A Princess Does Not Fall in Loveby The6thMasterChaptersExeunt stage leftSwear not by the moonLove looks not with the eyes, but with the mindLove sought is good, but giv'n unsought is better, Part One.Love sought is good, but giv'n unsought is better, Part Two.What can be avoided whose end is purposed by the mighty gods?The course of true love never did run smoothA stage where everyone must play a part, and mine is a sad one.Exeunt stage leftPrincess Celestia, the (mostly) absolute ruler of Equestria, liked to imagine that she was unusually talented in the art of manipulation. She disagreed with the idea that covertly manipulating a series of events to exactly how you wanted them was necessarily a bad thing. A parent was expected to guide their child in whatever way might be best for them and the same should be largely true for her methods. She had only the best interests of her subjects at heart and not to use her abilities to anticipate events seemed akin to neglect. Things had gone remarkably neatly for this particular venture, the small gathering of ponies all around her were enjoying themselves without a care in the world. There was no need for manipulation to get them here; ponies tended to answer when she invited them for a private dinner at her palace. The hall they were in was modestly decorated and the food was, as usual, delicious. Celestia hadn't eaten a bite yet though, intending to only after everyone was departed. Guiding events could be a delicate operation at the best of times and having a mouth full of food never seemed to help. That the Elements of Harmony, with a select few friends and family, were the invited guests was not a coincidence but was unlikely to arouse any suspicion either. By now Twilight and her friends were well within Celestia's social circle, as close as any pony ever got. Each element was dear to her in their own special way, even when they could be very loud and unpredictable. "Mpff mmm! Thwis is weally Gwood!" A pony with a very full mouth said in her general direction. "Pinkie Pie, please don't speak with your mouth full." Twilight chided, sounding exasperated. While loud and energetic could be endearing at times, Pinkie's tendency towards the completely random was something Celestia had been forced to factor into her considerations. She'd decided that a simple bribe was in order; a wide selection of exotic cakes and pastries, laid out in the hopes of keeping the Element of Laughter too busy to disrupt the carefully arranged events about to take place. A voice that could probably be shouted down by a mouse caught her attention. "Uhm, Princess Celestia? I was wondering how Philamena is doing." The regal smile came easily, as did the practiced motion of raising her teacup and having a sip. "She is doing very well, Fluttershy. Would you like to see her after dinner? She stays in the aviary." Fluttershy nodded, clearly relieved that she didn't have to ask. "Oh yes. That would be wonderful. I just hope she remembers me." Celestia felt a twinge of internal disappointment that Fluttershy was, in fact, not going to see Philamena tonight. There was a very good reason that she had assembled them all here and it unfortunately did not involve her phoenix. She'd have to find a way to make it up to Fluttershy at a later date. Perhaps she could quietly guide an entire flock of phoenix near Ponyville...though that could possible lead to its burning down on accident. She'd have to weigh the pros and cons. The clock read ten till nine which meant that the messenger was five minutes late. Celestia wondered idly what might have been the cause of the delay. There was no reason to worry just yet, she'd made sure there was at least a forty five minute window before she needed to switch to her back up plan. Using the back up plan would have been disappointing but still would have primarily involved the Elements of Harmony. The final plan, if all else failed, required her involvement; and perhaps Luna for good measure. Celestia seriously doubted it would come to that but this was not a matter that could be left alone. A minute later the door burst open and a pegasus guard, out of breath, bolted up to her. "Princess. Urgent news from the north." He managed between pants, bowing quickly and thrusting out a rolled up piece of parchment. You've certainly grown up, Speed Line. I remember when you'd lead the guard on chases around the palace just for fun and exercise. You were so cute as a foal, especially the first day you were caught and brought before me. Celestia couldn't help but recall particular memories of each of her little ponies she had a special bond with, even when she was pretending to be grim and serious. The message itself didn't have anything she wasn't already aware of. Though she had to admit a moment of surprise at the news that Loki had apparently sided with the giants, and taken charge, against her daughter and the rest. It was either her or Surtr I suppose. He always was rather grim anyway. Glancing up to look over the Elements, she factored in the new information and was still confident that they would be successful. It was time to give the news. "Is something the matter, Princess?" Twilight looked concerned, as did the rest of them, but perhaps more so at the reference to the 'north'. No doubt she'd jumped to the conclusion that the urgent news involved her brother and sister-in-law. Slowly, for the dramatic effect it brought, Celestia rolled up the scroll and nodded. "Yes, Twilight. Ragnarök is here." She looked at her student for a moment, curious if she knew anything about it and saw as blank a look as the rest. "Rang-nah-rak? Beggin yer pardon Princess, but what's that?" Applejack scratched at her head in obvious confusion. "It is the end of the world, Applejack," Celestia began to explain, pausing for the startled gasps. "If you recall from the Hearts Warming Eve celebration, the pony tribes only narrowly avoided being frozen by discovering the importance of harmony together. There was, however, another group of very powerful beings known as the Æsir and the Jötunn who lived far in the north long ago. While many of them resemble ponies they are more similar to myself and Princess Luna." This was the absolute shortest way Celestia knew to explain an enormous amount of history but it had managed to catch the entire rooms attention at least. After a moment of pause, to allow the information and unfamiliar words to sink in, she continued. "These two groups came to hate one another and, on the eve of a battle that would have destroyed the world, were frozen completely by the Wendigos. Now, after all this time, they have unfrozen and are still intent on fighting." "Talk about stubborn." Rarity said aloud, apparently unimpressed with both the Æsir and Jötunn. Twilight swallowed, clearly nervous, no doubt she knew that this would be an incredibly important mission. "What can we do, Princess?" "You must go north to Asgard, where both groups live, and stop them from fighting. Take the Elements with you but I have a feeling that you may be able to solve this problem with your words and your knowledge of the magic of friendship. The leader of the Jötunn is a shape shifter named Loki and Slepinir is a large mare with eight legs, leader of the Æsir. Be careful when dealing with either of them." "No sweat, Princess, we'll show these ponies with weird names and too many legs whose boss." Rainbow Dash hopped up onto the table and looked the picture of confidence. Celestia had a feeling that, out of all of the Elements, the Asgardians were going to get along best with her. "We'll do our best, Princess!" Twilight said with completely confidence and enthusiasm, standing up along with the rest of the Elements. After that she quickly gave the directions and final warnings before they went rushing out of the dining hall towards the train station. The room was now far more empty than it had been, but not completely. "What are we suppose to do now?" The owner of that voice was a young, orange, pegasus filly who hadn't yet earned her cutiemark. Scootaloo was frowning, sitting over at a separate table and looking at two others. "Maybe there's stuff in the palace we could get our cutiemarks for. Twilight said she learned a lot of magic here, maybe that could be our special talent!" Sweetie Belle's voice had a tendency to crack at increasingly adorable moments when she was excited and did so on 'that'. "Uhm, Sweetie Belle? Scootaloo and ah ain't able to do unicorn magic." Applebloom shot the suggestion down quickly. Sweetie Belle's face fell. "Oh, right." "Ahem." Celestia spoke up at last, catching the attention of the Cutiemark Crusaders. "If you were interested in finding your special talents I know that Princess Luna would be very interested in helping you find them. Of course, she is sleeping in her chambers on the other end of the palace. I'm sure she wouldn't mind if you paid her a visit. It wouldn't be a problem to allow the three of you to stay until Twilight and the others get back. I will also take the liberty of writing letters to your guardians asking permission." The three took to the idea quickly, but it was Scootaloo who spoke first. "Yeah! We should ask Princess Luna! She's really cool, guys, one time she even helped me with bad dreams." "I bet she has lots of ideas on cutiemarks. She's like a million years old!" Sweetie Belle had hopped from her seat, already keyed up to the idea. "Lets go girls!" Applebloom pointed towards the door. "Cutiemark Crusader Princess wakers! Yay!" they all shouted, in incredibly high volume, in unison. Her two plans complete; Celestia was left in the hall with only her servants and no further issues demanding her attention. Smiling, she shut her eyes and levitated her tea for another sip. She had no fear for Twilight and her friends, they were more than equipped by now to settle the dispute and were unlikely to be in much danger. Less dangerous, but far more amusing, was her plan for Luna. Her sister had been emerging from her shell just a little too slowly for her tastes. The incredibly energetic and endearing (if occasionally exhausting to deal with) CMC would be a much needed form of encouragement. Celestia had her own plans for the evening. A romance story she hadn't read in over three hundred years was waiting in her private study. She'd forgotten almost all of the important plot points by now; it would be like reading it for the first time again. Yes, a quiet evening enjoying a book and the satisfaction of well executed plans for the benefit of all involved sounded like a marvelous thing to her. Though she had to eat dinner fir-. "Sir, would you like a refill of your drink?" "Eeeyup." Her eyes shot open in complete surprise to hear a deep, vaguely familiar, male voice. What Celestia saw was one of her butlers filling the glass of a crimson red earth pony colt, no, a stallion. Compared to most ponies he was very large, with a straw yellow mane and a cutiemark of a green apple missing a piece. He was sitting by himself at the table where the Cutiemark Crusaders had been, still eating without so much as looking her way. It only took a second after her initial shock for her memory to provide pertinent information. 'Big' Macintosh, Applejack's older brother.... And? And nothing else, apparently. Celestia was drawing a complete blank in what she knew concerning this particular pony. She'd known he was there, had seen his name on the list of guests even, but had somehow completely overlooked his existence up until now. That was an embarrassment to her on a personal level, she'd went and invited ten ponies and conspired to find things for nine of them to do. Now there was just one left, alone, in a unfamiliar place and with nothing to occupy his time. Except Big Macintosh didn't seem to particularly to mind that he'd been essentially deserted. That alone was throwing Celestia for a loop, leaving her feeling awkward and unsure about what to do. Awkward and unsure of what to do were two things that Princess Celestia had very little experience in feeling. He hadn't asked 'what about me?' or so much as tried to get her attention, either. Not only had he not done any of that, but he was just sitting there, eating. She couldn't pick up anything about him through quiet observation. Celestia didn't know every single one of her subjects -there were far to many for that- but ponies had a habit of communicating a great deal about themselves through their everyday actions and body language. Even timid ponies like Fluttershy could quickly open up about themselves, telling you everything you needed to know about who they were and what they cared about. Celestia had overtime learned to quickly take in information about ponies she met or knew about. From first introductions to gossip, there were a lot of ways to learn about others. Celestia had read countless letters from Twilight and her friends, many of which would mention Big Mac, but in that whole time she couldn't recall anything about him that would indicate his personality. Wait. She did know more about him than she'd initially thought. He was quiet, very quiet, and a hard worker. He divided up the responsibility of running Sweet Apple Acres with his sister. But none of that told Celestia anything about him that she could use for this situation. She simply didn't have a plan at the moment, had nothing prepared. Striking up a conversation about apples -about the only topic she was sure Big Mac might want to even speak about- would be out of place and moreover only last a little bit, not for the long term. Celestia couldn't just leave the room, either. Big Mac was a guest of hers and she had something of a responsibility to see that he was entertained. Nothing was coming to her, though, and she continued to sit, thinking. She'd even been looking at him while she considered her next course of action, enough to catch his attention and have him return her look. Realizing that she'd been caught staring, Celestia blushed, something she probably hadn't done in decades. Big Mac didn't comment, looking at her curiously and apparently not inclined to say anything at all while they traded stares from across the room. He did take his cup and drank from it, though still looking her way while waiting. This was a staring contest that Celestia could not possibly win, since she'd started it. You're being silly. Just talk to him already, find out what he might want or need. "Ahem, Macintosh. Are you...enjoying your dinner?" That sounded lame to her and she winced internally. Since when did she make small talk with other ponies? She'd managed to cultivate an image of a near deity like persona; every word steeped in wisdom. Goddess' did not usually spend time talking about the weather...not that she actually was a goddess, she chided herself. She really was still being silly, her carefully managed train of thought was a mess at the moment while thinking quickly on her hooves. Macintosh Apple didn't jump at her voice, nor did he even respond right away with words. He glanced off to the side, seemed to be clearly thinking about her question and then simply shrugged. "It's been alright, Princess. Shame about the bad news though, good thing Applejack an' her friends were here to get the news as soon as you got it." Had he seen right through her plan that easily? No, he'd said that with a straight face and without a hint that he found anything suspicious. "I have every confidence that your sister and her friends will be safe," she said automatically. Big Mac nodded at that. "You probably wouldn't have sent them off alone iff'n it wasn't safe, right?" "Of...course." Celestia said slowly, chewing on her lower lip in thought. So far she hadn't learned anything about the stallion that would help figure out what he might want to do for the week or so until the Elements returned. Another silence hung itself quickly in the dining hall, Big Macintosh didn't seem inclined to add anything more to the limited conversation and quickly went back to his food. Celestia couldn't help but feel vaguely annoyed that the stallion wasn't cooperating with her. The least he could do is volunteer something, anything, that would set him on his way. "Are you planning on staying, by the way? You are more than welcome to do so." she asked, trying again for conversation. It wasn't quite as lame as the first attempt, at least. Much like before, Mac didn't answer immediately, instead he set his drink down and turned to look at her for a moment. "Well Applebloom'll want to stay with her friends, so ah might as well. 'ppreciate the hospitality, Princess." "You're very welcome." Celestia put on a strained smile, finally deciding to just drive at the 'problem' she was having. "If you become bored you are free to explore the Palace at your leisure. I can find a pony to help escort you around so you don't get lo-" Big Macintosh cut her off with a small wave of his and a shake of his head. "Ain't no need to go that far, Princess. I'll find somethin' to occupy my time. Ah know you can be right busy, no need to worry on my account." Oh. Well that certainly solved the issue neatly for her. Celestia certainly couldn't be faulted as a poor host now, not when Big Mac had went and said he would be fine on his own. Still it gnawed at her that she'd come to no real conclusions about Big Mac. She wasn't above dismissing boring ponies, rude ones or even stupid ones as not generally worth taking much time to think about. So far Big Mac hadn't been any of those things and therefore should be worthy of some attention. But attention didn't seem to even be something he wanted, not even from her. That a pony could act so nonchalant in her presence was something Celestia could not easily ignore. An idea came to her, a possible consolation prize at failing to figure him out. "Big Macintosh, if you're not already done with your food you're welcome to join me at my table." There, now Celestia could assure herself that she'd done everything possible. Things could proceed as she'd wanted them to and she would remember to double check her guest lists in the future. Some of his body language was becoming more familiar to her, at least, his relaxed shrug seemed to be his way of showing agreement. He lifted his plate with his mouth and made his way over. The table was long and narrow, with a set of three seats on both her right and left. There was a moment of confusion for Celestia when, instead of circling around, Big Mac deposited his plate a little in front of her own. Apparently Big Mac was inclined to sit directly across from her, for he went back for another chair and dragged it over. This is a little more...intimate than I had thought it would be. Celestia couldn't help but think to herself. A large dining room, just the right size for a party of eleven or so, now seemed empty just holding two ponies; even ones as big as her and Big Macintosh. There was a touch of presumption in Macintosh putting his seat right in front of hers -that he thought them both equal-, but there was no apparent ulterior motive here as far as she could tell. He might very well have just thought they were socially equal, certainly a novel idea to Celestia. There was silence between them, now for a third time. Big Macintosh hadn't begun eating, either. Instead, he'd looked at her untouched plate of food and then up to her face. There was a wholly unfamiliar sensation, similar to tension, in her chest as he looked directly at her. Celestia was not use to being analyzed silently and she couldn't begin to guess as to what he was thinking. She refused, however, to ask him or otherwise break the silence again. The large earth pony couldn't know how much he'd tied his Princess in knots over how to deal with him, but Celestia was no longer interested in 'playing ball'. If only for the sake of her own internal system, that had worked quite nicely these many centuries, she would simply regard Big Macintosh as an unreadable anomaly. Of course he surprised her by being the one to speak up. "Princess, are you gonna eat? You don't have to wait on my account." "Oh yes...you're right, I'd forgotten." She really had completely forgotten about her food, or how hungry she'd gotten. Once she tried to bend her mind to what to do she tended to be lost in thought, focused utterly on the task at hand. Big Mac simply nodded and started to finish off his meal while Celestia mechanically followed suit with hers. Celestia felt caught, exposed even, all by a quiet farm pony. Most of all, however, she felt utterly sheepish. Big Macintosh wasn't an enemy, and there was no need to think of a simple dinner like a complex game of chess. It showed just how much she'd fallen into a routine of plans and subtle maneuvering that a comparatively minor surprise, and awkward social situation, could disrupt her so badly. A huge fire breathing dragon could have burst into the room and she would have handled it better than she'd done over the last few minutes. At least with fire breathing dragons she knew how to respond. Princess Celestia, the (mostly) absolute ruler of Equestria, liked to imagine that she was unusually talented in the art of manipulation. However she was now faced with her possible match. For all that she knew about ponies and how they acted it appeared that, at least for ponies named Big Macintosh, she didn't know the first thing about talking to them. They ate together quietly for a little while before Macintosh excused himself politely. Try as Celestia might, however, she could not so readily forget the unusual end she'd just had to her day. She consoled herself that at least now it was over. Her plan of teasing Luna a few hours from now, once the Cutemark Crusaders had had a chance to make their proper introductions, seemed a small thing to her now. This had been a distraction. There were more important things she should have been thinking of. Surely she was doing a disservice to Twilight and her friends, all of Equestria perhaps, if she was worrying about whether she could talk casually to another pony or not. Author's Note Marvel and be amazed as I try and turn the crack into the plausible! This cutesy idea occurred to me late one evening as a challenge to the notion that Princess Celestia, by virtue of being older than dirt, was necessarily Don Juan when dealing with ponies. There's a lot of pressure when you're an immortal god-ruler of an entire country/continent/world and I can't think Celestia would get a lot of time for a social life. The mane 6 going off on what sounds like a totally awesome season open/closing adventure is sadly not the focus of the story. 'Exeunt stage left' are stage directions you might see in a play. The curtains close and then open, the scene changes completely regardless of who was left behind. Celestia would likely imagine herself as one of the characters who merely set the plot going, then fade out entirely while others complete the drama. Basically how she's been in the show actually. Except for Big Mac being there things would have gone exactly as planned. Be sure to tell me what you think! Swear not by the moonPrincess Luna was not, as some might assume, a nocturnal creature. She was a pony after all and her natural inclination was towards the daytime. No amount of magic in the world was going to change her circadian rhythm. This was especially true if Luna still wanted to keep something resembling a social life during decent waking hours. Long ago she'd kept a purely night-time schedule. Which had, along with the loneliness and feeling unappreciated, left her usually irritable and grumpy. Things were certainly a lot better now. For one thing ponies seemed to have discovered reasons for staying up far late into the night, much to Luna's delight. There was something called a 'night life' that occasionally kept the city beneath the palace alive in a strange, deep, musical rhythm. Luna had not quite worked up the courage to personally investigate, but it appeared to involve congregating in buildings and dancing for hours. However the day, or night in this case, was not long in coming when she would descend on Canterlot and 'hit the club'. More wholesome was stargazing; the invention of the telescope had occurred within the interim of her banishment and was an enormous improvement over the naked eye. It was a great source of comfort that, every evening, thousands of ponies were admiring her night sky at any one time. Celestia had even suggested Luna organize some sort of convention for enthusiasts. Luna had loved the idea, right up until she realized she knew as much about conventions as she did night clubs. These concerns, and the slow acclimation to the modern day, were distant at the moment for the Princess of the Moon. She was asleep and had been for a number of hours. While she couldn't magically alter her body's inclination towards the day there were still some methods that Luna had found worked fairly well. Casting a sleeping spell on oneself was generally considered unhealthy, especially if you formed a dependency for it, but Luna was careful and certainly needed sleep for her odd schedule. Rather than stay asleep wholly in the day or night, she instead chose to sleep for about four hours before and after her traditional rule under the Moon. Here the sleep spell was absolutely necessary for it had the benefit of putting the user in a deep, restful sleep. It wasn't perfect of course, but partially thanks to her domain over dreams she was able to cheat four hours of sleep into the effect of six or more. The downside to this option was that she was essentially in a coma while the spell lasted. Occasional disasters and invasions had occurred while she was asleep and unable to wake, though all thankfully solved before she would have had to intervene. The final problem to artificial sleep spells was that the user was extraordinarily disoriented upon waking. Luna rolled in her bed, her starry night mane brushing continuously against a blanket that had migrated next to her head. The spell was fading away and with it came a return to consciousness, but thankfully a gradual one for her. Soon would be the time to raise the Moon and dot the sky with a million individual points of light. There was also the small matter of walking in the dreams of some of her subjects, those having nightmares or in need of council. It certainly seemed, in Luna's half asleep state, that tonight would be a comfortable repetition of previous nights. A long, drawn in, breath was slowly exhaled in contentment as she shifted to remove weight off of one of her wings. She could even almost feel control of her limbs now but held back from embracing full wakefulness, there was no hurry to do so. All of this changed when there was a cacophonous noise of clashing metal outside her room. Her chamber door was rocketed open, slamming hard against the stone walls and probably denting the wood...and possibly even the wall behind it. That was a bad enough shock, but with the door came three distinct, impossibly loud, voices all shouting at her. There was only one possible explanation for Luna: an assassination attempt. Her attackers were clearly fiends from some unspeakable plane of evil, for their cry of attack was unlike anything her groggy mind could process. "PrincessLuna!Ohmanitsogoodtoseeyou-" "PrincessCelestiasaidwecouldseeyouand-" "Ohoh!Isthisyourcrown?Doesithaveanyspecial-" "Doyourememberme?I'mScootaloofromthedream-" Her instinct was to give battle but, nestled in her sheets and still under the aftereffects of her magic, was far from prepared to do so. Still, she gave it her best try. Her best try first consisted of falling sideways out of bed, sheets wrapped around her and thumping hard onto the stone. It would only take a few seconds and she'd be upright on her hooves and ready to engage her attackers. First though she needed magic. Her horn was alight and, despite her groggy state, could quickly cast the first of many defensive protections. Starswirl's Cloak of Safety! The Barrier of Impenetrable Shielding! Time Stop's Time Stop Prevention Spell! Stone Coat! There were dozens of other spells that required no thought to cast. But amongst the impressive technicolor light show, a twinge of distant recognition of her attackers was enough to give her pause. Luna had also been looking for the first salvo of arrows or fireballs by now, the assasins were clearly a few seconds behind and perhaps not as skilled as she'd first thought. Still, the final thing to do was give call for battle. "You shall not find us so easy prey, dastardly foe! The Princess of the Night has not grown soft in her exile and shall...shall...." Her three assassins had suddenly turned themselves into a trio of adorable fillies. Not prepared for murder, but staring openly at their princess. Obviously they were unaware of just how close they'd come to being blasted into fine powder, for they were only standing there on her bed. She knew that she hardly appeared regal at the moment; upright but with dark blue blankets wrapped around her body and one draped along her face. Not only that, but the protective magic had given the normally dark blue Alicorn a prismatic appearance; every few seconds a new color, or many, shining from her. She stared, with utter incomprehension, at the three. The trio were also staring, though in a more confused way, right back at her. The first faint stirrings of recognition flared into total recall when she put names, places and context to the three young ponies. Applebloom, sister of Applejack; Sweetie Belle, sister of Rarity; Scootaloo, the filly whose dream she had walked in and friend to the other two. Recognition did not improve Luna's understanding of the situation even a little. Thankfully for all concerned Applebloom spoke up. "Er, are ya alright, Princess?" was her twanged accent. Luna couldn't recall it existing before her exile. But still, that question did more than anything to remind Luna that she should probably go on the long road towards recovery of her faculties. Fortunately there were only these three fillies who had born witness to this momentary indiscretion. The slight drain on her magical reserves reminded her to dissipate her enchantments, the magic gone with hardly a second thought. "Yes, we are...alright," she said slowly, casting the blankets off herself and clearing her throat. "You simply surprised us whilst we...I....was sleeping. For a moment I had believed you were attackers." "Oh." That was Scootaloo, perhaps realizing the depth of their trespass for the first time. "We're sorry Princess Luna. We thought you'd be up doing princess things." "You're not going to throw us in the dungeon are you?" Sweetie Belle stuck her lower lip out, certainly appearing repentant enough. "Princess Celestia said it was okay to come see you." That certainly caught Luna's attention. "Our Sister sent you?" if the Cutiemark Crusaders had been more observant they would have noticed how quickly Luna's eyes narrowed and her tone became just a touch more interested in hearing further. Thinking they had a surefire way out of trouble the three fillies nodded vigorously in perfect unison. "We were at dinner, and it was really boring," Scootaloo began. "-but then a guard burst in and gave the Princess a note," Applebloom added. "Princess Celestia said something about a 'rag and rock' and that it was really bad," Sweetie Belle, not wanting to be left out, had supplied the last part. "It was Ragnarook," Scootaloo commented, looking over at Sweetie. Applebloom shook her head. "Nuhuh, it was Rag-hana-rock You didn't hear it 'cause you got rocks in your ears." "Do not! It was Rag-na-rook. I heard the princess say it." By this time Luna was staring at the three, but not because of their argument. "Ragnarök is nigh? We must prepare for battle!" Already she was hoping that her sister had saved her ancient battle helmet and spear. Celestia may have been more peaceable, after centuries without conflict, but Luna still recalled she owed Gulltoppr a good kick in the face; the blond jerk. "Thats it!" Oblivious to Luna's mental preparation for the potential end of the world, the three fillies had continued their argument until she'd supplied the proper pronunciation. Scootaloo, who'd been the closest, looked rather smug at the other two. "I told you that was how you said it." Applebloom stuck out her tongue at her friend and then added. "Princess Celestia sent Applejack, Twilight and the rest off to go stop it. Then it was just us and my brother, so then the Princess told us we could go visit you." "Then we ran up here and woke you up! We thought you could help us get our cutiemarks." Sweetie Belle gave a big, wide smile. The other two had quickly joined Sweetie at her sides, putting on their best looks of supplication. "Can you help us find out our special talent?" They all asked in unison. Once again, Luna wasn't quite listening. She was internally seething at her sister. Not because of the crusaders but because she'd been, again, cut out of important events. The Elements of Harmony had proven to be up to the task of solving most any crises, but that did not help her annoyance. Most infuriating was that Celestia was almost, inevitably, proven right, which made arguing with her older sister that much more difficult. This was the Sombra situation all over again. Luna had wanted to go far north and blast the evil unicorn back into oblivion, like they'd done in the days of old. That Ragnarök was that much more personal made being not consulted all the more aggravating. After a few seconds Luna let out a sigh, letting go of her anger. Settling old scores were far less important compared to averting catastrophe. It would just be bothersome to deal with that constant, faintly smug, superior attitude that always pervaded around her sister whenever her plans worked out perfec-. "Your brother is here?" Luna asked, suddenly recalling a particular detail of Applebloom's story. She remembered that there was indeed an older sibling of the Element of Honesty, though they'd hardly spoken before. Applebloom nodded. "Big Macintosh was gonna stay with Granny Smith, but then we got a letter from my uncle Applestrudel wantin her to come visit. Big Mac was about to stay at the farm all by his lonesome till Applejack told him he had to come along with us." Now Luna was intrigued for an entirely different reason, even the end of the world could possibly wait given this revelation. "Hopefully he does not become...bored while he is by himself," she commented after a few seconds of consideration. Internally her mind was abuzz, trying to work out how the new variable fit into the puzzle. The Elements for Ragnarök, these three for her, and Big Macintosh for....what? The trio of fillies couldn't follow her developing train of thought and so collectively looked at her in confusion. "Big Macintosh ain't really the type to get bored. He likes to spend lots of time out in the fields workin'. Applejack says he takes after our pa that way," Applebloom answered her musing, looking at her friends for support. Sweetie Belle had been wandering around the room, clearly scoping out the various ancient artifacts of a millennium ago. "Besides, he's got Princess Celestia to keep him company," was her offhand comment while inching towards a vase. "I suppose that is true enough..." Luna was already anticipating the need to protect her property. That particular piece of pottery was likely worth more than Sweetie Belle could make in a lifetime. But lifting it up and out of the way seemed less important when she wound what had been said back through her head. Had Celestia really conspired to be alone all night with a stallion? That thought seemed almost absurd. Her pure, perfect, older sister? But that was certainly how it appeared. Luna was aware of some of the rumors about the proclivities of the Royal Alicorn Sisters. Embarrassingly they seemed to have been caused in part by Luna's own indiscretions before her fall into darkness. (Relative) adolescence and a light schedule at night had meant a half dozen would-be suitors of various seriousness over decades. Now they were just persistent, old jokes that had transferred onto Celestia. It was likely not helped by most of the Royal Guard appearing to be composed of nothing but buff, handsome stallions. Now that Luna thought about it there was nothing necessarily wrong with her sister wanting companionship. It was even something to be applauded, though Luna knew nothing at all about this 'Big Macintosh'. Surely he couldn't be so bad if Celly liked him. The most amusing thing was that her older sister had made such a glaring mistake in letting these three know. Her discrete little plan unraveled by a filly. Finally, finally! Luna had something to tease her sister about. In a few hours, after the CMC dropped off into sleep, Celestia would come by for a bit of lighthearted ribbing concerning the whole situation. Now Luna had real, actual ammunition to fire back with. There was a terrible noise of shattering ceramic, Luna snapping her head to see a sheepish Sweetie Belle and the remnants of the priceless vase all over the floor. "Oops, sorry Princess." Deep breath, don't get upset. It was only ancient. "Its....quite alright Sweetie Belle. Just be more careful in the future." Luna could be magnanimous now with her thoughts in order and teasing her sister to look forward to. Though she had to somehow convince these three that bed was preferable to late night chaos. "Say, Princess Luna? Ain't the moon suppose to be up by now?" Applebloom and Scootaloo were still on her bed, which gave them a clear view out her window into the dark, moonless night. In all of the excitement Luna had completely forgotten her primary duty. A late moonrise was hardly cause for alarm, though eventually ponies were bound to notice if it didn't arrive at all. "You are quite right, Applebloom and Scootaloo. Get thee back whilst I attend to the raising of the Moon." Usually Luna did not have an audience when she did this, nor did she technically need to even be outside to do so. Still, welcoming each night with the moon as its constant companion held a special place in her heart. She stood in front of the window, gazing out into the open air which was certainly darker without her namesake. With a steady, deep breath and her eyes closing the Princess of the Night centered herself. Her wings became unfurled, stretching out to their full span while she widened her stance. Focus became power, her horn suddenly alight with its dark blue aura. There it was, as always just beyond and underneath the horizon, waiting for her beckoning call. Harmony itself was the rule of the world, the natural ebbs and flows of magic had been askew with the Moon and Sun occupying the same relative positions. Far more attuned than her subjects, Luna felt more at ease once the pale waning gibbous began to emerge. Soon it would be a full moon, she wanted to plan a small celebration in honor of it. Perhaps she could make a regular occurrence, surely once a month was not unreaso- There was a small pony on top of her head. Luna had been so utterly transfixed inside the little ritual of raising the Moon that she had failed to realize that the Cutie Mark Crusaders had begun to move. Apparently they'd wanted a better look at what she'd been doing, for not only was there a pony on her head but there were two more hanging off of her neck.. Luna opened her eyes, tilting her head up just enough to see Scootaloo perched atop her mane, holding lightly onto Luna's horn for support. "That was really cool!" The little orange filly enthused, grinning down at her. Sweetie Belle was on her right, coming slightly into her peripheral vision. "Can you make it move anywhere you want? How far away is it?" "I think Miss Cheerilee once told us how far away the Moon is." Applebloom added from the left, speaking almost directly into Luna's ear. "Is it made out of cheese?" "Children..." Luna began, growing exasperated. Apparently her effort to make friends with ponies was paying dividends, to the point where these three were evidently utterly fearless of her. Being touched and stood upon was something new, though. She'd have preferred something more in the middle, royal edicts could hardly be enforced with due respect if a pony considered you the next best thing to a chair. "Hey! Princess Luna, you're pretty big. Do you think you could fly us around Canterlot?" Scootaloo, wobbling atop Luna's head did her best to lean down to be face to upside down face. The filly made a poor hat but her weight wasn't enough to particularly bother Luna, and shaking her off would be slightly impolite. "I don't-" Sweetie Belle cut her off, leaning off her neck and waving a hoof for attention "That would be awesome!" Luna was not about to fly around with three fillies on her back and certainly not in front of half of the city. She was a serious princess with royal duties to attend to! But...looking at the three, who were still hanging onto her, Luna had a feeling that a 'no' would only net her the dreaded 'puppy dog look'. Even an immortal alicorn princess could not long endure pouts like that; another strategy would be needed. "Would you not rather pursue thy destiny? We have seen many cutiemarks in our time, perhaps we could be of some assistance?" A second after she'd finished speaking Luna realized that she'd essentially cornered herself into foal sitting the three. What hope did she have outmaneuvering her sister when she couldn't even manipulate three fillies? It was far, far too late to take it back, however, as the trio were quickly brought back to their original goal. Atleast Luna had solved one issue, the Cutie Mark Crusaders had collectively hopped off of their Princess and started to push her towards the door. "Can you show us the armory? I bet we could get Royal Guard Cutiemarks!" That was Scootaloo, pressing her head on one of her back legs. "Cutiemark Crusader Royal Guards! Yay!" At incredibly high volume they echoed their agreement in unison, Luna was worried about her hearing if they made a habit of that. While being hustled, much to her attempted protests, Luna worked to hide a smile. Loud, bossy and aggravating that they could be, the three girls pushing her down towards the armory sparkled with unrestrained energy and enthusiasm for everything. It was hard not to be caught up in some of that, royal duties could wait. It was late anyway, surely the Cutiemark Crusaders would tire themselves out and drop off to bed quickly. Apparently that sentiment was wishful thinking on Luna's part. "Children! Do not!-" The entire rack of spears had tipped itself over, Scootaloo saved from impalement only by Luna's timely intervention. "Sorry!" The pegasus filly said, not sounding particularly sorry as she now had a spear to look at up close. "Engarde!" Applebloom and Sweetie Belle were now having a sword fight, with real swords. Both were pulled quite quickly out of their mouths, collecting up in a telekentic aura with the spear. It was baffling that the two looked upset at her, as if she'd done something wrong. "These are not toys, Applebloom and Sweetie Belle. Thy very lives could have been lost if-." "Hey guys, this stuff is heavy but so cool!" Not content with inspecting weaponry, Scootaloo had tried to fit herself in a set of battle armor. Most of it was laughably too big for her, the helmet hanging over her eyes. That effectively saved Sweetie and Applebloom from their scolding, now they were fitting armor on and excitedly giggling while doing so. Princess Luna could already see the enormous mess forming throughout the large armory. She couldn't take her eyes off of the three for even a second, lest they maim themselves. Luna already had her doubts at the chances of getting things cleaned, odds were that the CMC's brand of cleaning would only leave a bigger mess. The Captain of the Guard was unlikely to be very happy with her tomorrow when they came back to find their equipment everywhere. Without the light emanating from Luna's horn they would have been completely enveloped in utter darkness. As it was it was still difficult to see around them. "Cutiemark Crusader Dungeon Keepers! Yay!" "We have already explained to you, there are no dungeons in Canterlot. We are leading you to the crystal caves, deep underneath the castle." "Oh...not to be rude Princess but that doesn't sound very interesting." "Not interesting? The caves are ancient, formed from time immemorial. They have a beauty that can barely be measured and are helpful in augmenting magic. It is why we built Canterlot here." "...But how would we get a cutiemark out of that?" "We had thought you might want to see it, and so that you stopped destroying the armory and training room." "Aw, but we didn't mean to break that training dummy!" ... "Princess Luna? Are you sure you've never kept any prisoners down here?" A heavy sigh. "Yes, I am quite sure. Though perhaps it is not too late to start." Compared to the stifling underground caverns deep beneath Canterlot the nighttime air was positively chilly. A faint breeze rustled the leaves while the noise of nocturnal creatures provided the Royal Canterlot Gardens a relaxing background atmosphere. Luna could pick out the sound of crickets, owls and even the rustle of bat wings. She couldn't help but give a contended sigh, awash in her element. "Hey Scootaloo, ah' bet the headless pony lives here." Of course one of the three had to disrupt the moment, this time Applebloom. Scootaloo glared at her friend. "I already told you, I'm not scared of the headless pony anymore." "Uhuh, if ya' say so." Sweetie Belle nudged Luna before the Princess could tell either of the other two to stop picking at each other, for about the sixteenth time. "Princess Luna, why are we in the gardens? We already tried to get our gardener cutiemarks before." "Yeah," Scootaloo interjected, "and we tried to get our animal caretaker cutiemarks too, Fluttershy wasn't too happy about that." Applebloom rolled her eyes. "I swear it ain't as hard when I'm on the farm. Then again Fluttershy doesn't got that many farm animals." Truthfully Luna had no ideas for cutiemarks. She'd given up after a number of suggestions. They'd evidently tried, and failed, to be bakers; had no interest in being scribes, nor becoming lawyers. Now Luna's only hope was to lead the CMC around the palace, praying silently that they'd get tired with all the walking. It didn't seem to be working. "Perhaps thy destiny lies in...observing the stars?" The three were giving her a deadpan look, obviously not buying her suggestion. "Twilight already tried to get us to do that. Then she got mad when we broke her telescope." Astronomy was definitely not their strong suit then. "Oh, well how about-" Luna was cut off by Scootaloo, who'd turned to look at the other two. "Hey lets play Night Fright!" Both Applebloom and Sweetie Belle evidently liked that idea. "That's an awesome idea! Princess Luna should be 'it'," they both started looking around the woods, rather intently. Luna simply stared at the three, having no idea what they were talking about. "Pray tell, children. What is 'Night Fright?' and why are we 'it'?" Scootaloo looked surprised that Luna had never heard of the game. "Oh, well it's like hide and seek. Except instead of looking for us we try and scare you!" "Scare me?" That didn't sound either likely or all that much fun. Princess Luna was hardly afraid of the dark and could even be thought of as rather scary on her own. Her subjects had even made an entire holiday based around the idea of her alter-ego threatening to eat them. "Children I don't think-" The three fillies had started to whisper amongst themselves, Sweetie Belle looking her way when she'd started to protest. "Aw come on Princess Luna, it'll be fun. But you have to promise not to cheat with any magic, that wouldn't be fair." "We would not dream of bringing dishonor on ourselves by cheating." After a second of thought Luna finally let out a sigh. "I suppose if it is...fun, that we can comply with at least one game. But afterwards you must go to bed." The three nodded at that. "Alright!" Applebloom agreed. "But the game only ends if we scare ya or we give up! Oh, you got to tell us if you're scared or not and wanna surrender." "Or if you find us!" Sweetie Belle was actually giggling, clearly excited. Luna was now having her doubts she'd ever get the trio to sleep and out of her mane. "Very well, when does this game begin?" "Right now! Scootaloo, ya want to start us off?" Applebloom turned to the pegasus filly and was grinning ear to ear. Scootaloo only nodded, Luna watching them closely in curiosity. She'd expected them to ask her to turn around and count to some number, Luna certainly knew the rules to hide and seek. Instead, Scootaloo only reached down and picked up a rock. Now Princess Luna was more than a little confused, and only more so when the rock was thrown towards her; landing a few feet behind and to her right. Turning her head to look for where the rock went, Luna finally voiced her confusion. "We do not understand what that-." By the time she'd turned around all three were completely gone. Vanished, without so much as a trace. Luna had to admit to being a bit startled at that, it only had to have been a few seconds. "I suppose we are started then..." For the next twenty minutes Princess Luna spent her time wandering the darkness of the royal gardens. Try as she might there was not so much as a hint of any of the three. If they were nearby at all it was amazing that they could be so quiet and still. Having circled through the area for the third time the expectation of the fillies jumping out and trying to startle her was mounting. But still it didn't come, Luna couldn't help but frowning at her predicament. Not on her life was she going to allow three young ponies to scare her, not for real. It was silly to even imagine, the Princess of the Night being scared by shadows and something jumping out at her. It was a remarkably well thought out tactic though, to simply wait and let her own imagination get the better of her. Well Luna was not going to fall for it. The trio had made an obvious error, they hadn't said a word about where she could go. Confident that she'd found a proper out, Luna turned her head up high and began to stride towards the palace at last. Ha! Surely they would give up now, or most likely complain that she'd somehow cheated. Then Luna could argue them into going to bed. But that didn't happen either, Luna passed into her dimly lit throne room without incident. Her pair of guards did not shift at her arrival except to salute. As usual there appeared to be no late night petitioners for court. Though this time it was entirely possible that they had gone home when she failed to appear. Checking the time revealed that Luna was three hours behind schedule, it was past midnight even. Luna bid her guards a goodnight, though they would stay up until their shift was over, and made her way towards her private study. The study was also completely normal; stacks of books and shelves of dusty scrolls. The paperwork of running Equestria was enormous, despite their subjects being generally so self sufficient. In the interest of avoiding large, unwieldy bureaucracies, much of the work of a continent spanning country was handled directly by both of the royal sisters. With a comparatively easier schedule, Luna took on the greater share of work. Since her return from banishment the turn around on requests and reports from every corner of Equestria had been shortened quite considerably. A few passing servants had even remarked to Luna that they'd never known Princess Celestia to have free time, and were suitably thankful that Luna was back to help make that happen. Lighting the half dozen candles placed in her office, Luna smiled at the memory of that. It gave her something to take some pride in. She'd made a vow to herself never to return to the bitterness and anger that had afflicted her before. Even though her life hadn't changed that much compared to before becoming the Nightmare the new perspective, and occasional reminders of appreciation, had been more than enough for her. Sitting down at her desk at the opposite end of the room and unrolling a scroll, Princess Luna was suddenly struck with the notion that technically she was still playing 'Night Fright'. Unless the CMC had given up and went to bed without telling her, which sounded unlikely, they were still trying to scare her. They could even be right behind....the hair on the back of Luna's neck was standing up on end. She'd neglected to close the door, foolish, and now she couldn't help but feel like someone, or someones, were now in the room. Slowly, with a touch of dread, Luna began to turn. "Hello, dear sister. Enjoying the night?" Startled, Luna couldn't help but let out a surprised yell and jumped at the sight of her sister. Celestia was sitting rather calmly at the other end of the room, sipping at a cup of steaming tea. Luna couldn't help noticing the smug grin on her face. An eyebrow rose, the grin widened at her jump. "I'm sorry, Lulu, did I scare you?" If you yell at her it'll only make her more amused that she got you. Let her win this round. "We simply expected it to be....somepony else," was her terse reply, unable to help giving a small glare at her older sister. "Ah, was this 'somepony else' the Cutiemark Crusaders by any chance? I did wonder what they were up to when they asked for the keys to your room and the blueprints of the castle." Luna was staring at her now, unable to believe the feigned innocence masking so much obvious evil. "Surely you did not give them those things." Celestia gave a helpless shrug. "They are very hard to say no to, I had no choice." "'No choice', naturally." Luna layered on a touch of sarcasm, rolling her eyes. "I seem to recall that they had the idea of coming to visit me by your suggestion. It is remarkable that such little fillies can have that much energy." Again, her sister only smiled brightly at her. Obviously she was quite amused by the success of her plan. "It sounds like you had quite the fun night." Now it was Luna's turn to smile, though hers was more predatory. Her sister had just completely opened herself up. "We suppose it was rather enjoyable at times. Though, I can't say it was likely as much fun as yours was." "Mine?" Curiously, her sisters affected surprise was more genuine looking. Luna wasn't about to let her off the hook that easily though, playing dumb was not going to stop her from having her own small victory at teasing. "A fine plan you had organized for the evening. The Elements ready and on cue to deploy against the Fate. Your party, inviting some of their family to help mask the coincidence of it all." After a seconds pause Celestia lowered her teacup, a little frown on her face. "Luna, I am sorry that I did not tell you. I know that the issue is still likely personal for you. I have thought about how to handle the Twilight for many years. None of them would listen to us if we went, it would be fighting and the end of all we love. The Elements have the best chance of settling, or at least postponing, the bloodshed." Luna held up a hoof to stop her from speaking any further. "It is alright, dear sister. We are not angry. Though in the future you should have some faith in us. If you had explained it like that I would have come to accept your judgement. Of course that was not all I was getting at..." That predatory smile flashed again, knowing that the moment was all too soon in coming. "Oh?" Celestia actually seemed a bit surprised at that, whether for Luna letting being manipulated pass so easily or that she had something else. Perhaps she had not anticipated that Luna would even find out, making it all the more entertaining. "Indeed." Luna stood, beginning to slowly pace for a touch of the dramatic. "Thy invitation of family was not only to mask your first purpose. The Cutiemark Crusaders who came along were also there for me." Her sister nodded, conceding the point. "I think over the week or so it takes the crisis to be resolved you'll find them entertaining to interact with. If you were interested I had some ideas for tomorrow and the next day." It was a tempting idea, to a certain degree. But going down that line of conversation would take too long and spoil the careful buildup that she'd been preparing for. Luna waved a hoof dismissively. "Perhaps later. However, dear sister. I have discovered the final part of your plan. Not as discretely hidden as I may have expected. I suppose it could not be helped, with a whole week it would have been impossible to hide. To be honest I am surprised you are even here and not away, celebrating your success." Instead of the reaction she'd expected, her sister perhaps blushing and looking away, Celestia only looked confused. "I don't know what you're talking about, Luna. What final part?" Feeling a bit of confusion herself, Luna persisted. "Now now, dear sister. There is no sense in denials. It was Applebloom, sister of the Element of Honesty who was your undoing. For she also has a brother, who is here in the castle as well." Now Celestia was frowning, setting the tea she'd been about to take another drink from down with a noticeable clink. "Yes, he is...what are you trying to imply?" Was her older sister now angry at her? Surely it couldn't be because she found out. With a bit of caution Luna pressed forward, feeling curiosity at the unusual reaction. "You have arranged for this Big Macintosh to be in the castle, for a week. I have seen him from afar, though never spoken with him. He appeared to be rather attractive. I am not upset, far from it. To be honest I was glad to know-" "Luna, I do not like your insinuation." There was a surprising amount of harshness in her voice, some nerve had evidently been touched. "I had no ulterior motives there, his arrival at the party was a surprise to me." Not only was she angry, but she was curt. Teasing her older sister was clearly off the table. But Luna couldn't help but notice how quickly Celestia had avoided commenting on anything about being attracted to Big Mac, or the idea in general. She hadn't laughed it off, either. Very curious. There had been a short pause, the two sisters looking at one another. Luna was thinking of how best to proceed, hopefully without her older sister storming out. "Sister...is it perhaps that you are...involved with another pony?" Usually Celestia was the epitome of regal coolness, a mask of serene composure near impossible to fluster. It wasn't here, though, instead Luna saw her sister's jaw tighten and a flash of more annoyance building. "No, Luna. There is no other pony." This went beyond even the presence of Applejack's older brother in the castle. Something harsh, raw and personal was wrong with her older sister. Regardless of whether it annoyed her more, Luna just couldn't let it drop. Celestia hadn't in their late night discussions following her return from banishment. It was a family duty, even beyond that of friendship. "Celly," she had to be careful though, now moving closer and gently brushing against her older sister. The concern in her voice would hopefully soothe out some of the particularly ruffled feathers. "Please help me understand. Was there a pony...before my return? There is nothing wrong with admitting attraction, I myself have entertained a few suitors in the past as you may recall." There was the same set, closed frown; the same frustration. Celestia only sighed, looking away. "I know you mean well. But no, Luna, there has been no pony. Ever. Nor do I have the time for something distracting like that at the moment or in the future." Luna knew she was openly gawking at her sister. Never? Her sister had always been the responsible one, all but married to her assumed duties. But even after a thousand years of her absence? Immortality was an issue, certainly, Luna had known heartbreak when she'd outlived the very few she had dear to her. Some of that had contributed to her fall, closing herself off from the world. But that did not mean you avoided those mortal.You were suppose to cherish and value each passing moment with those you loved, not close yourself off. "You have never felt attraction to another? Not once?" she spoke softly, feeling a bit sad even with the revelation. Sadness was not a feeling Celestia evidently felt for her own situation, though, looking at her steadily. "Again, no. Not the attraction you are speaking of. I feel affection and love for all of our subjects, but I am their Princess. Their needs far outweigh my own and there is always a great deal of work. Though, I have not known that sort of need, either, so it is a moot point. Please, little sister, do not be so concerned. I am happy that you are with me, I could not ask for more." That was small comfort, Luna was filled with a tumult of emotions inside of her all at once. Concern and a bit of anger even directed towards herself. Celestia would never blame her for becoming Nightmare Moon, or leaving her alone to run Equestria that entire time. None of that helped the slight guilt Luna could feel. Just because her older sister hid it well did not mean she was without needing help from time to time. At the very least she should try again. "But sister, the work is split now. There is less for you to worry about with me taking on my old duties. The servants say you even have moments of leisure. Is that not true?" "It is...I have not had free moments in many years, unless I planned for them," She admitted. "And I am very grateful for that, little sister." Celestia smiled at her then, the usual bright one she favored. Luna couldn't help wondering now if it was truly genuine or just born out of endless practice. Smiling would make others smile, usually. They were actually fairly close to one another, not quite touching, but it was an intimate enough moment. "Suppose you were attracted to another..." Luna returned to the original topic, refusing to believe that her older sister had no potential for romance. "You are not opposed to the idea completely are you?" Clearly Celestia must have been hoping that the matter was dropped, or moved elsewhere. After a moments sigh her sister relented. "I suppose anything is possible. But again, the needs of-" "Managing Equestria is easier now, as you said. I would be happy to even take part of your daytime duties, if you need me to." Luna could even see this being a good thing for herself. It would help her meet more ponies than the guards and occasional night owls. For a change it appeared she'd put her sister on the defensive, Celestia giving a slightly pained smile. "I don't believe I exactly said that, though. There is still plenty to do." While true, Luna wasn't about to get into whether she was ready for taking on some of the daytime work. Instead she decided to charge ahead. "If anything is possible, what about this Big Macintosh? Hm? He seems nice...handsome," she was probing now. Luna actually was rather entertained by the idea of playing matchmaker for her sister, but she had no idea what Celestia found attractive. Looking like she'd rather not be having this conversation, her older sister gave another little sigh. "Yes, I suppose he is. But I know nothing about him, speaking to him earlier this evening was...unusual." Even Celestia didn't look like she was quite sure herself, her words coming slowly and cautiously. "Oh? Unusual?" That was something at least, the start of a conversation. Obviously Luna would have to drag her sister kicking and screaming through it, though. "He is a very silent pony. It was difficult to..." Celestia paused, thinking on the right word, "read him. He didn't seem bothered by being alone. Or what the rest of his stay in Canterlot would be like. Usually I can figure what one of our subjects is like, what they might want, very quickly." With her wings, Celestia gave a helpless shrug. Personally Luna wasn't much for the strong and silent type herself, though her dating experience was a millennium out of time. At least Celestia hadn't completely ignored Big Mac, though it wasn't like he had to be 'the one' anyway. Perhaps the farmer would be good practice for her sister, he was leaving in a week anyway. "Perhaps you should learn about him then? Surely the great Princess Celestia does not give up so easily." Her sister rolled her eyes at that, the attempt at manipulation a rather obvious one. "I never said I was interested in him. I do not believe it would be entirely proper for me to engage in that sort of relationship with one of our subjects either." Just when Luna thought she'd been making progress at warming her older sister up to the idea. "Big sister, most everypony is one of our subjects. This apple farmer is not one of our servants, he does not take orders or pay from you. He is an adult, and it appears that you do not overawe him with thy regal presence. I said learn about him, perhaps there is more than meets the eye about this stallion. There can be no risk, surely you are not afraid of a relationship." It was her best effort at convincing her, the conversation nearly at an end anyway. Celestia would be going to bed, the time nearing towards two in the morning now. "Perhaps..." Celestia finally admitted, not looking entirely convinced. It was enough, Luna could see that she had at least considered it for a moment. There could be future efforts later. If it was not stallions her sister was interested in then Luna could begin suggesting mares. Or perhaps not even ponies, there were dragons of equal size to their forms. Dragons had the advantage of longevity, as well. Equestria and beyond had many intelligent beings, surely one was capable of giving her older sister a measure of personal happiness and companionship. They exchanged a few more minutes of conversation after that. The topic had shifted to the more mundane; paperwork and the business of running Equestria. Following a suppressed yawn, Celestia rose and enveloped her in a hug of her wings. They nuzzled one another warmly and then parted, Luna bidding her sister a good night. Then the Sun Princess was gone, leaving for bed. With a sigh, Luna turned back to her desk. There was a lot on her mind; the insight into her older sister's personal life, or more accurately the lack of one, was very troubling. Luna had fallen into darkness by feelings of being alone, the shadow of isolation having turned her thoughts to hurt and a desire to spread that hurt. It almost appeared like Celestia was the opposite. Her sister was never alone, always working and often the very center of attention. But the attention was for the sake of others, that seemingly endless charity. Much like the sun, if put in poetic terms. But Luna worried about the risk that her sister might one day burn out. She wouldn't let the same sort of fate befall Celestia as it had her. No, now that she had caught the problem Luna would endeavor to fix it on her behalf. Fortunately it had been caught relatively early. There was time, plenty of time, to do things right. She owed it to her older sister, she gave so much freely and expected almost nothing in return. But first there was paperwork to do. The scratch of her quill was the only sound for a few minutes, the candles set for many hours of work with just the right amount of illumination to get things done. A light breeze moved across the window pane, the sound of wind chimes pleasant to think about. The solitude didn't bother Luna now, not when she had real things to enjoy with ponies dear to her. That same light breeze had produced a draft down the hallway, for Luna heard the gentle creak of the hinges of her office door. Suddenly she froze, her eyes going wide as she remembered an oh so important detail. With dread, Luna began to slowly turn herself around for the second time that night and look behind her. Nothing, the room was empty as far as she could see. With a sigh of relief she got up and began to trot towards the open door. Her horn lit for a brief moment, the door closing and then locking for good measure. If the Cutiemark Crusaders were still out there they would have a difficult time entering her office. Luna decided that it would be best if she simply remained in here the entire night. If anyone needed her she'd open the door, provided they answer through the wood to identify themselves. Not that she was scared of the three fillies, of course not. She simply wanted to win their little game. For good measure she made a point of making a inspection of the locked office, still empty. She still couldn't forget the eerie way they'd all but vanished out of sight. "We are being foolish," she chided herself. The rest of the night passed thankfully without incident, more than a few minutes being spent dwelling on the question of her sister. Author's Note Now I know why you rarely see the CMC featured in fics altogether at once. Writing dialogue that balances their contributions to the story is certainly a challenge. Anyway, tell me what you think! If I made any glaring typos feel free to comment upon them. General commentary, good and bad, of a constructive nature is always also appreciated! Love looks not with the eyes, but with the mindCelestia found it strange that so many ponies thought a crystal ball was the best way one could perceive distant events, even the future itself. She'd always preferred a pool of water. Divination with anything else seemed far more trouble than it was worth. Sitting in front of just such a scrying pool, a smooth marble white bowl set to about her chest level, the Princess of the Sun began to summon the complex magic necessary for farsight. First she needed to contact the surface she would be divining through. With ease born out of having done this many times she lifted her hoof, tapping it into the cool water of the pool. Then came focus, a deep connection to either the location in question or a particular individual. Celestia chose her pupil, her connection with Twilight was unshakeable in her mind; something as inconsequential as being in a separate dimension couldn't prevent Celestia from finding her personal student and protege. There. By now Celestia's horn was alight with the golden aura of her magic, the spell weaving itself automatically through the proper channels. Viewing distant events was almost as easy for her now as the levitation spell that came naturally to most unicorns. The bowl of water was enveloped in energy, the liquid surface which had rippled from the touch swirled violently for a few seconds and then stilled utterly. Withdrawing her hoof, Celestia peered down into the bowl and took in her first impressions of the scene laid out in front of her. Twilight and her friends had definitely reached their destination. That was very good news as it had only been two days since they'd set out. Celestia instantly recognized the place that her student and friends were now in, an enormous and beautifully ornate feasting hall. The walls were made of brilliant gold with weapons and armor of all kind decorating virtually every surface. An enormous assortment of drink and food was laid out on the many long tables set in the room that was currently in the process of a massive party. Celestia actually had trouble finding her student, or her friends. Everywhere there was the usual revelry of feasting and drinking. Not only were the Æsir present, but many ponies and other warriors of the various species of the world who had found their way into the hallowed halls after dying in battle. There were many familiar faces, but none that belonged to Twilight. She continued to search, knowing that she had to be somewhere. A few long seconds passed before Celestia finally saw a glint of lavender and swung the view of her spell towards it. Twilight was sitting near the front on an upraised dais and speaking earnestly to a cloaked figure. Focusing her attention towards the two, Celestia couldn't help feeling some surprise after realizing just who her student was addressing. He was not a pony, but a very large caribou who possessed jutting antlers that poked high up through the sizable floppy brown pointed hat he wore to cover his face. Said member of the Æsir looked incredibly old, he had a great many wrinkles and a scraggly white beard on his chin. Most striking, however, was his missing left eye. Despite towering over Twilight by several feet he seemed to be courteous enough to bend his head and look down at the little pony at his side. "You are very bold to think you are capable of stopping the coming battle, little pony," he intoned seriously. Even with a whole world separating them his deep voice made Celestia shiver at past memories. Twilight nodded, trying to match his seriousness. "You can't fight though, the fate of the world...all worlds depends on settling this without a battle. You don't really want to destroy the world, do you?" The huge caribou snorted, taking up a golden stein and draining it in a few gulps. "The Jotunn have transgressed us for the last time, they have freed Loki and even now prepare to advance upon Asgard. The trickster Loki is responsible for the death of my son, she can never be forgiven. Not only that, but this is a battle which has been foretold since the earliest days of the creation of the worlds. Fate cannot be changed." "What has been foretold, by those wise, shall surely occur. For the wise know to take council from their fellow sages." This was said by a head, sitting on the table in front of the pair. The caribou head lacked a body, but didn't seem any worse the wear for it. Unsurprisingly, Twilight looked rather uneasy at it speaking. Celestia could only guess what her reaction had been the first time it had spoken up. Shaking her head, Twilight pressed on. "But what if you could change it? I'm sure if you just spoke to them..." "Speak? To the Giants? And I suppose you would desire to mediate our 'talk'." The large caribou sounded amused at the prospect. "Tell me, student of Sol, how many wars have you prevented?" Blanching a little, Twilight gave a clearly strained smile. "Er, how many? Well...there was one time when my friends and I worked to settle a dispute between a tribe of buffaloes and a town of settler ponies." The oldest of all the Æsir did not look particularly impressed, his one eye lowered as he stared at her, his voice deadpan. "And how did this 'dispute' resolve itself?" "Well...they kind of had a battle actually. But we were able to find a solution everypony was happy with before anyone was actually hurt!" Celestia couldn't help but give a little sigh. "By this success of yours you intend to stop the very Twilight of the Gods?" After another drink the one eyed caribou wiped at his beard and continued to speak. "No, little pony, we must fight, though all of creation will be torn asunder we shall triumph. Many of us will likely fall, perhaps even myself, but we go forth willingly for we are not craven." At that very moment the caribou looked up, his eye locking directly on Celestia through the pool. There was no doubt that the Allfather was very much aware of her watching, his words had likely even been directed her way. Troublesome. That was her cue to turn her sight away, as long as she was observing it would only be a reminder that Twilight was acting on her behalf. Her student was on the right track though, eventually she'd hit upon some important insight. They had to succeed, as they always had in the past. The situation was truthfully pretty dire, but she had faith that the Elements would figure out something. Though, curiously, Celestia couldn't find any of the other Elements around her student. Searching the enormous, and yet still crowded, halls she recognized another of her student's friends. "That is a truly wonderful necklace. Though I'm afraid I don't quite recognize what it is made of." Rarity seemed to have sidled up to the only member of the hall who wasn't covered in armor or carrying on in the usual, drunken revelry. Said member, with her shining silver white necklace, was extraordinarily beautiful in appearance. She was a doe, lacking antlers, and covered in fine robes. Celestia was rather familiar with Freyja, it made sense that Rarity would be drawn to her. Freyja gave the Element of Generosity a benevolent smile, which Rarity seemed delighted to receive. "It is torc...fire-metal. Though that is not how you would say it." Rarity had been about to reply when there was a loud, raucous cheering from across the hall. All eyes, including Celestia's, turned to see a ring of warriors and Æsir surrounding, and shouting at, two sitting figures. One of them was Rainbow Dash, opposite a member of the Æsir. The pegasus had clearly had a few drinks, judging by the rosy blush under her cheeks. Much like the Æsir who was next to Twilight, Celestia felt worry at knowing who Rainbow had chosen to interact with. An imposing Caribou, much like his father, with shiny metal armor and a bushy red beard. However, the clearest identifier for this particular Æsir was the distinctive runic hammer set down on the table next to him. The two were trading glares, evidently something had been said to cause a disagreement. Now a sizable portion of the hall was focused on them, cheering and jeering with shouted encouragement. Listening to them for a moment let Celestia know exactly what was about to happen, she only hoped that Rainbow was ready for the challenge. Then the large Æsir warrior stood up from the table. An expectant hush fell over the crowd, Rainbow only gave a frown. At once the armored caribou began to speak. "A little mare with rainbow mane making noise; she's such a pain A draught of mead did she just drink daring, sure, but she'll soon need a sink Many boasts, claiming to be brave But battle would soon make your grave Children, here, on an errand call A cowards plan, made from those who fled our fall We love to fight, for honor we don't lack little mare, you should wait till we get back Once concluded, and the dead we cannot count comes thy true place, as all our mounts." On the occasion of each rhymed insult there were raucous laughter and cheering. Rainbow blushed especially at the second and last stanza, and looked visibly annoyed. Celestia felt a bit nervous, hoping desperately that Dash had the sense not to get up and storm off. There was more to this than bandying insults, leaving the table would send an entirely bad impression. "Give me a second, I've never done this stupid thing before," Rainbow mumbled. Her hoof was holding onto her drink while she looked to be thinking intently. "You sounded like Zecora," she commented absently. Her opponent had sat down, draining his fifth drink quickly and then giving a belch. "We are all waiting, little pony. Perhaps you should have sat with Heimdall instead. He is well familiar with rainbows." There were some further laughs from the crowd at that. "Shut up, I've got it alright?" Rainbow stood up, though wobbling a bit on her hooves and making a rather less impressive show of her size by rising. Then she began to rhyme as well. "Don't make me laugh, I've had your...measure Your little hammer couldn't give me pleasure Plus, I read the book, and heard you're weird About a dress, a wedding and now I see your beard. I'm not fooled, but its okay I bet they all think you're...a certain way. Compete with me and you'd get a silver Take me on, then we'll see....er...screw you!" It hadn't been strictly within the traditional framework, but the crowd did laugh quite a bit and cheer at the returned insults. The caribou sitting at the table was red faced at the reminder of the particular incident involving the giants. Twilight must have given her friends a quick lesson on the trip up, somehow acquiring a book on the legends. Even though Rainbow had sabotaged herself at the end she sat down with a superior air of having given almost as good as she got. "Your verse needs work, but not bad, little mare." The hammer wielding Æsir finally admitted, raising a drink in toast of a worthy opponent which Rainbow Dash mimicked. Celestia let out a breath she'd been holding, there was definite progress being made. Back across the hall, though, Rarity looked absolutely mortified. "How barbaric," she grumbled, also a bit red in the face. Freyja laughed, giving a little pat on the unicorn's shoulders. "It is a...word-battle, skill in wit that is almost as important as skill in battle. Your friend did well, though if we knew of you better the flyt would have been more biting." That was three of the six, but it seemed strange that so far Celestia had not found the others. Try as she might though she couldn't find Pinkie Pie, Applejack or Fluttershy. After some thought Celestia considered what her student had said. She'd referenced the incident at Appleloosa as a guide for how to deal with this crisis. Celestia could recall the report, that the Elements had been split up and dealt with both parties separately. Though that had been more of an accident than done intentionally, it seemed logical that Twilight would try and recreate the effect. That left the other three in Jötunheimr. Truthfully Celestia was a bit prejudiced against the giants, and could only hope that Twilight had made a wise choice. It was a bit trickier to locate them, eventually she settled on looking for Applejack specifically. Once found the vision of the scrying pool shifted and beheld a land of snow and ice. High peaked mountains and a blisteringly intense blizzard was raging all around a gathered band where the snow was unnaturally becalmed. "So of course these louts all wanted to know why their new blushing bride looked like 'she' was positively murderous," a female caribou with modest antlers, red ringed eyes and parallel line scars like stitching over her mouth, was explaining to her captivated audience of one. "Well, I told them that 'Freyja' was just so excited about the wedding that she couldn't get a wink of sleep. They bought it! You should have seen how mad he was; the giants couldn't stop commenting on how good he looked in his dress!" At that Pinkie Pie burst into laughter, falling over and clutching her stomach. "That's priceless! What did they say about the beard?" Not everyone in the gathering was quite so entertained. True to his namesake of giant, an enormous figure just on the edge of the protection of the blizzard was sharpening an amazingly bright sword. Shrouded by the storm, glowing eyes narrowed down at Loki. "Reminding us of your days with the Æsir will not leave you as our leader for long, trickster. I recall that the tale ends with the slaying of our brothers." "They shouldn't have stolen his hammer if they didn't want to be killed," Loki countered with a dismissive wave of her hoof at Surtr. Applejack, who was sitting in a round table of Loki, Pinkie Pie and herself, looked a bit uneasy. "Er, maybe we oughta be gettin back to what we were talking about?" "Aw, but Applejack. I wanted to hear more about her pranks!" Pinkie had stopped laughing instantly, back up at the table and giving a pout at her friend. Loki was grinning, clearly happy to have found a kindred spirit in Pinkie Pie. Celestia rubbed at her forehead at a ghost of a headache forming, wondering if she'd inadvertently created a new problem. Discord could be a bad enough influence on Pinkie, Loki might be even worse. Though that still left off Fluttershy, she wasn't anywhere to be seen. Looking around, and only recognizing the various members of the Jötunn, Celestia finally located the final Element of Harmony. Her breathing stopped, eyes going wide and getting perhaps the biggest shock of the day. Fluttershy was nuzzling, and rubbing, the belly of an enormous white wolf. Despite being several times the size of the Element of Kindness, the wolf was rolled over on its back, panting happily and kicking a leg while Fluttershy was cooing encouragement. Celestia ended the spell at that point, filled with disbelief. The Elements seemed to have things under control after all. Everything was in place, there was nothing more that she could do. That didn't mean that she was now free from work, far from it. It was only early morning in Canterlot and Celestia gave a yawn while stretching out the kinks that had formed in her neck. She'd already had breakfast in her room, knowing that the act of scrying would consume a fair bit of time and demand isolation. Looking at the clock, though, made her realize that there was still a bit of time remaining before she had to go anywhere. A bit more divination closer to home couldn't hurt. It was how Celestia knew so many things about her realm, though she was careful to not invade the privacy of her subjects if she could help it. The water swirled once more after a few seconds focus and almost instantly became a complete scene. This close it hardly took any concentration to see what she wanted. First she checked on her sister, amusingly Luna hadn't left her study since they'd spoken. Evidently the Cutiemark Crusaders had made quite the impression on her with their little game. Snoozing at her desk, hoof propping her chin up, Luna looked rather adorable and Celestia smiled at the image of her little sister. Likely she'd be up and joining them at lunch in the afternoon. Celestia had been somewhat locked up in her study herself over the last day, though only because of the work that needed to be done. It was not because she had been brooding at all on the conversation she'd had with her sister. Absolutely not, it wasn't like she was averse to a personal relationship, or afraid of one. It was simply that she didn't have any time. All of the reports and issues piled up on her desk only proved as much, though her thoughts had occasionally strayed while she worked. Responding to her distraction the pool had begun to shift, curiously it appeared for a second to be focusing on a busy street corner. Once Celestia realized she'd let her mind wander she forced the vision to move to where she really intended to look towards next. The water quickly shimmered and the image instead changed to inside the palace once again. "Aw, do we have to keep shining these?" Scootaloo complained while her hoof continued to circle a rag along a suit of armor. The Captain of the Royal Guard only narrowed his eyes and nodded, having already likely answered that question half a dozen times. The Cutiemark Crusaders sighed and continued their work. The royal armory was almost entirely picked up, a testament to the chaos that the trio had caused that it had taken more than a day to clean. As cute as they could be their actions could not be brushed off quite so easily as to make her guard pick up after their mess. Instead, after their giggling planning on how to torment her sister was concluded, she'd had a very long talk with the three fillies about what they'd done. They would have to pick up every piece and put it back as well as any other measures that the captain saw fit. The guard were certainly unamused at the mess, though were happy that the three were at least learning their lesson. Everything was solved, the CMC were likely to be done also by this afternoon. To help lift their spirits Celestia would invite them to join her and Luna to lunch, they weren't in that serious of trouble after all. Yes, thankfully everything seemed to be back in proper order and on track. Just outside her open window she could hear the sounds of chirping birds while a warm breeze of wind gently rustled the curtains. Celestia smiled, happy once more with the direction her life was taking. With just a little more time left waste, before she had to leave for the usual appointments of running Equestria, she indulged in looking directly over Canterlot. The bustle of ponies going about their business was as comforting as the nice weather. How could she risk the perfect society she had worked so hard to create by being selfish? No, that was too negative. Luna had been at least right in that point, Celestia wasn't looking to be a martyr. It just...happened to have turned out this way. A flash of crimson among the crowd caught the Princess' attention. Without quite realizing it she'd focused in enough to recognize Big Macintosh. Until now Celestia had been quite deftly thinking around the source of her distraction, being confronted by where it had come from did little to settle the internal argument that had been raging. Not that it was Big Mac's fault, no doubt he was entirely oblivious. It was more the idea, really. Big Macintosh was actually working, surprisingly enough. Celestia watched the large stallion holding up a ladder, with another colt balancing on the top rungs and washing a window. This was a pony she did not recognize, a light brown coat with a slightly darker brown mane and, of all things, turnips on his flank. "Thanks for the help again, cuz!" The brown earth pony colt in question wobbled precariously on the ladder, not seeming to have a sense of self preservation while holding up a wet sponge. Big Macintosh looked up at him, shifting to keep the jostling ladder steady. "Just get your job done, 'for you go and break your fool neck." Nodding in agreement the window washer went back to work and the chance of his imminent death by falling seemed to vanish while he focused. They were located at a fairly busy intersection, a number of cleaning supplies set out along the street. Most of the ponies in Canterlot were going about their business and gave the pair a wide berth, not wanting to disrupt their work. Big Macintosh was right when he'd said he could find something to do. Despite having what was essentially a vacation, he'd elected to do something productive. That was certainly to be lauded, Celestia could content herself with closing the book on-. "Looking good there, stud. Wish I'd brought my camera!" A female voice sudden sounded from across the street, interrupting Celestia's thoughts. Shifting the focus of the pool a bit, she saw a gaggle of upper class mares very clearly looking towards Big Mac. The earth pony had posted up on his rear hooves, the front two holding tight onto the wooden ladder and thus set in a somewhat eye catching pose. Big Mac barely reacted to the cat call, his green eyes moving only for a second towards where it had come from before returning his focus on the ladder. That did little to discourage the five or six mares who'd begun crossing the street. "Aw, c'mon," one of the bolder ones said, the others giggling. "You're pretty cute, you