“Only have to do this for a few more minutes, Twilight.” The Princess of Magic told herself as she greeted guests at the top of the grand staircase in the Grand Hall. “Then you can hang out with your friends.”

Stealing a sideways look at the mare beside her, it appeared Solar Princess Celestia was thinking the same thing as they went through an almost monotonous pattern of polite greetings, empty flattery and well wishes. While Sparkle wanted to be genuine in her salutations, every noble that trotted up to them seemed to have the same prepared statement that wore down her positive disposition. It was like a small miracle whenever a more independent thinking equine climbed up the stairs to them, even if they were the more infamous of the elite of Canterlot.

“Prince Blueblood of Equestria.” A young page responsible for reminding the Princesses of the names, countries of origin and occupations of guests whispered from behind them. “Grand Admiral of-”

“We know who he is, page.” Celestia whispered back as the blonde unicorn trotted up to them.

“Auntie Celestia.” The well-to-do stallion bowed his head respectfully. “Princess Sparkle.”

“Prince Blueblood.” The alabaster Alicorn smiled warmly at her distant adoptive nephew. “I trust you are having a pleasant time so far.”

“Indubitably.” The Admiral said in what sounded like genuine joy. “I hope you two are as well.”

“We are, thank you.” Sparkle said plainly as she gestured to her left with a forehoof. “Right this way.”

“Before I go, is your friend…what’s her name?” Blueblood asked. “Vanity? The white one with a purple mane. Is she here?”

"Uh oh." A warning flag went up in the youngest Alicorn's mind.

“Rarity.” Sparkle answered, worry for her generous friend creeping into her mind. “She’s here to promote her new fashion line, so I don’t think-“

“Oh, perfect.” The noble interrupted brightly. “It was brought to my attention that I was quite the heel during our last encounter and I was hoping to make amends. Perhaps I could sponsor her if her peasant wear has any merit.”

“I am sure she will appreciate that.” Celestia said gently despite her own smile wavering. “Best not keep her waiting, nephew.”

Blueblood nodded one last time to the two of them before he trotted briskly up the stairs to the ballroom. His aunt let out a relieved sigh once she was sure he was out of earshot. The noble was infamous for making a, to quote, colossal ass of himself but after attempting to take advantage of the destruction of the Crystal Empire and subsequently earning the wrath of the eldest Princess, he seemed to be turning over a new leaf in his own way.

“Well, at least he is trying.” Sparkle observed with a forced smile. “I just hope Rarity is in a patient mood.”

“I am still unsure if he is genuine.” The Alicorn of the Sun said skeptically. “It wouldn’t be the first time he has tried to make amends only to fall back into old habits. Time will tell.”

Deciding not to dwell on the upper crust Admiral, the two Princess returned their attention to the procession of guests. They politely greeted a string of bankers, off-duty officers and other such elites who started to blend together in their greetings again. Sparkle feared the tedium returning when a peculiar couple of equines approached.

“The Merchant Prince and Princess of the Mareterranean.” The page informed them. “Merchants, obviously. That's... all I got."

"No names?" The Princess of Magic wondered before her Mareterranean trivia refreshed itself. "Oh, right. Names hold power there."

"Be aware, Twilight." Celestia whispered a warning. "The merchants can be lucrative allies and devious foes in equal measure."

"Sounds like you speak from experience." Sparkle fished for a story but the eldest Alicorn refused the bait as the enigmatic pair climbed the stairs to their level.

“Princesses Celestia and Sparkle.” The tall vanilla stallion bowed his head to each in greeting. “Nowhere else in the world will you find such exemplars of beauty and intellect.”

“Nor grace and radiance.” The ivory mare curtsied daintily before them. “We are humbled before such magnificence.”

“Well, they certainly have a way with words.” Sparkle thought. “I suppose that is required in their line of work.”

“You flatter me.” The alabaster Alicorn said politely. “If I may, what brings you two to Canterlot?”

"I am not one to turn down an opportunity." The Prince answered candidly. "Particularly if it's presented by one of the Diarchs... or is it Triarchs now?"

"That's a private matter." Celestia stole a glance at her former pupil who seemed to be engaged in a staring contest with the mare. "So my sister invited you? How do you know her?"

"That is also a private matter. You would have to ask her." The stallion smiled slyly. "Speaking of, will the lovely Luna be joining us tonight?"

"In time." The Solar Princess answered as her curiosity piqued. "She has a few nocturnal duties to attend to, you understand."

While the tall stallion and elder Alicorn talked, the unicorn and Sparkle stared awkwardly at each other. For some reason, the Princess of Magic felt a shiver run down her spine. Something about the mare was setting off warning bells in her head.

“I could swear I’ve seen this mare before.” The Alicorn racked her memory to no avail. “The guards would have caught a changeling so who…”

“I greatly admire your work, your highness.” The ivory mare derailed her train of thought suddenly. “Not many could build on Starswirl’s later crafts the way you did.”

“Oh, thank you.” The studious mare did not expect the merchant to be familiar with the ancient wizard’s work. “I’ll admit it wasn’t easy.”

“Not to mention dangerous.” The unicorn concurred. “If you hadn’t completed that one spell in time, your friends would still have the wrong cutie marks and we know what that entails.”

