Courtship in the Lunar Court

by Snow Quill

Rating: everyone
Tags: Princess Luna, Original Character, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Romance, Slice of Life
Length: 3807

Between a journal and loose pages a story is told, a tale of blooming love between two souls.

Ah, it truly is a tale as old as time, 
This version tells of an unicorn and bat whose hearts intertwine. 
Both servants under the same Princess, 
Is it possible the courtship of an attendant and guard could exist?

~~

Written for the Quills and Sofas Bats!2! Speedwrite where it tied for first! Presented here with some editing/expansion and polished into a dual entry for the Poetry Contest and M/M Shipping Contest. Many thanks to the Quills people who read/left comments as well as AuroraDawn and my partner Ember for additional help.

Cover art by me!

Published 2024-10-18 19:00:00 UTC
Last updated 2024-10-18 19:00:00 UTC

Draped in moonlight at first gaze,

Oh dear journal one should think,
That I might already be in bed and deep asleep,
And while the siren call of my covers sound so sweet,
The events of this night I must first relieve.

For in past it was Celestia that I served,
But now to her sister I have been transferred.
A mare once Nightmare yet now reformed,
A long lost princess only one knew to mourn.

With her return and reinstatement,
Came many new faces and arrangements.
My exchange at least was not a trial,
For the night was already when I felt most alive.

Ah but now the story I should start,
Lest I ignore and near break my own heart.
For you see, beloved journal, my closest friend,
Tonight I met a stallion.

He was cast in moonlight while standing guard,
A stoic bat with shoulders broad.
His armor not like the gold that bore day’s might,
His features so strange yet befit one born from night.

With a coat of purple near midnight and mane obsidian,
I am shamed to say I near forgot my mission.
He seemed to have a good head at least,
For after my painfully silent approach he asked me to speak.

I curse my pale coat and hairs of silvery light,
For I’m sure my reddened cheeks were quite the sight.
Alas I had no time to entertain this coltish crush,
So I cleared my throat and asked to see her highness.

In greater detail I explained my presence,
Of a duty I undertook with great reverence.
To be at Luna’s beck and call,
I assured I would find no ask too tall.

The guard nodded with my words and turned to the door,
“My Princess, your new attendant has come to report.”
He nodded again at a quiet reply and stepped to the side.
“Her highness grants entry. Have a blessed night.”

Whatever stuttered reply that left my lips I can’t recall,
Only that my shyness made me stare intensely at the wall.
My hooves finally moved with great effort and swept me past,
As I walked into the chambers and greeted my new Princess.

Luna was a dear to serve and honestly quite sweet,
Yet on the guard out front my thoughts would not leave.
I suppose for now that I can only have faith,
That I may see him more and someday learn his name.

An instant connection between did blaze.

I’ve never been one to keep track of my thoughts,
The idea of writing every night felt like it would be for naught.

Yet after I was returned to my bunk at the close of my shift,
I find my mind wandering, refusing to focus and remaining adrift.

And so now to you, this random scrap I have turned,
To help this guard find peace and hopefully ease my burdens.

Tonight was the first night of my new station,
Of carefully observing and protecting the Night Maiden.

But it was not the only first I felt,
For there was a stallion that approached and made my heart melt.

This city of unicorns has many a nice face,
But this one surpassed all in grace.

He stepped so soft like walking on air,
And humbly held sacred moonlight in his hair.

Whether curse or blessing remains to be seen,
That we might be working within such close proximity.

For now I will take any chance that comes my way,
And tomorrow venture to learn his name.

Names exchanged and freely given,

Nightshade!

From a night of surprises and full of twists,
That I might learn that guard’s name was low on my list.
But to say this knowledge was unwelcome is false to be sure,
I am rather excited to get to know the one who watches the door.

As for my evening spent at Luna’s side,
She asked me for help with her nightly rites.
And so we spent the midnight hours walking,
Replacing flowers in the hallways and quietly talking.

She spoke of memories from an age long past,
Of another castle and her rule that did not last.
She spoke of pain, of sorrow and hatred,
But most of all she spoke of how much she regretted.

The suffering she caused to the world and her followers most loyal,
For condemning her precious thestrals to generations of secrecy and toil.
I comforted her the best that I could,
But to be honest I probably sounded a fool.

The princess however took my words in stride,
With laughter soft and a smile of pride.
“Ah, young one, We do thank thee,
For listening to Us and offering amity.”

“Of course your highness, tis my pleasure,
No one should be made to carry this guilt forever.”
Her smile turned down for a moment at my words,
But after a shake of her head once more it returned.