don't have a marefriend do you?" That was actually a question of slight interest to Celestia, though she disapproved of the rude way they'd went about cajoling him. With a quick sigh, Macintosh shifted the bit of straw in his mouth and looked towards the group. "No, but ah ain't interested." The group, a mix of unicorns and a few earth ponies, gave a collective and disappointed 'aw' at his answer. "But why not? You like mares don't you?" Again, the boldest of the group kept at it. There was the slight sign of tension in Big Mac's jaw at that, annoyed. "Ah do, still not interested. I'm workin." The brown colt on the ladder had been looking down at them, and suddenly decided to draw attention to himself. "Hey y'all, my names Hayseed Turnip-Truck. I'm interested!" "...Uhuh." One in the back said, the mares having collectively angled their necks to look up at Hayseed. Their attention went back to Big Mac. "But you can't work forever can you? Hows a night on the town sound? You don't sound like you're from around here, bet I could show you a good time." The leader of the little clique was an attractive unicorn, obviously from good money and was likely not used to being turned down. A different mare, likely thinking she was speaking softly enough, whispered to one of her friends. "You just know he'd be able to show you an even better time later." There were, naturally, a number of giggling laughs at that. Macintosh didn't react much to either the proposition or the comment he almost certainly had heard. Instead, the farmer turned his head back to the ladder. There was a few seconds pause. "No thanks." The curt dismissal seemed to have been enough at last, though the group didn't take it well. The leader gave a frown, upset. "Yeah well, like I really wanted to spend the night with some country yokel anyway. Come on girls." A few minutes of dead silence between Macintosh and Hayseed followed, the window washer very quickly finishing his work before descending the ladder. "Shoot cuz, I ain't never had mares come up to me like that before. Why'd you turn em down?" Big Mac had been steadily packing up, putting the ladder across his back and harnessing the supplies. "They ain't worth it. Types like that just worried bout parties and the high life, don't know the important things in life. Would you rather I go with them and not help you work?" Hayseed rubbed at his hat for a second, looking a bit nonplussed. "Well it ain't like I'd blame ya none. They was as pretty as all sin." There was a momentary pause, Macintosh raised an eyebrow while looking at Hayseed. "Family is more important than a pretty face. Even if your family has about as much sense as a pile of rocks. The brown colt nodded, agreeing with the statement before pausing. "Was you just talking about me there?" Big Macintosh only sighed and the two started to make their way down the street, their cleaning equipment now packed up. They either had more work to do or were finished altogether. Either way Celestia decided to finally end her scrying spell. Before she could even dwell on what she had seen, any of it, the clock struck nine: she was now late. Annoyed at herself for forgetting the time, Celestia rose up and quickly set for the door. "We really are sorry about all the mess, Princess Celestia. It won't happen again." After two days of steady work cleaning up the armory the Cutiemark Crusaders now trudging into the dining hall looked less like their usual cheery selves and more like beaten down prisoners. Celestia smiled down at the three, glad they'd learned their lesson. "I'm sure that you will be more careful in the future, Scootaloo. All of you have worked very hard. As a reward I have had the staff prepare a special lunch. That managed to pick them up at least. Very quickly they darted into the room and placed themselves in front of the small banquet of food, happily digging in. They weren't alone, either. "Dearest Sister! We are happy to see that we were not the only one to invite a guest to lunch." Luna was positively beaming, a rather cheery air about her. Her guest was looking severely at his own sister. "Applebloom, you'n your friends know better than to eat 'for the Princess even has had a chance to sit down. Where'd all your manners go?" Big Macintosh's voice had taken on a deep, reproving tone for the usually silent pony. That tone had its effect though; Applebloom instantly wilted and stopped eating, her two friends following suit. "Sorry, big brother. We was just hungry." Celestia was glad that the room, save her sister, were not looking her way. No doubt the obvious surprise that Luna had brought him here was written all over her face. Surprise was quickly changed into a suspicious stare at her sister, which Luna was returning with a look of amused superiority. Only a beat behind where she should have been, Celestia advanced towards the table. "Its quite alright, Big Macintosh. There is no need for excessive formality. You're all welcome to eat." Then she sat down, her eyes moving right back to her sister. Celestia didn't need magic to imagine Luna's voice in her head. After so many countless years together their traded looks carried the entire unsaid conversation. Why did you bring him here? What ever do you mean, sister? He is an honored guest. Why should it be a problem? Considering our previous conversation you know very well why it might be a problem. But you said it was a 'possibility'. Have you actually started to think of him as- This wasn't going to be something Celestia could win; she looked away first. Luna was smiling all the more now, obviously well pleased that she could so effectively needle her older sister without so much as saying a word. Rather than looking her way, and having to face all the unbearable smugness, Celestia instead began to eat. The Cutiemark Crusaders had already made impressive inroads on the meal, even Big Macintosh had started eating his sizable portion. There was silence between the six of them for a moment, though Luna had not touched her plate just yet. For a fearful moment Celestia thought her younger sister would take a more active step in her self-appointed matchmaking. But instead she turned towards the trio of fillies. "It is now the daytime, two days since our last meeting, and we remain quite unafraid. Is it safe to declare our victory in our little game?" Luna had leaned forward a tad bit, trying to make her question sound as casual as possible. The three paused for a second, Applebloom swallowed the food in her mouth and then shook her head. "Night Fright? Nope, Princess. We're still playin." A stricken look fell on Luna's face as Scootaloo chimed in. "Yeah, you can't play Night Fright during the day, that wouldn't work. The game starts again when the sun goes down. We couldn't really play yesterday because we had to clean the guard room." "But we have lots of ideas now! Its going to be a lot of fun!" Sweetie Belle gestured with a fork to show just how excited she was. Applebloom scowled a bit, nudging her unicorn friend. "Don't give it away, dummy." "I wasn't!" Now Celestia was the one smiling, her little sister much less so. But before Luna could speak a masculine voice interjected. "Are you playing that game again, the one you know you ain't suppose to play, with Princess Luna?" Big Macintosh had stopped eating, turning once again at his sister and her friends and frowning. Applebloom gave her big brother another guilty look, apparently they'd forgotten he was there and overhearing the conversation. "Er...well. Mayor Mare and you all told us not to play it in Ponyville. Since we're in Canterlot we tho-" "I don't want to hear none of that. You near scared Miss Fluttershy and Miss Golden Harvest out of their wits. Princess Luna has a lot more important things to do than be looking around every corner for you to try and jump out at her. Sides', you don't need to go messing up the castle more'n you already have. Miss Fluttershy, Applejack and I spent a week trying to get all the red paint off her pets." "Aw, but we didn't mean to make it look that realistic." Scootaloo complained. The two princess' were, for once, far from the center of a conversation. Celestia had never heard of this game, though she thought it sounded rather fun. There was a lot of information in what Big Mac had just said, it was also the most she'd ever heard him speak at one time. Also by all appearances the Cutiemark Crusaders were rather committed to their games, not that Celestia didn't know that already given what she'd observed them doing the first night. She had to extend some sympathy for her sister, assuming they were still going to be allowed to carry out their schemes. "If Princess Luna still wants to play would that be okay?" Sweetie Belle had put her hooves together and pleaded with Big Macintosh, as well as at Luna, for permission. There was a moment of hesitation, Big Macintosh looked towards Luna. Celestia could see that her little sister very much wanted to say no. The three fillies had already deployed their most pitying looks, which was rather amusing when she considered that what they were begging for was a chance to try and scare Luna half to death. It was best to stay as neutral as she could, though Celestia could feel her grin widening despite her best efforts to school her features. Evidently Luna saw that as well, and didn't like the reality that her older sister was going to endlessly tease her that three little girls had managed to get under her skin. "No, it is...quite alright, Big Macintosh. We are still willing to play." "Yay!" The trio of fillies were overjoyed at getting their way. Big Mac shrugged, washing his hooves of the issue and going back to his meal. Luna looked less than pleased, but was now fully committed. This was how Celestia had envisioned the week going. Pleasant, peaceful and not requiring a great deal of involvement on her part. Luna had a tendency to sometimes overreact, she'd learned a minor detail of Celestia's personal life and had thought it necessary to raise uncomfortable notions. Why did her little sister feel the need to push for something as time consuming and distracting as romance when she had everything she could ever want now? Her stomach rumbled a bit, much of her food still in front of her on the plate. The rest of the day was sure to be busy, an aide set to bring her daily schedule any minute. If she didn't want to be hungry while working she'd better think while eating. With the rest of the table at their meals, some more enthusiastic than others, she felt comfortable enough in finishing her meal. Returning to the topic, Celestia had to conclude that having Big Mac here had added more to that enjoyable atmosphere. In a strictly platonic manner, of course. He was a fine pony, one that Celestia wouldn't mind getting to know a little better in the future. The short moment she'd seen earlier today could attest to that desire; he certainly had traits that she could admire. How could she not like someone who was willing to work despite having a vacation and no responsibility? He had standards, was apparently reserving himself and took the notion of relationships seriously. By now Notetaker, her aide, had arrived and presented the schedule. Curious, but the young mare seemed a bit uneasy. It was likely because she was new at her job, her mother, the previous aide, had retired only last month. Enjoyable domestic scenes and the reinforcement of just why she could be content with her life aside; Celestia had work to do. But upon unfolding the paper and looking it over, she couldn't help but feel confusion. There was nothing there. Nothing scheduled as far as work. All that was written was 'Personal Time: All Day'. Lowering the paper, she gave her aide a questioning look. "Notetaker, I appreciate the sentiment but I would like to see the real schedule." The young mare gave her a strained smile, her eyes flicking across the table for a second. "Your majesty, that is your schedule for the day." Luna cleared her throat. "We took the liberty of talking to your staff, dear sister. It appears that in our absence you have never taken a true 'personal day'. We would be happy to oversee your work schedule and knew you would not mind the chance to relax." Back to this again. Celestia did everything in her power not to frown or otherwise react; there were a number of ponies watching them. Her sister had forced her into a corner, correctly guessing that she'd never overrule her on something so seemingly minor. A disagreement like that would raise very uncomfortable subjects better left private. Celestia had to conclude that this must have been what it usually felt like to be in Luna's position whenever one of her plans worked properly, not unlike biting into a lemon. "Ah, well. Thank you Luna. I hardly know what I'll do with so much free time." That was all she could say, though the last part was certainly true. An hour or two in her bedroom to wind down a day was one thing, but a whole afternoon and evening? Notetaker departed as quickly as she arrived. No doubt Luna's impromptu decree had been taken with some trepidation by a staff that knew their Princess was a committed workaholic. Now she had nothing to do and nowhere to go. Trying to quietly slip out and insist on a proper schedule would be almost as bad as publicly disagreeing with her sister. Celestia was left dead in the water, the one silver lining was that feeling lost was hardly a surprise anymore. She'd been stumped now half a dozen times in the last few days and it was starting to bother her. The world around her was receiving the bare minimum of attention; just enough to still look like she was eating and following the excited banter at the table dominated by the Cutiemark Crusaders. What would she do with her free day? The dining room began to empty itself. Luna was first, head held high and off to be actively immersed in the busy hustle of daytime affairs in Equestria. That would be good for her; Celestia took small solace in that fact. Luna still craved social activity and she was more than competent to handle running the whole of Equestria by herself. The only downside to that plan was that it left Celestia with nothing to do. The Cutiemark Crusaders were next. With their food devoured the three were quick to make their departure with a chorus of energetic giggles. Evidently they knew how to spend their day and would probably happily accept Celestia joining them, should she ask. That hardly seemed appealing to the Princess of the Sun though, not unless she wanted to get trapped in a similar sort of game as her sister had. That only left... " 'Scuse me Princess." Big Macintosh said, rising up from the table and wiping his mouth with a napkin. The large farmer was already turning and heading off somewhere. Now, considering the proposition, Celestia knew what Luna had been playing at. She was playing matchmaker after all, a galling prospect. For a moment Celestia considered letting Big Mac walk out of the hall, and out of her thoughts for the day. She could just spend the afternoon doing...something, likely by herself. But in a way that would be admitting that she really was afraid of the notion of becoming involved with another pony. After all of her speeches about friendship, especially to Twilight, she'd end up an enormous hypocrite if she ducked out now. "Ahem, Big Macintosh?" Celestia heard herself say, her mouth moving automatically without much thought. It had the desired of effect of stopping him, though. Big Mac paused, began to turn around and raised an expectant eyebrow at what she would say next. But what should she say or ask? Something that would involve him spending part of the day with her. Curiously enough it seemed that her heart was beating a touch faster than usual. There was a unmistakable tension of nervousness, too. All this just because she was about to ask a pony to provide her company? But she needed to come up with something quickly, lest the moment become more awkward. "Since I have now found myself without anything to do today, just now." Already off to a terrible start, she'd said 'now' twice. "I was wondering if you were busy. I was...considering adding some fruit trees to the royal gardens." No she hadn't, Celestia could hardly remember the last time she'd even been in the gardens. "Considering your experience, would you be interested in providing me your expert opinion? On apple trees, that is." Big Macintosh was now giving her a long, confused look. Celestia couldn't help but feel absolutely mortified at herself. Somewhere in a very short few sentences she'd lost her usually articulate manner of speaking. It shouldn't have been so hard to ask, but her words had started to tumble out. Now she'd went and lost her cool, the serious gravitas that could make any request seem like a matter of complete urgency. Her name was used in oaths, held with a near deity like reverence, and she was on the verge of blushing while asking a pony to spend the afternoon with her. Not one of her best moments. But her fears were allayed after a few moments pause. Big Mac gave her a passive shrug. "Sure, Princess. Ain't likely I'll be able to help all that much though." It had taken almost the entire trip out to the Royal Gardens before Celestia had calmed down enough to enjoy herself. The walk had passed without comment or words, the two side by side and hardly even looking at one another. But the sound of songbirds, the warmth of the sun, when they first stepped out onto the grass of the grounds had helped let out a great deal of tension she hadn't been aware she was holding. It was the lack of purpose that she was enjoying. Celestia had realized that fact a few minutes later while they strolled through the gardens. The novelty was a more enjoyable version of what she'd experienced a few days ago at dinner, the flow of events out of her control. Even the gardens, which more accurately resembled a untamed forest now, seemed like some new thing. The myriad flowers and various animals offered a great deal to look at, much of it very beautiful. Her silent companion was certainly adding to the pleasant atmosphere. Celestia had to admit that a solitary walk through the gardens would not have been the same. He was here because she'd asked, but Celestia still could enjoy that sense of...was it fellowship they shared? Big Macintosh had been welcome to say no after all, she hadn't ordered him, she got the sense that he would likely have if he'd had other business. As usual Big Mac was taking the moment as he usually did: with stoic passivity. As comfortable as the silence was, sooner or later she would have to follow through with the pretense of why they were out here. What was it again? Oh right. Apple trees. They'd been walking through the gardens, past various trees and scampering animals for a few minutes and yet he hadn't said a word. Big Mac had been glancing around while Celestia had spent most of her time looking at him and thinking. "Do you see anywhere good?" she asked, pausing in her walk. Macintosh did likewise, turning halfway to face her. He seemed to really like having a bit of straw in the corner of his mouth, Celestia watched it move from one side to the other. Was it the same one from earlier today? After a few seconds Big Macintosh seemed to have collected his thoughts and answered. "Anywhere good?" Was she missing something? "For planting?" confused, Celestia extended her left wing and gestured towards the garden to demonstrate. Big Mac looked nearly as confused as she did, he slowly lifted up a hoof to scratch at his orange mane. "Er, planting apple trees in a forest, with plants and critters ain't the best way to get apples." Oh. Celestia felt a bit foolish now, her knowledge on agriculture was apparently more limited than she realized. "Ah, of course. My mistake." Of course Macintosh was too nice to lord something like that over her. He nodded only nodded, adjusting that piece of straw, and continued. "The trees would grow, of course. Reckon a earth pony could get just about anything to grow. But if'n you want apples to be big and altogether good to eat you're gonna need some space. Got to have a lot of room for the roots to spread out, get the nutrients. Also the animals are liable to eat up whatever does grow, no offense meant fer the critters of course." Obviously he knew his trade well, Celestia couldn't help glancing down towards his flank and the symbol of his special talent. A green apple, split down the middle and showing its seeds. Each cutiemark held immense significance towards its owner, and even the most taciturn of ponies would usually open up with complete enthusiasm to tell the story of how they had found their place in the world. Now she was faintly curious how Macintosh had gained his. But they were having a different sort of conversation. "What would you recommend then?" she asked, tilting her head a bit after the short introduction into the considerations of farmers. "Well..." Big Mac set his face for a moment in thought, looking out around the garden. "Lest you wanna tear trees down, which I ain't about to suggest, you might be able to grow some graftage up closer to the palace. Applejack usually handles setting up the proper rootstock but I reckon you'll want the Mark type. Anypony that tells ya to get a M Nine ain't really in the business of healthy trees so much. Anyway, you'll also want to get more'n one breed. Golden Delicious, Gala and Empire are some of what we grow and they usually work well for pollinating one another....er, you get all that, Princess?" She hadn't, not really. Celestia knew that farming was complicated, at least in a scholarly sense, but to hear it described in plain terms was daunting. "I admit that I feel a little lost," she said with a shrug of her wings. The farmer actually grinned at that, nodding. "You usually are If'n you're not really in the business. Ain't a problem though, I reckon you ain't likely to be growing them much yourself. I'd be happy to set up a deal with whoever you have running the grounds out here." There was a sound of rustling foliage off to their right, a old brown earth pony with a frumpy looking hat emerged from behind a bush. "Sorry for snooping, your highness, but I think this big fella was talking about me." "Ah," Celestia began automatically. "It's no problem..." There was a pause as she struggled to recall her gardener's name. It'd been awhile since she'd even been out here, certainly years. She'd never had much of a gr- "Green Hoof, this is Big Macintosh." The two earth ponies looked one another over, Big Mac giving a respectful nod and extending a hoof which the old grounds keeper returned with a friendly smile. "Always like to meet one of the Apple Family. You part of the farm that makes that Zap Apple Jam?" Macintosh had lowered his hoof after the shake, another nod. "Eeyup." "Got to admit its some of the finest tasting jam I ever did have. Anyway, I hear we're setting up some apple trees?" Green Hoof looked towards Celestia with an upraised eyebrow. She'd drifted out of their back and forth for a moment. Her thoughts had drifted towards the realization that Green Hoof had been essentially left out here in the gardens for what had to have been decades. The time really had flown by, she could recall the day that she'd interviewed him for the position. Now he was much older and surely on the verge of retirement; she'd need to hire a new replacement soon. "Er, Princess?" He spoke up again, startling her out of her thoughts. Refocusing now, looking at the both of them, she realized that she'd missed her cue. "Sorry, I was thinking of something else. Yes, I think some fruit in the gardens would be an excellent addition for any ponies who might be having a walk." The more she said that the more Celestia was starting to like the sound of the idea. Big Macintosh was rubbing at his chin for a moment and gestured off back towards the Palace. "I saw an open spot of grass next to the palace. Hows the PH in the soil 'round here?" Green Hoof chuckled, looking out where Big Mac had pointed. "Always a bit of a tricky situation up here in Canterlot, big fella. This here mountains got a whole mess of metal in it, lots of aluminum I think, so usually the soil gets pretty acidic after awhile. I don't remember the last time I did a proper check on the grounds near the palace, probably going to need some treatment." There was a brief, contemplative frown from Macintosh. "Ain't a problem. Whenever we plant for a customer we'll lay limestone down for free the first time, if it needs it anyway." Celestia had a feeling that having Twilight here could have helped shed a bit more light on this conversation, assuming that her student was well versed in this particular field of study. The two continued to talk shop, arranging to do all the initial ground work in the next two days or so. Big Macintosh wanted a look at the dimensions of the grounds to plan out spacing, while Green Hoof suggested that it was better to arrange things in a less rigid manner. Ultimately they decided to defer that decision until after they'd had an in depth look at the soil. Green Hoof had some more business to do around the grounds and quickly left after that. Then it was just Celestia and Big Macintosh again, a silence falling while they stood there for a moment without words. Celestia didn't actually want it to end, the excuse to go for this little walk had been already tied up quite neatly. At least Macintosh would be around for the next few...well, that was getting ahead of herself, they'd only been walking through the woods together. She cleared her throat, tapping a wing to her mouth to complete the gesture. "I suppose you ended up providing quite a bit of help after all, Big Macintosh. Your depth of knowledge for your field is quite impressive." Macintosh shrugged following her praise. "Ain't nothing to it Princess, it's what we Apples are good at." Ah, a good opening. Celestia nodded, smiling graciously. "And is that what your special talent is? I have always been a bit curious about the Apple family and their tendency to have such thematic cutiemarks. If you don't mind, how did you earn yours?" Again, he shrugged. There seemed to be a trend in Big Mac pausing deliberately, looking like he was thinking deeply about any question he was asked. Then he'd shift the ever present straw in his mouth to the other side. Followed by his answer. "Not much of a story about it I'm afraid. I was out in a field one day with my Pa. We talked, and at the end of it I had my mark. Been a apple farmer ever since." Celestia couldn't help but blinking at that answer. It really had been 'not much of a story' apparently. But no, that couldn't be all there was. There had to have been a lot more to the story, it was just that Macintosh was avoiding having to share it. That was fair enough, Celestia was certainly not about to share her own story of how she'd got her sun, but it also made her want to know all the more. The increasingly enigmatic stallion surprised her by speaking up. "Princess, can I ask ya a question?" He was looking unusually engaged then, his eyes meeting hers. "Of course you can, Big Macintosh. What would you like to know?" Now she was a little nervous, her mind immediately jumped to a plethora of questions that would be difficult for her to answer. 'Why did you really ask me out here?' 'Are you interested in me?' 'Would you like to go out for a date?'. That last one was very unlikely, but it did leave her a bit on the skittish side. It turned out to be none of those things. "Granny Smith's been telling Applejack, Applebloom and I about how she helped found Ponyville for as long as I can recollect. I was wonderin if you remember anything about my great grandpappy, since you gave him the first deed and all." Ah, that was certainly not the question she would have guessed he'd ask. But was there something hidden there? No, she had to be over thinking it. It was, however, a reminder at just how intimately tied she'd become to so many personal histories. Drawing upon the memory that was not so distant to her, Celestia smiled at the memory. "He was a fine gentlepony. Your great-grandparents and grandmother were all very thankful when I presented the chance to settle. We had a party to celebrate the founding of the town, but I can't recall if they stayed for the occasion." There was a pause, then Big Macintosh chuckled. "The way Granny Smith told me'n Applejack, when we was older, Great Grandpappy Acorn was a bit of a skirt chaser. Great Granny Rosy Glow apparently kept a bit of a tight leash on him. Reckon that's why they didn't come round to your party, Princess, didn't want him getting distracted by all the pretty mares and royalty." She laughed, Celestia couldn't help it. The look of jealousy written all over the aforementioned married mares face so long ago, when her husband had knelt to kiss his princess' hoof in thanks, suddenly made a great deal of sense. Macintosh was chewing on his straw again, watching her while there was another shared, comfortable silence. He really was quite nice to spend time with, for a variety of reasons. The biggest one was that, as had been demonstrated throughout this little excursion and before, Big Macintosh was not overawed by her presence. As far as she could tell he almost seemed to treat her as an equal. Though he was also studiously respectful, which was certainly a plus as well. It appeared there was something after all to what her sister had said before. Some, anyway. But it had to come to an end. After a deep breath she turned towards the palace. "I think we should head back, unless you'd rather spend more time out in the gardens." It was fine though, Celestia had had quite a bit of fun, but she wasn't interested in dominating all of Big Mac's time. His natural rhythm of doing things was getting a bit easier to anticipate. There was a shrug of his shoulders, which were quite nicely defined she noted, then he nodded. "Sounds fine to me, Princess." They'd started to walk then, without thinking it Celestia spoke up. "Macintosh, it is quite okay if you just call me Celestia." There was a flash of...something on his face, like he was about to frown. Big Macintosh had glanced towards her without turning his head and he was silent for a moment, guarded. "If'n you want me to P...Celestia, I will." Her name sounded strange to her ears without the preface of her title. Almost nobody dropped etiquette around her, and she hardly ever asked or granted permission for anyone to do so. Big Macintosh was likely just confused at the request, trying to gauge the intention. Even Celestia had some trouble answering that to herself: why did Big Mac get to be different? Ultimately Celestia had to suppose that, in the still highly theoretical notion of a romantic relationship, any pony would have to be her relative equal. Deferential titles somewhat undercut that notion. So naturally they would have to be dispensed with. Not that Big Macintosh was now set as such, no no. It was just a...test run, practice. Practice for whenever the proper potential romantic interest came around. It was no rush, Celestia liked her plans to take centuries to develop if at all possible. It just so happened that, whenever she devoted some time to think about it, the theoretical stallion had a tendency to posses a vaguely Big Macintosh like shape. They ended up walking all the way back to the palace together. Their parting with very much friendly, with Celestia a little sad to see him leave. Now that she'd had a taste for...whatever the walk might be called, she wanted more. But social niceties could not so easily be ignored and these things would take time to properly develop. Besides, even if she had no official business to do she could still see how Luna was handling Equestria. Nothing appeared to be on fire, which was a promising start. It did look like the day was going quite well as a matter of fact. Apart from the possibility of the end of the world Celestia might even say that the week was one of the best she'd had in a long while. Trotting down the marble corridors of her palace, the Princess of the Sun contemplated the idea of going for a flight. It was another thing she hadn't done in quite awhile, not for fun. It was her day off, after all, and relaxing didn't seem to be quite as bad as she'd feared. Author's Note Well this was kind of the chapter from hell. I ended up fleshing it out pretty well I think. I'm certainly glad that I finished it! As you can plainly see I remembered that this was suppose to be something like a romantic story and so included the fluffy feeling parts. Also remember that Celestia is a unreliable narrator, even in her own head. Denial is not just a river in egypt, after all. Also, I am not even close to an expert on norse mythology or farming/horticulture. If you, the reader, are either of those things and I have committed grave sins against all that you love please tell me. Also the norse really did have rap battles, which is the most amazing thing I have ever learned from the internet. Love sought is good, but giv'n unsought is better, Part One.Luna felt positively giddy while entering her bedroom. It had been a truly marvelous day, easily one of her most favorite in her significantly long life. Running court in the day had been better than she could have ever imagined. Luna now knew what kept her older sister functioning so well after all these centuries. The Princess of the Night had helped settle no less than five disputes and still had time to converse pleasantly with dozens of ponies; servants, courtiers and visitors alike. They'd all been very happy to speak with her. The warm glow of all of that attention, the need and admiration for her special set of skills hadn't yet left despite it being many hours later. It was also exhausting, though, and Luna had blown right through her usually scheduled nap. Now came the simple reality of her break from the norm. Luna wasn't going to be overseeing her beloved night tonight. It wasn't the first time she'd been absent, not even including the thousand years of her banishment. On occasion she'd had the flu, or was away on important business without time to attend to more than the raising of her particular celestial body. Equestria could handle an evening without her watching over her subject's dreams or altering the orbit of the moon just enough to make it all the more impressive. Luna still had a great fondness for her night, but the complete newness of ruling in Celestia's place made her want to do it all over again. Luna even had some potential plans to do just that, in fact. She wasn't the only one who had had a marvelous day, not if the utterly relaxed way her older sister had strolled into a meeting was anything to go by. The difference in how Celestia had carried herself was startling, Luna had used the term 'strolled' while thinking about it and it was a completely apt description. Her older sister always went places with a purpose, her head high up and proud in all of her regal glory. That was not the same Celestia who had admired artwork, chit-chatted with a few passing workers and then nibbled on treats in the throne room while Luna kept working. They hadn't had a much longer talk than a few minutes before her older sister had announced she was taking a leisurely flight, and was then off. The plan to give Celestia some much needed downtime was paying off handsomely it seemed. That kind of wild success was sure to result in more afternoons like today if all went well. Luna even envisioned a sharing of the day and night on occasion. Instead of them both ruling strictly according to their particular half of the day, Luna might enjoy daytime responsibilities and all of the daytime ponies that went with it. But all of that excitement had taken its toll on her. Luna sighed when she nuzzled into her bed, putting the covers over herself and pressing her head onto a fluffy pillow. Sleep came on her instantly, a sleep that needed no magical influence. It wasn't long before the black nothingness of unconscious was transformed into vivid colors and sounds. As a mistress of dreams Luna was always lucid inside of them. But it was a rare treat for the Princess to even have a dream without provoking one on purpose, and so she simply settled back to allow her dream state to flow without tampering with it. Soon she recognized where she was and what she was dreaming of. A distant memory; Celestia and her playing about as young fillies in a forest. "Where are you? Sunny?" The young version of Luna, only a pegasus at this point, called aloud. She peered suspiciously through thick bushes, not liking being by herself. There was a few stifled giggles, coming somewhere off to her right. Looking that way, the young filly took a step back at the sight of a great gray furred wolf. Its teeth were enormous, globs of drool landing on the ground as it stared at her with ravenous hunger. Her eyes widened as tears welled up, fear going beyond any possible rational thought kept the filly completely rooted to the ground. "P...p..." Was about as far as the young Luna could manage, unable even to muster the words begging the creature not to devour her. The enormous creature took a step forward and then its form wavered out of shape before the illusion crumbled entirely. All that was left where the wolf had been was a white coated unicorn filly with a bright pink mane, rolling on the ground laughing. "You should have seen the look on your face Lulu!" "I...I.." Luna sniffed, her cheeks becoming wet as she gave a hiccup of a sob. "I'm telling Dad!" Immediately bolted for the opposite direction, as fast as she could. The dream faded to the sounds of her older sister calling after her. "I didn't mean it Luna! Come back you big baby!" Father always had said that they were the most beautiful, and wonderful, daughters that any pony could hope for. As bright as the sun and as captivating as the moon that he'd named them after. That was so long ago that the memory hardly felt like more than a fragment, her imagination filling in sections she could not recall. For instance, Luna was fairly certain that she'd exaggerated how much Celestia had scared her. It had been more like she'd jumped out of the bushes and yelled 'boo'. That was right, there wasn't a wolf. Neither of them had known what a wolf was back then, they had not had any reason to be afraid. Her sleep was disturbed by something on the edge of her perception, the Princess couldn't quite make it out but somehow three distinct young voices had filtered into her subconscious. There was something important about those familiar, hushed whispers, something she'd forgotten before going to sleep. The door to her bedchambers suddenly slammed shut. Luna jolted awake and immediately sat up to look about her room for what had caused the noise. Her senses were all on high alert, but nothing seemed out of place. She was out of breath now, hooves planted on her sheets. Putting the pieces back together on what had happened, Luna realized that the Cutie Mark Crusaders must have paid a visit to her room...again. Right, Night Fright, that ridiculous game that she had blundered into playing now twice. Well, it looked like nothing was amiss. Perhaps the three fillies had not been expecting Luna to retire to bed so soon. Yes, that was probably it. They had been surprised she was asleep and had ran out of the room out of fear of being caught. Breathing a sigh of relief she reached up with a hoof to rub at a bit of sweat that had formed along her nose. Her hoof was wet. Luna's brow crinkled into confusion when she felt liquid touch her nose, it was coating her hoof. Looking down at her sheets she realized that the fabric was actually completely soaked. Her horn became alight, pale blue illumination showed...red? With mounting trepidation the Princess of the Moon slowly pulled away the covers to reveal nothing. There was nothing at all in her bed. But where had all of the red, it was most definitely not water, came from? Luna was in the earliest stages of being completely 'freaked out' and was not at all amused at whatever had just happened to her bed. Drip A large red droplet of something landed on her head. Then there was another. Luna looked up and met the gaze of the decapitated head of a pony staring right into her eyes. All of the Royal Palace could hear Luna's screams after that, with various degrees of concern and surprise. The only exception were three very entertained little girls who gave each other high fives at a successful plan. Princess Celestia couldn't help but laugh as she recalled the entertainment of last night. Her top staff and bureaucrats all turned to stare at their Princess, who had apparently decided to start have a giggle fit in the middle of a very boring budget meeting. Usually Celestia would be upset with herself for that serious breach of gravitas, it was entirely inappropriate to interrupt Prince Blueblood as he rambled on about his suggestions on changing the tax code. But it had been simply too amusing to listen to Luna tell, in near hysterics, what she'd found above her bed when she woke up. "My apologies, I was thinking of something funny." Celestia assured her budget committee, waving them off to continue. A surprisingly realistic prop pony head, covered in thick fake blood. In dim lighting and a groggy state it would look exactly like the real thing and had done its job admirably. Luna had slept in her bed the rest of the night. That in itself was rather adorable, Luna hadn't done that since they were exceedingly young. Even before they returned to Equestria, finding it under the domain of Discord. That was ancient history and Celestia reminded herself that she should be paying attention. Fortunately Prince Blueblood loved to hear the sound of his own voice as he'd hardly broken stride at the minor interruption. "-Over the last four years we've seen a three percent decrease in revenues from foreign imports. I would like to submit to the committee a paired increase on tariffs from the Gryphon Kingdom and a reworking of the code of sub-section A, clause four, of the Joint-Equine Trade Development Law of..." Blueblood shuffled the papers for a moment to review the year that the law had been made. "of 845, Equestrian Harmony," Celestia finished it for him, sighing and reaching for her cup of tea. She didn't know every single law she'd ever made. She'd signed it over twelve hundred years ago and strangely it was easy to remember. Though she couldn't recall why she remembered it, just that there was a good reason. For a second there was a flash of worry easy to discern on the boorish unicorn's face. Interesting, he hadn't wanted her to know what he was talking about. Celestia slipped into her 'attention' mode, focusing on Blueblood more than she had been. Some ponies were as easy to read as a book, and Blueblood had more tells than a gossip. "Yes, you're quite right your highness," he shuffled his papers again and gathered himself together for a moment. "As I was saying. I would recommend a striking of the section dealing with stiff tax penalties on businesses or individuals seeking direct acquisition of foreign market infrastructure." She was almost insulted that Blueblood thought he could overwhelm her with big words, but the only way that Celestia reacted to the suggestion was to lift an eyebrow carefully. Blueblood squirmed under her watchful gaze, which she'd been doing only for the added pleasure of it. What he was up to wasn't hard to figure out now. His recommendation had sparked her memory about why the incredibly arcane and dense tax code had that particular aspect. Back then it had been to prevent predatory business ponies from dominating the vulnerable new nation of Hayti, whose economy wouldn't have been able to handle carpetbaggers buying up land and capital. In fact, some of Blueblood's ancestors had tried fundamentally the same trick as he was now. "I'm afraid that I will have to deny both of your suggestions, Blueblood. I would also like to remind you that the spirit of harmony promotes mutual cooperation, not exploitation of our neighbors who might be in a vulnerable economic position." Celestia sipped her tea again, finishing while narrowing her eyes over her cup to complete her message. With the jig up, Blueblood wilted and nodded unhappily. Celestia was sure she'd just saved Cadence and Shining Armor from a serious headache. The newly returned Crystal Empire was little better than a city state at this point, and it would take a great many years before it could hope to return to its former glory. They did not need the kind of help that Blueblood would have had in mind. "Say, sonny, can you go fetch me another bag of fertilizer? My back ain't what it use to be." "Eeyup." Celestia looked to her right over the balcony of the marble terrace adjacent to the Royal Canterlot Gardens. Big Macintosh walked over to a pile of supplies and placed a heavy looking bag over his back. At this time of day the sun was fairly hot, both Green Hoof and Big Mac working up a visible sweat, which even she could see a good distance away, while steadily planting the first apple trees of the garden's new apple orchard. Her focus lingered out onto the field, eyes unable to entirely stray away from the work being done in general and a certain red coated stallion in particular. Now there was a respectable pony, all of Canterlot 'high society' could learn a thing or two about how to act from his example. All she'd asked was Big Mac's opinion about apple trees and here he was the next day planting some for her without any issue. Apparently he'd went right back to Ponyville and brought them here right after they'd went for a walk in the garden. She'd need to come up with another reason to spend some time with h- "Ahem, your highness?" A voice next to her spoke up, jerking Celestia out of her idle thoughts. She quickly looked back at the gathered assembly of her highest government officials and realized she'd been staring. Now Blueblood, who had tried to steer the conversation away from his faux pas, was the one arching an eyebrow while looking her way. He spoke up in place of Pencil Pusher, who'd first tried to get her attention. "Perhaps we should move the meeting back into the regular room? The gardeners are a bit...loud at the moment, you'd think they didn't know an important meeting was occurring here." Blueblood rolled his eyes, demonstrating how little he thought of the two out on the field digging up holes. Celestia had to resist giving her 'nephew' a less than pleased look, he was being unusually unbearable today. "It is quite alright. I rather like the change of atmosphere myself," she quipped, giving a flap of her wings to resettle them and appear as pleasant as possible while tilting her head. "I didn't make the day too hot, did I?" As she expected there were a chorus of 'No your highness' after that seemingly innocent question. It was a nice little reminder about who exactly was the Princess here. But still, she'd just been caught staring and that was more than a little embarrassing. That might have bothered Celestia more than it did just a few days ago, when maintaining a stately disposition had been essentially her entire identity. At this point Celestia was realizing just how right her sister had been with her advice. Centuries of endless work, and little in the way of personal time, had left her more than a little uptight. "Good then," Celestia lifted up a few weighty sections of the next fiscal years budget. "Lets move onto a review of appropriations." Finding out how much she'd been missing with a bit of relaxation didn't mean work ended, though. The meeting moved on, a few sighs unavoidable at the decision to move onto perhaps the least exciting portion of their duties. At least it was nice outside, not that the Canterlot Weather Team would ever let it not be nice unless it was scheduled. Celestia had moved this meeting out to the terrace for the first time in...well, none of the ponies at the table would be able to remember. Neither would their parents, in fact, and the span of time didn't even seem that enormous to her. The inspiration had arrived when Green Hoof had submitted a request to start work this morning, mentioning that Big Macintosh was going to be involved. It just seemed like a good idea to make a change on the spur of the moment, attempting to be spontaneous had been quite enjoyable so far. Celestia just couldn't resist the chance to make the move. It was easy to think of other things while leafing through the lists of where particular bits were moving, but then her eyes caught an interesting figure. Farm subsidies were unusually low in some areas and high in others. This needed investigation. After she procured a more specific and weighty list of past budgets for review she realized what had occurred. Over the years certain farms, mostly fruit producers, had been able to return profits at such high rates that increases in their subsidies hadn't seemed necessary. Vegetables, by contrast, had not fared so well and thus got an increase to keep them running. Such was the logic of bureaucrats and now the thing subsidies were made to avoid, a race to the bottom in fruit prices, had made it very tight for certain farmers and risked them being driven out of business. Once again Celestia drifted to look over at Big Macintosh. She could recall half a dozen reports from Twilight that alluded to the Apple family having some financial problems. Now it made sense, and Celestia realized she had a whole new reason to see Big Mac. Of course, not that she really needed a reason it was just that it would seem rude to take up such a busy ponies time. That was it, of course. "I'll have to ask him for lunch in my office to tell him the good news." Celestia said out loud to conclude her decision. Pencil Pusher gave her a strange look. "Excuse me Princess? Tell who the good news?" Blinking, Celestia put a hoof to her mouth and coughed to give her a moment to think. "Ah, nothing important. But I did happen to notice that our agriculture department could use a little boost..." It was a monumental effort to keep her office from becoming too ostentatious. Just the sheer volume of gifts and artifacts that were acquired over the years made it difficult to figure out just where to put things. Every few decades a new museum would be dedicated when the basement of the palace could no longer hold things in storage. At this particular moment Celestia had hired a more spartan decorator and so only a few curiosities were located on desks in the otherwise very large room. It was dim, too, as the curtains were drawn, giving the room a more closed in appeal. Not that Big Macintosh appeared to notice any of it as he sat opposite of Celestia, her desk between them. Inviting him up here had been a lot easier than asking him to accompany her through the gardens yesterday. It had been a simple request, followed by a 'eeyup'. Now they were up on the top floor of the highest spire, as close to her sun as might be found anywhere in Equestria short of flying. "-and thus I have decided to include a sizable increase in your subsidy, I am very sorry for the previous years where the error was overlooked. If I could, I would make it retroactive to fit where the increase might have been, but considering all the farms in Equestria that would likely consume a large portion of the treasury." Celestia finished speaking, smiling the whole time. It was peaceful up here, and quiet. Big Macintosh gave a powerful shrug, shifting the ever present bit of straw in his mouth that Celestia had started to find was entertaining to watch in between words. "Ain't a problem Princ-, er, Celestia. The Apple Family ain't in the habit of complaining 'bout things like that. Mighty grateful that you're increasing the subsidy, but ah'd never let the farm go under if'n I could help it." That was an admirable sentiment, and one that Celestia could believe was entirely honest. "Well now you'll have some help. Without farms like yours many ponies would be stuck eating grass or very expensive food, I hardly think they'd approve very much." She chuckled at just trying to imagine it, anypony who complained about 'rewarding farmers for not producing'' would have a different opinion in a hurry after that. Nodding, Big Mac only gave a smile at her joke. Cinnamon Swirl, her personal chef, entered in through a side door, generally facing Celestia but also taking the time to regard the other occupant. "Your highness," the light brown earth pony chef began, bowing. "What would you and the gentlecolt like for lunch?" Celestia turned first to Macintosh, beckoning him to order first. There was a moments pause, Big Mac giving a rub of his chin. "Ah suppose I wouldn't mind a lettuce and tomato sandwich. Oh, and some coffee if'n ya had some." Cinnamon nodded to confirm it wasn't a problem. It was easier for Celestia to think of what she wanted, it was hard not to acquire certain favorites over a long history of requesting lunches. "I wouldn't mind a bit of chocolate cake and, " Well, perhaps something new would actually be better "....I would like some coffee as well." Now Cinnamon Swirl was giving her an odd look. Celestia couldn't blame Cinnamon either, the love affair between her and tea was almost legendary by now. But again, spontaneous. Also coffee had become very popular in her land lately, surely there was something to it. "Very well your highness. I'll be back with your meals shortly." Cinnamon bowed again, turned and left for the kitchen set not far from the office. Now both Celestia and Big Mac were alone, back to quiet intimacy. For a change, Big Macintosh was the one who spoke up only a few short moments after the door had closed. "Heard Applebloom and her friends gave Princess Luna quite a scare last night." Small talk, wonderful. Celestia beamed at the easy topic that he'd just offered. And here she'd idly worried things might become awkward. "Yes, though Luna only insists she was 'startled'. It seems their little game is still on. My little sister is not a fan of losing." Macintosh was grinning quite a bit, nodding. "Applejack's the same way. Every time her and Miss Rainbow Dash butt heads you'd think they'd sooner die than let the other win. Good thing they're friends or else it'd probably end in a hoof fight." Now there was another thing they had in common, being older siblings. "I'm sure that Luna doesn't mind your sister or her friends. She could probably do without being scared half to death though." Celestia tapped a hoof on her desk, thinking about it. "It can certainly be a challenge with younger siblings don't you think?" "Sure can, wouldn't trade what I got with 'Bloom or Applejack for the world but its nice to know they got other ponies to be friends with. Siblings ain't always able to be friends quite like other strangers can, if'n that makes sense. Specially if you're really all they got." Macintosh had been rubbing his mane for a moment. His last few words had grown a bit more solemn, a distance that she could see in his eyes. Celestia couldn't help but recall the reality that the Sweet Apple Acres clan was missing two very important figures. Even if his words had been an opening for it, she dared not ask. That was more nosy than she really felt comfortable with. After all, she'd only really gotten to know Big Macintosh for...well, since yesterday. Could they even be considered really friends? "It does make sense, you're very right Big Mac." Celestia added after a short pause, just in time for their food to be wheeled out. Cinnamon Swirl hadn't taken much time at all, though neither of their requests had been very complicated. "For the gentlecolt...and for your highness." Now her cake and steaming cup of coffee were in front of her. Cinnamon had laid out a cup in between them filled with milk and another with sugar. Big Macintosh ignored both and reached for his cup, sipping at the very black liquid and making a satisfied sound. "That's mighty fine," he commented, taking another small mouthful. Celestia peered at her own cup of coffee with a bit of trepidation. She'd never had the stuff before and could only distantly recall what others had done when drinking it near her. Something about adding cream and sugar, which were right here, but not in what amounts. Macintosh was looking at her while holding the cup up to his mouth, an expectant look. Taking up the black unaltered coffee in her magical aura, Celestia perched it to her lips and took an experimental sip. "Blagh!" She didn't manage to spit it out, having at least that much self control, but her reaction bordering on a near gag and expression told the story well enough. It tasted absolutely awful! How could ponies be so insane as to enjoy drinking coffee? It was like watery mud, only even more bitter and unpleasant. Big Macintosh had started to laugh, really the first time Celestia had ever heard him do so. It was enough to distract her from her increasingly critical first impression of coffee. "You ain't never had coffee before, have ya?" Macintosh asked her, still chuckling and setting his cup down. Celestia couldn't help blushing a little at being caught, helplessly nodding a bit while still holding her drink up. "I was curious after you ordered it." Big Mac got up out of his seat, leaning up and over her desk to grab the floating cup out of the air. For a brief moment Celestia's magical aura had wreathed itself around his hoof, which gave her a whole new reason to redden. The curious quality of that particular bit of unicorn magic was that it allowed the user to get a general 'feel' for whatever they were touching. While indirect, Big Mac had basically done the same as touching her own hoof, while at the same time she'd gotten an interesting impression. Strength, not that she needed to know that anymore than she already did. But the few seconds of magic had really driven home that important aspect of his character. Physical as well as emotional strength, she'd felt a deep inner calmness in a way that could really only be explained as 'magic'. Not that Macintosh was privy to any of that, he had probably only felt a slight tingle and then moved the captured coffee over to his side of the desk. "Takes awhile to get use to coffee, specially if ya try to go and drink it black. Ah ain't always in the most reasonable state in the morning before work so I just drink it like that. Then I'm good and awake. Now ah just like it that way, but you'd be better off with a bit of cream at least." Big Macintosh explained while ladling in few spoonfuls of sugar and then pouring in milk so that the black liquid was diluted into a more brownish color. "There ya go, try it now," satisfied, he moved it back for her consideration. With a bit of hesitation Celestia lifted it once more and tried it again. Better, far far better. That bitter taste was still there, but manageable and more like flavoring than the overpowering assault it had been before. "Ah, that is much better," she added after swallowing and then tried a bit more. Macintosh nodded, still chuckling. "Ain't got to try and impress me none, Applejack can't stand the stuff. Usually she wakes up a hour or two after me so she ain't quite so ornery when getting to work. " Conversation was halted for awhile while they had their lunch, but it was still that same comfortable silence that Celestia had grown fond of whenever she was around Big Mac. It was one of the biggest reasons she liked him so much; she never had to feel like she needed to fill space with chatter just to keep him entertained. Hopefully that would never change, Big Macintosh staying respectful and polite, but not deferential and overawed by her position. "How has the planting been going? I saw you were doing quite well earlier." Celestia decided it'd be best to start the conversation again, finishing her last portion of her cake. Macintosh put the remnants of his sandwich down and considered for a moment. "Got a bit to go, but we're making good time. Green Hoof said he's got to keep up on the other parts of the garden so I'll be out there on my own." Hm. "Oh, well that is very admirable Big Macintosh but you hardy need to do it all on your own." Celestia wasn't sure if it was possible to dissuade him though, especially if he had set his mind on it. "I'm sure I could find you some help." Shrugging, Big Mac shifted the bit of straw to the right now. "Its a job, ain't mind it none at all. Wouldn't feel right to ask a pony whose doin' something else to dig holes and plant new trees." 'Yes but then what would I have to look at?' Where had that thought come from? No, Celestia reminded herself not to get distracted by idle thoughts. Still, she didn't want Big Mac out there working all by himself. Suddenly she had inspiration. "Perhaps I could be of assistance to you, Macintosh. Personally, that is." That certainly seemed to surprise him, though there was a bit of disbelief in his eyes at the very idea, "If I were to have some free time, a little gardening might be fun." "Reckon you'd probably be able to dig up the whole garden in a few seconds if'n ya really wanted to," Macintosh spoke slowly, sounding careful in his words. "No offense Princess but fancy unicorn magic ain't always healthy for the trees, especially when they're just growing. Earth Pony magic gets down in the roots, takes awhile but that's how it works when you're out there with a shovel and some water." Now that almost sounded like a challenge. "Big Macintosh, I am familiar with earth pony magic. Along with my horn and wings I also happen to embody that aspect as well. I am more than capable of planting a garden." For once Big Mac actually seemed alarmed. He vigorously shook his head. "Ah' didn't mean it that way Princess. I'm sure ya could do the work." "Oh?" Celestia couldn't help but add a uplift to her tone while feeling a touch of amusement, a lesser version of what she'd felt when putting Blueblood on the spot. Too many centuries of messing with ponies made it almost something she did on default for entertainment. "Then what did you mean?" Macintosh appeared to be struggling to come up with a reply, his words no longer quite so measured and deliberate. "Just that, well. You seem mighty busy, I just reckoned you wouldn't have the time to do simple work like that while running Equestria. I didn't mean nothing else by it, Princess." Really., he was simply too much fun to tease. That earnestness was very cute. "Oh I'm sure you didn't mean any offense. Unfortunately you're right that I am rather busy this afternoon with a prior arrangement, so perhaps it will have to wait. But, Big Mac?" He still looked nervous, hesitant. "Er, yes?" "Its just Celestia, you've started calling me 'Princess' again." Celestia smiled, a mild reproof if anything but hearing her name without laurel or qualification felt too refreshing still to let things slip back to how they were, at least with Big Mac anyway. "Right, just sort of...unusual to call ya anything else besides that." Macintosh looked considerate, much like that guarded look she'd noticed the day before. "And why is that Big Macintosh? Aren't we friends?" Up until Celestia had been as cool as a cucumber. Teasing was an easy way to dissipate tension. But she'd went and sought an answer that had some actual risk. Did Macintosh consider them friends or was he just being polite for the sake of his Princess? Her chest was squeezing in that moment before he replied. "I suppose we are," Big Mac said slowly, the caution again with a slight frown to add to it. Celestia let out a breath. That wasn't as bad an answer as it might have seemed, since an insincere pony would probably have more readily agreed. She had to be realistic here, it was a lot to ask for to move from 'subject' into 'friend'. It would just take awhile for Macintosh to warm up into the mindset, it would take Celestia awhile too and she was the one who wanted to be friends. But that little moment had come with a price, the conversation had settled into silence once again. But this time it was not a comfortable one, and difficult to break. After a few long,empty moments Big Macintosh chose that moment to stand up and turn towards the door. There was a flash of panic, Celestia was suddenly convinced she'd badly miscalculated and ended up souring things. A little bit of teasing tended to brighten up her day, and she'd slipped into it so naturally she'd not stopped to consider the wider context of their relationship. A relationship that was, of course, just a budding friendship. But with Big Mac about to leave Celestia hardly had enough time to straighten out the nuances of what she meant. "Er, Big Macintosh?" She called, more to stop him than anything. Surely there had to be a way to recapture the conversation. She hadn't wanted the pleasant afternoon to end, especially not on an awkward note. He did pause, she hadn't expected anything else. Wait, there was an idea. "Are you going back to work in the gardens?" Celestia did her best to keep her voice steady, centuries of practice in schooling emotions were hard at work to overcome the knot in her stomach. Confusion, she could read it on his face. "Well, it still needs to get done. Since Green Hoof is busy with the rest of his duties I reckoned I might as well. Not a whole lot left anyway." Macintosh explained, turning to face her. "Ah, but here I already volunteered to help." Delicate words, she needed to be careful. Celestia was convinced she'd already bungled it, overplaying the teasing; but once committed to it there seemed to be no way to back out. "Perhaps you could come with me to the charity drive that I will be attending this afternoon?" There, a glimmer of hope. He didn't answer immediately, but his posture shifted. Macintosh set his jaw a bit, glancing off to the side and appeared to be mulling it over. "Is it alright if I ask why ya keep inivitin me out on all these things with you?" More panic, but showing it wasn't going to help. Not that there was anything to confess, but Celestia could see that there was a certain temptation to just tell him the truth. How to even phrase it though? 'My sister pointed out that I've been so immersed in my role as a Princess that I haven't had a real friend in centuries and that you're surprisingly enjoyable to spend time with'. That would only confuse the issue and Celestia just couldn't bring herself to go that route. "You're more than welcome to ask...." a temporizing statement, she busied herself with tidying her plate of food for a moment while gathering her thoughts. "I suppose I simply just enjoy your company, Big Macintosh. I hope I haven't been keeping you from something more important." There, she'd even given him an out that she hoped he wouldn't use. Fortunately for her, Big Mac shook his head. "Ain't really got anything to do, I was just curious cause I never figured I'd be the type to be entertaining royalty. I wouldn't mind going with you, whats this charity thing about?" Happy that he'd agreed to come along, Celestia rose from behind her desk and began to head for the door, with Macintosh following. "Truthfully I haven't the slightest idea what event was planned, would you be surprised to know that I have founded over one hundred charities?" Matching her stride, the farmer gave her a faintly impressed look. "That sounds might generous of you, I think I know about a couple of them. Applejack dragged me to the one about building homes for needy families or somethin', we put together the quickest house of the whole group." Heading down the spiraling staircase leading out of her palace and into Canterlot, Celestia found herself easily smiling once again. Another whole afternoon with Big Mac sounded absolutely enjoyable, he'd even started to loosen up enough to speak freely about his foray into charity. That accent of his was rather charming, she noted, all while the workpony discussed the finer details of constructing homes. Mixing friendship, and regardless of what Luna said it was likely to only be friendship, with her duties as a Princess seemed as ideal a situation as could be imagined. Author's Note Well this chapter took longer than I expected it to. 'Part One' is because I had quite a bit more to write about this particular 'day'. But for the sake of pacing and reading fatigue I felt it was best to break it up a bit. I'm already a third of the way through Part Two as well. Hopefully you enjoyed the chapter! Love sought is good, but giv'n unsought is better, Part Two."No," the guard posted at the front of the doors to the Royal Canterlot Library might as well have been chiseled out of stone for all the give he had in him. "Aw, come on. We promised we ain't gonna mess any of the books up!" Applebloom tried to put on her best and most convincing look of adorable pleading. She'd even put her lip out! But that didn't seem to be working for the stallion on duty, nor did the similiar looks that Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle were giving seem to have any effect. Sweetie Belle tried again, they'd been at this for at least five minutes and the Cutiemark Crusaders were committed to getting inside. "Can't you please just let us in for a litt-" She didn't get a chance to finish. Annoyed, the guard cut her off. "The library is not a place to play in, it's restricted to those without a valid reason or permission. After what happened in the armory I think it's best if you find somewhere else to spend your afternoon." Now it was Scootaloo who looked ready to argue, even though she'd been the least interested in this particular adventure. "Hey! We said we were sorry. We even cleaned it all up." Yelling at the guard wasn't going to get them into the library any sooner, but it did sound more satisfying. "Without supervision of a pony that has regular access to the library you cannot enter." That was that, Applebloom could hear the tone of finality in the pronouncement. Defeated, the three friends turned around with their heads downcast. "What are we going to do now? We really almost got Princess Luna last night." Sweetie Belle gave spoken word to what they were all thinking. Scootaloo kicked a pebble that was in her way. "Maybe there's a few prank shops in Canterlot we can get ideas from. Like the place we got the dummy head and fake blood." That sounded like a decent idea, at least; but Applebloom knew that their efforts to win the game were going to take something even more convincing and terrifying. "I 'spose, but Princess Luna is gonna be onto us the next time we use some sort of regular scary stuff." The Cutiemark Crusaders were interrupted by the sound of padding feet. Looking up, Applebloom saw a very much annoyed purple dragon glaring at them. "Okay, I give up." Spike said, folding his claws over his chest. "It's been days, where's Twilight?" Confused, Applebloom glanced to her friends. "Twilight went off on some sorta adventure, Spike. She didn't send ya a letter?" "No, she didn't. So she went off to fight bad guys huh, and nobody thought to tell me?" Where he'd looked annoyed before, Spike now looked outright on the verge of exploding. Sweetie Belle was the first to step forward, putting a forehoof against his shoulder. "Aw, don't be upset, Spike. It sounded like it was a real serious emergency, Twilight and the others were probably all just thinking about stopping the Ragnawhatever." Spike didn't shy away from the touch, but he didn't look all that much happier. "I guess, so the rest of you have all been in Canterlot this whole time?" Nodding, Scootaloo gestured up at the palace right behind them. "Mhm, we've been trying to scare Princess Luna!" Squinting, the 'baby' dragon scratched his head. "Scare Princess Luna? Oh! You mean like that game where you freaked out half of Ponyville? I'm still amazed you guys managed to get the fog machines to cover the town before anyone noticed." Applebloom was happy that they had at least someone praising their past work. Even if that particular prank had put them in a whole heap of trouble for convincing the town that terrifying monsters were going to eat them. She grinned wide, "It wasn't easy! But it was kinda interesting how everypony ran into the grocery store all at once." Before they could continue talking about their past antics they all were interrupted by the sound of trumpets ringing out. Out of one of the main entrances of the palace a few dozen feet away appeared Princess Celestia, heading down the walkway and towards a carriage. Curiously enough, she wasn't alone. "Big Macintosh?" Applebloom couldn't help saying her brother's name, absolutely confused that he was walking side by side with Celestia. Not only walking, but speaking with her. Spike looked confused too, his focus on Celestia. "Huh..." Sweetie Belle looked over at the dragon, who Applebloom had always suspected Sweetie had a crush on. "Something the matter, Spike?" The purple dragon didn't speak right away, pursing his lips in thought for a moment. "Just that Princess Celestia looks...different." "Different how?" Interested, Scootaloo had joined the others to watch Celestia, Macintosh and a guard file into a waiting carriage and then set out towards the city. Shrugging, Spike turned to look at the CMC. "Happy, I guess. I'm not sure, she just doesn't look quite how she usually does when I've seen her go out to do princess stuff." "Princess Celestia isn't happy?" Applebloom couldn't help but ask, momentarily distracted from wondering what business the Princess had with her brother. Waving his hands, Spike also shook his head quickly by way of answer. "No no. Well, not unhappy. Well, how do I explain it? Princess Celestia kinda raised me when I was just hatched." "So Princess Celestia is your mom then?" Sweetie interrupted him, Applebloom had even had the same thought herself when she'd heard that. "Well..." Spike seemed to think about it for a second. "Not really, I kind of grew up with everypony in the whole Palace taking care of me, and Twilight's parents too. But I guess she kinda is? Anyway, I don't think I've ever seen Princess Celestia look so relaxed." Now that Applebloom thought about it, she'd seen Big Macintosh look more lively than she'd usually seen him. They'd been talking, hadn't even seemed to notice Spike and the three of them. "Big Mac looked pretty relaxed too. They was hanging out yesterday, something about planting an apple field." "Maybe they like each other." Scootaloo commented. Both Spike and Applebloom immediately turned to stare at the orange filly, mirrored expressions of disbelief. "What? No way!" They even had said that in unison. Scootaloo looked more confused than anything at that reaction. "Not like that! Maybe they're just like...friends or something," Even that sounded weird. Her brother might have a personal friendship with Princess Celestia? But it wasn't quite the same as what Applebloom had first jumped to, at least. "Maybe," she allowed at length. "Yeah, no way," Sweetie Belle agreed, nodding. "Besides, Miss Cheerilee and Big Macintosh are together." Wincing, Applebloom gave a strained smile. "Actually, Sweetie, Big Macintosh told me they're just friends. They went out onna date and all, Granny Smith was even talkin about great grandkids, but I don't think anything came of it." "Oh..." Sweetie's ears drooped, she looked as if she'd just heard the worst news in the world. Applebloom had known Sweetie Belle took after her older sister as something of a romantic, but it was a bit surprising to see it so openly displayed. Scootaloo was scratching her mane a bit, glancing between the two of them. "I thought Fluttershy and Big Mac were a couple. Wasn't that why she came over to your house for dinner?" "Well..." Applebloom hadn't expected to be holding such an in depth conversation about her older brother's love life today. "I think that was more about Applejack than anything, she was the one who asked Fluttershy to come over." She'd paused, just a moment to think about how the dinner had gone over and her observations when Spike chimed in looking confused. "Wait, Applejack likes Fluttershy?" "No, Spike." Applebloom sighed, rubbing at her face with a hoof. "I think my sister was just trying to set Fluttershy up with Big Macintosh, onna account that just about everypony thinks they'd be perfect for each other and all." "Ohhh, right." Spike nodding, drawing himself in on the conversation. For a moment it'd looked like he'd been about to wander off on his own. "So what happened?" Sweetie Belle prodded, evidently now 'over' the revelation that their efforts to find a coltfriend for their teacher hadn't worked out. "Hold yer horses, I was just gettin to that." Applebloom could remember the dinner they'd had. For her part, she'd thought it was altogether entertaining. But for all the adults in the room it had probably seemed pretty awkward. "Big Mac and Fluttershy hardly spoke to each other the whole time. Not that they didn't get along but, er, my brother ain't the most talkative of ponies. So nothin happened." "Oh," Sweetie and Scootaloo shrugged, not having much else to add. "What were we talking about again?" Spike asked aloud, glancing between the three of them. There was a pause, Applebloom knew they'd started talking about her brother first and that was because of..."Oh yeah, Princess Celestia and my brother.." Just saying it like that sounded weird. Not that Applebloom thought her brother wasn't good enough, but Princess Celestia was the closest thing to a deity in her mind. Imagining the tall, regal alicorn, for whom history books often set their ages by in a relationship with anyone seemed hard to believe. Spike seemed to share her sentiment, rolling his eyes. "Right, anyway. I guess I should head back to Ponyville." With a small slump to his shoulders the purple dragon turned away. "Wait, hold on a second Spike." Sweetie moved around to stand in front of him. "Maybe you could stay here and help us?" Hearing that gave Applebloom an idea. "Hey yeah! Spike, you could get in the library can't ya?" Out of the corner of her eye she could swear that the guard they'd been harassing suddenly stiffened. Spike only looked confused, slowly nodding. "Yeah, I can. Twilight and I spent a lot of time in there whenever she needed to study. How are you going to scare Princess Luna with books?" Sweetie beamed at the chance to explain what had been her idea. "I thought there would be lots of neat spells inside the magic section of the library! If Princess Luna isn't expecting it we could really get her good." "You want to go to the Starswirl the Bearded Wing?" Applebloom could see that faint alarm on Spike's face, but he hadn't quite said he wouldn't help them get in. "I mean, a lot of those spells are hard for even Twilight to cast. No offense Sweetie, but most of those spells are also kinda dangerous if you don't know what you're doing." "That's what I said." Scootaloo muttered, not one for books in any particular context. Pouting again, and this one was sure to work, Applebloom watched Sweetie Belle go in for the kill. "Aw, but you'll help tell us what would work and what wouldn't right? I know you wouldn't let me get hurt." Committed to the sell, Sweetie even batted her eyelashes. Applebloom thought that last bit was overkill. Sweetie must have been watching how Rarity got what she wanted a little too closely. Though if it had been Rarity asking Spike in that way he probably would have even fallen over himself to open the door. It didn't quite have the intended effect, but Spike shrugged. "I guess I could, I don't really have much else to do anyway," He'd spoken slowly, glancing between the three of them. Getting their way, which was their favorite thing to do, all three of the Cutiemark Crusaders jumped into the air and shouted in unison. "Cutiemark Crusader Spell Researchers, yay!" Their audience of two, if the guard was included, gave them a deadpan stare. "How do you three even know what to shout at the same time?" Spike said, rubbing a claw on the inside of his ear. "You know, I always figured gambling was illegal," Big Mac was looking around the expansive hall they'd both just entered. There were hundreds of ponies, all of them bowing low. The ground floor of the Canterlot Convention Center was packed with slot machines, card tables, roulette wheels and other games that Celestia was less familiar with. "It usually is. Except in certain locations," she answered. "At least when money is involved." Everything had stopped, as it usually did when she arrived. Macintosh looked uncomfortable, almost as much the center of attention next to her as she was. More than a few bowing ponies were sneaking a peak, and their eyes were almost certainly not on their princess. Breaks from the norm didn't happen very often, Celestia wasn't surprised. "Its quite alright, my little ponies, I hope you all enjoy the evening." That was the cue to stand, and the assembly obeyed. Passing through, Macintosh following just behind her, Celestia surveyed the crowd. There were a number of familiar faces, all of them smiling brightly. Some of these ponies were significantly older than the last time Celestia recalled meeting them. There was Biscuit, the last time she'd seen the just off-white earth pony mare she had been starting up a business. Now her vases were decorating the palace. Then there was Glitter, they'd spoken three years ago. Patches looked like he'd already retired from racing. Had it been that long? Before Celestia could think about other familiar ponies, she saw a very young unicorn foal looking with wide, eager eyes at the constant spinning symbols of a slot machine. The thing was loud, bells chiming along with the sound of bits falling in a pile. The filly in question was a few feet away from it, not even touching the slot machine but simply looking at it in wonder. Silver blue coat, darker blue mane and no cutiemark. Celestia had a hunch. Even though the official charity event hadn't started she diverted from her course to walk over and then stand next to the filly. "They have a lot more of these in Las Pegasus, you know." The young filly just about jumped out of her skin, turning and looking with wide eyes at Celestia. In a few moments she registered just who had spoken to her and bowed. "P-princess Celestia." "Its okay, my little pony," Smiling, she always smiled when dealing with children, Celestia raised a hoof and gently patted the filly on her head. "What is your name?" "I'm Rain Drop," Rain Drop said, rising onto her hooves, nearly as wide eyed as when she'd been admiring the slots. But besides her name, Rain Drop didn't seem much interested in speaking up. A little push seemed to be in order. "Maybe you should try putting a bit in and pulling the handle." She might as well have accused the little filly of murder, by how startled she had suddenly become. "W-what? Oh no, uhm, Princess. Those things are for grown ups." "It'll be okay, you have my permission. " The more eyes that drifted over to see what had stopped their Princess would end up making Rain Drop more and more nervous. For the moment she wasn't quite aware of the attention. Fortunately her encouragement did the trick, and the young filly produced a bit. One that had fallen to the floor when Celestia had startled her. Posting on her back hooves, the bit dropped in and then she tugged down onto the lever. A symphony of loud electronic sounds rang out, with the three spinning wheels inside of the slot machine moving in a blur. They settled on three symbols, all the same horseshoe. Out poured bits, Rain Drop was showered in them. But the filly only stared in awe, her mouth turning into a smile. Instantly she scooped up a bit and inserted it back into the machine. Down went the lever and the machine spun. Rain Drop did not win that time, but that didn't stop her. By now the whole building was looking her way, along with what appeared to be her parents approaching. While Rain Drop didn't see it, there had been a small flash of light along her sides. A pair of dice, right on her flank. She'd earned her cutiemark. Her work quite finished, Celestia quietly excused herself away from the excited filly. Her parents would be able to tell her the good news, assuming they were quite happy their daughter had a special talent for gambling. Most likely not, but ponies rarely had much of a say in what they were good at. She went back to where Big Macintosh was standing, he'd stopped and stood still as soon as she'd diverted off to see about Rain Drop. Her friend was looking at her curiously, and appeared to be about to say something. She had a hunch what his first comment would be, a little game she often played with anyone she spoke with regularly. She was entertained by being right when he did choose to speak. "You like doin that, don't you?" Celestia had started to walk towards the table set aside for her, at the far end of the hall and close by an upraised podium. Macintosh only paused a second before he picked up his own walk, one step behind and off to her right. Turning to look at him, and to answer his question, she smiled brightly. "Why whatever do you mean, Big Mac?" "You set that filly up to get her mark, clear as day." He retorted almost immediately. It wasn't even an accusation, she could hear the simple fact in his voice. She hadn't been trying very hard to play dumb, but the idea of admitting to her methods didn't come naturally. It almost felt like a magician revealing her tricks. "I simply made a educated guess. When you have been a princess as long as I have, you tend to notice things quickly." He considered that for a moment, glancing off for a few seconds and mulling it over. "Hard to argue with results, I reckon. Not sure how the whole special talent thing works. Whether it's destiny or just what we want it to be. You think she'd have gotten the same mark if you hadn't encouraged her?" A very philosophical question, and one that didn't even surprise Celestia at this point. Anyone who assumed that Big Macintosh was dumb by his few words, occupation and accent were sorely mistaken. "I've found it to be a bit of both, actually. We can always make choices. I don't think there is any absolute destiny in anything we do, but some things are set just by who we are. My destiny is to always protect Equestria, and that is because of my choice in the matter. You are a farmer because that is your calling, though if you truly wished to be otherwise you could." Big Macintosh hummed in consideration, though they had arrived at their destination before he had a chance to reply. Seated were two very familiar stallions, and two less familiar mares. Clockwise around the table were Fancy Pants, his longtime girlfriend Fleur De Lis, Prince Blueblood and an orange unicorn mare that Celestia did not know. They'd all risen collectively, and nodded politely. Proper etiquette for rising from a table, though neither Prince Blueblood or his date were particularly looking her way. Their eyes were on Big Macintosh, and they were not pleased. Though Blueblood only looked to be sneering, his date looked outright unhappy. Fancy Pants broke from the table and bowed. "Princess Celestia, I hope you approve of the tone of the charity event today. On behalf of my charity I am very grateful that you would grace us with your presence." he was certainly playing up the charm, Celestia knew the importance of having her favor in the high class social circles of Canterlot. She nodded, making a point of looking about the hall. "I am very grateful that you planned and hosted this event. The Royal Crown is generally unable to be seen hosting charities." Fancy Pants grinned wide, high class ponies were seated all around them. Eavesdropping on the Princess was not strictly polite, but good words from her were like currency. Though it necessitated she doll out praise here and there, it was valuable because gave it scarcely. If that meant that the upper classes would occasionally perform important acts of philanthropy, in order to curry favor with her, it was a small price to pay. She did continue speaking, before anyone else could comment. "I can see the logic of basing it around gambling, that ponies of all social circles will be interested in games of chance. Though I cannot say I approve of manipulating them out of bits they might not have given out of the goodness of their heart." Praise tempered with warning. Anyone with an ounce of perception could hear 'don't make it a habit'. Charity was important, but inadvertently putting hardship on a single pony would defeat the point. Blueblood was looking rather smug, he'd probably taken the high road to get underneath Fancy Pant's skin before she and Big Mac had arrived. No amount of trickery or manipulation could solve their feud. Nor did Celestia particularly want to descend into the realm of petty aristocratic rivalry. Hopefully things wouldn't get too unbearable, she was set to sit here for much of the charity event. While she took her seat, Big Macintosh doing likewise on her right, Big Mac cleared his throat. "Quite the fancy set up you got here." He'd deliberately glanced towards the open floor casino, then back to Fancy Pants. Celestia was caught off guard that her stoic friend had been the first to start conversion, with small talk no less. Fancy Pants adjusted his monocle and answered. "It is quite the arrangement, yes. I had many of the games shipped here from Las Pegsus. My good..." He paused, prompting for a name. "I'm Macintosh Apple." Big Macintosh replied. There was a snort of derision from the other side of the table. She turned to look at her nephew, Blueblood still looking none to pleased at the moment. Fancy Pants endeavored to ignore the interruption, smiling graciously instead. "Ah, well I am very pleased to meet you Mister Apple. It is always nice to meet a good friend of the princess. Are you enjoying your stay in Canterlot?" "Eeyup." Macintosh answered simply, nodding as he did. Celestia had nearly started to giggle at how he'd answered. Already she'd picked up 'eeyup' as something of a trademark of his and it entirely fit with everything of who Big Macintosh was. Only nearly giggled, though, as she cut herself off when more than a few eyes from the table glanced her way. Of like mind with Blueblood, his date looked equally sour. With a chance to discreetly inspect her now that she was closer, Celestia recalled seeing her before. But where? "Blueblood? I do not believe you have