Part I
Prologue
Tourmaline Castle was silent this night, nestled cozily in a valley in northern Romaneia, a picturesque country across the seas from the famed Equestria. Rolling hills, endless forests, snake-like valleys with crystal clear streams, and calm beaches made up this peaceful corner of the world.
The weather here was quite amicable. Throughout most of the year, the temperatures never wavered more than 10 to 15 degrees. However, winters were as though the country took on a different climate. Sudden, violent winter storms were commonplace during the winter months. They raged onshore with barely a moment's notice and tore a swath of destruction across the seaside of the country, sometimes blanketing the land in snow, other times dumping excessive rain totals. The locals were always prepared, though. Not many minded the weather changes, as the land was truly beautiful. The winter months were just a minor quirk to most.
The ponies that inhabited the land were a friendly and hard working bunch. The economy soared with the discovery of precious gems and metals in the mountainous regions centuries ago, and so the percentage of wealthy folk was much higher than other countries. This did not disqualify any from being overcome by poverty; the lower-class population in Romaneia was quite high in certain parts, and in fact, several towns consisted of nothing but lower-class residents. But Romaneia was a place of kindness and peace, and so those struggling never went without basic necessities, as the wealthy would not allow it.
Romaneia was run, and had been run, by a king and queen for generations. For over 2000 years, Romaneia has been ruled by the descendants of the King Sapphire Sea, and so the trend continues, even until this fateful yet tranquil late summer's eve.
The young stallion son of King Topaz Sea and Queen Beryl Sunset, raced up the many staircases through the labyrinth of a castle they lived in at the request of the castle's physician, who stated in an urgently delivered scroll that his father was in grave health and soon to pass.
Down dimly lit halls and passages, Onyx Dawn made his was to the top of the castle, memories of time with his father controlling his every thought. His hoofsteps echoed eerily as he ascended the final chiseled stone staircase to the quarters of the king and queen.
Winded, but worried for his father, Count Onyx ignored the searing pain in his legs, caught his breath, and pushed through the heavy mahogany doors that guarded the entry. They groaned in protest, but swung open.
Within the doors, ready to greet him, was the recent generation's servant to the royal family, a unicorn by the name of Ironhoof. He was an ex-blacksmith, and a good one at that. But the toll that his profession had taken on him drove him to retire much earlier than the norm. Because the king had taken notice of his nobility, having been in the kings army for a short period of time, he was hired as a servant - the personal servant of the royal family.
Count Onyx, confronted by Ironhoof, stopped just as he entered the king and queen's quarters. "Is it bad? Will he make it? Is he awake?" Onyx assaulted the servant with these questions. His voice portrayed a sense of urgency, and rightfully so. Onyx had never been so worried in his life.
In the light from the nearby torch mounted by the door on the wall, flickering and crackling, Ironhoof's weathered and tired face displayed great concern. "I'm afraid the worst may occur. King Topaz is in immense pain. He may not have long."
The Count, with the nervous Ironhoof in tail, pushed through the second pair of enormous wooden doors and entered his parents' bedroom.
A gust of cooler air met Onyx as he stopped and stared at the scene before him. The twin Acacia doors, carved intricately by the most talented artist in the land, stood open, allowing the night air to stream in unabated. The satin curtains were separated, but still waving around in the light breeze. The torches were all lit, giving the room a yellowish-orange hue, despite the decorative multi-colored embroidery all around. The shag green carpet accented the room well, and the large, decorative-yet-functional fireplace was ablaze, the crackling wood sounding unnatural and out-of-place in the somber silence. The scent of incense filled the room, a heavenly smell that would have calmed Onyx's nerves, had he not been worried about his father's life. And finally, on the bed, was none other than King Topaz Sea himself, surrounded by his wife, the best physician in Romaneia, Captain of the Topaz Army, and now, his son, Onyx. The servant stood around quietly near the entrance to the room.
Onyx came to the bedside, his heart skipping a beat at the sight of his sickly father. Topaz appeared to be dying, and not peacefully. His face was contorted into a grimace, revealing that he was in great pain, and his eyes were squeezed shut, his teeth clenched, and his forehooves clutching the bedsheets tightly, as if for dear life.
"Father... " Onyx breathed. He stood at the bedside beside Beryl. There was not a dry eye in the room.
Topaz croaked and hacked, phlegm blocking his throat as death seemed to close in. When he spoke, however, it was in a clear voice. "Onyx, my son. It is good to have you here."
Onyx nodded, trading glances with Beryl and the physician. He returned his worried gaze to the dying king. "I heard the news, that your condition had deteriorated. I had to come up and see how you were doing. You don't sound well. I'm certain you're not feeling well, either." He moved closer, sitting on his haunches and resting his forelegs on the bed.
Topaz hacked again, his whole body wracked with rigid, jerking movements. He began speaking again, with far less enthusiasm and volume. "It seems that way, yes. And I had Ironhoof write up a letter along with the physician's, summoning you. I need to speak with you on an important matter."
