The Marionetter

Tonight Princess Luna’s mind was still in turmoil after the previous meeting with The Marionetter and his friend Melody. She had spent the past two days mulling over a weighty choice and tonight had decided to play out the evening to see where it went.

It was a strange comfort to carry the thoughts she did. This hermit, this Marion, trusted her. It was difficult to understand why he would allow himself to do so after all his time alone. It was a trust that carried her higher in knowing she alone held it.

Sleep had proven to be evasive in the last day with the single thought, one of how this Marion had fit into her life of late; sharing stories of sadness or joy over much spilled tea and savouries. It was a long time she had stared into nothing around her room, every waking moment almost dedicated to end the tide of voices. He was everything she wanted in a friend, all but a pony. While this did not concern her, there was concern over what he did look like underneath to provoke such persecution. There were too many images for her to decide, she had seen many nightmares after all. For now, the pony mask was the only face that she could place to his name.

The meeting with Melody had shown her there were some inner workings she was not aware of for this being. There was a certainty in her mind that tonight she would know his inner workings after her gift. To stifle these thoughts, she needed only to concentrate on the task ahead; to make peace.

In her night now she had failed muster the courage to see the latest performance. It was more comfortable to wait a while on the opposite rooftop to peek in his room, the window shut and the curtains drawn. It weighed heavy to see that.

“I do not think he wants to be disturbed anymore, Princess Luna.” Sir Nightlark was not amused when Luna had recounted the evening, omitting some details of course. “Monster or not, one does not eject The Princess.”

“Twas nothing to be spiteful, Sir.”

“He is a waste of your time.”

“It is far from limited,” she smiled. “I hope that you will not act rashly.”

The soldier tapped his spear and stood at ease. Luna could trust this one to listen.

The insects around her did provide a welcome distraction, landing on all places from hoof to ear. She sought about studying them. Moths were her favourite insect of the night. They had beautiful wings with modest colours. One would have to look closer to appreciate them instead of having a bright pattern waved in their face. One landed on her gift and she blew it gently away.

Luna read the article in the old newspaper she had, a peace offering for her friend. She knew it would make him smile, even if she could not see it. She had wanted to go into his dreams and speak with him, but she had discovered the horrible truth that he did not dream. True as he said, every time she attempted it there was only an engulfing darkness. She would have to be there herself. If that window remained closed however, it would be one more night to wait, and she could wait.

The excited discussion of two ponies leaving the theatre drew her attention. From their gestures and onomatopoeia, it was obvious another performance had gone well. The drawn curtains swayed. Luna’s heart fluttered as they opened to reveal her Marion. He had not noticed, so she held still to watch him.

He took out the platter he always had, freshly laying it with some savouries Melody brought him. A few moments passed by with him straightening up the room with tiny details. Luna had noticed it was indeed cleaner. Some draping sheets were changed but her chair and the countertops had been dusted.

An outburst from Melody forced him back. Luna was shocked as the once gentle voice began tearing at him. She could not make out the words but the sound was most amusing, managing to leave her sniggering at the thought of him being put in his place by such a deceptively strong mare.

Melody came into view at the window again, turning sharply back around and holding her forelegs out for him. Eventually, after much coaxing and glaring, he approached and kneeled to hug her. They patted each other’s backs and released. She gripped the mask, said something to him, hit the thing sharply on the top and trotted out smiling to herself. Luna had great difficulty holding laughter in as she saw him stand up and adjust his wear. He then settled down to the single seater facing out the now open window.

“Into the fray, Princess.”

“Believe me, Sir, I do wish this was one.”

Luna’s good humour faded quickly with the daunting task of what was to come. On one hoof it could end very badly, on the other hoof it could start beautifully. In her experience the only way to truly find out was to spread her wings, push off and glide to him. He saw her approach and stood at attention to receive. She waited at the windows edge and quietly took a deep breath, the strength to enter the room was not there.

“Marion?” she quietly called to him.

“Come in, Princess.” Still the name she hated him to say. She eased herself over.

“I am sorry I offended thee the other night...” He did not answer. “Marion?”

“You know Melody gave me a good talking to. My battle axe of a Melody.”

“She spoke of our discussion yesterday?”

“She told me you had something you wanted to discuss with me. She added I should bow at your hooves and beg your forgiveness for my quote, flank headedness, unquote. You did not offend me, Princess. Truth be told I was worried the spark would hurt you. Truth be told no pony or otherwise has seen my form under this wrapping in a very long time. You see it tells the truth of my life. It is the one thing I cannot hide.”

“Tis alright. I understand you must hold some secrets to you. I wish of you to know I do not hold a single resentment for thee.”

“I am unworthy of that forgiveness.”

He gestured to the double seater then offered the plate and Tea as she sat down. Luna politely refused, far too nervous for anything. “My fears are away now...and you are still my friend?” She looked hopefully to him for his answer as he returned the tray to the table.

