Fire and Ice

Chapter Thirteen: Eternity

Rhem was reluctant when he pulled away from the princess, sitting up straight in his seat.

“Your generosity means a lot to me… I… never experienced anything like it before…” The young male’s fiery yellow-orange eyes quivered, conveying his utmost appreciation for her. “I never had a friend before… My promise to you does not even feel like enough.”

“Oh, it’s enough,” Princess Celestia assured him. “It’s more than enough, Rhem.

“A Draconian, feared and hated by members of a community that would have been seen as prey to his kind, and he willingly decided to protect the weaker species despite suffering the slings and arrows lobbied against him--not just by his own countrymen, but also those he swore to protect? That takes no small amount of courage.”

The dragon’s ear frills drooped from flattery.

“How could I not do it after all you have done for me?” he asked gently before lowering his head to his plate, devouring his entire salad in a single bite.

Princess Celestia chuckled, taking a couple of bites.

“I’m honored, my friend. I haven’t really done anything other than offer you some kind words and compassion.”

And yet, she knew, even though it was so little, it meant so much. Even the smallest of gestures can have the greatest of repercussions, for good or for ill. Her small kindness probably ignited a light in the utter darkness that was Rhem’s world.

“I never received kind words… The only compassion my superiors offered was withholding a beating.” He closed his eyes for a moment, a smile still adorning his visage. “It… means so much to me… So… so much…”

The alicorn said nothing, just leaning in again to draw him into another hug with a soft nuzzle.

Sinking into the warmth of her soft fur, he rested his head against her neck and tucked it under her chin and throat. He soaked in the affection, savoring every second of it until the princess drew back.

“Would you like some more salad, or would you like to move onto the main course?”

“The main course.”

The mare chuckled, spreading her wings lightly as she turned towards the kitchens with a smile.

“Bring in the sandwiches and additional sustenance for our guest, please! He’s quite hungry!” she requested, almost wishing there were more ponies here so she could throw a grand feast.

“Of course, Your Majesty!” came the reply from one of the jittery members of the kitchen staff. Most of the chefs were quite baffled that the reptilian creature was still hungry after that generous portion of salad. The collective thought on how much the boy would actually need buzzed around the kitchen as they got to work making more food for him.

An entrée of sandwiches and pasta in marinara sauce was brought out and eaten by the dragon in a few bites. The servant who had witnessed the devouring was astonished at how fast the food had been put away and immediately fetched more. Five more plates were polished off before his hunger was finally satisfied, but he was still interested in dessert.

“Um… Your Majesty? Are you interested in anything for dessert?” the waiter questioned humbly, head dipping into a bow.

Even Princess Celestia had to admit she was a little… surprised at Rhem’s ravenous appetite. Though, she attributed this particular instance to the fact that King Talonblaze had more-or-less been deliberately starving him… Not just as a punishment, but also recalling that the Draconians were supposed to be self-reliant for their own sustenance as a brutal training method.

Smiling at the servant, she nodded once.

“I think I’ll have a slice of strawberry shortcake,” she decided. “… And we might want to bring out the rest of the cake for Rhem.”

“Er… Right away.”

Bowing deeply, the waiter hurried into the kitchen.

Rhem licked his chops clean, thoroughly satisfied with the meal. How many wonderful foods did these ponies have? Curious to know, he turned to Princess Celestia to voice his question.

“Celestia? How many foods are there in Equestria?”

“Oh, there are many! I would be here for hours just trying to list everything available. We have Prench, Germain, Japonies, Italrein… So many from several parts of Equestria!”

“Wow… All we eat are cattle, sheep, boars, deer, large birds, and what ever we can catch,” Rhem responded as the image of pure amazement at the sheer amount of different foods available to the equine race. “I like them, but I really like the food made by your kind.”

The monarch nodded, taking a sip of her drink -- by bending down and actually lapping it up, imitating the dragon in his own habits.

