was wearing was dyed accordingly, the vibrant hues enchanted into the metal. When Fajer walked near her, he noticed that she looked slightly worried, or perhaps simply pained; but, truly, this was her default expression and did not betray any of her true feelings at the moment.

"You know better than to get into this mess, right?" she flatly stated, staring up at the stallion without a hint of humor.

Fajer blinked.

"Do you take me for a fool?"

The mare shook her head.

"Nope."

Lucid paused for a few seconds, giving the gathered griffons a quick glance.

"Hey, can I finish that?"

Fajer noticed that she was pointing to the drink he was cradling in his hooves, still halfway full and rimmed with a sugar that was a little expensive for even his coffers, and blinked.

"I suppose?"

Lucid giggled.

"You're the best horse ever!" she said, taking the glass away from Fajer, who was still somewhat concerned about the proceedings at hand.

[TheAmishPirate]

"Oh, she's made her mind quite clear." Major Powers bristled. "She has every intention of fleeing Equestria with this Griffon, and taking with her not only years of cloud-combat expertise, but the hopes and fortunes of Clan Breeze with her! As the eldest of her family, she has a responsibility to see to her clan's future, not to throw it all away on the words of a Griffon princeling."

"And what about Thunderhead?" Mutton Chop whispered to Dawn, not realizing that voices carried far in the throne room. "I bet he loved her at least as much as that griffon. Are we really going to give his bride to the Griffons and tell him 'Better luck next time?'"

"At last, a pony with some sense," Major Power muttered none too quietly.

[Forum Explorer]

"Like I was saying Prince, the basic love poison is easy to make. Making an improved version, perhaps an actual love potion might very well be the reason for Autumn's abnormal behavior."

Regardless, the accused do have a right to speak in their defense. If you refuse to produce Autumn Breeze, then bring Blackbeak here, and let us hear his portrayal of events.

"I wouldn't want to waste the time of-"

That was an order, Major. Firefly said harshly, cutting off the Major's words.

"Yes, General." Major Power said, saluting, before sending off a pegasus courier with Firefly's orders.

[Exuno]

The dynast of Equestria sat on her throne, quietly observing the arguments brought forth. Her gaze shifted between speakers, all the while maintaining a facade of perfect neutrality.

When the voices died down for a moment, as they waited for a guard to return with Blackbeak, she took the opportunity to speak. "Before we get into the tall tales of our witnesses, let me ask you something." She glanced between both groups of delegates in the room. "Do you even disagree?"

Before Major Power was able to raise an indignant objection, Dawn cleared her throat and continued. "The crux of this issue is simple. Captain Blackbeak stole into Equestrian territory, and left with one of our citizens. Whether or not Miss Breeze was a willing accomplice to this crime is immaterial."

She settled her focus on the griffon in the room, who had been remaining suspiciously silent. "Ambassador Gabrielle. Do you contest that a griffon citizen entered our borders without permission, unsupervised?" There was a brief pause as she racked her brain for legal details, "Under the most recent revision of the Griffon-Equestrian border treaties, I believe we are fully within our rights to arrest and detain trespassers, until their release to be prosecuted under Griffon law. I will endeavor to have that happen as quickly as possible – He is supposedly on his way as we speak." A small, self-amused smile flirted on Dawn's lips for just a moment.

"That said," she started, returning to her unaffected, authorative tone of voice, "there is no reason to believe that Blackbeak acted under anything but his own volition." Though her focus stayed on the ambassador, it was clear her words were intended for a different audience. "I am confident that his sentencing, as a soldier illegally entering foreign territory without orders, will me more than sufficient to prove this."

Closing her eyes, and beginning again to speak to nopony in particular, she finished, "What I see here is not the spark of an international incident, but simply a pair of young, lovestruck fools, who should be admonished individually for failing to understand their duty and station. Does anypon—" she hesitated, a bit of self-rebuke evident in her face, "anyone disagree with this?"

[TheAmishPirate]

(Goin' with the flowwwwwww)

The griffons looked among themselves, before sharing a silent nod. "No disagreements, your highness," Ambassador Gabrille responded, stiff and curt.

The pegasi, however, recoiled in surprise. Before Major Powers could get a word in, a shale grey pegasus spoke out. "Your majesty, you can't just let him go with a slap on the wing!"

"Thunderhead-!" Major Powers hissed, but it was too late.

"This griffon wrongly infiltrated our lands, and seduced my bride! Would we be so lenient if he made off with our heirlooms? Or the fine silver? Why are we treating a living, breathing mare like she's less than property?! Maybe the law is silent here, but the law can be changed. And it should!" He bowed low to the throne. "Please your Majesty, reconsider; treat this crime with the severity it deserves, and prevent this from ever happening again."

He's got a good point, Mutton thought to himself. She didn't even leave a note or anything; I'd be crushed if that happened to anypony I knew.

[Balmas]

"Except, Major,"--somehow, Blueblood managed to fit more disdain into those syllables than he usually did for the word 'peasant'--"the crimes you've had him arrested for were trespassing, kidnapping, and treason. In the absence of any evidence for the last two, it would seem to be a simple matter of spurious accusations starting an international incident. Let us hear evidence from the accused, and if they be guilty, they will be tried for the crimes they committed, if any. And if we may make a suggestion, a talking to would be more in order than appealing to the Combined Court."

[Pokonic]

The horse and pony looked at the show unfolding in front of them. Fajer wasn't normally this eager to stay out of the limelight, but he couldn't figure a reason as to how he could interject to one of the parties.

"How do you think this will end?'" he said quietly, somewhat amused.

"The last time something like this happened, I think the couple got sent out to a little guardpost out near the Everfree, just the two of them." Lucid replied, licking at the sugar crystals around the rim of he glass with a ferocity that belayed that she was probably hungry.

"I meant the griffons." Fajer said, slightly concerned about the earth ponies less-than appropriate behavior.

"Oh, them? Badly."

[Forum Explorer]

"Trespassing, kidnapping, and espionage, Prince. Treason doesn't factor into it. And Autumn is the victim here, and doesn't deserve any punishment as a result." Major Powers snapped back.

Only if your accusations against Blackbeak are true. And if they aren't then Blackbeak isn't guilty of much besides entering the country illegally. In fact the majority of the dishonor would fall on the Autumn and the Breeze Clan.

On that note, Thunderhead the reason why Blackbeak might just get a 'slap on the wing' as you put it, it because if Autumn truly abandoned her duty then the fault is hers, and Blackbeak's only crime is his illegal entry, a minor crime that has barely been enforced for the last few decades. Blackbeak would have to have compelled Autumn either magically or physically.

Regardless, Prince Blueblood, we've moved far past verbal punishment at this point. If Autumn is guilty, then she will certainly be demoted, perhaps even disowned for her actions. The Breeze Clan as well would suffer, as nopony would trust them, not only for failing to raise Autumn properly, but for trying to conceal her shame. It's very likely that the alliance with the Storm Clan would fall through entirely.

[TheAmishPirate]

One of the Royal Guard waved Mutton Chop over; Blackbeak was ready to be moved to the throne room, and everypony would feel a lot safer if the Timberwolf's Bane was there to keep an eye on him. Bowing to the throne, he excused himself and headed for the holding cells.

Minutes later, Blackbeak was escorted into the throne room surrounded by Mutton and his finest guardsponies. Assigning so many ponies to guard one griffon - with his wings bound, talons gloved, legs in cuffs, and a sizable bruise darkening his headfeathers - might have been an over-precaution. But Blackbeak was no whimpering captive to be thrown at the Princess' hooves. He was a prince, a ranking officer in the Griffon Kingdom, and he did not bow his head lightly. He stood before Dawn defiantly, strong and proud even after making the guards march double-time to match his pace.

Mutton Chop wished dearly for the chance to teach this griffon some respect.

"Captain Blackbeak." The griffon ambassador started. "You are accused of espionoge, kidnapping, and tresspassing. You were caught in the act of tresspassing, but did you commit these other crimes?"

"No." he answered curtly.

"Have you any change you wish to make to your testimony?"

"No."

"And you still stand by it?"

"Yes."

"The pony Autumn Breeze says that she masterminded the plan. Yet you say the same."

"Then she is lying."

"Have you any proof of this?"

"No."

The ambassador shrugged and shook her head. "Your majesty, the testimony speaks for itself. Apart from a few minor discrepancies, Captain Blackbeak has done nothing wrong save for a minor infraction of tresspassing. You may return him to the Griffon Kingdom, and I promise we will prosecute him to the fullest extent of our law-"

"Horsefeathers!" Thunderhead interjected, marching in front of the prisoner but well away from his biting beak. "I have a question for our guest. And need I remind you, griffon, that you stand before a Princess. Now tell us; if you got the chance to try again, would you come back for Autumn Breeze?"

Blackbeak stared down at the pony, the corner of his beak dropping into a contemptuous frown. "I have sworn to speak honestly. How can I speak honestly on events that are yet to pass? I cannot answer your question."

"See?!" Thunderhead cried accusingly. "He won't answer! If we let him go, your Majesty, he'll just come back and try it all again. Am I going to have to live the rest of my married life wondering when a mad griffon is going to burst through the window to steal away my wife? You must take action now!"

Blackbeak started to mutter something underneath his breath, only for Mutton to prod him none-too-gently. "Shut it, Turkey. " he snapped. Completely heedless to the Griffon Ambassador standing not ten paces away, who was now staring daggers at the Captain of the Royal Guard.

[Forum Explorer]

Blackbeak, if you try to sneak into Equestria again, we will respond much more severely and ensure that you don't try again.

Thunderhead, I don't think we're in the habit of punishing anyone for something they might do. And I'd be more worried about your 'wife' flying away then Blackbeak stealing her.

[Exuno]

"Mutton." The monarch spoke flatly, not even bothering to face her attendant and brother. "We are not in the habit of insulting our guests; prisoners or not. I expect better of you."

She instead focused her eyes on the young pegasus pleading with her. "Rumbling Thunderhead." You're an idiot. "I, as well as our gracious Ambassador, assure you that the accused will not be entering Equestria, legally or otherwise, for the rest of his natural life. If such an event occurs, there will be consequences, and for more than just him." Dawn panned her gaze across the room as she spoke such, paying particular attention to the Griffons and the present General, before settling on the prisoner.

"Captain Blackbeak. I am disappointed in your conduct. To allow modest affairs of the heart to interfere with your responsibilities. To endanger not only yourself, but the relationships of the Pegasi, and even those between our countries. Have you no pride as a soldier?" Dawn coldly glared at the griffon watching for signs of remorse. After a refined sigh, she spoke again. "I hereby release you into the custody of the Griffon delegation. May Justice be swift, and fair."

[Balmas]

Blueblood nodded, hiding well his miffed expression. "The Combined Court finds Blackbeak innocent of the charges of kidnapping and espionage. For the crime of trespassing, we banish him from our lands, and turn him over to the Griffon delegation to treat as they see fit."

The blue unicorn turned his yellow eyes on the pegasi in his throne room. "What's more, as we wouldn't want any unpleasant rumors to start spreading, we will be examining Autumn Breeze for any traces of mind control, whether it be potion, magic, or force-induced, and the results will be given to both houses." Let the two pegasi stew on that. And maybe a few doctors could be bribed into releasing statements for the press.

[TheAmishPirate]

Mutton shrank back as if Dawn had struck him across the face. What in Tartarus was that for?! All he wanted was for the lousy griffon to show the Princess her rightful respect. Didn't she want her rightful respect? "...I'm sorry, your Majesty," he replied with a frown, refusing to look at any of the griffons.

Blackbeak stood as he had throughout the whole sentencing; tall, proud, and completely unrepentant. If he was upset at his expulsion from Equestria, he didn't show it. Nor did he harrass any of the guards removing his manacles and bindings, though his gaze lingered uncomfortably long on Mutton Chop's torn ear. Silently, he walked over to stand among his kin.

Ambassador Gabrielle clasped a clenched talon across her chest in a griffon salute. "We understand, your majesty. Captain Blackbeak will be given a fair trial and just punishment in his rightful home. We thank you for finally putting a stop to this wild turkey chase," she glared disparagingly at Mutton Chop. "And we pray the rest of your reign be long and free of trouble." With that, the griffons all filed out.

As for the pegasi, they didn't relax until the last tailfeather was out the door. "Don't bother yourself on our account," Thunderhead said to Blueblood wryly. "You've done more than enough for our houses already." He took off hovering in a single flap, giving Dawn the slightest of bows. "Your majesty; I hope for all our sakes that you're right. Now if you'll excuse me, I have a life to salvage." He and the rest of the pegasi flew out, pointedly ignoring Firefly's commentary on his home life.

The trial was over, and Equestria was not at war.

Mission accomplished?

[Scene end. Reflections start!]

[Forum Explorer]

Firefly sighs and drops down, letting her wings sag. I'm afraid you likely bought yourself some trouble their your Highness. The pegasi have only learned the lesson that you won't side with them.

Prediction: If Equestria stays united, the Pegasi will seek to limit the power the throne has.

[Balmas]

"We think not," Blueblood said. "What they may take away is that the crown seeks only truth and justice. Those who have nothing to hide need fear not in our presence, while those who would drag others through the mud in order to hide their stains shall be swiftly treated accordingly."

Challenge.

[Forum Explorer]

They learned that we are more concerned about the law then about what they consider to be a just punishment. If they felt Blackbeak was innocent they wouldn't have brought him here in the first place.

Rejected.

[Pokonic]

Fajer, as he watched on the as the ponies argued amongst themselves, felt slightly ill at ease. He was no stranger to issues between large defined tribal groups, but those within the area he once had sway over at least had the same general cultural identity. In Equestria, it seemed, the ponies were quite content with picking at each other's cultural quirks, as apposed to try to reform some of the more clashing issues within the system. The earth-ponies each other for love, it seemed, but the unicorns married into families for alliances. Both of those seemed perfectly reasonable to him, but it seemed apparent that the pegusi 'clans' married into each other only for the sake of alliances, with the feelings of the couple negligible in actual betrothal. Going by how his companion dismissed the whole issue behind the wedding's failure, it seemed as if most of the ponies who truly cared about the pegasus mare's dalliance were arguing in the room.


Touchstone: Most unicorns and earth ponies believe that this botched wedding to be rather hysterical, both the bride running off with a griffon and the denial of the obvious by the two clans. Some are somewhat concerned for the safety of Autumn, while others might question the integrity of the groom. Regardless, most pegusi find the whole situation extremely embarrassing, and believe that Blackbeak employed some magic in his wooing of Autumn.

[Balmas]

Blueblood sighed, walking towards the windows against the back of the throne room. (Glass. Very expensive stuff.) His kingdom needed him, and he needed his kingdom. Even if the feather dusters didn't want to be part of it. "So be it."

[Exuno]

Dawn sat quietly, giving a courteous bow of the head to each emissary as they left. One issue resolved for today. Onto the next, then.

"Next on the schedule was... the Cantermotte Education Committee, I believe? Please inform them I am ready to see them," she said to the guards stationed at the room's entrance.

[TheAmishPirate]

Mutton Chop marched back to his place by the throne, tail between his legs. He called in the next guest like he was asked, but not even the familiarity of orders helped sooth his spirits. He thought he'd been doing such a good job, and yet Dawn wouldn't even look at him she was so disappointed. Mother never got that cross when she used to scold him. And she always listened to ponies first and the rules second. And she always got her respect in the end.

What else was going to change, he wondered? And would there finally be one that he liked?

[Checking a box in Time Passes. Using Touchstone ability to check a box towards Crisis as well.]

[Pokonic]

Scene 2

Location: Castle Redmane

Parties are a universal topic in much of the world.

Usually, there's some amount of dancing and laughter, with a abundance of food and drink being bonuses. In old times, parties and festivals were a way for a community to get together, to enjoy the fact that they were still alive. This general principle can be found everywhere in the world, from antelopes to zebras. Parties are great.

The biggest party occurring in Canterlot, at this moment, is occurring in what was once a unicorn fortress, now converted into the home of what might be one of the richest equines in the country at the moment.

