Chapters Prologue: The Illness of a Chaos God
1st day of 5th Moon, 6 ALR: Canterlot Royal Hospital
Discord lay in agony as he felt the chaotic magic within him twist and contort. His entire body was covered in probes and needles monitoring his vitals and magical activity while also administering next to useless pain medication. The lights of his room were far too bright as his tender eyes burned and his head throbbed, not helped by the insufferable beeping of the heart monitor next to him. He had been in this state for the better part of two weeks and all the while he had not been able to get a proper night's rest.
His only comfort was the yellow mare behind him, her pink mane frazzled as she two had not gotten enough sleep. Fluttershy had been the one to take Discord to the Ponyville hospital after he had collapsed during one of their weekly tea parties. Twilight had ultimately decided to move the ailing draconequus to an isolated wing of the Royal Canterlot Hospital. She had initially barred Fluttershy from visiting him because of the possibility of dangerous magical surges due to Discord’s mysterious condition. However, despite the yellow pegasus fear of anything remotely dangerous, she had insisted on being by Discord’s side, prompting several protests from the recently crowned purple alicorn.
Discord felt a ripple of magic flow through him and a knot began to form at the base of his stomach. He opened his eyes and stared intently at the white plaster ceiling of the room as a wave of pain flowed through his body. The knot was a sign of what was coming, and he turned to look at the yellow pegasus beside him. Her eyes were bloodshot due to lack of sleep and yet they were still so captivating, a sign of how deeply she cared for the draconequus. “Fluttershy… Can you get me a doctor?” Asked Discord in a pained voice before his eyes rolled back and his body began to shake violently.
Fluttershy’s eyes widened as she saw sparks begin to surround Discord’s violently shaking body. Frozen in fear she was only broken free from her trance by Discord’s screams of agony. She bolted out of the room and galloped along a seemingly endless hallway screaming for help. As she rounded a corner that led to the main portion of the hospital, Fluttershy finally saw several nurses and two doctors reviewing a clipboard of patient information.
“Please can anypony help me, something terrible is happening to Discord!!”
The doctors and nurses looked in shock at the sudden outburst, unbecoming of a pony as timid as Fluttershy. The group along with the yellow mare began the gallop back down the hall towards Discord’s room, when suddenly time seemed to freeze.
A blast of light rushed out in all directions away from Discord’s room as chaos magic broke free from the draconequus. Fluttershy and the medical team behind her were blown back to the end of the hall as the torrent of magic ripped the ceiling of the hospital wing away, blowing it hundreds of feet into the air. A beam of raw magical energy then blasted straight up into the sky sending a great pulse of light shooting across the Equestrian evening sky.
As the rubble settled a severely weakened Discord lay on the charred remains of his hospital room, smoke still billowing from the smoldering carpet beneath him. Guards and other medical staff from the primary wing of the hospital rushed into the devastated wing of the hospital. They helped collect the unconscious bodies of Fluttershy and the medical team that had run after her in an attempt to help Discord. Many of the unicorn guards used their magic to suppress the flames that began to consume the rubble of the east wing of the Royal Canterlot Hospital.
Twilight looked out at the crowd of nobles before her, their bickering rigging in her ears as she took another scroll from Spike. Princess Celestia had often complained to her about the day court when she was still living in Canterlot and had warned her about its dull nature shortly before Twilight’s coronation as Head of State. However, she had not appreciated how mind-numbingly boring and annoying the petty arguments between nobles truly were.
The mayor of Manehattan and the dock owner were arguing with the leader of the Dock Workers Union over a strike that had been delaying cargo and passenger ships at Equestria’s largest port.
“We simply must get the docks working again, Manehattan and all of Equestria depend on the steady flow of traffic through the docks, this strike threatens to derail the delicate supply chains that support our economy!” Exclaimed Mayor Scribble Write.
“These strikes would end now if Executive Sea Dollar here agreed to increase the dock workers' wages!” Harbor Might exclaimed as he pointed an accusing hoof at the blue unicorn wearing an expensive suit, before continuing, “The dock workers bust their flanks making sure ships are moored properly and cargo is moved in and out of ships, the least the Port Authority can do is give them a decent living. We demand a 40% increase in wages or the strikes continue!”
“But the margins are far too tight, an increase in wages will surely result in increased port fees, and ponies across Equestria will feel the pain of higher prices!” Interjected the well-dressed unicorn.
Twilight could feel an ache begin to form at her brow as she began to speak, “Mr. Might would you be willing to end the strike if the workers get a 30% pay increase?”
Harbor Might began to smile and looked up at the princess just as a Sea Dollar’s face fell into a deep frown. “Yes your Majesty, the Union would agree to end the strike with a 30% salary increase,” he replied, with the indifferent expression on Twilight’s face giving way to a slight smile.
“But, Your Majesty, the Equestrian Government should be stopping these disruptive demonstrations, not encouraging them!” Whined Sea Dollar as the slight smile on Twilight’s face disappeared and turned into a death glare.
“Mr. Dollar, I am going to offer you a small subsidy in exchange for the 30% pay increase, but should you object to this deal I could mandate the 40% pay increase as requested by Mr. Might, and impose a moratorium on shipping fee increases,”
The scowl on Sea Dollar’s face faded away and he bowed deeply at the purple alicorn, “No your M… Majesty, I agree to the deal,”
“Thank you, your Majesty, I believe that we have finally settled this…” Said Mayor Scribble Write before the glass of the throne room shattered, spraying glass all across the room. Twilight immediately teleported herself and Spike away from the throne and the guards towards the middle of the three ponies whose conversation had been interrupted by a shower of glass. With her magic, the princess threw up a force field deflecting the sharp glass away from the small crowd of ponies in the room.
Twilight turned to the holes where the stained glass windows had been and saw a massive column of pure chaos magic shooting straight up into the air. Chunks of the hospital roof shoot up in all directions away from the source of the magical column with a pulse of magic reminiscent of a sonic rainboom shooting across the sky.
“Fluttershy was at the hospital!” exclaimed Spike.
Twilight looked at Spike wide-eyed and the pair ran out of the throne room, the guards and the ponies from Manehattan still sitting dazed after the sudden magical burst. Guards in the hall rushing into the throne room froze at the sight of their princess running out towards the hospital. The windows all along the hall were shattered glass strewn across the floor and crunching under Twilight’s hooves.
After finally collecting herself from the shock of the realization that Fluttershy might be severely hurt, Twilight turned to Spike. “Go get the girls! I will find out what happened to Fluttershy,” Spike nodded in agreement, and then Twilight disappeared in a flash of purple magic.
Twilight emerged in another flash of purple just outside the entrance to the hospital. Before her guards and medical workers covered in ash were evacuating patients out of the wrecked hospital. Although the main wing of the hospital had not suffered the direct results of Discord’s magical explosion, its proximity meant that much of the medical equipment inside had been fried by the surge of chaos magic, and like most of the buildings in Canterlot, the windows had been blown out. Broken glass crunched under the wheels of hospital beds and guards with carts began to transport patients to other nearby hospitals.
Twilight galloped over to one of the doctors whose eyes lit up at seeing the princess so soon after the disaster that unfolded. “Doctor, how are the patients, have there been any casualties as a result of the explosion?”
“Your Majesty, we have reported some major injuries from staff and patients closest to the explosion, but thankfully redundancies prevented any life support magic from failing as a result of the blast. Canterlot General has agreed to house the most injured and weak patients, while the rest will be transported to a temporary location that we are setting up at the park,” The doctor pointed to the tents being set up in the field in front of the Royal Hospital.
Twilight turned to look at the work the guards and other medical staff had done to prepare tents and equipment for the temporary hospital before turning back to the doctor, “What about Fluttershy and Discord?”
“Fluttershy was away from Discord’s room when the magical blast happened, she had apparently noticed something was going on and had run to get some help from some of our other medical staff when the blast occurred, but she was still close enough to have broken her left forehoof and right-wing. Discord has miraculously survived the magical surge, and his magical activity levels have stabilized although at a severely weakened state, we are still keeping him isolated from the other patients but we believe that the possibility of another surge is unlikely. Fluttershy has just left before you arrived at Canterlot General to treat her injuries,”
“Thank you, I will send another battalion of guards to help with the recovery efforts, and I will make sure to find a way to contain another possible surge by Discord. I will leave you to get back to your duties,” Twilight gave the doctor a small smile and walked away before approaching the commanding officer of the Royal Guard detachment working at the temporary hospital.
"Lieutenant Steadfast, I would like you to send a guard informing Captain Rampart that I wish to send another battalion of guards to assist in the evacuation and recovery of this hospital.” Twilight held on to an aura of calm authority but the anxiety of Fluttershy’s awful condition was gnawing away at her crumbling resolve. All she wanted was to teleport to Canterlot General Hospital and see Fluttershy, but she understood she had a duty to ensure the safety and well-being of all her subjects. Twilight felt a sense of guilt for not seeing just how unstable Discord's magic truly was, and her perceived lapse in judgment and lack of precautions had led to a catastrophe that had endangered all of the citizens of Canterlot and had severely injured one of her best friends.
“Yes your Majesty,” Replied Lieutenant Steadfast with a salute before galloping towards one of his guards with the princess’s message to the Captain of the Royal Guard.
Satisfied Twilight turned back to the hospital to make sure she did everything possible to mitigate another magical surge from the I’ll God of Chaos. Inside there was a swarm of activity, staff and guards sweeping the glass and scattered papers off the floors while also moving the last of the patients outside. Twilight didn’t need to ask where Discord was, even in his weakened state, his magical presence was so strong that she could still sense his location. As an alicorn, Celestia had taught her how to distinguish the magical signatures of individuals and use them to find their locations. Typically it took some effort to use this ability on a normal pony but the unique nature of chaos magic and Discord’s raw power made him especially easy to detect.
Discord had been moved to the now mostly vacant main wing of the hospital, doctors had reconnected new monitoring equipment and an IV drip to his tattered frame. His appearance was truly horrifying, the feathers on his pegasus wing had fallen away, the fur on his body singed from his magical surge, but most hauntingly of all, his eyes were glazed over yet full of so much pain. The only sign of life other than the beeping of the heart monitor was the slow rise and fall of his chest.
“H… H… How’s Fluttershy?”
Twilight grimaced at the mention of her name, “I have yet to see her personally, the doctors say she is in a stable condition, the blast broke one of her wings and legs,”
Discord frowned but then spoke, “I… I felt something wasn’t… wasn’t right so… I sent her away in hopes… that nothing would happen to her,” he turned to look at Twilight, “Tell… her I’m s… sorry,”
“It was my fault, I should have cast wards and taken other precautions, but I will tell her,” she refrained from mentioning her regret of letting Fluttershy near him knowing that it would break the already ruined draconequus. Her horn glowed a soft magenta as she manipulated the arcane field around her, the magic flowing through her before touching her horn to the walls. A magenta field spread out in all directions covering the walls and floor of the room, “I’m sorry this had to happen to you, Discord, your recovery may be slowed but hopefully this ward can absorb at least some of the energy of any subsequent surges,”
“D… do not… worry about me… go see Fluttershy,” Discord managed to give Twilight a weak smile before he fell asleep, his chest continuing to rise and fall.
There was a flash of magenta and the purple alicorn in Discord’s room was gone. Twilight reappeared at the gates of Canterlot General Hospital and she immediately galloped inside and to the front desk. The receptionists froze at the sudden appearance of the princess.
“I’m looking for Fluttershy!” Twilight’s veneer of professionalism was now gone as she desperately wanted to see the state of her friend.
“Room 321 on the third floor, Your Majesty,”
Twilight didn’t even wait to thank the receptionist before darting to the nearest set of stairs. She galloped as fast as she could up the steps and only stopped for a brief moment to look at a map and find where room 321 was located. Unlike her frantic dash to the room, Twilight softly opened the door, careful not to disturb her friend.
Inside lay a sleeping yellow pegasus, her foreleg, and wing tightly wrapped in a gauze cast. Her left eyelid bloomed in a sickening purple bruise and a cut ran through her right cheek. Most of her body not covered in bandages was bruised and small cuts criss crossed her body. Thankfully she was alive and resting, her chest rising and falling softly, her pink mane tangled and frizzy. Twilight sat down on the cold tile floor and wept softly, finally allowing herself to completely break down.
May 1st, 1910: RMS. Carmania
Captain Horace Bradly was looking out from the bridge of the RMS. Carmania, one of the many ships of the prestigious Cunard Line. He was sipping tea from a small porcelain cup he held in his hand. Outside the ship was cutting through the waves at 18 knots, the breeze rushing over the captain's face. The sky was a clear blue and the ocean stretched outwards for miles. Seagulls could be heard in the distance, the birds following the scraps left behind by the ship's passengers.
Then there was a bright flash of light and a golden arc of energy shot through the sky. The spectacle caused the cup of tea in Horace’s hand to fall on the deck, the fine china shattering and splashing hot tea across the floor and on his pants. Suddenly a wooden sail ship appeared right before the bow of the 20,000-ton ocean liner. Captain Bradly immediately turned and ran into the wheelhouse of the bridge, the helmsman already turning the ship hard to starboard.
“Full Astern!” Ordered the captain in a frightened voice.
An officer lunged at one of the engine order telegraphs at the front of the wheelhouse and pulled down the lever to the full astern position, the clicking of the lever adding to the commotion in the room. Captain Bradly ran up to the second telegram and slammed the lever down to reverse the engines, it was far too late, the Carmania lunged backward as her tall steel bow sliced through the wooden hull of the ship before her. The wooden siding and decking of the smaller ship buckled and splintered under the force of the steel bow, rigging snapping as the three large masts collapsed. Sails and ropes strewn across the prow of the Carmania, the tall mast breaking apart and bouncing off the tall sides of the ocean liner into the frigid Atlantic waters. The sailing ship was cut in half, with each side of the doomed ship dragging along the black hull of the much larger Cunard ship, with wooden splinters and scratched paint left behind in the wake of the devastating collision.
The officers on the bridge were all thrown backward by the collision, the men crashed onto the teak flooring, their navy blue suits covered in splinters. First Officer David Burns was the first to get up and he immediately ran to the back of the room and pulled down the lever to close the watertight compartments. Captain Bradly and the rest of the officers subsequently got up and the captain ran out of the wheelhouse and down the bridge wing. He peered over the railing and saw the remains of the doomed wooden sailship being sucked down by the propellers of the Carmania. With wide eyes, the Captain ran back into the boat house.
“Shut off the engines!”
Two officers ran to the engine telegraphs and immediately threw the levers up to the off position. First Officer Burns turned to look at the Captain, “Sir, I have contacted the ship engineer and the damage control team, they are currently assessing the damage to the bow, but they have yet to report any flooding. The watertight compartments have already been sealed,” as he finished David gave a salute to Horace.
“It seems for the moment that the ship is not compromised, I want the lifeboats lowered and for Third Officer Cushing and Fourth Officer Hood to lead a rescue effort on each side of this ship for any passengers and crew on board the ship we just struck. The rest of you will assist me in ensuring the integrity of this ship and preventing panic among the passengers,” said Horace as he faced the Third and Fourth Officers, he then turned to Second Officer Parker before continuing, “Second Officer Parker, I want you to evacuate the Parisian Restaurant and prepare it to house any of the survivors that Cushing and Hood may recover,”
The officers in the room all saluted before in unison saying, “Yes sir!”
Before all the men had left to carry out the orders given to them by the captain, First Officer Burns turned to the captain, “Sir should I contact the telegram officer to contact other ships in the area of the mysterious golden arch of light and the sudden appearance of the wooden ship before us. We could figure out if this is an isolated event or if other ships have experienced something similar,”
“Yes, have a telegram sent, should the engineering report be worse than expected, it would be important to have another vessel en route if the ship needs to be evacuated,” replied Captain Bradly before saluting his men and walking over to a bronze telephone that was wired to a state of the art intercom that connected to the first and second class spaces of the ship. The rest of the officers left to do their assigned tasks leaving the Captain only with the helmsman and navigation officer in the room. Pressing the button next to the phone, the speakers of the ship gave a distinctive static buzz before the Horrace spoke, “Ladies and Gentlemen, do not panic. We have collided with another smaller vessel, but the ship has not sustained any major damage. I ask you to return to your cabins and await further instructions,”
Ocean Spray was mopping the decks of the EMS. Unicorns, all across the deck ponies were helping clean and maintain the rigging holding the massive sails of the ship in place. The ship had left from Saddle Arabia hauling hundreds of fine rugs and tapestries from the kingdom and was returning to Manehatten to unload its precious cargo.
Suddenly there was a bright flash of light and a golden arch of light emerging from the west rushed through the sky. Then there was a roar of water and Ocean Spray turned to the port side of the ship and stared wide-eyed. Before him was a massive metal ship, its massive black hull giving way to a white superstructure and two towering red smokestacks topped with black. The massive ship loomed over the Unicorn as it raced towards them, but then it began to turn.
“Hard to Port!” Cried Captain Seabiscuit as the helmsman up on the quarterdeck frantically turned the wheel to avoid disaster.
“Brace yourselves!” Called out by some random pony Ocean Spray could not distinguish before the massive metal hull of the ship before him crashed into the side of the Unicorn. Ocean Spray threw himself on the deck as the soapy water he used to mop the deck spilled all over his light blue fur. Loud crunching noises filled his ears as the deck before him began to buckle under the immense force of the impact, planks of teak shooting up from the deck of the ship as the massive black bow began to tear the Unicorn in half. Ropes began to flail wildly as the rigging holding the sails in place snapped. Lifting himself from the deck, Ocean Spray unfurled his wings in a desperate attempt to escape the carnage before him, but just as he began to take flight, a massive linen sail fell on top of him smashing him back onto the crumbling wooden decks. The screams of fellow sailors blended in with the groans and cracks of the doomed ship as the massive masts of the Unicorn toppled over, the rigging holding them into place giving way and then crashing into the water below.
Suddenly the loud crunching noises stopped as the hull of the massive black ship finally cut through the Unicorn, but then came the horrid rushing noise of water as it poured into the ruined hull of the Equestrian cargo ship. Ocean Spray began to crawl on the deck as the massive sail laid over him, its weight pressing down on his body. As he made his way out from under the massive linen cloth, the blue pegasus felt the deck under him tilt as the stern of the ship began to capsize. The tilt quickly worsened as the weight of the water in the hull pulled the Unicorn into the ocean’s embrace, fellow sailors sliding helplessly into the waves. In a desperate attempt to hang on to the ship Ocean Spray dashed to the starboard railing of the ship, but the deck's extreme angle caused the stallion to slide down towards the frigid ocean below. Water had already enveloped the port side railing and the gaping hole left behind by the collision slipped into the frigid blue, the stern rising high into the sky as the entire hull plunged into the depths.
Ocean Spray hit the water in a splash, his right hind leg smacking into the submerged railing of the Unicorn. The pain from the impact quickly overshadowed the pain of the ice-cold water, it felt as if thousands of knives were constantly being plunged into his skin. Regaining his composure he began to swim back to the surface, the water flowing through his mane as he rose from out the depths.
He gasped for air as he broke through the surface of the water. Looking around him he saw other ponies splashing around the water desperately trying to keep their heads above the water, some crying in agony and others screaming for help. Beside him still loomed the towering ship that had destroyed the Unicorn, its tall hull standing defiantly in triumph as the stern of the Unicorn finally slipped under the waves. There was nothing left of the ship in which Ocean Spray had served for the last six years of his life. Swimming over to his right he took hold of a teak plank and attempted to pull his soaking body up onto the board, but as he placed his weight on the board, the seawater rushed over it throwing Ocean Spray back into the frigid ocean.
Looking up to the towering ship before him he saw in printed in gilded letters at the top of the bow the name of the giant, Carmania. From the top of the Carmania, boats began to be lowered into the water, a distant whistle signaling their descent down to the ocean. Ocean Spray struggled to catch his breath as he continued clinging onto the wooden board as the waves crashed into his blue coat. He knew that the boats were his only chance of survival, the stinging pain of the cold water enveloping his body was beginning to fade, as a numbness bloomed from the ends of his limbs. Precious body heat was seeped away by the ever-present cold as he began to grow weak, his life force following the fleeting warmth of his body.
Thoughts of his family and life back in Manehattan gave him the determination to fight against the numbness and he relished the pain as a sign of life when he slowly began swimming toward the Carmania’s lifeboats. However, the numbness spread, followed by a dreadful warmth, and hypothermia was now clawing away at the life within him. The pegasus magic usually helped mitigate the cold, but that was when he was dry, the ocean’s water penetrated past his fur and helped gnaw directly at his warmth. Ocean Spray pushed harder, determined to make it to the boats, but his vision began to cloud as the false warmth spread, his quickened pace slowed as he slowly fell out of consciousness. As the boats finally touched down on the water Ocean Spray used his last ounce of energy in an attempt to cry for help, but all he could muster was a small whimper as his vision slowly faded into darkness.
William Cushing looked out at the debris field before him, large linen sails floated above the waves along with empty crates and planks of wood that had splintered off the sailship. All around the debris field, multicolored figures flailed around in the water, but as the boat continued to lower their movements began to slow.
“Why are the men down there all wearing such bright clothes?” Asked one of the sailors holding on to one of the ropes lowering the lifeboat.
William turned back to the sailor, “My question is how in the bloody hell did an 18th-century sloop just appear out of nowhere? There was a flash of light and then, boom a ship right beyond the bow!” He moved his hands to demonstrate the golden arch of light that had preceded the appearance of the ship.
“We were scrubbing down the sun deck when we saw the flash of light, being behind the forward funnel we didn’t see the sloop until the ship lurched backward. We were bloody scared, and we ran to the side of the ship only to see half of a wooden ship dragging along the hull as it sunk,” replied another sailor as he looked at William, the thud of a boat bouncing off the hull of the Carmania prompting him to turn his head to another lifeboat being lowered for the rescue effort. The distant sounds of expletives were heard as the men on the other boat attempted to use oars to push the boat away from the ship.
A cold breeze blew through the boat prompting shivers from the men on board and rocking the boat from side to side. Officer Cushing signaled for the men to push their oars against the ocean liner to attempt to mitigate the swaying. Finally, after what seemed like an eternity the boat touched down on the water and William blew his whistle, the piercing sound signaling to the men above to stop the pulley lowering the boat. As the rope slacked, two sailors untied the knots holding the boat to the hoists that lowered it into the ocean. Once the ropes were free, the men waited for the piercing sound of whistles, signaling that the other boats had touched down onto the sea.
Picking up a voice trumpet housed at the bow of the lifeboat, William turned to look at the boats behind him, putting the brass cone up to his mouth, “Men, we are going to comb over the debris field in a grid, Seaman Wild, you will patrol the eastern reaches of the debris field, Seamen Morrison and Blumenthal, you both will cut through the middle, I will patrol the western reaches. Once your boats are full, return to the Carmania, Second Officer Parker will meet you there,”
The men saluted, followed by the sound of oars sloshing through the water as the lifeboats pushed toward their objectives. William sat back down as his boat was pushed through the waves by the men behind him when suddenly there was a small whimper.
“Over there!” Cried one of the sailors as he pointed towards a sky-blue blob floating next to a teak board.
Immediately the boat's rudder was turned and it slowly made its way to the blob, as it got closer, the blob started looking more and more like a horse. Once they got next to the creature, the men’s eyes widened, it was a pegasus, its blue wings unmistakably attached to the sides of its barrel and soaked with the frigid waters of the North Atlantic.
“How the bloody hell did we find a bloody pegasus in the middle of the ocean!” Exclaimed a sailor in total disbelief, men peering over the side of the boat to gently load the creature straight out of Greek mythology into the lifeboat.
“This day simply gets stranger and stranger, first we have a ship appear out of nowhere and now we find a pegasus, next thing you know there will be unicorns and bloody magic!” Declared William in an exasperated tone as he pulled out a towel and handed it to the sailors so that they could dry off the pegasus.
The pegasus had a sky blue coat with a silver main, its wings far too small compared to the actual size of the creature to allow it to fly, and on its flank, was a tattoo of a wave. William and his crew pressed on, pushing deeper into the field of destruction left in the wake of Carmania’s collision. He was shocked as the crew continued to pull out these multicolored horses, some of which were unicorns and others that were simply colorful horses. Soon, the boat had filled with the freezing and unconscious bodies of the horses, the men doing the little they could to treat the apparent hypothermia that these creatures were suffering.
“Where is the crew? I have not seen a single person out here, just more of these horses,” asked one of the sailors as steam rose from out of his mouth and he furiously rubbed his hands together to combat the numbing cold of constantly dipping his hands into the water.
Officer Cushing turned to look at the sailor and shrugged, “I have no clue, they must have gone down with the ship or maybe just like every strange thing that has happened today these horses were the bloody crew. Anyways, we have to turn back the boat is full and we risk sinking if we try to recover any more survivors, there are still some boats out and they will take care of the rest,”
Once again with the turn of the rudder, the boat swung in the direction of the looming Ocean Liner. After several minutes of paddling, they approached the lifeboat launch hoists and the men carefully aligned the boat to match up with the hoists. Men on either side held the ropes used to tie the boat onto the hoist, and quickly tied knots to secure the boat, testing the strength of their binding with firm tugs. Once all the hoists were secured William blew his whistle, the boat lurching upward in response.
