Extended Holiday
Chapter 26: Opening Salvos of House Blueblood
Prince Blueblood strolled through the halls with the reserve that was expected of one so noble as himself. From a young age, his father had taught him the importance of a proper appearance, proper manners, proper breeding. It was not right for one such as he to participate in unseemly and common activities. Not for a house that was meant to be a shining example to the others. Especially with competition getting so fierce for Princess Celestia’s ear.
Blueblood allowed a small smirk to cross his lips. After all, the other nobles didn’t have his particular resources in that regard. “Auntie” Celestia still doted on him, though it may not have been the same as when he was a foal. After all, when one grows older, one must learn to interact as an adult. But he still knew how to weedle what was needed when the moment demanded it. And that made him an asset to the house.
Of course, part of such high breeding also included maintaining high standards for only the best of the best to serve. Regrettably, that often meant a high turnover in staff. Good help is hard to find. And House Blueblood would only accept the best. Still, he had to admit he may have been … a little too harsh with the staff.
…
And perhaps a little too drunk. Only a few staff remained now, a mere skeleton crew to try to keep the house as orderly as possible. Occasionally, he would see the hint of a familiar white bat wing pulling out of sight as he approached. The maid was perhaps one of the most diligent of the lot. And she adhered to the policy of servants being seen and not heard religiously, even to the point of avoiding being caught by any member of the family.
It was better this way.
Or so his father had said.
If Prince Blueblood tried, he could almost reach a memory of that white figure. A joyful laugh. The scent of moist green grass and the blur of garden sculptures as he plunged through bushes and brush without a care in the world.
And then it was gone. Like all such memories and fantasies, Blueblood had trained himself to lock them away in a place where they wouldn’t hurt him, and where those that might seek to assail his mind couldn’t use them against him without a fight. He was the scion of House Blueblood, after all. He had no right to think of such things when there were far more important matters to tend to.
It was better this way.
A tingle in his horn brought a more sincere smile to his face as the spell he’d placed on his letter went off. The missive had been opened and read. Surely, Lord Hammer Strike would take great pleasure in renewing ties with the descendants of an old friend. A brilliant touch that even his father would be proud of. And, naturally, once Hammer Strike had the opportunity to visit the manor, it would be a simple matter to establish ties and begin forging alliances. That, of course, would mainly be handled by his father, but at least it would be a step in the right direction, and a means to ensure other families couldn’t use Hammer Strike to try to get the princess’ ear.
Then he frowned as a thought struck. “Oh dear. They don’t have a means to send a letter back promptly, do they?” he mused. “I suppose there is that baby Dragon Twilight Sparkle carries with her, but that simply won’t do once they press into the Everfree.” He tapped his chin as he pondered, then nodded. “I’ll have to bring this to Auntie Celestia at once.” He strode confidently to the front doors and pushed them open with his magic, much to the surprise of the two guards on duty.
Blueblood glanced casually at the both of them, then sniffed and nodded. “You’ll do,” he said. “I need an escort into the city. I’ve some errands to run, and since the Shields have abandoned their posts, I will rely on you to fill their horseshoes.”
Across Equestria, for some reason, Rainbow Dash felt like punching Blueblood.
The two Unicorns bowed. “Yes, Your Highness,” they said in unison, though dread caused a shudder to pulse through the both of them, which they quickly channeled into the ground beneath them as they entered into a march to match pace with the heir to their lord’s estate.
“We will go first to write a proper missive for Auntie Celestia, at which time I will order one of you to deliver it while I make my mandatory public appearance for the commoners. House Strike will require a Dragon of their own if they wish to join the Dragonfire network. Since I know how my aunt can be, you have my permission to remain with her, should she desire it of you. I’ll even let you fight for the honor, should you wish. The winner may have an audience with the princess, and the loser will remain with me.”
“You are too generous, Prince Blueblood,” the older of the two guards, a white Unicorn with a silver mane, said.
“Yes, I know.” He smiled as they strode toward the gates, and his stomach rumbled. “Hmm. And perhaps a visit to my usual teahouse for a snack,” he mused, even as the gates opened wide at the magical prompting of his escort.
The air was filled with the hum of anticipation that always precedes a decree. But whether that decree would lead to elation or dread remained to be seen. Princess Celestia looked carefully at her guests, her eyes intent. Her usual playfulness was nowhere to be seen as she peered over her cup of tea at the artisans and craftsponies who had answered her call.
“As you all know, I don’t act without a proper reason,” she began as she returned her cup to its saucer. “And you are doubtless wondering at the reason for me to have you all come for a private audience with me at the same time. Unlike other times, when there is little at stake, I cannot afford to be playful and lead you along. As such, I am going to be perfectly frank. I have called you here because Equestria has need of your talents, your skills, and perhaps most of all, your flexibility when it comes to working outside the norm.” She paused briefly to allow her words to sink into her subjects’ psyches. “As I suspect you all know by now, I have commanded Lord Shawn to train recruits and misfits within the guard over the last several months. This was done with the express intent of granting him a force with which he could mount an expedition into the Everfree Forest and reclaim the lands that have fallen within its clutches.
“When that time comes, and he finally makes his move, by royal decree and commission, I wish you all to be there to assist him with restoring that which was claimed by the ravages of time and the fallout of chaos. Architects, builders, masons, carpenters, pavers, horticulturalists, warriors. All of you have skills, talents, and backgrounds that will prove indispensable in this endeavor.”
A low murmur carried through the chamber.
Yes, dread. It had definitely taken a turn toward dread.
“But, … Your Highness, The Everfree is one of the most dangerous places in the whole kingdom,” one of the civilians finally spoke up.
“Which is why I am ensuring that Lords Shawn and Hammer Strike will have the proper expeditionary force necessary to protect all of you and ensure that the way is clear and safe to begin the task of restoring the castle where my sister and I once ruled together so long ago. I do not make this command lightly, nor do I wish to place your families in danger. Rest assured, they will remain here in Canterlot under my watchful eye until such time as it is deemed safe for them to join you in the lands where unity was shattered. And you will be safe. The Solar and Lunar Guards will make sure of that, as will Lord Hammer Strike himself. I assure you, his reputation is well earned. He will not suffer any of you to endure danger or threat that is beyond his means to protect you.”
“And neither will we,” a grim Unicorn with a copper coat and purple mane said. “Trust Princess Celestia. She knows what’s best, and she’ll always look out for us.”
Once more, the murmur carried. And while there was still some discontent, the tension had at least begun to settle somewhat.
“Naturally, you and your families will also be compensated richly for your troubles. I know many of you have businesses and orders to attend to. Commissions, projects, and more. However, in this case, the fate of the nation must come first. I will personally see to it that any customers who may be frustrated will receive compensation from my personal funds. And I will ensure that your good names remain intact. If you have any nobles you are currently engaged with, I will deal with them personally. There will be no reprisals, no retribution. You have my word.”
“And how long do we have to wait for this calling?” one of the workers asked.
“Until Winter Wrapup is complete, possibly a week or two after to give the Everfree enough time to thaw on its own. Coordination with Lords Shawn and Hammer Strike will give us a more certain deadline as the situation continues to develop. At a pre-arranged time, you will be summoned and escorted with your tools to Ponyville. And from there, you will be under the express command of the Lord of the Everfree. I know that each of you will serve our kingdom well.” She fixed each with her gaze, allowing them to see just a hint of the many years she carried behind those eyes. “However, for the sake of preventing any attempts from outside forces to intervene in our plans, we will be taking certain precautions, including the request that you refrain from any form of discussion about this plan with anyone, save for your spouses.
“And with that mutual understanding established, we can now return to what this meeting was always meant to be, an act of whimsy by a monarch who enjoys being unpredictable from time to time while treating her subjects. Please, enjoy your tea and cakes.”
