Chapters Auriga walked the streets of Irkalla when fog started to roll in. Mist shrouded the afternoon sun and chilled her through her cloak. Rain was approaching, no doubt. Strangely, many ponies seemed unfazed as the clouds darkened, instead gossiping about a grand ship that had arrived in the city.
She frowned as she saw ponies milling towards the docks. She followed, tasting sea salt in the air with every breath. Upon reaching the harbor, she saw it: a massive galleon, flying the flag of Griffonstone high above its sails. There was only one reason for such a ship to be in Irkalla. She scowled when she saw him.
A griffon disembarked from the vessel, wearing fine clothes that seemed to shimmer even in the overcast. It was the Marquis du Verrier, one of the most prominent nobles of Ganzir.
Nimbus Gust, head of the City Guard, stood ready to greet him at the end of the gangplank. The Marquis smiled and shook her hoof before turning to the crowd. Ponies cheered, eager to catch a glimpse of the noble. Auriga seethed.
“Nobles.” It would be more accurate to call them the arch-thieves of Ganzir. Those griffons who own the land and steal the wealth that rightfully belongs to ponies.
She had seen enough, so she turned to sulk away from the waterfront. As she trotted back through the streets, ponies became sparser and the fog grew heavier.
Through the haze, a Guardspony walked towards her on patrol. The bored-looking unicorn stallion wore the new uniform of the City Guard. She hadn’t seen it up close before. Auriga stopped in her tracks. On his chest was an embroidered patch: a patch of the Idol of Boreas.
A false idol for a false griffon god. The lie at the heart of Griffonstone.
“Is something wrong?” The stallion looked at her with concern. Auriga grit her teeth, then anger overwhelmed her.
“What’s wrong is ponies like you working to keep us all under the claw of Griffonstone,” she spat, coming muzzle-to-muzzle with the stallion. “Ponies whose cowardice will end Ganzir as sure as griffon avarice.”
The stallion narrowed his eyes. He took out a small notebook and scribbled something on a page before tearing it out and levitating it to her. Confused, she took it. He walked past her without saying a word.
Auriga looked at the page. On it was an address, a time, and a drawing of a sword.
***
Rain poured from the sky as Auriga stood at the entrance to the Meridian House. She knew this place was owned by Prime Meridian, the richest pony in Ganzir. He was the founder of the Meridian Company, and a genius at creating magical machines, though his inventions were widely regarded as little more than curiosities.
She knocked at the door, but whoever was inside was slow to answer. Thankfully, she remained dry under her cloak. When the door finally opened, a stallion leaned out and asked what her business was.
“I’m here for a sword,” said Auriga. She showed him the page the Guardspony had given her. After examining it, the stallion invited her inside.
“Follow me,” he said, leading her past the foyer and through a maze of hallways. Auriga became nervous when they descended down a staircase and came to an large, imposing door. The stallion pushed it open.
She stepped into what seemed to be total darkness, her eyes having no time to adjust before the door slammed shut behind her. Magic suddenly gripped her and pulled her further into the cellar. A bright light shone hot on her face and made her sweat. She was surrounded by silhouetted ponies.
“You wish to join the Sword of Dawn?” said a pegasus mare, stepping forward.
They’re real.
Auriga nodded. The pegasus moved closer with a stern expression.
“Do you swear to never be a friend of Griffonstone, and to aid the ponies of Ganzir in ending their reign over this land?” she asked.
“Yes,” Auriga replied.
The mare’s gaze was inscrutable. She remained stone-faced for a few moments before nodding at one of the shadowy ponies. Auriga was freed from the magical grip and the bright light that was trained on her dissipated as the room became evenly lit.
“Very well. I am Silent Eye. We have much to discuss,” she said, extending her hoof. Auriga reached out and shook it, trembling slightly.
Auriga was sweating all over, so she pulled off her cloak. She noticed an immediate change in Silent Eye’s expression. Her eyes were wide and her mouth was agape; she was staring at Auriga’s flank.
“What is it?” asked Auriga. The room was silent.
Silent Eye slowly raised her hoof to point at a banner hanging on one of the walls. On the banner was a symbol: a sword beneath a sun. A sun that perfectly matched Auriga’s cutie mark.
On a starry, moonlight night, Auriga hid in the shadows of a dark alley. She had an exchange to make for the Sword of Dawn.
In the months since she joined the Sword, she dedicated herself to them completely. She had greatly risen in status at her local chapter thanks to both her enthusiasm and her cutie mark, which everypony agreed was of great significance, though nopony agreed how exactly.
A strange sound grew louder as she waited. It sounded like wood creaking on the cobblestones, but she saw nothing.
That’s odd…
Suddenly, two ponies appeared before her: a dark blue unicorn mare, who must have been casting some sort of cloaking spell, and a earth pony stallion, who pulled a covered cart.