“We are still friends of course, Princess.”

“Luna please.” He remained silent to her. “I ask you, not order you, to call me by my name and not my title, The Marionetter.”

“Luna, can I ask your thoughts on a riddle that vexes me so? I thought to benefit from your wisdom.”

“You find me wise? I shall try.”

He sat down and lay back in the single seater, placing his fingers together in contemplation. Luna always loved seeing the strange shapes neatly line up. She had the distinct feeling his eyes narrowed to match his tone. “Why does a ruler of a kingdom, a legend, with legions of friends, choose to waste her valuable time with some monster that does not have enough respect to take off his hat in her presence?”

This question had come up many a time in her own mind. “Legions thou thinks?”

“Am I mistaken?”

“I have but good friends, few friends that I enjoy the company of. What thou sayest is true, I have many friends...but not so many I would quote, choose to waste my time with, unquote.”

“Then why me?”

She held her hoof to her chest and giggled. “Doth thou seek a compliment? Surely tis a jest?!”

“Tis not an answer...”

“Nay, tis not. Thine kindness has intrigued me, thine stories entrapped me, thine story has drawn me to thee. We are alike, I enjoy the company of one to whom I can relate.”

“Are we alike then? I do not remember having wings or a tail.”

She chuckled with the simple remark, and the image this summoned. Returning to calm her chosen words could be spoken clearly. “You are kind but must face a darkness far too dangerous to remain free; you are a soul who finds trouble in adapting to the culture around you; you are feared because of the way you look and the monster others assume you are; you hide from a past that threatens to engulf you every day you wake. You and I are so much alike Marion.” He remained silent in thought at her words, she took the paper bundle to him, savouring the gift she was about to give. “I have a peace offering for thee.” He gently took it from her, handling it delicately seeing its age.

“An old newspaper?”

“I had my friend, Twilight Sparkle, do some searching for it.”

“The new princess? I heard the coronation was wonderful.”

“Indeed it was. Her new rank grants new permissions to the archives. I thought the task of your past would provide direction in the tide she is buried under.” Luna chuckled, but he remained very still. It was simple to conclude his silence. “Nopony knows you are here. This I swear as a trusted friend.”

“Thank… you for practicing discretion.”

“She is most fascinated with something odd that appeared among the research. She was amazed at this oddity’s results.”

“Results?”

Luna squeezed herself in the single seater next to the large figure. He accommodated her by shifting but it was still a tight fit, as she wanted. “What do you see my Marion?”

He spoke nervously,“Griffons now… equals all over Equestria.”

She leaned into him to let her cheek fall on his shoulder. Each breath was loud and full to hear, each word carried clearly as that vibrating neck tickled the top of her head. The fact alone that he would let her hold to him as this should be evidence enough, the fact that her stomach would have some relief from this touch alone. “Read it to me.”

“Alright,” he sighed, “I dislike following news.”

“Read it.” She closed her eyes as her ears eased back.

“Today shall the calendar be marked in Equestrian history as the day Griffons have gained equal status amongst all provinces in Equestria. While this is not new to the Canterlot kingdom and more central regions, it is an achievement of monumental proportions for the outlying townships that have been plagued with intolerance and hostilities over the conflict that ended eons ago. The final town charter forbidding Griffons from owning land, and other such severe restrictions, was redrafted and accepted almost unanimously. Founder of the Freedom Wings Organisation...” he trailed off. Luna giggled as he stared over the words. She could feel his heart beating faster as he read the name over and over again. As he spoke he sounded shocked, “...Luna...is this...?”

Luna nodded and smiled, “She became an activist for the rights of other creatures. Do you know of the movement?”

“Everypony knows of the FWO… but I couldn’t imagine...”

“We gathered clippings and added them. There are more articles from other papers you would surely enjoy. Many of them claim to have had an inspiration from an oddity described as something that I do not find odd. Do you recognise those ponies?”

He flipped through the paper looking at the old photographs, “Some I do...by the moon and sun...” His hands began to shake, releasing the paper to fall into his lap.

Each pony there had been affected by him, those seemingly small acts he performed had influenced her kingdom, and others, in unthinkable ways. New laws, charity organisations, branches of law enforcement. In all kingdoms his small works could be seen.

His breathing shook as a hand pressed up on the neck of the mask, the head sagging down with a congested sniff and shaking body. Luna instinctively reached around and held him close to her, stroking the back of the mask to let him know she was there. He retained his poise, for a while. He pulled her in close and held tightly, letting his relief flow out freely. Luna did not say a word, instead joining him. She could feel the tears run on her coat, it was the sweetest thing she had ever experienced.

She held him for what seemed moments, amazingly half an hour had passed before he calmed once more.

Marion slowly released her and reached to the side to bring them a box of tissues. Without a word he stood up with a slight bow and retreated to the bathroom. In the silence she did hear him expel his stomach. He did have one at least.

