***

“In the fullness of time, many things will be done, by us and others.”
Princess Celestia, The Avatar of Albion.

***

Fairpoint, May 11th, Year 3 of the New Diarchy Calendar.

Celestia was staring out over the field of Fairpoint, a wistful expression on her face, when Lyra approached her.

They had arrived a few short hours ago by zeppelin - Prince Blueblood himself had apparently been in command of the sleek vessel, which was named Sunrider, but he had studiously avoided Lyra and the Element Bearers (which was a shame - Lyra had all sorts of questions about the operation of the Sunrider, which was, according to what she had overheard, a hybrid design with Griffonite elements). Now the Element Bearers and the bulk of their guard contingent were already heading for the fort, while Blueblood and the crew of the Sunrider moored the zeppelin in place.

Fairpoint… this place in and of itself was history. Visibly it was already impressive: a field of green grass, almost entirely flat land save for a handful of villages, a few fields of crops, and a single, giant, rocky hill, upon which sat a fortress that, If looks alone were enough to judge a fortress, could have held off an entire planet’s worth of armies on its own. But no matter how impressive it looked, it was the history of the place that made it the wonder that it truly was.

It was in completely neutral land. No one party laid claim to this place, and it was guarded by one of the only truly multi-species military units in the entirety of Equus. Many years ago, there had been a battle fought here, or so Lyra understood it, and at the conclusion, many of the leaders of the races of Equus had decided that, no matter what, this could Never Happen Again, capitals and all. The fortress, the military unit, the community that they had forged, all of it had come about in the pursuit of unity amongst the peoples of Equus.

“Beautiful, isn’t it?” Celestia said quietly, breaking the silent contemplation of the fortress.

“Uh… yes,” Lyra said quietly, uncertain how else to reply.

“It’s a wonder of our age,” Celestia continued. “Peace, or a representation of it. The strength of unity. A harmony all it’s own.”

“You were here when this fortress was built, weren’t you?” Lyra asked her.

Celestia nodded and smiled at Lyra. “That’s right, I was. A… long, long time ago.” She looked back at the fortress. “Fairpoint is the only place worthy of having this meeting, the only place where we can all meet as equals.”

“Do you think we’re the first here, Princess?” Lyra asked.

“No,” Celestia said quietly. She motioned to a small, rounded shape sat near the base of the hill. “I wouldn’t be surprised if that was Emperor Augustus’ personal airship, the Griffons are good at building fast ships. And the Husianid Caliphate would always have sent forces ahead of time; they’re faster on foot than we are in a zeppelin.”

Lyra nodded slowly. “The Qilin can’t have arrived yet: assuming they’ve sent their Emperor, they’d never send him with less than a full fleet, and even an ambassador would have a large escort befitting their rank and the ranks of those they expect to meet.”

Celestia nodded as well. “I suspect it will be the Son of Heaven himself, and his personal fleet is rather ostentatious.”

Lyra smiled. “Well, this should be really exciting. So many cultures, so many different peoples… some of whom I’ve only ever read about!”

“I’m glad you’re excited,” Celestia said quietly. “But remember, Lyra: we are here to ask for help in a war against an enemy that, even with their help, we may not be able to stop.”

Lyra sobered up somewhat at that. “Yes, I remember. I wish… I wish I could have met new beings for a better reason.”

“I know,” Celestia said quietly. “But think of it this way: you’re meeting them to convince them to help us save humans, a race you’ve wanted to meet more than any other. Surely that’s one of the best reasons you could possibly have to meet a new species.”

That did help, and Lyra smiled at the thought.

“Thank you, your highness,” she said quietly. “I appreciate that.”

“Think nothing of it, Lyra,” Celestia said quietly. “I only hope we’re able to achieve what we set out to achieve.”

“What do you think our chances are?” Lyra asked.

Celestia didn’t reply, but the expression of doubt and worry in her face was enough to give a pretty clear indication.

Well, nopony said it was going to be easy, Lyra thought grimly. Though I wish it didn’t have to be this hard…

***

Prince Arvalon of the Husianid Caliphate was bored. He wasn’t just bored: he was booooorrreed.

Remind me to get Arlias back for this, he thought irritably as he trotted down another of the interminable grey corridors of Fort Fairpoint. The fortress was one of the many marvels of Equus… but by the white horse it was boring. No houses of pleasure, no ‘special’ masseuses, not even more than a single drab inn. The various peoples who lived in harmony here might have been the most boring representatives of their respective species known to all horsekind.

Honestly. Sending me on a diplomatic mission. He knows I hate all of this political horse sh-

“Excuse me, Prince Arvalon?” the voice of one of the Fairpoint Guard, this one a Griffon, said, as she approached him.

He dismissed his irritated thoughts and put one of his best charismatic smiles on.

