- Location
- Missouri
So trains for infrastructure and moving the army, airship for the offensive engagements and logistics?
Who Needs Harmony?: An MLP Empire Quest
- Thread starter Questor
- Start date
- Location
- Italy
Honestly both Railways and airships will be incredibly useful, they simply have different uses
Railways and trains: mass transport of goods and people at relatively low costs (but only where the needed infrastructure is present)
massive help in Logistics INSIDE OUR TERRITORY (can easily move troops and equipment in short time)
massive boon to our economy both because of the boost to our industry (we'll need a lot of steel, carbon, wood, engineers, new buildings for the stations..) and for the way it makes so much easier to sell your locally produced goods everywhere the rails reach.
Airships: can move in absence of infrastructure, included above mountains and the sea.
Gryphons being able to fly makes it so they don't even need to land for boarding (and they can carry the dogs and ponies if necessary, maybe using the flying carriages Pegasus use in mlp)
On sea it should be faster than ships, both sails ships and steamships, and less influenced by bad weather(..by the way we also need to research steam ships!).
Can be used in enemy territory, both for scouting (possibly covered by illusions as a mobile air base for our scouts), to map territories and possibly even as bombers AND aircraft carriers (with gryphon knights and soldiers instead of helicopters and jets, particularly useful against land-bound races, but if guarded by knights/soldiers specifically trained for air combat they could probably be used against flying races as well.)
Luxury cruises and quick transport of luxury/perishable goods (like fresh exotic foods, for example) to/from Neighpon would be a nice new source of income
And, last but not least, it's a safe way for the imperial family to travel quickly, both in our empire and abroad (we do need to visit Koryu sometimes by the way)
EDIT an airship would also make for a nice gift for Koryu
"Ehi Koryu, I brought you a present! Happy birthday!
"
Railways and trains: mass transport of goods and people at relatively low costs (but only where the needed infrastructure is present)
massive help in Logistics INSIDE OUR TERRITORY (can easily move troops and equipment in short time)
massive boon to our economy both because of the boost to our industry (we'll need a lot of steel, carbon, wood, engineers, new buildings for the stations..) and for the way it makes so much easier to sell your locally produced goods everywhere the rails reach.
Airships: can move in absence of infrastructure, included above mountains and the sea.
Gryphons being able to fly makes it so they don't even need to land for boarding (and they can carry the dogs and ponies if necessary, maybe using the flying carriages Pegasus use in mlp)
On sea it should be faster than ships, both sails ships and steamships, and less influenced by bad weather(..by the way we also need to research steam ships!).
Can be used in enemy territory, both for scouting (possibly covered by illusions as a mobile air base for our scouts), to map territories and possibly even as bombers AND aircraft carriers (with gryphon knights and soldiers instead of helicopters and jets, particularly useful against land-bound races, but if guarded by knights/soldiers specifically trained for air combat they could probably be used against flying races as well.)
Luxury cruises and quick transport of luxury/perishable goods (like fresh exotic foods, for example) to/from Neighpon would be a nice new source of income
And, last but not least, it's a safe way for the imperial family to travel quickly, both in our empire and abroad (we do need to visit Koryu sometimes by the way)
EDIT an airship would also make for a nice gift for Koryu
"Ehi Koryu, I brought you a present! Happy birthday!
"
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- Location
- Rapidly approaching your location.
- Pronouns
- Any/Morb
Don't celestial dragons have the innate ability of flight?EDIT an airship would also make for a nice gift for Koryu
"Ehi Koryu, I brought you a present! Happy birthday!
Though it would be nice for his troops!
Maybe some tech for airships to avoid detection somehow, or not pop when weather sucks. Can't wait until we get jet fighters and drop missiles from the sky upon our enemies!
- Location
- Rapidly approaching your location.
- Pronouns
- Any/Morb
Choo choo, mofos!
Couldn't we just get the Diamond Dogs in our forces to collapse the estates we mark?
Though that's a terrible idea and would be seen as an act of aggression, being obvious who did it.
It would also probably hurt the slaves they likely keep within their estates.
You know what, forget that train of though.
Red_Faux
私を終わらせる
- Location
- 'Straya M8
What I'm getting from this discussion is we would very much like a network of trains and an airship armada. Trains were first in the real world and the trading between far cities and settlements that trains made monumentally easier is what enabled a global economy to large enough to facilitate things like the Hindenburg and others like it. Wouldn't have mattered that the Wright brothers proved flight was possible if no one was wealthy enough to design and produce an actual aeroplane. (I know that an aeroplane and airship are vastly different things but you get my drift)
Both trains and airships are good. I think trains, considering their longtime economic benefit and extra infrastructure required, should be focused on first. Though working on them both should be good as they shouldn't impede each other too much. Trains take a while, let's get them going sooner rather than later. We're being attacked from the south and our army is focused in the north? Trains cut that travel time from potentially months into days, hours even if we break the dice and get super trains.
Both trains and airships are good. I think trains, considering their longtime economic benefit and extra infrastructure required, should be focused on first. Though working on them both should be good as they shouldn't impede each other too much. Trains take a while, let's get them going sooner rather than later. We're being attacked from the south and our army is focused in the north? Trains cut that travel time from potentially months into days, hours even if we break the dice and get super trains.
- Location
- A house
Outside of the logistic capabilities, I'm interested in what trains have on our culture. Already our people seem WAAAAY into steampunk (although I'm personally more a fan on clockpunk), so I wonder what strange innovations theyll dream up with that in mind. Along side that though, and perhaps more important of all...
THE ERA OF DENSHA DE D IS HERE.
NONE WILL BE ABLE TO WITHSTAND THE POWER OF OUR MULTI-TRACK DRIFTING TECHNIQUES.
THE ERA OF DENSHA DE D IS HERE.
NONE WILL BE ABLE TO WITHSTAND THE POWER OF OUR MULTI-TRACK DRIFTING TECHNIQUES.
Isn't the Peregrine Line placed in a pass through the mountains? Just have the trains run through that pass and then we're into the Crystal Protectorate, and the CP is basically flat in comparison.
I mean, our mountains are big, but unless I'm hugely off base they aren't impassable like the Rockies or the Himalayas.
Oh, absolutely, if we can have both then that'd be ideal. I'm the biggest train fanboy in the thread and I'd love to have airships too because the only thing better than trains for war (because logistics is king and trains make everything a million times easier on that front) is fixed wing airplanes and we probably need airships first. The problem is that we only get two Learning actions (three if the Emperor steps in) and we probably shouldn't spend literally all of our research on transport options, not when we need boats and better industrial machines and so on as well.
- Location
- The state of Paranoia
I also want to get canned foods at some point. An army marches on its stomach, and all that. Also it says that it unlocks additional actions, so we may be able to create long term stockpiles of food in case we have to fight another country that enjoys weaponizing blizzards (looks askance at Maretonia), or possibly can foods that would otherwise be too perishable to travel far, letting us expand our trade with Neighpon.
- Location
- Hell, or at least the closest place to it
On a different topic, I wonder how Celestia and the rest of Equestria is doing while all this going on? Judging by the time frame, Celestia and Luna should be in the middle of rebuilding Equestria and starting their rule. I wonder what the culture is like?
And speaking of Culture, honestly Maretonia strikes me more like mixture of Medieval France, Slavers Bay from Game of Thrones, and Sparta rather than Rome. Or at least, until the Late Roman Empire.
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- Location
- Italy
*insert "a geek's guide: core" flashback here*
Well, as for all other countries rolls will decide their fate. Maybe Equestria is currently ruled by Daybreaker and Nightmare Moon. Or maybe they're currently in a war with the dragons!