Luna placed the fallen paper on the side table after drying her own eyes. She was amazed at that reaction. Never in her wildest dreams dared she think he would be that happy. His tormented soul. How so like her he was.

This Marion...should not exist in her thoughts as he did now. He should not hold her breath as he did, yet he did. The feeling to hold him close was as she had felt upon waking up from the nightmare of banishment. Luna searched but did not understand what had drawn her to this quaint home time again. She did not feel the tension of title as they spoke, the duty of presentation as they sat in company. He was versed in the rules of etiquette, yet those rules were towards a lady, not a princess.

“I said are you alright Luna?”

“Oh!” she was startled, not having heard him approach, “I am fine. The question is; how are you?”

“Luna…” he kneeled before her and rested a hand on her hoof, “I wish I had the words but nothing can express it. Thank you. I am indebted to you for your kindness.” He reached about and hugged her firmly again. He stood high and she was now suspended off the ground with that crushing force squeezing her tenderly. “She lived happily… Thank you,” he whispered, “Thank you.”

Luna was not used to being handled in this manner, but she never wanted him to let go. He was the most damaged, yet tender soul she had met. Not one time did he let the pressures of his existence compel him to harsh action. She was ashamed he had remained hidden for this long.

Her stomach ceased to pang in this embrace. It lifted with joy to know he was unburdened. It soared knowing she was the one who did that. To feel his body against hers quaked that ache, his scent filled her thoughts in its purity. Luna’s mind was made up.

“It is my happiness to help my Marionetter.” He replaced Luna to the ground, to her disappointment. She looked to him, even with the mask he never appeared better, “I know you have carried that for too long a time, you have been alone too long. I know you must be strong to have held on this far without ever knowing. You asked me why I waste my time with you, because it is not a waste.”

He chuckled as she was awkwardly released. “Words to soothe a bruised ego. Perhaps they come from one in kind?”

She seated herself once more and looked to the table with a nod. “Tis so.”

“You are strong to have endured what you have and still seek the comfort of others.” The compliment was made to return her own, but well hidden with thought. The seater shifted as he sat by her with a sigh. Marion was at complete ease now, the startling realisation instilling a bond she could not understand. All their time thus far had been comfortable with the rules he abided by, yet now no action was dictated by her status. The gift Luna bestowed could have done far more than she realised.

“Two bruised and battered monsters.”

“Still alive.” He laughed at her addition.

“I swear you are just what I-” he halted in his thought, the tension creeping back between them. A moment of ease was not something he enjoyed having.

“I understand,” she exonerated him from finishing. “All but what you should seek.” This was a veiled comment she doubted he could pick up on.

“I see Melody has been talking to you.” He leaned back, but that tension remained in the body. “I don’t seek the torment of a partner, Luna.”

“Torment?” It was difficult to mask her indignation.

“Melody has recruited you to her endless song of matchmaking. Please do not send a horde my way,”

“I do not… this time I am lost for your meaning.” Endless song did not carry a good tone. It was possible Luna was not the first pairing the mare had attempted. That thought was laced with offence. Melody had not known him long, and it was never mentioned to her that the tough mare was encouraging a coupling. Luna thought to play the role as he saw, and learn what she could before finding that certain ground.

“I do not seek a mate, yet you and her imagine it so.”

“We worry,” Luna fell into the role quickly with relief. “It is a prejudice against the variety?”

“Variety?”

“Do you seek the feminine half to your kind? Perhaps you are the feminine half,” she teased. “That would make a great deal of sense considering…” she stopped deliberately to torment him.

“Considering…?” he encouraged.

“You claim the place of stallion yet I realise there is no evidence to that. You could be akin to a mare for all I know.”

“So you want me to… prove myself male?”

“What say you of males and females?”

He chuckled a little darkly, the game set before them enticing that banter Luna had grown to love. His conversations were forever interweaved and unnecessarily long. She enjoyed that.

“Males, if they are anything like me, think about sex almost all the time.”

“You, think…!” The shock he coaxed drew a dark laugh and she hit his head with her hoof. The dull thud shook the mask a moment but did not damper his spirits. “All the time? Males are so truly?”

“I think about it when there is time. Work and other world tasks still its hum, but that never goes away.”

“A virile male indeed,” she commented with heated cheeks.

“What of Princess Luna and her partners?” His question sounded sincerely curious. “Or will you hide behind the traditional lady’s secrecy and bat away my-”

“Mares do not think about sex as much.” The answer was far worse than that, but Luna would not admit such truth to even this creature. There were experiences to draw on, tales to tell, but he would be the first to speak. “My first story for yours. Which of your lifetimes craved flesh?” She could not help giggle and was grateful the dim lighting hid her blush.

To speak so abrasively was exactly as the stallion guards did. In truth it was tormenting to sit by his side and not embrace. It would have been more bearable were she to know him suffering in kind.

