Watchmare

At 10 o'clock in the morning, on November 10, in Fillydelphia, the leader of the Fillydelphia Workers' Union, where he quit his job as a factory worker, broke into a factory of the former company he previously worked for, Horse Wheel Industries, the union leader, with three other ponies walked around the factory, in which there were several union members, the hooves of Hammer and the other three ponies sounded as they hit the cold floor of the place, the union members applauded him when they saw him, the green stallion waved to his followers with a proud smile, the factory supervisor heard the applause, confused, he went to check through the visor in his room, which gave a view of the courtyard, “Get back to work!” the supervisor's deep voice sounded on the speakers, everyone ignored him, it was then that he realized the origin of it all, Iron Hammer arrived at the metal staircase, his hooves making a sharp sound as they touched the steps, “What's that it about?” the supervisor questioned, opening the door to his office while furiously staring at Hammer, his wine eyes expressed coldness, his mouth formed a sadistic smile, the supervisor noticed the other three stallions behind Hammer, wearing gangster hats and dark gray overcoats, two of them were unicorns, their horns glowed green and red, the supervisor began to sweat, it was then that in one thud the stallion was hit, his table was overturned and thrown against him, papers, ink, pens, pencils, erasers and the microphone were scattered around the room, his face was marked when one of the table legs hit him, a cut was made on him. his cheek, a buzzing noise deafened his ears, his vision was dark, but he was recovering, then something cold touched his chin.

The green light on one of the horns had gone out, the red light continued to emit its light, a pistol was pointed at the factory supervisor, “What do you want?” Lander Skyler asked, swallowing hard.

“Just the attention of the proletariat.” Hammer replied, as if it were simply that, his hoof was wrapped around the microphone on the floor, “Now, how do you activate this shit?” asked the union leader, looking at Skyler from the corner of his eye.

“There, the button is screwed to the table…” Skyler replied, with difficulty breathing, unsure that he would return home alive, his blood ran down his dark blue fur, his pupils were small, memories of his family flashed through his head, fearing don't see them again.

The green light from the horn of one of the unionists shone, the table was put back in its original place, the red button was pressed, and Hammer's voice sounded across the courtyard, “Good morning, Fillydelphia, I imagine you've already noticed me as soon as I arrived, I'm happy that you welcomed me at my old “job”, I've focused on the union lately, I thank you for your contribution, without you it wouldn't be possible for us to have more speaking power here in the east, but it's not just the money that will sustain us … we must unite, the working class must unite, we will fight for our rights until the last pony! Enough of this slavery, let's demand what we need: health, social assistance, power!” the union members began to shout the name of Iron Hammer, “Workers! We will take to the streets to protest for our rights, we will not work until our demands are met!” trade unionists began to leave the factory in protest.

Hammer went through the door going down the stairs, the red horned pony put away his gun and left, Skyler felt relieved that he was still alive, the green horned unicorn left and the supervisor stood up and took a deep breath, his relief didn't last long time, the third union leader pushed Skyler towards the door, Lander's eyes widened, his heart began to beat faster, that didn't end, he was forced to follow Hammer, who was heading towards the carriage depot, Hammer He passed by looking at each one of them, those were luxury carriages, only creatures with money could buy them, many of those carriages were sold abroad, it was then that Hammer stopped at the back of a carriage that could fit around eight ponies, his model it was large and robust, its lines were smooth but solid, the roof was arched, the carriage was closed, the rear had space for cargo and equipment, its wheels were large and thick, the rims were made of silver and crystals, the suspension was adaptive, capable of absorbing impact on uneven terrain, rocky places and mountains, two doors were on both sides, its interior was excellent, a large space, the seats had dividers between them, which could be lifted whenever someone wanted, ideal carriage for long journeys, it was a Celestial Pathway, “Let's take this one!” Hammer exclaimed, enchanted by the carriage.

“But Hammer, this one would be sent to the Two Sisters!” Lander replied, sweating even more.

“Fuck the Two Sisters, if we don't have our rights, neither will they!” Hammer replied, tapping twice on the ground, the unicorn with the red horn opened the door of the Celestial Pathway, the earthling who was with the other unionists pushed Lander into the vehicle, only Hammer remained outside, the magical engine began to rev. snoring, leaving the place, holding Lander hostage.