Describing the smells of what was cooking and the sounds of the music being played at the moment would be great and all, but the person who threw this party is not present at all, nor are any of the really important ponies in the kingdom, so describing it is moderately pointless.

There is a chocolate elephant involved, though.

In all, this party, for all it's glory, serves only as a mask for the issues at hand. While the non-ponies who arrived less than two weeks time were making merry and having good fun with the ponies and vice versa, the actual host and the guests of honor were in a sequestered room in the castle, one that happened to be magically soundproofed.

In reality, the grand event outside that was currently making the Grand Galloping Galla resemble a small get-together between friends was, in all likelihood, incredibly illegal, as was the actual presence of the Saddle prince. The arrival of a large foreign party in Equestria, one known for taking over large parts of other countries, shortly after the death of Celestia is hardly a stain that will go away any time soon, and the actual inhabitation of the castle was never actually approved.

One queen, three princes, a general and a middling ex-military mare were in a small velvety room, one which currently had a table that contained a few various documents on it, some of them very old.

Today was a day that might determine if the host of this party would get punted off Cantermotte.

[Forum Explorer]

Why am I here again? Firefly grumbled as she stared at her drink like is was a poisonous animal.

[TheAmishPirate]

"Why are we here again?" Mutton echoed the question. "Celestia already said Fajeer and his horses were welcome here. And everypony else agrees with her." He paused, letting the dulled rumble of the outside festivities sink in. "Nopony's complaining, everypony's happy, what's the big problem? It's not like we were using this castle for anything anyway. It's been empty since the unicorns got tired of it and moved out." The earth pony shrugged.

[Balmas]

Blueblood stared at his drink like it was an animal waiting to bite him. A '23 merlot, he judged. It was probably not worthy to grace his lips with its foul filth, but it was also given freely. "Not empty," he corrected. "Being prepared. My compliments on a party that the common folk will be talking about for days, by the way."

[Pokonic]

Fajeer sipped at his own drink, a concoction he had grown fond of since he arrived. He gave Bluebood a appreciative nod, but frowned when the other prince spoke up.

"I would prefer to establish some loose ends regarding my stay here, given that it will be permanent, as well as some ground rules regarding how much I am allowed to interact with the government's working." he said simply, before turning back to Blueblood, a smirk forming on his lips.

"And I would not say that only the commoners will be talking about it. I do believe I saw some of your followers dancing, Prince."

While the horse contently sipped on his drink, his Lucid Lance spoke up, sounding a little inebriated and pointing a hoof at Firefly.

"You were five minutes away from calling in a hurricane on a thousand pon...do...horsies when he arrived, and you're telling me you don't know why your here?" the mare demanded, sounding pleased that she could call out her former boss.

She paused for a few moments, face scrunched in thought, before sitting straight up, in a mockery of military precision.

"An't that right, Mutton Chop?" she said, actually elbowing Fajer in the shin without actually noticing she was prodding the wrong equine, "You almost became a wet dog."

Fajer, slowly, shook his head is disbelief, and scooted a bit away from the drunken pony.

[Exuno]

Dawn sat, regally as ever, nothing but a glass of water in front of her. She listened closely to their host, waiting for him to say something significant, then frowned. Lucid's comments failed to even register a response.

"That sounds... presumptuous," she said. "You have as much right to interact with the government as any other private citizen. Are you under the impression you have more, or less?" Dawn paused, and downed the rest of her water, taking a moment to think. "I appreciate the festivities," she lied, "but they will do you no good in currying favor, nor were they a necessary action, if either those you believed. My mother gave her approval, and Equestria believes in Harmony between all the nations of our world. You are not unwelcome here," she poorly demonstrated.

[Pokonic]

Dawn sat, regally as ever, nothing but a glass of water in front of her. She listened closely to their host, waiting for him to say something significant, then frowned. Lucid's comments failed to even register a response.

"That sounds... presumptuous," she said. "You have as much right to interact with the government as any other private citizen. Are you under the impression you have more, or less?" Dawn paused, and downed the rest of her water, taking a moment to think. "I appreciate the festivities," she lied, "but they will do you no good in currying favor, nor were they a necessary action, if either those you believed. My mother gave her approval, and Equestria believes in Harmony between all the nations of our world. You are not unwelcome here," she poorly demonstrated.

Fajer blinked, and hid his displeasure with a moderate amount of his drink.

"Forgive me. Given that Equestria is a monarchy, and that a actual list I requested of the most powerful ponies in the kingdom was topped by the three high nobles and the pegasus currently within this very room..."

He paused, to cough.

"I will admit, I did not bring the wealth and servants that I did to leave within the year. I will likely stay within the reach of your government for the rest of my life, as will all those who came with me. Besides the formality of sending the occasional report to my homeland, I am, in essence, divorced from it. What I am merely suggesting is some amount of official power, within the existing nobility, as the alternative is for me to simply use my vast funds to, for instance, throw vast parties like the one occurring right now."

[Exuno]

Dawn, on the other hoof, did nothing to hide her displeasure. A scowl grew across her muzzle, and she began to speak bluntly.

"And on what merit do you propose this power be given to you? Do you have the trust of those ponies out there, or merely their attention? For what would use this official power if not just to throw parties?"

Dawn stood up from her seat, and began to pace the room. "Forgive me," she said, slightly calmer, "That was perhaps too accusatory. As I said, you are welcome to participate in our government as much as anypony else. You may stay informed of our decisions, you may make your opinion known, you may submit any requests for evaluation, you may spend your funds as you wish..."

"Forgive me," she repeated, "if I don't see what more you need."

[Balmas]

"You already have considerably more power than many ponies in Equestria," Blueblood concurred, magically placing his drink back down on a table. "Between having taken a Unicorn fortress as your home, your considerable wealth, and the small army of horses you've garrisoned in the city of Canterlot, one might be forgiven in drawing an unfavorable comparison between you and an occupying warlord. What more could you ask for than what you already have?" The prince shook his head. "As is, we may suggest a few areas that would be a step in the right direction."

[Forum Explorer]

He would have gotten what he deserved, not waiting at the border and just bringing a small army straight to our capital. Firefly said, glaring at the retired soldier.

It's your decision as always Dawn, but if you want my advice, I'd say the unicorns at Court don't need another bad example on their responsibilities. Let him throw all the parties he wants, it isn't necessary to give him any sort of official power.


Prediction: If Equestria stays united the unicorns will take their position for granted.

[TheAmishPirate]

"An't that right, Mutton Chop?" she said, actually elbowing Fajer in the shin without actually noticing she was prodding the wrong equine, "You almost became a wet dog."

Fajer, slowly, shook his head is disbelief, and scooted a bit away from the drunken pony.

"I wouldn't have minded." Mutton scratched at his face. "A rainstorm's good for washing a pony down, and battles always end up so messy."

It might've been the light reflecting off his glass, but something dangerous glinted in the guardspony's eyes, and his teeth bared as he sipped his drink.

And then it was gone, and he was back to his usual, smiling self. "But what're we all getting so excited for? Fajeer's a friend of Equestria, has been for years. He's never worked against us, our army's all the stronger with his troops, the local shops have a great day whenever he throws a party, and everypony likes him well enough." He took another drink, still hardly feeling the old wine. "Do we get all nervous in the service when some Earth Pony in town has a big family reunion? Or when the Pegasi take their flying drills close to Cantermotte? Look, maybe he got off on the wrong hoof with taking the castle - though I still don't see what it was being 'prepared' for - but we can't keep punishing him for that. Not if he's going to live here, and especially not if he's going to keep doing right by us."

He smacked his lips thoughtfully. "I dunno; maybe it's high time we added an 'H' to the E.U.P."

[Pokonic]

Fajer processed what the two royals said, thought on it, and decided to state his case.

"I do believe that it within my best interests for Equestria to be a stable, powerful country. No offence to yourself, Blueblood, but I also believe I might be the richest private citizen within this country at the moment. I have several hundred of my own people who are looking for security; the party going on outside is for them as much as it is for the ponies who arrived. What I am requesting, simply, is a official acknowledgment of my status within the Equestrian nobility, as a descendent of a king."


He would have gotten what he deserved, not waiting at the border and just bringing a small army straight to our capital. Firefly said, glaring at the retired soldier.

It's your decision as always Dawn, but if you want my advice, I'd say the unicorns at Court don't need another bad example on their responsibilities. Let him throw all the parties he wants, it isn't necessary to give him any sort of official power.

Prediction: If Equestria stays united the unicorns will take their position for granted.

Fajer tried to look like he took no notice the general's statement, but Lucid Lance stuck out her tongue at the pegasus when she thought Firefly wasn't looking at her.


"I wouldn't have minded." Mutton scratched at his face. "A rainstorm's good for washing a pony down, and battles always end up so messy."

It might've been the light reflecting off his glass, but something dangerous glinted in the guardspony's eyes, and his teeth bared as he sipped his drink.

And then it was gone, and he was back to his usual, smiling self. "But what're we all getting so excited for? Fajeer's a friend of Equestria, has been for years. He's never worked against us, our army's all the stronger with his troops, the local shops have a great day whenever he throws a party, and everypony likes him well enough." He took another drink, still hardly feeling the old wine. "Do we get all nervous in the service when some Earth Pony in town has a big family reunion? Or when the Pegasi take their flying drills close to Cantermotte? Look, maybe he got off on the wrong hoof with taking the castle - though I still don't see what it was being 'prepared' for - but we can't keep punishing him for that. Not if he's going to live here, and especially not if he's going to keep doing right by us."

He smacked his lips thoughtfully. "I dunno; maybe it's high time we added an 'H' to the E.U.P."

"Well, if we're going to start adding letters, what about donkeys? There's like, ten thousand in Equestria. That's like ten times as many horses that are in it, I think."

Fajer shook his head slightly, trying to ignore what the drunken pony next to him was mumbling.

[Balmas]

Fajer processed what the two royals said, thought on it, and decided to state his case.

"I do believe that it within my best interests for Equestria to be a stable, powerful country. No offence to yourself, Blueblood, but I also believe I might be the richest private citizen within this country at the moment. I have several hundred of my own people who are looking for security; the party going on outside is for them as much as it is for the ponies who arrived. What I am requesting, simply, is a official acknowledgment of my status within the Equestrian nobility, as a descendent of a king."

Blueblood nodded serenely. "We know this. However, delegating the power to govern on the basis of wealth or personal army sets a dangerous precedent; we must take care that the ponies who set policy are they who have been raised to that purpose from birth. Can you honestly say that you understand the challenges facing Equestria, or the average pony? How, then, could you make laws that would effect everypony else?"

[Pokonic]

Blueblood nodded serenely. "We know this. However, delegating the power to govern on the basis of wealth or personal army sets a dangerous precedent; we must take care that the ponies who set policy are they who have been raised to that purpose from birth. Can you honestly say that you understand the challenges facing Equestria, or the average pony? How, then, could you make laws that would effect everypony else?"

Fajer nodded in turn, having a answer already prepared.

"As I am merely a arrival to this land, I cannot say that I understand it's inner workings as much as I wish. I have, however, taken great pains to understand it's history, with the help of the courter assigned to me."

Lucid Lance, now quiet and woozy from the shear amount of liquor she had consumed in the last hour, laid a foreleg on the table and promptly went to sleep. Fajer took great pains to ignore this.

"I was, before I was assigned to becoming the royal diplomat to this nation, in charge of a eighth of the Kingdom of Saddle Arabia. Within that territory, their were fifteen large tribes of my people and forty smaller ones of various power and influence. I indirectly controlled more than sixty-thousand individuals, with the local capital containing more than fifteen thousand of that. Besides the horse tribes, camels, zebras, and donkeys also inhabited the area which I controlled, and no lost love was lost between any of those groups whatsoever. Under my management, not a single conflict occurred within the populace for more than twelve years."

He paused, both for effect and the fact that his throat was dry. After a quick sip, he continued.

"Equestria is more fractured than what I expected, but I do not believe that I cannot assist in resolving some of tensions within it. I do not see it as a matter of qualifications so much as knowledge, you understand, but I understand where you are coming from."

[Exuno]

Dawn turned her head to gently, and condescendingly, address her brother. "We are not punishing Fajer, Mutton. I agree he has been an upstanding guest, and resident of Equestria. It's just... surely you understand we can't grant royal authority to anypony— or -horse, that simply asks for it." Or perhaps he doesn't, thinking on his own upbringing.

Shaking her head to regain her composure, she returned her facing to her host, and her voice to it's formality. "An impressive record, no doubt. I am sure that your wisdom and insight will be invaluable, regardless of what titles you may or may not possess." Letting no trace of her inner smile reach her face, she continued, "Though, that does raise a question: Why are you here, and no longer there?"

[TheAmishPirate]

"Well, if we're going to start adding letters, what about donkeys? There's like, ten thousand in Equestria. That's like ten times as many horses that are in it, I think."

Fajer shook his head slightly, trying to ignore what the drunken pony next to him was mumbling.

"Maybe, but there's never really been a donkey nation, has there?" Mutton replied. "They've always been happy to stick with themselves, keep their heads down, and soldier on through pretty much anything. They don't care much for politics, even among their own kind. We probably wouldn't get any volunteers, even if we did add a 'D' to the name."

He hardly seemed to notice when his conversational partner passed out from excessive drink.


Dawn turned her head to gently, and condescendingly, address her brother. "We are not punishing Fajer, Mutton. I agree he has been an upstanding guest, and resident of Equestria. It's just... surely you understand we can't grant royal authority to anypony— or -horse, that simply asks for it." Or perhaps he doesn't, thinking on his own upbringing.

Mutton shrank back from the table, grip tightening on his glass. "B-but...that's what we're doing, isn't it?" he protested weakly."Fajeer's done nothing but good for Equestria, and now that he's asking for the office he's rightfully earned, we're finding a dozen and a half reasons not to give it to him. Isn't he just as much a part of Equestria as we are now?"

[Forum Explorer]

He smacked his lips thoughtfully. "I dunno; maybe it's high time we added an 'H' to the E.U.P."

That's not a bad idea, though there is some complexity when it comes to citizenship. Still it would be good for the nation. Though we'd likely have to change the name of the E.U.P. to something less...literal. But increasing the pony-power of the E.U.P. isn't a bad idea. If things go badly, well we might need it.


Wait, you want a Royal title? Ha! You must be joking. The last time someone was granted such a title instead of inheriting it were the alicorn sisters. And they, well let's just say their accomplishments were already legendary by that point. You quite frankly haven't done anything worthy of note. Should we be giving every pony who promises us good rulership, and has money to spare a Royal title of their own? Ridiculous. Still chuckling, Firefly chugs back her drink.

Prediction: If Equestria does NOT stay united Equestria will be attacked by opportunists who think the disunity is a sign of weakness.

[Pokonic]

That's not a bad idea, though there is some complexity when it comes to citizenship. Still it would be good for the nation. Though we'd likely have to change the name of the E.U.P. to something less...literal. But increasing the pony-power of the E.U.P. isn't a bad idea. If things go badly, well we might need it.


Wait, you want a Royal title? Ha! You must be joking. The last time someone was granted such a title instead of inheriting it were the alicorn sisters. And they, well let's just say their accomplishments were already legendary by that point. You quite frankly haven't done anything worthy of note. Should we be giving every pony who promises us good rulership, and has money to spare a Royal title of their own? Ridiculous. Still chuckling, Firefly chugs back her drink.

Prediction: If Equestria does NOT stay united Equestria will be attacked by opportunists who think the disunity is a sign of weakness.

Fajer's mask of relative ease slipped slightly, and his mouth crinkled into something like a frown, but far more diplomatic.

"I am already, by my own merits, Royal, general. I come from a linage that was ruling a empire that takes a year to walk from one end to another while this country had yet to be created, and did it well. You have three tribes have yet to unite within a century, while I have seen thirty tribes unite into a cohesive whole in a single day. If anything, I do believe I can assist in alleviating some of the issues that plague this country."

[Forum Explorer]

Fajer's mask of relative ease slipped slightly, and his mouth crinkled into something like a frown, but far more diplomatic.