"How does she know that?" The lavender Alicorn wondered.

“I know. I should have been more careful.” Sparkle’s wings twitched at the not completely pleasant memory of how she earned them. “I won't risk my friends' lives for something like that again.”

“But the reward appears to have been worth the risk.” The autumn-maned merchant pointed a hoof to her wings. “I have known ponies who have done far worse for less.”

“So have I.” A slight frown tugged at the corners of Celestia’s lips as thoughts of certain former students surfaced from her long memory. “The pursuit of power can lead to many dark and dangerous places.”

“Speaking of danger, may I confide in you, your radiance?” The Prince waved the Alicorns in conspiratorially. “In light of these past few months, I am a little concerned about security here. Canterlot has been a target in the past.”

“I am well aware of that.” The Diarch of the Day said reassuringly. “Fear not. The elite of the Royal Guard defend the city and the Solar Guard patrol the lands beyond. If worst comes to worst, there is a contingent of Solarii ready to meet any threat.”

“Strange that she didn’t mention the Night Guard and thestrals.” The Alicorn of Magic thought. “Then again, maybe she doesn’t want to infringe on Luna’s domain.”

“Ah, yes. The stalwart guardsponies of Equestria.” The vanilla stallion clapped his forehooves together in apparent approval. “How fortunate Canterlot is to have such vigilant sentinels stand watch over her gates.”

“Very much so.” Celestia said with an affirmative nod. “Now, I think we have kept you two for long enough. Enjoy the Gala.”

“Your highnesses.” The merchants bowed their heads as they departed the Alicorns’ company and headed up the stairs to the Ballroom.

“After what you said, I was expecting a pair of cons like those Flim-Flam brothers.” Sparkle whispered once they were out of sight. “But they seem amicable enough.”

"The stallion is certainly charming." Celestia concurred. "What impression did the mare leave on you?"

"She was..." The youngest Alicorn hesitated to find the right words. "...polite, knowledgeable and friendly but at the same time it felt like she wanted to stick a knife in my back; like part of her hated me but was being held in check by the rest."

"Jealousy." The Solar Princess said knowingly. "It is an ugly beast that makes monsters out of even the most demure of equines. You have faced it before and will face it again many times and in many forms, Twilight."

"If anything, I should be jealous of her." The former unicorn thought. "She gets to enjoy the party while I'm stuck here."

---

“Blech!” The undercover Archmage stuck out her tongue in disgust. “It physically pained Trixie to do that. How do you tolerate kowtowing to those lower than you?”

“Centuries of practice.” The incognito Theoi answered as he adjusted the collar of his coat. "Something concerns me though; the Solarii."

"Celestia's golden boys?" The lich arched an eyebrow. "What about them?"

"If my previous encounters are any indication, the sun-blessed zealots can detect the 'darkness' in others and will burn it out." The Dark Lord warned. "Best Khthonic beings such as you and I avoid them if we can."

The two equines trotted down the short hallway that opened up into the ballroom. Much like the exterior courtyard, the cavernous room had been redecorated in honor of the Gala. The middle of the room had been cleared for those who wished to dance while those who just wanted to chat or watch formed a perimeter around them. Contemporary music was provided by a modestly sized band set up on a stage before a crystalline statue of a proud equine; a representation of the indomitable Equestrian spirit. A buffet of expensive-looking food was set up opposite them while prim and proper waiters and waitresses carried trays of appetizers and drinks amongst the crowd. Some entrepreneurial ponies had set up stalls in the side aisles to sell their wares. On a raised platform was a long table reserved for the very important ponies of the Gala.

“The Princess and the Element Bearers, I presume.” The King thought as he scanned the room for points of interest. “Gossiping nobles… guards wishing they could participate… Blueblood about to make an ass of himself in front of Rarity…Fluttershy talking with the draconequus.”

The orderly Necroarch tensed when he caught sight of the Element of Kindness’ mismatched companion. Discord appeared to be behaving but judging by the way he constantly checked to see if the butter-colored pegasus was watching, he was itching to cause even just a little bit of mayhem. The best he could manage was making his bowtie change colors and patterns but it was like giving a thirsty creature a drip-feed. The other guests seemed wise to his discomfort as they gave the Spirit of Disharmony a wide berth.

“As should I.” The Dark Lord told himself. “If I can help it.”

“Trixie sees the way into the back halls.” The unicorn pointed to a simple door flanked on either side by stoic Royal Guards. “What is the plan?”

“For now, we mingle like civilized horses.” The seasoned stallion said in his Merchant Prince tone as he trotted to the edge of the crowd. “Wait until an opportunity presents itself and then seize it.”

“Very well.” Trixie adjusted her dress eased back into her best Mareterranean voice. “Perhaps I will make a few new friends.”

"A drink for the sir and madam?" A waiter appeared beside them with a tray of glasses and a few bottles.

"What do you recommend?" The Merchant Prince asked as he tried to determine where the server came from.

"We have a fine collection of cider..." The waiter leaned in and whispered with an insectoid chitter. "...but I honestly prefer your wine seasoned with joy and love."

"Huh, you got in quick." The ivory unicorn blinked in surprise as she took a glass.