So many possibilities!
It will probably be a while before we meet them though, i expect Equestria to be on another continent entirely
It would be interesting seeing their reactions to our people, and i wonder if we/our people would believe them about them being the one who defeated Discord...
- Location
- Rapidly approaching your location.
- Pronouns
- Any/Morb
Ah the true solution to the Trolley Problem.
Which I am certain will come up if we invest in railways.
Well we just so happen to have Germanic influences, so I guess the next course of action is obvious.
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- Location
- Hell, or at least the closest place to it
Obviously.
We must issue a strongly worded letter, asking them to stop enslaving people and submit themselves to beerfest and strategic trenches on the beaches during holidays.
Omake: A Luncheon Between Two Shadows (Canon)
- Location
- A house
Wanted to do something kinda spy related. Not much actual spying in this, since I just wanted to have a look at everyone's favorite spymaster. Still not really sure on it, but whats written is written, I guess. @Questor
"Take a day off."
The voice was so sudden that she nearly jumped out of her seat. However, training and discipline had managed to minimize her reaction down to a blink.
Couldn't hear them coming. Smooth voice. Commanding. Extremely familiar tone.
Ah. Lord Ravenburg.
Carefully, she put the paper she had been writing on to the side with her right hoof, upside down on top of a stack of papers, and smoothly turned her head to the source of the voice, "Day off, sir?"
Lord Ravenburg, in his usual complete calm, seemed to stare right through her with narrowed eyes, her every action already accounted for in his vision, "Yes. A day off. You need one. Now."
She turned back towards the desk, noting that she still had less than half a stack to go, "But sir, I have yet to finish-"
"Those papers are not needed until next week. You have time, time that I see you desperately need to take for yourself," He stated, "You may have used makeup to hide the off coloration of the bags under your eyes, but their shape can still be seen at an angle. The sedative you are taking to stop the shaking from overwork is also making your movements slower, which I can see you are compensating for. You've switched hooves because your left one keeps cramping from constant writing and as a side effect from the sedative. Your neck is slightly tilted and your back is too relaxed, the desire to rest affecting your posture.
"I could go on, but I believe I have made my point. Take a day off, Evening Shade. Your position will be filled by Riley."
The desire to speak up and argue how she could still perform at the level required for her work swelled within her, but she quickly squashed it down and shoved it out of her mind, knowing that there was no arguing with Lord Ravenburg, "Yes, sir…"
He nodded, "Eat something before you go home. It would not do for my agents to starve."
With that he turned around and left, the usual sound of footsteps one would expect completely absent for the Spymaster.
Once she was sure he was out of sight, she let out a sigh.
'Of course he would notice,' She mentally reprimanded herself, 'Why wouldn't he notice? He always notices everything… Stupid, stupid Eve...'
She just wanted to work… was that too much to ask? She had already finished most of the identity forgery documentation anyway, all it would have taken was another few hours and she would have been free to go home.
A small voice in Eve's head told her that she just would have tried to get more work for herself rather than resting, but she stamped a mental hoof down on it.
The crystal pony turned back around and flipped the page she had been working on back over, placing it in front of her. It wouldn't hurt to just finish up this page, right…?
She picked up the quill and dipped it in ink, before carefully lining up where she left off and finishing off the word she had left off on, matching it to the slightly messy Maretonian script on a similar sheet at the top of another pile on her desk.
"Still working?"
This time, Evening Shade did a slight jump, turning around as fast as she could and bowing in apology, "I'm sorry sir, I just thought I could finish up this page and-" It was only until she was halfway through her sentence did she finally register the voice in question and look up, seeing a familiar diamond dog in an expensive looking suit before her, a confused expression on his face.
Scar on face, traveling upward from the mouth. Slight limp. Well groomed. Eyepatch over left eye. Confused expression. Fresh Ink on right paw (just finished work). Slight wrinkle at the base of neck tie (wife was not home today to do it for him). Bit of dust on sleeves (working in the store room today).
Riley snuck up on me… great…
"Oh… Uh, I thought you were…"
"Lord Ravenburg?" He finished for her, "He asked for me to take over for you, and now I see why. For one, you'd usually hear anyone that's not the Alpha coming from a mile away. And two, you actually confused my voice for his?"
Eve put a hoof to her face.
"I guess I really am tired…" She let said hoof slide down and shook her head, trying to clear the apparent cobwebs that had taken up residence there, "Maybe he had a point with the whole 'take a break' thing."
"You work too much as is," He commented, looking over her shoulder at the papers on her desk, "I know you feel really grateful to the Alpha and this country, but everyone else can see you push yourself too hard."
"Everyone…?" Was it really that obvious?
"Well, no, but to those who have been here a while? Yes, very obvious."
Eve's head slumped on top of the table, both her hooves covering her eyes. So basically everyone noticed… This was so embarrassing…
"Hey, hey, just take it easy." She felt a paw pat her on the back, "We didn't say anything because we know how much this job means to you, but, honestly, the alpha was right in telling you to take a break."
"But Maretonia-"
"Maretonia will still be there tomorrow, as will we." He interrupted, "We all feel the way you feel, Eve. All of us are putting in our best and then some. But you in particular are going to work yourself to an early grave at this point. So, as I have already finished my work for the day, allow me to take over so you can rest already."
"... Yeah… okay… guess I'm taking a break then…" Eve got up off the chair and let Riley take her place, the latter sinking into the down stuffed fabric, "I suppose I'll be seeing you tomorrow."
"Just remember, take it easy. And no working." He shot her a glance, "Not even a little."
"Fine, fine, no working, jeez…" The small part of her that whispered 'just work from home' quietly was put down before it could gain any traction, "I was just going to go get some food before heading home. Nothing else. Promise."
"Good."
Rolling her eyes, she turned around and began walking toward the exit of the building.
"Oh, and Eve?"
She halted, "Hm?"
Riley lifted the page she had been working on before she got up, "Amazing work as always."
A bit of pride welled up in her chest, "I try."
With that, she turned back around and walked away, thoughts of what to eat on her mind and a slight spring in her step.
Normally, Evening Shade cooked her meals herself.
It was a common practice amongst those in her line of work. Wanted to know someone? Cook for them. Trapped out in the middle of nowhere with little to know supplies? Cook whatever you can find. Don't know if something is poisoned or not? Just make your own meal.
But, today, the crystal pony felt that if she were to go home, she might just wander over to her couch and sleep herself into the next day, thus skipping both lunch and dinner entirely.
That left eating out.
Currently, her choices were: the nearby pub, the small diner across from the pub, or the small, upper class restaurant down the street.
Her usual choice would be the pub. Easy enough to keep one's head down, plenty to drink, lots of small talk all around that she could listen in on…
Pubs really were an intelligence agent's dream~~!
But, it was the middle of the day and she wanted some place quieter, so sadly, that was off the list.
The small diner seemed ideal, then, since it was no doubt less noisy and would let her eat at a price that wouldn't murder her savings.
…. Except she wasn't really in the mood for diner food. Not to mention that, from looking through the window, it seemed surprisingly full today, so that was a no go.
Which left the restaurant down the street.
It was one of the fancy, uppercrust ones that were in vogue these days, going on about blending neighponese and griffonian cuisine and all that. Usually, such a place would require reservations some time in advance and the food would take forever to arrive, not the best mix given her current state, but she'd heard from some ambient chatter on her morning walk arounds that it didn't actually require reservations and the service speed was quick enough to sit down, eat a meal, and leave within 20 minutes.
Well, she didn't really treat herself that often, so using today to try some new food would be nice for a change.
The outside wasn't much to look at, being the same drab stone as the other surrounding buildings with the only defining trait setting it apart being the sign, it being both it neighponese and griffonian script.