"I am already, by my own merits, Royal, general. I come from a linage that was ruling a empire that takes a year to walk from one end to another while this country had yet to be created, and did it well. You have three tribes have yet to unite within a century, while I have seen thirty tribes unite into a cohesive whole in a single day. If anything, I do believe I can assist in alleviating some of the issues that plague this country."

Firefly saw his discomfort and grinned victoriously, What titles you held at home don't matter in regards to what Equestrian titles you have. And you talk a big game, but I've yet to see you actually do anything.

[Pokonic]

Firefly saw his discomfort and grinned victoriously, What titles you held at home don't matter in regards to what Equestrian titles you have. And you talk a big game, but I've yet to see you actually do anything.


"I just spent more money today on the event occurring outside than this country does on it's infrastructure in a year, and my pockets are no less heavy than they were before. I do think we can all agree that the chocolate elephant was a little much, but I think we can all agree that it would be better if such money goes towards things more useful than parties. If I spent the rest of my days in Equestria, for instance, buying parcels of land within Canterlot and filling said parcels of land with golden statues of myself, I would be merely the stallion who throws money around because I can. And nothing would be improved for it.

However, for all the troubles this country faces, I do believe it has the potential to rise above it's issues and do great things."

Fajer paused, hoping that Firefly understood what he was saying.

"Which is why, general, I am requesting a simple, official acknowledgement of who I am."



Shaking her head to regain her composure, she returned her facing to her host, and her voice to it's formality. "An impressive record, no doubt. I am sure that your wisdom and insight will be invaluable, regardless of what titles you may or may not possess." Letting no trace of her inner smile reach her face, she continued, "Though, that does raise a question: Why are you here, and no longer there?"

Fajer, turning away from Firefly, nodded respectably to the Queen, hoping that she didn't mind his late answer. What he was going to say was only mostly true, but it was a answer that had enough of the truth within it to which it would hold up if his own servants were questioned.

"I am sixth in line for the throne. When I was chosen to be the diplomat for this country, the current news within the royal informational circles was that your mother had defeated Discord the Demiurge. As it were, some of my younger brothers were wishing to have lands of their own, and I volunteered to have my holdings split among them and cross the sea. If news traveled faster across the sea, I admit, you would be talking to one of my far less able kin. Diplomacy is seen as a way to test the younger members of the family regarding politics within the Saddles, you must understand, but they were weary with dealing with those who live across the western sea."

[TheAmishPirate]

Firefly saw his discomfort and grinned victoriously, What titles you held at home don't matter in regards to what Equestrian titles you have. And you talk a big game, but I've yet to see you actually do anything.


"He can't do anything because he hasn't got the authority to do anything," Mutton countered. "How can he prove himself if we keep him as a...a special houseguest?"

Rhetoric was not among the young prince's strengths.

[Forum Explorer]

Exactly. You throw money away on frivolous and useless things and threaten that if we don't give you a Royal title you'll continue to do so. How are we supposed to take that seriously?

If you really want a Royal title then you should stop acting like the worst members of the unicorn nobility. Spend your money on improving Equestria, help the integration process, and in general, prove your worth. Then we might take you seriously when you ask for a Royal title.

Firefly turns to Mutton and smiles gently

Mutton, look how far you've gone without authority. You were an orphan, and now you are captain of the Royal Guard. Same thing happened for me. I wasn't born a general. I earned my position by being one of the best pegasi in the skies. You don't need to be royalty to achieve great things.

[Pokonic]

Exactly. You throw money away on frivolous and useless things and threaten that if we don't give you a Royal title you'll continue to do so. How are we supposed to take that seriously?

If you really want a Royal title then you should stop acting like the worst members of the unicorn nobility. Spend your money on improving Equestria, help the integration process, and in general, prove your worth. Then we might take you seriously when you ask for a Royal title.

Fajer did not say anything to that, merely eyeing Blueblood and the Queen, seeing that at least one of them was a unicorn noble and the other one was simply lacking a horn.

[TheAmishPirate]

Firefly turns to Mutton and smiles gently

Mutton, look how far you've gone without authority. You were an orphan, and now you are captain of the Royal Guard. Same thing happened for me. I wasn't born a general. I earned my position by being one of the best pegasi in the skies. You don't need to be royalty to achieve great things.

Mutton tilted his head confusedly. "But I am royalty, same as Fajeer was in his home country. All I did was fight battles that needed to be fought, and protected ponies who needed to be protected. I didn't run a whole country like he did. So why am I a Captain, and he's barely a citizen?" He wrinkled his brow. "Is it because we don't have anypony who saw him do it? If that's the case, why not write back to Saddle Arabia? If they can vouch for his abilities, then there shouldn't be a problem."

[Forum Explorer]

But you earned it. Princess Celestia knew that, and she had you enlist in the E.U.P. and you worked hard, never expecting anypony to treat you specially due to your patronage. Dawn has also been working at being the best leader she could be since she was just a foal.

We could send a message to Saddle Arabia. Wouldn't hurt at the very least. Firefly says gently.

[Balmas]

Blueblood considered that. It'd be a shame to lose such a source of gold, even without possible advice. "Fajer, we are inclined to say no at this juncture. If we were to accept the accomplishments of a country as the accomplishments of a single pony, then we must necessarily lump us as being either the spawn of a tyrant or as the children of a benevolent leader. Leadership is learned, not inherited, as Mutton proves."

He closed his eyes, and then opened them to focus on the larger horse. "However, a No right now does not mean that it will be No forever. Mutton has proposed a fair test; we shall send to Saddle Arabia to determine how you ruled. Personally, we trust you. But we must think of what is best for Equestria. While we wait for the response, we might offer a few strategies that will help us to see you in the best light possible. If you consider this to be your home, and you wish to play a part in politics, we would see you become part of Equestria. Apply for citizenship, and encourage your horses to do the same. Show by your actions that you know how to use your wealth, and we can see you helping to guide Equestria in the future. Are we understood?"

[Exuno]

Dawn frowned at the approval given to Fajer. "I'm going to explain this simply. My problem with granting Fajer official recognition is that he is asking for it. Mutton, you were adopted by Celestia, and formally recognized as her son. She herself, along with her sister, were gifted their titles by the existing tribal governments: They did not demand to be called Princesses, and in exchange they would start moving the sun and moon and protecting the realm from threats – they simply acted to the best of their abilities, and eventually they gained the trust and respect of the ponies." Whether or not that trust was well-founded... Dawn shook her head, returning to her speech. "If Fajer can demonstrate that he has the best interests of Equestria at heart, instead of just saying that – or having other horses say that – I will have no problems in granting him a title to reflect such. Thus far, however, the only thing I have seen him do is squander his wealth.

"But it's not my opinion he needs. If the ponies out there are willing to support him, and the rest of you are willing to support him, then do as you wish, of course." Dawn closed her eyes and let her head rest. This was all she had to say on the matter.

[Pokonic]

Fajer thought on the subject of becoming a citizen, and of the test presented before him, and nodded his head.

"I would welcome any direct way of contacting Saddle Arabia, yes. We do not have any system of magical messaging like Equestria does, but I believe my peers would give me a favorable review, in due time. If I am to prove myself at the moment, then I shall. I have several projects in mind already, for the sole sake of improving this city, of course."

He paused, giving the Queen and the prince both respectful bows, before turning towards the door, figuring that diplomacy had done all that it could that day.

"I do believe it is time to wrap up the party outside. It's going to end with small thin shavings of silver raining down in the main plaza. You are all welcome to join me, but you all would also wish to learn that I had packages sent out to all of you containing a very rare variety of wine that came from a country that doesn't exist anymore. Good days to you all, then."

Fajer walked out of the door, without another word.

Lucid Lance, still asleep, slid off the table and landed on the floor. She did not wake up.

Parties are awesome.



Touchstone: One check towards Crisis, as well as Time Passes.

Regardless of the opposition he had faced, Fajer is confident that he will be seen a royalty by, at the very least, the people if he simply continues his methods. The fact that the real reason he was kicked out of the country was due to a drunken giraffe dancer he had hired had fell on top of a griffon king was a little worrysome, but otherwise a minor issue. It would take years for a message from Equestria to reach the capital, anyhow.

[Forum Explorer]

Firefly took the long way to her bunk, enjoying the flight and the cool air on her wings. Seeing as everypony was still distracted by the party, she decided to push herself, going through half-forgotten stunts and flips. Satisfied she finally landed on her cloud home, wings twinging a little bit from exertion.

"Glad that's finally over with. And I'm sure my secretary will appreciate the wine. Annoying though, such a waste of time that only the unicorns seem to indulge constantly in. If they didn't have the Pegasi and the Earth Ponies, well there would be trouble."

If Equestria does NOT stay united, the unicorns will face severe economic troubles.

[Balmas]

Blueblood sat in the den of his mansion, eyeing his drink. A drink that would never exist again... He shook himself, groaning. Drinking always woke the melancholy little actor inside him. A servant, surprised by his Lord's generosity, had already tried a glass from the bottle with no adverse effects.

There would be trouble from this. Unless they came up with a custom rank for the horse, some noble would be forced out of his position. And he could already see the clamor from the bourgeosie, a never-ending line of merchants, new-rich, and lawyers shouting for their share of the government.

"Well, if it will come, I might as well be happy doing it," the prince muttered, and drained the cup.

[TheAmishPirate]

Mutton Chop rejoined the festivities, but his heart didn't feel like a party tonight. It hadn't felt like a party for a long time, but out of respect for his friend he tried to have a good time. Troubles with the griffons, troubles with the pegasi, and now this; a pony-er, horse who clearly deserved an official position given nothing but promises. Every day felt like they were moving farther and farther away from the Equestria of just a few years ago, and every day he grew less and less sure it was a good thing.

For now, he always had another glass of wine and another song to dance to.

[Leaving the Crisis ticker alone this time.]

[Exuno]

Dawn quietly walked out of the hall, surrounded by the noise of the festivities. The ponies around her were all too drunk on their hooves and distracted by the celebrations to pay their princess any mind, and she was grateful enough for that.

Passing by a barely-recognizable melting brown lump of chocolate, Dawn of a New Era had to simply pause and shake her head. This was the work of somehorse who wanted to lead the country? Stomping off, she set herself towards the royal castle to do real work, and make sure that tomorrow's sunrise would be happening on time.

[Forum Explorer]

Fajeer entered Firefly's office to find everypony waiting for him. Firefly's office was a stark contrast to the decadent party last week. The room was stark stone, with only a soft white rug adding some color. Firefly had brought in a different table for everypony to sit at as equals, but the chairs lacked cushions And here is case study number 1. When Fajeer entered Equestria his presence really showcased some of the greatest weaknesses in our military. He brought in hundreds of horses, and made it to within spitting distance of Canterlot. Admittedly he did have diplomatic passage, but my forces weren't informed of that. Similarly he was very lucky that the E.U.P. was called off before we could launch our attack.

Overall the entire scenario could have easily become an incredible disaster that would have been remembered for centuries. And that is inexcusable. I've asked you all here in order to discuss what could have been done better, and what needs to be done to prevent such a close call in the future.

First off is the communication from our border guards. They were informed of Fajeer's arrival and diplomatic credentials but they neglected to inform the rest of our armed forces.

Second was the slow, even absent mobilization in some places. I've gone over the interviews and the ponies in charge stated that they figured the Princess would handle things like always.

Third was the complete and total lack of coordination. I had to be called back by the our political leaders. While I'm glad that they did, they shouldn't need to do so in the first place. I should be informed of these sort of things when they happen instead of playing catch up.

So I propose that the first step of reforming is to give control of our border forts over to the E.U.P. and in general begin moving to make the E.U.P. the federal military in practice rather then just in theory. Move funding away from the unicorn's private Knighthoods, spend more tax money on our forces, and holding more mixed training.


Prediction: If Equestria stays united, it's military will be ineffective in a crisis.

[Pokonic]

Fajer, vaguely wondering if he should have woken up Lucid Lance from another intoxicated slumber so he could better understand the pegasus's rational, quickly took his seat and tried not to look like he was concerned with the current topic.

"Excuse me for asking, but if may make a comment; while I understand the reasoning behind being more alert after what occurred earlier with myself, what threat exists to justify such a elaborately large military? I looked at a map before I arrived here, you understand, and it seems as if this is the only civilized nation on this continent. Plenty of monsters, yes, but what threat against this country requires such a army?"

[Forum Explorer]

Dragons would be the biggest threat. We don't actually know much of anything about them. We do know about that they at least migrate together, so it's not impossible for them to have a more advanced society in their territory. Next would be an invasion from across the sea. Then there are numerous minor nations such as the Griffons and Diamond Dogs which we should be able to defeat. Finally there are just the monsters as you mentioned, who would hardly wage a war against us, but could easily destroy a village or even a small city if we stick with our current military strength.

[TheAmishPirate]

Fajeer entered Firefly's office to find everypony waiting for him. Firefly's office was a stark contrast to the decadent party last week. The room was stark stone, with only a soft white rug adding some color. Firefly had brought in a different table for everypony to sit at as equals, but the chairs lacked cushions And here is case study number 1. When Fajeer entered Equestria his presence really showcased some of the greatest weaknesses in our military. He brought in hundreds of horses, and made it to within spitting distance of Canterlot. Admittedly he did have diplomatic passage, but my forces weren't informed of that. Similarly he was very lucky that the E.U.P. was called off before we could launch our attack.

Overall the entire scenario could have easily become an incredible disaster that would have been remembered for centuries. And that is inexcusable. I've asked you all here in order to discuss what could have been done better, and what needs to be done to prevent such a close call in the future.

First off is the communication from our border guards. They were informed of Fajeer's arrival and diplomatic credentials but they neglected to inform the rest of our armed forces.

Second was the slow, even absent mobilization in some places. I've gone over the interviews and the ponies in charge stated that they figured the Princess would handle things like always.

Third was the complete and total lack of coordination. I had to be called back by the our political leaders. While I'm glad that they did, they shouldn't need to do so in the first place. I should be informed of these sort of things when they happen instead of playing catch up.

So I propose that the first step of reforming is to give control of our border forts over to the E.U.P. and in general begin moving to make the E.U.P. the federal military in practice rather then just in theory. Move funding away from the unicorn's private Knighthoods, spend more tax money on our forces, and holding more mixed training.


Prediction: If Equestria stays united, it's military will be ineffective in a crisis.

Mutton Chop wondered if it wasn't high time the General got a new office. Or a second office, a more comfortable one for when she didn't have to yell at anypony. These meetings left him with nothing but tense nerves and sore hindquarters.

Fortunately, he didn't have to sit long.

"That's not fair!" Mutton Chop countered and stood up. "The border guards let them in like they should've, and Fajeer's horses made it halfway to Cantermotte before somepony raised the false alarm. Even with that head start, we still rounded up a big enough army to stop him in his tracks; not easy to pull off. On top of that, there was only a problem because our communication was out of whack, and we even got that fixed before a real fight broke out." He elected not - or forgot - to mention the horses he'd personally brawled with before the attack was called off. "The E.U.P. could always use more Bits and bodies, but it's got good ponies in it right now. You shouldn't sell them short."

Challenge

[Pokonic]

Dragons would be the biggest threat. We don't actually know much of anything about them. We do know about that they at least migrate together, so it's not impossible for them to have a more advanced society in their territory. Next would be an invasion from across the sea. Then there are numerous minor nations such as the Griffons and Diamond Dogs which we should be able to defeat. Finally there are just the monsters as you mentioned, who would hardly wage a war against us, but could easily destroy a village or even a small city if we stick with our current military strength.

"I do not believe a large army is needed for any of that." Fajer countered, "A army, yes, but not one so large and so domineering. Ponies, by themselves, dominate this land, and have the resources to pull to influence or contain the parties above. Dragons are creatures ruled by their urges, from my understanding, and if any especially powerful individual among them wished to make a full invasion of Equestria, than it would have surely done so while the country was carving itself out."

He paused, to breath.

"The griffons and the hounds pose a different challenge, one that I have a solution to. Both groups tend to gather into small to moderately sized clans, packs, and noble dominions, and bicker among themselves and against others of their kind for any amount of power and wealth. I would suggest that, for the sake of establishing a peaceful relationship, Equestria should extend their support to one or more of any of the more powerful figures and assist them in creating stable, friendlier nations partly under Equestrian supervision. Through this fashion, my people have gotten even those creatures that are far individually powerful than themselves to submit to Saddle Arabia."