After a few minutes, they made it up beside the boat deck, crewmen grabbed hold of the boat and pulled it toward the ship, the davits folding backward. Waiting for them at the top was both Second Officer Parker and Captain Bradly along with several other crew members. The men immediately helped pull the limp equines out of the boat and moved them down to the Parisian Restaurant. Passengers had congraded on the exits of the lavish lounges to see the commotion that was unfolding on the boat deck, the crew doing their best to keep the passengers at bay.
“Officer Cushing, I have talked to Officer Hood on the port side, and it seems like the crew either went down with the ship or there were no humans on board,” the captain then pointed in the direction of the restaurant and continued, “The Parisian Restaurant has been boarded up to prevent passengers from seeing the creatures. I need you along with Dr. Mills to treat the survivors and keep them isolated from the passengers, he will be waiting for you there,”
“Yes sir!” William saluted the Captain before he began to drag out one of the small horses, and both the Captain and the Second Officer assisted him in gently placing the creature on the ship's deck. Just as they were about to pull out another pony, First Officer Burns came running down the deck before stopping next to the Captain.
“Sir, the damage report is complete. The bow plates had some minor deformation, but the ship is safe. A message has been relayed to the Cunard offices informing them of the collision. We have also received replies from all ships in range and they have also reported seeing the golden arch of light. Mauritania is en route to offer assistance and is about 30 miles away and closing,” he pointed to the northeast as he finished.
“Thank you, I’ll be heading back to the bridge,” the Captain turned over to the Second Officer, “Officer Parker, inform me when rescue efforts on both sides are complete so I can get this ship underway,”
“Yes Sir!” Replied Parker before he and William turned to move the remaining equines to the restaurant.
There was a darkness that then faded into a blinding white as Ocean Spray slowly regained consciousness. After a few brief seconds, the white gave way to a beautifully sculpted plaster ceiling, wreaths, and vines framing a smooth surface with the center featuring a small crystal chandelier. Surrounding the plaster ceiling were expertly carved dark wooden beams and ornate wooden pillars. He looked down, along the walls were rich brown tables and chairs, all featuring intricately carved decorations, the walls decorated in white paneling. Ocean Spray was amazed by the luxurious splendor of the room, he had never been in such a lavish place in his life.
Finally, he turned his head to the right and froze. Towering before him were two tall figures, one wore a long dark overcoat and a white cap with a black brim, an emblem of a crown, and a golden lion surrounded by a wreath emblazoned on the front. The other wore a brown suit, and both looked like hairless apes, their faces featured a tiny muzzle and small almond-shaped eyes, and the one in the suit also had a gray mustache and short gray mane. He tried to shuffle backwards but the tightly wrapped blanket around him prevented his escape.
“Please don’t hurt me,” squeaked out Ocean Spray, his dry throat making it difficult to speak.
The apes immediately recoiled back as they looked at him stunned. Then he noticed more of the tall strange creatures in the room looking at him with similar expressions before giving each other perplexed glances.
The creature with the overcoat and cap knelt towards him as his pupils shrunk to pinpricks and he began to shake in fear, “Don’t worry, we are not going to hurt you, we are here to help you and your fellow shipmates. We are surprised that you can talk”
Ocean Spray began to relax and stopped struggling against his blankets, with his fear subsiding he began to notice an aching pain from his right hind leg, His throat stung due to dehydration, “Water please?”
The creature with the overcoat turned to look at the creature with the suit who had already walked to one of its compatriots holding a wide brim cup. The suited creature quickly returned and held the water cup to Ocean Spray’s mouth. The blue pegasus slowly sipped on the elixir of life, the burning in the back of his throat soothed.
“What is your name, what do you call yourselves?” asked the suited creature pointing to the still-sleeping ponies on the floor.
Clearing his throat he replied, “Ocean Spray, I am a pony, specifically a stallion from Equestria, how about you?”
The two creatures turned to grin at one another before the creature with the suit and mustache replied, “I am Dr. Mills and here next to me is Third Officer Cushing, we are both humans hailing from the British Empire,”
Officer Cushing turned away and looked at one of the other humans in the room and shouted across the room, “Tell the Captain to come over and have the telegram relay a message back to London, we have discovered a new intelligent life!”
Chapter 2: Towering Stacks (reworked)
Chapter 2: Towering Stacks
3rd day of 5th Moon, 6 ALR: Manehattan Docks
Mayor Scribble Write, Sea Dollar, and Harbor Might were dumbfounded, before them was the Manehattan Docks, ponies working frantically to moor the massive ships before them. They were unlike any ships any pony had ever seen, their black hulls towering over the dock buildings and topped by brilliant white supper structures. The smokestacks of the ships varied in color but they all shot up so high into the air that they dwarfed all but the tallest skyscrapers in the city. Tall masts completed the imposing presence of the ships and flew massive strange flags. The ships with golden funnels flew black, white, and red banners with a golden corner where a crowned black eagle was printed. A blue flag with red crosses outlined in white was flown by the ships with red or orange funnels topped in black, and a checkered flag of blue with fleur de lis and white with a red cross was also flown by some of the ships with red and black funnels.
The trio had just returned from the disaster site that was Canterlot, the massive explosion that had rocked the city just as their negotiations had concluded had delayed trains at the Royal Train Station. Once they had finally arrived in Manehattan Central, they had met up with a couple of dock workers who had described the situation at the docks; they had not realized just how dire the situation was. Strikes had already delayed the departure of many vessels and the docks were already backed up, but the rapid influx of these strange leviathans had caused a backup that had stretched out of the bay. Despite Harbor Might’s announcement that the union’s demands had been met, even the return of the striking workers was not enough to berth all of the ships waiting in the harbor. It was soon realized that even if there were enough workers the piers were too close together and many of the strange ships could not fit inside.
“I must send a letter to the Princess, this is an utter disaster! I will be returning to city hall to organize volunteers and to ask if we can divert ships to other cities. You two figure out how to mitigate this issue here at the docks,” cried out Mayor Scribble Write before she turned around and trotted away to a waiting cab that her assistants had yielded for her.
Sea Dollar and Harbor Might turned to look at the mayor as she sped away in a yellow taxi wagon pulled by a stocky brown stallion. They then turned to look at themselves in worry before turning back to look at an overflowing port.
“I believe I need to write some letters to board members and meet with some executives,” announced Sea Dollar as he tipped his top hat to Harbor Might and then made a run for the nearest taxi, leaving the green stallion alone at the docks.
Harbor Might left with no real options, was left to go help the struggling dock workers. Trotting over to the main dock office, there was a frenzy of activity as ponies exchanged manifests and plotting maps, in the center of the room was the supervisor, a gray earth pony by the name of Anchor Dock. With a whistle Anchor Dock beckoned Harbor Might next to him, “I have got to say we appreciate the negotiating you did on our behalf. I take it you need something to do?”
“Yes please!” Replied the Union leader with a smile.
Suddenly one of the mayor’s staff burst into the room, “Mayor Scribble Write needs somepony to collect the leaders of each of these ships to act as ambassadors for the princess’ arrival!”
Anchor Dock turned to Harbor Might with a grin, “Think you can help in an expedition?”
The brown earth pony nodded and was pushed along by the gray supervisor, the messenger, already departing for the mayor’s office. Signaling his unicorn secretary to follow the trio, walking out into the busy harbor, Anchor Dock beckoned the two onto a waiting harbor pilot boat before turning to look at the confused harbor pilots, “Hello boys, these two will be joining you. The mayor wants to collect human representatives for the princess’ visit, as leader of the Dock Workers Union, Harbor Might over here will do most of the talking and my secretary here, Ms. Book Press will act as a translator,”
The dock pilots turned to look at the two new ponies on their boat and shrugged, “So you want us to go up to every ship and ask to come aboard?”
“Yes, proceed with caution, we are still not completely sure of the intentions of these creatures,” replied Anchor Dock as he stepped off the boat.
The dock pilots molded in understanding and then unfurled the sail of the boat and undid the mooring. Slowly the sailboat moved forward towards the mass of towering ships.
Captain Summers looked out of the cramped bridge of the SS. Corpus Christi, before him, was some kind of pony parody of New York. Being one of the first ships to arrive at this strange place following the golden blast in the sky, the Christi was anchored just beyond the piers, the port a frenzy of activity, with dozens of old 18th-century sailing ships filling all of the berths. They had originally been on the return voyage from London back to New Orleans with a load of European luxury goods when they had run into the city where a week ago had been open ocean.
“Sir, there seems to be a pilot boat approaching,” called out First Officer Buchannan as he walked into the bridge beckoning the Captain to follow him.
Walking away from the windows the Captain followed the officer down the bridge wing. Outside the two men saw the pilot boat stop a few dozen feet away from the freighter, one of the equine creatures holding a strange looking white voice pipe. Another one of the creatures looked like a unicorn, but from afar Benjamin Summers could not be certain.
“Hello, my name is Harbor Might, do you understand Ponish?”
Both men’s eyes widened, the city had demonstrated that these ponies were intelligent, but they had not expected them to be able to speak English, much less in a Jersey accent.
Picking up a voice pipe hooked on the side of the railing the Captain replied, “Yes, we can understand you, what can we do for ya?”
Harbor Might and the rest of the pony crew beamed, “The Princess should arrive shortly, as a representative of the Equestrian Government, I humbly ask for your commanding officer to meet with her Majesty and represent your nation,”
“As Capt’n of this ship, I would be glad to represent the United States. Would you like me to come with you right now?”
“Yes please!”
Justuring the boat to approach Captain Summers placed his voice pipe back on its hanger and turned to Officer Buchanan, “I need you to take command of this ship in my absence, brief the rest of the men of my small leave of absence,”
Both men saluted one another before walking out onto the deck. Descending two flights of stairs down into the hull, the two men finally made it to one of the large access doors. With the turn of a wheel, the door squeaked open on its rusty hinges and both officers looked out at the water just a deck below them, the ponies slowly paddling the pilot boat up to the door.
“You need help getting down?” cried out Harbor Might eying the distance between the bottom of the door and the deck of the small boat. Pointing a hoof to the unicorn secretary he continued, “Book Press here can use her telekinesis to safely lower you down”
“What! I only know how to levitate paperwork, I’ve never moved a pony much less these creatures!” Interjected Book Press incredulously, before erupting in a furious blush and quickly turning to look up at the two officers, “I am so sorry! I meant no offense,”
“Don’t you fret drear, none taken. I have a ladder here so I’ll be fine” Replied the Captain as he threw down one end of a rope ladder.
Stepping down into the boat Benjamin was finally able to take in the bright coats of the equines, the lady was obviously a unicorn and the mention of levitation meant that the horn wasn’t simply decorative. It was all so strange, the odd names, the pastel colors, the massive captivating eyes, the existence of unicorns and pegasi, he could hardly wrap his head around it, but he pushed it all down. Smiling, he got introduced to the pony crew and helped them row away from the SS. Corpus Christi.
After a couple of minutes, they arrived next to the massive Kronprinzessin Cecilie, the German liner towering over the small sailboat. Harbor Might was about to introduce himself to the Germans looking down on them when Benjamin stopped him.
“They Germans, ain’t too sure if they speak any English, let me take care of it,”
Harbor Might nodded, handing him the strange white voice pipe, placing it to his mouth he spoke but his voice was not amplified. The pony cleared his throat, “Do you know how to use a megaphone?”
“The hell is a megaphone, I thought this was some strange-lookin’ voice pipe,” Replied the Captain.
“A megaphone is like a voice pipe but it uses magic to help amplify the voice further so you don’t have to yell,” Harbor Might took the megaphone and pressed a button next to the handle, “Press this button to make it work,”
Smiling Captain Summers thanked the stallion before looking up to the German crew of the vast Ocean liner, “Guten Tag!”
“Jou know we can zpeak English, right?”
Ocean Spray looked out of the widows of the bridge, next to him stood Captain Seabiscuit and Captain Bradley. The crew of the Carmania had been so generous as to allow Captain Seabiscuit and himself to join them on the bridge. Slightly ahead of the Carmania was the Mauritania, the pride of the Cunard line and the largest ship in the world. Her long and sleek hull cut effortlessly through the waves as her four towering smokestacks billowed gray smoke. She was a truly captivating ship and Ocean Spray had hardly believed his eyes when he first saw her a couple of hours after the collision, he could not wrap his head around the fact that there were ships much larger than the enormous Carmania.
A ringing broke Ocean Spray’s trance as he looked back to see First Officer Burns answer one of the strange brass speaking tubes that the humans had called telephones. Quickly the officer brought down the receiver with a clang.
“Captain, the lookouts have spotted a light in the distance and what appears to be some kind of landmass”
Captain Bradley lowered the binoculars from his eyes and turned back to look at the officers on the bridge, “Set engines to slow and blow the fog horn, we shouldn’t be anywhere near America or any landmass, but after that strange arch of light anything can be possible,”
The First and Second Officers then walked up to the engine order telegraphs and pulled the levers back and forth, the sound of ratcheting filling the room, before setting the levers to slow. Soon a ding sounded and the arrows in the telegrams fell from full to slow signaling the engine room's reply.
The Mauritania also slowed and soon the distant light brightened and a giant copper mare appeared from out of the mist. A smile formed on Ocean Spray’s face as he realized that he was now home. He had come so dreadfully close to death but now before him lay Manehattan Harbor. The arch of light and the presence of the two human ships had led to a belief that he had been transported to another world and that he would never see home again, but now there was hard evidence that whatever had happened Equestria was still waiting for him. Slowly more of Manehatten was visible but rather than seeing the skyline, out from the fog appeared the massive smokestacks of more human ships crowding the docks. The ships were so massive that only buildings such as the Crystaller and its massive bronze Stallion head rose above the ships.
“My god it looks like a miniature version of New York, but everything is pony, you even have a pony Statue of Liberty!” Cried out Captain Bradley as he put his binoculars back up to his eyes.
“You're looking at the great Equestrian city of Manehatten,” replied Captain Seabiscuit in a gruff voice.
As the mass of ships neared, Captain Bradley walked over to one of the engine order telegraphs and set it to stop, “We will stop here and lay anchor to await further instructions or until the harbor clears,”
Second Officer Parker walked over to the second telegram and set it to stop before looking out to the field of ships, “It seems like every vessel on the transatlantic route east has gotten stuck here, you got ships of the Cunard, White Star, Hamburg-Amerika, Nord-Deutsches Lloyd and French line all stuck out here. Big names too…” he paused before turning to the ponies and then pointing out ships in the crowd, “Over there is the pride of the German merchant marine, the Nord-Deutsches Lloyd SS. Kronprinzessin Cecilie, and over there is one of White Star’s Big Four, the Baltic,”
A huge grin was plastered on the officer's face as he pointed out more of the ships in dock, an aura of enthusiasm radiating from him. Even from a distance, the ships were impressive, tall long hulls, and the German ships had four imposing golden smokestacks, it was unlike anything he had ever seen before and Ocean Spray had seen quite a lot over his career.
“Alright calm down Officer Parker, we don’t want to bore our guest here, now do we,” Captain Bradly looked at the Second Officer with a smirk as Parker scratched the back of his head sheepishly.
In the shock of the spectacle that was Manehattan Harbor, no one had noticed Officer Burns leave to revive a transmission from the Marconi Wireless Operator. Walking back into the bridge the officer cleared his throat before handing the Captain some notecards, “Sir we have gotten a reply from the Cunard Office, they have already been informed of the presence of this new landmass and have ordered us to drop off the stranded pony crew. They have also gotten reports that the South Atlantic is clear and have given us the option to either return to Southampton where a berth has been prepared, or sail for São Paulo and then hug the coast up to New York,”
Captain Bradley looked around at his crew before he turned to look out towards the city of Manehatten before them, “Thank you, Officer Burns, for now, we will wait here, I want another damage assessment to be carried out now that the ship has traveled at speed, and I want an assessment of supply, water and coal levels before making a decision,” the Captain then turned to look at Captain Seabiscuit, “It has been an honor getting to meet you and your crew, but I believe it would be wise for you to prepare your crew to disembark. I once again apologize for the unfortunate circumstances of our meeting,”
Seabiscuit and Bradley saluted one another before the unicorn motioned for Ocean Spray to follow him. The blue pegasus saluted the officers on deck with a faint smile, the officers returning the favor. They then walked out of the bridge escorted by Third Officer Cushing.
Outside was a frenzy of activity, the crew were hardly able to push back the mass of passengers that had lined up along the promenades to see the strange new city. Rumors of the pony crew's presence on the ship had circulated among the passengers and once word of a strange new city came to light, everyone, from the wealthy first-class passengers to the immigrants in third wanted to see the land of the mythological ponies.
“Against our best efforts you ponies have become quite the celebrities on this ship,” chuckled Officer Cushing as he scanned the deck of the ship.
Ocean Spray looked out over the railing and saw a pilot boat approaching the two ships. He let out a whistle gesturing the human to turn and look at the small sailboat approaching, aboard appeared to be several humans along with the pony crew.
Captain Bradley burst out of the bridge, a voice pipe in his hand as he stopped at the end of the bridge wing. On the Mauritania, another Officer ran out to see the boat sitting between the two ocean liners. Below on the sailboat, one of the humans held a megaphone looking back and forth between the two ships.
“This is Capt’n Summers of the SS. Corpus Christi, don’t fret, these ponies mean no harm,” announced the human in a thick Appleosan accent.
A tan earth pony took the megaphone before adding, “The mayor of Manehattan humbly asks on behalf of the Equestrian Government, for two commanding officers of either ship to volunteer their time to speak with the Princess on their nations behalf,”
From Mauritania, the officer spoke, “I Commodore Francis Lighthauler of the Cunard Line, would gladly volunteer my time to speak with your princess on behalf of His Majesty's Government,”
“I, Captain Bradley, will also volunteer my time. This ship is currently housing the pony crew of an Equestrian Ship that my ship ran into. How would you like us to disembark this crew?”
“Thank you, we will be sending a ferry to collect these ponies and send them home. Which ship should we board first?”
Canterlot
Twilight had bags and her eyes were bloodshot, she had not had more than three hours of sleep in the last three days. Every day she was busy organizing recovery efforts throughout Canterlot following Discord’s magical surge. Any other time she had, she had been checking on Fluttershy and Discord, or in the library trying to figure out why she had lost her connection to the sun and moon and learn anything she could about chaos magic. She wanted to know if there were any possible lingering consequences of Discord’s surge and ensure another one would not harm her subjects.
Fluttershy and Discord were recovering quite quickly. In the night following the catastrophe, Fluttershy had awoken from her coma and had had a small conversation with Twilight and Rainbow before she went back to sleep. Once the rest of the gang had arrived the next day along with Angel Bunny, the yellow pegasus had finally recovered from her concussion and had played a few board games with the rest of the girls, Twilight only having a few breaks from the recovery efforts to go see her. Yesterday doctors had told them that she would be ready to leave the hospital by the end of the week and would have a full recovery by the end of the month.
Discord for his part had improved dramatically since the surge, doctors noting that while still weak, his magic was finally starting to settle. The burns he had already suffered had healed, partly due to his still immense magical power helping him heal faster than normal. However Twilight couldn’t shake the feeling that the surge had done something else other than partly destroy the Royal Canterlot Hospital and shatter all the glass in the city.
She kept reading, the dim candlelight casting a warm hue to the pages she read as she tried to fight off sleep. Twilight was no slouch when it came to pulling all-nighters, but the stress of her new role and the nagging feeling in the back of her mind was taking its toll. She could not fathom how Celestia had made it look so effortless. After skimming over the book thrice and finding nothing of interest, she cast the book aside with a flash of violet light, letting out an exasperated sigh. Spike had fallen asleep hours ago so she slowly got up from her cushion to go find another book.
Suddenly, the doors next to her burst open and a Royal Guard ran into the room. Spike jumped out of his sleep at the sudden noise of the guard's entrance. The guard removed his helmet before announcing, “Your Majesty, there is an urgent message from Manehattan. The harbor is crowded by massive strange ships crewed by creatures that no pony has ever seen before! Mayor Scribble Write requests your assistance and wishes for you to come to Manehatten at your earliest convenience,”
“Thank you Lieutenant Steadfast, you may return to your post,” replied Twilight, as the guard bowed and walked away.
“Jeez, what does it take for a dragon to get some sleep around here,” Spike rubbed his eyes as he turned his head to the sleep-deprived alicorn.
“Spike write a letter,” Twilight turned to look at the dragon which quickly retrieved a piece of parchment and a quill, “Dear Cadence, I regret to inform you that Discord’s magical surge has resulted in some unforeseen consequences that may have dire consequences for Equestria…”
Once again the doors slammed open and Spike fell backward, the quill and parchment falling out of his grasp as a guard burst into the room, “Your Majesty, we have reports from San Franciscolt! The harbor is full of strange ships…”
Another guard ran into the room, “We have reports from Fillydelphia and Buckston!”
Twilight began to hyperventilate as more and more guards poured into her private study, nearly all the ports in Equestria were reporting the strange ships and creatures. She brought her right hoof to her chest and took a deep breath, regaining her composure, she turned to look at one of the guards, “May you inform Captain Rampart that I wish that all reserves across Equestria be mobilized and to prepare my train for immediate travel to Manehattan”
“Yes, Your Majesty!”
As the guards left, Twilight turned to look at the dragon brushing the dust off his scales, “Are you alright?”
“Well if you call getting woken up in the middle of the night and then getting startled gaff to death alright, then I guess you can say I’m alright,” replied Spike as he picked up the quill and parchment from off of the floor.
Twilight smiled sheepishly, “Sorry. Now where was I… Right! Ports across Equestria are being filled by large ships crewed by strange new creatures. From the little knowledge I have gathered, there might be a possibility that Discord's surge created a rift in the multiverse that has brought these creatures to our world. I am leaving for Manehatten to learn more about these creatures and their intentions and to hopefully establish peaceful relations with them. Sorry for writing to you so late but I needed you to know about any possible dangers the Crystal Empire may face, send my regards to my brother and niece. Your loving Sister in Law, Twilight,”
Spike then took the letter and wrapped it in a lavender ribbon, placing Twilight’s seal and then summoning his dragon flame to instantly transport the letter.
“Spike we need to go, we will go see Fluttershy, get some supplies, and leave,”
In a flash, the pair were in one of the long hallways of Canterlot General Hospital, before them was room 321. Gently opening the door inside lay a sleeping Fluttershy, her torso lightly rising and falling with her breaths. Next to the bed, Rainbow Dash and Applejack were slumped over in their seats, Twilight felt a tug in her chest as she desperately wanted to offer her friends a proper goodbye. It would be unfair for her to wake up her friends instead she conjured up a quill and wrote a note about her trip to Manehatten imploring her friends not to worry. Looking over one last time at her three friends, Twilight quietly stepped out of the room, only to see a dazed Spike still recovering from the teleportation.
Deciding to spare Spike from an unnecessary long-distance teleport she left the dragon in the hallway, quickly teleporting back to the Castle she opened up her dresser and pulled out an ornate box and a saddle bag. Quickly stuffing the box into one side of the bag, Twilight then filled the other side with stationary and a few other supplies before teleporting back to the hospital. Spike looked up at the purple alicorn but was unable to voice a proper protest before the pair were engulfed by a purple light and they were looking out before the Royal Train Station platform.
Spike doubled over his dinner spilling out of the platform, swatting away any attempts Twilight made to help him, “Don’t ever do this to me ever again,”
The guards around them were startled but quickly regained their composure, in the middle stood a gruff cream-colored unicorn stallion resplendent in the armor of the Guard Captain. Saluting the Captain walked up to the princess, “Your majesty, reserves are being called up all around Equestria, as we speak an additional fifteen thousand troops have been raised,”
“Thank you Captain Rampart, please see to it that the coast is reinforced against any possible attack. I take it that my train is ready,” replied Twilight as she pointed to the large train waiting by the platform.
“Yes, Your Majesty, these are the guards that will be accompanying you on your trip,” Captain Rampart pointed to the guards standing at attention as two of them opened the doors of the train.
“Thank you. Hopefully, there will be no need for any further mobilizations as these creatures may prove not to be any threat to Equestria. Fancy Pants is already privy to the recovery efforts here in Canterlot, please consult with him in my absence,”
The Captain and the Princess saluted one another before she enveloped the sickly Spike in a magenta aura, levitating him on her back. With the dragon on her back, she walked into the royal train car just as the unit of guards entered the security car ahead of Twilight’s. The car was beautifully decorated with fine wood furnishings and plush cushions, all reminders of Celestia’s rule, as since her retirement, Twilight had not changed a thing. Setting down Spike on one of the cushions, she removed her saddle bag and took a seat next to him. Yawning she lit her horn and pulled out a book from the one charge she had made to the car, a bookcase. Lurching forward the train sped away from the station as Twilight read her book slowly dozing off into sleep.
Chapter 3: A Council of Ten
Chapter 3: A Council of Ten
4th Day of the 5th Moon, 6 ALR: Crystal Palace
There was a sudden burst of magic and a flash of green light, shooting her eyes open, she saw a letter emerge from the green flame. Shining Armor tumbled out of the mattress with a yelp, Cadence enveloping him in a cyan aura and plopping him back onto the bed. Annoyed, she looked over at the scroll and noticed the lavender ribbon holding it together and Twilight’s seal. In her sleepy daze, she had forgotten that only Twilight could send her dragon mail. The last time she had awoken her with a letter, it had been about how the sun and moon no longer responded to magic.
