Chapters Peace at Last Side Stories: Back in Neighpon
Neighponese
Neighpon.
An advanced country by the standards of most others, Neighpon combined traditional values and life with innovation, and it reflected across the four islands making the country, from the humble shrines of the Kirin in the South Island to the Imperial City on the North Island.
The Imperial City. The technical term most non-natives would use to describe it would be "Steampunk", and that fit well enough. The buildings were somewhat crowded together, there was a hiss in the air as various steam-powered machinations worked, and there were thousands of changelings.
It was clear today that something was going on, though, as other species in addition to the hole-legged equines were present in force.
Baku, short creatures with long, tufted tails and short trunks, weaved their way through the crowd.
Ibex travelers from the West Island strode among the excited throng, regarding everything with a mild interest.
Breezies rode on the wind from Foal Island, accompanied by their changeling kin.
Zenko, large beings similar to a mix of diamond dog and fox, avoided the crowd, leaping along the roofs, accompanied by Bake-Neko, small beings like two-legged cats.
Even Old Mejiro, a local Tsuchigumo shopkeeper, had joined, his eight legs carefully moving, his seven good eyes watching to make sure the alicorn-sized spider didn't accidentally step on anyone.
It seemed like every single race from Neighpon had come to the city, though the Kirin were absent. But what had brought them all to the capital?
***
Nīsan and Onēsan were coming home!
Pupa was incredibly excited. There were few individuals she held in high regard, but among them was her mother, her nanny, Cerci, and her Nīsan and Onēsan- her big brother and big sister, Stag and Hope.
The five-year old fussed slightly as she was bathed by Cerci, but the pink-haired changeling mare had seemingly infinite patience when it came to the youngest of Chrysalis's children, and continued until the filly was cleaned, dried off, and dressed. She still needed to look presentable, even if it was just her older siblings. Using a handkerchief to wipe away some excess saliva from Pupa's mouth, Cerci looked at the filly. She was thoroughly cleaned and ready.
***
It had been the better part of a year since Chrysalis had received an invitation from Cadence to go to the wedding, and the news had reached Neighpon about the attempted invasion. To top it off, shortly after summer had begun, the sky went wrong. Neighpon was in a perpetual twilight for two days before the sun and moon began moving again. And Chrysalis had still not returned. Her sister, Danauria, had reluctantly taken up responsibility for the throne, but everyone was still worried.
That was why when Chīsaki had burped up a message in dragon fire, directly from Chrysalis herself, a week ago, everyone was pleasantly surprised.
Danauria,
If you have received this message, then I have successfully managed to use a local dragon here to send it to Chīsaki, and in theory, you can send messages back until a better system is devised. Due to certain pressing circumstances, my stay in Equestria has been somewhat extended. Tell Uncle Pincer not to worry, I shall return in due time. In the meantime, I shall have to run the kingdom from here. My son Staghorn has successfully managed to maintain some semblance of peace with Equestria following the Canterlot Incident, and will be arriving in Neighpon in a week's time with a representative from Canterlot.
Your sister, Chrysalis
Since then, a better system had been devised and put to use, involving enchanted stones, which Chīsaki was thankful for. The little female dragon had complained that the constant sending and receiving of messages was making her stomach hurt. Of course, she also said it was making her bronze-copper scales lose their luster and her tiny two-point antlers buzz, so the validity of the statement was somewhat in question.
Not that it mattered to Danauria. She sat in the throne room, waiting for her niece and nephew to arrive, and trying to ignore the baby dragon's complaints.
"...and I mean, what sort of fire is GREEN? I mean, if you're going to use your magic fire for that, it should be a purple or blue color, but green? That's basically saying you vomit out fire! That's GROSS! And it was coming out of MY mouth! Makes you wonder how healthy that dragon is, and furthermore..."
"Chīsaki?"
"Yes?"
"Go see if Pupa and Cerci are ready please."
***
Stag and Hope stepped off the ship, followed by Twilight and Spike. Twilight could only gape when she first saw the city. Stag chuckled.
"I told you it was something."
The unicorn didn't take her eyes off the skyline. "Yeah, but I thought you were exaggerating..."
"Well, I wasn't. Now come on, the palace is this way."
Twilight looked in the direction he pointed.
"...How do we get through the crowd?"
Hope smirked. "Just stick close to us, and you'll be fine."
***
Cerci could see the commotion on the streets as she escorted Pupa. Chīsaki had joined them, and was now telling stories of the many adventures she (hadn't) been in, such as fighting the (nonexistent) Kappa that (didn't) live in the pond in the palace garden. Cerci smirked.
"Was this before or after you fought off the Ushi-Oni Pirate with nothing but a wooden spoon?"
"After, and it was a toothpick!"
"So you manage to do that, and yet somehow you manage to forget where your tail is and trip over it five times every day?"
Chīsaki raised a claw, opening her mouth to protest, but slipped after tripping over her tail and fell into a nearby koi pond. She came back up, a lily pad on her head, glaring at the frog sitting on her nose. Pupa and Cerci laughed, and it wasn't long before the baby dragon joined them, her clanging copper pot laughter contrasting sharply with Cerci's and Pupa's more melodic laughs.
Cerci wiped a tear away after catching her breath. "Alright, 'Kappa Slayer', let's get to the throne room."
The three continued onward.
***
Twilight couldn't understand it. The crowd literally parted around them, keeping them in a constant circle, five feet from anyone.
Spike whispered to Twilight. "He's really a big deal around here, isn't he?"
'Well, he is crown prince..."
"I don't see anyone treating Blueblood like this in Canterlot."
"Spike, while Blueblood is a nice guy^, he's only a prince by title.^^"
"Right..."
Stag spoke up. "We're here!"
The Imperial Palace was a classic Neighponese palace, placed on a hill and surrounded by tranquil gardens. However, one could still see the steam ducts and electrical cables if they looked hard enough.
"Shall we?"
Not waiting for an answer, Stag opened the doors, and the group went inside.
Author's Note
Pupa, Pincer, Danauria, and Cerci are the creations of Magic Man, but while this version of Pupa is meant to be as close as possible, the extent of her... condition has been dialed back some.