"Yes, father? What is it? Is it... About your health? Are you... Are you dying?" Onyx swallowed what felt like a large, unpolished stone. A heaviness struck his abdomen, accompanied by a queasiness that was not soon to go away.
Topaz was silent for what seemed like an eternity, and took his wife's hoof in his, giving a weak but reassuring squeeze. She smiled sadly down at him. "The answer to that is not known, my son. Yet I cannot leave you in the dark. I feel as though I might not have much longer."
Onyx dropped his head and felt the tears sting his eyes. Of course, this was how it had to be. He had just finished training for the Topaz Army, and was given the title Count a mere year ago. The changes were coming too quickly for him. He lifted his head back up, his eyes glazed over with tears. "I understand. And I accept that. But I must ask, who will run Romaneia while you are bedridden? Who is in line to acquire the crown, father?"
Topaz winced and replied, "I have considered that as well. But the answer is quite obvious. While I am incapacitated, you are to watch over the throne. You will not attain the title of king, however." He paused to wince yet again, then continued. "I trust you, my son. Please, do not let this dishearten you. My health is well enough to remain here, bedridden, but unable to maintain the land. I leave that to you while your mother tends to me. Can you do this for me?" His eyes pleaded with his son. Begged him.
Onyx lowered his gaze, thinking deeply about the responsibilities suddenly bestowed upon him in the midst of this dark time. It was a lot to handle, but he'd been observing his father's methods since he was a foal. If there was any time he'd be prepared for such a thing, it was now. "Yes, father. I can take care of things for you in your absence."
Topaz smiled briefly. He coughed and sputtered, then closed his eyes, seemingly at peace. "I know you can and will."
Onyx stood and closed his eyes, thoughts of his new responsibilities surging through his head. He then reopened his eyes and bowed before his father, another relaxing breeze wafting through the room. "Thank you father. I swear I won't let you down."
Topaz smiled bigger this time. It was a proud, fatherly smile. "I know."
Chapter I
The brilliant, fiery yellow hue of the rising sun shone like a blanket of ethereal light across the hills surrounding Tourmaline Castle. It was early morning, several days from when Count Onyx Dawn was granted power over Romaneia temporarily while his father recovered from an unknown illness that plagued him.
Onyx stood on the right tower rooftop, gazing out at the immense lands bathed in golden sunlight that stretched beyond the horizon. The lands he now controlled.
He spun away and paced the rooftop, the sun warming the chilly morning air quickly, a light breeze giving him the occasional shiver. On his mind was far more than any typical morning. How would he do this alone? How long would he be doing it? Where did he start? Should he address the kingdom? Should he do anything at all, or had his father left him a stable country?
It frustrated Onyx. He hadn't expected this. No, not in his wildest dreams did he imagine himself leading this magnificent country. Not this soon, at least. And instead of being thrilled, as any young noble should be, he was more concerned about letting his father down. This was his moment to shine. His moment to prove his value beyond being a son. And that's exactly what he planned to do.
But how?
He sighed heavily, turning back to the edge of the tower and staring off into the distance, his mind a mess. This was a lot for one to take in on such short notice. But it happened, and there he was, pacing the crenellated rooftop. Father knew what he'd just done, and obviously had much faith in his son. What else did Onyx need to convince himself that this was doable?
A bird soared overhead, tweeting a morning greeting and disappearing below the edge of the tower. Onyx followed it with his eyes, wishing that was him flying around carelessly, not a worry on his mind. He glanced back at his now outstretched wings and gave them a weak flap. It could be him, save for the fact he had a lot to do in lieu of relaxing. And not by choice.
Giving the rising sun a final glimpse, Onyx abandoned the rooftop hastily, eager to get started with his new position of authority.
Onyx sat in the main dining hall, alone and busy. There were many parchments to scan through, many laws and orders to memorize, many issues in the land to address. These were all things that had accumulated over the last few days during his father's decreased health. It would be his duty to tend to these matters daily, as King Topaz had.
After spending hours studying the laws he was already mostly familiar with, Onyx set aside his work for a break, and the chef gathered his dishes as he left the dining hall.
"Good day, sir," the chef gave a quick but friendly wave as Onyx returned a smile, shutting the double oak doors and taking a deep, fulfilling breath. His body ached from sitting in the large wooden chair for so long, and the constant climbing up and down the stairs was wearing him out. He would have to bathe soon and relax his stiff muscles.
As he made his way down the hall to the second floor staircase, he stumbled upon Ironhoof, descending rapidly. Albeit wide enough for multiple ponies to traverse them simultaneously, on each floor the single staircase did frequently result in near-collisions.
"Oh, sir, I have news about King Topaz. I'm assuming you'd care to hear?" Ironhoof said with a bow.
Onyx nodded. "You assume correctly. Follow me and fill me in. Is he well?" he asked with a hint of concern bleeding from his voice as he led the servant up the staircase. The sounds of their hooves clopping on the stone steps echoed down the connecting halls on both floors.