At that moment, a gentle knocking sounded at the doors, and a solar guard entered to whisper in the princess’ ear. Celestia nodded and looked to her guests. “It seems that there is a small matter of state that requires my attention. I will return shortly.” She rose and bowed her head gracefully before giving a winning smile and making her withdrawal.
“A letter from Prince Blueblood, Your Highness,” the guard said as he passed the envelope to her. “His lordship expressed that it was an urgent matter that he believed you might want to look into regarding what is to happen in Ponyville.”
“An urgent matter?” Celestia raised a curious brow as she took the letter from the guard. She easily opened the envelope and scanned the contents, then nodded gravely. “Interesting. I must admit that I hadn’t anticipated the need for a Dragon to help maintain contact. But young Blueblood does raise a point. The Everfree may not be the easiest terrain to pass through at first, and having a dragon on hand for swift and uninterrupted delivery in a forest as wild as that would certainly be of use to Lord Hammer Strike’s endeavors.” She nodded. “You can tell the prince that his request is received and approved. I will ensure it’s taken care of myself.”
The guard nodded in acknowledgement. “If … I may be so bold, You Highness,” he began.
“Please, speak your mind.”
“With your permission, I would like to spend a little more time here at the castle. I will not abandon my post, nor my duty, but the prince is … a unique charge.”
Celestia sighed. “He is the product of his own choices and his father’s urgings. I admit I hoped that his experience at the Gala might change him. But it seems not even the most generous of mares can get through to him.” She shook her head sadly, then looked on the guard again. “I believe I can afford to extend this informal audience for a time. If that is truly what you need. There is tea and cake aplenty in the room behind us, and our business there is concluded. However, I have a strict order for you as your princess and head of state.”
“Anything, Your Highness.”
“You are not to breathe nor write nor sign nor spread so much as a word of whatever you may hear. Do I make myself clear?”
“If … it’s a matter of security, Highness, I think it would be better if I didn’t know. I still have to serve House Blueblood, too, after all. So long as I’m posted there.”
“Then will you allow me to send you some place where you might have the leisure to rest without fear of such a compromising situation? You need only choose and I will have you sent there.”
“Thank you, Your Highness.”
Celestia nodded. “I’ll arrange an escort for you at once.”
At that moment, her horn began to tingle. Moments later, a scroll with a blank wax seal materialized out of the air, accompanied by a small card tied to the parchment by a ribbon. She quickly pulled it out, her curiosity aroused. Twilight’s letters were never without a proper seal. Could she have forgotten in her haste? The Alicorn easily undid the bow and looked over the card properly. Its message was short and to the point.
Please forward to Prince Blueblood.
Twilight would be unlikely to wish any contact with Blueblood after the fiasco at the gala. So, removing her from the equation, the next most logical sender would have been Hammer Strike. She rubbed her chin in thought as she considered the seal.
“I’ll have to arrange for a designer to meet with them,” she mused. “If he is who we think, this may yet be the best way to tell….”
“Pardon, Your Highness?” the guard asked.
“Ah, my apologies,” Celestia said as the words brought her back to the present. “I believe this letter came from Lord Hammer Strike. I was merely pondering out loud while I looked over the scroll.” She passed it to the guard. “This is meant for your lord. If you would be so good as to deliver it to him when next you see him?”
The guard nodded. “Of course, Your Highness.”
“Good. Now, then, let’s see about finding that ‘distraction’ I have to keep you around for, hmm? Then after that, I have some business I need to take up with my sister before her work begins tonight.”
“O-of course, Your Highness.” The guard saluted as the princess began to lead him away.
Celestia frowned in thought, even as she continued to flesh out the idea in her mind. ‘Yes, we can compare what he designs with the old seals in the archives. And if Luna is able to see his mindscape, perhaps she will gain some insight that way as well. I just hope she can forgive my interrupting her rest for this.’ She allowed herself one gulp. Just one.
‘Faust be with me,’ she prayed. ‘Gods know I’ll need the help.’
Prince Blueblood was thoroughly pleased with himself as he trotted to the gates of his estate. The mares had been particularly affectionate this time. And while he had no interest in them romantically, it certainly didn’t hurt for one to be adored by the public. Adoration meant influence and power, an absolute must in the world of politics. He could live with a show or two from time to time if it meant he could keep his father satisfied and earn more influence in the community.
The gates of the manor opened wide to greet the party, and a burnished gray pony with a silvery striped mane stood in full suit coat complete with bowtie. He bowed to Prince Blueblood as the stallion approached, exposing the cutie mark on his flanks, a single silver tray.
“Welcome back, Master Blueblood,” the butler greeted.
“Fine Silver,” Blueblood returned with his usual indifference. This was a servant, after all. One did not pay mind to servants, save for when evidence of a plot arises. And it is better to let potential traitors believe that their master will not deign to listen when they complain behind his back. So Baron Blueblood had said. And so it must be.
Fine Silver rose at the acknowledgement and presented a silver tray, on which rested a scroll without a seal. “This message arrived from the palace by courier,” he said, even as he allowed himself a quick glance toward the elder of Blueblood’s escort. “It came with the request to be forwarded to you. I believe it to be the response to your letter that you have been expecting.”
Now Blueblood’s interest was peaked. “So soon?” he asked as he turned to look at his servant and the message he carried. A spark of magic was all it took to raise the scroll to his face, break the seal, and unfurl it to read the contents.
Despite Pensword’s attempts, Grif refused to change a thing about the letter, and his flare for insult carried just as strongly as his disregard for unearned authority.
Dear Prince Blueblood XXXI, Lord of Upper Canterlot Caverns Royal Hot Springs, Keeper of the Royal Keys to the Observatory Peak, Blah, Blah, Etcetera, you're not that impressive.
My Lord Hammer Strike, Lord of Everfree, Master Smith, Wielder of the Giant Slayer, Wielder of the Night Cleaver, He Who Works His Craft Tirelessly, Hero of the Third Gryphon War, Guardian of the Poor and Distraught, Master of Metals, Lord of the Smiths’ Guild, Wielder of the Sacred Hammer, Forger of the Unforgeable, Enemy of Chrysalis, Enemy of Sombra, Friend of Cave Trolls, Bane of Windigos, Friend of Star Swirl, and sometimes referred to as Lord Hammer Strike the Insanely Awesome, wishes me to respond to your letter, as he is indisposed and frankly really doesn't give a damn.
It is unsightly and altogether rude for someone of your station to address my lord in the fashion in which you have chosen. You send your missive with the mask of politeness only to hide demands and unnecessary veiled threats, and it is neither appreciated nor something my lord will condone. You brandish the name of your ancestor as though his actions determine your own worth, which in and of itself goes against the spirit of Lord Hammer Strike’s house and creed. He will not meet with you and wishes you not to contact him again. The servants have acted according to their will, and he will handle them as he sees fit.
And since I know you can’t seem to listen to orders, let alone fathom the very idea of respecting another’s wishes, allow me to repeat myself.
Do not contact us again.
Have a nice day,
Sir Grif, Gryphon Who Doesn’t Need Titles Because People Actually Respect Him.
“What a boarish thing to say!” Blueblood scoffed. Then he shook his head. “Just what I would expect from a Gryphon. Brash, abrasive, rude, and confrontational.” The scroll soon found itself crunched into a tiny ball that hovered next to him. “No, this will not do. This simply will not do.” He strode purposefully toward the manor.
“Sir?” Fine Silver asked.
“It seems my letter reached Lord Hammer Strike’s bodyguard, rather than Hammer Strike himself. And if the contents of this letter are anything to judge by, the big brute won’t allow anything else I might send near his master.” He sputtered and shook his head again. “It seems that more drastic measures will have to be taken if we want to reestablish ties.”
“Drastic, Sir?”