But, stepping past the entrance, the inside was a different story, with the walls a deep shade of red with gold highlights reminiscent of the colors of neighpon defining the atmosphere. Similarly, the furnishings had flairs of neighponese aesthetics, the slight curve here and there,the wood grain patterns, and the hanging box lights betraying their origin. Accompanying them was the strong scent of incense, further drawing one into the atmosphere.
She noted there was a distinct lack of clinks from metal striking plates and ambient chatter. Seems they weren't busy today… which was perfectly fine given her current state. It was a bit odd, though, considering she'd heard that it was a popular place for those that could afford it…
Thinking it just a slow day today, Eve slowly walked over the red carpet toward where a bespeckled griffon stood behind a desk, a practiced smile on his face.
Middle aged, sharp features, decent musculature (works out regularly), eyelids more shut than average (habit from squinting), simple glasses, lacks scratches (obtained recently, not well off), posture steady but relaxed (Job training? Noble? Military?) with shoulders pulled back and level (military), feathers well taken care of, clothing lacking anything out of place (neat, organized, definitely military), slight lean to his left side (injury?), tip of a cane at the right corner of the podium (definitely an injury, possibly related to the war), numerous scratch marks on it (definitely old, war related injury more likely)
Remember Eve, it's strange to randomly hug every vetran you come across. Just take it easy, and when you see an opening, thank him politely. Preferably without bawling your eyes out. That's awkward. Don't be awkward.
"Welcome, honored guest, to the Garden of the Sun," He spoke, nodding at her, "My name is Johan, and I will be serving you today. Will you be eating at the bar or taking a table this evening?"
She took a deep breath and shut her eyes. Come on Eve, just go through the motions… "I will be taking a table, please."
Nailed it.
"Very well" He replied, his smile growing slightly wider, "Now, if you would allow me to take you to a prepared table?"
She followed in step behind the griffon, noting his arhythmic steps from the cane strapped to his forearm, replacing a missing talon. Going around the paper screen, which seemed to be set up to separate the entrance from the restaurant proper, they journeying past the bar area, where a large display of various alcohols were on view behind a glass screen, and toward a wide selection of dark wood tables, all of which were empty.
"Slow day today…?" She found herself asking.
"Ah, no," Johan replied to her, walking her over to a table, nearby, "Someone reserved the entire restaurant for this hour. Hence why it is currently empty."
Reserved? Huh? "I didn't see a sign for that… and if the entire restaurant is reserved, why am I allowed to eat here?"
"You are Evening Shade, correct?" She hesitantly nodded, "The Griffon who reserved it gave very explicit instructions to take down the sign for a short time, saying you would arrive within that time frame."
Eve froze for a moment. What? Was this enemy action? Did someone want to learn the secrets of Lord Ravenburg's organization through her? Was there some secret turmoil that they had all missed, working against the empire from the inside?
She forced herself to relax, but mentally plotted out the quickest way out of the restaurant, prepared to run for her life should it come to it, "And who is this mysterious Griffon…?"
"That would be me," A very familiar voice called out behind the two of them.
Middle aged, Lopsided smile, tan feathers, expensive clothes, large, round hat (merchant wear), confident but loose posture, well groomed, pieces of jewelry on talons (sign of status), claws well taken care of, scent of various spices (expensive perfume, frequently used by the merchant class), clothes hide body structure, but appears slim, looking at my attire (looking for signs of wealth…?)
It was a merchant. One with expensive tastes, but a merchant.
Or, at least, that was what the griffon in front of her was trying to project.
Internally, she relaxed. "Percival, don't scare me like that."
He let loose a small chuckle, his grin growing larger, "Never meant for it to be taken that way, my dear."
Outworldly, she smiled back and took a seat where Johan directed them to, but inwardly, she shivered.
She could never get over just how well Lord Ravenburg could disguise himself.
Her every instinct told her that the Griffon before her was just your average merchant. Confidant, aloof, someone looking to make a quick buck. From the way he acted, to the way he spoke, to the way he dressed, all of it was like looking at another griffon entirely.
But she knew well enough who was before her. He did not bother disguising his voice, and, more to the point, it was a disguise she had seen him use before.
Questions ran through her mind. Why was he here? How had he known she'd be here? Why was he in disguise? Why did he clear out the restaurant? She had never seen him eat anything beside his own cooking, so why was he eating here? How did he manage to get here before her while also having the time to put on a disguise?
What was even going on?!
He let out a small chuckle, "There, there, Eve, try not to overthink things. If you must know, a former employee of mine, and thus your senior, decided to open this restaurant some time ago. He has asked me time and time again to stop by, and today, I noted I could do that along with several other tasks on my to-do list all at once, so here I am."
Her eyes drifted over to where the door to the kitchen was still closing behind the Griffon in question. "So he's…?"
"Out of the game. Being a merchant these days is dangerous, after all, and with such an injury…"
She couldn't help but nod… being a 'merchant' was something of a dangerous job. That, she knew personally, "So… how did you know I was going to be… well… here?"
"Being truthful, I didn't." He said, a talon dragging along the surface of the menu in front of him, trying to determine what to pick, "I simply guessed you would prefer this establishment after I suggested you eat. If you did, I thought it would be nice for you to join me for some lunch. If not, I got to finally make good on my promise to eat here. It was a win for me either way."
Oh. Well... that made sense, she supposed. "But why clear out the place…?"
He tossed another smirk in her direction, "Ah ah, you get one for free, Eve. No more than that."
The crystal pony let out a huff and rolled her eyes. Her boss was never one to give out information unless it pertained to a job. So, she would do as taught and try to piece together the clues.
So, he cleared out the restaurant. That took some time an effort… He had probably made the arrangements days before today. That implied, by his own words of wanting to do multiple things at once, that he had noticed her not so 100% ready to go state earlier in the week, but had not brought it up until he had his plans in order.
So, in reality, she had been noticed even earlier than she had initially thought… Her pride in her disguise skills had certainly taken a severe blow today…
But, that wasn't the important bit. Why clear it out…? She brought her own menu closer to herself and idly flipped through it. Well, he always ate privately, so perhaps that was the reason…?
No, that couldn't be it. He went out in disguise today, and there was no purpose to disguising one's self if no one was going to see it. Unless it was actually for after this. But again, why empty the restaurant…?
Was this all a test…?
"It isn't."
Her head flickered up to the not-merchant, eyes widening a little. Had she said that out loud?
"The fish here. It isn't cooked." He replied, "Your hoof has been tapping away at the sushi menu for a while. I thought I would let you know, since I don't believe you have ever tried sushi before. Although, as a Crystal pony, I am not sure it would be quite to your tastes… Unless you happen to be feeling adventurous today?"
She glanced back down, where he hoof was still tapping away at something called Amaebi Nigiri. Oh… She could already feel her cheeks heating up a bit. It seems she had…
But, ignoring her embarrassment, Ravenburg never did anything without it at least accomplishing two other tasks, so he was probably also reading her like a book and responding to her musings too.
So by that logic, it wasn't a test. But he was also probably telling her 'if you're going to think about something, make sure it doesn't reflect in your physical actions,' or something along those lines.
Great. Just great… Not a test, but she was going to be judged anyway. Ugh.
She flipped over the menu and started going down the list again, this time with slightly more mind to what was on the menu (she mentally took note of the daisy salad, marking that off as something to order), and once more tried to puzzle out his reasons.
So, it wasn't a test… then what was it…?
She went over the various rules Lord Ravenburg instilled in all his agents, recalling one in particular. Reasons and motives are, most of the time, incredibly simple. If there is a lack of information pointing otherwise, then the simplest option is usually the correct one.