"He has been relocated from the keep to the infirmary. The physician claims that he needs to be there to be monitored closely and cared for. Queen Beryl has decided to reside there with him in the infirmary. King Topaz also instructed me to inform you that the keep is now yours in the meantime." Ironhoof gave a chuckle. "You're moving up in the world, quite quickly, sir."
They reached the second floor and immediately hung a right, climbing the next staircase up.
"Forgive me for not being as thrilled as you, Ironhoof. I'm worried about father's condition," Onyx said firmly, the two of them rounding the corner at the top of the stairs and climbing yet another pair of stairs. "What happens if he passes? Will I be the king so soon? I'm afraid, Ironhoof. I'm afraid I'll be shoved into this royalty quicker than I can handle."
They reached the top of the stairs and started at the bottom of the next.
Ironhoof cleared his throat. "Don't be silly, sir. You're more than capable, in my humble opinion. Don't be so hard on yourself."
"You completely circumvented the subject on my father, Ironhoof. You don't have faith in him, do you?" Onyx inquired curiously, glancing at the servant from the corner of his eye as they reached the top of the stairs and began at the bottom of the final staircase.
Ironhoof snorted. "What a preposterous accusation. Of course I have faith, sir. That's why I avoided the subject. No need to address it."
Onyx rolled his eyes. "Excellent save, Ironhoof."
"Thank you, sir."
At the top of the stairs, they turned and walked straight down the hall towards the end, where they'd climb the stairs to the keep.
Along the way, they encountered other servants clearing out the king and queen's personal belongings and bringing them down to the infirmary on the fifth floor. Amongst clothing and accessories, the king had a few belongings he kept in a small decorative chest by his bedside. The rest of the room, embroidery and all, was left for Onyx.
Once in the keep, Onyx scanned the room, scoping out where he'd be placing his belongings. Ironhoof helped him determine where things would fit or look best.
"I'm assuming you'd like to put your piano up here in the entry hall?" Ironhoof asked, sounding as though he was hoping the answer was no. He stood in the doorway, gazing down at the space between the display case for the dragon egg retrieved by King Topaz and the sword used to slay the mighty dragon that once prowled the northern plains.
Onyx chuckled. "Ironhoof, don't worry. You won't be moving it up here. The lesser servants will. You'll just be my personal servant, remember? As you were for King Topaz and Queen Beryl." He then collapsed on the bed, sprawled out. His vest caught on the bedpost and tore down the shoulder. "Ah! Of course."
Ironhoof laughed aloud. "Wonderful job so far, sir. You're already making progress. I'll see to it that your wardrobe is expedited up here as soon as possible. It appears you'll need some articles of clothing."
Onyx glared at him. "Don't forget that I'm now in power, Ironhoof. That sarcastic attitude isn't appropriate, and don't think I'll stand for it." He tugged the tattered ends of the vest up from under himself and sat up, studying them with furrowed brows. "Repairable. Have the dressmaker tend to this whenever I change out of it."
"Understood, sir. I'll see to it."
Onyx stood from the bed and stretched, going to the doors to the balcony. He swung them open and was greeted by a cool, salty, ocean breeze. He stepped out onto the balcony and went to the barrier, looking out over the grand ballroom and the hedge maze, and onto the vast sea that led to Equestria, thousands of miles away.
Ironhoof followed him out, glancing around. "Quite a nice day, if I do say so myself."
Onyx squinted at the sun and observed the clouds overhead swiftly retreating from over the sea onto land. They were fair weather clouds. He watched the workers down below at the port unloading wine and grain from ships and loading precious metals and gems aboard the ships going across the seas. They would be doing this from sun up to sun down, every day. Romaneia had far more import than export, but that was because they did not produce everything they needed in sufficient quantities. A little help from neighboring countries was required, at the expense of a little gold and diamonds.
Ironhoof joined Onyx at the edge of the balcony. "Sir?"
Onyx shook his head. "Sorry, Ironhoof. I was just watching them work."
Ironhoof nodded in understanding. He sniffled and shoved his glasses back up higher on his muzzle. "I suppose I'll be heading off to get things done. Enjoy your new quarters, sir. I'll have your stuff up here tonight. You'll be here?"
"I will. Maybe. I plan on going for a walk into town before dusk. I will leave the doors unlocked. Make sure everything gets up here by my return."
Ironhoof bowed. "Absolutely, sir. Enjoy your day, and your kingdom." The servant turned and briskly trotted off to fulfill his daily duties, leaving Onyx on the balcony to himself.
Romanhoof was the town at the foot of Tourmaline Castle. It was not the largest town in the land, but by far the wealthiest. Poverty levels were low in Romanhoof, and prices were high.
The town had many outdoor shop owners, grocers, blacksmiths, dressmakers, chefs, and inventors making a living there. They were quick to try and land a sale, but they were friendly and fair, most often. In Romanhoof, if you needed anything, it could be found, but not for a cheap price.