[Balmas]

Blueblood scrunched his nose at the less-than-stellar accomodations. Really, was it too much to ask for a larger office? Or at least to commandeer a banquet hall? One had to maintain image for the lesser ponies, even if it was only a few of them.

"It's a possibility, Fajer," Blueblood acknowledged. "General, if we were to implement your proposals, would the army be strong enough to respond to a crisis?"

[Forum Explorer]

Fajeer the problem is that I couldn't even tell you how large Equestria's army is. I also couldn't tell you which of those ponies are fully trained to the standards of the E.U.P. The entire system is a mess.

That's true Mutton Chop, but if Fajeer had been an invading force, then things might have been a bit more messy. And unless things change, I can't honestly guarantee the safety of Equestria.

I believe so Prince Blueblood.

Challenge Response: Yes if, the proposed reforms go through.

[Exuno]

Dawn felt at ease in the unfurnished room, and relaxedly listened to the General's complaints. "I agree with everything you've said. Without the presence of my mother's personal might, Equestria is more vulnerable than it has ever been. The breakdown in communications you describe was appalling, and I agree that our forces must have a clearer chain of command and sense of unity. I trust your judgement: whatever you need me to decree, I will." She affirmedly nodded, and turned to address Fajer's additions.

"As you say, Dragons are creatures driven by urge. They will not bide themselves for the perfect moment – if one has a whim of conquest, we must be ready at any time. On your suggestions for our more civilized neighbors, would you not be concerned that a display of foreign aid would draw the ire of all the other clans? There's no sense in making one ally and ten enemies."

[Pokonic]

Fajer decided to approach the ruler of the country's concerns first, on the assumption that if she approved of what he was suggesting her general would follow suit.

"Any dragon who would be powerful enough to even consider attacking Equestria would have been alive during Celestia's rule, and I would believe that she and her sister dealt with at least a few dragons in their times. Dragons are not stupid beings, and I would imagine a combination of bribing the eldest among them and simply reaffirming it is ponies that cause the sun to rise every day would be enough to deter them. I wouldn't think stupid dragons lead long enough lives to become adults.

As for the griffons and dogs, it's a matter of convincing such parties that joining the better-armed and fed individuals would be in their interests. There will always be fighting within such predatory species, but they tends towards following the strongest side, or the most well-off one. In this case, the smartest among them would come to realize that any extended pony engagement would lead to their defeat."

[Forum Explorer]

You'd be surprised. Even baby dragons are nigh indestructible according to the few reports we do have. And with Princess Celestia gone, well they may think that now's the time to get some vengeance for past wrongs. Still I'm confident with these reforms we'll be able to hold them off.

As for diplomacy with the other races, I'll leave that to Prince Blueblood and Princess Dawn.

Prediction: The E.U.P. will have to fight against dragons if Equestria stays united.

(Also I'm calling that scene end.)

[TheAmishPirate]

As the meeting droned on and on, Mutton contributed where he could to the EUP reforms. He'd often heard mother speak fondly of them and their practiced coordination; hopefully she could see them grow and flourish, wherever she was now.

With a strong, central army and safe, happy ponies, what could possibly go wrong?

[Touchstone: I choose to remove nothing.]

[Pokonic]

Fajer shook his head as he decided to exit the room while the meeting was in it's last throws, being the last person to arrive and the first to leave. He didn't especially approve of what the general was implying about restructuring the military to be more inclined towards attack then defense, but he had no power over her and would have to talk to his little helper to understand the bigger issues involved.

Touchstone: One check towards Crisis

[Balmas]

Blueblood nodded. "You'll have your reforms," he said, turning to leave. "And we hope, for your sake, that they prove as effective as you say if the military is called upon to face dragons."

Oh, the things he did for this country...

[Exuno]

Later that night, Dawn lie awake in her bed, staring at the ceiling. Useless. Celestia was able to defend the country almost single-hoofedly, even in her later years, and now... Ponies were going to have their livelihoods disrupted, be urged into soldierhood, even die because there was nopony who could replace her. Dawn tried, of course, but even for everything she could fault her mother for, there was no way she could compare. All she did was accept the judgements of ponies who knew better than her, and disapprove of those who didn't. Equestria could continue without her – she almost looked forward to somepony realizing that.

[Forum Explorer]

Firefly looked out her window to the sky beyond. I'm glad they agreed, but there's a downside to everything. Still I'll take the burden for this one, and ensure that the enemies made will be mine instead of theirs.

Prediction: If Equestria stays united there will be a bitter rivalry between the E.U.P. and the 'provincial' militaries (IE, the unicorn knightly orders, and the earth pony militia)

Checking a Crossroad box.

[Balmas]

Word spread through Canterlot faster than any fire. Murder! Romance! Foul deeds to make mares faint and stallions quiver with barely repressed rage! But the word on everyone's lips was duel.

Blueblood heaved a sigh, watching the two ponies get ready for their fight. The small hall was as clearly divided as if someone had drawn a line down the middle; Lord Bitters, of House Avarice, fussed over his armor, examining every pauldron and peytral for a sign of weakness, as his retainers glared daggers across the line at those of House Doo.

If he had to lay odds on the fight, Blueblood thought, he'd have to bet on Doo. The grey-blue Pegasus was from a smaller house, one with less influence in the capitol. Still, he'd trained in the military, whereas Lord Bitters spent his time in a small, but very prosperous brewery.

"Remind me why we're here?" Blueblood questioned a nearby aide.

"In matters of honor," the quiet stallion answered, "both parties prefer to have witnesses of station."

In other words, both were afraid the other would cheat, and wanted added legitimacy in their fight to kill each other while not looking like it.

[Forum Explorer]

Firefly sighed as she watched the preparations from the Doo's supporters. These 'honor duels' were just a way to legally murder another pony, and Princess Celestia had despised them. She hadn't quite gotten around to removing them entirely, and low and behold that now without her to mediate such problems, they were starting up again.


Prediction: If Equestria stays united, duels will become much more common and bloody.

[Pokonic]

Fajer looked on at the two ponies with something like concern. To be frank, he was slightly surprised that for all the bluster occurring between the tribes, this was one of the few publicized duals in recent memory.

He considered the sight before him; back home, honor duals were common only among the desert tribes, and even those never ended in death, even if the main objective of those duals was to break one of the opponent's legs and then leave him as the tribe went on elsewhere. Regardless, spectacles shouldn't be bloody.

[TheAmishPirate]

Acting as surrogate quartermaster, Mutton Chop busily checked the two combatants' weapons, tail swishing eagerly. He couldn't remember the last time he'd seen a proper fight. Mother frowned on them, but maybe that was because she'd never tried one for herself. They were deeply refreshing - when done right, of course. No messy words, no messy rules, no messy feuds, nothing but two ponies and their issues. Five minutes of scrapping later, and they didn't even have issues anymore. It was like a bath for the soul; it scrubbed out your dirt and untangled your messes and left you fresh and new on the other end.

He was glad to see them again, and even gladder to help officiate.

Challenge

[Forum Explorer]

Still it wasn't like Princess Celestia didn't have any plans to deal with duels. She had proposed 'updating' the rules to ensure that they were silly and harmless fun. Replacing all the weapons with food, or making so the ponies had to do some rhythmic poetry competition.


Yes If: The dueling rules are updated with something that is harmless or fun, and which will attract attention so it stays a popular method.

[Balmas]

"You're on," an aide prompted.

Blueblood groaned, imagining the bottle of scotch waiting for him in his quarters. Why did he have to deal with these mundane affairs? Even the bible couldn't be content to just leave him alone. Had to be constantly mucking about.

The blue unicorn heaved himself off the makeshift throne, and headed to the small space between the parties. "Alright. We thank you all for coming to this event. Everyone but the field and their seconds will now leave the battleground, on pain of some inventive punishment I'll come up with later. Bitters, are you prepared?"

A shining suit of armor at one end of the hall nodded, though the earth pony have a small snort at the omitted Lord. "Excellent. Doo? Wonderful. As the challenged party, Bitters has the choice of weapons." Blueblood shook his head. "Captain, do you have the requested items?"

(Soooo, the issue is whether we want field done with comic weapons? Is there any downside to this?)

[Pokonic]

"You're on," an aide prompted.

Blueblood groaned, imagining the bottle of scotch waiting for him in his quarters. Why did he have to deal with these mundane affairs? Even the bible couldn't be content to just leave him alone. Had to be constantly mucking about.

The blue unicorn heaved himself off the makeshift throne, and headed to the small space between the parties. "Alright. We thank you all for coming to this event. Everyone but the field and their seconds will now leave the battleground, on pain of some inventive punishment I'll come up with later. Bitters, are you prepared?"

A shining suit of armor at one end of the hall nodded, though the earth pony have a small snort at the omitted Lord. "Excellent. Doo? Wonderful. As the challenged party, Bitters has the choice of weapons." Blueblood shook his head. "Captain, do you have the requested items?"

(Soooo, the issue is whether we want field done with comic weapons? Is there any downside to this?)

Fajer watched intently as the fight began, interested to see how far these ponies were willing to go.

(If joke weapons are used, Doo might be deeply offended and refuse to fight until something made of steel is set in front of him, or at the very least a full on brawl might occur.)

[Forum Explorer]

As they waited, Firefly took the opportunity to talk to Deadly Doo. Listen, Deadly. You don't need to kill him. Let the courts handle this, you're clearly in the right and I'm sure the courts will bring you justice. You don't need his blood on your hooves as well.

[Balmas]

The Pegasus twitched, barely taking one eye off his foe. "You don't understand, General. This lout's carelessness has injured my daughter. Blood is required, is it not?"

[TheAmishPirate]

"You're on," an aide prompted.

Blueblood groaned, imagining the bottle of scotch waiting for him in his quarters. Why did he have to deal with these mundane affairs? Even the bible couldn't be content to just leave him alone. Had to be constantly mucking about.

The blue unicorn heaved himself off the makeshift throne, and headed to the small space between the parties. "Alright. We thank you all for coming to this event. Everyone but the field and their seconds will now leave the battleground, on pain of some inventive punishment I'll come up with later. Bitters, are you prepared?"

A shining suit of armor at one end of the hall nodded, though the earth pony have a small snort at the omitted Lord. "Excellent. Doo? Wonderful. As the challenged party, Bitters has the choice of weapons." Blueblood shook his head. "Captain, do you have the requested items?"

(Soooo, the issue is whether we want field done with comic weapons? Is there any downside to this?)

"I do," Mutton Chop started as he approached Blueblood, his voice dropping to a hushed whisper. "But I was thinking we should try something a little different for this duel. It's been so long since we've had one, we ought to do something special, right? Give the ponies here a good, honest fight instead of a gross stabbing. I say the only weapons we give them are their bare hooves, and the only armor they get is their hides. What do you say?"

[Balmas]

Blueblood frowned, considering. It'd mean an extra half hour between him and the end of his day as both sides stripped off their armor. Still, the Prince was no savage; he'd no particular desire to see blood spoiled in his ballroom. And it would save him the headache of controlling the nobility as they rearranged themselves, and the wave of complaints that their inevitable backstabbing would bring... "Bitters has the choice of weapons," the unicorn decided. "If you can convince him to live by such conditions, then you shall have our support."

[TheAmishPirate]

Blueblood frowned, considering. It'd mean an extra half hour between him and the end of his day as both sides stripped off their armor. Still, the Prince was no savage; he'd no particular desire to see blood spoiled in his ballroom. And it would save him the headache of controlling the nobility as they rearranged themselves, and the wave of complaints that their inevitable backstabbing would bring... "Bitters has the choice of weapons," the unicorn decided. "If you can convince him to live by such conditions, then you shall have put support."

"Why should we convince them? As a duel sanctioned and officiated by officers of the Crown, don't we have the right to set terms and conditions?" Mutton asked. Somepony had been doing their homework.

[Balmas]

"Why should we convince them? As a duel sanctioned and officiated by officers of the Crown, don't we have the right to set terms and conditions?" Mutton asked. Somepony had been doing their homework.

"In theory, yes. In practice, though, radically altering the terms of the duel away from what either side wishes just means that the parties will settle it out of our sight, and that means we shall have to adjudicate over a tedious murder trial. If the challenged party does as you wish, though, Doo will have to either abide by this or lose face." Blueblood shot a glare around him, as if daring anyone to challenge the delay in the proceedings. "However, permit us an announcement, and we feel you shall have an easier time of it."

[TheAmishPirate]

"In theory, yes. In practice, though, radically altering the terms of the duel away from what either side wishes just means that the parties will settle it out of our sight, and that means we shall have to adjudicate over a tedious murder trial. If the challenged party does as you wish, though, Doo will have to either abide by this or lose face." Blueblood shot a glare around him, as if daring anyone to challenge the delay in the proceedings. "However, permit us an announcement, and we feel you shall have an easier time of it."

As much as he hated to admit it, the Prince made some amount of sense. Nobles were too concerned about rules and standing to remember the simple appeal of a brawl. And who better to remind them of it than one of their own? "If you think it'll help, go ahead." Mutton agreed, and stepped aside to let Blueblood speak.

[Balmas]

Blueblood nodded, and stepped to the center of the room. Head up, chest forward, tail period, the picture of a stallion with more dignity and power than anypony else in the room. "We are here today to witness the duel between Lord Avarice and Lord Doo. You will permit us to be frank; or aunt, dear Celestia, detested duels. She took steps to stamp them out, or to change them to a less lethal form. Friends, your Prince wishes to see his aunt's wishes carried out."

A quiet rustle passed through the assembled nobles.

"We would not, however, see it eliminated! Dueling is a proud part of our honor, our heritage, our nobility and culture!" Stomp for emphasis. Stare at the crowd. Winning smile number two, the one between smug and subservient. "Thus, in keeping with Celestia's legacy, I urge all parties to view your duels as a means to vent your grievances, and not simply a form of legitimized murder." The emphasis on the last word left little doubt in the listeners' minds on how the Prince would view their violence. "Mutton, if you will?"

[Forum Explorer]

I do understand, but as satisfying as it would be to personally dispatch such scum, it would forever be tainted by vengeance rather then being an act of justice. Let the state mete out the deserved punishment and set a good example to all of Equestria.

[TheAmishPirate]

Blueblood nodded, and stepped to the center of the room. Head up, chest forward, tail period, the picture of a stallion with more dignity and power than anypony else in the room. "We are here today to witness the duel between Lord Avarice and Lord Doo. You will permit us to be frank; or aunt, dear Celestia, detested duels. She took steps to stamp them out, or to change them to a less lethal form. Friends, your Prince wishes to see his aunt's wishes carried out."

A quiet rustle passed through the assembled nobles.

"We would not, however, see it eliminated! Dueling is a proud part of our honor, our heritage, our nobility and culture!" Stomp for emphasis. Stare at the crowd. Winning smile number two, the one between smug and subservient. "Thus, in keeping with Celestia's legacy, I urge all parties to view your duels as a means to vent your grievances, and not simply a form of legitimized murder." The emphasis on the last word left little doubt in the listeners' minds on how the Prince would view their violence. "Mutton, if you will?"

"Thank you, Prince." Mutton nodded to Blueblood, and trotted to Lord Avarice. "Bitters, I've got an idea for you, one that'll make this a duel to remember and keep things from getting all messy." He addressed him cordially, as an old friend, despite their lack of history. "When was the last time you fought somepony - or something - with your own bare hooves?"

[Pokonic]

Fajer, having a good idea where this was going, took a stiff drink of his tea (which contained the slightest hint of brandy) and tried to not look like he was faintly disappointed by the events occurring in front of him.

[Balmas]

I do understand, but as satisfying as it would be to personally dispatch such scum, it would forever be tainted by vengeance rather then being an act of justice. Let the state mete out the deserved punishment and set a good example to all of Equestria.

"Is this not the state meting out justice?" The Pegasus slashed one lightly armored wing at the two totals in the center of the room, and on the stand. "Swift, fair, and terrible to behold? Would you rather I let this rapscallion escape until after my little Rosebud is out of the hospital and the trauma those sawbones will inflict?"