Blueblood nodded. “I want you to pack my bags, Fine Silver. It seems that if I am to succeed in this endeavor, or at the very least satisfy my father, then I will need to visit Lord Hammer Strike personally.”
“In Ponyville, Sir?”
Blueblood shuddered. “Yes. In Ponyville. Go on now. Gather whoever else you may need to help you. Make sure there is enough packed for several days.”
“And when do you plan to depart, Master Blueblood? Naturally, we will make all the necessary arrangements.”
“I will inform you when I am ready. You have your orders. Carry them out.”
Fine Silver bowed. “Yes, Prince Blueblood.”
The young lord strode on without a backward glance until he reached the doors to his study. Then he turned to face his guards. “I wish to be alone. Make sure I am not disturbed unless it is important.”
Both guards banged their breastplates. “Yes, Sir.”
The doors closed heavily behind him, and Blueblood approached a blank table with intricate patterns and designs not unlike the masterful tile of a grand church or the ever changing designs of a kaleidoscope. Some stones sparkled. Others were soapy. Others still were black as pitch. In the sanctity of his study, he alone held sway. And he alone knew all of its secrets.
A tap of the horn on the table’s surface soon transformed the abstract art into a glorious model, stretching tall and wide with mighty towers and arcane wonders. Strong battlements, a garrison, a proper gate and portcullis. This was not to be a mansion or a manor. No, this was to be his dream, his castle, a home that would be his own domain and no other’s, not even his father.
That was, … if he could manage it. If he could convince the lord of the Everfree that he would not be a threat, and that allocating a patch of the forest would not be harmful.
But that plan hung precariously on gaining Hammer Strike’s goodwill, all while maneuvering under Baron Blueblood’s watchful and vicious eye.
“I’ll make you mine yet,” the prince whispered, even as his horn glowed and he began to make adjustments to the model. “My castle on a cloud….”
The cellar was dark and cool, and its walls were lined with shelves carefully organized and labeled with bottles slotted into place for year and vintage. A few candles burned on a serving platter to catch the droplets of wax, their flickering flames casting shadows over the council that awaited in the midst of the light. From out of that shadow, the black Gryphon emerged, nodding to the Pegasus and Thestral that both sat on other parts of the table. A series of diagrams and maps laid over the table’s surface as they scrutinized them.
“So,” Moonshade began the meeting. “How wide do you want the trail? And with the timetable we have set, are we ready with the bridge material?” She looked at Grif. “What are you planning to train the recruits in for the next month and a half?” she asked with a raised eyebrow.
“Weapons training,” Grif answered. “They have enough discipline to get us there. They can think well enough under pressure. They just need to be able to use whatever they plan on defending themselves with.”
“We should run them in cycles,” Pensword said. “Part in weapons training and part in techniques for dealing with clearing the roads. We need to train the Unicorns and Earth Ponies to work together to uproot stumps and level the terrain. Otherwise, we can say goodbye to a proper supply chain.”
“We’ll need to account for larger roads. Those are going to need more people to guard them, so it’s going to spread things out more,” Grif observed.
“And given our limited supply of troops, we’ll need to make sure to keep that widening as strategic as possible to keep the guard parties we post smaller,” Pensword replied.
“You realize with the size of our group, it’s going to take a lot more to go even a short distance, right?” Grif asked.
“Then are you suggesting we take things in stages? Go a certain distance, set up camp, then continue the following day?” Pensword asked.
“That might be our wisest move.” Grif nodded. “If we plan and supply for a longer trip, we’re less likely to run into supply issues.”
“The convoy will still need an escort once we have the path fully cleared as well,” Pensword noted. “Do we have enough Ponies to manage that?”
“I think we do,” Grif said. “The first batch is nearly finished training.”
“And the cadets who aren’t? Will we leave behind some troops to lead them or will they be coming with us to help?”
“They’ll be coming with us. We’ll split them into smaller groups and make sure they’re well supervised.”
“We’ll need to make sure the supervisors are people they won’t try to mutiny against when we’re not watching them,” Pensword mused.
“I think you're getting a little far ahead of yourself,” Grif said, raising an eyebrow.
“Yes. I don’t think mutiny is really a risk at this time,” Moonshade agreed.
“I meant it as a figure of speech,” Pensword clarified. “I was referring to the sort of acts of defiance one might expect the proud upstart to show when those with the higher authority aren’t able to catch them at it. We can’t exactly be everywhere at once, after all.”
“We’ll have to let some things slide until we get to the castle.” Moonshade shrugged.
Pensword sighed. “I suppose there’s no help for it.”
“Can’t micromanage everything.” Grif shrugged.
“I assume we’ll be relying on the Apple family orchard and certain other businesses to supply our caravan? Are plans in place to purchase the necessary materials or do we still need to make those arrangements?”
“I think we have that all in place,” Grif answered.
“Then is there anything else we need to discuss?” Pensword asked.
“Not that I can think of,” Grif commented.
“Moonshade?” Pensword asked.
“I believe we’re finished,” Moonshade said.
Pensword nodded. “Then in that case, meeting adjourned. We’ll catch Hammer Strike up on the specifics when he wakes up.”
In the dreamscape, Luna was wandering, a question in her mind. Each section of the world was broken into sections in the dreamscape. When there is nopony asleep, the doors aren’t there. But down one of the sections, down its dark corridor, a single door stood in the dark. A familiar door, its simple wooden surface with its rectangle design, sinking in then back out. What finished the door was its simple iron handle.
Luna found herself hesitating as she reached out to grip that handle. Finally, with a gulp, she opened the door and stepped back inside.
What greeted her was the interior of what she presumed to be a home familiar to the one dreaming. She was in a living room. A couch sat against the wall with a table before it facing a black rectangle on a wall. A fireplace sat further within the room, though not in use. She couldn’t gauge anything outside the building, since the windows were covered by blinds.
She took some time examining the area before turning to head for the nearest exit to look for Hammer Strike.
Instead of running into Hammer Strike, she ran into his human form. Shawn took a moment to register her presence before giving a brief wave. “Uh … hey.”
“Oh, hello,” she said. “I’m sorry to intrude.”
“Nah, it’s fine,” he dismissed. “Not like I really have much going on anyway.”
“I thought it might be prudent to check on you. You’ve been sleeping for a considerable amount of time,” she noted.
“I did notice that, though I just figured it was one of those days.” He shrugged. “I mean, I thought it’d catch up with me one of these days.” After a moment, he looked over to Luna. “Got anything you want to chat about? Don’t have much else in mind.”
“How have you been? I hope things have been better than the last time we spoke.”
He shrugged once more. “I mean, yeah. They’ve been doing a bit better.” The area around them shifted, and Luna found herself surrounded by machines she had never seen before. The walls and floors were sturdy concrete, while lumber laid off to the side. “How goes progress on the whole … sending us home project?”
“Slow,” she admitted with a sigh. “The issue as we understand it is the way our worlds line up. Our world is next to your world in a clockwise sense, making it far easier to go one way than the other without a stable portal.”
“Sounds about right.” Shawn sighed. “Honestly, I feel at times as though we’re probably not going to be heading back.”
“There is one option,” Luna said, albeit with some reluctance.
“Given your tone, it’s a less savory option, potentially dealing with an individual you don’t like.”
Luna gave another long-suffering sigh. “The problem is rules. And there is someone for whom the stronger rules are in place, the more they become suggestions for him.”
“Discord, then,” Shawn spoke, focusing on Luna. “And history didn’t paint him in a great light.”
“Speaking from experience, history tends to be very biased about what it wants to remember.”
“To be fair, you aren’t painting it better when your natural response was to remark it in a less-than-thrilled tone,” Shawn replied with a faint smirk. “But, I suppose that’s all in your hands. Or, well, hooves. Not like we really have a method ourselves.”
“What do you know about Discord?” Luna asked.
