That evening Hen realized something: He liked traveling by train. It was more luxurious than coach or trolley, less perilous than flight and far faster than walking. When he retired hen considered touring the whole of Equestria by train. Maybe he could even convince Diamond Dust to join him. Her presence in the same car certainly had a calming effect on him. Or maybe that was just their increasing distance from the mess in Ponyville. Hen wasn’t sorry to leave that town behind.

When they had sent Derpy back to Canterlot with an update on the situation on Ponyville, Hen had added a request to have a formal uniform sent ahead to meet him at the Crystal Empire station. The leather armor he wore now, despite being lighter and maneuverable compared to his usual plate armor, still felt out of place in an urban setting. And he should at least try to make a good impression on his first visit to the Crystal Empire. There was a rumor among the Royal Guard that Princess Cadance hadn’t been seen outside the castle in months.

His companion Diamond Dust sat across from him. She had taken off her helmet and breastplate and was reading a pamphlet on the Crystal Empire in green t-shirt. Hen watch her eyes scan back and forth across the page.

“Hmmm crystal mud baths.” She looked up at Hen, “I wonder how that feels different from regular mud.”

“Maybe it’s rougher.” Hen shrugged “I’ve never found mud to be particularly cleansing.”

Diamond frowned “So it’s an exfoliate? No need to have a whole bathtub of the stuff then.”

Hen wasn’t listening; he was staring out the window letting his mind wander. He was trying to avoid spending the whole trip thinking about their mission. The length of the journey from Ponyville to the Crystal Empire was about as long as it was to Canterlot. Hen preferred to spend this time watching the darkened scenery pass by than worrying about questions he didn’t have answers for. He would have considered dozing off at the moment, but Diamond Dust had other ideas.

“Penny for your thoughts,” She asked prodding his shin with her foot.

Hen Runner sighed and turned to look at his companion. He stroked his mustache out of habit, waiting a second before answering. He hadn’t been thinking about anything in particular, but now another unpleasant question crossed his mind. In any other situation, considering their history together, there would have been no doubt as to the answer. After the events of the past three days, Hen wasn’t sure what he believed.

“Do you trust me Di? Do you really think we’re doing the right thing heading to the Crystal Empire?”

Diamond Dust blinked, taken aback by this uncharacteristic display of uncertainty from her partner.

“Hen,” She said solemnly “You are the best tracker I’ve ever had the privilege to serve with. Without your instinct and judgment, I never would have survived long enough to become a Knight Sergeant. Even though we haven’t caught the Changelings yet, I know you’re right about them being behind it. And I also believe that if you found a crystal that blocks magic power that is connected to magic wielded by the Stranger, then the Crystal Empire is probably the only place we might be able to find answers”

She leaned back against her seat and folded her arms across her chest.

“So, yes, I do trust you,” She smiled over at him. “Feel better?”

Hen Runner nodded in appreciation.

“Waiting didn’t used to bother me this much.” He shrugged “Maybe I’m just getting old.”

“That might be part of it, but this is different from when we were out in the field.” Diamond pointed out. “Back then things made sense and the mission was clear. Waiting just meant observing the target, learning their routines and maintaining cover. This? This is real waiting. We don’t have instructions from Celestia to guide us. Now we don’t where our investigation will lead, so we’re just adlibbing.”

Hen smiled as he considered her words. Diamond always had a way of helping him see the big picture. Her input had always been invaluable to him when analyzing the situation and deciding on a course of action. Outside of combat, she had always deferred to his judgment. After everything that had happened recently, it felt good to know his uncertainty was justified.

He decided it was time to tell her what he had been keeping secret since he showed her the crystal in Twilight’s tree house. Since they had requisitioned the train for a single express trip to the Crystal Empire, there were no other passengers and the attendants had been ‘encouraged’ not to bother them. Hen still glanced around the carriage for eavesdroppers before bringing up the subject.

“That’s not entirely true Di, I have one idea of where this investigation will lead us.” He said softly.

Diamond furrowed her brow and her eyes narrowed. “What have you been hiding from me Hen?”

Hen took a deep breath “I should have told you right away, but I didn’t think it was prudent to mention this particular detail in front of Iron Feather.”

“I’m a little hurt,” Diamond frowned. “But I suppose it’s better late than never.”

“When I first held the crystal in my hands at the library, it didn’t just take away my magic. It spoke to me.”

Hen waited to gauge Diamond’s reaction. Her expression barely changed, a testament to her discipline and experience in espionage.

“Well, what did it say?” She asked, her lips barely moving.

“I asked ‘what the heck are you?’ and it replied ‘something far beyond your comprehension, I fear. If you want an answer, I suggest that you bring us to the Element of Magic as soon as possible.’

A moment passed before Diamond responded. “Well,” she said raising her eyebrows, “I certainly understand why you hesitated to tell me that. You’re sure it was the Crystal?”

Hen nodded firmly “If anyone had been close enough to hear me, I would have felt their presence.”