Opening the letter, her eyes widened as she saw its contents, a new species on Equis that possessed large and highly advanced ships. Nothing really out of the ordinary had happened in the Crystal Empire, the only thing that she had noticed since Discord’s surge was that the snow was receding further away from Crystal City. The days had also become slightly longer without Twilight’s scheduled day-night cycle and there had been reports of rouge clouds the pegasi could not control or step on. However, the fact that the Empire was quite isolated from the rest of Equis did insulate it from the greater happenings of the world, explaining why things seemed relatively normal.
Still, in a daze, Shining Armor spoke weakly, “Cady, what’s wrong”
“Twilight is headed to Manehatten, there have been reports of new strange creatures arriving at nearly all of the ports of Equestria in massive advanced ships,” stepping out of the bed, Cadence continued, “Ever since the surge things have gotten weirder and weirder, it’s like we are not even on Equis anymore. The sun and moon work on their own, the weather is changing and some of it is uncontrollable, and now there appears to be aliens invading Equestria’s ports,”
“What! Do you want me to raise the reserves? Celestia oh mighty, for the last six years there has been nothing but crisis after crisis,” The sleepy daze that Shining Armor was in was long gone as he sat up in the bed.
“I’m going to check on Flurry Heart. Wait till morning, but I think it would be for the best if you prepared the guard,” replied Cadence as she climbed out of the soft mattress and walked out of the room.
Shining Armor followed right after, collecting his armor and polishing it until morning.
Manehatten
“Twilight… Wake up… Hello… Twilight!”
Twilight woke up as she was being shaken by her number one assistant.
“Twilight we are here,”
“Thanks, Spike,” replied Twilight before yawning.
Without anything to read about the strange creatures, and the hours of lost sleep catching up to her, the purple alicorn had slept through the majority of the train ride. Outside were the bustling platforms of Manehattan Central Station and an entourage of Guards and officials from the mayor’s office.
Conjuring up a mirror spell and a brush, Twilight fixed up her mane and tail, before pulling out the ornate box from her saddlebag. Opening the box, she pulled out a golden tiara with a starburst-shaped amethyst inlay on its golden face. Placing it on her head, she then slipped on her ornate golden horseshoes and her golden collar also decorated with another amethyst starburst. Glancing at herself one last time, she let the mirror spell dissipate and smiled at Spike, the wrinkles under her eyes softening with the sleep she had on the train.
Walking out of the train, a red carpet had been rolled out of the station lined with guards, at the end stood Mayor Scribble Write and her staff. They all bowed as she stepped out of the train and Twilight gestured for them to be at ease, she was still not used to all of the formalities and pageantry that came with the throne.
“Your Majesty, welcome to Manehatten. I thank you for coming on such short notice and I hope that you enjoyed your trip,” said Scribble Write as she rose from her bow and looked up to the purple alicorn.
Twilight smiled, “As the princess I must confront all potential threats to Equestria and my subjects,”
“Your Majesty, my office has been able to get some information on these humans as they call themselves, and has organized a meeting between your Majesty and some human representatives,” Scribble Write pulled out some documents from her briefcase and Twilight took them with her magic.
Looking over the papers the two began walking out of the station, the guards following close behind before Twilight replied, “So it appears that these humans are friendly?”
“Yes your Majesty,” The mayor stopped as a guard opened the door to the carriage waiting outside of the station.
“Twilight is fine mayor. So, these humans do not possess a unified government or culture, and they speak different languages?” Twilight helped Spike climb up into the carriage before she stepped in, followed by the mayor.
“Yes, your Maje… Twilight, It appears that while the humans can speak Ponish, only the representatives of two of the nations can speak it fluently, the rest speak in the languages of the Eastern Kingdoms, such as Prancy, and Germaney,”
Twilight smiled, when she had been a filly Princess Celestia had taught her the Eastern Languages, and while she did have an accent, it was relieving that she could communicate with the humans. Most importantly, however, it was such a relief that these humans were not hostile, she could hardly bear facing another existential threat so soon after Tirek, Chrysalis, and Cozy Glow had been defeated. Handing the documents back to Scribble Write, Twilight replied, “Thank you so much for having this organized before my arrival, with your help, I am sure that Equestria will form friendships with the Human Nations,”
The carriage finally stopped in front of the Celestial Line ship terminal, guards lining the entrance to the large stone building. A guard opened the carriage door and the two ponies and dragon sat up. Scribble Write gestured for Twilight to go first and when she stepped out, she could finally take in the sight of the human ships.
“Whoa,” let out Spike as he followed Twilight out.
The letters had not done the ships any justice, they were truly titanic as they towered above the harbor. As she walked up to the front doors two guards opened the large double doors and another pair entered with trumpets, the fanfare resonating in her ears.
“Her Royal Majesty, Princess Twilight Sparkle,” Announced a guard as he lowered his trumpet.
As she entered the hall, she unfurled her wings and held her head high. Inside was a long table, ten tall figures on one side of the table, they all wore long navy blue overcoats with golden stripes on the sleeves and captain caps. The humans bowed at her arrival, and she was taken aback by just how tall the humans were, they were all easily just as tall as Celestia. Tucking her wings back to her sides Twilight saluted the humans, “Thank you for volunteering your time for my visit. I hope that together we can establish communications between your nations and Equestria. Please sit down.”
Walking to her seat on the other side of the table, Twilight noticed the makeshift paper nameplates on the desk in front of each pair of humans. After looking at them further she realized that they were the names of the human nations, The British Empire, The United States of America, Das Deutsches Reich, and Le Royaume-Uni de France et d'Espagne. Sitting down she smiled at the makeshift human delegation, “Please, tell me your names,”
One of the humans to her left stood up, “Mui name is Pierre Beaudean, Capitaine of le Rochambeau. It is my pleasure to represent le Bourbon Empire,”
Another human stood up, “Prinzess, my name iz Theo Polack, Kapitän of ze German ship Kronprinzessin Cecilie,”
“I am Commodore Francis Lighthauler of the British Liner Mauritania, your Majesty,”
“Capt’n Benjamin Summers, it’s a pleasure to represent America, Princess,”
“Yor Majezty, Kapitän Franz Holleck of ze Kaiser Wilhelm der Große, I am honored to reprezent ze German Empire,”
“Your Majesty, I am Captain Horace Bradley of the Carmania,”
“Capitaine Jean Moreau of le Parie, your Majesty,”
“American Captain Martin Randolph of the Minnesota, your Majesty,”
As the humans sat back down, Spike ran up to Twilight and handed her the notes that he had been taking. Picking up the papers with her magic, she noticed the humans' awe-struck stares as she levitated the papers in front of her. Puzzled, she asked, “Do you not use magic?”
“No, the first time I saw magic was when my crew rescued the crew of the Unicorn, and we noticed that the crew was ponies. We have never seen a pony such as your Majesty’s subjects, much less a unicorn or magic,” Replied Captain Bradley as he leaned forward in his seat.
Twilight was stunned, “Is that why I have lost connection to the Sun and the Moon, do you not control your weather or seasons?”
The humans looked at the Princess incredulity, before Captain Summers chuckled, “Pardon me Princess, but no one can mess with nature no matter how hard we try. The weather is wild, it does what the lord commands, but no mere mortal can control it and can hardly predict it. The Sun and the Moon move on their own, not to sure bout the science though,”
“Ja, ze Eartz orbitz around za Zun, as it doze zis one side of za Eartz is lit by za Zun which iz ze day and ze ozer half iz dark wich iz za night. Za Zun moves acroz za zky becauze ze Eartz rotatez around itz axes, zis rotation resulting in za day-night cycle. Za zezonz are becauze ze Eartz is tilted on itz axes thus az it orbitz one part of the Eartz will be clozer to za Zun and experience zummer, while another part will be furtzer away and experience winter. Za time in between iz ze zpring and autum,” Added Captain Holleck in a thick German accent as he used his hands to demonstrate the movement of the celestial bodies.
“So you control nothing in your world?”
“Yes that is correct, your Majesty,” replied Commodore Lighthauler.
“Interesting, in Equestria it was the responsibility of the alicorn Princesses such as myself to raise the sun and moon. The pegasi use passive magic to control the weather, and the earth ponies also use passive magic to ensure fertile fields and bountiful crop yields. The unicorns are the only ones other than the Alicorns that can directly manipulate magic. The most powerful unicorns also used to raise the Sun and Moon before the arrival of the Royal Sisters,”
“So, your Majesty, an alicorn is a winged unicorn?” Captain Moreau asked.
“An alicorn is like a combination of a pegasus, earth pony, and unicorn as alicorns possess the passive magical abilities that give earth ponies their strength and pegasi their weather controlling abilities, while also possessing a vastly larger reserve of magic than unicorns,”
Captain Randolph frowned “You mentioned alicorn Princesses, how many alicorns are there, are there any Princes?”
“There are four known alicorns, all of them female, the former Princesses, Celestia and Luna, the two reigning Princesses, Mi Amore Cadenza of the Crystal Empire, and myself of Equestria,” Twilight replied, choosing not to mention her niece. While the humans seemed quite friendly she still wanted to know more about them to make a final judgment. Looking over to the Americans she asked, “Who are your leaders?”
Captain Summers and Randolph looked at one another before Summers spoke, “Howard B. Macmillan is the President of the United States,”
“You don’t have a monarch?”
“No, the United States is a republic, so the President is elected. Usually between the Republican and Democratic Party candidates, however since the Impeachment of President Breckenridge in 1861 and the subsequent Civil War, there has not been a Democrat President since,” replied Captain Randolph
“So the elections don't matter?”
“Well the damn Yankees outnumber us Southerners, and them Republicans keep painting us Democrats as traitors to the republic!” yelled Captain Summers as he pointed a finger at his partner.
“The Democrats wouldn’t be painted as traitors if President Breckenridge had not refused to let the 13th Amendment pass, he mobilized the army against Congress to preserve slavery!” Retorted Captain Randolph.
“President Breckenridge was preserving state rights! All the Republicans have ever done is support Corporate Greed!”
“ENOUGH!” Screamed Twilight in the royal canterlot voice, the two Americans blushing furiously, as the rest of the humans stood aghast.
“A thousand pardons your Majesty” Apologized Captain Summers.
“We did not mean for that outburst,” Added Captain Randolph.
“It’s alright, “ Twilight was starting to grow worried, the humans practiced slavery. Although it seemed that the Americans had done away with slavery, now there was a nagging worry that these humans might try to enslave her subjects. Turning to the Germans she asked, “Who is your leader?”
“His Imperial Majesty Emperor Fredrick III,” answered Captain Polack as he stood and saluted.
“Emperor of ze Germanz,” added Captain Holleck as he too performed a salute.
“Tell me more about this German Empire?” Replied Twilight with a hopeful smile.
Once again the humans looked stunned, but even more so the two German Captains who looked at the Princess and then at each other with wide eyes. After a brief pause, Captain Polack spoke, “You can speak German?”
Twilight’s eyes lit up, “German is very similar to one of the languages of the Eastern Pony Kingdoms, much like how Ponish is almost identical to English. I'm so glad that it's the same case here, do I sound any good? It's been a while since I learned Germane, I have a pretty thick accent don’t I?”
“You sound great, your Majesty,” replied Captain Polack.
Twilight beamed, “Thank you, I think I might have derailed this conversation a bit, please tell me about Germany?”
“Well, Germany is an Empire composed of several Kingdoms united through common culture, historical heritage, and common cause. The current government is the Second Empire, Germany was historically united under the Holy Roman Empire. The Empire eventually collapsed in the wake of the Napoleonic Wars and in the peace that followed the German Kingdoms became independent, but were united in a Confederation. The Confederation was ruled by a council of kingdoms, but the most Influential were the Austrian Empire and the Kingdom of Prussia. Following the turmoil of the revolutions of 1848, Austria’s Empire collapsed following a Hungarian revolution and Russian invasion, but Prussian leadership ensured that the German portions of the Austrian Empire remained in the Confederation. Following the tumultuous union of Bourbon France and Spain and the subsequent French invasions of the Rhineland, the Confederation was able to defeat the French and reorganized into an Empire with the Prussian King crowned as Emperor,” Explained Captain Holleck.
Twilight sat contently as she listened to the small history lecture, however the rest of the humans sat disinterested, as they listened to a lecture they could hardly understand. The Frenchmen were even giving the German dirty looks as he droned on. Unable to take any notes, Spike simply tapped his fingers on the desk before whispering, “Sorry guys, Twilight here often gets absorbed in things, just give them a minute. Do you guys want some tea?”
The humans nodded and Spike got up from his seat and walked out of the room, just as the German and the Princess finished.
“Sorry about that,” Twilight smiled sheepishly before turning to the British Captains, “Who is your ruler and tell me about the British Empire,”
“Britain and her domains are ruled by his Imperial Majesty, the King-Emperor Albert I,” answered Commodore Lighthauler.
“The British Empire stands as the largest and most powerful nation on Earth, with control of about a quarter of all its land and peoples under its domain,” added Captain Bradley as the rest of the humans scoffed.
“What is a King-Emperor exactly?”
“Well, his Majesty is King of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland, the Dominions under the Imperial Federation, such as Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa, and is King of the British overseas colonies. His Majesty is also Emperor of Britain’s Imperial colonies, the British Indian Empire and British Egyptian Empire,” replied Commodore Lighthauler.
“You mentioned overseas colonies, is your empire not contiguous?”
“No, like almost all the major European nations other than the Russian Empire, the British homeland is a relatively small archipelago of islands, but over centuries we have amassed a vast collection of colonies, some settler colonies with a majority white British population such as the Dominion of Canada, and others that are majority native population, such as the Empire of India. Together the colonies provide greater national prestige and more importantly resources for the mother country,” Captain Bradley then gestured to all the other delegates in the room, “America, Germany, and the Bourbon Empire all have colonies of their own,”
Twilight felt conflicted, the Eastern Kingdoms had been former Equestrian colonies, but they had gained their independence. The humans, however, seemed to be actively trying to colonize new lands as a symbol of power and prestige, coupled with the mention of slavery, she worried further about whether or not the humans had hidden intentions.
The door of the room then opened as a small purple dragon walked in pushing a tray filled with tea cups and tea cookies. Setting the tray next to the table Spike then handed all of the humans and Twilight a cup and placed the tray of cookies at the center of the table. Finished, Spike took his own cup and took his seat next to Twilight.
Taking a sip of her tea Twilight turned to the French Captains, “Am I speaking in the correct language?”
Again the humans looked stunned, the Frenchmen smiled before Captain Moreau replied, “Perfect French, your Majesty,”
“Wonderful, what can you tell me about the United Kingdoms of France and Spain?”
“Well, the Bourbon Empire is a union of the Kingdoms of France and Spain, that were once ruled by separate Bourbon Kings. Following the restoration of the House of Bourbon in France after the Revolution and Napoleonic rule, the two branches of the Bourbon family united with the marriage of Spanish Queen Isabella and French King Charles XI in 1847. Following the tumultuous Wars of European Unification, King Charles had the two kingdoms officially united, with a grand coronation in Rome, the Pope declared Charles the new Roman Emperor and declared a new Empire from the Bourbon domains. Currently, the Empire is under the rule of his Imperial Majesty, Emperor Charles XIV,” replied Captain Beaudean.
“I've heard from both your delegation and the Germans about the Napoleonic War and the Wars of European Unification, can you tell me more about them?”
Captain Moreau took a bite of a cookie and washed it down with hot tea before responding, “Those were the last two major wars between Great Powers in Europe. The Napoleonic War was mainly a continuation of the European response to the French Revolution. When the French people rose up and killed their king, the power vacuum left behind was filled by the unstable tyrant that was Robespierre. His insatiable lust for the blood of his enemies threw France into chaos and his desire to spread the Revolution across Europe, led to the rest of the kingdoms fearing they may suffer the same fate as France, thus they formed a coalition against the French. Robespierre eventually made one too many enemies and was deposed but in the chaos that followed, a young general named Napoleon was able to take control and crown himself Emperor. As an incredibly skilled tactician, Napoleon was able to conquer nearly all of Europe, but his pride got the better of him, and an invasion of Russia left his armies ruined. In the peace that followed the House of Bourbon was restored as Kings of France and negotiations were carried out to ensure stability and prevent a future war. Unfortunately,? no one predicted just how unstable the Austrian Empire truly was, and like vultures the Prussians and Russians pounced to carve up the Austrian lands. Soon Europe was…”
“Did you, not zink we could zpek French, ze Germanz are no vulturez!” Screamed Captain Holleck.
“Quite frankly, the French here are the reason Europe was plunged into total war, every time they conspired to grow their influence, and it has been up to Britain to ensure balance in Europe! The Prussians attempted to preserve Austria’s integrity, but the illegal union of France and Spain forced their consolidation!” Yelled Commodore Lighthauler as he slammed a fist on the table and pointed an accusing finger at the French.
“You British parade yor fleet of warships along France’s coasts, you only care to ensure that no one can challenge yor grip on le world!” Retorted Captain Beaudean as he stood over the Commodore before looking at the Germans, “You parade yor armiee along our boarders!”
Captain Polack rose and screamed, “You French point yor gunz towards our Reich, and have alwayz attacked first!”
Twilight, Spike, and the Americans looked stunned as the Europeans argued over past grievances. Using her magic she froze the Europeans in place before she stomped her hives on the table and spread out her wings, “STOP!”
These humans are crazy, all they do is fight each other. They reminded her of the three pony tribes during the Windigo crisis before they had discovered the fire of friendship. While they were clearly inventive, with their lack of magic and advanced technology, it was clear that they were incredibly tribalistic and proud. All the wars they mentioned, the colonialism, and the apparent military build-up, were all massive vanity projects to signal a tribe's superiority over the others.
Still encased in a magenta hue the Europeans turned their eyes to look at Twilight, a look of embarrassment and fear painted on their faces. Although not encased in magic the Americans were still petrified, Twilight’s outburst spilling tea across the table. Calming down, the purple alicorn sat back down and cleaned the table with her magic, the tea and broken china disappearing. Finally, she let go of the humans, and they fell over with a thud.
Commodore Lighthauler got up first and performed a deep bow, “A thousand pardons your Majesty, that was completely unbecoming of an Officer in the presence of Royalty,”
“Pleaze forgive us yor Magezty, we wish zis doz not taint your view of Germany,” apologized Captain Polack
“We beg for yor pardon yor Majesty,” said Captain Moreau as he bowed.
“It’s alright, but please, we are here to share knowledge about our different worlds, not fight one another, and sorry for restraining you,” Twilight smiled before asking, “Can you please send my invitation to your leaders to come to a summit of nations that I will be organizing here in Equestria? So that the nations of Equis and Earth can have more proper discussions,”
“Yes your Majesty, we can have the message sent by Marconi Telegram immediately,” replied Commodore Lighthauler as the rest of the humans nodded.
“Marconi Telegram? What is that?”
“The Marconi Telegram is a state-of-the-art, wireless electronic, near-instant communication device. An operator sends pulses of electricity, which can be timed in a pattern that represents specific letters or words, through a long-distance transmission wire strung between the masts of our ships. The wire pulses out the message over radio waves for about 200 miles before another ship relays the message for another 200 miles until it reaches the desired destination,” explained Captain Bradley.
“Considering that some ships have already left and the Atlantic crossing is always so busy, I reckon you can still send the message back to Europe!” Exclaimed Captain Randolph.
“That is so incredible, only the most powerful unicorns and alicorns can magically communicate with one another over long distances,”
“As a token of our appreciation and to once again apologize, would you like to visit the library on the Mauritania, it is the largest library at sea, and full of books on human discoveries and technology,” Offered Commodore Lighthauler
“Yes, I would love to!” Twilight’s eyes beamed, all was forgiven now, the bickering outbursts, the undertoned attacks at one another, these humans might have been crazy, but at least some of them valued literature as much as she did. She hoped that through the knowledge in the books and her experience as Princess of Friendship she could find a way to have the humans let go of their vast grievances and come together, much like the three pony tribes. Of all the worlds Discord’s surge could have dumped Equestria in, of course, it had to be the one full of chaos.
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Chapter 4: A Voice that Rings Around the World
Chapter 4: A Voice that Rings Around the World
May 4th, 1910: The Admiralty Building
Everything happened so fast. In two short months, young Prince Albert’s life had been turned upside down. His father, Albert Victor, the Prince of Wales had died of tuberculosis, and then a month later his grandfather King Edward VII was dead. Young Albert was thrust into the position of King decades before he had expected to rule, and now, just as his reign began, the world was on fire.
It was a well-known fact that France had organized an Entente with Russia and Italy, to squeeze out Britain and Germany. The alliance between the greatest powers in Europe was always a bitter thorn on the side of the Bourbon Emperor, but now Britain’s alliance was at risk, Frederick III had always been a steady hand, liberalizing the German Empire and ensuring close ties, however at 79 he was growing old. Crown Prince Wilhelm was a hot head, and his expansionist tendencies threatened to strain the Anglo-Teutonic Alliance. Now reports of strange new lands flooded in and the young King was forced not only to juggle European affairs but the emergence of new intelligent creatures.
The room was large, the windows decorated in thick drapery, however over the fine yellow wallpaper maps were pinned all over the walls. Large globes and bookshelves flanked the double doors guarded by two Royal Marines. He stood looking down at the long Mahogany table that dominated the room, covered in maps of the World, the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Surrounding the table were the most senior Admirals of the Royal Navy, to his right stood the Prime Minister, Lord Brighton, and to his left was the First Sea Lord, Lord Haddington. The Admirals all had pens and croupier sticks, the maps were covered in pins, notes, and string.
“Your Majesty, using the signatures of telegram transmissions from ships on the Atlantic, Naval Intelligence has pinpointed the general dimensions and shape of the landmass reported by our merchant marine,” said the First Sea Lord as he pointed to the red pins on the map unfurled on the large oak table.
“Rear Admiral Morrison has also reported that his fleet of cruisers has found a southern passage around the new landmass. He is currently attempting to find a possibly shorter northern passage, your Majesty,” Added Admiral Pennington as he drew a line across the map with a red pencil.
“Are the reports of intelligent life other than humans true?” Asked Lord Brighton as he pointed to the ocean surrounded by dots and lines, “Parliament is already preparing hearings with the captains that have returned from the encounter,”
“Prime Minister, all reports of the equines are consistent, they all report small colorful equines that can speak English. The only differences in the reports are the exact appearance of these so-called Ponies, some reports have mentioned unicorns capable of telekenisis and other magical feats. Others have reported pegasi or simple ponies, however, all reports have mentioned at least two of the races,” Replied the First Sea Lord before he pointed to one of the eastern dots on the map, “Reports from this so-called city of Manehattan have mentioned all three races,”
“Lord Haddington, what of the landmass in the Pacific?” Asked King Albert as he looked up from the map.
“Your Majesty, reports from the Pacific landmass are far more varied, however, the Americans and Japanese have helped us form a more complete picture of this other continent. It appears that while the landmass on the Atlantic is dominated by English-speaking ponies, the one in the Pacific is shared between German-speaking griffons, and French-speaking deer, along with some settlements of ponies that also speak German, French, and Russian. However, unlike the ponies, the deer and the griffons appear to not be separated by races, sharing common characteristics, and do not appear to be able to directly manipulate this so-called magic,” Answered the First Sea Lord as he pushed aside the map of the Atlantic and dragged a map of the Pacific before the two men.
“And what of the diplomatic fleets sent?”
“Your Majesty, both fleets have yet to arrive, but the Mauritania has been ordered to vacate its passengers and remain in Manehattan to serve as a diplomatic outpost of your Majesty’s Government in Equestria. As for the Griffins and Deer, we hope to have the fleet arrive in two days,”
“Thank you, Lord Haddington, but please drop such formalities. I owe a duty to every Britton, but I am not the state,” King Albert smiled at the senior Admiral, “Why has Mauritania been selected for this role?”
“As the largest vessel in the world, The Mauritania serves as a prime example of the might of the British Empire. The Admiralty felt it was prudent to showcase to these ponies the feats of our great nation,” replied the First Sea Lord as the rest of the Admirals in the room nodded.
Suddenly the Royal Marines opened the large double doors, and an officer entered with a note in his hand. The doors promptly closed as the officer bowed, “Your Majesty, My Lords, Commodore Lighthauler of Mauritania and Captain Bradley of Carmania have made contact with the ruler of the new land. Mauritania has transmitted a letter sent by this ruler addressed to your Majesty,” the officer rose from his bow before unfurling the transcribed letter, “To His Imperial Majesty, The Kingdom of Equestria cordially invites your Imperial Majesty of the British Empire to partake in a summit of nations to be held in the port city of Manehattan on May 30th, 1910. Its coordinates are 46 degrees 27’ North and 21 degrees 46’ West. I hope that through this Summit, the Kingdom of Equestria and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland can form a lasting relationship. The Equestrian government eagerly awaits your reply. Graciously, Princess Twilight Sparkle,”
The Admirals turned to look at the King who glanced at the Prime Minister and then the First Sea Lord. He cleared his throat, “Thank you, Lieutenant, please tell the radio officer to send a telegram to the Mauritania and the diplomatic fleet, I intend to participate in the Princess' summit,”
The Lieutenant bowed once more, “Yes your Majesty,”
“Your Majesty, do you not think it would be wise to send an emissary in your place, we have yet to gain a full understanding of this new land. You can send your uncle Prince George,” Lord Brighton said as he looked at the King with a surprised face.