introduced us to your date," she asked after coming up with nothing. There was no harm in asking, and she already knew how he'd respond. Prince Blueblood did not disappoint. Looking quite pleased, he drew himself up and motioned towards his date. Said date was also quite happy to have her attention. "I apologize, auntie." Celestia breathed out automatically. On days that her adopted nephew behaved, 'auntie' wasn't so bad. He'd been on something of a bad streak of late, and so it grated. "This is my date, Orange Tart." She smiled brightly, though directed specifically towards Celestia. Big Macintosh, even Fancy and Fleur, might as well have not existed. "Very pleased to meet you, your highness. I've heard so very much about how you and Blue run Equestria." Orange Tart dipped her head, and Blueblood looked all the happier for her comment. Run Equestria, was it? Celestia had a guess that the budget meeting this morning had even been described by him as a conquest. Maybe a little humbling was in order, though her nephew was less of a worry than the question of where she'd seen Orange Tart befo- Oh, Celestia remembered where. This was one of the 'high class' mares who had harassed Big Macintosh on the street yesterday. What a coincidence. She knew just the thing that would take the air out of both of their sails. "I suppose then it was a good thing that I also brought a date, then. Big Macintosh is my guest of honor." Celestia smiled over to Big Macintosh, glances turned to complete attention as they usually did whenever she spoke. "He is the brother of the Element of Honesty, the owner of Sweet Apple Acres and a personal friend of mine." Now the focus went to Big Macintosh, the two pairs of Canterlot high society giving him different looks after her introduction. Blueblood and Orange Tart looked like they'd bitten into lemons, while Fancy Pants and Fleur De Lis were more impressed. "I absolutely adore your farm's cider, Big Mac," Fleur spoke up, the roll of her accent clearly identifying her as a native of Prance. "My only complaint is that there is never enough of it when the season comes." Macintosh was stoic enough not to blush at any of the praise, though Celestia had caught him looking her way with more than an open look of curiosity. That same measured look, which for the particularly observant princess had become something of a nagging question in the back of her mind. "That's mighty kind of you to say, ma'am," was his reply. Fleur waved him off with a hoof. "Oh please, my mother is called madam. You may call me Fleur." At Big Mac's left, Fancy Pants extended a hoof for a shake which Macintosh took readily enough. "While Fleur may be fond of the cider, I confess a weakness for that absolutely unique jam of yours. Just how do you get it to have that coloration?" What followed was a rather enjoyable explanation on the complex and seemingly nonsensical method to produce Zap Apple Jam. Even Celestia was a bit mystified about what talking to bees had to do with the process, but was sure that Big Macintosh knew what he was talking about. Both Fancy Pants and Fleur appeared genuinely interested, with none of the usual snobbery one would expect when high class ponies entreated with those 'lower' than themselves. Of course, not everyone at the table was quite so polite. Blueblood spoiled the moment by clearing his throat. "I believe the audience has seated. When exactly will your event properly begin, Fancy? I do hope this isn't one of those dawdling affairs you host every month, we don't all have the time to share lowbrow gossip." The two stallions traded looks of disdain, with Fancy Pants turning to face him. Well, it was bound to happen eventually. But now Macintosh had been introduced well enough, and even had new acquaintances. "I believe that I am to give the speech, correct?" she said, rising up from her seat which resulted in the entire hall of ponies rising as well. She'd never do anything to one of her subjects if they showed her casual disrespect, like not rising from a seat when she did; but it was always nice to see such basic politeness. Those little things made her long centuries of ruling all worthwhile, made her feel appreciated. Fancy Pants nodded, not speaking lest he interrupt the silence that had descended over the audience. Where there had been chatter before, a pin drop could be heard, save for the occasional cough or shuffle of hooves. The podium awaited, hundreds of ponies eager to listen to their princess speak to them. Public speaking might as well have become her cutiemark instead of the sun while running Equestria. It'd become so routine by now that Celestia didn't need anything for something as basic as starting off a charity drive. She'd composed it in her head on the carriage ride over. Though more than a fair amount of her time had been spent chatting with Big Mac. Fortunately nobody was expecting her to knock it out of the park, because she wasn't going to. A sea of faces was in front of her, most of them familiar. The hushed silence continued, with eager looks coming from both old and young. Celestia took a deep breath, focusing on what she wanted to say and putting all other thoughts out of her mind. "I am always so very proud of all of you, my little ponies. Whenever there's an important cause in need of help I have never been disappointed by the kind of generosity on display right here." There was a fair share of polite applause at that, the crowd beaming with pride at her effusive praise. She'd meant it as well, and waited for the crowd to settle. "While I'm sure you're all excited for the chance to play the various games that have been assembled here, do not forget that we are here to help others. The Canterlot Research Center tirelessly works to treat illnesses, every bit donated is a step towards a healthier future." Again, applause. Celestia could spare a glance back towards her table, meeting the gaze of Big Macintosh. He'd been looking at her while she spoke. But eye contact led to the farm pony suddenly coughing, looking away and reaching for a glass of water. She could only guess what he was thinking, and not for very long. It was quiet, her cue to continue. "As I understand the event, you may purchase tokens to be used for the various games. These tokens are not redeemable or it would be a real casino, not a charity." Laughter now, Celestia guessed that the draw of gambling, even if none could win money, had brought a number of ponies who were experienced in games of chance. "I encourage you all to play in any way you like, but let us not spoil the evening if you happen to find yourself losing a number of your tokens. Thank you and I hope that tonight is as enjoyable for you as it is beneficial for the Canterlot Research Center." There, done neat as a bow. Ponies were here to donate money and have fun, not here to listen to their princess ramble on endlessly. With the final round of applause washing over the large room she returned to her seat. More direct praise was waiting for her. "An excellent speech, your highness." Fancy Pants looked rather pleased, turning himself to survey the audience of ponies who were disseminating about now; talking amongst themselves or otherwise starting up their game of choice. Blueblood gave a huff, still looking his usual disproving self. "Are we expected to move amongst the rabble and gamble with them? I might as well just leave a sizable donation and be done with it." Celestia had had just about enough of her nephew's attitude. But before she could speak Big Macintosh suddenly spoke up, quieting them all. "Ain't nothing stopping you, but I figured we could have a card game here." Macintosh didn't look any more impressed with Blueblood than the rest of the table, and there was a hint of challenge in his voice. " 'course I understand if someponies ain't got any skill at it." It was quite amusing to see the twitch of Blueblood's right eye. Where he'd just been getting up from the table, as had his date, her nephew sat down instantly. "A game of cards? And I suppose you have some backwoods version of poker that we'd never be expected to know of." With a shrug, Big Mac ignored the insults. "Well the 'back woods' game I like best ain't exactly complicated. Personally I never understood that nonsense game, the one with the piece of wood you flip the cards with? Hold em' takes a bit more skill." Before Blueblood could reply, most likely with some more snide comments, Filthy Rich leaned forward. "I confess to having never heard of this 'Hold em' game myself, how exactly does it work?" While Celestia had never thought of herself as a gambler, the way Macintosh explained the rules of his favored type of poker game did sound interesting enough. Usually her role in any sort of social occasion was to sit idly and be seen, her presence doing the work for her. She could also go about and find the latest things that concerned her subjects. The only thing she particularly wanted to do was spend time chatting with her friend. So long as she could do that she was sure her evening would go very well. But the game did sound rather fun. It involved community cards for the whole table to rely on while giving two to each individual. Bets went in rounds, a new card being revealed each time until there were five. Once all were out, the players who did not fold revealed their cards and the highest value won the entire pot. Even Blueblood was paying attention, and Big Macintosh made a surprisingly good teacher. He'd waved over a worker for a deck of cards, shuffled them while he spoke and dealt them out for everyone. He'd even given her a pair, Celestia inspecting her new two cards: the image of herself with a heart background and a seven of diamonds. The rest of the table was also inspecting their cards, even as Mac ran through flipping over what he referred to as the 'river'. Then, asking them to lay their cards out for the purpose of demonstration he ran through the list of winning combinations and their relative value. Fleur was the one who won, with something that Big Macintosh said was a straight. Fleur brightened immediately, and looked around the table."Ah, shall we be playing with chips then? I do enjoy a challenge." That was something they could all agree on without incident and it took only a short conversation with one of the supervisors to secure a rather plentiful amount of tokens. Blueblood raised a hoof, giving a wicked smirk. "I suppose it would be discourteous of us to not purchase our own amounts." His glance had been specifically towards Fancy Pants, but he didn't miss the chance to dismiss Big Mac as well. Fancy frowned, nodding slowly. "Of course, and just how many bits are you willing to donate?" "I am not quite sure, truthfully I have not donated anything to your little charity. I do have so many of my own to choose from. But I could spare twenty thousand bits easily enough." The charity worker who had rolled out a tray of multicolored gaming chips choked when he'd overheard that amount. Fleur, Big Macintosh and even Orange Tart were staring at Blueblood. Fancy Pants snorted, shrugging. "Is that all, old bean? I haven't put much of my own wealth directly into the charity, thinking my time enough, but if we are to have a game I would not mind one hundred thousand bits worth of tokens." Now stares were going towards Fancy Pants, though Celestia was more surprised that Blueblood had managed to goad him into a donation of that size. It was actually a little unfair, since now Blueblood was going to be at a disadvantage in betti- "Hmpf, did I say twenty thousand?" Blueblood stared evenly at Fancy Pants. "I will pledge two hundred thousand." "Then you will not mind if I offer up three hundred and fifty thousand bits." Fancy Pants did not even wait for the table to look his way to give his retort. Blueblood narrowed his eyes. "I suppose, out of my boundless generosity for such important causes, that I can instead raise my charity to five hundred thousand bits." He didn't sound very happy saying it, as far as Celestia could tell. Knowing his finances there could not be much more room for him to show off with. Not if he wanted to live in his usual affluent lifestyle. Fancy Pants adjusted his monocle, looking no more pleased. "Half a million sounds like quite enough. By all means bring out the tokens." The rest of the table sat, stunned at the rapid escalation of donations. Ultimately it was both Fancy and Blueblood's dates that broke the silence. "Er, Fancy?" Fleur tugged at his suit sleeve. "I do not have even a fraction of that many bits, would you be willing to split with me?" Orange Tart fluffed her mane for a moment and sighed. "Darling, I don't suppose you're willing to share some, are you? So that I can play?" Macintosh coughed, turning to look over at Celestia. She didn't even need the two previous requests to know that it was quite a bit more than the farmer was liable to have. She leaned towards him and smiled, keeping her voice low. "I'd be happy to provide some of my bits with you Macintosh, you don't even need to ask." He nodded, whispering as well. "I wasn't about to beg, or nothing. Wasn't sure if you were even gonna play, but I got something of a soft spot for gambling. Every once and awhile my family and I spend an evening playing, but about the only challenge I get is with Granny Smith. Applebloom is still right small, and Applejack can't hide a bad hoof to save her life." That was a surprisingly touching bit of personal confidence on his part. "I can't say I've had a lot of experience with card games," she replied, still close next to him. "I'm sure the rest of the table will be quite a challenge for you, but I'm likely to be beaten rather soundly." Macintosh snorted, a rare grin now showing. "Ain't nothing to it. All you have to do is fold when you got a lousy draw. Bet low when you have somethin' good so you don't spook the table. Pretty soon you'll get a feel for how the rest of the table plays, iff'n you pay attention." That did sound like a lot of fun. It wasn't even so much about luck, but perception. Poker might just end up becoming something she was rather fond of, which would likely be the absolute death of any chance of gambling becoming illegal in Equestria. Maybe Luna would enjoy learning how to play, and surely she could ask Big Mac to come visit later for potential 'poker nights'. Maybe she should ask if Cada-. "Ahem." That was Blueblood, but the rest of the three at the table were also all looking their way. Suddenly it dawned on Celestia just how...close the two of them had been. Whispering quietly to one another, giggling and obviously enjoying each others company. The solution was not to straighten up immediately. 'Don't blush, you're not a schoofilly' was her mantra. Fancy Pants and Blueblood were perceptive enough to make assumptions on what they'd seen, they didn't need confirmation. "I would be happy to receive half a million bits worth, in addition to the crown's already sizable donation to the charity." Prim and proper, she even adjusted her wings and sat perfectly upright. It wasn't as if the moment had been improper so there was no reason to go denying what hadn't happened. Soon the chips were arranged in front of herself, Fancy Pants and Blueblood. Then they all split with their dates. Celestia blinked, accidentally knocking a stack of tokens over with a burst of telekinesis. Fancy Pants and Prince Blueblood had dates, she'd just brought her friend. Actually, she had referred to Big Macintosh as her date before when introducing him. She hadn't even realized that until now. Oh dear, hopefully they thought of that in the more platonic sense. Of course they would, she was just being paranoid. She really had to stop doing that to herself. Stumbles in her head weren't something to worry about. She did enjoy Big Macintosh's company a great deal, he wouldn't be here about to play a card game with them if she didn't. If Luna were here, and privy to her thoughts, she would be probably laughing and insisting that she had been right. Fortunately Celestia was saved from the theoretical teasing of her younger sister by two cards being rapidly placed in front of her. She could dwell on her relationships later. The first round of the game had started, and she had to pay due attention. Otherwise she'd miss the last few nuances that Big Macintosh would have had to spend more minutes explaining. The 'river' was laid out, blinds placed and the poker game was on. Her first 'hoof' was a little underwhelming. A three of clubs and a seven of hearts. Though looking at the river she had some hope. Three of spades, a Luna of diamonds and six of clubs. She had a pair already! This was actually rather thrilling, and Celestia had to work at not grinning. The rest of the table was a mixed bag of skill in keeping what they were thinking in check. Blueblood was fairly neutral, and he had laid his cards face down onto the table. Orange Tart was still holding hers, and glancing back and forth between them and the community cards. Fleur let out a noticeable sigh, before lowering her cards. Fancy Pants was glancing about the table, much as Celestia had. Big Macintosh had dealt the cards. As he'd explained, the first thing to do was for the pony clockwise of the dealer to put in a 'blind'. Celestia placed two of the lowest chips into the center and waited for Fancy Pants to do likewise. Fleur put in the two required, as did Blueblood seconds later. Orange Tart was still looking at her cards when Blueblood nudged her. Surprised, she flushed a bit and placed the necessary chips. Eyes fell on Big Mac when he placed a hoof on a sizable stack of chips and pushed them into the center. "Raise," he said. Eyebrows rose, and Blueblood snorted. "Trust a commoner to be loose with money that is not his. Very well, I can see that the number of players will be quickly one shorter at this rate." Her nephew reached for a drink. Celestia knew she was frowning, and couldn't help it. Big Macintosh shrugged, not even looking put out by the rather rude comment. "Ain't a poker game without bettin'," he replied simply. As long as Big Mac continued to take Blueblood's jabs at him in stride she was without much ground for reprimand. At least here in public, Blueblood would be getting an earful shortly. She made a mental note to be sure of it. But even still, the banter seemed to be a natural part of the game. Right, the game. Celestia realized in a few moments that it was her turn. Before Big Mac's bet the next card would have been revealed. But now she had to choose whether to fold or not. Macintosh had said that it was a poor idea to bet when you did not have much anything. She did have a pair of threes, but that was rather low. Was Big Mac merely bluffing or did he actually have something? While she considered her options, Blueblood placed his drink down. "There is a fine difference between a bet and a sure loss. You cannot possibly know what everypony else here has. How many did you even place down?" "Ten thousand, most money I ever bet in my life. Though I spose' it's all the charities money now. Might be nice to win one and a half million, if'n I could keep it. Prolly give my granny a heart attack though. " Eventually Celestia settled on matching the bet to stay in, and in went nine thousand, nine hundred and ninety eight chips. Fancy Pants folded immediately and with no comment besides announcing his move. Fleur matched the bet, and smiled at Big Macintosh. "This game is already quite exciting, I think." The turn fell on Blueblood, who tapped a hoof against his pile. Looking at Big Macintosh, he scowled. "I do not believe you have anything in your hoof." He slid the requisite number of chips into the center. Orange Tart matched as well, leaving a sizable pile on the table. A fourth card was added on the table, a eight of hearts. Useless to her but possibly an aid somewhere for the remaining players. As the next round fell to her Celestia elected to tap her hoof on the table. She'd seen that motion done by Blueblood when he hadn't bet. As Fancy had folded, the next turn was for Fleur. She followed the same motion of tapping her hoof. Next was Blueblood, and again his hoof tapped his stash. Intrigued, Celestia made a mental note to watch that. Perhaps it was a tell of his when he was thinking of betting. "As you said, farmer. It is not a game without betting." In went twenty thousand bits. The proverbial gauntlet had been thrown. Though the next turn fell on Orange Tart. She looked from her cards to the river and then back again. Another possible tell, since it meant she likely had something but was not confident about it. Orange matched the bet, and then put her two cards face down on the table. Then it was on Big Macintosh. "You're sure right about that, Blue. though, shucks, I suddenly ain't feeling so confident 'bout my chances." In went his chips, but Celestia was now alarmed. When had his accent become so pronounced? Or his words so imprecise? Cautiously she added to the pot in order to stay in while looking at Big Mac out of the corner of her eye. Her nephew had not liked being referred to as 'Blue', but she could read the self satisfied confirmation of dismissing Big Macintosh on his face. The assumption that he was simply a ignorant farmer, and it made her want to stand up defend him. But that would be rather improper, and she would just have to have faith that the qualities she liked best about her friend would shine through and put Blueblood in his place. Fleur was visibly cautious as well, her eyes going towards Big Macintosh and then leaning in to whisper something inaudible to Fancy. He listened and then nodded, neither sharing the comment. More chips were added, and Prince Blueblood was smirking while allowing the round to proceed. Another card was drawn and presented, a four of clubs. Hm, that seemed an otherwise useless draw. But as the table took in the new card, Celestia caught the slightest of frowns from Blueblood. Good, that meant whatever he'd been hoping for hadn't' come up. Perhaps it was time to go on the offensive? She hadn't had a chance to raise, and the pot was only at about one hundred and fifty thousand. Since it was her turn to bet, she lit the appropriate bits up in an aura of magic and slid them forward. Twenty five thousand, as she'd put them each in neat five thousand stacks. So far Fancy Pants had been quiet, merely watching the game progress. But once she'd bet, he turned to look at his marefriend. "Darling, I do hope you have something. It seems like there are quite a few here that think they do." Concentrating, her eyes flicking around the table, Fleur spared Fancy a deadpan look. "If I were to show you I think it would defeat the purpose of trying to win, no? Shh." She matched the current bet, even as Fancy Pants grinned at her. Which provoked a sharp nudge in the side, and then they were both smiling. Blueblood was less cheerful, and as far as Celestia could tell hadn't even looked at his date. Much more cautiously than before, he matched the bet. She'd even caught hesitation, but then his eyes had went towards Macintosh and became all the more determined. Orange Tart sighed, reaching for her drink while pushing her cards forward rather than any chips. "I have no interest in losing my bits to you, Princess." Before she could reply, Blueblood turned to face his date and frowned. "How can you be so certain that she'll be the winner?" "Beyond simply being Princess Celestia? Just a hunch." Which was about as much genuine praise as Celestia expected to get from Orange Tart, all things considered. Even the arrogant aristocratic elite knew better than to challenge her on anything meaningful. Untold generations of rule did have a few advantages. Big Macintosh was the final one to choose between folding or not, and he called her bet with only a placid grin on his features. Then he turned to look her way, and shrugged. "Time to show what we got." And out came the cards. Celestia revealed her three of clubs and seven of hearts. Fleur was next and revealed an eight of clubs and a four of clubs. Two pair was certainly better than one, and Blueblood only huffed when he spread out a Luna of Hearts and a five of clubs. He'd come very near to a straight, which would have won him the round rather decisively. Eyes fell on Big Macintosh, who had already revealed what he'd been holding. A jack of Clubs and a ten of hearts. Nothing. Celestia openly stared at the pair of cards, and then up to Big Macintosh for some kind of explanation for how he'd come to bet so much and so quickly on nothing. She hadn't been the only one, though Blueblood was the first to comment. "I don't know what I was expecting. I suppose I'm hardly surprised. And what exactly were you hoping for?" Big Macintosh rubbed along his forehead for a moment while looking at the river. "Shoot, that ain't a nine on the river. Guess I shoulda been payin better attention." That provoked a less than friendly chuckle from both Blueblood and his date, very clearly drawing only more of their initial assumptions. Celestia sighed, still trying to make sense of this new information. Had she been wrong? How could Big Macintosh make such a rapid turn around in his actions? She barely even paid attention to Fleur taking in the sizable first pot, though Big Mac did turn her way while the rest of the table took a moment to order their food. Macintosh had started to gather up the cards and shuffle them, glancing up at her for a moment. "Ya need me to help you with the dealing at all?" For one, very brief moment, she thought she caught him grinning. "I...believe I have the hang of it. Though I am rather curious about why you bet how you did." She tried her best to be discreet while asking, collecting the deck of cards and speaking quietly. Big Macintosh arched an eyebrow at her, his whole body language shifting rapidly back to what Celestia had grown far more used to. Gone was the slouch, the dull open mouth. It startled her enough to make her pause in a quick reshuffle, having tried to imitate his quick work with his hooves. "Game's only just started, but I guess I could tell ya." He murmured, also keeping his voice down. Rather than reply, Celestia merely stared. He didn't have to even speak at this point for her to guess what he'd been doing. But his words did confirm her immediate suspicion. "Ponies like these ones over here have a way of making assumptions about us more 'common types'," he begin. Big Mac paused long enough to take a drink, sparing a glance towards Blueblood and Orange Tart. Both of whom were looking at their menus with earnestness while keeping the waiter standing by at the ready. "If I go and let them think they was right, then they won't be payin enough attention later when I tan their hide. They'll read what they wanna read offa my 'tells'. If you catch my meaning." "I...do." Celestia was more than impressed now. Astounded, even. Big Macintosh had quite skillfully fooled the whole table into thinking he was a stereotypical dim farmer. For one fleeting moment even she had started to wonder. Big Macintosh shrugged while taking a look at his undersized pile of chips. "In a game with real money I wouldn't have taken the risk. Wouldn't have been right, or even worth it. But I'll do well once I get something good." Listening to him speak, Celestia was lost in very quick thoughts of her own. Any doubt she had about her estimation of her new friend's worth was quickly blown away. Not just common sense, but a bright sparkling of intelligence. More than enough intelligence to be deceptive, and make her want to learn more. Though there was one thing she had become curious about. She didn't have much time to ask, either. Fancy and Fleur had settled down for the next round, and Blueblood and Orange would soon be ready. "Our game is hardly over, Big Mac." Celestia paused for a moment and chose her words carefully. "You've let me in on your trick. Which was very well done. But am I not also playing? " She'd been expecting it, and so wasn't surprised when Big Mac appeared guarded. The tightened jaw, the tiny frown and ever searching eyes meeting hers. That was a true tell of his, nothing feigned at all. But she hadn't figured out quite what it meant. As far as Celestia could guess he was thinking over his words as carefully as she did hers. Not only that but he was looking at her, and with an intensity that made Celestia feel exposed. Her pleasant demeanor in public was sincere but she almost never showed her other thoughts. Each time Big Mac looked at her in that quiet way before speaking Celestia wondered if he was looking past and into her soul. It had driven much of her growing interest in him. Her inability to get an entire 'read'. There was a seemingly a great deal of things about Big Macintosh, things that he did not show much about himself to others. That it mirrored herself made her sure that was the case. The pause from him had been only brief, but he'd leaned in closer and dropped his voice. Eyes were upon them but it did not seem to concern Big Mac. "I figured I wasn't going to fool you none. And it hardly would matter, I ain't really able to...know what you're thinking much, to be honest. Guess being a princess makes you a natural poker player." And then he pulled back. Celestia felt her cheeks burning now. Most ponies wouldn't think he'd paid her a compliment but she wasn't most ponies. He did see there was an underneath for her, had figured her out!. And now that her chest felt tight again, she had a better idea what to call that feeling. On auto pilot, Celestia dealt out the next round of cards. She simply had other things to think on. Big Mac might be the only pony besides her sister to get so near to her. It was almost frightening, but also thrilling. And Celestia banished her prior concerns about the value of more personal friend...relationships. She wanted more. The second round in poker was a win for Big Macintosh. Though the pot wasn't enough to recoup his initial losses. He'd slipped into a more quiet version of his affected demeanor. Blueblood had concentrated his banter on Fancy Pants. The poker game continued on while she thought. The future for her had never been more difficult to anticipate. There were too many things out of her experience and out of her control. Was it even possible for her and another to... "Princess Celestia, I do believe it is your turn to call, raise or fold." Fancy Pants was quite excited this round. He'd folded twice before. As he probably had something, since he had remained in this round Celestia knew her next move. "I'm afraid I'll be folding, it appears this game is more difficult than I had anticipated." She motioned to a nearby waiter and he quickly joined the table long enough to provide a refill of her drink. She could dwell on more personal matters later. She had a poker game she wanted to win. Princess Luna was spending her night upside down. The hallway outside of her bedroom looked very different from this vantage point. She was well hidden, the shadows falling over her had kept her out of sight. Three patrols of guards had came and passed, without even giving the slightest hint that they were aware their princess was acting like a bat. She had a very good reason for this, naturally. Luna had had quite enough with being terrified out of her wits. Even locking her door could not have been a sure bet, as she'd found her office wide open. She distinctly remembered locking it behind her, even still possessed the key. The Cutiemark Crusaders were far too dangerous and crafty to allow herself to be a victim any longer. "We shall catch you." Talking to yourself was not the best evidence of sanity, but Luna was sure she would not be able to rest without knowing she'd be secure. Technically one could argue that using her natural talents to hang on a ceiling was against the spirit, if not the letter of the rules set for the game. Luna could have always hung herself upside down, if she had been so inclined. Provided she was not using magic specifically to locate or foil her three archenemies she wasn't cheating. The side effect was that her head had started to hurt after the first hour. Blood had pooled and settled, her body quite confused as to why she was oriented in entirely the wrong direction. Not even an alicorn was immune to gravity. It'd be worth it though. She continued to tell herself that much for fifteen more minutes, another guard passing through. Detailed instructions had been left for night court, her assistant, Night Owl, would do fine. Her wait was rewarded with the soft pit-pat sound of walking. Closer and closer towards her, echoing from the walls. Her moment of victory had come at last, and Luna spread her wings, focusing on the ground right below her. A small, shadowy figure came up to her door. She didn't have time to inspect it, she jumped. The only issue was the rapid head rush that came with righting herself in mid fall. Otherwise she'd have been much more graceful when she landed on the Cutiemark Crusaders. "Oof!" A very much male voice sounded out underneath her. Luna rather quickly came to the conclusion that she had not ambushed any of the CMC. In fact it was not a pony underneath her at all. She jumped up and registered the sight of- "Spike? For what purpose has thou...I mean. What are you doing here?" He got up slowly, though it didn't look like she'd harmed him. The little dragon shot her a disgruntled look and dusted his scales off. "I was about to knock on your door. But then you jumped on me. I should be asking you the questions, Princess." Feeling rather sheepish, Luna gave a pained smile. "It is a most complicated tale. Perhaps you have heard of this rather strange game played by small children called-" "Night Fright? Yeah, the CMC told me all about it earlier today. I can't believe you agreed to play with them. They take it really seriously." While it was fortunate she did not have to explain her predicament, Luna was unhappy at yet another reminder that she had possibly erred in playing this game. "We have begun to learn of their...dedication. And while there is always work to be done, it was our decision to engage in their game. Before tonight is over I intend to win!" Her voice had grown to an impressive booming quality, as it usually did whenever she was excited. The Royal Voice was a habit for which Luna had difficulty breaking. When your past had been spent trying to get attention, talking as loudly as possible had seemed only natural. Spike didn't comment, and the only hint that she might have been a little loud was that he was rubbing an ear with his right claw. "Oh. Well good luck then? I actually kind of wanted to talk to you about that." Shrugging, her pseudo-nephew shifted his posture to stand with arms folded across his chest. It was an alien gesture to her sensibilities, but Luna had even seen ponies use it when sitting. That her hunt for the CMC was why he was here had caught her interest more than anything. "And what did you wish to tell us?" "Well...they kind of sort of talked me into taking them to the restricted section of the Starswirl Library." Even if she hadn't known what that entailed his guilty look would have betrayed the warning. "The restricted section? That is a most dangerous place! Even for those experienced in the depths of magic. What would possess you to take them there?" Spike winced, and took a step back. "Well I mean, they were really persuasive. They were talking about summoning a monster to scare you. Or maybe a few monsters. I think it was a taraxippus? I'm not sure, but I didn't think it was a big deal as Sweetie Belle isn't exactly the best with magic anyway." "They're attempting to summon taraxippoi?!" Luna was staring, aghast at the little purple dragon. Suddenly her concerns about catching the Cutiemark Crusaders was replaced by fear for their very lives. She gathered Spike up in telekinetic magic and bolted towards the library. "Wait, where are we going? Is it really that dangerous?" She could only hear Spike out of one ear, and barely registered his words. Everything else was far too focused on arriving before it was too late. When hooves and flapping wings proved too slow, with a wall in the way, she teleported the both of them to its opposite side. Spike was still trying to escape her hold on him, or more accurately flailing about. "Princess- wait! They were just reading...hold on!" There would be no holding on, another teleport brought them into the restricted section. Luna felt disjointed now, as she'd blinked them through several floors down and past stairs. It wasn't just distance, but the amount of material you might be blinking through that made the spell difficult to use. Only her immense magical reserve had allowed her to get here so quickly. Spike dropped, her hold released and gave an 'oof' next to her when he landed. Luna caught her breath, looking around for the CMC. Up at her side, Spike patted himself off and looked rather annoyed. "They really aren't in any danger, Princess. I'm not that careless. They probably left anyway, since there's simply no way that-" She didn't cut his words off, they fell away naturally. They had both felt the sudden pulse of enormous dark magic followed by a trio of young female screams. It'd come from behind a door, a side study room on the other side of some bookshelves. Luna bolted forward, heart hammering now in a mixture of dread and panic. Instead of a teleport, she threw open the door and charged inside. The sight in front of her was everything she'd feared. There was a chalked outline of a runic circle, a weighty tome opened up in the center. A visibly dark magic was spilling out from the pages, and there was little evidence left of the Cutiemark Crusaders. Only a single red bow discarded and half torn on the opposite side of the wall. There was something else tinted red near the bow, but Luna refused to look any longer to confirm her first guess. The terrible, awe inspiring amount of magic was far too much for her to ignore either. This went beyond taraxippoi now, and the outline of a distinct shape began to appear from out of the book. A shadowed face, indistinct but with a malevolent presence. It chuckled, its voice dark and sinister. "Ahhh, I did not expect royalty to pay me a visit so soon after my entrance into this world. To who do I owe the honor?" Luna knew better than to give her name to a summoned demon, especially one she didn't recognize. Her horn was lit, pushing away all grief at her assumption of what must have happened. "Thy are in our presence, fiend! Not the other way around! Name thyself before we cast you back into the abyss." Her magic doubled, and then redoubled as she prepared for the likely battle. It would take maybe four minutes before Celestia was here to help her. And likely half of their guard, and those unicorns skilled in battle magic ten minutes after that. Until then she was all that stood in the way of this monster and Equestria. The monster itself hadn't attacked yet, nor had its shape grown any more distinct. Its dark presence more than made up for that, and Luna could already tell that the creature's magical power surpassed her own. "My name? I suppose it is best to teach you of who will bring about your demise. For I am Mormo, the devourer!" Any hope that the Cutiemark Crusaders were alive vanished. Though she'd never met this being before, she knew of it by reputation. "Begone!" And then, in the vain hope that she might slow Mormo down, she released her attack first. The most powerful banishment spell for evil that she knew. Instantly the summoning book closed, shut tight and then burst into flames. The evil magic dissipated as quickly as it had appeared and the shadowed quality of the otherwise well lit room disappeared. It was like Mormo had never existed, and that fact more than anything gave Luna pause. "What is..." She murmured, straightening up and frowning deeply. Spike burst in the room seconds after that, looking around quickly. "What happened?" Luna was still on guard, still anticipating an attack. She didn't say a word, wouldn't spare even a second of concentration. Her mind raced for what might have happened, and the first conclusion was that she had been very lucky. The summoning might have been only partially complete, enough that her spell had prevented it wholesale. And yet Mormo had seemed very confident in himself. He had even been laughing as the banishment spell raced towards the book. "It was a terrible monster, one oft spoken of as the worst natural denizen of Tartarus. I am...afraid that the Cutiemark Crusaders are no more." Once she had concluded that the danger was gone she succumbed to grief. This was certainly her fault, she had been placed in authority of the three children. And how could she possibly face her sister, or the parents and sisters of Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo with the news? "Oh, that sucks...that monster was really scary, don't you think?" Spike made a half choked sound, one very strained. Luna considered the words for a few seconds. More than anything she was annoyed, and turned to snap at Spike that there were far more pressing concerns and that he should show a great deal more remorse. But on turning she saw the barely concealed grin on his face. The strained sound had been more akin to a...laugh? Then Spike did laugh, a claw covering his face. It was followed by another, and then he glanced towards the half opened door to the rest of the library. "Oh man, your face. It's just...oh, I'm sorry you three. But if you were in here you would...haha." "Just ask her if she was scared, Spike! You're going to ruin it!" That was almost certainly Scootaloo's voice, answering through the door. And she could hear the other two snickering. Her eyes went wide as she turned to look at the summoning ritual. She recognized the runes, they were expertly done. There was no way that the Cutiemark Crusaders could have done this with such skill. Only someone possessing years of advanced magical training would know to form the proper protective barriers. They were all here, and not a one was out of place. Not only that, but they were not exactly meant for physically summoning dark forces from other planes. It was actually meant to just summon their form in a projection, to talk. "Twilight was really into speaking with magical creatures a few years ago, before you came back. I sort of picked a few things up while helping her. I bet you were scared, huh?" Princess Luna could only stare at Spike while the little purple dragon slowly broke down into howling laughter. He wasn't the only one, out through the door and into the library the CMC were laughing with him. She wasn't sure whether to be furious, or confess fear right there and admit absolute defeat. "I...we..." Author's Note The next chapter should almost certainly not take as long as this one did. The poker game gave me some serious writers block, and a busy schedule didn't help. I'm almost actually done with the next chapter. And I expect there to be only three more to go, though I'm hoping they'll certainly be exciting! What can be avoided whose end is purposed by the mighty gods?It was remarkable how quickly paperwork could pile up if you weren't careful. Celestia hadn't even left Canterlot and, with the exception of two days ago, hadn't really stopped working. But even still, the piles of reports on her desk was startling. Just arranging it in a neat and tidy way had been a task for her staff. Six stacks of paper, which was blocking her view of the front door. Since no one was expected to be paying her a visit officially it wasn't much of a problem. She pressed the tip of her quill to her mouth, engrossed in thought. The inky black taste wasn't exactly pleasant, but it was a bad habit she'd picked up. Something to distract her from the general unpleasantness of judicial review. Some pony was going to jail soon, and it distressed her to be the ultimate judge. Stealing was a serious crime, and the local court of Manehatten had returned a guilty verdict. The final process was for her to personally agree with the assessment. She could fully pardon any crime with no questions asked if she felt like it. But there was nothing here on the paperwork that suggested that was reasonable. There was no helping it, and a quick signature put that particular piece of paper on top of the 'out' box. A few moments later she lifted the stack of paper midway and deposited the affirmation of the verdict in the middle. It didn't help anything, but she wouldn't have to look at it. Her office door opened, which meant that she had to lean to the right in order to see who it was. Notetaker was balancing another stack of paperwork, and delicately so. Rather than risk catastrophe so near to the goal, a quick burst of telekinetic magic lifted the work right off of her aides head. “Thank you, your majesty.” Notetaker smiled brightly, which Celestia didn't hesitate to return. The top of the stack, now making it seven in total, displayed a pie chart. Budget papers, lovely. “Is this the last of them?” There had to be hundreds of sheets, she missed the days when a simple verbal command settled issues. Instead of answering immediately; her aide flipped out a small ledger. Inspecting it, she nodded. “Yes, your majesty. Though I have some bad news. The Princess of the Crystal Empire is requesting an audience through the Two-Way Mirror.” The particular way that Notetaker had phrased the news quirked her interest. “I don't know if I'd say speaking with my niece would count as 'bad news'. Did Princess Cadance indicate what the matter was?” Notetaker blinked, flushing for a moment. “Well, no she didn't. Just that she wanted to speak with you. I didn't mean that it was bad to speak with the Crystal Princess, I meant that I had to schedule it during your lunch break.” Celestia had figured that, it was about the only time she had free. If Cadance hadn't said what the matter was, it also meant that Notetaker couldn't schedule an exact time. Best to sacrifice a lunch break she usually reserved for more minor tasks. Tasks such as addressing Twilight's letters, or reading the news. “That shouldn't be a problem at all, Notetaker. I appreciate the proactive approach.” But Notetaker still looked uneasy. “Should...Should I tell him you'll be busy?” Her aide coughed against her hoof, and looked very much like she didn't want to be present. Embarrassed, really. Raising an eyebrow, Celestia couldn't imagine what had come over Notetaker. “Him?” “Y-yes, your majesty.” Notetaker swallowed, and then glanced towards the closed door. “I thought you might be having lunch with Mister Apple again.” Oh, him. “Oh that, I see.” She'd nearly asked why Notetaker would think she would have lunch with Big Macintosh, but thought better of it. She had been spending an awful lot of time with him, it wasn't unreasonable to guess more would follow. “Unfortunately I suppose you are right. I will not be able to do so, I do appreciate your concern but it should be fine.” That had the note of dismissal in it, and her aide heard it well enough. The door closed and Celestia was left alone with her thoughts. One centered on her new friend. Walks in the garden, lunch and a delightful evening at the charity event yesterday. The poker game itself could have counted as an entire event. It'd progressed for hours, until the final three competitors agreed to simply stop playing. Big Macintosh, Fleur and herself as it happened. The final climatic few rounds had shown Big Macintosh's full qualities, ultimately knocking Blueblood out of the game with a three of a kind he'd even hid from her guesses. She'd been incredibly proud, and Big Macintosh and her had chatted the entire carriage ride back. She'd regretted having to part ways, but it'd grown late in the evening and there was little else she could think to suggest. Yes, she had been spending quite a bit of time with Big Mac. Not only time, but a good time. The last few days had been very relaxed, and perhaps the best she'd had in a very long while. But Celestia wasn't sure why there was a faint nagging in the back of her mind. Reaching for her official schedule of events, Celestia looked it over. Absolutely booked, and now a working lunch with Cadance. Having a full schedule wasn't unusual at all, but it was strange that the majority of the time was going to be spent preparing for meetings with her staff. Meeting with her staff wasn't the odd part, but preparing for it was something Notetaker was usually given as a delegated task. A few seconds later she reached for tomorrow's schedule. In contrast to today there would be plenty of time, and a glance at the individual items confirmed it. There was hardly anything set for tomorrow, with a number of very long gaps. Though the notes set in the margins were curious, and from her own hoof. Somehow why they were there had slipped her mind, until she read them. This was her schedule of possible anticipated events for Ragnarök. Along the left, right at three in the morning she'd written. 'Best anticipated time for Plan F: Surtr cataclysm variant. Evacuation of Equestria to south. Begin preparations for Ritual of Separation. 8%' Eight percent was her estimation of the chance for success of that plan and the general survival of Equestria as it currently existed. Fortunately with Loki appeared to be in charge of the Ice Giants, that particular event was very unlikely to occur. Similar notes were planned out along the sides, and for the next few days. The next one was set at four in the afternoon for tomorrow. The times were the latest such things could be done. Down to the minute. 'Plan B: Refugee Gambit, rapid Aesir Victory variant. Establish northern reservation, activate emergency conditions for fallout damages. 23%' Also unlikely, the Allfather had been at the head of his table. With no sight of Celestia's personal favorite for leader of the Aesir. If things came to blows there would be nothing left of any of the home worlds. So tomorrow would be a test of her nerves, and one where personal excursions would be inappropriate. Big Macintosh would have to wait, as much as it pained her to realize. Her initial misgivings were gone, she was no longer embarrassed in wanting to spend time with the stoic farmer. Not only spend time, but she...actually rather liked him. The warmth and affection she felt was positively glowing in her chest. She had no real comparisons to it, but it was probably what most any pony felt when they were in l-romantically attracted to another But Ragnarök was deadly serious, and would demand her utter focus and attention. Both Luna and her would be uneasy all day tomorrow, and for as long as it took for Twilight to report the situation. So far no word had come from the north, which was neither a good or bad thing. Celestia let her thoughts wander while adjusting a few of her more grim plans. Things were already on the right track, percentages increased. Plan A was still on course, but there was one scheduled event that she wouldn't even look at. Set for midnight tonight was written only two words and a percent: 'Wolf Variant: 0%'. Best not to think about it. No amount of planning would help if that particular prophecy came true. When the Elements stopped the crisis she would find a way to schedule some more personal time with Big Mac. If she could find so many things in the last few days a little planning would go a long way to making outings a regular occurrence Then again, she'd have to go to Ponyville to do so. That thought stopped her musings and her writing. A frown creased her face, focusing on the problem. She didn't go to Ponyville very often to begin with, and Sweet Apple Acres even less. Already her assistants and probably most of the high society of Canterlot could guess at the growing fondness she had for Big Macintosh. There'd be gossip for months if she stopped this very moment. They'd certainly know for sure if she kept going out of her way to see him. It would be a distraction to her work and open a floodgate of attention on Big Mac and his whole family. It would be absolutely unfair to do that to them, and very selfish. Not only that, she didn't even know if Macintosh liked her in a similar manner. Somehow that detail had eluded her until this very moment. Considering she'd only had the revelation yesterday that wasn't entirely surprising. "Do I really want a relationship?" She mused aloud, staring ahead without focusing oh her paperwork. Perhaps it was a good thing Cadance wanted to speak with her. Celestia couldn't think of anyone who might be a better source of advice on the subject of romance. Celestia carefully poured milk into the surface of the dark coffee on her desk. There were three like it, with the coffee in various colors of murky brown. Some had tasted better than others, and she was intent on finding her favorite. Today's experiment was the first of what would become many. Coffee without milk or sugar was completely inedible to her sensibilities. Before she began testing the many flavors of coffee she'd need to find her favorite amount of additives. With great care, she quickly stirred her latest cup and then lifted it with magic. Milk appeared to do an excellent job cooling the coffee just enough, which was an added bonus. She sipped, and considered the taste. Not bad, better than the last one. There was a burst of magical static just in front of her desk. The large mirror surrounded by crystal vibrated and then shook while momentarily encased in aqua hued energy. Then the pristine reflective surface shimmered and revealed Cadance looking through it and at her. "Hello Auntie!" Cadance beamed at her and even waved. The coffee could wait, Celestia placed the cup down and smiled just as widely. "And good afternoon to you, Cadance. It's been awhile since you've called. I hope everything is okay." Cadance was still smiling, but it faded a bit. "Well, kinda. We've had a bit of a problem." "A problem?" Curious. There could have been any number of issues. "I hope it isn't serious." Her niece quickly shook her head. "Just annoying. It's Discord. He's decided to pay the Crystal Empire a visit." Ah, that would do it. "I suppose trying to guess where he'd go at any particular time is an exercise in futility. Fortunately he has greatly limited himself since being befriended. If he really does become an issue you do have the ability to ask him to leave. And then you can tell him to leave after that." "Well I don't really want to threaten him." Cadance scratched her mane with a hoof, looking uneasy. "He did start changing all the food into rock candy, though. Something about finding the perfect recipe and declaring that it's all Crystal Ponies eat." Celestia rolled her eyes. "That does sound like him. As far as pranks, comparatively mild though." Through the mirror, she watched Cadance nod and then glance off to the side for a moment. "Oh, Shining! Come say hello to Celestia!" Duly summoned, Shining Armor sat himself next to his wife and waved. "Hello Princess! Are you having a tea party?" Celestia looked down at the four cups on her desk. "Coffee, actually. I just started trying it and was figuring out how much milk to use." Shining Armor blinked, and she could read the slight confusion on his face. If she didn't hold the rank of princess, or wasn't an unchallenged immortal monarch, he'd probably have called her weird. "Ah, " he finally said. "Oh. I have a question. A few days ago I signed off on a train ride going into the northern exclusion zone. I noticed my sister and her friends were on it. Is there anything we should be concerned about?" "Nothing that isn't already being taken care of." She answered quickly, switching to business in seconds. "it's a matter which required the Elements of Harmony. Though they are personally in little danger. It might be the end of the world, but they'll do fine." Shining paused for a moment or two, taking in the information and then nodded. "Alright Princess. All things with the Elements seem to deal with the world ending anyway. You're usually right about these things." "Thank you for the confidence." Celestia replied with a bit of a chuckle, it was probably still odd from Shining's point of view to be nominally on equal footing with her. "How has running the Empire been?" They both looked at each other for a moment. "It's been alright. " Shining answered first. Cadance nodded. "Sometimes a little hectic. I can't imagine how you've done it for so long. "Well," she lifted the current experimental coffee cup to have a sip. A bit of dramatic effect, nothing too showy. "A lot of practice for the most part. You'll get used to it in time." Cadance must have been having lunch too, because Shining Armor leaned over and was suddenly holding half of a sandwich. "I hope so. I'm still trying to remember where the bathro-" there was the sound of a door opening quickly. It caught both of their attention. "Your highness's." A deep male voice said, almost certainly a guard. "Discord has began animating large...rocky candy golems. They're alarming citizens and causing problems in the town square." Both Shining and Cadance sighed in unison. "I'll deal with it," Shining said while rubbing between his eyes with a hoof. "You enjoy your lunch and talk with the princess." "Alright." Cadance agreed and then patted him on the shoulder. "Don't let him get to you again. And keep the sandwich. Love you." Celestia glanced away just as Shining leaned in to kiss his wife on the cheek, though she could still hear the sound and some of the following affectionate words. She'd made the right call nudging them closer together at various times when they were younger. A success that had paid enormous dividends. Shining disappeared out of view, and then she heard the door close. Cadance was still looking towards it, thoughtful. Celestia gave her a moment, taking another drink. The sugar didn't really seem to make a big difference, but this definitely needed more milk. The bitter taste was starting to grow on her though. "I didn't know you drank coffee." Cadance commented, eying the cup through the portal. The issue with Discord must not have been all that serious if they were already speaking casually. "I started yesterday, actually." "Huh," Celestia watched as her niece started to poke at what was presumably her own lunch. After a few seconds Cadance glanced up with only her eyes, looking a touch too casual. "I can't stand it myself, though Shining really likes it. I've always seen you drink tea. What made you switch?" It was funny that she should ask. An almost perfect opportunity to talk about what she had wanted to ask herself. Too perfect, she realized she was being probed for information. But how could Cadance possibly... "Oh, a number of things." Celestia replied while speaking slowly "I saw Fleur yesterday, I thought you might like to know." That got Cadance to straighten up, and even look a bit guilty. So she'd guessed right. "Though I imagine she told you all about the charity event." Cadance chuckled nervously. "I may have gotten a letter in the mail. It sounded...fun." "It was rather enjoyable. What did your friend tell you about it?" The trap had fully turned, and now Cadance was stuck trying not to sound like a gossip while talking with the subject of the gossip. "Oh, mostly about a game of cards she played. And that she was surprised you brought Applejack's brother with you." Celestia smiled, knowing she'd gotten to the heart of it. So the high society, or Fleur and Fancy Pants at least, had made a guess. "I would hope it wasn't too surprising. He is an invited guest. The situation I mentioned before called the Elements away during dinner." "Ah, that wasn't the surprising part. Fleur seemed to think that you and..." Cadance paused and changed course. Celestia had a guess what she'd almost said, and possibly would have thrown Fleur in the spotlight of assumption making. Her niece ended up becoming a bit more stuttering, and less casual as she rounded out the last of what she was saying. "That is, uhm. She thought you were both very good friends." And that was near enough true. "I suppose we are. Though I've really only gotten to know him the last few days." Cadance's eyes had gotten a touch wider. Surprise at getting that much. "So, does that mean you..." Messing with Cadance could only go so far. Now the fluttery feeling was back. The one she'd identified as an unease in discussing such personal feelings. "I don't know. Or I don't think so. Not yet, anyway." None of that was easy to admit, and she couldn't hide the discomfort from showing. If Cadance was surprised before; now she was floored. "You mean you have a crush on him?" And then Celestia was privy to the sight of her niece, peer in ruling nations and an Alicorn princess descend into the emotional maturity of a schoolfilly. A hoof went to her mouth, and she started to giggle with a bright happy smile on her face. Cadance didn't miss a beat in commenting further, well before Celestia could try and answer her. "I did think he was pretty cute, and handsome too. Oh, and he's really quiet and intense sometimes, right? I thought you might like the strong silent types. And he's actually about as tall as you so it works in a way. Does he know you like him?" That was quite a lot to respond too, let alone answer coherently. Cadance might as well have been bouncing from giddiness. Celestia had to hold up a hoof for her to pause. "I don't even entirely know if I feel more than just passing affection. I was actual hoping you could give me some advice. If you promise to hold my confidence." "It's a Pinkie Promise." Cadance quickly ran through the motions ending with lightly jabbing herself in the eye. Her own exposure to Pinkie Pie didn't even make Celestia blink at the unusual method of making a vow. But once the promise was made, Cadance cleared her throat and became far more solemn. "You don't know if you like him? I don't think you'd talk about it if you didn't." That was true, and being in denial was silly. "Then I suppose I do. I do enjoy spending time with him, at least. But I don't know what I should do. Or the actions I need to take if I were to..." Cadance wasn't the only one demonstrating maturity well under her age. Celestia couldn't even say she wanted a relationship. "Okay, I see." Cadance nodded seriously and appeared to think for a moment. "Well I think the first thing you should do is tell him how you feel." Celestia opened her mouth to reply and then stopped herself. That notion seemed absurd. "But I don't even know if he feels the same way. Or if a...relationship would be possible. We both lead very different lives, and busy ones." "But..." Cadance pursed her lips for a moment. "Those kind of sound like excuses, or minor issues. If he likes you then you can deal with anything. " As upbeat and encouraging those words sounded, Celestia knew better. Cadance was still very young, and her special talent could certainly bias her to a degree of optimism about romance. "And what if he doesn't?" A dreadful thought, but a lifetime of planning made her consider every angle. That notion also caused Cadance to make a pained face and shuffle her hooves back and forth before speaking. "Well, I suppose that wouldn't be good. But...well." She definitely looked uneasy, like she wanted to say something. Celestia had seen that look, it was when you were weighing whether to be honest. Fortunately that was an easy thing to solve on her part. "Please, you can't help me if you're concerned about hurting my feelings. Go ahead, Cadance." "Alright, " Cadance took a deep breath. "Big Mac actually might not like you that way. Even I didn't always know for sure with a guy. Before Shining Armor I had the occasional flub of a relationship. And so did he for others, he's told me about them." Celestia quirked an eyebrow at hearing such an unusual word. "A 'flub'?" Nodding, her niece gestured with a hoof at empty air. "Sometimes you make a bad call. Or you look like a dork. Or he has a girlfriend already. Or you accidentally give him flowers he's allergic to, I always made sure to ask after that one. Sometimes being romantic can be messy." Cadance paused her amusing anecdotes, and frowned while giving a short sigh. "You've never had a relationship at all before; have you, auntie?" It wasn't quite so irritating to hear that question this time as it had with Luna a few nights ago. But still, Celestia tightened her jaw as the only outlet for the annoyance she felt. Again, the implication that she had somehow failed or missed something enormous simply by remaining out of romance. "I have not had the time for it. A long time ago there was a...possible suitor but that did not come to much of anything. It was simply not possible for us." "Oh," Cadance frowned now. "I suppose I'm sorry to hear that, about the long time ago. But now you've got a great chance to start fresh. I personally think Applejack's brother is a great choice! You should ask him out, or see how he feels about the idea." It sounded like decent enough advice, but Celestia still saw the problem in it. "Cadance, I have not had personal relationships only because I did not have the time. There are greater concerns than just the amount of work. My role as Princess is not only demanding, but carries certain responsibilities. I would not compromise myself, or endanger Equestria for anything." The only thing that came from Cadance by way of reply was silence, and an unhappy one. Celestia was resolute on what she'd said, and busied herself with the last of her coffee. Finally Cadance ventured, and slowly, to speak again. "Having a relationship like that with another pony doesn't have to compromise anything. You should be happy, at least a little." Celestia knew she'd selected right in coming to Cadance, since the young princess was nothing if not earnest. Otherwise she would likely be more irked at that constant, damnable phrasing. "I am not unhappy, Cadance," she replied with a firm tone. " Neither was I lonely, or sad with my fate. I was, and continue, to be quite content with my current life. Ruling Equestria and seeing peace and happiness for hundreds of years is not the unhappy, dreary picture you paint it to be." Cadance had drawn back at first, especially at the tone she'd taken. Celestia knew she'd been a little too harsh, though her niece had settled quickly into careful observation while listening to her. "Sorry," Celestia said after a breath. "I know you did not mean anything like that, I just do not care for the insinuation that I am unhappy." "I can see that," Cadance smiled, just barely. "Auntie, you wanted me to tell you what I thought. I think you might actually be a little more...unhappy than you think." Celestia had been about to protest, but a upraised pink hoof held her off. "I mean, well, unhappy about what Big Mac means. Love is very complicated, especially the first time. It isn't bad that you haven't really...explored a relationship like that one, but now that it seems to be here it's going to be strange and frightening. If it goes well, especially if it goes well, it can be an absolutely wonderful and beautiful thing." Celestia nodded for a moment. "It is a bit of an overreach to call a minor affection, 'love', but I do see your point. I agree about it being complicated. The more I think about the future, the less clear it becomes. The process is very messy." That got a laugh from Cadance, who visibly relaxed from the 'walking on eggshells' she'd been doing before. "It really is. I can't tell you how happy I am to hear that you're at least trying though. I don't think Equestria is as fragile as you think, and almost everypony would be just completely overjoyed to know you had a special somepony in your life." "Maybe." Celestia glanced at the clock on her desk. There was still some time life before she had to get back to work. "So your advice is for me to tell him right away? In the hopes that it leads to a more formal relationship?" "Well..." Cadance glanced off to the side in thought. "It could help, I think. How have you been spending time with him so far?" That was an excellent question. There weren't many experiences, but they'd managed to draw themselves out to be rather poignant in her memory. Analyzing what she knew about a situation was the first step to becoming sure about the next step. "So far I have been simply requesting he accompany me on fairly private outings. I asked him to give me some advice on the garden, have lunch with me to discuss a farm subsidy and then of course the charity event. All of them were very enjoyable, actually. I...I would not mind having more of those. Though it is getting harder to imagine reasons we might spend time together." Instead of smiling, as Celestia would have guessed, her niece looked concerned. "So he really might not know at all, since they'd sound pretty innocent. In that case I do think you should ask him directly for a date, or whatever you might think is best. You're not going to exactly...well, get anywhere if you keep doing it the same way." "But I was not able to find out that I was fond of his company without doing those things. Each occasion brought new aspects, things I had not expected. Wouldn't it be best to continue, at least for a while longer? I know many relationships begin slowly, and that it is best to learn as much as you can about one another." It was also an enormous step, and the possibility of rejection was not something Celestia wanted to risk. But Cadance didn't look convinced by her line of reasoning. "It's more complicated than that. If you're learning about Big Macintosh, especially because you seem to like him, then he should have the same opportunity to learn about you. It isn't really fair otherwise." "Not fair?" Celestia was confused now, and didn't mind showing it. "I would think he would have learned quite a bit by now. He's rather intelligent, and very perceptive." "Hmm, I suppose you would know better about the situation." Cadance relented, though still appeared troubled. "I think you should consider talking about it, just a little. Eventually he'll have to go back to Ponyville too." Celestia winced, frowning down at her desk. "Yes, I do know that. That is something I have been considering. I do not think it is fair to expect him to make one trip after another to Canterlot simply for my convenience. " "It would be hard," Cadance agreed solemnly. "But that shouldn't mean you don't try. Once you have a 'formal relationship' I'm sure a lot will fall into place." Then the princess made a tapping sound with her hoof. "Can I ask what you like about him so much? Why Big Mac?" Ah, that question. It had taken longer than Celestia would have guessed. "I knew you'd be curious." She chuckled, gathering her thoughts. "I suppose it is the novelty of not being...needed. If that makes sense. He's completely independent, I've become so used to ponies adoring me, and requiring my guidance that to meet one who doesn't...Well, it caught my eye. And yes, as you said before, he's very cute." Just saying those words led to a burst of warmth in her stomach, it felt good to say it out loud to another. Cadance was grinning ear to ear once again. "I'm really happy for you! If you need any help or advice don't hesitate to ask." "I certainly appreciate what you've provided so far." Another novelty was hearing the tone of a conversation winding down without her doing it. But Cadance had her own responsibility now. One outside of her aunt's authority. "I should go check to make sure Shining isn't a rock candy sculpture or something. Bye auntie!" The connection through the portal flickered out and Celestia was left alone in her office. She had a lot to consider, her thoughts more focused thanks to Cadance's advice. Not that she agreed with all of it. Celestia was sure that going about confessing her feelings would hardly accomplish much more than to embarrass herself. She'd have considered more preferable steps, but there came a knock on the distant far door of her personal office only moments later. "Yes?" She asked. It was very rare for her to be interrupted at this time. The door swung open and a guard poked his head inside. "Your highness, a personal visitor is requesting to see you. He says that it wouldn't be an issue." He? Celestia was sufficiently far away from the guard to show her genuine surprise. She hadn't told Big Macintosh that her lunch was going to be busy. Especially as she hadn't asked him for a second lunch in the first place. It seemed silly to assume he'd assume that he could eat another lunch with her. Apparently she was wrong. "Of course. L-let him in." Celestia couldn't remember the last time she'd stuttered her words. This crush of hers was beginning to annoy her refined sensitivities. The guard nodded and then ducked out of the door. There were only a few seconds to prepare, but she used them as best she could. First, a deep breath. Then Celestia realized the number of coffee cups on her desk, and quickly hid all but one of them. If Shining Armor had thought her experiment was unusual it was best not to take any chances. Oh, and the portal was still in the way. A burst of magic pushed it off to the side and out of sight, she even stood up and levitated a cushion over to sit. Then she sat down, before standing back up and straightening her desk to look like it was more full of paperwork. The door opened just as Celestia returned to her impression of casually sitting behind her desk. But it wasn't Big Macintosh, and she blinked at seeing Spike stroll in with a cheery smile on his face. "Hi Princess Celestia!" Still a bit nonplussed, she cleared her throat and smiled. "Well good afternoon, Spike. I had heard you were in the palace. I apologize for not seeing you earlier, but things have been rather busy." Spike shrugged as he stood before her desk, plopping down in the cushion she'd meant for Big Macintosh. "I know, some sort of stuffy charity event. Why does the room smell like a doughnut shop?" Chuckling, Celestia took a final drink of her coffee. It'd cooled off to the point of resembling most drinks, which somewhat spoiled the flavor she thought. Since Spike was here it meant she could get a particular bit of business over with. "I've decided to switch to coffee instead of tea for a bit. But it's fortunate that you came here to visit me during lunch. I had something I wanted to speak with you about." That caught his attention, Spike blinked and tilted his head while looking at her with overly expressive curiosity. "With me, Princess? I'm not in trouble am I?" Ah, that's why he was here. Celestia wanted to laugh once she realized his intent. Spike almost certainly knew he was 'in trouble', it was why he was here. He was also aware that, at least when dealing with her, it was much easier to confront your misdeed quickly and get it over with. "I did say I'd heard you were here in the palace." Spike hung his head, glancing down in instant repentance. "Princess Luna told me a great deal about last night. I can't say that I approve of your part in assisting the Cutiemark Crusaders. You of all should know the dangers of irresponsible use of magic." He was still looking down, which Celestia knew was his assumption of what would get him out of trouble faster. If she was actually sincerely upset she would have commented on his insincerity and they wouldn't be running through the formalities. Spike spoke with a saddened tone, though not quite so well put that she couldn't hear that it was feigned. "I know, Princess. I'm sorry, I was sure I was being safe about it. I just thought it would be sort of funny." Since he wasn't looking at her, she could allow a faint grin. "Princess Luna did not find it very amusing, though. While your drawing of a summoning circle was certainly well done it was still an unnecessary risk to take. Please do not assist the Cutiemark Crusaders with any further schemes, it's bad enough that my sister refused to admit defeat. There are quite a few upcoming issues going on in the world, things that both of us will need our fullest attention focused on. The crisis which drew Twilight and the others, Discord is harassing the Crystal Empire and I..." She trailed off, realizing she'd almost started to mention her exploration of relationships and a potential personal life outside of work. Certainly not something Spike needed to hear about. He did look up though, perhaps guessing his reprimand was over. Since it actually was essentially over, she distracted herself by opening up a personnel file for her staff. Performance evaluations were coming up, after all. "And what, Princess? I'm sorry about scaring Princess Luna like that, it won't happen again. I'm sure she'd probably know I was up to something if I tried again anyway." Shifting where she sat, Celestia mulled the start of staff meetings. Another important piece of business, and something she personally did herself. The afternoon was to be spent with Notetaker and herself pre-reviewing each employee of the palace for the interview to be held. It would distract her utterly from Ragnarök, and immerse her in the most detailed aspects of office work. But with her personal commitment to develop a...relationship strategy it seemed to only be in the way now. "Princess?" Spike was standing up now and waving to get her attention. Celestia jerked, refocusing to realize she'd lost herself in her thoughts. "Oh, I'm sorry, Spike. And handling the daily affairs of Equestria, a full time job to say the least." "Oh, right. I understand, Princess." Spike nodded, a carefree smile on his face. He'd gotten off very lightly for last night, not that she had much to be mad over. If Luna had been more upset, perhaps. But her poor sister had only seemed dumbstruck by the sheer complexity and cutthroat nature of the plan itself. They'd really gotten her, and that alone was entertaining to obscure that summoning demonic monsters from Tartarus wasn't exactly acceptable. Honestly, Celestia wasn't sure how the four of them had talked Mormo into participating in the prank herself. "It was very nice to see you again, Spike. You're welcome to stay in Canterlot until Twilight returns. I expect to hear from her sometime tonight, and I'll certainly let you know when I do." Spike nodded, agreed to stay and then excused himself. Celestia was left to her own thoughts again, and was grateful when no distractions came afterward. Just her, by herself in her office for the rest of her lunch. She quietly sipped at her remaining coffee while thinking. The seconds ticked away while she largely contented herself with staring at a fixed point on her desk. Thoughts came aimlessly, or even not at all in this brief little respite. The vast degree of things needing to be done didn't usually feel overwhelming but in this case it was hard to actually focus on a single one. A knock came at the far door, opening just as she looked up. Notetaker peeked her head in, and then blinked when they made eye contact. "Oh! Uh, hello Princess Celestia. I'm sorry, but I wasn't sure if you had meant to cancel organizing the staff performance review." Had she really ran over her lunch break? A look at the time confirmed that her set aside lunch had ended ten minutes ago. Having been late only on the most dire emergencies, it was understandable that Notetaker had came looking for her almost immediately. Celestia quickly cleared her desk and then stood up. "Ah, my apologies Notetaker. No, I hadn't meant to cancel. Come in, did you bring the paperwork with you?" Her secretary nodded quickly and retreated into the hallway only long enough to roll in a cart overladen with personnel files. Celestia had been about to pull up a seat, but realized that the one Spike had been using had not been returned. It was just as well, Notetaker took it without comment and then pursed her lips while looking her way across the desk. "Is something the matter, Notetaker?" Celestia could see the curiosity in her eyes, and thought it best to address it before they even began to work. Jumping a bit, Notetaker shook her head quickly at first and then grew more pensive.. "Well, no your highness. It's just..." She was concerned about the strange and uncharacteristic behavior she'd been displaying. Celestia didn't actually have to ask, she'd been behaving well outside her normal routine lately. It'd be easy to point the cause entirely towards Big Macintosh, but the past had been bubbling its way into her thoughts as well. Clearing her throat, Celestia nodded in a knowing manner. "I have had a great many things on my mind lately. I think you'll find that it's an unavoidable part of being a princess." Her assistant nodded enthusiastically in agreement. "Of course, your highness. I didn't mean to presume-" "Now now," Celestia chuckled. "You've been working here for a fair amount of time, Notetaker. I think you're welcome a little presumption." Of course Notetaker wasn't sure quite how to take that and said nothing in reply. Instead they got down to business, files laid out and the faces of many familiar ponies smiling up from their pictures. It was solid, unavoidable and altogether mind numbing work. From where to hold meetings, the order and scheduling and running through paperwork to assure nothing had become out of place. Unlike how most businesses likely conducted reviews of their staff, Celestia took the extra step to learn the lives, dreams and plans of those who worked for her. No pony would work here in the palace would feel unappreciated. About two hours into the work Celestia looked up to watch her assistant immersed in her half of the paperwork. They'd settled on a relaxed rhythm, one that required few words. But a thought had struck her while passing over retirement plans for the Royal Guard. "Notetaker," the young mare looked up in curiosity. Celestia gently placed the paperwork she'd been levitating down onto the desk. "Do I seem unhappy to you?" Eyes wide, Notetaker stared back at her for a long moment. "Well, uh...no I don't think so, your highness. I mean, you don't seem unhappy..., no." It appeared that Notetaker now found the paperwork in front of her extremely interesting, she'd started to furiously scribble and then glanced up for a moment in eye contact before looking back down. "Do I seem happy, then?" Celestia persisted, despite it being quite clear that Notetaker would have rather she not. It still somewhat boggled her mind that so many ponies might have been going about their interactions with her under the impression she was miserable. And curiosities were things that Celestia simply had to know for certain. Smiling nervously, Notetaker looked back up. "Happy, your Highness? You do...well, work a lot. But I don't think you're unhappy, like I said before. A-and you did look like you enjoyed your break two days ago, and...other things." The 'other things' she'd referred to had been said with a bright flush and another look away. If there had been any guess about Notetaker's assumptions about the 'Macintosh situation' they were all but confirmed now. Celestia gave a long considerate hum, and leaned forward with a touch of keen amusement displayed all because of the opening. The more she thought about it, the more sure Celestia was that there was little hope to keeping this a secret. If she was going to have a relationship with Big Macintosh then the entirety of Equestria was going to know about it about three minutes after their first date began. Best that she take the pulse of her staff on the matter quickly. Though she might risk scaring her poor aide half to death. Notetaker's mother had been become a fair confidant by the end of her tenure, a tradition Celestia wanted to continue if it could be helped. "Earlier today you made a suggestion that I'd be having lunch with Big M-Macintosh Apple." Notetaker went pale, a remarkable achievement after she'd been flushing so readily. "Y-yes, I'm v-very sorry about that, P-princess. I didn't mean to assume about uh, who you'd be having lunch with. I just uh, well...he is your guest and that you might perhap-" "It's quite alright, Notetaker. You don't need to keep justifying yourself. I appreciate that you've been mindful of the time I spend with Macintosh and looked to handle it proactively." Celestia did her best to give her most reassuring smile for the sake of the young mare falling to pieces in front of her. It did seem to work, more or less, and Notetaker settled down after her rapidly changing states of timidity and embarrassment. She could have pushed further if she wanted, but Celestia already had a good idea of what her aide thought. Positive, if completely unsure what to make of it. Since that more or less matched what she felt about her own situation, she could hardly blame Notetaker. If they were aware of it, the rest of her servants and direct employees were likely the same. But now that Celestia had considered the 'Macintosh question' once again it refused to vanish from her mind. There was relatively little work left to be done on these reviews, but even diving back into them was unappealing. Glancing across the desk, Celestia considered Notetaker once again immersed in the paperwork and hummed in thought. "Notetaker?" Once again she shot up from her work with wide eyes, but now trepidation was obvious. Likely she was worried that her princess was about to start talking about yet more uncomfortable subjects. Fortunately that was not what Celestia was intending to do. "I think we can end our planning session for the day. You're welcome to head home." Blinking, Notetaker immediately glanced over towards the nearest clock. "O-oh, okay your highness." She didn't miss much of a beat, but Celestia was well aware that she wasn't due to head home for quite awhile. Still, Notetaker rose and bowed before leaving with a good amount of the paperwork. Celestia had waved her own pile off from collection with just a hoof, and her aide hadn't tried to argue. Still quite a lot of work to go for her, it seemed. Maybe she could do with a good coltfriend herself... Regardless, there were far more pressing concerns to address. Not only to ponder the virtues of a relationship, but there was still a unforgettable bit of dread for tomorrow. Celestia could safely say that it would be best to remain alone for the rest of the evening. The tick of the clock that Notetaker had looked at was now her only company. It took an hour until she realized that solitude wasn't quite as good a thing as she thought. Thoughts had bounced about aimlessly in her head and only grown more distracting as she tried to specifically not focus on them. Celestia pulled back from an open staff folder she'd been glancing over with no other purpose than that it had been open before. "I really do want to spend more time with him," she said aloud. Thankfully there wasn't anyone around to hear that. Her own ears were more than enough, and she tapped her desk with a hoof in unhappy indecision. Luna was likely getting ready to sleep at this point, so that she could handle her watch in the middle of the night. If either of them desired the others company while waiting for Ragnarök it would be there. But the memories were still too painful to her for why they'd left, and it was likely all the more for Luna. They would likely carry on pretending that nothing was amiss, at least with one another. But according to Cadance's advice she could simply go to Big Macintosh. He'd almost certainly spend time with her if she asked. Doing so without a reason would lead the conversation to what was on her mind. Two things, specifically. The possibility of the end of the world, and him. It'd be the sort of conversation that would decide a great many things, and likely take hours to complete. Thinking about it made a part of her want to stand up and go looking for him right there. It'd be decisive, and she'd either be in a relationship or not at all. Only a part of her wanted to do that, to throw caution to the wind. Most of her shied from it, and she came to a compromise. She'd work on other courses of actions as a substitute, and if none were apparent she'd follow what Cadance had advised. "It's decided then." More words to the empty office, and Celestia put all her focus to the question. Unlike most problems it wasn't exactly easy to go about. Simply thinking into space presented few if any ideas. Brainstorming was next, and she began to outline various activities she and Big Macintosh might be inclined to do together. Ultimately the list began to resemble her regular schedule, with Big Mac simply included. No, even she knew that wouldn't work. Wouldn't she have to do things with him that he'd prefer? But what? Sighing, she tapped her floating pen on the desk for a moment instead of her hoof this time. "I suppose I wouldn't be very cut out for bucking apple trees." Certainly not. That wasn't for her, any more than she could expect Big Macintosh to suggest they spend an evening writing tax code. Perhaps the traditional framework of dates? It seemed likely, they both were very traditional ponies. Then again, she was coming up with these plans with the idea that they were only gradually learning about one another. Romantic dinners, or whatever she might imagine, would be a very, very unlikely thing to play at being platonic. In that aspect Cadance was completely correct. Time ticked away while she mulled the problem. Nothing was jumping out at her, and almost invariably the problem stemmed from circumstances, distance or both at once. It didn't matter what they did, spending time together was her goal. Even just walking together in the gardens had been very pleasant. But riding a train out to see her in Canterlot...or finding a reason to visit Ponyville? It seemed intractable. She called for more coffee, looking out the window and realizing the sun would need to be lowered soon. If nothing else thinking about the mechanics of a relationship had passed the evening away very quickly. She added plenty of sugar and cream to the pitch black drink and then was rewarded with the best flavoring yet. Celestia made a mental note of the quantities and then enjoyed her drink while looking over her now disheveled desk. On it was dozens of papers outlining everything she knew about Ponyville, Canterlot and Big Macintosh. There were other considerations; what she knew of Applejack, the rest of the Apple family and even a cross reference reminder to look into Earth Pony traditions and customs for relationships. There was no sense in leaving a stone unturned, but none of it had produced anything of apparent value. Maybe it'd be best to just speak with Big Macintosh after all, if he was in the palace still. The first thing she needed to do was gather up her created notes. Leaving them out for Notetaker or some other helpful pony to organize would lead to a great many questions and speculation. She considered where Big Mac might be at this hour while setting the pieces of paper in a desk drawer holding the rest of the staff folder. One had fallen open and spilled its contents at the bottom of the drawer, which necessitated picking it up. A picture of the pony working for her caught her attention, and Celestia momentarily forgot her best guess of where Big Mac was. She lifted the picture, somewhat out of date compared to what they looked like now. But that was why she'd stopped, and her thoughts moved in a new direction. A spark. An idea. A plan. She didn't need to go speak with Big Macintosh after all. She lowered the sun as an afterthought and immersed herself in the new plan. Having a course of action always seemed so very obvious once she'd set it. This one in particular didn't need many variables either, a simple arrangement that she could establish the very moment she had the time. Her examination of the angles, the likely outcomes was interrupted by the appearance of a letter in front of her. It had quite simply poofed into existence and landed, and then unrolled on her desk. Twilight hadn't even wrapped the parchment in twine, which was worrisome. Even more alarming was the unorganized and hastily written script which was still identifiable as Twilight's once she'd taken it up to read it. A quick run through of the note told her everything she needed to know. Lowering it, Celestia considered the shocking news with a sort of grim realization for what it would mean. That moment only lasted for a few seconds, due to the incredible swell of an ancient, but familiar, magic that enveloped the entire castle and seemingly far beyond it. Her mouth went dry as she registered what it was, and stood up instantly from her desk. At the same moment as she said the single word that named this event, there was a piercing scream of abject terror throughout the palace that sent Celestia running for the door. The course of true love never did run smoothScreams of terror woke Luna up first, followed by the deep pit of dread that had filled into her stomach. Rather than pitch black night, the sky itself was red and glowing. Enormous flaming balls of fire were lazily angling towards the ground and impacting with heavy thumps, despite being miles away from the palace. The terrified cries of ponies down in the city proper were an ongoing backdrop to what could only be one thing. "Ragnarök." It could be nothing else, the natural flow of magic in the air was in ceaseless tumult. Luna proved as much when she tried to stand out of her bed and faltered, her mane limp and unmoving. Slowly she trotted over to the window to stare, lacking in any energy to do more than that. What could anyone do at this point? The world was over. In stunned silence she felt the ground shake, a towering figure shot high up over the horizon. An enormous serpent, and the fall of its body back onto earth resulted in an overwhelming earthquake that nearly toppled Luna over onto the floor. She'd observed that Ponyville was in its path, and must have been completely flattened as a result. The serpent wasn't the only figure to appear, and she marked the figure of Surtr in the distance. The giant was wielding his famous sword, which was bright and flaming as he brought it down in a terrible arc to the ground. More fire, but it only seemed a little thing compared to the utter conflagration dominating the horizon . The serpent and Surtr were not to be left alone, and two streaks of light appeared high in the sky while rapidly descending towards their targets. "They're late," Luna mouthed, her mouth too dry to form proper words. For the self proclaimed protector of this world; the hammer wielding thunder god making his way to the enormous snake had taken his time. But in moments both he and Freyr were engaged with their foe of choice which began to cause even more devastation to the land with the onset battle. Too far away to make out details, Princess Luna turned her gaze down towards Canterlot. There was nothing anyone could do, and the overwhelming weight of her failure piled upon her. Though, lifting her head and glancing towards the door she recalled there was one event still to come. Curious that it hadn'- The sound of a wolf howling caused all her other thoughts to stop. Automatically she pressed herself up against the nearest wall, right next to the window with the world ending in earnest outside. Her wide eyes were focused on the closed door, as the castle itself trembled. There was a burst of familiar magical power, a heavy shake and then the magic went out. Her sister was dead, she could feel it as if her own heart had just been torn from her chest. There was no time for grief though, the castle shook once more; and this time it was right outside her room. A heavy, thick animal growl sounded and then the stone wall exploded in a shower of dust and debris. Before her stood her fate, a wolf five times her own size and barely able to fit within the expansive hallway. It took a single step forward and once it did Luna let out a scream of utter fear. "No, no! This isn't-no you're not!