The New Equestrian Republicby CharxChaptersPolitical DifferencesRevolutionariesRoyal ThoughtsRoyal QuestionsMechanical DevicesPolitical DifferencesPolitical Differences "Equestria has become corrupt," said a blood red stallion, who bore the marks of old age and experience, "The Princesses these ponies worship so dearly, as though they are the sole beings of power in this nation!" the stallion paused, his chest heaving with anger, "The Princesses are corrupt. There is no reason for them to raise the Sun and Moon, besides subjugation. Is it so wrong to wish for the ponies to do so? Why must our leaders posses this power?" He paused, and the crowd to whom he spoke held its breath, anxious to here his next words. He gazed over them, his loyal followers, and said, "The Princesses must be dethroned." XXXX "Good morning, sister, " Celestia greeted Luna with a smile at the breakfast table. "Good morning," Luna sat down for some simple grains and a green apple, "how was the meeting at Las Pegasus?" "Splendid! A team of unicorns was formed to find any deep, underground reservoirs. The water shortage will be over soon," Celestia said. "Good morning, Aunties," Blueblood trotted with practiced swagger to the table, "I'll have the freshest nouvelle breakfast you can make, thank you," he told the royal waitress. Blueblood took the time to position his napkin and silverware in the correct position, then asked, "So, Auntie, how was Las Pegasus?" "They'll have plenty of water before you know it," said Celestia. "Excellent! I'm afraid my day didn't go quite as well. On the political landscape, many nobles are becoming rather frustrated with you two," said Blueblood. "What? What do you mean, 'frustrated'?" asked Luna. "Nothing to worry about, it's mostly just a bunch of stuck-up rich ponies day-dreaming about revolution," he said as he ate the finest Prench cuisine in Equestria, "Mostly just rumors from the 'New Equestrian Republic'." "The New what?" Luna said, "What does that mean? When the term 'republic' first showed up, it was-" "Calm down, sister. I'm sure it's nothing. Can you explain a bit more, Blueblood?" said Celestia kindly. Blueblood cleaned his face with his napkin, and began, "Recently a unicorn stallion named Roussan has held public speeches advocating a change in the government of Equestria, toward a federal system in which the various cities of Equestria elect representatives to control the nation, but other representatives will control each city. Roussan claims that ponies' freedom is being neglected in the current system, and that the Princesses," he nodded toward his aunts, "have no right to such power as they have. That is, the power to control the Sun and Moon." "It doesn't sound that bad," said Celestia, "Perhaps we could allow cities some autonomy, right sister?" "He also says the Princcesess should be 'dethroned', but never how. Many think he is secretly plotting terrorist actions against you two."said Blueblood. "That sounds pretty bad to me, sister." said Luna. "No worries, no worries at all. The ponies of Equestria are peaceful and friendly," Celestia said as she finished the last of her meal, "I must visit a medical meeting in Clousdale now.. So many pegasi are being born with flight defects, so some researchers put together a muscle and magic building technique. I need to approve it." she said, getting up and walking out. XXXX "Excellent speech, Roussan," said a young stallion as his mentor stepped off stage. "Yes, thank you, Voltaire," said the old pony, "Ponies are now being to see how strange it is that one pony, a Princess, should control the movement of the star that gives us life," he paused, taking off his helmet (fashioned out of dragon skin, a symbol of strength), "There's even talk of revolution." "Great! But I can't see why you always just talk, sir. Can't we fight!?" asked Voltaire. "You are young, and so do not understand war. We must be patient, and wait to make our move." said Roussan. "Only one pony need die, Roussan. I'm not a killer, but Celestia is. Remember the changeling invasion? Equestria committed genocide!" "Few changelings died, Voltaire. Ponies will not accept that as truly evil of the Princesses, though it was. What makes you think we could just waltz to Canterlot and kill the most powerful being alive? Killing is not the answer." "She's not that powerful, Roussan. Make a god bleed, that's all we must do. And she's no god." said Voltaire. Roussan grunted and donned his helmet. "She may as well be, colt." XXXX "Well, Auntie, you're not worried are you?" said Blueblood. "Yes, of course I am! He's advocating the destruction of a system millennia old!" exclaimed Luna. "Celestia doesn't seem worried." commented Blueblood. "Well, she always thinks about everything at once. She wants to be able to supervise all of it, so of course she wouldn't pay to much attention to one pony," "And why do you?" Blueblood asked. "One pony can change more than you think. Pretty soon, they'll be trying to burn down the palace!" Blueblood laughed, a deep, hearty laugh, "The pitchforks and torches went out of fashion at least a thousand years ago, Auntie." Luna gave him an exasperated look, "I wasn't being serious. And some things never change, including revolutions and angry mobs." "If you ask me, I'd say ponies these day could never form a mob. Why, they break into chaos at, say, a bunny stampede. I believe that actually happened a while ago." Luna put down her fork and shook her head, "A bunny stampede? You're kidding right?" "Nope. Perfectly serious. Ponyville must of lost a few hundred flowers to those horrible, evil little bunnies! Ask Twilight about it." said Blueblood. The pair of royalty shared a long laugh over that story. Luna calmed down eventually, and still wished to know more, "Do you really think this Roussan is just appealing to lazy rich ponies?" Blueblood sighed, "No offense Luna, but I am more skilled in modern politics than you or your sister. Both of you can depend on your reputation, but I must use rhetoric and compromise. That being said, yes, I do believe that Roussan's ideals could never come to success in his vision." "But, perhaps another's vision?" Blueblood got up, having finished his meal, "Anything's possible, Auntie. And not always bad. Roussan is the only pony whom I've heard advocating your dethroning. Others are much less radical." RevolutionariesRevolutionaries "Others look at the Sun and think of the 'glory' of Celestia. But I am a visionary," Roussan said to the gathered crowd of ponies, "I look at the Sun, and I see a great ball of energy, fueling life on this planet. It sickens me to know that one pony has claimed control of it. What right does she have? Power? If power determined rule, we'd be living under a tyrant. Oh wait," Roussan cast a dark tone upon his voice, "We are." "Three ponies in Equestria," Roussan shook his head here, "three ponies in Equestria wield the greatest powers known, and they have no right to wield them. Celestia raises the Sun, Luna the Moon, and Twilight Sparkle has the Elements of Harmony, the most dangerous weapon ever. There is no defense against their power, yet it could easily be held by all ponies. Pegasi control weather, Earth ponies, the earth, and unicorns can raise the celestial bodies. I'm not claiming this is a perfect idea. But I would say that it definitely more freedom than ponies could hope for in this current system. Thank you." Roussan steeped off stage, greeted by his pupil Voltaire. "Excellent, as always Roussan." "Thank you, colt. How are the ponies of Equestria reacting to our....radical ideology?" "The Prince has made jokes about it. I don't think