“I have been personally summoned by the ruler of this land of “Equestria” as a sign of friendship and cooperation, I intend to grant her request personally,”
“A fleet will be prepared for your transit, your Majesty,” replied Lord Haddington as he looked at the other admirals expectantly.
As Lieutenant stood expectantly for any further instructions, Albert smiled, “One last thing, please send a telegram to France and Germany, I want more leaders to join me in this summit. Thank you, Lieutenant, you are dismissed,”
“Thank you, your Majesty,” replied the Lieutenant as he walked away, the marines closing the door behind him, as the King, Prime Minister, and Admirals continued their discussions.
Le Château de Versailles
The room was lit with the soft warm glow of the massive crystal candelabra that hung from the plaster and golden leaf ceiling. A plate of half-eaten duck and pate pie sat on the ornate dining table of Charles XII’s private dining room. Sipping on a glass of wine, the Bourbon Emperor looked over the pile of reports on his desk. On the far end of the table, his wife sat quietly eating her dinner.
The reports had flooded in the last three days regarding the presence of two new continents in the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Possessing a much less developed merchant marine when compared to the British, Germans, and Americans, the disruption in shipping that had resulted from the continent's appearance had caused a few headaches, but not to the same degree as the utter disaster it was for the British and Americans. With shipping traffic across the North Atlantic all but halted, the biggest issue had been the isolation between the French Caribbean colonies and Versailles. While self-sufficient the colonies were still under his absolute control and the disconnect between his seat of power and the islands was troubling. Telegram communication still worked but the presence of the new continent would delay any military response to a revolt. Time that could allow the U.S. government to put its grimy little fingers all over his islands.
Ever since the humiliating war of 1861, the French relationship with the United States had been strained. During his grandfather's ill-advised invasion of the German Confederation and the subsequent total annihilation of his Grand Army of the Rhine, the Breckenridge Administration had taken the liberty to seize Cuba and Hispaniola. With the Bourbon forces in shambles and the rest of its army split between defending against the German advance towards Paris and desperately trying to hold on to Naples and the Vatican in Italy, the French could only watch as their two most prized Caribbean colonies were swept up by the Americans. On their part, the Americans would be plunged into a civil war shortly after their acquisitions.
Much more interestingly were the reports of the continent's inhabitants. The Atlantic continent was inhabited by a race of intelligent equines that reportedly spoke English. Not only were they intelligent but reports described three different races, one that was simply an intelligent pony, then the pegasi that could fly, and the unicorns that could perform feats of magic such as telekinesis. Overall, the Pony Nation seemed to be quite powerful although reports also described their use of antiquated technologies. In the Pacific continent, the griffons and deer did not seem to possess the same magical abilities as the ponies, however, they also appeared to be intelligent and lived in cities. Reports also indicated that the deer spoke French which could help in forming relations with them.
French ocean liners such as the Parie were already being used as diplomatic outposts in Equestria and ships were being sent out to the Pacific continent to establish formal relations with the griffons and deer. The big issue now was ensuring that negotiations between the new nations and the Bourbon Government would help improve France's geopolitical situation.
The door to the dining room opened and a courier walked in bowing deeply to the Emperor and Empress, “Your Majesties, pardon my interruption but I have two urgent messages from the Equestrian continent and London ,”
“Go on ,” replied Charles as he set down his wine glass and gestured to the courier to continue. His wife glanced at the new visitor.
“Yes, your Majesty, the Captains of the Parie and the Rochambeau have made contact with the ruler of Equestria, Princess Twilight Sparkle. Her Majesty invites your Majesties to attend a summit of nations in the Equestrian city of Manehattan. The Navy already has the coordinates of this city and is prepared to have Your Majesties transported to the summit if you wish to attend. His Majesty King Albert intends to go to the summit and is encouraging you to also attend,”
“Interesting, we will attend this summit. Please see to it that King Albert and the Princess are informed, and notify the Navy to have a ship prepared for myself and the Empress,” replied the Emperor as his wife glared at him.
“Yes your Majesty, the arrangements will be made promptly,”
“You are dismissed,”
The courier bowed deeply once again before leaving the room. Empress Catherine cleared her throat, “When were you going to ask my opinion on this?”
“As consort, your opinions do not concern the matters of the state. This summit is an important opportunity to gain a valuable ally, and your presence will help court friendly relations,”
The Empress harrumphed in dissatisfaction as Charles once again began to read the reports piled on the table while nursing his wine.
Das Heldenplatz
There was a blare of trumpets and then the rolling of the drums as the military band began to play the Presentation March of the German Army. Hundreds of soldiers resplendent in dark blue uniforms and wearing pickelhaubes were lined up in formation, the bayonets of their rifles reflecting the light of the sun. The flags of the various kingdoms of the empire flying under the Imperial tricolor.
Tensions were flaring up as the Italians and Russians made moves to carve up the Balkans as Ottoman influence waned. The Germans and the British had attempted to prop up the Ottomans, but the reality was that the Turks could no longer even control the Arabs, and the Balkan Christians were now in open revolt. Ultimately, even Britain participated in the Ottoman’s partition as they conquered the Egyptian Sultanate and reorganized it into their second Imperial Crown. Intelligence reports had surfaced of a planned Italian invasion of Ottoman Tripolitania, and the Russians were rapidly mobilizing troops in Ukraine, Bessarabia, and Galicia. In response, the Germans had raised an additional 200 thousand troops for the Imperial Army and another 100 thousand soldiers were raised for the regional armies of Austria and Bavaria.
Then came the reports of the new continents in the Atlantic and Pacific, and word of the supposedly magical ponies spread like wildfire across Europe. As far as German intelligence could gather, the Russian mobilizations stopped while the Italians ramped up troop movements. The Bourbon Empire and the Dutch had also started to move divisions along the border, everyone was on edge, but no one knew how these creatures would affect global politics. Should they be a weak race and their lands rich in resources, there would surely be a rush to colonize the new territories, that would in turn flare up an already tense environment. However, reports of large and well-developed cities, and the reported supernatural abilities of the ponies, pointed to a powerful new nation that could prove a vital ally to either the Anglo-Teutonic Alliance or the Entente.
Reports on the griffins were much sparser, the Pacific continent being located in a more isolated area. The fact that the Americans and Japanese had first made contact also led to a language barrier between them and the German-speaking griffins. A German fleet had been sent out of New Guinea to further connect with the griffons, but with the ponies speaking English and the griffins German, it would be easier to court these nations into a relationship with Germany and Britain. On the other hand, the Deer spoke French and thus would probably be more inclined to collaborate with the Entente. Whatever the case, the ponies did seem to be more developed and their access to magic could make them a formidable force.
Kaiser Fredrick III now rode down the great plaza, a reign in his left hand as he saluted the troops with his right. Behind him rode the Kings of Austria and Bavaria on white stallions, the generals riding beside the monarchs. He was getting old, but he could still ride a horse, and the slight jostling was ten times better than walking along the massive line of troops with arthritis in his legs. The young soldiers reminded him of his glory days as the Crown Prince when he served as a general and rode into battle in the 1861 war against the Bourbon Empire. Now the years hung heavy as his joints ached, but his spirit remained. As King of Prussia and Emperor of Germany, military service was in his blood, and he would personally review his troops until the day he died.
As the march of the 47th Regiment sounded out from the military band, the men approached the new Austrian units. Their uniforms were sand blue, and they wore kepi hats rather than the Imperial Pickelhaube, the standard of Germany, Austria, and the Virgin Mary flying above them. The different regional armies of the Empire were some of the reminders of the legacy of the German Confederation and the collapse of the Austrian and Holy Roman Empire. In reality, even the Imperial Army was not a valid representation of a united German army, simply being the Prussian Army, but with troops from all corners of the Empire.
“Your Majesty, all 17 divisions authorized by the Reichstag have been raised and are ready to deploy with two days' notice. Defensive works are being reinforced along the French border with an additional 1500 heavy artillery pieces and ammunition stockpiles have been expanded,” stated General Galtz as he pointed out the troops standing at attention.
“I would advise your Majesty to put forward a motion to the Reichstag to raise an additional 8 divisions. Tensions may flare up with the presence of the two new landmasses. Should the Entente use the presence of these new creatures and territories as a pretext for war, it would be prudent to have enough troops to defend the Reich,” added General Claussen.
Then an aide ran up to him, his breath labored from running across the plaza, “Your Majesty, we have a telegram from the new land in the Atlantic!”
The Kaiser stopped his horse and with the help of the aid dismounted the white stallion, the military band pausing the march they were playing as the generals also dismounted. Both Kings were also quickly helped off their horses as soldiers ran up to clear the rest of the steeds. Once the Kaiser was on the ground he turned back to the aid, “Thank you. Please tell me more about this report,”
The aid performed a bow, “Yes your Majesty. Captain Holleck and Polack have contacted the leader of the “Equestrian” Nation, Princess Twilight Sparkle. Her Majesty has invited your Majesty to participate in a summit of nations in the city of Manehattan, where the Kronprinzessin Cecilie is currently moored,” Pulling out a letter from his uniform and handing it to the Kaiser, the aid continued, “Enclosed in this letter are the specifics about the summit. There is also a telegram from His Majesty King Albert who has stated that he will be attending the Princess’ summit and wishes that you join him,”
“Thank you, please have a telegram sent to London and Equestria informing her and his Majesty that I intend to join him in this summit,”
“Yes your Majesty,” the aid bowed before taking his leave, the generals looking
Turning to King Franz Joseph Austria, he smiled, “Thank you for having this troop review organized, your Majesty,”
“Yes your Majesty, thank you for your presence,” replied the old King as he bowed before his Emperor.
The Kaiser then bid his farewell to the King of Bavaria and then walked over to the generals standing at attention. General Donner, the Kaiser’s chief of staff, walked up to him, “Your Majesty, would you like your train prepared to head back to Berlin?”
“Yes thank you, General,”
Turning back to the troops lined up in the plaza he saluted. The soldiers presented their rifles and cried out in unison, “Für Gott, Kaiser und Vaterland!”
Зимний дворец
To say that the political landscape in Russia was tenuous was an understatement. Ever since the humiliating defeat against the Japanese, the masses had been clamoring for political reform. The first domino fell in 1905 when the October Revolution forced the Tzar to relinquish his domestic executive powers to a freely elected parliament. In every election since then, the Imperial Duma had become more and more radical, with leftist parties winning more and more seats. Even the fringe Communist party had begun to win seats in an electoral system that heavily favored the conservative parties loyal to the Tzar. In just five short years, he had gone from the most powerful autocrat in the world to a monarch in danger of losing his throne.
Now more than ever Tzar Nicholas needed a political victory more than ever, and that victory was quickly manifesting itself in a successful assault against the Ottoman Empire. Should the Russians successfully conquer new territories especially if they manage to finally capture Constantinople then the national pride of the victory could restore his reputation among the populace. In addition, a victory could also distract the peasantry from their grievances with the imperial government. To this end, the Russian army had been rapidly mobilizing with nearly two million soldiers prepared for a potential war with the Ottomans and the forces of the Anglo-Teutonic Alliance, should they uphold their promise to defend the Turks.
Then news of the new continents arrived at the Kremlin and everything changed, news quickly spread across the Empire and the superstitious Russians had mostly stopped demonstrating. News of magic-wielding equines not only intrigued the Russian government but spooked the populace, giving the Tzar some respite from the mounting pressure to relinquish more of his control over the state. The Griffons and deer had also proven slurring with the presence of three major populations of different intelligent creatures.
“General Mikalov, what brings you to my study?” Asked the Tzar as he looked up from the desk of his study, doodles of horses decorating the papers scattered on his desk.
“Your Majesty, I come with an urgent telegram from Paris and London. The French, English, Americans, and Germans have made contact with the Princess of the Equine Nation. Her Majesty invites your Majesty to partake in a Summit of Nations to be held in the continent's port city of Manehattan. Their Majesties King Albert, Kaiser Fredrick, and Emperor Charles have expressed their intentions to participate in the summit and encourage you to head the Princess’ request. All arrangements can be prepared promptly should you agree to attend,”
“Thank you, General, have the arrangements made, I intend to go to this summit,”
“Yes your Majesty,” the general bowed before vacating the Tzar’s study.
This was it, the walls may not be closing in after all. If positive relations could be made with the ponies then the state press could spin that as a worthy achievement that could help legitimize his position as monarch. A war would prove much more risky, a defeat in the same manner as the one suffered in the war with Japan could lead to a revolution that could have him deposed. The Communists were already drumming up far too much support, and any further questions on his ability to rule could spell his doom. Even if the summit didn’t play out in his favor, the plans for an Ottoman invasion were already set.
The White House
To say that the last three days had been hectic was an understatement, President Macmillan had slept a little more than four hours since the appearance of the strange new lands. Vice President Richardson had dubbed it Atlantis when the first reports of the Atlantic landmass had filtered into the Oval Office. Since then, reports of contact with the “ponies” had revealed the true name as Equestria, but the map on his desk still had Atlantis written out in red ink. Soon after, reports began to appear regarding the “griffon” lands in the Pacific.
The first major issue had been all the stranded Americans whose journeys had been interrupted by the sudden appearance of the two new continents. It had taken the coordination of the Office of Naval Intelligence, the shipping companies, and other national Intelligence agencies to locate all of the Americans on the Transatlantic and Transpacific routes. Getting them home however was a different story, this new landmass had bisected all of the traditional Northern routes. The South Atlantic was still clear, however, many ships did not have enough fuel to make the massive diversion, thus many Americans were stuck in Europe. On the other hand, there was less passenger traffic in the Pacific and Hawaii had been left unobstructed, as a major coaling stop most of the shipping traffic could be easily rerouted.
The second major issue was the corporate one. Exports screeched to a halt as Equestria rose out from the sea. Now congressmen were constantly nagging him to do something about it, as if he could make the new continent suddenly disappear. They cried about the loss of jobs in their districts, but in reality, they were afraid of losing their precious donation money, as the midterm elections were only six months away. Party bosses were already clamoring to meet with him as the Republican Party feared losing seats to the Democrats if they could not appease the industrialists. The new Minority Leader, William Crawford, had been distancing the Democratic Party's image away from its Southern roots and embracing the new progressive movement that was taking hold in both parties.
Now he sat in the Resolute Desk looking over the reports stacked high in the corner. The Oval Office was an absolute mess apart from the map on his desk, maps had been pinned to all the walls, and the table before him was also covered in ship manifests and reports. The Secretary of State, Secretary of War, Secretary of the Navy, and President of the International Mercantile Marine all sat before him.
“Mr. President the situation in the Pacific is as of yet under control, all ships merchant ships have been ordered to transit to Honolulu, and the Territorial Governor has already been informed about the influx of vessels,” Stated Secretary of War Harding as he pointed out the Hawaiian islands, the general shape of the Griffin Continent outlined in red north of the islands.
“The navy has already sent out tenders to help supply the Hawaiian Islands with the extra coal required,” pointed out Secretary of the Navy Chase as he moved small wooden dowels from the California coast over to Hawaii with his croupier stick.
“So that’s under control. Peterson, what can you tell me about the diplomatic efforts with these new intelligent creatures?” Asked President Macmillan as he glanced away from the map and up to the Secretary of State.
“Mr. President, the State Department has already sent a fleet with diplomats to the west coast of the Equestrian continent and should arrive later today. So far, first contact reports with the ponies have been positive, and from our current intelligence, we believe that Equestria is ruled by a Princess,” The Secretary of State pointed to the map of the Atlantic before moving his hand over to the map of the Pacific, “Unfortunately due to the language barrier we have been unable to gather much information about the Griffons and Deer as of yet, apart from a conformation that the Griffins do indeed speak German and the Deer speak French. The ponies of this Pacific continent were very helpful in gathering this information and the State Department has been collaborating with the Germans and the French Governments along with gathering translators to help make formal diplomatic inroads with these creatures,”
“And reports of dragons and yacks in the northern reaches of both continents?”
“We have yet to gather much information on them, but we do believe they live in much more primitive conditions when compared to the ponies, griffons, or deer,”
“Mr. Franklin, what is the status of the American passengers?” Asked the President as he looked at the finely dressed executive before him.
“Mr. President, the International Mercantile Marine has done a complete assessment of all ships in the American, White Star, Layland, Red Star, Dominion, Holland America, and Atlantic Transport Lines. So far there are about 5,500 Americans still left in Europe, but our subsidiaries are quickly working to fuel the remaining ships and have them take the southern route around the Equestrian Continent to take these Americans back home.”
President Macmillan was about to reply when the doors of the Oval Office opened, and a Secret Service Agent briskly walked into the room, saluting, “Mr. President, Secretary Peterson, Secretary Clarkson, and Secretary Davidson, I have a telegram from London. A group of ten Captains from America, Britain, France, and Germany have made contact with Princess Twilight Sparkle of Equestria. The Princess is inviting you, Mr. President and other world leaders to travel to the city of Manehatten in Eastern Equestria to participate in a Summit of Nations. King Albert and Kaiser Fredrick III have also sent telegrams stating their intention to participate in the summit and encourage you to do so as well. Details of the summit are enclosed in this letter,”
The Secret Service agent walked up to the President’s desk and handed the envelope to President Macmillan, who had gotten up from his seat. Backing away, the Secret Service agent saluted once again before the President returned the salute, “Thank you, Agent Schrader, please have a telegram sent informing the Princess of my intention to represent America at the Summit. May you also have the Vice President come to the Oval Office, you are dismissed,”
“Yes, Mr. President,” Saluted Agent Schaefer before turning and leaving the office.
“Mr. President, I do not want to impose, but what about the $100 million aid package in the House, you promised the IMM relief for the loss of revenue suffered with the shipping pause,” objected the executive wide eyed.
“Mr. Franklin, calm yourself, Vice President Richardson is privy to the nature of the aid package and will be given authority to sign it into law,”
“Mr. President, what about the campaigning you had scheduled with the congressmen from California?” Asked the Secretary of State with an apprehensive look.
“It is the authority of Congress to deal with the domestic issues of the country. I do not believe that a week's absence will plunge the government into chaos, and I don’t need to baby every Congressman’s hand in this election. Our Republican platform is strong, Crawford and the Democrats be damned!” The President cried out as he slammed his fist on the desk.
“Yes Mr. President,” replied the secretaries and executives as they averted their glances.
“Pardon my outburst, I will have Tompson rearrange my schedule,”
He honestly found Mr. Franklin insufferable, the absolute gal to continue pestering him for a taxpayer bailout. He only agreed to sign it to maintain the American grip on global trade and because he would not hear the end of it from Speaker Harrison if the Republicans lost seats in the house due to Franklin pulling campaign donations. Phillip Franklin was the caricature of a greedy tycoon, having inherited his position as Corporate President from his father's dealings with Mr. Morgan, the man responsible for building the largest conglomerate of international shipping companies in the world. Anyways, he hoped that the meeting with the Equestrians would prove to be a success.
Author's Note
World Map Bourbon Empire German Empire
Country Panels
I didn't quite get to finish all the panels, but by the next chapter, I will finish them up and have some more panels for the Gryphons, Deer, Japanese, and Dutch. Sorry for the wait, trying to write a chapter and draw at the same time took more time than I expected.
15th Day of the 5th Moon, 6 ALR: Canterlot Castle
Commodore Lighthauler had been a wonderful host, taking Twilight on an all-encompassing tour of the marvel that was Mauritania. Her first-class accommodations were stunning, with wood carvings and plaster works rivaling the appointments of Canterlot Castle. However, Twilight was far more interested in the engineering of the ship, seeing her message being transmitted to the human leaders through a pattern of electrical pulses was fascinating. It was truly spectacular that the humans could use copper wiring strung through complicated instruments to send near instant messages to faraway lands by only using the properties of light. The machinery spaces of the ship had also been completely mesmerizing, massive rooms lined with boilers, coal spilling out of the bunkers that separated the rooms. Had it not been for her burning desire to visit the ship’s library, Twilight could have listened to the Machinery Officer talk about the intricacies of steam production and pressure for hours, learning about how steam turbines functioned and how they were able to propel such a massive ship.
The library had about as many books as the Golden Oak Library, but every single book was completely new to her. Twilight immediately thanked the commodore, before prancing up to the sycamore bookshelves, the books enclosed behind doors inlaid with fine wrought iron grates. She opened the doors of the History and Technology sections of the library and floated out dozens of books over to one of the plush sofas in the room. Making a sizable pyramid of books, the lavender alicorn teleported to the sofa curling up in the soft velvet cushions, and started combing through all the new books.
From the meeting with the ten captains, Twilight had already gotten the sense that the humans were divided into tribes based on their different languages, and like the pony tribes that existed before the Fire of Friendship and the creation of Equestria, the humans mistrusted one another. Reading about their history revealed a depressing and bloody truth, human history was marred by war after bloody war. Unlike Equestria who managed to unite and then advance peacefully, it seemed like with every new advancement, human wars became bloodier and bloodier. Since the 1600s in human years, They have fought massive wars that included nations from all around the world, the Thirty Years War, the Nine Years War, the War of Spanish Succession, the War of Austrian Succession, the Seven Years War, The American Revolutionary War, the Napoleonic Wars, the Hungarian Revolutionary War, and finally the War of Italian Unification.
Even more tragically was that the humans had recognized the sheer brutality of their conflicts. With so many dead following the Napoleonic Wars, the Great powers had attempted to form a balance of powers to prevent such a conflict from ever happening again. This Congress of Vienna had promised eternal peace and harmony between humans, and it endured through the revolutionary struggles of 1830. However, as the leaders who had witnessed the destruction of the Napoleonic Wars passed on and new leaders sought glory, the spark that was the Hungarian Revolution of 1848 plunged Europe back into war. In four short months, the bulwark of European diplomacy had been destroyed, the Republican and Hungarian Revolutionaries had deposed the Habsburg Monarchy and Russia had begun an invasion of Galicia. The forces of the German Confederation had managed to restore order and restore the Habsburg Monarchy but as King rather than Emperor.
With the Austrian Empire obliterated, the balance of power so carefully crafted in 1815 was shattered and the Great Powers scrambled to fill in the void. Russia annexed Galicia and the Prussians as the new leaders of the German Confederation stamped out any remaining Republican resistance in Bohemia and Austria, reorganizing the former Imperial lands into three separate kingdoms to ensure their position. In the chaos of the Austrian collapse, the French and Spanish crowns were united in violation of the pledge that the marriage of Prince Charles France and Queen Isabella of Spain would never result in personal union. Everything had happened so fast, and the British Government had been paralyzed by indecisiveness, thus by the time Britain had decided on a course of action, the dust had finally settled and France had forged an Empire that dominated Western Europe. The Bourbon Domain not only controlled France and Spain, but without Austrian influence in Italy, the new King Charles XI was also able to secure Southern Italy and have himself crowned Roman Emperor by the Pope. Twilight was stunned, every subsequent book she read would describe the millions that died in the human wars, she was utterly surprised that windigos had not blanketed their world in deep frost.
After about an hour, she gave up reading the depressing human history and moved on to reading about their accomplishments. The Mauretania was already a testament to the advanced nature of these Humans, with all of the technology showcased to her in the tour, but the books described far more advancements. Self-propelled carriages, magicless heavier than air flight, buildings that towered over the massive masts of the ships that loomed over Manehattan, industrialization, electric lighting, radio, telephone, and many more technologies that used not one ounce of magic. So much innovation, drive, and ambition, if only humans could learn to get along then they could truly bring about a golden age of discovery and advancement. The crew of Mauritania had also shown just how generous and kind the humans were, they had truly made her feel right at home and had allowed her to take dozens of books back to Canterlot to continue her studies. Twilight was now determined that her summit would do what the Congress of Vienna had aspired to achieve, an international community of nations that would bring peace prosperity, and harmony throughout the world.
Now Twilight sat at the head of a large conference room, along the sides of the table sat her friends, Spike, Shining Armor, Fancy Pants, Starlight, Captain Rampart, Chef Tasty Plate, Mayor Scribble Write, and at the other end of the table sat Cadence. Discord had made a miraculous recovery since his magical surge and was curled up at the corner of the room closest to Fluttershy, who still wore a cast on her forehoof and wing. Twilight shuffled through some notes Spike had handed her, “I would like to thank you all for joining me here at this meeting. As you may all know, following Discord’s surge, Equestria made contact with the humans. After traveling to Manehattan I was able to meet with some humans who told me about the various human nations, and with their help I was able to invite the human leaders to participate in a summit of nations. The humans have also helped Equestria reconnect with the Eastern Continent and bring Ponies, Griffons, and Deer back to their homes. I need your help in organizing a successful summit to ensure positive relations between the nations of Equis and the humans,”
“Alright, what do you need us to do?” Asked Rainbow Dash as she flew out of her chair, hovering in place and looking expectantly at the Purple Alicorn.