-This isn't supposed to happen!" She knew there was no point to begging, and even less of a point to fight. The wolf chuckled and took another step forward. "I've been chasing after you for a long time, Moon-Raiser. Now I have found you, do you know fear?" Swallowing, Luna tried her best to press through the wall she was against. Anything to get away, and nowhere to go. "You are not, you cannot! You...you are...from the prophecy." By now the wolf was close enough that she could feel his foul breath wash over her. Droplets of heavy spittle landed at her hooves, his enormous maw open wide to display razor sharp teeth. "I am Hati Hróðvitnisson, the Mánagarmr. You are my meal, and I am hungry. But I can allow you a few seconds to give your last cries of terror." Abandoning all dignity, Luna felt her resolve shatter. "Please! You do not have to do this! We-, the fate that was spoken of does not have to be anything other than our will! Do not eat me! I beg you!" The wolf did not listen, and it reared back in preparation to bite her. Luna shut her eyes and screamed out her last breath. In a moment she had a full picture of her long, lonely life laid out in front of her in review and it seemed very much unfulfilled with the end now upon her. But her death did not come. Instead a much different, but nearly as deep male voice sounded in her room. "And that, children, is how you scare a princess. I win! Oh, your game is excellent! I wonder if I can convince others to play." Cracking an eye open, Luna realized that her bedroom was no longer destroyed. It no longer had a wolf in it, either. Instead there was Discord and the Cutiemark Crusaders on the opposite side. Discord was grinning from ear to ear, floating and being generally rather amused with himself. The CMC, however, looked very much uncomfortable. "Er, Mister Discord? You didn't have to go...that far." Scootaloo was looking up at the smug trickster while chewing on lip. "Yeah, that was really mean." Sweetie Belle was next, and was glancing with obvious guilt her way. "We didn't mean for him to do that, princess." Applebloom was last, and rubbing at one hoof with another while staring down. Luna was only staring, her heart beating rapidly still. The terrible rolling of the world's magic was no longer in the air. No more screams, or the impact of meteors coming from the window. Only crickets were chirping, with the battles between gods and giants no longer raging. "It-Ragnarök is not...?" Discord rolled his eyes at her, and at the Cutiemark Crusaders as well. With a languid sigh he hopped up into the air and floated, arms going behind his long head. "Of course it isn't. I'm all for good fun, but even I would hate to see all you cute little ponies go to waste over a little quarrel. Honestly, did you think you were the only one who could manipulate dreams? " It'd felt so real, it had went well beyond a nightmare. She edged back a level of control, inhaling deeply and shakily standing up. "I...Discord, remove thyself from our sight." Her command went unheeded, With Discord giving an exasperated groan of annoyance, his eyes literally falling out of his head on their next roll. "You're no fun, Luna. And here I thought you composed yourself magnificently during what you thought was the end of the world and your horrific death. I can't imagine other ponies would do better than you. That gives me an idea! I wonder what your sister would-" Celestia burst into the room scant seconds later, Discord's words falling away at the sheer aura she was giving off. Her older sister was quite obviously furious, and glaring pointedly at the Dragonequus who had placed his eyes back where they belonged. "Why hello Celestia, I was just talking about you! How good it is to see you again. I'm quite pleased to hear how well Twilight and all her little friends did in defusing that pesky disagreement. Those former friends of yours were always such a pain; order this and feasting that. I simply don't know how you and Luna dealt with them for so long. I mean, besides being essentially inducted into their ranks of course. So you must be rather happy that it's all over with." For once Discord sounded faintly nervous, Luna felt only like an observer at this point. The shock still only just wearing off. Instead of yelling, commanding or even looking at Discord her sister glanced purposefully over to the Cutiemark Crusaders. Her gaze alone was enough to get the three to cower and hang their heads in shame. Celestia cleared her throat and looked towards the door. "I believe it is past time you went to bed. We will speak in the morning." Quick as a flash of lightning, the trio of fillies were gone without a word. The tension became palpable when Celestia turned to finally look at Discord once more. To his credit, the trickster did not flash out of being. Though he was no longer floating, and deliberately rubbed the back of his neck while Celestia glowered at him. "Look, Celestia. I can almost certainly understand that you might feel a little bit of...how should I put it? Annoyance? Aggravation? Perhaps a little bit miffed? Ah, wait! I know. You might be a bit-" "Discord, go. Now." And with that simple, terse command he was gone in a flash. Now only Celestia and herself remained in the bedroom, and Luna exhaled a breath she'd been holding. By now Luna was a great deal more composed than she had been even a few moments ago. The world wasn't going to end, and...well, she'd learned something very important about herself on reflection. Celestia felt absolutely terrible, and could not help but heap blame solely on her shoulders. She'd been careless enough to mention Discord to Spike, who she'd known was in league with the CMC. They must have contacted him, sought him out to help in their seemingly harmless pranks. Discord and the word restraint together were usually prefaced with 'does not have any'. With the increasing escalation and lengths the Crusaders were willing to go she should have seen this as a logical conclusion. Now Luna had been forced to confront something truly awful, something neither of them had ever wanted to see. "I'm so very sorry, little sister." She went to hug her sister, wrapping her wings and simply squeezing tight. "I did not mean for things to go so far." Luna accepted the hug, and even returned it. But after a moment she cleared her throat. "N-no, it is quite alright big sister. I am fine now. Thank you for dispatching with Discord, though." The dispatching hadn't even begun, Celestia swore to herself. He'd be lucky not to be returned to a statue after she'd had a chance to personally address to him how her family or their past were absolutely not to abused ever again. Pulling away, though, she refocused on the immediate concern of whether Luna was okay. Her sister did look more or less alright, with a small frown and a contemplative look on her face. Her eyes were still distant, her attention drawn away and far outside the palace to inner thoughts. Celestia could only guess what Discord's...interpretation of Ragnarök had been like, but the magic had seemed unimaginably powerful and dark. Luna's scream alone was still haunting, echoing in her memory again and again. "Luna...everything will be alright now. The Elements convinced both sides to no longer fight." That caught Luna's attention, and her eyes regained much of their focus. "But how? We both heard the prophecy about our fate and the rest of what was to come." Nodding grimly, Celestia had her own moment of inner thought. Thinking on times long ago when they were far, far younger and played their part in the ever shifting politics of the distant worlds. "Twilight and her friends were able to get to the heart of many of the specific grievances. Ultimately it appears that Mímir was lying to the Allfather, and lied to us as well." "Lying?!" Luna's eyes grew very wide and jerked back immediately at the news. "That wretched, dishonorable talking head was speaking false prophecies to us? To provoke the war? And our part that we were to play was-" "False," she confirmed with a nod. Celestia was no less happy to learn about the deception than her sister. But in thinking about it, the flow of what was to be their foretold end appeared to make sense in that context. Regardless, it was now over and done with. Now there was the fallout to deal with. "The Elements will be back in Canterlot tomorrow." There was a long pause, as Luna appeared to have no immediate answer. It was getting very late now, and Celestia wasn't sure she was going to be able to get very much sleep tonight. Not after having one of her plans come crashing down upon her head like this. Finally Luna did speak, glancing out towards her window. "We learned something of ourselves in the moment we believed our end was nigh," Celestia could hear the contemplative tone even as her sister slipped back into her more archaic way of speaking. It was a curious thing to say, though. "Learned something?" Celestia sat directly next to her, settling down and ready to listen. Another brief pause followed, and then Luna nodded at last. "We-I did. We, and I mean you and I, have let the threat of the end drive our actions too much. I have been hiding away from the changing world, merely observing and largely keeping myself separate from our subjects. I can adapt, learn and change and still remain Luna, Princess of the Moon." That was, in fact, what Celestia had been hoping would happen for her sister. It was why she had set the Cutiemark Crusaders upon her to interact with, even if Celestia could not have anticipated it would have happened this way. If this revelation was true then she could absolve herself of just a little bit of guilt, if Luna proved to be happier ultimately because of it. "I think that is an excellent lesson to learn, little sister." Celestia could feel the smile return now. Genuine warmth, more like relief, flooded through at last. Perhaps things really could return to normal, or even better than normal. Her two projects had come together and been resolved as satisfactorily as she could have hoped, even if they hadn't gone entirely smoothly. Luna was looking at her from the corner of her eyes now, and was not sharing in the smile and warmth. "Yes, we agree that is an excellent lesson to learn. Have you learned...?" Luna stopped herself suddenly, though she hadn't needed to finish for Celestia to guess at what she was meaning. Though it was only a limited guess, she knew for certain what the general subject was. "Yes, I have also learned a few lessons myself. You were more right than I had first thought, Luna." Her sister was genuinely surprised at that, Celestia was entertained to see it play across Luna's face and by the sudden turn to face her more fully. "You have learned that-?" Celestia cut her sister off. "I have learned that perhaps," she licked her lips and considered the next word carefully, "companionship is not such a bad thing to have." There wasn't much more to say, that she was willing to say anyway. The idea of pursuing romance was difficult enough to consider on her own, let alone to discuss the specific way she was intending to go about it. So many tight, uneasy emotions along with mountains of uncertainty. A bright smile had appeared on her sister's face at last. "We are overjoyed to hear that you have made such a resolution, big sister. Perhaps it is for tomorrow that such resolutions become fully realized?" A tiny push for more information, but not an unreasonable one. "Perhaps," she answered. It was as far as she was willing to allow. She did have a plan, and one that was likely to be simple to execute. Now that the safety of the world was secure, as well as the safety of her sister, Celestia could briefly entertain more personal projects. Tomorrow promised to be exciting; the start of a new, better world. "We're really sorry, Princess Celestia." The three fillies in front of her certainly did look sorry as they chorused their apology in unison. Celestia had selected a personal antechamber near the dining hall to hold this small wrapping up of last night's events. Applebloom, Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle had arrived as duly summoned and held their heads low. Spike had been here a few minutes ago and had received his far more stern reprimand than he had yesterday, with the young dragon far more sincerely apologetic for his involvement. Big Macintosh was also present, having already heard the full version of events from his little sister and their friends in the morning. This wasn't a particularly enjoyable part of her job, but there was no room for growth if ponies did not learn their lessons. "You should not be apologizing to me, my little ponies. I would think your apology is more owed to Princess Luna, and I hope you do take the time to do so before you leave today." Applebloom had looked up and then nodded vigorously "We will, Princess! But we reckoned cause you'd invited us out here and all we oughta apologize to you too. On a count of we've been right rude guests." That was likely taken from Big Macintosh's personally given lecture, judging by how he was sternly glaring at his sister at the moment. Since he'd already done the more harsh portion of letting the three fillies know exactly what they'd done wrong it was probably better to move into the learning phase. "And have you learned just what you're apologizing for?" There, and now she'd given them a chance to show that they understood. Sweetie Belle was first, sounding the most downcast of the three. "That we shouldn't think it's okay to do whatever you think you need to in order to win. That games are suppose to be for fun for every pony, not just us." That was more or less the main 'point' to their lesson. The constant and increasing escalation may have made sense from a game perspective, since Luna had refused to be frightened by anything less than the possibility of her own death, but that didn't mean you had to go and actually cause that to happen. A lesson definitely useful for the future. Applebloom was next, a glance to her older brother didn't seem to give her any encouragement that she was out of the woods as far as punishment. "It was also wrong for us to keep trying to guilt Princess Luna into playing with us. We were kind of being bullies about it, since we shoulda known better." Also an excellent lesson, and one Celestia filed away partially for herself. She'd played her own role in egging her sister on to play; with the excuse that Luna hadn't been legitimately uncomfortable until the end. It was also hard to have predicted just how serious the CMC would take their own game. Maybe even they hadn't realized it. There was a significant pause, with eyes falling onto Scootaloo. The young pegasus filly perked up from her downward gaze, suddenly realizing that there was an unspoken expectation for her to round out the group lesson. "Oh uh," she fumbled, looking to her friends who were unavailing in helping her come up with a moral. "I guess it was wrong to try and summon a monster from Tartarus. Oh, and we shouldn't have asked Discord to help either." Yes, technically that was a lesson to learn. In the grand scheme of things it wasn't likely to have much application, but Celestia could bend enough to allow it. Sweetie Belle and Applebloom had already taken the main points. "Very well," Celestia nodded and accepted the three's self recrimination. A palpable weight of relief seemed to lift of the trio of filly's shoulders and they were finally able to meet her gaze off from the floor. "Your sisters and the rest of the Elements of Harmony will be returning in the next few hours. I suggest that you pack your belongings and prepare for the journey home." The three departed slowly, with a distinct note of solemness hanging over them. They weren't speaking to one another, and possibly wouldn't until they were well outside of her sight and hearing range. That was well enough, and hopefully they hadn't taken their reprimands harder than they really had too. It had been difficult not to gently bring the three young girls back up with assurances that everything would ultimately be alright. If she had, though, the prior lesson would have been undermined; it the main reason she had not done as much. Big Macintosh gently coughed after a moment, his eyes were still focused on the door but Celestia had a feeling that he was trying to get her attention. As far as she'd known him Big Macintosh only seemed to make noise when he intended to. Since she already had something she wanted to say it was all the opening she needed. "You'll make sure to tell Applejack, Rarity and Scootaloo's parents that they've already been spoken to more than once about their behavior. I can't imagine it's fair to have it continuously brought up by different ponies." "Eeyup," he answered while still looking where his sister and her friends had gone. Celestia had paused, expecting him to say more but there didn't seem to be anything forthcoming. Not anything too out of the norm, sometimes it seemed like she had to work to warm Big Macintosh up to get the stoic farmer talking. "With the exception of the incident last night I have been very happy to have you as guests. I hope that you've enjoyed being here at Canterlot, Big Macintosh." For a brief split second she'd almost said 'with me' somewhere in those last sentences. Turning finally, Big Macintosh shrugged nonchalantly and the straw in the corner of his mouth switched to the opposite side. Even after watching that happen so many times it still fascinated her by its deliberateness. "Eeyup, can't say a bad thing about it. You've been a fine host, Princess." Hm, he'd avoided saying her name once again. Habits apparently died hard, though it was entirely possible that Big Macintosh was simply too polite to drop respect simply because he'd been told it was okay. She still wanted further conversation, though, and now Celestia was curious to get more of an idea of how he'd come to think of the overall week. "You are of course more than welcome to return at any time." Big Mac raised an eyebrow at that and there was an extended pause before he replied. "That's a kind thing of you to offer, but I reckon the palace here has had all it can take from my sister and her friends for the moment." There was a faint ghost of a smile on his lips that didn't quite reach his eyes. She smiled wider than he did, accepting the joke as graciously as she could while the faint stirring of a warning was in the back of her mind. It wasn't quite like Big Mac to go and deflect with humor, and his real thoughts were about as shielded from her as they'd ever been. Then again there really was probably no other way to take her offer to return and visit from his point of view. It was important, she reminded herself, that she was committed to slowly walking them into a possible relationship. Big Macintosh had simply taken the 'you' as being collective. "I'm sure that Princess Luna will appreciate the break, as will the staff." Her own responses were limited, and Big Macintosh nodded in agreement as they continued to share their slight smiles at the general hassle that were the Cutiemark Crusaders. But still nothing came after, and a decidedly awkward silence descended which Celestia couldn't immediately figure out how to dissipate. If one was forcing conversation along it was often best to end it, but that was exactly what she didn't want to do. Big Macintosh was looking at her silently, finally coughed and then glanced towards the door. "I best be getting packed, beggin your pardon Princess." "Oh yes, of course." It came out automatically, even as a tightness gathered in her stomach. Watching him trot out of the chamber did nothing to help her unease. Her eyes lingered there for a long moment, immersed in her own thoughts about what seemed liked a thousand different things. It wasn't like her to be doubtful of her plans, and the one she'd made last night was a very simple one. Instincts, that 'gut' feeling of warning, simply refused to dissipate regardless of the number of times she reassured herself. Discord was still watching her from the corner of the room, a literal fly on the wall. No time for reconsideration, there will still work to be done. "It's your turn, Discord." She spoke up aloud, lifting her head to look towards where she'd sensed him skulking. With a flashing burst of magic Discord was in front of her, an annoying goofy grin on his face. He'd seen the awkward little byplay between her and Big Mac, and now Celestia realized that the entire tone she'd wanted to impart on Discord was lost. Now the Dragonequus was going to harass her ab- "My my, Celestia, does Applejack know about you two?" It was tempting to rub at the bridge of her nose, she could feel a headache forming already. That would have given him far too much satisfaction though, and instead she let out a long breath. "I didn't forget your part in last night's events. Did you think it was acceptable to trick my sister into believing she was about to be eaten?" She did her best to lace her words with as much stern seriousness as could be mustered, but she knew the trickster well enough that it was unlikely to have much effect. Discord waved her off with his claw, though there was perhaps the barest glimmer of guilt. Fluttershy was definitely having an effect on him, good. "It was all in good fun, really. After thousands of years of anticipation I'd think having nothing happen at all would be just a little anti-climactic don't you?" "You wouldn't have escaped the Twilight either, Discord. You will make a full and sincere apology to my sister or I will have you banished from Equestria." That last threat would be difficult to enforce, but she was prepared to make it. The Cutiemark Crusaders might have been mostly harmless in their escalations, but there could be no allowances for the reality warper to believe malicious pranks like that carried no consequence. It did keep him quiet for a few seconds, Discord looking evenly into her stare. He was gauging whether she was serious, and she doubled down on giving him a stern look to confirm that she was. Discord looked away first and sighed heavily. "Well I suppose I have no choice. I would hate to miss one of Fluttershy's tea parties, and all of Equestria would become so very boring without me around to liven things up." There was definitely no answer to that, and Celestia continued to merely glare at him. It was easier than trying to puzzle out Discord's motivations and interests. About the only consistent one was 'cause chaos' and even then that goal shifted as easily as the breeze. "That should be all, Discord. I have business to attend." As curt a dismissal as she usually gave, Celestia turned away and began to leave the room. There were more reasons than business, too. She especially did not want to talk to him about- Discord was floating along her right, languidly suspended sideways in the air. "You know what, Celestia? I just realized something. Your first foal could be named Monarch! Wouldn't that be hilarious?" Usually when Discord was rambling she had a habit of tuning him out, it wasn't like what he said most of the time was anything more than nonsense. But the last comment caused her to stumble, her lead hoof clipping the floor and bringing her to a dead halt. Children?! Celestia scrambled to fight away a blush. "Discord, that isn't funny." "You're right, what would the other children think? Favoritism to the new royal line simply wouldn't do." "Discord..." Celestia practically growled out his name. Hopefully none of her staff were nearby to even hear a whisper of this conversation. She'd been about to walk through the doorway leading out into the hallway. Discord hadn't had the room to move through the opening and instead had phased himself halfway through the stone wall. Of course he hardly paid much attention to that at all, grinning from horn to antler at the successful dig. "And really, it's remarkably egalitarian of you. I can already imagine the scandal and intrigue, why, the paparazzi! will have a field day" Instantly a camera sprouted itself into existence for Discord to aim her way. That was quite enough already, and even included just a fraction of her apprehensions. Celestia was certainly not about to confide with Discord of all creatures, and this had gone on for too long. But how to get rid of him? Something quickly, or when the first pony came by he'd start to lace every sentence from then on with innuendos to try and fluster her. It'd work too, but what could possibly stop Discord from having his fu-. An idea came, though it'd be annoyingly inelegant "Discord," she repeated his name, the trickster's attention focusing away from zooming his camera lens in on her face. Her mastery over her expression was being completely put to the test, lest she betray just how annoyed she was. "If this continues the only thing that will happen is the status quo." Much like deflating a balloon, the change over Discord was near instantaneous. The camera poofed itself out of existence and there was a half glare, half searching and all together annoyed look across the dragonequus' face. Status quo was as near a curse for Discord as anything. The very notion that he might be the cause for something boring to happen could get him to go to avoid just that, she'd found. "Very well," Discord said in exasperation, folding his arms over one another and turning up his nose. "I'm sure it will be entirely predictable and stale, anyway, as things with you always have a habit of being." Celestia gave no answer, knowing better than to rise to any sort of bait. Time was on her side with this, and if she just waited a few more seconds Discord would give up and find something else to do. Out of thin air a clock chimed, despite being at best a quarter past the hour, Discord immediately craning a claw to an ear. "Oh goodness, will you look at the time? I'm afraid I'm going to have to go, dear Celestia, as I have to catch up with a very old friend. A kindred spirit, really, I do hope she remembers me." Now that she knew he'd be leaving, Celestia allowed a heavy sigh and an answer to send Discord off. "I'm sure she will, but keep your pranks out of this world." And with that Discord was off in a flash, and Celestia could only hope that he found it entertaining enough to aggravate Ice Giants and Æsir, instead of ponies. Things were quite stressful enough without two incredibly powerful tricksters roaming Equestria, three if you counted Pinkie Pie. But even with the trickster gone and no immediate tasks in front of her, the tension welled inside Celestia refused to dissipate. There was still quite a bit to do this afternoon. Without another word Celestia left for the gardens. Her thoughts narrowed and focused, future conversations playing themselves out in her mind to assure her that she hadn't missed a thing. Of course she hadn't, today was going very well. The new apple trees looked like they'd completely taken to their new home. Celestia marveled at the bright green leaves sprouted among the branches while wandering along the edge of the more wild looking gardens nearby. This new addition much more resembled an orchard, but somehow didn't clash in appearance. It'd likely be another year before any sort of apples grew, from what little she knew of fruit trees. Still, that would pass by in hardly any time at all. "Oh! Well it's nice to see you again, your highness!" An old creaky voice from out of the woods caught her attention. "Come to admire the new addition to the garden? I have to say you had a good idea in suggesting it." Green Hoof had a hoe strung across a shoulder and trotted slowly out into the open area while approaching her. She smiled brightly, entirely genuine. "It is very lovely, Green Hoof. You and Big Macintosh did excellent work and the gardens are all the more beautiful because of it. Very soon staff and dignitaries alike will be able to enjoy apples whenever they please." Her gardener beamed under the praise, and removed his worn straw hat to wipe at some sweat dabbed along his face. He didn't return it to his head, however, and bowed now that he was directly in front of her. "If the critters around here don't get to them first, anyway. Got to say if I was a colt half my age I'd probably have a easier time of it. Not that I'm complaining, your highness, I know a few tricks that'll keep them away." He'd punctuated the last bit with a wink and a grin, a self assured quality born out of decades of experience. It was exactly the sort of thing to say that Celestia had been looking for. "I have no doubt that you are up to the task, my little pony." Even if he looked quite a bit older than her, her subjects never failed to smile wistfully at the gentle tone that phrase brought. "Though, I did notice that your work went quite a bit faster when a pony who was half your age was there to assist." Green Hoof blinked for a moment, and then laughed. "You're right about that, your highness! That young fella knew his way around apple trees like nobodies business, even taught me a few things I didn't know. Not always easy to find a pony who can work hard and has a real appreciation for making things grow." This was going better than she could have hoped, though Celestia cautioned herself to handle it delicately. "We've been doing staff reviews, Green Hoof." Her gardener stilled from his good mood, a touch of wariness at what he must have started to anticipate. "You've been serving here faithfully for longer than most of the other staff in the palace have been alive. I cannot be more thankful for your dedicated service, but I would not want to risk it becoming a risk to your health either." The earth pony in front of her was quiet for a long moment, working out his feelings on the subject. It was something Celestia was willing to allow for as long as he liked, these sort of choices were never easy to make. She wasn't going to leave it up to any other pony, though, and she made a point to remember her most loyal servants and helpers through her many long years of rule. Finally Green Hoof let out a long exhale and nodded. "I've been thinking about what I'd do if I ever retired for quite awhile, Princess. Hard to imagine doing anything else, but I probably have more money saved up than I'd even be able to spend, heh." He chuckled a bit, though it was strained. There were always backups for her plans, and now that Celestia saw just how he'd taken the proposition she adjusted her angle of attack. "Green Hoof, if you were to retire you would not have to leave the palace." That caught his attention, and she could see a bit of relief there as well. "You've more than earned a full pension, and I wouldn't dream of asking you to leave your grounds. You may remain here, and even return, anytime you like. I can imagine that the incoming groundskeeper will need quite a bit of help in learning their position wouldn't you agree?" There, now there was a far more genuine smile on the stallion's face which set her own worries to rest. "Well I imagine I could show them a thing or two," Green Hoof agreed. "Do you have a pony in mind, your highness? If I had to give one off the top of my head I'd say Big Macintosh, but then again he's already got the farm down in Ponyville." It was very easy to fake surprise at the given name that had been line with her own thoughts, why she'd come to the gardens in the first place. "What an interesting suggestion, Green Hoof." She cast a look back towards the palace, knowing that the true test of her nerves would be coming very soon. "I'll see what he thinks of it before he heads back home." "The Elements of Harmony will be arriving to Canterlot in half an hour, your highness." One of her guards had bowed dutifully, and Celestia had only nodded absently at the report. Everything was going so very slow, the anticipation mounting within her as Celestia did her best to not to stare at a clock in her throne room. There wasn't anywhere else for her to be, and so she simply waited. Without the upcoming...discussion with Big Macintosh it might have been more likely that she'd have met Twilight and her friends at the train station. There were a lot of questions that she wanted to ask for how their adventure in the north had gone. Aspects and key details that would need to be answered to ensure that the brokered peace would stay peaceful. Instead she was waiting for them to arrive here in the palace, feeling anxious that she might have missed her guess as to what Big Mac would be doing at this time. He'd want to greet his sister, or at least know when to greet her. This would mean he'd have to come looking for her, or any official who would know. Which meant he'd come to the throne room. Suggesting that he take on a position as a gardener would require a touch of casualness that would be impossible if she just went to find him. But so far he hadn't sought her out, something Celestia was finding to be very frustrating. A half dozen minutes passed by, and she was now sure that her plan would be for nothing. It was hardly a catastrophe if it was, though certainly disappointing. Celestia would take a long weekend to consider alternative plans, trips to Ponyville could be set that would take her closer to Sweet Apple Acres. She wasn't going to give up that easily. Of course that was the moment that a side door far on the left of the throne room swung open and Big Macintosh followed through it. He was unaccompanied by the Cutiemark Crusaders, or any other pony in fact. Instead he was dragging a assortment of luggage and placed it discretely off to the side and out of the way. For a moment Celestia thought she saw surprise register when their eyes met. Curious. The moment had come, though, and Celestia cast away all the fluttering butterflies in her stomach while descending from where she had been sitting. Big Mac bowed when she approached, and then rose up to lift an eyebrow at her approach. The bit of straw in the corner of his mouth remained motionless, which meant he wasn't going to speak first. "Your sister and her friends will be here very shortly, Big Mac. I hope you understand that there may be a bit of a delay as I'll need to ask them a great many questions." An easy start, nice and official. It occurred to her after a moment that this was the sort of hyper aware, focused attention she used when dealing with master diplomats and villains. Macintosh gave a nonchalant shrug of his shoulders. "Eeyup, take your time." Hm. Big Mac was apparently still short on words, which would mean she'd have to direct things along a bit more than she'd have liked. "I suppose Applebloom, Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle...?" "Reckon they're makin' amends with Princess Luna." Celestia felt tense, could even feel her heart beat quickening in anticipation as they wound through small talk. "Well then good, I imagine my sister will be bringing them then." The object of her (secret) affection did not even reply with a 'eeyup' at that, but he was observing her quietly all the same. It was a look that she often gave ponies, and being 'under the spotlight' for a change was totally foreign to Celestia. And oh, there were too many guards within earshot for what she wanted to say too. The butterflies were back with a vengeance. "Ahem, Big Macintosh?" Her throat felt dry as he lifted an eyebrow. "Would you mind speaking with me out in the hallway? I have something I'd like to ask you." Where that persistent guarded look she'd observed before had been subtle, Big Macintosh looked almost outright alarmed now. "Er, well I suppose that'd be okay..." He drawled, his words coming a beat faster than were usual. Did he suspect? No, of course he couldn't have. Celestia hadn't figured it out herself until yesterday. The door to the throne room shut behind her, and the two were left in the empty hallway by themselves. Alone. If Big Macintosh hadn't been forthcoming before he wasn't going to prompt her now. Best to start with the proper tact. "I had a chance to stroll through the apple trees you planted, Big Macintosh. Your work was excellent, and you went to far greater lengths than you had to." Big, silent green eyes were watching her closely while she spoke. At last he nodded, still clearly wary. Maybe he did suspect she had something in store after all, she hadn't developed a crush on a pony without intelligence. "It wasn't nothing, really. Glad you like them though." "Well of course, Big Macintosh. I..." Celestia paused to gather herself, truly not completely sure how to proceed. The warning she'd felt before was blaring now for her to not finish her words. She ignored them, though, having already started this plan she knew she had to see it through. "I saw how able you were while working in the Canterlot Royal Gardens. Green Hoof spoke very highly of your talents as well. Would you possibly be interested in taking his place as groundskeeper when he retired?" Silence fell, and Big Mac did not visibly react except to look off to the side and away from her. Was that a good or bad sign? Celestia couldn't tell, couldn't even guess. "If you are concerned about the compensation being enough to offset your work in Ponyville I would of course be happy to discuss the exact amount you would be pa-" "You're offering me this job on account'a you liking me, ain't that right?" Big Macintosh had cut her off neatly, sweeping his gaze back to focus on her. His tone hadn't been even close to happy. Celestia was left grasping, unsure how to even begin to respond to that. This hadn't been...she hadn't anticipated this at all. "W-well, that is..." An abysmal response that did everything to confirm that he'd been right in his guess. Big Mac snorted, frowning now. "Then no, I don't want to play at being your stud." There'd been acid dripping in his voice, and it torn through her. Her chest squeezed tight, to the point where she hardly felt like she could breath. Tears were already threatening to well up as well in barely constrained emotion at knowing she'd just made an enormous mistake. This was not what was supposed to happen. "I didn't intend-" "No?" Again, Big Macintosh had cut her off, punctuated with a stamp of a front hoof. "Princess, with all due respect I ain't a dumb farm pony. You been leadin me all around here and there, tryin to butter me up this whole week. The only reason I'm even here is on account of you inviting us. You knew there was gonna be a reason to send my sister and her friends off, and you wanted my other sister and her friends to play with your sister. What am I spose to think about why I'm here, when we go off walking in the woods together on your 'day off'?" He was terribly, awfully right. So right that Celestia couldn't even begin to form a counter to disprove what he'd said. The only problem was that he had drawn the right conclusion in the worst possible way. What had she done? Once riled up, Big Mac didn't seem inclined to stop and began to pace back and forth in front of her. It was startling to see just how livid he could become. "So you want to spend time with me, cause you like me for whatever reason. That's fine and all, even if you didn't ask me what I thought or if'n there was somepony else. Was I supposed to just accept working here by day and come visit your bed at night? Right up until I got all used up, worn out or you got bored of me, right? Did you have a plan for that too?" The accusations were getting off their mark, but still hurt more than she could have ever imagined. All of the positive she'd been building up for the past few days had suddenly turned themselves to dust. Not so much because of what he was saying, but the twist and perspective he'd been applying to her actions. Was that where they would have been heading if he hadn't said anything? It made more sense than Celestia wished. At what point would Big Macintosh have been able to tell her 'no' if he had been uncomfortable? But still it was terribly unfair, and even as her breath hitched in a choked by sob she did her best to defend herself. "Big Mac, I would have never-" She was cut off again, not that her words had been anything but half hearted. "You say that, but how much am I suppose to know what you 'would have' done? Everything's planned out by you, ain't it? Maybe cept me telling you this right now. You introduce me to Green Hoof, set me to work so he'd have less of a choice about you firin him. You set it up so that the farm'll get more money even if I'd be gone, and now here you're trying to set me up neat as a bow so you can watch me outta your window. Well I'm never gonna abandon my family, not ever! I ain't my Pa, and I know who I am. Hope you have more luck with the next guard you like, good bye." Simple as that, Big Macintosh stormed off towards the exit without another word. Celestia wasn't going to follow him, and sat there in her hallway. Somewhere in the middle she'd started to cry and it wasn't going to stop anytime soon. She'd ruined everything now, and the spiral of thoughts threatened to consume her. Worse even than the terrible feeling of rejection was what would have to come after. How could she greet Twilight and the Elements who were about to arrive? How could she return to Ponyville now? "S-sister?! What is the matter?" Luna was next to her now, she'd come at both the worst and best time. Distantly the figures of the CMC far down the hall registered, hopefully out of hearing. Celestia couldn't compose herself even when her little sister draped a wing across her back. Nor could she stop herself from keeping the break of emotion out of her voice. "I made a mistake, Luna." It would sound so innocuous from any other pony, but to her it was all she could do not to break down. "I was wrong." She still had duties to perform though, anything to take away the memories of what he'd said. "I'm-I'm sorry, but I've got to-." It wasn't just Big Mac who was going to interrupt her today, though Luna was far more gentle about it. "No, you don't have to do anything right now big sister. We will intercede with the Elements on your behalf and then return to comfort you. Do not worry about it." Her sister was right, it would do more harm than good to be seen like this. Questions she would never want to answer from her student, her friends or any other pony who would see her in this state. The embarrassment of even being like this over something so seemingly minor was only serving to mount the self recriminations and doubts she felt. This was why she hadn't wanted to open herself up in the first place, something so tiny could hurt so much and threaten Equestria. The worst thing of all, beyond all the others, was the look she'd seen on Big Macintosh's face when he'd started to turn away. He hadn't looked entirely angry for one second, he'd looked almost as hurt as she knew she felt. Now she knew what that persistent look on his face every time she'd tried to nudge herself closer to him had meant. There was something there that he must have felt for her, and his angry reaction only confirmed it. If he hadn't had feelings he wouldn't have lashed out at all, and the blame could only be leveled at herself for trying to manipulate him. Like she did with everyone else. Now he was gone and her hopes ruined. What had she done? Author's Note The End! Lol, no not really. There's one more (likely very long) chapter left to go. Sorry for the long delays again! I have a habit of wanting to try and perfect everything I can and in this case I wanted to publish both this and the previous chapter close together. Because I set up a cliff hanger and in this case it's not to let a reader hang too long. I will neither confirm or deny whether this story has a happy ending or not. I will say I had the majority of the plot laid out when I started writing the first few words so nothing has changed from what I planned. It is a bit longer than I would have thought though! Thanks for reading, hopefully I don't get destroyed too much for making Celestia cry. A stage where everyone must play a part, and mine is a sad one.Somewhere outside of the farmhouse a rooster sounded the call to wake up, which Big Macintosh answered with a half grumbled murmur against his pillow. Something was off about the shrill crowing. Entering into more coherent thought, the next call made it more clear that the natural alarm clock was not following the prescribed routine it was meant to. Cock-a-doodle....do? The rooster sounded confused, which in turn left Big Mac confused. Confused was not something he particularly wanted to be early in the morning. The painful cobwebs floating in the back of his mind at waking were even less pleasant. He hadn't gotten much sleep last night, and the reason he hadn't was being put as far out of his sleepy mind as he could manage it. Even with his eyes closed he could feel the sunlight creeping in through the window on his face. Usually it was soothing, an added warmth to the enveloping blanket draped over him. Now it seemed to be wavering in and out of strength which was the final straw as far as Big Macintosh was concerned. He immediately sat up, opened his eyes and ignored the head rush to glare out his window at whatever it was that was the matter. Everything was completely normal, with the exception that the sun was slightly wobbling in the sky. Something very much not normal actually, and Big Mac stared at the ball of light as best he could without it hurting his eyes. It traveled here and there, looking like it wasn't quite sure where it was supposed to be. Finally it settled down in a spot a touch higher than usual and remained steady at last. Hardly a flawless start to the day. "Did you see that, Twi?" Applejack's muffled voice sounded from downstairs, just on the edge of his hearing. Another voice sounded, Big Mac made out the sound of chairs scraping along the wooden floors of the dining room. "I did, I think that was Princess Luna. She mentioned that she was taking on some additional responsibilities, but raising the sun?" More chairs scraping along the floor, it wasn't hard to guess that they'd probably went to the window and then back to the table. "You sure ya don't know what the matter is with Princess Celestia? I mean, Princess Luna didn't tell you?" "No, she wouldn't say..." Big Macintosh snorted and threw his sheets off of his legs, landing on the floor next to his bed and slowly twisting his neck this way and that. The pop of cartilage was satisfying, but did nothing to remove the painful throbbing in his head. He'd wake up with a little cof- "Actually I came over here to ask you if you knew anything," Twilight had interrupted his train of thought. "Did Big Mac say anything after you got home?" Coffee didn't sound like a good idea actually, but work did. His familiar yoke was sitting next to the door, he hadn't worn it in over a week. It fit snug against his shoulders, right where it belonged. He should get out of the house before he ended up eavesdropping on something that would end up souring his already less than happy mood. "Not a thing, though that ain't always a surprise coming from Mac. He just went straight up to his room and shut the door with one heck of a noise, I think it half scared granny to death. You reckon that has something to do with why we didn't see Princess Celestia?" Big Mac opened the door, eyes set straight ahead and thinking about the near ceaseless apple harvest. The south field would get bucked today, he decided. Twilight was answering his sister, "I really wish I knew. She hasn't answered any of my letters, and on the third one Princess Luna was the one who wrote back asking me to just allow her some time to reply. Applebloom, are you sure you didn't see anything?" "Uh, I don't think so. I mean, Big Mac and the Princess were together a lot this week and all but nothin out of the ordinary." Applebloom was a touch louder than either of the others, or maybe it was that Big Macintosh was now walking down the hallway. He wasn't walking softly, but his hoof steps hadn't made enough of a noise to quiet them apparently. "They were together this whole week?" Applejack sounded shocked at the revelation, and now Big Macintosh was at the top of the stairs leading down. He wavered a moment, his jaw tightening as he listened to Twilight speak up next. "You don't think that they were-" Unlike the second floor, the stairs were particularly creaky when one applied just the right amount of pressure on them. Coming down the steps filled the entire building with the noisy groans of wood against wood. Twilight's voice had died immediately as soon as he'd started, and Big Macintosh could feel the weight of six eyes watching him from the adjacent room. "Er, mornin' Big Mac," Applejack sounded like she'd got up from her chair. He hadn't looked, opening the door outside instead. "Did you want me to get you some breakf-" Out the door he'd went, and out of earshot. It was more than a little rude of him, but so was talking about a pony without them present. He had not been intentionally eavesdropping, so it wasn't his fault at what he'd overheard. He'd already learned his lesson about listening in on conversations a few days ago. One thing was for sure, he didn't want to be in the house for the rest of the day if he could help it. Good thing there was a lot of work that needed to get done. He passed by the animal pens, past the equipment shed and out towards the orchards. The morning was chilly, and the crisp air was doing wonders for banishing the remnants of sleep still lingering. The downside with being alert with only his destination in front of him was that his mind would wander. It was almost entirely unavoidable, the first few trees he passed stirred up a memory. Princess Celestia had been staring at him for the last few minutes, almost as soon as they'd entered the forest. Being looked at wasn't so much an issue for him, but it was a bit unusual to be under the spotlight of the Princess. She was better at hiding it than most, but Big Macintosh could feel her eyes even when he was studiously looking at the various trees and creatures who darted out of sight when they got too close. This wasn't even the first time he'd been stared at today. Comparing Princess Celestia to those other mares felt shameful, but Big Macintosh was brought back to the catcalling from earlier. She'd been a great deal more subtle about it, but there were not too many other ways to interpret being asked out here to take a walk in the gardens. The stumbling, tongue tied way she'd set the pretext about planting apple trees was a screen even easier to see through than why his family, his sister's friends and he had all been summoned to Canterlot. About the only piece of the puzzle that Macintosh couldn't figure out was why Princess Celestia was interested in him in the first place. Not only could he not puzzle out the why, but he was entirely unsure of 'how much' she was interested. Big Mac was not being egotistical when he thought of himself as handsome, virtually every mare (and a few stallions, much to his confusion) had seen fit to mention as much to him if the topic came up. Very few of those ponies had been able to spark much interest on his part, as far as he could discern they wanted him for his looks and not much else. Surely Princess Celestia wasn't the same. Every pony knew the crass rumors and jokes that were bandied about regarding the Royal Guard and the Princesses. A large castle composed almost wholly of handsome stallions? Big Macintosh had never been a fan of those sorts of whispers, and neither were the majority of ponies that made up Equestria. One knew exactly the quality of the pony in question when they started those sorts of conversations up. So why was he taking an intimate stroll through the gardens with Princess Celestia? Princess Celestia practically qualified as an institution, an unshakeable and unapproachable figure who had the absolute faith of her subjects. An unapproachable figure who had been 'checking him out' for the last few minutes. It was difficult to make sense of, or know how to react. No matter how pretty or perfect she was, Big Macintosh knew better than to even think of flirting back. It wasn't as if she intimidated him by being a princess, Big Mac just knew what his place was. Princess Celestia came to a halt in their walk, with him doing likewise. Turning to face her, he expected her to speak up first. "Do you see anywhere good?" There was a hint of tension that he could hear, that nervousness he'd seen before written all over her face. Since they were in the middle of the woods the question left him more than a little confused. He decided to meet one question with another. "Anywhere good?" He echoed, wondering if they were going to drop the apple tree planting pretext entirely. In the end he really had planted quite a few trees in the gardens, and made quite a tidy profit for the farm in the process. The revelation for why she'd asked him in the first place stuck in his craw though. Big Macintosh clenched his teeth at just thinking about the last conversation he'd had with the Princess. Having everything he thought he knew about her turn out to be utterly wrong was...no, he really needed to stop focusing on it. Few enough ponies knew it, but Big Macintosh had the unusual gift of a near photographic memory. It wasn't like he'd had much need to mention it, it was just a useful skill that helped him remember where he'd put the keys to the barn. Now it had the downside of dredging up moments he'd have rather forgotten. The whole last week was laid out before him like a storybook, the events clashed with one another while he fought to make sense of them. In the end, it'd been fun. He'd had a good time, and he did like Princess Celestia. She lived up to almost every bit of praise spoken of her. Caring, intelligent beyond all belief and she even had a warm, but slightly wry sense of humor that Big Macintosh enjoyed matching. This was even leaving behind her natural beauty, which was a sidestep to avoid how inappropriate he felt it was to think in those terms about her. Almost everything about the week had been great, only the last few minutes had spoiled everything. By now he was firmly on the other side of the apple orchard, so far out of sight and mind that he could have shouted and not a single pony would hear him. Usually he worked in silence, but his foray into past memories had welled enough tension in him that he felt compelled to give it comment. "You got played for a damn fool, Mac." Deftly he turned his back to a apple tree teeming with ripe apples and delivered a swift kick. Down they went, the fruit pattering onto the soft ground and then spreading out. Stupid, he'd forgotten to haul buckets to catch them. A whole bunch of apples were now wasted, unless he wanted to take up his time picking likely bruised apples off the ground. That was a whole lot less satisfying than kicking trees at this point, so instead he went for a nearby shed that held the buckets. Just because he was angry didn't mean he was going to vent his frustration unproductively. He wasn't a foal anymore. Opening the dark shed sparked another memory, and this one laid at the heart of why he was so upset. He'd been trying to find his way around the palace, having finished up the paperwork for planting trees in the garden. It was an impossibly large building as far as he was concerned, how any pony found their way around was a complete mystery. The guards hadn't given him more than an aside glance when he'd passed them, so he had assumed he had free reign to explore. Sooner or later he'd find an office and maybe a helpful bureaucrat to direct him to the right place. That was going to be difficult, it was getting to be late. Few self respecting ponies were going to be up at this point, and even fewer were likely to be the kind he needed to speak with. Maybe he could just go to Princess Celestia's office. She'd been the one who had suggested this whole project, and she'd made it abundantly clear that he was free to see her anytime. Big Macintosh was smiling at that point, reminded of the poker game and night out he'd had the day before. His fears and apprehensions about the odd start of a friendship he'd began with the Princess were beginning to fade away. If she was truly interested in him then by now she'd showed it was a great deal more than...well, unwholesome intentions. Why would he even think that way about Princess Celestia in the first place, anyway? "-would be a great deal more tolerable if she hid it better, I think. He's a simple peasant, it goes against all propriety to go dragging him around to social gatherings." That was a particularly smug, aristocratic sounding stallion's voice echoing along a side hallway. Big Macintosh stopped dead in his tracks, frowning as he processed what he'd heard. They were talking about him and the Princess, and it had not been said with anything approaching approval. "Yes, well," a more familiar, but equally haughty voice replied, "I think we can allow Auntie to have her...indiscretions. We do owe her quite a bit for her prestigious rule. I myself have fancied a few of the lower sort from time to time. They have a simple charm about them, far removed from the complexities and stresses of our higher stations." The other voice snorted, sounding a bit closer, they were bound to walk right in front of him at some point. "It will provoke quite a scandal though, and it hardly seems like the Princess cares. What will the rabble think about this? It will lead to them presuming some measure of social equality, I'm sure of it. How long do you think it will even last? How can you be so relaxed about this, Prince Blueblood?" Macintosh hadn't needed the other pony providing the name to match that voice up with the prissy stallion he'd formed a very low opinion of the day before. Just hearing his voice conjured up the arrogant and dismissive body language Blueblood practically oozed. If Big Macintosh hadn't liked the unicorn before, he might possibly come to hate him for what he was saying now. "I suppose it comes with being very familiar with my dear aunt's methods. It is likely for some purpose or another. From the gathering yesterday it seems this isn't entirely an ordinary peasant. He has ties to one of the Elements of Harmony, I've mused on the subject of whether the source of her attention resides there." Blueblood gave a dry chuckle, "Or perhaps she's simply drawn to him in the most simplest ways, you do know what they say about the composition of our guard." The other stallion laughed a bit louder, and more nastier. "Oh I do know what you mean. I suppose you're right, Blueblood. In any event, we should tread a bit more carefully around Princess Celestia for now. Did she really see through the purpose of your budget recommendations that quickly?" "I'm afraid she did," Blueblood sounded less than pleased at giving the news, and the voices had grown all the closer. They were slowly walking towards the open hallway, but he hadn't moved an inch while listening to them speak. "As I said before, I am familiar with her methods. She is unparalleled in uncovering plots, and executing her own. Much as it may annoy, we have little other recourse. As far as defeats go, this is comparatively mild. I don't suppose I told you of the time that I was the chief suitor for the hoof of Princess Cadance did I?" "Why I have not heard that, are you saying that the royal wedding was a matter of Princess Celestia's design as well?" "It was, and one likely spanning years by how Cadance was set for the Sparkle family. Certainly better than peasants, but barely qualifying as nobleponies. A waste of a good potential bloodline." Blueblood snorted in open derision. By now Big Macintosh had had quite enough with these two colts and what they'd been speaking about. Confrontation, especially physical confrontation, was best to avoid. Midway through the overheard conversation his blood had started to boil. He didn't care what they thought of him, but the sort of rumors they were likely to spread about Princess Celestia were intolerable. He was stopped by what was said next, though. The other stallion spoke up almost immediately, "A very subtle ploy, but I can't help but wonder about the last few days with our Princess. Increasing subsidies for fruit producers? Do you suppose it's a matter of rewarding for...services rendered, or...?" "More likely we are about to attain a new gardener, judging by the paces that our Princess has been putting the object of her affection through. I think the budget recommendations serve as a most unconventional dowry." The two shared a laugh and rounded the corner, but away from and missing Big Macintosh entirely. He'd been shielded by a shadowed portion of the hallway, and far enough away to be out of sight. Watching their retreating forms, still amiably gossiping between one another, Big Mac finally decided against chasing them down and doing his level best to be thrown in prison. They weren't worth it, not by a long shot. Regardless of that, those last words though had come uncomfortably close to his own observations. Wouldn't these two know the inner workings of life in Canterlot better than he? No, Big Macintosh didn't want to dignify the disgusting things they'd said by taking them to heart. Try as he might though, he couldn't stop the idea from gnawing at him. Having spent so much time immersed in his memories, Big Macintosh had been mechanically going through the motions of laying buckets, kicking trees free of their apples and then moving the now full containers off to the side. He'd only managed to become steadily more frustrated as he went, culminating with the realization that he'd completely let the conversation he'd overheard influence what he'd said to Celestia. Thoughts matched actions, and Big Mac was jerked out of his thoughts by the loud, thudding impact of his back hooves against a tree. The sharp crack of timber was what had alarmed him, and turning to look at nearly uprooted tree was all the confirmation for what he'd done. He'd left the tree sagging away from him, roots clinging to the earth in an attempt to stay upright. He'd ended up hitting the tree so hard it'd nearly fallen over. He turned with an unhappy sigh to stare at the damage, he'd ended up inadvertently letting his temper get the best of him and now he'd made more work for himself. The tree could be righted and settled, though the sizable hoof print embedded in the bark was going to be permanent. He wasn't a foal anymore, and he hadn't lost control of himself like that in years. Even just thinking back to that time caused that particular memory to spring to the surface and start to play itself out. But this was interrupted by a quick bit of movement that jerked him out of his reverie. There was a shuffle of hoofsteps and an alarmed intake of breath off to his left, his eyes naturally drawing there. Standing halfway against a tree only a few dozen feet away was Princess Celestia. She looked to be on the verge of panic at being caught and Big Mac wouldn't have been surprised if she vanished into thin air. For a brief moment he even thought it might have simply been his mind playing a trick on him. But it was no trick, as she'd stayed quite where she was. Also Big Mac had never seen Princess Celestia missing her tiara, ornate horse shoes and necklace before. He'd also never seen her with red ringed eyes and her mane quite so limp and defeated. It made her seem smaller somehow, and it only took a few moments of consideration before Big Macintosh realized what the full impact of his words had caused. Visibly swallowing, Celestia took a step forward and glanced towards the nearly uprooted tree he'd kicked. The glance only persisted for a few seconds, then she focused entirely on him. "I...Big Macintosh," she began, sounding tentative and unsure. "I came here to apologize. Would it be alright if I spoke with you for a few moments?" Big Mac didn't answer immediately, his usual style born out of patience. Anything that was important to say deserved fair consideration. Did he want to talk with her? The pause deepened, though by what he saw from Princess Celestia she didn't look nervous about the wait. Finally he gave a single nod and steeled himself for a conversation that was liable to last a great deal longer than a 'few moments'. "Eeyup." Running Day Court for a second time was a great deal less pleasant than it had been before. A heavy gloom had fallen over the entire assembly of ponies, and Luna felt the gloomiest of them all. It had been a very long night, punctuated with intercepting half a dozen letters from Twilight Sparkle. Her sister's pupil meant well but it hadn't been a distraction that Luna particularly wanted. Courtiers, noble ponies and visitors alike were milling about the large chamber in hurried, hushed conversation. Occasionally she caught whispers of her sister's name or a glance towards the throne. Being its current occupant, Luna was finding it irritating to meet gazes that would quickly turn away. In a way it was very fortunate that she'd had previous practice in running Day Court. Without even that bit of precedent her presence here would have been terribly awkward. As it stood, it was only slightly so. With tensions running high it was outside of Luna's expertise to sooth them. There was no speech, no proclamation that she could think to give that would settle their nerves. "Your highness?" A voice off to her right spoke up to catch her attention. Luna glanced over to behold Notetaker, Celestia's aide. The filly in question wilted like a flower under her gaze, which Luna had come to understand wasn't so out of the usual for the flighty earth pony. Oh, Notetaker was likely waiting for her to speak first. "Yes, Notetaker?" Was she missing something important? The previous Daycourt had simply been petitions on the part of her subjects. Swallowing, and then glancing behind her, Notetaker pushed at her glasses and finally replied. "W-well, today was planned to be the entering of the yearly budget into the royal record. Perhaps it would be best to announce it for another, uh, day?" An opportunity to read off a very long, dry manuscript of numbers? Luna could not imagine anything that would be more welcome to her at the moment, the alternative was to sit in awkward silence in front of countless ponies. "No, we shall take up this piece of business. Bring it forth." Her sister's aide nodded immediately and made a beeline for a side door. Now all Luna had to do was bring the room into order, which seemed easy enough. Standing, which did half the work in quieting those assembled, she cleared her throat. "Hear now, it is time to read that which will continue thy royal government!" Only after speaking did she recall the gentle reminder her sister had given a few days ago that 'The Royal Canterlot Voice' had not been used in daycourt for hundreds of years. Still, yelling at the top of her lungs had succeeded in properly cowing the many ponies before her into silence. If they seemed a bit...frazzled at their princess shouting at them it was a sacrifice Luna would just have to make. Though not every pony was brought into complete silence. A hint of movement and what was undoubtedly a snide comment made under his breath brought Luna's gaze upon a certain nephews of hers. It really would have been in 'Prince' Blueblood's best interest not to have come to court today, she thought. Mounting on the many headaches facing her was a quiet tip that had arrived from an editor at a local Canterlot newspaper. The news concerning her sister and her crush on Big Macintosh had finally reached the press. The editor had sworn up and down, after a very stern interrogation on Luna's part, that his paper would not breath a word of the crude rumors and speculation. That would still not stop the many tabloids that likely had countless pictures of the pair to fuel their disgusting articles. This latest bit of the unfolding drama would make it all the worse. Luna knew exactly who was responsible for the majority of these rumors, the unsourced quotes from a 'prestigious member of the Canterlot aristocracy'. Reading the snippets the editor had brought were enough to leave Luna seeing red. Blueblood must have been very unhappy about losing in his power play on the Crystal Empire. He'd covered his tracks well though, and she could see no way in calling him on it. She'd spent so long focused in on Blueblood that Luna missed the quiet nudge of Notetaker trying to catch her attention. "U-uhm, Princess Luna? Here is the budget. Would you like to have a pony enter it into the record officially for you?" Luna turned, looking down at Notetaker trying to be helpful. The skittish little pony looked as if Luna was about to banish her to a far off land for the slightest trespass. If only she could inspire such a feeling from her neph- A terrible, wonderful idea came to her just then. "No, that shall not be necessary. We shall read it, but first I wish to make an announcement." Notetaker only looked confused, as did those within earshot at her words. Luna only turned to look at the assembled court to make her address. "An ancient land has opened itself up to access once more," she began. "One of great magic and mighty beings. It is from this land that we, the Royal Sisters, hail and once called home. Fear not for danger, for those who dwell in those far off places are content to their own affairs. But," Luna drawled slowly now, knowing she couldn't keep a predatory sort of glee out of her voice. "Equestria shall need a voice in this place known as Asgard. One who shall weather the ceaseless battles made in sport and the threat of powerful and terrifying monsters at their doorstep. They shall do this so that we may be safe and sound knowing our interests are known, our far off ambassador. Prince Blueblood." Jerking in utter surprise, Blueblood stared with wide eyes up at her. The assembled ponies had turned to look at him, and a gasp had gone through more than once at her description of the place. "M-me? A-auntie..I mean, why would you wish to select me for such a...a honor, Princess Luna?" He was thinking of some way out now, which was just icing on the cake as far as she was concerned. "We would not wish to insult our new neighbors, Prince Blueblood. Only one so near an equal to ourselves would be worthy as serving as ambassador. There is hardly a moment to waste, either. I encourage you to make for the train that will take you north within the day. I suggest you bring warm clothes, it will be a long journey." It was hard to not turn her tone down into a low, threatening one when so many ponies were present to hear it. If she'd thought to wait for a private audience she'd have been a great deal less nice about his new position. Though this way was better, he could hardly refuse her when she'd heaped so much praise on him. The look of absolute horror from the reality of it all was what made it worth it. She couldn't be sure what part he'd find the worst, but from what she knew of him it was liable to be the utterly crass feasting done on a near constant basis. Prince Blueblood would likely find out in a hurry what the Æsir had to think about particularly uptight, smug unicorns. With that done, and no attempts at argument forthcoming from her nephew, Luna turned back to Notetaker. There was a respectable stack of papers next to her. "This is the budget, correct?" Notetaker could only nod, eyes wide likely from the description of Asgard. Truthfully Luna had exaggerated, but not by much. "Ahem," Luna began after she levitated up the appropriate documents. It'd be a long read ahead of her, but at least she felt a little better about how her day was going. It was keeping her mind off of more pressing issues. Her sister had left the castle sometime a few hours ago, and there were only a few places she could be. Luna could only hope that things ended on a better note than they had before. On Celestia's suggestion they'd both gone for a short, silent walk away from where he'd been working. Big Macintosh hadn't been looking her way, hadn't even been thinking much. She was here to apologize to him? It was best to give her the chance to say what she liked, that was the most he could decide on. There wasn't much anger inside of him, not now that she was right here. If anything it seemed like his angry tirade had happened years ago. "I didn't know you were going to be at the dinner, before." Celestia had spoken up so quietly that Big Mac registered the words a few seconds after the fact. It was such a huge difference from her usual confident way of speaking that it hardly seemed like she was the same pony. Pausing, he turned to look at her closely. Even after all of his misgivings it felt impossible to think that Princess Celestia would be lying to him. He still took a moment to examine her, allowing the comment to hang and see if even a hint of dishonesty would fall out. Celestia didn't shrink, though she still looked as sad as ever. Perhaps she was telling the truth, and he cleared his throat. "The invitation was for all of us." She nodded, and this time her reply carried a bit more confidence in it. "You were right about why I'd wanted your sisters and their friends at the palace. I'd made plans for both, as you saw. I have become very skilled in making plans throughout my rule. Being a Princess is," Celestia faltered for a moment and glanced towards the distant mountain of Canterlot. For a brief moment Big Mac thought she was going to sigh. "It is a great deal of responsibility, and I have found that a light touch serves best rather than merely giving commands." "So my showing up was just a mistake or something?" Applejack hadn't been the only member of their family to inherit a strong conviction towards honesty. The whole last week had been spent with Big Macintosh observing those little manipulations from Princess Celestia. Just subtle enough that until she'd offered him the job he hadn't seen a way of calling attention to them. It also hadn't been quite enough to make him upset, either. Being 'very skilled' was an understatement as far as he was concerned, and he'd found it impossible to be completely at ease while having a conversation with her. It'd been like a game of chess, but now Big Mac supposed that the stress was a given when he'd suspected she was trying to trick him into....well, into what he'd accused her of. There was a ghost of a smile from Princess Celestia at his words, but it hadn't lasted long. "I would call it an oversight, if anything. It's simply that," she paused again, closing her mouth and looking contemplative for a second. "I suppose there is no way of saying such a thing nicely. Before the previous week I had not given you very much thought, Big Macintosh." Much like how she'd half-smiled, Big Mac snorted at that. It hadn't been very funny, but recalling how flustered she'd gotten at their first 'meeting' now made a great deal more sense. His very first assumption had been wrong then, and there was a needling feeling of shame at his yelling at her. Still there were countless unanswered questions about the rest of last week. "I reckon I'm pretty easy to overlook, been days I've gone without saying more'n a half dozen words." Celestia was the one here to apologize, and so far she hadn't yet. Still the wound up knot of anger he'd made within himself had begun to unravel a fraction. She looked more relaxed, and he watched as Princess Celestia took in a particularly large breath and released it with her eyes closed. After another moment she sat, rather than remain standing as they'd had until now. Big Macintosh didn't follow the motion, waiting for her to continue. "You were right about the other things you said." Despite the previous show of relaxing, Princess Celestia looked nervous all over again. "I did attempt to maneuver you into becoming the groundskeeper of the palace, and I did...I do like you a great deal." Now it was out in the open, and Celestia looked away rather than meet his eyes. "I am so very sorry that I did not tell you sooner about the way in which I came to feel. It was a terrible mistake to try and manipulate you. The conclusions you reached were not what I intended, but in your position I could not see what else you could have thought." It was a curious thing but Big Macintosh had noticed that Princess Celestia had a habit of over complicating her words when she was nervous. Or perhaps it was simply when she was around him, since he'd never witnessed her anything but resolutely calm before last week. Big Mac was feeling a bit uneasy himself at the moment. Not only had she went ahead and confessed that she had had feelings for him, but that she still did. The concept itself that he'd caught the eye of Princess Celestia was heavy, difficult to fully internalize. Here she was though, and waiting for some sort of an answer. He came to one, but discarded the most pressing question that had been hounding him for a safer bet. "Why'd you want me to work in the gardens, then?" What he'd really wanted to ask was 'why do you like me?', but it was likely a better idea to ask the other question first. Were either of them prepared for her to try and answer that question anyway? Celestia nodded after a moment, and he wondered if she'd been waiting for the other question too. Most likely, she was smart. Incredibly smart. It was just one of the many things he liked about her. That notion was clamped down on, and hard, otherwise it might have gotten away from him. Of course he liked Princess Celestia, possibly as much as she liked him. It would only ever remain 'liked' though, he was certain of it. "That..." She stopped almost as soon as she stopped, Big Macintosh waiting for her to choose her words carefully. "It was to avoid having to admit how I felt." Princess Celestia had been looking at him now, rather than glancing away. It didn't make the conversation feel any less awkward in Big Mac's opinion. The answer itself was not really surprising in light of this side of Celestia he was now seeing. He'd crafted so many negative intentions out of only guesswork, all without knowing the why. They would be coming to the all important why soon, he realized. "You were just hoping to have the same week we'd had on a more regular basis?" Celestia nodded by way of reply. "That was my wish, Big Macintosh. I have had very little experience in this manner of relationship, but that is no excuse for my immaturity. The feelings that our," Princess Celestia paused once more to collect her thoughts, "time together brought were not something I was use to. I was afraid that you would not return them, that I would lose what little I'd had." During that momentary pause where she'd been picking her words carefully, Big Macintosh could almost swear he'd caught the hint of a blush. It was cute, something he was finding attractive. Vulnerable, the word dawned on him. It went a long way to explain things in his mind. A need to know drove at him to blurt out the definitive question he'd been so hesitant to ask before. "So why is it you reckon you like me so much?" There, now he'd asked it at long last. Princess Celestia surprisingly didn't react much to the question, she only let out a long exhale. "That is a question I have given a great deal of thought. Before I felt it was because of how very independent you are, the lack of being needed." Celestia stood up, then, and paced off a few steps to face towards Canterlot. "I believe it may be more than that, though. Something I cannot explain, a connection perhaps. I like spending time with you, Big Macintosh. Even now." Big Mac remained silent for the moment, simply watching her; thinking on the weight of the words. It hadn't been said outright, but it wouldn't have been any stretch to substitute one 'L' word for another, more powerful one. What would he say to that? Before he could think of a reply, or even how he felt, Celestia spoke up again. "Do you remember when I asked you how you earned your Cutiemark before?" He hadn't been expecting a question like that at all, and he cleared his throat to stall for time. "I remember that, yeah." "I learned so much about you over the week, and I'd come to feel the way I did because of that." Celestia turned to look, smiling. It was a mournful smile though. "I never gave you an opportunity to learn many things about me, did I?" Big Macintosh still could not think of a reply, but Celestia wasn't done speaking anyway. "When Princess Luna and I were fillies the powerful beings that I spoke about were far more common in Equestria." Celestia had went back to looking up at Canterlot, her tone now distant in recalling what had to have been a long time ago. "There were very few pony settlements, and our family had regular dealings with the Æsir. It was such a long time ago that I did not go by the name Celestia, either. I was Sól, my father named Luna and I after the sun and the moon." With little else to do but listen, Big Macintosh finally took his seat. It just so happened that he had moved to be much closer to Celestia than he'd had before. All previous misgivings aside, it was a rare honor to be told something like this. Big Mac appreciated it a great deal, having never heard the origin of either of the Alicorn princesses. "When the Æsir learned that we'd been named after each celestial body they saw fit to elevate us. 