“My first…” He leaned to the side but Luna leaned further to encourage him to lay against her. He stumbled a hold but ultimately dropped where she wanted. Her hoof’s brush to his shoulder encouraged him to stay there, and he stared out to the ceiling as they spoke.

“How many have you tormented in bed?”

“It had nothing to do with my reservations, Luna.” The tone faded from its humour. “I think about it too much to be healthy, but what else is there when you cannot explore it.”

“Explore with touch and taste?” Luna had to admit this was a little mean, “the supple curve of a flank and shake of that partner’s nether implanted by your own?” Marion crossed his legs and Luna grinned wickedly. A male indeed.

“Females… of my race were truly bewildering creatures. That never changes.” He patted a hand to her shoulder and she did not mind in the least as he subtly brushed it. The flow was not intimate, but contained gratitude to her for encouraging this freedom to speak. Conversations were battlegrounds in their own right.

“Tell me of them.”

“All beautiful in their own right, magnificent and unattainable. In my youth I used all my wealth to afford one night with a truly versed one.”

Luna was stunned. “you mean you paid bit for-”

“It was a lifetime ago, please do not judge me too harshly.”

The next thought voiced itself before she could stop. “You have paid for alike services here?” He shook his head. “That was something I once did.”

“Really?” The mask tilted towards her.

“I used my power to try bed an old soldier. Older at least.” She leaned back on his outstretched arm and threw her forelegs to the ceiling in defeat. “Thighs carved from marble.”

“Try?”

“We failed a coupling because I could not bring myself to do it. There was an absence of the partner and more the conqueror.”

“To bed the princess.” He laughed suddenly, “You are so cruel to kick him out just before-”

“I sought more than a shaft to fill me!” Her snap was of such vulgarity it shocked herself beyond reason. “I am sorry to say this so.”

“I wish I was as you.” He let her slip pass. “Desire and inexperience lead one to be of such idleness in thoughts that the only choice to quell them was to satisfy them.” She did not know what to say. “I bedded my paid mate and it was a night I cannot forget.”

“Oh,” Luna commented feeling oddly foolish for hoping otherwise.

“It was this hollow conquest and nothing remotely satisfying. I think your judgement wise beyond years to choose patience.”

“Yes, patient but unbelievably frustrating.” Luna had to giggle as she spoke. “Hast thou seen the Canterlot guards? Their chiseled flanks are but preparations I do so seek to feed on nightly.” It felt very good to admit that.

“Very elegantly phrased.”

“I am supposed to be regal and poised all the time. It is exhausting to deny that very instinct which is outright taboo these days. When I grew up it was far too free,” she waved her hoof, “then this era sees to pretend it is not even there!”

“I guess they need to balance it.”

“They will. Eventually. In the meantime we must battle our urges to just rip that armour off and…” she smiled sheepishly, “rip those helmets off.” It was a little subtle. Luna had to cross her legs now.

“I practice self indulgence now to quell those urges.”

“As do I.” Luna laughed at her confession, he laughed heartily along. “I should not say that!” she said amused. “That is not for the ears of anypony to hear!” She clamped her hooves in the ears of the mask with an irrepressible smile. “Forget it I say! Luna is boring and has no organs that howl to her!”

“Oh I’m sure,” he chuckled wickedly.

“And you, good sir, have drawn this confession as artfully as your cloud creatures.”

“I think it appropriate for very good friends,” he protested. “We are well acquainted and I am honoured you feel free to speak with me so.” She could not help feeling embarrassed beyond reason. Her cheeks were hot enough to melt that mask of his. Marion was too unknown to confess this and yet he drew it out. There was a trust in him being confidant to that, perhaps the same draw.

“Very good friends,” she mused. “In truth I thought about it but it is difficult to find a mate who wants to be with me. I admit my experience is limited due to the time away yet…”

“Nothing but an honest partner.”

“You do understand. None would bed me honestly though.”

“Spells to change shape?” he mused. “Such magic is beyond my talents but you could try.”

“I once practiced shape shifting yet-”

“They would not be your mate but the disguises.” He understood it unsurprisingly well. Isolation was a norm for Luna, and him. Their equal loss of trusted company had become like minded ground for their friendship.

“Do you linger a gaze as many do?”

“Certainly not!” He sat up, the shoulders rising in what she was certain was his embarrassment.

“I thought us good friends, Marion.” She giggled at his sudden tension. “I admit my eyes strain once in a while to peek at certain… oddities that dangle-”

“That is far too much for anypony to know!”

“Is it not hot in there?” She tapped her head and took a deep taunting breath. “Tis so fresh and cool out here. Join me,” she smirked smugly. Marion watched her sitting upright with the mischievous grin she could not hide. His shoulders eased and he shook his head, audibly breathing a little deeper.

“So utterly despicable.”

“I don’t know what you mean.”

He tilted his head in contemplation. “What difference would my visage make?”

“Nothing,” she answered quickly.

“Then would you get bored of me if you saw?”