“Rainbow, I need you to coordinate with the Wonderbolts to create a routine that is sure to impress the dignitaries. We will have a meeting tomorrow so please come and tell us what you guys came up with,”
“On it!” Replied Rainbow Dash before disappearing in a blur of rainbow light.
“Chef Plate, you will work with Applejack and Pinkie Pie to cater the event. From my reading, I have learned that the humans are omnivores such as the griffons, and have a taste for roast beef, pork, and chicken,” Twilight paused looking at the other ponies grimacing, although griffins were known to eat meat, ponies did not like to touch on the subject. Frowning she continued, “But they also eat foods that ponies eat, apart from hay and flowers. Here I have a book of Human recipes, Chief Plate, you have experience cooking for griffin dignitaries, thus I entrust you with cooking the human meat dishes. Pinkie and Applejack, you two will work together to cook some vegetarian and pony dishes to introduce them to our culture. Please choose some of the recipes you would like to make and then we will reconvene here to discuss options,” Twilight then levitated two books, floating one to the Royal Chef and one to Applejack and Pinkie Pie.
“Yes your Majesty,” Replied Chef Tasty Plate as he flipped through the cookbook marked in red sticky notes.
“Okki Dokki Lokki!” Cried out Pinkie Pie, her eyes glued to the book's pages.
“With us three it’ll be as easy as bucking an apple off a barn door!”
“Great! Alright, Rarity, this book here has information on current human fashion trends. All the humans I interacted with wore clothes and the reading I did, stated that it was taboo for humans not to wear clothes. I was thinking that we should all wear clothes at the summit, to not offend the human leaders, and thought you might be interested in using these designs as inspiration,”
“Why thank you, darling. I will draft up some designs and then we can organize a schedule to have you all fitted,”
“Thank you, now remember girls, don’t worry about costs, I have committed substantial funds for this summit, so please write down any expenses, and I will be sure to reimburse you,” Twilight turned to Fluttershy, “Thank you for coming to Fluttershy, you really didn’t have to be here and I appreciate the gesture, but I think that it is important that you rest and get better. However, if you want to help, you can either help Pinkie and Applejack with the food, or Rarity with her dresses,”
“Um, ok,” replied Fluttershy, smiling.
“Captain Rampart, Shining, I need you both to collaborate on security for this event, I want the Guards to set a good impression on the human leaders and I am confident that with your experience you can both drill the guards into shape,”
“Yes your Majesty, the Prince, and I will ensure that all necessary preparations are made,” replied Captain Rampart as he saluted and then turned to look at Shining Armor.
“Twilie, you can count on us, Rampart and I go way back, the men will be ready and wiped right into shape,”
Smiling Twilight turned to Starlight and Fancy Pants, “Lord Fancy Pants, Starlight, Mayor Scribble Write, you will be working with Spike to organize the reception. I am confident that with your combined experience and Spike’s notes on human customs, you will all be up to the task,”
“Yes your Majesty,” replied Fancy Pants and the Mayor in unison.
“Twilight, how will I be any help in planning a reception?”
“Starlight, you have wonderful managerial skills, that’s why I entrusted the School of Friendship to you. I have complete confidence that you can make sure that all ideas are considered and that the reception runs smoothly,”
“Yeah Starlight, Twilight trust you, you’ll do great,” said Spike as he pulled out a giant binder full of notes Twilight had him jot down from under the table.
Twilight then turned to Cadence, “Princess Cadence and I will be working on creating a cohesive diplomatic approach in dealing with the humans,”
“What about me, what do I get to do?” cried out Discord as he teleported up on top of the table. The girls and Spike gave unamused expressions, Fluttershy let out a small giggle, and the rest of the ponies sat wide-eyed with shock.
“I appreciate that since your recovery you have volunteered to take care of Fluttershy…”
“Of course, it is what a good friend would do,”
“However I don’t think we need your services to prepare for or at the summit. If you really want something to do, accompany Fluttershy, but do not mess with anything!”
“Oh, but I am only trying to help,”
“The last time you tried to help, you masqueraded as one of the most evil figures in Equestrian history and then you helped the four most dangerous villains coordinate an attack that almost destroyed Equestria, all in the name of creating a test to prove to me that I was capable of leadership!” Twilight slamming her hoof on the table for emphasis.
“Point taken Twilight, point taken,” replied Discord before teleporting to his spot in the corner of the room.
“Alright then, let's get to work,” Twilight got up from her chair and the rest of the ponies followed suit, “Spike and I have set up some personal work rooms for you all so please feel free to use them. Captain Rampart, Shining, since you will need to go to the barracks come back tomorrow like Rainbow, you are free to go,”
“Yes, your Majesty,”
“Thanks, Twilie,”
Soon Twilight and Cadence were alone in the conference room as the rest of the ponies filed away into their respective work rooms. Opening a chest, Twilight levitated a map of the human world that the crew of the Mauritania had given her. She then cleared away the table and unfurled the map, placing tea saucers on the corners as paperweights. Finally, she brought a quill and drew a circle in the North Atlantic and Pacific.
“This is a map of the human world, this circle right here is the general location of Equestria according to the humans,” Twilight pointed to the circle she made in the Atlantic.
Cadence scrutinized the map, “When you were still in Manehattan you mentioned the concerning history of the humans,”
“Humans are very competitive by nature and have a strong warrior culture. Coupled with intense factionalism, has resulted in a long history of bloody conflict. But, they are also so kind, generous, and innovative, the technology they possess is incredible, and leaps beyond our own. All the books you see here were given to me by Commodore Lighthauler, and his crew graciously answered my incessant questions on their technological feats. I have read about their attempts at peace, the humans are not bloodthirsty, they recognize the horrors of war and have tried to prevent further. In the aftermath of the bloody Napoleonic Wars, where millions of humans died, the humans had finally had enough and came together at the Congress of Vienna to negotiate eternal peace. It almost worked, Cadence, but 33 years later it was bitterly crushed by the collapse of Austria, with the keystone gone, peace collapsed into war. Cadence we can be the keystone, we can finally bring peace to the humans. I have been taking notes of the human geopolitical conflicts and between the two of us, we can try to find peaceful solutions to all these issues. Now granted we can’t get all this done in one summit, but through a series of meetings we can create a world in which magic and human innovation can work together to truly forge a future brighter than ever imagined,”
“Twilight, I trust you, but let’s not get carried away. I understand you are very passionate about this, but first, we must meet with the human leaders. You can't try to meddle in human affairs without forming positive relations with them first. This isn’t like a normal friendship problem, you need to earn their trust first before you try to announce solutions to their problems,”
“You're right, it's just that humans truly have so much potential and if they learned to come together they could achieve inconceivably great things,”
Cadence chuckled, “Twilight you have saved Equestria countless times, if any pony can bring the humans together it's you, but first please tell me more about these human nations,”
The two princesses then spent the following hour discussing the aspects of each major human nation, brainstorming diplomatic avenues that Equestria and the Crystal Empire could use to curry favor with each country. Yet still in the back of her mind, Twilight thought of ways she could finally bring eternal peace to humans.
Author's Note
A shorter chapter than normal and I didn't get around to finishing the hoi4 inspired country panels. Pretty busy week, next week is my orientation for university so updates may come every two weeks moving forward, but I will try to stick to the weekly schedule as long as possible.
Chapter 6: A Grand Reception
30th Day of the 5th Moon, 6 ALR: Manehattan City Hall
Over the last few days, the first human leaders began to arrive in Manehattan. The Emperor of Japan had been the first to arrive, his ship was still massive but was noticeably smaller compared to the British and German ships. Escorting the Japanese liner were strange gray ships of similar size, but on her decks were gray cylinders of various sizes with long tubes protruding from their sides. Along the rails of the gray ships were hundreds of humans dressed in dark blue sailor uniforms singing a song in a language that Twilight did not recognize but that sounded similar to Mistmane’s native tongue. Atop the Ocean liner as the British had described to her, flew massive white flags with a red circle emblazoned in the middle, however, the gray ships flew a similar flag, but red rays surrounded the red circle, making it look like a blazing sun. As the fleet of ships approached their prepared moorings, the Mauritania blasted her horn, the sound resonating across the harbor, in return the Japanese Ocean Liner and escorting ships blasted their horns.
Once the Emperor and Empress of Japan had disembarked, Twilight noticed that the Japanese were smaller than the humans that she had first met. The Emperor was about as tall as many of the female stewardesses that she had met on Mauritania, his wife was slightly shorter. Emperor Meiji wore a uniform similar to Shining Armor’s Royal Guard Dress uniform, but the Emperor's was more ornate and covered in medals, on his side was a sheath with a long cavalry saber. Next to them was an interpreter who translated all correspondence between the Japanese leaders and Twilight. Along with the Emperor was an interpreter, an entourage of diplomats, and a small army of soldiers. The soldiers carried strange long wooden cane-like sticks, with a dagger-like blade at the end, and wore a less ornate uniform similar to the Emperor’s. With the help of the interpreter, she learned that the strange gray ships were the armored cruisers Ibuki and Tsukuba of the Imperial Japanese Navy that had been tasked with protecting the liner SS. Tenyo Maru.
Twilight had already had several carriages prepared for the arrival of the humans and after a few more pleasantries, had the Japanese Imperial couple, their aids, and a contingent of Japanese soldiers transported to the prestigious Waldhoof-Aurora Hotel. The rest of the troops were housed in harbor buildings that had been converted into makeshift barracks.
President Howard B. Macmillan was the second leader to arrive, and his ship, SS Minnesota, was the same ship that had been one of the first to arrive following Discord’s surge and commanded by Captain Randolf, one of the first humans Twilight had met. The Minnesota was escorted by two brand new Delaware Class battleships and the armored cruiser USS. Tennessee. Once the American ships had been moored next to the Japanese fleet, the President and First Lady had disembarked along with an entourage of aids and soldiers. In her conversation with the President, he described himself as a New York native and was astounded by the similarities between his home city and Manehattan. He described the human Statue of Liberty and its resemblance to the copper Mare Statue at the entrance to Manehattan Harbor, when he learned about his accommodations at the Waldhoof-Aurora, he raved about the Waldorf-Astoria in New York.
That same day the rulers of South America arrived, however in far less impressive ships than the Human ships that Twilight had seen before, yet still nearing twice the size of Equestria’s largest designs. First arrived Empress Isabel and Prince Gaston of the Brazilian Empire, followed by President and First Lady Obregon of the Confederation of the River Plate, The Military Dictator, General Vazques, and his wife of Venezuela, President of Mexico Samuél Philipé and his wife, and finally Alberto Bustamante, Military Dictator of Bolivia. All of the South American leaders arrived with an escort of troops, quickly filling up the makeshift barracks she had set up. Ponies gathered up against the barricades and the railings of the docks to witness the arrival of the human leaders and the fleet of war and merchant vessels.
The next day the majority of the European leaders arrived. King Albert arrived in the morning with the RMS. Lusitania, a near-perfect twin to the Mauritania that she had toured just three weeks ago. The two greyhounds shared horn blasts as they were moored together along with the five capital ships that escorted the King. Kaiser Fredrick III and Kaiserin Victoria arrived later that morning in the German superliner, SS. Kaiser Friedrich, escorted by four German capital ships. The German fleet exchanged horn blasts with the ocean liner’s sister ship, Kaiser Wilhelm der Große, which had been in Manehattan since Discord’s surge as a German consulate. Emperor Charles XIII and Empress Carlotta of the Bourbon Empire arrived shortly after, and the harbor quickly filled with ships.
To alleviate overcrowding Anchor Dock and Harbor Might had coordinated with the sailors to anchor the massive fleet of gray warships in the center of the harbor next to the Mare Statue. With dock space freed up, the Dutch fleet moored, Twilight greeting Queen Wilhelmina and Prince Henry as they disembarked. The Imperial Russian couple and the Swedish Royals arrived at nearly the same time, dock workers moving about frantically to accommodate the two fleets. Next, came the King Vittorio Emanuel and Queen Elena of Italy. Twilight was stunned by his diminutive frame; all the male humans that she had met were taller than their female companions, but Queen Elena stood half a head taller than her husband.
By the time all of the human leaders had arrived, the docks were crowded with ocean liners and state yachts, and the waters of the harbor were blanketed by the looming figures of warships proudly flying the banners of the human world. Ponies and reporters crowded the barricades set around the Waldhoof-Astoria, clamoring to take a look at the leaders of the strange new world. Sailors and Soldiers stuffed the dock buildings as the arrival of the leaders had brought a figurative invasion of a couple of thousand humans to Manehattan.
The Japanese and American governments had coordinated with Twilight and the governments of the Eastern Continent to transport the Griffin King Grover X, King Aldar VII of Olenia, Queen Nova of the Hippogriffs, Prince Al Saddle VIII of Saddle Arabia, Dragon Lord Ember, Queen Victoire IX of Prancy, Archduke Von Hoofstein V of Germane, Duke Cranberry XV of Trottingham, Prince Roamnov I of Stalliongrad and Duke Alogo of Maretonia. All arriving in the morning and late afternoon before the summit, King Thorax and Prince Rutherford arriving that night by train.
Twilight stood next to Cadence and Shining Armor at the top of the steps of Manehattan City Hall. Guards lined the plaza resplendent in freshly polished golden armor. The plaza featured flag posts flanking a long red carpet that led up to the steps of the domed City Hall building. Twilight wore a fine white dress with light lavender accents, her coronation sash fixed to her chest by a golden and amethyst starburst brooch, and at the top of her head, her freshly polished tiara reflected the sunlight. Cadence wore a similar getup, her dress a brilliant white with baby blue accents. Shining Armor had his Royal Guard Dress uniform, behind them the girls and the mayor also wore dresses, Fancy Pants and Spike wore morning suits, and Captain Rampart donned his brilliantly polished captain armor.
Distant clopping of hooves grew near as dozens of carriages rode up to the street. Dozens of human soldiers dressed in red uniforms and black fur hats filed out of the carriages and lined themselves along the carpet. Two soldiers blared trumpets as another pair helped King Albert out of his carriage. Twilight and Cadence flared their wings as the fanfare subsided and an announcer unfurled a scroll, “Behold His Imperial Majesty, Rex Imperator, by the grace of God, Albert first of his name of Great Britain and Ireland, and of the Land and Dominions Beyond the Sea, King! Of India and of Egypt, Emperor! President of the Imperial Federation and Defender of the Faith,”
Had it not been for the maps she had gotten from the humans, Twilight would have thought that all the titles were stuffy and pretentious, but King Albert ruled over a truly vast domain that was more than ten times larger than all of Equestria. As the King approached the two Princesses and Prince he performed a small bow to Twilight, Cadence, and Shining Armor, which they reciprocated before the King stood next to Twilight. She noticed just how young the British King truly was, the other humans that she had met had at least had a few wrinkles under their eyes and on their forehead, but judging by the books on human anatomy that she had read, he was about her age.
Then the carriages left to be replaced by new ones, from which emerged soldiers wearing dark blue uniforms and black helmets with a brass spike. They performed much of the same drill as the British soldiers had, lining the carpet, blaring trumpets, hoisting the German Imperial Flag, and helping the Kaiser and Kaiserin out of their carriage. The elderly Imperial couple slowly made their way down the carpet as a soldier announced the Kaiser’s titles in German and a Royal Guard translated, “His Imperial and Royal Majesty, Fredrick III, by the grace of God, Emperor of the Germans, King of Prussia, Margrave of Brandenburg, and Count of Hohenzollern,”
King Albert wasn’t the only human leader with a long list of titles, yet, it did serve to pass the time as the German rulers slowly made it up the steps. Kaiser Fredrick III and the rest of the rulers exchanged bows before he took a spot next to the King. Kaiserin Victoria performed a small curtsy to all the rulers but gave her grand-nephew, King Albert, a slightly warmer greeting.
“Hail to the Chief” played as Marines hoisted the American Flag while President and First Lady Macmillan walked down the carpet and up the stairs. Unlike the other male human leaders that Twilight had greeted at the harbor, the President did not wear a military uniform or medals, rather he wore a morning suit and top hat.
Emperor Charles had the most ostentatious entrance. While the flag raising and the soldier formations were similar to the other leaders the soldier and translating Royal Guard recited a near endless list of tiles, “Behold His Imperial Majesty Charles XIII, by the grace of God, Most Christian Roman Emperor, Emperor of the Franks and Iberians, Emperor of Africa, King of France, King of Spain, King of Navarre, King of Savoy, King of Naples, King of Jerusalem, Duke of Burgundy, Defender of Christendom, Defender of the Holy Land, and Patron of the Papacy,”
Twilight mentally rolled her eyes as the Bourbon Emperor made his way up the steps and the leaders bowed to one another. According to the human history books, the Bourbon Empire never controlled Jerusalem, which was under Ottoman control, Naples was lost in 1861 and was now an integral part of the Kingdom of Italy, the Bourbon Empire only controlled a third of the African Continent, and most of the religious titles had been bestowed upon Bourbon Emperors through military pressure placed on the Papal States during the Hungarian Revolutionary War. It seemed his wife was also unimpressed, Twilight was certain she could make out the Empress rolling her eyes as the long list of her husband's titles were recited.
The rest of the human leaders arrived and the flags of their nations were raised, the plaza now awash with the colors of all the different military uniforms of the human nations. Another set of carriages rolled up to the plaza, the leaders of Equis making their way up to the steps bowing and taking their place as their flags were raised on their flag posts. Once the ladders were all arranged up on the steps of City Hall, the bands began to play the national anthems of each nation.
The procession had lasted for about an hour, but once the Anthem of Equestria had been played, press ponies and human journalists began to bombard the leaders with camera flashes. Once the wave of photographs and questions subsided, the Royal Guards began to pass enchanted earpieces to the leaders.
“The Guards will be handing out earpieces that have been cast with translation spells, do not be alarmed, they are perfectly safe. They will serve to make communication amongst each other much easier and serve to streamline discourse,” stated Twilight as she levitated one of the ear pieces into her right ear, Cadence and Shining Armor following suit.
Tentatively the human leaders put on the earpieces, following the example of King Thorax and King Grover. Twilight then turned back and winked at Rainbow Dash, the cyan Pegasus quickly ripping off her dress revealing a Wonderbolt flight suit. Pulling her mask over her head and fixing her goggles, Rainbow quickly zoomed up into the air leaving a rainbow trail in her wake. The rush of air alerted the humans as they watched in awe as the Pegasus soared up into the sky and flew out of sight behind City Hall.
Guards blasted the trumpets and one announced, “Bear witness to the incredible flying prowess of the Wonderbolts!”
A crack of thunder and a massive rush of air announced the arrival of the seven other Wonderbolts and the return of Rainbow Dash. The announcer continued, “Behold Spitfire, Rainbow Dash, Soarin, Fleetfoot, Thunderlane, Misty Fly, Blaze, and Silver Zoom!”
The pegasi flew high up into the air as streaks of sparking lightning smoke followed in their wake. Humans exclaimed in amazement as the Wonderbolts performed synchronized acrobatics and used their pegasus magic to sculpt clouds into ornate designs, cracking lightning to accentuate their performance. Camera flashes rang out as the human press desperately attempted to capture every second of the spectacle. As the performance reached its crescendo, the performers used their smoke trails to write out “Welcome to Equestria”.
Finally, Rainbow Dash broke away from the group quickly ascending higher and higher out into the air. Now thousands of feet in the air Rainbow eclipsed the Sun and flared her wings before she dived straight back down towards the leaders. The whine of speeding wind sounded as a cone of compressed air formed around the pegasus, growing tighter and tighter until just a couple thousand feet above the ground the pressure finally released. A massive boom rang out as a ring of brilliant rainbow light spread out in all directions away from the pegasus as she once again ascended at blazing speed. Humans cheering or simply standing with mouths open wide in total amazement as Rainbow Dash bled speed with a series of loops and turns before she landed in the plaza next to the other Wonderbolts. Finally, all of the Wonderbolts took a bow as a tremendous round of applause filled the plaza.
Waiting for the cheering to subside, Twilight spoke, “It is a great honor for me and the Kingdom of Equestria that you have taken the time to come to this summit. I hope that through the discussions we have over the next couple of days, the nations of Equis and Earth will form a strong friendship and through collaboration forge a brighter future for all,” she gestured to the doors, “A banquet has been prepared for your enjoyment, please come in to get acquainted and then to discuss relations,”
Guards opened the great doors of city hall revealing the grand foyer of the building. As the seat of government of Equestria’s largest city, the building was truly impressive. Inside a pair of guards opened another set of double doors, revealing a great hall. Tables covered in all assortments of fine cuisine dominated the center of the room. Posted along the walls were maps of Equis and a few maps of Earth that the humans had given Twilight.
Twilight turned to the group of aids, “Please feel free to hang up your maps on the walls they will be of great help,” then she glanced at the leaders and gestured towards the waiters carrying trays of wine glasses, “Please take a glass of Equestria’s finest wines,”
Quickly aids began moving into the room opening up tubes and unfurling maps, pinning them up along the maps already on the walls. Most of the leaders made their way to the buffet sampining the wide variety of foods but others began conversing with one another. Applejack was striking up a conversation with President Macmillan and the American Delegation, Twilight noted that many of the Americans shared the same accent as the Apple. She was quite far, but it seemed that the Americans and Applejack were discussing the similarities and differences of Equestrian and American rodeos. Emperor Charles and King Aldar were also conversing, but Twilight could not make anything out of their conversation apart from that it was in Prancy.
Kaiser Fredrick walked up to her, “Your Majesty, I have heard that you speak German?”
“Please call me Twilight, but yes, it’s not very good. I learned from my mentor and predecessor Princess Celestia,”
“You sound wonderful, my dear,” replied Kaiserin Victoria.
“Thank you your Majesty,”
“Call me Victoria,”
“Fredrick, please. The griffins speak German as their native tongue, do they not?”
“Yes the griffins and the ponies of Germane speak German,”
“The coincidences between our worlds are staggering, the races of your world each share the same language as the nations of my world,”
“Yes, President Macmillan had talked to me extensively about the similarities between Manehattan and New York City. That even the hotel in which you stayed has a counterpart in New York,”
“Dear, you even mentioned that some of the ships had been stuck in cities named San Fransiscolt, Buckston, Fillidelphia, Baltimare, and Vanhoover?” Asked the Kaiserin
“There is a human counterpart to those cities as well?”
“My recollection of American geography is a little rusty, but yes, San Francisco, Boston, Philadelphia, and Baltimore are major American port cities. Vancouver is the main port city on the west coast of British Canada,”
“Speak of the devil! Bertie, how are you? Exclaimed Kaiserin Victoria as she turned to greet the young King approaching with two glasses of wine.
“Good, it is nice to see you. How are you?”
“Wonderful, your uncle and I were talking to the Princess here about the amazing similarities between our worlds,”
“Pardon me, your Majesty, care for a drink?” Asked King Albert as he handed a glass to the lavender alicorn.
“Thank you, your Majesty,” Replied Twilight as she enveloped the glass in a Magenta hue, lifting it out of the King’s hand and bringing it up to her lips to take a small sip. She rarely drank, not liking how alcohol impaired one focus, but she had on occasion had a glass offered to her by Celestia or to keep up appearances at social events. Then she noticed the wide eyes of the King as he slowly moved around the fingers in his hand that once held the glass, “I’m so sorry! I should have warned you,”
“No, No, it's fine… it just felt quite odd, that is all,”
“Dear, I think it would be best if we both got something to eat,” said Kaiserin Victoria to her husband as she gestured towards the buffet.
“Ja,” Replied the Kaiser before turning to the Princess, “Zank you Prinzess, ve must get going,”
King Albert saw the Imperial couple leave with a puzzled expression and then turned back to look at his hand, Twilight giving him a sheepish expression as he finally looked up, “I have seen your Majesty, and some other unicorns use telekinesis. If you would be willing to explain it to me I would be glad to learn about it,”
“Um well, once again I am truly sorry, your Majesty…”
“Albert… Please call me Albert. Don’t worry no harm was done,”
“Ok, Albert… You can call me Twilight. Well, telekinesis is one of the many forms of magic that unicorns and alicorns such as myself can wield. It is quite a basic spell that most unicorns can cast, but the amount of mass that a pony can levitate is based on their Magical reserves. For instance, most unicorns can only levitate small to medium objects, up to between 30-50 pounds. However, the most powerful unicorns and alicorns can levitate much more massive objects. When casting the spell you simply have to focus on the object you want to levitate and where you want it to move,”
“So as an alicorn, how much can you levitate?”
“In my old world, I used to raise the Sun and Moon. I understand that the celestial bodies from each of our universes work completely differently from each other, but the Sun was still a truly massive body in my universe. A couple of years ago I also levitated a dam back together and held back the reservoir with my magic. Anyways I wouldn’t want to bore you,”
“No it’s fine, you're not boring me at all. I quite enjoy learning new things and there is no magic in my world,”
Twilight smiled, “I love learning new things, I have been reading all the books given to me by the crew of the Mauritania, and there is so much information about technologies that are completely new to Equestria. You may not have magic, but your world’s ingenuity and inventions are unrivaled,”
“Technology is one of my great interests, it is vital for the advancement of one’s country and as King, I feel it is vital to encourage the advancement of technology and be privy to its latest developments. I can tell you really did your research, you have outdone yourself with this summit. I noticed that the buffet included several dishes from all around Earth, and the accommodations provided also featured some homely touches,”
“Thank you, I try my best,” Twilight crossed her forelegs, her slight blush going unnoticed.