*** *** ***

Hammer led the unionists on the street where the HWI factory was located, posters asking for free health plans, higher wages, social assistance and the like were held up amidst the screams, pegasi carried a banner that was written in large letters “The working class demands an end to oppression”, FWU union members marched down the street, establishment owners locked their properties, fearing an invasion and violent actions by rioters, posts were made on social media containing videos and photos of the strike, the Carriers saw the content and felt gathered in the castle:

“We need to act on this!” Twilight exclaimed, in a stern tone of voice, immediately showing images of the strike on her cell phone.

“Why the hell did they start this strike?” Applejack was surprised, reading the posters of the Fillydelphia troublemakers.

“That's what we're going to find out!” Twilight replied, tapping her hoof on the map, determined to establish peace in the east.

“Are you sure about this, darling? I mean, I know this is chaotic and horrible, but the map hasn't called us until now…” Rarity commented, unsure of what steps to take.

“I don't know if it's a good idea... they're violent…” Fluttershy said, showing a video of one of the unionists throwing a brick at a Royal Guard there, the pony had its helmet dented and a crack could be heard as he fell to the asphalt.

“Oh no… is he okay?” the pink pony asked, with her ears lowered in concern for the soldier hit by the construction object.

Twilight raised her paw to say something, but was interrupted by the ringing of her cell phone, when she looked at the device's screen, she realized that it was a call from Celestia, the Princess of Friendship answered, “Princess Celestia! Good morning everything is fine?”

“Good morning, Twilight, I'm fine, thank you for your concern.” Celestia's angelic voice sounded on the other end of the line.

“I'm glad you're okay, and I already know what you need, the girls and I are going…” Twilight said, until she was interrupted.

“You don't have to do anything now, Twilight, my sister and I will figure this out!” Celestia said, leaving Twilight speechless, “You don't need to worry, this is a political situation, we can resolve it.”

“O-okay, Princess... are you sure you don't need help?” Twilight stammered, surprised that both the map and the main ruler of Equestria did not call the Carriers to resolve the problem in Fillydelphia.

“Of course, it's okay.” Celestia replied, with a light laugh that relieved Twilight.

“Alright… see you later, Princess!” Twilight said, hanging up the phone and sighing.

“What did the Princess say?” Rainbow Dash asked, curious about the topic being discussed.

“We won't do anything about the strike…” Twilight replied, still confused by Celestia's request.

*** *** ***

Starlight, in her new home, received news of the strike in Fillydelphia, being surprised by the unionists' uprising, “What's the name of the union leader again?” she asked, curious about the origin of that movement.

“Iron Hammer, this is his profile on Your Hoof!” Spit replied, turning his computer screen to Starlight, the unicorn ran her paw over her chin, thoughtfully, then she had an idea.

“Send him a message, I want to get to know him more!” Starlight requested, leaving Spit's room.

The Canterlot unicorn began to write a message to Hammer, while seeing more images of the strike, the unionists' expression was one of fury, fury that could be used to Starlight's advantage, Equestrian Socialist was achieving fame mainly in Las Pegasus, the city where Dark began to act more frequently, preaching his ideology to the heavens to the workers of the industrial city, unions began to be formed in Las Pegasus, and soon spread to Cloudsdale, but no strike has been carried out to date.

*** *** ***

On the 11th, with the strike in Fillydelphia still ongoing, the disappearance of Lander Skyler was announced, the Royal Guard began their search for the HWI supervisor, missing posters were spread in Fillydelphia and neighboring towns, Hammer's act inspired small groups of trade unionists from other cities to go on strike, but nothing effective, Hammer responded to Equestrian Socialist's message on Your Hoof, claiming that his cause was the workers' cause, but that was just the beginning of a series of dialogues between two leaders, but only one would be in control of everything.

During the Royal Guard's search for the supervisor, it became known that the Celestial Pathway was stolen straight from the factory, this began to raise suspicions of a coordinated action between Skyler and Hammer, or perhaps one of his supporters, the factory workers, many of whom young people went on strike for days, obstructing the street, preventing the movement of carriages and even other ponies, Port Wall, a captain of the Royal Guard began to assume that that strike was just the beginning of an insurrection, still felt with the loss of one of his subordinates due to the thrown brick, he began to plan a way to neutralize Hammer and his followers.