“Yes, and it’s not entirely healthy. That is why we try to provide a variety of different cuisines from different cultures. Of course, not everypony can truly afford such a thing, ant it is sad when lower classes cannot…” A pause. “Which reminds me. I need to get around to handling this budget problem. If I don’t take any action soon, it may become a crisis…”

The arriving waiter halted in his steps, witnessing the princess’ rather un-regal mannerism. Shaking his head, he continued his trip to the table, lowering a plate with a large slice of strawberry shortcake for her with a complimenting bow.

“Here you are, Your Highness.”

After that, he levitated the platter holding the remaining cake. Before Rhem could thank him, he whirled around and cantered back into the kitchen.

The Draconian general’s eyes drank in the treat before him, his mouth salivating.

“Wow…”

She had noticed the waiter, and gave him an impassive gaze. She seemed mildly disappointed that he did not even wish to remain behind to accept Rhem’s statement of gratitude.

She sighed. She would speak to her staff later.

“It’s very good,” she said with a smile, levitating her fork to dig into her cake and eat in a delicate manner.

The scaly beast parted his jaws and buried his snout into the cake as he took a large bite. His nose, lips, and chin were coated with a thick layer of white frosting when he removed his muzzle from the cake to chew. The movements of his jaw slowed, his pupils inflating as he savored the flavors.

Princess Celestia glanced over. While she had expected him to wolf down the cake, she found the image of his face covered in frosting far too amusing and began laughing out in birth. Bringing a hoof to her mouth, she closed her eyes and shook her head.

Swallowing his bite, the dragon’s forked tongue snaked out to lick up the frosting covering his face. After that was accomplished, he lifted his eyes to the alicorn.

“I have also been thinking about this budget problem. Would it be possible to loan areas of the castle for usage in exchange for funds?”

“I’m not entirely sure some of the nobles would like that, especially if it was offered to the lower classes, but I’ll talk it over. We’ve got plenty of space, and everypony likes a gala every… now and… then…

“A gala… A gala! That’s it!” She shifted her full attention to him with a large grin. “That’s it! Rhem, you’re brilliant! The Grand Galloping Gala! We hold that every year, and I completely forgot it’s coming up!”

“Hm?”

He had never heard of the word “gala” before, but he quickly assumed it was another word for a gathering or a celebration. Those were rare occasions in Draconia and reserved for King Talonblaze, his council, and whomever he saw worthy enough to be part of it.

“We have a ball…” she explained. “A great, big social gathering for everypony who can attend. Tickets are provided for a cost, and I can pull a few favors for the food, refreshments, and entertainment. It’s a rather grand event!

“It used to be a celebration of the completion of the construction of Canterlot--the unicorns invited the earth ponies and pegusi to a huge party, which was enjoyed by all. The party was therefore organized once every year since then.

“It’s a predominately very high-class event, but maybe if we can spread the word even more all around Equestria to encourage others to come… and perhaps add their own flair to it…” She calmed down a bit once she realized she was giggling like a school filly. “I’m… not sure if this will entirely solve the problem, but it’s certainly worth a shot!”

“That sounds like a good idea. A ball seems like fun,” he stated as he took another big bite of his cake, managing to get frosting up one of his nostrils. The bridge of his snout wrinkled lightly at the feeling of having the soft, sweet smelling icing up his nose.

The princess giggled again as she finished eating the rest of her slice of cake and wiped at her mouth with her napkin.

“Well, then! It’s settled! I shall gather my advisers later on to see about adjusting the Grand Galloping Gala to help account for the budget.”

Removing the icing from his nose and finishing the cake, he licked the plate and his chops clean, the flavors of the cake, frosting, and strawberry filling greatly appealing to his tastes. As he turned to the princess, he noticed that she had missed a spot on her lower lip. Without even thinking, the dragon leaned in, his tongue lapping at her lip in a few quick strokes, the sweet frosting mingling with his taste buds.

The mare’s eyes went wide. Her wings unfurled and she merely sat there just staring at him for a few minutes with a perplexed expression.