The unicorn stepped forward. The first thing Auriga noticed about her was her horn, it was covered with intricate carvings that glowed with her magic. The second thing she noticed was her brilliant golden eyes, which also seemed to glow.
“That was quite a spell,” Auriga marveled.
“Impressive, I know.” The unicorn smirked and brought up a hoof to tap her horn. Behind her, the earth pony detached from his cart and rushed up to join her.
“C’mon, Scrimshaw. Let’s get this over with,” The stallion’s hissed, his left foreleg twitching anxiously.
“Calm down, Pilcrow,” Scrimshaw rolled her eyes, “I was getting to that.” She turned to Auriga. “You got the bits?”
“Yeah, if you’ve got the goods.” Auriga pulled out a pouch from her saddlebags and opened it to reveal the gold inside.
“Well, take a look,” Scrimshaw walked to the cart and pulled off the cloth covering it, “What do you think?”
The cart was piled with weapons. Swords, spears, and knives, steel blades all shining in the moonlight. An out-of-place crystal was mixed with the weapons and caught Auriga’s eye.
“Looks good, but what’s this?” Auriga held up the crystal. Evidently, Scrimshaw didn’t recognize it either. She grabbed it with her magic and levitated it towards her for a closer look.
“I’m not sure,” Scrimshaw spun it in place, “Maybe it’s-” The crystal exploded.
Auriga’s vision went white. The only thing she could hear was an impossibly loud ringing. She stumbled backwards, then felt a kick to her ribs. She dropped the pouch of gold and fell to the ground.
She blinked rapidly, trying to regain her sight. The white started to fade, and she could see Scrimshaw on the ground, still dazed. Pilcrow had taken the pouch and was re-covering the cart.
Auriga rose and charged, galloping at Pilcrow. She tackled him, sending them both tumbling end-over-end. Auriga ended up on top of Pilcrow, pinning him to the ground. She landed a few blows with her hooves before he bucked her off. Auriga hit the ground hard, leaving her winded.
She gasped and sputtered, unable to catch her breath. Looking up, she saw Pilcrow raise the covering on the cart and disappear beneath it, coming out with a knife in his mouth. He grinned wide.
“Shoulda stayed down,” he said. He reached out a hoof to hold her head in place. She closed her eyes as he brought down the knife for a finishing blow.
But the blow never came. Auriga looked up to find Pilcrow frozen in a magical aura. Scrimshaw had recovered and was standing behind him. She did not seem happy.
“That was a really, REALLY bad idea.” Scrimshaw’s magical grip took the knife from Pilcrow and jammed it into his throat. Her horn became radiant as she charged a spell, the patterns on her horn pulsing. She unleashed a magical blast aimed squarely at Pilcow, vaporizing him instantly. Ash was scattered into the air.
Scrimshaw walked over to Auriga, reaching out a hoof to help her up. Auriga took it and hugged her, coughing uncontrollably.
“Sorry,” Scrimshaw said. “I knew he was a weasel, but I didn’t expect he would try something like that.” She grimaced. “Tell you what, I’ll help you get these wherever they need to go.”
“Alright,” Auriga said, breaking the hug, “it’s not far from here.” She scanned the ground and found the pouch containing her payment. She picked it up and gave it to Scrimshaw, who smiled and shook out some bits, tossing them back.
“You can have his cut,” said Scrimshaw.
The two ponies got the cart in order and delivered its contents to a discreet warehouse near the docks in grim silence. Afterwards they stood awkwardly outside the warehouse, ready to part ways.
“Thanks for saving me back there,” said Auriga.
“Oh, it was nothing,” said Scrimshaw, blushing. “Um… do you wanna go get some drinks?”
“Sure,” shrugged Auriga.
***
Auriga sat with Scrimshaw in a smokey tavern. She took a sip from her mug of cider while Scrimshaw stared into hers.
“Who did that to your horn?” asked Auriga, staring at the innumerable patterns on Scrimshaw’s horn.
“I did it myself!” Scrimshaw said proudly. “I’ve always had a knack for carving things, go figure.” She pointed to her cutie mark, which was a carved tusk. “Although... some of these might be from fights.” She frowned, rubbing a hoof across a jagged chip in her horn.
“You seem to be in a dangerous line of work,” Auriga observed.
“Yeah, but I do it for the bits.” Scrimshaw spun a gold coin on the table. “Same as you, right?”
“No,” Auriga shook her head.
“So who do you work for?” Scrimshaw asked, raising an eyebrow.
“I can’t say,” Auriga replied.
“Hm... Dark and mysterious type, I’d guess you’re with the Sword.” Scrimshaw scratched her chin.
Auriga took an urgent drink from her cider and looked away. Scrimshaw giggled.
“You are a REALLY bad liar.” She punched Auriga playfully.
“All I can say is,” Auriga took a deep breath, “I serve the Sword because it’s the right thing to do. You should consider joining us.”
“Sorry, not interested.” Scrimshaw sunk back into her chair. “Whether it’s a governor from Griffonstone or some pony running things, doesn't make any difference to me.”