Luna did pause to consider, “I like talking to you, a visage does not make a difference. One does imagine it is difficult, and uncomfortable for you to remain in hiding. I think of your comfort, and…” she was struggling, this did not seem the right moment.

“You want to help ease my burden,” he finished for her.

“We have not known each other long, Marion. Despite that I think we understand each other very well. You have lived enough to understand what plagues my thoughts. It is foolish, you could be an enemy or agent, for all I know.”

“But despite all my experience and knowledge, I want to throw away caution to believe she does genuinely care for my well being. I do believe she speaks the truth when she calls me her friend.”

Luna smiled. “Sometimes one does know when they meet somepony special.”

“Indeed they do, and not because she is a princess.” Luna was unable to command her cheeks to cease their blush.

“It is not easy to spend such a long time alone.”

“It gets hard sometimes, but the thought of loved ones keeps us going. I made a promise to my Mentor. If I failed to keep it, I wouldn’t be surprised if he came back just to give me a good sorting out!” To see his mask’s stoicism in contrast to the happiness, was strange.

There was great hesitation in her now, for a doubt came of his own thoughts towards her. That mask made it impossible to truly tell where his eyes lingered, if the smile was genuine, if his relief was as heartfelt as hoped. There could be a manner to resolve that doubt.

“I want to speak of mares with you.” She cursed her abruptness.

“What of them, Luna?” He did not seem to see it, to her relief. “Surely you would be better versed in these matters? I prefer to avoid any and all company.”

Luna tapped her hooves. “Marion, self indulgence leaves much to be desired. I find it difficult to believe you have never taken one to bed.”

“Oh you do?”

“The stallions who guard me cannot go two days without some type of release. Here you expect me to believe your lifestyle is celibate?” Luna tutted with a teasing smile.

“I am no stallion.

“Fair enough.” She straightened herself for the game set out. “Non pony visitors are as bad. Last week a griffon ambassador was caught entertaining himself with a chamber maid.”

“I am no griffon.” His tone thankfully remained mischievous.

“In fact, I could venture your colleagues are exploring such activity this very eve.”

“I am no musician.”

“You are a male. I am fairly certain of this. My question of thee, oh Marionetter, is why thine libido seems to be ever so wrapped up?”

He laughed at her comment and rubbed her shoulder. “Am I to assume yours is not?”

“I!” Luna was shocked. “Infernal cheeks! Twas not my question.” She looked away with what little decorum she could salvage. Marion’s chuckle was playful, not mocking. Even his laughs were sweet.

“I am indeed male and very apologetic to any doubts otherwise.” She looked back to him with a smile. “It is a fair question. To answer… he cleared his throat, I am kept in check by personal morale, survival, and varying circumstances.”

“Yet-”

“Yet, my dear friend, I am not innocent. What I say is true of course, never a mare. I have however explored this world in its reach and found company with creatures-”

“Minotaurs! I knew it!” Luna was beaming but his shoulders held that familiar slump. She brought herself in on an unfortunate error and one she already regretted making.

Marion let out a long sigh. “She was a higher rank in the tribe I once lived with.” He rubbed the chairs arm and sat straighter. “What a minotaur she was. It was no longer than a year my mentor left this world and I happened upon a caravan. There I earned my keep, despite my grotesque form. A comrade, then made, spoke fondly of his conquest amongst the others. Such boasts drew my attentions.”

Luna smiled and allowed herself to ease. Marion was foremost a storyteller.

“At this time I was a runt in the litter. Intellect has little use in a place of skill and strength. In time I was able enough to start earning my keep and then some. In this time I began to feel the first weight of my isolation.”

“You were stranded here.”

He nodded. “I thought I was going home. My prolonged stay and the deception behind it was…heavy to bear.”

“Understandably.”

“In my grief I sought that conquest, a striking creature as sweet as morning dew and coarse as any of the brutes she lay with.”

“Sounds charming.”

“At first, I was too…shy…to umm, say anything. I tired to focus on other things but my imposed celibacy caught her attention. She approached me and we…”

“Met,” Luna offered. He nodded. It was obvious that he was shy about this. “You do not have to speak of her should it leave you-”

“I see no reason to stop,” he chuckled, “thine nose finds my business and is welcomed to stay. Well I must say she was very kind with me. I still visit those nights when I feel the weight of it all bearing down.”

Luna felt slightly crestfallen. This was a versed companion. It was surely her experience that allowed for such a memorable encounter.

“She was a special umm… lover?”

“I…sex, Luna, is so much more than a chance roll. At the time I only sought to satisfy a curiosity but she was…well she made me earn an understanding. It was intimacy and love. I think to this day, at some level, she had enjoyed what we shared.”

“From a chance encounter?”

“For her, it was duty to bring peace to the tormented. I was deeply tormented. Luna… I know what mares must think of males like me, males who would trade for the favour of a lady. I am sorry if you feel degraded but it is an old profession.”