"Thank you, Prince." Mutton nodded to Blueblood, and trotted to Lord Avarice. "Bitters, I've got an idea for you, one that'll make this a duel to remember and keep things from getting all messy." He addressed him cordially, as an old friend, despite their lack of history. "When was the last time you fought somepony - or something - with your own bare hooves?"

The earth pony pauses, his eyes flying back in memory. "Not since I was a foal, Sir Chop, in schoolyard scuffles. There was a brief time when I suffered the whims of the Canterlot kickboxing team, but 'twas sufficient to ensure that I'd no fondness nor aptitude for it."

[Forum Explorer]

No, this is you meting out state approved vengeance. He does deserve punishment, and a vicious one at that. But this isn't the way to go about it. The system might not be perfect, but resorting to private duels is even worse.


If Equestria is united, it's legal system will be a combined mess of three different systems, full of loopholes and even contradictions.

[TheAmishPirate]

The earth pony pauses, his eyes flying back in memory. "Not since I was a foal, Sir Chop, in schoolyard scuffles. There was a brief time when I suffered the whims of the Canterlot kickboxing team, but 'twas sufficient to ensure that I'd no fondness nor aptitude for it."

"Bad luck then." Mutton Chop shook his head in disappointment. "But that's no reason to give up on it now. Just look at that crowd!" He motioned to the stands. Surrounding the arena were ponies of all ages and incomes, from the wealthiest elite to the little ones just into their Marks. An excited buzz lingered over the crowd as ponies marveled at the two competitors in their finery. "They aren't here to watch a pony die; nobody likes that. They're here to see grand ponies in a good scrap, and what better scrap can be had than with your hooves? Nothing walks into that arena except the strength of your body and the strength of your heart, and both ponies get to walk out. What more could anypony ask for?"

[Pokonic]

"Bad luck then." Mutton Chop shook his head in disappointment. "But that's no reason to give up on it now. Just look at that crowd!" He motioned to the stands. Surrounding the arena were ponies of all ages and incomes, from the wealthiest elite to the little ones just into their Marks. An excited buzz lingered over the crowd as ponies marveled at the two competitors in their finery. "They aren't here to watch a pony die; nobody likes that. They're here to see grand ponies in a good scrap, and what better scrap can be had than with your hooves? Nothing walks into that arena except the strength of your body and the strength of your heart, and both ponies get to walk out. What more could anypony ask for?"

'Food vendors and betting houses.', thought Fajer, taking a sip of his drink but otherwise trying to remain relatively inconspicuous.

[Balmas]

No, this is you meting out state approved vengeance. He does deserve punishment, and a vicious one at that. But this isn't the way to go about it. The system might not be perfect, but resorting to private duels is even worse.

If Equestria is united, it's legal system will be a combined mess of three different systems, full of loopholes and even contradictions.

The Pegasus turned, torn between a glare and a sob. "Is vengeance not right, if the system refuses to exact justice?"


"Bad luck then." Mutton Chop shook his head in disappointment. "But that's no reason to give up on it now. Just look at that crowd!" He motioned to the stands. Surrounding the arena were ponies of all ages and incomes, from the wealthiest elite to the little ones just into their Marks. An excited buzz lingered over the crowd as ponies marveled at the two competitors in their finery. "They aren't here to watch a pony die; nobody likes that. They're here to see grand ponies in a good scrap, and what better scrap can be had than with your hooves? Nothing walks into that arena except the strength of your body and the strength of your heart, and both ponies get to walk out. What more could anypony ask for?"

Bitters nods, pulling off his helmet and eyeing his opponent nervously. "True enough. And I've no particular desire to see the ballroom ruined with bloodstains, especially if they're mine."


'Food vendors and betting houses.', thought Fajer, taking a sip of his drink but otherwise trying to remain relatively inconspicuous.

"Mommy, look at the funny earth pony!"

"Hush, dearest. It's not nice to point."

"But Moooom, look at him! He's tall like the Princess, but his face is all funny."

[Pokonic]

"Mommy, look at the funny earth pony!"

"Hush, dearest. It's not nice to point."

"But Moooom, look at him! He's tall like the Princess, but his face is all funny."

It took Fajer a few moments for him to realize that he was the funny earth pony, and after he managed to get down another gulp of piping-hot coffee and stop himself from laughing he turned to the general direction of the questioning foal.

Using his best sophisticated voice, Fajer nodded lightly and smiled, preparing to embarrass the living heckout of the mother of the whelp that interrupted his mid-morning musings.

"While I am flattered to be compared to the Princesses, I cannot say that I am part of that most noble of the tribes. I must confess that I," he paused, bringing a hoof to his chest in a exaggerated fashion, "am a mere prince of the horses."

[Forum Explorer]

Have you given the system a chance to work? I know Earth Pony justice might seem odd to us Pegasi, but they aren't the dullards everypony thinks they are, and they've got their own harsh punishments for the crimes he committed.

Prediction: Tribalism (AKA racism between pony tribes) will be a serious problem if Equestria stays united.

[TheAmishPirate]

Bitters nods, pulling off his helmet and eyeing his opponent nervously. "True enough. And I've no particular desire to see the ballroom ruined with bloodstains, especially if they're mine."

"That's the spirit!" Mutton clapped the lord on the back. "Give 'em a good fight, and leave all the problems behind in the ring. Once Firefly's done with Doo, the choice of weapons is yours. Good luck." He pranced back to Blueblood, giving him a little knowing nod.

[Balmas]

It took Fajer a few moments for him to realize that he was the funny earth pony, and after he managed to get down another gulp of piping-hot coffee and stop himself from laughing he turned to the general direction of the questioning foal.

Using his best sophisticated voice, Fajer nodded lightly and smiled, preparing to embarrass the living heckout of the mother of the whelp that interrupted his mid-morning musings.

"While I am flattered to be compared to the Princesses, I cannot say that I am part of that most noble of the tribes. I must confess that I," he paused, bringing a hoof to his chest in a exaggerated fashion, "am a mere prince of the horses."

"I am so very sorry," apologized a blue Pegasus. "My daughter is still learning about what is polite and what is not." There was a clear undercurrent of fear at what her daughter had done.

The little unicorn at her side didn't share her apprehension, clearly; her eyes were softballs in her head as she stared up at the horse. "A Prince? Really really? Can't fib, remember. Mr. Press says it's not nice to fib."


Have you given the system a chance to work? I know Earth Pony justice might seem odd to us Pegasi, but they aren't the dullards everypony thinks they are, and they've got their own harsh punishments for the crimes he committed.

Prediction: Tribalism (AKA racism between pony tribes) will be a serious problem if Equestria stays united.

"They refuse to recognize it as a crime," the Pegasus growled. "They claim that worthless excuse for a lame mule was only operating a business, that the blame should be placed on my daughter, or even on me!"


"That's the spirit!" Mutton clapped the lord on the back. "Give 'em a good fight, and leave all the problems behind in the ring. Once Firefly's done with Doo, the choice of weapons is yours. Good luck." He pranced back to Blueblood, giving him a little knowing nod.

This would have to end. Blueblood stared at the assembly, discontent on his face, though he disguised it as impatience. Dueling could be phased out over time, but he needed to do it carefully. Make the courts the last resort, but one that worked.

"Thank you, Sir Chop. I remind you that the Unified Courts do not recognize duels to the death. Sir Chop, the choice of weapons and conditions for victory, if you please?"

[Pokonic]

"I am so very sorry," apologized a blue Pegasus. "My daughter is still learning about what is polite and what is not." There was a clear undercurrent of fear at what her daughter had done.

The little unicorn at her side didn't share her apprehension, clearly; her eyes were softballs in her head as she stared up at the horse. "A Prince? Really really? Can't fib, remember. Mr. Press says it's not nice to fib."

Fajer looked at the mother of the little filly, wondering how she knew who he was, but he smiled gently at the mare regardless and gave her a slight nod. After doing so, he looked back down at the filly, slightly amused at how utterly engaged the little unicorn was. He was more than interested if this 'Mr. Press' was a unicorn or not, but he believed that could wait.

"Really." Fajer replied, doing his best to keep a straight face, "I have a big house and everything."

[Forum Explorer]

Those corrupt and cruel morons. If the system has really failed to that extent then go for it. And I'll strive to fix this problem for the future.

[TheAmishPirate]

This would have to end. Blueblood stared at the assembly, discontent on his face, though he disguised it as impatience. Dueling could be phased out over time, but he needed to do it carefully. Make the courts the last resort, but one that worked.

"Thank you, Sir Chop. I remind you that the Unified Courts do not recognize duels to the death. Sir Chop, the choice of weapons and conditions for victory, if you please?"

Mutton Chop stood ready, looking to Lord Bitters to confirm his choice.

(Bitters didn't ever actually say he wanted to go with no weapons, just making sure. Also, sorry for the delay.)

[Balmas]

Fajer looked at the mother of the little filly, wondering how she knew who he was, but he smiled gently at the mare regardless and gave her a slight nod. After doing so, he looked back down at the filly, slightly amused at how utterly engaged the little unicorn was. He was more than interested if this 'Mr. Press' was a unicorn or not, but he believed that could wait.

"Really." Fajer replied, doing his best to keep a straight face, "I have a big house and everything."

"Mum has a big house too, though," the little filly said, her eyes going slightly cross-eyed as she tried to fit new facts into her world. "What makes you a prince, then?"


Those corrupt and cruel morons. If the system has really failed to that extent then go for it. And I'll strive to fix this problem for the future.


Mutton Chop stood ready, looking to Lord Bitters to confirm his choice.

(Bitters didn't ever actually say he wanted to go with no weapons, just making sure. Also, sorry for the delay.)

Bitters coughed, struggling to look like he hadn't been contemplating his own imminent doom. "Erm, ye- Ahem, yes. In accordance with the good Sir's advice, and with our dear Princess's wishes, this duel will not be to the death." He quickly began shedding armor, to a chorus of whispers and confusion. "Indeed, there will be no weapons, nor armor. This duel will be done to unconsciousness, and with bare hooves." He eyed Mutton Chop, tugging nervously at an imaginary collar.

In the other corner, Deadly Doo appeared to be doing a passable imitation of a volcano. Steam could practically be seen spiraling up off his ears. Still, a hint of a smile teased at the edges of his mouth, and he nodded.

"These terms are acceptable to both parties?" Blueblood stared at both ponies evaluating how likely it was that he'd find a dead body in the streets of Canterlot later that week. At the nod from both corners, he trotted to the side of the room, and levitated a kerchief over the center of the room. "Very well then. When I drop the handkerchief, then. Fight!"


(And that's it. Reflections?)

[Forum Explorer]

Firefly rubbed her aching head as she glared at her paperwork. I don't know what Mutton was thinking, advising a hoof fight. When there is that much hate in the air, a fight was bound to be vicious and brutal. Making it a hoof fight just let Deadly savor the experience rather then swiftly finishing his opponent off. Still Bitters got in a few good hits. And now I've got to fill in the paperwork for an off duty injury. And in the end, I had to have Deadly restrained, or else he would have finished Bitters off for good.

[Pokonic]

"Mum has a big house too, though," the little filly said, her eyes going slightly cross-eyed as she tried to fit new facts into her world. "What makes you a prince, then?"

Fajer smiled lightly.

"My family rules over a thousand tribes of horses." he said lightly, hoping to impart a bit of wisdom into the stubby little pony, "I once controlled a city bigger then this one, and the land around it in a day's travel. I helped five horse tribes and two zebra tribes get together. If your queen helps three tribes get along and gets to call herself queen, then I would think I can call myself a prince."

[TheAmishPirate]

Mutton hummed a happy work tune as he mopped the marble floor clean. Some of the other ponies had said that since the hoof-fight was his idea, he should clean up his own mess. Ignoring that it was clearly Lord Bitters' blood on the ground and not his, he would have gladly cleaned a dozen floors like this one for that fight. Everything had gone perfectly. The fight was clean, nopony died, all the arguments had stopped, and the crowd had eaten it up. Ponies forgot their roots sometimes, all dressed up in their best clothes in the tidy city. It did a body good to see a fight again, and remember the wilds they came from.

And with any luck? This was going to be the first fight of many.

Mutton's song grew a little more livelier.

[Voting to remove a Crisis box]

[Balmas]

"Read it back to me."

Scribed Scroll didn't flinch at the tired edge in his employer's voice as he levitated up the ornate proclamation. "Be it known unto all members of Equestria, of the free cities and principalities of Canterlot, Cloudsd-"

"Skip ahead."

The unicorn nodded, his eyes flitting down the page. "...that dueling, whether it shall be organized or spontaneous, shall be, now and forever, nonlethal. It was not Celestia's desire that our little ponies should spend their blood and tears in fighting each other. To that end, any duel which results in the death of either participant shall be considered murder in the eyes of the law, and shall be punished as such." Scribed Scroll brushed a forelock away from his eyes, scrutinizing the page. "There follows a list of suggested non-lethal weapons. Pies? Pillows? Your highness, the nobles may not follow these."

"True." Blueblood contemplated the amber liquid in his floating glass. Strange, that alcohol made making policy so much easier. "However, this is the law now. They'll have to either adjust to what is, or enjoy the hooves of the law in breaking it. See that this is posted in all cities, in addition to the normal rumor mills. Ehhmm... Yes, spread stories in each city that in the next city over, a noble was already imprisoned for breaking the law. Duels are common enough that they'll believe it."

As Scribed Scroll nodded and trotted out the door, Blueblood sat back at his desk. Was he being too harsh? Hard to find the right balance between loving leader and feared tyrant. Somehow Celestia had done it, always with that cursed knowing smile.

Someday.

((Marking a box towards decision.))

[Pokonic]

Fajer, back in his quarters, thought on what he head seen today, or rather, really, wished he hadn't seen. Two ponies of moderate stature beating the ever-loving crap out of each other was not a thing he wanted to see happening on a daily basis. There were children there. The little unicorn who asked him who he was brought by her mother to see two ponies beat each other half to death, and Fajer couldn't even put it to tribal differences just from the Pegasus having a unicorn daughter.

These were troubling times.

[Voting for a check towards Crisis]

[TheAmishPirate]

[Location: Crystal Empire Refugee Camp]

A light, gleaming air reflected across the camp. Though it had been years since the Empire's disappearance, the Crystal Ponies never failed to remember the Crystal Faire. They made due with Equestrian Sheep for the petting zoo, Earth Pony-grown ingredients for the crystal pies, Pegasi lances for the jousting tournament, and a well-crafted illusionary Crystal Heart donated by the Unicorns. This year, the spirit of the fair-goers glimmered particularly brightly. For this year, their numbers had swelled to the point where their little camp could no longer contain them. They'd banded together and sent a formal petition to the Crown, requesting land and resources for their community to thrive in the Crystal Empire's absence. Soon they'd have a new home, new lives, and new hope. Everywhere throughout the Faire their songs of joy rang out to the heavens.

Everywhere, that is, save for one official-looking tent.

"Nopony wants them." Mutton declared flatly, plucking a few letters from a pile of documents. "'The Earth Pony Senate will have to confer and check its supplies for the upcoming winter', 'We thank you for your request and will hold a hearing of the associated nobility at the earliest possible date', 'Due to the sudden decrease in the pegasi armed forces we cannot guarantee that any resources will be available', and there's more where those came from." He threw the letters onto the table and fell onto a cushion. "Nopony wants them," he repeated in disbelief.

[Balmas]

"We refuse to believe that," Blueblood said flatly. "You mean to tell us that nobody wishes to house a proud people, a displaced group of our own flesh and blood? They keep people happy across the nation, and none wish to help? Let us see a map of Canterlot."

[Forum Explorer]

I don't know what to tell you. It seems everypony is more interested in sending ponies out to new places rather then take strangers in. Firefly says, shrugging her wings.

Prediction: If Equestria stays united, ponies from all tribes will settle new lands.

