Everfrees and Equines

Chapters

Prolouge: A Stallion's Tale
Secession
End of Innocence
The Gathering Strom

Prolouge: A Stallion's Tale

The night sky was clear as it could ever be; a rather unusual sight for this region on the world. Being in the untamed Everfree Forest anything unusual is rather common here. There must have been millions of stars spanning the emptiness of the cosmos. Gentle breezes of winds whispered through the stocks of wheat standing tall alongside the mighty pines beyond the dirt road, which lined the property. Timber wolves howled beyond the south ridge, towards the bright light of the moon. Truly, there was no greater marvel than a crystal clear night in the valley.

The brown and white farmhouse seemed to reflect the moon’s gazing beam to further illuminate the darkened patch of land as well as accompanying the lonesome lamp hanging aloft the rafters of the covered porch. Small moths fluttered around the light, much to the annoyance to an elderly pony resting underneath. He didn’t seem to care much about it now, as he stared out onto the fields before him and a silo in the corner of his eye. He looked beyond to the dimmed horizon of the township over the mound. The town of Everfree proper; where he conducted his trade as the town’s farmer.

He, however, was past his prime. His coat had started to fade from his once dark burgundy and his black main now a shade of gray. The blue eyes nearly matched the night sky under this light while his spectacles reflected the porch light back. As the crisp air filled his aging lungs, he grunted softly on each exhale. He wanted to rest but he felt it was not yet time to do so. His loving grandson had forbid him to do so until it was time. He couldn’t help but smile at this “promise” as his eyelids slowly crept down.

“Grandpa!” A young voice disturbed the silence. The old pony’s eyes darted open and towards the doorframe. Standing in the threshold was a young Pegasus colt with a black spot over his left eye. His white and tan coat was ruffled in some places, his brown mane to match. He seemed to be pouting at the old pony.

“Grandpa, you promised not to rest until I said it was alright to. You promised.” The colt said as his stubby legs trotted across the wooden planking towards him.

“I was only to take a little nap. I’ve worked long and hard today, same as you.” The elder replied wrapping his worn front right around the colt’s back. “You should be in bed with your sister. Young ponies such as you need it.”

“I’m not young anymore Grandpa Coalwood. I’m a big colt now and I wanted to see the Princess’ moon.” The young colt replied looking towards the moon. The old pony gave a sigh. He must have been talking with the Equestrian traders traveling through town again and reading that old pony’s tale his father sent him for his birthday. No wonder the other colts and fillies at his school were teasing him. There were times that he would come to the farm with two black spots instead of his one, all because he was standing up to them for something he believed in.

“I see that there eye of yours is healing up quite nicely.”Coalwood said. The colt looked up to him, then away with his head hung low.

“They kept picking on me just because I wasn’t born here.” He said. “They kept taking my lunches, saying that it was some form of tax for coming to school each day.” The colt wanted to cry, but he didn’t want to feel even weaker. Coalwood pulled the colt closer and patted his back. The colt stuffed his head into his coat and softly cried.

“There there, Whip lash. It’s alright. Don’t let them school mates of your get to you. Old habits die hard out here. Besides, I and many others felt the same long ago.” Whip lash lifted his head off Coalwood’s coat. His eyes were as big as saucer plates and small streams of tears began to disappear.

“Really?”

“Really.” Coalwood paused. “I never told you about how North Everfree started, did I?”

“Teacher said that North Everfree started when it won its Inde-indepe…” Whip lash struggled on the word.

“Independence.” Coalwood assisted.

“Yeah, that word. I can never say it though.”

“You get it eventually. Now, what your teacher said it correct, but that’s only what was written in them text books we received as a good gesture from Equestria.” Coalwood replied.

“So, how did the North Everfree start?” Whip lash asked.

“It all started nearly two centuries ago, before I was born into this world.” Coalwood started. “Ponies have always feared the Everfree Forest due to its unnatural nature, terrifying creatures and many other dangers. Now you know from your father that the weather was controlled by Pegasi, but not in the Everfree. Ponies were spooked that the weather moved and operated on its own. One day, a brave group of ponies approached the Princess and proposed an expedition into the Forest.”

“Why would they go into the forest? Wouldn’t they get gobbled up by the monsters?” Whip lash asked.

“These ponies were head strong and would even face death in order to map the forest and possibly settle within, to prove that the forest could be tamed. The Princess allowed them to do so and established their charter, stating that all explored lands be part of Equestria. It had taking the ponies months, even years to fully chart out the Everfree Forest. Eventually they reached the Western Seas, where the land was fertile for growing food. However, the ponies were not the first to reach the seas.” Coalwood continued.

“Who beat them to the seas?”

“One the opposite bank of the Valley river were Griffon explorers from the Kingdom to the north. They had claims to the land as well, for they wanted access to a sea port. Eventually the Griffons gave up their claim and headed further up the coastline, allowing the ponies to lay claim to the valley they were in. There they spent months trying to perfect the region to match that of Equestria. They had succeeded in all but the weather, but it was a success none the less.

“They returned to Canterlot as heroes and delivered their claims and results to the Princess. In return, she allowed them to settle the land and proclaimed it as the Everfree Province.”

“But weren’t ponies afraid of the forest?”

“Only the hostile regions that the explorers mapped out. The Everfree province was the only hospitable region that ponies could settle.” Coalwood finished.

“That’s what the books at school said, but why aren’t we still part of Equestria? I thought ponies liked Equestria.” Whip lash asked.

“I was about to get there. Please be patient, I am an old stallion after all.” Coalwood groaned softly. “Now then, It was a century after the explorers founded the land…”

Secession

“The valley had been through the toughest winters that any creature would weather in their lifetime, and a famine in between faired the settlers no better.”

“What do you mean by any creatures grandpa?”

“It weren’t just us ponies who made the North Everfree their home. Griffons, Bison, Zebras, even Diamond Dogs made this place home for various reasons. Though they may be different from us in many ways, we all had one common dislike.”

“And that was?”

“Taxation.”

The sun hung high above the pristine cliff-side capital of Equestria; a perfect day to hold a meeting in Parliament. Representatives from all around the country came; a majority came by train unlike their counterparts from Cloudsdale, Manehatten and even here in Canterlot who arrived in style provided by only the best money can buy.

Surrounded by the hustle and bustle of the main square, the Parliament structure was of neigho gothic design from two centuries ago with a grand clock tower standing proudly above the East wing, near the cliff face. Its sandstone color stonework, rich wood framing and rather ugly green tile roofing contradicted to the rest of the city’s atmosphere, for this was a place of power as well as the Castle and the Imperial Courts just across the square. On any normal day, the square would be barren, aside from a few pedestrians and shop keepers. There would be a few ponies watch the building at the gates or from market stalls nearby, to overhear what went on within with great interest and/or concern.