"The help is having a party of their own outside." The 'waiter' explained with a devious smile. "It was easy enough to find a few who wouldn't be missed. Oh, and the driver decided to link up with the Queen until it's time to pick you two up. He got tired of the constant questions."

"Wait, so he took the carriage with him by himself?" The mare asked.

"He may be stout but the driver is as strong as any of his kin." The vanilla stallion said knowingly as he noticed guests coming up behind them. "I will leave you to your duties, my good stallion."

"Very good, sir." The disguised changeling composed himself and moved on. "Enjoy the party."

The merchants disappeared into the crowd; just two more equines in a steadily growing herd. The autumn-maned mare made her way over to the side aisles, turning a few heads as she went much to her pleasure while her companion decided to peruse the latest production of the rumor mill. The gossip mostly concerned other ponies he was not familiar with until he came upon a trio of mares discussing a certain Alicorn sitting a short distance away along with a pair of guards in crystalline armor.

“…surprised to see her here.” One said over a glass. “My coltfriend says that Canterlot is not very popular in Neo-Crystal City nowadays.”

“Well, Princess Cadenza did live here for a long time before the Empire reappeared.” An older mare said sympathetically. “Poor dear probably wanted to reconnect with her aunt.”

“She probably also wants to tell her that another Alicorn is on the way.” Another said knowingly.

“She is with foal?” The first asked. “How can you tell?”

“I’ve had my fair share; I recognize the signs.” The third smiled. “Fullness of face, that motherly glow, the fact she is drinking water instead of cider or wine and if you want to risk a peek under that gown, you can see how swollen her teats and belly have gotten.”

The Prince along with a few other stallions within earshot did just that. While the Alicorn of Love's dignity was protected by undergarments, her maternal bump was concealed only by the gown of her dress and was visible in her seated position. The ex-Lurker averted his eyes just as Cadenza's bodyguards noticed she had gawkers.

"If I had to guess, she may deliver by the end of the year." The Dark Lord thought. "Huh. We may even share a birthday."

“Wait, it has only been a few months since Armor passed.” The second gossiper squinted suspiciously. “Did she find another suitor that fast?”

“Judging by how far along she is…” The maternity expert deduced. “…I’d say it happened before that.”

“Aww, I guess she got to keep something of Armor’s other than memories.” The first said sweetly.

“If only that was the case.” The Theoi thought as he glanced over at former Crystal Princess before moving on.

While the Merchant Prince got an update on old acquaintances, the fair Merchant Princess was perusing the wares offered in the side aisles. Clothes, jewelry, food and other goods were all on display at slightly inflated prices with equines hawking their wares to anypony within earshot. The ivory unicorn slowed to inspect a few items that caught her interest only to disappoint the hopeful sellers by moving on. In time, she came to what she was really after and stood in line at a more honest stall.

"...and that makes five." Applejack finished counted out a stack of pies and packaged them together. "These for the rest of the Wonderbolts?"

"If there are any left." The stuntpegasus said deviously as he took a deep whiff of the home-cooked pastries. "That reminds me. If you see Rainbow Dash, let her know that the weather team wants her as soon as she is done here. That superstorm outside is stubborn."

"Ah gathered. We had to batten down the hatches on the farm before ah got here." The orange earth pony nodded as her customer slid over the necessary amount of bits. "Much obliged. Ah'll be sure to let her know."

The stallion only waved as he balanced the package on his back and disappeared into the crowd. The apple farmer gathered up the bits and added them to the increasingly heavy strongbox under her stall. When she came back up, the mare was greeted by an autumn maned unicorn. The honest earth pony felt an inexplicable chill set the fur on her neck on end along with the uncanny feeling that she knew this mare.

"Howdy, ma'am." The blonde mare nevertheless doffed her hat in greeting. "See anything that strikes your fancy?"

"Do you have any cider?" The Merchant Princess asked as she swept her gaze over the apple farmer's stock. "Preferably of the hard variety."

"Ah do." Applejack nodded as she tapped a stack of barrels with a hind hoof. "Ah guarantee you won't find better anywhere else."

"Now that is a bold claim." The unicorn smirked. "Perhaps I should judge for myself."

"Certainly." The apple farmer matched her customer's smile as she took a small glass and filled it at a tap. "Ah don't know what you've heard but we Apples take pride in our work. We make sure that each and every-!"

"Let the drink do the talking." The ivory mare snatched the glass out of the Element of Honesty's hoof with her magic. "I've heard this pitch before."

The orange earth pony scrunched up her nose but bit back the urge to retort. She had sold goods to far less tactful equines and the unicorn had a point in letting the cider keep the promises her mouth was making. Applejack watched as the other mare inspected the glass for a few moments before actually drinking it.

"Hmm, it's smooth." The unicorn muttered after she finished the sample. "I guess it's... oh!"

"There we go." Applejack allowed a prideful smile as the customer's face lit up in delight. "What did ah tell you?"

"No wonder he wants so much." The Merchant whispered to herself. "*Ahem* Forgive my earlier demeanor, apple farmer. I've been on the receiving end of enough bad deals to develop a bit of cynicism."

"Sorry to hear that." The blonde mare said sympathetically. "Ah can tell you that yer with good honest folk here. Well, mostly."

"Uh-huh." The unicorn gave something between a scoff and a laugh. "So, onto business?"