Diamond leaned back and exhaled slowly. “Have you tried to communicate with it since then?”

Hen shook his head. “I haven’t had any time alone with the crystal since you arrived,”

“Why don’t you try it now?” Diamond suggested, “We’re alone and you said the effects were only temporary.”

Hen shrugged “It didn’t seem very helpful last time, but there’s nothing else we can do ‘till we get to the Crystal Empire.”

He opened his satchel and reached in to retrieve the crystal. He shivered involuntarily as he felt his magic disappear: Hen hated that feeling.

Hen held the crystal at arms length. It was still giving off a soft blue glow.

“We’re not getting any younger,” Diamond interjected “I don’t like waiting any more than you do.”

Hen frowned, and then addresses the crystal “Can you tell anything? Why the stranger’s spell awoke you? Why you were hidden in the library? What will happen if we take you to Twilight?”

Diamond waited for the crystal to respond, but she heard nothing. Perhaps it spoke only to Hen, or maybe it was only enchanted to speak once. She looked up at Hen to judge by his expression which one was true. Hen rolled his eyes and groaned in annoyance. Then he put the crystal roughly back in his satchel and looked out the window with a sullen expression on his face.

“Well?” Diamond asked with a hint of exasperation “Did it say anything to you?”

“It did,” Hen said derisively.

“What did it say?”

Hen made air quotes as he repeated the crystal’s reply: “Spoilers”

Diamond laughed and wrapped her hands around her stomach. “Oh dear, ho ho ho dear this is going to be one of those missions isn’t it?”

Hen nodded in silence.

Diamond’s laughter died down and she took a deep breath. “Well, I assume that actually bringing the crystal to Twilight is our last resort?”

“I think it would be best, certainly not until we have some idea of what will happen if we do.” Hen stood up “It’s late, I’m going to see if the bar is still open, then go to bed.”

“Need some company?” Diamond offered diplomatically “You’ll sleep better if you relieve your frustration.”

Hen stopped to consider her offer. This was not the first time she had propositioned him while they were technically on duty, nor would it be the first time he agreed. But at the moment, Hen simply wasn’t in the mood.

“I promise, Di, I’m tired enough to fall asleep,” He said he stepped out into the corridor and turned toward the front of the train.

“You sure? Not even a blow job?” She persisted, tilting her head in an inquiring manner.

“Maybe after one of those diamond mud baths you seem so curious about. Maybe they taste different from regular mud,” Hen Runner grinned as he headed toward the door.

“Ewww,” Diamond called after him.

“Just pretend I’m Big Mac in from a hard day of plowing the fields,” Hen laughed as he opened the door and passed out of the car.

**

The rest of the trip passed uneventfully. Diamond and Hen met each other in the dinning car for breakfast. They traded war stories and joked about how dull their lives had become since retiring from frontline duty. Hen barely felt the weight of the mysterious crystal against his hip. Just after lunchtime, the train arrived at the edge of the Crystal Empire. Disembarking at the station, they were greeted by a welcome sight: Hen Runner’s formal uniform had arrived by courier. He thanked the weary Wonderbolt and signed for the package, then went to the restroom to change.

When he emerged, Diamond looked up from the magazine she was reading to give him an appraisal. Hen now wore a bright red jacket with a golden collar and cuffs. There was a golden sash across his chest and a row of silver buttons from his neck down to his waist. A think leather belt with a brass buckle held up his black slacks with a gold stipe down the side of each leg. On his feet he also wore a polished pair of dress boots, but Hen had also requested a pair of sneakers. Boots might look fashionable but they weren’t made for waking.

Diamond smiled and set the magazine down on the bench beside her, “You always did clean up real nice,” She said, standing up to approach him.

Hen smiled and offered her his arm; “Care to escort me to the Grand Galloping Gala, m’lady?”

Diamond laughed and took his arm: “Lead on, brave knight,” Hen left his leather armor with the stationmaster and they headed out.

They walked between the pillars that marked the beginning of the path into the Crystal City. Hen watched the Crystal Castle spire grow larger in the distance as they reached the outskirts. Ever the soldier, Hen Runner made sure to note the layout of the city as they made their way towards the base of the castle. The roads radiated out from the center in a geometric pattern. From the pamphlet Diamond had shown him, he remembered it was in the shape of a six-sided star. The roadways got wider towards the center before joining to form an open plaza around the base of the castle. More efficient for troop movement, certainly better than the random placement of Canterlot, but it also afforded an invading force an unobstructed route straight to the Crystal Heart.

The Crystal Heart stood at the exact center of the Crystal Empire. It floated in mid air between two cone shaped crystals, one coming out of the ground and the other pointing down from the castle, spinning slowly in place. The spire stood directly overhead. Four pillars arched upward, joining seamlessly to form the base of the castle. On the inner side of each pillar was a regular sized door at the top of a short stairway. Very defendable entrances, Hen noted, and the narrow passages behind them would help keep the defenders from being overwhelmed.