[TheAmishPirate]

"Suit yourself; I've already looked." Mutton idly tossed a map to Prince Blueblood. "Every acre and parcel as far as the eye can see has somepony's name on it already. This ground we're standing on?" He stamped the earth. "Borrowed. And the owner's not selling. Nopony wants to give up what they've got. They all say find some more land somewhere but there isn't any. Nothing ready to settle anyway."

He took a long swig of something sparkling and extremely pungent. He didn't even bat an eye.

"So what am I going to tell them? Their best bet for a home is the nearest monster-infested forest? Tell 'em we hope they don't all get killed, 'cause we don't have any spare Crystal Ponies lying around?"

[Balmas]

Blueblood snorted. "And have you no land, Sir Chop? A Knight-Captain of the Royal Guard, with no land to call his own? Is not our palace more full of empty rooms than anything else? Fajer, what of your fort? You've certainly enough money to support them and pay for their services without even noticing the drop in your finances."

[Forum Explorer]

Perhaps we should look into settling someplace new. I could station the Wonderbolts in the same location to ensure their safety at the very least.

[Pokonic]

Fajer, for the record, found the entire issue rather repugnant. Blueblood's questioning, however, forced him to put his ideas on the subject into words.

"While I am perfectly happy to take in as many crystal ponies as necessary, and I shall begin on furnishing quarters for as many as my holding can support, I must question how this situation has come to pass. Me and my people traveled a week through this land before we reached civilization, and yet it has all been claimed? How is this so?"

He paused, waving a hoof over in the general area off the mountain.

"Do they not have their own nobility? Surely some talks regarding marriages between them and the unicorn houses have been undertaken? If they had one unicorn king already, then some intermarriage with the old unicorn nation must have occurred, correct?"

[Forum Explorer]

As far as I'm aware, whatever they had for nobles and leaders were all killed by King Sombra. As for land, there is lots of unclaimed land, but it has the problem of being dangerous. Take this location Firefly said pointing to a spot on a map.

Less then a day away from Canterlot by sky chariot, and even has a ruined castle nearby that could be converted into a base. But it's also right beside the Everfree forest which is home to Ursas, Dragons, evil magic, and worse. All of the safe, tame lands have been claimed by either the Earth Ponies or the Unicorns. And without a royal decree, there is no way to force them to give it up to another group.

[Pokonic]

Fajer snorted lightly, but looked at the map with no small amount of interest. He pointed a hoof at a small patch of land close to where the general's own hoof was placed, distinguished by the big blob that was the Everfree by being lighter in color.

"Whitetail Woods." Fajer said slowly, reading the small-printed name that declared the name of the moderate patch of land "Given it's slight distance from the rest of the Everfree, what dangers holds there?"

[Balmas]

Fajer snorted lightly, but looked at the map with no small amount of interest. He pointed a hoof at a small patch of land close to where the general's own hoof was placed, distinguished by the big blob that was the Everfree by being lighter in color.

"Whitetail Woods." Fajer said slowly, reading the small-printed name that declared the name of the moderate patch of land "Given it's slight distance from the rest of the Everfree, what dangers holds there?"

Blueblood peered at the map. There were quite a few unpopular names on that list. It wouldn't be too hard to start a few rumors, maybe a scandal or two, and shuffle around the property lines in the ensuing mix. "Monsters aren't as common in that part of the land, but manticores still come in from Everfree. What's more, if the ponies were to settle the land, it would take them years, if not decades, to clear the land enough to allow any farm larger than an herb garden."

[TheAmishPirate]

Blueblood snorted. "And have you no land, Sir Chop? A Knight-Captain of the Royal Guard, with no land to call his own? Is not our palace more full of empty rooms than anything else? Fajer, what of your fort? You've certainly enough money to support them and pay for their services without even noticing the drop in your finances."

"Land?" Mutton looked genuinely taken aback. "I've got my house, and that sits on land. Does that count?"


Blueblood peered at the map. There were quite a few unpopular names on that list. It wouldn't be too hard to start a few rumors, maybe a scandal or two, and shuffle around the property lines in the ensuing mix. "Monsters aren't as common in that part of the land, but manticores still come in from Everfree. What's more, if the ponies were to settle the land, it would take them years, if not decades, to clear the land enough to allow any farm larger than an herb garden."

"Exactly!" he said, regaining his mental footing with another long drink. "Even if I did have land to give them, I don't have enough for all of them to settle down. We'd need enough for housing, for crops, walls for defense, public service, fairs, banks, restaurants, orphanages..." He kept listing off various buildings with no intention of stopping anytime soon.

[Pokonic]

Fajer looked at the map, somewhat sullenly. He had not taken farming into account; it was quite likely that the Crystal Ponies were unused to grazing, for one thing.

"I do believe that, given all the resources present in the city, supporting a settlement in a day's travel from the capital of the country will not be as difficult if we sent them walking to the rim of Equestrian territory." Fajer said slowly, "What about the earth pony magnates? Could it not be possible to metaphorically sell the situation to them as a long term investment? I am sure that the Everfree is a great bounty, and it is not as if this country is lacking in ponies skilled in protecting others."

Fajer paused, and gave a questioning glance at Blueblood.

"Tell me, would it be out of the question to place such a start-up settlement under the management of one of your ponies? By which I mean, of course, putting up a baron or such to be a face for your ponies? Someone skilled but from a house of minor power, or one with none at all, preferably with military experience would fit such a place nicely."

[Forum Explorer]

That's basically what Mutton is now. Firefly pointed out. And I don't think we should replace him. As I said, I could station pegasi to ensure that they are safe, and there should be plenty of money in Canterlot to fund the new settlement. And you're right, there is a lot of profit to be had in a location near the Everfree forest.

The biggest problem as I see it, is which law do the Crystal Ponies fall under? Right now they are under Mutton's direct command, which is technically martial law. Practically speaking they've been left to run themselves, more or less. But which tribe's law will take precedence in their territory? Or will it be maintained under the same laws as the Crystal Empire was, whatever those were?

Prediction: If Equestria does Not stay united the Crystal Pony Refugees will be absorbed into the other three tribes and their culture will die out.

[Balmas]

"You say 'Which tribe's law' as if there's more than one," Blueblood said. "Equestria was united under Celestia's law. Why should we go back to tribalistic division?"

[Forum Explorer]

Equestria's united, and there are a few Equestria wide laws, but mostly tribal law still predominates. It's not much of a problem because all three tribes generally agree on what's a crime. But for example, succession laws, are completely different between the tribes.

[Pokonic]

Fajer raised a hoof in the air, to break the given conversation.

"I would think we should keep on topic; I would imagine the Crystal Pony's themselves could decide what law they would prefer to be ruled under. However, I would think that Equestrian law should apply to them as a group, as it does for any non Equestrians who come here. I would imagine that they would be satisfied with their own internal dealings being under their own rules, of course."

Fajer coughed lightly.

"I do believe it would be best to place a settlement near that forest, with the proper preparations, of course. While I understand that the land might be dangerous now, I would imagine it was far worse when the ponies first arrived here, so I do believe that the construction of a settlement right outside the very capital is possible."

[TheAmishPirate]

"They aren't gonna like it," Mutton chimed in, tail flicking away at random; the only sign so far he'd been drinking. "These ponies've been chased out of their homes by a big 'ol tyrant of a unicorn. They want a place they can rest, rebuild, and recuperate, not someplace they always gotta be watching their backs." Another long swig. "If we can't even get land for these ponies, how're we going to get ponies for...these ponies? Protecting ponies. Guards. Them ponies."

[Pokonic]

"They aren't gonna like it," Mutton chimed in, tail flicking away at random; the only sign so far he'd been drinking. "These ponies've been chased out of their homes by a big 'ol tyrant of a unicorn. They want a place they can rest, rebuild, and recuperate, not someplace they always gotta be watching their backs." Another long swig. "If we can't even get land for these ponies, how're we going to get ponies for...these ponies? Protecting ponies. Guards. Them ponies."

"I can be of assistance in that route." Fajer offered, helpfully, "Many of the more adventurous stallions in my entourage wish to see more of this place now that they have settled in, and many of them are skilled at arms. I would be able to offer two-hundred horses for the task of undergoing such a task, in the least."

[Forum Explorer]

"They aren't gonna like it," Mutton chimed in, tail flicking away at random; the only sign so far he'd been drinking. "These ponies've been chased out of their homes by a big 'ol tyrant of a unicorn. They want a place they can rest, rebuild, and recuperate, not someplace they always gotta be watching their backs." Another long swig. "If we can't even get land for these ponies, how're we going to get ponies for...these ponies? Protecting ponies. Guards. Them ponies."

That's no problem. The ponies of the E.U.P. go where I tell them to go. Plus this location is close enough to both Cloudsdale and Canterlot that I could justify stationing the Wonderbolts there full time. Firefly said before turning to Fajer.

There's no need to deprive yourself of your troops. The E.U.P. can protect all of Equestria's villages, even the ones not built yet. And I wouldn't want to deal with having two separate chains of command in one village, plus the public shame by implying that we required your help to protect our own.

[Balmas]

"Very well then. Fajer, you are now responsible for the security of the Crystal ponies. Firefly, for the safety of the crystal ponies, you shall help coordinate. Those horses who wish to join the E.U.P. may do so. Meet with our surveyors, and they shall assist you in finding a suitable tract of land; until that day that the Crystal ponies shall have a home to call their own, they shall have homes in the Palace and in Fajer's fort. Any questions?"

[Pokonic]

"Very well then. Fajer, you are now responsible for the security of the Crystal ponies. Firefly, for the safety of the crystal ponies, you shall help coordinate. Those horses who wish to join the E.U.P. may do so. Meet with our surveyors, and they shall assist you in finding a suitable tract of land; until that day that the Crystal ponies shall have a home to call their own, they shall have homes in the Palace and in Fajer's fort. Any questions?"

Fajer wasn't sure how fine he was being told what to do by a pony who was nigh his equal, but he simply allotted the Prince at this and nodded.

"I think all my questions about what the E.U.P would entail for my horses could be answered by my own military advisor, so I would think, at the moment, no."

[TheAmishPirate]

"And I'll break the news to the Crystal Ponies first thing tomorrow." Mutton drained his glass, a hint of a smile playing about his face. "They've got a faire to finish, after all..."

[End Scene, Begin Reflections]

[Balmas]

Blueblood sat in his office, sipping a scotch and reading the reports of the progress of the Crystal ponies. His office sat on the imposing mountain that dominated Equestria; already, he could see the drop in the amount of green towards Whitetail woods.

Oh, there had been a few outcries from the nobility. Most of them were demands to know why the Crystal ponies hadn't been placed with them; after all, an entire countries' worth of trained artisans, farmers, and courtesans would have provided an incredible boost to any city's economy. A few rumors and hushed whispers to the right ponies had ensured that the outcries didn't make their ways to the official courts.

And things were actually working out, too. Fajer's troops, though startled the first time a manticore had wandered into their camp, at least proved sufficiently capable to drive it right back out with only minimal losses.

Blueblood smiled, and called for a servant to file the report. That was a political win for him. The unicorn smirked, and drained the cup. Then again, was there any other kind?

[Pokonic]

Fajer thought the intergration between the Crystal ponies and his own horses were going quite well, all things considered. There was a bit of a culture shock, of course, but it subsided over the course of a few days. The work on carving out a bit of civilization in the woods was going quite well, and as Fajer suspected nearly a fifth of his stallions pledged to work on building a home near Whitetail Woods.

There was even a few surprises.

"And you may kiss the bride."

Like now. One of his courters had taken a interest in one of the Crystal newcomers, and it seemed like his interest was deserved given that she had interest in him right back. Two weeks in with the Crystal ponies arrival, and there was already a marriage.

Fajer watched the party from his litter, preferring not to dance himself. His gift to the two, a sapphire the size of a hoof set on a tiara made in the Saddle fashion, was, in his mind, enough.

Really, he was thinking about how he could hold this over Firefly's head. This was a marriage of love, after all.

No check towards anything.

[Forum Explorer]

"You called for us General?" The blue suited pegasus saluted as she entered Firefly's office.

Ah, yes. Glad to see you. I have news for you. The Wonderbolts are being transferred to a freshly founded town.

"What? But we are Equestria's finest warriors! You can't afford to strand us in the middle of no where!"

Trust me you'll see more then your fair share of action. This town is located right by the Everfree forest, and the only back up you'll have is a bunch of untested horses from Saddle Arabia. Who are not under my command, so I wouldn't even count them to show up if danger rears it's ugly head. Between that, the deadly creatures, and the wild weather, this town is doomed if it doesn't have the best, and that is you.

"But what about rest of Equestria? Are duty to every place else doesn't fade just because one town needs our help."

Don't worry, this town is within day's flight of Canterlot. You'll be able to get to where you need to be.

"Why us though? I mean why only us? Why can you not just station an E.U.P. garrison there?"

Because that idiot Blueblood decided that getting rid of two hundred of Fajer's horses was worth risking the last of the crystal ponies for.

"Typical hornhead! Always thinking about his own profit instead of the greater good of all ponies. This would never happen if a pegasus was in charge."

That's dangerous talk captain. You are dismissed.

"One last thing General. What is this town's name?"

I've heard the residents have decided to call it Ponyville. Now go.

The Wonderbolt nodded, saluted, and left to go carry out his general's will.

Prediction: If Equestria is united then Ponyville will become a hub of foreign cultures.

[TheAmishPirate]

For something that had started out so terrible, things had turned out alright.

Sure, it would've been better if some of the other ponies had been a little more hospitable, but now the Crystal ponies answered directly to the throne. Anytime they had trouble, Mutton was one of the first to hear about it, and there was never a chance the message could get lost along the way. The wilderness hadn't been kind to them, but by training with Fajeer's horses and the E.U.P.'s flyers, the Crystal ponies were turning into quite the capable ponies. They held their heads higher, shone a little brighter, and everypony who visited their village left with a spring in their step too. Certainly made ponies want to come again soon.

As for him? He took full advantage of the proximity to Cantermotte, and stopped to check in on his charges whenever possible. Next to his duties by the throne or seeing his childhood caretakers, it was his favorite place to visit. They always had a cup of their finest Crystal Wine for the Captain, and the children a new wrestling challenge. Now, preparing to doze off with a half-dozen foals flopped lazily over his back and even more nestled around him, he felt something he hadn't quite felt since Mother had died.

He felt at home.

[Checking a box towards Decision, removing a box for Crisis]

[Pokonic]

[Location: Castle Redmane]

Fajer had been making a point to call bi-monthly meetings up until now; just enough time to let the important ponies clear their schedule or send a emissary, and just enough to make sure his voice was heard when he didn't go into the city.

However, this meeting was different, because he had organized it during the middle of the week.

The visitors to the castle would have noticed that there was a bunch of donkey's in it, along with a couple of mules and even a few free-roaming goats and sheep and cattle. The apparent newcomers did not seem intent on talking to the important ponies, for that matter.

The room they were brought towards was furnished like it was during the great party he threw close to the time when he arrived, and there was a great map of Equestria on the table. A small area of the south-east of the country, the part which bordered Dragon lands and was mostly unexplored, was marked in a wide thin oval-shape.

"A deal has been brought before me, a deal involving a possible loan. A large group of donkeys wish to secede from Equestria and set up a country of their own in the apparently unsettled mountains to the south, because they do not believe that Equestria is supporting their interests. They claim that most of the donkey leaders in the country agree with this idea, as they believe that the crystal ponies are getting a warmer welcome as former members of a failed state then they do as members of Equestrian society since Celestia allowed them into pony lands.

Now, these donkeys, of which two thousand are within sight from this mountain, have come towards me to plead for a loan consisting of a tremendous amount of my own wealth, gold and jewels included. In exchange, they have stated, they will offer me payment in the ore and lumber they would be producing as they build their villages and settlements and businesses, over the course of several years."

Fajer paused, frowning.

"You might understand me hesitating in doing such a thing if the government is able to rectify the issue. Of course, there's the issue of how this situation came to pass anyway, which I am deeply interested in"

[Balmas]

"The donkeys have their representatives in the nobility," Blueblood said calmly. "As well as a sizable portion in each town and village. The laws against discrimination have been on the books for decades. If they do not feel that they are welcome, we would know what exactly they wish to receive. Firefly, Mutton, do you know of any restrictions on donkeys that would cause them to secede?"