With the end of the Equine-Griffon War, the national treasury was nearly depleted from nearly fifty years of fighting in the northern territories. As a response to the issue, Parliament had passed several rather heavy tax acts in order to refill the treasury. Now a majority of the provinces would agree with the acts since half of them were propose by Princess Celestia herself. The tax on sugar and raw resources had restored a good percentage of the revenues, as well as the Postal Act and the Merchants Act.

Today was entirely different. The representatives would decide on how to address the reconstruction of the affected territories by means of a province inhabitant tax.

Parliament was in an uproar by noon. Representatives were shouting at one another as the chair ponies overlooked the proceedings. Constant bickering and arguing over pointless motives and classes represented before the court had careened the entire assembly to a standstill.

“Order! The Parliament shall have order!” One of the chairs repeated slammed his gavel on the podium before the court. Some of the representatives slowly simmered as other continued to mutter profanities and insults to their opponents. The elected leader of Parliament stood.

“The chair recognizes the representative from the North Everfree province.” The stallion’s voice echoed through the chamber, a touch of Trottingham in his deep regal voice. When addressed, a well dressed mare made her way towards the podium centered in the chamber and before the chairs. Her mint green coat was well groomed, to match with her white and blue coffer. The sleek black vest contradicted her appearance, but the court said nothing of it.

Though representing a rough territory, she clearly had the outcropping of Manehatten.

“Chair ponies of Parliament, mares and stallions of the other provinces; I wish to address the recent issue of taxation within my province. We have seen the brutality of both armies and ravages of war, and yet surely you believe we can continue paying the required amounts to refill our treasury when we have barely any to spare for our services and now with this Province Act, you’ll send us to ruins.” She started.

“You continue to say this, yet the quarries and mines within your province have reaped benefits in our cause.” A delegate from Canterlot interrupted.

“The chair does not recognize the representative from Canterlot at this time.” The board retorted and returned their attention to the mare before them.

“The delegate is correct, but we see no need to further tax our destitute farmers, crafts ponies and traders in such degree as to result with them ending up in debtor’s prison to pay unimaginable fines. It’s not our faults that Cloudsdale refuses to send a weather team to tame the weather.”

“We’ve sent three in the past month, only to be met with harsh conditions; even the formidable Everfree Forest cannot be tame.” A Cloudsdale representative hovered out of her seat, trying to intimidate the speaker. Two guards nearby took positions to subdue the flared member, only to be ordered down by the chair.

“Then why do you persist in sending them to collect a fee from farmers who needed even a small maintenance of weather above their crops? Why do you all persist in forcing foreign crafts creatures out of their livelihood because they were once our enemies and refused to pay for their services?” The mare continued. The statement seemed to encourage more debacles amongst Parliament.

“Madame Greenwood, Are you saying that your province should not continue paying its dues to the nation, after what it did to protect your province and inhabitants? I suggest you choose your next words carefully, for you are treading on thin ice with no hope of recovery whatsoever.” The elected chair pony asked with a brow rose. Greenwood was indeed on thin ice. Since she was selected to represent the North Everfree, she’s been bickering with the elected chairs on numerous occasions. This subject would eventually be her downfall and to the delight of her opponents within the chamber.

“With all due respect head chair pony, this country only “protected” its own inhabitants; ponies. What of the diamond dog miners who fill your shops with metals and gemstones? What of the zebras who treat the sick and wounded from battle? What of the Griffons who resided in the province long before the war, how they were harassed and assaulted because of their species and refusal to support it? Now they must pay nearly twice as much as the poor famers and shop keeps who barely keep their livelihoods afloat with the recent Merchants Act. Is this how you treat those who risked everything they had to aid our wars and deliver us victory?”

With this said, Parliament was again in an uproar.

“How dare you think of yourself? What of the families of those lost in battle? The ones that sacrificed their lives in order to keep your province safe and in Equestria’s fold.” A Filidelphian shouted.

“You mean the families of the poor and “unworthy” that fought and died while your sons and daughters continued living a posh lifestyle in their bucking mansions on Neigh Street!?” Greenwood flared her response back. In one fell swoop, the Filidelphian charged from her seat and tackled Greenwood. Two more representatives; one from Ponyville and another from Appleloosa entered the fray in hopes of separating them, but to no avail. The Royal guards charged onto the floor and forcefully separated the two fighting mares.

“Escort the delegate from North Everfree off of the premises.” A chair pony nearly went horse shouting to the guards and his hoof sore from banging the gavel to the point of snapping. The guards holding Greenwood quickly escaped through the side doors back into the main structure.

The doors leading from Parliament threw open and Greenwood was tossed out by the guards.

“Miss Greenwood, consider your position in Parliament suspended. A finer and more reasonable delegate will replace you until your suspension is revoked.” The elected chair said. The doors slammed behind him. She slammed her hooves on the doors to no avail as deep inside, delegates greeted the new “representative of North Everfree” as he agreed with the proposition of the act. Her pupils shrunk when the muffled voice of the elected chair announced the result of the votes rather quickly.

“The Province Act is passed. Fifty-four to Ten in favor”

Sulking away from the doors, Greenwood could do nothing but inform the province that the Act had passed. Much to her distaste, she couldn’t inform them of the occurrence within those walls and her “replacement” but they will eventually find out anyway. There was, however, a bright side. At least her little speech had inspired ten delegates to vote against it; despite being in vain.

=======================================

The sun started to rise over the West Rocky pass the next day, only to be met with an uproar. The township of Hayvenport; the largest territorial city nestled on the Chippasaw River junction, had just learned about Greenwood’s dismissal and the approval of the Province Act. Ponies, Griffons, Zebras and some Diamond Dogs had rallied before the courthouse where Greenwood was telling the township’s officials and the territorial governor.

“The nerve, the nerve of it all!” One pony cried out in anger.

“They had no such right to do this. Suspending our representative and having a toadstool take her place. You told them of our conditions, yet here you are with this gravest of news.

“I’ve had to send nearly half our miners to prison for not paying their taxes alone. Our farmer’s crops are still trying to recover from the devastating blizzard last month and are being threatened by tax collectors with evictions. With this new act, the province won’t last a week.” The governor shook his head.

“I’ve seen the records from other provinces, being the province’s record keeper.” A unicorn with a quill and a bag of bits for a cutie mark replied. “I’ve noticed that Canterlot, Cloudsdale, Manehattan and Filidelhpia are barely paying twenty percent of the taxes according to last year’s records; where as our province, Appleloosa and even Ponyville are nearly paying a majority of it. I wasn’t able to get access to the others, but they are almost fifty-fifty.” The courthouse raised their opinions in anger.

“Every pony, settle down. I’m sure we can find a peaceful solution to all this conflict without the need of violence.” A rather posh looking pony stood up.