As they approached the pillars, both Hen and Diamond carefully observed the patrols. The Crystal Guards marched back and forth in pairs between the pillars. For the most part they appeared to be earth ponies, clad in silver colored, more ornate version of the Canterlot Royal Guard armor. Their skin varied between different shades of red-violet and the crystal sheen of Crystal empire natives. Hen and Diamond saluted them respectfully as they passed by.

“Sir Hen Runner, Dame Diamond Dust!” A voice called out to them. Hen and Diamond turned to see the source of the voice. A brown skinned man was walking out of one of the pillars towards them. He wore a three-piece suit with coat tails, breeches and ruffled undershirt. His coat and pants were the same shade of violet as the Crystal empire flag and judging by his wig, he was probably someone important. Hen also noted the oversized pearl cufflinks the man wore on his sleeves. No prizes for guessing what his cutie mark was.

“On behalf her royal highness, Princes Cadance, allow me to welcome you to the Crystal Empire. My name is Pearl Cufflinks and I am the official regent.”

‘Regent?’ That word raised Hen’s concern. A regent was someone who was supposed to act as a temporary head of state, usually when the reigning was a minor, absent or incapacitated. Shinning Armor was in Canterlot, but Cadance was still in here as far as he knew. And since she was an adult, it that left only one possibility. And that was a problem

“Thank you Mr. Cufflinks. Might I inquire as to the Princess’s condition? I was not aware she had been taken ill before I left Canterlot.”

“Oh, I assure you commander, she is in perfect health. Merely that the princess has currently sequestered herself. Her word is law; I am merely a humble servant assigned to oversee the day-to-day administration.” Cufflinks said cheerfully.

Hen’s eyes narrowed as he searched the bureaucrat’s face for any sort of a tell. Thankfully, his words and manner appeared sincere, if a might pretentious. He turned to look at Diamond, who was awaiting his conclusion, and nodded.

“How long has she been like this?” Diamond asked.

Cufflinks sighed. “Unfortunately, her highness has not deemed it necessary to set foot outside the castle since Twilight became an alicorn. A pity, since we had only just been selected to host the Equestria Games. As you can see, we had only just finished the new stadium.” He said, turning to wave at the structure. Hen thought it was impressive, if a bit out of place being so close to the castle itself.

Cufflinks went on “The brief glimpses the people catch of her from the balcony hardly do justice to her radiance.” He finished wistfully.

“As she given a reason for her isolation?” Hen inquired.

Cufflinks shrugged “Cadance has personally assured me that she is occupying herself with important matters, the knowledge of she does not wish to burden her subjects with.”

“And you believe her?” Diamond responded skeptically.

Cufflinks placed his hand over his chest with an air of mild indignation. “Madam, it hardy my place to question the wisdom of the ruler of the empire.”

“Mr. Cufflinks,” Hen Runner persisted “We are here as part of an investigation in the assassination of Princess Luna, co-ruler of Equestria. It is a mater of the utmost urgency. The princess’s cooperation could prove vital to uncovering exactly who was behind it and what their plans are.”

Cufflinks adjusted his monocle and regarded Hen with skepticism “I was under the impression that the culprit had already been identified, and by your own testimony no less, Knight-Sergeant.”

“I cannot comment as to the specific details of what my own investigation has uncovered so far, as it is still on going,” Hen Runner replied, growing impatient. “But it now appears that Twilight did not act alone.”

“I see,” Cufflinks replied as he chewed this latest update over in his head. He folded his hands together and began dwindling his thumbs as he stared at the ground, “That is… most unfortunate.”

“Is there any way we might be able to gain an audience with Cadance?” Hen Runner asked in exasperation.

Cufflinks shook his head “I’m afraid not, sir, the princess’s wishes are very clear and absolute on this matter. Only myself, the staff and the Crystal Guards are allowed inside the castle, and the princess rarely ventures outside her private chambers. No outsiders are permitted entry without her prior consent. And I doubt she’ll be having a change of heart any time soon.”

Then Cufflinks looked back up and his face brightened. “But a can assure you that the rest of the empire is completely at your disposal. If you will both consent to an escort of Crystal Guards, You will find all your needs provided at the court’s expense. The princess hopes you will enjoy your stay and you are welcome to remain as with us long as you please.”

Hen rolled his eyes. It did not take decades of experience in subterfuge to tell that last part was pure diplomatic invention on the part of the regent. Such behavior was most unlike Cadance. The few times he had met the princess in Canterlot, she had been a very pleasant and warm individual. In hindsight her mood leading up to her wedding to Shinning Armor should have raised suspicions, but that was before anyone in Equestria had appreciated what the Changelings were capable of. The escort seemed to suggest outright suspicion rather than reclusiveness.

Hen was ready to excuse himself, when Diamond spoke up, “We are grateful for the Princess’s generosity, but before we can allow ourselves to indulge in her benevolence we would like some questions answered. We would not be able to enjoy our stay in good conscience if we were not at least aware of the reason for her absence.”

Hen smirked; Diamond always had a way of loosening tongues.