they take us very seriously." Roussan grunted and removed his helmet as he and Voltaire boarded a taxi carriage in the heart of Manehatten. "That's another thing about Equestria, Voltaire. The royalty doesn't listen to anybody but themselves. No advisors, no foreign ambassadors, it's just the two royal sisters thinking they can do everything because they have the Elements of Harmony right there to blast anyone that gets in their way." "No civil rights are protected, even as the Princess Twilight preaches love and friendship and the importance of respecting other ponies," said Voltaire. "Well said, colt, well said. You should write a book," Roussan chuckled dryly and harshly, his age hindering his breathing. Voltaire looked at his mentor with an incredibly concerned expression, "Are you feeling alright, sir?" "Fine, yes, I'm fine." "You know, some political advocates are taking your ideas and saying we should write a constitution for Equestria, and petition the Princesses to ratify it," said Voltaire. Roussan didn't answer, but gazed upon the city buildings passing by with malice in his eyes. He turned his helmet in his hooves. A dark and hard expression covered his face. "That would never work, for the Princesses would still be ruling. They must be dethroned in order for true freedom to be realized." A silence fell between them for a time, as Voltaire pondered these remarks in search of a solution. "Roussan?" "Yes?" "Why do you wear the helmet?" "What does that have to do with a constitution?" "Nothing. I'm just curious." Roussan sighed, releasing tension evident in his face. But his eyes were still cold, and his face red. Anger and rage seemed to be his permanent expression, which was partially why he was so adept at stirring crowds. "This helmet is very dear to me. Also, it protects me. While I wear this helmet, no magic, besides those subtle magics of the pegasi and Earth ponies, can affect me." "Really?! Wait, how do you preform magic, then?" asked Voltaire. "I don't. My power comes from mechanical devices. Industry will trump magic every time." Voltaire was silent, rather amazed at this helmet. He had never heard of such an object before. And the talk of industry vs magic was also rather confusing. But Roussan was intelligent, Voltaire reasoned. He could handle it. XXXX Celestia was writing off tax codes when a stack of papers was slammed down in front of her. Luna appeared from behind then, an utterly serious expression on her face. "Do you know what these are, sister?" said Luna. "What?" asked Celestia. "These are transcripts from all speeches by the leader of the New Equestrian Republic, Roussan." "I thought we agreed it wasn't that important." "Well, we did, but then Blueblood was telling me a bit more about the ideology, and I searched for some books and speeches by these, um, radical politicians," Luna blinked and breathers in what seemed like an ocean of air, "And I was....impressed really, their ideas are incredibly profound!" Luna gnawed her lip and looked away," But.....this one group, the New Equestrian Republic? They're.....insane. Well, maybe not all of them, but their leader is basically a cult leader. He's never said anything horribly wrong, but the way he says some things and the way his followers speak of him is very....disturbing. I think we need to watch out for violence from the NER." Celestia quietly looked through the papers with an air of concentration and importance. She set the papers down, and looked at her sister, with a strange combination of urgency, calmness, and fear. Yes, fear, something Luna rarely saw from her sister. "So," Celestia said slowly, "do you think they could attempt any......rioting? Burnings or bombings?" "Nothing from his speeches indicate so. But a devout cult can-" "Can easily justify depraved acts of violence, yes, even if they do not appear to advocate such acts. I think," Celestia straightened up and looked back to the tax codes, "We should allow it to burn out." "What?! Why?" "Its called freedom of speech, Luna. I have full faith that the Royal Guard can handle any violence and besides, you said yourself, nothing actually indicates that they advocate violence. Most of these speeches are only about how you and I have no right to our power," Celestia looked up, "Not too radical, really." "B-but," Luna bowed her head, "I just...I feel like something bad is about to happen. I watch the dreams of some of these guys.....it's not as peaceful as it sounds." "I'll..." Celestia paused, and thought a moment, "Why don't we have Blueblood go listen to a few more speeches? He can tell us the energy of the crowd, how radical they really are." Luna enveloped the political papers in her magic, and lifted them off the desk. She looked to her sister with satisfaction. "Fine. I'll talk to the Prince." Royal ThoughtsRoyal Thoughts "Politics is a funny thing," said Roussan, speaking to a gathered crowd in Baltimare, "It's based around convincing ponies that this one idea is better than another one, right? Like, should Princess Cadence leaves Equestria to lead the Crystal Empire? But politics also makes several assumptions, based in the hierarchical structure of Equestria and the social ideals of Equestria," Roussan paused, checking to see if the crowd was following his statements, "For example, it is assumed that Princess Celestia, being the 'perfect leader' that she is, should be allowed to control the movement of the Sun." "Remember the debate, after Luna's return, where many nobles argued that Luna should not be allowed to control the Moon again, for fear she might attempt to take over again?" Roussan looked over the ponies, many of whom were nodding their heads in agreement, "Another assumption: magic is good. Did you know that in the small town of Ponyville, they still use ancient Iechniques to clear winter? It takes a very long time too. It's only for tradition. Ponies think that mechanical things, snow plows, for example, can never be as good as magic. Earth ponies work the land with their Earth Pony magic as they always have. There's no progression. Royal Gaurds carry the same weapons they did a thousand years ago. I think the reason, is that the Princesses are the most powerful magically, right? So they don't want anypony to use technology, for fear they could overpower them. Impressive thinking on the Princesses' part, no?" Roussan bowed his head, and thoughts, whispers, were whizzing like bees among the crowd. "Imagine, if you would," said Roussan, "that the Royal Guards used guns. Remember guns? Canterlot University invented black powder, and members of the Royal Guard used it to make a weapon. But no, the Princesses said it was too dangerous. More dangerous than one pony controlling the Sun, which gives us life? During the Changeling Invasion, we could have used guns. And we'd only have to use one bullet, right into the head of Queen Crysalis. The barrier would remain up, and without a leader, the changelings would become scattered. Also, the peaceful changelings would no longer be persecuted, because ponies wouldn't make such a big deal out of the invasion. So many lives can be saved if we take care of crises easily and effectively. But no, technology is 'too dangerous'. Thus, the insanity of Celestia continues." Prince Blueblood listened patiently to this speech. He wore no suit, and a hat covered his horn. A dyed plow took the place of his usual cutie mark. A few ponies away, a royal guard member stood, disguised as the Prince was. A trio of guards were hidden on a balcony overlooking the crowd. All this in the interest of national security. Personally, Blueblood thought it was a lot of fuss