Luna did not shift. She held steady because his experience cut close. She had thought often of soliciting a guard.

“This lady, for she was respectful to me, brought me to her. I answered a call, in a way. She was umm… she liked the way I presented myself.” Marion stroked the chin of the mask. “I did not trim my hair for a year and it grew wildly.”

“So she…lusted after you?” Luna found this story a little erotic. It did not help.

“I think she wanted to bring me peace. It was fairly… obvious I was not at peace.”

Luna smiled. “She sounds very special.”

“This lady was. Which brings us to what happened…”

“Tis never a happy tale with thee.”

“My interest in her, and hers in me, brought us both to a very terrifying place. There is no sad ending for her I feel. We spoke one night for hours and ceased our-”

“The group did not like your new found passion.”

“Hated it. She wanted to stop. We shared something very special, Luna. It was not love but it was a profound bond. Sexually, we did not engage in that much. We did however spend every possible night resting together. Talking, laughing.”

“Such as we are…”

“You are far braver than she, my friend.” At least Luna felt less of a repeat. To think this had already happened, that he was already conquered. It did not dampen her spirits but did make her more nervous.

“I was made to leave once more but I left very quickly. They tried to kill me after six months of befriending each one. It was yet another time of many. The experience hardened my heart to your world.” She could hear the bitterness on his tone. “The scars unseen and seen will be my constant reminder.”

Luna could not restrain herself. “Scars?”

Marion took a digit and traced a line along the mask entirely. Luna did not want to imagine it, the distortion another challenge she would bear. “I am still worried when we speak. I become worried-”

“Nopony is going to drive you out!” she snapped, her mane burning brighter with the mere thought, “Let them try.”

Her sudden ferocity did make him jump. Luna laughed with him as the fright subsided.

“I do trust those words of yours.”

“Good. Then you know I will raise Tartarus should the slightest infraction be brought.”

“Then you would share her fate.” Luna felt her heart pang. She did not want to know this but his slight nod sealed the fate of the one he spoke of fondly. “Not dead. I did not fight and she was spared death.”

“Marion… I am so sorry this has happened.”

“I performed your tale because it caught my passion. I did not wish to endanger you.”

“I am certa-”

“You are strong enough to be a friend, such as Melody is.” He exhaled. “Luna, I will do much worse to prevent that from happening once more. I… I hope you understand what will happen. I will protect my friend this time.”

“To harm others does not bring restitute.”

He slumped. “I know…” He sighed once more and rested his head on the back of the seater. “I will not allow it to come to pass.”

“I understand your fears, my friend. I speak in earnest that my comfort in thee lies heavily with thine weighted shoulders. Whereas this minotaur once sought to tame the tormented heart she met, I seek only company for one as pained as my own.” He tilted his head and gazed on her. Luna hoped he was thinking about that time and the joy instead of the sorrow.

“Sex can be beautiful. I encourage you to seek it once more.”

Once more was not accurate, but Luna would not correct that.

“I am… this will not leave this room… I am afraid of having sex.” Marion’s head turned to her questioningly, this was his shocked face. “It is difficult to talk about.”

“I am here for my friend,” he softly spoke. “It need not be now.”

Luna knew this was the truth, he would not pry. Tonight they had shared so much now she saw no reason to stop.

“when I was still in the days of my youth, a long time ago, I happened upon a debauchery festivity. There were… I really don't wish to describe it please.”

“Luna, you do not have to force yourself to speak of these things. I actually wonder about the weather this eve.”

“The mares did not have a look of joy and since then I always imagined sex to be as brutal as any other fight. I am not scared of stallions but I feel better flying solo.”

He rubbed her shoulder and raised his hand in gesture, “to flying solo.” Luna raised her hoof and bumped his hand in a mock salute of clinking glasses.

“There is no need to fear, but I am scared.”

“Stallions are scared too. Mares are more hostile than other races. They can become wild and kick. I have not tried, mind you, and this speculation comes from what few I have met. Almost, anyway.”

“Yet never have you been curious?”

“Not really, maybe… no. I say no.”

“Do you regard us as so many have regarded you? Are we but hideous monsters to you? Embodiments of your torment.”

“Yes.” Luna was stunned, she forgot her breath, “and no.” She felt him smile seeing her shock. “Each piece I can help makes every last burn, cut, curse, pain, worth it. I see the cruelty you are all capable of. You however...I know your cruelty comes from another place. I see nothing but the kindest heart in two centuries when I look on your smile. While I have met a hoof ful of kind ponies in my time, you are the first who is not afraid, or weary, of my company.”

“I should say the same of you. No being, including my sister, has truly been as welcoming, as at ease. It is strange you do not fear.”

“I will share something with you, Luna, you deserve to know. The only being I truly fear, is myself.” There was a great lifting in her to know this of him. “This form I see sitting here, Nightmare Moon or otherwise, cannot deter from such a true friendship. It is one that refuses to leave me be and gives my breath more life to draw each time.”