“Greetings, my dear,” he said. “What can I do for you?”

“Fort Fairpoint is preparing to receive guests,” the guard said blandly, ignoring his attempts at charm. “The Princess Celestia of Equestria has arrived with her entourage. It is requested you come greet her with the other guests.”

Celestia of Equestria, eh? Arvalon thought, quirking an eyebrow. I've only seen her in passing… there’s a mare worth time to admiring.

“I would be honoured,” he said, inclining his head. “Lead on, sweet Griffoness.”

The Guard didn’t dignify that with an answer - not that Arvalon had expected her to. Did all these people choose to live here in communal boredom?

She led him down the corridor to the grand staircase, which in turn led to the main entrance hall: it was a grand entrance hall, to be sure, with high tapestries displaying the history of Fairpoint and the glories of the nations that had come together to build it. To anyhorse with more appreciation of history, Arvalon was sure it would be a fascinating display. To him, however, it was dull as dishwater. He preferred living life in the present.

Predictably, the Griffon emperor Abelard Augustus had sent his vassal Greynar van Gant to greet the Princess of Equestria instead of being here to meet her himself. Greynar was young but ambitious, clad in a scarlet Griffon dress uniform. With him was his niece, Gertrude van Gant, a nervous and shaky looking Griffoness with a simple formal dress on. Arvalon wasn’t surprised that Abelard hadn’t come: he probably wanted to send a subtle message to Celestia that he wouldn’t come running just because she arrived.

The old bird may be a clever one, but he still can’t resist measuring staves with the Mare who holds the Sun, Arvalon thought with a chuckle. Whereas I have no need to prove my staff to anyone.

Well, either that or Abelard had gout and couldn’t be arsed dealing with it to get out of his bed. Which was perhaps less plausible, but the thought brought Arvalon amusement.

And then he turned his attention to the small procession coming through the main door.

Celestia herself was obvious: rainbow mane flowing about her head, soft smile filled with wisdom, and her tiara glittering softly. Behind her came the procession of Guardsponies - looking for all the world to Arvalon like a collection of toy soldiers, though he knew better than to think they were quite so pathetic in action. One thing he did know was that they’d almost certainly be a collection of incredible bores.

With the group, however, were seven mares who didn’t seem to be part of the standard procession. The leader of the little group seemed to be a purple Unicorn mare with a neatly cut dark-purple mane laced with pink, who looked entirely too straight laced for Arvalon to even consider making a play for. Behind her was a a cerulean Pegasus with a rainbow mane of her own (albeit scruffy, in a ‘bit of rough’ sense that Arvalon could vaguely appreciate), and a butter yellow Pegasus with a pink mane who seemed to be staying close to her.

Not bad at all, he thought appraisingly, eyeing her body language carefully, but looks far too meek. Would probably faint at the first glance.

Behind the Pegasi were two Earth Ponies and another pair of Unicorns, all of whom seemed equally interesting-but-not-right - one quite clearly smelled of a farm, which, judging from her hat and hooves, was her occupation. It wouldn’t have been the first farm girl he’d ever had occupy his chambers, but still. The other Earth Pony, a pink mare with wild hair, was bouncing around, with an infectious energy that he felt quite giddy himself, but he could never stand hyperactive mares. They were so difficult to keep satisfied for long, and even he needed to take breaks between rounds.

Finally, there were the Unicorns. One was an alabaster mare clad in a stylish dress who, if he were any judge, probably had a tiger under the prim exterior (they always hide behind a prim exterior). The other was a mint green mare who was taking in the tapestries with wide eyes, clearly enthralled. It was this mare who began speaking excitedly.

“That one depicts the battle of Argent Ford!” she said, pointing at a tapestry with a variety of Griffon and Pony soldiers depicted having at each other. “Ooh, ooh, and that one -” and here she seemed enthralled by an image of a Horse and a Pony standing next to one another stop a rock while surrounded by changeling soldiers, “depicts Prince Arvegan and Prince Blueblood the -”

“My dear Lyra,” Celestia said, throwing the mare a glance. “There will be plenty of time to examine history later. Right now - we have living beings to meet.”

Arvalon chuckled. Well, subject matter aside, this Lyra seems to have passion for her passions. I can respect that.

“Indeed, Princess Celestia,” He said out loud, stepping forward and bowing. “And it is always, always a pleasure to meet such radiance.”

Celestia chuckled and extended her hoof, and he kissed it delicately.

“Arvalon, you’re just like your grandfather,” she said. “Although I must admit, he didn’t brush up nearly as well.”

“Ah, what can I say?” Arvalon shrugged. “My mother gave myself and Arlias all her good looks.”