"Sure thing." Applejack beamed as she retrieved a notepad. "How much should I put you down for?"

"All of it." The ivory mare answered simply.

"Beg yer pardon?" The earth pony nearly dropped the pad in surprise.

"Your entire stock; what you have here and whatever is in storage." The Merchant Princess reiterated as she rummaged through her dress for something.

"That is... a lot." The apple farmer had expected to sell the beverage by the pint. "How do you-!"

*THUD-chink chink*

Applejack fell silent as a sack of bits the size of her head dropped down on the table. A few nearby equines whistled as the unicorn loosed the bag to reveal the mini-horde of gold coins within. She would have to get an exact number later but what she could see seemed like enough to rebuild Sweet Apple Acres from the ground up, replace every bone and joint in old Granny Smith's body and put Applebloom through school with enough to spare.

"That should be enough to cover the price as well as transport fees." The now clearly wealthy mare said casually. "If it's not enough, consider it a downpayment and we'll settle the difference upon delivery... here."

The Merchant added a note with directions to the bag of bits. Applejack tore her gaze away from the hefty sum and read that the cider was to be delivered to Hollow Shades. She knew little of the isolated town other than a distant branch of her family tree once called it home. A few questions formed in the apple farmer's mind but another glance at the shiny bits convinced her to hold her peace.

"Can do, sugercube." The orange earth pony tipped her hat in assent.

"Excellent." The ivory unicorn smiled again. "A... pleasure doing business with you."

"Likewise." Applejack nodded as she added the bag to her stash. "Hey, if you don't mind me askin', have we met before?"

What she thought was an innocent question caused the autumn maned mare to hesitate. The unexplained chill returned as the unicorn's expression waved for a brief moment; a flash behind the eyes coupled with a slight frown that conveyed more than mere annoyance. The moment passed as quickly as it arrived and the Merchant Princess shook her head.

"I don't see how we could have." She answered measuredly.

"We've both traveled on business." The Element of Honesty insisted. "Maybe we crossed paths in Manehatten or-!"

“PEASANT WEAR?!?” Rarity’s shrill shriek cut through the air like a knife, catching everyone’s attention including the musicians. “I’ll have you know I designed and made the gowns the Princesses are wearing tonight!”

“I can tell!” A bewildered Blueblood said defensively. “Your signature simplicity stands out among the more refined works like Fancy Pants and Hoity Toity. It’s what I would expect peons pretending to be nobility to wear!”

All eyes fell on the pair of arguing unicorns. The two had a less than pleasant history and a few bets were placed as to who would cross a line first. Judging by the way she trembled with indignity, the odds favored the fashionista.

“WHAT?!?” A few sparks leaped off the incensed Element’s horn. “I’ve sold lines to those two!!”

“I’m not surprised!” The blonde noble had no idea how deep a grave he was digging for himself. “Their charity to amateurs is well known!”

"Ooh, he really shouldn't have said that." Applejack grimaced as her friend flinched as if she had been struck. "Just trot away, Rares. Just... oh no."

Words failed the marshmallow unicorn but her horn did not. Blueblood tactlessly attempted to press his point as the mare grabbed the nearest thing that was not nailed down with her magic; a nearly full punch bowl. A gasp went up from the onlookers as Rarity up-ended the heavy glass and dumped their contents on the tactless noble.

"Go soak your head, you uncouth scoundrel!" The furious unicorn crowned Blueblood a foolish king by dunking the bowl on his head. "Peasant wear, my left hoof!"

"You dare?!" The now light-pink noble shouted from beneath the bowl. "I can have you arrested for this!"

Guards pushed their way through the crowd to separate the two before things got uglier. While they enjoyed a good spectacle like anyone else, they still had a duty to keep the peace.

“Alright, that’s enough you two.” A pegasus said as he and an earth pony put themselves between Rarity and Blueblood.

“Really, Prince?” His partner sighed as she helped the noble remove his new headgear. “You couldn’t make it an hour?”

“She started it!” The stallion pointed an accusatory hoof at the pearl unicorn while he knocked off slices of fruit with the other. "I was just trying to help!"

“You arrogant, pompous bas-!” Rarity was cut off by the first guard turning her around and trotting her off.

“Calm down, Lady Rarity.” He said gently but firmly. “Why don’t we go outside and get some fresh air?”

The still simmering Element of Generosity grumbled something inaudible but allowed herself to be escorted out of the ballroom. The guard tending to Blueblood led him to a side room while another signaled the musicians to start up again and resume the Gala as if nothing happened.

“Alright, the crisis is over.” She announced to the spectators. “Please enjoy the rest of your night.”

There was a moment of hesitation before the guests went back to what they were doing before only with something new to feed to the rumor mill. Back in the side aisles, Applejack sighed like a disappointed parent. While she doubted Rarity would face any serious consequences, she would definitely talk about the incident for the next few days.

"Mare could talk the ears off a chicken." The apple farmer muttered. "Sorry about that, Miss...?"

The earth pony turned back to the stand to find the Merchant Princess had vanished. She looked around along with a few others who had hoped to make the wealthy unicorn's acquaintance to no avail. Applejack checked under the stand to see that the fat sack of bits was still there and shrugged.