“Look at it this way,” Auriga twitched slightly, “do you know the story of Dawn?” Scrimshaw shook her head. Auriga took a deep breath. “It was a long time ago. Before Griffonstone, if you can imagine such a time. The ponies of Ganzir lived in misery, tormented by the great dragon Raz’Aquel. Until Princess Dawn rallied the greatest warriors and sorcerers from across the land, and slew the dragon.”
“That doesn’t sound like the same thing to me. I’m just saying some good things have happened thanks to Griffonstone, right?” Scrimshaw leaned back in her chair, looking at the ceiling.
“They have given us nothing, they have only taken from us.” Auriga slammed her hoof on the table and locked eyes with Scrimshaw. “Greed is in the griffon’s nature. They take our wealth, just as they have taken our pride and our land. They will take everything, unless ponies are willing to stand up to them.”
Scrimshaw’s golden eyes were wide; there seemed to be a spark in them. She pursed her lips and furrowed her brow. After a long pause, she sighed.
“All right, I’ll do it. For you.” She reached out to shake Auriga’s hoof.
“You won't regret it.”
Auriga and Scrimshaw had traveled to a small town outside Irkalla. It was a pitch-black night as they sat together in an inn.
“Remind me again why we’re meeting with peasants, Auri?” Scrimshaw asked.
“Although the Sword has a strong presence in Irkalla, it does not exist in the countryside,” Auriga explained. “ When the time comes, ponies will have to rise up in those rural areas as well as in the city. Some level of coordination between us will be necessary.”
“Do you know anything about these two?” Scrimshaw glanced nervously around the inn to see if their contacts had arrived.
“Only that they are the leaders of the two largest peasant communities in Ganzir, and that we share the same goal,” Auriga said. Scrimshaw nudged her her and pointed urgently to the inn’s entrance.
The inn door opened and a griffon stepped inside. Auriga went stiff as he walked towards their table. He sat down wordlessly across from her.
“I’m sorry,” Scrimshaw said, “that spot is for-”
“Jacquerie,” The griffon extended his claw towards Auriga. “I assume you are representatives of the Sword.”
Her skin crawled looking at the open claw, but there was no avoiding it. Auriga extended her hoof cautiously. Jacquerie took it in his claw. It was a strange feeling; she shuddered internally, pulling away after a single shake.
“Yes,” Auriga said, wiping her hoof on her collar. Jacquerie shook Scrimshaw’s hoof while she introduced them.
A green earth pony sat down next to Jacquerie, having entered the inn shortly after him.
“I am Verdant Cade. It is a pleasure to meet you,” she said, nodding at Auriga and Scrimshaw.
Auriga put both her hooves on the table and leaned forward.
“I was led to believe we have a common cause, so I must ask,” Auriga tried to phrase it delicately. “Why are you opposed to Griffonstone?” Verdant took a breath, but Jacquerie had already begun to respond.
“You’ve heard of the blight, have you not?” Jacquerie made a grand sweeping motion with his arm, before making a fist. “Towns and villages are starving across Ganzir, all the while the common pony is oppressed.” He pointed emphatically at Scrimshaw. “This land must come out from under Griffonstone to be free. And, Boreas willing, one day it will.” Verdant winced at the mention of Boreas.
“Are you saying you have no… fondness for Griffonstone?” asked Auriga.
“Absolutely none,” affirmed Jacquerie. “I lived in Griffonstone for years, long enough to know that it is a corrupt monstrosity. In fact, the common griffon in Griffonstone is just as neglected as the common pony in Ganzir.”
Unlikely
“In that case, it seems our interests are aligned,” said Auriga. “I trust that when the time to strike comes, we shall act as one.” Jacquerie nodded, but Verdant raised her hoof, clearly annoyed.
“I am afraid my friend has neglected to make clear that he speaks only for the peasants of Neighneveh.” Verdant closed her eyes. “However, in this we are in agreement, and the peasants of Emare will aid in this struggle.”
More allies for the fight, but when will the time come?
The news hit Auriga like a thunderbolt from a clear sky.
“The Idol of Boreas is lost! King Guto has been slain!”
It was said to be the work of a great beast sent as punishment from the gods, but that didn’t matter to her. What had seemed impossible a few short days ago was now within reach. Griffonstone was in chaos.
The atmosphere in Irkalla was surreal, filled with uncertain whispers about the future. Auriga had no uncertainty; she knew now was the time to strike. The Sword agreed, and its chapters all across Irkalla met to plan their move.
***
Auriga stood next to Scrimshaw in the cellar of the Meridian House with the rest of their chapter. They were gathered around Silent Eye as she outlined the grand plan. There would be three groups, striking three simultaneous targets in Irkalla: the governor’s mansion, City Hall, and the fortress of Dur-Irkalla. Each chapter of the Sword would contribute ponies to each group.