^the incident at the Gala was only due to 1.) Blueblood being sick of mares only caring about appearance, social stature, and wealth, and coming up with the idea to act like an uptight snob cranked to 11 to drive them off, and 2.) Believing Rarity was one of said mares.
^^His family bears no true relation to the princesses, instead being descended from ancient Unicorn nobility from pre-alicorn ruled Equestria. Specifically, Star Swirl the Bearded, ironically making him a distant cousin of Trixie and Lyra
Peace at Last Side Stories: Back in Neighpon
Neighponese
Stag and Hope were greeted by Pupa running to them as fast as her three good legs and one gimpy leg could carry her, giving both a hug. Both smiled and nuzzled the little filly.
"What took you so long, Nīsan?" the little filly asked.
Stag smiled. "Sorry I couldn't be here sooner. We got a little sidetracked."
"Is Mama here?"
Stag paused. This would be... difficult.
"She... couldn't come today, Pupa. I'm sorry. But she'll come home and play with you soon, I promise."
Pupa grinned, then nuzzled her older brother's leg.
Now to introduce Twilight and Spike.
*
Twilight and Spike watched as the small filly ran up and hugged Stag and Hope, then began talking to Stag.
"Nani ga Nissan, son'nani jikan ga kakatta?"
Stag smiled. "Mōshiwakearimasenga, wareware wa koko de hayaku suru koto ga dekimasendeshita. Wareware wa sukoshi yokomichida."
"What are they saying, Twilight?"
"I don't know, but I think Staghorn's apologizing for something."
"What do you mean you don't know? I thought you studied this sort of thing."
"Reading a language and listening to it being spoken are two different things, Spike."
"Well... hey, I think he's introducing us."
Twilight paused long enough to see Staghorn was finishing talking to the Changeling mare on the throne.
"...Watashi no kenkyo ni kanshite, watashi wa Twilight Sparkle o shōkai shi, Equestria no ryū Spike."
*
"...With my humblest regards, I introduce Twilight Sparkle and Spike the dragon of Equestria."
Danauria considered the unicorn and dragon.
"Can they understand us?"
"No, I do not believe so. They are here as diplomats, however, so conversation with them will need to be exchanged in the Common Tongue."
"They came alone?"
"No. Princess Luna assigned one of her guards to watch them. he and I have become... friends, I suppose."
"Well, where is he?"
***
Atop a nearby building stood a Pegasus stallion. He was dark green, his brown mane accentuated by a red stripe, his turquoise eyes gleaming. His cutie mark was fairly interesting by normal standards: a black rose, in the center of a flame, circled by a full moon.
Everyone who knew him called him Red. He was one of the most capable fighters in the night guard, and while not captain, showed a lot of promise. Unconfirmed rumors also stated that he was the first of several lucky and unsuspecting stallions to welcome the Night Princess back in the "old-fashioned way."^
What was also known about him was that he was the son of a Pegasus surfer named Selene Seabreeze^^, and that he loved the night more than anything else.
He had set up a perimeter, and now watched the building carefully. He had been given the duty to guard Twilight Sparkle, and he wasn't going to fail.
Satisfied all was safe, he glided down and entered the building.
***
Twilight was somewhat relieved when Red walked through the doors. Despite all the progress Stag had made establishing good relations, a room full of changelings still made her nervous. The sooner this was done, the sooner she could go back home to Nyx... and possibly ask out Doctor's cousin, a handsome grey Pegasus stallion in a bowtie... she was getting off track.
However, she didn't miss the looks between Hope and Red. The poor stallion always seemed to get awkward around Hope, and the changeling princess always seemed flustered around him.
Twilight thought it was cute, like seeing two little foals too nervous to ask each other out. Of course, nothing like that would happen, right?
*
"He's cute-looking."
Cerci smirked. "He's too old for you, Chīsaki."
"Not the Pegasus! I meant the dreamboat on the unicorn's back."
Cerci looked at the purple and green dragon on the unicorn's back, who was currently using a claw to clean out an ear. She looked back to Chīsaki, who practically had little hearts floating around her head.
"...Really?"
Chīsaki dramatically stood up. Outside, dark clouds gathered with an ominous rumble
"With Ryū as my witness, he will be MINE!"^^^
It would have been dramatic, had the lightning and thunder signaling the start of a thunderstorm not startled her, causing her to fall on her face.
Author's Note
Red belongs to/is my friend Reddened Chaos
Discord Whooves belongs to BaldDumboRat, creator of the tumblr, but note the canon for this story is slightly different, as since here he is Doctor's Cousin.
Nyx belongs to Pen Stroke
^Meaning she had been in the moon for 1000 years. and, well, since the Lunar Guard has to obey their Princess, and a mare has needs...
^^5-time winner of the Cloudsdale Cloud-Surfing Extravaganza and local surfing celebrity
^^^Ryū- Kami (the main/only deity of Neighpon) in dragon form
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The Princess and the Guard/The Two Librarians
Neighponese
Ib'xian
The storm had cleared overnight, and everyone was awake and moving around. A certain guard had checked on Twilight and then, satisfied everything was safe, had gone exploring.
Red had never been much for words, preferring to let his hooves do the talking. When he had been a little colt^, he had often been the target of bullying, despite the fact said bullies always wound up injured and missing several teeth. His father was constantly busy, and between that and his mother competing in tournaments, Red had little time to learn the fine arts of romance. Thankfully, his older brother Blue had helped him in this department growing up, and still talked to Red in between jobs^^.
Red now discreetly watched a certain mare. He may have been dating Fancy's daughter, Fleur, but that was fine, and besides, he had permission.^^^
She was beautiful. There was no denying it, especially in this setting. She was in the garden, under the cherry blossoms, the light of the rising sun filtering through her golden mane, making it appear as though she was glowing. the simple green kimono she wore only heightened her beauty. There was no doubt, Red was infatuated with her. He had always been a sucker for pretty mares.
Hope turned her head slightly, looking at Red. She smiled and gestured for him to come sit next to her.
Red's heart did several small somersaults, but he kept calm, and walked over, carefully tucking his legs under his body as he lowered himself down.
"Beautiful sunrise, isn't it?"
