Dusk of Peace

Dusk of Peace

Chapter 4

Springwood Forest was much more quiet since the event at Bleak Coliseum. Chromacia roamed the forests as she did every-so-often when she had free time. The birds would not sing their songs and the small creatures hid from sight. She could feel the despair of the forest and in turn, it made her despair as well.

The winds lamented through the tree tops and played mournful tunes. Chromacia trotted gravely through the woods. She seemed like she was almost ready to fall to tears. An abrupt sound played on her ears. It sounded like the clomping of several hooves.

Out of curiosity Chromacia headed towards the noise. Through the trees she could see the main road to Fornestria. Sticking to the trees she looked down the road and saw the silhouettes of armored ponies. For the fear of them being a war party she stepped back.

Before they arrived to her position she used forest magic to camouflage herself almost perfectly to the surroundings. As the last line of ponies passed one of them caught her eye. A distinctive dirty, blonde mane and light blue coat assured her it was one of the Tridonstrian twins. Being careful not to disturb the vegetation, she came out of the trees and onto the road, trailing the ponies.

The party went though the surrounding villages and then through the castle town. Odd looks were exchanged between the common folk. They were silent as they approached the castle gates. The great steel gates opened slowly to the Tridonstrian visitors.

Chromacia still followed them quietly into the throne room. As they came in, King Ashwood straightened himself to a more presentable stature. Queen Rosemary flicked her mane over to the other side. The ponies stopped and their ambassador came forth.

"King Ashwood and Queen Rosemary," he acknowledged in his gruff voice, "I've come on behalf of Lord Wavecrasher to negotiate and ease tensions between our kingdoms."

"I hope this is not the prelude to a faulty alliance or perhaps an unappealing treaty." Ashwood returned.

"Of course not, King Ashwood, we ourselves, have already figured the dangers such things would cause."

"Very well then, state your piece."

The ambassador began his demands and concerns of the Tridonstrian people.

"Stop hiding you coward!" the shout of a soldier rang out, interrupting the ambassador. It was the twin Gamer Masquerade, distinguished by his horn.

"Come out now and I'll spare you a painful spell!" he threatened.

"Chromacia! Come out darling." beckoned Ashwood. She let her magic dissipate and her form become visible again.

"You?!" Masquerade exclaimed.

"Come, Chromacia, you know better than to deceive visitors who come in good faith." Ashwood warned lightly.

She turned to her father and bowed her head in apology.

"Sorry father. I meant no harm." she apologized in a gentle voice. Chromacia trotted to her mother's side. Masquerade eyed her with disdain.

"As I was saying, before this misunderstanding, Tridonstris wishes that you trade extra lumber so we can better defend ourselves from hostile forces. As well as a strengthening of communication."

"What do we get in compensation, from the people of Tridonstis?"

"Well, in a time of crisis we will come to your aid. If we come into a surplus of ships they will be signed over to you."

Ashwood frowned, he knew better than this.

"In other words you wish to have an alliance. Something that I clearly stated I would not agree with." Ashwood stomped his hoof. "If you wish an alliance go and bother another kingdom. I will not be brought into a war by another's doing."

The ambassador snorted with discontent.

"There are greater threats than just war, Ashwood," he cautioned.

"I know, Ambassador." Ashwood intervened, gravely. There was an uneasy quiet between them.

"We will take our leave then." grumbled the ambassador. He turned and the armored ponies followed him. The large oak doors clunked shut and again there was silence. Ashwood turned to his side and glared at his daughter.

Chromacia looked at him with solemn blue eyes.

"Chromacia, I don't want you to get hurt. Your little stunt almost did that." he ushered. She hung her head and her brown mane fell over her face.

"I know you're curious, but with things as they are I'm begging you. Please be more careful."

Chromacia stayed quiet, as she usually did.

"Rosemary," he called.

"Yes, my lord?" she replied.

"We must discuss what to do in case war is inevitable. Come to the Battle Quarters with me."

"Certainly, my lord."

Two guardians followed them into the side chamber doors leaving Chromacia alone upon the throne. She peeked out of her skulking and proceeded out of the castle. As soon as she cleared the gates she galloped onto the main trail to the Spirit of the World.