“My business is suffering because of posh pony.” A rather upset Diamond dog stood up, the small dust cloud evaporating from under his collar and ragged vest. “We give ores and gems to ponies. We expect to get pays for them. Instead we pay posh ponies and get nothing in return. Not a single gem.”

“My family cannot afford enough food to continue through the winter because of tariffs on goods coming from my homeland. Do you expect my family to live off oats and apples all our lives, or do you intend to see us suffer in the streets, begging for scraps?!” A griffon merchant stood up as well. Both creatures faced the pony.

“Well, I’m suffering as well you fleabag and feather duster! It’s not like the Act is helping me in any other way.” The pony snapped back.

“You’re a Tax pony and you say your suffering?! I bet my money goes into your pocket!” the Griffon roared threatening to bit his head off.

“And it goes out of mine as well! I barely get a percent of the profits and I don’t even have a family to care for. The guards come by every week to get the collections. They’ve even threatened to break down the door to get it because we were closed that day.” Before any arguments could continue, another pony rushed through the doors.

“Beggin’ your pardon boss, but we’ve bein’ robbed!” The pony looked up to his boss. The tax pony rushed from his seat and out the doors, the committee right behind.

Sure enough, the collector’s office on Kipper and Hayseed was being raided by a detachment of guards. The doors were busted open as burlap sacks of bits were being carried out to an armored wagon nearby.

“What’s the meaning of this?! It’s not even Tuesday and you’re taking this week’s collection.” The tax pony shouted at a guard posted outside the door.

“Orders from Parliament. All new taxes are to be collected immediately as well as this week’s taxes.” The guard replied. The tip of his bayonet glistened in the sunlight.

“We’re still collecting the rest of it from the other townships. You have to give them more time.” The pony replied
.

“Look, mister-“

“Taxer, Henry Taxer.”

“Look sir. I’ve got my orders from Parliament and the paperwork says that the taxes are due today.” The guard explained as a second emerged from the building.

“Captain. The collections short. There were only ten bags.” The guard turned back to Taxer.

“Well, where are the other twenty bags?”

“That’s what I was trying to tell you. The rest of the taxes haven’t arrived yet.” Taxer explained. By now, a crowd was forming around the scene and on lookers were being held back by bayonets and spear tips.

“Until we collect the rest of the taxes, you’re coming with us. Perhaps they’ll send a more efficient collector in your stay.” With that said, the captain nodded to two unoccupied guards. They took hold of Taxer and shoved him within the armored wagon along with the sacks of bits.

“They can’t do that!” A citizen shouted and started shoving his way through the golden armor clad guards, followed by many more. “He’s only doing his job!”

“Sergeant, get the wagon out of here!” The captain shouted. Rearing, the sergeant and another guard started the ascension towards the sky, only to be detained by diamond dogs holding the back wheels below and griffons laying their paws on the guards.

“You dare touch a Royal guard, feather brain?” The sergeant shouted and quickly took out a blade with his mouth. Before the griffon could move out of the way, the blade struck the wing, cutting through arteries. Reeling in pain, the griffon released his grip only to be stabbed again. The blade had pierced his chest. The other griffon quickly released his grip as the other guard attempted to do the same.

The diamond dogs below fared no better as guards quickly dispersed the group with spear tips and bayonets, leaving cuts on their hind legs and one losing his tail. With the wagon freed, the guards quickly took off into the sky with their loot and prisoner. In their flight, they had left a scene of chaos and agony. Five dogs were injured and the griffon was bleeding to death.

“Some pony get Shaku! Everyone else give them space.” Greenwood shouted out orders. Everyone around quickly abided, with remorse and anger towards not only Parliament, but now the Royal guards; the same ponies who protected them during the wars.

“Why isn’t the princess doing anything about this? She could have gone against the Act.” One pony said.

“I bet she came up with the Act in the first place. Why else would we be paying the most taxes out of the other territories out here? Even Manehatten is facing the same thing, and you don’t hear them complain.” Another replied. As they continued to mutter about themselves, Shaku, the township’s medicine zebra arrived.

“Stand back everyone. There is work to be done.” He rhymed and began his procedure. After several intense minutes, he turned to the governor. “The blade barely missed his heart, but this is only a start. He must come to the hospital in hopes for his survival.”

“Do whatever you can Shaku. I’ll send word to his family. They should be there in case it turns for the worse.” The governor replied. Shaku shook his head and received assistance from the wounded dogs still able to lift the griffon. The trio soon took off as quick as they could towards the hospital some blocks away, the other wounded dogs followed suit.

“The committee will return to the courthouse to decide on the necessary action for this… this crime against the province.” With that, the committee slowly retreated from the scene. The public started making their way as well, leaving a down trotted pony before a broken office of his former boss. It began to rain.

The following day the storm had cleared away, leaving behind small pools of water. The birds were chirping in the trees before the courthouse. No residents were on the streets and many businesses were closed. The faint whistle of an approaching train echoed into the soggy morning, drowning out the birds. However, the tone was not as cheerful as the days before. This train was going north towards the border, with one flatbed and a wooden box. The passenger car behind it was reserved for those who wish to see the box home, including a small detachment of guards from the Griffon Kingdoms serving as protection for the family.

“I’m sorry for your loss Miss Sparrow. Your husband was a good griffon.” The governor spoke softly to the widower, dressed in black. Many others in the committee wore black in respect while seeing the mourning family depart on the train. The train rolled out as the town band played a slow and mournful tune.

When the train was out of sight, the band stopped.

“Miss Greenwood. Please send our regards and this letter to Parliament on the next train.” The governor surrendered a letter to Greenwood. Greenwood didn’t reply but took the letter.

“Gentlemen, shall we address the townships of our actions?”

“But we’ll be branded as traitors.” One member replied.

“Then we will hang for it if we fail. Now, return to the townships and spread the word. Mr. Wool Weaver, have your shop start work on designs for our new flag.”

“Right away Governor.” Wool Weaver replied and trotted off.

================================

“Delegates, please take your seats. Our next agenda today is the recent trading agreements with-“The elected chair was interrupted by a muffled conversation outside the chamber doors. The doors burst open and Greenwood trotted in, followed by a frantic guard.

“I’m sorry sir, but she persisted in addressing the parliament.” The guard replied nervously, obviously fresh from training. The delegates muttered to themselves as Greenwood approached the podium.

“Miss Greenwood, you were suspended from this place and you have the audacity to barge in during session?” The elected chair asked.

“I’m only here to deliver this from the North Everfree Commonwealth, as well as their regards.” She said aloud.

“Commonwealth? North Everfree is a province of Equestira, nothing but!” The fake representative stood up. Greenwood shot a stink eye towards the delegate, who quickly sat back down. The guard stationed nearby the podium took hold of the letter and presented it before the chair. The elected took possession of the letter and addressed the chamber.