“Greeting le Majesties,” Announced Emperor Charles as he walked up to the King and Princess.
Albert quickly turned to the Bourbon rulers, “Your Majesties, how are you?”
Twilight quickly regained her composure at the sudden appearance of the Bourbon Emperor and his wife, “Hello, your Majesties,”
“Good, I am very impressed with sa vine and se cuisine française,”
“In gud ‘ealth,” Replied Empress Carlotta before turning to the Princess, “My husband and I would like to thank you for your hospitality ,”
“You're welcome your Majesty, it is my duty to ensure that your Majesties feel welcome here in Equestria,”
“Princess I look forward to the collaboration between the Bourbon Domain and the Kingdom of Equestria. The Entente would love your cooperation towards global stability and to form a new golden age for all of the nations within our alliance,”
Albert scoffed, “It was nice speaking with you Twilight,”
Twilight could cut the sudden tension between the two rulers with a knife as the Emperor glared at the King and the Empress looked at her husband shocked. Conflicted she finally decided to respond to Albert first, “It was nice speaking to you too,”
Albert performed a small bow and walked away towards the buffet, the Emperor scowling at him as he left.
“Thank you your Majesty, but we can discuss relations between Equestria and the human nations at the formal meeting we will be having shortly,”
“Yes but of course, it was nice meeting with you again Princess,”
Empress Carlotta glared at her husband before giving Twilight a weak smile, “Pardon us, your Majesty,”
The Bourbon rulers walked off towards the main conference table, Twilight standing awkwardly for a moment. She could not believe it, it was probably the nerves, but why had she blushed? It was just a simple compliment about her attention to detail and her research abilities, nothing more. Looking around to make sure no one was looking she downed the glass of wine and suppressed the traitorous thoughts.
After regaining her composure, Twilight finally made her way to the buffet where she met up with Spike who had run up earlier to sample the rare collection of gems prepared for the dragon dignataries.
“Hi Twilight, you know the deserts that Pinkie and Applejack cooked up are just incredible, not to mention all these gems!” Cried out Spike, his eyes sparkling as he admired the massive pile of rare and exotic jewls.
“Spike, what have I told you about overeating? I'm not going to be able to help you if you get a stomach ache now,” Twilight frowned as she nodded her head towards the conference table quickly filling up with diplomats.
“Ok, ok, sheesh Twilight, I know my limits,”
Her expression softened, “Sorry if that came off too pointed, I'm just looking out for you, and I'm honestly still really nervous,”
“You're the Princess of Friendship for a reason, now get something to eat and go through your notes one last time,” replied Spike as he pulled out several notecards out of his suit’s breast pocket.
Levetating the cards out of his hand, Twilight smiled, “Thank you,”
Spike returned the smile and quickly walked away, returning a short moment later with a daffodil salad. Twilight adjusted his bow tie and took the salad, eating it as she went over the cards outlining her plans to smooth over relations between the humans. After quickly finishing her salad, she returned the cards to Spike and walked over to the table now full of all of the dignataries. Taking her seat at the head of the table, framed by maps of Equestria, Twilight levitated a fook and glass from the table.
A loud chime rang across the room as the rulers and diplomats of the world paused their conversations and turned to look at her. Swallowing and then clearing her throat, she fought through her nerves and smiled, “I am glad to announce the commencement of our discussions,”
Author's Note
Sorry for the long wait but orientation and the first week of college took a lot of time away from me. Hope you enjoy!
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Chapter 7: The Global Summit (Minor Adjustments)
Chapter 7: The Global Summit
30th Day of the 5th Moon, 6 ALR: Manehattan City Hall
“As a first order of discussion, we must address the current shipping crisis in the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Should we hold a vote on whether we should begin discussions regarding either the Atlantic or Pacific Ocean,”
“Pardon me your Majesty, but I believe that we should start discussions regarding the Atlantic, much more shipping traffic is carried out there,” Replied Phillip Franklin, one of the American delegates and President of the International Mercantile Marine Company.
“I concur,” replied Lord Inverclyde, director of the Cunard Line
“It is of great national security importance that the Atlantic remain easily traversable. The Pacific is still mostly serviceable,” added President Macmillan
“Access to le colonies is vital to Bourbon Sovereignty,” stated Emperor Charles as the human delegates nodded in agreement to begin discussions regarding Atlantic transit.
“Alright then, as the nation with the greatest number of ports along the Atlantic routes, Equestria has already begun dredging up the ports and increasing the size of our piers. How can we better accommodate human shipping traffic?” Asked Twilight before gesturing to Spike. The purple dragon rolled out a chalkboard behind the princess.
“The Cunard line is willing to work with your Majesty's government to build new terminals and coaling facilities,” announced Lord Inverclyde
“Your Majesty, the docks will need to be made much larger, the currently building White Star Olympians will be the largest ships in the world and will dwarf the Cunard Greyhounds,” Interjected Franklin
“Of course, the White Star Line and the International Mercantile Marine Corporation as a whole, will gladly contribute to the retrofitting of Equestia’s docks, your Majesty. The Olympic and Titanic docked here in Manehattan will be an incredible sight to behold when they and the dock renovations are complete,” Added J. Bruce Ismay, Director of the White Star Line and IMM executive.
“Hamburg Amerika Line iz also committed to developing docks to accommodate our anticipated larger ships” Announced Albert Ballin of HAPAG.
The rest of the Human shipping executives voiced their support in retrofitting Equestrian docks and committed capital and manpower to speed up the process. Twilight furiously wrote down all the changes necessary for Equestrian ports to accommodate steady flows of human shipping traffic.
“The Royal Navy will also assist in dredging,” proclaimed King Albert
“As will the US Navy and the Army Corps. of Engineers,” added President Macmillan
“As too will ze Kaiserliche Marine,”
“Und le Marine Imperial,”
“Thank you, your Majesties, but I think it would also be prudent to include King Thorax and Prince Rutherford in these discussions,” Twilight turned to gesture at the Changeling King and Yack Prince.
“The Changelings have also begun the process of port renovation, there had been a few human ships we encountered following the magical surge, but with renovations complete we would be happy to trade and host human ships,”
“Yacks like humans. Ports being built to trade,”
“The IMM in partnership with the American and British governments is attempting to survey a northern passage around the Equestrian Continent. Coaling stations along Yackyakistan’s coasts are an interesting proposition. Granted we are yet to discuss the natural resource deposits of Yakyakistan, Equestria, the Crystal Empire, and the Changeling Kingdom,” replied Franklin.
“Yack minerals, best minerals,”
“The Crystal Empire is also rich in geological deposits, and is a leader in state-of-the-art manufacturing, well at least to our world standards. The human world seems to be much more advanced, however, we could trade our magical knowledge,” added Princess Cadence.
“Umm, well the Changelings do have coal and ample tar deposits, I’m not sure if you humans use tar for sealant,”
“Did you just say tar deposits?!” Cried out the entire American Delegation in unison as they stared down the Changeling King.
“The IMM is wholeheartedly committed to financing all port renovations and the construction of new ports in the Changeling Kingdom should you agree to give the IMM exclusive rights to ship the tar, your Majesty,”
“Standard Oil is looking forward to developing a wonderful relationship with your Majesty. We would be willing to finance the construction of the ports and the tar extraction infrastructure for the exclusive right to extract and ship the tar,” announced Robert Clyde, representative of the Standard Oil Corporation.
“You barely have any experience in shipping,” interjected Mr. Franklin as he scowled at Mr. Clyde, and then turned and smiled at King Thorax, “As the largest shipping company in the world, we have the greatest experience in maritime matters and we can assure your Majesty that any facilities that IMM builds will be far superior to that of Standard. Our ports will also serve passenger and general cargo traffic rather than Standard’s facilities which would probably only be useful for oil transport. Will even offer a payment of a ton of gold,”
“Umm well…”
“Now what about extraction, shipping is all well and good, but what are you going to move if there is no oil being pumped,”
“Well, you make a point right there Mr. Clyde… How about a partnership we can figure out a deal later,”
“That sounds good,” replied Mr. Clyde
“Your Majesty the Anglo Persian Oil Corporation would like to propose a payment of 5 tons of gold and the development of infrastructure for exclusive drilling rights,” interjected Lord Cumberland.
“Standard oil will offer 8 tons of gold on top of our existing extraction offer,”
“Gentleman, please, we are not here to discuss the intricacies of oil dealings. We are here to discuss world relations,” scolded President Macmillan, before giving a sheepish grin to Twilight and Thorax, “Pardon me your Majesties,”
Twilight was surprised just how quickly a conversation on changeling tar deposits had devolved into petty squabbling. She nodded her thanks to the American President and dotted down commitments between the human and the creatures of Equis on the chalkboard.
“And what of trade between ze humans and Griffonia?” Asked King Grover
“Olenia also would like to discuss trade agreements,” added King Aldar.
Twilight winced internally, all this discussion on the natural resources of the Western continent had left the Eastern nations ignored. The Griffons and Olenians had always complained of Equestrian self-importance and so far the conference was shaping up to be a prime example. Twilight gave the griffon and deer monarchs an apologetic smile, “I believe it would be prudent for us to move on to matters of the Pacific, trade agreements between nations can be discussed later. Your Majesties, who would like to start?”
“Griffonia has been visited by many a human ship, und we have been retrofitting ports such as Griffinshaven and Lubeak,”
“Le Olenians ‘ave also begun le process of port re’abilization,”
“Ze Saddle Arabians alzo have great tar deposits. Along with fine silk and spice,” Prince Al Saddle looked over at Mr. Clyde, Lord Cumberland, the Nippon Oil executive and the representative of Royal Dutch Shell, who were practically salivating at the promise of untapped oil reserves.
Noticing the hunger in the eyes of the oil executives, Twilight quickly cleared her throat, “Now please remember that talks on tar extraction and natural resource extraction will come later, let’s give all the nations a chance to express their position on the shipping situation,”
Prince Al Saddle nodded, “My apologies your Majesty. Saddle Arabia has been retrofitting the ports of Al Hoofidah and Trotgeirs, but we would happily accept human assistance,”
The oil executives nodded before giving each other death glares. King Albert and Queen Wilhemina grinned sheepishly as President Macmillan rolled his eyes at the executives' display.
Foreign Minister Hotaka whispered amongst the rest of the Japanese delegates until Emperor Meji nodded, then he announced, “Ze Japanese government is committed to the deveropment of port inhrastructure in the Pacific Continent,”
Secretary Peterson, Chase, and President Macmillan looked slightly shocked but quickly regained their composure and whispered amongst themselves. After a few moments, The Secretary of State spoke, “The Americans also offer our hand in welcome to Earth and wish to fund and assist in port development all across the Eastern Continent,”
“We are eager to work with your Majesties and your subjects. The US. Navy will provide machinery, dredging equipment, and work with the Army Corps. of Engineers to ensure that you are all properly connected to the global market,” Added Secretary Chase
“I tink it is rater rich that you offer ar these commitments after our show of soridarity with our Pacific brothers,” Countered Minister Hotaka.
“The United States has always been committed to the well-being and security of the Pacific, unlike you upstarts who wish to conquer all. Just this year you have annexed Korea and are practically puppeteering China,” Replied President Macmillan before turning to the rulers of the Eastern Continent, “Beware of Japanese signs of “Friendship”, before you know it you’ll be under their control,”
“Ha, ze American is a imperiarist who will stear away yor rand rike zey did with Hawaii,”
“Mr. President, can you please refrain from alienating the Japanese? You are both valuable partners,” pleaded King Albert.
“Unless I am mistaken your Majesty, the United States has no obligations to the Grand Alliance and thus can expose the truth of Japanese treachery,” replied Secretary Chase as the President, and Mr. Franklin looked at him with surprise.
“The United States is committed to our amicable relationship with Great Britain and Germ…”
“We helped le Americans fight their revolution against le Ingles and dey stab us in le back. As le German ‘orde poured into France, le Americans stole our precious islands of Cuba and Hispaniola,”
“Oh yes, rike the French are nobre defenders of the peopre, subjugating the people of the Phiripines and Indochina!”
“German Horde? Don’t be utterly redikulous it waz die French who invaded Deutshland first we zimply defended ourselves and protected Europe from yor domination!”
“And you don’t dominate die Flemish territories Kaiser? Because it seams zat you do das making you a hypocrite,” countered Queen Wilhelmina
“I completely agree with your Majesty. Da Prussians conquered their way to German Domination and now seal to rule over the world alongside da English. You of all people should know since you fought in all those wars,” countered Tzar Nicholas before directing his ire at Minister Hokata, “And da Amerikans are right, da Japanese are nothing more than conquering upstarts, who use cowardly tactics like sneak attacks to steal away territory!”
“Oh please and is it not the Russians who invaded Austria in the first place and now seeks to impose its will across all of Eastern Europe and Asia?” King Albert asked.
“How shameless for you to say that being King of da greatest imperial power in the world. You cowards don’t even fight your own battles, you finance others to do your bidding as you hide behind your battleships,”
The Empresses and the First Lady were starting to get visibly uncomfortable as the leaders of Equis stared dumbfounded at the unfolding verbal tirade of the human leaders. Twilight had seen enough, first the executives and then the leaders themselves but before she could say anything the room boomed with the Royal Canterlot Voice.
“ORDER!” Cadence’s voice echoed across the room, her forehoves on the table as she propped herself up on her hind legs, wings unfurled. The human leaders snapped their heads towards the pink alicorn who continued, “it is quite unbecoming of Emperors and Kings to bicker like foals. Would you not agree?”
A pregnant silence filled the room before Twilight cleared her throat, “I truly believe that through all the books I have read and all the wonderful advancements I have seen humans are a truly stupendous species, with no magic at all you have built self-moving carriages, near-instant communication, massive floating palaces, over last few days I have seen massive floating fortresses, you have discovered the existence of positive and negative charges in atoms, and many other incredible discoveries. You have so much more potential, imagine the discoveries that can be made if you all worked together rather than fight, imagine then the countless discoveries that can be made through combining magic with your technology, the possibilities are endless. I know that you all have your grievances and I do not mean to intrude on your dealings with one another, but have you not already faced enough hardship, enough war, enough death and destruction?”
The humans remained silent, the leaders of the Great Powers scrutinizing each other's reactions. Twilight’s heart sank, were they so distrustful of one another to continue their endless cycle of death? Maybe she had jumped the gun, the meeting had only truly just begun. Cadence had warned her to gain their trust and here she was exposing the world to humanity's bloody past. Finally, after 30 seconds that felt like an eternity to Twilight, President Philipé finally spoke, “Mexico commits to peace,”
“So does Siam,” Declared King Rama V
“Switzerland commits,” Declared President Brenner
Twilight was elated and it took all her will not to leap and cry out in joy, rather she kept a graceful smile as more and more leaders pledged. Cadence and her friends also smiled and soon, all of the minor human powers had committed to Twilight’s proposal. However, the leaders of the Great Powers remained alarmingly silent, the delegations of the nations of the Grand Alliance and the Entente stared each other down and the Americans and Japanese did so as well. King Albert, Kaiser Fredrick, and President Macmillan looked nervously at one another before Albert finally relented, “The Imperial Federation commits to peace,”
“Germany kommitz too!”
“The United States commits,”
Seeing the Americans back down, Minister Hotaka looked over at the Japanese nodding Japanese Emperor before proclaiming Japan’s commitment. However, Emperor Charles, Tzar Nicholas, and King Vittorio Emanuel remained stubbornly silent. As the world leaders looked expectantly at the leaders of the Entente, Empress Carlotta glared at her husband before jabbing him with her elbow. Emperor Charles quickly snapped his head to her and under his breath growled “Don’t you dare make look a fool,”
“You already are,”
King Aldar softly snickered and the Bourbon Emperor grunted before holding his head up. The Italian King was scowling at the other leaders, his small arms crossed as he remained stubbornly silent. Tzar Nicholas on the other hand was sweating nervously, his eyes darting between Twilight, the world leaders, Emperor Charles, and his Foreign Minister Mikhail Dyatlov. Twilight suspected that the Russian Tzar was under pressure from his nobility, and that suspicion was confirmed when Dyatlov leaned over to the Emperor’s ear and whispered, “I see that look on your face, don’t you prove your father right,”
It was the faintest whisper, Twilight’s heightened alicorn hearing could barely pick it up but rather than its intended effect the Tzar frowned and slammed his fist on the table. The Dyatlov recoiled away in a mix of fear and shock as the Tzar’s voice boomed, “I am no coward, Russia shall commit to peace!”
Emperor Charles and King Emanuele looked at the Tzar with twisted faces of betrayal, recovering from his shock Dyatlov’s face also scrunched up into a scowl. Emperor Charles finally softened his expression, “The Bourbon Empire commits,”
Now the lone King with arms crossed looked out to the table of dignitaries from all around the world, his face scrunched up into an ugly scowl. He then slammed his fists on the table as he screamed, “Dis is but un utter farce!” Pointing to the Kaiser and Albert he continued, “You make a commitment to a peace as you a rule over de largest empires in da world! You a snakes always win, let go of your empire and then i’ll make a comitment!”
Pushing himself away from the chair King Vittorio Emanuele got up on his feet and gestured to his wife and aids, “ Let's go!”
The Italian delegation quickly packed up their maps and charts and began making their way out of the meeting hall. Registering what had just occurred, Twilight disappeared from the head of the table in a flash of magenta light and teleported between the Italian Royal Couple and the double doors, “Wait! Please we can work something out!”
Everyone was in shock, the humans had never witnessed teleportation before, and Twilight had performed it on a whim. King Emanuel stumbled backward at the unexpected appearance of the Princess. Cadence was mortified and before anyone else could react enveloped Twilight in a sky-blue aura and levitated her back to the conference table. She then gave the recovering King an apologetic glance, “The Kingdom of Equestria and the Crystal Empire apologize for Princess Twilight. We hope to pursue amicable relations in the future,”
Now back to his bearings, the King looked back at Cadence and Twilight, “Mark a my words Princesses, Da British, Germans and Americans will a stab you in da back!”
With that, the Italian Guards opened the hall doors and the royal couple walked away. Twilight, recovering from her levitation across the room, cried out her apology as the last of the Italians funneled away.
In the end, things could have gone better but apart from Italy, the humans had heard her out. Maybe she could pull it off in the end. However, the room was in stunned silence as the leaders made sense of Italy’s outburst and the Princesses’ display of magical power as the Italians left the summit.
Cadence finally cleared her throat, “The Crystal Empire and Equestria are glad that you are attending this summit and I believe Princess Twilight and your Majesties agree that we should take a recess. Discussions will begin tomorrow,”
Chapter 8: A Brewing Storm
Author's Note
The Italian king's departure was tweaked in the last chapter for anyone who has not read it. TLDR: Twilight teleports between the King and the door to try to stop him from leaving.
Thank you guys so much for your patience, college is very busy and I have not had the luxury to invest a lot of time into this story, hope you enjoy it.
Chapter 8: A Brewing Storm
May 30, 1910: Manehattan City Hall
The press was idly waiting for any word of what was happening inside City Hall. Pony and human photographers discussed at length the intricacies of the near-instant magical color photo development of the Equestrian cameras. Journalists from all of the world's major news publications were sitting on benches or cross-legged on the floor writing out drafts and notes for the stories describing the Grand Reception. Equestrian Royal Guards along with the guards of the world nations blocked any access the journalist may have to the deliberations inside City Hall.
Then the massive double doors burst open as Italian guards funneled out forming two columns of men flanking the carpet leading out to the carriages parked on the opposite side of the plaza. Photographers and journalists quickly pounced on the commotion as camera flashes rang out and pens furiously scribbled on notepads. Then came the crowd of Italian dignitaries and barely visible in the middle of the crowd was the King and Queen of Italy. As the royal couple made their way down the steps a Royal Guard Galloped out and barked orders to the rest of the guards. A squad of Stallions galloped to the carriages and quickly prepared the Italian carriage, the rest of the Equestrian Guards galloped out to secure the roads to the port.
After slightly more than a minute of constant camera flashing the King and Queen were gone, the remaining Italian soldiers lowered the Italian flag and then began the march down the avenues of Manehattan. A large detachment of journalists including reporters of the Italian Il Messaggero.
“What the bloody hell just happened?” Asked a reporter for the Times
“I believe that they have stormed out, no pony… er… um, no one else has left the building other than guards,” replied a reporter from the Canterlot Chronicle.
“Maybe it was an emergency,” interjected a reporter from the Washington Post.
As activity died down and Royal Guards retook their positions on the steps, the journalists settled down, anxiously waiting for any word from the reporters who had followed the Italians. However, only after a couple minutes, another Royal Guard trotted out of the building ordering the rest of the stallions to prepare the carriages. With warning photographers took positions as close to the steps as they could get preparing the lenses and swapping film reels for another barrage of photos. Finally, the doors opened and the world leaders emerged.
“Mr. President!”
“Mr. President!”
“Can you tell us about what happened during the summit?”
“Do you have any comments on King Vittorio Emanuel’s sudden exit?”
“What can the American people expect from this summit?”
“Can you tell us more about the leaders of the new lands?”
“Please tell us more about the Princesses?”
“The ponies would like to know your opinion on Equestria, your Excellency?”
“Mr. President, how will the summit affect the upcoming Midterm Elections?”
President Macmillan and the First Lady quickly shuffled down the steps before the main entrance of City Hall. Marines and Secret Service pushed back the horde of journalists shouting out questions to the exiting heads of state. All around him ponies, humans, and a few other creatures filled the plaza with camera flashes, his only respite being that many journalists were busy bombarding other world leaders with questions.
After a couple of minutes, the President had finally made it to his carriage. A marine waiting opened the carriage door as President Macmillan helped his wife inside and then quickly followed her in. Once settled in, the carriage began to move towards the Waldhoof-Aurora Hotel, the Equestrian Royal Guards hauling the carriage speeding up into a gallop.
Howard found the city incredibly fascinating, it was so familiar yet so foreign. He could recognize the architecture of Midtown Manhattan and the skyscrapers resembled smaller versions of the Singer and Met Life towers. On the other hand, the streets were lined with ponies of all colors, most of them were the so-called “earth ponies”, but the few unicorns and pegasi added to the alien nature of the city, yet they ate hotdogs, albeit with carrot sausages rather than Frankfurts. They also spoke with the typical New York accent, if he simply closed his eyes and listened to the distant chatter of the ponies it would be hard for him to believe he wasn’t in New York.
“You need to ask for his letter of resignation,”
Pulled away from the enigma that was Manehattan, Howard now needed to contend with the fallout of the less-than-ideal American performance at the Global Summit. To be frank Princess Mi Amore Cadenza had been right, he had acted like a child with his outburst against Minister Hokata. But then Secretary Chase doubled down and jeopardized America’s relationship with Britain, a line that could not be crossed. His hands were tied even if he didn’t want to let Chase go Mr. Franklin and Mr. Clyde had seen the whole ordeal. Soon America’s corporate elite would be out for Chase’s blood, for jeopardizing their lucrative business dealings with the English. Anyways Assistant Secretary Newsome was a competent administrator and much less hawkish, Chase being granted his position more for his long naval career rather than his tremendous ability. Sighing he turned to his wife, “He signed his death warrant. I’ll ask for the letter at the hotel, and I’ll get the Chief of Staff to send a telegram to Robertson so he can get Congress to start the confirmation process for Newsom”
Ethel Macmillan noded, “Honestly dear, what were you thinking, your little display made the Equestrians think all of us humans are bloodthirsty warmongers,”
“What is done is done, but I don’t disagree, it’s just that ever since the Shangdong incident and the Japanese war with the Russians, America can't trust that the Japanese won’t use Griffin or Deer ports against American Polynesia or Hawaii,”
“That is still no excuse for what happened there,”
“I know,”
Finally, the carriage stopped and the President got up from his seat and helped his wife up and then out of the carriage. Before then stood the Waldhof-Aurora Hotel. While not as large as the Waldorf-Astoria the Equestrian hotel was just as grand, built in a neoclassical style the hotel featured an impressive portico with beautifully carved columns supporting carvings of unicorns, pegasi, earth ponies, and laurels all surrounding a majestic alicorn basking under the light of the sun and moon. The building itself was around 10 stories tall and built of marble and granite with tall arching windows and wrought iron balconies. The roof was fashioned with stunning lapis colored roof tiles and the facade of the building featured more ornate carvings.
Cameras flashed as more journalists lined the street opposite the hotel and crowded the barricades set up by the Royal Guards. Marines escorted the first couple into the lobby of the grand hotel. Once inside Chief of Staff, Mike Tompson, stood in the center of the vast hotel lobby.
“Welcome back Mr. President, Madam First Lady,” greeted Mr. Tompson as he approached the President.
“Thank you, Tompson. We will retire to our room, can you please have Secretary Chase visit me when he arrives?”
“Yes Mr. President, these porters will lead you to your room,” replied Mr. Tompson as he gestured to two young Stallions dressed in red porter uniforms. The First couple and a detachment of Secret Service men followed the ponies up to the Presidential Suite.