"It always is after it storms. I always liked storms, because I knew they meant the sky would be all these colors when I woke up, and that gave me something to wake up and immediately be happy about."
I could make you happy too, Red thought. I just wish it was easier for me to say...
The two sat contentedly, watching as the sun slowly rose over the skyline.
***
Stag was aware of Red's affection for his sister. As was every changeling Red met back in Equestria^^^^. Stag didn't mind, and surprisingly, Chrysalis didn't mind either.
Stag however, was slightly protective of his older sister, and so he carefully watched the Pegasus whenever he was near Hope. He did have to admit, though, they DID make a cute couple.
***
When the sunrise had finished, Red and Hope walked back inside, glancing at each other and quickly looking away and blushing if the other noticed.
"Well, I have some things I need to do... this was nice, Red. Hope I can see you later."
The mare began walking away.
C'mon, get it together! Red thought to himself. Just say it!
But he couldn't, and she was gone.
"Need some help, Red?"
Red turned to look at Stag. While he might not have trusted the changeling when they first met, over time, they had developed a close friendship that bordered so close to brotherhood that Red felt he could call Chrysalis "Mom" and she would act as if it was normal.
So he nodded an affirmative. Stag grinned.
"Good. listen close. What you need to do is..."
***
Outside the palace, Twilight worked her way through the crowd towards a large building. It had not been a good morning for her, as she had the unpleasant experience of accidentally stumbling upon the royal treasure room.
*
Twilight was still figuring the palace out. Currently, that meant finding the dining room. She turned left and opened the door...
BARK! BARK! BARK! BARK! BARK!
Twilight had flailed as sharp-toothed jaws closed a few inches from her.
The beast was slightly larger than a pony, and had grey fur, no visible ears, jaws like a Brumbyland Devil+, and was covered in jet-black armor. Securing it to the wall was a long chain attached to a ring embedded in an armor plate between its shoulders.
It was a Chain Chomp, a creature Twilight had read about, a close relative of the armadillo, but a LOT more dangerous. She had quickly closed the door.
*
Now Twilight stood outside one of the many things she had wanted to see since coming to Neighpon. she opened the doors...
Twilight couldn't help but stare. It was the most beautiful sight in the world.
The Imperial Library was the biggest she had ever seen^^^^^, full of ancient tomes, historic documents, and modern works, all in shelves that went from floor to ceiling, nearly 20 feet up. There were ladders and steps for those who could not fly, and Twilight made good use of them to collect a hefty stack of reading material: The Tale of Susanoo, Neighponese Practices and Customs, The Battle of the Honeycomb: an in-depth study of the Neighpon-North Griffonian War, A Guide to the Beings and Beasts of Neighpon, and a few others.
When she had finished making the selection, she sat them down on the check-out desk. Behind said desk sat a large, wiry ape, covered in reddish-orange hair and wearing glasses. The Xing-xing looked at the stack.
"Will this be all?" he asked. Thankfully, Twilight did know Ib'xian.
"Yes please."
"Library card?"
Twilight paused. The ape waited, yellow hand outstretched. When Twilight didn't give him anything...
"Let me guess, Tourist?"
His Equestrian was good, with a slight accent.
"Er... Yes."
The xing-xing sighed. "Look, I can't let you check anything out until you've gone through the system. Come back tomorrow, and I'll have it ready. Just sign these forms."
Twilight took the papers and moved to a nearby table, grumbling.
No, today was not a good day for Twilight.
Author's Note
^Like, seriously little. when he was 10, it was easy to mistake him for 5 based on size.
^^Blue had been hired by a sect of demon hunters, and had also fallen for a local blue spa mare in Ponyville, and long story short, he's part-time demon hunter, and part-time dad.
^^^"Herding" is still considered a common practice in Equestria, and stallions dating multiple mares, or vice-versa, is not considered "cheating" so long as the other partners are aware of it. the rules are the same for changelings, and Stag and his wife Double still occasionally spiced up their 200-year-long marriage by taking breaks and dating others. Stag has a particular preference for earth ponies in addition to changelings.
^^^^Changelings, remember? Red's pent-up affection provided a light snack for most of them when they were feeling peckish.
^^^^^This was before the Crystal Empire had returned
This
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BBBFF and BSBFF/The Dragons and the Chain Chomp
Neighponese
Ib'xian
As soon as Stag left Red with his dating advice, it was time to visit Pupa.
Pupa. The youngest of Queen Chrysalis' children, the 5 year old was a little tyke compared to her older brother, who had lived some 220 years, or her older sister, who was 225, yet the three had a bond with each other.
I wish Double were here though, Stag thought, thinking about his wife. While Stag was a smart stallion and would some day make a good king, it was Double who was the more aggressive of the two^, and she could easily get through all this tension. Granted, she would have slapped Pincer in the face for making Stag as nervous as he had been^^, but still...
Besides, she and Pupa liked each other too.
Stag met up with Hope in the hallway. He nuzzled his older sister. Since the peace treaty, Hope had become more outgoing and less serious, courtesy of becoming friends with Ponyville's local pink party pony^^^. Stag also knew she really needed a stallion, or a mare, as Hope had told him gender really didn't matter^^^^. Which was why Stag figured Red was a good match for her. Red was strong, confident, and a good protector, all desirable traits as far as any changeling mare was concerned.
The two moved down the hallway towards Pupa's room.
*
Pupa nestled in Hope's mane, briefly disappearing inside the golden locks and then reappearing. She was having the time of her life. Stag sat nearby, reading the filly a story.
"'...Soon after everything was ready the monkey jumped down from his tree, and creeping to the door began a long hypocritical speech, asking pardon for all he had done. He waited for an answer of some sort, but none came. He listened, but all was still; then he peeped, and saw no one; then he went in. He peered about for the crab, but in vain; however, his eyes fell on the egg, which he snatched up and set on the fire. But in a moment the egg had burst into a thousand pieces, and its sharp shell struck him in the face and scratched him horribly. Smarting with pain he ran to the bucket and stooped down to throw some water over his head. As he stretched out his hand up started the wasp and stung him on the nose. The monkey shrieked and ran to the door, but as he passed through down fell the mortar and struck him dead. 'After that the crab lived happily for many years, and at length died in peace under her own kaki tree.' The end."