"Reckon she had places to be." The honest earth pony decided as she looked to the barrels behind her. "Whew, doggy. Hope Big Mac didn't make any plans tonight."

In the main herd of equines, the Merchant Prince observed the incident from afar. He had thought the scene would allow him and his partner to slip away but it was not enough to draw away all the guards. The vanilla stallion was about to move on when he noticed far too late that Fluttershy and Discord had come up from behind him, likely to get a better view of what had just happened.

“Oh my.” The yellow pegasus held her forehooves to her chest in concern as she hovered in the air. “I should check on Rarity. She seemed really upset.”

“Understatement.” The incognito king thought as he looked for an avenue of escape only to find he was blocked in by a wall of gowns and suits.

“That’s putting it mildly.” Discord rolled his eyes completely around his head. “Go ahead. Tend to your little friend in need.”

“Thank you for understanding.” Fluttershy said gently. “I’ll be right back.”

The Bearer of Kindness flew over the heads of the crowd, quietly apologizing to the guests along the way. Left alone, the draconequus blew air through his teeth as he fiddled with his bowtie absently. The pearl unicorn’s outburst had provided some entertainment but the chaos he so enjoyed was fleeting.

“Bah, to the Void with it.” The Dark Lord decided that when it came to the likes of Discord, it was best to take the initiative. “Maybe I can get him out of the way for a bit.”

“That was quite the spectacle, wouldn’t you say?” The Merchant Prince said casually to the elongated creature beside him. “I guess patience is not one of the Elements of Harmony for a reason.”

“Huh. It isn’t.” The mischief-maker stroked his goatee as he mulled over the other virtues that did not make the cut to power such potent relics. “I suppose you could argue kindness covers that but what about humility, diligence or temperance?”

“You should bring them up with Princess Celestia or Sparkle. They may know.” The tall earth pony suggested. “Or you could make them squirm with your newfound perspective.”

“Eh, I don’t care that much.” Discord waved his griffon claw dismissively as he summoned a cloud of cotton candy to munch on. “So long as laughter is in the mix, I’m happy.”

“Haha, to each his own.” The salt-and-pepper maned stallion chuckled. “Forgive me, where are my manners? The Merchant Prince of the Mareterranean. Buona sera.”

“Discord, Spirit of Chaos.” The draconequus gave the friendly equine a wary look. “Of course, you already knew that I hope.”

“Indeed. I knew your progenitor: the Lady of Strife.” The ancient Theoi thought wistfully. “Her spite filled my realm with many new subjects.”

“Who doesn’t?” The Merchant Prince returned the serpentine prankster's look with a warm smile. “I am surprised to see you at a time and place like this. It seems a bit too…orderly for your taste.”

“Ugh. I know. A few seasons ago, I would only be here to teach these stuff shirts a lesson in mayhem but Fluttershy would have none of it.” Discord sulked. “You can’t argue with those eyes of hers.”

“Ah, yes. The infamous ‘Stare’.” The suited stallion nodded in understanding. "I wouldn't want to be on the receiving end of something that can cow a dragon either."

The Dark Lord had heard of the timid pegasus’ uncanny ability from a tipsy Rarity when they had shared a train ride to Ponyville. He had also learned from the same mare about an incident Fluttershy had caused involving the animals kept on the palace grounds. It gave him an idea.

“Hmm. Perhaps you could compromise with her.” The Prince offered. “She is an animal lover, correct?”

“Yes…” Discord nodded, curious as to what his unexpected new friend was getting at. “It’s her special talent and all that jazz.”

“Why don’t you help her track down the palace pets that gave her trouble during her first Gala?” The vanilla stallion suggested. “She gets to meet her furry friends and you can cut loose a bit without Miss Fluttershy or the Princesses bringing the hammer down on you.”

“Say, that is not a bad idea.” The Spirit of Chaos smiled widely. “I’ll wait until she is done comforting the melodramatic marshmallow then we can have a real party. Ooh! I should take Pinkie Pie with me. Arrivederci, merchant horse.”

The draconequus snapped his lion’s paw and winked out of existence. The tall equine visibly relaxed along with a few other nearby ponies. Some even offered words of thanks that they could now enjoy the party without fear of the mismatched spirit's brand of mischief.

“At the very least I got him away from the ballroom for a while.” The Necroarch thought as he took another glass of wine from a waiter and downed it in one gulp. “Now, where was I?”

“Good evening, your grace.” A voice said beside him. “I see you are as good at making deals with beings of chaos as you are with Princesses.”

“I expect nothing less from the infamous Merchant Prince.” Another said from his other side.

Something sharp pressed against his barrel. The vanilla stallion looked to see a small knife held in a magic aura. He followed the glow to its owner; a familiar-looking unicorn in a cheap suit. A quick check of his other flank revealed an earth pony in an equally cheap suit glaring at him.

“The sneak thieves.” The ancient animus recognized both of them. “I wonder if they are still in Blueblood’s employ.”

“Well, isn’t this a reversal of fortune.” The Merchant Prince said calmly. “I am surprised you two are still in Canterlot after our last meeting.”

“Prince Blueblood pays well enough.” The unicorn smirked. “Speaking of, he would like to meet you.”

“We’ll take you to him.” The earth pony grunted. “Hate for you to get lost along the way.”