Five minutes after settling down in the suite’s study, a Secret Service officer announced the arrival of the Navy Secretary.
“Mr President, what do I owe the pleasure of your summoning?”
“Secretary Chase, unfortunately, I need to ask for your letter of resignation,”
The secretary swallowed as his face darkened, “But… Mr. President, I have been nothing but dutiful,”
“Mr. Chase, your comments to King Albert were uncalled for. I have no choice but to remove you from this administration. Your comments threatened American relations with Great Britain, our trade interests, relations with the Equestrians, and the nations of the new lands. I bear some responsibility for the exchange with Minister Hokata but you took it a step too far,”
“Yes, Mr. President. I’ll have a letter prepared by tonight,”
“Thank you. You are now dismissed,”
The Secretary turned away and left the room with his head hung low. Chief of Staff Tompson quickly shuffled into the room.
“Mr. Tompson can you please send a telegram to Vice President Richardson, telling him to have Assistant Secretary Newsome nominated for the position of Secretary of the Navy,”
“Yes, Mr. President,”
As the Chief of Staff left the room, a Secret Service Agent entered, “Mr. President, King Albert would like you to join him downstairs at the lounge,”
To say that the Princesses’ display was impressive was an understatement. His conversation on levitation with Twilight had been fascinating and seeing Princess Mi Amore Cadenza wield it to move Twilight away from King Emanuel was quite the demonstration. However, all the more impressive was Twilight’s teleportation, something he had never seen any other pony do, much less so effortlessly. Albert was fascinated, he wholeheartedly agreed that human technology coupled with Equestrian technology could create machinery and tools far greater than anyone had previously dreamed of, Lady Dash’s sonic rainboom being a perfect example.
Following Princess Mi Amore Cadenza’s call for recess, King Albert got up from his chair followed by his Foreign Secretary Lord Durham, Lord Inverclyde, Lord Cumberland, and his aides. Outside a horde of journalists bombarded him and other world leaders with a torrent of questions. British Royal Guards pushed through the crowd allowing the King to board his carriage. As the carriage began to roll away towards the hotel, Albert pulled out a small sketchbook and began to draw Manehattan architecture and the crowds of ponies lining the streets. He also began to jot down notes on the little he had learned about Equestrian magic before noticing that he was drawing a pair of massive eyes.
Regaining his bearings he set the book down and set his head against the window. Damn Americans and Japanese, why the bloody hell did they have to go off on each other. The Grand Alliance’s position in the Pacific was tense, the Japanese and Americans both eying the Philippines as new additions to their emerging empires and their interests in the Pacific were in constant conflict. Ever since the Shandong Incident of 1902, during the Chinese Rebellion, when the Japanese bombarded the city killing 156 Americans, Washington’s and Tokyo’s relationship had been icy. Japanese aggression during the Russo-Japanese War had spooked all the major powers in the Pacific, not helping their relationship with the Americans.
However rocky their relationship might be, it was still important that the Grand Alliance present a united front. Thus as soon as he arrived at the Waldhoof-Aurora, he had his aids reserve a private lounge and invite the leaders of the Grand Alliance to join him.
Now seated in one of the plush sofas of the sofa Albert was nursing a glass of cognac when guards opened the doors and the Kaiser stepped inside. Setting the glass down on the table Albert stood up and performed a slight bow, “Uncle Fredrick thank you for joining me on such short notice. Care for a drink ?”
“Greetings Albert, Yes please pour me a glass,” Kaiser Friedrich said as he took a seat in the armchair next to Alberts.
The servants had left a silver tray with a crystal decanter filled with the finest French cognac and seven sparking crystal glasses. Picking up the decanter and removing the stopper Albert poured a serving of the rich mahogany liquor into one of the six remaining glasses. Kaiser Friedrich thanked Albert as he handed him the glass before the doors opened once again.
“Your Majesties,” greeted President Macmillan as he performed a small bow.
“Mr. President, I'm glad that you could make it. Would you like a drink?”
“Hallo Mr. President” Kaiser Friedrich replied as he got up to shake Macmillan’s hand.
“Yes, please. I assume that the Emperor and Minister Hotaka will be arriving shortly?” The President replied as he took a seat.
“Yes, you are both probably aware that I called this meeting to discuss the summit,” said Albert as he handed a glass to Macmillan.
“I am aware that I let the differences between Japan and America get the best of me and apologize to both of you and Minister Hotaka and the Emperor once they arrive,” the President then focused on King Albert, “I would also like to apologize to you personally on behalf of Secretary Chase, and reinforce America’s commitment with amicable relations with Great Britain. I have already asked for the secretary's resignation,”
“Thank you, Mr. President, I assure you that the British Empire is committed to our relationship. I understand that tensions are high,”
The doors opened once again and Emperor Meji walked into the room followed closely behind by Minister Hataka. Hataka bowed deeply followed by a shallow bow from Emperor Meji which the other leaders returned.
“I word rike to aporogize personary regarding da summit. Da Emperor wants to assure you dat regrdress of our differences we are committed to da Grand Ariance and our rerationship wid America,” stated Minister Hotaka while still bowing.
“I would also like to apologize to His Majesty and you personally, my response was not professional,” replied President Macmillan.
“Wonderful! I am hopeful we can smooth out some of the tensions between Japan and America,”
Minister Hotaka and President Macmillan smiled, followed by the Japanese Emperor reading the mood. Soon Sultan Abdul Hamid II and his interpreter Foreign Minister Halil Pasha, King Gustaf V of Sweden, King Manuel II of Portugal, King Alexander I of Yugoslavia, and his Foreign Minister arrived following further discussions between the Japanese Foreign Minister and American President. Albert gestured for the leaders to sit down as he poured more drinks and then opened up a shallow wooden box tied in a silk ribbon, “Now that we are all here would any of you like to partake in a cigar? They're from India, I have yet to try them but Lord Derby says that they rival the finest Cuban cigars,”
“Well I’ll see about that,” replied the President as he took a cigar and pulled out a cutter. Slicing off a small part of the head Macmillan brought the cigar to his mouth before taking a cold draw, then pulled out a box of matches to light it. The Kaiser followed suit and the Emperor, while reluctant at first, took his cigar after some quiet mumbling with Minister Hotaka.
“Well I’ll be, this is surprisingly good, Indian tobacco is usually harsh,” said President Macmillan as he blew a puff of smoke.
Albert smiled lighting his cigar before taking a draw, “Britain might soon be making better cigars than America,”
“Don’t get too carried away, Cuba is till the tobacco capital of the world,” President Macmillan laughed.
“It’s quite nice, but I sink we should discus ze Italians. I would not be surprised if zey launched an attack against us. Should we be discussing general war plans against ze Entente?” Asked Minister Halil Pasha after drawing from his cigar.
“I believe that would be prudent, although I do not know if the Russians will refrain from the attack after their pledge of peace, I would not put it past them to attack anyway. The Royal Navy has warships prepared for Mediterranean engagement and mine-laying operations have already been planned, Lord Haddington will be sending the Ottoman Navy and Kaiserliche Marine an updated map of planned mine-laying sites. The British Expeditionary Force also has 15 divisions ready to deploy between Ottoman territory and Germany, with another 50 that can be deployed within a month of hostilities,”
“75 divisions are ready for immediate engagement, Field Marshal Von Möllendorf assures me zat another 200 divisions can be mobilized wizin two weeks of first engagement. Ze Alsace line haz also been reinforced should ze French attack. A detachment of 17 divisions has been prepared along the Yugoslavian border to assist in the Balkan Front. Ze Kaiserliche Marine would like to moor warships in Malta as Trieste is vulnerable to Italian mines and torpedo attack,” Kaiser Freidrich stated as he swirled his glass.
“I will authorize Lord Haddington to have Malta prepared for German vessels,”
“Yugoslavia has 20 divisions ready for war. Fortresses have been built along se Hungarian border and se Germans can count on easy access through our nation to reinforce the Ottomans,” stated Minister Pašić.
President Macmillan set his cigar down and took a sip of cognac before saying “I can not commit any troops as of yet, but I have already consulted with Congress to have material shipped,”
“Well we all understand our roles in a European war sparked by Italy, I think we should also focus on courting our relationship with the nations of this new world. I suggest that we invite the princesses to our respective nations to show them what our nations have to offer and the advancements in technology and science that we have achieved. I have had a wonderful conversation with Princess Twilight and gathered that the Equestrians would love to learn more about human technological advancement. An exchange such as this can allow us to learn about Equestrian magic which I am sure we all got to see the power of with the Princesses display during King Vittorio Emanuel’s departure,”
The men chuckled before Albert continued, “Are we all in agreement?”
“To Equestria,” declared Kaiser Friedrich raising his glass before all the men returned the toast.
What an unmitigated disaster, the first day of the summit had proven to be a massive embarrassment to the Entente and to the Bourbon Empire. He had grossly miscalculated and had let the Grand Alliance gain the upper hand. As much as he hated to admit his wife was right, he had made himself look like a fool and his pride along with that of King Vittorio Emanuel had given the Grand Alliance the opportunity to fane innocence.
With the Italian King’s departure Charles' job was made all the more difficult as he would have to coordinate a salvage effort with the rest of the Entente powers of Russia, Denmark, Greece, Bulgaria, and Hungary while praying that the Italians wouldn’t do anything rash. However, that might be wishful thinking. The Italian government and press had already begun a massive public relations campaign to rally support for an invasion and annexation of Ottoman Tripolitania. Italian troops were already mobilized, and for the most part, the press had been successful in rallying the public. With King Emanuel’s departure, the Italians could have troops in Libya by the end of the week.
The only positive sign was that it seemed that Russia would pull away from a joint attack on the Ottomans. Tzar Nicholas being the first to relent gave Charles confidence in this belief. An Italian-Turkish war would no doubt further sour the Entente’s precarious position with the Equestrians. Tomorrow had to go perfectly to provide some breathing room should the Italians attack, or else Equestria would fall into the grasp of the wretched Grand Alliance.
With Princess Cadenza’s call to recess, the Emperor got up and then helped Carlotta out of her chair. Leading the French procession out of City Hall, his guards fought their way through a horde of reporters. Using the commotion as cover Charles was able to ask the remaining entente leaders to join him in his suite.
After 30 minutes the Emperor was now seated at the head of the fine walnut table in the dining room of his lavish suite. Across from him sat Tzar Nicholas, while King Frederik VIII, Queen Wilhelmina, King Geórgios I, Tzar Ferdinand I, and King Frigyes I sat on the sides of the table. Servants brought in glasses of port and a platter of fine pastries.
Taking a sip of liquor Charles then set his glass down, “As we all witnessed, today’s discussions with the Equestrians did not go as planned and I fear what Italy might do now that they have abandoned these discussions,”
“The Russians can assure you that we will be demobilizing the divisions prepared for the planned Turkish campaign,” asserted Tzar Nicholas.
“The Greek people are itching for a Macedonian revolt, I am unsure if I will be able to stop an incident with the Ottomans,” warned King Geórgios.
“We simply need to present a unified front and a desire for peace. Today our conduct has given the English and Germans the advantage in courting the Equestrians. The Bourbon Empire is committed to offering economic investment in Equestria,” Emperor Charles turned to look at Queen Wilhelmina, “The Bourbon government is committed to assisting the Dutch government in subsidizing a venture to have Royal Dutch Shell offer free infrastructure development in Changeling Kingdom and Saddle Arabia. We need to offer the best deal possible, we can not afford to have Standard Oil or the Anglo-Persian Oil company swooping this opportunity away!”
“The Entente can count on the Dutch to pursue an effort in securing this new world oil,” replied Queen Wilhelmina.
“And what of American finance, they could bury the Equestrians in cash and with all due respect your Majesty, but France would be unable to keep up,” mentioned the Hungarian King.
“The Americans are in the business of making money, I doubt that Washington would be willing to subsidize a profitless venture,”
“That is assuming that the Grand Alliance is not as desperate to court the Equestrians as we are and the English and Germans control the second and third largest reserve of capital. If they hold our same intentions, the economies of the Entente could never hope to compete in buying Equestria’s favor,” countered Queen Wilhelmina.
“That may be true when looking at the raw numbers, but the Grand Alliance is burdened by their democratic governments, especially the Americans and the English. The Republicans are dependent on the favor of American business interests and the continued support of urban workers to maintain power. The appearance of the Equestrian continent has already strained the relationship between the Macmillan Administration and the corporate elite. For the United States to counter our plan, the Republican government would have to funnel so much taxpayer money into the endeavor that the voters would certainly defect to the Democrats. The English Liberal government is in an even worse position, The Chamber of Deputies is still under my influence and I can have funds procured to invest in a future Equestrian Alliance,”
“But what about the Germans, the Kaiser still has great influence over the government as well, can he not have Germany outspend the Entente?” King Frederik asked.
“The Germans may be the third largest economy in the world, but they have only recently surpassed the Bourbon Empire, their financial institutions are not as developed and France still possesses a larger merchant marine,”
“What of the Italians? What should we do should the Italians go ahead with their planned invasion of Tripolotania?” Asked Tzar Nicholas.
“Should the Italians foolishly enter into a war at this moment we should not support them.”
“But they are still our allies, a coordinated attack would surely bring the Ottomans to their knees, Bulgaria will finally be able to free our Slavic brothers from Turkish oppression!” Cried Tzar Ferdinand
“There will be other opportunities to carve up the Ottoman Empire, but at this moment it would serve the Entente better to gain allies before committing to a war. Should the Italians attack, we will condemn the attack, King Emanuel let his pride betray the unified front of the Entente. No matter what happens after that the Entente will still benefit, should the Grand Alliance come to the aid of the Ottomans then the Equestrians will see them for the warmongers they truly are. If the Grand Alliance also refrains from any action, then the Italians will gain Tripolitania and secure ports for the Entente to use in a future conflict. Regardless of what happens, we must ensure that in the Equestrian eyes, we are seen as the defenders of peace,”
“Wouldn’t condemnation push the Italians away, they would see it as a grave betrayal.” countered King Geórgios.
“The Italians have no one else to turn to, the Entente has offered them the Adriatic coast, Tripolitania, and Egypt. What does the Grand Alliance have to offer them, Savoy? Please,” Emperor Charles picked up his glass and took another sip before continuing, “So are we in agreement for tomorrow?”
The Entente leaders nodded in agreement as they began to participate in small talk following the more serious political discussion.
Once the last of the dignitaries had left, Applejack, Fluttershy, and Spike began to clean the table along with all of the servants. Twilight sat her face buried in her hooves.
Rarity walked up to her, “Darling, you did it, you got the humans to agree to peace,”
“I ruined it! I spoke too soon, I made myself look like an idiot! Now I pushed the Italians away!”
“Twilight, the Italians left on their own,” replied Starlight
“Because I hadn’t gained their trust yet!” Cried Twilight as she slammed her hooves on the table. The rest of the ponies all turned to look at the purple alicorn as Rarity and Starlight recoiled away from her. Seeing the room's reaction Twilight crumbled back down into her seat, “I’m a failure,”
“Servants, guards, girls, Shining, Spike, can you please leave me alone with Princess Twilight,” Ordered Cadence
“Yes your Majesty,” replied the guards and servants in unison as they vacated the room, followed reluctantly by Twilight’s friends, Shining and Spike.
Once the room was empty Cadence turned to Twilight, “Twilight, I know you mean well, but… you need to show some more restraint. You are the Princess of Equestria, the fate of Ponykind rests on your shoulders. I agree with Celestia and Luna, you are worthy of the Crown, but you have yet to learn to truly keep your emotions in check. You can’t just simply try to stop somepony from leaving a room even if you were trying to reason with them. You could have very well started a war with a power that wields technologies far beyond our own,”
Twilight’s ears folded back, she felt minuscule under Cadence’s ire. She knew Cadence was right, she had just like with the captains at the beginning of the month tried to magic her problems away. Choking back tears,” I just always feel I’ll never be good enough that I’ll never be able to replace Celestia and Luna. I want everything to go perfectly but then I just mess it up,”
She felt a hoof under her chin as Cadence tilted Twilight’s head up towards her own. With a gentle smile, Cadence replied, “You are and always will be my favorite little filly, Twilight. I honestly feel so lucky that your parents won the lottery to have me be your foal sitter. I only mention your little outburst because I know you will be the greatest ruler in Equestrian history and I want to be one of the ponies that help you reach that goal,”
“You really mean that?” Replied Twilight as she choked back tears. Cadence wiped them away as she nodded. Twilight quickly pressed herself against Cadence, who embraced her, “Thank you,”
Wiping away the last of her tears Twilight and Cadence finally stepped out of the room to join the crew waiting in the foyer. Servants rushed back into the hall to finish cleaning and prepare for the next round of negotiations tomorrow. Rarity embraced Twilight, “Feeling better darling?”
Twilight nodded.
“You know, the Waldhoof-Aurora has the highest-rated spa in all of Equestria. A few spa treatments will surely relieve all of that pent-up stress. What do you say,”
Rainbow Dash rolled her eyes, “Uh, really, the spa?”
“Rainbow ah know how much ya like your “Deep Tissue Sports Massages”, don’t be such a downer,” quipped Applejack as she winked at Rainbow Dash.
As the group of ponies walked out of City Hall, like all of the other world leaders, they were bombarded by questions from the press. Royal guards pressed the press back but Rainbow Dash flew up and started answering questions and posing for press pictures. Twilight rolled her eyes but decided to humor questions.
“Princess, what would you like the humans to know about you?” Asked a reporter for the Times.
“I want to form a positive relationship with all humans, you are such incredibly ingenious creatures and all of your technological feats are incredible, especially with your lack of magic. Equestria would love to learn under your example and I hope that together we can create a bright future that combines your technology with Equestrian magic,”
“Princess, what is your opinion of the human leaders?” Asked a reporter from the Washington Post.
“I have had wonderful conversions with many human leaders and our discussions have been productive and insightful,”
“And what of King Vittorio Emanuel, we all saw him storm out of the summit,” followed up the Washington Post reporter.
Twilight winced reminded of her failure, but then felt Cadence’s hoof on her side, “I am disappointed in King Vittorio Emanuel’s departure but I respect his wishes and hope that Equestria can foster a positive relationship with the Kingdom of Italy through other means,”
“There are rumors of a global peace proposal, Princess would you like to elaborate on that? Asked a reporter from the New York Times.
“I firmly believe that there are better ways of resolving issues than brutal conflict. All creatures are better off reconciling their differences and learning to understand each other's points of view. Working together will help build everyone up and make everyone stronger as a whole. Equestria has enjoyed over a thousand years of relative peace and my research on human history makes me believe that if we try hard enough we can make agreements such as the Congress of Vienna that stand the test of time,”
Twilight felt Cadence pull her away from the mass of reporters before whispering into her ear, “You don’t want to give the press too much information they can spin it against you, let's make our way to the carriage,”
Twilight nodded and the two princesses along with the girls finally pushed their way through the press horde and to the carriages. Rainbow noticing her friends were ready to leave finished answering her last question and sped over to the carriage. Finally, after about half an hour, they made it to the spa.
“Send the ultimatum, have one sent back to the Ottoman Emperor here at the summit and another to Constantinople ,”
“Ye… yes your Majesty. Anything else?” Replied Foreign Minister Capotondi.
“Have a telegram sent to Prime Minister Rudini informing him of my decision and another to the General Staff, to prepare for total mobilization,”
“Yes your Majesty,”
Cowards, Cowards the whole lot of them, the King of Italy was going to show them all the wrath of Italy, for she would take her birthright and claim the Mediterranean for her own starting with Libya. The Foreign Minister performed a quick bow and walked away, now with nothing left to do but carry out his planned invasion, King Vittorio Emanuel walked down the pier, sailors lining the decks of the RMI Reigna Elana to salute their King.
“Evviva il Re!”
“Evviva il Re!”
“Evviva il Re!”
The men cheered as the King and Queen stepped up the gangway, soldiers, and sailors removing their hats in salute. Once aboard Captain Busamente bowed to the Royal couple as the navy band began to play the Marcia Reale D'Ordinanza. As the National Anthem finished playing, and the soldiers in the docks funneled into the battleship, pony dock workers and Italian sailors began to throw out the mooring lines.
With a blast of the horn the RMI. Regina Elena began to pull away from the harbor, King Emanuel walking up to the railing, pulled out a pack of cigarettes from his tunic. Lighting one of the cigarettes he quickly placed it in his mouth and drew a deep breath as he saw Manehattan slowly grow farther away.
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Interlude: All the backstory of the Human World in 1910
Something has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter. Chapter 9: The Assault on Tripolitania
31st day of the 5th Moon, 6 ALR: Manehattan City Hall
Twilight looked out before the table all the world leaders, except for the Italian delegation, were seated and ready for the second round of negotiations.
“Things may have been a little rocky and I apologize for my outburst yesterday, but I look forward to cordial discussions today,”
“I would like to apologize on be’alf of l'Entente for our conduct yesterday, your Majesty,” announced Emperor Charles.
“I apologize for myself and Secretary Chase for the scene we caused,”
“I word rike to apologize as well,” added Minister Hataka.
“The Grand Alliance would like to issue a formal apology to this Summit for the events that transpired yesterday,” added King Albert.
“Should we discuss embassies?” Twilight then gestured to the Griffins and Deer, “We can start with the delegation from the Eastern Continent”
“Ja, I will have ze noblez appointed to ambassadorial postitionz, we also invite you humanz to come and visit Griffenheim to select un Embassy location,” stated King Grover as he looked at the Human leaders.
“Ve extend ze same offer to you, yor Majesty, Berlin would be happy to host a Griffin Embassy,”
The leaders of Equis and Earth continued to discuss ambassadors and bilateral negotiations between each of the nations until the guards opened the double doors of the hall. Italian Foreign Minister Capotondi walked into the room clutching a document in his fist, he was visibly uncomfortable as he approached the Ottoman delegation and handed the documents to Minister Pasha. The room went deathly silent as the Ottoman minister looked over the documents. Pasha chuckled as he set the papers down,”Zis is utterly ridiculous what do you mean we have been targeting Italian business? If you want war so badly, don’t try to hide behind zis laughable excuse for pretext,”
Twilight's heart sank, she knew she had messed up, she had pressed too hard, but she had not realized just how bad it was, the humans were going to war and it was all her fault. She was nauseous and heating up, Cadence noticed, placing a hoof over hers, placing her other hoof to her chest, and then extending it out as she exhaled. Twilight copied Cadence’s breathing techniques calming herself down before paying attention to the scene unfolding before her.
“You are playing a dangerouz game!” Exclaimed Kaiser Friedrich as he pointed an accusatory finger at Emperor Charles and Tzar Nicholas. “Ze Reich is prepared to crush ze scheming Entente,"
“Calm yourself!” Exclaimed King Albert as he reached out in front of the German Emperor. He then turned to the Russian Tzar, “I pray you do not plan to follow Italy’s lead for the Royal Navy is prepared to maintain the balance of power,”
“Jou throw around accusations as if ve are responsible for dis. Le Entente ‘as not pressed Italy to do any of dis!” Responded Emperor Charles.
“Zen explain ze mobilizationz, ve are aware of ze mobilization of 400,000 Russian Troops! You plan to dismember ze Turks and flood ze Balkans wiz troops to surround ze Vaterland,”
Twilight winced, most of Equis' leaders were shocked, 400,000 soldiers was an unfathomable number. The Equestrian army only fielded 50,000 guards, and during the Great Griffin Wars Equestria had only ever fielded an army of 250,000. She had read of the massive wars that the humans had fought but even then the possibility of so many lives potentially lost sickened her.
“We may have mobilized da Troops but we have no interest in escalation,” responded the Tzar.
“How does that make any sense? Mobilizing troops is by definition escalatory!” replied King Albert.
The other leaders of Equis sat in stunned silence as the human leaders threw accusations at one another. Twilight as in horror as she thought to herself; this may be all my fault, but I could still fix it, I had to. Taking a deep breath she spoke, “Please stop,”
Unfortunately, it had little effect. The tension in the room was at a boiling point as the Tzar replied, “Der might have been some mobilizations. However, we plan to make a commitment to peace, was I not the first member of the Entente to commit?”
“Zat vas after ze members of ze Grand Alliance komited!”
“And you have not mobilized 200,000 men as well!” retorted the Tzar as he gestured to the Kaiser.
After letting the argument between the Great Powers unfold, Minister Pasha finally gave a direct response to the Italian Ultimatum, handing the document back to Minister Capotondi, “De Turks welcome dis foolish attack by de Italians. You westerners underestimate Turkish resolve and you will be so utterly…
“STOP! Please, we can work something out. Minister Capotondi, Minister Pasha, May I please look at the document?”
The two Ministers looked at each other before the Italian Minister began walking over to Twilight, who lit her horn and levitated the papers out of his hand. Reading them over, it was clear why the Turkish Foreign minister had reacted the way he had, the Italians were clearly demanding Ottoman territory. “Spike can you bring a map of the human nations,”
“Your Majesty, I a understand that you are a trying to a help, but I am afraid dat der is no a convincing His Majesty,” responded Minister Capotondi soberly as Spike scurried up to the table and unrolled a large map of the world across the table.