Hope looked at the filly in her mane. "Did you like the story, Pupa?"
The little filly was already asleep. Stag heard the barking in another part of the palace, and went to investigate, giving Pupa a small kiss on the forehead as he left.
***
Chīsaki and Spike were looking at each other across the table. Or rather, Chīsaki stared at the table while Spike was more interested in the bowl of jade stones next to him.
Seeing as her first attempt had been a failure, the dragoness had decided to start over, starting with teaching Spike how to play igo^^^^^.
"...And when a chain is surrounded by opposing stones so that it has no liberties, it is captured and removed from the board. Sound easy enough?" Chīsaki looked up at the other dragon, beaming.
"Whut?" Spike asked, his mouth full of the jade playing pieces.
Chīsaki stared for several minutes.
"Okay, this isn't a problem, I know where we can get more! Follow me!"
She ran off. Spike shrugged, briefly wondering how Twilight was doing.
*
"Look, I don't care if I have to go through 'processing!' I filled out the application, so just give me the card and let me check out the books!"
The xing-xing stood up and bared his teeth+, slipping into Ib'xian near the end of his sentence.
"Listen. I have TRIED to be civil, but you are being more stubborn than a mule! You need a day to be processed, and I will not be yelled at! So shut up and nae laibeuleolieseo kkeojyeo!"
Twilight gaped at the last part, then turned and walked out with a huff. She briefly turned back and looked straight at him.
"Stupid Monkey."++
She then shut the door behind her as the ape began breathing heavily and hooting. Everyone in the library flooded out screaming behind her
*
"No worry!" Chīsaki said as she led Spike along. "The treasury's this way!"
Spike followed, somewhat curious and hungry at the idea of seeing the Royal Treasury. Mostly hungry.
Chīsaki grinned. "It's through these doors!"
She opened them. there were mountains of gold, silver, and gems. and there, on a shelf, was a bowl of jade stones. Chīsaki clambered up and reached.
"Got 'em!"
She held the bowl up triumphantly... before a massive black form lunged out from where it had been buried under the treasure, mouth open.
Chīsaki had forgotten about Wanwan, the guard-beast of the treasure room.
She ran as fast as she could, grabbing Spike's hand and dragging him as she worked to avoid the angry chain-dragging beast. Wanwan lunged again, missing the baby dragons by a few inches. Chīsaki saw the door, she and Spike now running as fast as their stubby legs could carry them. Wanwan ran after them, intent on eating the small reptiles.
"BARK! BARK! BARK! BARK! BARK! BAR -urk!"
Wanwan's paws slipped, and he landed on his back. he had forgotten how long the chain holding him was. One of the Masters, the stallion who had been gone, soon came in.
Stag smiled and patted the armadillo-beast's head.
"One of these days, Wanwan. You'll eventually get this 'chain' concept."
He laughed. Wanwan only grumbled in reply.
Author's Note
^Changeling mares tend to be more aggressive than their stallions in general, and Double also happened to be the High General of the army, having been promoted to the position when Pincer retired. These factors combined with the fact Stag and Double had married at age 20, and begun dating at age 5, meant Double and Stag had plenty of time to figure out each other.*
^^Stag was good at concealing his inner feelings, so his uncle hadn't noticed, but 215 years with Stag had taught Double all she needed to know about her husband.
^^^Pinkie had also taught Hope things she called "Pinkie Secrets", meaning Hope now occasionally popped out of places that made little sense, and was able to keep myriad items in her mane and tail.
^^^^Changelings have an interesting demographic for sexual preferences. While seemingly divided into typical Straight/Gay/Bi, it's more complex, as changelings can change shape to amuse their lovers. that being said, it is not uncommon for a "Straight" changeling couple to experiment in the bedroom, changing gender roles and even doing same-gender pairings. as an example Double is bi-curious, though she is still straight, and Stag is straight, leading to male-female and female-female pairings, but not male-male.
^^^^^a board game for two players that originated in Manechuria more than 2,500 years ago. The game is rich in strategy despite its relatively simple rules.
The two players alternately place black and white** playing pieces, called "stones", on the vacant intersections (called "points") of a grid of 19×19 lines (beginners often play on smaller 9×9 and 13×13 boards). The object of the game is to use one's stones to surround a larger total area of the board than the opponent. Once placed on the board, stones may not be moved, but stones are removed from the board if captured; this is done by surrounding an opposing stone or group of stones by occupying all orthogonally-adjacent points. Players continue in this fashion until neither player wishes to make another move; the game has no set ending conditions. When a game concludes, the territory is counted along with captured stones and komi to determine the winner. Games may also be won by resignation.
Archaeological evidence shows that the early game was played on a board with a 17×17 grid, but by the time the game had spread to Ib'xian and Neighpon, in about the 5th and 7th centuries AD respectively, boards with a 19×19 grid had become standard
+Quite a terrifying sight, given how most primate teeth are arranged
++NEVER call an ape a monkey. it, er, "makes them go ape"
*Stop thinking what you're thinking now. Baka.
**Nobles often substitute white stones with jade.
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Twilight and the Ape: Round 2/Flowers, Tuxedos, and lots of nervous sweating
Neighponese
After a night's sleep following the previous day of ape harassing, chain chomp dodging^, date planning, and sibling bonding, the sun rose brightly over the city again.
Twilight had slept fitfully due to some guilt over her actions in the library. But was it really wrong to speak up if you thought it was unfair? No, it wasn't. However, poking direct insults at the cause of it was.
Twilight knew she should have behaved better. After all, apes had very unique cultures^^, and tended to be non-violent until pushed too far^^^. It was just... something about apes rubbed her the wrong way. There was that one incident with the Orang-utan diplomat in Canterlot where she had lost her temper... Celestia hadn't been happy to have had to go through weeks of re-negotiating the rubber trade between Equestria and the Orang Islands^^^^.
Maybe it was because of all those history tomes she read when she was little. Specifically, the First Shetlantean War...
Many years ago, Little Twilight^^^^^ had perused a large tome in the middle of the library. Though she had been a serious studier, she had also still at that age when foals are enchanted by old stories and myths. However, this story had been a little... violent.