“I… I have been assured personally be her highness that her reasons are of the utmost importance,” Cufflinks said, taken aback.

“Oh, come now you must have some idea as to what those reasons are,” Diamond said, putting on a pleasant smile as she stepped forward.

“It is hardly my place to claim to know the mind of the Alicorn, Dame Dust,” Cufflinks replied.

Diamond put her hand on the regent’s shoulder in a reassuring gesture. “I’m sure someone who is a close to the princess as you are would have some idea. She obviously thinks highly of your judgment and abilities if she is willing to give the honor of running the empire in her name.” She started walking around Cufflinks, rolling her eyes off to the side. “If her opinion is justified, someone as important as you would certainly have some insight into Cadance’s behavior.”

“Well… Perhaps I have some idea what’s behind it,” Cufflinks replied as he fumbled with his monocle.

“Excellent!” Diamond exclaimed. She spun around in front of Cufflinks again, clapping her hands together and smiling with glee. Hen Runner kept his thoughts to himself.

“Please understand,” The charmed bureaucrat said lowering his voice so they both had lean in. “What I’m about to tell you must not be made public. It such information would be detrimental to the morale of the Empire.”

Hen nodded solemnly “You can count on our discretion as Knight-Sergeants of Celestia’s Royal Guard.”

“Very well,” Cufflinks glanced around furtively to make sure they would not be overheard. “Ever since she returned from Twilight’s coronation, the princess has been very secretive. She has not held court in months and or set foot outside the castle. If I had to guess I’d say it was connected to her imprisonment by the Changelings last year. I don’t think she ever believed Celestia’s assurance that they had been wiped out. I have no idea why it would start affecting her so long after the fact, but it certainly fits her behavior. She seems to distrust everyone and has even distanced herself from her husband, Shinning. It’s only gotten worse since the news of Luna’s assassination.”

“But what has she been up to hidden away in the Castle? I imagine she must be putting all her time away from court to good use.” Diamond persisted.

“Cadance spends her days either in the Castle Library or in the old throne room.” Cufflinks scratched underneath his wig nervously, “She seems to be searching for something, but I’m not sure what. There is precious little literature on the Changelings in the royal archives; she could have memorized it all in a week. No one else is allowed to observe her while she is in those rooms.”

Diamond Dust took Cufflink’s hand in her own and shook it firmly “Thank you, Regent. It is reassuring to know that if we shan’t have the pleasure of Cadance’s company, at least she is in good health and her time is being put to better use.”

“Yes, thank you.” Hen chimed in and shook his hand after Diamond. It was a classic ploy that Diamond had executed flawlessly. Bureaucrats and the nobility were very susceptible to having their egos stroked. The greater the difference between their perceived importance and their real importance, the easier they were to use. Cufflink’s loose tongue had hardly proved a liability for Cadance or the Crystal Empire, but he had given them enough.

Cufflinks smiled, obviously pleased with himself “You’re most welcome and I hope you enjoy your stay. If you need anything please don’t hesitate to ask.”

“There is one thing.” Hen said “I’ve left a set of armor at the train station. Could you see to that?”

Cufflinks nodded “They’ll be waiting for you at the Crystal hotel when you check in.”

He turned and called over the two Crystal Guards who would be shadowing Hen and Diamond for the rest of their stay. Hen Runner sized them up as they approached. Mere men-at-arms were hardly a threat to seasoned veterans like Diamond and himself, but their presence sent a clear enough message: Mind your manners.

Hen and Diamond saluted their escorts, which the Crystal Guards returned stone-faced.

“I understand that it is their job to protect the safety of the Empire, but would it be too much to ask that Diamond Dust and I be allowed to converse privately while we are being escorted?” Hen asked the regent.

The guard’s faces remained expressionless, but then Cufflinks put his hands on their shoulders.

“It is the least you can do gentlemen.” He said

The two guards glanced down at Cufflinks then back at Hen Runner. They both gave a slight nod.

“You require directions?” Cufflinks asked, “I’m happy to provide any assistance you need.”

“Not necessary.” Diamond Dust said, pulling out the train pamphlet from her satchel.

Hen and Diamond said goodbye to the regent and left for their first destination: the library. The Crystal Guards hung back a few paces and Hen was about to whisper something to Diamond when he felt the hairs on the back of his neck stand up.

“We’re being watched,” He said.

Diamond nodded and they both turned around and glanced up. Standing on the balcony several stories above them was Princess Cadance. She was easily identified by her pink gown and purple-pink-white stripped hair. From this distance Hen couldn’t make out the expression on her face, but he could guess it was a scowl.

They stood there regarding each other for several moments before Hen thought of a way to end their standoff. He nudged Diamond Dust and together they bowed toward the Princess. Hen doubted her expression changes, but she did turn around and walk back inside without a word.

“Awkward,” Diamond summed up as they turned around to continue on their way. “So what’s your verdict?”

“If anyone should be paranoid about the Changlings returning, it’s her.” Hen said.