“Because King Emanuele is za wretched opportunist!” Declared Minister Pasha.
“Wait! There has to be something to stop this bloodshed!” exclaimed Twilight as her eyes hovered over the map noticing just how expansive the human empires truly were before finding Tripiolitania, “The Italians want to take Tripolitania away from the Ottomans, which the Ottomans clearly don’t want to give away. Minister Capotondi this ultimatum mentions grievances among Italian businessmen, well…”
“Your Majesty, we know that you mean well but British intelligence has known of Entente's plans to invade the Ottomans for the last six months. Something tells me you feel personally responsible but this has nothing to do with you,” interrupted King Albert before turning to look at the Entente Powers again, “The Entente desires to destabilize Europe by taking to the Turks like a pack of hyenas, tearing the Empire apart limb by limb in the hopes that we come to their defense. For the Tzar has his eyes on Constantinople and the Turkish Straits, the Emperor yearns for Alsace, the Rhineland, and Sudan, and his Italian Majesty looks towards North Africa!”
“Le Entente condemns de Italian attack, we wish only for peace,”
“PLEASE! We can’t let this spiral out of control!” Exclaimed Twilight as she fought hard not to use her magic to freeze the human leaders, “There is a great deal of suspicion surrounding the relationship of your nations. Even if the war against the Turks and Italians is inevitable, we can stop it from boiling over into a greater conflict! Can we be transparent about each other's intentions?”
“I will a be a taking my a leave,” announced Minister Capotondi before turning to Minister Pasha, “I will a inform his a Majesty of your Sultan’s decision,”
“But what about the negotiations?” asked Twilight.
“Like I a said, there is a nothing to a discuss. I a simply came as a courtesy to inform da a Turks of an Italian attack,”
Twilight's face darkened as the Italian Minister began to walk away, Cadence holding her back with a hoof, “Can we discuss the raising of troops? Your Majesty, why has the Russian army raised so many soldiers?”
“Well der might have been de intention to participate in a joint invasion of da Turks, but with da appearance of da Equestrian continent we are willing to demobilize da raised troops should da British and da Germans commit to not intervening in the war,”
“Great Britain can not tolerate the slow dismemberment of the Ottoman State. We can commit to not getting involved militarily, however as an obligation to the Grand Alliance, Britain will provide aid to Constantinople,” stated King Albert before turning to Minister Pasha, “ However, to prevent any unintended hostilities, all aid must be transported via Ottoman flagged vessels,”
“I would like to reiterate dat le Entente and le Bourbon Government condemns any Italian attack. ‘Owever, le Germans have mobilized several divisions, it would not be wise for Russia to demoralize without assurances dat le Germans to do da same,”
“Die Reich will demobilize ze newly raised troops with ze guarantee of a Russian demobilization and the assurance zat Italy is not military supported in itz war,”
The Grand Alliance will commit to a policy of military nonintervention and the safety of all Entente-flagged ships excluding the Italians, should the Entente agree to do the same. Should the Entente not comply with its obligations in this agreement then the Royal Navy is prepared for a reprisal,”
“Dat seems reasonable,” replied Emperor Charles.
Kaiser Friedrich turned to King Geórgios, “Zis is not an opportunity to bring about chaos in die Balkans,” He then turned back to the Emperor and the Tzar, “Keep your Balkan allies at bay, Ottoman Rumelia must stay intact for zis deal to stand,”
“Da Entente will ensure da stability of da Balkans,”
“So are we in agreement? The war has been contained to Italy and the Turks?” Asked Twilight.
The human leaders nodded. It was a strange feeling of relief considering a war had broken out despite her efforts, but at least a potentially globally devastating conflict had been averted. “Spike, can you please get me some parchment?”
Spike flew off to the cabinets at the edge of the room as she conjured up an imprinting spell she had learned to make it easier to prepare tests for the School of Friendship. Once Spike had returned with the paper, she cast the spell, immediately willing the parchment with the contents of a nonaggression treaty. Twilight then poofed several freshly dipped quills into existence and levitated the treaty to the center of the table for all the human leaders to sign. The Humans looked at the Princess incredulously and carefully took the arcane quills in their grasp. Once all the humans had signed and the quills poofed out of existence, Twilight flew out of her chair and cast a duplication spell, handing each leader a copy of the agreement, except Emperor Charles who got two. Flying back to her seat, Twilight turned to Emperor Charles as she tucked in her wings, “Please send his Italian Majesty a copy, your Majesty,”
“Yes,”
“I believe that each of our nations can continue one-on-one conversations through our new diplomatic agreements. Considering the global situation, I sense we are all in agreement that we must return to manage the affairs of our states. There will be one last banquet held at 6,” Twilight turned to the human leaders, “I would like to thank you all on behalf of Equestria for attending the Global Summit,”
The global delegations began to disperse, with the Ottomans moving especially quickly to return to Constantinople. Cadence smiled at Twilight as she got up from her chair, and she gave a meek smile in return, she was exhausted. After a couple of minutes only the Equestrian, Crystal Empire, and British delegation remained in the hall. King Albert walked up to Twilight, “I would like to thank you. Tensions have been incredibly high, Italy is not your fault, it has been an issue that has been festering for the last decade and was on the Brink of boiling over into a serious conflict before Equestria suddenly appeared in the middle of the Atlantic,”
Twilight frowned, “But my big mouth pushed King Emanuelle over the edge. I had an opportunity to stop it and I failed, that was the whole point of this summit. To bring the nations of the world together,”
Albert chuckled, “You pretty much succeeded, I’m afraid that had it not been for this summit, the Entente and the Grand Alliance would be at total war right now. Thanks to you we negotiated a deal to prevent further escalation,”
“Thank you,”
“Your Majesty, I would like to issue you a formal invitation for a State visit to Great Britain in July. I understand that you are interested in human technology and a tour of our shipyards, industrial complexes and our libraries will serve that aim,”
“Thank you, your Majesty. I accept,” replied Twilight as she performed a small bow reciprocated by King Albert.
The British delegation soon left and the girls surrounded Twilight. Fluttershy gave her a hug, “Twilight, King Albert is right, you may not have achieved what you wanted but if what he said is true then you are a hero,”
“It just feels like everything that could go wrong went wrong,”
“At least you didn’t go ballistic like yesterday,”
“Rainbow!” Scolded Applejack before turning to Twilight, “Sugarcube, sometimes ya may not get what yer’ lookin for but ya gotta take what you can get,”
Twilight noises in reply and the group began to walk to the exit, but as they were about to leave, a flash of gold erupted in front of the ponies and Twilight suddenly found herself wearing an oversized hat with “#1 Diplomat” printed on the front. Everyone else had massive foam fingers on their right forehoves or claws and Discord was resplendent in a cheerleader costume.
“How is my number one negotiator doing?”
Fluttershy grimaced and gently shook her head while everyone else gave an unimpressed frown.
“What? I am just showing my congratulations to her Majesty for a successful summit,”
“Discord. Um, now is not a good time,” voiced Fluttershy.
“Have I struck a chord, did something go wrong?”
June 10, 1910: Port of Tripoli
Lieutenant Colonel Hafez Balik knew that Tripoli would fall, it was just a matter of when. The city garrison was already withdrawing, his artillery battalion was left behind to man the forts and delay the Italian landing for as long as possible to give General Kaplan of the Libyan Army enough time to regroup and muster a suitable defense. When the declaration of war was issued ten days ago the harbor had been mostly evacuated, with mines laid along the coast. A small fleet of four torpedo boats and the cruiser Mecidiye provided Balik with a diversion and minimal artillery support. In the forts, a force of 950 men and 100 guns were under his command, but the vast majority of these guns were outdated Ottoman pieces that would do nothing against the approaching Italian fleet. Only 36 German Krupp 150 mm SK L/40 naval guns making up 6 batteries could provide a suitable defense.
Out on the horizon, the exhaust of the Italian fleet marked their imminent arrival. Through his binoculars, Balik could see 3 battleships, 4 armored cruisers, and 5 torpedo boat escorts. It was worse than he expected, the Italian fleet before him was more formidable than the entirety of the woefully neglected Ottoman Navy. He turned to his Lieutenant, “Raise the flags, I want every fort to have the guns loaded and prepared for engagement,”
“Yes sir!” Replied Leiutenent
The flags signaling general quarters were hoisted up on the flag post of the fort and soon the rest of the port's fortifications raised flags in reply. In Balik’s fort, a battery of 6 German guns was positioned, teams of men hoisting shells and powder bags out from the magazines and up onto the battery. Crews then loaded the guns, a pair of men opening the breech of each gun while another pair slid the shell and the powder bag into position. As each gun finished loading the gunners raised their flags to signal that their gun was ready.
Balik walked up to the parapet of his fortress where a rangefinder had been prepared. It was a metal tube that lay horizontally atop a foldable tripod, inside the tube a series of lenses that would pinpoint the general range of the enemy by how many degrees the rangefinding dial was turned. Captain Ilken stood next to Rangefinding Officer Saydam, who was operating the device. The Captain turned and saluted Balik followed by Saydam who got up from his chair and stood to salute the Lieutenant Colonel.
“Sir, Officer Saydam has calculated the enemy fleet to be 20 km away. The battery is ready to fire and the guns are being trained to fire at the positions the enemy is predicted to be when they come into range,” Announced the Captain.
“Good Captain, inform me when the Italians come into range of the guns,”
“Yes sir!”
“At ease,”
The two officers turned back to their posts as Balik returned to his position, the signal flag office marching up to him.
“Sir the battery captains of the other forts have their guns prepared and are ready to fire at your command,”
“Excellent,”
RN. Napoli
Admiral Faggioni looked out from the bridge of the RN. Napoli, the Port of Tripoli just 20 km away. His orders were simple: send out his fleet and destroy any Ottoman defenses in the harbor so that General Bianchi could land 20,000 troops and secure the city. Under his command were three battleships, his flagship, the recently commissioned RN. Napoli of the Regina Elena Class, and the two battleships of the Regina Margherita class, RN. Regina Margherita and RN. Benedetto Brin. The armored cruisers RN. Pisa, RN. Varese, RN. Giuseppe Garibaldi, and RN. Francesco Ferruccio, along with five torpedo boats.
As his fleet approached Tripoli it was clear that the Ottomans had some naval forces defending the harbor. The torpedo boats posed the greatest threat, While the outdated Turkish Cruiser served as a simple nuisance. Faggioni turned to Lieutenant Luciano, “Have the flags raised to order general quarters and stop the capital ships. Order the torpedo boats forward to engage the enemy boats,”
“Yes Sir!” Replied the Lieutenant with a salute before he walked out of the bridge towards the signal mast. Captain Giordano already had his officers set the engine order telegraphs to stop, the telegrams dining with the engine room’s response as the battleship began to slow. The Captain had also reiterated the order through the ship’s voice pipes. The console showed gun readiness lighting up as the secondary and primary batteries were loaded.
As the cruisers and battleships slowed the torpedo boats surged forward. The Turks advanced in kind, the enemy boat flotillas closing the distance. After five minutes the Italian boats opened fire, 47mm guns exchanging fire as the boats zigged and zagged through the water. Columns of water shot up into the air as shells missed and plunged into the depths, obscuring the battle in a fine mist.
“Order all capital ships to slowly close the distance to 14 km. Have all bows pointed to the enemy torpedo boats and have all available primary batteries ranged out to maximum available range and fire upon the forts,”
“Yes sir!”
“What about the Turkish cruiser sir?” asked Captain Giordano as the officers set the engine order telegrams to the slow position.
“Thank you, Captain,” Replied Admiral Faggioni before turning to the Lieutenant waiting at the doorway, “Signal the order for secondary engagement on the cruiser,”
“Yes sir!”:
As the ships approached the shore, an explosion ripped out amid the obscured torpedo boat battle. Suddenly the distinctive trails of torpedoes were racing toward the fleet.
“Evasive Maneuvers!” Cried out the captain as the helmsman frantically turned the ship's bow between the torpedo trails. The officers slammed the telegrams to full, the increased speed allowing the ship to turn faster.
“Damned Idiots, they were supposed to sweep away those damned Turkish torpedos,” Complained Faggioni under his breath as the Napoli just barely weaved between the torpedo spray. Unfortunately from the corner of his eye, he could see the bow of the armored cruiser Giuseppe Garibaldi enveloped in a column of water.
Port of Tripoli
Although obscured by the mist of the torpedo boat battle, the men cheered as torpedoes emerged barreling straight toward the Italian feet and striking one of the armored cruisers. Lieutenant Colonel Balik for his part realized that in the chaos of the successful torpedo strike, the Italians had unknowingly closed into range of his guns.
“Aim!” Fire!”
Balik was at a disadvantage, his 150 mm guns were incapable of penetrating the thick armor plating of the Italian battleship’s hulls or turrets. To deal any damage he was forced to fire upon the superstructures of the ships and hopefully burn them down. His third salvo demonstrated this perfectly as his guns stuck one of the battleships but the shell bounced off the turret with minimal damage. He also could not move, the fortresses fixed in place, their tall sandstone walls an easy target for Italian gunners.
First, the Turkish cruiser burst into flames and exploded in a hail of fire from the Italian armored cruisers and the secondary guns of the battleships. Then the first 305 mm shells found their mark pulverising the 17th-century sandstone walls that had never been intended to withstand such firepower. Despite the plumes of sandstone dust and debris, Balik’s men kept firing their guns, by the 5th salvo shells finally found their mark, striking the superstructure of one of the Italian ships and setting off an inferno on its upper decks.
Despite the victory, more 305 mm shells rained down on their positions, a shell punching into the magazine of the battery to Balik’s west. The fortress erupted into a massive column of fire, guns blown out of their mounts and crashing down to the shore below.
“Sir, we must surrender! We are all going to die here!” exclaimed one of his men, as his soldiers wore faces of terror looking upon the smoldering wreck that was the western fortress.
“We must hold the line for as long as possible, we must give time for a proper defense to be prepared! God will reward us for our bravery here today! Continue firing!”
“Yes sir!”
The guns continued to roar as the Italians closed the distance yet again, the capital ships turning broadside to bear all guns on the remaining forts. Now the 203 mm guns of the armored cruisers and the secondary battery of the Italian flagship remained down on the forts. Shrapnel tore into his men and soaked the floor with blood. Turkish guns had managed to set a few more fires on the superstructures of the Italian ships, but enemy gunfire would not relent. With every fire Balik’s guns would light, the Italians would quickly suppress it and each passing minute would see an additional gun lost.
After another 5 minutes of constant fire, another fort was lost to a violent magazine explosion. Guns, shrapnel, and the torn limbs of his men flew up into the air before raining back down on the harbor or the city behind them. This explosion lit a massive fire that consumed the buildings and piers around the ruined fort. At this point, Balik’s 30 modern German guns had been reduced to a mere 12.
He could no longer stand, his right leg had been blown off by shrapnel from a direct hit to one of the guns in his fort. He was now propped up on an empty ammunition crate. His belt now tied to his thigh as a makeshift tourniquet. On the rear corner was a pile of dead or dying men, their moans sounding at any pause in the gunfire.
Italian fire intensified as the Turkish reply died down. Another 305 mm shell slammed right into one of the three remaining guns in the fort. The blast threw the men like rag dolls in every direction, metal shrapnel from the now nonexistent gun tearing through flesh and spraying more blood across the scene. The pain was excruciating as fragments of the obliterated gun sank into Balik’s torso. His guns fell silent as the confusion of the blast bent the mounts of the two other guns. As he lay there bleeding he could hear the blast of another terrible magazine explosion. Despite the raging fires around the forts, Balik felt cold, his consciousness slipping away. He could no longer hear any of his guns returning fire; instead, he looked up at the still-standing flag post, the red banner of the crescent moon, the banner of his nation slowly descended, replaced by a tattered stained white flag. Finally, there was black, there was peace.
RN. Napoli
Admiral Faggioni was impressed, he had wrongly assumed that the Turks would roll over and immediately surrender at the sight of his fleet. Instead, two of his torpedo boats were sunk, the armored cruiser RN. Giuseppe Garibaldi had its forward compartment flooded by a Turkish torpedo strike, and all the ships in the fleet except for Varese had some form of superstructure damage. Reports were still coming in but on his flagship, the Napoli, 62 casualties had been suffered with 6 fatalities.
The bridge itself had suffered minimal damage, but smoke from the ship's exhaust was still looming over the room. During the battle, the Turks had almost managed to kill the Admiral with a shell missing the Bridge by only 5 meters. Unfortunately, while the shell had missed the bridge and the forward mast, it had smashed into the side of the forward funnel. The ensuing blast toppled the funnel, which fell down the side of the ship dragging several of the ship's boats into the Mediterranean. With mangled sheet metal, being all that was left of the funnel, thick black smoke of the forward boilers loomed on the decks of the ship, choking the men of the Bridge and on the decks. Captain Giordano had rapidly ordered for the boilers to be shut off, to not suffocate the men, however by the time the order had reached the lower decks a dark acrid cloud loomed over the Bridge.
To provide some relief the officers held handkerchiefs up to their faces to filter out the soot. Not being directly part of the ship command, Faggioni and his staff had moved out to the bridge wings to escape the smoke, but to also have a better view of the city before them. Looking out to the ruined fortifications of Tripoli and the inferno consuming the city, the Admiral turned to Lieutenant Luciano, “Signal for the torpedo boats to probe for mines at the mouth of the harbor and perform minesweeping operations if necessary,”
“Yes sir!” Replied the Lieutenant before saluting.
As Luciano climbed the ladder up to the base of the forward mast to raise new signal flags Faggioni turned to Lieutenant Ramuelo, “Have a telegram sent to General Bianchi, inform him that Tripoli will be clear and ready for a landing by the time the transports arrive,”
“Yes sir!”
Ramuelo quickly scurried into the bridge and after a few more moments outside Faggioni walked into the bridge to speak with Captain Giordano. Smoke still clouded the room but the Captian had stayed in his position now reading damage reports that his subordinates had given him. The Captain had served as Faggioni’s flag captain since his promotion to Admiral back in 1903 when his flagship had been the RN. Emanuele Filiberto, Italy’s second pre-dreadnought battleship. Giordano was a competent and dutiful officer and offered Faggioni the opportunity to bounce around strategy.
The Napoli was the newest ship of the Italian Royal Navy and today had been her baptism of fire. Serving as flagship for the last four months, Faggioni would have the “privilege” to work out any kinks of the ship's design that had not been discovered during her shakedown cruise and sea trials. During the battle the Turks had managed to hit the ship four times, the aforementioned strike on the forward funnel, a hit on the bow above the armor belt, a strike on the turret face of the forward main gun turret, and a hit on the port side amidships twin 203 mm turret.
“How did she hold up Captain,”
“Quite well, despite the nuisance that was the loss of the funnel, the ship held up admirably. The Forward turret is already back in action and the secondary turret while jammed, the guns themselves are undamaged,”
“The General staff will be glad to hear of the performance of the vessel,”
Lieutenant Ramuelo returned from the wireless room and stood at attention next to the Admiral. Faggioni turned to face the Lieutenant before asking, “Yes Lieutenant? ”
“Sir, General Bianchi has replied that his forces will be arriving in the morning. The final casualty report has also been received, across the fleet we have suffered 430 casualties including 48 fatalities,”
“Thank you, Lieutenant, you are dismissed,”
Ramuelo saluted and marched off to his post, the Admiral walking up to the windows and putting his binoculars up to his eyes. Out in front of the harbor, the torpedo boats were commencing their minesweeping operations. The large metal explosives floating up to the surface in the wake of the boats, just barely visible with his binoculars.
June 11, 1910: Tripoli
The landing for the most part was uneventful. The remaining torpedo boats of Admiral Faggioni cleared away the mines without incident as the residents of Tripoli put out the inferno. By morning General Bianchi and his 20,000 men arrived at the charred remains of the port. A good 10% of the city had been burned and all that remained in these areas were the sandstone structures, their interiors gutted. More than a thousand burned and mangled bodies were discovered in the ruins of the forts and burned the city. Most had survived the initial bombardment injured but were unable to escape the inferno or had barricaded themselves in their homes before the city was set alight.
As Italian troops began to march into the city, the residents left the streets mostly deserted, and buildings across the city had widows and openings boarded up. Only the few Europeans that had stayed after the harbor’s evacuation, and the Jewish and Christian population of the city still went about their day. The non-muslims even began cheering at the occupying Italian army, believing that the Italian occupation would give them more rights than under the Muslim Turkish government.
General Bianchi ordered the army to begin trench works around the city to defend against any Ottoman counterattack. Artillery had been brought by the transports, and the men began preparing mountings for these guns. Salvage efforts had been made to recover some of the Turkish guns, unfortunately, Admiral Faggioni’s bombardment and the subsequent fire had left the German Krup guns irreparable. While some other guns were still serviceable they were so outdated that they were left in the ruble.
Now the Italian Army paraded through Tripoli’s central square except for 5,000 men left to garrison the defensive positions around the city. European, and North African Christians and Jews lined the perimeter of the square holding up flowers and waving small Italian flags provided to them by the army or that they had fashioned themselves. The soldiers were resplendent in khaki uniforms and pith helmets, while the officers wore a similar uniform, but sported feathered hats. Makeshift stands had been prepared from which General Bianchi, Admiral Faggioni, and the senior most officers of the army and fleet looked down on the parade.
Soldiers surrounded the central flag post from which still flew the red banner of the Ottoman Empire. They then stood at attention as the military band stopped playing. Two officers then began to lower the crimson banner as another pair of officers marched in with the colors of the Kingdom of Italy. The Admiral, General, and senior officers in the stands stood as the flags were switched. As the tricolor flag rose up into the air a chant began.
“Evviva il Re!”
“Evviva il Re!”
“Evviva il Re!”
The trumpets of the band then blared as the band began to play the Marcia Reale D'Ordinanza. When the band was finished riffle men shot blanks and General Bianchi came down from the stands to personally inspect his troops. Italian marches played as the General walked down the line of soldiers shaking hands with the officers lined up in the first row. Admiral Faggioni had followed Bianchi, out of earshot from the troops the Admiral whispered into the General's ear, “It seems that our assumption that the locals would hail us as liberators was unfounded. The crowds gathered here today are alarmingly small for a city of this size,”
“A bunch of lowly hard-headed peasants, they won’t pose a threat to his Majesty’s plans. I will have the soldiers round up weapons to prevent any uprisings,”
“You really think 20,000 men is enough, the barracks clearly show that at least 5,000 troops left the city, should they rally an army of Muslim conscripts we could be in serious trouble. The artillery brigade that defended the city put up a serious fight, I lost two torpedo boats and many of my ships will have to go to port for repairs,”
“You worry too much, I will have Tripolitania under my thumb by the end of the month, you said it yourself, the Turks ran away. You concern yourself with coastal bombardment, and I will deal with the situation on the ground,”
Faggioni relented and let Bianchi walk ahead of him, the band continuing to play Italian marches. The display would go on for another half an hour, soldiers fixing a large portrait of King Vittorio Emanuele on the central building of the southern end of the square. Ultimately, Tripoli had fallen firmly under Italian control. 350 years of Turkish rule came to a close and after nearly 1,500 years, Rome would once again rule over North Africa.
12th day of the 6th Moon, 6 ALR: Canterlot Castle
Twilight and Spike were enjoying breakfast as the guards opened the double doors of the dining hall. An aging cream-colored stallion sporting a red tailcoat and long gray mustache walked into the room and approached the princess with his notepad and a rolled-up newspaper.
“Good morning your Majesty,”
“Good morning Lord Spike,”
“Good morning Kibitz,” replied Twilight, she had tried to get Princess Celestia’s former Chief Aid to address her by her name rather than what she felt was a stuffy old title, however, as a Stysllion of tradition, he refused. So, after a week of trying she gave it up.
“Thank you. Your Majesty, I have gotten access to the human newspapers as you requested,” answered Kibitz as he leveraged the Newspaper to her. Enveloping the paper in her raspberry magic, Twilight unfurled the paper and read the headline.
Italian Victory at Tripoli! Turks put up a gallant defense. Tripoli razed! Casualties are mounting, but over 1000 dead and hundreds more injured or missing!
Twilight's heart dropped, how could so much blood be shed in a day? Her eyes were rapidly moistening as she quickly turned the paper over and set it down on the table. As her voice trembled she managed to let out, “Th… Thank you Kibitz. Every pony… p… please l… leave,”
The guards opened the door and Kibitz and the servants in the room left, leaving Twilight alone with Spike. Twilight slammed her face against the table and began to sob, Spike got up from his chair and walked up to the lavender alicorn, embracing her from behind.
“Twilight, you can’t keep doing this, it's not your fault, you agonized over this every night of the summit,”
“It's... it’s just th... that… Oh Spike, Look at this!” replied Twilight as she levitated the paper up to the dragon’s face. Spike's eyes widened as he read the headline.
“Tell me that this isn’t terrible… One day Spike. One day!”
“But… But it isn’t your fault,”
“Does it even matter at this point,”
Author's Note
Happy New Year everyone!!!https://youtu.be/twdeohesk0g?si=0tydt68ECHxJVaEl
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Chapter 10: Of A Glorious Greyhound and a Massacre on the Desert Jewel
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