Soon after came the time for dawn,
And so to her chambers she retired with a yawn.
I left her with a bow and bid her good day,
And outside the door is when the guard asked my name.

Oh how fiery my cheeks were burning,
As I shakily replied and tried to still my yearning.
The guard repeated my name with quiet, cool charm,
Which near made my knees buckle, much to my alarm.

Somehow though I kept my legs and through my lips,
I heard my own voice asking for his.
The stallion pressed a leather wing to his chest with bowed head,
And the name “Nightshade” is what he said.

A decided victory in the mission.

A victorious evening I must say,
For I was able to learn the glory that is his name.

Silver Platter

Ah, but wait, should we dare?

I suppose from the start I should try to begin,
Of my interesting discoveries and questions now swirling within.
For tonight as I once more approached Luna’s door,
Nightshade greeted me and told me that the Princess was still at court.

To be honest at first I was quite stumped,
As Luna and I had yet to explore certain codes of conduct.
I pondered if I should make my way to the throne,
I am only her nighttime attendant, but should I strive to do more?

Nightshade seemed to sense my hesitation,
And swept his wing to indicate the space next to him.
I nodded and moved to the other side of the door,
And then slid down and slumped to the floor.

“I suppose it would be best to sit and wait,
I just hope I am not making a terrible mistake.”
Nightshade snorted in what sounded a laugh,
“Do not worry about facing any wrath.”

Such a simple statement yet spoken with confidence,
It made me feel better that I would indeed face no consequence.
And thus I found that, while stallion of words few,
Nightshade provided an effortless comfort not many could do.

As silence descended I began to wonder,
Whether twas possible his heart felt the same flutter?
Ah such a hopeless romantic you must think me,
But truth be told, anything else I could not pretend to be.

I was tempted then to steal a look,
And tried my best to appear calm and aloof.
But luck was not on my side it seems,
For as soon as I glanced up I met his eyes, bright green.

It was startling, the intensity of his gaze,
I was utterly transfixed, unable to look away.
Never had I been so raptly held,
And I truly began to hope that he might feel what I felt.

Ah, but just as soon as those thoughts began,
Did I begin to see the cracks and flaws in my plan.
I am unsure how it never occurred to me before,
That it might be inappropriate to court a coworker.

Oh! Whatever misery and rising and dashing of hopes was this?
That I might still entertain the thought of coupling bliss.
My mind and heart were, and are still, conflicted so,
Is it possible I might have the best of both worlds?

Perhaps if he did return my fondness,
We might plead our case and be granted kindness.
All of this, of course, could only come to pass,
If I gained courage and vocalize the question I needed to ask.

A forward stallion I have rarely been,
But it was clear I could not rely on my stoic companion.
No, it would have to be me to break the ice,
And so I cleared my throat and to my hooves did rise.

“Nightshade, it’s only been a few nights since we met,
But, if I may ask, would you ever consider dating a stallion?”
I made myself look at him to anxiously await,
Whatever his response was that might seal both our fates.

His expression suddenly turned more watchful,
“I would. I am not that partial.”
His answer, honestly, left something to be desired,
But sadly I did not get a chance to further pry.

For it was then that Luna had come to call,
As I heard my name echoed from down the hall.
Nightshade and I exchanged professional nods,
And back to my duties did I trod.

Do we cross the line that should be walked with care?

The events from tonight have made me more sure,
That I think I would like to pursue Silver.

His question of my dating preference seemed clear,
That he was hoping for a particular answer.

Though with our respective stations I am hesitant,
That a courtship between us would break some precedent.

Perhaps I am getting in too over my head.
Tomorrow I will consult her highness and see what she says.

For there is a saying I feel is especially true,
‘To assume makes an ass out of both me and you’.

Perhaps tis better to enjoy this simple life,

My dear journal, I must ask,
Whether it’s possible into the afterlife I have passed.
For this week has been such an absolute dream,
Yet I doubt even my brain could conjure up a life so serene.

My nights with Luna are hardly a chore,
Though even when I was Celestia’s was rarely a bore.
But there is something truly peaceful with wandering about,
Quietly enjoying the beauty of night with a Princess so devout.

Another thing I’ve come to enjoy,
Has been exchanging pleasantries with Nightshade at the door.
Though conflicted still on where exactly he stands,
It is nice to know, at the very least, we seem to be friends.

Yet just when I thought my life had a set routine,
Luna once again surprised me with an idea unforeseen.
“We see no reason thou should stand to guard an empty room,
Come, accompany Us, Nightshade, and walk with the group.”