over nothing. It's not like the NER threatened anypony, right? Roussan continued with his speech. Blueblood neighed and cursed at a particular point he made. It was stupid, he thought. Sure, cities could take care of themselves, but Celestia had saved Equestria many times over. Who was Roussan to deny her the Sun? XXXX "How'd it go? What did he say?" asked Luna when Blueblood returned. Luna, Celestia, Blueblood, and the current Commander of the Guard, Artemis, sat in the throne room, in the middle of a standard Royal council meeting. "You have transcripts of all speeches made by Roussan. It was the same as all those," said Blueblood. Luna frowned, "What about the audience? Were they violent? Maybe....cult-like?" "Well," Blueblood thought for a moment, "Some, yes. Artemis?" The Commander Artemis spoke in a highly formal and military voice. He wore an armour similar in style to the previous Commander, Shining Armour, but his was jet black instead of purple. "My men who accompanied the Prince report that many ponies attending the speech seemed 'agitated' or 'excited'. They report that about a third of them served time for criminal offenses. Mostly petty crime, thievery, vandalism, that sort of thing." Blueblood nodded, "They were strange indeed. A surprising amount of them were actually changelings, or some other species. I believe he's appealing to the oppressed and disadvantaged ponies of Equestria." "Yes, but for what purpose?" asked Luna. "Some advocates of an 'Equestrian republic' speak of the ratification of a constitution, and a peaceful resignation of the Princesses, if they are to be dethroned. Roussan, however, says that the old system must be completely purged before a new one can be built. Again, he doesn't say how, which leads some to believe he advocates terrorism." This line got Celestia's attention, "What? How else would peaceful change be brought about except by a council writing a constitution, or similar means?" Celestia turned back to Luna, "Alright, you've convinced me. I'll support sending guard members to monitor the NER." Luna smiled, "Perfect! What's next on the agenda?" "You have to go to a meet the griffin diplomats next week," Blueblood said. Luna grimaced, "Wonderful. They'll want more aid, won't they?" "Its hard to rebuild a country after you've lost all the gold," Blueblood turned to Celestia, "Clousdale is requesting funds to open clinics for that medicine that will help young pegasi fly. They've announced a.....97% success rate. The other 3% percent had allergic reactions to the medicine. They developed their flight capability a few weeks later than normal." "Sounds alright, I'll sign the budget change over tonight." Blueblood nodded, "And Artemis? "Yes?" "You should begin infiltrating the NER." Royal QuestionsRoyal Questions The Sun shone brightly over Equestria, and all the various beings whose rays it fell upon were soothed and warmed by it. Princess Celestia was less enthused with its radiation at the moment. She was under fire from the media for a string of corrupt tax collectors and under fire from Griffonstone diplomats asking for equitarian aid. Sometimes, it was difficult being a Princess. 'Luckily, Princess Luna will be able to handle the griffons,' thought Celestia, 'and Prince Blueblood can handle the media, and Twilight can handle national security. What an excellent student, that mare.' But there was still so much to worry about. The recent political movement toward democracy, for example. Radicals across Equestria were persuading impressionable little ponies to rise up against the Princesses. This wasn't bad in and of itself, but Princess Luna feared violence breaking out and Celestia had to admit she might be right. The last time democracy had been attempted, Equestria was- "Auntie?" Celestia was jolted from her thoughts by Prince Blueblood, coming in from a press conference. She sat up straight upon her throne, not that an air of authority was necessary. Prince Blueblood was casual, if rather arrogant with his royal reports. "I just announced the success of the Cloudsdale pegasi's treatment, and the punishment of corrupt tax collectors, who probably will never stop being corrupt," Blueblood chuckled, "But it keeps the ponies happy, so..." "Thank you, Blueblood." Celestia said genuinely, and as warmly as the Sun's light. Blueblood began to trot away, but Celestia called him back "Yes, Auntie?" "What are your thoughts on....I don't know....just all this business? Ever since Luna came back, with her old ideas, I've been thinking differently." "You mean, on the governance? It's..." Blueblood paused, thinking, "I don't know. It's always been this way, and you're the one whose made it so, after so many years." "But it won't always be this way, now will it?" Celestia said like a mother teaching a child. "Why not? You'll live long enough to see it through." "Change will always come, Blueblood. I feel like it's about to change. They're bringing back the idea of the republic, and-" "Wait," Blueblood stared at her with a hard expression, and confused eyes, "Bringing back? Its been attempted before?!" Celestia sighed uncomfortably, "Yes. The republic was originally for Earth ponies, until their chancellor became corrupt, and Equestria was formed shortly afterwards," Celestia paused, reminiscing, "I was very young then. But I can remember Clover the Clever, Private Pansy, and Smart Cookie crowed as the first three in Equestria's triumvirate," Celestia grimaced, "It wasn't as peaceful as the old story makes it out to be. Private Pansy died leading a rebellion against the three previous rulers, who had made an alliance to crush Equestria and maintain their respective corrupt states. Smart Cookie herself was murdered by Chancellor Puddinghead. He was rather insane, you know. Clover rescued Luna and I (we were her young apprentices), and successfully led the rebellion to victory. Equestria then attempted democracy, and guess who won the election?" Blueblood simply listened, no change in his expression. "Discord, posing as a pony, and promised great fortune for Equestria. I suppose you can guess how well that went." Blueblood shook his head, "C'mon, Discord? You don't actually think that would happen again, do you?" "In democracy, Blueblood, ponies will promise you freedom and security, balanced perfectly, but in reality? They'll use security as an excuse to subjugate you. They'll never actually use democracy in politics." "So what?, You think Roussan is trying to gain popularity by lying?" "I think what he really wants......is power." XXXX Voltaire soared over the Everfree. Such an appropriate name, he thought. The Everfree was one of the few places Equestria could not claim as its own. Other nations, of course, existed outside the Princesses' control, but only because Celestia allowed them to. Why, if she wanted to, she could threaten to never raise the Sun again, in order to gain more power, and- "Voltaire!" Voltaire shook his head to clear his thoughts. He landed in a clearing and shed the saddlebags he wore. Inside one was a metallic device, invented by Roussan and his mad scientist friend, that allowed them to communicate. Roussan said it emmited light, but Voltaire never saw it glow. He took out the device and pressed a button down, "What?" "Where are you?" Roussan's voice crackles through the device. "The Everfree." "Come back quick, we got a job for you. Volunteers are needed for a......a little surprise. I'll tell you what when it's finished." The cracking ceased, leaving Voltaire to wing his way back, and assist Roussan in his schemes. Mechanical Devices A earth pony sat quietly observing a rather uninteresting