"He is just one room away but as you wish." The taller stallion relented. "After you."

The two ruffians escorted him through the crowd toward the room Blueblood and the guard disappeared into. Along the way, he spotted the disguised lich basking in the adoration of a small throng of equines. The mare noticed her partner and the company he was in and worked her way through the thick crowd toward him. The earth pony thug knocked on the door while the unicorn kept his blade on the Prince. The guardsmare who had tended to the noble poked her head out to check who it was before opening the door. The two were about to push the vanilla stallion in when the ivory unicorn finally caught up to them. The guard trotted forward to block her progress.

“This is a private meeting.” She said firmly.

“I’m with him.” The Princess pointed to her partner.

“Tell your bed warmer to get lost.” The earth pony sneered as his cohort pressed the knife into his ribs persuasively.

“She stays with me.” The taller stallion said firmly.

“It’s alright, Block.” Blueblood’s voice called out from within the room. “So long as she is seen but not heard.”

“As you say, boss.” The earth pony identified as Block grumbled as all of them trotted into the room with the guardsmare closing and locking the door behind them.

“This looks like a billiards room.” The Theoi inferred as he scanned the dimly lit room. “Smells like cigars and strong drink.”

The ivory unicorn was guided to a vacant seat and told to keep quiet. Her partner was stood in front of the pocketed table opposite from Blueblood by his two escorts. The infamous noble had stripped down to his fur and was still toweling off the punch from his encounter with Rarity.

“Prince Blueblood.” The Merchant Prince nodded his head in greeting. “We met at last.”

“That we do, Merchant Prince.” The adoptive nephew of Celestia discarded the towel and took up a fresh one. “I trust you are enjoying the Gala thus far.”

“I am.” The vanilla stallion nodded. “Would you kindly call off your employee here? This suit is expensive.”

“And what a suit it is. Perfect for parties and hostile takeovers, corporate or otherwise.” Blueblood ran an appreciative eye over his guest's attire as he waved off the unicorn. “No need for the knife, Lockpick. ”

“He attacked us last time.” The thuggish Block argued. “How do we know he won’t again?”

“If either of you tries anything, I’ll expel you both from the palace.” The guardsmare said from her post near the door.

The unicorn identified as Lockpick sighed and withdrew his weapon. He took a seat opposite from the ivory unicorn while his partner raided the small liquor cabinet. The blonde stallion stared across the billiard table at his enigmatic guest for a few moments before he spoke again.

“Forgive my rude appearance.” He said plaintively as he added the now soaked and slightly pink towel to the pile. “I assume you saw what happened.”

“I did along with most of Canterlot.” The salt and pepper stallion offered a sympathetic nod. “Such an undignified display for one of Equestria’s heroines.”

“I agree wholeheartedly. I was only trying to help.” Blueblood actually smiled. “Despite what rumors say to the contrary, I am genuinely trying to be less of an, and I quote, insufferable ass.”

“The keyword is 'trying'.” The Dark Lord thought.

“My plan was to find those I had, let’s say, offended in the past and make amends.” The self-improving noble continued. “That includes you, my fellow Prince. I was worried I would have to track you down but then you do me a favor by coming to me.”

“Fate works in peculiar ways.” The stallion deadpanned. “Now what will you do?”

“Indeed.” His partner eyed the noble suspiciously. “How do you answer for sending dumb and dumber here to rob him?”

“Seen but not heard, you little tart.” Lockpick sneered at the mare. “No more warnings.”

“If you knew what she could do to you, you would watch your tongue.” The Necroarch thought as his Archmage glared murderous daggers at the thief.

“If you will allow me the time, I would like to explain myself.” Blueblood said as he retrieved a spare set of clothes and dressed. “I know politics in the Mareterranean are rather cutthroat but things are a bit more delicate over here.”

The Equestrian Prince picked up a cue and chalked it with his magic. Block racked the solid and striped balls with a triangle and set them up for his boss.

“Here come the analogies.” The Theoi anticipated.

“Equestria appears simple on the surface; the Princesses protect us and maintain the heavenly cycle.” Blueblood said as he gestured to the table as a whole. “But underneath this graceful veneer is a very elegant machine with many moving components; banks, warehouses, docks, unions, traders and so on.”

The Prince pointed at the triangle of spheres. He reached beneath the table and retrieved the white cue ball. He took a moment to line it up with the rest before he continued.

“One thing makes them all move…” The noble said as he lined up his shot. “…money.”

A dull pop followed by a staccato crack sent the smooth balls rolling across the table. Most bounced off the walls while a few dropped into the pockets. Blueblood grinned as he reviewed his opening shot.

“Equines like Pants, Silvermane and myself make sure they move the right way, be that into our pockets, up against the wall or sometimes against each other.” The noble looked up at his guest. “We have been at this game for a long time so imagine my surprise when a new player drops out of the blue and takes a lead.”

“I think I know where this is going.” The Necroarch mused.

“So you sent burglars to learn more about me.” He said neutrally. "I think a chat over lunch would have served you better."

"Or catching you alone at a party." Blueblood added candidly as he took another shot only for the ball to stop short of a corner pocket. “Now that we can put that ugliness behind us, I was wondering if you would be interested in a business proposal.”