Going by that line of thought… He was here to talk to her. That was obvious. And the reason he had asked for the restaurant to be empty was to talk to her privately. Outside of the office full of intelligence agents who would no doubt want to listen in.
And since this wasn't a test…
… Her mind came up blank. She couldn't, for the life of her, figure out what he wanted to talk about without anyone else around.
The sound of the back door swinging open alerted her to Johan's return, bringing a silver tray with two glasses of water on it on one wing, "Have you decided on what you wish to eat today?"
Ravenburg responded, keeping both eyes still locked onto her own, "Surprise me."
Two glasses were set on the table, "Very well. And you, miss?"
"I… think I'll just play it safe with a daisy salad."
"Understood. I will return with both your meals shortly." He replied, giving a small bow before retreating back to the kitchen.
Well, now that it seemed they were going to be left alone for a short while… "... So, what did you want to talk to me about…?"
"Couldn't figure it out, hm?" Ravenburg said, his smile falling off his face, "Truthfully, I didn't expect you to, but I had hoped you would… I'm here, Eve, to talk about you."
She felt her stomach sink.
"... Me?"
"Yes. Because, being frank, I am worried about you."
Worried about her? But… "I'm just a little tired sir. I already promised I would go home and go to sleep."
He shook his head and sighed, the tassels on his hat swaying back and forth, "And that's the problem. We had to tell you to do so. You did not do so yourself."
"... I… I understand you and the others feel I push myself too hard, sir," she started, "But I know my limits. I could have kept going today… I would have taken some time off once I knew I couldn't keep going anymore."
Ravenburg put a talon to his face, sighing once again, "And that, Eve, is why I am worried. You know your limits. You know them much too well... Just as well, in fact, as practically every other crystal pony.
"And I am here to tell you that that is not normal. No one should push themselves to their absolute limit. Just because you know at what point you can no longer take another step, does not mean you should continue to do so. It is for that reason I was considering forcing you to take a leave of absence. Temporarily, at least."
Wait, he was…? Her eyes widened, "But sir, I-!"
"I was considering, Eve." Ravenburg cut her off, "Was. But I realize that doing nothing at all would perhaps break you even more than you currently are."
Her gaze turned down toward her glass of water. Broken… The words hurt, cutting away at her heart. He was right, of course. No crystal pony, unless they were under a certain age, managed to completely make it out of that horrible tyrant's clutches unscathed.
"Then… what do you plan to do?" She hesitantly asked, "What do you want me to do?"
"I won't ask anything of you. I already gave you an order today, as your superior, to take the day off. But here, in this restaurant?" He swished a talon, pointing at the surroundings, "I am merely Percival, a Griffon here to eat his lunch. And as such, I can talk to you without needing to put on airs.
"Thus, I will say this. I… am sorry, Eve. Deeply sorry."
Even couldn't help but tilt her head in confusion, "Pardon…? I… don't understand why you would say sorry to me… if anything, I should be saying sorry to you..."
"Because I allowed it. I've seen you work yourself to the bone, work longer than anyone should, many times before in the past. I've encouraged that behavior because I said nothing against it. I had thought it to just be overcompensation…" He let out another sigh, "After all, I gave you a job. A home to live in. I came by several times a week to check up on you, to teach you, to make sure you were doing well adjusting… and I feel I have failed you in this matter. Because, if I had just been a little bit better, this wouldn't even be an issue.
"I took advantage of you, Eve, because you are one of my best agents, when I knew enough was enough. And only now, after seeing you take on ever more work to the point where even your coworkers are noticing something is wrong, do I bother saying anything.
"Thus, I can only say I am sorry… and hope that you will forgive me for pushing you this far."
Eve found herself speechless. He blamed himself for her faults?
He… he couldn't do that. He can't do that. Her failures were her own. He couldn't just take that away from her and blame himself for them!
But… she could see it. In his eyes. He had already made up his mind. No matter what she could say, he wouldn't change his mind on that… Even if she tried to say to him that he was wrong, he would just keep saying it was his fault.
What could she say to that? You're forgiven? He hadn't done anything wrong, it was all her…
"Please… you don't have to say sorry… I don't think I can handle you saying sorry to me…" She whispered, "I- I'll try harder not to make you worry in the future. I promise."
"Eve…" He shook his head, "You shouldn't need to try harder. It shouldn't cost effort to realize when you are tired. It's these kinds of things that make me realize just how much I've failed in this regard…
"I... understand if you can't take my apology right now. You aren't the type to lay consequence on anyone but yourself... but at the very least, allow me to say this. You have people you can rely on, Eve. You can rely on your co-workers to help you. You can rely on me to help you. So please, let us help you when you need it."
"O-okay…" She spoke after some time, her voice hushed, "I will. I will…"
"Thank you, at least, for taking my words into consideration…" He let out a huff of air, "Now, onto the other thing I wanted to talk to you about…"
A shot of nervousness ran through her, "Other thing…?"
He reached around to the satchel under his wing, opening it up and pulling out a small blue box, "This is for you."
Reaching over, she gingerly plucked the box out of his talons, confusion and trepidation taking seat within her stomach. Slowly, she lifted the golden latch and opened the box.
"... A pin?"
Within the box was a golden pin, shaped in the style of a griffon's feather. The crystal pony placed the box down and pulled the pin out, the light bouncing off it's golden surface and revealing small, dark gems within, small fires coming alight as she rotated it back and forth.
"Do you like it?"
She nearly dropped it from his sudden question, "I love it! It's beautiful... It's just… why?"
"You do not recall? I thought you would, given today is a rather important day for you."
For a moment, emptiness dominated her thoughts. Huh?
But then lightning struck her.
"It's… my birthday…"
Many crystal ponies could no longer recall their birthdays. And she was no exception. Many chose their birthday to be the day Griffonia freed them from a life of torment. Many others chose the day they were adopted into a family.
For her, the day Ravenburg found her and offered her a job under him was that day.
She had been working so much she had forgotten...
"One year already. And hopefully many more years to go." He spoke, "Happy birthday, Eve."
Her vision grew blurry.
No, she wasn't crying… she wasn't. Not at all. Intelligence agents were supposed to be in control of their own emotions, after all. The lights were just too bright for her eyes… yeah, that was it.
She quickly put a hoof to her eyes, wiping away the water causing her vision to swim, "Thank you...Thank you so much…"
"You are welcome," He responded, "I know it isn't much, but I noticed that your mane get in your eyes sometimes when working. I hope it will be useful."
"It's more than enough…" Carefully, she took the pin and slid it through a lock of her mane, locking it in place next to her ear. "How does it look…?"
"It suits you."
She couldn't help but smile at that.
Once again she heard the door to the kitchens open, Johan arriving with two trays on both his wings, "I hope I did not keep either of you waiting too long."
Eve sniffed, rubbing her eyes again as her server set their respective meals in front of them, a daisy sandwich for her, and a series of bite-sized pieces of raw fish over small, white grain. "No, I don't believe you did."
"Ah, wonderful," He directed his usual ever present smile at her before giving one more bow, "I'll leave you two to your meal then. Call me if you need anything."
With that Johan left the two again.
"Sushi, hm?" Ravenburg, muttered, "I've had it before, but I do not believe I've tried this kind… Well, bottom's up."
Eve then witnessed something she was sure she would never see again.
Without any sense of decorum, her boss, her proper, methodical, and ever paranoid boss, took one piece from his tray and tossed it into his mouth, "Hm. Perhaps I should have taken him up on his offer sooner… this is pretty good."
Eve couldn't help but giggle.
There were not many who were privy to the existence of Lord Ravenburg.