“That explains all the time in the library, but what could she be hoping to find in the old throne room?” Diamond asked.

Hen shrugged “Maybe a secret passage or hidden compartment?”

“Could she be a Changling?” Diamond suggested.

“I’d like to think Shinning wouldn’t let himself be fooled twice,” Hen said grimly. “Besides, changelings are supposed to feed off happiness and love. She would be starving herself the way she’s acting, even pushing her husband away.”

Diamond Dust nodded in agreement.

The pair checked into the hotel first so that Hen could switch into his casual shoes.

“What sleeping arrangements do you prefer and how long will you be staying?” The concierge asked.

“One Full sized bed, not sure how long we’ll be staying unfortunately. It won’t be long though.”

“That is a shame, perhaps you could stop by again sometime when our Princess is in a more welcoming mood.” She handed hen the key to his room “Room 312, we hope you enjoy your stay.”

Hen took the key and thanked her. Diamond squeezed his hand as they and the Crystal Guards exited the hotel. “Glad you’re finally taking some initiative in the bedroom,” She whispered.

“I may be old but I’m not dead,” he reassured her with a smile.

Soon the pair was standing before the Crystal Library. Hen and Diamond regarded the griffon statues flanking the stairway as they ascended towards the front door.

“We could take ‘em,” Diamond whispered. Hen chuckled.

Inside there was a multi-storied hall that appeared to have been carved completely out of crystal. Books were stacked nine shelves high over three floors, Hen and Diamond had entered onto the middle one. Even though it was an impressive collection, Hen was skeptical they would find anything relevant to their investigation. Public libraries were hardly the place to store information on telepathic crystals that could stay hidden for a thousand years and then wake up with knowledge of contemporary events. But without Cadance’s help, it was their only option.

“Can I help you?” Asked the middle-aged, faded-purple librarian.

“We’re here to conduct research on crystal magic.” Hen answered.

“Well, I’m afraid you’ve come to the wrong place.” The librarian said, adjusting her oversized gold-rimed spectacles.

“Why is that?” Hen said, although he already had a good idea what the answer was.

“Well, obviously, the best place to look for information on that subject would be the Royal Archives. We still have books and scrolls that cover crystal magic, but you’ll get better results there. Sombra was the first to delve into the secrets of crystal magic, so only the most basic facts were public knowledge even before his downfall.”

Internally, Hen Runner groaned frustration: Their best hope for finding answers lay in the one place they were not allowed entry.

“Please, if there is anything to found on the subject we’d be most grateful.” Hen looked at her imploringly.

“You’ll find applied magical theory on the bottom floor, east wing. You might also try history.” The librarian instructed.

“Thank you,” Diamond Dust replied, and they proceeded downstairs to begin their search. Even if they couldn’t find anything directly related to the crystal he carried, there might be something about the nature of crystal magic that could prove useful.

The next two hours proved to be as fruitful as Hen had feared. There were several accounts of Sombra wielding crystal magic to enslave the Empire and threaten the rest of Equestria. Unfortunately, there was precious little analysis of the spells he created and no mention of talking crystals. Nor was there anything that would tell them exactly how crystal magic countered unicorn magic.

Although the purpose of Hen’s crystal remained unclear, they did manage to find a possible reference to it. A few of the history books described a cult dedicated to Sombra that formed back when he still ruled the Crystal Empire. Since he made himself powerful enough to rival the Heavenly sisters, some considered him a god. After Sombra’s downfall and the disappearance of the Crystal Empire, the Heart Cult became obsessed with bringing Sombra back from dead and claiming the secrets of crystal magic for themselves. It was said they believed his resurrection could be achieved through the use of powerful magic shards. Unfortunately, there was nothing more specific as the Cults appeared to have died out nearly 600 years ago.

If any sort of crystal was going to be used to revive demi-god, the one in Hen’s possession certainly seemed a likely candidate. What he was supposed to do with this information was unclear, as many questions remained unanswered. How or why were the Elements of Harmony connected to crystal magic? And how exactly would these shards supposed to bring Sombra back anyway?

The most annoying part was that there was still no definitive proof. Not about the changelings, not about Twilight, not about the stranger or about the shard. All they had to go on was circumstantial at best and pure conjecture at worst. Hen could not expect anyone to believe his claim as long as there was no real evidence to support it. He was lucky to have even one person that did.

Diamond herself was lounging in her chair staring up at the ceiling. Hen regarded her for a second before putting down his book and clearing his throat.

“I think we’ve done about all we can here Di,” He said.

Diamond looked over at him, “You wanna ask around see if anyone remembers something? Remember, just about everyone here was also alive back when Sombra was in power. One of them might know what we’re dealing with.”

“I doubt it,” Hen said standing up. “Sombra was a power-hungry tyrant who enslaved virtually the entire population of the empire. He would never share any of his secrets with peasants. They wouldn’t know anything that wasn’t already available here.”

Hen levitated the various books back onto the shelves while Diamond stood up and stretched.