Unlike Equestria, where bits were the currency, the currency in Romaneia was 18-sided, three carat emeralds, and the treasury in Romanhoof circulated and managed these gems. Royalty had a never-ending supply of these beautiful rocks, but society only dealt with what was circulated. A vast majority of stones in circulation started from Tourmaline Castle, directly from royalty.
As for the inhabitants of the lovely town, they carried out business day by day, the same way, never changing. It was a peaceful, low-crime town. Children played in the streets, and adults went about business as they did every day. The Topaz Army patrolled the streets and kept things safe for the residents, and so problems hardly ever arose.
It was late day, and Onyx had left the castle and gone for a brisk walk into town to clear his head.
The cool, breezy summer day was perfect. In this part of the year, days like this were common. Ponies took advantage of every minute during the day in the summer months. And Onyx was no different.
Onyx strolled into town down the emerald ore street leading from Tourmaline Castle. Onyx carried with him his saddlebags and some emeralds in case he spotted something he wanted, which did frequently happen.
Onyx wore a replacement vest he retrieved before he left for town, and a gold necklace with a deep red onyx stone - briolette cut - and framed in 20 princess cut yellow diamonds. These stones were mined, then cut and set by the best jeweler in Romaneia. It was given to him by his father, and he was never to lose or sell it. In fact, he was advised to pass it down to his children. Onyx planned on doing just that.
Down a dirt path through the food district of town, Onyx wandered around, with no destination in mind. He was just relishing in his new position, admiring the town and its ponies.
There was plenty to do, however. There were clubs and bars, dance halls, restaurants, and plenty of inventors selling interesting contraptions. Onyx normally took interest in these things, but now, the excitement was setting in.
He was technically the king. The king! Everything was his, essentially. But he'd better not grow power-hungry. His father warned him of this.
Onyx slowed his gentle gait to a trot, his hooves stirring up small clouds of dust, and stopped in front of a pet dealer. After a couple mares passed in front of him, he got a better view of a large wooden cage in the shop. He approached the wooden bars and peered curiously inside.
Parrots. Lots of parrots, of many colors and sizes. Onyx had always held an interest in birds, especially parrots. Ever since he cared for a young lost parrot as a foal, he wanted to have one as a pet. It seemed like maybe today was the day that dream became a reality.
"Can I help you?"
The voice behind Onyx startled him into spinning around, assuming a defensive stance, his body rigid, his wings outstretched. He relaxed when he realized it was simply the store owner. "Hello there. I'm interested in your parrots, actually. May I step in the cage to see them?"
The shop-owner smiled brightly. "Absolutely. Here, follow me." He waved Onyx over to a small gate, which he unlocked and opened. "Take your time, Sir Onyx."
Onyx replied with a single nod and stepped into the cage. There were at least three-dozen birds there, all parrots. Onyx let his eyes wander around the cage, searching for a parrot of the same color of the one he cared for years ago. And he found one.
Onyx went over to the corner and crouched down beside a green parrot, obviously full grown and full of curiosity, as it peered up at Onyx and squawked. Onyx grinned and stuck his forelegs out, inviting it to hop on.
The parrot seemed to hesitate before taking up the offer, hopping on and wrapping its claws around his leg and giving another squawk.
Onyx flinched at the claws digging into his leg but stood up, checking out the magnificent bird. Yes, this bird would be coming home with him. It was beautiful and friendly. Just like the one from his foalhood.
"I take it you like that one?" the store owner asked hopefully, stepping up to Onyx and the bird. The other parrots flapped around and squawked noisily.
Onyx smiled. "Yeah, I'd like to buy it. How much?"
"25 emeralds."
Onyx scoffed. "A bit overpriced but it'll do." He dug out the appropriate number of gems and handed them over.
The excited store owner took them hastily and stored them away in a large brown chest by the gate. "Thank you very much, sir. Thank you!"
Onyx stepped back out, the parrot on his shoulder. This was wonderful for him. He deserved companionship, something he lacked. He had no marefriend - no friends in general - and had no available family to spend time with. Although a parrot wouldn't do much more than rest on his shoulder, the parrot would give him company and help him deal with his feelings. At least the parrot wouldn't judge him.
Back out on the street, Onyx stood and collected his thoughts. He decided to go for a bite to eat at his favorite pub, stay for a drink or two, and head home. He checked to be sure his saddlebags were closed right, and noticed a sign for the shop he'd just purchased the parrot from. It exclaimed, "Parrots for sale! 15 emeralds a bird". Onyx rolled his eyes and trotted off.
It was late day, and the sun was beginning to fall towards the horizon. The breeze calmed a bit, and the sky began to clear, revealing its brilliant deep blue color. The streets usually picked up in traffic once the evening hours rolled by, as everypony went home or out for a night on the town. Today though, the traffic seemed to have decreased from earlier. Onyx found this peculiar, but not unusual. It definitely was not the first time.