“Beyond the name, I know that he's a being of literal discord and chaos. Not really evil, just … difficult.”
“That's accurate, for as bad as people like to paint him. I should point out he killed exactly negative twenty percent of the population during his reign.”
“While a positive note, it does leave a lot in question on whether he could or would do it or not.”
“It’s a line of thinking that's still being considered. Celestia believes she has a plan to collar him. I … am less hopeful.”
“Always preparing for the worst, huh?” Shawn chuckled. “Gods, that’s a familiar feeling.”
“I had a good teacher,” she said.
“Given you’re both running things, I’d believe it.” He settled his chuckles. “What were they like?”
“He,” Luna clarified. “He was strict, surly but also very caring.”
“A difficult balance, but it sounds like it worked out in the end.”
She nodded. “It did indeed.”
“Given your positive responses about him, I’m sure you have plenty of stories.”
“Yes. Unfortunately, the time isn’t right for telling them.” She smirked.
“Fair enough.” Shawn shrugged before turning towards one of the worktables around. “I suppose turnabout is fair play. Got anything you want to know that I can hopefully answer?”
“I’ve been told your people have explored the heavens in your world?”
“That we have,” Shawn confirmed. “We’ve landed people on the moon, have video and pictures of it as well, and have sent probes into space to send pictures back to us. In fact…” He glanced to the room around them. After a moment of thought, his dream shifted once more to his best recollection of the moon he had seen many times, both in the sky and through plenty of pictures. While it formed around the two of them, he held a look of uncertainty before finally speaking again. “Not perfect, but it’s close enough to what I’ve seen in pictures and videos.”
“Beautiful,” Luna said as she looked upon the visage of the moon. “To see it so close and not be trapped within its power.”
Shawn hummed to himself for a moment. “Right, I read about that,” he muttered before dismissing the thought. “Though I’ve never been up here myself, this is the best I can give you for a visual. I don’t even have the constellations down right. The only thing I can believe to be close enough to be accurate, would be the planet.” He gestured towards Earth.
“It’s much appreciated,” she said, still staring in awe.
“It was quite an accomplishment for our kind.” Shawn smiled as he looked to Earth. “And our technology only became more advanced since then.”
“I hope one day Equestria might reach that point,” Luna said.
“It’s probably only a matter of time.”
Another detonation rang through the air as straw dust puffed outward from the target that had been formed out of a hay bale. In the distance, trees shook with the force of the bucks that Applejack and Big Mac threw into them. Grif approached the target and removed the metal ball from its place about two or three inches from the bullseye, between the second and third rings.
“Good shot,” Pensword complimented as he worked over the mechanisms on his crossbow at a makeshift worktable born of a large wooden crate, courtesy of Big Mac. If he was going to be an expert at firing these things, he was going to know them inside and out. A few bolts stuck out from another hay bale he’d set up as his own target. He didn’t hit the bullseye just yet, but the quarrels were well clustered, indicating a certain amount of capability with consistency.
“Thanks. Just glad I can hit with it now,” Grif said. “How goes the work with the new crossbow?”
Pensword shrugged. “I’m learning how to adjust the sights and reset the mechanisms. It’s not as easy as it looks, but if any other Pony can do it, then so can I.” He finished priming the crossbow and aimed toward the hay bale, pulled the trigger, and watched the quarrel fly. A few moments later, the arrow was embedded in the bullseye. “I guess I got lucky that time.”
“I mean, lucky shots happen.”
“True.” Pensword shrugged. “I still find it strange that I can still load one of these faster than a gun. Well, I can once I get the full hang of handling this with hooves.”
“I mean, historically they could be loaded pretty fast. We just worked out a way to make it faster.”
“And make it automated with easy loading capability,” Pensword added. “Then again, I should be grateful this one is a bolt action. I’m guessing that most craftsponies would kill to get this design. Where did you find it, anyway?”
“Honestly? I worked it out with Storm Hammer.” He shrugged. “Using what I remembered of a bolt action rifle.”
“I’m looking forward to adding it to my skill set. Do you think it’ll strafe well?”
“I couldn’t say.” Grif shrugged. “You're the one who’s gonna be writing the book on it.”
I suppose that’ll be the next step.”
It didn’t take much longer for a certain prismatic blur to dash into the firing zone, albeit slightly higher than where the gun or crossbow may have been pointing at the time.
“Woah!” Pensword shouted. “Rainbow Dash, are you crazy? You could get killed pulling a stunt like that!”
“Stunt like what?” the mare asked.
“You’re in the middle of a firing range!” Pensword gesticulated. “Don’t you have any respect for the rules?”
“You do realize I can dodge just about anything that gets thrown at me, right?” Rainbow asked.
“And you realize that if you want to get into the Wonderbolts, you need to learn to adhere to basic military protocol and common sense,” Pensword shot back. “Especially when you’re dealing with a potential commanding officer. How do you think Spitfire would react if she saw you acting like this?”
“She’d call it good practice?”
“She’d call it reckless,” Pensword said flatly. And if she says otherwise, then she’s not fit to command.”
“Well excuse me for wanting to do you a favor and let you know the princess was in town,” Rainbow said defensively. “Something about wanting to talk with Hammer Strike about something. I figured you’d want to know.”
“Thanks for the message,” Grif said, holstering his weapon.
Pensword glared at Rainbow Dash. “We are not done with this conversation, Miss Dash,” he warned. “But if the princess is here, then that is something that comes first. We will have words at another time, though. And I intend to make sure you’re trained properly in the rules of the range.”
Rainbow Dash rolled her eyes. “Yeah, yeah. Anyway, message delivered, so I’m heading back to Ponyville. See you guys later.”
And just like that, she was gone.
“You know, Rainbow Dash can be great as a loyal friend, but I never realized just how annoying and cocky she could get,” Pensword noted.
“Well,” Grif said, spreading his wings,” let’s knock her down a notch, huh?” And with that, he pushed himself off the ground, heading at full speed on a forty five degree angle.
Pensword grabbed his crossbow and quiver of bolts, then rushed to try to catch up with his friend. “Just what are we trying to do here, exactly?” he called after the Gryphon.
Grif didn’t explain as he worked to get to the summit, the raptor part of the Gryphon brain calculating the height needed to reach the necessary velocity. Even as he pushed, he felt lighter as he began to pull away from Pensword. It felt like the air was letting him move through it freely, the resistance lessening greatly. Soon he felt the mental click signaling it was time, and he brought his wings in close, then pointed his beak, falling into a dive with all the force he could muster. He could see the rainbow blur as he did, but focused on nothing else save the end goal. The world blurred around him. The wind whistled past his ears as he achieved a frightening velocity. Just before it was too late, he flared his wings. There was a brief pain as his body jolted and he began to burn off speed. He was worried for a moment that he would crash, but he found control of the momentum a hair’s breadth from things turning terminal. All the same, he landed with heavy force, dropping to his knees to arrest the momentum as best he could just as the Pegasus reached his location.
Rainbow Dash couldn’t help but grin at Grif’s daring. “That. Was. AWESOME!” she cheered. “How did you even manage to stop? I mean, I know Pegasi can pull it off, and Gryphons are no slouches either, but that kind of a dive at that speed? You might just be able to give me a run for my money one day.” Her grin widened. “I’ve been looking for a racing buddy.”
“I have no idea,” Grif answered honestly. “Hurt like hell, though.”
“Well, yeah, your wings aren’t used to that kind of strain yet. It takes time to get used to that kind of pressure. That or you learn how to burn it off by veering off at the right moment.”
“Well I’ll remember that,” he said. “Still beat you,” he teased with a wink.
“I wasn’t flying my fastest.” Dash shrugged. “But I think I might be able to give you a few pointers if you want them later.”