[Forum Explorer]

Perhaps it's because they only have representatives and little actual power? Or perhaps despite having the vote, their has never been a donkey official voted in by the Earth Ponies?

However I think it's just a matter of being sick of being a minority. I believe the donkeys represent less then 5% of the total population in Equestria. That would be hard on anypony, particularly when nearly every other pony outclasses them physically and magically.

[Pokonic]

Fajer raised a eyebrow at Firefly's comment.

"They also mentioned something about them being considered weaker than ponies, which is obviously untrue, given that they have survived in this land so far without any explicit magical abilities to help them along. That takes a certain stubbornness, and surely a lack of magic is useful in a land so full of magical threats."

Fajer paused, realizing the other thing that concerned him lightly.

"I would wish to make it clear that these donkey's seemed as if they hadn't even been any official governmental actions related to them besides the ones that effect all the tribes in general. Would this happen to be true?"

[Balmas]

Perhaps it's because they only have representatives and little actual power? Or perhaps despite having the vote, their has never been a donkey official voted in by the Earth Ponies?

However I think it's just a matter of being sick of being a minority. I believe the donkeys represent less then 5% of the total population in Equestria. That would be hard on anypony, particularly when nearly every other pony outclasses them physically and magically.

"Short of declaring a week's holiday per year for all donkeys in Equestria, there is little that we can do to make donkeys become less of a minority. And even if we did, the other ponies would have such an outcry at 'reverse discrimination...'"


Fajer raised a eyebrow at Firefly's comment.

"They also mentioned something about them being considered weaker than ponies, which is obviously untrue, given that they have survived in this land so far without any explicit magical abilities to help them along. That takes a certain stubbornness, and surely a lack of magic is useful in a land so full of magical threats."

Fajer paused, realizing the other thing that concerned him lightly.

"I would wish to make it clear that these donkey's seemed as if they hadn't even been any official governmental actions related to them besides the ones that effect all the tribes in general. Would this happen to be true?"

"The United Courts answer any and all grievances brought before them," Blueblood stated. "But if they do not bring their issues to us, how can we help?"

[Pokonic]

"The United Courts answer any and all grievances brought before them," Blueblood stated. "But if they do not bring their issues to us, how can we help?"

"That is what they believe they are rectifying." Fajer said, pointing at the marked area at the map. "They are scattered all across Equestria, and there is apparently some amount of apprehension for having to answer to ponies for anything outside their own communities. In addition, the highest title any one of them has achieved is 'mayor', and they must follow earth pony legalities when it comes to electing leaders. There is no donkey in Canterlot Castle, as it seems, besides Celestia's old jester. They believe that, in creating a nation for themselves, they would be free to pursue their own national interests."

[Forum Explorer]

Fajer raised a eyebrow at Firefly's comment.

"They also mentioned something about them being considered weaker than ponies, which is obviously untrue, given that they have survived in this land so far without any explicit magical abilities to help them along. That takes a certain stubbornness, and surely a lack of magic is useful in a land so full of magical threats."


That's like saying being blind is useful because everyone else can see. Firefly says sarcastically.

Now don't get me wrong, some donkeys can and do surpass the average pony. But they have to work harder to do so, or act more intelligently, or use dark magic which nopony would like. And even those exceptional donkeys that do so don't match up to the best of the ponies. It's sad but true.

As for laws, well, the laws Celestia put in are about as fair as they get. If they wish to all join together and found a new town in Equestria, then they would enjoy all the benefits that any of our town's would. But seceding is another, much more serious matter.

[TheAmishPirate]

"The donkeys have their representatives in the nobility," Blueblood said calmly. "As well as a sizable portion in each town and village. The laws against discrimination have been on the books for decades. If they do not feel that they are welcome, we would know what exactly they wish to receive. Firefly, Mutton, do you know of any restrictions on donkeys that would cause them to secede?"

"This is the first I've heard of it." Mutton shrugged. "I've fought alongside donkeys, seen them run businesses, seen them living alongside ponies, the one thing I haven't seen is a problem. And besides all that, how do they expect to go on without the rest of Equestria? They won't have roads, an army, or even a lot of money. I don't know what could be worth all that trouble for themselves."

[Balmas]

"Short of placing all donkeys in Equestria under armed guard, there's little we could do to actually prevent them from emigrating," Blueblood mused. "More worrisome, though, is that none of the donkeys actually thought they could approach the government, and instead turned to private investors in issues of national significant. Firefly, what would be the consequences of funding the donkeys in their bid for independence?"

[Forum Explorer]

A lot of lost money. The donkeys might be able to set up their nation, but it wouldn't be able to do much more then survive. Our own rock farms, quarries, and timberyards can already far outproduce anything the donkeys would make, and for much cheaper. So unless they hit a gold mine, or their is a gem shortage, there is no way they could pay back the money spent to fund them.

Plus as a species without a winged equivalent, they would still be dependent on Equestria's weather pegasi. As a foreign nation they would need to negotiate terms on how to pay us, or find another method of controlling the weather.

Still they would certainly survive.

[Pokonic]

A lot of lost money. The donkeys might be able to set up their nation, but it wouldn't be able to do much more then survive. Our own rock farms, quarries, and timberyards can already far outproduce anything the donkeys would make, and for much cheaper. So unless they hit a gold mine, or their is a gem shortage, there is no way they could pay back the money spent to fund them.

Plus as a species without a winged equivalent, they would still be dependent on Equestria's weather pegasi. As a foreign nation they would need to negotiate terms on how to pay us, or find another method of controlling the weather.

Still they would certainly survive.

"I would like to note that, while I am certainly no geologist, the donkeys did not choose an area so close to that supposed wasteland that is dragon territory for no reason. They believe that the volcanic soil there will be able to support large bounties of crops, and that the area there contains diamonds unlike those found easily in Equestrian territory. Furthermore, it is far enough away from Equestrian lands to where wild weather does occur regularly, and that the eastern areas of the territory, at least, has regular rainfall. A small exploratory party was already sent out, as it seems, and they have conformed that the area contains nomadic goat herds that do not seem to suffer from dragon raids. The ones I met with seemed very certain that they could survive there, even if it would take several years to make the settlements to which all the donkeys involved could eventually move into. They have planned this out, regardless of how sound their beliefs truly are."

[Forum Explorer]

We can literally grow diamonds, you know that right? Plus an area close to the dragons and is rich in diamonds screams dragon feeding territory to me. As for farming, an earth pony will out compete them no matter where they are, because their mere presence causes their crops to grow faster and stronger. It's why the Earth Ponies are able to provide food for everypony in Equestria and still have around the same number of architects, teachers, and entertainers as the other tribes.

I applaud the donkey's foresight and inventiveness, but it just isn't possible for them to compete with our products, and thus they won't exactly be making a lot of money. You want to fund them? Go ahead, they'll likely survive, but don't expect your money back.

[Balmas]

"The donkeys are stubborn enough that they could make it work," Blueblood thought out loud. "Here is what we shall do; the Crown shall make a gift of the land to the Donkeys--something that we note was never accounted for, by the way--and I shall donate some bits out of my own pocket. However, we shall ask them not to secede; if they do so, they shall be treated like any other country, complete with tariffs, negotiations for protection, etc. General, I shall lose some money, but I hope it shall be sufficient to earn some good will from a people that does not believe we deserve any, correct?

"Oh, and Mutton Chop? Please send out some guardsponies to let the leaders of the Donkeys know that the Prince would like to speak with them at their earliest convenience."

[Forum Explorer]

Firefly shrugs, not really knowing what to say. I can't really say how they'd feel about that deal. Though legally, I don't think we've technically claimed the land they've proposed moving to.

Prediction: If Equestria stays united, Donkeys will be even rarer and more marginalized outside of the new nation they've formed (think Ponyville's reaction to Zecora)

Prediction: If Equestria does not stay united Donkeys will go extinct in Equestria and the surrounding nations.

[Balmas]

"If it falls within Equestria's borders and is unclaimed, then it is the property of the government," Blueblood informed her. "And we are choosing to be optimistic, yes? Who knows; they might even become a successful neighbor."


Prediction: If Equestria does not stay united Donkeys will go extinct in Equestria and the surrounding nations.

[Challenge, on the basis that if the Donkeys are establishing a new settlement with no connections to Equestria, then what happens to Equestria is largely irrelevant.]

[Forum Explorer]

[Yes if the donkeys join the other groups attacking Equestria and raid the other tribes for the resources that a united Equestria would trade for cheap]

[TheAmishPirate]

"The donkeys are stubborn enough that they could make it work," Blueblood thought out loud. "Here is what we shall do; the Crown shall make a gift of the land to the Donkeys--something that we note was never accounted for, by the way--and I shall donate some bits out of my own pocket. However, we shall ask them not to secede; if they do so, they shall be treated like any other country, complete with tariffs, negotiations for protection, etc. General, I shall lose some money, but I hope it shall be sufficient to earn some good will from a people that does not believe we deserve any, correct?

"Oh, and Mutton Chop? Please send out some guardsponies to let the leaders of the Donkeys know that the Prince would like to speak with them at their earliest convenience."

Mutton sent a few of his guards to relay the message. "Let's hope they aren't too stubborn to take the deal." he commented with a frown, but said nothing else.

[Pokonic]

Fajer, some time after the guests left and most of the kingdom was asleep, looked at the two letters before him.

One was a signed notice to the donkeys, which said that he would eagerly support their claim to founding a new society to the south, and that they would be supported by him over the course of several years.

The second letter was to the crown, which stated that he had thought against giving the donkey's their loan.

He considered, for a few moments, that what he was doing was wrong. Lucid had a few drunken words to say about donkeys, but what he had gleaned from that conversation was that it was likely that the donkey's, if they set out to metaphorical greener pastures, would probably not return to Equestria alive if their efforts were met with failure. They were stubborn; if they had worked up the nerve to send him a request, it was likely that some pathfinders were going through the maps and finding the quickest routes and safest passages, even now.

He respected that, after a fashion, but he was also interested in the trade options. Equestria was not especially lacking in what the donkey's would be producing, but it also seemed that the land the donkey's chose also had a natural port, and it was a very well placed one at that. Fajer was thinking on the lines of 'Trade with the Zebras', truly.

He sealed the letters and left them for a servant to send them to the appropriate parties.

[One vote for a check towards crisis, one check towards time passes.]

[Forum Explorer]

Firefly sighed as she watched the progression of donkeys from a cloud far above them. There they go, trading a life of ease, safety, and prosperity for a life of hardship, violence, and poverty. I hope their independence is worth this sacrifice.

[Balmas]

"So that's where our wayward Donkeys intend to build their home, is it?"

It had already been twenty minutes more than the aging unicorn mage had promised. Most of it had been spent tuning the battered crystal ball into the right area. In theory, as the mage--Red Curry, he'd said, or something like that--had explained, scrying could be used to see anything, anywhere. The problem was that most of "anything, anywhere" consisted of a vast deal of nothing. So Blueblood had been left to fume and watch the other unicorn muddle around and try not to break the old instrument, before the valley finally hissed into view.

"It doesn't look like much."

"No. Could use a banquet or twelve, lighten things right up."

Blueblood didn't laugh, scrutinizing the sphere. "Thank you, Red Curry."

"It's Rid--"

"Off you go then." With a wave, a pair of unicorn guards ushered the sputtering mage out the door.

Mentally, Blueblood began to draft letters to the zebras. Something about protection for a group of bullheaded donkeys

[TheAmishPirate]

Mutton Chop stood on the borders of Equestria, watching the last of the Donkeys crest the horizon. He and his guards had kept them safe on the road thus far, but from here on out they were responsible for their own survival. He couldn't help but feel a pang of sadness as he watched them go. There went another part of Celestia's family, leaving because they didn't feel wanted anymore. Or they weren't happy. Or they were stubborn. Or something. Mutton didn't really understand why. They didn't want to be here, and now they were gone.

He hoped they would be the first, and last time he'd have to do this.

[Also voting for a check towards Crisis]

[Forum Explorer]

Canterlot Royal Court

A delegation of pegasi have arrived, dressed to the nines in formal military wear and glaring at Blueblood, and any other nobles they see.

"We," the pegasus in front gestures to the rest of the group, "are the Pegasi for a Brighter Equestria. And we have a major problem with the government of Equestria. Namely you!" she says pointing at Blueblood.

"We the pegasus ponies do not know who you are. Not really. You haven't served with us, or worked your way up. No! You only rule by dint of being related to Princess Celestia! Well we didn't name her our leader just because she was noble by birth! She ruled because she proved her worth to all of us, and serving under her lead us all to glory and prosperity. In comparison, you are just riding off the inertia of her success. And we won't stand for it! We demand that there is a proper ruler of Equestria, one who has actually earned the right to rule by all three tribes, not just been born into it by the traditions of the unicorns!"

[Balmas]

"My little ponies. Brothers and sisters." Blueblood looked up from a scroll. "We do apologize for this oversight. Let me see if I understand your dilemma. You feel that in order to rule, someone must have worked their way up from the bottom--earned their commission, I believe is the phrase. And the way to do this is through military service. Am I correct?"

[Forum Explorer]

"Close, but not exactly. Generally the pegasi have selected their leaders by our Generals coming together and appointing a pony to lead us. Then that pony is granted the title of Commander-in-Chief and is allowed to rule. Generally the Generals will select one of their own, but there is nothing stopping them from appointing any Pegasus citizen to be our leader, and indeed that was how Princess Celestia came to rule. After she defeated Discord, the remaining Generals decided that she should be our leader.

So we ask, no we demand, that you prove yourself! Show us that you are the sort of leader that truly represents the best of the pegasi! Either through proper military service, or some great deed that shows the world what kind of pony you truly are. "

[Balmas]

"Do you speak for the pegasus generals? For the pegasi in general?"

[Pokonic]

Fajer sipped at his tea and let Blueblood have his debate with the pegusi; it wasn't as if he would have a defense if they went after himself, after all. He did find the idea of Blueblood having to cater to the local militants amusing, only slightly; Fajer was tempted to give the suggestion that he was to go out and slay a dragon or somesuch, but he wasn't barbaric.

[TheAmishPirate]

"Do you speak for the pegasus generals? For the pegasi in general?"

Mutton Chop stood beside the throne, hoof on his spear. These pegasi were a lot more shouty than usual. That never ended well for anypony involved.

[Forum Explorer]

"The generals' opinions are split on the matter." The leader of the group says glancing at Firefly. "And while we don't speak for all pegasi, we do speak for the majority."

[Balmas]

"My dear brothers and sisters, I respect you too much to obfuscate the issue you've brought before me. I want to do as you wish, but I worry about the implications it would have for our land."

Blueblood quietly stood up, and walked down so that he was on the same level as the group of pegasi, leaving behind the thin gold circlet on the throne.

"Consider the makeup of our military. Unicorns, for the most part, are busy ensuring that the sun and moon are raised, now that our beloved Celestia has gone the way of the earth. While there are many earth pony artisans, craftsponies, and yes, soldiers..." He nodded at Mutton. "The fact remains that there are many more earth ponies who exercise their connection to the earth in bringing food to Equestria. Our army, our guard, is nearly entirely made up of pegasi. There are some unicorns acting as heavy artillery, and some exceptionally gifted earth ponies, but the rest are pegasi. Nearly 87 percent, from the reports I've read.

"What's more, a good deal of them are stallions. As I'm sure you know, stallions are a minority in Equestria; three out of four ponies are mares.

"Can you see the imbalance this system enforces? It places the power to rule squarely into the one-twelfth of the population that are pegasi, male, and in the army. That doesn't sit well with me, and I'm sure it will be worrisome to the other eleven twelfths.

"Then you must face the consequences of doing as you wish. If it is necessary to perform some great deed in order to rule the pegasi, then is it also necessary to be elected by the earth ponies, and to be of noble birth of the unicorns. To do otherwise would be to give one segment of the population preferential treatment at the expense of the other two.

"Bowing to your will would undo all of the work Celestia did, and split the tribes even further. As such, I propose a compromise. I will do as you ask. Despite my own service in the guard, I will do a noble deed. HOWEVER. If I prove myself, then the pegasi will demand no more proof of myself, or of my descendants."