He carried on to his favorite pub, Skyland's. They served excellent booze, had plenty of games to play, such as pool or darts, and the mares were always looking for a good time. On a day such as this, Onyx was looking for the same.
And it wasn't as if Onyx couldn't find a one-night swing with a beautiful harlot. Onyx was royalty, which made him automatically the best choice for any mare wanting to fill her saddlebags with emeralds in a single night. On top of that, Onyx was handsome. His steely gray coat was groomed and shone with health, and his deep maroon mane was kept trimmed, groomed, and clean at all times. It was usually allowed to flow freely, but during times of training, or events such as the Grand Crystal Gala, his mane was done up specifically by his hairdresser.
Onyx was prancing along happily when he passed a rather strange shop, down at the end of a dirt path. It was dark and mysterious, likely the shop of a magician or something similar.
Curiosity winning him over, Onyx made his way past an older stallion pulling a cart of eggs and down the path, approaching the entrance slowly. Immediately upon entering through the black painted wooden door, his nose was assaulted by the acrid-smelling smoke of many incense.
He closed the door and took a good look around him, the parrot on his shoulder flapping its wings and squawking in distress.
Onyx ignored it momentarily as he tried to figure out where the shop owner was. Dark oak shelves reached upwards around him, displaying a horde of bizarre merchandise. Masks and statues stood along the baseboards. The carpet was black and shaggy, and the torches along the top of the maroon-painted wall all burned red, casting and eerie glow on the room. The choking smoke from the incense burning in a bowl on a table nearby didn't help.
Seeing that the owner was nowhere around, Onyx turned and slipped out, gulping in deep breaths of fresh, clean air as the door slammed shut behind him. The parrot seemed to be at peace, as well; his flapping and noise ceased.
After a moment or two, Onyx peered over his shoulder at his company. "Sorry about that little guy. I had no clue it'd be so volatile in there."
The parrot croaked at him, as if replying, and somehow Onyx felt that it was more than the smoke that had bothered the bird.
"Off to the pub, for now," Onyx told himself under his breath as he trotted away.
Author's Note
If you see a mistake, let me know in the comments. Enjoy!
Part I: Chapter II
Chapter II
The sights, smells, and sounds of Skyland's welcomed Onyx like an old friend as he slipped past the guarded entry and stood there, taking it all in. This was his favorite pub in all of Romanhoof. Here, he could relax, vent his troubles, or simply drink them away.
The pub wasn't big, but it sure had a lot to do. Directly across from the entrance, just past the pool table, was the bar. A row of sturdy wooden stools sat close against the counter, and just beyond it was the biggest selection of alcoholic beverages any pony could ever dream of. To the left of the bar was a blackjack and poker table. Closer to the entry, off to the left, was a dining area, complete with nicely decorated tables, a huge roaring stone fireplace, and a row of tall glass windows overlooking the sea to the west... Perfect for a romantic sunset dinner.
Back off to the right of the entry area was a dance floor. It was a large platform made of a solid slab of the finest white marble in the country, polished and kept in pristine condition. And to the right of the bar area were the bathrooms and a big old-fashioned jukebox, usually playing something for the dance floor nearby. Onyx only frequented three locations in the pub: the bar, the diner, and the pool table area. He'd never visited the dance floor, as he wanted to someday dance with the mare of his dreams. Onyx also wasn't a professional at poker or blackjack, so he preferred not to lose too much there.
Onyx took a deep breath and glanced around the pub, checking out the busyness. It was actually not quite as active as it normally is, but then again, it wasn't the time of day of the most activity, anyways. The familiar whiffs of booze and cheap food, sweat, perfume and cologne assaulted his nostrils, while the clinking of glasses, pool balls being struck, yells of surprise and bursts of laughter relaxed his nerves. This was like a second home to him.
The parrot on his shoulder gave a loud squaw, startling him. Onyx smiled up at his shoulder friend. He'd have to name him or her soon. Calling it "it" wouldn't be practical.
"Ahhhhh, Onyx, my friend! Glad you showed up when you did! I need you to settle a bet for me!" a jovial and hearty voice bellowed from his left. Onyx turned to see an old friend from his childhood trotting up to greet him.
It was his friend, Winter Green. The mint colored unicorn with the pastel green and grey mane was his closest friend in life. Unfortunately, the two never hung out like they used to. In fact, this was the first time they'd seen each other in weeks. There were many reasons for this, the most prominent being Winter was too immature for Onyx. He attended too many parties, drank and did drugs more than any one pony should, and had no work ethic. He spent one too many days sitting around and doing close to nothing productive.
And apparently today he was in trouble for making a bet.
"Hello there, Winter. I see you've managed to owe somepony money again?" Onyx joked, only partly. The two of them shook hooves and began heading off towards the dining area.
"No, no. I'm going to win money, not lose it! The bet was you and I were friends. They don't believe the Count would be friends with me. Can you believe that?" Winter said, shaking his head. "What fools."