'To make us worthy of such lofty titles' was how they put it." Celestia brought her wings up to demonstrate, dipping her head a fraction to also bring attention to her long, thin horn. "We were set to govern over both bodies, to move them in place of their original caretakers. At the time we were both all too eager to enter into that world, to join in their pantheon." Only hints had been given before during that dinner which started all of this. If he'd thought to ask, Applejack might have been able to provide quite a bit of information. He'd had his guesses as to what might have happened when he cared to dwell on it, mostly that it must have been unhappy. Celestia had paused for a moment, her eyes going distant in thought from the ancient memories. "Though we entered willingly, it soon became apparent the place we were meant to take. The Æsir needed warriors, more fighters in their endless conflicts with the giants. When my sister and I learned of the prophecy regarding the end of the world, we learned that we were to be devoured by fearsome wolves. Rather than face that destiny, we fled just before the entire land was frozen utterly." From just that little bit it sounded like 'unhappy' was an understatement. He'd been watching her closely, could see the subtle frowns and looks of pain. There was a long history in just that short summary, with more possible questions than could be answered in a day. "The history books don't paint it as much of a happy time," he commented, not knowing what else to say. "No, they were certainly not. The conflicts did not end when we returned to establish Equestria. Discord, and many other evils which needed to be stopped roamed free. After we had all of our victories there was a brief moment in which I thought we might have peace, but then my sister fell into darkness." Where there had been a simple retelling, Celestia grew solemn and quiet on finishing those last words. They were nearly upon the modern day in her story, if a thousand years could be counted as 'nearly modern'. Big Mac could see just the hint of the root of how Celestia had come to be the pony she was today. "It was peaceful after that, mostly anyway." was his answer after a few seconds. Looking over to him, the corners of her mouth turned up into a smile that did not quite finish. "It has been, though at a great cost. After all this time I see that I have come to close myself from almost everything. In times of crisis I have needed to be the strength which others could rely on. I think that now I have come upon a time in which I might want more. I have you to thank for that, Big Macintosh." There was a note of finality in that, and Big Mac perked up as Celestia stood from where they'd been sitting together. He rose to join her, not saying anything immediately. It looked as if she was about to leave, was there time together about to come to an end? With a deep exhale, Celestia stretched her neck back and closed her eyes. "I will hold last week in a special place, even though nothing ended up coming of it. I will leave you to your work now, Big Macintosh. Though, do you accept my apology for trying to manipulate you?" She opened them to look down at him, and it was a bit troubling to see the 'mask' falling back into place. That vulnerability he'd seen before was fading away, retreating. She was expecting him to accept, which would quite cleanly end things. Big Mac would have liked a day to think it over, maybe a month. Decisions like that shouldn't happen so quickly. Maybe that was part of his problem, the thought occurred. As muddled and confused as his feelings had become from so much new information there was one thing he was sure of. He didn't want her to go, just yet. "I reckon if you told me the story of how you got your mark, I might as well tell you mine. If'n you're not so busy you have to go." He ventured at long last, and enjoyed the sight of genuine surprise from Princess Celestia. Her eyes had jumped, her mouth had fallen open. She was of her guard once more, shocked at his offer. In a odd way it made him feel good, and sad at the same time. She must have thought he hadn't felt the same way at all, though even he wasn't sure if he did. "I...would love to hear your story, Big Macintosh." Celestia sounded hesitant, everything felt alive and on a knife's edge all over again. Assuming she was right about how they might share a connection Big Mac could guess that she felt the same. Some of the things that she'd spoken of about being strong for the sake of others had sprung up memories in his own past. It was some of why he'd been willing to share, he'd understood what she was saying. They did seem more similiar than he'd first believed. Maybe she would understand him, he hoped so when he began to speak. "I really was out in a field with my pa, just like I said," he began. The vivid details swirled just in front of his eyes, taking him away from the apple orchard of the now to one only a few dozen feet from here. Though it was many years earlier, he could remember it well. "One thing I left out though was I'd just gotten in a fight..." His eye stung terribly, the swelling made it even a little difficult to see out of. Macintosh didn't care for a second about that, pulling the plow along the empty field at a fever pitch. He'd be sore, but he had to channel the frustration and anger somewhere. Every so often he'd have a flash back to the fight, and despite being in so much trouble now he could feel pride at having given much more than he'd gotten. That was going to be the last time that his classmates teased him about his family being poor apple farmers. It wasn't as if he disliked the work, or his family, it was merely the stigma that left him frustrated to no end. The things expected of him, the hard work he had to do early in the morning when his friends could goof off around town. His father was walking out into the field now, probably come to horse whip or give him an earful about hoof fights after school. He'd recognize the familiar hat his pa wore anywhere, as well as the bit of straw he occasionally liked to chew on. Macintosh ducked his head to avoid the imagined stern gaze, and made the turn around with his plow to finish another row. What did his father know about how he felt, anyway? He was happy to farm apples his whole life, happy to be poor. Unfortunately, the strategy of ignoring his father wasn't working out. No matter how frustrated he was, Macintosh couldn't hope to pull the plow faster than his dad could move to intercept and stand straight in front of him. "I know what yer gonna say already," Macintosh challenged straightaway, now looking right up into his father's eyes in defiance. The anger hadn't died at all, now he was channeling it into a different direction. His father raised a single eyebrow so that it practically touched the hat on his head. "Oh you do? Probably make it an easier conversation if you do all the talkin, then." That did nothing to dissipate his frustration, in fact it only served to make him more angry. "I ain't sorry, not one bit." He held his head up high just to prove how very much not sorry he was. "They got what was comin to them, and I'd do it again." "Yeah, I reckon they probably did," his father shrugged and shifted the bit of straw in his mouth. He'd tipped his hat back and surveyed out over the field Macintosh had been plowing. "Doing some fine work out here, Mac." Instead of being angry now, Macintosh could only gawk. Far from what he'd been expecting, now he was only confused. Where was the lecture? "Beg yer pardon?" Turning to look back at him, his father nodded. "You're getting to be a mighty strong stallion, Mac. I figure nothin in all of Equestria could stop you if'n you wanted to put your mind and muscles to it." Confusion reigned, and Macintosh eased back from the straps held tight to the plow. "Ain't you goin to yell at me about pickin fights?" He asked, the question now too much for him to avoid asking. "I thought you knew what I was already gonna say about all that," was his father's reply. He'd actually started to smile, which caused a flare of frustration from Mac at the idea he was being made fun of. "I could though," his father continued, "could probably get out the old strap and tan your hide too. Wouldn't learn you none, just like you said. There'll be a day that I won't be able to yell and holler at you at all, matter of fact." This was an entirely new manner of parenting, one that Mac couldn't wrap his mind around. He could make out the angle, where the conversation was going to go. Rather than reply, he stayed silent. It seemed better to wait and see what his father would say next. They looked evenly at one another for a long moment before his dad motioned off to the side. "Get yourself out of that plow and come for a walk with me." No matter how frustrated or angry Macintosh felt an order from his father wasn't to be refused. Some things were still sacred, anyway. Following off a few paces to the side of his father, Mac was looking downward. His eye still stung, and now his body felt sore from the paces he'd been putting himself through. He'd bounce back soon enough with the advantages of being young, but it was distracting him away from his built up indignation. It didn't take long before his father slowed down, which caused Macintosh to also slow. This particular part of the field gave a scenic view of the distant mountain of Canterlot. Macintosh had never been there, but he imagined it as a place where all important ponies congregated. Certainly not a place for him. "Reckon I felt about the same way you do about being a farmer when I was about your age," his father started to speak up again. It snapped Macintosh out of his contemplation and back into focus. "No two ways about it, ain't much money in it. Certainly ain't no room for fame, and you're more'n likely to meet a pony here and there that thinks they're better than you on account of their hooves never getting dirty." Mac didn't need to be reminded of all of that, he'd had those thoughts and more. "So, why bother be'n a farmer than?" He felt brave enough to ask, since questions had never been something to avoid in his family. Tipping the brim of his hat up, his father gave a shrug. "Somepony has to be, I reckon. No food to eat if nopony growing it, not that we don't have plenty. Us ponies are nice folk for the most part, so it ain't like we're bout to go hungry." Pausing in thought, he gave an annoyed grunt. "What I'm tryin'n to say is that you can be any pony you like, Mac. Plenty of ponies around who got special talents that honestly ain't worth much to anyone. We take care of them all the same, but you got to decide which one you'd rather be. We'd never stop lovin you even if'n you never buck another apple tree in your life. What kind a pony you want to be, Mac?" It was a mountain to contemplate, a new spin that he'd not appreciated before. Of course he'd known that the work his and all the other farms throughout Equestria was important, vital even. The chance was still there to walk away, and it would always be there. It was tempting to be sure, and Macintosh took a long moment to think on it. Was he willing to take a life of ceaseless hard work? One where he would rarely be thanked for? A life of early mornings and aching muscles. Of scraping by for a living, because the alternative of getting rich meant hungry ponies? The more he thought about it the more he had to wonder why anyone would ever choose something like that. Only after replaying what his father had said did that reason dawn on him. It needed to be done, and the difficulty in such a choice meant that few would accept it. If he wouldn't, who would? His family needed him, and so did all of the other ponies. Even the ones who sneered at him and called him a dumb hick. The sound of a cleared throat broke Mac's final conclusion. Jerking his head up, he saw his father smiling down at him. "I knew you'd make the right choice, son. I'm proud of you." Confused, Macintosh could only tilt his head. "What do ya mean, pa?" Answering without words, his father merely gestured towards his side. Turning, Mac saw a new mark on his flank. A simple green apple, split down the middle showing its center. Somehow he'd earned his cutiemark, but it really didn't seem so strange truthfully. He'd had that spark of inner reflection and that was all it took. The anger was gone, and he could be content he'd found what he'd be good at. Being an Apple to the core. "I reckon it ain't the grandest story of how a pony earned their Cutiemark, but it's mine." Big Macintosh finished talking and shrugged, returned out of his memories and back next to Celestia. She was smiling warmly now, as brightly as he'd ever seen. It had felt good to share, better than Big Mac had thought. "It was a lovely story, Big Mac. You have become a very admirable stallion," Princess Celestia replied and remained smiling for a long moment. Then there was a flicker, some thought must have occurred to her. Surprisingly enough to him, Big Macintosh thought he knew what it must have been. If he was right, it wasn't a question she'd ever ask on her own. The long unspoken question of the Sweet Apple Acres family. As much as it had felt nice recounting his Cutiemark story, Big Mac knew that this story would never feel good telling. Still, Celestia had shared her unhappy past, he should share his. They were being honest with each other now after all. Clearing his throat, Big Macintosh spoke up against his inner reluctance to do so. "Not too long after that, Applebloom was born. We was all happy as can be at another Apple. Cept that Ma took to sleeping a whole lot during the day, more'n a mare should after a foal. By the time we called for a doctor it was too late, some sort of long fancy name for a disease you get from a little mosquito. She's buried over on the other edge of the farm." Those last lines had been delivered in complete monotone, as well as his gesture in the general direction. By now a large white wing was wrapped around him, bringing him closer to its owner. Celestia was so much bigger this close, and warmer even than he would have thought. There was only concern written on her face, and she leaned down to press her head up against his in an instant hug. Big Macintosh did not mind the closeness at all. "I am so very sorry, Big Macintosh," she said gently. Still, he wasn't finished. "Pa was never the same after that, he took to drink and wouldn't shake it off. Years went by and me'n Applejack started to take over the farm. Things seemed normal up until there was an accident out in the barn, Pa'd said he'd be getting back into work and broke his neck in one of the rafters. He's buried next to Ma now." The hug only tightened, and it did some good in dispelling the coiled up feelings he'd long since repressed deep down inside. What was worse was that he'd told Princess Celestia a lie, or at least an incomplete truth. Not even a rare moment of opening up could get him to tell her, not anyone in the world, what he knew. He clamped down on the few bursts of vivid imagery that threatened to swirl, foremost a note telling him to come to the barn. A note that reminded him to take care of his family. "Thank you for telling me, Big Mac," Celestia spoke quietly, still hugging him rather fiercely. Coming back from the dark emotions, Big Macintosh wondered when embarrassment might set in. This was quite a bit closer than either of them had ever been to one another. It didn't seem likely to stop anytime soon either, and on reflection he realized how rude it was not to return a hug given by a Princess. With great effort he willed his right hoof up and gingerly snaked it around Celestia's neck. That felt good too, and he could feel the slight stiffen from her at the returned bit of intimacy. Slowly, though still too fast than he would have liked, the hug came to an end. They were still all but flank to flank even with it ended, and they remained there. A moment passed, and Celestia began to clear her throat. He could see that she was a bit red, blushing, and she was about to speak up. Though Macintosh had one last thing he wanted to say. "What you'd said before got me thinkin about all that, about how we're more alike than you or I thought. We do what we can for everypony who needs it, whether they're thankful or not. Seems like it ends up not always working out though, that bad things are bound to happen. Reckon that's what we're there for too, to be tough and dependable when other ponies would rather cry their eyes out." He nodded at last, confirming his thoughts on the matter. It had been quite a bit more talking than he usually did, his mouth felt dry. Surely it was just the talking; he reflected, while looking at Princess Celestia sitting next to him. She didn't answer for a number of seconds, and then nodded herself. "I think you're right, Big Macintosh." Then there was silence again, the pair of them sitting together. It was a nice silence, a gentle breeze rustled through the grass and shook the apple trees. The warmth of the hug still lingered, and he could feel just the faintest contact of their flanks. They were alternating between looking quietly at one another, and occasionally away at other things. The silence was gradually turning awkward though, and try as he might Big Mac couldn't think of something to break it. They'd reached this...whatever it was, and he certainly didn't think it time to pull back. Princess Celestia spoke up again, "Do you think..." Then she stopped herself, pausing and closing her mouth before the question could finish. There were guesses on his part on what it would be, but Big Macintosh didn't want to risk being wrong. "Yeah?" He asked. Taking a deep breath, Celestia appeared to center herself to finish her train of thought. "Do you think it is possible for ponies like us to have another, a pony we can depend on when we're the ones in need?" Everything seemed to have led up to this point. Big Macintosh could feel his heart beating quickly, and his mouth felt like a desert. Curiously his mind was a blank, but that was probably a good thing. He looked closely up at the imposing, regal Alicorn princess who had made his last week one of the most complicated of his life. A choice was there, much like how he'd earned his special purpose. She was waiting, and he could see just how nervous a question like that was leaving her. As exposed and vulnerable as she'd ever been, far more than the last time she'd asked something so important of him. He didn't have much the heart to leave her in tears this time, but truthfully he couldn't think of a single thing to say. Then he realized just how close they were, and how to reply to her question became obvious. Long, flowery answers weren't much of his style anyway. Before Big Mac could think about how it might be a bad idea, he gave his answer. Leaning up, his eyes caught surprise but no pull away from her. Celestia's lips were warm, and though she didn't press back much for the kiss he could tell it wasn't unwelcome. He lingered for only a few moments, and then, giddy all over, he broke the quick peck and returned to looking up at her. She looked flushed and he could tell that his style of answer had probably not been something she'd have expected. Celestia gave a nervous laugh. "I suppose that would be a yes, correct?" It was nice to see how flustered something so simple had gotten her, Big Macintosh wondered if that would become something he'd try to do often. "Eeyup," a familiar answer seemed best. Otherwise he'd probably have just went to kiss her again, which seemed entirely appealing in his opinion anyway. Celestia only smiled, and he returned it with a grin of his own. "Things will be very complicated because of this," Celestia said quietly. He already figured as much when he'd kissed her. "Reckon they will be." Celestia looked towards Canterlot, and then smiled. "I do not mind complicated, but what should we do now?" That was actually a good question, they'd spent quite a bit of time out here in the fields. "There's breakfast back at the house, you have time to stay for awhile?" Blinking, Princess Celestia had a genuine laugh at the suggestion. "I do have time, I confess that I did not have breakfast this morning. I hope that your family will approve of me, Big Macintosh." It was a funny joke, but Big Macintosh knew that they were both about to be bombarded with questions. A lot of questions, though that was not going to be limited to just the ponies they knew. "Reckon you'll pass Granny Smith's standards, though Twilight came over for a visit. Think I'll pass hers?" They'd both stood up and started to slowly make their way to the farmhouse. He was enjoying this, and things seemed as lively and vibrant as they'd been during the more pleasant moments last week. Celestia nudged him gently with her nearest wing. "It's not Twilight you should be concerned about, Big Mac. I imagine that my sister will have quite a few things to say." He could already see how she might, but it seemed a minor concern in the large scheme of things. The farmhouse was drawing closer now. The first of many things they'd share together, those first introductions and surprised reactions from loved ones. All of those experiences, and many more, he was looking forward to it. Glancing over to Celestia, he could see only a warm smile. She met his eyes, and the look they shared was all the confirmation he needed to know she felt the same. Excerpts from the front page of The Ponyville Daily Princess Celestia and her new coltfriend take a walk through Ponyville, by Ink Stain It has been a week since the story broke throughout all of Equestria about Princess Celestia's sudden decision to have a coltfriend. Where only rumors had swirled before, now there is definitive proof. Her royal highness paid an official visit to Ponyville yesterday, and was seen walking to Sugar Cube Corner with Ponyville local 'Big' Macintosh Apple. This appears to have been their first date, and all evidence points to it being a success. Curiously, there appears to have been a significant lack of members of the Canterlot press following the Princess on her return visit in stark contrast to the previous few days where they had virtually invaded Ponyville. (Editors Note, for a related news story see 'Princess Luna's War on Freedom of the Press: A Secret Dungeon Under the Palace?' on page 2.) The reaction among regular ponies in Ponyville appears to be overwhelmingly positive for the new change. Pinkie Pie, close confidant in the Princess's inner circle and employee at Sugar Cube Corner had this to say. "Oh it's just so sweet! I'm so happy that I could throw a party. You know what? I will! Oh oh, and did you know something? The Princess and Big Mac could name their first foal Monarch! Wouldn't that be great?!" Speculation to that extent is still highly theoretical, though this reporter agrees that it would be a good choice. Other locals had their own interesting perspectives to put forward, two other members of the Princess's inner circle, Rarity and Fluttershy, were reached for comment. "It's absolutely romantic, I think. Do you know what the truly dreadful thing is though?", Rarity was quoted as saying. "First Twilight's older brother gets married to a princess, and now Applejack's is dating Princess Celestia? Why don't I have an older brother!?" Fluttershy could not be reached for similiar comments instead to say that she approved. Neither of the Elements of Harmony closest to the Princess and her new Coltfriend would agree to an interview. Applejack and Twilight Sparkle, sister and student to 'Big' Macintosh and Princess Celestia respectively, declined to speak on the record citing privacy. Though on returning from Sweet Apple Acres this reporter was met with the last member of the Elements of Harmony, Rainbow Dash, who insisted we include her in the article as well. "I don't care about any of that mushy stuff with the Princess and Applejack's brother. Do you know all the cool, totally super awesome things we did up in Asgard?" It should be noted during this interview that Rainbow Dash was wearing a rather large helmet with horns on it. "I hoof wrestled just about everypony there and even got to swing this huge axe! I also got to fly with Valkyries! Do you know what a Valkyrie is? They're like Wonderbolts but they have these huge spears and kick so much flank. After I become a Wonderbolt I'm going to have us race to see who's faster, and it's going to be us." The interview went on for a great deal longer, but returning to the subject at hoof this reporter can sum up all commentary on the Princess's new relationship with this opinion shared by every pony she spoke with in Ponville. We are very happy to know that Princess Celestia has found a pony to be happy with, and can only wish her and Big Macintosh the best. Author's Note The End. No really, and I'm very glad to have successfully completed my first story. It has taken me over a year to write the whole thing, much much much longer than I thought. There is a great deal of potential for a sequel, but no promises if it will come anytime soon. I have a few ideas kicking around, and it may just turn into a full fledged story. Thank you for reading!
Exeunt stage leftPrincess Celestia, the (mostly) absolute ruler of Equestria, liked to imagine that she was unusually talented in the art of manipulation. She disagreed with the idea that covertly manipulating a series of events to exactly how you wanted them was necessarily a bad thing. A parent was expected to guide their child in whatever way might be best for them and the same should be largely true for her methods. She had only the best interests of her subjects at heart and not to use her abilities to anticipate events seemed akin to neglect. Things had gone remarkably neatly for this particular venture, the small gathering of ponies all around her were enjoying themselves without a care in the world. There was no need for manipulation to get them here; ponies tended to answer when she invited them for a private dinner at her palace. The hall they were in was modestly decorated and the food was, as usual, delicious. Celestia hadn't eaten a bite yet though, intending to only after everyone was departed. Guiding events could be a delicate operation at the best of times and having a mouth full of food never seemed to help. That the Elements of Harmony, with a select few friends and family, were the invited guests was not a coincidence but was unlikely to arouse any suspicion either. By now Twilight and her friends were well within Celestia's social circle, as close as any pony ever got. Each element was dear to her in their own special way, even when they could be very loud and unpredictable. "Mpff mmm! Thwis is weally Gwood!" A pony with a very full mouth said in her general direction. "Pinkie Pie, please don't speak with your mouth full." Twilight chided, sounding exasperated. While loud and energetic could be endearing at times, Pinkie's tendency towards the completely random was something Celestia had been forced to factor into her considerations. She'd decided that a simple bribe was in order; a wide selection of exotic cakes and pastries, laid out in the hopes of keeping the Element of Laughter too busy to disrupt the carefully arranged events about to take place. A voice that could probably be shouted down by a mouse caught her attention. "Uhm, Princess Celestia? I was wondering how Philamena is doing." The regal smile came easily, as did the practiced motion of raising her teacup and having a sip. "She is doing very well, Fluttershy. Would you like to see her after dinner? She stays in the aviary." Fluttershy nodded, clearly relieved that she didn't have to ask. "Oh yes. That would be wonderful. I just hope she remembers me." Celestia felt a twinge of internal disappointment that Fluttershy was, in fact, not going to see Philamena tonight. There was a very good reason that she had assembled them all here and it unfortunately did not involve her phoenix. She'd have to find a way to make it up to Fluttershy at a later date. Perhaps she could quietly guide an entire flock of phoenix near Ponyville...though that could possible lead to its burning down on accident. She'd have to weigh the pros and cons. The clock read ten till nine which meant that the messenger was five minutes late. Celestia wondered idly what might have been the cause of the delay. There was no reason to worry just yet, she'd made sure there was at least a forty five minute window before she needed to switch to her back up plan. Using the back up plan would have been disappointing but still would have primarily involved the Elements of Harmony. The final plan, if all else failed, required her involvement; and perhaps Luna for good measure. Celestia seriously doubted it would come to that but this was not a matter that could be left alone. A minute later the door burst open and a pegasus guard, out of breath, bolted up to her. "Princess. Urgent news from the north." He managed between pants, bowing quickly and thrusting out a rolled up piece of parchment. You've certainly grown up, Speed Line. I remember when you'd lead the guard on chases around the palace just for fun and exercise. You were so cute as a foal, especially the first day you were caught and brought before me. Celestia couldn't help but recall particular memories of each of her little ponies she had a special bond with, even when she was pretending to be grim and serious. The message itself didn't have anything she wasn't already aware of. Though she had to admit a moment of surprise at the news that Loki had apparently sided with the giants, and taken charge, against her daughter and the rest. It was either her or Surtr I suppose. He always was rather grim anyway. Glancing up to look over the Elements, she factored in the new information and was still confident that they would be successful. It was time to give the news. "Is something the matter, Princess?" Twilight looked concerned, as did the rest of them, but perhaps more so at the reference to the 'north'. No doubt she'd jumped to the conclusion that the urgent news involved her brother and sister-in-law. Slowly, for the dramatic effect it brought, Celestia rolled up the scroll and nodded. "Yes, Twilight. Ragnarök is here." She looked at her student for a moment, curious if she knew anything about it and saw as blank a look as the rest. "Rang-nah-rak? Beggin yer pardon Princess, but what's that?" Applejack scratched at her head in obvious confusion. "It is the end of the world, Applejack," Celestia began to explain, pausing for the startled gasps. "If you recall from the Hearts Warming Eve celebration, the pony tribes only narrowly avoided being frozen by discovering the importance of harmony together. There was, however, another group of very powerful beings known as the Æsir and the Jötunn who lived far in the north long ago. While many of them resemble ponies they are more similar to myself and Princess Luna." This was the absolute shortest way Celestia knew to explain an enormous amount of history but it had managed to catch the entire rooms attention at least. After a moment of pause, to allow the information and unfamiliar words to sink in, she continued. "These two groups came to hate one another and, on the eve of a battle that would have destroyed the world, were frozen completely by the Wendigos. Now, after all this time, they have unfrozen and are still intent on fighting." "Talk about stubborn." Rarity said aloud, apparently unimpressed with both the Æsir and Jötunn. Twilight swallowed, clearly nervous, no doubt she knew that this would be an incredibly important mission. "What can we do, Princess?" "You must go north to Asgard, where both groups live, and stop them from fighting. Take the Elements with you but I have a feeling that you may be able to solve this problem with your words and your knowledge of the magic of friendship. The leader of the Jötunn is a shape shifter named Loki and Slepinir is a large mare with eight legs, leader of the Æsir. Be careful when dealing with either of them." "No sweat, Princess, we'll show these ponies with weird names and too many legs whose boss." Rainbow Dash hopped up onto the table and looked the picture of confidence. Celestia had a feeling that, out of all of the Elements, the Asgardians were going to get along best with her. "We'll do our best, Princess!" Twilight said with completely confidence and enthusiasm, standing up along with the rest of the Elements. After that she quickly gave the directions and final warnings before they went rushing out of the dining hall towards the train station. The room was now far more empty than it had been, but not completely. "What are we suppose to do now?" The owner of that voice was a young, orange, pegasus filly who hadn't yet earned her cutiemark. Scootaloo was frowning, sitting over at a separate table and looking at two others. "Maybe there's stuff in the palace we could get our cutiemarks for. Twilight said she learned a lot of magic here, maybe that could be our special talent!" Sweetie Belle's voice had a tendency to crack at increasingly adorable moments when she was excited and did so on 'that'. "Uhm, Sweetie Belle? Scootaloo and ah ain't able to do unicorn magic." Applebloom shot the suggestion down quickly. Sweetie Belle's face fell. "Oh, right." "Ahem." Celestia spoke up at last, catching the attention of the Cutiemark Crusaders. "If you were interested in finding your special talents I know that Princess Luna would be very interested in helping you find them. Of course, she is sleeping in her chambers on the other end of the palace. I'm sure she wouldn't mind if you paid her a visit. It wouldn't be a problem to allow the three of you to stay until Twilight and the others get back. I will also take the liberty of writing letters to your guardians asking permission." The three took to the idea quickly, but it was Scootaloo who spoke first. "Yeah! We should ask Princess Luna! She's really cool, guys, one time she even helped me with bad dreams." "I bet she has lots of ideas on cutiemarks. She's like a million years old!" Sweetie Belle had hopped from her seat, already keyed up to the idea. "Lets go girls!" Applebloom pointed towards the door. "Cutiemark Crusader Princess wakers! Yay!" they all shouted, in incredibly high volume, in unison. Her two plans complete; Celestia was left in the hall with only her servants and no further issues demanding her attention. Smiling, she shut her eyes and levitated her tea for another sip. She had no fear for Twilight and her friends, they were more than equipped by now to settle the dispute and were unlikely to be in much danger. Less dangerous, but far more amusing, was her plan for Luna. Her sister had been emerging from her shell just a little too slowly for her tastes. The incredibly energetic and endearing (if occasionally exhausting to deal with) CMC would be a much needed form of encouragement. Celestia had her own plans for the evening. A romance story she hadn't read in over three hundred years was waiting in her private study. She'd forgotten almost all of the important plot points by now; it would be like reading it for the first time again. Yes, a quiet evening enjoying a book and the satisfaction of well executed plans for the benefit of all involved sounded like a marvelous thing to her. Though she had to eat dinner fir-. "Sir, would you like a refill of your drink?" "Eeeyup." Her eyes shot open in complete surprise to hear a deep, vaguely familiar, male voice. What Celestia saw was one of her butlers filling the glass of a crimson red earth pony colt, no, a stallion. Compared to most ponies he was very large, with a straw yellow mane and a cutiemark of a green apple missing a piece. He was sitting by himself at the table where the Cutiemark Crusaders had been, still eating without so much as looking her way. It only took a second after her initial shock for her memory to provide pertinent information. 'Big' Macintosh, Applejack's older brother.... And? And nothing else, apparently. Celestia was drawing a complete blank in what she knew concerning this particular pony. She'd known he was there, had seen his name on the list of guests even, but had somehow completely overlooked his existence up until now. That was an embarrassment to her on a personal level, she'd went and invited ten ponies and conspired to find things for nine of them to do. Now there was just one left, alone, in a unfamiliar place and with nothing to occupy his time. Except Big Macintosh didn't seem to particularly to mind that he'd been essentially deserted. That alone was throwing Celestia for a loop, leaving her feeling awkward and unsure about what to do. Awkward and unsure of what to do were two things that Princess Celestia had very little experience in feeling. He hadn't asked 'what about me?' or so much as tried to get her attention, either. Not only had he not done any of that, but he was just sitting there, eating. She couldn't pick up anything about him through quiet observation. Celestia didn't know every single one of her subjects -there were far to many for that- but ponies had a habit of communicating a great deal about themselves through their everyday actions and body language. Even timid ponies like Fluttershy could quickly open up about themselves, telling you everything you needed to know about who they were and what they cared about. Celestia had overtime learned to quickly take in information about ponies she met or knew about. From first introductions to gossip, there were a lot of ways to learn about others. Celestia had read countless letters from Twilight and her friends, many of which would mention Big Mac, but in that whole time she couldn't recall anything about him that would indicate his personality. Wait. She did know more about him than she'd initially thought. He was quiet, very quiet, and a hard worker. He divided up the responsibility of running Sweet Apple Acres with his sister. But none of that told Celestia anything about him that she could use for this situation. She simply didn't have a plan at the moment, had nothing prepared. Striking up a conversation about apples -about the only topic she was sure Big Mac might want to even speak about- would be out of place and moreover only last a little bit, not for the long term. Celestia couldn't just leave the room, either. Big Mac was a guest of hers and she had something of a responsibility to see that he was entertained. Nothing was coming to her, though, and she continued to sit, thinking. She'd even been looking at him while she considered her next course of action, enough to catch his attention and have him return her look. Realizing that she'd been caught staring, Celestia blushed, something she probably hadn't done in decades. Big Mac didn't comment, looking at her curiously and apparently not inclined to say anything at all while they traded stares from across the room. He did take his cup and drank from it, though still looking her way while waiting. This was a staring contest that Celestia could not possibly win, since she'd started it. You're being silly. Just talk to him already, find out what he might want or need. "Ahem, Macintosh. Are you...enjoying your dinner?" That sounded lame to her and she winced internally. Since when did she make small talk with other ponies? She'd managed to cultivate an image of a near deity like persona; every word steeped in wisdom. Goddess' did not usually spend time talking about the weather...not that she actually was a goddess, she chided herself. She really was still being silly, her carefully managed train of thought was a mess at the moment while thinking quickly on her hooves. Macintosh Apple didn't jump at her voice, nor did he even respond right away with words. He glanced off to the side, seemed to be clearly thinking about her question and then simply shrugged. "It's been alright, Princess. Shame about the bad news though, good thing Applejack an' her friends were here to get the news as soon as you got it." Had he seen right through her plan that easily? No, he'd said that with a straight face and without a hint that he found anything suspicious. "I have every confidence that your sister and her friends will be safe," she said automatically. Big Mac nodded at that. "You probably wouldn't have sent them off alone iff'n it wasn't safe, right?" "Of...course." Celestia said slowly, chewing on her lower lip in thought. So far she hadn't learned anything about the stallion that would help figure out what he might want to do for the week or so until the Elements returned. Another silence hung itself quickly in the dining hall, Big Macintosh didn't seem inclined to add anything more to the limited conversation and quickly went back to his food. Celestia couldn't help but feel vaguely annoyed that the stallion wasn't cooperating with her. The least he could do is volunteer something, anything, that would set him on his way. "Are you planning on staying, by the way? You are more than welcome to do so." she asked, trying again for conversation. It wasn't quite as lame as the first attempt, at least. Much like before, Mac didn't answer immediately, instead he set his drink down and turned to look at her for a moment. "Well Applebloom'll want to stay with her friends, so ah might as well. 'ppreciate the hospitality, Princess." "You're very welcome." Celestia put on a strained smile, finally deciding to just drive at the 'problem' she was having. "If you become bored you are free to explore the Palace at your leisure. I can find a pony to help escort you around so you don't get lo-" Big Macintosh cut her off with a small wave of his and a shake of his head. "Ain't no need to go that far, Princess. I'll find somethin' to occupy my time. Ah know you can be right busy, no need to worry on my account." Oh. Well that certainly solved the issue neatly for her. Celestia certainly couldn't be faulted as a poor host now, not when Big Mac had went and said he would be fine on his own. Still it gnawed at her that she'd come to no real conclusions about Big Mac. She wasn't above dismissing boring ponies, rude ones or even stupid ones as not generally worth taking much time to think about. So far Big Mac hadn't been any of those things and therefore should be worthy of some attention. But attention didn't seem to even be something he wanted, not even from her. That a pony could act so nonchalant in her presence was something Celestia could not easily ignore. An idea came to her, a possible consolation prize at failing to figure him out. "Big Macintosh, if you're not already done with your food you're welcome to join me at my table." There, now Celestia could assure herself that she'd done everything possible. Things could proceed as she'd wanted them to and she would remember to double check her guest lists in the future. Some of his body language was becoming more familiar to her, at least, his relaxed shrug seemed to be his way of showing agreement. He lifted his plate with his mouth and made his way over. The table was long and narrow, with a set of three seats on both her right and left. There was a moment of confusion for Celestia when, instead of circling around, Big Mac deposited his plate a little in front of her own. Apparently Big Mac was inclined to sit directly across from her, for he went back for another chair and dragged it over. This is a little more...intimate than I had thought it would be. Celestia couldn't help but think to herself. A large dining room, just the right size for a party of eleven or so, now seemed empty just holding two ponies; even ones as big as her and Big Macintosh. There was a touch of presumption in Macintosh putting his seat right in front of hers -that he thought them both equal-, but there was no apparent ulterior motive here as far as she could tell. He might very well have just thought they were socially equal, certainly a novel idea to Celestia. There was silence between them, now for a third time. Big Macintosh hadn't begun eating, either. Instead, he'd looked at her untouched plate of food and then up to her face. There was a wholly unfamiliar sensation, similar to tension, in her chest as he looked directly at her. Celestia was not use to being analyzed silently and she couldn't begin to guess as to what he was thinking. She refused, however, to ask him or otherwise break the silence again. The large earth pony couldn't know how much he'd tied his Princess in knots over how to deal with him, but Celestia was no longer interested in 'playing ball'. If only for the sake of her own internal system, that had worked quite nicely these many centuries, she would simply regard Big Macintosh as an unreadable anomaly. Of course he surprised her by being the one to speak up. "Princess, are you gonna eat? You don't have to wait on my account." "Oh yes...you're right, I'd forgotten." She really had completely forgotten about her food, or how hungry she'd gotten. Once she tried to bend her mind to what to do she tended to be lost in thought, focused utterly on the task at hand. Big Mac simply nodded and started to finish off his meal while Celestia mechanically followed suit with hers. Celestia felt caught, exposed even, all by a quiet farm pony. Most of all, however, she felt utterly sheepish. Big Macintosh wasn't an enemy, and there was no need to think of a simple dinner like a complex game of chess. It showed just how much she'd fallen into a routine of plans and subtle maneuvering that a comparatively minor surprise, and awkward social situation, could disrupt her so badly. A huge fire breathing dragon could have burst into the room and she would have handled it better than she'd done over the last few minutes. At least with fire breathing dragons she knew how to respond. Princess Celestia, the (mostly) absolute ruler of Equestria, liked to imagine that she was unusually talented in the art of manipulation. However she was now faced with her possible match. For all that she knew about ponies and how they acted it appeared that, at least for ponies named Big Macintosh, she didn't know the first thing about talking to them. They ate together quietly for a little while before Macintosh excused himself politely. Try as Celestia might, however, she could not so readily forget the unusual end she'd just had to her day. She consoled herself that at least now it was over. Her plan of teasing Luna a few hours from now, once the Cutemark Crusaders had had a chance to make their proper introductions, seemed a small thing to her now. This had been a distraction. There were more important things she should have been thinking of. Surely she was doing a disservice to Twilight and her friends, all of Equestria perhaps, if she was worrying about whether she could talk casually to another pony or not. Author's Note Marvel and be amazed as I try and turn the crack into the plausible! This cutesy idea occurred to me late one evening as a challenge to the notion that Princess Celestia, by virtue of being older than dirt, was necessarily Don Juan when dealing with ponies. There's a lot of pressure when you're an immortal god-ruler of an entire country/continent/world and I can't think Celestia would get a lot of time for a social life. The mane 6 going off on what sounds like a totally awesome season open/closing adventure is sadly not the focus of the story. 'Exeunt stage left' are stage directions you might see in a play. The curtains close and then open, the scene changes completely regardless of who was left behind. Celestia would likely imagine herself as one of the characters who merely set the plot going, then fade out entirely while others complete the drama. Basically how she's been in the show actually. Except for Big Mac being there things would have gone exactly as planned. Be sure to tell me what you think!
Swear not by the moonPrincess Luna was not, as some might assume, a nocturnal creature. She was a pony after all and her natural inclination was towards the daytime. No amount of magic in the world was going to change her circadian rhythm. This was especially true if Luna still wanted to keep something resembling a social life during decent waking hours. Long ago she'd kept a purely night-time schedule. Which had, along with the loneliness and feeling unappreciated, left her usually irritable and grumpy. Things were certainly a lot better now. For one thing ponies seemed to have discovered reasons for staying up far late into the night, much to Luna's delight. There was something called a 'night life' that occasionally kept the city beneath the palace alive in a strange, deep, musical rhythm. Luna had not quite worked up the courage to personally investigate, but it appeared to involve congregating in buildings and dancing for hours. However the day, or night in this case, was not long in coming when she would descend on Canterlot and 'hit the club'. More wholesome was stargazing; the invention of the telescope had occurred within the interim of her banishment and was an enormous improvement over the naked eye. It was a great source of comfort that, every evening, thousands of ponies were admiring her night sky at any one time. Celestia had even suggested Luna organize some sort of convention for enthusiasts. Luna had loved the idea, right up until she realized she knew as much about conventions as she did night clubs. These concerns, and the slow acclimation to the modern day, were distant at the moment for the Princess of the Moon. She was asleep and had been for a number of hours. While she couldn't magically alter her body's inclination towards the day there were still some methods that Luna had found worked fairly well. Casting a sleeping spell on oneself was generally considered unhealthy, especially if you formed a dependency for it, but Luna was careful and certainly needed sleep for her odd schedule. Rather than stay asleep wholly in the day or night, she instead chose to sleep for about four hours before and after her traditional rule under the Moon. Here the sleep spell was absolutely necessary for it had the benefit of putting the user in a deep, restful sleep. It wasn't perfect of course, but partially thanks to her domain over dreams she was able to cheat four hours of sleep into the effect of six or more. The downside to this option was that she was essentially in a coma while the spell lasted. Occasional disasters and invasions had occurred while she was asleep and unable to wake, though all thankfully solved before she would have had to intervene. The final problem to artificial sleep spells was that the user was extraordinarily disoriented upon waking. Luna rolled in her bed, her starry night mane brushing continuously against a blanket that had migrated next to her head. The spell was fading away and with it came a return to consciousness, but thankfully a gradual one for her. Soon would be the time to raise the Moon and dot the sky with a million individual points of light. There was also the small matter of walking in the dreams of some of her subjects, those having nightmares or in need of council. It certainly seemed, in Luna's half asleep state, that tonight would be a comfortable repetition of previous nights. A long, drawn in, breath was slowly exhaled in contentment as she shifted to remove weight off of one of her wings. She could even almost feel control of her limbs now but held back from embracing full wakefulness, there was no hurry to do so. All of this changed when there was a cacophonous noise of clashing metal outside her room. Her chamber door was rocketed open, slamming hard against the stone walls and probably denting the wood...and possibly even the wall behind it. That was a bad enough shock, but with the door came three distinct, impossibly loud, voices all shouting at her. There was only one possible explanation for Luna: an assassination attempt. Her attackers were clearly fiends from some unspeakable plane of evil, for their cry of attack was unlike anything her groggy mind could process. "PrincessLuna!Ohmanitsogoodtoseeyou-" "PrincessCelestiasaidwecouldseeyouand-" "Ohoh!Isthisyourcrown?Doesithaveanyspecial-" "Doyourememberme?I'mScootaloofromthedream-" Her instinct was to give battle but, nestled in her sheets and still under the aftereffects of her magic, was far from prepared to do so. Still, she gave it her best try. Her best try first consisted of falling sideways out of bed, sheets wrapped around her and thumping hard onto the stone. It would only take a few seconds and she'd be upright on her hooves and ready to engage her attackers. First though she needed magic. Her horn was alight and, despite her groggy state, could quickly cast the first of many defensive protections. Starswirl's Cloak of Safety! The Barrier of Impenetrable Shielding! Time Stop's Time Stop Prevention Spell! Stone Coat! There were dozens of other spells that required no thought to cast. But amongst the impressive technicolor light show, a twinge of distant recognition of her attackers was enough to give her pause. Luna had also been looking for the first salvo of arrows or fireballs by now, the assasins were clearly a few seconds behind and perhaps not as skilled as she'd first thought. Still, the final thing to do was give call for battle. "You shall not find us so easy prey, dastardly foe! The Princess of the Night has not grown soft in her exile and shall...shall...." Her three assassins had suddenly turned themselves into a trio of adorable fillies. Not prepared for murder, but staring openly at their princess. Obviously they were unaware of just how close they'd come to being blasted into fine powder, for they were only standing there on her bed. She knew that she hardly appeared regal at the moment; upright but with dark blue blankets wrapped around her body and one draped along her face. Not only that, but the protective magic had given the normally dark blue Alicorn a prismatic appearance; every few seconds a new color, or many, shining from her. She stared, with utter incomprehension, at the three. The trio were also staring, though in a more confused way, right back at her. The first faint stirrings of recognition flared into total recall when she put names, places and context to the three young ponies. Applebloom, sister of Applejack; Sweetie Belle, sister of Rarity; Scootaloo, the filly whose dream she had walked in and friend to the other two. Recognition did not improve Luna's understanding of the situation even a little. Thankfully for all concerned Applebloom spoke up. "Er, are ya alright, Princess?" was her twanged accent. Luna couldn't recall it existing before her exile. But still, that question did more than anything to remind Luna that she should probably go on the long road towards recovery of her faculties. Fortunately there were only these three fillies who had born witness to this momentary indiscretion. The slight drain on her magical reserves reminded her to dissipate her enchantments, the magic gone with hardly a second thought. "Yes, we are...alright," she said slowly, casting the blankets off herself and clearing her throat. "You simply surprised us whilst we...I....was sleeping. For a moment I had believed you were attackers." "Oh." That was Scootaloo, perhaps realizing the depth of their trespass for the first time. "We're sorry Princess Luna. We thought you'd be up doing princess things." "You're not going to throw us in the dungeon are you?" Sweetie Belle stuck her lower lip out, certainly appearing repentant enough. "Princess Celestia said it was okay to come see you." That certainly caught Luna's attention. "Our Sister sent you?" if the Cutiemark Crusaders had been more observant they would have noticed how quickly Luna's eyes narrowed and her tone became just a touch more interested in hearing further. Thinking they had a surefire way out of trouble the three fillies nodded vigorously in perfect unison. "We were at dinner, and it was really boring," Scootaloo began. "-but then a guard burst in and gave the Princess a note," Applebloom added. "Princess Celestia said something about a 'rag and rock' and that it was really bad," Sweetie Belle, not wanting to be left out, had supplied the last part. "It was Ragnarook," Scootaloo commented, looking over at Sweetie. Applebloom shook her head. "Nuhuh, it was Rag-hana-rock You didn't hear it 'cause you got rocks in your ears." "Do not! It was Rag-na-rook. I heard the princess say it." By this time Luna was staring at the three, but not because of their argument. "Ragnarök is nigh? We must prepare for battle!" Already she was hoping that her sister had saved her ancient battle helmet and spear. Celestia may have been more peaceable, after centuries without conflict, but Luna still recalled she owed Gulltoppr a good kick in the face; the blond jerk. "Thats it!" Oblivious to Luna's mental preparation for the potential end of the world, the three fillies had continued their argument until she'd supplied the proper pronunciation. Scootaloo, who'd been the closest, looked rather smug at the other two. "I told you that was how you said it." Applebloom stuck out her tongue at her friend and then added. "Princess Celestia sent Applejack, Twilight and the rest off to go stop it. Then it was just us and my brother, so then the Princess told us we could go visit you." "Then we ran up here and woke you up! We thought you could help us get our cutiemarks." Sweetie Belle gave a big, wide smile. The other two had quickly joined Sweetie at her sides, putting on their best looks of supplication. "Can you help us find out our special talent?" They all asked in unison. Once again, Luna wasn't quite listening. She was internally seething at her sister. Not because of the crusaders but because she'd been, again, cut out of important events. The Elements of Harmony had proven to be up to the task of solving most any crises, but that did not help her annoyance. Most infuriating was that Celestia was almost, inevitably, proven right, which made arguing with her older sister that much more difficult. This was the Sombra situation all over again. Luna had wanted to go far north and blast the evil unicorn back into oblivion, like they'd done in the days of old. That Ragnarök was that much more personal made being not consulted all the more aggravating. After a few seconds Luna let out a sigh, letting go of her anger. Settling old scores were far less important compared to averting catastrophe. It would just be bothersome to deal with that constant, faintly smug, superior attitude that always pervaded around her sister whenever her plans worked out perfec-. "Your brother is here?" Luna asked, suddenly recalling a particular detail of Applebloom's story. She remembered that there was indeed an older sibling of the Element of Honesty, though they'd hardly spoken before. Applebloom nodded. "Big Macintosh was gonna stay with Granny Smith, but then we got a letter from my uncle Applestrudel wantin her to come visit. Big Mac was about to stay at the farm all by his lonesome till Applejack told him he had to come along with us." Now Luna was intrigued for an entirely different reason, even the end of the world could possibly wait given this revelation. "Hopefully he does not become...bored while he is by himself," she commented after a few seconds of consideration. Internally her mind was abuzz, trying to work out how the new variable fit into the puzzle. The Elements for Ragnarök, these three for her, and Big Macintosh for....what? The trio of fillies couldn't follow her developing train of thought and so collectively looked at her in confusion. "Big Macintosh ain't really the type to get bored. He likes to spend lots of time out in the fields workin'. Applejack says he takes after our pa that way," Applebloom answered her musing, looking at her friends for support. Sweetie Belle had been wandering around the room, clearly scoping out the various ancient artifacts of a millennium ago. "Besides, he's got Princess Celestia to keep him company," was her offhand comment while inching towards a vase. "I suppose that is true enough..." Luna was already anticipating the need to protect her property. That particular piece of pottery was likely worth more than Sweetie Belle could make in a lifetime. But lifting it up and out of the way seemed less important when she wound what had been said back through her head. Had Celestia really conspired to be alone all night with a stallion? That thought seemed almost absurd. Her pure, perfect, older sister? But that was certainly how it appeared. Luna was aware of some of the rumors about the proclivities of the Royal Alicorn Sisters. Embarrassingly they seemed to have been caused in part by Luna's own indiscretions before her fall into darkness. (Relative) adolescence and a light schedule at night had meant a half dozen would-be suitors of various seriousness over decades. Now they were just persistent, old jokes that had transferred onto Celestia. It was likely not helped by most of the Royal Guard appearing to be composed of nothing but buff, handsome stallions. Now that Luna thought about it there was nothing necessarily wrong with her sister wanting companionship. It was even something to be applauded, though Luna knew nothing at all about this 'Big Macintosh'. Surely he couldn't be so bad if Celly liked him. The most amusing thing was that her older sister had made such a glaring mistake in letting these three know. Her discrete little plan unraveled by a filly. Finally, finally! Luna had something to tease her sister about. In a few hours, after the CMC dropped off into sleep, Celestia would come by for a bit of lighthearted ribbing concerning the whole situation. Now Luna had real, actual ammunition to fire back with. There was a terrible noise of shattering ceramic, Luna snapping her head to see a sheepish Sweetie Belle and the remnants of the priceless vase all over the floor. "Oops, sorry Princess." Deep breath, don't get upset. It was only ancient. "Its....quite alright Sweetie Belle. Just be more careful in the future." Luna could be magnanimous now with her thoughts in order and teasing her sister to look forward to. Though she had to somehow convince these three that bed was preferable to late night chaos. "Say, Princess Luna? Ain't the moon suppose to be up by now?" Applebloom and Scootaloo were still on her bed, which gave them a clear view out her window into the dark, moonless night. In all of the excitement Luna had completely forgotten her primary duty. A late moonrise was hardly cause for alarm, though eventually ponies were bound to notice if it didn't arrive at all. "You are quite right, Applebloom and Scootaloo. Get thee back whilst I attend to the raising of the Moon." Usually Luna did not have an audience when she did this, nor did she technically need to even be outside to do so. Still, welcoming each night with the moon as its constant companion held a special place in her heart. She stood in front of the window, gazing out into the open air which was certainly darker without her namesake. With a steady, deep breath and her eyes closing the Princess of the Night centered herself. Her wings became unfurled, stretching out to their full span while she widened her stance. Focus became power, her horn suddenly alight with its dark blue aura. There it was, as always just beyond and underneath the horizon, waiting for her beckoning call. Harmony itself was the rule of the world, the natural ebbs and flows of magic had been askew with the Moon and Sun occupying the same relative positions. Far more attuned than her subjects, Luna felt more at ease once the pale waning gibbous began to emerge. Soon it would be a full moon, she wanted to plan a small celebration in honor of it. Perhaps she could make a regular occurrence, surely once a month was not unreaso- There was a small pony on top of her head. Luna had been so utterly transfixed inside the little ritual of raising the Moon that she had failed to realize that the Cutie Mark Crusaders had begun to move. Apparently they'd wanted a better look at what she'd been doing, for not only was there a pony on her head but there were two more hanging off of her neck.. Luna opened her eyes, tilting her head up just enough to see Scootaloo perched atop her mane, holding lightly onto Luna's horn for support. "That was really cool!" The little orange filly enthused, grinning down at her. Sweetie Belle was on her right, coming slightly into her peripheral vision. "Can you make it move anywhere you want? How far away is it?" "I think Miss Cheerilee once told us how far away the Moon is." Applebloom added from the left, speaking almost directly into Luna's ear. "Is it made out of cheese?" "Children..." Luna began, growing exasperated. Apparently her effort to make friends with ponies was paying dividends, to the point where these three were evidently utterly fearless of her. Being touched and stood upon was something new, though. She'd have preferred something more in the middle, royal edicts could hardly be enforced with due respect if a pony considered you the next best thing to a chair. "Hey! Princess Luna, you're pretty big. Do you think you could fly us around Canterlot?" Scootaloo, wobbling atop Luna's head did her best to lean down to be face to upside down face. The filly made a poor hat but her weight wasn't enough to particularly bother Luna, and shaking her off would be slightly impolite. "I don't-" Sweetie Belle cut her off, leaning off her neck and waving a hoof for attention "That would be awesome!" Luna was not about to fly around with three fillies on her back and certainly not in front of half of the city. She was a serious princess with royal duties to attend to! But...looking at the three, who were still hanging onto her, Luna had a feeling that a 'no' would only net her the dreaded 'puppy dog look'. Even an immortal alicorn princess could not long endure pouts like that; another strategy would be needed. "Would you not rather pursue thy destiny? We have seen many cutiemarks in our time, perhaps we could be of some assistance?" A second after she'd finished speaking Luna realized that she'd essentially cornered herself into foal sitting the three. What hope did she have outmaneuvering her sister when she couldn't even manipulate three fillies? It was far, far too late to take it back, however, as the trio were quickly brought back to their original goal. Atleast Luna had solved one issue, the Cutie Mark Crusaders had collectively hopped off of their Princess and started to push her towards the door. "Can you show us the armory? I bet we could get Royal Guard Cutiemarks!" That was Scootaloo, pressing her head on one of her back legs. "Cutiemark Crusader Royal Guards! Yay!" At incredibly high volume they echoed their agreement in unison, Luna was worried about her hearing if they made a habit of that. While being hustled, much to her attempted protests, Luna worked to hide a smile. Loud, bossy and aggravating that they could be, the three girls pushing her down towards the armory sparkled with unrestrained energy and enthusiasm for everything. It was hard not to be caught up in some of that, royal duties could wait. It was late anyway, surely the Cutiemark Crusaders would tire themselves out and drop off to bed quickly. Apparently that sentiment was wishful thinking on Luna's part. "Children! Do not!-" The entire rack of spears had tipped itself over, Scootaloo saved from impalement only by Luna's timely intervention. "Sorry!" The pegasus filly said, not sounding particularly sorry as she now had a spear to look at up close. "Engarde!" Applebloom and Sweetie Belle were now having a sword fight, with real swords. Both were pulled quite quickly out of their mouths, collecting up in a telekentic aura with the spear. It was baffling that the two looked upset at her, as if she'd done something wrong. "These are not toys, Applebloom and Sweetie Belle. Thy very lives could have been lost if-." "Hey guys, this stuff is heavy but so cool!" Not content with inspecting weaponry, Scootaloo had tried to fit herself in a set of battle armor. Most of it was laughably too big for her, the helmet hanging over her eyes. That effectively saved Sweetie and Applebloom from their scolding, now they were fitting armor on and excitedly giggling while doing so. Princess Luna could already see the enormous mess forming throughout the large armory. She couldn't take her eyes off of the three for even a second, lest they maim themselves. Luna already had her doubts at the chances of getting things cleaned, odds were that the CMC's brand of cleaning would only leave a bigger mess. The Captain of the Guard was unlikely to be very happy with her tomorrow when they came back to find their equipment everywhere. Without the light emanating from Luna's horn they would have been completely enveloped in utter darkness. As it was it was still difficult to see around them. "Cutiemark Crusader Dungeon Keepers! Yay!" "We have already explained to you, there are no dungeons in Canterlot. We are leading you to the crystal caves, deep underneath the castle." "Oh...not to be rude Princess but that doesn't sound very interesting." "Not interesting? The caves are ancient, formed from time immemorial. They have a beauty that can barely be measured and are helpful in augmenting magic. It is why we built Canterlot here." "...But how would we get a cutiemark out of that?" "We had thought you might want to see it, and so that you stopped destroying the armory and training room." "Aw, but we didn't mean to break that training dummy!" ... "Princess Luna? Are you sure you've never kept any prisoners down here?" A heavy sigh. "Yes, I am quite sure. Though perhaps it is not too late to start." Compared to the stifling underground caverns deep beneath Canterlot the nighttime air was positively chilly. A faint breeze rustled the leaves while the noise of nocturnal creatures provided the Royal Canterlot Gardens a relaxing background atmosphere. Luna could pick out the sound of crickets, owls and even the rustle of bat wings. She couldn't help but give a contended sigh, awash in her element. "Hey Scootaloo, ah' bet the headless pony lives here." Of course one of the three had to disrupt the moment, this time Applebloom. Scootaloo glared at her friend. "I already told you, I'm not scared of the headless pony anymore." "Uhuh, if ya' say so." Sweetie Belle nudged Luna before the Princess could tell either of the other two to stop picking at each other, for about the sixteenth time. "Princess Luna, why are we in the gardens? We already tried to get our gardener cutiemarks before." "Yeah," Scootaloo interjected, "and we tried to get our animal caretaker cutiemarks too, Fluttershy wasn't too happy about that." Applebloom rolled her eyes. "I swear it ain't as hard when I'm on the farm. Then again Fluttershy doesn't got that many farm animals." Truthfully Luna had no ideas for cutiemarks. She'd given up after a number of suggestions. They'd evidently tried, and failed, to be bakers; had no interest in being scribes, nor becoming lawyers. Now Luna's only hope was to lead the CMC around the palace, praying silently that they'd get tired with all the walking. It didn't seem to be working. "Perhaps thy destiny lies in...observing the stars?" The three were giving her a deadpan look, obviously not buying her suggestion. "Twilight already tried to get us to do that. Then she got mad when we broke her telescope." Astronomy was definitely not their strong suit then. "Oh, well how about-" Luna was cut off by Scootaloo, who'd turned to look at the other two. "Hey lets play Night Fright!" Both Applebloom and Sweetie Belle evidently liked that idea. "That's an awesome idea! Princess Luna should be 'it'," they both started looking around the woods, rather intently. Luna simply stared at the three, having no idea what they were talking about. "Pray tell, children. What is 'Night Fright?' and why are we 'it'?" Scootaloo looked surprised that Luna had never heard of the game. "Oh, well it's like hide and seek. Except instead of looking for us we try and scare you!" "Scare me?" That didn't sound either likely or all that much fun. Princess Luna was hardly afraid of the dark and could even be thought of as rather scary on her own. Her subjects had even made an entire holiday based around the idea of her alter-ego threatening to eat them. "Children I don't think-" The three fillies had started to whisper amongst themselves, Sweetie Belle looking her way when she'd started to protest. "Aw come on Princess Luna, it'll be fun. But you have to promise not to cheat with any magic, that wouldn't be fair." "We would not dream of bringing dishonor on ourselves by cheating." After a second of thought Luna finally let out a sigh. "I suppose if it is...fun, that we can comply with at least one game. But afterwards you must go to bed." The three nodded at that. "Alright!" Applebloom agreed. "But the game only ends if we scare ya or we give up! Oh, you got to tell us if you're scared or not and wanna surrender." "Or if you find us!" Sweetie Belle was actually giggling, clearly excited. Luna was now having her doubts she'd ever get the trio to sleep and out of her mane. "Very well, when does this game begin?" "Right now! Scootaloo, ya want to start us off?" Applebloom turned to the pegasus filly and was grinning ear to ear. Scootaloo only nodded, Luna watching them closely in curiosity. She'd expected them to ask her to turn around and count to some number, Luna certainly knew the rules to hide and seek. Instead, Scootaloo only reached down and picked up a rock. Now Princess Luna was more than a little confused, and only more so when the rock was thrown towards her; landing a few feet behind and to her right. Turning her head to look for where the rock went, Luna finally voiced her confusion. "We do not understand what that-." By the time she'd turned around all three were completely gone. Vanished, without so much as a trace. Luna had to admit to being a bit startled at that, it only had to have been a few seconds. "I suppose we are started then..." For the next twenty minutes Princess Luna spent her time wandering the darkness of the royal gardens. Try as she might there was not so much as a hint of any of the three. If they were nearby at all it was amazing that they could be so quiet and still. Having circled through the area for the third time the expectation of the fillies jumping out and trying to startle her was mounting. But still it didn't come, Luna couldn't help but frowning at her predicament. Not on her life was she going to allow three young ponies to scare her, not for real. It was silly to even imagine, the Princess of the Night being scared by shadows and something jumping out at her. It was a remarkably well thought out tactic though, to simply wait and let her own imagination get the better of her. Well Luna was not going to fall for it. The trio had made an obvious error, they hadn't said a word about where she could go. Confident that she'd found a proper out, Luna turned her head up high and began to stride towards the palace at last. Ha! Surely they would give up now, or most likely complain that she'd somehow cheated. Then Luna could argue them into going to bed. But that didn't happen either, Luna passed into her dimly lit throne room without incident. Her pair of guards did not shift at her arrival except to salute. As usual there appeared to be no late night petitioners for court. Though this time it was entirely possible that they had gone home when she failed to appear. Checking the time revealed that Luna was three hours behind schedule, it was past midnight even. Luna bid her guards a goodnight, though they would stay up until their shift was over, and made her way towards her private study. The study was also completely normal; stacks of books and shelves of dusty scrolls. The paperwork of running Equestria was enormous, despite their subjects being generally so self sufficient. In the interest of avoiding large, unwieldy bureaucracies, much of the work of a continent spanning country was handled directly by both of the royal sisters. With a comparatively easier schedule, Luna took on the greater share of work. Since her return from banishment the turn around on requests and reports from every corner of Equestria had been shortened quite considerably. A few passing servants had even remarked to Luna that they'd never known Princess Celestia to have free time, and were suitably thankful that Luna was back to help make that happen. Lighting the half dozen candles placed in her office, Luna smiled at the memory of that. It gave her something to take some pride in. She'd made a vow to herself never to return to the bitterness and anger that had afflicted her before. Even though her life hadn't changed that much compared to before becoming the Nightmare the new perspective, and occasional reminders of appreciation, had been more than enough for her. Sitting down at her desk at the opposite end of the room and unrolling a scroll, Princess Luna was suddenly struck with the notion that technically she was still playing 'Night Fright'. Unless the CMC had given up and went to bed without telling her, which sounded unlikely, they were still trying to scare her. They could even be right behind....the hair on the back of Luna's neck was standing up on end. She'd neglected to close the door, foolish, and now she couldn't help but feel like someone, or someones, were now in the room. Slowly, with a touch of dread, Luna began to turn. "Hello, dear sister. Enjoying the night?" Startled, Luna couldn't help but let out a surprised yell and jumped at the sight of her sister. Celestia was sitting rather calmly at the other end of the room, sipping at a cup of steaming tea. Luna couldn't help noticing the smug grin on her face. An eyebrow rose, the grin widened at her jump. "I'm sorry, Lulu, did I scare you?" If you yell at her it'll only make her more amused that she got you. Let her win this round. "We simply expected it to be....somepony else," was her terse reply, unable to help giving a small glare at her older sister. "Ah, was this 'somepony else' the Cutiemark Crusaders by any chance? I did wonder what they were up to when they asked for the keys to your room and the blueprints of the castle." Luna was staring at her now, unable to believe the feigned innocence masking so much obvious evil. "Surely you did not give them those things." Celestia gave a helpless shrug. "They are very hard to say no to, I had no choice." "'No choice', naturally." Luna layered on a touch of sarcasm, rolling her eyes. "I seem to recall that they had the idea of coming to visit me by your suggestion. It is remarkable that such little fillies can have that much energy." Again, her sister only smiled brightly at her. Obviously she was quite amused by the success of her plan. "It sounds like you had quite the fun night." Now it was Luna's turn to smile, though hers was more predatory. Her sister had just completely opened herself up. "We suppose it was rather enjoyable at times. Though, I can't say it was likely as much fun as yours was." "Mine?" Curiously, her sisters affected surprise was more genuine looking. Luna wasn't about to let her off the hook that easily though, playing dumb was not going to stop her from having her own small victory at teasing. "A fine plan you had organized for the evening. The Elements ready and on cue to deploy against the Fate. Your party, inviting some of their family to help mask the coincidence of it all." After a seconds pause Celestia lowered her teacup, a little frown on her face. "Luna, I am sorry that I did not tell you. I know that the issue is still likely personal for you. I have thought about how to handle the Twilight for many years. None of them would listen to us if we went, it would be fighting and the end of all we love. The Elements have the best chance of settling, or at least postponing, the bloodshed." Luna held up a hoof to stop her from speaking any further. "It is alright, dear sister. We are not angry. Though in the future you should have some faith in us. If you had explained it like that I would have come to accept your judgement. Of course that was not all I was getting at..." That predatory smile flashed again, knowing that the moment was all too soon in coming. "Oh?" Celestia actually seemed a bit surprised at that, whether for Luna letting being manipulated pass so easily or that she had something else. Perhaps she had not anticipated that Luna would even find out, making it all the more entertaining. "Indeed." Luna stood, beginning to slowly pace for a touch of the dramatic. "Thy invitation of family was not only to mask your first purpose. The Cutiemark Crusaders who came along were also there for me." Her sister nodded, conceding the point. "I think over the week or so it takes the crisis to be resolved you'll find them entertaining to interact with. If you were interested I had some ideas for tomorrow and the next day." It was a tempting idea, to a certain degree. But going down that line of conversation would take too long and spoil the careful buildup that she'd been preparing for. Luna waved a hoof dismissively. "Perhaps later. However, dear sister. I have discovered the final part of your plan. Not as discretely hidden as I may have expected. I suppose it could not be helped, with a whole week it would have been impossible to hide. To be honest I am surprised you are even here and not away, celebrating your success." Instead of the reaction she'd expected, her sister perhaps blushing and looking away, Celestia only looked confused. "I don't know what you're talking about, Luna. What final part?" Feeling a bit of confusion herself, Luna persisted. "Now now, dear sister. There is no sense in denials. It was Applebloom, sister of the Element of Honesty who was your undoing. For she also has a brother, who is here in the castle as well." Now Celestia was frowning, setting the tea she'd been about to take another drink from down with a noticeable clink. "Yes, he is...what are you trying to imply?" Was her older sister now angry at her? Surely it couldn't be because she found out. With a bit of caution Luna pressed forward, feeling curiosity at the unusual reaction. "You have arranged for this Big Macintosh to be in the castle, for a week. I have seen him from afar, though never spoken with him. He appeared to be rather attractive. I am not upset, far from it. To be honest I was glad to know-" "Luna, I do not like your insinuation." There was a surprising amount of harshness in her voice, some nerve had evidently been touched. "I had no ulterior motives there, his arrival at the party was a surprise to me." Not only was she angry, but she was curt. Teasing her older sister was clearly off the table. But Luna couldn't help but notice how quickly Celestia had avoided commenting on anything about being attracted to Big Mac, or the idea in general. She hadn't laughed it off, either. Very curious. There had been a short pause, the two sisters looking at one another. Luna was thinking of how best to proceed, hopefully without her older sister storming out. "Sister...is it perhaps that you are...involved with another pony?" Usually Celestia was the epitome of regal coolness, a mask of serene composure near impossible to fluster. It wasn't here, though, instead Luna saw her sister's jaw tighten and a flash of more annoyance building. "No, Luna. There is no other pony." This went beyond even the presence of Applejack's older brother in the castle. Something harsh, raw and personal was wrong with her older sister. Regardless of whether it annoyed her more, Luna just couldn't let it drop. Celestia hadn't in their late night discussions following her return from banishment. It was a family duty, even beyond that of friendship. "Celly," she had to be careful though, now moving closer and gently brushing against her older sister. The concern in her voice would hopefully soothe out some of the particularly ruffled feathers. "Please help me understand. Was there a pony...before my return? There is nothing wrong with admitting attraction, I myself have entertained a few suitors in the past as you may recall." There was the same set, closed frown; the same frustration. Celestia only sighed, looking away. "I know you mean well. But no, Luna, there has been no pony. Ever. Nor do I have the time for something distracting like that at the moment or in the future." Luna knew she was openly gawking at her sister. Never? Her sister had always been the responsible one, all but married to her assumed duties. But even after a thousand years of her absence? Immortality was an issue, certainly, Luna had known heartbreak when she'd outlived the very few she had dear to her. Some of that had contributed to her fall, closing herself off from the world. But that did not mean you avoided those mortal.You were suppose to cherish and value each passing moment with those you loved, not close yourself off. "You have never felt attraction to another? Not once?" she spoke softly, feeling a bit sad even with the revelation. Sadness was not a feeling Celestia evidently felt for her own situation, though, looking at her steadily. "Again, no. Not the attraction you are speaking of. I feel affection and love for all of our subjects, but I am their Princess. Their needs far outweigh my own and there is always a great deal of work. Though, I have not known that sort of need, either, so it is a moot point. Please, little sister, do not be so concerned. I am happy that you are with me, I could not ask for more." That was small comfort, Luna was filled with a tumult of emotions inside of her all at once. Concern and a bit of anger even directed towards herself. Celestia would never blame her for becoming Nightmare Moon, or leaving her alone to run Equestria that entire time. None of that helped the slight guilt Luna could feel. Just because her older sister hid it well did not mean she was without needing help from time to time. At the very least she should try again. "But sister, the work is split now. There is less for you to worry about with me taking on my old duties. The servants say you even have moments of leisure. Is that not true?" "It is...I have not had free moments in many years, unless I planned for them," She admitted. "And I am very grateful for that, little sister." Celestia smiled at her then, the usual bright one she favored. Luna couldn't help wondering now if it was truly genuine or just born out of endless practice. Smiling would make others smile, usually. They were actually fairly close to one another, not quite touching, but it was an intimate enough moment. "Suppose you were attracted to another..." Luna returned to the original topic, refusing to believe that her older sister had no potential for romance. "You are not opposed to the idea completely are you?" Clearly Celestia must have been hoping that the matter was dropped, or moved elsewhere. After a moments sigh her sister relented. "I suppose anything is possible. But again, the needs of-" "Managing Equestria is easier now, as you said. I would be happy to even take part of your daytime duties, if you need me to." Luna could even see this being a good thing for herself. It would help her meet more ponies than the guards and occasional night owls. For a change it appeared she'd put her sister on the defensive, Celestia giving a slightly pained smile. "I don't believe I exactly said that, though. There is still plenty to do." While true, Luna wasn't about to get into whether she was ready for taking on some of the daytime work. Instead she decided to charge ahead. "If anything is possible, what about this Big Macintosh? Hm? He seems nice...handsome," she was probing now. Luna actually was rather entertained by the idea of playing matchmaker for her sister, but she had no idea what Celestia found attractive. Looking like she'd rather not be having this conversation, her older sister gave another little sigh. "Yes, I suppose he is. But I know nothing about him, speaking to him earlier this evening was...unusual." Even Celestia didn't look like she was quite sure herself, her words coming slowly and cautiously. "Oh? Unusual?" That was something at least, the start of a conversation. Obviously Luna would have to drag her sister kicking and screaming through it, though. "He is a very silent pony. It was difficult to..." Celestia paused, thinking on the right word, "read him. He didn't seem bothered by being alone. Or what the rest of his stay in Canterlot would be like. Usually I can figure what one of our subjects is like, what they might want, very quickly." With her wings, Celestia gave a helpless shrug. Personally Luna wasn't much for the strong and silent type herself, though her dating experience was a millennium out of time. At least Celestia hadn't completely ignored Big Mac, though it wasn't like he had to be 'the one' anyway. Perhaps the farmer would be good practice for her sister, he was leaving in a week anyway. "Perhaps you should learn about him then? Surely the great Princess Celestia does not give up so easily." Her sister rolled her eyes at that, the attempt at manipulation a rather obvious one. "I never said I was interested in him. I do not believe it would be entirely proper for me to engage in that sort of relationship with one of our subjects either." Just when Luna thought she'd been making progress at warming her older sister up to the idea. "Big sister, most everypony is one of our subjects. This apple farmer is not one of our servants, he does not take orders or pay from you. He is an adult, and it appears that you do not overawe him with thy regal presence. I said learn about him, perhaps there is more than meets the eye about this stallion. There can be no risk, surely you are not afraid of a relationship." It was her best effort at convincing her, the conversation nearly at an end anyway. Celestia would be going to bed, the time nearing towards two in the morning now. "Perhaps..." Celestia finally admitted, not looking entirely convinced. It was enough, Luna could see that she had at least considered it for a moment. There could be future efforts later. If it was not stallions her sister was interested in then Luna could begin suggesting mares. Or perhaps not even ponies, there were dragons of equal size to their forms. Dragons had the advantage of longevity, as well. Equestria and beyond had many intelligent beings, surely one was capable of giving her older sister a measure of personal happiness and companionship. They exchanged a few more minutes of conversation after that. The topic had shifted to the more mundane; paperwork and the business of running Equestria. Following a suppressed yawn, Celestia rose and enveloped her in a hug of her wings. They nuzzled one another warmly and then parted, Luna bidding her sister a good night. Then the Sun Princess was gone, leaving for bed. With a sigh, Luna turned back to her desk. There was a lot on her mind; the insight into her older sister's personal life, or more accurately the lack of one, was very troubling. Luna had fallen into darkness by feelings of being alone, the shadow of isolation having turned her thoughts to hurt and a desire to spread that hurt. It almost appeared like Celestia was the opposite. Her sister was never alone, always working and often the very center of attention. But the attention was for the sake of others, that seemingly endless charity. Much like the sun, if put in poetic terms. But Luna worried about the risk that her sister might one day burn out. She wouldn't let the same sort of fate befall Celestia as it had her. No, now that she had caught the problem Luna would endeavor to fix it on her behalf. Fortunately it had been caught relatively early. There was time, plenty of time, to do things right. She owed it to her older sister, she gave so much freely and expected almost nothing in return. But first there was paperwork to do. The scratch of her quill was the only sound for a few minutes, the candles set for many hours of work with just the right amount of illumination to get things done. A light breeze moved across the window pane, the sound of wind chimes pleasant to think about. The solitude didn't bother Luna now, not when she had real things to enjoy with ponies dear to her. That same light breeze had produced a draft down the hallway, for Luna heard the gentle creak of the hinges of her office door. Suddenly she froze, her eyes going wide as she remembered an oh so important detail. With dread, Luna began to slowly turn herself around for the second time that night and look behind her. Nothing, the room was empty as far as she could see. With a sigh of relief she got up and began to trot towards the open door. Her horn lit for a brief moment, the door closing and then locking for good measure. If the Cutiemark Crusaders were still out there they would have a difficult time entering her office. Luna decided that it would be best if she simply remained in here the entire night. If anyone needed her she'd open the door, provided they answer through the wood to identify themselves. Not that she was scared of the three fillies, of course not. She simply wanted to win their little game. For good measure she made a point of making a inspection of the locked office, still empty. She still couldn't forget the eerie way they'd all but vanished out of sight. "We are being foolish," she chided herself. The rest of the night passed thankfully without incident, more than a few minutes being spent dwelling on the question of her sister. Author's Note Now I know why you rarely see the CMC featured in fics altogether at once. Writing dialogue that balances their contributions to the story is certainly a challenge. Anyway, tell me what you think! If I made any glaring typos feel free to comment upon them. General commentary, good and bad, of a constructive nature is always also appreciated!