A panting Pensword eventually made it onto the scene. It didn't take him long to regain his breath. “Are you insane, Grif?” he finally managed. “You could have been a splat on the pavement. You should have been! Don’t you ever scare me like that again!”
“... We’ve literally been in the center of a warzone,” Grif said, deadpanning.
“Sacrificing yourself in combat to protect someone is different from dying because you wanted to beat someone else in a race,” Pensword pointed out.
“Calm down, Pensword,” Grif said. “No one got hurt. Pretty sure Dash has had worse crashes than that would have been.”
“And do Gryphons have the same anatomy?”
“Pensword, he’s fine. He didn’t break his wings, and he made it safely to the ground. That’s what matters. He can handle it,” Rainbow Dash said.
Pensword scowled and sputtered, muttering darkly under his breath.
“Anyway, if you want to catch Celestia, you can probably either find her in the town hall or with Twilight at the library. So, … maybe split up?” Rainbow Dash offered.
Grif nodded. “Thanks for delivering the message.”
Pensword sighed and shook his head. “Can you at least promise me to be a little more careful next time? Then I’ll go to Twilight’s and you can take town hall,” he promised.
“Fine.” Grif shrugged. “See you soon.” He turned towards town hall.
Pensword nodded and turned to Rainbow. “Miss Dash,” he said by way of farewell. Then he began to trot toward the great tree that functioned as library, house, and a living organism all in one.
Grif took a deep breath before he moved into town hall. Fortunately, the building wasn’t huge, as Ponyville was still relatively small. This meant he was able to find his way to the mayor's reception area without too much difficulty. He gave a light knock before entering.
The secretary started briefly in her chair, then smiled as the black Gryphon approached. “Ah, Sir Grif. I was just about to send a formal request on the mayor’s behalf. This certainly saves me the trouble. Mayor Mare was hoping to take a few minutes of your time to discuss certain matters regarding the future of Ponyville. I take it you’re also here to meet with her on some business?”
“Oh? Well that's fortunate timing. I was just checking if Princess Celestia was here?”
“Princess Celestia? Is she supposed to be? We weren’t informed! Oh, dear. Oh, dear. We’re not ready to entertain royalty,” the mare fretted, wringing her hooves as the clouds of her fears gathered.
“It really didn’t sound like this was an official visit,” Grif said. “So you can probably calm down.”
“You’ve been here long enough to see what happens on a regular basis with normal trouble. Can you imagine how the town will respond when it finds out we have a royal staying here? Again?”
“Then don’t tell them.” Grif shrugged.
“I at least have to tell the mayor. Oh, and has Lord Hammer Strike been informed?”
“I believe he is currently sleeping. As that’s a rare thing, we won’t be waking him.”
“... You’re telling me he doesn’t sleep?”
“I’m saying we should allow him the opportunity to catch up on sleep he may or may not have missed.”
The two stared at one another for a time, neither one blinking. Finally, the receptionist broke the contact and nodded. “I’ll … let the mayor know you’re here.”
The mayor’s office was a functional space, designed more for the purpose of executing the duties of the job than anything else. Her white and gray-streaked mane flowed behind her as she peered through her glasses at the Gryphon. “Thank you for coming, Grif,” she greeted. “May I offer you a chair?”
“I think I’m fine, thanks,” Grif said. “I understand you were about to ask to see me?”
She nodded. “Yes. It has to do with your plans for the coming spring. It’s my understanding that you plan to begin an expedition into the Everfree around that time, and that you also intend to bring the Ponies you’ve been training at that base you constructed with you. Is this true?”
“That is the current plan, yes.” Grif nodded. “Though we are planning to eventually have a few set here to protect the town.”
“And what is to become of the compound you’ve constructed?”
“Well, we assumed the town would appreciate having it intact, but we don’t have solid plans just yet.”
“It is something we hope will remain after you finish with it,” the mayor agreed. “But there are certain possibilities members of the town planning board see for the facility after Lord Hammer Strike finishes with it. This is why I ask.”
“Just remember the barracks will need to stay as they are for whoever we station here.”
“Then it’s to be a permanent installation?”
“Semi-permanent,” Grif corrected. “Lets face it; you guys need some protection from the forest at the least.”
“I won’t object to escorts and other means of protection for our young. Some foals like to visit Zecora in the woods. And while they know the safe path, I wouldn’t be surprised if Zecora somehow developed a means to make the path safe in the first place, rather than it being inherently so.”
“True.” Grif nodded. “Still, we need to confer with Twilight before we make solid plans.”
The mayor cocked her head. “With Miss Sparkle? Why?”
“Last I checked, Ponyville is within her dutchy,” Grif pointed out. “She is your landed noble,” Grif noted. “We also would need Applejack there as well.”
“Applejack?”
“The Apple farm may be part of Ponyville, but the land was given to them by Celestia, was it not?” Grif pointed out. “A head crowned cannot just give away land. It simply isn’t done.”
Mayor Mare frowned. “You know, … you do have a point. I wonder why that’s never come up before.”
“Have you ever known the Apples to put on airs?”
“Well, no, except where their own skills are concerned. They’re very proud of what they can do.”
Grif nodded. “I imagine they wouldn’t throw their weight around unless they were desperate,” Grif said. “You probably should ignore them when tax season comes out, though.”
“I’ll … keep that in mind,” Mayor Mare replied.
“So then, is there anything else you need from me?”
“I don’t think so. That was the main concern that I wanted to raise. Was there anything that I could do to be of assistance to you and Lord Hammer Strike?”
“At this moment? I don’t think so, but I'll let you know if something comes up.”
“In that case, give my best to Lord Hammer Strike, won’t you? You three really have livened up this little town. And I think the changes you’ve made have certainly been for the better.”
Grif gave a smile and a nod of the head before turning to leave. “I’ll make sure to send Princess Celestia your regards when I see her at the library.”
“Wait, WHAT?”
The sight of Celestia’s golden carriage was a dead giveaway to her presence in town. That, and the fact that there was a small crowd of onlookers murmuring while the guards who had drawn the carriage looked implaccably at the mares and colts. Pensword flew over the crowd and alighted next to the carriage, nodding to each of the guards in turn. “I assume the princess is inside?” he asked them.
The guards nodded.
“Excellent. I’m told she wished to see Lord Hammer Strike. He is indisposed at the moment. I’ve come to meet her in his stead until he is available.”
“Right this way, Sir,” the guard said.
Pensword opened the door and strode into the library proper. The air was rich with the scent of fresh herbal tea as the delicate clink of a stirring spoon in a teacup drew the stallion’s attention toward the great white Alicorn preparing to drink. A pot sat on a tray with another cup that doubtless was reserved for Twilight.
“Pensword, it’s good to see you again,” Celestia said with a kindly smile.
“Princess,” Pensword greeted. “I was informed of your arrival and made my way to receive you.”
“You don’t need to be so formal, Pensword,” Celestia replied.
“I do when the visit is official. And from what Rainbow Dash told us, it sounds like this one is. That, and you have guards waiting outside with your carriage.”
“I do have some things I need to discuss with Shawn when he’s available,” Celestia admitted. “But for now, I’m simply having a casual conversation with my student. Or rather, I will once she gets back from the kitchen. You know how dedicated she is about making things just right.”
“The perfect cake?” Pensword guessed.
Celestia smiled. “It’s my eternal quest.” She chuckled. “Please, take a seat. I’m sure Twilight will be happy to see you, too.”
“I hope so. Though now that I see you, a thought does come to mind. Recently, we had occasion to be contacted by a certain member in the noble courts. Grif’s response was … blunt, to say the least. The more accurate term would probably be provocative in the extreme.”