Remember, brothers, this is just one step towards gaining our rights! We deserve the goods we produce, we deserve social assistance, we deserve housing, food, water, Nosenet, we deserve everything! And we will not rest until they give in! — shouted Hammer, inspiring the most radical members of the union, this speech inspired uprisings in Las Pegasus and Vanhoover, this began to worry the Princesses even more, who ended up opening the Secretary of Labor, which would take care of the unions' demands and negotiate with them. , in order to calm things down, Jet Set was assigned to the position.

The construction of Batopolis was coming to an end, the city hall and infrastructure of the city in the Forbidden Forest were already moving with Thracians, ponies of other breeds were also going to live there, although it was a night city, Spot thanked the Two Sisters for their support, and abdicated from his secretary, however, a Thracian named Moon Bite posted on his social networks about alleged abuses against the former Forgotten Tribe, claiming that racism against them was everyday and that more rights were demanded for the Thracians, but his voice did not have a such a large reach.

Even though Celestia advised the Carriers not to interfere, they decided they must act, Fluttershy, Rarity and Pinkie Pie began looking for peaceful solutions to deal with Iron Hammer, seeking dialogue, but Rainbow Dash and Applejack saw the union leader as a dangerous threat. , which had a voice and influence among the workers, and this influence began to spread to other professional sectors.

*** *** ***

On November 17, Celestia and Luna met with Jet Set and Fancy Pants to discuss the issue of strikes in Fillydelphia, which were taking on catastrophic proportions, supporters of the Hammer union began to sabotage properties and organize unsuccessful raids, Hammer was becoming a strong public figure:

“Mr. Jet Set, we know the situation in Fillydelphia is getting out of control. Hammer's strike has inspired ponies to engage in illegal activities, we need a plan to contain these riots and protect our citizens!” Celestia said, with a firm voice for Jet Set.

Jet nodded, a little tense about the issue being addressed, “I agree, Princess, however the unions have a list of demands that they insist on maintaining as non-negotiable, any sign of weakness can be seen as a victory for Hammer, that may encourage more strikes and violent actions.”

“However, Hammer has already become an influential public figure. If we don't negotiate, we will only foment more revolts. A more diplomatic approach, Jet, might prevent groups from seeing you as a martyr.” Luna intervened, with a stern look at the secretary.

“Your Highness, I believe Jet Set may be certain of this. We need to understand what led Hammer and these workers to feel wronged as he reports, our newly created Department of Labor must show that the diarchy is open to dialogue, however, we need to limit such activities that harm Fillydelphia.” Fancy said, always with an upright posture, demonstrating confidence and calm.

Celestia raised her paw to speak, pausing thoughtfully as she looked at Fancy and Jet before opening her mouth, “I agree, but it is essential that the Department of Labor does not have the image of a containment measure, we need to act genuinely to make people trust our intentions.”

“Of course, Princess, if you allow me, I can send a public negotiation proposal to Hammer and other union leaders, but with clear limits on how far we are willing to concede.” Jet agreed, offering a diplomatic route.

“Words are not enough, Jet Set, as Fillydelphia seethes with discontent, time to think about the neighboring towns! Las Pegasus and Vanhoover have already begun to feel the effects of these catastrophic ideas, and there are voices being raised in Batopolis. In fact, some Thracians demand more rights and talk about unfair treatment.” Luna said, with determination.

“Certainly, the Thracian issue may be more delicate, Moon Bite already uses social media to speak out against the prejudice suffered by the tribe. If we don't make a decision, these revolts could find points of intersection with what Hammer represents.” Fancy said, showing posts from Moon.

“Fillydelphia, Las Pegasus, Vanhoover, the Thracians… we are dealing with several fronts at once. This complicates the situation. Perhaps a visit to the affected regions will help alleviate the situation?” Celestia sighed, suggesting an idea.

“A visit from Your Highnesses would certainly help build confidence and strengthen our position, but only if we can show real action. Otherwise, it will be interpreted as an attempt to take control.” Jet Set said, nodding his head.