rock. Despite it's appearance, the pony was smiling as wide as was possible, his eyes bulging and flicking about. The rock was inside a glass container, and surrounded by a magical field. The field was produced by a gem, as the earth pony could not generate it on his own. The pony turned away from the rock to gaze at another stallion, and cackled horribly. "I think this will work just fine, Roussan." Roussan kept a blank expression, always serious and calm. "It will be needed within the next week, Professor," said Roussan. The professor somehow smiled even wider, and cackled ever darker. XXXX Imagine you're a young foal, left on the streets in Canterlot. Everypony who passes by your alley looks upon you in disgust, thinking about what a filthy street rat you are. You meet others in the streets, befriend them. You witness some die of starvation or disease. You watch the Royal Guard come to take your best friend away, because he's a changeling. You wonder if they killed him, or locked him up somewhere. You wonder if he joined Crysalis and died fighting for freedom. Then you meet an old stallion, who cares for you and raises you, and teaches you the most wonderful truths. He speaks of change, of revolution. Of a new age, not just for ponies, but all creatures who live under the Sun of the tyrant. He promises such wonderful things as choosing a leader, and governance of each community of itself. He speaks of knowledge through logic and reason, not the word of a Princess. He speaks of solidarity, and unalienable rights, and.....freedom. Then you would be like me. This was what Voltaire thought as soared over the Everfree, flying back towards the NER's community. It was originally a strange place controlled by a madmare named Starlight Glimmer, but recently had become a haven for political radicals and artists. It had an elected council, constitution, and was pretty much the least restrictive place in all of Equestria. Anarchists, republicans, pessimists, optimists, changelings, griffins, zebras, pretty much anybody was welcome there. The only real rules were a ban on hard drugs (poison joke was okay though) and permission was required from the council to build a house. When you entered, as long as you were 15 (or were at your respective species equivalent age), you could vote for council members and in direct consensus assemblies. The best thing about this, Voltaire thought, was the conglomeration of ideas. The NER operated out of a large warehouse on the west side of the village, and the Church of Celestia's Disciples operated across the street from them. Voltaire certainly didn't agree with those believers, but he felt pride that such a wide variety of ideas were allowed to flourish here. He landed right outside the NER's warehouse. A group of zebras were vaping some magical herb of theirs, and looked very stoned. "Hey, Volt, wanna puff?" one asked, and Voltaire respectfully declined. Whatever Roussan needed probably wouldn't require being high. As he entered, he saw the usual stuff going on. A councillor was discussing plans for a new sewage system with an NER official. The council commonly went to established groups around town to assist in building projects. Other ponies walked around the warehouse, which doubled as a market. While the NER officially advocated capitalism, the large number of anarchists in the village had prompted them to establish a free market. It was operated by anarchists, as the NER didn't know much about their philosophy. Voltaire trotted to a door at the end of the room, which led to the official NER headquarters. Roussan was waiting on the other side. "Voltaire! Good, I just arrived from a meeting. Now," Roussan put his hoof around Voltaire and steered towards a table piled with political documents, "We can agree that Celestia is corrupt, and that she must be dethroned. But, she is immortal. The only way to dethrone her is-" "To kill her, yes, yes, I know," Voltaire grimaced, "The only times I think taking a life is acceptable is when your own survival depends on it, and this instance here. I'm not saying death is good, never. Perhaps Celestia's immortality could benefit all creatures, I don't know," Voltaire paused, and looked hard at Roussan, "But it can't. She is one immortal ruling over mortal subjects. Luna, and the other royals, just her puppets. But Celestia? She has to die. Sad, but true." Roussan looked at him, with a strange expression, "And what would you say....is the best method to use?" Voltaire sighed, "Well, the kindest would be a painless poison. Untraceable, of course. An investigation would immediately be mounted, but the other Princesses just don't carry as much weight as Celestia. Equestria would be in chaos, to be tamed by democracy." Roussan bowed his head, and walked over to Voltaire, looking him deeply in the eyes, "You said some time ago, that action was the only real way to revolution." "I did." "Alright then, well," Roussan smiled, "Let's go assassinate a tyrant." XXXX "Its a very troubling revelation, your Highness," said Artemis, reporting on the discoveries his Gaurds made spying on the NER, "This village, Princess Sparkle said it was peaceful, but it's full of radicals. There's actually changelings there, loyal to Crysalis! And-and ponies, loyal to Discord! Anarchists I say!" "Calm down, Commander Artemis," said Celestia, "Slowly, please." Artemis too a deep breath. "My men tracked the NER to the town formerly ruled by Starlight Glimmer. After the Elements freed the town, it became a haven for refugees, outcasts, and extremists. We have found several disturbing groups stationed there, including a small hive of changelings loyal to Queen Crysalis and a group of anarchists. Some of their statements advocate violence and/or revolution. Strangely, there are those one the opposite side of the spectrum. The Church of Celestia's Disciples worship you as a deity. The NER, too, is rather tame. However, many members who we questioned (posing as other members, of course) shared concerns about Roussan, their leader. They seem to think him dangerous. This is partially due to claims of his advanced knowledge and use of mechanical devices and materials. We have not been able to verify these claims," Artemis paused for them to consider his words, "I propose an immediate occupation of this town by the Royal Guard and the Wonderbolts. Some of the larger organizations, such as the NER, will simply relocate, but the most dangerous ones will be taken down." Celestia and Luna said together, "Do it." Blueblood leaned forward, "Don't forget to have a comprehensive report sent to my desk. Well need to analyze which groups will relocate and whether or not to label them dangerous," he turned to Celestia, "I'll go to Clousdale to royally request the Wonderbolts." "Alright," Luna clapped her hooves, "That was easier than I thought." XXXX It was in the headlines next morning. "Equestria Takes Down Alarming Number of Terrorist Cells". Voltaire slammed his paper on the table, looking ready to tear someone's muzzle off. "This is bullsh-" he started. "It shall be resolved, Voltaire," said Roussan. All members of the NER were being scanned for criminal backgrounds. Voltaire had a couple of theft charges from when he was homeless, but the Guard let him go. Most other members were alright, too, but they all got fined for "inaction among terrorists". Like the Gaurd wasn't terrorizing their homes. That was the only place changelings were free! Where everyone was free! Voltaire's face screwed up even angrier. "THIS IS BULLSH-" "Calm done!" Roussan said sternly, "We need only relocate to our base in Canterlot. And you know what we'll do in Canterlot." "Soon, it will all be over, Voltaire."