When the first of the earth pony colonists had touched Shetlantis' shore, they found a partially untamed wilderness, full of unique life forms, many of them dangerous. However, none compared to the island's first inhabitants.
They were tall, two-legged primates without tails. they had only a scant covering of hair, and flat, ape-like faces. Their ears were small and pointed, and their limbs long. +
From there, it described a bloody war that had Twilight unable to sleep for weeks.++
Twilight had made up her mind, though. Today, she would go to the library and apologize.
*
"Well, I also apologize," the xing-xing said. "My behavior was... less than professional."
He extended a wrinkly hand. Twilight put her hoof in it and shook. The ape then held out something.
"And here is your library card."
Twilight grinned excitedly, thanked the ape, then went to find the books she had been intent on reading.
***
Red had made up his mind. Today, he would go to Hope and ask her out.
He had found a nice tuxedo, a bouquet of orchids, and lots of antiperspirant deodorant.
LOTS of antiperspirant deodorant.
Not that it really seemed to be working, as he was still sweating quite profusely, not to mention shaking as he slowly knocked on the door to Hope's room..
Even with her mane a fluffy mess of bedhead, wearing a disheveled nightgown, Red still found her beautiful. Carefully transferring the flowers from mouth to hoof he held them out to her. He was a Night Guard, trained to remain stoic in the line of duty, always vigilant, always precise, always serious. You can do this! He opened his mouth...
"PrincessHopewouldyouliketogoonadatewithme?"
He mentally facehoofed. Smooth.
Hope, for her part, cocked her head slightly to the side. "Say again?"
Red took a deep breath. "Princess Hope. Would you do me the honor of going on a date tonight?"
Silence.
It seemed to drag on forever before she swept him up in a hug and kissed his cheek.
"I'd be happy to! How does seven sound?"
Red nodded happily, a dumb smile on his face thanks to the fact Hope had kissed him.
"Great! See you then!"
Hope closed the door. Then she peeked out.
"And just Hope is fine."
She smiled and closed the door again.
Red flapped the tips of his wings, smiling happily as he floated down the hallway. It wasn't long before a large crowd had gathered behind him. Stag appeared, brandishing a newspaper at the changelings, who quickly dispersed.
"Geez, it's not like they haven't eaten already," he muttered.
With that, he followed Red, eating the good emotions emanating from the stallion himself. Royalty ate first, after all.
Author's Note
^Spike still never learned how to play igo after all that.
^^Well, Orang-utans, Chimpanzees, Bonobos, Xing xing, Yeti, and Gorillas do. the Agogwe, T'sul Kalu, Sasquatch, and Almasti are too secretive to study properly, and the Alegewi and Grey Gorillas are simply too violent.
^^^see the "Monkey" example in the previous chapter, which only happened after hours of arguing.
^^^^Orang-utans live in one of the only places where rubber trees grow, and being excellent capitalists, have cornered the market in world rubber trade.
^^^^^As in "had gotten her cutie mark but was still young enough to be called a filly instead of a mare"
+a sketch based on the description given
++the showing of movies such as Shakma, Yeti: the Mountain Beast, and Planet of the Apes did little to help
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"Oh, right... I'm a Prince.../Surprise Visit!
Neighponese
After snacking on Red's love a bit, Stag returned to his chambers to get ready.
While he had been gone, Stag had forgotten... being a Prince here in Neighpon was different. Since he was back, Danauria didn't have to go through the task of filling out forms anymore, or do a lot of other royal duties, leaving all that to Stag.
And he was stressed. Today he was scheduled to have a meeting with the leader of the Kirin. He would need a bottle or two after this.^
For now, he grumbled as he adjusted his crown and robes. Satisfied with how they looked, he went out to get it over with.
*
Stag sat at the head of the low table, and waiting behind him stood six capable changeling guards, all wearing black cloaks with purple undersides, black hats with white bands adorned in the front with a silver medallion, and all armed with a sheathed katana. In front of him were two cups and a freshly made pot of tea.
The Kirin guard entered the opposite door, six stallions in red samurai armor, armed with a bow and a quiver of arrows in addition to a katana. after they had taken their positions, the Kirin Leader gracefully walked to the cushion opposite of Stag and seated herself.
The Honorable Lady Snow was typical of her kind, which is to say unusual by most equine standards. Blue scales covered her from her nose to her dragon-like tail. the top of her snout, however, had gold scales, like the belly of a snake, going up to meet her hairline, and a similar set of scales ran along her throat and undercarriage. her black mane was straight-cut at the bangs, but from there became slightly messy as it traveled down her neck to her back. Her fetlocks and the tip of her tail were also adorned with black hair, as was the stretch of skin between her fore and rear legs, neatly dividing the blue scales of her upper body from the gold scales of her underside. Her antlers were not as large as her guards', one small tine pointing forward and curving up, one pointing behind and branching into two. Around her neck, she wore a red sash, and adorning her flanks was her cutie mark: a red Torii gate.
There was silence for a minute as the two drank the tea on the table. Now for the small talk, Stag thought to himself.
"Lady Snow."
"Prince Staghorn."
"I assume things have been pleasant for you on the South Island?"
"Quite, though nothing could really be bad compared to your attack on Canterlot."
Of course she would bring that up... "Agreed, though we have more than made up for that little incident, in case you haven't heard."
A knowing smirk from the Kirin mare. "Oh, I'm well aware of the treaty you made. I'm simply surprised you didn't surrender completely, given your mother's failure was large enough to stain changeling history."
"If you must know, your Honor, she was acquitted of all charges. She wasn't even imprisoned."
"And yet she isn't here."
"Due to necessary dealings, she is currently busy with the Changeling Kingdoms in Equestria."
"Oh, old-fashioned 'Changeling Contract' then?", Lady Snow asked with a playful yet evil smirk.
Stag tensed at the idea^^, but shook himself out of it.
"What exactly brings you here today, Lady Snow?"
She put her forelegs on the table, bringing her cloven hooves together. "The South Island is experiencing a famine, and we need more room to harvest kelp. I am asking that we be allowed to use the Anaguma no gētou~ei for this purpose."^^^
Stag paused. The channel was officially neutral ground, but still fell under Changeling rule... however, the Kirin were experiencing a famine...