“To the Equestrian Parliament. Due to the audacity of the Province Act and taxations without proper representation, the illegal seizure and /or destruction of province residences and property, and the untimely death of an important member of our community, we see no choice but to server this tyranny and declare our secession from the Equestiran Crown. Upon reading this letter, we have hereby declared our independence and relinquish any Equestrian claim of the North Everfree Valley and surrounding territories declared by the Crown and Parliament. Signed, Governor Shay Haytham- Elected Governor of the North Everfree Commonwealth.”

After reading, Parliament roared to life in detest and insult. This was unheard of; a rarity for centuries. An Equestrian province, declaring its separation and independence over ill representation and unfair taxation. It was like a foal moving out of the family home because they did not get dessert.

“Surely you must be joking. All over your removal and another request to fill our nation’s coffers?” A member inquired.

“My removal was enacted at an impromptu time and talk of rebellion had been whispered behind your ‘requests’ since the Reconstruction Act after the fourth war with the Griffons. Now blood had been spilt as a result of this.” Greenwood replied. Soft murmurs slowly filled the chamber.

“Two days ago, A respected representative of the tax collecting committee was arrested by Royal guards stationed in Hayvenport over the lack of collections. Not only was the collector a member of the committee, but a fellow settler of the Commonwealth. This instigated a riot from his neighbors, leaving five diamond dogs injured and one well known griffon owner dead in the streets.” She finished.

“And this is all connected… how precisely?” The head asked.

“The guards were never brought to trial, which was a violation in the province’s charter established-“

“Yes, yes. We are aware of the charter created some decades ago, but you have failed to answer my question.” The head interrupted Greenwood.

“The taxes were for the recent Act, passed without a proper representative of that province. Not to mention that half of the officials for the province were present of the incident.” Now the soft murmurs were growing louder, most in disbelief and wished to hear no more of it. The ponies at the chair softly convened on the current situation. A couple minutes later, they returned their attention to the pony before them.

Their expressions remained unchanged, to Greenwood's disappointment.

“Miss Greenwood, if this is true, then we will send and inquiry to investigate the matter, but this incident alone does not justify for secession from the Equestrian homeland. This letter is nothing more than a brunt and rather fruitless complaint, thus we will not recognize this “Commonwealth” as a sovereign nation. Guards, please remove Miss Greenwood from Canterlot at once.” The Head chair declared, slamming the gavel on the mount.

Two guards stepped towards Greenwood and looped their hooves around her front limbs, with the intention to physically drag her to the train station for the next outbound train. The Parliament wanted to make an example of her, but she will not give them such a pleasure.

Greenwood shrugged the guards off and corrected her broach. Flanked by the guards, she calmly trotted towards the door. In one last gesture of defiance, she rounded towards her “replacement” and mooned him, inches from his muzzle.

“You can keep my seat.” The guards soon took hold and pulled her away, leaving the senator dazed and embarrassed. The wealthier delegates rose in and angered and disgusted uproar, while those lower than them jeered and silently applauded her.

Only the head chair remained silent, as if she’d seen it all happen before.

Author's Note

Very Huge edit; as in revision of the chapter's ending.

It just didn't feel right.

End of Innocence

The town of Everfree was quiet on an early Sunday morning, though it wasn’t quiet for long once the radial supporters for secession leave their homes. Ever since the news of the Hayvenport Incident reached their ears, they’ve been holding rallies to support secession and were steadily growing elsewhere, but in Everfree they had little following. No pony wanted to relive Hayvenport.

No, in Everfree, life went on as it does.

Amongst the few ponies preparing their shops in town was a young crimson stallion with a dark grey mane dusted with quarry stone debris and dirt. His skill at carpentry and mining displayed proudly on his flank, but instead of pulling stones and ores, he was pulling a wagon full of fruits.

“Thank you kindly for helping me with the food Coalwood.” A rather partite looking griffon yawned.

“It’s not a problem Baeder. We’re friends after all.” Coalwood replied.

Baeder had been a prisoner of war during the last Griffon Wars and had been put into labor at the quarry that Coalwood grew up in. Though a few years younger than his pony friend, he could easily fight off dozens of Equestria’s finest Royal Guards and make it home with medals to prove it. It was that magic pulse musket through his right wing that crushed any hope of that and once the war was over, he didn’t want to shame his family legacy by returning defeated and wounded.

“How is your wing?”

“Still sore but I can glide now. That Diamond dog, Hooch was it, is a good medic.” Baeder said looking back to the wing. “Though it stings every time I try to move it.”

The two continued their conversation with social issues and anything that came to mind, until they came upon the market square. The square was starting to fill with potential customers and shopkeepers establishing their stalls.

“I can take it from here Coal.” Baeder replied reaching for the hitch.

“Are you sure?” Coalwood was still concerned for his friend.

“I’m quite sure. I’ll send some pony to get you when its closing time. I’ll give you your share of the day afterward.”

“Well, if you say so.” Coalwood unhitched himself and allowed Baeder to take it. The griffon took hold of the poles and pulled the cart around to the back.

The town bell soon rung the hour and all at once life started to fill the dirt and cobblestone streets. No doubt the work crews and his brother Stone Cutter would be hard at work at the quarry outside of town; had there been a compromise between them. The strikes over wages and shortened work periods had slowed operations, not to mention the town guards taking their share for the Province Act. In fact, the strike was the only kind of news ponies here would be interested in then any war advocate.

Stone Cutter was a stubborn pony with his head in to the ground and ears full of dirt when it came to the strikes. Although he heard them out, he did little or no action to see them implemented unless they came to his terms.

It’s a surprise that none of the workers left to find better employment or to the gem rich regions near Dogson’s Creek and El Dogrado. Perhaps they wanted to stay and see if there was anything valuable, or maybe it was Hooch; the head dog of the entire quarry. Some nick-name him Kole from his black coat soot spotted all over his body and paws, or because of his connections with Coalwood’s and Stone Cutter’s father who first founded the quarry. Unlike many of his brethren and species; he didn’t see much value from gemstones or rare minerals. He had more of a nose for raw material that was actually useful such as Iron, Steel, even Ebony from the High Northern Mountains.

Coalwood’s mind soon caught attention to a large group of townsfolk gather around the town hall doors, all in eager anticipation. Barely audible through the quiet murmurs of those outside there was a collection of officials throughout the township discussing something of great importance if it was drawing this large of a crowd. Coalwood edged closer.

“Do you know what’s going on?” One pony asked.

“I think it’s about the secession. I also see an officer talking to the township governor in there, and he sounds convincing.” A Griffon replied perched near one of the rotunda windows overlooking the commons inside.

More soften conversation continued within the walls and the Griffon kept reporting. Minutes must have passed when the Griffon’s tone quickly changed.

“They’re coming out.”