Thus began a new kind of night,
With the three of us walking side by side.
I felt so self conscious and awkward at first,
And, if I didn’t know better, I might think Luna did it on purpose.

For while with both her and Nightshade I was friendly,
This new group dynamic was a different beast entirely.
At least my fears were soon put to rest,
As Nightshade provided a nice presence.

I had heard much from Luna about her life,
But thus far from Nightshade I hadn’t had as much time.
I am grateful that it was on this walk I was able to finally learn,
How it was that the bat ponies had also made their return.

Generations ago after the Nightmare’s terror,
The bats had been driven into dark woods and caverns.
It was in these pockets they tried to find peace,
While hoping and praying for their Princess’ release.

It took a millennium for that wish to pass,
When Celestia finally sought them and spoke of her plan.
And though much less than they may have once been,
The thestrals were happy to serve their Night Maiden again.

In silent awe I was held,
For the depth of their dedication made my heart swell.
I looked over to Nightshade with new eyes,
And he simply, humbly, shrugged in reply.

“Whether one year or ten thousand we would have waited,
That I was so lucky to be here right now is an honor greatly appreciated.”
Just as I had Luna also stopped,
As tears filled her eyes and she released a sob.

“Truly honored and blessed are We,
That thou should keep Us such good company.”
And then between us she gave a funny glance,
As if in on some joke that went over my head.

Whatever explanation would not come,
As Luna looked up and said, “Tis time for dawn.”
So back to her chambers did we march,
To bid our good days, separate and depart.

But a chance for more would surely be worth any strife.

Another victory tonight was granted upon me,
As the Night Maiden herself gave me her blessing.

My suspicions and feelings regarding the unicorn she confirmed,
And seemed quite certain that any fondness would be returned.

So there I have it, freedom to court Silver Platter.
My only pause is in how to tackle this precious matter.

Born to the deepest shadows and raised a guard,
Things like love and sweetness were not held in the highest regard.

I know I need to do this right,
As to not give him any fright.

Perhaps tonight once dawn rises again,
I might offer to walk him back to his bed.

A question finally asked and answer enthusiastically given,

Oh sweet stars and all in the heavens above,
Is it truly my turn now to experience love?
I’m sure it’s silly to be thinking that deep this soon,
But I like to believe in fate and soulmates true.

I need to calm myself and steady my mind,
So that I may properly recount the events of tonight.
As the dawn came to end my shift,
Nightshade asked me to wait until he too was dismissed.

I was a little confused but quite curious too,
So I shrugged and replied that wait I would.
As the three of us turned towards the hall to Luna’s room,
She turned to us both and motioned her hoof in a shoo.

“We are quite able to make Our way,
Please, take your leave and enjoy your day.”
Nightshade saluted her with a snap of his hoof,
And then to me, “May I walk back with you?”

I half feared at that point my coat should stay a bright pink,
As even that simple question left me furiously blushing.
I stuttered and stumbled and fumbled over myself,
And the stifled laughter from Luna did not at all help.

Not trusting my voice I managed a nod,
And after a quick bow to Luna I turned down the hall.
I heard Nightshade follow behind,
And within a few steps he had caught up to my side.

The trip to my quarters was fairly short,
And for some reason that saddened my heart.
I suppose it’s because walking together felt like taking a step further,
Beyond the casual friendship of simple coworkers.

I stopped at my door and hesitated,
Whether I should invite him in internally debated.
Before I had decided and could open my lips,
He surprised me by asking, “May I come in?”

I nodded before he even finished the question,
And before I could lose my nerve, opened the door and stepped in.
Nightshade seemed surprised as he took in my room.
“Is this space only for you?”

I flopped on my bed as at my desk he sat down,
“My family have long been servants for the crown.
And since I work through the night,
I was given this room for the lack of natural light.”

Nightshade nodded as he sat and then looked at me.
“Silver, might I speak plainly?”
Instantly trapped again by his piercing gaze,
I could only mumble, “I would have it no other way.”

A fanged smile appeared at my words,
And then he cleared his throat and seemed to steel his own nerves.
“I know little of Equestrian courtship rituals,
The way I was raised leaned much more practical.”

“Yet, when I look at you I feel my heart burn,
And I wonder if this is the ‘love’ I’ve heard about from others.
Princess Luna herself has given her blessing,
So, Silver, would you be interested in dating?”

My eyes widened and my heart beat madly,
As I wondered whether my ears had betrayed me.
I couldn’t believe it had actually happened,
And never would have thought inside my own bedroom!