Among those special few, the amount that could say they knew him personally could be narrowed down to the talons on one's claw.
And going even further than that, the amount that could say they knew him beyond what he projected to those few on a day to day basis were next to none.
The spymaster of Griffonia was, in essence, a complete mystery. And he preferred to keep it that way.
Whether he was truly a lord or not, whether he was the spymaster or merely a double filling in for the true puppet master behind Griffonia's intelligence, whether he was even gryphon at all; they were questions he was perfectly fine with letting other stew on.
For, in the game of shadows, information was power.
And Lord Ravenburg made information his domain.
He showed others what they wanted to see. Every face, another mask. Every action, calculated. Every move, played out in advance.
But, in that restaurant, Evening Shade couldn't help but find that the Griffon in front of her was just like any other Griffon. Someone who made mistakes, someone who tried their hardest to do what they believed was right.
On some level, Evening Shade thought that, maybe, that was just another face. Just another facade…
But she chose to believe in the Griffon who ate with her that day, the one that came to see her at least once a week, the one that gave her a purpose and a home, that that Griffon was real.
She chose to believe in someone who she thought of as a father, even if he did not see it as such.
And for that reason, she would allow herself to rely on him, and to continue to do her absolute best.
So that's that. There was some stuff I really wanted to include but couldn't find a place for since it didn't really fit. Stuff like: Eve really likes playing with kids since, well, she was a mare under Sombra and I'm sure we all know exactly what happened to women under his rule. She took care of them with some help of others while the whole tent city thing was going on. Was going to include exactly how she recruited her, with her managing to recall everyone's various habits and skill at keeping to the background while she went about helping distribute food during the adoption thing. Evening Shade still hasn't quite hit the field agent status yet since it's only been a year, and is mostly relegated to doing logistic work for other agents, but she really wants to try her hoof at field work, especially with Maretonia showing up. Ravenburg checks up on all his agents rather regularly, so Eve isn't all that special, but he did do something special for her in regards to keeping up with her more often and getting her a home, since he knows crystal ponies need some mental stability, although he did much the same for a few diamond dogs he recruited back when they were integrated. And was planning on Ravenburg still having a book where he keeps all his info on brochard's mysteriously missing spymaster around, since he can't seem to let that one go, but I couldn't see him bringing such a thing out anywhere in this.
Well, have some stuff I want to work on next, but I got noooo clue what to start with. bleh.
A Luncheon between Two Shadows
"Take a day off."
The voice was so sudden that she nearly jumped out of her seat. However, training and discipline had managed to minimize her reaction down to a blink.
Couldn't hear them coming. Smooth voice. Commanding. Extremely familiar tone.
Ah. Lord Ravenburg.
Carefully, she put the paper she had been writing on to the side with her right hoof, upside down on top of a stack of papers, and smoothly turned her head to the source of the voice, "Day off, sir?"
Lord Ravenburg, in his usual complete calm, seemed to stare right through her with narrowed eyes, her every action already accounted for in his vision, "Yes. A day off. You need one. Now."
She turned back towards the desk, noting that she still had less than half a stack to go, "But sir, I have yet to finish-"
"Those papers are not needed until next week. You have time, time that I see you desperately need to take for yourself," He stated, "You may have used makeup to hide the off coloration of the bags under your eyes, but their shape can still be seen at an angle. The sedative you are taking to stop the shaking from overwork is also making your movements slower, which I can see you are compensating for. You've switched hooves because your left one keeps cramping from constant writing and as a side effect from the sedative. Your neck is slightly tilted and your back is too relaxed, the desire to rest affecting your posture.
"I could go on, but I believe I have made my point. Take a day off, Evening Shade. Your position will be filled by Riley."
The desire to speak up and argue how she could still perform at the level required for her work swelled within her, but she quickly squashed it down and shoved it out of her mind, knowing that there was no arguing with Lord Ravenburg, "Yes, sir…"
He nodded, "Eat something before you go home. It would not do for my agents to starve."
With that he turned around and left, the usual sound of footsteps one would expect completely absent for the Spymaster.
Once she was sure he was out of sight, she let out a sigh.
'Of course he would notice,' She mentally reprimanded herself, 'Why wouldn't he notice? He always notices everything… Stupid, stupid Eve...'
She just wanted to work… was that too much to ask? She had already finished most of the identity forgery documentation anyway, all it would have taken was another few hours and she would have been free to go home.
A small voice in Eve's head told her that she just would have tried to get more work for herself rather than resting, but she stamped a mental hoof down on it.
The crystal pony turned back around and flipped the page she had been working on back over, placing it in front of her. It wouldn't hurt to just finish up this page, right…?
She picked up the quill and dipped it in ink, before carefully lining up where she left off and finishing off the word she had left off on, matching it to the slightly messy Maretonian script on a similar sheet at the top of another pile on her desk.
"Still working?"
This time, Evening Shade did a slight jump, turning around as fast as she could and bowing in apology, "I'm sorry sir, I just thought I could finish up this page and-" It was only until she was halfway through her sentence did she finally register the voice in question and look up, seeing a familiar diamond dog in an expensive looking suit before her, a confused expression on his face.
Scar on face, traveling upward from the mouth. Slight limp. Well groomed. Eyepatch over left eye. Confused expression. Fresh Ink on right paw (just finished work). Slight wrinkle at the base of neck tie (wife was not home today to do it for him). Bit of dust on sleeves (working in the store room today).
Riley snuck up on me… great…
"Oh… Uh, I thought you were…"
"Lord Ravenburg?" He finished for her, "He asked for me to take over for you, and now I see why. For one, you'd usually hear anyone that's not the Alpha coming from a mile away. And two, you actually confused my voice for his?"
Eve put a hoof to her face.
"I guess I really am tired…" She let said hoof slide down and shook her head, trying to clear the apparent cobwebs that had taken up residence there, "Maybe he had a point with the whole 'take a break' thing."
"You work too much as is," He commented, looking over her shoulder at the papers on her desk, "I know you feel really grateful to the Alpha and this country, but everyone else can see you push yourself too hard."
"Everyone…?" Was it really that obvious?
"Well, no, but to those who have been here a while? Yes, very obvious."
Eve's head slumped on top of the table, both her hooves covering her eyes. So basically everyone noticed… This was so embarrassing…
"Hey, hey, just take it easy." She felt a paw pat her on the back, "We didn't say anything because we know how much this job means to you, but, honestly, the alpha was right in telling you to take a break."
"But Maretonia-"
"Maretonia will still be there tomorrow, as will we." He interrupted, "We all feel the way you feel, Eve. All of us are putting in our best and then some. But you in particular are going to work yourself to an early grave at this point. So, as I have already finished my work for the day, allow me to take over so you can rest already."
"... Yeah… okay… guess I'm taking a break then…" Eve got up off the chair and let Riley take her place, the latter sinking into the down stuffed fabric, "I suppose I'll be seeing you tomorrow."
"Just remember, take it easy. And no working." He shot her a glance, "Not even a little."
"Fine, fine, no working, jeez…" The small part of her that whispered 'just work from home' quietly was put down before it could gain any traction, "I was just going to go get some food before heading home. Nothing else. Promise."
"Good."
Rolling her eyes, she turned around and began walking toward the exit of the building.
"Oh, and Eve?"
She halted, "Hm?"
Riley lifted the page she had been working on before she got up, "Amazing work as always."
A bit of pride welled up in her chest, "I try."
With that, she turned back around and walked away, thoughts of what to eat on her mind and a slight spring in her step.
Normally, Evening Shade cooked her meals herself.