The crowd parted ways as the doors started to open. Three officials and the officer walked out. The officer was in a rather odd uniform than to the Royal Guards. Instead of the bright steel platted gold armor and centurion style helmet, the officer donned a deep green jacket with brown trim and brass buttons and the tails of the jacket fanning off to his sides near the flank; his wings neatly tucked close to the jacket. On his hind legs were tan buttoned spats that were mostly common with Diamond dogs. Resting within his front right leg was a blue folded cap with a wood tail feather sticking from the brim, supposedly of Griffon origin none the less.

Judging from the unique style of the uniform, as well as the earned respect he was receiving from those round him, this Pegasus must have been well known, yet Coalwood have never even seen this pony before, let alone heard of him. But he stayed and listened.

“My fellow country folk, I am but a simple stallion with no political ties whatsoever.” The Pegasus started. “I served my time with your militias, made an honest living amongst the farmers, the miners and the shop keepers and paid what I due. Since the Hayvenport Incident and our secession, I have worked even harder to build us an army to match whatever the Homeland will throw at us, but I alone cannot do it all. We need your railroads to move material and troops. We need your militias to further increase our arms. We need your finest miners, smiths and farmers to provide with the food and material to get the job done, but most of all. We need your support if we are to see a new dawn in this, our darkest night.

“Many of us have never held a rifle before and I can understand your concern, but many of you were veterans of the last Griffon Wars and among you were former enemy soldiers and prisoners.” He looked out to the crowd before him. “Such worthy veterans can have a chance to redeem themselves of their dishonorable exiles, while other may wish to stay in their homes and be done with fighting. I will not force you to decide, since no conscription will be held the matter of volunteers will be the deciding factor for a better tomorrow.”

The crowd remained silent, believing that this Pegasus would be another war supporting drunkard who made up his own outfit just for show. The Pegasus, on the other hand, still had more to say.

“To those still in disbelief of my legitimacy, know this. I am not here only to support the cause for war, I am also here to tell you what will be at stake should we fail or do nothing. Should we fail, your hard earned way of life will be stripped from you. Your rights will be shoved into the dirt and many more Hayvenports will occur to your loved ones on crimes of treason and conspiracy against the Crown. Everything that your fore fathers and mothers earned through their sweat and blood will be for nothing. Our Griffon and Changeling neighbors will further be prosecuted by those in Canterlot, by command and by sword. Our Diamond dog brethren will be put to the leash until their dying breath. Children of Zebras and Bison will be treated as second class citizens. Even your children will be treated poorly as you struggle to support them.

Coalwood looked around to see some ponies squirm at the thought, as well as small families of other species huddle together as if that would be enough to protect them. Ears on the dogs dropped, knowing their history between them and the Equines.

“By doing nothing, we will be condemned to continually live under the shadow of the Equine Elite, who take everything you have worked for as their own, who decide how you will live and will continue to ignore our voice. We were taught that all kinds were to be treated as equals, but what of our Griffon and Bison neighbors who aid us in the Blizzard of 772? The Diamond dogs who taught us proper ways to mine? Even the Changeling refugees we sheltered during the fall of their once great nation? Their hardships and sacrifices, as well as our own, fell on deaf ears and they were, and still are, being treated as second class citizens and will do so until the very end of time.

“So I ask you this, Citizens of North Everfree, will you join in this, our great crusade for our lives, our liberties and our happiness? Or will you remain a slave to your fears, your doubts and your Equine masters in Canterlot?” The Pegasus finished. Parts of the crowd raised their hooves and paws into the air in agreement, while a rare few; Coalwood included, kept silent and parted ways.

Although the thought of war was far beyond his mind, Coalwood was rather impressed by what the officer had said. There had been others before him praising for independence and the consequence of failure, but they were radical politics who hated pretty much anything that came from Canterlot or were drunks looking for a fight for no apparent reason.

But what made this “simple stallion” different from every pony else? Was it his uniform? His words perhaps? All of these left more questions than answers for Coalwood to think about, only to be shattered as the clock struck eleven.

The quarry.

Stonewood would have his hide if he didn’t get back right away. Coalwood quickened his pace to a gallop as he rushed out of town towards the ridge beyond the Little Hayes.

The Ironwood-Hound Mine and Quarry was snuggled next to the Foothill ridgeline just a few miles north of Everfree with miles upon miles of tall fur pines and rocky crevasse dotted the landscape. Wooden two story structures dotted the foothills with scattered tents and mining tracks filling the space between. Separate tunnel entrances were visible as Coalwood climbed over the ridge road, as well as some barking and chanting from the strikers. To his surprise, however, he could see a small glimmer around the main structure near the center of the complex.

That can’t be good.

Coalwood broke into an all out run.

The camp was alive with howls and shouts as they focused their anger towards their unwanted guests: a small detachment of Royal guards. Although many of the townships had ordered them out, their orders came from Canterlot, so the township orders were completely ignored.

The howls and barks intensified as Coalwood got closer.

“Coalwood!” A familiar bark shouted out to him. Making his way through was Hooch, a large Sheppard-Bernard mix with his darkened paws and legs with coal covered spats and red vest. A loyal friend to his family and a strict yet reasonable fore-dog, Hooch was responsible for all the miners here at the Quarry, thus took most of the blame from Stonewood if anything went wrong or went against the rules. He also tended to dabble a bit with medical arts from a travelling zebra, though her name is lost in his memories, he always referred her as a striped shaman.

“Hooch, what’s going on? Where’s my brother?” Coalwood shouted over the noise.

“Guards came to take share, but now take Coal’s brother as well. Say of poor activity and possible aid to separatist.” Hooch explained. Although his speech was slightly better than his counter-parts, Hooch still retained some of his Diamond Dog speech impediments.

“Why did they take Uncle Stone? Momma said that he supported Equestria.” Young Whip Lash interrupted.

“The guards were noticing a slight change in their share of the old family profits that was “required” by the Act, and had concluded that it was secretly funding those in favor of secession and your mother is right. He did support Equestria, but the strikes had him preoccupied that it could have happened under his muzzle.” Coalwood sighed. It made him feel painful remembering what happened next…

“Get your hooves off me!” Stonewood shouted struggling to be free of his binds. The guards holding him only strengthen their hold on him, giving a thrashing or two. This only angered the crowd. “I’m a loyal subject to the Crown!”

“You’ve been accused of aiding separatist agents with war making material, along with treason and financial scrutiny against the Crown.” An officer shouted over the dogs. The guards blocking them strained their lesser wards but held none the less.

“I’ve done no such thing! Ask these miners, they’ll vouch for me! Where is my brother? He will surely vouch for me!” Stonewood was now looking to the crowd as they crawled their way towards a waiting wagon nearby.

Most of the dogs there could not speak properly and the only one who could was Hooch, who was with Coalwood further back.