Silent Eye gave everypony their assignments. Auriga was to storm the fortress. Scrimshaw, the governor’s mansion.
“Hey, um...” Scrimshaw said, “stay safe out there, OK?”
“I’ll try,” Auriga replied.
In a few hours the plan would go into motion, but the other members of the Sword were quiet. Auriga sensed fear and apprehension in the cellar.
Don’t they know what we’re fighting for?
Auriga raised her hoof, calling their attention. She walked in front of the Sword’s banner.
“For a long time I didn’t know the meaning of my cutie mark. But I do now, thanks to all of you.” She looked to each of the Sword members. “Ganzir is sick and dying, choked by Griffonstone. As Princess Dawn once slew the dragon Raz’Aquel, it is our duty now to throw off the yoke of their Empire. We will lead Ganzir into a new day, for we are the Sword of Dawn!” All the ponies in the cellar stomped and cheered.
It’s time.
***
Auriga could see the fortress from outside the Meridian House. Built atop a hill at the center of Irkalla, Dur-Irkalla overlooked the entire city and housed the its largest armory. With control of the fortress and City Hall, their hold on Irkalla would be ironclad.
The ponies of the Sword had gathered at sunset, armed and ready to take the fortress. Silent Eye took a position next to Auriga and called for the march to begin. As they moved towards the fortress, ponies looked from their houses and rushed out to join them. Artisans, painters, and polymaths all joined the march, some not even armed.
The streets sloped upwards as they approached Dur-Irkalla. The walls of the fortress grew impossibly tall in response to their proximity.
“How do we get past the walls?” asked Auriga.
“We have a mare on the inside.” Silent Eye gave a small smile.
Nimbus Gust, head of the City Guard, flew up from the ramparts and surveyed the mass of ponies. The pegasus turned around to address the Guard.
“Open the gates!” cried Nimbus, tearing the patch of the Idol off her uniform. The Guardsponies obeyed without hesitation and the huge gates of the fortress flung open.
“Well, at least one,” continued Silent Eye, “many ponies in the City Guard are sympathetic to our cause. It just so happens their commander is as well.”
They entered the fortress to see a scene of jubilation. Guardsponies ripped off and stomped their Idol patches to rapturous cheers.
A pegasus courier swooped in from the sky, landing in front of Silent Eye.
“The governor’s mansion and City Hall were secured without a fight. Governor Auwers has been taken into custody,” said the exhausted pegasus.
“Excellent!” said Silent Eye. “We’ve done it!” She slapped Auriga on the back.
We’ve… done it?
Auriga followed Nimbus Gust into the director’s office in City Hall. Following the establishment of Ganzir’s Provisional Government, Nimbus was the near-unanimous selection of the new National Assembly to lead the government as director.
“Silent Eye has told me a lot about you. She says you’re special, and I believe her,” said Nimbus as she sat down at her desk. “I’m glad we finally have a chance to work together more closely.” Nimbus was strangely sweet and utterly sincere. “I’ll cut to the chase: I would like for you to be my advisor.”
“Oh, thank you ma’am!” Auriga was surprised by the offer, but accepted it without hesitation.
“The Assembly’s foremost priority is writing Ganzir’s constitution, so that is where I will be spending most of my time for the immediate future. If you have any proposals to be added to the constitution, inform me and I will do my utmost to see them through,” said Nimbus.
“Well, I have one to start with,” began Auriga, “griffons have historically controlled a disproportionate amount of Ganzir’s wealth. I propose forbidding griffons from owning land and seizing all land currently owned by the nobles.”
“Hm, I believe I will be able to do that.” Nimbus tapped her chin in consideration. “Very well.” She looked at a clock on the wall. “Shoot, I have to go!” Nimbus galloped away.
Auriga walked out towards her office when she came across the Marquis du Verrier.
“Excuse me, I’m looking for the director.” the griffon said.
“I’m sorry, she is currently unavailable. I would be happy to hear your concerns, however,” Auriga replied.
Very happy indeed.
“And you are?” he asked.
“Her advisor,” she said. The Marquis shrugged and followed her to her office.
“What seems to be the problem?” Auriga asked after they both sat down.
“The problem is your Provisional Government has allowed Ganzir to fall into complete chaos!” The Marquis’ eyes bulged, his fez skewed to the side with his intensity. “These… peasants have ransacked my estate! The constables and magistrates have all been captured! There is no order in the countryside.” He held out his claws. “What are you going to do?”
“It won’t be a problem for you once your estate is seized. It’s a new Ganzir, Marquis, one that has no more tolerance the thievery of you or your ilk.” said Auriga.
“What?”
“Don’t worry, you will be compensated. More than enough to pay for a boat ticket out of Ganzir, I assure you.”
The Marquis was speechless, trying and failing to formulate a response. Auriga immensely enjoyed seeing the pompous griffon reduced to a blubbering fool. He glared at her before storming out of her office.