“Yes! Yes, I would like that a lot,
For a date, did you have any thoughts?”
Nightshade’s smile grew with my answer and his eyes shined,
“I was actually hoping you might be my guide.”

“I haven’t had a chance to explore Canterlot,
And I hoped that you would know some good spots.”
I clapped my hooves and then cooed,
“Of course! I’d be very happy to show you.”

“It’s settled then, when our next nights off align,
I will come around and fetch you for a date divine.”
I giggled like a colt and then grew serious,
“Are you truly sure it would be okay for us to pursue this?”

Nightshade shrugged. “I had the same worries I’ll admit,
But even her highness thinks we will be a good fit.”
The mischief and tease in his tone made me laugh,
“Alright, alright. We probably wouldn’t be the first in the staff.”

He laughed as well, “I should imagine not.
Back in my colony it was quite common.”
I perked up at this new information,
Quickly absorbing every new thing I learned about him.

Nightshade glanced at the clock on the wall,
“Hmm. As much as I would like to continue to talk,
I should probably take my leave,
And let you get some sleep.”

I looked at the clock as well and sighed,
But I could not deny that he was right.
“As much as I hate to say it,
It probably is for the best.”

He stood from the chair and bowed his head,
“Until tomorrow night then.”
He then left with one more smile cast my way,
As I called out after him, “Until the morrow, rest well this day.”

May we together start truly living.

It is remarkable how quickly things can change,
Looking back on my life from even weeks ago feels strange.

I was one of many who followed Celestia here,
To prepare ourselves and Canterlot for the return of her sister.

I’ve always been serious about my training and station,
And it was this dedication that saw me elevated.

But, it was also this that, in some ways, left me behind,
As in relationships I never had the interest or time.

Yet as soon as I looked at Silver that first night,
I was overwhelmed by emotions I couldn’t quite identify.

It feels strange to say that it was love at first sight,
But it does remind me of a legend among my kind.

They say that when a pony is born a star is born with them,
And at some point seeks another and forms a connection.

It is only under the moonlight that ponies can see it true,
And recognize the other their star is bound to.

I can’t say for sure that’s what happened,
But I don’t think it’s the worst explanation.

I suppose that we shall see in time,
If to Silver’s star mine is entwined.

Our star bond held true, know that I will always love you.

Hello again journal, my old friend,
It’s been a few years since in you I’ve written.
It has been nice to revisit these old pages,
And I’m glad I left room for reflection and updating.

Though I’ve recorded my life in many like you,
I think I enjoy most the time you were privy to.
For it held the beautiful start,
Of my dating the stallion who still holds my heart.

Some years have passed since that first meeting,
And still quite strong are our hearts beating.
But there are other interesting things to tell you,
Like of a unicorn filly I once knew.

In an earlier version when under Celestia I had just started,
I had written about her student most faithful and highly regarded.
Ravenous for knowledge with hunger beyond her years,
More often than not a midnight trip to the library would occur.

Over time she grew into a mare quite smart,
Though maybe one too preoccupied with her books and charts.
She left the castle just before the Summer Sun Celebration,
A sort of test I now know was purposely planned.

In the time that’s passed it’s clear she had adventures abound,
As now a princess she has been crowned.
For she was given wings as a reward,
And became Equestria’s newest alicorn.

Now to my job and life this has little effect,
As back to Ponyville she has returned once again.
No, the reason I bring this up is that it made me realize,
Just how old I am getting and wondering what I want next in my life.

I managed to convince Nightshade to move into my room long ago,
And while it is cozy, I think it’d be nice to have a home.
Someplace quiet with beautiful nights,
And perhaps even a wedding, simple yet nice.

Though, we are a few years from those dreams,
As we both still love our jobs and are not ready to make that retreat.
I will continue to hold onto these thoughts,
For I’m sure that time will come much sooner than not.

It has been such a joy to read you again,
And to also take a peek at those old notes from Nightshade.
He’s still pretty stoic and straight to the point,
But much more romantic now than his words might paint.

Thank you again dearest journal of mine,
For being there for me and cataloging this part of my life.
I promise that I will always keep you safe,
And keep you with me until my end of days.

I suppose that I should start with hello,
As to Silver you are an important journal.

I don’t write as much myself anymore,
But I thought that this would be a nice closure.

I think at this point that it’s safe to say,
That a true star bond is what I felt with Silver that first day.

It’s been about a month since he wrote that last page,
But tonight I plan to bring you back up again.

And point him to this page so he may see,
Silver Platter, will you marry me?