"You may have access to it up to a third of a mile out from shore, and only for as long as the famine lasts."
Lady Snow narrowed her eyes. "To the dropoff point, no less"
Stag glared. "I have given you what I will. An entire mile is too much surplus. We have fishing boats that need those waters."
"And a third of a mile is not enough! My domain is starving! Half a mile off shore at the most!'
Stag considered it for a long moment.
***
Stag walked down the hallway, tired. They had settled on the Kirin using the area half a mile offshore to farm kelp, but Stag had been firm about it only lasting the duration of the famine. He REALLY needed a drink now.
Stag looked at the note on his door. It was in Equestrian.
To Stag,
Chryssie decided me and the kids deserved a vacation, so she agreed to let us come over to visit you. The kids are in their room, and I have a surprise for you.
Love, Double
Stag, hoping this wasn't a prank, opened the door...
On the bed was Double, surrounded by the petals of cherry blossoms, wearing a nearly-transparent green negligée.^^^^
Stag's wings instantly vibrated, releasing a soft buzzing noise^^^^^, and he dutifully shut and locked the door. THIS was going to help more than any bottle of alcohol would! He got in the bed, then carefully removed both her clothes and his, tossing them, crown and all, to the side.
Foreplay was brief, and soon both were moaning as they showed each other just how glad they were to be with each other again.
***
Stag cuddled his wife, energy and built-up stress now completely spent.+
"I missed you."
Double nuzzled him. "I missed you too, Ionúin."++
With that, the two drifted off to sleep.
Author's Note
^the Kirin and Changelings have never seen eye to eye, so meetings can get tense even between calm individuals. Stag, while an expert negotiator, always found himself needing to de-stress after meetings with them. Alcohol was the solution since Double wasn't there.
^^In old times, it was common for changeling royals to have not only a paper contract, but a flesh-and-blood contract in the form of a foal sired by a member of both royal houses. If Miasma, Ambrosia, Calliphora, Myxine, or any of the Equestrian Changeling rulers wanted that sort of contract, the duty to, uh, "supply the ink" would fall to Stag.
^^^ "The Gate of the Badger", a fanciful name for the channel separating the North and South Islands.
^^^^No one is sure why equine species find certain clothing items so attractive, considering everyone usually goes around without clothes anyway... but it works!
^^^^^a changeling method of showing arousal.
+After about 2 hours.
++Coltish for "Beloved". Double's mother was a Glascolt-Coltland immigrant to Neighpon, before moving back shortly after Double married Stag.
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The Double Date: Part One/Chīsaki finds a Book
Neighponese
After a short nap, Stag and Double woke up, yawning. they nuzzled each other.
"You know, Red finally asked my sister out on a date tonight."
"Really? Took him long enough."
"Yeah, I know."
"...We should go too!"
"Say what now?"
*
Stag found himself squeezed into a tuxedo, standing by Red as they both waited for their respective mares to finish getting ready. Stag leaned over.
"Nervous?"
"A little."
"Completely normal, Red. I mean, if you managed to get Fleur, this should be easy!"
"You'd think so..."^
"Relax, you'll be fine. Wonder what's taking them so long?"
*
Several small, wingless, purple-eyed changeling mares^^ worked to make sure the Princesses^^^ looked their best.
It wasn't easy.
"HELP!"
The grounder mare tried desperately to extricate herself from Hope's mane, to little avail. It was swallowing her as it had swallowed so many combs and brushes before her. As her coworkers desperately pulled, she began planning her last will and testament.
A veteran mare, who had dealt with this foe on several occasions, knew there was only one way to deal with this. Gripping a large comb,^^^^ a set of shears,^^^^^ and a machete+ in her magic, she leapt into the fray.
*
Red peeked in after several minutes, only to be confronted by the head mare.
"They aren't ready yet, so..."
"No," Hope said. "Let him come see."
Red cautiously walked in... and was amazed by what he saw.
"Like it?"
Red nodded.
Double spoke up. "Okay, we're ready enough, let's just go get our dresses on and go already!"
***
There's got to be a trick to this whole "Dating" thing, Chīsaki thought, looking through various books in the library. Old Gin Pal, the librarian++, had carefully watched her before deciding she wouldn't do anything too harmful. Chīsaki's reputation of being accident prone was widespread through the city, especially following the incident with the ducks, the noodles, and the white kimono+++.
Hmmm... maybe this one?
She grabbed the large, brown book with angry red eyes and a toothy mouth, inside which was a black ball with some kind of fuse, then read the title on the spine.
the BOMBINOMICON
"Oh, Fu-"
Chīsaki was hit in the face by a large explosion, sending her flying, and causing a chain reaction of the smaller shelves to topple like dominos.
"CHISAKIIIIII!!!!!!!!"
The little dragoness started running as Gin Pal, face bright red, chased after her, barely missing with each swing of the broom he had grabbed.
The Bombinomicon, for its part, decided it was bored now and went off to spread mayhem in other places.++++
Author's Note
^Even given Fancy's permission to date his daughter, Red still took a while to get up the guts to actually talk to the model.
^^Grounder- a purple eyed, wingless changeling, often found working as clean-up crews or spa/salon workers
^^^Double was, like it or not, technically a Princess. An authoritative, commanding Princess who was also High-General of the Royal Army and could name myriad different ways to kill you, but still a Princess.
^^^^1 foot long, made of dragon scales
^^^^^used to cut roc feathers at one point
+Standard barber equipment
++the Xing-xing. His name is Ib'xian for "Long Arms".
+++Thirty-eight citizens were hospitalized, Mejiro the Tsuchigumo shopkeeper had lost his vision in one of his eight eyes, Chīsaki was never allowed to go to any local noodle shop ever again, and the Laundromat still had ducks nesting in the driers.
++++From Starswirl the Bearded's notes:
...Yeah, I honestly have no idea why I made that book in the first place. Or why I made it able to think, talk, and fly.
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The Double Date: Part Two/Twilight and Cerci
Neighponese
Poatsi
It was going good so far. Double and Hope had finished getting ready hours ago, and both mares and their respective stallions were now seated at a table in a local restaurant. While they waited for the meal, Stag talked about various topics, boring Red and Hope to the point where their eyelids were drooping.