“Let me through!” Coalwood struggled to pass through the large noxious mass of fur and dirt, trying to reach his brother. Little did both sides know, one of the dogs near the wards was standing near a malfunctioning drill-hammer when Coalwood bumped into him. The force accidentally pressed the starter, but by then it was too late.

The sudden blast from the machine quickly silenced the yard.

Mistaking the blast for a gunshot, a young recruit holding a ward lessened his magic, leveled his rifle and fired onto the crowd. Others soon joined in.

“Hold your fire!” the officer shouted but to no avail.

Enhanced rounds pierced through the dogs, causing them to flee in terror. The sudden change in motion forced Coalwood back, further away from his brother. Stonewood continued to struggle against his captors as the chaos around them ensnared his rope to a hoist. The officer kept shouting to the guards to cease fire, but was brushed by a panicked hound.

The officer stumbled backwards and struck the hoist lever. The hoist rapidly rocketed up the pole, followed by the rope as it sent the sandbag counterweight towards the earth.

It stopped before it touched the ground, for something had jammed the joints.

The muffled screams from Coalwood could not be heard over the panic and the officer looked to her doing. Through the bodies of fleeing dogs and powder residue, the ghastly sight engraved deep into his mind.

There, upon the mast, hung his brother.

Coalwood paused, his breath sharp and his heart heavy as if he was just there. He did not finish his tale to Whip Lash.

“Grandpa, are you alright?” Whip Lash asked. “What happened to Uncle Stone?” His questions cut deep into him like a knife.

Without another word, Coalwood stood up and walked off the porch, looking towards the ridge where it all ended.

“Withdraw! All of you sorry lot back to Canterlot!” The officer’s voice finally broke through the shots and shouts, a grievous look towards the young recruits then towards the hanging body. Following orders, the guards quickly withdrew down the road. What they left behind was carnage.

Ten dogs lay dead and dozens more were wounded. Many others were scared off the property and would take hours for them to return. The few that remained included Hooch and Coalwood were out of harm’s way at least, though they were not physically harmed.

“Coal?” A dog started but was stopped by Hooch as Coalwood approached the mast. The dust still lingered across the yard and stung his throat, Coal still looked. Though his tears started to stain his eyes, he still looked. The body gently swung left to right.

“Was this was that officer meant?” Coalwood’s mind raced back to the officer at town hall. He wanted to keep thinking that this was not real, that this was some sick twisted being of the Night Mare from the story. He wanted to believe the lie his mind told him, but his heart spoke otherwise.

He took one last look, only to see the body remain untouched and hanging.

Had Equestria really come down to this? Where was the Princess in all this? Why did she allow this to happen?

No.

No, it couldn’t have been the princess. She would never do this to her own subjects and any living within her lands.

No. It was those law makers in Canterlot, the elite that robbed him of his brother and their family’s earned labors. It was them that caused it.

“Coal? Are you sick?” The same dog asked but stayed his paw.

“I am not sick Mutt, but my heart is.” Coal replied.

“Should Mutt get medicine. Will make heart better.”

“No. Just leave me please.”

All but Hooch parted away to tend to their fallen comrades. Coalwood just sat there, his head now hanging low.

“Is Coal going to go? Hooch will go wherever Mister Coal go, same with others.” Hooch said trying to give comfort to his down trotten friend. Coalwood remained silent.

“At least let Hooch take brother down.”

“Could you bury him in the family plot? I don’t want to see him anymore.” He whimpered but Hooch could hear him. With a nod, Hooch went towards the mast and started to pull the hoist. The squeaky gurney and hoist scratched at Coalwood’s ears and heart.

With the body in Hooch’s paws, he started to walk away. He stopped when he heard another soft whimper.

“When you get back, please oil the hoist. I’ll have it ready when you return.”

The following morning was quiet as the town hall bell solemnly tolled out the hour. Dozens of spectators looked onto the streets as ten wooden caskets rolled down the street, as well as an empty stone wagon toed by Coalwood himself. Not a single soul dare speak out, but the message was clear.

Everfree suffered a far more devastating Hayvenport, but unlike the victim who was well respected, these victims were on friendly terms with every being in town and personal. Baeder walked beside his friend.

“I’m sorry about your brother Coal. He was a fine pony and a good friend.” Baeder spoke softly. Coal said nothing.

“So what happens now?”

“I had trust in Equestria and thought she’d see this through. Now, I lost my faith in her so I will do what I must to ensure this won’t happen again.” Coal turned towards the young pony leaning close to her mother, her eyes staring back into his but all he could see was his brother. “Tomorrow, I’ll become a volunteer for freedom.”

“Then I will join you.” Baeder replied. “To see your goal through and if Hooch wants to join, then I say the more the merrier.”

Though he remained sober outside, on the inside…

Coalwood smiled.

The Gathering Strom

Another quiet morning came to Everfree, though a patriotic fever overcame the town during the night as parade banners hung from poles and windows. Though the shops would be opened by the time the bell toll ten, they remained closed. The once silent streets were starting to grow louder and louder as one approached the Town Square.

Dozens, if not hundreds of citizens from all over the township were here as others cheered and waved them on.

These fine ponies, griffons and dogs of all shapes and sizes were volunteering for the First Everfree Regiment of the commonwealth’s latest collection of militias: The Army of North Everfree. For a province that had little or no formal soldiers, no banner to rally to, it was quite an adventure and spectacle. Many would believe this collection of dead-beat, dis-unified and dysfunctional would break under pressure before even seeing the enemy. Others believed that it was the only thing between freedom and enslavement to their Equine brethren back in the Homeland.

To Coalwood, it was of a personal matter, thought he sought no revenge against Equestria for his brother’s death. This was the reason to volunteer, but not to fight. His had no reason to think of as to why he must fight.

Perhaps he just needed something to be credited for, to say to his children and his children’s children that he had lost hope in one nation, but found it again in a new one.

“Quite a sight, eh Colonel? An entire township signing up for your war.” The mayor turned to the officer. The Colonel could only sigh. The Township of Everfree was the only township with a large spaced out populace, with a pony for every twenty-five miles. Where this massive wave of willing recruits appeared from this barely populated region was beyond him.

“It’s not just my war Mr. Rich.” The colonel replied. “It’s our war, both yours and mine. This war gives us an opportunity to unify diverse races and species, something which Equestria lacked when the three tribes came together.”

“Save the philosophical crud for the writers, I hear the readers eat that stuff up in New Manehatten.” Rich said, interrupting the Colonel’s moment. “Besides, ponies need to understand that war comes with sacrifice, both physical and economical. You know this better than I Colonel. We can only give about forty percent of our material and food to the effort for our independence.”

“Hayvenport gave half, as well as Rocky Pass, West Coast. Even Port Solaris, those uptight aristocrats and merchants.” The Colonel grunted. He despised those living in stately manors in the wealthiest part of the city, paying their way out through bits and prestige. His view of service was completely alien to theirs.