“Perhaps.” The Merchant Prince said testily as he took up a cue and surveyed the table. “Let's hear it.”

“I mentioned earlier that the Princesses protect us.” The Admiral said as his guest took a shot and knocked a ball into a side pocket. “They have done a spectacular job in the past, don’t get me wrong, but lately they have faltered.”

“I will admit that they could have handled the Crystal Empire crisis better but the Breach was beyond their control.” The vanilla stallion said as he lined up another shot. “One could hardly blame them.”

“That is just it.” The Prince frowned as his potential partner sank another ball. “They are losing control. Cadenza failed to protect her Empire, Celestia, Luna and Sparkle were just as lost as the rest of us when demons tried to invade and that's only recently.”

“You want to ensure that the parts keep moving but fear that the Alicorns won’t be able to stop an outside force from throwing a wrench into it.” The Merchant Prince surmised. “Am I wrong?”

“Not just me.” Blueblood shared a knowingly look with the guard at the door. “There are others who think that a change in government is in order for the good of our nation.”

"I suspect he does not have a republic in mind." The Lord of Shades mused.

"A change in government or the governor?" The vanilla stallion asked as he missed a shot but left the cue ball at an awkward angle for his host. "There is a fine line between reformation and a coup."

"A revolution then." The Prince said as he scanned the table for possibilities. "We can argue semantics later but I understand your wariness given your history and all."

"Oh?" The vanilla earth pony arched an eyebrow.

"I have other means of gathering information beyond Lockpick and Block." Blueblood glanced up at his guest with a sly smirk. "Yes, I know about the strife between the Merchant Families and the uprising of their plebian subjects. You had the good sense to abandon a sinking ship and rebuild your fortune here in Equestria. Hence the whole affair with the Crystal Mountains mining rights."

"What is he talking about?" The Theoi Anax wondered before it suddenly clicked. "Oh, that is rich. The rumor mill has ground up my little history lesson with the Princesses and my cover story. So much for sourcing."

"Your sources serve you well, Prince." The Merchant let a grin cross his features. "But the mineral rights ultimately went to Cadenza and her new pocket nation, not me."

"So Celestia gave away a potential motherlode to a city on the verge of sedition." The blonde unicorn snorted. "As if we need another reason for the Princesses' removal."

"*cough* hypocrisy *cough*" The ivory mare grunted into her hoof. "Oh, excuse me."

"Looking further down the road, what would become of Celestia and her kin?" The bearded stallion asked as both thugs made threatening gestures toward his companion.

"Ideally, they would just be figureheads; glorified clocks keeping the day-night cycle intact. Sparkle could continue her studies but none of them would hold any political power." Blueblood said as he lined up a shot. "If not, well, cabals of unicorns moved the heavens before the Alicorns showed up, why not after?"

"I do not see this ending well for anyone." The Dark Lord thought as his host botched his shot and knocked the black eight ball into a pocket.

"So a gilded cage or death." The Merchant made no effort to keep the skepticism out of his voice. "The fate that awaits you should this 'regime change' fail. If not delivered by the ageless Alicorns then by the mob of angry peasants who adore them."

"Hence my efforts to improve their perception of me." The white unicorn nickered irritably. "As that has met... limited success, I have summoned you hoping to make a new friend among those who actually matter."

"Well, I am everyone's friend." The vanilla stallion shrugged. "This could-!"

"Yet no one knows your true name, Merchant Prince." Blueblood interrupted pointedly. "The luxury of sitting on the fence is fleeting. If you want to make it here in Equestria, you will have to pick a side before someone pushes you off."

“Is that a threat?” The Lord of Shades fought to urge to laugh as the unicorn came around the table to his side. “Adorable.”

“You'll have to forgive me for enjoying the view.” The Merchant said with a small smile. “Putting the metaphors aside, you make a compelling argument. Would you not agree, Princess?”

"Oh, most certainly." The ivory unicorn said with a matching smile.

“Good.” The noble patted his guest on the cheek with a forehoof. “I knew you were a smart stallion. Shall we toast our newfound partnership, Prince...?”

A rapid series of knocks at the door interrupted the vanilla stallion before he could conjure a pseudonym. The guardsmare cracked the door and peeked outside only to recoil in shock. She fumbled a bit before she managed to snap a crisp salute.

“Captain Knight!” She said as one of the thestral captains of the Night Guard trotted into the room.

“Night-Captain.” The bat-pony corrected as he looked to each equine. “Merchant royalty?”

“Present.” The stallion and mare both faced the captain of the Night Guard.

“Come with me, please.” Knight stood aside to let them out.

“What for?” Blueblood asked incredulously. “We were in the middle of an important meeting.”

“That is none of your concern.” The bat-pony answered flatly as the two merchants trotted past him. “Goodnight, your highness.”

He shut the door on the Prince’s slightly pink face. The blonde stallion stood stunned for a few moments before he composed himself and returned to the table. His minions stood and sat in silence before Block voiced what they were thinking.

"What was that about?" The thuggish earth pony asked.

"Maybe Luna caught wind of what we're doing?" Lockpick guessed. "Or maybe Knight just wanted a snack?"