"...and furthermore, it's remarkable that ancient changelings not only took the time to domesticate them, but actually went to the addition of breeding several strains of Message Raptor..."
Double spoke up. "Our food's here."
No expense had been spared when the chefs heard that three members of the royal family would be eating there tonight, and they had gone all-out. There were traditional foods, including bowls of rice, cooked meat of various animals and hot, delicious bowls of glowing pink love soup, as well as a modern spread which included the kind of foods that would be eaten at Canterlot Castle, like toast, fruit, cakes, macaroons, pastries, etc.
But the pièce de résistance were several live creatures bound and gagged, struggling on their silver platters. On the whole, they resembled tortoises, save for the fact they were a bright shade of pink. Red poked the hard shell of one questioningly.
"Ezemars," Hope explained. "They're just little reservoirs of love and affection."
She bit onto the turtle, fangs sinking slightly into the semi-soft shell without breaking it. Red was... admittedly slightly put off^, and simply settled with eating the meat first.^^
*
After the meal, it was a leisurely stroll through town for the rest of the date. It was nice, and nothing could possibly...
"Turn around and hand over the..."
The Kitsune didn't get to finish as Red became a blur of green, front and back hooves delivering a few blows to the assailant before his wings glowed, four or five feathers falling out as a turquoise burst of energy fired from over his head, knocking the Kitsune into the nearest building.^^^
...Nothing could possibly ruin this date.
Stag and Double eventually left Hope and Red alone, going off on their own path. the Pegasus and the Princess soon found themselves back in the royal garden, under the cherry blossoms.
"I had a wonderful time, Red."
"So did I, Hope."
They stood silent for a few minutes. Then they kissed.
It seemed to last forever. Then it ended.
"Goodnight, Red."
Red smiled s she walked off.
"Until tomorrow, my dear Hope."
***
Twilight was unconcerned that Red had seemingly decided to guard Hope instead of her. He was a grown stallion. But still, she wasn't sure how she had ended up going night-shopping with Cerci after the guard had come back from his date.
The Neighpon Night Market was abuzz. Twilight was looking over some jewelry in a booth.
"See anything you like?"
Twilight looked up at the reindeer doe running the booth.
"Not yet, I'm just browsing."
Cerci, for her part, had found exactly what she was looking for: a new set of colored pencils and paper for Pupa. she went to find Twilight.
*
The pink-haired changeling found Twilight at the Tarandoland Jewelry booth, talking to the old doe who ran it.
"Hur mycket är detta?" Twilight asked in Poatsi, pointing to a nice-looking gold necklace.
"Sextioåtta yen."
Twilight considered before her eyes caught something else.
"Hur är det med den?"
The doe looked. It was a silver necklace with the symbol of the crescent moon, the symbol of Hrimfaxi.^^^^
"... Fyrtiofem yen."
Twilight set the coins on the counter and bought the necklace. "Tack, jag vet att min dotter kommer att älska det här!"
The doe nodded. "Ingen orsak. Jag alltid älskar att göra en kund nöjd."
Twilight smiled and walked away, bumping into Cerci.
"...So what was that about?"
Twilight smiled. "Oh, nothing, just buying a souvenir for Nyx."
"Who?"
"My daughter."
"Oh."
With that, the two went back to the palace.
Author's Note
^Better that he wasn't born a few hundred years ago. Stag remembers when meals like this were served at the palace. Of course, instead of the small pink reptiles, they had live ponies... oh relax, they were let go after the meal was finished!
^^Ponies can eat meat, and are capable of digesting it, but tend not to. Pegasi and other flying equines especially need the extra protein, due to a slightly higher metabolism. Bat Ponies get by on fruit, and so actually eat less meat than normal pegasi. All ponies who have tried it assert one thing: Bacon is the king of meats.
^^^Given enough study, almost any sapient being can perform magic. Pegasi who do so use their wings as conduits, sacrificing a few feathers for every spell.
^^^^Princess Luna.
Peace at Last Side Stories: Back in Neighpon
The Meeting Finally Happens
Neighponese
It had been a few days since Stag and Twilight had arrived at the Capital, but now they were finally about to attend the meeting to discuss the treaty.
Spike and Chīsaki were on either side of the table in order to record everything. Beside Spike sat Twilight, with Red standing a little distance behind her. opposite of her sat Danauria, with Pincer standing off to the side with a few other changeling officials. At the head of the table sat Stag. Double stood to his left, Hope to his right, Pupa between him and Hope.
"We all know why we're here," Stag began, "So I'd rather not see this go on any longer than it has to."
Even though peace had been established between Equestria and the local changelings of that country, Equestria still had no peace treaty or trade agreement with its fellow world power, Neighpon.
Twilight spoke up. "Shouldn't that kirin you mentioned be a part of this?"
"Sorry to be late," an elegant voice spoke. Lady Snow took her seat on the opposite end of the table. "This cluttered mess you call a city is hard to navigate when you're used to the open fields and forests of the South Island."
Stag's eyes narrowed, and his voice changed so it sounded like two voices speaking slightly out of sync. "Your Honor, I will remind you that this is meant to be an official meeting. I am aware of our differences, and I have no quarrel with you, but I will not tolerate insults during this time. I am the Crown Prince, and you are in MY home, so unless you have something meaningful to say, I suggest you hold your tongue."
The kirin fell silent, and Twilight noticed for the first time how much Stag resembled his mother.^
Stag's voice returned to normal. "I have the document here. Twilight and I have already reviewed it, and we have agreed it is sound."
The paper was passed around the table as Stag continued.
"In addition to mutual protection should an enemy invade, the Equestrians will give us gems in exchange for medicines, tea, and copper from the North Island, seaweed and foodstuffs from the South Island, and lodestones from Foal Island. the West Island will act as a launch point for the Equestrians to work out their own trading alliance with Ib'xian."
One by one, the gathered officials signed the treaty. Now it just needed the royal seal. A flash of dragonfire sent it, then received it, the Royal Seal of the Roachanovs stamped on it, along with the Royal Seal of the Fausts and the signatures of Chrysalis, Celestia, and Luna.