Political DifferencesPolitical Differences "Equestria has become corrupt," said a blood red stallion, who bore the marks of old age and experience, "The Princesses these ponies worship so dearly, as though they are the sole beings of power in this nation!" the stallion paused, his chest heaving with anger, "The Princesses are corrupt. There is no reason for them to raise the Sun and Moon, besides subjugation. Is it so wrong to wish for the ponies to do so? Why must our leaders posses this power?" He paused, and the crowd to whom he spoke held its breath, anxious to here his next words. He gazed over them, his loyal followers, and said, "The Princesses must be dethroned." XXXX "Good morning, sister, " Celestia greeted Luna with a smile at the breakfast table. "Good morning," Luna sat down for some simple grains and a green apple, "how was the meeting at Las Pegasus?" "Splendid! A team of unicorns was formed to find any deep, underground reservoirs. The water shortage will be over soon," Celestia said. "Good morning, Aunties," Blueblood trotted with practiced swagger to the table, "I'll have the freshest nouvelle breakfast you can make, thank you," he told the royal waitress. Blueblood took the time to position his napkin and silverware in the correct position, then asked, "So, Auntie, how was Las Pegasus?" "They'll have plenty of water before you know it," said Celestia. "Excellent! I'm afraid my day didn't go quite as well. On the political landscape, many nobles are becoming rather frustrated with you two," said Blueblood. "What? What do you mean, 'frustrated'?" asked Luna. "Nothing to worry about, it's mostly just a bunch of stuck-up rich ponies day-dreaming about revolution," he said as he ate the finest Prench cuisine in Equestria, "Mostly just rumors from the 'New Equestrian Republic'." "The New what?" Luna said, "What does that mean? When the term 'republic' first showed up, it was-" "Calm down, sister. I'm sure it's nothing. Can you explain a bit more, Blueblood?" said Celestia kindly. Blueblood cleaned his face with his napkin, and began, "Recently a unicorn stallion named Roussan has held public speeches advocating a change in the government of Equestria, toward a federal system in which the various cities of Equestria elect representatives to control the nation, but other representatives will control each city. Roussan claims that ponies' freedom is being neglected in the current system, and that the Princesses," he nodded toward his aunts, "have no right to such power as they have. That is, the power to control the Sun and Moon." "It doesn't sound that bad," said Celestia, "Perhaps we could allow cities some autonomy, right sister?" "He also says the Princcesess should be 'dethroned', but never how. Many think he is secretly plotting terrorist actions against you two."said Blueblood. "That sounds pretty bad to me, sister." said Luna. "No worries, no worries at all. The ponies of Equestria are peaceful and friendly," Celestia said as she finished the last of her meal, "I must visit a medical meeting in Clousdale now.. So many pegasi are being born with flight defects, so some researchers put together a muscle and magic building technique. I need to approve it." she said, getting up and walking out. XXXX "Excellent speech, Roussan," said a young stallion as his mentor stepped off stage. "Yes, thank you, Voltaire," said the old pony, "Ponies are now being to see how strange it is that one pony, a Princess, should control the movement of the star that gives us life," he paused, taking off his helmet (fashioned out of dragon skin, a symbol of strength), "There's even talk of revolution." "Great! But I can't see why you always just talk, sir. Can't we fight!?" asked Voltaire. "You are young, and so do not understand war. We must be patient, and wait to make our move." said Roussan. "Only one pony need die, Roussan. I'm not a killer, but Celestia is. Remember the changeling invasion? Equestria committed genocide!" "Few changelings died, Voltaire. Ponies will not accept that as truly evil of the Princesses, though it was. What makes you think we could just waltz to Canterlot and kill the most powerful being alive? Killing is not the answer." "She's not that powerful, Roussan. Make a god bleed, that's all we must do. And she's no god." said Voltaire. Roussan grunted and donned his helmet. "She may as well be, colt." XXXX "Well, Auntie, you're not worried are you?" said Blueblood. "Yes, of course I am! He's advocating the destruction of a system millennia old!" exclaimed Luna. "Celestia doesn't seem worried." commented Blueblood. "Well, she always thinks about everything at once. She wants to be able to supervise all of it, so of course she wouldn't pay to much attention to one pony," "And why do you?" Blueblood asked. "One pony can change more than you think. Pretty soon, they'll be trying to burn down the palace!" Blueblood laughed, a deep, hearty laugh, "The pitchforks and torches went out of fashion at least a thousand years ago, Auntie." Luna gave him an exasperated look, "I wasn't being serious. And some things never change, including revolutions and angry mobs." "If you ask me, I'd say ponies these day could never form a mob. Why, they break into chaos at, say, a bunny stampede. I believe that actually happened a while ago." Luna put down her fork and shook her head, "A bunny stampede? You're kidding right?" "Nope. Perfectly serious. Ponyville must of lost a few hundred flowers to those horrible, evil little bunnies! Ask Twilight about it." said Blueblood. The pair of royalty shared a long laugh over that story. Luna calmed down eventually, and still wished to know more, "Do you really think this Roussan is just appealing to lazy rich ponies?" Blueblood sighed, "No offense Luna, but I am more skilled in modern politics than you or your sister. Both of you can depend on your reputation, but I must use rhetoric and compromise. That being said, yes, I do believe that Roussan's ideals could never come to success in his vision." "But, perhaps another's vision?" Blueblood got up, having finished his meal, "Anything's possible, Auntie. And not always bad. Roussan is the only pony whom I've heard advocating your dethroning. Others are much less radical."
RevolutionariesRevolutionaries "Others look at the Sun and think of the 'glory' of Celestia. But I am a visionary," Roussan said to the gathered crowd of ponies, "I look at the Sun, and I see a great ball of energy, fueling life on this planet. It sickens me to know that one pony has claimed control of it. What right does she have? Power? If power determined rule, we'd be living under a tyrant. Oh wait," Roussan cast a dark tone upon his voice, "We are." "Three ponies in Equestria," Roussan shook his head here, "three ponies in Equestria wield the greatest powers known, and they have no right to wield them. Celestia raises the Sun, Luna the Moon, and Twilight Sparkle has the Elements of Harmony, the most dangerous weapon ever. There is no defense against their power, yet it could easily be held by all ponies. Pegasi control weather, Earth ponies, the earth, and unicorns can raise the celestial bodies. I'm not claiming this is a perfect idea. But I would say that it definitely more freedom than ponies could hope for in this current system. Thank you." Roussan steeped off stage, greeted by his pupil Voltaire. "Excellent, as always Roussan." "Thank you, colt. How are the ponies of Equestria reacting to our....radical ideology?" "The Prince has made jokes about it. I don't think they take us very seriously." Roussan grunted and removed his