It was a common practice amongst those in her line of work. Wanted to know someone? Cook for them. Trapped out in the middle of nowhere with little to know supplies? Cook whatever you can find. Don't know if something is poisoned or not? Just make your own meal.
But, today, the crystal pony felt that if she were to go home, she might just wander over to her couch and sleep herself into the next day, thus skipping both lunch and dinner entirely.
That left eating out.
Currently, her choices were: the nearby pub, the small diner across from the pub, or the small, upper class restaurant down the street.
Her usual choice would be the pub. Easy enough to keep one's head down, plenty to drink, lots of small talk all around that she could listen in on…
Pubs really were an intelligence agent's dream~~!
But, it was the middle of the day and she wanted some place quieter, so sadly, that was off the list.
The small diner seemed ideal, then, since it was no doubt less noisy and would let her eat at a price that wouldn't murder her savings.
…. Except she wasn't really in the mood for diner food. Not to mention that, from looking through the window, it seemed surprisingly full today, so that was a no go.
Which left the restaurant down the street.
It was one of the fancy, uppercrust ones that were in vogue these days, going on about blending neighponese and griffonian cuisine and all that. Usually, such a place would require reservations some time in advance and the food would take forever to arrive, not the best mix given her current state, but she'd heard from some ambient chatter on her morning walk arounds that it didn't actually require reservations and the service speed was quick enough to sit down, eat a meal, and leave within 20 minutes.
Well, she didn't really treat herself that often, so using today to try some new food would be nice for a change.
The outside wasn't much to look at, being the same drab stone as the other surrounding buildings with the only defining trait setting it apart being the sign, it being both it neighponese and griffonian script.
But, stepping past the entrance, the inside was a different story, with the walls a deep shade of red with gold highlights reminiscent of the colors of neighpon defining the atmosphere. Similarly, the furnishings had flairs of neighponese aesthetics, the slight curve here and there,the wood grain patterns, and the hanging box lights betraying their origin. Accompanying them was the strong scent of incense, further drawing one into the atmosphere.
She noted there was a distinct lack of clinks from metal striking plates and ambient chatter. Seems they weren't busy today… which was perfectly fine given her current state. It was a bit odd, though, considering she'd heard that it was a popular place for those that could afford it…
Thinking it just a slow day today, Eve slowly walked over the red carpet toward where a bespeckled griffon stood behind a desk, a practiced smile on his face.
Middle aged, sharp features, decent musculature (works out regularly), eyelids more shut than average (habit from squinting), simple glasses, lacks scratches (obtained recently, not well off), posture steady but relaxed (Job training? Noble? Military?) with shoulders pulled back and level (military), feathers well taken care of, clothing lacking anything out of place (neat, organized, definitely military), slight lean to his left side (injury?), tip of a cane at the right corner of the podium (definitely an injury, possibly related to the war), numerous scratch marks on it (definitely old, war related injury more likely)
Remember Eve, it's strange to randomly hug every vetran you come across. Just take it easy, and when you see an opening, thank him politely. Preferably without bawling your eyes out. That's awkward. Don't be awkward.
"Welcome, honored guest, to the Garden of the Sun," He spoke, nodding at her, "My name is Johan, and I will be serving you today. Will you be eating at the bar or taking a table this evening?"
She took a deep breath and shut her eyes. Come on Eve, just go through the motions… "I will be taking a table, please."
Nailed it.
"Very well" He replied, his smile growing slightly wider, "Now, if you would allow me to take you to a prepared table?"
She followed in step behind the griffon, noting his arhythmic steps from the cane strapped to his forearm, replacing a missing talon. Going around the paper screen, which seemed to be set up to separate the entrance from the restaurant proper, they journeying past the bar area, where a large display of various alcohols were on view behind a glass screen, and toward a wide selection of dark wood tables, all of which were empty.
"Slow day today…?" She found herself asking.
"Ah, no," Johan replied to her, walking her over to a table, nearby, "Someone reserved the entire restaurant for this hour. Hence why it is currently empty."
Reserved? Huh? "I didn't see a sign for that… and if the entire restaurant is reserved, why am I allowed to eat here?"
"You are Evening Shade, correct?" She hesitantly nodded, "The Griffon who reserved it gave very explicit instructions to take down the sign for a short time, saying you would arrive within that time frame."
Eve froze for a moment. What? Was this enemy action? Did someone want to learn the secrets of Lord Ravenburg's organization through her? Was there some secret turmoil that they had all missed, working against the empire from the inside?
She forced herself to relax, but mentally plotted out the quickest way out of the restaurant, prepared to run for her life should it come to it, "And who is this mysterious Griffon…?"
"That would be me," A very familiar voice called out behind the two of them.
Middle aged, Lopsided smile, tan feathers, expensive clothes, large, round hat (merchant wear), confident but loose posture, well groomed, pieces of jewelry on talons (sign of status), claws well taken care of, scent of various spices (expensive perfume, frequently used by the merchant class), clothes hide body structure, but appears slim, looking at my attire (looking for signs of wealth…?)
It was a merchant. One with expensive tastes, but a merchant.
Or, at least, that was what the griffon in front of her was trying to project.
Internally, she relaxed. "Percival, don't scare me like that."
He let loose a small chuckle, his grin growing larger, "Never meant for it to be taken that way, my dear."
Outworldly, she smiled back and took a seat where Johan directed them to, but inwardly, she shivered.
She could never get over just how well Lord Ravenburg could disguise himself.
Her every instinct told her that the Griffon before her was just your average merchant. Confidant, aloof, someone looking to make a quick buck. From the way he acted, to the way he spoke, to the way he dressed, all of it was like looking at another griffon entirely.
But she knew well enough who was before her. He did not bother disguising his voice, and, more to the point, it was a disguise she had seen him use before.
Questions ran through her mind. Why was he here? How had he known she'd be here? Why was he in disguise? Why did he clear out the restaurant? She had never seen him eat anything beside his own cooking, so why was he eating here? How did he manage to get here before her while also having the time to put on a disguise?
What was even going on?!
He let out a small chuckle, "There, there, Eve, try not to overthink things. If you must know, a former employee of mine, and thus your senior, decided to open this restaurant some time ago. He has asked me time and time again to stop by, and today, I noted I could do that along with several other tasks on my to-do list all at once, so here I am."
Her eyes drifted over to where the door to the kitchen was still closing behind the Griffon in question. "So he's…?"
"Out of the game. Being a merchant these days is dangerous, after all, and with such an injury…"
She couldn't help but nod… being a 'merchant' was something of a dangerous job. That, she knew personally, "So… how did you know I was going to be… well… here?"
"Being truthful, I didn't." He said, a talon dragging along the surface of the menu in front of him, trying to determine what to pick, "I simply guessed you would prefer this establishment after I suggested you eat. If you did, I thought it would be nice for you to join me for some lunch. If not, I got to finally make good on my promise to eat here. It was a win for me either way."
Oh. Well... that made sense, she supposed. "But why clear out the place…?"
He tossed another smirk in her direction, "Ah ah, you get one for free, Eve. No more than that."
The crystal pony let out a huff and rolled her eyes. Her boss was never one to give out information unless it pertained to a job. So, she would do as taught and try to piece together the clues.
So, he cleared out the restaurant. That took some time an effort… He had probably made the arrangements days before today. That implied, by his own words of wanting to do multiple things at once, that he had noticed her not so 100% ready to go state earlier in the week, but had not brought it up until he had his plans in order.
So, in reality, she had been noticed even earlier than she had initially thought… Her pride in her disguise skills had certainly taken a severe blow today…
But, that wasn't the important bit. Why clear it out…? She brought her own menu closer to herself and idly flipped through it. Well, he always ate privately, so perhaps that was the reason…?