It was done.
*Many Days Later*
Stag, Double, Hope, Red, Twilight, and Spike, as well as Double and Stag's children, Mandible and Silkworm, were stepping off the ship at a port in Concordia. the country's capital, Bardingburgh, stood off in the distance, while a massive storm cloud showed Storm Valley somewhere in the distance to their right. From here, it was an airship skirting Gildedale^^ and arriving in Equestria. Chrysalis and Cadence, however, were there to greet them.^^^
Stag instantly didn't like the smile on his mother's face.
Pupa squealed, running forward to tackle her mother in a hug. Chrysalis nuzzled the little filly affectionately, then spoke.
"I assume it went well?"
"Yes, Mom."
"No problems?"
"No, Mom."
"Anything funny happen?"
"Chīsaki has a crush on Spike."
Spike looked up. "She does!?! Why didn't anyone tell me!?!"
Stag, Hope, Red, Double, and Twilight all looked at the dragon, raising one eyebrow in unison. "Seriously?" they said. Then they all burst out laughing.
Stag caught his breath. "Also, Red's dating Hope."
Chrysalis looked at the Pegasus in question. "Oh?"
Red began sweating.
The Queen smiled, looking at Hope. "Well, congratulations. I hope you two make each other happy."
Then she leaned close to Hope. "How's he in bed?" she whispered.
Hope's face blushed bright scarlet. "MOM!"
Chrysalis and Cadence laughed.
Stag spoke up. 'So, what brings you all the way out here? Also, how did the meetings with Ambrosia and Miasma go?"
Chrysalis smiled. "Good, but there's one little thing..."
"Yes...?"
"It's not much... they want a 'flesh and blood contract.'"
"...What?"
"You heard me. now let's get you home so it can happen."
"What?"
"Stag, I can't make it clearer. You. Ambrosia. Miasma. Bed. Sex. Foals."
Silence. Stag fell over, eyes wide.
Double sighed. "Come on, stud. let's get you home."
Hefting her husband on her back, she followed the group. the sun set in the west, shining red.
~END~
Author's Note
^the fact he had not had his mane cut for a while added to the similarity.
^^the country of Gildedale is a no-fly zone.
^^^Since the wedding, the two had become friends again rather quickly, much to Shining Armor's horror. Those two lost no opportunity to prank the hapless stallion.
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the Uncle, or, "Chīsaki's Guide to Getting the Guy: Chapter 1"
Neighponese
Carcosan
Pincer Roachanov, the Dragonfly of the East, was considered by many to be the most brilliant military leader in all Neighpon, perhaps in all of Khaan. Among his victories were numerous battles in the Kirin-Changeling Wars some 500 years ago^.
While still a respected military leader, he knew he would need to pass the title on eventually. Not today, but someday. Today, however, he was an uncle welcoming back his nephew^^.
Pincer had of course heard the rumors and hearsay of Staghorn's negotiations with the Equestrian leaders, but had retained a mild skepticism of it. It was only natural, as Neighpon had little regular contact with Equestria despite both countries' statures^^^, and following Chrysalis' poorly-attempted invasion, he more expected full-out retaliation on the part of the ponies.
But now, there were two ponies in the palace, now settled in their rooms, and his nephew sat before him, unharmed and healthy, now wearing his traditional robes instead of simply walking around naked. Pincer himself had taken off his helmet and armor and donned a similar robe. As he tended to do when discussing important matters with family, Pincer had prepared a pot of Jasmine tea. It was important to keep a calm head in this setting, and tea always helped. Pincer took a drink from his cup, then looked at his nephew.
"I want to know the details."
Short, sweet, and to the point. That was how Pincer worked. Stag regarded his uncle, took a deep breath, and began.
*
By the time he finished, the tea was gone. Pincer's expression had not changed.
"So they just agreed to it? That's it?"
"...Pretty much, yeah."
"Okay..."
"What?"
"I don't know, I expected you all to be thrown in the dungeon."
"...I missed you, Uncle."
***
Spike wandered around the palace interior. The elegant design and vibrant colors contrasted sharply with the hustle and bustle of the crowded city outside, with delicate works of marble, jade, and gold.
Not that Spike actually noticed this, as he was too busy trying to locate the bathroom. He didn't actually need to go, but since an unfortunate incident in Canterlot several years ago, he had made a note to always find out where the bathroom of any new place was.
The storm continued outside, masking the ticking of claws that followed Spike. Chīsaki was typical for a female Tatsu^^^^ of her age, and was thus interested in two things: Collecting gems, and boys. And Spike was very handsome by dragon standards, even if Chīsaki knew that a pair of wings would later sprout from his shoulders, and that his body would never be the graceful, serpentine shape she would have, and that he would never sprout a nice set of branching antlers or a catfish-like array of whiskers... he was cute, and besides, Western Dragons, according to the books she read, were all bad boys. So she followed him.
She tried to be sneaky, but her traitorous tail swished, knocking over a stand of antique spears, the sudden noise causing her quarry to turn around, startled. Chīsaki began yelling at her tail and strangling it.
"You idiot!!! Why do you always have to ruin everything!?! I am trying to follow a hot boy, and you just keep sabotaging me!!! DO YOU WANT ME TO BE A WEIRDO LOSER!?! I can just cut you off and have a new one grow back, so don't get too cocky!"
Spike watched as the little dragon in front of him strangled her tail and made noises like copper pots clanging together. They sounded like death threats. He shrugged, then continued onward down the corridor, leaving Chīsaki alone to yell and cuss out her tail.
This place was weird.
Author's Note
Pincer also belongs to Magic Man
^the most notable of which was the Battle of Singing Wind Pass, where Pincer had used the local Kama-Itachi* population to do a lot of damage to the unsuspecting Kirin.
^^Technically great-nephew, as Pincer was Chrysalis' uncle
^^^Neighpon and Equestria are two of the three most powerful countries in the world, the third being Camelu.
^^^^the standard Khaan Dragon, also known as the Lung in Manechuria
*a species of weasel native to Neighpon, notable for the sharp claws on its front limbs and ability to fly and attack from small, self-created tornados.