helmet as he and Voltaire boarded a taxi carriage in the heart of Manehatten. "That's another thing about Equestria, Voltaire. The royalty doesn't listen to anybody but themselves. No advisors, no foreign ambassadors, it's just the two royal sisters thinking they can do everything because they have the Elements of Harmony right there to blast anyone that gets in their way." "No civil rights are protected, even as the Princess Twilight preaches love and friendship and the importance of respecting other ponies," said Voltaire. "Well said, colt, well said. You should write a book," Roussan chuckled dryly and harshly, his age hindering his breathing. Voltaire looked at his mentor with an incredibly concerned expression, "Are you feeling alright, sir?" "Fine, yes, I'm fine." "You know, some political advocates are taking your ideas and saying we should write a constitution for Equestria, and petition the Princesses to ratify it," said Voltaire. Roussan didn't answer, but gazed upon the city buildings passing by with malice in his eyes. He turned his helmet in his hooves. A dark and hard expression covered his face. "That would never work, for the Princesses would still be ruling. They must be dethroned in order for true freedom to be realized." A silence fell between them for a time, as Voltaire pondered these remarks in search of a solution. "Roussan?" "Yes?" "Why do you wear the helmet?" "What does that have to do with a constitution?" "Nothing. I'm just curious." Roussan sighed, releasing tension evident in his face. But his eyes were still cold, and his face red. Anger and rage seemed to be his permanent expression, which was partially why he was so adept at stirring crowds. "This helmet is very dear to me. Also, it protects me. While I wear this helmet, no magic, besides those subtle magics of the pegasi and Earth ponies, can affect me." "Really?! Wait, how do you preform magic, then?" asked Voltaire. "I don't. My power comes from mechanical devices. Industry will trump magic every time." Voltaire was silent, rather amazed at this helmet. He had never heard of such an object before. And the talk of industry vs magic was also rather confusing. But Roussan was intelligent, Voltaire reasoned. He could handle it. XXXX Celestia was writing off tax codes when a stack of papers was slammed down in front of her. Luna appeared from behind then, an utterly serious expression on her face. "Do you know what these are, sister?" said Luna. "What?" asked Celestia. "These are transcripts from all speeches by the leader of the New Equestrian Republic, Roussan." "I thought we agreed it wasn't that important." "Well, we did, but then Blueblood was telling me a bit more about the ideology, and I searched for some books and speeches by these, um, radical politicians," Luna blinked and breathers in what seemed like an ocean of air, "And I was....impressed really, their ideas are incredibly profound!" Luna gnawed her lip and looked away," But.....this one group, the New Equestrian Republic? They're.....insane. Well, maybe not all of them, but their leader is basically a cult leader. He's never said anything horribly wrong, but the way he says some things and the way his followers speak of him is very....disturbing. I think we need to watch out for violence from the NER." Celestia quietly looked through the papers with an air of concentration and importance. She set the papers down, and looked at her sister, with a strange combination of urgency, calmness, and fear. Yes, fear, something Luna rarely saw from her sister. "So," Celestia said slowly, "do you think they could attempt any......rioting? Burnings or bombings?" "Nothing from his speeches indicate so. But a devout cult can-" "Can easily justify depraved acts of violence, yes, even if they do not appear to advocate such acts. I think," Celestia straightened up and looked back to the tax codes, "We should allow it to burn out." "What?! Why?" "Its called freedom of speech, Luna. I have full faith that the Royal Guard can handle any violence and besides, you said yourself, nothing actually indicates that they advocate violence. Most of these speeches are only about how you and I have no right to our power," Celestia looked up, "Not too radical, really." "B-but," Luna bowed her head, "I just...I feel like something bad is about to happen. I watch the dreams of some of these guys.....it's not as peaceful as it sounds." "I'll..." Celestia paused, and thought a moment, "Why don't we have Blueblood go listen to a few more speeches? He can tell us the energy of the crowd, how radical they really are." Luna enveloped the political papers in her magic, and lifted them off the desk. She looked to her sister with satisfaction. "Fine. I'll talk to the Prince."
Royal ThoughtsRoyal Thoughts "Politics is a funny thing," said Roussan, speaking to a gathered crowd in Baltimare, "It's based around convincing ponies that this one idea is better than another one, right? Like, should Princess Cadence leaves Equestria to lead the Crystal Empire? But politics also makes several assumptions, based in the hierarchical structure of Equestria and the social ideals of Equestria," Roussan paused, checking to see if the crowd was following his statements, "For example, it is assumed that Princess Celestia, being the 'perfect leader' that she is, should be allowed to control the movement of the Sun." "Remember the debate, after Luna's return, where many nobles argued that Luna should not be allowed to control the Moon again, for fear she might attempt to take over again?" Roussan looked over the ponies, many of whom were nodding their heads in agreement, "Another assumption: magic is good. Did you know that in the small town of Ponyville, they still use ancient Iechniques to clear winter? It takes a very long time too. It's only for tradition. Ponies think that mechanical things, snow plows, for example, can never be as good as magic. Earth ponies work the land with their Earth Pony magic as they always have. There's no progression. Royal Gaurds carry the same weapons they did a thousand years ago. I think the reason, is that the Princesses are the most powerful magically, right? So they don't want anypony to use technology, for fear they could overpower them. Impressive thinking on the Princesses' part, no?" Roussan bowed his head, and thoughts, whispers, were whizzing like bees among the crowd. "Imagine, if you would," said Roussan, "that the Royal Guards used guns. Remember guns? Canterlot University invented black powder, and members of the Royal Guard used it to make a weapon. But no, the Princesses said it was too dangerous. More dangerous than one pony controlling the Sun, which gives us life? During the Changeling Invasion, we could have used guns. And we'd only have to use one bullet, right into the head of Queen Crysalis. The barrier would remain up, and without a leader, the changelings would become scattered. Also, the peaceful changelings would no longer be persecuted, because ponies wouldn't make such a big deal out of the invasion. So many lives can be saved if we take care of crises easily and effectively. But no, technology is 'too dangerous'. Thus, the insanity of Celestia continues." Prince Blueblood listened patiently to this speech. He wore no suit, and a hat covered his horn. A dyed plow took the place of his usual cutie mark. A few ponies away, a royal guard member stood, disguised as the Prince was. A trio of guards were hidden on a balcony overlooking the crowd. All this in the interest of national security. Personally, Blueblood thought it was a lot of fuss over nothing. It's not like the NER threatened anypony, right? Roussan