“After what happened at the Ironwood Quarries, there had been a slow down of raw materials. That Stonewood fellow, I think, and ten of his workers got shot up. You were there at the procession Colonel. Forty is my final offer.” Rich explained loud yet soft enough so no pony around them could catch wind of their conversation.

“And to think you’ll be running our new nation one day.” He said softly.

“What was that?”

“These volunteers are signing up to fight and possibly die so politicians like you can give them a better life, and all you can give is not even half? Sometimes its politicians like yourself that makes me question whether or not you’re the true enemy, not Equestria.”

“I assure you Colonel; I had no dark intentions against the cause, or to those poor souls signing their lives away for it. But I speak on reason, not for my sake but for my township’s sake. We’re not as industrialist as the others, but we manage to get by with what we can give.” Rich shot back, attempting to claim the last laugh.

“Very well then Mayor Rich.” The Colonel sighed. “Forty percent, but the military takes control of the railroad junctions.”

“Deal.” The two parties shook hooves and continued to watch the proceedings.

“That’s a lot of pony soldier.” Hooch said, looking to the massive wave of volunteers starting the form ranks by veterans and recently assigned officers. Many of them were still stumbling in the dark as to where their assigned companies were; let alone how to even stand in formation. The Griffons, on the other hand, knew exactly what they were doing. Some even wore their old uniforms from the wars as a sign of commitment and devotion to this new cause.

Baeder explained to Coalwood and Hooch that every Griffon, regardless of their sex or history, was to be trained by the age of ten for five years and have a service of ten within their Kingdom’s Army.

Then came the dogs. Sloppily presentable compared to the Griffons. With only their spat, miner’s helms and dirt covered vests, they were disorganized and leaderless.

“You there!” an officer shouted towards the trio. They stopped and looked towards the officer approaching them.

“Me, Officer Pony?” Hooch pointed to himself.

“Yes you. I need some pony to keep these dogs in line. They’re wreaking havoc in our Regiment assignment.” The officer replied and pointed towards the dogs.

“Hooch has not sign up yet. Hooch will sign then keep kin in line.” Hooch replied respectfully.

“Hooch huh? Well then…” The officer had a clipboard out and ready, a pen levitating nearby. He scribbled down his name. “There, your now a corporal in the Army’s Engineering Corp, now get your kin under control!”

“Yes sir, Mr. Officer Pony sir!” Hooch quickly raised his paw in a salute in quick action. He then took off towards the dogs, leaving his two comrades in the mass surprised.

“You shanghaied my friend into service. What is wrong with you?” Coalwood asked,

“We’ll get a formal signature later, but right now we needed some pony, or in this case dog, to help with this mess. We weren’t expecting this many volunteers from such a township such as this. New Manehatten perhaps, but not this back water town.” The officer gestured.

“This back water town is my home.” Coalwood defended.

“Listen, I really need to get this place organized. I give an apology later.” With that said, the officer resumed his duty while shoving past the bodies.

“I’d never seen an army as disorganized as this.” Baeder remarked. “His Majesty would have lashed the officers responsible.”

“The Griffon army was that harsh?” A new voice intervened. The two turned to a young Changeling still waiting to enlist.

“That was only the mildest punishment a Griffon officer can receive. The regulars had it much worse. High Command believed that harsh and brutal discipline resulted with hardened and well devoted soldiers, otherwise they were worthless to the army.” Baeder explained. The Changeling cringed at the thought of punishment. Coalwood turned to his friend.

“I doubt this army, if you wish to call it that won’t be as strict or merciless as that.” Baeder sighed reassuring the Changeling.

“What’s your name anyway?”

“Chrysalis.” The changeling replied raising her hole-ridden hoof to the two. Coalwood was the first to return the shake, only to quickly withdraw with a slight headache. Whatever he felt, it didn’t feel right to meet with her again.

“Are you alright?” Baeder asked. Chrysalis looked on with concern knowing what may have happened. She was also feeling the same thing but to a less extent.

“Just felt weird shaking hooves with a Changeling.” He lied.

“Well, it was nice to meet you all. I hope we cross paths again.” She replied and disappeared into the crowd still waiting to sign up. The small hairs on the back of Coalwood’s neck rose.

A half hour must have passed when the two friends finally reached the register. The griffon there was the town clerk, his small reading glasses resting perfectly at the base of his beak.

“Please leave your mark and proceed to the left.” The clerk blankly stated. As bureaucratic as ever, even if he was sitting there for the past two hours. Baeder was the first to leave his mark, along with former rank and regiment. Coalwood was up next when the clerk looked up.

“Mr. Coalwood? What are you doing here?”

“I’m joining, what does it look like I’m doing?” Coalwood replied.

“Then who will be running your quarry? According to my records, you’re the only living member left in your family to own the quarry. Signing up would mean giving up your father’s business to anyone to acquire.” The clerk explained.

Coalwood looked back through the years he and his family had lived and ran that spit of stone and dirt, but he was never at good at running it unlike his brother. He was always his father’s favorite not because he was older or physically fit, but was a financial protégée while Coalwood was sent into the quarries day in and day out. Without his brother, the quarry would be running smoothly and with better quality due to his personal association with the miners.

So why was he leaving it all behind?

“I’m leaving it to the miners living there.” He said confidently and took the quill in his mouth. With a quick signing of his name, he returned the quill.

“It’s their quarry now and I wish them the best of luck with it.”

With a nod, the clerk took the paper and slid a fresh one in its place.

The rally area just left of the recruitment was scattered with various groups of citizens who had volunteered for the town regiment, with the small cobblestone streets acting as a boundary between them and on looking supporters. The officer from before who “recruited” Hooch wasn’t kidding about the organization of the army. The griffons appeared to be the only ones who knew how to form ranks for inspection whereas everyone else were standing around socializing or attempting to mimic their counterparts. Even the local militia who volunteered was having difficulties. They hadn’t been called up since the last war years ago.

“I’d hate to doom us, but this “army” wouldn't stand a chance against Griffon hatchings, let alone the Royal Army.” Baeder quietly discussed.

“Best keep that kind of talk to you Sergeant; it will bring bad luck to us all.” A gruff yet familiar voice filled his ears.

“I’d thought you went home Hawkin. You know you have an ill mother, at least from the letters you’ve wrote.” Baeder replied, not looking to the well build black feathered griffon behind the two. The bright red overcoat with green trim and brass buttons nearly reflected the sun off the griffon. The white lander crossing his chest was as clean as the day it was first issued. In the pit of his front left arm was a smashed shako with matching plumage.

“And dishonor what’s left of my family name? I’d rather have my mother die with what dignity she has left.” Hawkin said. “As for her well-being, she continues to send me letters about her failing health; getting worse by the day she writes- or rather her son-in-law.” He then turned to the pony beside his former sergeant.