No, that couldn't be it. He went out in disguise today, and there was no purpose to disguising one's self if no one was going to see it. Unless it was actually for after this. But again, why empty the restaurant…?
Was this all a test…?
"It isn't."
Her head flickered up to the not-merchant, eyes widening a little. Had she said that out loud?
"The fish here. It isn't cooked." He replied, "Your hoof has been tapping away at the sushi menu for a while. I thought I would let you know, since I don't believe you have ever tried sushi before. Although, as a Crystal pony, I am not sure it would be quite to your tastes… Unless you happen to be feeling adventurous today?"
She glanced back down, where he hoof was still tapping away at something called Amaebi Nigiri. Oh… She could already feel her cheeks heating up a bit. It seems she had…
But, ignoring her embarrassment, Ravenburg never did anything without it at least accomplishing two other tasks, so he was probably also reading her like a book and responding to her musings too.
So by that logic, it wasn't a test. But he was also probably telling her 'if you're going to think about something, make sure it doesn't reflect in your physical actions,' or something along those lines.
Great. Just great… Not a test, but she was going to be judged anyway. Ugh.
She flipped over the menu and started going down the list again, this time with slightly more mind to what was on the menu (she mentally took note of the daisy salad, marking that off as something to order), and once more tried to puzzle out his reasons.
So, it wasn't a test… then what was it…?
She went over the various rules Lord Ravenburg instilled in all his agents, recalling one in particular. Reasons and motives are, most of the time, incredibly simple. If there is a lack of information pointing otherwise, then the simplest option is usually the correct one.
Going by that line of thought… He was here to talk to her. That was obvious. And the reason he had asked for the restaurant to be empty was to talk to her privately. Outside of the office full of intelligence agents who would no doubt want to listen in.
And since this wasn't a test…
… Her mind came up blank. She couldn't, for the life of her, figure out what he wanted to talk about without anyone else around.
The sound of the back door swinging open alerted her to Johan's return, bringing a silver tray with two glasses of water on it on one wing, "Have you decided on what you wish to eat today?"
Ravenburg responded, keeping both eyes still locked onto her own, "Surprise me."
Two glasses were set on the table, "Very well. And you, miss?"
"I… think I'll just play it safe with a daisy salad."
"Understood. I will return with both your meals shortly." He replied, giving a small bow before retreating back to the kitchen.
Well, now that it seemed they were going to be left alone for a short while… "... So, what did you want to talk to me about…?"
"Couldn't figure it out, hm?" Ravenburg said, his smile falling off his face, "Truthfully, I didn't expect you to, but I had hoped you would… I'm here, Eve, to talk about you."
She felt her stomach sink.
"... Me?"
"Yes. Because, being frank, I am worried about you."
Worried about her? But… "I'm just a little tired sir. I already promised I would go home and go to sleep."
He shook his head and sighed, the tassels on his hat swaying back and forth, "And that's the problem. We had to tell you to do so. You did not do so yourself."
"... I… I understand you and the others feel I push myself too hard, sir," she started, "But I know my limits. I could have kept going today… I would have taken some time off once I knew I couldn't keep going anymore."
Ravenburg put a talon to his face, sighing once again, "And that, Eve, is why I am worried. You know your limits. You know them much too well... Just as well, in fact, as practically every other crystal pony.
"And I am here to tell you that that is not normal. No one should push themselves to their absolute limit. Just because you know at what point you can no longer take another step, does not mean you should continue to do so. It is for that reason I was considering forcing you to take a leave of absence. Temporarily, at least."
Wait, he was…? Her eyes widened, "But sir, I-!"
"I was considering, Eve." Ravenburg cut her off, "Was. But I realize that doing nothing at all would perhaps break you even more than you currently are."
Her gaze turned down toward her glass of water. Broken… The words hurt, cutting away at her heart. He was right, of course. No crystal pony, unless they were under a certain age, managed to completely make it out of that horrible tyrant's clutches unscathed.
"Then… what do you plan to do?" She hesitantly asked, "What do you want me to do?"
"I won't ask anything of you. I already gave you an order today, as your superior, to take the day off. But here, in this restaurant?" He swished a talon, pointing at the surroundings, "I am merely Percival, a Griffon here to eat his lunch. And as such, I can talk to you without needing to put on airs.
"Thus, I will say this. I… am sorry, Eve. Deeply sorry."
Even couldn't help but tilt her head in confusion, "Pardon…? I… don't understand why you would say sorry to me… if anything, I should be saying sorry to you..."
"Because I allowed it. I've seen you work yourself to the bone, work longer than anyone should, many times before in the past. I've encouraged that behavior because I said nothing against it. I had thought it to just be overcompensation…" He let out another sigh, "After all, I gave you a job. A home to live in. I came by several times a week to check up on you, to teach you, to make sure you were doing well adjusting… and I feel I have failed you in this matter. Because, if I had just been a little bit better, this wouldn't even be an issue.
"I took advantage of you, Eve, because you are one of my best agents, when I knew enough was enough. And only now, after seeing you take on ever more work to the point where even your coworkers are noticing something is wrong, do I bother saying anything.
"Thus, I can only say I am sorry… and hope that you will forgive me for pushing you this far."
Eve found herself speechless. He blamed himself for her faults?
He… he couldn't do that. He can't do that. Her failures were her own. He couldn't just take that away from her and blame himself for them!
But… she could see it. In his eyes. He had already made up his mind. No matter what she could say, he wouldn't change his mind on that… Even if she tried to say to him that he was wrong, he would just keep saying it was his fault.
What could she say to that? You're forgiven? He hadn't done anything wrong, it was all her…
"Please… you don't have to say sorry… I don't think I can handle you saying sorry to me…" She whispered, "I- I'll try harder not to make you worry in the future. I promise."
"Eve…" He shook his head, "You shouldn't need to try harder. It shouldn't cost effort to realize when you are tired. It's these kinds of things that make me realize just how much I've failed in this regard…
"I... understand if you can't take my apology right now. You aren't the type to lay consequence on anyone but yourself... but at the very least, allow me to say this. You have people you can rely on, Eve. You can rely on your co-workers to help you. You can rely on me to help you. So please, let us help you when you need it."
"O-okay…" She spoke after some time, her voice hushed, "I will. I will…"
"Thank you, at least, for taking my words into consideration…" He let out a huff of air, "Now, onto the other thing I wanted to talk to you about…"
A shot of nervousness ran through her, "Other thing…?"
He reached around to the satchel under his wing, opening it up and pulling out a small blue box, "This is for you."
Reaching over, she gingerly plucked the box out of his talons, confusion and trepidation taking seat within her stomach. Slowly, she lifted the golden latch and opened the box.
"... A pin?"
Within the box was a golden pin, shaped in the style of a griffon's feather. The crystal pony placed the box down and pulled the pin out, the light bouncing off it's golden surface and revealing small, dark gems within, small fires coming alight as she rotated it back and forth.
"Do you like it?"
She nearly dropped it from his sudden question, "I love it! It's beautiful... It's just… why?"
"You do not recall? I thought you would, given today is a rather important day for you."
For a moment, emptiness dominated her thoughts. Huh?
But then lightning struck her.
"It's… my birthday…"
Many crystal ponies could no longer recall their birthdays. And she was no exception. Many chose their birthday to be the day Griffonia freed them from a life of torment. Many others chose the day they were adopted into a family.
For her, the day Ravenburg found her and offered her a job under him was that day.
She had been working so much she had forgotten...
"One year already. And hopefully many more years to go." He spoke, "Happy birthday, Eve."
Her vision grew blurry.