[Forum Explorer]

If you don't think mares can fight then perhaps I should give you a little 'training lesson'. Firefly says with a small glare at Blueblood. I'll even let you choose from any one of the many pegasi mares under my command. As of this moment the majority of our top fliers are female. Out of the Generals I think it's a 45-55 split between the mares and stallions.

The leader waited politely for Firefly to finish before giving Blueblood a glare of her own.

"Don't think I didn't catch your real meaning there, Prince Blueblood. So the unicorns will only be satisfied if one of their so called nobles are sitting on the throne? We won't stand for an Equestria where only those with pointy heads can be called our leaders. The Earth Pony electoral system may be inferior to our own, but even they are much better then a system based off inheritance! Particularly since it does allow for any of the tribes to be elected, so long as they are a citizen. And you proving yourself means nothing if your heir is a pathetic buffoon who can barely fight a cake!

So here's our own compromise Prince. Create a system where the leaders of any of the tribes could possibly become the leader of all of Equestria, and we will consider that to be your heroic deed, and thus we will accept your rule. Otherwise, well I'm sure such a refusal would go a long way to convincing the Generals that change is needed." she said, giving Firefly another glance at the end of it.

[Balmas]

"My apologies, Firefly, though you seem to have missed the thrust of my statement. You, however... You may brag and boast and whine of nobility all you wish, but it is worthless if your arguments are not based in face. You see, I am not the leader of Equestria because of my peerage. If such were the case, I would be in a dungeon, as befits the grandson of Nightmare Moon." Blueblood spat the last few words, meeting the smaller pegasus' fiery gaze before he looked at Firefly. "Instead, I was chosen by Celestia herself. Chosen, over her own daughter and her own son. I have been chosen to lead Equestria by your leader, because she recognized my abilities and talents. Since I was born, I have studied, worked, and learned at Celestia's hooves so that one day, I would know enough to be able to do a fraction of the things that she did to make this country great. She recognized that. If you knew the slightest thing about what you were talking about, or if you had a smidgen of loyalty to her, you'd realize that.

"Since, judging by your actions, you don't, let me paint you a picture. This system--the one established and put into place by Celestia--is the one you are asking for. Our leader is the one chosen by the previous leader, having been judged to be the one most competent by that leader. If, as you so charmingly say, my son--or daughter--were a buffoon who couldn't fight a cake, do you truly think I'd be idiot enough to entrust a country to him? Unlike you, I actually love this country too much to demand a new leader before the dirt has had time to settle on the previous one's tomb."

[Forum Explorer]

That's basically what I said, when they brought it up to me. Firefly commented.


"And like what I said to her, I'll repeat to you. Princess Celestia wasn't perfect. Your own grandmother is proof of that. She earned our trust, and perhaps you do deserve it. But why should we leave it up to faith when you can so easily prove it, one way or the other? If Princess Celestia made a mistake leaving you in charge, as I believe, then we should aim to fix that before you do too much damage. If she didn't, then meeting our compromise shouldn't be a problem at all."

[Balmas]

That's basically what I said, when they brought it up to me. Firefly commented.


"And like what I said to her, I'll repeat to you. Princess Celestia wasn't perfect. Your own grandmother is proof of that. She earned our trust, and perhaps you do deserve it. But why should we leave it up to faith when you can so easily prove it, one way or the other? If Princess Celestia made a mistake leaving you in charge, as I believe, then we should aim to fix that before you do too much damage. If she didn't, then meeting our compromise shouldn't be a problem at all."

Blueblood nodded at Firefly. "I'm glad that your loyalties remain in the right place.

"I fail to see why you others have such difficulties with this government. I can see that Celestia based it, in part at least, on your own system of government: a trusted leader appointing another, through his or her experience, political acumen, and desire to see the country flourish. I trust her wisdom. This system combines elements from earth pony democracy, pegasus military appointment, and unicorn nobility, with no part overpowering the other. If anything, yours is most strongly represented.

"But, since that depends on the viewer being familiar with more than one culture, and having some small amount of political acumen, it's possible that you may not recognize that. So, to calm your ruffled feathers, our government shall impose a limit on our leader. Any leader must have been selected by the previous leader. This national leader shall have power over things at the national level, though he may act at the local level as well. Each region of Equestria shall also have a regional representative, chosen by the people of that area. During a national leader's reign, if the regional representatives feel that a national leader is not acting in the best interests of Equestria, then they may call for a vote from the people. If, in the popular vote, two-thirds of Equestrian citizens feel that the national leader should be replaced, then the regional representatives shall have power to select a replacement leader, as is your custom."

[Pokonic]

Fajer, overall, thought Blueblood's idea to be interesting, right up until the moment where he realized that the unicorn was being serious.

He continued to sip at his drink, his faith in the country he was in rapidly falling.

[Forum Explorer]

The peagsus face twisted in a scowl. She glanced at Firefly, but seeing Firefly smiling at the proposed compromise, grumbled her assent to Blueblood's plan. "We'll still be watching to make sure things turn out well." she said finally, before leaving with her contigent.

Well, that went well. Firefly said cheerfully.

If Equestria stays united there will be about equal representation of all three tribes in all levels of government.


Scene End

[Balmas]

Blueblood grinned as he touched parchment to paper. That had gone better than he could have even hoped. Securing the trust of an entire tribe's leadership, while still keeping the government essentially the same? At least at the top tier.

It was really all he could do not to cackle.


If Equestria stays united there will be about equal representation of all three tribes in all levels of government.

Challenge.
Really, there isn't a chance of equal representation. Not with a law that Blueblood devised and wrote.

Consider the way he phrased it. This law has the appearance of being fair, of imposing bounds on the Prince/ss, but really it's anything but.

Who chooses the next leader? The Prince/ss.
Do the ponies get a say? Broadly, no.

The only way to overturn a decision made by the sovereign is for, first of all, a majority of representatives to feel that the Prince/ss is doing a bad job, and to vote to depose him or hir. That, by itself, is unlikely unless a leader is doing a supremely bad job.

Compounding the difficulty of this is that in order to make this final, two-thirds of all the ponies in Equestria have to A) vote at all, B) Vote to depose the Prince/ss. That requires census data, and a massive undertaking to count all the votes. If less than two-thirds turn out to vote at all, or if less than two thirds of the population of Equestria actually vote to depose him, then the Prince/ss remains in power. Basically, the only way for a leader to be deposed is for the leader to be such a blatant tyrant that everypony knows about it, and everypony wants him gone.

The two-thirds majority vote is even less likely because most unicorns will want a unicorn in power. Unless s/he threatens their power base, they're going to vote to keep any unicorn appointed in power, and try to get any non-unicorn out.

Consider also that there is nothing in place to prevent the Prince/ss from creating new laws or abolishing old ones. When the Prince/ss is legislator, judge, and executive all at once, s/he can do whatever s/he wants.

It looks fair, but think about how often a president has been impeached in American history. I think it's three, plus Nixon who resigned before the vote could actually happen. In all three times, it's been issues over national scandal.

Under this system, which is even less balanced than US politics, there's no way a leader will actually ever be deposed without being a heartless tyrant. Therefore, there's no way that the leadership of the country will be approximately equal portions earth, pegasus, or unicorn.

[Forum Explorer]

Challenge Response
No.

In part because of a future reflection I've got planned,

but mostly because the only level that has a bias towards a single tribe is the top level, which consists of a single pony anyways. Yes, it's almost impossible to get rid of a decent leader, but ultimately that's fine for the Pegasi, who basically had the same thing.

And it's not impossible that the leader will choose a different pony type to rule. Blueblood almost certainly isn't going to, but that doesn't mean his predecessor won't, or theirs. Also if a unicorn leader gets kicked out, a different unicorn might get in, so it's not like they'll be perfectly unified either.

[Balmas]

"You know, I've never particularly wanted this job," Blueblood commented. The two ponies--the unicorn and the pegasus were alone. The only sound was Blueblood's quiet steps, muffled by carpet, and the crackling of the flame in the hearth.

His smoking parlor was, if the newspaper critics were any good at accuracy, one of the finest in the lands. Blueblood ambled to a small cabinet and ran a hoof over the line of bottles inside it, like little glass soldiers. Finally, he settled on a square bottle full of an amber liquid that shone with a multicolored sheen, and used his magic to slosh it out into two tumblers.

"I've done it, and done it well, because it has been expected of me. And yet..." Blueblood contemplated his glass, before tossing it down. He grimaced at the bitter, fiery taste. "And yet, in one day, you've brought this government through more change than ever happened in Celestia. Do try this, I insist. Fermented rainbow is a delicacy in Cloudsdale, from what I understand."

Blueblood refilled his glass. "I am not unaware, of course, that I have enemies. The Earth ponies hate me, as do a good portion of the pegasi. Even the unicorns don't particularly like me. Ungrateful bunch of mules. Do everything I can to help them, and they respond as if I'm still nothing more than the grandson of Nightmare Moon."

How strange. Blueblood didn't recall emptying his glass, but there it was, with only a trace of rainbow in the bottom. He'd have to fix that.

"Point is, you have pull. I'm not blind, either. The generals respect you. Soldiers, too. Get the nobility, and you'll have a full house.

"That's why I'm naming you my Regent." Blueblood pulled off the thin circlet, admiring its gold sheen before he tossed it to Firefly. "Ponies follow you. But what you have in charisma, you lack in political savvy. Do you know, I seriously considered having all of you thrown in the dungeon? Only a fool would walk into a ruler's throne room and demand that the government change to fit their model, threatening to walk out if things aren't done."

Blueblood cracked a smile. "This is known as treason, and most governments frown on it."

"And then, you accepted a form of government that was almost completely one-sided. The ponies who are elected to represent each cell of ponies? Shadow government. Not a scrap of power between them."

Curse this cup. There must have been some kind of portal in its bottom. Rotten unicorns stealing his rainbow.

"Any and all judicial, legislative, and executive power is concentrated in one pony at the top. If, tomorrow, I decided to scrap the entire system, there would be nothing in the laws to stop it, and a good deal to support it. Except, nopony would follow. I would be alone in the castle with whatever unicorns still supported me, fending off pegasi and earth ponies at the gates.

"So, I've come to a conclusion. Congratulations, Firefly. You are now that single pony with all the power. If I may offer some advice, though? Tread lightly. You don't know the ponies of this city half so well as you think you do; you may have adapted to the political life, but I was born to it, molded by it. And I can tell you, if you do not respect your ponies, they will turn on you like vipers."

[Forum Explorer]

"You know, I've never particularly wanted this job," Blueblood commented. The two ponies--the unicorn and the pegasus were alone. The only sound was Blueblood's quiet steps, muffled by carpet, and the crackling of the flame in the hearth.

His smoking parlor was, if the newspaper critics were any good at accuracy, one of the finest in the lands. Blueblood ambled to a small cabinet and ran a hoof over the line of bottles inside it, like little glass soldiers. Finally, he settled on a square bottle full of an amber liquid that shone with a multicolored sheen, and used his magic to slosh it out into two tumblers.

"I've done it, and done it well, because it has been expected of me. And yet..." Blueblood contemplated his glass, before tossing it down. He grimaced at the bitter, fiery taste. "And yet, in one day, you've brought this government through more change than ever happened in Celestia. Do try this, I insist. Fermented rainbow is a delicacy in Cloudsdale, from what I understand."

Blueblood refilled his glass. "I am not unaware, of course, that I have enemies. The Earth ponies hate me, as do a good portion of the pegasi. Even the unicorns don't particularly like me. Ungrateful bunch of mules. Do everything I can to help them, and they respond as if I'm still nothing more than the grandson of Nightmare Moon."

How strange. Blueblood didn't recall emptying his glass, but there it was, with only a trace of rainbow in the bottom. He'd have to fix that.

"Point is, you have pull. I'm not blind, either. The generals respect you. Soldiers, too. Get the nobility, and you'll have a full house.

"That's why I'm naming you my Regent." Blueblood pulled off the thin circlet, admiring its gold sheen before he tossed it to Firefly. "Ponies follow you. But what you have in charisma, you lack in political savvy. Do you know, I seriously considered having all of you thrown in the dungeon? Only a fool would walk into a ruler's throne room and demand that the government change to fit their model, threatening to walk out if things aren't done."

Blueblood cracked a smile. "This is known as treason, and most governments frown on it."

"And then, you accepted a form of government that was almost completely one-sided. The ponies who are elected to represent each cell of ponies? Shadow government. Not a scrap of power between them."

Curse this cup. There must have been some kind of portal in its bottom. Rotten unicorns stealing his rainbow.

"Any and all judicial, legislative, and executive power is concentrated in one pony at the top. If, tomorrow, I decided to scrap the entire system, there would be nothing in the laws to stop it, and a good deal to support it. Except, nopony would follow. I would be alone in the castle with whatever unicorns still supported me, fending off pegasi and earth ponies at the gates.

"So, I've come to a conclusion. Congratulations, Firefly. You are now that single pony with all the power. If I may offer some advice, though? Tread lightly. You don't know the ponies of this city half so well as you think you do; you may have adapted to the political life, but I was born to it, molded by it. And I can tell you, if you do not respect your ponies, they will turn on you like vipers."

This is... Firefly gulps down her own drink, far too quickly for what a fine liquor deserved. To compensate she quickly refilled her glass and took another sip, trying to decide what to say. This is not what I expected. You talk of treason, and rightfully so. Since Princess Celestia passed away things have been...not getting worse, but slipping. Each new problem we faced, each new crisis, I felt that we were closer and closer to failure.


Firefly pauses, and takes another gulp. I miss her you know? Her smile, her warmth her strength. I miss being able to just confidently follow her lead, no matter what she decided or where she would go. Because I knew, not thought or had faith in, but knew that as long as she ruled everything would turn out fine. Firefly finished off her drink, hesitated, then pushed her empty goblet away.

And now you're asking me to never have that opportunity again. Fine, I accept. I'm not one to balk at duty's call, and I'll fight to my last breath to keep this country great. No matter the cost, I'll keep the ponies of this country safe, prosperous and happy. Heh, guess that means I'll have to stop indulging my dislike of Fajer. Firefly stood up, and gave Blueblood a salute, the first one she'd ever had.

I'll see you at the next Court Session. We'll have to get this settled, and I really hope you aren't planning on just leaving everything to me.

Overthrow response: Yes.

[Pokonic]

Fajer looked over the letter he was given. He was still considering if this was not, in fact, some sort of practical joke.

It resembled a joke, even if Lucid Lance swore it was, absolutely and positively, genuine. Blueblood wasn't the sort of individual - to say nothing of species - to give up, or at least, Fajer assumed he was. Perhaps he was.

Firefly was now acting Regent. The idea of the pegusus general, the one who clearly saw him as something just above a distraction, having the metaphorical reigns of the land terrified him. Blueblood, at the least, knew the people, and knew how to control them; Fajer didn't know if Firefly did, and he doubted her abilities at doing so. Perhaps the nation could use some more rows of infantry, or a couple of more clouds, but what it doesn't need is a militarily minded individual at the helm while the land is so divided within itself.

Fajer had no intents on being quiet, now.

[Check towards time passes, I guess]

[TheAmishPirate]

As with everything else that changed hooves in the coming days, so too did Mutton Chop's charge. He never quite appreciated how difficult it was to guard a pony who could fly everywhere; more than once he ran himself ragged attempting to keep up with their new regent. But keep up he did, and no matter where Firefly went her loyal guardspony was never more than a few steps behind. When he was off-duty, he could often be found visiting his mentor, taking drinks together in various high-class establishments. Nopony could really tell what was going through the stallion's head; Celestia knew he hardly did these days. For now, he would wait, see, and fight through any troubles that cropped up. Just like he always had.

[Voting to remove a check from Crisis]

[Forum Explorer]

Firefly took a deep breath before entering court. These last few months had been hectic and she struggled to juggle both her new responsibilities and the old. Not to mention the constant annoyance that the unicorn nobles had been with their veiled insults. Still it would all be worth it for this moment.


[Checking Crossroads]