continued with his speech. Blueblood neighed and cursed at a particular point he made. It was stupid, he thought. Sure, cities could take care of themselves, but Celestia had saved Equestria many times over. Who was Roussan to deny her the Sun? XXXX "How'd it go? What did he say?" asked Luna when Blueblood returned. Luna, Celestia, Blueblood, and the current Commander of the Guard, Artemis, sat in the throne room, in the middle of a standard Royal council meeting. "You have transcripts of all speeches made by Roussan. It was the same as all those," said Blueblood. Luna frowned, "What about the audience? Were they violent? Maybe....cult-like?" "Well," Blueblood thought for a moment, "Some, yes. Artemis?" The Commander Artemis spoke in a highly formal and military voice. He wore an armour similar in style to the previous Commander, Shining Armour, but his was jet black instead of purple. "My men who accompanied the Prince report that many ponies attending the speech seemed 'agitated' or 'excited'. They report that about a third of them served time for criminal offenses. Mostly petty crime, thievery, vandalism, that sort of thing." Blueblood nodded, "They were strange indeed. A surprising amount of them were actually changelings, or some other species. I believe he's appealing to the oppressed and disadvantaged ponies of Equestria." "Yes, but for what purpose?" asked Luna. "Some advocates of an 'Equestrian republic' speak of the ratification of a constitution, and a peaceful resignation of the Princesses, if they are to be dethroned. Roussan, however, says that the old system must be completely purged before a new one can be built. Again, he doesn't say how, which leads some to believe he advocates terrorism." This line got Celestia's attention, "What? How else would peaceful change be brought about except by a council writing a constitution, or similar means?" Celestia turned back to Luna, "Alright, you've convinced me. I'll support sending guard members to monitor the NER." Luna smiled, "Perfect! What's next on the agenda?" "You have to go to a meet the griffin diplomats next week," Blueblood said. Luna grimaced, "Wonderful. They'll want more aid, won't they?" "Its hard to rebuild a country after you've lost all the gold," Blueblood turned to Celestia, "Clousdale is requesting funds to open clinics for that medicine that will help young pegasi fly. They've announced a.....97% success rate. The other 3% percent had allergic reactions to the medicine. They developed their flight capability a few weeks later than normal." "Sounds alright, I'll sign the budget change over tonight." Blueblood nodded, "And Artemis? "Yes?" "You should begin infiltrating the NER."
Royal QuestionsRoyal Questions The Sun shone brightly over Equestria, and all the various beings whose rays it fell upon were soothed and warmed by it. Princess Celestia was less enthused with its radiation at the moment. She was under fire from the media for a string of corrupt tax collectors and under fire from Griffonstone diplomats asking for equitarian aid. Sometimes, it was difficult being a Princess. 'Luckily, Princess Luna will be able to handle the griffons,' thought Celestia, 'and Prince Blueblood can handle the media, and Twilight can handle national security. What an excellent student, that mare.' But there was still so much to worry about. The recent political movement toward democracy, for example. Radicals across Equestria were persuading impressionable little ponies to rise up against the Princesses. This wasn't bad in and of itself, but Princess Luna feared violence breaking out and Celestia had to admit she might be right. The last time democracy had been attempted, Equestria was- "Auntie?" Celestia was jolted from her thoughts by Prince Blueblood, coming in from a press conference. She sat up straight upon her throne, not that an air of authority was necessary. Prince Blueblood was casual, if rather arrogant with his royal reports. "I just announced the success of the Cloudsdale pegasi's treatment, and the punishment of corrupt tax collectors, who probably will never stop being corrupt," Blueblood chuckled, "But it keeps the ponies happy, so..." "Thank you, Blueblood." Celestia said genuinely, and as warmly as the Sun's light. Blueblood began to trot away, but Celestia called him back "Yes, Auntie?" "What are your thoughts on....I don't know....just all this business? Ever since Luna came back, with her old ideas, I've been thinking differently." "You mean, on the governance? It's..." Blueblood paused, thinking, "I don't know. It's always been this way, and you're the one whose made it so, after so many years." "But it won't always be this way, now will it?" Celestia said like a mother teaching a child. "Why not? You'll live long enough to see it through." "Change will always come, Blueblood. I feel like it's about to change. They're bringing back the idea of the republic, and-" "Wait," Blueblood stared at her with a hard expression, and confused eyes, "Bringing back? Its been attempted before?!" Celestia sighed uncomfortably, "Yes. The republic was originally for Earth ponies, until their chancellor became corrupt, and Equestria was formed shortly afterwards," Celestia paused, reminiscing, "I was very young then. But I can remember Clover the Clever, Private Pansy, and Smart Cookie crowed as the first three in Equestria's triumvirate," Celestia grimaced, "It wasn't as peaceful as the old story makes it out to be. Private Pansy died leading a rebellion against the three previous rulers, who had made an alliance to crush Equestria and maintain their respective corrupt states. Smart Cookie herself was murdered by Chancellor Puddinghead. He was rather insane, you know. Clover rescued Luna and I (we were her young apprentices), and successfully led the rebellion to victory. Equestria then attempted democracy, and guess who won the election?" Blueblood simply listened, no change in his expression. "Discord, posing as a pony, and promised great fortune for Equestria. I suppose you can guess how well that went." Blueblood shook his head, "C'mon, Discord? You don't actually think that would happen again, do you?" "In democracy, Blueblood, ponies will promise you freedom and security, balanced perfectly, but in reality? They'll use security as an excuse to subjugate you. They'll never actually use democracy in politics." "So what?, You think Roussan is trying to gain popularity by lying?" "I think what he really wants......is power." XXXX Voltaire soared over the Everfree. Such an appropriate name, he thought. The Everfree was one of the few places Equestria could not claim as its own. Other nations, of course, existed outside the Princesses' control, but only because Celestia allowed them to. Why, if she wanted to, she could threaten to never raise the Sun again, in order to gain more power, and- "Voltaire!" Voltaire shook his head to clear his thoughts. He landed in a clearing and shed the saddlebags he wore. Inside one was a metallic device, invented by Roussan and his mad scientist friend, that allowed them to communicate. Roussan said it emmited light, but Voltaire never saw it glow. He took out the device and pressed a button down, "What?" "Where are you?" Roussan's voice crackles through the device. "The Everfree." "Come back quick, we got a job for you. Volunteers are needed for a......a little surprise. I'll tell you what when it's finished." The cracking ceased, leaving Voltaire to wing his way back, and assist Roussan in his schemes.