No, she wasn't crying… she wasn't. Not at all. Intelligence agents were supposed to be in control of their own emotions, after all. The lights were just too bright for her eyes… yeah, that was it.
She quickly put a hoof to her eyes, wiping away the water causing her vision to swim, "Thank you...Thank you so much…"
"You are welcome," He responded, "I know it isn't much, but I noticed that your mane get in your eyes sometimes when working. I hope it will be useful."
"It's more than enough…" Carefully, she took the pin and slid it through a lock of her mane, locking it in place next to her ear. "How does it look…?"
"It suits you."
She couldn't help but smile at that.
Once again she heard the door to the kitchens open, Johan arriving with two trays on both his wings, "I hope I did not keep either of you waiting too long."
Eve sniffed, rubbing her eyes again as her server set their respective meals in front of them, a daisy sandwich for her, and a series of bite-sized pieces of raw fish over small, white grain. "No, I don't believe you did."
"Ah, wonderful," He directed his usual ever present smile at her before giving one more bow, "I'll leave you two to your meal then. Call me if you need anything."
With that Johan left the two again.
"Sushi, hm?" Ravenburg, muttered, "I've had it before, but I do not believe I've tried this kind… Well, bottom's up."
Eve then witnessed something she was sure she would never see again.
Without any sense of decorum, her boss, her proper, methodical, and ever paranoid boss, took one piece from his tray and tossed it into his mouth, "Hm. Perhaps I should have taken him up on his offer sooner… this is pretty good."
Eve couldn't help but giggle.
There were not many who were privy to the existence of Lord Ravenburg.
Among those special few, the amount that could say they knew him personally could be narrowed down to the talons on one's claw.
And going even further than that, the amount that could say they knew him beyond what he projected to those few on a day to day basis were next to none.
The spymaster of Griffonia was, in essence, a complete mystery. And he preferred to keep it that way.
Whether he was truly a lord or not, whether he was the spymaster or merely a double filling in for the true puppet master behind Griffonia's intelligence, whether he was even gryphon at all; they were questions he was perfectly fine with letting other stew on.
For, in the game of shadows, information was power.
And Lord Ravenburg made information his domain.
He showed others what they wanted to see. Every face, another mask. Every action, calculated. Every move, played out in advance.
But, in that restaurant, Evening Shade couldn't help but find that the Griffon in front of her was just like any other Griffon. Someone who made mistakes, someone who tried their hardest to do what they believed was right.
On some level, Evening Shade thought that, maybe, that was just another face. Just another facade…
But she chose to believe in the Griffon who ate with her that day, the one that came to see her at least once a week, the one that gave her a purpose and a home, that that Griffon was real.
She chose to believe in someone who she thought of as a father, even if he did not see it as such.
And for that reason, she would allow herself to rely on him, and to continue to do her absolute best.
So that's that. There was some stuff I really wanted to include but couldn't find a place for since it didn't really fit. Stuff like: Eve really likes playing with kids since, well, she was a mare under Sombra and I'm sure we all know exactly what happened to women under his rule. She took care of them with some help of others while the whole tent city thing was going on. Was going to include exactly how she recruited her, with her managing to recall everyone's various habits and skill at keeping to the background while she went about helping distribute food during the adoption thing. Evening Shade still hasn't quite hit the field agent status yet since it's only been a year, and is mostly relegated to doing logistic work for other agents, but she really wants to try her hoof at field work, especially with Maretonia showing up. Ravenburg checks up on all his agents rather regularly, so Eve isn't all that special, but he did do something special for her in regards to keeping up with her more often and getting her a home, since he knows crystal ponies need some mental stability, although he did much the same for a few diamond dogs he recruited back when they were integrated. And was planning on Ravenburg still having a book where he keeps all his info on brochard's mysteriously missing spymaster around, since he can't seem to let that one go, but I couldn't see him bringing such a thing out anywhere in this.
Well, have some stuff I want to work on next, but I got noooo clue what to start with. bleh.
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Red_Faux
私を終わらせる
- Location
- 'Straya M8
Cannot describe how much I love this. I wanna see more in the same vein. I do like the hint at more bureaucracy related espionage near the start, a convincing false document saying these weapons are allowed to be at this one place right now, or something similar is potentially game-changing.
- Location
- A house
Yo, thanks~~
There's a lot of work that goes into spying in the background, yeah? Paperwork itself is a big one. You can do a lot through gaming the buerocracy. form identity papers to let osmeone walk around a country without notice, to messing around with shipment dates, to making it so a certain date on a document is changed so that, oh, would you look at that, the contract was only for 4 years, so it ended yesterday. who woulda thought?
Can't have your solid snakes without your team feeding you information and setting up some stuff in advance, after all.
There was actually one more thing I wanted to add, but I think I might put that in the future, and thats our good buddies in the science division working with our spies to give them good equipement or stuff that has only been put on paper but not in the testing phase. Don't have a blimp? We made a small, proof of cencept that could carry one griffon, but it's not done yet. Oh, here's our attempt at a miniaturized cannon, we're just calling it the talon cannon so far, but it only has one shot, is innacuracte, and quite loud, so use it wisely. You know, the Q to your james bond, so to speak.
- Location
- Italy
This is genuinely heartwarming
I particularly love How you REALLY get what the mentality of many freed crystal pony would be, the near fanatical devotion and work ethic..
This is probably my favourite part of the omake:
Now I'm honestly wondering what are the arguments the (very few) crystal nationalists use to support their positions, and what the other ponies think about them.
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- Location
- A house
This is genuinely heartwarming
I particularly love How you REALLY get what the mentality of many freed crystal pony would be, the near fanatical devotion and work ethic..
This is probably my favourite part of the omake:
Now I'm honestly wondering what are the arguments the (very few) crystal nationalists use to support their positions, and what the other ponies think about them.
Yeah I like that line too. Didn't include it, since it would have happened after lunch, but she did thank him profusely.
I could see arguments of "we're just trading in one set of chains for another," and "They just want to use us," But given the sheer amount of support we've given them, I can see why such a thing wouldn't really be said out loud. And now that it's rebuilt, pearl can tour it, and hopefully that'll give us some more points in that direction and finally shut them up for good.
On an unrelated note, was listening to the guns, drums, and steel ost while writing this, plus some others.
Doesn't quite fit the tone for what this omake is, but that along with the spy-ish music got me in the mood to write.
- Location
- Hell, or at least the closest place to it
Stop! You violated the law... and my feels. Take my hugs and likes you heart thief. I-Its not like I want you to or anything.
Probably less confrontational. "We should learn to stand for ourselves" and the like. And be slow reformists rather than firebreathing revolutionaries.
- Location
- Hell, or at least the closest place to it
At this point, I can only really see two futures for the Crystal empire, baring Sombras premature return or Cadence becoming the Crystal Princess 2000 years later: Independence but Culturally and diplomatically tied closely together with Griffonia, or Full integration. As it stands, the Crystal Empire is in an odd place culturally and politically. I have no real idea which way they could go.
- Location
- A house
If the whole maretonia deal goes to full in war, then integration is pretty much guarantee. As it is now...? Its probably really likely. Not guarantee, but really likely. They do really love us, after all. Plus a bunch of their population is integrated into the empire, so theres that to deal with as well. Chances are looking pretty high on integration.
Probably something along the lines of not letting Sombra destroy their free spirits and the only way to regain their self respect being standing on their own four hooves. Nothing anti-Gryffonia but with notes of "we can't let Father protect us forever or we'll always have this scar on our psyche" and such.
- Location
- Maryland
Your writing never ceases to amaze me. Great characterization of what would have otherwise been a minor character. Wish I could write like this.
+20 to a roll.