He pulled back into his seat licking his lips with a satisfied smile. Noting her expression, he have a tilt of his head.

“Did I do something inappropriate?”

“You licked… my lips,” she replied, arching an eyebrow in confusion. Delivering a small smile, she chuckled. “I… have to admit, most of the suitors that try to woo me aren’t quite so direct. You surprised me there.”

She emitted a laugh, not offended at all.

“Suitors?” Now it was Rhem’s turn to be confused. “What do you mean by suitors?”

Princess Celestia’s good humor wasn’t abated.

“Quite some time ago, when I first came to power… and, even now on very rare occasions, I have a stallion or two hoping to get into my good graces to possibly take my hoof in marriage and ascend to the throne beside me to share power as my prince. A few of them only have the eye on the prestige, or the power… but a couple of notable nobles have truly cared for me--and they were some of my closest friends.” Her smile faltered. “However, I’ve never accepted any requests. Being immortal tends to have the downside of outliving any significant others.”

Rhem actually experienced a tinge of jealousy at this. Why, he did not know.

“… I am one friend who will never die of old age. I am immortal,” he revealed in an attempt to put that smile back on her face.

At this, Princess Celestia smiled warmly and gave a light nod.

“And that is a relief to know,” she said, recalling how he had told her about his immortality…

… She paused. Wait… No, he did not.

“Wait, come again?” she pressed with a surprised stare.

The dragon continued to smile.

“I am immortal. I was bred to be. Or so I am told.”

“I… did not know that.”

“I am. And so is King Talonblaze,” he informed.

The alicorn nodded, pursing her lips.

“Is there… is there anypony ELSE I should be aware of that has everlasting life?”

“Every single Draconian with royal blood in their pedigrees,” he relayed. “I only have a couple of strains, but it is still in me.”

“I see,” the equine said, glancing out the window.

“If nothing else,” she began after several silent moments. “I can go through life a little easier knowing I have somepony as timeless as me I can talk to and enjoy life with…”

She had often wondered if she would ever find somebody ageless like herself she could spend eternity with. She had dreamed of making such friends--romance notwithstanding. She did not wish to pursue any sort of romantic relationship… What was the point? She wished not to suffer such heartache knowing any stallion she chose as her husband would eventually die… and her unable to move on and join him. Even if when she recovered from the emotional blow and moved on… would she have been able to take on another? Even if she did… how many would she have. She didn’t want to risk tainting her image with her taking on multiple partners throughout history…

Rhem felt sweet relief the instant the royal mare’s smile returned.

“Once… the ordeal in Draconia is over--it has to end someday--I will… come back. Then, I can serve you for the rest of eternity.”

She gave a soft laugh with a minor blush.

“You might want to watch what you say… and how you say it. Some ponies might get the wrong idea.” She winked at him, shifting closer and sliding a hoof over a clawed hand. “… I know what you mean. And I would be glad to have you.

“I will make sure Equestria realizes… and never forgets that it has a dear friend looking out for her and her best interests. Even if I can’t be outright with my ponies.”

The reptile rotated his hand and closed his fingers around her hoof while a blush of his own crept upon his face. He had to admit, the princess appeared visually endearing when she blushed, especially like this.

“Get the wrong idea?”

“Don’t worry about it, Rhem.” She winked again. “It’s nothing.”

Getting to her hooves, she glanced over her shoulder at her companion.

“Are you full? Shall I escort you back to your quarters for the night?”

Still feeling confused, but dismissing it, Rhem shook his head.

“Can we spend more time together? Even if it is attending to political matters? I am actually curious to learn about how you rule your kingdom.”

Prrincess Celestia gave pause, looking unsure for a moment.

“Oh… very well,” she caved in. “Give me one moment, and we’ll head to the throne room together. Just… let me consult my kitchen staff about something first.”

Breaking away from him, she clopped into the kitchen. Clearing her throat, she gained the attention of her staff.