***
Auriga sat writing in her office when a stallion knocked at the door. He leaned in and informed her that the High Prelate of the Borean Temple in Irkalla had arrived and demanded to speak with somepony of authority. Auriga shuddered. The Temple of Boreas would be a difficult stain to remove; it held much sway in Irkalla.
“Send them in,” she sighed. The stallion nodded and left.
A scarlet mare entered a few moments later, wearing the robes of a griffon prelate. Auriga found the sight sickening, like looking at a pony who has lost everything that made her a pony. The mare smiled.
“Hello, I am Bessel. May Boreas bless you.” She spoke slowly in a soft voice.
“Why are you here?” snapped Auriga.
“My sole aim is to ensure that the poor ponies of Irkalla are cared for,” said Bessel. “Unfortunately, the governor failed to heed any of my previous calls for action. I hope that things will be different now.”
“All ponies of Ganzir will be cared for, I promise. You can go now.” Auriga flicked her hoof. Bessel frowned.
“Do have an… issue with the Temple?” she asked.
“My issue is that the Griffon Temples poison the fabric of Ganzir.” Auriga slammed a hoof on her desk. “In time, every citizen shall have a choice to make: Ganzir or Boreas.”
“The Temple of Boreas is at the soul of Irkalla.” Bessel narrowed her eyes. “You can choose to accept that or not, but you can not change it.” She turned and left without another word.
We’ll see about that.
Nimbus Gust sat at her desk leafing through a stack of papers with her wings.
“Our first priority must be a program of degriffonization to undo the cultural rot that has occurred under Griffonstone,” said Auriga. “The Borean Temple presents a danger to the future stability of Ganzir. As long as it has sovereign power, it is a vector through which Griffonian sedition can reach ponies.”
“Ban public worship, outlaw tithes?” Nimbus made a moue of hesitation as she read through Auriga’s proposals. “Forbid Temples from engaging in primary education or owning property? Have you considered the possible repercussions of these actions?” she set the papers down.
“Y-yes.” Sweat started to gather on Auriga’s face.
“Measures such as these, when aimed at an institution such as the Temple, can potentially have dire consequences. But if you are absolutely certain, I defer to your judgement,” Nimbus seemed to loom over Auriga.
“Yes, this must be done.” Auriga replied automatically. “I am certain.”
“Then it will be done,” said Nimbus. “But we have more immediate concerns. The Assembly has decided to abolish the feudal levy. Nobles will no longer raise their own armies, instead Ganzir will have one army: a newly formed National Guard.”
“Good idea,” said Auriga, “who will be the commander?”
“A unicorn by the name of Kampilan. He is a veteran of many conflicts in Griffonia, having served under the Marquis du Verrier. There is nopony in Ganzir more qualified. I recommend you meet him whenever you get the chance.”
***
Kampilan was a large unicorn, so large that Auriga at first mistook him for an earth pony. He had a strange horn that curved upward to a sharp point. Auriga had to focus on not staring at it as he levitated a cup of water over to her.
“I gathered you have a lot of combat experience,” said Auriga.
“That is correct,” replied Kampilan.
“Well, whatever medals you won down in Griffonia mean nothing to me.” Auriga held up a hoof. “Remember you’re not fighting for some noble anymore, you’re fighting for every pony in Ganzir. Keep that in mind and I’m sure you will do well.”
“Thank you, ma’am,” he said flatly.
“I should warn you, the Assembly will soon be taking measures to curtail the influence of the Temple,” Auriga said. “Be prepared to suppress any resistance that arises in response.”
Kampilan furrowed his brow and slowly nodded.
***
After the fall of Griffonstone, the Sword of Dawn was able to come out from underground. No longer meeting in secret, they now gathered in city squares and plazas, reaching out to new ponies. Auriga walked through the streets when she came across one such gathering.
“Auri!” Scrimshaw shouted and waved from a distance. She galloped towards her and almost tacked her. “I haven’t seen you for days!”
“Things have been hectic lately,” replied Auriga.
“Yeah, everything’s really changed.” Scrimshaw looked to the sky. “It’s still kind of hard to believe we did it.”
“I’ve always thought that as long as you fight for a righteous cause, the only thing limiting you is willpower,” said Auriga. Scrimshaw giggled.
“You know, I never met a pony like you before.” she said.
“Huh?”
“I never met a pony who believes in things like you,” Scrimshaw explained.
“I’m pretty sure I’m not the only pony in Irkalla who believes in something,” said Auriga, glancing down at the ground.
“Well, it’s not just that you believe it, it’s like you ARE it!” Scrimshaw took Auriga’s hooves.
“I don’t know.” Auriga frowned and pulled away. “Things were simpler before: just fight Griffonstone. Now everything’s so complicated...”
“You just have to trust yourself, I know you’ll do the right thing,” affirmed Scrimshaw.
“Ah, there you are!” a voice boomed. An orange stallion in a purple suit walked towards them: Prime Meridian.