Onyx hummed as he thought. Perhaps they were right. It was kind of unbelievable that this stallion was friends with royalty. The two didn't have any common ground; they simply enjoyed each other's company. But he would win the bet, either way. "I suppose I can help you then."
Winter gave a loud hoot. "I knew I could count on the Count. Haha!" He bumped Onyx with his shoulder, nearly sending him into a nearby table as they approached the table full of rowdy, unruly drunks.
"Hey you guys, here he is? See? Gimme my money!" Winter ran over the rest of the way and slammed a hoof on the table, jarring all the half-empty beers and interrupting the loud conversation the ponies there were holding. They all gawked up in surprise at Onyx, their eyes wide and mouths agape.
"Uh, hello there," Onyx gave a shy wave. When it came to meeting new ponies, Onyx was as timid as it got.
The older-looking pegasus stallion snorted. "The hell is this, some kind of joke? There's no way you two are friends. You're just a cunning bum who managed to catch the Count while he was out and about and convinced him to vouch for you."
"Not true at all!" Winter shot back, throwing his forelegs above his head. Onyx shrank back and covered his eyes with a hoof, mildly embarrassed. "Onyx and I have been friends since foalhood! You guys owe me. Pay up."
The rest of the stallions groaned and sat back.
"Please, Winter. Let the Count speak. I'd like to hear it from him. Surely he wouldn't lie to us," the stallion earth pony with a brilliant shiner said, motioning to Onyx.
"Fine. But he'll agree with me," Winter conceded.
Onyx swallowed. "Uh, yeah. We're friends. It's no secret. We've been close since we met as foals. Winter is a cool guy, though I don't agree with everything he does. Like betting," he admitted and shot a glance over at his friend, who appeared mildly annoyed by that last comment. "In any case, he is indeed friends with me."
Winter nodded. "Now gimme my money. I want another shot of vodka and I'm broke."
With defeated moans, the ponies at the table surrendered a large pile of emeralds. Winter greedily slid them off the table into a pouch, giggling like a moron.
Onyx rolled his eyes. "Am I finished here, Winter? I've business to attend to." He sighed and muttered under his breath: "As always..."
Winter set his bag beside the table on the floor and threw a foreleg around Onyx, giving him a friendly hug. "Shoot, of course. Thanks Onyx. Good to see ya. Hey, when can we hang out, eh? Been kinda slow lately."
Onyx shrugged. "Winter, I'm busy lately. Quite a bit. Even more now that I'm temporarily in charge of Romaneia," he said and stopped, shaking his head. That last part slipped out. He wasn't wanting to spread the news just yet.
The ponies at the table all expressed their surprise with various noises, same with Winter.
"Moving up to King Onyx now, huh?" the shiner stallion asked with a big grin, raising his eyebrows ridiculously high.
Onyx sighed again, wishing he'd never come to the table. "Yes, for now. I need to go now, Winter. I'll be around. Have... fun." He turned and pranced off before anypony could protest. He wasn't here to entertain guests; he was here to have a drink and relax.
Once he'd made his way to the bar, he found himself a good seat, secluded from the other drinkers. He waited for the bartender to come to him. He already knew what he wanted, as he'd ordered the same drink every time he came to Skyland's.
"Mr. Onyx! Good to see ya. Same thing as always, right?" the grey unicorn asked, cleaning a glass with a decidedly filthy rag.
Onyx winced at the sight. "As always."
The bartender nodded, pouring him a glass of creme de menthe, then adding a little brandy. He set the glass on the counter and slid it to Onyx. "Enjoy," he added as he tended to another customer.
Onyx took a long, drawn-out sip of his favorite mixed drink. The stinger always made him shiver but he loved the taste. He smacked his lips and decided to survey the bar, checking out his company.
Beside him was an old stallion unicorn, wobbling on his stool and muttering gibberish in varying volumes while the scantily dressed and clearly lascivious mare pegasus beside him tried to pick up some business with a blue unicorn stallion sitting beside her; the dance floor was clear, which wasn't unusual; the dining area was nearly full, also normal; at the blackjack table were the same stallions and mares that played there every time Onyx had been in the pub; and finally, the pool table was surrounded by at least 10 ponies, indicating some kind of competition in progress. They were responsible for nearly half the noise in the pub currently. Besides them, a few mares and stallions wandered aimlessly around the pub.
Onyx turned back to his drink, taking a more fulfilling sip this time.
"Hey, cutie. You look like you need a good ending to your night."
He glanced in the direction of the voice and discovered a pretty young mare pegasus smiling innocently at him. She flapped her wings and sat on the stool beside him, resting an elbow on the counter and her head on her hoof, her green eyes flashing mischievously.
Onyx flashed a smile. "You're a pretty little thing. Why ever would you be here, doing this to yourself?"
Her smile faded quickly. She withdrew and turned away, her yellowish mane flopping around. "Hard times call for desperate measures..."
Onyx nodded in understanding. "But there wasn't another way?" He swallowed another bit of his drink.
