“So, Spike, what about you? What do you think of the elections, and what is your philosophy on politics?”

“Well, I’m basically the opposite of Twilight, which makes me a generally rational, mentally stable citizen not prone to bouts of OCD-infused rage. The Marena Carta limited royal powers because ponies wanted a say in how things were run, and so it’s very important to make sure that elections like this happen and that they matter.”

“Interesting. You mentioned the Princesses’ Power?”

“Well, I mean, I think we should be ruled by a bunch of elected ponies. Like…imagine a town council, but bigger and with ponies from all over Equestria, so everypony can have a say in how we build the country. Maybe we can even have one pony that’s sorta in charge that everypony elects. It’s radical, I know, but it makes sense, right?”

“It’s certainly ambitious. That being said, I am running a little late for my next interview. Any last thoughts?”

“Yeah. I’d keep the Princesses around, of course, but that might just be because they all send me bits on Hearth’s Warming. I think the most important thing is, regardless of how we run Equestria, that everypony has the right to freedom of religion, freedom of speech, and freedom of the press…”

Spike turned to face the door to the room before he finished speaking.

“WHICH MEANS THAT REPORTERS GET TO SAY WHAT THEY WANT WITHOUT FEAR OF BEING JAILED!”

The tip of a purple muzzle that had snuck its way in between the double doors leading to the library quickly retreated back into the hallway.

I eyed the door worriedly, and Spike turned his attention to me again, sensing my apprehension.

“I’ll, uh, I’ll walk you out.”

“Th-th-thanks.”