“You all did a bang-up job storming that fortress!” He shook Auriga’s hoof vigorously. “Wish I could have been there myself.”
“Of course, Mr. Meridian,” said Auriga.
“I have something to ask of you. My house is nearby, so why don’t you two be my guests!” He tipped his top hat to Scrimshaw.
Auriga and Scrimshaw followed him to the Meridian House, but instead of going to cellar as they had so many times before, Meridian led them to a lounge.
“Can I get you anything?” he asked.
“Just tell us what you want,” replied Auriga.
“Ha!” Meridian stomped a hoof. “Mare of action, I like that!” He cleared his throat. “You see, the Meridian Company is at the precipice of a technological breakthrough that will revolutionize life in Ganzir!” He gestured at a metallic contraption in the center of the lounge with a black circle at its center. “It’s called an Ether Port.”
“What does it do?” asked Scrimshaw.
“How about a demonstration?” Meridian took a card out from his jacket pocket and presented it to Scrimshaw. “Enter these three numbers into the machine, and prepare to be amazed!” He galloped out of the room.
Scrimshaw walked over to the Ether Port and pressed the button for ‘zero’ three times. After a short pause, the circle at the center of the machine lit up and Meridian’s face appeared inside.
“That’s right, I’m talking to you in the lounge, from my study! And the range goes far beyond that: it’s practically unlimited!” Meridian bragged. “Every Meridian Company office in Ganzir already has an Ether Port. Imagine the possibilities if every pony in Ganzir had their own!”
“That certainly sounds revolutionary. How does it work?” asked Auriga.
“Magic crystals, and that’s actually what I wanted to talk to you about.” Meridian sighed. “The Verrier mountains are rich in crystals, but the Marquis would never agree to a deal to let me mine the mountains to extract them.” His eyes twinkled. “However, I understand that soon it won’t be the Marquis’ decision to make.”
“Mr. Meridian,” said Auriga, “this was a very impressive demonstration, and as thanks for all you’ve done for the Sword of Dawn, you have a deal.”
Meridian smiled on the screen.
“The situation in the countryside has deteriorated,” said Kampilan. “The peasant councils that seized power after the fall of Griffonstone still refuse to recognize our authority as the legitimate government of Ganzir, and they have called for a Grand Council to convene in Neighneveh.”
“Jacquerie,” muttered Auriga.
“Representatives from every peasant council in Ganzir will gather to come to an agreement on their future,” Kampilan continued. “I would advise sending an ambassador to negotiate with respect to their integration with the Provisional Government.”
“That would be wise, I agree,” said Nimbus. “Auriga, you have met with these peasant leaders before. You shall travel to Neighneveh and do your utmost to persuade them to acknowledge the supremacy of this Provisional Government.”
“Yes, ma’am,” said Auriga.
“Kampilan will mobilize the National Guard. If the peasants refuse to unify voluntarily we will have to do so forcefully, but this will be our last resort.” Nimbus pointed at Kampilan. He nodded. Auriga left the room.
I should probably tell Scrimshaw…
***
“I’m coming with you,” said Scrimshaw. “It’s no short trot to Neighneveh, it could be dangerous.”
“No argument here. I’m glad I always have you to watch my flank,” said Auriga. Scrimshaw blushed.
As they left Irkalla, several ponies stopped to give them dirty looks or jeers, all invoking Boreas. The anti-clerical measures being undertaken by the National Assembly were public knowledge, and Auriga’s stance on the Temple was no secret either.
“You know, we’ll be free from these types in Neighneveh,” Auriga whispered to Scrimshaw.
“Really?”
“Even though the Temple holds much sway in Irkalla, it has no real presence in the countryside,” explained Auriga. “Ponies practice more traditional mysticism there. Gods that raise the sun and the moon, that kind of thing.”
“Well Boreas sounds downright rational next to that,” Scrimshaw snorted.
***
Auriga and Scrimshaw arrived in Neighneveh after a long day of travel, exhausted. They found a room at an inn and slept until morning.
They woke to the sound of loud commotion, and left their room to find ponies running frantically through the lobby. Auriga stopped one of them.
“What’s happened?” she asked.
“The Provisional Government has fallen!” the pony hurriedly replied. “After they were denounced by the Borean High Prelate in Irkalla, an officer named Kampilan dissolved the National Assembly, arrested Nimbus Gust, and declared himself President-Marshal.”
Irkalla has fallen?
***
Scrimshaw was stunned. Auriga galloped back to their room, but Scrimshaw needed to stay still to process the news. She needed to contact somepony in Irkalla. But how?
She walked outside the inn and saw it: the Neighneveh office of the Meridian Company.
Of course! Mr. Meridian said there was an Ether Port in every one of his company’s offices. I can use this one to reach the one in his study!
Scrimshaw raced inside to find an unenthused unicorn stallion at the front desk.