The mare sighed heavily, seemly sagging on her stool. "This makes me the most money. I have to, you know? I tried other things, but the payout just wasn't good enough..."
"Can I ask why you need money so badly?"
"My brother is ill. The medical expenses are sky high. My mom and I can't afford it... so I resorted to this. So far, it's been doing the job," she explained, resting her forelegs on the counter with her head on them. "Yes, it's demeaning, but I love my brother. I couldn't let him..."
"I understand Miss. No need to convince me. Here," Onyx sat his saddlebags on the counter and retrieved 30 emeralds. He passed them to the astonished mare. "These are yours, no services attached. I know it's not much, but it'll help, no doubt."
She took them and smiled gratefully at him, her eyes welling up with tears. "That's the sweetest thing anypony has ever done for me..." She rushed forward and hugged him suddenly.
Onyx was taken off guard at first, but returned the hug almost immediately. "Don't keep doing this, Miss. It's not a life to live."
She pulled away and gave a single nod. "Of course. Thank you, Count Onyx. Thank you..." She clutched her purse full of emeralds to her chest and flapped off, leaving the pub in a hurry.
Onyx returned to his drink, relaxing a little better now that his good deed for the day was done. And although he'd paid for services like the ones she'd just offered before, today he wasn't feeling that way. Paying for love wasn't right. Helping somepony in need was much more fulfilling.
The parrot on his shoulder cawed, adjusting its wings.
Onyx smiled back over his shoulder at it. "Yeah, yeah. We'll get out of here soon, my friend."
The brisk, dusk air greeted Onyx as he stepped out of the pub several hours later, woozy but not drunk. He never drank enough to get there.
As expected, the town was bustling with those out enjoying the nightlife. After dark, the adults of Romanhoof came out to play.
Onyx inhaled a lungful of cool air and looked around him at the ponies wandering the streets. Most of them were groups of friends or mares looking for business. Since harlotry was not a crime in Romaneia, many mares used it as a way to fill their saddlebags. Although Onyx disagreed with the prostitute-friendly attitude, he had hired a few mares for a night of fun when he was feeling particularly lonely, though he usually felt a strong sense of regret afterwards.
Onyx began calmly walking home, taking his time. Why rush? Tonight wasn't any different than any other night. Besides, tonight was one of those cursed nights that he longed for some female attention. Perhaps he'd find some if he took his time getting back to the castle.
His parrot squawked loudly, clearly in distress. Onyx stopped and glanced curiously back at it. "What's wrong, little bird?"
It seemed to be looking off in the distance and making a ruckus. Onyx followed its gaze to the very same bizarre business he entered earlier. The window was covered by a curtain on the inside, but it was clear that there was a lot going on within. Brilliant flashes of multicolored lights constantly lit up the window, casting an eerie shadow from the curtain on the ground just outside with every burst of light.
Onyx considered going to the place and finding out what was going on, but thought better of it. Tonight was not a good night to be exploring the unusual.
"Shhhhh," Onyx quieted his bird down, giving it a pet on the head. "You're like an alarm for me, you know? Hmm... Perhaps I should name you... Beakon. Yeah, that's clever and nice. You like it, Beakon?"
The bird gave a chirp and began preening the feathers of his left wing.
Onyx chuckled. "I'll take that as a yes." He resumed his path back home, unable to take his eyes off the strange but intriguing old shop with flickering lights.
Back in the keep, Onyx lay sprawled out on his bed, having been unable to bring himself to taking home a mare for her services. It just didn't feel right. But he wished he didn't have to want the attention so badly. The loneliness weighed heavily on his mind; some days were worse than others. In any case, romance was not his strong point.
A gentle breeze streamed through the room, the twin doors to the balcony open wide. The curtains flapped around, and the fireplace crackled as the wind fanned it hotter, the bright yellow embers floating up the chimney and out into the night.
There wasn't much to do up here, as he was alone. This late in the evening, everypony was either finishing up supper or heading to bed. Besides that, Onyx didn't have anypony to invite into his quarters anyways.
Onyx hopped out of bed and out onto the balcony. He peered into the night sky, admiring the infinite number of stars that sparkled against the endless black background. The moon was waning and clear, and shone brilliantly down on the land like a giant white lamp. It illuminated the hedge maze and garden below, where Onyx noted the brown showing here and there. He'd have to get on the gardener about that.
Out across the sea, Onyx could count three yellowish specks of light. They were merchant ships on their way out of port, or in. Their work never ended; they sailed in and out of the Port of Romanhoof day in and day out. Onyx had high respect for the ponies at sea.
The Count sighed and rested his head on his hoof, his elbow on the edge of the barrier. He gazed out over the sea and let his mind wander.
Tomorrow he'd have some work to do, but the real effort would start days from now, when a town meeting occurred at the Romanhoof Rectangle, a park in the center of town. The residents of Romanhoof would gather and listen to whatever the King had to say, regarding new or changed laws, the illnesses, crime rates, land development, treaties, and other varies important things. Onyx would have to compile a list of said things, and after presenting them before a crowd of over 10,000, take questions.