“You know there’s still time left in the day.” She said to Hen as she looked out the window. “Let’s go down to the spa before dinner. I think we’re entitled to a little pampering for all our work.”

Hen considered this for a moment, then turned around and nodded. “I think we can use a treat. It’ll be good for my ribs and Cadance is covering our expenses after all.”

“Excellent,” Diamond Dust beamed “It’s a date.”

Hen smiled back.

The Crystal Spa turned out to be a soft blue octagon shaped building with a purple dome shaped like a hoop dress decorated with crystal hearts. Inside was a wide-open space with several lounge chairs and massage mats. The crystal mud baths were a pleasant surprise. It was like no mud Hen had ever seen. For a start it was the color of a granny smith apple. And it had a consistency closer to Jell-O than a combination of dirt and water. Skinny-dipping with Diamond was indeed relaxing and rejuvenating. Hen would have enjoyed it more if it hadn’t been for their escort watching them from the doorway.

After the mud bath they went out for dinner. They found a simple restaurant and shared an eggplant casserole with cheesecake for desert. Then they returned to the crystal hotel for the night.

“I think we’ll only be staying the one night.” Hen informed the concierge.

“Very well” she said, “Your luggage has been delivered to your room you can go right up.”

“Thank you.” Diamond Dust replied as they headed for the stairs. Their escort had returned to the castle but Hen knew that Cadence would be keeping a watch on the hotel that night.

***

Hen laid on the bed in his undershirt and boxers. The blanket was neatly folded at the foot of the bed, in preparation for what was to come. For once his mind was empty of questions and worry as he waited for Diamond to come out of the restroom. How long since they had been together like this? It was Hen being assigned to the night shift when Luna returned to Canterlot that suspended their occasional rendezvous. It wasn’t as though they had ever been a committed couple to begin with; perhaps what the young people would refer to as “mate buddies”. Hen hated that phrase; it seemed so crass and dismissive. He preferred the term comrades.

The door to the bathroom and Diamond Dust stepped out. She was wearing nothing but her helmet and her daggers in a belt around her waist. She sauntered over to the bed, swaying her hips seductively. Hen could feel himself getting rock hard as he watched her approach, his eyes drinking in her body.

The years had been good to his partner, thanks to her physical condition and natural good looks. The signs of aging were still there of course. Crow’s feet around her eyes, the slight sagging of her breasts and the crease in her skin where her flank met her abdomen. But her stomach was still flat and her chest was still round and full. The muscles on her arms were still firm and sinewy and her haunches still well defined. Her sultry smile was still as enticing and beautiful as it ever was.

She stopped at the side of the bed, turned to face Hen head on and saluted.

“Knight-Errant Diamond Dust reporting for inspection sir.”

Hen stood up and returned the salute: “At ease Knight-Errant.”

Diamond obediently relaxed her stance.

“Would you like to see my cutie mark, commander?” She said in husky whisper. Hen smiled as he watched Diamond fight to keep a straight face as she spoke.

“First a thorough examination is required,” Hen replied “Knight Errant, remove your helm.”

Diamond took off her helmet slowly, revealing her short-cropped pink hair. She flipped her hair as she set the helmet down on the nightstand.

“Do I pass sir?” She asked innocently.

Hen reached out to run his fingers through her bangs. “Your haircut is in compliance with regulation.” He said simply, before cupping her chin and leaning in to kiss her on the mouth. Diamond returned the kiss eagerly wrapping her arms around his neck. Their tongues slid against each other for a while before Hen pulled back.

“Dental hygiene is acceptable. Knight Errant, about-face.”

Diamond let go of Hen and turned around, making sure to rub her ass against the bulge in his groin. Hen’s hands slid around her waist and he set his chin on her shoulder.

“Disarm and present your weapons for inspection.” He whispered in her ear as he unclasped her twin sheaths. Diamond straightened up so that Hen could slide the belt over the curve of her ass. She then bent over to lower the belt the rest of the way. She remained bent over as she slid her precious daggers down to the floor, shamelessly grinding her flanks against his cock. Hen bent his knees to remove his boxers. Straightening up, he took firm hold of Diamond’s hips and pressed his erection between her ass cheeks

His hands slid up her torso to cup her breasts, still as soft and as tender as he remembered. Diamond sighed as his thumbs teased her nipples, which were already hard. Hen trailed kisses up the side of her neck.

“Hen… touch my pussy.” Diamond whispered

“Yes mam,” He replied.

His right hand abandoned her bosom and slid down her abdomen. His fingertips passed through the well-trimmed carpet between her legs to his goal. As he slid finger along her folds, he dug his fingertips into her left tit. When he touched her clitoris, Diamond let out a low moan.

“Ohhhhhh it’s been too long.” She said quietly.

“Indeed it has,” Hen confirmed

Hen sat back down on the bed, pulling Diamond Dust into his lap. She twisted her torso to wrap her right arm over his shoulder. She also reached her free hand behind her back to find Hen’s dick and begin jerking it. Hen leaned in to place his mouth over her bare boob while he tugged her other nipple lightly. His other hand continued to slide between her folds until two fingers finally pushed their way into her love tunnel.