“I need to use your Ether Port,” said Scrimshaw. The stallion paused to look at her quizzically before answering.
“It’s out of order,” he replied. “We don’t have any crystals.”
“Is there any way to use it without a crystal?”
“Well, it can be powered manually with unicorn magic, but that process is… draining.” The stallion winced.
“Take me to it, I’ll power it myself!” Scrimshaw nearly shouted.
The stallion led her to a back room that held the Ether Port. Sure enough, there was an empty slot open on the side of the machine. Scrimshaw focused her magic into the slot.
Good thing his number is easy to remember, I just have to hope he’s in his study.
The screen on the port remained black for a tense few seconds, but eventually Prime Meridian’s face appeared. Scrimshaw could feel herself losing energy powering the machine.
“What’s going on over there!” shouted Scrimshaw. “Hurry, I don’t know how much longer I can keep this up.”
“Kampilan has taken over, it’s chaos!” Meridian tapped his hooves together anxiously. “The Sword has been forced back underground, but most of my contacts are still good,” he added.
“Prepare the Sword for a second uprising,” Scrimshaw grunted from exertion. “In a few days we will return to Irkalla with an army. Be ready to send a signal the night we are in position.”
“An army? How do you plan to do that?” Meridian asked.
“Auri can do it. I know she can.” Scrimshaw’s magic faltered. She couldn’t power the machine any longer, and she collapsed to the ground in exhaustion.
Scrimshaw entered her room at the inn to find Auriga lying face-down on her bed.
“Auri! What are you doing? Shouldn’t you be preparing?” she asked. Auriga remained motionless, giving no response. Scrimshaw reached out a hoof and shook her.
“It doesn’t matter. I’ve failed. Ganzir is lost,” said Auriga, in a voice quieter than Scrimshaw had ever heard her speak. Scrimshaw couldn’t believe it, she had to see her face. She flipped Auriga over and was shocked by what she saw.
Auriga’s eyes were dead. Before they had burned with passion, but now they looked like dried blood.
“You’re not going to fight?” Scrimshaw was dumbfounded. “You were the one who taught me some things are always worth fighting for!”
“I’m sorry.” Auriga’s voice was cold. “Give up, it’s over.” She turned away from Scrimshaw.
“You’re the one pony I thought I’d never see give up!” Scrimshaw stomped her hoof, anger building up inside her. “We can convince the peasants to help us! What about reaching an agreement with Jacquerie?”
“OK. Y-Y-You go talk to him,” said Auriga unsteadily. Scrimshaw rolled her eyes and pulled Auriga upright to face her.
“No, Auri. YOU have to do this.” The weak mare in front of her wasn’t Auri. Scrimshaw wanted to smack her.
“But...” Auriga’s voice cracked. Tears welled up in her eyes. “I-I can’t,” she whispered.
Scrimshaw took Auriga’s head into her hooves, looked into her eyes, and kissed her.
Auriga’s eyes bulged open, before she closed them and ran a hoof through Scrimshaw’s mane. She tugged, and they both went tumbling into the bed.
***
Jacquerie sat in his chairgriff’s desk, snickering across from Auriga.
“So you’re here to, ah,” Jacquerie gave another suppressed laugh, “negotiate?”
Auriga nodded, stone-faced.
“I’m sorry, but given… recent events, I don’t think you’re in a position to demand anything.” he said, smiling.
“On the contrary, I’d much rather be in my horseshoes than yours,” she said calmly.
“And why is that?” he humored her.
“Considering Irkalla is currently in the claws of a Borean confessional state, it doesn’t sound like a place that would have any problems accepting a little help from Griffonstone.” Auriga waved her hoof whimsically. “Maybe accepting an army of knights to help clear the countryside of some rebellious peasants.” Jacquerie’s eyes went wide. “I sure wouldn’t want to be one of those peasant leaders.” Auriga smirked.
“But you are in luck!” Auriga leaned forward. “I have a number of associates in Irkalla who would be happy to help kick out those traitors, they’ll just need a little help. So I ask you: is there any reason why we can’t reach a compromise?”
Jacquerie sighed and slumped forward.
***
With the support of Jacquerie, the Grand Council of Peasants voted overwhelmingly to unify with the Provisional Government and aid in its restoration. The call went out for every town and village to rally their militia for a march on Irkalla.
In a few short days, the peasant’s army was assembled, and Auriga stood outside the city with Scrimshaw and Jacquerie. It looked impregnable, with the fortress at its center and tall outer walls.
“Any ideas how we get inside?” she asked. Jacquerie shrugged.
“I’ve got one,” Scrimshaw replied. Her ornate horn glowed, and a runic circle appeared beneath the three of them. The symbols pulsed with arcane energy, and with a flash they vanished along with everything else.
Auriga recognized the place they appeared. It was a very familiar place: the dark and empty cellar of the Meridian House.
“Nice going!” she said.
“Why did you bring me?” Jacquerie asked, holding out his claws.