“Yes, I know.” Celestia nodded. “Prince Blueblood had occasion to speak with me about it at some length in a letter. He was less than pleased, but has no intention of holding grudges against you at this time. There’s too much risk. About the only thing that’s kept the other houses from sweeping in to try to take out House Blueblood is Prince Blueblood’s close relationship with me and the will of his father to do whatever it takes. Were I to withdraw that support, it’s very likely that the entire line would fall into ruin.”
“Then why don’t you?” Pensword asked.
“Because then it would mean a private war between the noble houses of the kingdom in a time when I am trying to unite and restore our collective strength. That, and their ancestor was someone who we respected greatly as a dear friend. I don’t want to dishonor that name.”
“Should we expect covert retaliation?”
Celestia sipped her tea and pondered the question. “It’s not beyond the realm of possibility,” she admitted. “Prince Blueblood isn’t the kind to do so, save perhaps from a financial standpoint. He may not be the most competent in other fields, but when it comes to numbers, he’s very clever. Baron Blueblood, on the other hoof, is someone to watch out for. He’s very devious, and he takes great pleasure in outmaneuvering his enemies. I said that the other houses could rally to take him down. I never said it would be easy for them. Nor will it be easy for you if you are ever of a mind to do so.”
“You know we don’t want to get involved in that sort of thing, Your Highness.”
“You may not end up having a choice, Pensword,” Celestia warned. “Sometimes, there are forces beyond anyone’s control at work, and they lead you toward a certain outcome, whether you want it or not.”
Pensword narrowed his gaze in suspicion. “Just what do you mean, Princess?”
At that moment, Twilight entered through the kitchen door with a platter laden with cake slices. Spike followed after her, a tiny flour and batter-splotched apron still draping over his front.
“Sorry to keep you waiting, Princess Celestia. Here are the cakes.” The mare beamed, then noticed the Pegasus. “Oh, hi, Pensword!” She waved with a free hoof as she levitated the platter over.
Spike waved his greetings and smiled as well while the platter was lowered.
“So, what brings you to the library?” Twilight asked.
“A certain blue mare told me about the princess coming for a visit. Since we’re commissioned by her to help train recruits and cadets that would otherwise wash out of the guard, it’s only right to visit her.” Pensword shrugged his wings. “I did wonder if you had any books on protocols for the noble houses, though. Etiquette, rules of engagement, modes of communication, that sort of thing. Grif probably won’t bother trying to apply it, but at least one of us here needs to know how to do things the established way should the need arise, and I don’t want to borrow Hammer Strike’s copy.”
“I think I might have something along those lines, though it’s probably a bit out of date. Golden Oaks doesn’t have much use for books on royal etiquette and association. Though if you really wanted a full education, you could always ask Rarity. She makes it a priority to study as much as she can about the upper classes.”
Pensword shuddered. “I’ll … take my chances with the book. Rarity is a very nice mare. But when she gets in one of her designing moods…. Let’s just say I don’t relish the idea of being one of her models at the moment.”
“I don’t mind,” Spike said quickly, even as little hearts seemed to pulse in his eyes.
Celestia smiled indulgently. “You really are a very good friend to her, aren’t you, Spike?”
“Well, what do you expect from Twilight’s number one assistant?” Spike asked, even as a blush rose at his cheeks; a remarkable feat, considering they were covered in scales.
Twilight easily levitated some more saucers and cups from the kitchen to make up for the extra guest, then poured some tea. When the group had settled properly, and Spike had gotten one of his gems as a treat to enjoy with his drink, they were able to get to more casual discussion.
“So, Pensword, how are our new friends at the inn adjusting?” Twilight asked.
“Fairly well, actually,” Pensword said. “It seems that their independence has given them a better perspective on the differences between right and wrong. They’re keen learners, and they’re determined to adapt to their new circumstances.”
“And do they have enough of the treats my sister left for them last time?” Celestia asked.
Pensword nodded. “They’ve been doing very well. I don’t know how they would feel about meeting you, Princess, but since you’ll be coming by the inn anyway, perhaps we can kill two birds with one stone.”
“I’d like that.”
“And will you be staying with us long, Princess?” Pensword asked.
“Yes.” Celestia smiled. “I plan to spend the upcoming holiday with Twilight to ring in the new year.”
“Are you sure you can afford to be away from the capitol for that long?” Pensword asked.
“I have enough allies there to keep me informed. And most of the houses know better than to let themselves go beyond certain bounds while I’m away. Especially since Luna is going to set things in order before joining me. She’s less lenient than I am, and I anticipate her choices to invest authority will have similar views. I believe the nobles will find it refreshing.” Her smile curved to the point where one could almost call it a smirk. “She’ll be here after she finishes with those appointments and raises the moon.”
Inwardly, Pensword shuddered. ‘Once a troll, always a troll,’ he thought.
Celestia raised her cup. “To the new year and the future. May it remain bright with promise and adventure.”
Twilight and Spike both raised their cups with her. “Hear hear!”
“Now who wants some cake?” Spike asked.
The air was cold, but at least the winds were kept under control as two Ponies wandered along the borders of the Everfree. The one peered intently along the paths, searching for signs of disturbance, even as her horn glowed a dark green. Her companion, a Pegasus stallion, peered intently at their surroundings, forever alert for any signs of potential danger, even as he hovered around the mare.
“This is very dangerous. I still think we should have left a note at least,” the Pegasus insisted nervously. “Our … friends have been fair and kind. Would this not put the relationships that have formed in jeopardy?”
“For now, we are simply gathering information for them, Mutatio,” the mare said. “If we can collect information, then they need not put their own in danger.”
“But should we not have offered before leaving?” Mutatio countered. “We are not of the hive anymore, but should we not respect the chain of command?”
“Possibly. But we are already here, are we not?”
“Yes, I suppose,” Mutatio buzzed nervously. “If the worst were to happen, at least I can protect you.”
“You're sweet, but I think you’d find the situation reversed.” She chuckled.
Mutatio shook his head stubbornly. “You are a queen now. You are hope for a better future. And I will protect that future.”
“But I was a praetorian. In a fight, I may be deadlier than you.”
“And our mother was a queen. Look what happened to her.”
“Our mother enslaved us all,” Me-Me spat. “Trust me.”
“I was referring to the fact her power was defeated, not to her methods.”
“That is a fair point.”
“I have discovered I am capable of making many. It is … a strange skill, but a useful one. The human who severed my connection to the hive made many such points in his discussions with his friend. I learned by observation.”
“You may have hidden talents as a diplomat.” Me-Me smiled.
Mutatio cocked his head. “We are emotivores. Don’t we all share such natural capability?”
“Not really. Many of us only know how to fight,” she pointed out. “Mother suppressed the idea of natural talents, remember?”
“Well, Changelings don’t have cutie marks. So I don’t believe that the idea of talents seemed … necessary. A hive has its designations, and that is all. Ideally, it is all that is needed. Our mother seems to have taken that to an extreme, however.”
“But that prevents the possibility of improvements. We can’t find ways to make better drones without some allowance for variance.”
“Then, … you wish to change the hive?”
“Change is survival. It’s in our very name.”
“I suppose I cannot disagree with your reasoning,” Mutatio agreed as they continued. “If I may ask, why are we remaining outside the boundaries of the forest if we are supposed to be gathering information for what lies ahead?”
“We’re simply keeping to the edge for now to get an idea of the layout,” she explained.
“And what have you found so far?”
“There’s something nearby beneath the ground,” she noted.
“Is it dangerous?”
“Not sure why it would be.”
“It is the Everfree Forest. From what our friends have told us, it is one of the most dangerous locations in all of Equestria.”
“True,” she admitted. “Though not much is said of what's beneath it.” She led him on.
“And you believe we should explore these tunnels?”
“We need to consider our own future here,” she said. “Our future hive.”
“Our?” A buzz of surprise escaped the otherwise perfect disguise at the implication of those words, though Mutatio quickly regained his composure.
“Did you intend to go to a different hive?” she asked. “The way I see it, our destinies are tied, you and I.”
