Chapter 8: Starlight in the Workers Paradise

March 15, 1946

Sevastopol, Russian SFSR, Soviet Union

Starlight Glimmer walked down the gangplank of her ship towards the large crowd of Soviet citizens waiting to greet her. While she couldn’t understand nearly any of the signs and banners (they were written in what she guessed was Russian), she could guess that they were inscribed with messages of friendship.

At the base of the gangplank stood a collection of men dressed in what appeared to be military uniforms and suits. This must be my welcoming party, thought Starlight Glimmer to herself. The prospect of traveling and studying the Soviet Union filled her with both excitement and dread. On one hoof, she was excited at the opportunity to impress Celestia by making a good impression upon a foreign peoples for Equestria. On the other hoof, she was nervous about visiting the so-called “Workers Paradise.” It’s emphasis on militant egalitarianism and the methods utilized by it to control its population reminded her of her time as the leader of her anti-cutie mark village and all the horrid things that she had done to people who viewed her as their savior and friend.

Her internal conflict was temporarily interrupted by her greeting party.

“Hello, my name is Papov Valentovich of the Soviet Foreign Ministry. You must me Starlight Glimmer, Equestria’s ambassador to the Union of the Soviet Socialist Republics. I’ll be your guide as you explore our vast land.”

“I’m honored to be visiting your country and establishing positive relations between our two peoples,” replied Starlight Glimmer, using the line she had rehearsed nearly a thousand times in her head.

“I’m sure that you’re wondering why Comrade Stalin wasn’t able to greet you himself,” said the blonde haired Russian human.

“Actually I was-”

“Unfortunately some important economic planning meeting had to be moved forward. I hope you understand.”

Starlight Glimmer felt as if she had been snubbed by the mustached Soviet strongman. However, she saw no point in protesting to her host. “Oh, it's no big deal,” she lied.

“I’m glad that you are so understanding. I’m sure that you and Comrade Stalin will find each other’s company most enjoyable.”`