“Insurance,” said Auriga, poking the griffon’s chest.
“Damn, I blew out my magic casting that spell.” Scrimshaw looked like she had a splitting headache as she rubbed her horn.
“For how long?” asked Auriga.
“I’m not sure; could be days or weeks,” replied Scrimshaw. “In any case, we have to hurry.”
They exited the cellar and made their way towards the foyer when they heard the telltale sound of Meridian’s voice. They followed it to its source to find Meridian sitting in a lounge talking with Silent Eye. When she saw Auriga, Silent Eye bolted upright and ran to her.
“You have returned! It’s true!” She bowed.
“Indeed, and you’ve come at an opportune time,” said Meridian. “Kampilan’s grip on the city is far from solidified, and the Sword is ready to rise up on our signal. The only problem is capturing the stallion himself.” Meridian scratched his chin.
“We can handle that. Do you know where he is?” asked Scrimshaw.
“City Hall,” replied Meridian, “one of our agents guards the roof entrance. He can let you in.”
“Mr. Meridian, do you have a gadget or something to help us out? I have a feeling we’ll need it,” said Auriga, looking at Scrimshaw.
“Yes, actually!” Meridian rummaged through a pile of junk and pulled out a small black ring. “It’s a magic suppressor. Just slip it on the base of a unicorn’s horn and press the button to instantly negate their ability to use magic of any kind!”
“Well isn’t that funny,” chuckled Scrimshaw.
“Excellent,” said Auriga, taking the suppressor. “Send the signal in one hour. By that time we will have apprehended Kampilan. Open the gates of the city and unite with the peasants. Kampilan won’t know what hit him.”
***
They snuck their way to Irkalla City Hall under the cover of darkness. When they reached the building, Jacquerie flew the two ponies onto the roof. The Sword agent recognized Auriga and beckoned them over.
“Where is Kampilan?” asked Auriga.
“He is alone in the Assembly chamber, but I do not know for how much longer.” said the guard. “You must hurry!”
They slipped inside City Hall as Auriga took out the magic suppressor.
“How are we going to get this on him?” she asked, looking at Scrimshaw and Jacquerie.
“Normally I would be able to use my magic, but...” Scrimshaw tried and failed to levitate the suppressor.
“And I don’t think I’ll be able to sneak up on him.” Auriga frowned.
“Leave it to me.” Jacquerie took the suppressor in the claws and twirled it around dexterously. “You two just distract him, and I’ll take care of the rest.”
They silently made their way to the Assembly chamber and saw Kampilan standing at the center, looking up at the rotunda’s skylight. Jacquerie snuck away from Auriga and Scrimshaw.
The two ponies walked up to Kampilan to get his attention. He bolted upright and turned to face them.
“Wha- What are you doing here?” Kampilan demanded as his magic enveloped them.
“We have an important message for you.” said Auriga.
“And what is that?” asked Kampilan as he brought the two ponies closer.
“You know the last governor?” asked Auriga.
Kampilan nodded. Auriga laughed dryly.
“That’s good, cause you’re gonna be roommates real soon.”
Kampilan narrowed his eyes in confusion, but didn’t have time to respond before Jacquerie swooped down upon him. The griffon deftly maneuvered the magic suppressor onto Kampilan’s horn and activated the device.
Auriga and Scrimshaw fell to the ground in time to see Kampilan buck Jacquerie off his back with brutal force. The two ponies rushed to attack Kampilan. Scrimshaw slid low to his left as Auriga lept up at him head-on.
Kampilan swung a strong hoof that landed squarely on Auriga’s jaw, sending her reeling. He advanced for a follow-up, but yelped when Scrimshaw stabbed her horn into his side.
Auriga tasted blood as she wound up to deliver Kampilan a powerful buck. His turn in response to Scrimshaw put him in the perfect position. Her hooves flew true and Kampilan was hit with a knockout blow. He spun around woozily, then fell backwards.
Auriga looked over to Jacquerie. He was still collapsed on the ground. She trotted over to him and reached out a hoof to help the griffon up. Jacquerie took it and coughed as he slowly rose.
“I have a good feeling about tonight.” Auriga said.
***
Nimbus Gust, the newly-restored Director of Ganzir’s Provisional Government, sat across from Auriga. Morning light filtered through a window into the director’s office.
“The Assembly will ratify your agreement with the peasant councils posthaste. A masterwork of diplomacy if I do say so myself,” said Nimbus. “Unfortunately, the draft of our new constitution was destroyed during Kampilan’s coup.”
“You’ll have to make a new one, but without me this time,” said Auriga. “I am honored by the faith you placed in me, but I’m not cut out to be your advisor. You’re a good director, so my parting advice is: trust yourself.” Nimbus’ mouth hung open as Auriga left her office.
Scrimshaw waited for her outside City Hall. Auriga walked out to a bright new day. She looked at the mare next to her. The mare she loved.
And smiled.