Celestia inclined her head. “And may I introduce, my student Twilight Sparkle,” the Purple mare incline her head in a deep bow, “and her friends, Ms Applejack,” the farmpony tipped her hat, “Ms Rarity,” and the Alabaster mare curtsied, “Ms Fluttershy,” at which the shy-looking Pegasus made a small ‘eep’ sound and ducked behind her friend, “Ms Rainbow Dash,” the scruffy bit of rough threw a quick, jaunty salute, “Ms Lyra Heartstrings,” the mint green mare bowed properly, if a bit too eagerly, “and Ms Pinkamena Diane Pie -”

“Hi!” the pink Earth Pony said brightly.

“... all of Ponyville, near Canterlot,” Celestia finished smoothly. “They are my aides and friends, here to assist with these talks.”

“These talks which you have initiated, your highness,” Greynar van Gant put in from where he was standing.

“Indeed,” Celestia said diplomatically, “and for good reason, as I hope to prove to you, Lord…?”

“Lord Greynar van Gant, Captain of the -” Gertrude began, but Greynar held up a claw.

“We don’t need the full thing just now, Gertrude,” he said.

“Sorry, Uncle,” the Griffoness said, lowering her head. Arvalon raised an eyebrow - she was the Griffons’ appointed herald?

“This is my niece,” Greynar said blandly, motioning to her. “Gertrude. She’s the Emperor’s aide and herald.”

“I take it Abelard is here?” Celestia asked with a smile.

Greynar puffed himself up. “His majesty does not jump when you call, Princess of Equestria. He has come because you wielded the ancient call, but he will speak at the conclave, not before.”

Celestia inclined her head. “Of course, Lord Greynar. I meant no offence.”

Greynar bowed stiffly in return. “Of course,” he echoed. “And make no mistake, if we are needed for common cause, we will not sit idle.”

“Nor will Husia,” Arvalon added, inclining his own head. “Although I must admit to hoping it doesn’t come to anything too messy.”

Celestia’s smile faltered. “I… fear it is too late for that, Prince Arvalon.” And just like that, her smile returned in full force. “But let us not speak of such things. Lord Greynar,” she added, turning to him. “I desire to speak with Emperor Augustus and pay my due respects. Would that be possible?”

Greynar nodded slowly. “I can bring you to his chambers. Whether he will speak with you is a different matter.”

“I appreciate your efforts,” Celestia said. She turned to her entourage. “Alright, my dear little ponies - the castle is free for the most part for you to explore. Please try to be polite to anybeing you meet. I have no doubt that the conference will not be for a few days.”

At that, the Guardsponies dispersed, and the group of mares began heading off. Most headed in one direction, led by the one Celestia had said was called Twilight Sparkle. Celestia followed Grey ar and Gertrude up the stairs, leaving only Arvalon and the enthusiastic mint green mare in the Hall.

At once, she began looking at the tapestries again, grinning and looking at them in wonder.

Perhaps we can learn a little of why the Mare who holds the Sun has called this, Arvalon thought, approaching her.

“Miss Heartstrings, wasn’t it?” he asked.

At once, she jumped, before looking at him. He saw her eyes widen at the sight of him, and he grinned.

“Apologies,” he said. “I know horses are somewhat… well, larger than most of the creatures you ponies are used to.”

“I’m sorry, your highness,” she said, bowing slightly. “I meant no offence.”

“None taken, my dear,” Arvalon said, “and please, call me Arvalon. My brother is the one who takes his role seriously, whereas I, to his chagrin, do not do so nearly as much.”

Heartstrings nodded. “I… see.”

There was a brief, awkward pause, and then Arvalon pointed to the tapestry she had been admiring earlier.

“Arvegan and Blueblood's meeting was one I learned about in my youth,” he said, smiling at her. “It was a rather brutal conflict with one of the line of Tarsis, if I’m not mistaken.”

“The line of Tarsis the Deathmonger?” Heartstrings asked, eyes widening in shock. “I thought that line was extinct.”

“It’s a little hard to keep up with Changeling bloodlines,” Arvalon said with an easy grin.

“Oh, I know that,” Heartstrings said, waving a hoof. “But Tarsis’ line is ancient. Absolutely ancient.”

“Oh, yes,” Arvalon agreed. “It dates back to before recorded history among my people -”

“She was the most powerful Changeling in the pre-Equestrian historical records,” Heartstrings interrupted him. “Tarsis the Deathmonger, a tyrant, ruler of millions of changelings and thousands of miles of territory. Y’know, one historical record attributed about half of all husklings to the hive of Tarsis?”

Arvalon chuckled. “And where does a sweet young mare hear about such horrid things as husklings, eh?”

“Books,” Heartstrings replied at once. “There are all sorts of ancient books on the ancient times. Lots of different theories.” She whistled. “They say Ramses the Chosen himself killed Tarsis in her hive at the cost of his own life. It must have been a mighty battle.”