“Allow me to introduce you to a good friend of mine. Hawkin, this is Coalwood. Coalwood, this is corporal Hawkin Razor. We were from the same regiment during the war.” Baeder introduced him to the pony.

“A pleasure to meet you.” He said extending his hoof.

Hawkin brushed it aside and turned back to Baeder.

“Forgive my intention Coalwood, but I still have some bad blood towards your kind from the wars. If you excuse me Baeder, I must return to my unit.” With that said Hawkin strode past and disappeared through the formations.

“Bad blood?”

“It’s a long story, that I’m sure he will tell another day. As for now, let’s reunite with Hooch and find our unit.” Baeder reassured the pony.

The chaos around them still lingered, no matter how many times the newly recruited officers shouted at them to form ranks. The Griffon ranks looked on with disbelief. This was a nation that had bested them in the last two wars? Surely the world had been turned upside-down and was refusing to right itself. Ponies and zebras alike were finally getting the idea of how to form ranks, though a few stragglers still couldn’t get it through their thick skulls.

Then there were the diamond dogs.

“Brethren, please make line.” Hooch attempted to plea with his fellow canines, waving his paws around. Not a single dog was paying attention. Hooch was about to give up when his ears perked. Searching his left spat, he found what he was looking for.

A gold whistle.

He winced at the mere look of it, but if it meant to get his brethren’s attention he had to take that risk. Preparing for the worse, Hooch blew the whistle. Completely silent to every being around them, the dogs were whining and gripping their ears in any way they could think of to silent the high pitched scream as Hooch struggled to do the same. After a couple of seconds, Hooch pulled the whistle away from his mug and back into his spat. His ears still bled from it, but he persisted none the less.

“Dogs, sit!” he barked.

Every dog there immediately sat down.

“Now dogs listen to pony officers, or Hooch will use Torturer again. Savvy?” Hooch said, making sure he had every muzzle looking at him. They all nodded rapidly, still covering their ears. The crowds around them gave the dogs a second look-over and abruptly returned to their previous activities just as Coalwood and Baeder arrived- only to have the officer from before suddenly cut in between them.

“I don’t know how you did it, and I frankly don’t care. It’s just one less problem on my hooves. I’m sure you can find your regiment.” He then turned towards Coalwood. “And I do apologize about the comment before so don’t need to remind me.”

“Actually, I was just going to see if Hooch was in our regiment, but apology accepted.” Coalwood replied confused at first.

“Oh.. Well, um. Your name’s then?” the officer cleared his throat, a clipboard at the ready.

“Coalwood, Hooch and Baeder Eagle.”

Scanning over the board, the officer found their names.

“Ah here you are. You three are in the 34th Volunteer Rifles. They’re currently being rallied by the southwest corner of the green. They’re just about to head for the railhead.” The officer replied his hoof pointed towards the mass of bodies past the empty market stalls.

In all honesty, the 34th Volunteer Rifles wouldn’t be even considered a regiment; more or less as a standing company of almost a hundred. A large majority of the company were all Earth ponies, a couple of pegasi and unicorns mixed in, three griffons and a zebra serving as the second, as well as the medic. Baeder seemed disappointed by the outturn of his former comrade in arms of former wars being heavily outnumbered five to one, whereas Hooch felt the same- now being the only dog in the bunch.

“They look so green, no doubt never held a rifle before.” Baeder sighed. “Yet this it the best the country can provide us.”

“You could have requested to join another regiment- perhaps one with more of your friends.” Coal added.

“And condemn my friends to death without giving them a fighting chance?” He joked, brushing his claw against Coal’s shoulder. “This may, however, but a challenge.” The trio made their way over, mixed expressions about what may come during this, the gather storm.

Halfway across the continent, brass horns and drums blared proudly through the white streets of Canterlot. Large and glorious banners of white and gold fluttered in the breeze as throngs of ponies cheered on a parade. Streams of gold armor and red tunics flooded the streets, passively ignoring the thousands around them, their faces fixated forward. Flying above them matching speed and style were their pegasi brethren, several lugging along the same banners that were strung across the streets.

The first detachment of the Royal Army was making their debut on their way to the station.

“Colonel Night Light, Are you sure you don’t wish to come with us?” A major addressed the dark blue unicorn. The proud officer of the Guard had been offered to lead the first detachment off to quell this little “revolution” out in the Everfree Province, but had graciously refused.

The parade had been forced to rearrange his third date with Velvet, and the declaration of war had also disrupted any chances of an early marriage.

“Let him be Major, the colonel has other, more sensual plans in mind.” A captain of the Guard intervened. Night light gave the officer a rather unpleasant glare but he knew he was speaking true. Word around the Guard was that the colonel was about to hit second plate when he was called into service the night of.

“My duty to the Guard is to protect the Royal family, not march off and killed their citizens. That’s General Shooting Star’s job.” Night light replied. General Shooting Star, the one pony even the Royal Guard shuddered at his name. A Cloudsdalian by heart and a master tactician, he had overseen the Third and Fourth Griffon wars with many victories for the homeland; along with the siege of the Griffon King’s Fortress high in the Northern Mountains.

To many, his refusal to lead the first detachment shocked every pony. He instead assumed to role of Commander in Chief of the entire Army; a standing army of over seventy-five thousand and a fleet of sixty-four warships consisting of ten Ship of the lines, twenty-five Frigate of the Lines and an assortment of others, which had already started their leg of the journey to establish blockades on the ports.

“Aye, so then send a noble in command- one who bought her way into the commission none the less.”

“Why are we only sending five thousand in the first detachment? I’d thought we’d be sending more in?” Night light popped the question.

“Shooting Star’s been ordered to send a small force to either give the rebels one last chance of refute and return to Equestria’s embrace or the test their so called army’s strength. They probably would have a better chance of self destruction with that melting pot, let alone stand against the army.” The major replied.

“I hear their nothin’ more than farmers an’ shop keeps. The second rate wealthies in Port Solaris don’t even know how to operate a rifle, and those who volunteer probably bought their way out by now.” Said the Captain. All three seem to get a laugh out of the last statement. They practically lived in a rich mare’s city and not one roster in the Guard or Army had any pony from Canterlot on it.

At least not in the line infantry commissions, the lowest they would dare stoop to would be that of a major.

“Well, I best be off. I’ve got to make sure that noble knows where she’s going.” The major saluted and started his way towards the parade.

“Best be careful Bolt, don’t let her money get the better of you.” Night called out, but the bands of cheering ponies blocked out any response.

“Do you really think they’ll be reasonable and give up this endeavour?” The captain whispered to Night light’s ear.

“I hope they do, otherwise we’ll be facing a rather nasty storm where no pony comes out of.” Night light took one last look at the parade and started he way back towards the palace, ready for his afternoon shift.