Mutatio was silent for a time as he pondered that statement. “And where would that leave the two of us?” he asked uncertainly. “Would we be … harmonious in the song of this new hive?”
“Would you want that?” she asked him.
“I am … wary,” he admitted. “I have only known the song for so long. And then it was gone. But … I learned to be me, to be a singular entity, to find out what I desire, what I enjoy, what I[i/i] wish to do. You have also found your freedom. What if … what if we are not … compatible?”
“We’re both Changelings,” she said. “And why should you lose any of what makes you you? I want our hive to be a hive of connected individuals. I want all to be able to understand the hive is not a binding of slavery, but a connection that makes us strong.”
“Will that be … possible? Can such a hive really exist and not fall into chaos?”
“How do Ponies exist and not fall into chaos? We, with our perfect order under Mother have accomplished what? We lived in tight squalid tunnels while ponies built sprawling cities on mountains and in clouds. What superiority has a hive of perfect order given our species?”
“And if I do not find the link … complementary, … you will allow me the opportunity to leave it?”
“Of course.” She smiled as she leaned in and nuzzled him.
A heavy blush showed in mutatio’s cheeks as his wings flapped wide open. “Oh, my.” He blinked in an attempt to dispel his surprise while working to regain control.
“And I'm not looking for you to join as an average drone,” she added.
“Well, … to start a hive, you would need something more than an average drone, regardless,” Mutatio agreed. He cleared his throat. “If I may, … I would like to start just with the connection. We can look at the caves while we adapt to this new hive network. Is this a suitable compromise?”
“Of course.” She smiled at him. Slowly, she reached out and probed him gently to try and establish a connection.
Mutatio shuddered at the familiar sensation of a probing mind. However, unlike the connection he had always shared with Chrysalis, this one did not have the pressure that had so tightly kept him in check. Then again, in that role, there was no chance for growth or knowledge outside of his duties, so there was no measurement to stand against. It was not entirely unpleasant. It felt … hollow to an extent. Where many had been, there was now only two threads trying to bind so that they could resonate together. Whether they could sing, he would have to find out. He followed the tendril of thought back to Me-Me, his own probe trembling in anticipation of what was to come.
It connected without any resistance as a beautiful cadence played back to him laden with affection and warmth. She opened herself to him with no limitations and no walls, he was open to see all that she was. And she was much. Unlike the queen mother who had restrained and hidden much, constantly enforcing her will with the power of the hive connection, Me-Me bore her whole self, her insecurities, her faults, her hopes, her desires, and, most importantly, her intent. There was admiration for adaptation, and … a sense of gratitude as well, for helping her to navigate the troubled waters of being severed from the hive. The sensation of her thoughts were strangely euphoric after such a long and empty silence. And like the great prelude of an orchestra, his own thought began to resonate with a low hum to complement the subtle melody that was both invitation and plea.
Mutatio breathed heavily as warmth surged through his mind and his chest. “I … had almost forgotten how it felt….”
“Are you okay? Are you calm?” Me-Me asked.
Mutatio nodded. “I am fine. And you?”
“I am pleased.” She smiled. “This feels right.”
Mutatio gave a wry smile. “We are Changelings. Of course it is right to share a hive connection. I am only grateful that ours is compatible.”
“Come. Let’s take a look at our future hive then.”
Mutatio gave a gentle bow. “As my queen commands.”
She gave him a smile and a bow before turning to push forward toward the nearest tunnel entrance.
“Wanna run that by me again?” Grif asked a frantic-looking Pensword.
“Me-Me and Mutatio aren’t at the inn. They aren’t anywhere around town. I’ve looked high and low for them and asked about any new arrivals just to be on the safe side. Nobody seems to have seen anything. I saw Princess Celestia. And apparently, Princess Luna is going to be arriving later tonight. With the ground I’ve covered, it’s safe to say they probably went exploring outside the town’s bounds. The way I see it, there are a few possibilities. Either the Whitetail Woods, Sweet Apple Acres, or, and I’m really hoping it’s not this one, the border along the Everfree.”
“It’s the Everfree,” Grif groaned.
“What makes you so sure?” Pensword asked.
“It’s Ponyville. You can’t swing a stick at a problem and not have it connected to the forest.”
“Aren’t more than half the episodes not forest related?” Pensword countered.
“Trust me.”
Pensword sighed. “I suppose it’s as good a place to start as any.”
“Good. And when we do find them, they’d better have gotten trapped by some sort of large predator. Because if we find them and Mutatio isn’t fighting off some large feline with a crudely made wooden spear, …. he’s gonna be,” Grif growled as he scanned the ground.
“Just promise me that if we do encounter any dangerous creatures, we go in with a plan, not by the seat of our nonexistent pants,” Pensword insisted.
“I already have a plan for winning,” Grif snickered as he spread his wings.
“Oh? And what’s that?”
“Don’t lose,” the Gryphon said before turning and flying off.
Pensword facehoofed, shook his head, then took off after the Gryphon. “Wait up!”
It didn’t take long for the pair to reach the edges of the dread forest in question. Grif let his eyes scan the ground as his mind considered the possible options. A quick redaction threw the worst of them away. Nothing good came from worrying about those possibilities. In due course, his predator’s gaze halted on something that drew his attention. “Over here!” he shouted.
Pensword was soon at the Gryphon’s side, even as the sun continued to descend. Afternoon was rapidly fading into evening, which meant they were running out of time. “What did you find?” he asked. “Please tell me it’s good news. I really don’t want to be stuck out here when the moon comes up.”
“Timberwolves should be hunting soon.” Grif nodded. He pointed to a hole. “Looks like a cave system. Seems like it’s had some activity recently.”
“How can you tell?” Pensword asked.
“A few markings here or there. Scuffs in the gravel, things like that.”
“I suppose I should trust the eagle vision. Do they look like Pony tracks?” Pensword asked.
“Somewhat. Not great, considering the ground is solid rock a few feet in.”
“Ideal for avoiding leaving a trace,” Pensword mused and frowned. “I suppose we should be ready for a fight, just in case.”
“Honestly, in there? That seems like basic advice.”
Pensword nodded as they alighted at the tunnel entrance. “Any chance you can track their scent?”
“Yeah.” Grif nodded. “Follow me, and be ready. Who knows what lives here?”
The two passed cautiously through the cave. Grif’s talons clacked softly while Pensword’s hooves clopped and reverberated the deeper they went. “Do you think there’s any chance that this might come out near the Castle of the Two Sisters?” Pensword asked his friend.
“A cave system like this? It’s entirely possible.”
“Are you seeing any light?” Pensword asked.
“Part feline. I don’t need much.”
“I meant other than the natural light outside,” Pensword said. “If our friends are down here, they may be using their horns to light the way, or something else. They can make bioluminescent substances, after all.”
“Ah, nothing like that yet.”
Pensword nodded. “Then I’ll trust in your sense of smell to guide us.”
Grif nodded, leading them further inwards. It took almost half an hour before they finally saw familiar unnatural light in the distance.
“Grif, am I the only one seeing green right now?” Pensword asked.
“No, it's very much there. I’d say be ready for anything.”
Pensword nodded. “Make sure you verify before attacking. I hope it’s our friends, but if it turns out Chrysalis has infiltrated this cave system….”
The ground gradually took on a gentle slope that became steadily steeper as the two progressed. Eventually, they had no choice but to take wing as the once-flat passage dropped into a sharper and sharper angle. It was a very neat trap for any who might be trying to invade, particularly given the slippery nature of the secretions that had coated the cave floor.
“Well, that’s one way to deal with the timberwolves,” Pensword said.
“That makes sense, yeah.” Grun nodded.