As Hen’s finger slid back and forth inside her, Diamond’s hips squirmed and he heard her breathing getting more ragged. Finally she let out a soft cry and raised her hips to push Hen’s fingers in deeper. Hen removed his mouth from her tit and looked up at her.

“It sounds like you’re ready for the mane event,” He whispered

“I sure am,” Diamond breathed with a smile.

She crawled out of his lap and got on all fours in the middle of the mattress. Hen knelt behind her, placing one hand on her hip to steady himself. He grasped his cock with the other and angled it towards Diamond’s waiting wet cunt. When he pressed the head of his cock against her sex, Diamond’s whole body tensed. But instead of pushing in, Hen pulled back, then jabbed his cock against her swollen clit. Diamond shivered.

“You asshole, quit teasing and give it to me,” she moaned through gritted teeth.

“You asked for it,” Hen said smugly. He redirected his cock towards her hole. Gripping her hips tightly, he suddenly rammed it into her pussy. He buried himself up to the hilt and drove the air out of Diamond’s lungs. She mewed softly as he held himself there for a moment. She looked back over her shoulder and grinned at Hen with flushed cheeks.

“Well that was… almost to long.” She breathed.

Hen snorted at her and began thrusting. When he found a rhythm, Diamond began to rock her hips in back and forth along his member in time with his fucking. Soon they were both grunting and moaning as their wet slapping sex noises seemed to echo off the walls of their room. Every time their hips slammed together, the impact sent a ripple through their flesh. It reverberated across Diamond’s crossed daggers cutie mark as it did Hen’s: A black chevron with three gold circles inside it.

The rutting went on for some time, but neither of them reached climax. They were stuck right on the edge but couldn’t seem to break through. Hen was getting tired when he remembered something. Just behind Diamond’s cutie mark was an old scar. I souvenir from an encounter with a vicious Timber Wolf, one who thought his claws were faster than Diamond’s kick. The Timber Wolf had been wrong, but his claws had kept going even as his jaw was shattered.

Hen let go of her hip and jammed his thumbnail into her cutie mark right beside the scar. He dug it deep into her thigh as he gave her one last burst of speed. Diamond threw her head back and arched her back. With a cry, she finally came. She dug her fingers into the sheets as her body shuddered and her walls clenched down on his cock. Her juices flowed freely and that, combined Diamond’s cries of ecstasy, finally brought Hen to climax. He groaned with relief as he shot his seed inside Diamond. Ever the gentleman, Hen brushed her hair aside and planted a kiss on the nape of her neck.

Once his cock had finished twitching in her pussy, Diamond lay down on the bed and rolled over onto her back. She smiled up at Hen as she rubbed the sore spot on her pelvis.

“You remembered,” She said in a tired sweet voice.

“As if I could forget,” Hen said. “I was the one who dressed that wound.”

Diamond crawled up to rest her head on the pillows while Hen reached for the blanket. They spooned after he pulled the blanket up over their sweaty naked bodies. Diamond took his arm and wrapped it around her possessively. “We should do this more often,” She said.

“I agree.” Hen said as he brushed her hair away from his mouth.

“So you wanna head back to Canterlot first thing in the morning? Doesn’t seem like we’ll be able to get anything else done here.” Diamond observed.

“Hmm hmm,” Hen agreed. “Unless Cadance somehow completely reverses her position overnight, we’ll just be wasting time. Maybe if we can talk to Shining Armor we can get her to see reason.” Hen sighed. “Even if we don’t have any concrete proof, I’m pretty sure he’ll be more than happy to consider any alternative to his sister betraying Equestria.”

“Well at least we found out about the cult, that’s something.” She said optimistically. She patted his arm in reassurance before closing her eyes.

“True…” Hen’s voice trailed off as he considered the possibilities. They still had no idea how to counter the stranger’s new power, but knowing it existed gave the Royal Guard a chance in the next encounter. Nothing about the nature of the Crystal had been revealed save that a long dead cult had possibly sought it as a means of bringing Sombra back to life. And absolutely no idea how Crystal magic night be connected to the Stanger or Luna’s assassination. As he drifted off to sleep, Hen hopped they would find some real answers soon. He wanted this investigation concluded before the rest of his hair fell out.

They were awoken early the next morning by a knock at the door. Hen wrapped a towel around his waist for modesty’s sake before answering. When he opened the door he found a short Crystal pony woman in a brown uniform with winged shoes waiting for him.

“Pardon the intrusion, Knight Sergeant.” She said nervously “But I am here to inform you that Princess Cadance has officially invited both you and Knight Sergeant Diamond Dust to an audience with her majesty. She desires that you present yourselves at the Crystal Castle no later than an hour after this message has been relayed. Shall I inform her that you intend to comply with her wishes?”