Onyx did not like crowds. His stage fright weighed him down, but he figured what better way to rid himself of the affliction than standing before an entire town?
Of course, he'd do fine. When put under pressure, Onyx did not crack. He did what he had to do, whether it bothered him or not. It was his duty to serve this country and make his father proud. Especially after having power bestowed upon him at such a young age.
But what about his personal problems? How could he continue to be alone, whether romantically or socially? It always seemed that ponies were intimidated by his royalty; attempting to make friends only led to him being rejected, either gently, or vehemently. Lately, he'd been trying much less.
This was not his priority; no, not now. His priority was to keep Romaneia running smoothly. To make his father proud to call him son. What else could a young stallion wish for?
Onyx returned to reality, taking a deep breath and rubbing his temples. All this was giving him a headache. Or perhaps it was the bit of booze he had earlier. In any case, it felt like bed time.
He turned and went back into the keep, closing the balcony doors behind him and tossing another log into the fireplace to keep it going. If he didn't, the room would cool rapidly, as the castle was so tall, clouds sometimes enshrouded the towers and the keep, especially on rainy days.
Beakon gave a single caw as Onyx dressed for bed. The parrot sat on the top of the dark oak wardrobe, staring down at his owner curiously
"I am indeed heading to bed, Beakon. I urge you to, as well," Onyx said as he slipped under the cotton sheets, relishing in the warmth and softness. He could get used to this.
Beakon decided to instead preen his feathers, inciting a laugh from Onyx.
"Well, as long as you're quiet, preen all night, my friend. Goodnight." Onyx blew out the lamp on the bedstand and rolled over, pulling the covers to his chin. He fell asleep soon after.
"Sir? Are you awake yet? Sir?" A loud voice perforated by heavy knocking pulled Onyx from his slumber. He sat up and rubbed his eyes, groaning groggily. He rolled and collapsed on the floor, banging his head and crying out in pain. He sat there and rocked back in forth, clutching his throbbing head.
"Sir? Are you alright in there? You sound as though you might be in distress."
"No kidding," Onyx muttered, climbing to his hooves and making his way to the doors, pulling one open to see Ironhoof standing there with a tray of breakfast foods.
"You didn't call for breakfast, so I took initiative and had it made for you," the servant explained, holding the tray out to him.
Onyx hesitated before taking the tray and plopping it on his bed, sitting beside it. "What's new, Ironhoof?"
Ironhoof entered the bedroom and stood near the doors. "I'm sorry sir?" He clearly didn't understand the question.
Onyx stuffed a breakfast muffin in his mouth, chewing it slowly before swallowing it with a gulp of tangy orange juice and replying, "I'm asking how your morning is going, Iron."
Ironhoof seemed to have an epiphany. "Oh! It's gone quite well, sir. Nothing out of the ordinary or worth discussing, I'd say."
"I have the feeling you just don't want to discuss it, Iron. Am I correct to assume this?" Onyx polished off a hashbrown and the rest of his orange juice. He wiped his mouth with the back of his hoof and set the tray aside.
Ironhoof nodded. "I'd say so, yes sir."
Onyx slipped off the bed and stretched, his joints cracking. He extended his wings and gave them a flap. "Very well. I suppose I'll just have to order you to tell me." He eyed the servant to see his reaction.
Ironhoof seemed to dislike that, and quite much. He curled his lip and narrowed his eyes, shaking his head.
Onyx couldn't help but burst into laughter. "I'm kidding," he said, coming over to Ironhoof and giving him a pat on the shoulder. "Don't be so serious all the time."
Now he seemed confused. "But sir, you told me the other day to refrain from using humor."
"That's... not entirely true. It was the kind of humor- You know what, all irrelevant. Let's move on." Onyx stepped over to the wardrobe and opened the big doors, peering in at his limited selection. Beakon flapped off the top and soared over to the fireplace, landing on the mantle.
Ironhoof glared at the bird. "What in Romaneia is that doing in here?"
Onyx scowled at the servant. "That would be Beakon, my pet. Is there something wrong?" He threw on his coat, sliding his forelegs down the sleeves and buttoning up the front.
Ironhoof smiled nervously. "No, not at all, sir. I was just curious is all." He side-stepped into the doorway, half out of the room. "He's magnificent," he added, the smile never fading.
"Uh huh. Ironhoof, I'm taking my morning walk. When I get back, please have my parchment and quill ready. I've some notes to take. Royal Court is soon." Onyx walked past Ironhoof out into the hall and towards the exit. "And while you're at it, bring me some bird feed. Beakon should be hungry. And a bowl of water, too."
"Absolutely, sir. I'll get right on it."
Onyx stopped in the doorway of the exit and said over his shoulder, "Tell my father when I get back in an hour, I would like to speak with him on an important matter." Then he descended the stairs to the first floor of the castle.