Love looks not with the eyes, but with the mindCelestia found it strange that so many ponies thought a crystal ball was the best way one could perceive distant events, even the future itself. She'd always preferred a pool of water. Divination with anything else seemed far more trouble than it was worth. Sitting in front of just such a scrying pool, a smooth marble white bowl set to about her chest level, the Princess of the Sun began to summon the complex magic necessary for farsight. First she needed to contact the surface she would be divining through. With ease born out of having done this many times she lifted her hoof, tapping it into the cool water of the pool. Then came focus, a deep connection to either the location in question or a particular individual. Celestia chose her pupil, her connection with Twilight was unshakeable in her mind; something as inconsequential as being in a separate dimension couldn't prevent Celestia from finding her personal student and protege. There. By now Celestia's horn was alight with the golden aura of her magic, the spell weaving itself automatically through the proper channels. Viewing distant events was almost as easy for her now as the levitation spell that came naturally to most unicorns. The bowl of water was enveloped in energy, the liquid surface which had rippled from the touch swirled violently for a few seconds and then stilled utterly. Withdrawing her hoof, Celestia peered down into the bowl and took in her first impressions of the scene laid out in front of her. Twilight and her friends had definitely reached their destination. That was very good news as it had only been two days since they'd set out. Celestia instantly recognized the place that her student and friends were now in, an enormous and beautifully ornate feasting hall. The walls were made of brilliant gold with weapons and armor of all kind decorating virtually every surface. An enormous assortment of drink and food was laid out on the many long tables set in the room that was currently in the process of a massive party. Celestia actually had trouble finding her student, or her friends. Everywhere there was the usual revelry of feasting and drinking. Not only were the Æsir present, but many ponies and other warriors of the various species of the world who had found their way into the hallowed halls after dying in battle. There were many familiar faces, but none that belonged to Twilight. She continued to search, knowing that she had to be somewhere. A few long seconds passed before Celestia finally saw a glint of lavender and swung the view of her spell towards it. Twilight was sitting near the front on an upraised dais and speaking earnestly to a cloaked figure. Focusing her attention towards the two, Celestia couldn't help feeling some surprise after realizing just who her student was addressing. He was not a pony, but a very large caribou who possessed jutting antlers that poked high up through the sizable floppy brown pointed hat he wore to cover his face. Said member of the Æsir looked incredibly old, he had a great many wrinkles and a scraggly white beard on his chin. Most striking, however, was his missing left eye. Despite towering over Twilight by several feet he seemed to be courteous enough to bend his head and look down at the little pony at his side. "You are very bold to think you are capable of stopping the coming battle, little pony," he intoned seriously. Even with a whole world separating them his deep voice made Celestia shiver at past memories. Twilight nodded, trying to match his seriousness. "You can't fight though, the fate of the world...all worlds depends on settling this without a battle. You don't really want to destroy the world, do you?" The huge caribou snorted, taking up a golden stein and draining it in a few gulps. "The Jotunn have transgressed us for the last time, they have freed Loki and even now prepare to advance upon Asgard. The trickster Loki is responsible for the death of my son, she can never be forgiven. Not only that, but this is a battle which has been foretold since the earliest days of the creation of the worlds. Fate cannot be changed." "What has been foretold, by those wise, shall surely occur. For the wise know to take council from their fellow sages." This was said by a head, sitting on the table in front of the pair. The caribou head lacked a body, but didn't seem any worse the wear for it. Unsurprisingly, Twilight looked rather uneasy at it speaking. Celestia could only guess what her reaction had been the first time it had spoken up. Shaking her head, Twilight pressed on. "But what if you could change it? I'm sure if you just spoke to them..." "Speak? To the Giants? And I suppose you would desire to mediate our 'talk'." The large caribou sounded amused at the prospect. "Tell me, student of Sol, how many wars have you prevented?" Blanching a little, Twilight gave a clearly strained smile. "Er, how many? Well...there was one time when my friends and I worked to settle a dispute between a tribe of buffaloes and a town of settler ponies." The oldest of all the Æsir did not look particularly impressed, his one eye lowered as he stared at her, his voice deadpan. "And how did this 'dispute' resolve itself?" "Well...they kind of had a battle actually. But we were able to find a solution everypony was happy with before anyone was actually hurt!" Celestia couldn't help but give a little sigh. "By this success of yours you intend to stop the very Twilight of the Gods?" After another drink the one eyed caribou wiped at his beard and continued to speak. "No, little pony, we must fight, though all of creation will be torn asunder we shall triumph. Many of us will likely fall, perhaps even myself, but we go forth willingly for we are not craven." At that very moment the caribou looked up, his eye locking directly on Celestia through the pool. There was no doubt that the Allfather was very much aware of her watching, his words had likely even been directed her way. Troublesome. That was her cue to turn her sight away, as long as she was observing it would only be a reminder that Twilight was acting on her behalf. Her student was on the right track though, eventually she'd hit upon some important insight. They had to succeed, as they always had in the past. The situation was truthfully pretty dire, but she had faith that the Elements would figure out something. Though, curiously, Celestia couldn't find any of the other Elements around her student. Searching the enormous, and yet still crowded, halls she recognized another of her student's friends. "That is a truly wonderful necklace. Though I'm afraid I don't quite recognize what it is made of." Rarity seemed to have sidled up to the only member of the hall who wasn't covered in armor or carrying on in the usual, drunken revelry. Said member, with her shining silver white necklace, was extraordinarily beautiful in appearance. She was a doe, lacking antlers, and covered in fine robes. Celestia was rather familiar with Freyja, it made sense that Rarity would be drawn to her. Freyja gave the Element of Generosity a benevolent smile, which Rarity seemed delighted to receive. "It is torc...fire-metal. Though that is not how you would say it." Rarity had been about to reply when there was a loud, raucous cheering from across the hall. All eyes, including Celestia's, turned to see a ring of warriors and Æsir surrounding, and shouting at, two sitting figures. One of them was Rainbow Dash, opposite a member of the Æsir. The pegasus had clearly had a few drinks, judging by the rosy blush under her cheeks. Much like the Æsir who was next to Twilight, Celestia felt worry at knowing who Rainbow had chosen to interact with. An imposing Caribou, much like his father, with shiny metal armor and a bushy red beard. However, the clearest identifier for this particular Æsir was the distinctive runic hammer set down on the table next to him. The two were trading glares, evidently something had been said to cause a disagreement. Now a sizable portion of the hall was focused on them, cheering and jeering with shouted encouragement. Listening to them for a moment let Celestia know exactly what was about to happen, she only hoped that Rainbow was ready for the challenge. Then the large Æsir warrior stood up from the table. An expectant hush fell over the crowd, Rainbow only gave a frown. At once the armored caribou began to speak. "A little mare with rainbow mane making noise; she's such a pain A draught of mead did she just drink daring, sure, but she'll soon need a sink Many boasts, claiming to be brave But battle would soon make your grave Children, here, on an errand call A cowards plan, made from those who fled our fall We love to fight, for honor we don't lack little mare, you should wait till we get back Once concluded, and the dead we cannot count comes thy true place, as all our mounts." On the occasion of each rhymed insult there were raucous laughter and cheering. Rainbow blushed especially at the second and last stanza, and looked visibly annoyed. Celestia felt a bit nervous, hoping desperately that Dash had the sense not to get up and storm off. There was more to this than bandying insults, leaving the table would send an entirely bad impression. "Give me a second, I've never done this stupid thing before," Rainbow mumbled. Her hoof was holding onto her drink while she looked to be thinking intently. "You sounded like Zecora," she commented absently. Her opponent had sat down, draining his fifth drink quickly and then giving a belch. "We are all waiting, little pony. Perhaps you should have sat with Heimdall instead. He is well familiar with rainbows." There were some further laughs from the crowd at that. "Shut up, I've got it alright?" Rainbow stood up, though wobbling a bit on her hooves and making a rather less impressive show of her size by rising. Then she began to rhyme as well. "Don't make me laugh, I've had your...measure Your little hammer couldn't give me pleasure Plus, I read the book, and heard you're weird About a dress, a wedding and now I see your beard. I'm not fooled, but its okay I bet they all think you're...a certain way. Compete with me and you'd get a silver Take me on, then we'll see....er...screw you!" It hadn't been strictly within the traditional framework, but the crowd did laugh quite a bit and cheer at the returned insults. The caribou sitting at the table was red faced at the reminder of the particular incident involving the giants. Twilight must have given her friends a quick lesson on the trip up, somehow acquiring a book on the legends. Even though Rainbow had sabotaged herself at the end she sat down with a superior air of having given almost as good as she got. "Your verse needs work, but not bad, little mare." The hammer wielding Æsir finally admitted, raising a drink in toast of a worthy opponent which Rainbow Dash mimicked. Celestia let out a breath she'd been holding, there was definite progress being made. Back across the hall, though, Rarity looked absolutely mortified. "How barbaric," she grumbled, also a bit red in the face. Freyja laughed, giving a little pat on the unicorn's shoulders. "It is a...word-battle, skill in wit that is almost as important as skill in battle. Your friend did well, though if we knew of you better the flyt would have been more biting." That was three of the six, but it seemed strange that so far Celestia had not found the others. Try as she might though she couldn't find Pinkie Pie, Applejack or Fluttershy. After some thought Celestia considered what her student had said. She'd referenced the incident at Appleloosa as a guide for how to deal with this crisis. Celestia could recall the report, that the Elements had been split up and dealt with both parties separately. Though that had been more of an accident than done intentionally, it seemed logical that Twilight would try and recreate the effect. That left the other three in Jötunheimr. Truthfully Celestia was a bit prejudiced against the giants, and could only hope that Twilight had made a wise choice. It was a bit trickier to locate them, eventually she settled on looking for Applejack specifically. Once found the vision of the scrying pool shifted and beheld a land of snow and ice. High peaked mountains and a blisteringly intense blizzard was raging all around a gathered band where the snow was unnaturally becalmed. "So of course these louts all wanted to know why their new blushing bride looked like 'she' was positively murderous," a female caribou with modest antlers, red ringed eyes and parallel line scars like stitching over her mouth, was explaining to her captivated audience of one. "Well, I told them that 'Freyja' was just so excited about the wedding that she couldn't get a wink of sleep. They bought it! You should have seen how mad he was; the giants couldn't stop commenting on how good he looked in his dress!" At that Pinkie Pie burst into laughter, falling over and clutching her stomach. "That's priceless! What did they say about the beard?" Not everyone in the gathering was quite so entertained. True to his namesake of giant, an enormous figure just on the edge of the protection of the blizzard was sharpening an amazingly bright sword. Shrouded by the storm, glowing eyes narrowed down at Loki. "Reminding us of your days with the Æsir will not leave you as our leader for long, trickster. I recall that the tale ends with the slaying of our brothers." "They shouldn't have stolen his hammer if they didn't want to be killed," Loki countered with a dismissive wave of her hoof at Surtr. Applejack, who was sitting in a round table of Loki, Pinkie Pie and herself, looked a bit uneasy. "Er, maybe we oughta be gettin back to what we were talking about?" "Aw, but Applejack. I wanted to hear more about her pranks!" Pinkie had stopped laughing instantly, back up at the table and giving a pout at her friend. Loki was grinning, clearly happy to have found a kindred spirit in Pinkie Pie. Celestia rubbed at her forehead at a ghost of a headache forming, wondering if she'd inadvertently created a new problem. Discord could be a bad enough influence on Pinkie, Loki might be even worse. Though that still left off Fluttershy, she wasn't anywhere to be seen. Looking around, and only recognizing the various members of the Jötunn, Celestia finally located the final Element of Harmony. Her breathing stopped, eyes going wide and getting perhaps the biggest shock of the day. Fluttershy was nuzzling, and rubbing, the belly of an enormous white wolf. Despite being several times the size of the Element of Kindness, the wolf was rolled over on its back, panting happily and kicking a leg while Fluttershy was cooing encouragement. Celestia ended the spell at that point, filled with disbelief. The Elements seemed to have things under control after all. Everything was in place, there was nothing more that she could do. That didn't mean that she was now free from work, far from it. It was only early morning in Canterlot and Celestia gave a yawn while stretching out the kinks that had formed in her neck. She'd already had breakfast in her room, knowing that the act of scrying would consume a fair bit of time and demand isolation. Looking at the clock, though, made her realize that there was still a bit of time remaining before she had to go anywhere. A bit more divination closer to home couldn't hurt. It was how Celestia knew so many things about her realm, though she was careful to not invade the privacy of her subjects if she could help it. The water swirled once more after a few seconds focus and almost instantly became a complete scene. This close it hardly took any concentration to see what she wanted. First she checked on her sister, amusingly Luna hadn't left her study since they'd spoken. Evidently the Cutiemark Crusaders had made quite the impression on her with their little game. Snoozing at her desk, hoof propping her chin up, Luna looked rather adorable and Celestia smiled at the image of her little sister. Likely she'd be up and joining them at lunch in the afternoon. Celestia had been somewhat locked up in her study herself over the last day, though only because of the work that needed to be done. It was not because she had been brooding at all on the conversation she'd had with her sister. Absolutely not, it wasn't like she was averse to a personal relationship, or afraid of one. It was simply that she didn't have any time. All of the reports and issues piled up on her desk only proved as much, though her thoughts had occasionally strayed while she worked. Responding to her distraction the pool had begun to shift, curiously it appeared for a second to be focusing on a busy street corner. Once Celestia realized she'd let her mind wander she forced the vision to move to where she really intended to look towards next. The water quickly shimmered and the image instead changed to inside the palace once again. "Aw, do we have to keep shining these?" Scootaloo complained while her hoof continued to circle a rag along a suit of armor. The Captain of the Royal Guard only narrowed his eyes and nodded, having already likely answered that question half a dozen times. The Cutiemark Crusaders sighed and continued their work. The royal armory was almost entirely picked up, a testament to the chaos that the trio had caused that it had taken more than a day to clean. As cute as they could be their actions could not be brushed off quite so easily as to make her guard pick up after their mess. Instead, after their giggling planning on how to torment her sister was concluded, she'd had a very long talk with the three fillies about what they'd done. They would have to pick up every piece and put it back as well as any other measures that the captain saw fit. The guard were certainly unamused at the mess, though were happy that the three were at least learning their lesson. Everything was solved, the CMC were likely to be done also by this afternoon. To help lift their spirits Celestia would invite them to join her and Luna to lunch, they weren't in that serious of trouble after all. Yes, thankfully everything seemed to be back in proper order and on track. Just outside her open window she could hear the sounds of chirping birds while a warm breeze of wind gently rustled the curtains. Celestia smiled, happy once more with the direction her life was taking. With just a little more time left waste, before she had to leave for the usual appointments of running Equestria, she indulged in looking directly over Canterlot. The bustle of ponies going about their business was as comforting as the nice weather. How could she risk the perfect society she had worked so hard to create by being selfish? No, that was too negative. Luna had been at least right in that point, Celestia wasn't looking to be a martyr. It just...happened to have turned out this way. A flash of crimson among the crowd caught the Princess' attention. Without quite realizing it she'd focused in enough to recognize Big Macintosh. Until now Celestia had been quite deftly thinking around the source of her distraction, being confronted by where it had come from did little to settle the internal argument that had been raging. Not that it was Big Mac's fault, no doubt he was entirely oblivious. It was more the idea, really. Big Macintosh was actually working, surprisingly enough. Celestia watched the large stallion holding up a ladder, with another colt balancing on the top rungs and washing a window. This was a pony she did not recognize, a light brown coat with a slightly darker brown mane and, of all things, turnips on his flank. "Thanks for the help again, cuz!" The brown earth pony colt in question wobbled precariously on the ladder, not seeming to have a sense of self preservation while holding up a wet sponge. Big Macintosh looked up at him, shifting to keep the jostling ladder steady. "Just get your job done, 'for you go and break your fool neck." Nodding in agreement the window washer went back to work and the chance of his imminent death by falling seemed to vanish while he focused. They were located at a fairly busy intersection, a number of cleaning supplies set out along the street. Most of the ponies in Canterlot were going about their business and gave the pair a wide berth, not wanting to disrupt their work. Big Macintosh was right when he'd said he could find something to do. Despite having what was essentially a vacation, he'd elected to do something productive. That was certainly to be lauded, Celestia could content herself with closing the book on-. "Looking good there, stud. Wish I'd brought my camera!" A female voice sudden sounded from across the street, interrupting Celestia's thoughts. Shifting the focus of the pool a bit, she saw a gaggle of upper class mares very clearly looking towards Big Mac. The earth pony had posted up on his rear hooves, the front two holding tight onto the wooden ladder and thus set in a somewhat eye catching pose. Big Mac barely reacted to the cat call, his green eyes moving only for a second towards where it had come from before returning his focus on the ladder. That did little to discourage the five or six mares who'd begun crossing the street. "Aw, c'mon," one of the bolder ones said, the others giggling. "You're pretty cute, you don't have a marefriend do you?" That was actually a question of slight interest to Celestia, though she disapproved of the rude way they'd went about cajoling him. With a quick sigh, Macintosh shifted the bit of straw in his mouth and looked towards the group. "No, but ah ain't interested." The group, a mix of unicorns and a few earth ponies, gave a collective and disappointed 'aw' at his answer. "But why not? You like mares don't you?" Again, the boldest of the group kept at it. There was the slight sign of tension in Big Mac's jaw at that, annoyed. "Ah do, still not interested. I'm workin." The brown colt on the ladder had been looking down at them, and suddenly decided to draw attention to himself. "Hey y'all, my names Hayseed Turnip-Truck. I'm interested!" "...Uhuh." One in the back said, the mares having collectively angled their necks to look up at Hayseed. Their attention went back to Big Mac. "But you can't work forever can you? Hows a night on the town sound? You don't sound like you're from around here, bet I could show you a good time." The leader of the little clique was an attractive unicorn, obviously from good money and was likely not used to being turned down. A different mare, likely thinking she was speaking softly enough, whispered to one of her friends. "You just know he'd be able to show you an even better time later." There were, naturally, a number of giggling laughs at that. Macintosh didn't react much to either the proposition or the comment he almost certainly had heard. Instead, the farmer turned his head back to the ladder. There was a few seconds pause. "No thanks." The curt dismissal seemed to have been enough at last, though the group didn't take it well. The leader gave a frown, upset. "Yeah well, like I really wanted to spend the night with some country yokel anyway. Come on girls." A few minutes of dead silence between Macintosh and Hayseed followed, the window washer very quickly finishing his work before descending the ladder. "Shoot cuz, I ain't never had mares come up to me like that before. Why'd you turn em down?" Big Mac had been steadily packing up, putting the ladder across his back and harnessing the supplies. "They ain't worth it. Types like that just worried bout parties and the high life, don't know the important things in life. Would you rather I go with them and not help you work?" Hayseed rubbed at his hat for a second, looking a bit nonplussed. "Well it ain't like I'd blame ya none. They was as pretty as all sin." There was a momentary pause, Macintosh raised an eyebrow while looking at Hayseed. "Family is more important than a pretty face. Even if your family has about as much sense as a pile of rocks. The brown colt nodded, agreeing with the statement before pausing. "Was you just talking about me there?" Big Macintosh only sighed and the two started to make their way down the street, their cleaning equipment now packed up. They either had more work to do or were finished altogether. Either way Celestia decided to finally end her scrying spell. Before she could even dwell on what she had seen, any of it, the clock struck nine: she was now late. Annoyed at herself for forgetting the time, Celestia rose up and quickly set for the door. "We really are sorry about all the mess, Princess Celestia. It won't happen again." After two days of steady work cleaning up the armory the Cutiemark Crusaders now trudging into the dining hall looked less like their usual cheery selves and more like beaten down prisoners. Celestia smiled down at the three, glad they'd learned their lesson. "I'm sure that you will be more careful in the future, Scootaloo. All of you have worked very hard. As a reward I have had the staff prepare a special lunch. That managed to pick them up at least. Very quickly they darted into the room and placed themselves in front of the small banquet of food, happily digging in. They weren't alone, either. "Dearest Sister! We are happy to see that we were not the only one to invite a guest to lunch." Luna was positively beaming, a rather cheery air about her. Her guest was looking severely at his own sister. "Applebloom, you'n your friends know better than to eat 'for the Princess even has had a chance to sit down. Where'd all your manners go?" Big Macintosh's voice had taken on a deep, reproving tone for the usually silent pony. That tone had its effect though; Applebloom instantly wilted and stopped eating, her two friends following suit. "Sorry, big brother. We was just hungry." Celestia was glad that the room, save her sister, were not looking her way. No doubt the obvious surprise that Luna had brought him here was written all over her face. Surprise was quickly changed into a suspicious stare at her sister, which Luna was returning with a look of amused superiority. Only a beat behind where she should have been, Celestia advanced towards the table. "Its quite alright, Big Macintosh. There is no need for excessive formality. You're all welcome to eat." Then she sat down, her eyes moving right back to her sister. Celestia didn't need magic to imagine Luna's voice in her head. After so many countless years together their traded looks carried the entire unsaid conversation. Why did you bring him here? What ever do you mean, sister? He is an honored guest. Why should it be a problem? Considering our previous conversation you know very well why it might be a problem. But you said it was a 'possibility'. Have you actually started to think of him as- This wasn't going to be something Celestia could win; she looked away first. Luna was smiling all the more now, obviously well pleased that she could so effectively needle her older sister without so much as saying a word. Rather than looking her way, and having to face all the unbearable smugness, Celestia instead began to eat. The Cutiemark Crusaders had already made impressive inroads on the meal, even Big Macintosh had started eating his sizable portion. There was silence between the six of them for a moment, though Luna had not touched her plate just yet. For a fearful moment Celestia thought her younger sister would take a more active step in her self-appointed matchmaking. But instead she turned towards the trio of fillies. "It is now the daytime, two days since our last meeting, and we remain quite unafraid. Is it safe to declare our victory in our little game?" Luna had leaned forward a tad bit, trying to make her question sound as casual as possible. The three paused for a second, Applebloom swallowed the food in her mouth and then shook her head. "Night Fright? Nope, Princess. We're still playin." A stricken look fell on Luna's face as Scootaloo chimed in. "Yeah, you can't play Night Fright during the day, that wouldn't work. The game starts again when the sun goes down. We couldn't really play yesterday because we had to clean the guard room." "But we have lots of ideas now! Its going to be a lot of fun!" Sweetie Belle gestured with a fork to show just how excited she was. Applebloom scowled a bit, nudging her unicorn friend. "Don't give it away, dummy." "I wasn't!" Now Celestia was the one smiling, her little sister much less so. But before Luna could speak a masculine voice interjected. "Are you playing that game again, the one you know you ain't suppose to play, with Princess Luna?" Big Macintosh had stopped eating, turning once again at his sister and her friends and frowning. Applebloom gave her big brother another guilty look, apparently they'd forgotten he was there and overhearing the conversation. "Er...well. Mayor Mare and you all told us not to play it in Ponyville. Since we're in Canterlot we tho-" "I don't want to hear none of that. You near scared Miss Fluttershy and Miss Golden Harvest out of their wits. Princess Luna has a lot more important things to do than be looking around every corner for you to try and jump out at her. Sides', you don't need to go messing up the castle more'n you already have. Miss Fluttershy, Applejack and I spent a week trying to get all the red paint off her pets." "Aw, but we didn't mean to make it look that realistic." Scootaloo complained. The two princess' were, for once, far from the center of a conversation. Celestia had never heard of this game, though she thought it sounded rather fun. There was a lot of information in what Big Mac had just said, it was also the most she'd ever heard him speak at one time. Also by all appearances the Cutiemark Crusaders were rather committed to their games, not that Celestia didn't know that already given what she'd observed them doing the first night. She had to extend some sympathy for her sister, assuming they were still going to be allowed to carry out their schemes. "If Princess Luna still wants to play would that be okay?" Sweetie Belle had put her hooves together and pleaded with Big Macintosh, as well as at Luna, for permission. There was a moment of hesitation, Big Macintosh looked towards Luna. Celestia could see that her little sister very much wanted to say no. The three fillies had already deployed their most pitying looks, which was rather amusing when she considered that what they were begging for was a chance to try and scare Luna half to death. It was best to stay as neutral as she could, though Celestia could feel her grin widening despite her best efforts to school her features. Evidently Luna saw that as well, and didn't like the reality that her older sister was going to endlessly tease her that three little girls had managed to get under her skin. "No, it is...quite alright, Big Macintosh. We are still willing to play." "Yay!" The trio of fillies were overjoyed at getting their way. Big Mac shrugged, washing his hooves of the issue and going back to his meal. Luna looked less than pleased, but was now fully committed. This was how Celestia had envisioned the week going. Pleasant, peaceful and not requiring a great deal of involvement on her part. Luna had a tendency to sometimes overreact, she'd learned a minor detail of Celestia's personal life and had thought it necessary to raise uncomfortable notions. Why did her little sister feel the need to push for something as time consuming and distracting as romance when she had everything she could ever want now? Her stomach rumbled a bit, much of her food still in front of her on the plate. The rest of the day was sure to be busy, an aide set to bring her daily schedule any minute. If she didn't want to be hungry while working she'd better think while eating. With the rest of the table at their meals, some more enthusiastic than others, she felt comfortable enough in finishing her meal. Returning to the topic, Celestia had to conclude that having Big Mac here had added more to that enjoyable atmosphere. In a strictly platonic manner, of course. He was a fine pony, one that Celestia wouldn't mind getting to know a little better in the future. The short moment she'd seen earlier today could attest to that desire; he certainly had traits that she could admire. How could she not like someone who was willing to work despite having a vacation and no responsibility? He had standards, was apparently reserving himself and took the notion of relationships seriously. By now Notetaker, her aide, had arrived and presented the schedule. Curious, but the young mare seemed a bit uneasy. It was likely because she was new at her job, her mother, the previous aide, had retired only last month. Enjoyable domestic scenes and the reinforcement of just why she could be content with her life aside; Celestia had work to do. But upon unfolding the paper and looking it over, she couldn't help but feel confusion. There was nothing there. Nothing scheduled as far as work. All that was written was 'Personal Time: All Day'. Lowering the paper, she gave her aide a questioning look. "Notetaker, I appreciate the sentiment but I would like to see the real schedule." The young mare gave her a strained smile, her eyes flicking across the table for a second. "Your majesty, that is your schedule for the day." Luna cleared her throat. "We took the liberty of talking to your staff, dear sister. It appears that in our absence you have never taken a true 'personal day'. We would be happy to oversee your work schedule and knew you would not mind the chance to relax." Back to this again. Celestia did everything in her power not to frown or otherwise react; there were a number of ponies watching them. Her sister had forced her into a corner, correctly guessing that she'd never overrule her on something so seemingly minor. A disagreement like that would raise very uncomfortable subjects better left private. Celestia had to conclude that this must have been what it usually felt like to be in Luna's position whenever one of her plans worked properly, not unlike biting into a lemon. "Ah, well. Thank you Luna. I hardly know what I'll do with so much free time." That was all she could say, though the last part was certainly true. An hour or two in her bedroom to wind down a day was one thing, but a whole afternoon and evening? Notetaker departed as quickly as she arrived. No doubt Luna's impromptu decree had been taken with some trepidation by a staff that knew their Princess was a committed workaholic. Now she had nothing to do and nowhere to go. Trying to quietly slip out and insist on a proper schedule would be almost as bad as publicly disagreeing with her sister. Celestia was left dead in the water, the one silver lining was that feeling lost was hardly a surprise anymore. She'd been stumped now half a dozen times in the last few days and it was starting to bother her. The world around her was receiving the bare minimum of attention; just enough to still look like she was eating and following the excited banter at the table dominated by the Cutiemark Crusaders. What would she do with her free day? The dining room began to empty itself. Luna was first, head held high and off to be actively immersed in the busy hustle of daytime affairs in Equestria. That would be good for her; Celestia took small solace in that fact. Luna still craved social activity and she was more than competent to handle running the whole of Equestria by herself. The only downside to that plan was that it left Celestia with nothing to do. The Cutiemark Crusaders were next. With their food devoured the three were quick to make their departure with a chorus of energetic giggles. Evidently they knew how to spend their day and would probably happily accept Celestia joining them, should she ask. That hardly seemed appealing to the Princess of the Sun though, not unless she wanted to get trapped in a similar sort of game as her sister had. That only left... " 'Scuse me Princess." Big Macintosh said, rising up from the table and wiping his mouth with a napkin. The large farmer was already turning and heading off somewhere. Now, considering the proposition, Celestia knew what Luna had been playing at. She was playing matchmaker after all, a galling prospect. For a moment Celestia considered letting Big Mac walk out of the hall, and out of her thoughts for the day. She could just spend the afternoon doing...something, likely by herself. But in a way that would be admitting that she really was afraid of the notion of becoming involved with another pony. After all of her speeches about friendship, especially to Twilight, she'd end up an enormous hypocrite if she ducked out now. "Ahem, Big Macintosh?" Celestia heard herself say, her mouth moving automatically without much thought. It had the desired of effect of stopping him, though. Big Mac paused, began to turn around and raised an expectant eyebrow at what she would say next. But what should she say or ask? Something that would involve him spending part of the day with her. Curiously enough it seemed that her heart was beating a touch faster than usual. There was a unmistakable tension of nervousness, too. All this just because she was about to ask a pony to provide her company? But she needed to come up with something quickly, lest the moment become more awkward. "Since I have now found myself without anything to do today, just now." Already off to a terrible start, she'd said 'now' twice. "I was wondering if you were busy. I was...considering adding some fruit trees to the royal gardens." No she hadn't, Celestia could hardly remember the last time she'd even been in the gardens. "Considering your experience, would you be interested in providing me your expert opinion? On apple trees, that is." Big Macintosh was now giving her a long, confused look. Celestia couldn't help but feel absolutely mortified at herself. Somewhere in a very short few sentences she'd lost her usually articulate manner of speaking. It shouldn't have been so hard to ask, but her words had started to tumble out. Now she'd went and lost her cool, the serious gravitas that could make any request seem like a matter of complete urgency. Her name was used in oaths, held with a near deity like reverence, and she was on the verge of blushing while asking a pony to spend the afternoon with her. Not one of her best moments. But her fears were allayed after a few moments pause. Big Mac gave her a passive shrug. "Sure, Princess. Ain't likely I'll be able to help all that much though." It had taken almost the entire trip out to the Royal Gardens before Celestia had calmed down enough to enjoy herself. The walk had passed without comment or words, the two side by side and hardly even looking at one another. But the sound of songbirds, the warmth of the sun, when they first stepped out onto the grass of the grounds had helped let out a great deal of tension she hadn't been aware she was holding. It was the lack of purpose that she was enjoying. Celestia had realized that fact a few minutes later while they strolled through the gardens. The novelty was a more enjoyable version of what she'd experienced a few days ago at dinner, the flow of events out of her control. Even the gardens, which more accurately resembled a untamed forest now, seemed like some new thing. The myriad flowers and various animals offered a great deal to look at, much of it very beautiful. Her silent companion was certainly adding to the pleasant atmosphere. Celestia had to admit that a solitary walk through the gardens would not have been the same. He was here because she'd asked, but Celestia still could enjoy that sense of...was it fellowship they shared? Big Macintosh had been welcome to say no after all, she hadn't ordered him, she got the sense that he would likely have if he'd had other business. As usual Big Mac was taking the moment as he usually did: with stoic passivity. As comfortable as the silence was, sooner or later she would have to follow through with the pretense of why they were out here. What was it again? Oh right. Apple trees. They'd been walking through the gardens, past various trees and scampering animals for a few minutes and yet he hadn't said a word. Big Mac had been glancing around while Celestia had spent most of her time looking at him and thinking. "Do you see anywhere good?" she asked, pausing in her walk. Macintosh did likewise, turning halfway to face her. He seemed to really like having a bit of straw in the corner of his mouth, Celestia watched it move from one side to the other. Was it the same one from earlier today? After a few seconds Big Macintosh seemed to have collected his thoughts and answered. "Anywhere good?" Was she missing something? "For planting?" confused, Celestia extended her left wing and gestured towards the garden to demonstrate. Big Mac looked nearly as confused as she did, he slowly lifted up a hoof to scratch at his orange mane. "Er, planting apple trees in a forest, with plants and critters ain't the best way to get apples." Oh. Celestia felt a bit foolish now, her knowledge on agriculture was apparently more limited than she realized. "Ah, of course. My mistake." Of course Macintosh was too nice to lord something like that over her. He nodded only nodded, adjusting that piece of straw, and continued. "The trees would grow, of course. Reckon a earth pony could get just about anything to grow. But if'n you want apples to be big and altogether good to eat you're gonna need some space. Got to have a lot of room for the roots to spread out, get the nutrients. Also the animals are liable to eat up whatever does grow, no offense meant fer the critters of course." Obviously he knew his trade well, Celestia couldn't help glancing down towards his flank and the symbol of his special talent. A green apple, split down the middle and showing its seeds. Each cutiemark held immense significance towards its owner, and even the most taciturn of ponies would usually open up with complete enthusiasm to tell the story of how they had found their place in the world. Now she was faintly curious how Macintosh had gained his. But they were having a different sort of conversation. "What would you recommend then?" she asked, tilting her head a bit after the short introduction into the considerations of farmers. "Well..." Big Mac set his face for a moment in thought, looking out around the garden. "Lest you wanna tear trees down, which I ain't about to suggest, you might be able to grow some graftage up closer to the palace. Applejack usually handles setting up the proper rootstock but I reckon you'll want the Mark type. Anypony that tells ya to get a M Nine ain't really in the business of healthy trees so much. Anyway, you'll also want to get more'n one breed. Golden Delicious, Gala and Empire are some of what we grow and they usually work well for pollinating one another....er, you get all that, Princess?" She hadn't, not really. Celestia knew that farming was complicated, at least in a scholarly sense, but to hear it described in plain terms was daunting. "I admit that I feel a little lost," she said with a shrug of her wings. The farmer actually grinned at that, nodding. "You usually are If'n you're not really in the business. Ain't a problem though, I reckon you ain't likely to be growing them much yourself. I'd be happy to set up a deal with whoever you have running the grounds out here." There was a sound of rustling foliage off to their right, a old brown earth pony with a frumpy looking hat emerged from behind a bush. "Sorry for snooping, your highness, but I think this big fella was talking about me." "Ah," Celestia began automatically. "It's no problem..." There was a pause as she struggled to recall her gardener's name. It'd been awhile since she'd even been out here, certainly years. She'd never had much of a gr- "Green Hoof, this is Big Macintosh." The two earth ponies looked one another over, Big Mac giving a respectful nod and extending a hoof which the old grounds keeper returned with a friendly smile. "Always like to meet one of the Apple Family. You part of the farm that makes that Zap Apple Jam?" Macintosh had lowered his hoof after the shake, another nod. "Eeyup." "Got to admit its some of the finest tasting jam I ever did have. Anyway, I hear we're setting up some apple trees?" Green Hoof looked towards Celestia with an upraised eyebrow. She'd drifted out of their back and forth for a moment. Her thoughts had drifted towards the realization that Green Hoof had been essentially left out here in the gardens for what had to have been decades. The time really had flown by, she could recall the day that she'd interviewed him for the position. Now he was much older and surely on the verge of retirement; she'd need to hire a new replacement soon. "Er, Princess?" He spoke up again, startling her out of her thoughts. Refocusing now, looking at the both of them, she realized that she'd missed her cue. "Sorry, I was thinking of something else. Yes, I think some fruit in the gardens would be an excellent addition for any ponies who might be having a walk." The more she said that the more Celestia was starting to like the sound of the idea. Big Macintosh was rubbing at his chin for a moment and gestured off back towards the Palace. "I saw an open spot of grass next to the palace. Hows the PH in the soil 'round here?" Green Hoof chuckled, looking out where Big Mac had pointed. "Always a bit of a tricky situation up here in Canterlot, big fella. This here mountains got a whole mess of metal in it, lots of aluminum I think, so usually the soil gets pretty acidic after awhile. I don't remember the last time I did a proper check on the grounds near the palace, probably going to need some treatment." There was a brief, contemplative frown from Macintosh. "Ain't a problem. Whenever we plant for a customer we'll lay limestone down for free the first time, if it needs it anyway." Celestia had a feeling that having Twilight here could have helped shed a bit more light on this conversation, assuming that her student was well versed in this particular field of study. The two continued to talk shop, arranging to do all the initial ground work in the next two days or so. Big Macintosh wanted a look at the dimensions of the grounds to plan out spacing, while Green Hoof suggested that it was better to arrange things in a less rigid manner. Ultimately they decided to defer that decision until after they'd had an in depth look at the soil. Green Hoof had some more business to do around the grounds and quickly left after that. Then it was just Celestia and Big Macintosh again, a silence falling while they stood there for a moment without words. Celestia didn't actually want it to end, the excuse to go for this little walk had been already tied up quite neatly. At least Macintosh would be around for the next few...well, that was getting ahead of herself, they'd only been walking through the woods together. She cleared her throat, tapping a wing to her mouth to complete the gesture. "I suppose you ended up providing quite a bit of help after all, Big Macintosh. Your depth of knowledge for your field is quite impressive." Macintosh shrugged following her praise. "Ain't nothing to it Princess, it's what we Apples are good at." Ah, a good opening. Celestia nodded, smiling graciously. "And is that what your special talent is? I have always been a bit curious about the Apple family and their tendency to have such thematic cutiemarks. If you don't mind, how did you earn yours?" Again, he shrugged. There seemed to be a trend in Big Mac pausing deliberately, looking like he was thinking deeply about any question he was asked. Then he'd shift the ever present straw in his mouth to the other side. Followed by his answer. "Not much of a story about it I'm afraid. I was out in a field one day with my Pa. We talked, and at the end of it I had my mark. Been a apple farmer ever since." Celestia couldn't help but blinking at that answer. It really had been 'not much of a story' apparently. But no, that couldn't be all there was. There had to have been a lot more to the story, it was just that Macintosh was avoiding having to share it. That was fair enough, Celestia was certainly not about to share her own story of how she'd got her sun, but it also made her want to know all the more. The increasingly enigmatic stallion surprised her by speaking up. "Princess, can I ask ya a question?" He was looking unusually engaged then, his eyes meeting hers. "Of course you can, Big Macintosh. What would you like to know?" Now she was a little nervous, her mind immediately jumped to a plethora of questions that would be difficult for her to answer. 'Why did you really ask me out here?' 'Are you interested in me?' 'Would you like to go out for a date?'. That last one was very unlikely, but it did leave her a bit on the skittish side. It turned out to be none of those things. "Granny Smith's been telling Applejack, Applebloom and I about how she helped found Ponyville for as long as I can recollect. I was wonderin if you remember anything about my great grandpappy, since you gave him the first deed and all." Ah, that was certainly not the question she would have guessed he'd ask. But was there something hidden there? No, she had to be over thinking it. It was, however, a reminder at just how intimately tied she'd become to so many personal histories. Drawing upon the memory that was not so distant to her, Celestia smiled at the memory. "He was a fine gentlepony. Your great-grandparents and grandmother were all very thankful when I presented the chance to settle. We had a party to celebrate the founding of the town, but I can't recall if they stayed for the occasion." There was a pause, then Big Macintosh chuckled. "The way Granny Smith told me'n Applejack, when we was older, Great Grandpappy Acorn was a bit of a skirt chaser. Great Granny Rosy Glow apparently kept a bit of a tight leash on him. Reckon that's why they didn't come round to your party, Princess, didn't want him getting distracted by all the pretty mares and royalty." She laughed, Celestia couldn't help it. The look of jealousy written all over the aforementioned married mares face so long ago, when her husband had knelt to kiss his princess' hoof in thanks, suddenly made a great deal of sense. Macintosh was chewing on his straw again, watching her while there was another shared, comfortable silence. He really was quite nice to spend time with, for a variety of reasons. The biggest one was that, as had been demonstrated throughout this little excursion and before, Big Macintosh was not overawed by her presence. As far as she could tell he almost seemed to treat her as an equal. Though he was also studiously respectful, which was certainly a plus as well. It appeared there was something after all to what her sister had said before. Some, anyway. But it had to come to an end. After a deep breath she turned towards the palace. "I think we should head back, unless you'd rather spend more time out in the gardens." It was fine though, Celestia had had quite a bit of fun, but she wasn't interested in dominating all of Big Mac's time. His natural rhythm of doing things was getting a bit easier to anticipate. There was a shrug of his shoulders, which were quite nicely defined she noted, then he nodded. "Sounds fine to me, Princess." They'd started to walk then, without thinking it Celestia spoke up. "Macintosh, it is quite okay if you just call me Celestia." There was a flash of...something on his face, like he was about to frown. Big Macintosh had glanced towards her without turning his head and he was silent for a moment, guarded. "If'n you want me to P...Celestia, I will." Her name sounded strange to her ears without the preface of her title. Almost nobody dropped etiquette around her, and she hardly ever asked or granted permission for anyone to do so. Big Macintosh was likely just confused at the request, trying to gauge the intention. Even Celestia had some trouble answering that to herself: why did Big Mac get to be different? Ultimately Celestia had to suppose that, in the still highly theoretical notion of a romantic relationship, any pony would have to be her relative equal. Deferential titles somewhat undercut that notion. So naturally they would have to be dispensed with. Not that Big Macintosh was now set as such, no no. It was just a...test run, practice. Practice for whenever the proper potential romantic interest came around. It was no rush, Celestia liked her plans to take centuries to develop if at all possible. It just so happened that, whenever she devoted some time to think about it, the theoretical stallion had a tendency to posses a vaguely Big Macintosh like shape. They ended up walking all the way back to the palace together. Their parting with very much friendly, with Celestia a little sad to see him leave. Now that she'd had a taste for...whatever the walk might be called, she wanted more. But social niceties could not so easily be ignored and these things would take time to properly develop. Besides, even if she had no official business to do she could still see how Luna was handling Equestria. Nothing appeared to be on fire, which was a promising start. It did look like the day was going quite well as a matter of fact. Apart from the possibility of the end of the world Celestia might even say that the week was one of the best she'd had in a long while. Trotting down the marble corridors of her palace, the Princess of the Sun contemplated the idea of going for a flight. It was another thing she hadn't done in quite awhile, not for fun. It was her day off, after all, and relaxing didn't seem to be quite as bad as she'd feared. Author's Note Well this was kind of the chapter from hell. I ended up fleshing it out pretty well I think. I'm certainly glad that I finished it! As you can plainly see I remembered that this was suppose to be something like a romantic story and so included the fluffy feeling parts. Also remember that Celestia is a unreliable narrator, even in her own head. Denial is not just a river in egypt, after all. Also, I am not even close to an expert on norse mythology or farming/horticulture. If you, the reader, are either of those things and I have committed grave sins against all that you love please tell me. Also the norse really did have rap battles, which is the most amazing thing I have ever learned from the internet.