“Excuse me… everypony, if I may please have your attention momentarily. I just want to thank everypony here for their hard work, and their courage in facing their fear. I understand you’re all probably terrified about Draconians in our presence… but I must stress that Rhem is not one to be feared. He is quite harmless, I assure you.

“… King Talonblaze, on the other hoof, yes, I will warn not to cross him, but I will vouch for Rhem. I also must stress that his customs and culture are very… very different from ours, and that he has lead a very, very sheltered life. He does not understand most table manners as we do… and for the time being, we must learn to adapt.

“I must give a gentle reminder to all present here, though,” she warned, her voice lowering. “I have not forgotten what happened with the near fiasco we had the last time with our honored guests from the griffon lands. I wish to avoid repeating any sort of performance with those from Draconia. Be strong. Be brave, and… try not to upset our guests too much. Rhem is actively trying to make a good impression, unlike King Talonblaze. And, again, I wish to pass along his commendations. He’s loved the meals, and though he wishes to tell you himself… I did not want to risk causing a panic, so I am here delivering his words on his behalf.

“If you would pass this information to the other shifts, I would be most appreciative. Keep up the good work, everypony.”

With that, she exited the kitchen, feeling a little conflicted and yet proud of herself. She had wanted to go in to reprimand those with a lesson about not showing proper respect to not just her but her guests… but she didn’t want to intimidate her ponies and fester unrest. Smiling warmly at the dragon, she sauntered past him.

“Alright, let’s go.”

The general didn’t need to be told twice. Instantly, he leaped out of his chair and loped after the alicorn with exited energy fueled by his eagerness to learned more about Equestrian politics.

“I think this will be very helpful. I can learn how affairs should be done and pass them on in the future.”

“That’s a very good idea!” Princess Celestia praised, trotting calmly down the hall. “I didn’t think of that. But, yes, that would be a wonderful idea. Are you sure King Talonblaze didn’t pick you to be a general for just your physical skills alone?”

“Soldiers are allowed to live for more reasons than just physical abilities and appearance. Willpower and mental capabilities are desired,” Rhem answered with a flattered grin. “How much combat training have you had?”

“Combat training? Me?” she asked, blinking. “I was never… taught. Professionally. I basically had to learn to fight for survival on my own during Discord’s brief reign.”

Her wide eyes stared off down the hall as she continued walking.

“I haven’t had to physically fight since my sister and I had to battle King Sombra nearly three-hundred years ago.”

“Oh… Don’t you think you should learn in case any enemies break into your castle and attempt to assassinate you at some point?” Rhem asked with a heavy dosage of concern. “I have a proposition. Since you have already taught me a lot, why don’t I give you a few lessons?”

“Well, this is primarily why I have my guards. To make sure that such a thing isn’t possible. That, and I can handle myself fairly well, I would say…

“But, as times change, so does everything else. I suppose it wouldn’t be a bad idea to keep abreast of new maneuvers should I ever find myself in that situation.” She grinned, turning her head to him, recalling that she had been pinned by him easily. “I would love to see what you can show me.”

“What do you know about nerve points?” he queried, quite curious to see what she already knew before he would attempt to teach her anything new.

“Nerve points? Nothing, really. They are points of nerves in the body… That sounds self-explanatory.”

“They are useful in and out of combat. Some help you sleep, render an enemy unconscious, some relieve pain, some cause a lot of pain. It is good to know your body and the body of a foe.”

As he walked, he lifted a paw, digging a finger into her shoulder.

Princess Celestia raised a brow, finding this information interesting. Some help with sleep? Relieve pain? This would be of use as an alternate medical treatment! The idea had merit. She had been about to request Rhem to go into further detail…

… When she suddenly found herself involuntarily craning her neck with her head held high.

“… What did you just do?” she asked flatly, rolling her eye to him.

“I poked one of your nerve points. Be careful. If someone did that to you, you could easily wind up with a slashed throat. During combat, we usually hold our heads in line with our bodies to protect our throat and belly,” he explained.