Hen blinked in surprise at this sudden turn of events. He had dealt with royalty long enough to know that a summons from a Princess was an order in everything but name. He could not very well refuse it, even if his position as Knight-Sergeant didn’t obligate him to obey Equestrian royalty. It would only confirm Cadance’s suspicions, and no doubt earn the ire of her husband in Canterlot.

“Tell the princess we’ll be more that happy to accept her invitation once we’ve gotten dressed and had some breakfast.” Hen replied.

The messenger pony saluted “I shall deliver your reply posthaste. Your escort will be waiting outside when you are ready.” With that she promptly turned on her heels and sped off down the hall. Hen sighed and shut the door behind him.

He returned to sit down on the edge of the bed. Diamond was sitting up at the head of the bed with her arms folded underneath her still bare breasts. She and Hen regarded each other in silence for a moment.

“So it appears the Princess had a change of heart after all,” She said. Hen nodded.

“And yet somehow…” she continued in a sarcastic tone “… it doesn’t feel like a good thing.”

“That’s because it isn’t Di,” Hen replied sadly. “It really isn’t.”

**

After Hen and Diamond got dressed and grabbed some complementary muffins in the hotel lobby, they proceeded to the Crystal Castle. Their escorts were waiting for them just outside the front door of the hotel. As they approached the castle, Hen noticed that the curtains were drawn on the balcony. No public appearances today.

Cufflinks was waiting for them in front of the crystal heart with a politician’s smile firmly in place.

“I’m so glad you accepted her highness’s invitation. And your punctuality is most commendable.” He said clapping his hands together. Hen rolled his eyes.

“We were simply grateful princess Cadance had agreed to see us and wished to make a good impression.” He replied cheerfully.

“Indeed, the princess is looking forward to meeting you in person. I dare say your reputations have proceeded you.” Cufflinks said. “But before you can be allowed audience, there are a few precautions that must be taken. My apologies but her highness is nothing if not prudent. I’m sure you understand that until Luna’s killer is apprehended certain security measures are warranted. Even for distinguished guests such as yourselves. Can’t be too careful, can we?”

“Off course.” Hen frowned. Diamond glanced over at him. She knew Hen well enough to tell the regent mentioning that the assassin was still at large, when Hen was the one who had been assigned to apprehend her, stung his pride slightly. And apparently Cufflinks realized his faux pas as well. He covered his mouth with his hand as though he was trying to force his words back inside.

“My apologies, Knight Sergeant, I did not mean to be so indiscrete.”

“No, it’s fine,” Hen Runner shook his head. “In fact, if our audience with the princess goes as planned, it should bring us much closer to apprehending the villain.”

Cufflinks pressed his hand against his chest and breathed a sigh of relief. “Her highness will be quite pleased to hear that.”

He turned to address Diamond Dust directly, his hands fidgeting nervously as he spoke: “Sir Diamond, I regret to inform that your weapons must be confiscated for the duration of your visit to the Castle. I assure you they will be well looked after.”

“I understand,” Diamond replied, even as she ruefully stroked their handles “If I were a princess, I wouldn’t want anyone wielding daggers around me these days either.”

She obediently removed her belt and handed it over to the butler standing next to Cufflinks. Once the transfer was completed, Cufflinks turned to Hen Runner. Hen bit his lip as he had a good idea of what the regent was going to ask him to relinquish.

“And your magic, Sir Hen. I apologize in advance for any discomfort it may cause, but there can be no exceptions when it comes to the safety of Princess Cadance.”

Hen nodded as a second butler stepped forward. It was prudent after all and he couldn’t very well raise a stink after Diamond had given up her daggers. He knelt down so that the butler could place the magic blocking ring around his horn.

As soon as it was fastened however, an alarm went off inside Hen’s head. He and Diamond were now extremely vulnerable and once inside they would be completely at Cadence’s mercy. Perhaps he was jumping to conclusions, but Hen’s years of experience in clandestine operations had taught him to trust his instincts. As Cufflinks lead them towards the entrance, he made sure to discretely get Diamond’s attention. When she looked at him, he made a forlorn expression. It was hardly a secret code, merely a subtle nuance that old friends would be attuned to:

Sorry I got you into this mess.

Diamond’s expression barely changed at all, except for one quick wink:

No regrets.

As the passed through the door into the castle, Hen could at least take solace in one thing. If Cadance did indeed have it in for them, then turning down her invitation would only have prolonged the inevitable. There would still have been an army of Crystal Guards between them and the train station, not to mention a pissed off Alicorn. Running was never an option once they reached the remote Crystal Empire. He and Diamond were good, but they weren’t that good.

Author's Notes:

Written by Hanky-Spanky of Hentai-Foundry.

Make sure to check out my short stories:

Some days... - http://www.fimfiction.net/story/241360/some-days

[Holiday special] An Outfit for... - http://www.fimfiction.net/story/236246/an-outfit-for

Sunshine, sunshine, ladybugs awake... - http://www.fimfiction.net/story/201946/sunshine-sunshine-ladybugs-awake