Love sought is good, but giv'n unsought is better, Part One.Luna felt positively giddy while entering her bedroom. It had been a truly marvelous day, easily one of her most favorite in her significantly long life. Running court in the day had been better than she could have ever imagined. Luna now knew what kept her older sister functioning so well after all these centuries. The Princess of the Night had helped settle no less than five disputes and still had time to converse pleasantly with dozens of ponies; servants, courtiers and visitors alike. They'd all been very happy to speak with her. The warm glow of all of that attention, the need and admiration for her special set of skills hadn't yet left despite it being many hours later. It was also exhausting, though, and Luna had blown right through her usually scheduled nap. Now came the simple reality of her break from the norm. Luna wasn't going to be overseeing her beloved night tonight. It wasn't the first time she'd been absent, not even including the thousand years of her banishment. On occasion she'd had the flu, or was away on important business without time to attend to more than the raising of her particular celestial body. Equestria could handle an evening without her watching over her subject's dreams or altering the orbit of the moon just enough to make it all the more impressive. Luna still had a great fondness for her night, but the complete newness of ruling in Celestia's place made her want to do it all over again. Luna even had some potential plans to do just that, in fact. She wasn't the only one who had had a marvelous day, not if the utterly relaxed way her older sister had strolled into a meeting was anything to go by. The difference in how Celestia had carried herself was startling, Luna had used the term 'strolled' while thinking about it and it was a completely apt description. Her older sister always went places with a purpose, her head high up and proud in all of her regal glory. That was not the same Celestia who had admired artwork, chit-chatted with a few passing workers and then nibbled on treats in the throne room while Luna kept working. They hadn't had a much longer talk than a few minutes before her older sister had announced she was taking a leisurely flight, and was then off. The plan to give Celestia some much needed downtime was paying off handsomely it seemed. That kind of wild success was sure to result in more afternoons like today if all went well. Luna even envisioned a sharing of the day and night on occasion. Instead of them both ruling strictly according to their particular half of the day, Luna might enjoy daytime responsibilities and all of the daytime ponies that went with it. But all of that excitement had taken its toll on her. Luna sighed when she nuzzled into her bed, putting the covers over herself and pressing her head onto a fluffy pillow. Sleep came on her instantly, a sleep that needed no magical influence. It wasn't long before the black nothingness of unconscious was transformed into vivid colors and sounds. As a mistress of dreams Luna was always lucid inside of them. But it was a rare treat for the Princess to even have a dream without provoking one on purpose, and so she simply settled back to allow her dream state to flow without tampering with it. Soon she recognized where she was and what she was dreaming of. A distant memory; Celestia and her playing about as young fillies in a forest. "Where are you? Sunny?" The young version of Luna, only a pegasus at this point, called aloud. She peered suspiciously through thick bushes, not liking being by herself. There was a few stifled giggles, coming somewhere off to her right. Looking that way, the young filly took a step back at the sight of a great gray furred wolf. Its teeth were enormous, globs of drool landing on the ground as it stared at her with ravenous hunger. Her eyes widened as tears welled up, fear going beyond any possible rational thought kept the filly completely rooted to the ground. "P...p..." Was about as far as the young Luna could manage, unable even to muster the words begging the creature not to devour her. The enormous creature took a step forward and then its form wavered out of shape before the illusion crumbled entirely. All that was left where the wolf had been was a white coated unicorn filly with a bright pink mane, rolling on the ground laughing. "You should have seen the look on your face Lulu!" "I...I.." Luna sniffed, her cheeks becoming wet as she gave a hiccup of a sob. "I'm telling Dad!" Immediately bolted for the opposite direction, as fast as she could. The dream faded to the sounds of her older sister calling after her. "I didn't mean it Luna! Come back you big baby!" Father always had said that they were the most beautiful, and wonderful, daughters that any pony could hope for. As bright as the sun and as captivating as the moon that he'd named them after. That was so long ago that the memory hardly felt like more than a fragment, her imagination filling in sections she could not recall. For instance, Luna was fairly certain that she'd exaggerated how much Celestia had scared her. It had been more like she'd jumped out of the bushes and yelled 'boo'. That was right, there wasn't a wolf. Neither of them had known what a wolf was back then, they had not had any reason to be afraid. Her sleep was disturbed by something on the edge of her perception, the Princess couldn't quite make it out but somehow three distinct young voices had filtered into her subconscious. There was something important about those familiar, hushed whispers, something she'd forgotten before going to sleep. The door to her bedchambers suddenly slammed shut. Luna jolted awake and immediately sat up to look about her room for what had caused the noise. Her senses were all on high alert, but nothing seemed out of place. She was out of breath now, hooves planted on her sheets. Putting the pieces back together on what had happened, Luna realized that the Cutie Mark Crusaders must have paid a visit to her room...again. Right, Night Fright, that ridiculous game that she had blundered into playing now twice. Well, it looked like nothing was amiss. Perhaps the three fillies had not been expecting Luna to retire to bed so soon. Yes, that was probably it. They had been surprised she was asleep and had ran out of the room out of fear of being caught. Breathing a sigh of relief she reached up with a hoof to rub at a bit of sweat that had formed along her nose. Her hoof was wet. Luna's brow crinkled into confusion when she felt liquid touch her nose, it was coating her hoof. Looking down at her sheets she realized that the fabric was actually completely soaked. Her horn became alight, pale blue illumination showed...red? With mounting trepidation the Princess of the Moon slowly pulled away the covers to reveal nothing. There was nothing at all in her bed. But where had all of the red, it was most definitely not water, came from? Luna was in the earliest stages of being completely 'freaked out' and was not at all amused at whatever had just happened to her bed. Drip A large red droplet of something landed on her head. Then there was another. Luna looked up and met the gaze of the decapitated head of a pony staring right into her eyes. All of the Royal Palace could hear Luna's screams after that, with various degrees of concern and surprise. The only exception were three very entertained little girls who gave each other high fives at a successful plan. Princess Celestia couldn't help but laugh as she recalled the entertainment of last night. Her top staff and bureaucrats all turned to stare at their Princess, who had apparently decided to start have a giggle fit in the middle of a very boring budget meeting. Usually Celestia would be upset with herself for that serious breach of gravitas, it was entirely inappropriate to interrupt Prince Blueblood as he rambled on about his suggestions on changing the tax code. But it had been simply too amusing to listen to Luna tell, in near hysterics, what she'd found above her bed when she woke up. "My apologies, I was thinking of something funny." Celestia assured her budget committee, waving them off to continue. A surprisingly realistic prop pony head, covered in thick fake blood. In dim lighting and a groggy state it would look exactly like the real thing and had done its job admirably. Luna had slept in her bed the rest of the night. That in itself was rather adorable, Luna hadn't done that since they were exceedingly young. Even before they returned to Equestria, finding it under the domain of Discord. That was ancient history and Celestia reminded herself that she should be paying attention. Fortunately Prince Blueblood loved to hear the sound of his own voice as he'd hardly broken stride at the minor interruption. "-Over the last four years we've seen a three percent decrease in revenues from foreign imports. I would like to submit to the committee a paired increase on tariffs from the Gryphon Kingdom and a reworking of the code of sub-section A, clause four, of the Joint-Equine Trade Development Law of..." Blueblood shuffled the papers for a moment to review the year that the law had been made. "of 845, Equestrian Harmony," Celestia finished it for him, sighing and reaching for her cup of tea. She didn't know every single law she'd ever made. She'd signed it over twelve hundred years ago and strangely it was easy to remember. Though she couldn't recall why she remembered it, just that there was a good reason. For a second there was a flash of worry easy to discern on the boorish unicorn's face. Interesting, he hadn't wanted her to know what he was talking about. Celestia slipped into her 'attention' mode, focusing on Blueblood more than she had been. Some ponies were as easy to read as a book, and Blueblood had more tells than a gossip. "Yes, you're quite right your highness," he shuffled his papers again and gathered himself together for a moment. "As I was saying. I would recommend a striking of the section dealing with stiff tax penalties on businesses or individuals seeking direct acquisition of foreign market infrastructure." She was almost insulted that Blueblood thought he could overwhelm her with big words, but the only way that Celestia reacted to the suggestion was to lift an eyebrow carefully. Blueblood squirmed under her watchful gaze, which she'd been doing only for the added pleasure of it. What he was up to wasn't hard to figure out now. His recommendation had sparked her memory about why the incredibly arcane and dense tax code had that particular aspect. Back then it had been to prevent predatory business ponies from dominating the vulnerable new nation of Hayti, whose economy wouldn't have been able to handle carpetbaggers buying up land and capital. In fact, some of Blueblood's ancestors had tried fundamentally the same trick as he was now. "I'm afraid that I will have to deny both of your suggestions, Blueblood. I would also like to remind you that the spirit of harmony promotes mutual cooperation, not exploitation of our neighbors who might be in a vulnerable economic position." Celestia sipped her tea again, finishing while narrowing her eyes over her cup to complete her message. With the jig up, Blueblood wilted and nodded unhappily. Celestia was sure she'd just saved Cadence and Shining Armor from a serious headache. The newly returned Crystal Empire was little better than a city state at this point, and it would take a great many years before it could hope to return to its former glory. They did not need the kind of help that Blueblood would have had in mind. "Say, sonny, can you go fetch me another bag of fertilizer? My back ain't what it use to be." "Eeyup." Celestia looked to her right over the balcony of the marble terrace adjacent to the Royal Canterlot Gardens. Big Macintosh walked over to a pile of supplies and placed a heavy looking bag over his back. At this time of day the sun was fairly hot, both Green Hoof and Big Mac working up a visible sweat, which even she could see a good distance away, while steadily planting the first apple trees of the garden's new apple orchard. Her focus lingered out onto the field, eyes unable to entirely stray away from the work being done in general and a certain red coated stallion in particular. Now there was a respectable pony, all of Canterlot 'high society' could learn a thing or two about how to act from his example. All she'd asked was Big Mac's opinion about apple trees and here he was the next day planting some for her without any issue. Apparently he'd went right back to Ponyville and brought them here right after they'd went for a walk in the garden. She'd need to come up with another reason to spend some time with h- "Ahem, your highness?" A voice next to her spoke up, jerking Celestia out of her idle thoughts. She quickly looked back at the gathered assembly of her highest government officials and realized she'd been staring. Now Blueblood, who had tried to steer the conversation away from his faux pas, was the one arching an eyebrow while looking her way. He spoke up in place of Pencil Pusher, who'd first tried to get her attention. "Perhaps we should move the meeting back into the regular room? The gardeners are a bit...loud at the moment, you'd think they didn't know an important meeting was occurring here." Blueblood rolled his eyes, demonstrating how little he thought of the two out on the field digging up holes. Celestia had to resist giving her 'nephew' a less than pleased look, he was being unusually unbearable today. "It is quite alright. I rather like the change of atmosphere myself," she quipped, giving a flap of her wings to resettle them and appear as pleasant as possible while tilting her head. "I didn't make the day too hot, did I?" As she expected there were a chorus of 'No your highness' after that seemingly innocent question. It was a nice little reminder about who exactly was the Princess here. But still, she'd just been caught staring and that was more than a little embarrassing. That might have bothered Celestia more than it did just a few days ago, when maintaining a stately disposition had been essentially her entire identity. At this point Celestia was realizing just how right her sister had been with her advice. Centuries of endless work, and little in the way of personal time, had left her more than a little uptight. "Good then," Celestia lifted up a few weighty sections of the next fiscal years budget. "Lets move onto a review of appropriations." Finding out how much she'd been missing with a bit of relaxation didn't mean work ended, though. The meeting moved on, a few sighs unavoidable at the decision to move onto perhaps the least exciting portion of their duties. At least it was nice outside, not that the Canterlot Weather Team would ever let it not be nice unless it was scheduled. Celestia had moved this meeting out to the terrace for the first time in...well, none of the ponies at the table would be able to remember. Neither would their parents, in fact, and the span of time didn't even seem that enormous to her. The inspiration had arrived when Green Hoof had submitted a request to start work this morning, mentioning that Big Macintosh was going to be involved. It just seemed like a good idea to make a change on the spur of the moment, attempting to be spontaneous had been quite enjoyable so far. Celestia just couldn't resist the chance to make the move. It was easy to think of other things while leafing through the lists of where particular bits were moving, but then her eyes caught an interesting figure. Farm subsidies were unusually low in some areas and high in others. This needed investigation. After she procured a more specific and weighty list of past budgets for review she realized what had occurred. Over the years certain farms, mostly fruit producers, had been able to return profits at such high rates that increases in their subsidies hadn't seemed necessary. Vegetables, by contrast, had not fared so well and thus got an increase to keep them running. Such was the logic of bureaucrats and now the thing subsidies were made to avoid, a race to the bottom in fruit prices, had made it very tight for certain farmers and risked them being driven out of business. Once again Celestia drifted to look over at Big Macintosh. She could recall half a dozen reports from Twilight that alluded to the Apple family having some financial problems. Now it made sense, and Celestia realized she had a whole new reason to see Big Mac. Of course, not that she really needed a reason it was just that it would seem rude to take up such a busy ponies time. That was it, of course. "I'll have to ask him for lunch in my office to tell him the good news." Celestia said out loud to conclude her decision. Pencil Pusher gave her a strange look. "Excuse me Princess? Tell who the good news?" Blinking, Celestia put a hoof to her mouth and coughed to give her a moment to think. "Ah, nothing important. But I did happen to notice that our agriculture department could use a little boost..." It was a monumental effort to keep her office from becoming too ostentatious. Just the sheer volume of gifts and artifacts that were acquired over the years made it difficult to figure out just where to put things. Every few decades a new museum would be dedicated when the basement of the palace could no longer hold things in storage. At this particular moment Celestia had hired a more spartan decorator and so only a few curiosities were located on desks in the otherwise very large room. It was dim, too, as the curtains were drawn, giving the room a more closed in appeal. Not that Big Macintosh appeared to notice any of it as he sat opposite of Celestia, her desk between them. Inviting him up here had been a lot easier than asking him to accompany her through the gardens yesterday. It had been a simple request, followed by a 'eeyup'. Now they were up on the top floor of the highest spire, as close to her sun as might be found anywhere in Equestria short of flying. "-and thus I have decided to include a sizable increase in your subsidy, I am very sorry for the previous years where the error was overlooked. If I could, I would make it retroactive to fit where the increase might have been, but considering all the farms in Equestria that would likely consume a large portion of the treasury." Celestia finished speaking, smiling the whole time. It was peaceful up here, and quiet. Big Macintosh gave a powerful shrug, shifting the ever present bit of straw in his mouth that Celestia had started to find was entertaining to watch in between words. "Ain't a problem Princ-, er, Celestia. The Apple Family ain't in the habit of complaining 'bout things like that. Mighty grateful that you're increasing the subsidy, but ah'd never let the farm go under if'n I could help it." That was an admirable sentiment, and one that Celestia could believe was entirely honest. "Well now you'll have some help. Without farms like yours many ponies would be stuck eating grass or very expensive food, I hardly think they'd approve very much." She chuckled at just trying to imagine it, anypony who complained about 'rewarding farmers for not producing'' would have a different opinion in a hurry after that. Nodding, Big Mac only gave a smile at her joke. Cinnamon Swirl, her personal chef, entered in through a side door, generally facing Celestia but also taking the time to regard the other occupant. "Your highness," the light brown earth pony chef began, bowing. "What would you and the gentlecolt like for lunch?" Celestia turned first to Macintosh, beckoning him to order first. There was a moments pause, Big Mac giving a rub of his chin. "Ah suppose I wouldn't mind a lettuce and tomato sandwich. Oh, and some coffee if'n ya had some." Cinnamon nodded to confirm it wasn't a problem. It was easier for Celestia to think of what she wanted, it was hard not to acquire certain favorites over a long history of requesting lunches. "I wouldn't mind a bit of chocolate cake and, " Well, perhaps something new would actually be better "....I would like some coffee as well." Now Cinnamon Swirl was giving her an odd look. Celestia couldn't blame Cinnamon either, the love affair between her and tea was almost legendary by now. But again, spontaneous. Also coffee had become very popular in her land lately, surely there was something to it. "Very well your highness. I'll be back with your meals shortly." Cinnamon bowed again, turned and left for the kitchen set not far from the office. Now both Celestia and Big Mac were alone, back to quiet intimacy. For a change, Big Macintosh was the one who spoke up only a few short moments after the door had closed. "Heard Applebloom and her friends gave Princess Luna quite a scare last night." Small talk, wonderful. Celestia beamed at the easy topic that he'd just offered. And here she'd idly worried things might become awkward. "Yes, though Luna only insists she was 'startled'. It seems their little game is still on. My little sister is not a fan of losing." Macintosh was grinning quite a bit, nodding. "Applejack's the same way. Every time her and Miss Rainbow Dash butt heads you'd think they'd sooner die than let the other win. Good thing they're friends or else it'd probably end in a hoof fight." Now there was another thing they had in common, being older siblings. "I'm sure that Luna doesn't mind your sister or her friends. She could probably do without being scared half to death though." Celestia tapped a hoof on her desk, thinking about it. "It can certainly be a challenge with younger siblings don't you think?" "Sure can, wouldn't trade what I got with 'Bloom or Applejack for the world but its nice to know they got other ponies to be friends with. Siblings ain't always able to be friends quite like other strangers can, if'n that makes sense. Specially if you're really all they got." Macintosh had been rubbing his mane for a moment. His last few words had grown a bit more solemn, a distance that she could see in his eyes. Celestia couldn't help but recall the reality that the Sweet Apple Acres clan was missing two very important figures. Even if his words had been an opening for it, she dared not ask. That was more nosy than she really felt comfortable with. After all, she'd only really gotten to know Big Macintosh for...well, since yesterday. Could they even be considered really friends? "It does make sense, you're very right Big Mac." Celestia added after a short pause, just in time for their food to be wheeled out. Cinnamon Swirl hadn't taken much time at all, though neither of their requests had been very complicated. "For the gentlecolt...and for your highness." Now her cake and steaming cup of coffee were in front of her. Cinnamon had laid out a cup in between them filled with milk and another with sugar. Big Macintosh ignored both and reached for his cup, sipping at the very black liquid and making a satisfied sound. "That's mighty fine," he commented, taking another small mouthful. Celestia peered at her own cup of coffee with a bit of trepidation. She'd never had the stuff before and could only distantly recall what others had done when drinking it near her. Something about adding cream and sugar, which were right here, but not in what amounts. Macintosh was looking at her while holding the cup up to his mouth, an expectant look. Taking up the black unaltered coffee in her magical aura, Celestia perched it to her lips and took an experimental sip. "Blagh!" She didn't manage to spit it out, having at least that much self control, but her reaction bordering on a near gag and expression told the story well enough. It tasted absolutely awful! How could ponies be so insane as to enjoy drinking coffee? It was like watery mud, only even more bitter and unpleasant. Big Macintosh had started to laugh, really the first time Celestia had ever heard him do so. It was enough to distract her from her increasingly critical first impression of coffee. "You ain't never had coffee before, have ya?" Macintosh asked her, still chuckling and setting his cup down. Celestia couldn't help blushing a little at being caught, helplessly nodding a bit while still holding her drink up. "I was curious after you ordered it." Big Mac got up out of his seat, leaning up and over her desk to grab the floating cup out of the air. For a brief moment Celestia's magical aura had wreathed itself around his hoof, which gave her a whole new reason to redden. The curious quality of that particular bit of unicorn magic was that it allowed the user to get a general 'feel' for whatever they were touching. While indirect, Big Mac had basically done the same as touching her own hoof, while at the same time she'd gotten an interesting impression. Strength, not that she needed to know that anymore than she already did. But the few seconds of magic had really driven home that important aspect of his character. Physical as well as emotional strength, she'd felt a deep inner calmness in a way that could really only be explained as 'magic'. Not that Macintosh was privy to any of that, he had probably only felt a slight tingle and then moved the captured coffee over to his side of the desk. "Takes awhile to get use to coffee, specially if ya try to go and drink it black. Ah ain't always in the most reasonable state in the morning before work so I just drink it like that. Then I'm good and awake. Now ah just like it that way, but you'd be better off with a bit of cream at least." Big Macintosh explained while ladling in few spoonfuls of sugar and then pouring in milk so that the black liquid was diluted into a more brownish color. "There ya go, try it now," satisfied, he moved it back for her consideration. With a bit of hesitation Celestia lifted it once more and tried it again. Better, far far better. That bitter taste was still there, but manageable and more like flavoring than the overpowering assault it had been before. "Ah, that is much better," she added after swallowing and then tried a bit more. Macintosh nodded, still chuckling. "Ain't got to try and impress me none, Applejack can't stand the stuff. Usually she wakes up a hour or two after me so she ain't quite so ornery when getting to work. " Conversation was halted for awhile while they had their lunch, but it was still that same comfortable silence that Celestia had grown fond of whenever she was around Big Mac. It was one of the biggest reasons she liked him so much; she never had to feel like she needed to fill space with chatter just to keep him entertained. Hopefully that would never change, Big Macintosh staying respectful and polite, but not deferential and overawed by her position. "How has the planting been going? I saw you were doing quite well earlier." Celestia decided it'd be best to start the conversation again, finishing her last portion of her cake. Macintosh put the remnants of his sandwich down and considered for a moment. "Got a bit to go, but we're making good time. Green Hoof said he's got to keep up on the other parts of the garden so I'll be out there on my own." Hm. "Oh, well that is very admirable Big Macintosh but you hardy need to do it all on your own." Celestia wasn't sure if it was possible to dissuade him though, especially if he had set his mind on it. "I'm sure I could find you some help." Shrugging, Big Mac shifted the bit of straw to the right now. "Its a job, ain't mind it none at all. Wouldn't feel right to ask a pony whose doin' something else to dig holes and plant new trees." 'Yes but then what would I have to look at?' Where had that thought come from? No, Celestia reminded herself not to get distracted by idle thoughts. Still, she didn't want Big Mac out there working all by himself. Suddenly she had inspiration. "Perhaps I could be of assistance to you, Macintosh. Personally, that is." That certainly seemed to surprise him, though there was a bit of disbelief in his eyes at the very idea, "If I were to have some free time, a little gardening might be fun." "Reckon you'd probably be able to dig up the whole garden in a few seconds if'n ya really wanted to," Macintosh spoke slowly, sounding careful in his words. "No offense Princess but fancy unicorn magic ain't always healthy for the trees, especially when they're just growing. Earth Pony magic gets down in the roots, takes awhile but that's how it works when you're out there with a shovel and some water." Now that almost sounded like a challenge. "Big Macintosh, I am familiar with earth pony magic. Along with my horn and wings I also happen to embody that aspect as well. I am more than capable of planting a garden." For once Big Mac actually seemed alarmed. He vigorously shook his head. "Ah' didn't mean it that way Princess. I'm sure ya could do the work." "Oh?" Celestia couldn't help but add a uplift to her tone while feeling a touch of amusement, a lesser version of what she'd felt when putting Blueblood on the spot. Too many centuries of messing with ponies made it almost something she did on default for entertainment. "Then what did you mean?" Macintosh appeared to be struggling to come up with a reply, his words no longer quite so measured and deliberate. "Just that, well. You seem mighty busy, I just reckoned you wouldn't have the time to do simple work like that while running Equestria. I didn't mean nothing else by it, Princess." Really., he was simply too much fun to tease. That earnestness was very cute. "Oh I'm sure you didn't mean any offense. Unfortunately you're right that I am rather busy this afternoon with a prior arrangement, so perhaps it will have to wait. But, Big Mac?" He still looked nervous, hesitant. "Er, yes?" "Its just Celestia, you've started calling me 'Princess' again." Celestia smiled, a mild reproof if anything but hearing her name without laurel or qualification felt too refreshing still to let things slip back to how they were, at least with Big Mac anyway. "Right, just sort of...unusual to call ya anything else besides that." Macintosh looked considerate, much like that guarded look she'd noticed the day before. "And why is that Big Macintosh? Aren't we friends?" Up until Celestia had been as cool as a cucumber. Teasing was an easy way to dissipate tension. But she'd went and sought an answer that had some actual risk. Did Macintosh consider them friends or was he just being polite for the sake of his Princess? Her chest was squeezing in that moment before he replied. "I suppose we are," Big Mac said slowly, the caution again with a slight frown to add to it. Celestia let out a breath. That wasn't as bad an answer as it might have seemed, since an insincere pony would probably have more readily agreed. She had to be realistic here, it was a lot to ask for to move from 'subject' into 'friend'. It would just take awhile for Macintosh to warm up into the mindset, it would take Celestia awhile too and she was the one who wanted to be friends. But that little moment had come with a price, the conversation had settled into silence once again. But this time it was not a comfortable one, and difficult to break. After a few long,empty moments Big Macintosh chose that moment to stand up and turn towards the door. There was a flash of panic, Celestia was suddenly convinced she'd badly miscalculated and ended up souring things. A little bit of teasing tended to brighten up her day, and she'd slipped into it so naturally she'd not stopped to consider the wider context of their relationship. A relationship that was, of course, just a budding friendship. But with Big Mac about to leave Celestia hardly had enough time to straighten out the nuances of what she meant. "Er, Big Macintosh?" She called, more to stop him than anything. Surely there had to be a way to recapture the conversation. She hadn't wanted the pleasant afternoon to end, especially not on an awkward note. He did pause, she hadn't expected anything else. Wait, there was an idea. "Are you going back to work in the gardens?" Celestia did her best to keep her voice steady, centuries of practice in schooling emotions were hard at work to overcome the knot in her stomach. Confusion, she could read it on his face. "Well, it still needs to get done. Since Green Hoof is busy with the rest of his duties I reckoned I might as well. Not a whole lot left anyway." Macintosh explained, turning to face her. "Ah, but here I already volunteered to help." Delicate words, she needed to be careful. Celestia was convinced she'd already bungled it, overplaying the teasing; but once committed to it there seemed to be no way to back out. "Perhaps you could come with me to the charity drive that I will be attending this afternoon?" There, a glimmer of hope. He didn't answer immediately, but his posture shifted. Macintosh set his jaw a bit, glancing off to the side and appeared to be mulling it over. "Is it alright if I ask why ya keep inivitin me out on all these things with you?" More panic, but showing it wasn't going to help. Not that there was anything to confess, but Celestia could see that there was a certain temptation to just tell him the truth. How to even phrase it though? 'My sister pointed out that I've been so immersed in my role as a Princess that I haven't had a real friend in centuries and that you're surprisingly enjoyable to spend time with'. That would only confuse the issue and Celestia just couldn't bring herself to go that route. "You're more than welcome to ask...." a temporizing statement, she busied herself with tidying her plate of food for a moment while gathering her thoughts. "I suppose I simply just enjoy your company, Big Macintosh. I hope I haven't been keeping you from something more important." There, she'd even given him an out that she hoped he wouldn't use. Fortunately for her, Big Mac shook his head. "Ain't really got anything to do, I was just curious cause I never figured I'd be the type to be entertaining royalty. I wouldn't mind going with you, whats this charity thing about?" Happy that he'd agreed to come along, Celestia rose from behind her desk and began to head for the door, with Macintosh following. "Truthfully I haven't the slightest idea what event was planned, would you be surprised to know that I have founded over one hundred charities?" Matching her stride, the farmer gave her a faintly impressed look. "That sounds might generous of you, I think I know about a couple of them. Applejack dragged me to the one about building homes for needy families or somethin', we put together the quickest house of the whole group." Heading down the spiraling staircase leading out of her palace and into Canterlot, Celestia found herself easily smiling once again. Another whole afternoon with Big Mac sounded absolutely enjoyable, he'd even started to loosen up enough to speak freely about his foray into charity. That accent of his was rather charming, she noted, all while the workpony discussed the finer details of constructing homes. Mixing friendship, and regardless of what Luna said it was likely to only be friendship, with her duties as a Princess seemed as ideal a situation as could be imagined. Author's Note Well this chapter took longer than I expected it to. 'Part One' is because I had quite a bit more to write about this particular 'day'. But for the sake of pacing and reading fatigue I felt it was best to break it up a bit. I'm already a third of the way through Part Two as well. Hopefully you enjoyed the chapter!
Love sought is good, but giv'n unsought is better, Part Two."No," the guard posted at the front of the doors to the Royal Canterlot Library might as well have been chiseled out of stone for all the give he had in him. "Aw, come on. We promised we ain't gonna mess any of the books up!" Applebloom tried to put on her best and most convincing look of adorable pleading. She'd even put her lip out! But that didn't seem to be working for the stallion on duty, nor did the similiar looks that Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle were giving seem to have any effect. Sweetie Belle tried again, they'd been at this for at least five minutes and the Cutiemark Crusaders were committed to getting inside. "Can't you please just let us in for a litt-" She didn't get a chance to finish. Annoyed, the guard cut her off. "The library is not a place to play in, it's restricted to those without a valid reason or permission. After what happened in the armory I think it's best if you find somewhere else to spend your afternoon." Now it was Scootaloo who looked ready to argue, even though she'd been the least interested in this particular adventure. "Hey! We said we were sorry. We even cleaned it all up." Yelling at the guard wasn't going to get them into the library any sooner, but it did sound more satisfying. "Without supervision of a pony that has regular access to the library you cannot enter." That was that, Applebloom could hear the tone of finality in the pronouncement. Defeated, the three friends turned around with their heads downcast. "What are we going to do now? We really almost got Princess Luna last night." Sweetie Belle gave spoken word to what they were all thinking. Scootaloo kicked a pebble that was in her way. "Maybe there's a few prank shops in Canterlot we can get ideas from. Like the place we got the dummy head and fake blood." That sounded like a decent idea, at least; but Applebloom knew that their efforts to win the game were going to take something even more convincing and terrifying. "I 'spose, but Princess Luna is gonna be onto us the next time we use some sort of regular scary stuff." The Cutiemark Crusaders were interrupted by the sound of padding feet. Looking up, Applebloom saw a very much annoyed purple dragon glaring at them. "Okay, I give up." Spike said, folding his claws over his chest. "It's been days, where's Twilight?" Confused, Applebloom glanced to her friends. "Twilight went off on some sorta adventure, Spike. She didn't send ya a letter?" "No, she didn't. So she went off to fight bad guys huh, and nobody thought to tell me?" Where he'd looked annoyed before, Spike now looked outright on the verge of exploding. Sweetie Belle was the first to step forward, putting a forehoof against his shoulder. "Aw, don't be upset, Spike. It sounded like it was a real serious emergency, Twilight and the others were probably all just thinking about stopping the Ragnawhatever." Spike didn't shy away from the touch, but he didn't look all that much happier. "I guess, so the rest of you have all been in Canterlot this whole time?" Nodding, Scootaloo gestured up at the palace right behind them. "Mhm, we've been trying to scare Princess Luna!" Squinting, the 'baby' dragon scratched his head. "Scare Princess Luna? Oh! You mean like that game where you freaked out half of Ponyville? I'm still amazed you guys managed to get the fog machines to cover the town before anyone noticed." Applebloom was happy that they had at least someone praising their past work. Even if that particular prank had put them in a whole heap of trouble for convincing the town that terrifying monsters were going to eat them. She grinned wide, "It wasn't easy! But it was kinda interesting how everypony ran into the grocery store all at once." Before they could continue talking about their past antics they all were interrupted by the sound of trumpets ringing out. Out of one of the main entrances of the palace a few dozen feet away appeared Princess Celestia, heading down the walkway and towards a carriage. Curiously enough, she wasn't alone. "Big Macintosh?" Applebloom couldn't help saying her brother's name, absolutely confused that he was walking side by side with Celestia. Not only walking, but speaking with her. Spike looked confused too, his focus on Celestia. "Huh..." Sweetie Belle looked over at the dragon, who Applebloom had always suspected Sweetie had a crush on. "Something the matter, Spike?" The purple dragon didn't speak right away, pursing his lips in thought for a moment. "Just that Princess Celestia looks...different." "Different how?" Interested, Scootaloo had joined the others to watch Celestia, Macintosh and a guard file into a waiting carriage and then set out towards the city. Shrugging, Spike turned to look at the CMC. "Happy, I guess. I'm not sure, she just doesn't look quite how she usually does when I've seen her go out to do princess stuff." "Princess Celestia isn't happy?" Applebloom couldn't help but ask, momentarily distracted from wondering what business the Princess had with her brother. Waving his hands, Spike also shook his head quickly by way of answer. "No no. Well, not unhappy. Well, how do I explain it? Princess Celestia kinda raised me when I was just hatched." "So Princess Celestia is your mom then?" Sweetie interrupted him, Applebloom had even had the same thought herself when she'd heard that. "Well..." Spike seemed to think about it for a second. "Not really, I kind of grew up with everypony in the whole Palace taking care of me, and Twilight's parents too. But I guess she kinda is? Anyway, I don't think I've ever seen Princess Celestia look so relaxed." Now that Applebloom thought about it, she'd seen Big Macintosh look more lively than she'd usually seen him. They'd been talking, hadn't even seemed to notice Spike and the three of them. "Big Mac looked pretty relaxed too. They was hanging out yesterday, something about planting an apple field." "Maybe they like each other." Scootaloo commented. Both Spike and Applebloom immediately turned to stare at the orange filly, mirrored expressions of disbelief. "What? No way!" They even had said that in unison. Scootaloo looked more confused than anything at that reaction. "Not like that! Maybe they're just like...friends or something," Even that sounded weird. Her brother might have a personal friendship with Princess Celestia? But it wasn't quite the same as what Applebloom had first jumped to, at least. "Maybe," she allowed at length. "Yeah, no way," Sweetie Belle agreed, nodding. "Besides, Miss Cheerilee and Big Macintosh are together." Wincing, Applebloom gave a strained smile. "Actually, Sweetie, Big Macintosh told me they're just friends. They went out onna date and all, Granny Smith was even talkin about great grandkids, but I don't think anything came of it." "Oh..." Sweetie's ears drooped, she looked as if she'd just heard the worst news in the world. Applebloom had known Sweetie Belle took after her older sister as something of a romantic, but it was a bit surprising to see it so openly displayed. Scootaloo was scratching her mane a bit, glancing between the two of them. "I thought Fluttershy and Big Mac were a couple. Wasn't that why she came over to your house for dinner?" "Well..." Applebloom hadn't expected to be holding such an in depth conversation about her older brother's love life today. "I think that was more about Applejack than anything, she was the one who asked Fluttershy to come over." She'd paused, just a moment to think about how the dinner had gone over and her observations when Spike chimed in looking confused. "Wait, Applejack likes Fluttershy?" "No, Spike." Applebloom sighed, rubbing at her face with a hoof. "I think my sister was just trying to set Fluttershy up with Big Macintosh, onna account that just about everypony thinks they'd be perfect for each other and all." "Ohhh, right." Spike nodding, drawing himself in on the conversation. For a moment it'd looked like he'd been about to wander off on his own. "So what happened?" Sweetie Belle prodded, evidently now 'over' the revelation that their efforts to find a coltfriend for their teacher hadn't worked out. "Hold yer horses, I was just gettin to that." Applebloom could remember the dinner they'd had. For her part, she'd thought it was altogether entertaining. But for all the adults in the room it had probably seemed pretty awkward. "Big Mac and Fluttershy hardly spoke to each other the whole time. Not that they didn't get along but, er, my brother ain't the most talkative of ponies. So nothin happened." "Oh," Sweetie and Scootaloo shrugged, not having much else to add. "What were we talking about again?" Spike asked aloud, glancing between the three of them. There was a pause, Applebloom knew they'd started talking about her brother first and that was because of..."Oh yeah, Princess Celestia and my brother.." Just saying it like that sounded weird. Not that Applebloom thought her brother wasn't good enough, but Princess Celestia was the closest thing to a deity in her mind. Imagining the tall, regal alicorn, for whom history books often set their ages by in a relationship with anyone seemed hard to believe. Spike seemed to share her sentiment, rolling his eyes. "Right, anyway. I guess I should head back to Ponyville." With a small slump to his shoulders the purple dragon turned away. "Wait, hold on a second Spike." Sweetie moved around to stand in front of him. "Maybe you could stay here and help us?" Hearing that gave Applebloom an idea. "Hey yeah! Spike, you could get in the library can't ya?" Out of the corner of her eye she could swear that the guard they'd been harassing suddenly stiffened. Spike only looked confused, slowly nodding. "Yeah, I can. Twilight and I spent a lot of time in there whenever she needed to study. How are you going to scare Princess Luna with books?" Sweetie beamed at the chance to explain what had been her idea. "I thought there would be lots of neat spells inside the magic section of the library! If Princess Luna isn't expecting it we could really get her good." "You want to go to the Starswirl the Bearded Wing?" Applebloom could see that faint alarm on Spike's face, but he hadn't quite said he wouldn't help them get in. "I mean, a lot of those spells are hard for even Twilight to cast. No offense Sweetie, but most of those spells are also kinda dangerous if you don't know what you're doing." "That's what I said." Scootaloo muttered, not one for books in any particular context. Pouting again, and this one was sure to work, Applebloom watched Sweetie Belle go in for the kill. "Aw, but you'll help tell us what would work and what wouldn't right? I know you wouldn't let me get hurt." Committed to the sell, Sweetie even batted her eyelashes. Applebloom thought that last bit was overkill. Sweetie must have been watching how Rarity got what she wanted a little too closely. Though if it had been Rarity asking Spike in that way he probably would have even fallen over himself to open the door. It didn't quite have the intended effect, but Spike shrugged. "I guess I could, I don't really have much else to do anyway," He'd spoken slowly, glancing between the three of them. Getting their way, which was their favorite thing to do, all three of the Cutiemark Crusaders jumped into the air and shouted in unison. "Cutiemark Crusader Spell Researchers, yay!" Their audience of two, if the guard was included, gave them a deadpan stare. "How do you three even know what to shout at the same time?" Spike said, rubbing a claw on the inside of his ear. "You know, I always figured gambling was illegal," Big Mac was looking around the expansive hall they'd both just entered. There were hundreds of ponies, all of them bowing low. The ground floor of the Canterlot Convention Center was packed with slot machines, card tables, roulette wheels and other games that Celestia was less familiar with. "It usually is. Except in certain locations," she answered. "At least when money is involved." Everything had stopped, as it usually did when she arrived. Macintosh looked uncomfortable, almost as much the center of attention next to her as she was. More than a few bowing ponies were sneaking a peak, and their eyes were almost certainly not on their princess. Breaks from the norm didn't happen very often, Celestia wasn't surprised. "Its quite alright, my little ponies, I hope you all enjoy the evening." That was the cue to stand, and the assembly obeyed. Passing through, Macintosh following just behind her, Celestia surveyed the crowd. There were a number of familiar faces, all of them smiling brightly. Some of these ponies were significantly older than the last time Celestia recalled meeting them. There was Biscuit, the last time she'd seen the just off-white earth pony mare she had been starting up a business. Now her vases were decorating the palace. Then there was Glitter, they'd spoken three years ago. Patches looked like he'd already retired from racing. Had it been that long? Before Celestia could think about other familiar ponies, she saw a very young unicorn foal looking with wide, eager eyes at the constant spinning symbols of a slot machine. The thing was loud, bells chiming along with the sound of bits falling in a pile. The filly in question was a few feet away from it, not even touching the slot machine but simply looking at it in wonder. Silver blue coat, darker blue mane and no cutiemark. Celestia had a hunch. Even though the official charity event hadn't started she diverted from her course to walk over and then stand next to the filly. "They have a lot more of these in Las Pegasus, you know." The young filly just about jumped out of her skin, turning and looking with wide eyes at Celestia. In a few moments she registered just who had spoken to her and bowed. "P-princess Celestia." "Its okay, my little pony," Smiling, she always smiled when dealing with children, Celestia raised a hoof and gently patted the filly on her head. "What is your name?" "I'm Rain Drop," Rain Drop said, rising onto her hooves, nearly as wide eyed as when she'd been admiring the slots. But besides her name, Rain Drop didn't seem much interested in speaking up. A little push seemed to be in order. "Maybe you should try putting a bit in and pulling the handle." She might as well have accused the little filly of murder, by how startled she had suddenly become. "W-what? Oh no, uhm, Princess. Those things are for grown ups." "It'll be okay, you have my permission. " The more eyes that drifted over to see what had stopped their Princess would end up making Rain Drop more and more nervous. For the moment she wasn't quite aware of the attention. Fortunately her encouragement did the trick, and the young filly produced a bit. One that had fallen to the floor when Celestia had startled her. Posting on her back hooves, the bit dropped in and then she tugged down onto the lever. A symphony of loud electronic sounds rang out, with the three spinning wheels inside of the slot machine moving in a blur. They settled on three symbols, all the same horseshoe. Out poured bits, Rain Drop was showered in them. But the filly only stared in awe, her mouth turning into a smile. Instantly she scooped up a bit and inserted it back into the machine. Down went the lever and the machine spun. Rain Drop did not win that time, but that didn't stop her. By now the whole building was looking her way, along with what appeared to be her parents approaching. While Rain Drop didn't see it, there had been a small flash of light along her sides. A pair of dice, right on her flank. She'd earned her cutiemark. Her work quite finished, Celestia quietly excused herself away from the excited filly. Her parents would be able to tell her the good news, assuming they were quite happy their daughter had a special talent for gambling. Most likely not, but ponies rarely had much of a say in what they were good at. She went back to where Big Macintosh was standing, he'd stopped and stood still as soon as she'd diverted off to see about Rain Drop. Her friend was looking at her curiously, and appeared to be about to say something. She had a hunch what his first comment would be, a little game she often played with anyone she spoke with regularly. She was entertained by being right when he did choose to speak. "You like doin that, don't you?" Celestia had started to walk towards the table set aside for her, at the far end of the hall and close by an upraised podium. Macintosh only paused a second before he picked up his own walk, one step behind and off to her right. Turning to look at him, and to answer his question, she smiled brightly. "Why whatever do you mean, Big Mac?" "You set that filly up to get her mark, clear as day." He retorted almost immediately. It wasn't even an accusation, she could hear the simple fact in his voice. She hadn't been trying very hard to play dumb, but the idea of admitting to her methods didn't come naturally. It almost felt like a magician revealing her tricks. "I simply made a educated guess. When you have been a princess as long as I have, you tend to notice things quickly." He considered that for a moment, glancing off for a few seconds and mulling it over. "Hard to argue with results, I reckon. Not sure how the whole special talent thing works. Whether it's destiny or just what we want it to be. You think she'd have gotten the same mark if you hadn't encouraged her?" A very philosophical question, and one that didn't even surprise Celestia at this point. Anyone who assumed that Big Macintosh was dumb by his few words, occupation and accent were sorely mistaken. "I've found it to be a bit of both, actually. We can always make choices. I don't think there is any absolute destiny in anything we do, but some things are set just by who we are. My destiny is to always protect Equestria, and that is because of my choice in the matter. You are a farmer because that is your calling, though if you truly wished to be otherwise you could." Big Macintosh hummed in consideration, though they had arrived at their destination before he had a chance to reply. Seated were two very familiar stallions, and two less familiar mares. Clockwise around the table were Fancy Pants, his longtime girlfriend Fleur De Lis, Prince Blueblood and an orange unicorn mare that Celestia did not know. They'd all risen collectively, and nodded politely. Proper etiquette for rising from a table, though neither Prince Blueblood or his date were particularly looking her way. Their eyes were on Big Macintosh, and they were not pleased. Though Blueblood only looked to be sneering, his date looked outright unhappy. Fancy Pants broke from the table and bowed. "Princess Celestia, I hope you approve of the tone of the charity event today. On behalf of my charity I am very grateful that you would grace us with your presence." he was certainly playing up the charm, Celestia knew the importance of having her favor in the high class social circles of Canterlot. She nodded, making a point of looking about the hall. "I am very grateful that you planned and hosted this event. The Royal Crown is generally unable to be seen hosting charities." Fancy Pants grinned wide, high class ponies were seated all around them. Eavesdropping on the Princess was not strictly polite, but good words from her were like currency. Though it necessitated she doll out praise here and there, it was valuable because gave it scarcely. If that meant that the upper classes would occasionally perform important acts of philanthropy, in order to curry favor with her, it was a small price to pay. She did continue speaking, before anyone else could comment. "I can see the logic of basing it around gambling, that ponies of all social circles will be interested in games of chance. Though I cannot say I approve of manipulating them out of bits they might not have given out of the goodness of their heart." Praise tempered with warning. Anyone with an ounce of perception could hear 'don't make it a habit'. Charity was important, but inadvertently putting hardship on a single pony would defeat the point. Blueblood was looking rather smug, he'd probably taken the high road to get underneath Fancy Pant's skin before she and Big Mac had arrived. No amount of trickery or manipulation could solve their feud. Nor did Celestia particularly want to descend into the realm of petty aristocratic rivalry. Hopefully things wouldn't get too unbearable, she was set to sit here for much of the charity event. While she took her seat, Big Macintosh doing likewise on her right, Big Mac cleared his throat. "Quite the fancy set up you got here." He'd deliberately glanced towards the open floor casino, then back to Fancy Pants. Celestia was caught off guard that her stoic friend had been the first to start conversion, with small talk no less. Fancy Pants adjusted his monocle and answered. "It is quite the arrangement, yes. I had many of the games shipped here from Las Pegsus. My good..." He paused, prompting for a name. "I'm Macintosh Apple." Big Macintosh replied. There was a snort of derision from the other side of the table. She turned to look at her nephew, Blueblood still looking none to pleased at the moment. Fancy Pants endeavored to ignore the interruption, smiling graciously instead. "Ah, well I am very pleased to meet you Mister Apple. It is always nice to meet a good friend of the princess. Are you enjoying your stay in Canterlot?" "Eeyup." Macintosh answered simply, nodding as he did. Celestia had nearly started to giggle at how he'd answered. Already she'd picked up 'eeyup' as something of a trademark of his and it entirely fit with everything of who Big Macintosh was. Only nearly giggled, though, as she cut herself off when more than a few eyes from the table glanced her way. Of like mind with Blueblood, his date looked equally sour. With a chance to discreetly inspect her now that she was closer, Celestia recalled seeing her before. But where? "Blueblood? I do not believe you have introduced us to your date," she asked after coming up with nothing. There was no harm in asking, and she already knew how he'd respond. Prince Blueblood did not disappoint. Looking quite pleased, he drew himself up and motioned towards his date. Said date was also quite happy to have her attention. "I apologize, auntie." Celestia breathed out automatically. On days that her adopted nephew behaved, 'auntie' wasn't so bad. He'd been on something of a bad streak of late, and so it grated. "This is my date, Orange Tart." She smiled brightly, though directed specifically towards Celestia. Big Macintosh, even Fancy and Fleur, might as well have not existed. "Very pleased to meet you, your highness. I've heard so very much about how you and Blue run Equestria." Orange Tart dipped her head, and Blueblood looked all the happier for her comment. Run Equestria, was it? Celestia had a guess that the budget meeting this morning had even been described by him as a conquest. Maybe a little humbling was in order, though her nephew was less of a worry than the question of where she'd seen Orange Tart befo- Oh, Celestia remembered where. This was one of the 'high class' mares who had harassed Big Macintosh on the street yesterday. What a coincidence. She knew just the thing that would take the air out of both of their sails. "I suppose then it was a good thing that I also brought a date, then. Big Macintosh is my guest of honor." Celestia smiled over to Big Macintosh, glances turned to complete attention as they usually did whenever she spoke. "He is the brother of the Element of Honesty, the owner of Sweet Apple Acres and a personal friend of mine." Now the focus went to Big Macintosh, the two pairs of Canterlot high society giving him different looks after her introduction. Blueblood and Orange Tart looked like they'd bitten into lemons, while Fancy Pants and Fleur De Lis were more impressed. "I absolutely adore your farm's cider, Big Mac," Fleur spoke up, the roll of her accent clearly identifying her as a native of Prance. "My only complaint is that there is never enough of it when the season comes." Macintosh was stoic enough not to blush at any of the praise, though Celestia had caught him looking her way with more than an open look of curiosity. That same measured look, which for the particularly observant princess had become something of a nagging question in the back of her mind. "That's mighty kind of you to say, ma'am," was his reply. Fleur waved him off with a hoof. "Oh please, my mother is called madam. You may call me Fleur." At Big Mac's left, Fancy Pants extended a hoof for a shake which Macintosh took readily enough. "While Fleur may be fond of the cider, I confess a weakness for that absolutely unique jam of yours. Just how do you get it to have that coloration?" What followed was a rather enjoyable explanation on the complex and seemingly nonsensical method to produce Zap Apple Jam. Even Celestia was a bit mystified about what talking to bees had to do with the process, but was sure that Big Macintosh knew what he was talking about. Both Fancy Pants and Fleur appeared genuinely interested, with none of the usual snobbery one would expect when high class ponies entreated with those 'lower' than themselves. Of course, not everyone at the table was quite so polite. Blueblood spoiled the moment by clearing his throat. "I believe the audience has seated. When exactly will your event properly begin, Fancy? I do hope this isn't one of those dawdling affairs you host every month, we don't all have the time to share lowbrow gossip." The two stallions traded looks of disdain, with Fancy Pants turning to face him. Well, it was bound to happen eventually. But now Macintosh had been introduced well enough, and even had new acquaintances. "I believe that I am to give the speech, correct?" she said, rising up from her seat which resulted in the entire hall of ponies rising as well. She'd never do anything to one of her subjects if they showed her casual disrespect, like not rising from a seat when she did; but it was always nice to see such basic politeness. Those little things made her long centuries of ruling all worthwhile, made her feel appreciated. Fancy Pants nodded, not speaking lest he interrupt the silence that had descended over the audience. Where there had been chatter before, a pin drop could be heard, save for the occasional cough or shuffle of hooves. The podium awaited, hundreds of ponies eager to listen to their princess speak to them. Public speaking might as well have become her cutiemark instead of the sun while running Equestria. It'd become so routine by now that Celestia didn't need anything for something as basic as starting off a charity drive. She'd composed it in her head on the carriage ride over. Though more than a fair amount of her time had been spent chatting with Big Mac. Fortunately nobody was expecting her to knock it out of the park, because she wasn't going to. A sea of faces was in front of her, most of them familiar. The hushed silence continued, with eager looks coming from both old and young. Celestia took a deep breath, focusing on what she wanted to say and putting all other thoughts out of her mind. "I am always so very proud of all of you, my little ponies. Whenever there's an important cause in need of help I have never been disappointed by the kind of generosity on display right here." There was a fair share of polite applause at that, the crowd beaming with pride at her effusive praise. She'd meant it as well, and waited for the crowd to settle. "While I'm sure you're all excited for the chance to play the various games that have been assembled here, do not forget that we are here to help others. The Canterlot Research Center tirelessly works to treat illnesses, every bit donated is a step towards a healthier future." Again, applause. Celestia could spare a glance back towards her table, meeting the gaze of Big Macintosh. He'd been looking at her while she spoke. But eye contact led to the farm pony suddenly coughing, looking away and reaching for a glass of water. She could only guess what he was thinking, and not for very long. It was quiet, her cue to continue. "As I understand the event, you may purchase tokens to be used for the various games. These tokens are not redeemable or it would be a real casino, not a charity." Laughter now, Celestia guessed that the draw of gambling, even if none could win money, had brought a number of ponies who were experienced in games of chance. "I encourage you all to play in any way you like, but let us not spoil the evening if you happen to find yourself losing a number of your tokens. Thank you and I hope that tonight is as enjoyable for you as it is beneficial for the Canterlot Research Center." There, done neat as a bow. Ponies were here to donate money and have fun, not here to listen to their princess ramble on endlessly. With the final round of applause washing over the large room she returned to her seat. More direct praise was waiting for her. "An excellent speech, your highness." Fancy Pants looked rather pleased, turning himself to survey the audience of ponies who were disseminating about now; talking amongst themselves or otherwise starting up their game of choice. Blueblood gave a huff, still looking his usual disproving self. "Are we expected to move amongst the rabble and gamble with them? I might as well just leave a sizable donation and be done with it." Celestia had had just about enough of her nephew's attitude. But before she could speak Big Macintosh suddenly spoke up, quieting them all. "Ain't nothing stopping you, but I figured we could have a card game here." Macintosh didn't look any more impressed with Blueblood than the rest of the table, and there was a hint of challenge in his voice. " 'course I understand if someponies ain't got any skill at it." It was quite amusing to see the twitch of Blueblood's right eye. Where he'd just been getting up from the table, as had his date, her nephew sat down instantly. "A game of cards? And I suppose you have some backwoods version of poker that we'd never be expected to know of." With a shrug, Big Mac ignored the insults. "Well the 'back woods' game I like best ain't exactly complicated. Personally I never understood that nonsense game, the one with the piece of wood you flip the cards with? Hold em' takes a bit more skill." Before Blueblood could reply, most likely with some more snide comments, Filthy Rich leaned forward. "I confess to having never heard of this 'Hold em' game myself, how exactly does it work?" While Celestia had never thought of herself as a gambler, the way Macintosh explained the rules of his favored type of poker game did sound interesting enough. Usually her role in any sort of social occasion was to sit idly and be seen, her presence doing the work for her. She could also go about and find the latest things that concerned her subjects. The only thing she particularly wanted to do was spend time chatting with her friend. So long as she could do that she was sure her evening would go very well. But the game did sound rather fun. It involved community cards for the whole table to rely on while giving two to each individual. Bets went in rounds, a new card being revealed each time until there were five. Once all were out, the players who did not fold revealed their cards and the highest value won the entire pot. Even Blueblood was paying attention, and Big Macintosh made a surprisingly good teacher. He'd waved over a worker for a deck of cards, shuffled them while he spoke and dealt them out for everyone. He'd even given her a pair, Celestia inspecting her new two cards: the image of herself with a heart background and a seven of diamonds. The rest of the table was also inspecting their cards, even as Mac ran through flipping over what he referred to as the 'river'. Then, asking them to lay their cards out for the purpose of demonstration he ran through the list of winning combinations and their relative value. Fleur was the one who won, with something that Big Macintosh said was a straight. Fleur brightened immediately, and looked around the table."Ah, shall we be playing with chips then? I do enjoy a challenge." That was something they could all agree on without incident and it took only a short conversation with one of the supervisors to secure a rather plentiful amount of tokens. Blueblood raised a hoof, giving a wicked smirk. "I suppose it would be discourteous of us to not purchase our own amounts." His glance had been specifically towards Fancy Pants, but he didn't miss the chance to dismiss Big Mac as well. Fancy frowned, nodding slowly. "Of course, and just how many bits are you willing to donate?" "I am not quite sure, truthfully I have not donated anything to your little charity. I do have so many of my own to choose from. But I could spare twenty thousand bits easily enough." The charity worker who had rolled out a tray of multicolored gaming chips choked when he'd overheard that amount. Fleur, Big Macintosh and even Orange Tart were staring at Blueblood. Fancy Pants snorted, shrugging. "Is that all, old bean? I haven't put much of my own wealth directly into the charity, thinking my time enough, but if we are to have a game I would not mind one hundred thousand bits worth of tokens." Now stares were going towards Fancy Pants, though Celestia was more surprised that Blueblood had managed to goad him into a donation of that size. It was actually a little unfair, since now Blueblood was going to be at a disadvantage in betti- "Hmpf, did I say twenty thousand?" Blueblood stared evenly at Fancy Pants. "I will pledge two hundred thousand." "Then you will not mind if I offer up three hundred and fifty thousand bits." Fancy Pants did not even wait for the table to look his way to give his retort. Blueblood narrowed his eyes. "I suppose, out of my boundless generosity for such important causes, that I can instead raise my charity to five hundred thousand bits." He didn't sound very happy saying it, as far as Celestia could tell. Knowing his finances there could not be much more room for him to show off with. Not if he wanted to live in his usual affluent lifestyle. Fancy Pants adjusted his monocle, looking no more pleased. "Half a million sounds like quite enough. By all means bring out the tokens." The rest of the table sat, stunned at the rapid escalation of donations. Ultimately it was both Fancy and Blueblood's dates that broke the silence. "Er, Fancy?" Fleur tugged at his suit sleeve. "I do not have even a fraction of that many bits, would you be willing to split with me?" Orange Tart fluffed her mane for a moment and sighed. "Darling, I don't suppose you're willing to share some, are you? So that I can play?" Macintosh coughed, turning to look over at Celestia. She didn't even need the two previous requests to know that it was quite a bit more than the farmer was liable to have. She leaned towards him and smiled, keeping her voice low. "I'd be happy to provide some of my bits with you Macintosh, you don't even need to ask." He nodded, whispering as well. "I wasn't about to beg, or nothing. Wasn't sure if you were even gonna play, but I got something of a soft spot for gambling. Every once and awhile my family and I spend an evening playing, but about the only challenge I get is with Granny Smith. Applebloom is still right small, and Applejack can't hide a bad hoof to save her life." That was a surprisingly touching bit of personal confidence on his part. "I can't say I've had a lot of experience with card games," she replied, still close next to him. "I'm sure the rest of the table will be quite a challenge for you, but I'm likely to be beaten rather soundly." Macintosh snorted, a rare grin now showing. "Ain't nothing to it. All you have to do is fold when you got a lousy draw. Bet low when you have somethin' good so you don't spook the table. Pretty soon you'll get a feel for how the rest of the table plays, iff'n you pay attention." That did sound like a lot of fun. It wasn't even so much about luck, but perception. Poker might just end up becoming something she was rather fond of, which would likely be the absolute death of any chance of gambling becoming illegal in Equestria. Maybe Luna would enjoy learning how to play, and surely she could ask Big Mac to come visit later for potential 'poker nights'. Maybe she should ask if Cada-. "Ahem." That was Blueblood, but the rest of the three at the table were also all looking their way. Suddenly it dawned on Celestia just how...close the two of them had been. Whispering quietly to one another, giggling and obviously enjoying each others company. The solution was not to straighten up immediately. 'Don't blush, you're not a schoofilly' was her mantra. Fancy Pants and Blueblood were perceptive enough to make assumptions on what they'd seen, they didn't need confirmation. "I would be happy to receive half a million bits worth, in addition to the crown's already sizable donation to the charity." Prim and proper, she even adjusted her wings and sat perfectly upright. It wasn't as if the moment had been improper so there was no reason to go denying what hadn't happened. Soon the chips were arranged in front of herself, Fancy Pants and Blueblood. Then they all split with their dates. Celestia blinked, accidentally knocking a stack of tokens over with a burst of telekinesis. Fancy Pants and Prince Blueblood had dates, she'd just brought her friend. Actually, she had referred to Big Macintosh as her date before when introducing him. She hadn't even realized that until now. Oh dear, hopefully they thought of that in the more platonic sense. Of course they would, she was just being paranoid. She really had to stop doing that to herself. Stumbles in her head weren't something to worry about. She did enjoy Big Macintosh's company a great deal, he wouldn't be here about to play a card game with them if she didn't. If Luna were here, and privy to her thoughts, she would be probably laughing and insisting that she had been right. Fortunately Celestia was saved from the theoretical teasing of her younger sister by two cards being rapidly placed in front of her. She could dwell on her relationships later. The first round of the game had started, and she had to pay due attention. Otherwise she'd miss the last few nuances that Big Macintosh would have had to spend more minutes explaining. The 'river' was laid out, blinds placed and the poker game was on. Her first 'hoof' was a little underwhelming. A three of clubs and a seven of hearts. Though looking at the river she had some hope. Three of spades, a Luna of diamonds and six of clubs. She had a pair already! This was actually rather thrilling, and Celestia had to work at not grinning. The rest of the table was a mixed bag of skill in keeping what they were thinking in check. Blueblood was fairly neutral, and he had laid his cards face down onto the table. Orange Tart was still holding hers, and glancing back and forth between them and the community cards. Fleur let out a noticeable sigh, before lowering her cards. Fancy Pants was glancing about the table, much as Celestia had. Big Macintosh had dealt the cards. As he'd explained, the first thing to do was for the pony clockwise of the dealer to put in a 'blind'. Celestia placed two of the lowest chips into the center and waited for Fancy Pants to do likewise. Fleur put in the two required, as did Blueblood seconds later. Orange Tart was still looking at her cards when Blueblood nudged her. Surprised, she flushed a bit and placed the necessary chips. Eyes fell on Big Mac when he placed a hoof on a sizable stack of chips and pushed them into the center. "Raise," he said. Eyebrows rose, and Blueblood snorted. "Trust a commoner to be loose with money that is not his. Very well, I can see that the number of players will be quickly one shorter at this rate." Her nephew reached for a drink. Celestia knew she was frowning, and couldn't help it. Big Macintosh shrugged, not even looking put out by the rather rude comment. "Ain't a poker game without bettin'," he replied simply. As long as Big Mac continued to take Blueblood's jabs at him in stride she was without much ground for reprimand. At least here in public, Blueblood would be getting an earful shortly. She made a mental note to be sure of it. But even still, the banter seemed to be a natural part of the game. Right, the game. Celestia realized in a few moments that it was her turn. Before Big Mac's bet the next card would have been revealed. But now she had to choose whether to fold or not. Macintosh had said that it was a poor idea to bet when you did not have much anything. She did have a pair of threes, but that was rather low. Was Big Mac merely bluffing or did he actually have something? While she considered her options, Blueblood placed his drink down. "There is a fine difference between a bet and a sure loss. You cannot possibly know what everypony else here has. How many did you even place down?" "Ten thousand, most money I ever bet in my life. Though I spose' it's all the charities money now. Might be nice to win one and a half million, if'n I could keep it. Prolly give my granny a heart attack though. " Eventually Celestia settled on matching the bet to stay in, and in went nine thousand, nine hundred and ninety eight chips. Fancy Pants folded immediately and with no comment besides announcing his move. Fleur matched the bet, and smiled at Big Macintosh. "This game is already quite exciting, I think." The turn fell on Blueblood, who tapped a hoof against his pile. Looking at Big Macintosh, he scowled. "I do not believe you have anything in your hoof." He slid the requisite number of chips into the center. Orange Tart matched as well, leaving a sizable pile on the table. A fourth card was added on the table, a eight of hearts. Useless to her but possibly an aid somewhere for the remaining players. As the next round fell to her Celestia elected to tap her hoof on the table. She'd seen that motion done by Blueblood when he hadn't bet. As Fancy had folded, the next turn was for Fleur. She followed the same motion of tapping her hoof. Next was Blueblood, and again his hoof tapped his stash. Intrigued, Celestia made a mental note to watch that. Perhaps it was a tell of his when he was thinking of betting. "As you said, farmer. It is not a game without betting." In went twenty thousand bits. The proverbial gauntlet had been thrown. Though the next turn fell on Orange Tart. She looked from her cards to the river and then back again. Another possible tell, since it meant she likely had something but was not confident about it. Orange matched the bet, and then put her two cards face down on the table. Then it was on Big Macintosh. "You're sure right about that, Blue. though, shucks, I suddenly ain't feeling so confident 'bout my chances." In went his chips, but Celestia was now alarmed. When had his accent become so pronounced? Or his words so imprecise? Cautiously she added to the pot in order to stay in while looking at Big Mac out of the corner of her eye. Her nephew had not liked being referred to as 'Blue', but she could read the self satisfied confirmation of dismissing Big Macintosh on his face. The assumption that he was simply a ignorant farmer, and it made her want to stand up defend him. But that would be rather improper, and she would just have to have faith that the qualities she liked best about her friend would shine through and put Blueblood in his place. Fleur was visibly cautious as well, her eyes going towards Big Macintosh and then leaning in to whisper something inaudible to Fancy. He listened and then nodded, neither sharing the comment. More chips were added, and Prince Blueblood was smirking while allowing the round to proceed. Another card was drawn and presented, a four of clubs. Hm, that seemed an otherwise useless draw. But as the table took in the new card, Celestia caught the slightest of frowns from Blueblood. Good, that meant whatever he'd been hoping for hadn't' come up. Perhaps it was time to go on the offensive? She hadn't had a chance to raise, and the pot was only at about one hundred and fifty thousand. Since it was her turn to bet, she lit the appropriate bits up in an aura of magic and slid them forward. Twenty five thousand, as she'd put them each in neat five thousand stacks. So far Fancy Pants had been quiet, merely watching the game progress. But once she'd bet, he turned to look at his marefriend. "Darling, I do hope you have something. It seems like there are quite a few here that think they do." Concentrating, her eyes flicking around the table, Fleur spared Fancy a deadpan look. "If I were to show you I think it would defeat the purpose of trying to win, no? Shh." She matched the current bet, even as Fancy Pants grinned at her. Which provoked a sharp nudge in the side, and then they were both smiling. Blueblood was less cheerful, and as far as Celestia could tell hadn't even looked at his date. Much more cautiously than before, he matched the bet. She'd even caught hesitation, but then his eyes had went towards Macintosh and became all the more determined. Orange Tart sighed, reaching for her drink while pushing her cards forward rather than any chips. "I have no interest in losing my bits to you, Princess." Before she could reply, Blueblood turned to face his date and frowned. "How can you be so certain that she'll be the winner?" "Beyond simply being Princess Celestia? Just a hunch." Which was about as much genuine praise as Celestia expected to get from Orange Tart, all things considered. Even the arrogant aristocratic elite knew better than to challenge her on anything meaningful. Untold generations of rule did have a few advantages. Big Macintosh was the final one to choose between folding or not, and he called her bet with only a placid grin on his features. Then he turned to look her way, and shrugged. "Time to show what we got." And out came the cards. Celestia revealed her three of clubs and seven of hearts. Fleur was next and revealed an eight of clubs and a four of clubs. Two pair was certainly better than one, and Blueblood only huffed when he spread out a Luna of Hearts and a five of clubs. He'd come very near to a straight, which would have won him the round rather decisively. Eyes fell on Big Macintosh, who had already revealed what he'd been holding. A jack of Clubs and a ten of hearts. Nothing. Celestia openly stared at the pair of cards, and then up to Big Macintosh for some kind of explanation for how he'd come to bet so much and so quickly on nothing. She hadn't been the only one, though Blueblood was the first to comment. "I don't know what I was expecting. I suppose I'm hardly surprised. And what exactly were you hoping for?" Big Macintosh rubbed along his forehead for a moment while looking at the river. "Shoot, that ain't a nine on the river. Guess I shoulda been payin better attention." That provoked a less than friendly chuckle from both Blueblood and his date, very clearly drawing only more of their initial assumptions. Celestia sighed, still trying to make sense of this new information. Had she been wrong? How could Big Macintosh make such a rapid turn around in his actions? She barely even paid attention to Fleur taking in the sizable first pot, though Big Mac did turn her way while the rest of the table took a moment to order their food. Macintosh had started to gather up the cards and shuffle them, glancing up at her for a moment. "Ya need me to help you with the dealing at all?" For one, very brief moment, she thought she caught him grinning. "I...believe I have the hang of it. Though I am rather curious about why you bet how you did." She tried her best to be discreet while asking, collecting the deck of cards and speaking quietly. Big Macintosh arched an eyebrow at her, his whole body language shifting rapidly back to what Celestia had grown far more used to. Gone was the slouch, the dull open mouth. It startled her enough to make her pause in a quick reshuffle, having tried to imitate his quick work with his hooves. "Game's only just started, but I guess I could tell ya." He murmured, also keeping his voice down. Rather than reply, Celestia merely stared. He didn't have to even speak at this point for her to guess what he'd been doing. But his words did confirm her immediate suspicion. "Ponies like these ones over here have a way of making assumptions about us more 'common types'," he begin. Big Mac paused long enough to take a drink, sparing a glance towards Blueblood and Orange Tart. Both of whom were looking at their menus with earnestness while keeping the waiter standing by at the ready. "If I go and let them think they was right, then they won't be payin enough attention later when I tan their hide. They'll read what they wanna read offa my 'tells'. If you catch my meaning." "I...do." Celestia was more than impressed now. Astounded, even. Big Macintosh had quite skillfully fooled the whole table into thinking he was a stereotypical dim farmer. For one fleeting moment even she had started to wonder. Big Macintosh shrugged while taking a look at his undersized pile of chips. "In a game with real money I wouldn't have taken the risk. Wouldn't have been right, or even worth it. But I'll do well once I get something good." Listening to him speak, Celestia was lost in very quick thoughts of her own. Any doubt she had about her estimation of her new friend's worth was quickly blown away. Not just common sense, but a bright sparkling of intelligence. More than enough intelligence to be deceptive, and make her want to learn more. Though there was one thing she had become curious about. She didn't have much time to ask, either. Fancy and Fleur had settled down for the next round, and Blueblood and Orange would soon be ready. "Our game is hardly over, Big Mac." Celestia paused for a moment and chose her words carefully. "You've let me in on your trick. Which was very well done. But am I not also playing? " She'd been expecting it, and so wasn't surprised when Big Mac appeared guarded. The tightened jaw, the tiny frown and ever searching eyes meeting hers. That was a true tell of his, nothing feigned at all. But she hadn't figured out quite what it meant. As far as Celestia could guess he was thinking over his words as carefully as she did hers. Not only that but he was looking at her, and with an intensity that made Celestia feel exposed. Her pleasant demeanor in public was sincere but she almost never showed her other thoughts. Each time Big Mac looked at her in that quiet way before speaking Celestia wondered if he was looking past and into her soul. It had driven much of her growing interest in him. Her inability to get an entire 'read'. There was a seemingly a great deal of things about Big Macintosh, things that he did not show much about himself to others. That it mirrored herself made her sure that was the case. The pause from him had been only brief, but he'd leaned in closer and dropped his voice. Eyes were upon them but it did not seem to concern Big Mac. "I figured I wasn't going to fool you none. And it hardly would matter, I ain't really able to...know what you're thinking much, to be honest. Guess being a princess makes you a natural poker player." And then he pulled back. Celestia felt her cheeks burning now. Most ponies wouldn't think he'd paid her a compliment but she wasn't most ponies. He did see there was an underneath for her, had figured her out!. And now that her chest felt tight again, she had a better idea what to call that feeling. On auto pilot, Celestia dealt out the next round of cards. She simply had other things to think on. Big Mac might be the only pony besides her sister to get so near to her. It was almost frightening, but also thrilling. And Celestia banished her prior concerns about the value of more personal friend...relationships. She wanted more. The second round in poker was a win for Big Macintosh. Though the pot wasn't enough to recoup his initial losses. He'd slipped into a more quiet version of his affected demeanor. Blueblood had concentrated his banter on Fancy Pants. The poker game continued on while she thought. The future for her had never been more difficult to anticipate. There were too many things out of her experience and out of her control. Was it even possible for her and another to... "Princess Celestia, I do believe it is your turn to call, raise or fold." Fancy Pants was quite excited this round. He'd folded twice before. As he probably had something, since he had remained in this round Celestia knew her next move. "I'm afraid I'll be folding, it appears this game is more difficult than I had anticipated." She motioned to a nearby waiter and he quickly joined the table long enough to provide a refill of her drink. She could dwell on more personal matters later. She had a poker game she wanted to win. Princess Luna was spending her night upside down. The hallway outside of her bedroom looked very different from this vantage point. She was well hidden, the shadows falling over her had kept her out of sight. Three patrols of guards had came and passed, without even giving the slightest hint that they were aware their princess was acting like a bat. She had a very good reason for this, naturally. Luna had had quite enough with being terrified out of her wits. Even locking her door could not have been a sure bet, as she'd found her office wide open. She distinctly remembered locking it behind her, even still possessed the key. The Cutiemark Crusaders were far too dangerous and crafty to allow herself to be a victim any longer. "We shall catch you." Talking to yourself was not the best evidence of sanity, but Luna was sure she would not be able to rest without knowing she'd be secure. Technically one could argue that using her natural talents to hang on a ceiling was against the spirit, if not the letter of the rules set for the game. Luna could have always hung herself upside down, if she had been so inclined. Provided she was not using magic specifically to locate or foil her three archenemies she wasn't cheating. The side effect was that her head had started to hurt after the first hour. Blood had pooled and settled, her body quite confused as to why she was oriented in entirely the wrong direction. Not even an alicorn was immune to gravity. It'd be worth it though. She continued to tell herself that much for fifteen more minutes, another guard passing through. Detailed instructions had been left for night court, her assistant, Night Owl, would do fine. Her wait was rewarded with the soft pit-pat sound of walking. Closer and closer towards her, echoing from the walls. Her moment of victory had come at last, and Luna spread her wings, focusing on the ground right below her. A small, shadowy figure came up to her door. She didn't have time to inspect it, she jumped. The only issue was the rapid head rush that came with righting herself in mid fall. Otherwise she'd have been much more graceful when she landed on the Cutiemark Crusaders. "Oof!" A very much male voice sounded out underneath her. Luna rather quickly came to the conclusion that she had not ambushed any of the CMC. In fact it was not a pony underneath her at all. She jumped up and registered the sight of- "Spike? For what purpose has thou...I mean. What are you doing here?" He got up slowly, though it didn't look like she'd harmed him. The little dragon shot her a disgruntled look and dusted his scales off. "I was about to knock on your door. But then you jumped on me. I should be asking you the questions, Princess." Feeling rather sheepish, Luna gave a pained smile. "It is a most complicated tale. Perhaps you have heard of this rather strange game played by small children called-" "Night Fright? Yeah, the CMC told me all about it earlier today. I can't believe you agreed to play with them. They take it really seriously." While it was fortunate she did not have to explain her predicament, Luna was unhappy at yet another reminder that she had possibly erred in playing this game. "We have begun to learn of their...dedication. And while there is always work to be done, it was our decision to engage in their game. Before tonight is over I intend to win!" Her voice had grown to an impressive booming quality, as it usually did whenever she was excited. The Royal Voice was a habit for which Luna had difficulty breaking. When your past had been spent trying to get attention, talking as loudly as possible had seemed only natural. Spike didn't comment, and the only hint that she might have been a little loud was that he was rubbing an ear with his right claw. "Oh. Well good luck then? I actually kind of wanted to talk to you about that." Shrugging, her pseudo-nephew shifted his posture to stand with arms folded across his chest. It was an alien gesture to her sensibilities, but Luna had even seen ponies use it when sitting. That her hunt for the CMC was why he was here had caught her interest more than anything. "And what did you wish to tell us?" "Well...they kind of sort of talked me into taking them to the restricted section of the Starswirl Library." Even if she hadn't known what that entailed his guilty look would have betrayed the warning. "The restricted section? That is a most dangerous place! Even for those experienced in the depths of magic. What would possess you to take them there?" Spike winced, and took a step back. "Well I mean, they were really persuasive. They were talking about summoning a monster to scare you. Or maybe a few monsters. I think it was a taraxippus? I'm not sure, but I didn't think it was a big deal as Sweetie Belle isn't exactly the best with magic anyway." "They're attempting to summon taraxippoi?!" Luna was staring, aghast at the little purple dragon. Suddenly her concerns about catching the Cutiemark Crusaders was replaced by fear for their very lives. She gathered Spike up in telekinetic magic and bolted towards the library. "Wait, where are we going? Is it really that dangerous?" She could only hear Spike out of one ear, and barely registered his words. Everything else was far too focused on arriving before it was too late. When hooves and flapping wings proved too slow, with a wall in the way, she teleported the both of them to its opposite side. Spike was still trying to escape her hold on him, or more accurately flailing about. "Princess- wait! They were just reading...hold on!" There would be no holding on, another teleport brought them into the restricted section. Luna felt disjointed now, as she'd blinked them through several floors down and past stairs. It wasn't just distance, but the amount of material you might be blinking through that made the spell difficult to use. Only her immense magical reserve had allowed her to get here so quickly. Spike dropped, her hold released and gave an 'oof' next to her when he landed. Luna caught her breath, looking around for the CMC. Up at her side, Spike patted himself off and looked rather annoyed. "They really aren't in any danger, Princess. I'm not that careless. They probably left anyway, since there's simply no way that-" She didn't cut his words off, they fell away naturally. They had both felt the sudden pulse of enormous dark magic followed by a trio of young female screams. It'd come from behind a door, a side study room on the other side of some bookshelves. Luna bolted forward, heart hammering now in a mixture of dread and panic. Instead of a teleport, she threw open the door and charged inside. The sight in front of her was everything she'd feared. There was a chalked outline of a runic circle, a weighty tome opened up in the center. A visibly dark magic was spilling out from the pages, and there was little evidence left of the Cutiemark Crusaders. Only a single red bow discarded and half torn on the opposite side of the wall. There was something else tinted red near the bow, but Luna refused to look any longer to confirm her first guess. The terrible, awe inspiring amount of magic was far too much for her to ignore either. This went beyond taraxippoi now, and the outline of a distinct shape began to appear from out of the book. A shadowed face, indistinct but with a malevolent presence. It chuckled, its voice dark and sinister. "Ahhh, I did not expect royalty to pay me a visit so soon after my entrance into this world. To who do I owe the honor?" Luna knew better than to give her name to a summoned demon, especially one she didn't recognize. Her horn was lit, pushing away all grief at her assumption of what must have happened. "Thy are in our presence, fiend! Not the other way around! Name thyself before we cast you back into the abyss." Her magic doubled, and then redoubled as she prepared for the likely battle. It would take maybe four minutes before Celestia was here to help her. And likely half of their guard, and those unicorns skilled in battle magic ten minutes after that. Until then she was all that stood in the way of this monster and Equestria. The monster itself hadn't attacked yet, nor had its shape grown any more distinct. Its dark presence more than made up for that, and Luna could already tell that the creature's magical power surpassed her own. "My name? I suppose it is best to teach you of who will bring about your demise. For I am Mormo, the devourer!" Any hope that the Cutiemark Crusaders were alive vanished. Though she'd never met this being before, she knew of it by reputation. "Begone!" And then, in the vain hope that she might slow Mormo down, she released her attack first. The most powerful banishment spell for evil that she knew. Instantly the summoning book closed, shut tight and then burst into flames. The evil magic dissipated as quickly as it had appeared and the shadowed quality of the otherwise well lit room disappeared. It was like Mormo had never existed, and that fact more than anything gave Luna pause. "What is..." She murmured, straightening up and frowning deeply. Spike burst in the room seconds after that, looking around quickly. "What happened?" Luna was still on guard, still anticipating an attack. She didn't say a word, wouldn't spare even a second of concentration. Her mind raced for what might have happened, and the first conclusion was that she had been very lucky. The summoning might have been only partially complete, enough that her spell had prevented it wholesale. And yet Mormo had seemed very confident in himself. He had even been laughing as the banishment spell raced towards the book. "It was a terrible monster, one oft spoken of as the worst natural denizen of Tartarus. I am...afraid that the Cutiemark Crusaders are no more." Once she had concluded that the danger was gone she succumbed to grief. This was certainly her fault, she had been placed in authority of the three children. And how could she possibly face her sister, or the parents and sisters of Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo with the news? "Oh, that sucks...that monster was really scary, don't you think?" Spike made a half choked sound, one very strained. Luna considered the words for a few seconds. More than anything she was annoyed, and turned to snap at Spike that there were far more pressing concerns and that he should show a great deal more remorse. But on turning she saw the barely concealed grin on his face. The strained sound had been more akin to a...laugh? Then Spike did laugh, a claw covering his face. It was followed by another, and then he glanced towards the half opened door to the rest of the library. "Oh man, your face. It's just...oh, I'm sorry you three. But if you were in here you would...haha." "Just ask her if she was scared, Spike! You're going to ruin it!" That was almost certainly Scootaloo's voice, answering through the door. And she could hear the other two snickering. Her eyes went wide as she turned to look at the summoning ritual. She recognized the runes, they were expertly done. There was no way that the Cutiemark Crusaders could have done this with such skill. Only someone possessing years of advanced magical training would know to form the proper protective barriers. They were all here, and not a one was out of place. Not only that, but they were not exactly meant for physically summoning dark forces from other planes. It was actually meant to just summon their form in a projection, to talk. "Twilight was really into speaking with magical creatures a few years ago, before you came back. I sort of picked a few things up while helping her. I bet you were scared, huh?" Princess Luna could only stare at Spike while the little purple dragon slowly broke down into howling laughter. He wasn't the only one, out through the door and into the library the CMC were laughing with him. She wasn't sure whether to be furious, or confess fear right there and admit absolute defeat. "I...we..." Author's Note The next chapter should almost certainly not take as long as this one did. The poker game gave me some serious writers block, and a busy schedule didn't help. I'm almost actually done with the next chapter. And I expect there to be only three more to go, though I'm hoping they'll certainly be exciting!