“In this case, I propose that we move forward with the Labor Secretariat in all areas of interest, expanding our work with the Thracians as well. We must be firm but fair!” Luna exclaimed firmly, while looking directly at Jet Set.

“If you ladies agree, I can contact some regional leaders immediately, so we can start visits and reinforce unity with the citizens.” Fancy Pants reinforced the proposal.

Celestia nodded with determination, “It will be done! Jet Set, gather our team of negotiators, Fancy Pants, prepare the logistics of the visits. Fillydelphia and all of our cities need to know we are listening!”

The meeting was concluded, the feeling was of urgency and determination, this was a situation never seen before, this was not only of concern to Equestria, but also to Selada Arabia, the Crystal Empire, Zeebrundia, Yakiakistan and Fortekzia, Equestria's main allies, who were being affected. due to the country's instability.

Celestia and Luna were alone in the room, with Jet Set and Fancy Pants leaving, both with serious and worried expressions, the situation that was developing in Equestria was more delicate than they had ever faced:

“The instability in Equestria is already bothering our allies, sister, we need to maintain firm control, or we may face a loss of trust. Sealed Arabia mostly watches us.” Luna said, head down.

Celestia nodded slowly, then turned to the window seeing her reflection, “Yes, sister, Selada Arabia depends on our trade agreements, they already had a big impact when we were in crisis, any shock to our economy directly affects them. Not to mention General Golden Valley and Prince Rutherford, who have already expressed concerns, we need to act quickly and effectively to maintain this mutual trust!”

“What about the Crystal Empire? Cadence and Shinning Armor have yet to make an official statement, but there are rumors that they are concerned about our stability. The last thing we need is a crisis of trust among our own allies.” Luna looked at Cadence and Shining Armor's stained glass window.

“We need a plan to reassure them. Perhaps it's time to send a personal letter to each allied leader, explaining our position and assuring them that we are taking the necessary steps to maintain stability in Equestria, they need to know that they can still count on us.” Celestia said, with a light sigh, turning to her younger sister.

“I agree, sister, we must be honest, but we must also reinforce that the Labor Secretariat is in operation, and that we are committed to calming the situation, reports of diplomatic actions and negotiations must reach them as soon as possible.” Luna said, stamping hard on the ground.

Celestia's eyes shone with determination, “I will write the letters today, each of the leaders deserves direct communication, may I also suggest a diplomatic visit soon, perhaps with Fancy Pants present, to reinforce our position of peace and unity.”

Luna gave a slight smile as she nodded, “An excellent idea, sister, the allies will see that we are willing to face these challenges with firmness and responsibility!” Luna paused, thoughtfully, “Now, we must keep a close eye on any movement of Hammer and his followers in Fillydelphia.”

“Yes... I asked Twilight and the others not to intervene in this matter, I'm afraid they might be affected by this.” Celestia commented, looking down.

Luna glanced at Celestia, “But sister, Twilight has experience with diplomatic issues and could help us with the dialogue, we are dealing with a diplomatic crisis!”

Celestia raised her gaze, to Luna's eyes, “I know that, sister, but this situation is beyond what we have ever faced. Twilight will be the last resort.”

Luna nodded, the Two Sisters moved on to implement the actions discussed, the future was uncertain, but both were more determined than ever to restore order in Equestria and protect peace within and beyond the borders.

*** *** ***

With negotiations underway, tensions eased in the affected cities, Starlight saw this as a threat to her plan to seize power, especially as she saw Hammer accepting agreements that diminished the activities of union supporters, Moon Bite became increasingly Influential among both Thracian militants and supporters of other tribes, Starlight quickly contacted him and they met in person.

The Carriers felt safer with the direction the situation was taking, with the exception of Applejack, who imagined that the worst was just to come, student movements were forming, similar to the union movements that haunted Equestria, initially, they were not seen as much , were tiny, but started to grow and act especially in the shadows, Spit was behind these movements, causing Starlight's ideas to begin to spread quickly, growing even in other countries.

Equestrian Socialist started making false and even sensationalist posts, giving supposed reports of abuse against workers and Thracians, reports of abuse by unicorns against Earthlings and pegasi, mainly against Earthlings, questionable reports about unicorns treating Earthlings as animals, which the unicorns They held everything and manipulated Equestria.