“Is history your study, then?” Arvalon asked. He was starting to be more impressed by this mare’s passion for what she enjoyed, whether it was work or hobby. It was… refreshing.

“No,” she said, smiling. “Cryptozoology. The study of civilisations other than ponies is one of my preferred hobbies, but especially the more esoteric ones.”

You call citing the circumstances of the death of Tarsis the Deathmonger ‘esoteric’? Arvalon thought, trying not to raise an eyebrow at the fact. Out loud he just smiled.

“That’s one reason I’m here,” Heartstrings said. “I know a great deal about the customs of the different races of Equus.”

Arvalon nodded. “Do you, now.” He looked back up at the tapestries. “So… I’m curious. If I said I and my current companion would be honoured to get better acquainted with you, would you understand my meaning?”

Heartstrings blushed. “You… you mean…”

He smiled down at her. “Ah, I see you do take my meaning.”

“Your highness,” Lyra said, looking around, “with all due respect, isn’t that… a little below your, um, station? And I’m a pony, as well.”

“Ah, well, I am Arvalon the shifting sands,” Arvalon said with a wink. “Conqueror and conquered of the Minotaur Princess Callia, whispered of in every house of pleasure in Simos, spoken of across the entirety of this world for… well, whatever you like to imagine.” Heartstrings’ blush deepened. “I have become… acquainted, shall we say, with members of every race, in every class, across this world. You would not be my first pony.”

Heartstrings swallowed. “I… am flattered, but…” She coughed. “I’m here to work and learn, your highness.”

“Ah, you are here to learn about all the cultures that are visiting,” Arvalon said with a wink. “Would this not be the most sublime… cultural exchange?”

Heartstrings blinked, before laughing nervously. “I… uh, well… if… um…”

“Ah,” Arvalon said, raising a hoof. “You are… inexperienced, in such exchanges?”

Her blush only deepened.

“Well, fear not,” Arvalon said. “If you are so inclined, I can ensure your tutelage in such matters is… memorable.” He turned and walked back up the stairs. “I will be in my chambers with my paramour should you choose to engage in cultural exchange, my dear.”

He trotted away, satisfied with the results of that particular exchange. He had no doubt that she was suitably intrigued by his proposal. And it had been a while since he’d enjoyed the company of a Unicorn.

May as well try to get some fun out of this ridiculous place, he thought with a smirk.

***

When Celestia reached the chambers of Abelard Augustus, he was already clad in his own dress shirt, and was staring out of a window across the fields of Fairpoint.

“A contingent from Simos is on its way,” he said blandly to her by way of greeting. “And a company of Fenri. They will be here by tomorrow.”

She said nothing for a moment, sensing he had a point to make.

“Almost all the nations of this world will send a representative, if they don’t send their leaders themselves,” he continued after a moment. “So I ask you, Mare of the Sun.” He turned to look at her. “What is this about?”

Celestia took a breath. “I would prefer to address the issue in the conclave.”

“You have summoned this conclave,” Abelard said, scowling at her. “The first time in many years. Your clarion, a message to the world, never used on this scale.” His expression softened. “Celestia… what is it? What have you found?”

Celestia sighed. “Abelard, we’ve known each other since you were a child. Have you ever known me to do anything without cause?”

“No,” Abelard said quietly. “Which is why it is important to me to know why you do this now.”

Celestia looked out of the window. “We… we have learned something terrifying.”

Abelard frowned in confusion. “‘Terrifying’? You are afraid?”

Celestia chuckled. “It happens more often than you’d think, my old friend. And yes.” She sobered. “We have learned that… that there is another world. Another world that is at war with a twisted, changed version of my Equestria - and an equally twisted version of myself.”

Abelard looked back out the window. “And now we are threatened?”

“Not as such,” Celestia said quietly. “But I could not stand idly by.”

Abelard looked back at her, now confused. “She did not threaten you?”

“I do not know if she knows I exist,” Celestia replied. “But whether she does or not, she is a monster, a creature with only one desire: to conquer.”

“I see,” Abelard said quietly. He looked back out the window once again. “If we are to go to war, Celestia, I need a cause.”

“She seeks to commit genocide, Abelard,” Celestia said insistently. “Is that not cause enough?”

“I have seen war,” Abelard snapped. “As have you. But I will need more than simple words about genocide to condemn my people to it once again.”

Celestia nodded. She knew she should have expected as much.

“Then you will have more, your majesty,” she said. Without another word, she turned and left.

She only hoped Luna would be finding things easier than her.

Author's Notes:

Because everyone loves Star Trek Title Puns. 😉 So, yeah, for the moment I’m back in the swing a bit. It’s nice to be here, nice to have some energy for it. I’ll try my best to keep it up.