The royal equine’s eyes went wide and she stared at Rhem with a sense of amazement. Never before had she realized something so… simple could be so devastating…

Come to think of it, couldn’t this very same technique hold the same promise to unlock great therapeutic healing in the body? She recalled rumors that the Eastern ponies in the Neighpon region have his same system, and had been using it for a couple thousand years. Perhaps a political vacation was in order… provided their national borders weren’t still closed to foreigners.

“This is amazing,” she said, her eyes large with wonder and intrigue. “Tell me more.”

Rhem’s tail wagged a couple of times, feeling a sense of gratification at actually being able to teach this ancient mare something new. Knowing that he possessed knowledge that she didn’t have felt exciting.

“I will teach you about more than just nerve and pressure points. I will teach you battle posture, relaxation and focus techniques, how to improve your reflexes. All of that comes before learning how to utilize your body in combat.”

Princess Celestia’s smile stretched wider, her wings spreading in excitement. She was always looking to gain new knowledge.

“Incredible! I don’t… I don’t suppose… you would be willing to instruct my troops as well, would you? Of course, we’ll need to keep this all discreet. We don’t wish to risk King Talonblaze finding out at all…”

Now it was Rhem’s turn to unfold his wings in excitement.

“Celestia, I would be honored to teach your soldiers. Maybe we should do the lessons in the evening when King Talonblaze is asleep.”

Princess Celestia couldn’t help but smile. This could potentially work out in her favor. Not only would she expose her guards to foreign training, but would such a thing also help Equestrian-Draconian relations?

… No, probably not, she mused. She didn’t quite know what the general populace under King Talonblaze was like, with the only two examples from there being King Talonblaze and Rhem--who were as different from each other as night and day--and Rhem was only very much different because he very much resented his king’s outlandishly brutal methods. Not to mention that there was still the problem of rumors--none of which were helped to be dispelled due to King Talonblaze’s actions and personality.

That wasn’t to say he was the only one… but still. Perhaps if King Talonblaze wasn’t in power…

“The stress points I will teach you hopefully should tone down your stress. No one can run a country without getting any.”

“Hahaha, ohhh, yes, I’m definitely looking forward to that. I’ve had plenty of stress… and I need a good massage every now and again. Usually, I can never find the time to have one due to all of the work I have to do.

“Maybe I should schedule it near my bedtime so when I invariably fall asleep, I don’t have to bother waking up right away…”

“Soldiers are never given massages. Those are only reserved for King Talonblaze and his counsel,” the dragon revealed with mild disappointment. He really could use one himself. His muscles were almost harder than his own scales.

“Really now?” Princess Celestia reached up to prod his side and shoulder, palpating. Eyes widening, she leaned her neck back slightly. “I’ll say! I’ve never felt such tension! My goodness…”

She went quiet for a second.

“Tell you what, if you’d like, I’ll call for a selection of my best to work on us both--as a sign of goodwill, of course. I’d daresay you really need one…”

The question was, would they even be willing to work on him…?

The winged reptile lifted his brows in befuddlement. He hadn’t been expecting the princess to offer him a massage by her own staff. Facial features softening to an expression that conveyed his internal gratitude, he leaned in to press his head against hers.

“I really appreciate this.”

The alicorn smiled, nuzzling him.

“It’s not a problem for me, Rhem. You are my friend… and, don’t forget, a guest in my castle. I like making sure my guests are provided the best service available to them.” Pulling her head away as she entered into her throne room, she trotted up the steps towards her throne. “I hope I won’t be TOO busy with issues tonight…”

“If so, there is always tomorrow.”

“Shall we send in our guests, Your Highness?” inquired one of the approaching guards.

“Yes, please do.” The mare smiled, taking a seat upon her throne and sitting up in a regal fashion. Folding her wings to her sides, she glanced over at him as he sat down upon his haunches beside her, hoping none of those coming in to see her would get the wrong impression about him.