The way he spoke to her now...this was not a friend. “Why are you trusting to me? Why not flee as you have before?”

“Times are different now. I also consider it very foolish to flee from you. If for the only reason that you are genuine in your company.”

“The form of Nightmare does truly not terrify you?”

“No.”

Luna smiled at that. “She has long been a stain on my visage.”

“You know it is funny when you think about beauty, Luna. I learned a long time ago what true beauty is. For me there is pretty and beauty. Pretty is outside, beauty is inside.”

Luna could not resist, “So how would you describe me?” she nervously teased. He could have made sport of it, laughed with a jape. The Marionetter did have a way of understanding when Luna wanted a genuine answer no matter how thin she veiled the question.

He stroked the chin of the mask and eyed her. “Persistent, nosy, sweet. Not beautiful though… more… radiant.”

“Am I not beautiful?” she feigned sadness in a dramatic fashion to taunt him.

“I have just added a category prin-Luna sorry.” She giggled at the slip, “I have added one because of you. There is now pretty, beautiful and,” he pointed to her with a single digit, “radiant.”

Luna felt a blush as she looked away. "You embarrass your friend.”

“I mean every word. Your presence brings life to others when they know you, such a gift is...remarkable to witness. Luna it is truly my sincere pleasure to know you.”

“Is this why you do not distance yourself then?”

“Why would I.”

Luna could not help smiling. “Why wouldst thou indeed...”

These words… his sincerity. It made it difficult to understand him. While her mind was made up, it was unsure his was. Her legs felt weak as she stood and slowly turned to face him. Her breath was failing, her eyes unblinking, her ears fully poised, her heart racing. She was certain now this had to be done. Her head looked to his odd shoes as she came closer, eventually having to stop when she could not move forward anymore.

“Is everything alright, Luna? You look a little ill.” He leaned closer to her.

Luna closed her eyes and took the deepest breath she had ever taken in her life. She trembled an exhale, opening her eyes and looking to the lifeless mask wrapping him so tightly.

“It would appear thou hast something on thine muzzle.”

“Oh?” He motioned to rise but she moved between the odd legs to block him. “Umm… please excuse me, Luna. I had better attend to anything unsightly.”

“The thing of which I speak is not unsightly at all, one would describe it as radiant.” She held her breath and pressed her muzzle to the mask’s, “Me.”

They fell back with her hoof against his chest. She held herself there to him, him being completely stunned. He was not breathing, the light shining into the mask revealed his eyes through the holes. They were a darkened jade green, as wide in alarm as hers. There was no going back now.

She brushed her muzzle upwards against his mask’s, letting her lips fall open to press the lacquered black surface. It was torture incarnate. Luna had experienced torment to untold depths of pain but his was the most cumbersome by far. No matter how hard she pressed, to the point where her lips nearly broke, she could not capture that wonderful spark but a breath away.

He was pinned, trying to twist but she held him there with a grab of her free hoof. She wanted to tear it off and savour the contents, but could not force him. He could never be forced to take that one step more. It must be done willingly, nothing else would be acceptable.

There came his hand upon her collar, pushing away with such gradual force. This was the strength of his body, not the power it could wield. Luna fought to hold herself there, the determination to touch that spark overcoming the senses. Everything fell silent as the one she knew for his steady calm, whimpered.

The strength faded with that whimper, it proceeded the shudder of the body and the sharp inhale more than familiar.

“Shh,” she whispered with great effort. “Tis I. Tis Luna.”

An odd sensation stole her concentration, the hands movement along her chest. The way it brushed that much more gently with her easing pressure. She pulled her head back slowly and he followed. The eyes within were closed, the muscles under her loosing all their desire to fight.

Luna was confused how this could still not give him the strength to break free. He enjoyed her torture and apparently his own. It was more than that though, for he was not able to touch with his lips if there were any at all. He could not taste her as she did this prison. Luna would accept this today, to be allowed to come this close to one as tactful as herself. She would savour this moment and make him regret every second he hid from her.

Finally exhaling she closed her eyes to surrender, letting herself taste the mask. It was strange, but the aim was to encourage him out of there. She gently exhaled again, this time forming a stifled moan as her ears dropped and wings unfolded.

She tried harder with another moan turning into a whimper to beckon him, this time letting her chest rest to his. Such a hardened body for a hardened heart; a heart within beating strong and fast.

She gasped at the feel of his hands on her side, gently pressing in. They slid up the back and hooked around her croup to pull closer. The single digits were ticklish in their tenderness. She allowed herself to gently release all strength and fully feel him under.

He did not seem as tall laying back on this large seater. The body was softening as his tension faded. To feel those large arms holding her, nopony could do this. None she knew could hold her like this, massage her coat like this, bring her happiness with touch alone. It was a fantasy, impossible to know truly as long as that breath separated them.