Eventually, they came to the cavernous depths where the slope ended and fell into darkness. The chamber pulsed with green light as an ichor-like membraned webbing climbed over the pores of the rocks to frame passageways and act as a natural barrier. From time to time, the netting would part, then close shut again at random intervals, much like the bulb of a Venus Fly Trap.
“Effective, but … also disturbing,” Pensword noted as he watched the structures at work.
“Well, either a hive snuck in while we weren’t watching or we know where our changelings are,” Grif noted.
“Think we should shout for them?”
“Not a bad plan,” Grif said. “You do the honors?”
“Well, I have been practicing on the parade grounds.” Pensword took a deep breath, then let it rip. “Mutatio! Me-Me! Where are you?”
“Pensword? Is that you?” Me-Me’s voice echoed from every chamber. There was no way to tell which corridor was the source.
“Yes! I’m here with Grif! Can one of you come get us, please? We’d rather not get lost looking for you or fall into one of your traps if you’ve set any up!”
It was about fifteen minutes before Me-Me flew in to greet them. “Hello, my friends.”
Pensword stared in disbelief at the queen. “It took you fifteen minutes to get to us…. Just how big is this cave system?”
“It appears to be massive,” MeMe said. “We’ve tracked it all the way to the palace.”
“Canterlot?” Pensword gaped at her.
“No, the other palace,” Meme confirmed.
“Oh, you mean the castle.” Pensword frowned. “I’m guessing there’s no easy route to take through these caves that our troops can use instead of going aboveground?”
“The issue isn’t so much the route but the exit, in the sense there isn’t one as of yet,” Me-Me explained.
“Then how do you know it comes out at the Castle of the Two Sisters?” Pensword asked. “And while I’m at it, where’s Mutatio?”
“He is inspecting some of the side tunnels,” she said. “And we know because of magic.”
“And I take it you were planning to make these caves your hive?” Pensword surmised.
“Of course. They're perfect for it.”
“And you didn’t think to talk with Hammer Strike about it first?”
“Was he planning on using this cave system?”
“He didn’t even know about these in the first place. And besides that, wouldn't it be wiser to tell the one in authority that you’re planning to build your own hive right under a Pony settlement? Particularly since some of those Ponies go spelunking to mine for gems and minerals?”
“We’ve checked the area thoroughly. There are not any gem deposits currently in the area. At least the parts that we’ve claimed. Possibly, more will form in the future, but not at this time.”
Pensword sighed wearily. It was clear that Me-Me was going to do whatever she could to keep this space. “Couldn’t you at least have left us a note?”
“We didn’t know about the caves before we left.”
“I meant to tell us where you were going. Grif and I found you on a lucky guess. If you’d been hurt, or worse, found by Chrysalis, we wouldn’t have been able to help you, because we would have had no idea where you might have gone. We can’t communicate the way you do with other Changelings. I know you meant well, but please, let us know next time.”
“Oh, Mother is nowhere near here at this time.” Me-Me shook her head. “But I understand your point.”
“I’m glad you do.” Pensword sighed. “You’re just lucky Hammer Strike wasn’t awake to find out about this. Can you imagine what his reaction would have been?”
“Probably not as strong as you think.” Grif shrugged.
“At the very least, we’re going to have to tell him about this place. Speaking of which, are you and Mutatio okay with coming back to the tavern to tell him or are you still … housekeeping?” Pensword asked Me-Me.
“We are still shaping things here, yes.”
Pensword sighed and shook his head. “I suppose we’ll let Hammer Strike know and have him deal with this headache. We’ll have to tell Princess Luna, too. You know she’ll be interested in this.”
“She is welcome to come inspect it if she feels the need.”
“And will you also show it to Hammer Strike?”
“Of course.” she nodded. “Why would we not?”
Pensword sighed. “All right. So, is there any chance one of you can lead us back to town again?”
“I’m sure Mutatio can guide you back when he gets here.”
“I thought you said he was busy.”
“He finished his work recently and is on his way.”
“And are there any other shocking developments you need to tell us about before we make our way back to Ponyville to report?”
“None that come to mind at this time.”
Pensword nodded. “Then I suppose we’ll return with friends later. Is there a safe entrance you want us to use next time?”
“We’ll have one ready by the time you return.”
Pensword nodded. “Then I guess the next stop is the library.”
The night sky was cool and clear as they flew above the tree boughs and back into familiar, and more importantly weather-controlled territory. Both friends knew only too well the importance of what was underway. And though they wanted to tell Shawn or Hammer Strike, whichever form he might have taken, they also needed to involve at least one of the two rulers of the kingdom. The light coming from the tree was warm and inviting, and the two soon found themselves basking in that warmth as it leached away the last tendrils of chill from the outdoors trying to sink in.
Princess Luna’s blue mane waved and shone with the light of the night sky and the sparkling of the stars. Her silvery horseshoes shone brightly and bore the crescents that were the symbol of her namesake. Celestia drank from a teacup while Luna drank from a silver flask. Spike was nowhere to be seen, quite possibly having been sent to bed while the older Ponies talked.
“Your Highnesses,” Pensword greeted the diarchs.
“Pensword. We weren’t expecting to see you so soon after your last visit. Is Hammer Strike awake yet?” Celestia asked.
“To our knowledge, no,” Pensword said. “We were out on an errand of sorts and came across something that needs to be brought to your sister’s attention concerning certain mutual charges.”
“Oh and what would that be?” Luna asked.
“It seems Me-Me and Mutatio have found a place they would like to call home. They’ve begun to build a hive there.”
“I see…” Luna looked thoughtful as she considered it. “Well then, I suppose I will have to indeed look into that personally,” she agreed.
“Respectfully, I think it should only be you, Princess Luna. Princess Celestia draws too much attention when she travels. Half of Ponyville was circling the library when I came by earlier.”
Celestia sighed. “You do have a point,” she admitted. “And my presence could easily act as a smoke screen against any spies that might be lurking. Though I doubt that many nobles would feel the expenditure of resources would be justified for maintaining such a watch here in Ponyville just yet.”
“You overestimate them, Sister,” Luna said. “It’s less a case of they haven’t tried and more a case that they haven’t thought it through. That is to say, they sent spies, but they would come back with disappointing news, I think.”
“I suppose Miss Pie’s unique capabilities would be helpful in that regard,” Pensword mused. “She always seems to know when someone new arrives.”
Luna nodded. “I don’t doubt the nobility will figure out a way to plant their moles, but it will be a long-term operation, not short simple stints of information gathering.”
“The more important thing to consider, however, is whether you feel comfortable with a new Changeling hive being built on Ponyville’s borders here in Equestria. While Hammer Strike and Shawn are technically the ones who are overseeing these lands for now, the authority is still technically yours regarding whether you would be willing to allow a colony to be established. And Me-Me is definitely making plans in that direction.”
“Then I will check on it when I have time.”
“Just be sure to let them know when you get there. The place is trapped, and it would probably be good to have a guide,” Griff noted.
“We will, of course, make sure to take that into account,” Celestia agreed. “But my sister has her ways of bypassing such things if necessary.” She smiled at Luna. “Our greatest mentor taught us that sometimes when there isn’t a key, you have to make your own.”
Pensword chuckled nervously. “Let’s … hope this isn’t one of those times.”
“Was there anything else you needed to relay to us?” Celestia asked.
“Not at the moment,” Grif said. “But give it time. It’s Ponyville.”
“Hey,” Twilight objected. “Ponyville’s not that bad.”
Pensword sighed. “Did she just…?” he asked of his friend.
“Welp, now we need to go increase patrols,” Grif said, turning for the door.
“If you’ll excuse us,” Pensword said by way of farewell. “Goodnight, Your Highnesses, Twilight.”
As the door closed behind them, Twilight reasserted her claim once more. “I’m certain they’re overreacting. Everything is going to be fine. I mean, with the both of you here, what’s the worst that could happen?”