"The Mare-in-the-Moon has always been security conscious." Blueblood snorted dismissively. "She probably just wants to know why somepony from the infamous Mareterranean is in her castle. Our new friend can deal with her."

"Is he really our friend, sir?" The guardsmare asked with clear trepidation. "He did not seem committed."

"Not to mention his little partner." The thieving unicorn added. "I could feel the hate coming off her."

"You did call her a tart, Pick." Block reminded him.

"I call 'em as I see 'em." Lockpick said firmly.

"Hmm, she does appear to hold some sway with the good Prince." The noble murmured as he toyed with the cue ball. "You two may need to catch her alone and, shall we say, persuade her to see things our way."

"Can do, boss." The two louts nodded.

Back out in the ballroom, Knight took the lead while the pair of Merchants followed close behind. Normally, the sight of one of the intimidating nocturnal guards would have caused a stir but most of the guests were focused on the VIP table where Princess Celestia and the Element Bearers were taking their seats. The unicorn used the moment of relative privacy to sidle up to her partner.

“Should we tell them that they have traitors in their midst?” Lulamoon whispered in her natural tone.

“That may be pertinent.” The King whispered back. “Turning their ever-watchful eyes inward would take some pressure off of us.”

“Ever the pragmatist.” The magician agreed. “So where is the vampire taking us?”

“Let me ask.” The Theoi told her before he switched back to his Merchant Prince inflection.

“May I ask where are we going?” The vanilla stallion asked as politely as he could. “Are we under arrest?”

“I will tell you once we are out of the public eye.” Knight answered plainly.

“I guess this is our way into the back halls.” The Theoi thought as he noticed that they were heading toward the guarded door. “Not the ideal method but we are making progress.”

The thestral reached the pair of Royal Guards at the door who saluted the officer as he and his charges passed. In the back halls of Canterlot, the noise from the Gala was muted and the only light came from torches along the wall. Compared to the festive public space, the private corridors were dim and imposing.

"Ah, this is more like it." Knight visibly relaxed in the gloom. "I like a party as much as the next bat but all that light and noise sets my teeth on edge."

"High society can be overwhelming at times." The Prince said with a sigh. "So to what do we owe this respite, Night-Captain?"

“You have been summoned by Princess Luna for a private audience.” The thestral explained as they resumed trotting. “And not one like Blueblood roped you into. I am surprised you two were able to stand his arrogance for so long.”

"It is not his arrogance that concerns us." The Merchant Princess glanced at her partner who nodded. "He's planning a coup."

The ivory unicorn told the guard all that they knew of the nobles' plot. Knight listened intently, his expression darkening with each detail that was revealed. By the time the two Merchants finished, his face was buried in his hooves.

"...extended the offer to us." The vanilla stallion finished their report with an indignant nicker. "The lout probably could not see beyond our money."

"Rgh, not this shit again." The thestral growled. "Spoiled brats don't get their way and suddenly it's time to for revolution."

"This is not the first time?" The ivory mare asked.

"It's kind of a game that the nobles play." Knight sighed. "They see how much they can get away with until one of the Princesses puts their hoof down then act like some great injustice has been inflicted on them."

"So all we heard was just talk?" The Prince arched an eyebrow. "The nobles plot revolution as a past time?"

"Well, this is the first time other guards have been involved that I know of." The bat-pony rubbed his chin in thought. "Maybe this will be the one time they go too far."

"I sense a 'but' coming." The unicorn frowned.

"Believe me, nothing would please me more than to toss Blueblood into a cell." The bat-pony sighed. "However, one of the nobility's favorite methods of removing rivals is to have the Guard arrest them on trumped-up charges. Not that I'm accusing you of lying but I need more than the word of two nameless merchants to arrest an 'upstanding citizen'."

"I'm afraid that is all we have." The tall stallion admitted.

"Then the best I can do is bring your accusation to Princess Luna." Knight said as he resumed trotting. "She has... ways of sussing out the truth."

"I am sure she does." The Prince said with a smirk, earning an odd look from his partner.

The three quietly trotted down the dimly lit halls as their conversations petered out. They rounded a corner to a long and dark passage. The only illumination came from the moon and starlight shining in through tall windows, casting shadows on the opposite wall. At the far end of the benighted hallway stood a looming set of dark doors embossed with silvery images of constellations. A pair of pale crescent moons set against black fields crowned the top of the friezes, denoting who resided just beyond. Knight trotted up to the pair of thestrals flanking the doorway who promptly saluted their captain.

“Wait here just a moment.” He said politely. “I’ll announce you.”

The vanilla and ivory equines waited patiently as their escort opened the doors just wide enough for him to slip inside. Muffled voices could be heard but not clearly enough to determine what was being said. A few moments later, Knight reappeared.

“Princess Luna will see you now.” He said as he held the door open for them.

The two companions entered the darkened chambers of the Nocturnal Alicorn as the bat-pony closed the door closed behind them with a heavy thud. Inside was an antechamber meant for receiving guests with a table set up in the middle. Three covered dished waited for them along with their nocturnal host.

“Salutations, Merchants of the Mareterranean.” Princess Luna greeted them with a small, knowing smile. “Welcome to my little corner of Canterlot.”

Next Chapter: Midnight Delights Estimated time remaining: 11 Hours, 7 Minutes