She fought it, but had let it flow. A few shed tears had to come with the outpouring of her heart. He was not fighting her, not the way he held her. She gasped as the hands slid to her sides and pressed in, stroking with more strength to let her feel the tenderness in the muscles fade. The skills he had following each contour with ease was caring. She leaned past the muzzle to firmly press her cheek to the masks, stretching her neck to brush on it with an open mouthed moan. The wings shuddered their call to him, the gentle breeze of feathers passing heated scent.

His hands stopped suddenly, a voice that sounded strangely sad following, “Luna...”

She kept her eyes closed and fell lower to press her lips to the shoulder briefly, this nuisance horn nearly piercing the back of the seater. “Please don’t stop my Marionetter. I beg of thee...do not stop.”

“Luna. I cannot do this. You deserve more than this.” He was pulling himself upwards.

“No, please do not stop, Marion. You do not have to remove your mask, we do not have to do anything but hold to each other, please. It has been so long since I last felt such a tender embrace. Please wouldst thou hold to me, even for one night?” She was now seated on his upper legs, him supporting her sides with those warm hands. Her body was literally aching to hold him close again, the phenomenon disturbing in its pleasure.

“Luna...” he sighed.

She could feel the tears in full force now, how quickly they had turned from ones of joy to such sadness. Her anger at this resistance kept her voice steady and firm. “My Marion, all I ask is your touch. I know it is not prudent, I know tis strange for both of us, but if you feel what I do you must have a truly hardened heart to spurn my simple request.”

He could not answer, only silence. Each moment that passed gripped her painfully. She closed her eyes and pressed the muzzle to the top of his head, hoping he would act as she desired. Her heart sang as the mask turned to the side to rest a cheek to her collar. The arms slid around and he held her firmly, closer to him with those firm forearms fully cradling her. Luna let her forelegs reach and hold his head, a kiss to the top. He inhaled a deep trembled breath and she felt the large body grow under her as his chest stretched.

“What of your duties?”

“I...” She hated him for being right, for pushing her away. The princess of the night had an obligation, a duty, but tonight was the closest she ever came to abandoning it. “Will you wait for me? Will you wait for first light and hold me in my sleep?”

“If you order me to then I must, right?” The light humour was appreciated.

She chuckled. “No more orders, Marion. You must say yes because you want to.”

He hesitated a moment too long for her comfort, a squeeze around her. “I...want to. Yes.”

Luna nearly cried hearing it. “You feel as I?”

“I share what you feel, I want to have someone warm to hold in my sleep for once. Someone I can trust. Having somepony here… willing to suffer that. Even for one night, I want you.”

“Tis not suffering.” It was all she could do to tear herself from him. Luna had to leave now or she would never have the strength to do so. “I shall see you at first light.” Wiping her tears on a nearby cover, she turned from the window to see him bowing in half to her.

“I shall be awaiting you, Highness.”

She spread her wings and had to throw herself out into the cold night. The biting winds and mirky sky did little to settle her anxiety. It was going to happen, should he keep his word. He would, her certainty came with his confession. He would wait for her and they would embrace. Luna would make him suffer until that covering broke, she would savour every piece of him until he could return that wonderful feeling yet to be.

Sir Nightlark was at his post. Luna grew increasingly ashamed as she drew nearer. The gruff guard saluted her landing on the rooftop and remained silent. There was no doubt he had seen that display and Luna hated him for invading her privacy.

“Well?” she snapped.

The guard removed a clean handkerchief for her. She dabbed her eyes and blew her nose. “Princess Luna. I am afraid I musk ask this; why did you two stop?” Luna had to hold her rage back. She was not going to provide some show. “I was ready to leave but now you are here. Does he not return the favour?”

“I do not need to explain myself to thee.” Luna hated how soft Nightlark’s eyes could get. “We wish to share company in bed. I want to do this, Sir. Resting with company.”

“What stopped you just now?” Luna turned to face the window. He was sitting on the single seater with his false face buried in his hands. This was painful for Marion, Luna would respect that and be very gentle when they… she could not even think about it, it hurt that much.

“The Marionetter did,” she sighed.

Nightlark smiled, Luna could swear this soldiers eyes were welling. “That is a gentle colt. I can see why you like to investigate him.”

“The non-pony monster is umm…”

“Princess, I can see what he is to you.”

Luna nodded her gratitude and returned the handkerchief.

“Let us end these chores tonight quickly. I will need you to keep me vigilant.”

“As I shall.” He nodded to Luna and made ready for flight.

She beat her wings down and the two shot up to the night sky. Seeing the time on Canterlot tower she cursed herself. There was a mountain of documents to read, a knighting ceremony for graduates of her guard, members of the griffon kingdom to welcome. She was grateful then for Nightlark. Not only did this pony of the age accept her investigation, he supported it. This held a great deal of promise should events transpire overwhelmingly favourably.

Every time it became too cold that night, she would think of the morning, and what would come.