Mechanical Devices A earth pony sat quietly observing a rather uninteresting rock. Despite it's appearance, the pony was smiling as wide as was possible, his eyes bulging and flicking about. The rock was inside a glass container, and surrounded by a magical field. The field was produced by a gem, as the earth pony could not generate it on his own. The pony turned away from the rock to gaze at another stallion, and cackled horribly. "I think this will work just fine, Roussan." Roussan kept a blank expression, always serious and calm. "It will be needed within the next week, Professor," said Roussan. The professor somehow smiled even wider, and cackled ever darker. XXXX Imagine you're a young foal, left on the streets in Canterlot. Everypony who passes by your alley looks upon you in disgust, thinking about what a filthy street rat you are. You meet others in the streets, befriend them. You witness some die of starvation or disease. You watch the Royal Guard come to take your best friend away, because he's a changeling. You wonder if they killed him, or locked him up somewhere. You wonder if he joined Crysalis and died fighting for freedom. Then you meet an old stallion, who cares for you and raises you, and teaches you the most wonderful truths. He speaks of change, of revolution. Of a new age, not just for ponies, but all creatures who live under the Sun of the tyrant. He promises such wonderful things as choosing a leader, and governance of each community of itself. He speaks of knowledge through logic and reason, not the word of a Princess. He speaks of solidarity, and unalienable rights, and.....freedom. Then you would be like me. This was what Voltaire thought as soared over the Everfree, flying back towards the NER's community. It was originally a strange place controlled by a madmare named Starlight Glimmer, but recently had become a haven for political radicals and artists. It had an elected council, constitution, and was pretty much the least restrictive place in all of Equestria. Anarchists, republicans, pessimists, optimists, changelings, griffins, zebras, pretty much anybody was welcome there. The only real rules were a ban on hard drugs (poison joke was okay though) and permission was required from the council to build a house. When you entered, as long as you were 15 (or were at your respective species equivalent age), you could vote for council members and in direct consensus assemblies. The best thing about this, Voltaire thought, was the conglomeration of ideas. The NER operated out of a large warehouse on the west side of the village, and the Church of Celestia's Disciples operated across the street from them. Voltaire certainly didn't agree with those believers, but he felt pride that such a wide variety of ideas were allowed to flourish here. He landed right outside the NER's warehouse. A group of zebras were vaping some magical herb of theirs, and looked very stoned. "Hey, Volt, wanna puff?" one asked, and Voltaire respectfully declined. Whatever Roussan needed probably wouldn't require being high. As he entered, he saw the usual stuff going on. A councillor was discussing plans for a new sewage system with an NER official. The council commonly went to established groups around town to assist in building projects. Other ponies walked around the warehouse, which doubled as a market. While the NER officially advocated capitalism, the large number of anarchists in the village had prompted them to establish a free market. It was operated by anarchists, as the NER didn't know much about their philosophy. Voltaire trotted to a door at the end of the room, which led to the official NER headquarters. Roussan was waiting on the other side. "Voltaire! Good, I just arrived from a meeting. Now," Roussan put his hoof around Voltaire and steered towards a table piled with political documents, "We can agree that Celestia is corrupt, and that she must be dethroned. But, she is immortal. The only way to dethrone her is-" "To kill her, yes, yes, I know," Voltaire grimaced, "The only times I think taking a life is acceptable is when your own survival depends on it, and this instance here. I'm not saying death is good, never. Perhaps Celestia's immortality could benefit all creatures, I don't know," Voltaire paused, and looked hard at Roussan, "But it can't. She is one immortal ruling over mortal subjects. Luna, and the other royals, just her puppets. But Celestia? She has to die. Sad, but true." Roussan looked at him, with a strange expression, "And what would you say....is the best method to use?" Voltaire sighed, "Well, the kindest would be a painless poison. Untraceable, of course. An investigation would immediately be mounted, but the other Princesses just don't carry as much weight as Celestia. Equestria would be in chaos, to be tamed by democracy." Roussan bowed his head, and walked over to Voltaire, looking him deeply in the eyes, "You said some time ago, that action was the only real way to revolution." "I did." "Alright then, well," Roussan smiled, "Let's go assassinate a tyrant." XXXX "Its a very troubling revelation, your Highness," said Artemis, reporting on the discoveries his Gaurds made spying on the NER, "This village, Princess Sparkle said it was peaceful, but it's full of radicals. There's actually changelings there, loyal to Crysalis! And-and ponies, loyal to Discord! Anarchists I say!" "Calm down, Commander Artemis," said Celestia, "Slowly, please." Artemis too a deep breath. "My men tracked the NER to the town formerly ruled by Starlight Glimmer. After the Elements freed the town, it became a haven for refugees, outcasts, and extremists. We have found several disturbing groups stationed there, including a small hive of changelings loyal to Queen Crysalis and a group of anarchists. Some of their statements advocate violence and/or revolution. Strangely, there are those one the opposite side of the spectrum. The Church of Celestia's Disciples worship you as a deity. The NER, too, is rather tame. However, many members who we questioned (posing as other members, of course) shared concerns about Roussan, their leader. They seem to think him dangerous. This is partially due to claims of his advanced knowledge and use of mechanical devices and materials. We have not been able to verify these claims," Artemis paused for them to consider his words, "I propose an immediate occupation of this town by the Royal Guard and the Wonderbolts. Some of the larger organizations, such as the NER, will simply relocate, but the most dangerous ones will be taken down." Celestia and Luna said together, "Do it." Blueblood leaned forward, "Don't forget to have a comprehensive report sent to my desk. Well need to analyze which groups will relocate and whether or not to label them dangerous," he turned to Celestia, "I'll go to Clousdale to royally request the Wonderbolts." "Alright," Luna clapped her hooves, "That was easier than I thought." XXXX It was in the headlines next morning. "Equestria Takes Down Alarming Number of Terrorist Cells". Voltaire slammed his paper on the table, looking ready to tear someone's muzzle off. "This is bullsh-" he started. "It shall be resolved, Voltaire," said Roussan. All members of the NER were being scanned for criminal backgrounds. Voltaire had a couple of theft charges from when he was homeless, but the Guard let him go. Most other members were alright, too, but they all got fined for "inaction among terrorists". Like the Gaurd wasn't terrorizing their homes. That was the only place changelings were free! Where everyone was free! Voltaire's face screwed up even angrier. "THIS IS BULLSH-" "Calm done!" Roussan said sternly, "We need only relocate to our base in Canterlot. And you know what we'll do in Canterlot." "Soon, it will all be over, Voltaire."