What can be avoided whose end is purposed by the mighty gods?It was remarkable how quickly paperwork could pile up if you weren't careful. Celestia hadn't even left Canterlot and, with the exception of two days ago, hadn't really stopped working. But even still, the piles of reports on her desk was startling. Just arranging it in a neat and tidy way had been a task for her staff. Six stacks of paper, which was blocking her view of the front door. Since no one was expected to be paying her a visit officially it wasn't much of a problem. She pressed the tip of her quill to her mouth, engrossed in thought. The inky black taste wasn't exactly pleasant, but it was a bad habit she'd picked up. Something to distract her from the general unpleasantness of judicial review. Some pony was going to jail soon, and it distressed her to be the ultimate judge. Stealing was a serious crime, and the local court of Manehatten had returned a guilty verdict. The final process was for her to personally agree with the assessment. She could fully pardon any crime with no questions asked if she felt like it. But there was nothing here on the paperwork that suggested that was reasonable. There was no helping it, and a quick signature put that particular piece of paper on top of the 'out' box. A few moments later she lifted the stack of paper midway and deposited the affirmation of the verdict in the middle. It didn't help anything, but she wouldn't have to look at it. Her office door opened, which meant that she had to lean to the right in order to see who it was. Notetaker was balancing another stack of paperwork, and delicately so. Rather than risk catastrophe so near to the goal, a quick burst of telekinetic magic lifted the work right off of her aides head. “Thank you, your majesty.” Notetaker smiled brightly, which Celestia didn't hesitate to return. The top of the stack, now making it seven in total, displayed a pie chart. Budget papers, lovely. “Is this the last of them?” There had to be hundreds of sheets, she missed the days when a simple verbal command settled issues. Instead of answering immediately; her aide flipped out a small ledger. Inspecting it, she nodded. “Yes, your majesty. Though I have some bad news. The Princess of the Crystal Empire is requesting an audience through the Two-Way Mirror.” The particular way that Notetaker had phrased the news quirked her interest. “I don't know if I'd say speaking with my niece would count as 'bad news'. Did Princess Cadance indicate what the matter was?” Notetaker blinked, flushing for a moment. “Well, no she didn't. Just that she wanted to speak with you. I didn't mean that it was bad to speak with the Crystal Princess, I meant that I had to schedule it during your lunch break.” Celestia had figured that, it was about the only time she had free. If Cadance hadn't said what the matter was, it also meant that Notetaker couldn't schedule an exact time. Best to sacrifice a lunch break she usually reserved for more minor tasks. Tasks such as addressing Twilight's letters, or reading the news. “That shouldn't be a problem at all, Notetaker. I appreciate the proactive approach.” But Notetaker still looked uneasy. “Should...Should I tell him you'll be busy?” Her aide coughed against her hoof, and looked very much like she didn't want to be present. Embarrassed, really. Raising an eyebrow, Celestia couldn't imagine what had come over Notetaker. “Him?” “Y-yes, your majesty.” Notetaker swallowed, and then glanced towards the closed door. “I thought you might be having lunch with Mister Apple again.” Oh, him. “Oh that, I see.” She'd nearly asked why Notetaker would think she would have lunch with Big Macintosh, but thought better of it. She had been spending an awful lot of time with him, it wasn't unreasonable to guess more would follow. “Unfortunately I suppose you are right. I will not be able to do so, I do appreciate your concern but it should be fine.” That had the note of dismissal in it, and her aide heard it well enough. The door closed and Celestia was left alone with her thoughts. One centered on her new friend. Walks in the garden, lunch and a delightful evening at the charity event yesterday. The poker game itself could have counted as an entire event. It'd progressed for hours, until the final three competitors agreed to simply stop playing. Big Macintosh, Fleur and herself as it happened. The final climatic few rounds had shown Big Macintosh's full qualities, ultimately knocking Blueblood out of the game with a three of a kind he'd even hid from her guesses. She'd been incredibly proud, and Big Macintosh and her had chatted the entire carriage ride back. She'd regretted having to part ways, but it'd grown late in the evening and there was little else she could think to suggest. Yes, she had been spending quite a bit of time with Big Mac. Not only time, but a good time. The last few days had been very relaxed, and perhaps the best she'd had in a very long while. But Celestia wasn't sure why there was a faint nagging in the back of her mind. Reaching for her official schedule of events, Celestia looked it over. Absolutely booked, and now a working lunch with Cadance. Having a full schedule wasn't unusual at all, but it was strange that the majority of the time was going to be spent preparing for meetings with her staff. Meeting with her staff wasn't the odd part, but preparing for it was something Notetaker was usually given as a delegated task. A few seconds later she reached for tomorrow's schedule. In contrast to today there would be plenty of time, and a glance at the individual items confirmed it. There was hardly anything set for tomorrow, with a number of very long gaps. Though the notes set in the margins were curious, and from her own hoof. Somehow why they were there had slipped her mind, until she read them. This was her schedule of possible anticipated events for Ragnarök. Along the left, right at three in the morning she'd written. 'Best anticipated time for Plan F: Surtr cataclysm variant. Evacuation of Equestria to south. Begin preparations for Ritual of Separation. 8%' Eight percent was her estimation of the chance for success of that plan and the general survival of Equestria as it currently existed. Fortunately with Loki appeared to be in charge of the Ice Giants, that particular event was very unlikely to occur. Similar notes were planned out along the sides, and for the next few days. The next one was set at four in the afternoon for tomorrow. The times were the latest such things could be done. Down to the minute. 'Plan B: Refugee Gambit, rapid Aesir Victory variant. Establish northern reservation, activate emergency conditions for fallout damages. 23%' Also unlikely, the Allfather had been at the head of his table. With no sight of Celestia's personal favorite for leader of the Aesir. If things came to blows there would be nothing left of any of the home worlds. So tomorrow would be a test of her nerves, and one where personal excursions would be inappropriate. Big Macintosh would have to wait, as much as it pained her to realize. Her initial misgivings were gone, she was no longer embarrassed in wanting to spend time with the stoic farmer. Not only spend time, but she...actually rather liked him. The warmth and affection she felt was positively glowing in her chest. She had no real comparisons to it, but it was probably what most any pony felt when they were in l-romantically attracted to another But Ragnarök was deadly serious, and would demand her utter focus and attention. Both Luna and her would be uneasy all day tomorrow, and for as long as it took for Twilight to report the situation. So far no word had come from the north, which was neither a good or bad thing. Celestia let her thoughts wander while adjusting a few of her more grim plans. Things were already on the right track, percentages increased. Plan A was still on course, but there was one scheduled event that she wouldn't even look at. Set for midnight tonight was written only two words and a percent: 'Wolf Variant: 0%'. Best not to think about it. No amount of planning would help if that particular prophecy came true. When the Elements stopped the crisis she would find a way to schedule some more personal time with Big Mac. If she could find so many things in the last few days a little planning would go a long way to making outings a regular occurrence Then again, she'd have to go to Ponyville to do so. That thought stopped her musings and her writing. A frown creased her face, focusing on the problem. She didn't go to Ponyville very often to begin with, and Sweet Apple Acres even less. Already her assistants and probably most of the high society of Canterlot could guess at the growing fondness she had for Big Macintosh. There'd be gossip for months if she stopped this very moment. They'd certainly know for sure if she kept going out of her way to see him. It would be a distraction to her work and open a floodgate of attention on Big Mac and his whole family. It would be absolutely unfair to do that to them, and very selfish. Not only that, she didn't even know if Macintosh liked her in a similar manner. Somehow that detail had eluded her until this very moment. Considering she'd only had the revelation yesterday that wasn't entirely surprising. "Do I really want a relationship?" She mused aloud, staring ahead without focusing oh her paperwork. Perhaps it was a good thing Cadance wanted to speak with her. Celestia couldn't think of anyone who might be a better source of advice on the subject of romance. Celestia carefully poured milk into the surface of the dark coffee on her desk. There were three like it, with the coffee in various colors of murky brown. Some had tasted better than others, and she was intent on finding her favorite. Today's experiment was the first of what would become many. Coffee without milk or sugar was completely inedible to her sensibilities. Before she began testing the many flavors of coffee she'd need to find her favorite amount of additives. With great care, she quickly stirred her latest cup and then lifted it with magic. Milk appeared to do an excellent job cooling the coffee just enough, which was an added bonus. She sipped, and considered the taste. Not bad, better than the last one. There was a burst of magical static just in front of her desk. The large mirror surrounded by crystal vibrated and then shook while momentarily encased in aqua hued energy. Then the pristine reflective surface shimmered and revealed Cadance looking through it and at her. "Hello Auntie!" Cadance beamed at her and even waved. The coffee could wait, Celestia placed the cup down and smiled just as widely. "And good afternoon to you, Cadance. It's been awhile since you've called. I hope everything is okay." Cadance was still smiling, but it faded a bit. "Well, kinda. We've had a bit of a problem." "A problem?" Curious. There could have been any number of issues. "I hope it isn't serious." Her niece quickly shook her head. "Just annoying. It's Discord. He's decided to pay the Crystal Empire a visit." Ah, that would do it. "I suppose trying to guess where he'd go at any particular time is an exercise in futility. Fortunately he has greatly limited himself since being befriended. If he really does become an issue you do have the ability to ask him to leave. And then you can tell him to leave after that." "Well I don't really want to threaten him." Cadance scratched her mane with a hoof, looking uneasy. "He did start changing all the food into rock candy, though. Something about finding the perfect recipe and declaring that it's all Crystal Ponies eat." Celestia rolled her eyes. "That does sound like him. As far as pranks, comparatively mild though." Through the mirror, she watched Cadance nod and then glance off to the side for a moment. "Oh, Shining! Come say hello to Celestia!" Duly summoned, Shining Armor sat himself next to his wife and waved. "Hello Princess! Are you having a tea party?" Celestia looked down at the four cups on her desk. "Coffee, actually. I just started trying it and was figuring out how much milk to use." Shining Armor blinked, and she could read the slight confusion on his face. If she didn't hold the rank of princess, or wasn't an unchallenged immortal monarch, he'd probably have called her weird. "Ah, " he finally said. "Oh. I have a question. A few days ago I signed off on a train ride going into the northern exclusion zone. I noticed my sister and her friends were on it. Is there anything we should be concerned about?" "Nothing that isn't already being taken care of." She answered quickly, switching to business in seconds. "it's a matter which required the Elements of Harmony. Though they are personally in little danger. It might be the end of the world, but they'll do fine." Shining paused for a moment or two, taking in the information and then nodded. "Alright Princess. All things with the Elements seem to deal with the world ending anyway. You're usually right about these things." "Thank you for the confidence." Celestia replied with a bit of a chuckle, it was probably still odd from Shining's point of view to be nominally on equal footing with her. "How has running the Empire been?" They both looked at each other for a moment. "It's been alright. " Shining answered first. Cadance nodded. "Sometimes a little hectic. I can't imagine how you've done it for so long. "Well," she lifted the current experimental coffee cup to have a sip. A bit of dramatic effect, nothing too showy. "A lot of practice for the most part. You'll get used to it in time." Cadance must have been having lunch too, because Shining Armor leaned over and was suddenly holding half of a sandwich. "I hope so. I'm still trying to remember where the bathro-" there was the sound of a door opening quickly. It caught both of their attention. "Your highness's." A deep male voice said, almost certainly a guard. "Discord has began animating large...rocky candy golems. They're alarming citizens and causing problems in the town square." Both Shining and Cadance sighed in unison. "I'll deal with it," Shining said while rubbing between his eyes with a hoof. "You enjoy your lunch and talk with the princess." "Alright." Cadance agreed and then patted him on the shoulder. "Don't let him get to you again. And keep the sandwich. Love you." Celestia glanced away just as Shining leaned in to kiss his wife on the cheek, though she could still hear the sound and some of the following affectionate words. She'd made the right call nudging them closer together at various times when they were younger. A success that had paid enormous dividends. Shining disappeared out of view, and then she heard the door close. Cadance was still looking towards it, thoughtful. Celestia gave her a moment, taking another drink. The sugar didn't really seem to make a big difference, but this definitely needed more milk. The bitter taste was starting to grow on her though. "I didn't know you drank coffee." Cadance commented, eying the cup through the portal. The issue with Discord must not have been all that serious if they were already speaking casually. "I started yesterday, actually." "Huh," Celestia watched as her niece started to poke at what was presumably her own lunch. After a few seconds Cadance glanced up with only her eyes, looking a touch too casual. "I can't stand it myself, though Shining really likes it. I've always seen you drink tea. What made you switch?" It was funny that she should ask. An almost perfect opportunity to talk about what she had wanted to ask herself. Too perfect, she realized she was being probed for information. But how could Cadance possibly... "Oh, a number of things." Celestia replied while speaking slowly "I saw Fleur yesterday, I thought you might like to know." That got Cadance to straighten up, and even look a bit guilty. So she'd guessed right. "Though I imagine she told you all about the charity event." Cadance chuckled nervously. "I may have gotten a letter in the mail. It sounded...fun." "It was rather enjoyable. What did your friend tell you about it?" The trap had fully turned, and now Cadance was stuck trying not to sound like a gossip while talking with the subject of the gossip. "Oh, mostly about a game of cards she played. And that she was surprised you brought Applejack's brother with you." Celestia smiled, knowing she'd gotten to the heart of it. So the high society, or Fleur and Fancy Pants at least, had made a guess. "I would hope it wasn't too surprising. He is an invited guest. The situation I mentioned before called the Elements away during dinner." "Ah, that wasn't the surprising part. Fleur seemed to think that you and..." Cadance paused and changed course. Celestia had a guess what she'd almost said, and possibly would have thrown Fleur in the spotlight of assumption making. Her niece ended up becoming a bit more stuttering, and less casual as she rounded out the last of what she was saying. "That is, uhm. She thought you were both very good friends." And that was near enough true. "I suppose we are. Though I've really only gotten to know him the last few days." Cadance's eyes had gotten a touch wider. Surprise at getting that much. "So, does that mean you..." Messing with Cadance could only go so far. Now the fluttery feeling was back. The one she'd identified as an unease in discussing such personal feelings. "I don't know. Or I don't think so. Not yet, anyway." None of that was easy to admit, and she couldn't hide the discomfort from showing. If Cadance was surprised before; now she was floored. "You mean you have a crush on him?" And then Celestia was privy to the sight of her niece, peer in ruling nations and an Alicorn princess descend into the emotional maturity of a schoolfilly. A hoof went to her mouth, and she started to giggle with a bright happy smile on her face. Cadance didn't miss a beat in commenting further, well before Celestia could try and answer her. "I did think he was pretty cute, and handsome too. Oh, and he's really quiet and intense sometimes, right? I thought you might like the strong silent types. And he's actually about as tall as you so it works in a way. Does he know you like him?" That was quite a lot to respond too, let alone answer coherently. Cadance might as well have been bouncing from giddiness. Celestia had to hold up a hoof for her to pause. "I don't even entirely know if I feel more than just passing affection. I was actual hoping you could give me some advice. If you promise to hold my confidence." "It's a Pinkie Promise." Cadance quickly ran through the motions ending with lightly jabbing herself in the eye. Her own exposure to Pinkie Pie didn't even make Celestia blink at the unusual method of making a vow. But once the promise was made, Cadance cleared her throat and became far more solemn. "You don't know if you like him? I don't think you'd talk about it if you didn't." That was true, and being in denial was silly. "Then I suppose I do. I do enjoy spending time with him, at least. But I don't know what I should do. Or the actions I need to take if I were to..." Cadance wasn't the only one demonstrating maturity well under her age. Celestia couldn't even say she wanted a relationship. "Okay, I see." Cadance nodded seriously and appeared to think for a moment. "Well I think the first thing you should do is tell him how you feel." Celestia opened her mouth to reply and then stopped herself. That notion seemed absurd. "But I don't even know if he feels the same way. Or if a...relationship would be possible. We both lead very different lives, and busy ones." "But..." Cadance pursed her lips for a moment. "Those kind of sound like excuses, or minor issues. If he likes you then you can deal with anything. " As upbeat and encouraging those words sounded, Celestia knew better. Cadance was still very young, and her special talent could certainly bias her to a degree of optimism about romance. "And what if he doesn't?" A dreadful thought, but a lifetime of planning made her consider every angle. That notion also caused Cadance to make a pained face and shuffle her hooves back and forth before speaking. "Well, I suppose that wouldn't be good. But...well." She definitely looked uneasy, like she wanted to say something. Celestia had seen that look, it was when you were weighing whether to be honest. Fortunately that was an easy thing to solve on her part. "Please, you can't help me if you're concerned about hurting my feelings. Go ahead, Cadance." "Alright, " Cadance took a deep breath. "Big Mac actually might not like you that way. Even I didn't always know for sure with a guy. Before Shining Armor I had the occasional flub of a relationship. And so did he for others, he's told me about them." Celestia quirked an eyebrow at hearing such an unusual word. "A 'flub'?" Nodding, her niece gestured with a hoof at empty air. "Sometimes you make a bad call. Or you look like a dork. Or he has a girlfriend already. Or you accidentally give him flowers he's allergic to, I always made sure to ask after that one. Sometimes being romantic can be messy." Cadance paused her amusing anecdotes, and frowned while giving a short sigh. "You've never had a relationship at all before; have you, auntie?" It wasn't quite so irritating to hear that question this time as it had with Luna a few nights ago. But still, Celestia tightened her jaw as the only outlet for the annoyance she felt. Again, the implication that she had somehow failed or missed something enormous simply by remaining out of romance. "I have not had the time for it. A long time ago there was a...possible suitor but that did not come to much of anything. It was simply not possible for us." "Oh," Cadance frowned now. "I suppose I'm sorry to hear that, about the long time ago. But now you've got a great chance to start fresh. I personally think Applejack's brother is a great choice! You should ask him out, or see how he feels about the idea." It sounded like decent enough advice, but Celestia still saw the problem in it. "Cadance, I have not had personal relationships only because I did not have the time. There are greater concerns than just the amount of work. My role as Princess is not only demanding, but carries certain responsibilities. I would not compromise myself, or endanger Equestria for anything." The only thing that came from Cadance by way of reply was silence, and an unhappy one. Celestia was resolute on what she'd said, and busied herself with the last of her coffee. Finally Cadance ventured, and slowly, to speak again. "Having a relationship like that with another pony doesn't have to compromise anything. You should be happy, at least a little." Celestia knew she'd selected right in coming to Cadance, since the young princess was nothing if not earnest. Otherwise she would likely be more irked at that constant, damnable phrasing. "I am not unhappy, Cadance," she replied with a firm tone. " Neither was I lonely, or sad with my fate. I was, and continue, to be quite content with my current life. Ruling Equestria and seeing peace and happiness for hundreds of years is not the unhappy, dreary picture you paint it to be." Cadance had drawn back at first, especially at the tone she'd taken. Celestia knew she'd been a little too harsh, though her niece had settled quickly into careful observation while listening to her. "Sorry," Celestia said after a breath. "I know you did not mean anything like that, I just do not care for the insinuation that I am unhappy." "I can see that," Cadance smiled, just barely. "Auntie, you wanted me to tell you what I thought. I think you might actually be a little more...unhappy than you think." Celestia had been about to protest, but a upraised pink hoof held her off. "I mean, well, unhappy about what Big Mac means. Love is very complicated, especially the first time. It isn't bad that you haven't really...explored a relationship like that one, but now that it seems to be here it's going to be strange and frightening. If it goes well, especially if it goes well, it can be an absolutely wonderful and beautiful thing." Celestia nodded for a moment. "It is a bit of an overreach to call a minor affection, 'love', but I do see your point. I agree about it being complicated. The more I think about the future, the less clear it becomes. The process is very messy." That got a laugh from Cadance, who visibly relaxed from the 'walking on eggshells' she'd been doing before. "It really is. I can't tell you how happy I am to hear that you're at least trying though. I don't think Equestria is as fragile as you think, and almost everypony would be just completely overjoyed to know you had a special somepony in your life." "Maybe." Celestia glanced at the clock on her desk. There was still some time life before she had to get back to work. "So your advice is for me to tell him right away? In the hopes that it leads to a more formal relationship?" "Well..." Cadance glanced off to the side in thought. "It could help, I think. How have you been spending time with him so far?" That was an excellent question. There weren't many experiences, but they'd managed to draw themselves out to be rather poignant in her memory. Analyzing what she knew about a situation was the first step to becoming sure about the next step. "So far I have been simply requesting he accompany me on fairly private outings. I asked him to give me some advice on the garden, have lunch with me to discuss a farm subsidy and then of course the charity event. All of them were very enjoyable, actually. I...I would not mind having more of those. Though it is getting harder to imagine reasons we might spend time together." Instead of smiling, as Celestia would have guessed, her niece looked concerned. "So he really might not know at all, since they'd sound pretty innocent. In that case I do think you should ask him directly for a date, or whatever you might think is best. You're not going to exactly...well, get anywhere if you keep doing it the same way." "But I was not able to find out that I was fond of his company without doing those things. Each occasion brought new aspects, things I had not expected. Wouldn't it be best to continue, at least for a while longer? I know many relationships begin slowly, and that it is best to learn as much as you can about one another." It was also an enormous step, and the possibility of rejection was not something Celestia wanted to risk. But Cadance didn't look convinced by her line of reasoning. "It's more complicated than that. If you're learning about Big Macintosh, especially because you seem to like him, then he should have the same opportunity to learn about you. It isn't really fair otherwise." "Not fair?" Celestia was confused now, and didn't mind showing it. "I would think he would have learned quite a bit by now. He's rather intelligent, and very perceptive." "Hmm, I suppose you would know better about the situation." Cadance relented, though still appeared troubled. "I think you should consider talking about it, just a little. Eventually he'll have to go back to Ponyville too." Celestia winced, frowning down at her desk. "Yes, I do know that. That is something I have been considering. I do not think it is fair to expect him to make one trip after another to Canterlot simply for my convenience. " "It would be hard," Cadance agreed solemnly. "But that shouldn't mean you don't try. Once you have a 'formal relationship' I'm sure a lot will fall into place." Then the princess made a tapping sound with her hoof. "Can I ask what you like about him so much? Why Big Mac?" Ah, that question. It had taken longer than Celestia would have guessed. "I knew you'd be curious." She chuckled, gathering her thoughts. "I suppose it is the novelty of not being...needed. If that makes sense. He's completely independent, I've become so used to ponies adoring me, and requiring my guidance that to meet one who doesn't...Well, it caught my eye. And yes, as you said before, he's very cute." Just saying those words led to a burst of warmth in her stomach, it felt good to say it out loud to another. Cadance was grinning ear to ear once again. "I'm really happy for you! If you need any help or advice don't hesitate to ask." "I certainly appreciate what you've provided so far." Another novelty was hearing the tone of a conversation winding down without her doing it. But Cadance had her own responsibility now. One outside of her aunt's authority. "I should go check to make sure Shining isn't a rock candy sculpture or something. Bye auntie!" The connection through the portal flickered out and Celestia was left alone in her office. She had a lot to consider, her thoughts more focused thanks to Cadance's advice. Not that she agreed with all of it. Celestia was sure that going about confessing her feelings would hardly accomplish much more than to embarrass herself. She'd have considered more preferable steps, but there came a knock on the distant far door of her personal office only moments later. "Yes?" She asked. It was very rare for her to be interrupted at this time. The door swung open and a guard poked his head inside. "Your highness, a personal visitor is requesting to see you. He says that it wouldn't be an issue." He? Celestia was sufficiently far away from the guard to show her genuine surprise. She hadn't told Big Macintosh that her lunch was going to be busy. Especially as she hadn't asked him for a second lunch in the first place. It seemed silly to assume he'd assume that he could eat another lunch with her. Apparently she was wrong. "Of course. L-let him in." Celestia couldn't remember the last time she'd stuttered her words. This crush of hers was beginning to annoy her refined sensitivities. The guard nodded and then ducked out of the door. There were only a few seconds to prepare, but she used them as best she could. First, a deep breath. Then Celestia realized the number of coffee cups on her desk, and quickly hid all but one of them. If Shining Armor had thought her experiment was unusual it was best not to take any chances. Oh, and the portal was still in the way. A burst of magic pushed it off to the side and out of sight, she even stood up and levitated a cushion over to sit. Then she sat down, before standing back up and straightening her desk to look like it was more full of paperwork. The door opened just as Celestia returned to her impression of casually sitting behind her desk. But it wasn't Big Macintosh, and she blinked at seeing Spike stroll in with a cheery smile on his face. "Hi Princess Celestia!" Still a bit nonplussed, she cleared her throat and smiled. "Well good afternoon, Spike. I had heard you were in the palace. I apologize for not seeing you earlier, but things have been rather busy." Spike shrugged as he stood before her desk, plopping down in the cushion she'd meant for Big Macintosh. "I know, some sort of stuffy charity event. Why does the room smell like a doughnut shop?" Chuckling, Celestia took a final drink of her coffee. It'd cooled off to the point of resembling most drinks, which somewhat spoiled the flavor she thought. Since Spike was here it meant she could get a particular bit of business over with. "I've decided to switch to coffee instead of tea for a bit. But it's fortunate that you came here to visit me during lunch. I had something I wanted to speak with you about." That caught his attention, Spike blinked and tilted his head while looking at her with overly expressive curiosity. "With me, Princess? I'm not in trouble am I?" Ah, that's why he was here. Celestia wanted to laugh once she realized his intent. Spike almost certainly knew he was 'in trouble', it was why he was here. He was also aware that, at least when dealing with her, it was much easier to confront your misdeed quickly and get it over with. "I did say I'd heard you were here in the palace." Spike hung his head, glancing down in instant repentance. "Princess Luna told me a great deal about last night. I can't say that I approve of your part in assisting the Cutiemark Crusaders. You of all should know the dangers of irresponsible use of magic." He was still looking down, which Celestia knew was his assumption of what would get him out of trouble faster. If she was actually sincerely upset she would have commented on his insincerity and they wouldn't be running through the formalities. Spike spoke with a saddened tone, though not quite so well put that she couldn't hear that it was feigned. "I know, Princess. I'm sorry, I was sure I was being safe about it. I just thought it would be sort of funny." Since he wasn't looking at her, she could allow a faint grin. "Princess Luna did not find it very amusing, though. While your drawing of a summoning circle was certainly well done it was still an unnecessary risk to take. Please do not assist the Cutiemark Crusaders with any further schemes, it's bad enough that my sister refused to admit defeat. There are quite a few upcoming issues going on in the world, things that both of us will need our fullest attention focused on. The crisis which drew Twilight and the others, Discord is harassing the Crystal Empire and I..." She trailed off, realizing she'd almost started to mention her exploration of relationships and a potential personal life outside of work. Certainly not something Spike needed to hear about. He did look up though, perhaps guessing his reprimand was over. Since it actually was essentially over, she distracted herself by opening up a personnel file for her staff. Performance evaluations were coming up, after all. "And what, Princess? I'm sorry about scaring Princess Luna like that, it won't happen again. I'm sure she'd probably know I was up to something if I tried again anyway." Shifting where she sat, Celestia mulled the start of staff meetings. Another important piece of business, and something she personally did herself. The afternoon was to be spent with Notetaker and herself pre-reviewing each employee of the palace for the interview to be held. It would distract her utterly from Ragnarök, and immerse her in the most detailed aspects of office work. But with her personal commitment to develop a...relationship strategy it seemed to only be in the way now. "Princess?" Spike was standing up now and waving to get her attention. Celestia jerked, refocusing to realize she'd lost herself in her thoughts. "Oh, I'm sorry, Spike. And handling the daily affairs of Equestria, a full time job to say the least." "Oh, right. I understand, Princess." Spike nodded, a carefree smile on his face. He'd gotten off very lightly for last night, not that she had much to be mad over. If Luna had been more upset, perhaps. But her poor sister had only seemed dumbstruck by the sheer complexity and cutthroat nature of the plan itself. They'd really gotten her, and that alone was entertaining to obscure that summoning demonic monsters from Tartarus wasn't exactly acceptable. Honestly, Celestia wasn't sure how the four of them had talked Mormo into participating in the prank herself. "It was very nice to see you again, Spike. You're welcome to stay in Canterlot until Twilight returns. I expect to hear from her sometime tonight, and I'll certainly let you know when I do." Spike nodded, agreed to stay and then excused himself. Celestia was left to her own thoughts again, and was grateful when no distractions came afterward. Just her, by herself in her office for the rest of her lunch. She quietly sipped at her remaining coffee while thinking. The seconds ticked away while she largely contented herself with staring at a fixed point on her desk. Thoughts came aimlessly, or even not at all in this brief little respite. The vast degree of things needing to be done didn't usually feel overwhelming but in this case it was hard to actually focus on a single one. A knock came at the far door, opening just as she looked up. Notetaker peeked her head in, and then blinked when they made eye contact. "Oh! Uh, hello Princess Celestia. I'm sorry, but I wasn't sure if you had meant to cancel organizing the staff performance review." Had she really ran over her lunch break? A look at the time confirmed that her set aside lunch had ended ten minutes ago. Having been late only on the most dire emergencies, it was understandable that Notetaker had came looking for her almost immediately. Celestia quickly cleared her desk and then stood up. "Ah, my apologies Notetaker. No, I hadn't meant to cancel. Come in, did you bring the paperwork with you?" Her secretary nodded quickly and retreated into the hallway only long enough to roll in a cart overladen with personnel files. Celestia had been about to pull up a seat, but realized that the one Spike had been using had not been returned. It was just as well, Notetaker took it without comment and then pursed her lips while looking her way across the desk. "Is something the matter, Notetaker?" Celestia could see the curiosity in her eyes, and thought it best to address it before they even began to work. Jumping a bit, Notetaker shook her head quickly at first and then grew more pensive.. "Well, no your highness. It's just..." She was concerned about the strange and uncharacteristic behavior she'd been displaying. Celestia didn't actually have to ask, she'd been behaving well outside her normal routine lately. It'd be easy to point the cause entirely towards Big Macintosh, but the past had been bubbling its way into her thoughts as well. Clearing her throat, Celestia nodded in a knowing manner. "I have had a great many things on my mind lately. I think you'll find that it's an unavoidable part of being a princess." Her assistant nodded enthusiastically in agreement. "Of course, your highness. I didn't mean to presume-" "Now now," Celestia chuckled. "You've been working here for a fair amount of time, Notetaker. I think you're welcome a little presumption." Of course Notetaker wasn't sure quite how to take that and said nothing in reply. Instead they got down to business, files laid out and the faces of many familiar ponies smiling up from their pictures. It was solid, unavoidable and altogether mind numbing work. From where to hold meetings, the order and scheduling and running through paperwork to assure nothing had become out of place. Unlike how most businesses likely conducted reviews of their staff, Celestia took the extra step to learn the lives, dreams and plans of those who worked for her. No pony would work here in the palace would feel unappreciated. About two hours into the work Celestia looked up to watch her assistant immersed in her half of the paperwork. They'd settled on a relaxed rhythm, one that required few words. But a thought had struck her while passing over retirement plans for the Royal Guard. "Notetaker," the young mare looked up in curiosity. Celestia gently placed the paperwork she'd been levitating down onto the desk. "Do I seem unhappy to you?" Eyes wide, Notetaker stared back at her for a long moment. "Well, uh...no I don't think so, your highness. I mean, you don't seem unhappy..., no." It appeared that Notetaker now found the paperwork in front of her extremely interesting, she'd started to furiously scribble and then glanced up for a moment in eye contact before looking back down. "Do I seem happy, then?" Celestia persisted, despite it being quite clear that Notetaker would have rather she not. It still somewhat boggled her mind that so many ponies might have been going about their interactions with her under the impression she was miserable. And curiosities were things that Celestia simply had to know for certain. Smiling nervously, Notetaker looked back up. "Happy, your Highness? You do...well, work a lot. But I don't think you're unhappy, like I said before. A-and you did look like you enjoyed your break two days ago, and...other things." The 'other things' she'd referred to had been said with a bright flush and another look away. If there had been any guess about Notetaker's assumptions about the 'Macintosh situation' they were all but confirmed now. Celestia gave a long considerate hum, and leaned forward with a touch of keen amusement displayed all because of the opening. The more she thought about it, the more sure Celestia was that there was little hope to keeping this a secret. If she was going to have a relationship with Big Macintosh then the entirety of Equestria was going to know about it about three minutes after their first date began. Best that she take the pulse of her staff on the matter quickly. Though she might risk scaring her poor aide half to death. Notetaker's mother had been become a fair confidant by the end of her tenure, a tradition Celestia wanted to continue if it could be helped. "Earlier today you made a suggestion that I'd be having lunch with Big M-Macintosh Apple." Notetaker went pale, a remarkable achievement after she'd been flushing so readily. "Y-yes, I'm v-very sorry about that, P-princess. I didn't mean to assume about uh, who you'd be having lunch with. I just uh, well...he is your guest and that you might perhap-" "It's quite alright, Notetaker. You don't need to keep justifying yourself. I appreciate that you've been mindful of the time I spend with Macintosh and looked to handle it proactively." Celestia did her best to give her most reassuring smile for the sake of the young mare falling to pieces in front of her. It did seem to work, more or less, and Notetaker settled down after her rapidly changing states of timidity and embarrassment. She could have pushed further if she wanted, but Celestia already had a good idea of what her aide thought. Positive, if completely unsure what to make of it. Since that more or less matched what she felt about her own situation, she could hardly blame Notetaker. If they were aware of it, the rest of her servants and direct employees were likely the same. But now that Celestia had considered the 'Macintosh question' once again it refused to vanish from her mind. There was relatively little work left to be done on these reviews, but even diving back into them was unappealing. Glancing across the desk, Celestia considered Notetaker once again immersed in the paperwork and hummed in thought. "Notetaker?" Once again she shot up from her work with wide eyes, but now trepidation was obvious. Likely she was worried that her princess was about to start talking about yet more uncomfortable subjects. Fortunately that was not what Celestia was intending to do. "I think we can end our planning session for the day. You're welcome to head home." Blinking, Notetaker immediately glanced over towards the nearest clock. "O-oh, okay your highness." She didn't miss much of a beat, but Celestia was well aware that she wasn't due to head home for quite awhile. Still, Notetaker rose and bowed before leaving with a good amount of the paperwork. Celestia had waved her own pile off from collection with just a hoof, and her aide hadn't tried to argue. Still quite a lot of work to go for her, it seemed. Maybe she could do with a good coltfriend herself... Regardless, there were far more pressing concerns to address. Not only to ponder the virtues of a relationship, but there was still a unforgettable bit of dread for tomorrow. Celestia could safely say that it would be best to remain alone for the rest of the evening. The tick of the clock that Notetaker had looked at was now her only company. It took an hour until she realized that solitude wasn't quite as good a thing as she thought. Thoughts had bounced about aimlessly in her head and only grown more distracting as she tried to specifically not focus on them. Celestia pulled back from an open staff folder she'd been glancing over with no other purpose than that it had been open before. "I really do want to spend more time with him," she said aloud. Thankfully there wasn't anyone around to hear that. Her own ears were more than enough, and she tapped her desk with a hoof in unhappy indecision. Luna was likely getting ready to sleep at this point, so that she could handle her watch in the middle of the night. If either of them desired the others company while waiting for Ragnarök it would be there. But the memories were still too painful to her for why they'd left, and it was likely all the more for Luna. They would likely carry on pretending that nothing was amiss, at least with one another. But according to Cadance's advice she could simply go to Big Macintosh. He'd almost certainly spend time with her if she asked. Doing so without a reason would lead the conversation to what was on her mind. Two things, specifically. The possibility of the end of the world, and him. It'd be the sort of conversation that would decide a great many things, and likely take hours to complete. Thinking about it made a part of her want to stand up and go looking for him right there. It'd be decisive, and she'd either be in a relationship or not at all. Only a part of her wanted to do that, to throw caution to the wind. Most of her shied from it, and she came to a compromise. She'd work on other courses of actions as a substitute, and if none were apparent she'd follow what Cadance had advised. "It's decided then." More words to the empty office, and Celestia put all her focus to the question. Unlike most problems it wasn't exactly easy to go about. Simply thinking into space presented few if any ideas. Brainstorming was next, and she began to outline various activities she and Big Macintosh might be inclined to do together. Ultimately the list began to resemble her regular schedule, with Big Mac simply included. No, even she knew that wouldn't work. Wouldn't she have to do things with him that he'd prefer? But what? Sighing, she tapped her floating pen on the desk for a moment instead of her hoof this time. "I suppose I wouldn't be very cut out for bucking apple trees." Certainly not. That wasn't for her, any more than she could expect Big Macintosh to suggest they spend an evening writing tax code. Perhaps the traditional framework of dates? It seemed likely, they both were very traditional ponies. Then again, she was coming up with these plans with the idea that they were only gradually learning about one another. Romantic dinners, or whatever she might imagine, would be a very, very unlikely thing to play at being platonic. In that aspect Cadance was completely correct. Time ticked away while she mulled the problem. Nothing was jumping out at her, and almost invariably the problem stemmed from circumstances, distance or both at once. It didn't matter what they did, spending time together was her goal. Even just walking together in the gardens had been very pleasant. But riding a train out to see her in Canterlot...or finding a reason to visit Ponyville? It seemed intractable. She called for more coffee, looking out the window and realizing the sun would need to be lowered soon. If nothing else thinking about the mechanics of a relationship had passed the evening away very quickly. She added plenty of sugar and cream to the pitch black drink and then was rewarded with the best flavoring yet. Celestia made a mental note of the quantities and then enjoyed her drink while looking over her now disheveled desk. On it was dozens of papers outlining everything she knew about Ponyville, Canterlot and Big Macintosh. There were other considerations; what she knew of Applejack, the rest of the Apple family and even a cross reference reminder to look into Earth Pony traditions and customs for relationships. There was no sense in leaving a stone unturned, but none of it had produced anything of apparent value. Maybe it'd be best to just speak with Big Macintosh after all, if he was in the palace still. The first thing she needed to do was gather up her created notes. Leaving them out for Notetaker or some other helpful pony to organize would lead to a great many questions and speculation. She considered where Big Mac might be at this hour while setting the pieces of paper in a desk drawer holding the rest of the staff folder. One had fallen open and spilled its contents at the bottom of the drawer, which necessitated picking it up. A picture of the pony working for her caught her attention, and Celestia momentarily forgot her best guess of where Big Mac was. She lifted the picture, somewhat out of date compared to what they looked like now. But that was why she'd stopped, and her thoughts moved in a new direction. A spark. An idea. A plan. She didn't need to go speak with Big Macintosh after all. She lowered the sun as an afterthought and immersed herself in the new plan. Having a course of action always seemed so very obvious once she'd set it. This one in particular didn't need many variables either, a simple arrangement that she could establish the very moment she had the time. Her examination of the angles, the likely outcomes was interrupted by the appearance of a letter in front of her. It had quite simply poofed into existence and landed, and then unrolled on her desk. Twilight hadn't even wrapped the parchment in twine, which was worrisome. Even more alarming was the unorganized and hastily written script which was still identifiable as Twilight's once she'd taken it up to read it. A quick run through of the note told her everything she needed to know. Lowering it, Celestia considered the shocking news with a sort of grim realization for what it would mean. That moment only lasted for a few seconds, due to the incredible swell of an ancient, but familiar, magic that enveloped the entire castle and seemingly far beyond it. Her mouth went dry as she registered what it was, and stood up instantly from her desk. At the same moment as she said the single word that named this event, there was a piercing scream of abject terror throughout the palace that sent Celestia running for the door.
The course of true love never did run smoothScreams of terror woke Luna up first, followed by the deep pit of dread that had filled into her stomach. Rather than pitch black night, the sky itself was red and glowing. Enormous flaming balls of fire were lazily angling towards the ground and impacting with heavy thumps, despite being miles away from the palace. The terrified cries of ponies down in the city proper were an ongoing backdrop to what could only be one thing. "Ragnarök." It could be nothing else, the natural flow of magic in the air was in ceaseless tumult. Luna proved as much when she tried to stand out of her bed and faltered, her mane limp and unmoving. Slowly she trotted over to the window to stare, lacking in any energy to do more than that. What could anyone do at this point? The world was over. In stunned silence she felt the ground shake, a towering figure shot high up over the horizon. An enormous serpent, and the fall of its body back onto earth resulted in an overwhelming earthquake that nearly toppled Luna over onto the floor. She'd observed that Ponyville was in its path, and must have been completely flattened as a result. The serpent wasn't the only figure to appear, and she marked the figure of Surtr in the distance. The giant was wielding his famous sword, which was bright and flaming as he brought it down in a terrible arc to the ground. More fire, but it only seemed a little thing compared to the utter conflagration dominating the horizon . The serpent and Surtr were not to be left alone, and two streaks of light appeared high in the sky while rapidly descending towards their targets. "They're late," Luna mouthed, her mouth too dry to form proper words. For the self proclaimed protector of this world; the hammer wielding thunder god making his way to the enormous snake had taken his time. But in moments both he and Freyr were engaged with their foe of choice which began to cause even more devastation to the land with the onset battle. Too far away to make out details, Princess Luna turned her gaze down towards Canterlot. There was nothing anyone could do, and the overwhelming weight of her failure piled upon her. Though, lifting her head and glancing towards the door she recalled there was one event still to come. Curious that it hadn'- The sound of a wolf howling caused all her other thoughts to stop. Automatically she pressed herself up against the nearest wall, right next to the window with the world ending in earnest outside. Her wide eyes were focused on the closed door, as the castle itself trembled. There was a burst of familiar magical power, a heavy shake and then the magic went out. Her sister was dead, she could feel it as if her own heart had just been torn from her chest. There was no time for grief though, the castle shook once more; and this time it was right outside her room. A heavy, thick animal growl sounded and then the stone wall exploded in a shower of dust and debris. Before her stood her fate, a wolf five times her own size and barely able to fit within the expansive hallway. It took a single step forward and once it did Luna let out a scream of utter fear. "No, no! This isn't-no you're not!-This isn't supposed to happen!" She knew there was no point to begging, and even less of a point to fight. The wolf chuckled and took another step forward. "I've been chasing after you for a long time, Moon-Raiser. Now I have found you, do you know fear?" Swallowing, Luna tried her best to press through the wall she was against. Anything to get away, and nowhere to go. "You are not, you cannot! You...you are...from the prophecy." By now the wolf was close enough that she could feel his foul breath wash over her. Droplets of heavy spittle landed at her hooves, his enormous maw open wide to display razor sharp teeth. "I am Hati Hróðvitnisson, the Mánagarmr. You are my meal, and I am hungry. But I can allow you a few seconds to give your last cries of terror." Abandoning all dignity, Luna felt her resolve shatter. "Please! You do not have to do this! We-, the fate that was spoken of does not have to be anything other than our will! Do not eat me! I beg you!" The wolf did not listen, and it reared back in preparation to bite her. Luna shut her eyes and screamed out her last breath. In a moment she had a full picture of her long, lonely life laid out in front of her in review and it seemed very much unfulfilled with the end now upon her. But her death did not come. Instead a much different, but nearly as deep male voice sounded in her room. "And that, children, is how you scare a princess. I win! Oh, your game is excellent! I wonder if I can convince others to play." Cracking an eye open, Luna realized that her bedroom was no longer destroyed. It no longer had a wolf in it, either. Instead there was Discord and the Cutiemark Crusaders on the opposite side. Discord was grinning from ear to ear, floating and being generally rather amused with himself. The CMC, however, looked very much uncomfortable. "Er, Mister Discord? You didn't have to go...that far." Scootaloo was looking up at the smug trickster while chewing on lip. "Yeah, that was really mean." Sweetie Belle was next, and was glancing with obvious guilt her way. "We didn't mean for him to do that, princess." Applebloom was last, and rubbing at one hoof with another while staring down. Luna was only staring, her heart beating rapidly still. The terrible rolling of the world's magic was no longer in the air. No more screams, or the impact of meteors coming from the window. Only crickets were chirping, with the battles between gods and giants no longer raging. "It-Ragnarök is not...?" Discord rolled his eyes at her, and at the Cutiemark Crusaders as well. With a languid sigh he hopped up into the air and floated, arms going behind his long head. "Of course it isn't. I'm all for good fun, but even I would hate to see all you cute little ponies go to waste over a little quarrel. Honestly, did you think you were the only one who could manipulate dreams? " It'd felt so real, it had went well beyond a nightmare. She edged back a level of control, inhaling deeply and shakily standing up. "I...Discord, remove thyself from our sight." Her command went unheeded, With Discord giving an exasperated groan of annoyance, his eyes literally falling out of his head on their next roll. "You're no fun, Luna. And here I thought you composed yourself magnificently during what you thought was the end of the world and your horrific death. I can't imagine other ponies would do better than you. That gives me an idea! I wonder what your sister would-" Celestia burst into the room scant seconds later, Discord's words falling away at the sheer aura she was giving off. Her older sister was quite obviously furious, and glaring pointedly at the Dragonequus who had placed his eyes back where they belonged. "Why hello Celestia, I was just talking about you! How good it is to see you again. I'm quite pleased to hear how well Twilight and all her little friends did in defusing that pesky disagreement. Those former friends of yours were always such a pain; order this and feasting that. I simply don't know how you and Luna dealt with them for so long. I mean, besides being essentially inducted into their ranks of course. So you must be rather happy that it's all over with." For once Discord sounded faintly nervous, Luna felt only like an observer at this point. The shock still only just wearing off. Instead of yelling, commanding or even looking at Discord her sister glanced purposefully over to the Cutiemark Crusaders. Her gaze alone was enough to get the three to cower and hang their heads in shame. Celestia cleared her throat and looked towards the door. "I believe it is past time you went to bed. We will speak in the morning." Quick as a flash of lightning, the trio of fillies were gone without a word. The tension became palpable when Celestia turned to finally look at Discord once more. To his credit, the trickster did not flash out of being. Though he was no longer floating, and deliberately rubbed the back of his neck while Celestia glowered at him. "Look, Celestia. I can almost certainly understand that you might feel a little bit of...how should I put it? Annoyance? Aggravation? Perhaps a little bit miffed? Ah, wait! I know. You might be a bit-" "Discord, go. Now." And with that simple, terse command he was gone in a flash. Now only Celestia and herself remained in the bedroom, and Luna exhaled a breath she'd been holding. By now Luna was a great deal more composed than she had been even a few moments ago. The world wasn't going to end, and...well, she'd learned something very important about herself on reflection. Celestia felt absolutely terrible, and could not help but heap blame solely on her shoulders. She'd been careless enough to mention Discord to Spike, who she'd known was in league with the CMC. They must have contacted him, sought him out to help in their seemingly harmless pranks. Discord and the word restraint together were usually prefaced with 'does not have any'. With the increasing escalation and lengths the Crusaders were willing to go she should have seen this as a logical conclusion. Now Luna had been forced to confront something truly awful, something neither of them had ever wanted to see. "I'm so very sorry, little sister." She went to hug her sister, wrapping her wings and simply squeezing tight. "I did not mean for things to go so far." Luna accepted the hug, and even returned it. But after a moment she cleared her throat. "N-no, it is quite alright big sister. I am fine now. Thank you for dispatching with Discord, though." The dispatching hadn't even begun, Celestia swore to herself. He'd be lucky not to be returned to a statue after she'd had a chance to personally address to him how her family or their past were absolutely not to abused ever again. Pulling away, though, she refocused on the immediate concern of whether Luna was okay. Her sister did look more or less alright, with a small frown and a contemplative look on her face. Her eyes were still distant, her attention drawn away and far outside the palace to inner thoughts. Celestia could only guess what Discord's...interpretation of Ragnarök had been like, but the magic had seemed unimaginably powerful and dark. Luna's scream alone was still haunting, echoing in her memory again and again. "Luna...everything will be alright now. The Elements convinced both sides to no longer fight." That caught Luna's attention, and her eyes regained much of their focus. "But how? We both heard the prophecy about our fate and the rest of what was to come." Nodding grimly, Celestia had her own moment of inner thought. Thinking on times long ago when they were far, far younger and played their part in the ever shifting politics of the distant worlds. "Twilight and her friends were able to get to the heart of many of the specific grievances. Ultimately it appears that Mímir was lying to the Allfather, and lied to us as well." "Lying?!" Luna's eyes grew very wide and jerked back immediately at the news. "That wretched, dishonorable talking head was speaking false prophecies to us? To provoke the war? And our part that we were to play was-" "False," she confirmed with a nod. Celestia was no less happy to learn about the deception than her sister. But in thinking about it, the flow of what was to be their foretold end appeared to make sense in that context. Regardless, it was now over and done with. Now there was the fallout to deal with. "The Elements will be back in Canterlot tomorrow." There was a long pause, as Luna appeared to have no immediate answer. It was getting very late now, and Celestia wasn't sure she was going to be able to get very much sleep tonight. Not after having one of her plans come crashing down upon her head like this. Finally Luna did speak, glancing out towards her window. "We learned something of ourselves in the moment we believed our end was nigh," Celestia could hear the contemplative tone even as her sister slipped back into her more archaic way of speaking. It was a curious thing to say, though. "Learned something?" Celestia sat directly next to her, settling down and ready to listen. Another brief pause followed, and then Luna nodded at last. "We-I did. We, and I mean you and I, have let the threat of the end drive our actions too much. I have been hiding away from the changing world, merely observing and largely keeping myself separate from our subjects. I can adapt, learn and change and still remain Luna, Princess of the Moon." That was, in fact, what Celestia had been hoping would happen for her sister. It was why she had set the Cutiemark Crusaders upon her to interact with, even if Celestia could not have anticipated it would have happened this way. If this revelation was true then she could absolve herself of just a little bit of guilt, if Luna proved to be happier ultimately because of it. "I think that is an excellent lesson to learn, little sister." Celestia could feel the smile return now. Genuine warmth, more like relief, flooded through at last. Perhaps things really could return to normal, or even better than normal. Her two projects had come together and been resolved as satisfactorily as she could have hoped, even if they hadn't gone entirely smoothly. Luna was looking at her from the corner of her eyes now, and was not sharing in the smile and warmth. "Yes, we agree that is an excellent lesson to learn. Have you learned...?" Luna stopped herself suddenly, though she hadn't needed to finish for Celestia to guess at what she was meaning. Though it was only a limited guess, she knew for certain what the general subject was. "Yes, I have also learned a few lessons myself. You were more right than I had first thought, Luna." Her sister was genuinely surprised at that, Celestia was entertained to see it play across Luna's face and by the sudden turn to face her more fully. "You have learned that-?" Celestia cut her sister off. "I have learned that perhaps," she licked her lips and considered the next word carefully, "companionship is not such a bad thing to have." There wasn't much more to say, that she was willing to say anyway. The idea of pursuing romance was difficult enough to consider on her own, let alone to discuss the specific way she was intending to go about it. So many tight, uneasy emotions along with mountains of uncertainty. A bright smile had appeared on her sister's face at last. "We are overjoyed to hear that you have made such a resolution, big sister. Perhaps it is for tomorrow that such resolutions become fully realized?" A tiny push for more information, but not an unreasonable one. "Perhaps," she answered. It was as far as she was willing to allow. She did have a plan, and one that was likely to be simple to execute. Now that the safety of the world was secure, as well as the safety of her sister, Celestia could briefly entertain more personal projects. Tomorrow promised to be exciting; the start of a new, better world. "We're really sorry, Princess Celestia." The three fillies in front of her certainly did look sorry as they chorused their apology in unison. Celestia had selected a personal antechamber near the dining hall to hold this small wrapping up of last night's events. Applebloom, Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle had arrived as duly summoned and held their heads low. Spike had been here a few minutes ago and had received his far more stern reprimand than he had yesterday, with the young dragon far more sincerely apologetic for his involvement. Big Macintosh was also present, having already heard the full version of events from his little sister and their friends in the morning. This wasn't a particularly enjoyable part of her job, but there was no room for growth if ponies did not learn their lessons. "You should not be apologizing to me, my little ponies. I would think your apology is more owed to Princess Luna, and I hope you do take the time to do so before you leave today." Applebloom had looked up and then nodded vigorously "We will, Princess! But we reckoned cause you'd invited us out here and all we oughta apologize to you too. On a count of we've been right rude guests." That was likely taken from Big Macintosh's personally given lecture, judging by how he was sternly glaring at his sister at the moment. Since he'd already done the more harsh portion of letting the three fillies know exactly what they'd done wrong it was probably better to move into the learning phase. "And have you learned just what you're apologizing for?" There, and now she'd given them a chance to show that they understood. Sweetie Belle was first, sounding the most downcast of the three. "That we shouldn't think it's okay to do whatever you think you need to in order to win. That games are suppose to be for fun for every pony, not just us." That was more or less the main 'point' to their lesson. The constant and increasing escalation may have made sense from a game perspective, since Luna had refused to be frightened by anything less than the possibility of her own death, but that didn't mean you had to go and actually cause that to happen. A lesson definitely useful for the future. Applebloom was next, a glance to her older brother didn't seem to give her any encouragement that she was out of the woods as far as punishment. "It was also wrong for us to keep trying to guilt Princess Luna into playing with us. We were kind of being bullies about it, since we shoulda known better." Also an excellent lesson, and one Celestia filed away partially for herself. She'd played her own role in egging her sister on to play; with the excuse that Luna hadn't been legitimately uncomfortable until the end. It was also hard to have predicted just how serious the CMC would take their own game. Maybe even they hadn't realized it. There was a significant pause, with eyes falling onto Scootaloo. The young pegasus filly perked up from her downward gaze, suddenly realizing that there was an unspoken expectation for her to round out the group lesson. "Oh uh," she fumbled, looking to her friends who were unavailing in helping her come up with a moral. "I guess it was wrong to try and summon a monster from Tartarus. Oh, and we shouldn't have asked Discord to help either." Yes, technically that was a lesson to learn. In the grand scheme of things it wasn't likely to have much application, but Celestia could bend enough to allow it. Sweetie Belle and Applebloom had already taken the main points. "Very well," Celestia nodded and accepted the three's self recrimination. A palpable weight of relief seemed to lift of the trio of filly's shoulders and they were finally able to meet her gaze off from the floor. "Your sisters and the rest of the Elements of Harmony will be returning in the next few hours. I suggest that you pack your belongings and prepare for the journey home." The three departed slowly, with a distinct note of solemness hanging over them. They weren't speaking to one another, and possibly wouldn't until they were well outside of her sight and hearing range. That was well enough, and hopefully they hadn't taken their reprimands harder than they really had too. It had been difficult not to gently bring the three young girls back up with assurances that everything would ultimately be alright. If she had, though, the prior lesson would have been undermined; it the main reason she had not done as much. Big Macintosh gently coughed after a moment, his eyes were still focused on the door but Celestia had a feeling that he was trying to get her attention. As far as she'd known him Big Macintosh only seemed to make noise when he intended to. Since she already had something she wanted to say it was all the opening she needed. "You'll make sure to tell Applejack, Rarity and Scootaloo's parents that they've already been spoken to more than once about their behavior. I can't imagine it's fair to have it continuously brought up by different ponies." "Eeyup," he answered while still looking where his sister and her friends had gone. Celestia had paused, expecting him to say more but there didn't seem to be anything forthcoming. Not anything too out of the norm, sometimes it seemed like she had to work to warm Big Macintosh up to get the stoic farmer talking. "With the exception of the incident last night I have been very happy to have you as guests. I hope that you've enjoyed being here at Canterlot, Big Macintosh." For a brief split second she'd almost said 'with me' somewhere in those last sentences. Turning finally, Big Macintosh shrugged nonchalantly and the straw in the corner of his mouth switched to the opposite side. Even after watching that happen so many times it still fascinated her by its deliberateness. "Eeyup, can't say a bad thing about it. You've been a fine host, Princess." Hm, he'd avoided saying her name once again. Habits apparently died hard, though it was entirely possible that Big Macintosh was simply too polite to drop respect simply because he'd been told it was okay. She still wanted further conversation, though, and now Celestia was curious to get more of an idea of how he'd come to think of the overall week. "You are of course more than welcome to return at any time." Big Mac raised an eyebrow at that and there was an extended pause before he replied. "That's a kind thing of you to offer, but I reckon the palace here has had all it can take from my sister and her friends for the moment." There was a faint ghost of a smile on his lips that didn't quite reach his eyes. She smiled wider than he did, accepting the joke as graciously as she could while the faint stirring of a warning was in the back of her mind. It wasn't quite like Big Mac to go and deflect with humor, and his real thoughts were about as shielded from her as they'd ever been. Then again there really was probably no other way to take her offer to return and visit from his point of view. It was important, she reminded herself, that she was committed to slowly walking them into a possible relationship. Big Macintosh had simply taken the 'you' as being collective. "I'm sure that Princess Luna will appreciate the break, as will the staff." Her own responses were limited, and Big Macintosh nodded in agreement as they continued to share their slight smiles at the general hassle that were the Cutiemark Crusaders. But still nothing came after, and a decidedly awkward silence descended which Celestia couldn't immediately figure out how to dissipate. If one was forcing conversation along it was often best to end it, but that was exactly what she didn't want to do. Big Macintosh was looking at her silently, finally coughed and then glanced towards the door. "I best be getting packed, beggin your pardon Princess." "Oh yes, of course." It came out automatically, even as a tightness gathered in her stomach. Watching him trot out of the chamber did nothing to help her unease. Her eyes lingered there for a long moment, immersed in her own thoughts about what seemed liked a thousand different things. It wasn't like her to be doubtful of her plans, and the one she'd made last night was a very simple one. Instincts, that 'gut' feeling of warning, simply refused to dissipate regardless of the number of times she reassured herself. Discord was still watching her from the corner of the room, a literal fly on the wall. No time for reconsideration, there will still work to be done. "It's your turn, Discord." She spoke up aloud, lifting her head to look towards where she'd sensed him skulking. With a flashing burst of magic Discord was in front of her, an annoying goofy grin on his face. He'd seen the awkward little byplay between her and Big Mac, and now Celestia realized that the entire tone she'd wanted to impart on Discord was lost. Now the Dragonequus was going to harass her ab- "My my, Celestia, does Applejack know about you two?" It was tempting to rub at the bridge of her nose, she could feel a headache forming already. That would have given him far too much satisfaction though, and instead she let out a long breath. "I didn't forget your part in last night's events. Did you think it was acceptable to trick my sister into believing she was about to be eaten?" She did her best to lace her words with as much stern seriousness as could be mustered, but she knew the trickster well enough that it was unlikely to have much effect. Discord waved her off with his claw, though there was perhaps the barest glimmer of guilt. Fluttershy was definitely having an effect on him, good. "It was all in good fun, really. After thousands of years of anticipation I'd think having nothing happen at all would be just a little anti-climactic don't you?" "You wouldn't have escaped the Twilight either, Discord. You will make a full and sincere apology to my sister or I will have you banished from Equestria." That last threat would be difficult to enforce, but she was prepared to make it. The Cutiemark Crusaders might have been mostly harmless in their escalations, but there could be no allowances for the reality warper to believe malicious pranks like that carried no consequence. It did keep him quiet for a few seconds, Discord looking evenly into her stare. He was gauging whether she was serious, and she doubled down on giving him a stern look to confirm that she was. Discord looked away first and sighed heavily. "Well I suppose I have no choice. I would hate to miss one of Fluttershy's tea parties, and all of Equestria would become so very boring without me around to liven things up." There was definitely no answer to that, and Celestia continued to merely glare at him. It was easier than trying to puzzle out Discord's motivations and interests. About the only consistent one was 'cause chaos' and even then that goal shifted as easily as the breeze. "That should be all, Discord. I have business to attend." As curt a dismissal as she usually gave, Celestia turned away and began to leave the room. There were more reasons than business, too. She especially did not want to talk to him about- Discord was floating along her right, languidly suspended sideways in the air. "You know what, Celestia? I just realized something. Your first foal could be named Monarch! Wouldn't that be hilarious?" Usually when Discord was rambling she had a habit of tuning him out, it wasn't like what he said most of the time was anything more than nonsense. But the last comment caused her to stumble, her lead hoof clipping the floor and bringing her to a dead halt. Children?! Celestia scrambled to fight away a blush. "Discord, that isn't funny." "You're right, what would the other children think? Favoritism to the new royal line simply wouldn't do." "Discord..." Celestia practically growled out his name. Hopefully none of her staff were nearby to even hear a whisper of this conversation. She'd been about to walk through the doorway leading out into the hallway. Discord hadn't had the room to move through the opening and instead had phased himself halfway through the stone wall. Of course he hardly paid much attention to that at all, grinning from horn to antler at the successful dig. "And really, it's remarkably egalitarian of you. I can already imagine the scandal and intrigue, why, the paparazzi! will have a field day" Instantly a camera sprouted itself into existence for Discord to aim her way. That was quite enough already, and even included just a fraction of her apprehensions. Celestia was certainly not about to confide with Discord of all creatures, and this had gone on for too long. But how to get rid of him? Something quickly, or when the first pony came by he'd start to lace every sentence from then on with innuendos to try and fluster her. It'd work too, but what could possibly stop Discord from having his fu-. An idea came, though it'd be annoyingly inelegant "Discord," she repeated his name, the trickster's attention focusing away from zooming his camera lens in on her face. Her mastery over her expression was being completely put to the test, lest she betray just how annoyed she was. "If this continues the only thing that will happen is the status quo." Much like deflating a balloon, the change over Discord was near instantaneous. The camera poofed itself out of existence and there was a half glare, half searching and all together annoyed look across the dragonequus' face. Status quo was as near a curse for Discord as anything. The very notion that he might be the cause for something boring to happen could get him to go to avoid just that, she'd found. "Very well," Discord said in exasperation, folding his arms over one another and turning up his nose. "I'm sure it will be entirely predictable and stale, anyway, as things with you always have a habit of being." Celestia gave no answer, knowing better than to rise to any sort of bait. Time was on her side with this, and if she just waited a few more seconds Discord would give up and find something else to do. Out of thin air a clock chimed, despite being at best a quarter past the hour, Discord immediately craning a claw to an ear. "Oh goodness, will you look at the time? I'm afraid I'm going to have to go, dear Celestia, as I have to catch up with a very old friend. A kindred spirit, really, I do hope she remembers me." Now that she knew he'd be leaving, Celestia allowed a heavy sigh and an answer to send Discord off. "I'm sure she will, but keep your pranks out of this world." And with that Discord was off in a flash, and Celestia could only hope that he found it entertaining enough to aggravate Ice Giants and Æsir, instead of ponies. Things were quite stressful enough without two incredibly powerful tricksters roaming Equestria, three if you counted Pinkie Pie. But even with the trickster gone and no immediate tasks in front of her, the tension welled inside Celestia refused to dissipate. There was still quite a bit to do this afternoon. Without another word Celestia left for the gardens. Her thoughts narrowed and focused, future conversations playing themselves out in her mind to assure her that she hadn't missed a thing. Of course she hadn't, today was going very well. The new apple trees looked like they'd completely taken to their new home. Celestia marveled at the bright green leaves sprouted among the branches while wandering along the edge of the more wild looking gardens nearby. This new addition much more resembled an orchard, but somehow didn't clash in appearance. It'd likely be another year before any sort of apples grew, from what little she knew of fruit trees. Still, that would pass by in hardly any time at all. "Oh! Well it's nice to see you again, your highness!" An old creaky voice from out of the woods caught her attention. "Come to admire the new addition to the garden? I have to say you had a good idea in suggesting it." Green Hoof had a hoe strung across a shoulder and trotted slowly out into the open area while approaching her. She smiled brightly, entirely genuine. "It is very lovely, Green Hoof. You and Big Macintosh did excellent work and the gardens are all the more beautiful because of it. Very soon staff and dignitaries alike will be able to enjoy apples whenever they please." Her gardener beamed under the praise, and removed his worn straw hat to wipe at some sweat dabbed along his face. He didn't return it to his head, however, and bowed now that he was directly in front of her. "If the critters around here don't get to them first, anyway. Got to say if I was a colt half my age I'd probably have a easier time of it. Not that I'm complaining, your highness, I know a few tricks that'll keep them away." He'd punctuated the last bit with a wink and a grin, a self assured quality born out of decades of experience. It was exactly the sort of thing to say that Celestia had been looking for. "I have no doubt that you are up to the task, my little pony." Even if he looked quite a bit older than her, her subjects never failed to smile wistfully at the gentle tone that phrase brought. "Though, I did notice that your work went quite a bit faster when a pony who was half your age was there to assist." Green Hoof blinked for a moment, and then laughed. "You're right about that, your highness! That young fella knew his way around apple trees like nobodies business, even taught me a few things I didn't know. Not always easy to find a pony who can work hard and has a real appreciation for making things grow." This was going better than she could have hoped, though Celestia cautioned herself to handle it delicately. "We've been doing staff reviews, Green Hoof." Her gardener stilled from his good mood, a touch of wariness at what he must have started to anticipate. "You've been serving here faithfully for longer than most of the other staff in the palace have been alive. I cannot be more thankful for your dedicated service, but I would not want to risk it becoming a risk to your health either." The earth pony in front of her was quiet for a long moment, working out his feelings on the subject. It was something Celestia was willing to allow for as long as he liked, these sort of choices were never easy to make. She wasn't going to leave it up to any other pony, though, and she made a point to remember her most loyal servants and helpers through her many long years of rule. Finally Green Hoof let out a long exhale and nodded. "I've been thinking about what I'd do if I ever retired for quite awhile, Princess. Hard to imagine doing anything else, but I probably have more money saved up than I'd even be able to spend, heh." He chuckled a bit, though it was strained. There were always backups for her plans, and now that Celestia saw just how he'd taken the proposition she adjusted her angle of attack. "Green Hoof, if you were to retire you would not have to leave the palace." That caught his attention, and she could see a bit of relief there as well. "You've more than earned a full pension, and I wouldn't dream of asking you to leave your grounds. You may remain here, and even return, anytime you like. I can imagine that the incoming groundskeeper will need quite a bit of help in learning their position wouldn't you agree?" There, now there was a far more genuine smile on the stallion's face which set her own worries to rest. "Well I imagine I could show them a thing or two," Green Hoof agreed. "Do you have a pony in mind, your highness? If I had to give one off the top of my head I'd say Big Macintosh, but then again he's already got the farm down in Ponyville." It was very easy to fake surprise at the given name that had been line with her own thoughts, why she'd come to the gardens in the first place. "What an interesting suggestion, Green Hoof." She cast a look back towards the palace, knowing that the true test of her nerves would be coming very soon. "I'll see what he thinks of it before he heads back home." "The Elements of Harmony will be arriving to Canterlot in half an hour, your highness." One of her guards had bowed dutifully, and Celestia had only nodded absently at the report. Everything was going so very slow, the anticipation mounting within her as Celestia did her best to not to stare at a clock in her throne room. There wasn't anywhere else for her to be, and so she simply waited. Without the upcoming...discussion with Big Macintosh it might have been more likely that she'd have met Twilight and her friends at the train station. There were a lot of questions that she wanted to ask for how their adventure in the north had gone. Aspects and key details that would need to be answered to ensure that the brokered peace would stay peaceful. Instead she was waiting for them to arrive here in the palace, feeling anxious that she might have missed her guess as to what Big Mac would be doing at this time. He'd want to greet his sister, or at least know when to greet her. This would mean he'd have to come looking for her, or any official who would know. Which meant he'd come to the throne room. Suggesting that he take on a position as a gardener would require a touch of casualness that would be impossible if she just went to find him. But so far he hadn't sought her out, something Celestia was finding to be very frustrating. A half dozen minutes passed by, and she was now sure that her plan would be for nothing. It was hardly a catastrophe if it was, though certainly disappointing. Celestia would take a long weekend to consider alternative plans, trips to Ponyville could be set that would take her closer to Sweet Apple Acres. She wasn't going to give up that easily. Of course that was the moment that a side door far on the left of the throne room swung open and Big Macintosh followed through it. He was unaccompanied by the Cutiemark Crusaders, or any other pony in fact. Instead he was dragging a assortment of luggage and placed it discretely off to the side and out of the way. For a moment Celestia thought she saw surprise register when their eyes met. Curious. The moment had come, though, and Celestia cast away all the fluttering butterflies in her stomach while descending from where she had been sitting. Big Mac bowed when she approached, and then rose up to lift an eyebrow at her approach. The bit of straw in the corner of his mouth remained motionless, which meant he wasn't going to speak first. "Your sister and her friends will be here very shortly, Big Mac. I hope you understand that there may be a bit of a delay as I'll need to ask them a great many questions." An easy start, nice and official. It occurred to her after a moment that this was the sort of hyper aware, focused attention she used when dealing with master diplomats and villains. Macintosh gave a nonchalant shrug of his shoulders. "Eeyup, take your time." Hm. Big Mac was apparently still short on words, which would mean she'd have to direct things along a bit more than she'd have liked. "I suppose Applebloom, Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle...?" "Reckon they're makin' amends with Princess Luna." Celestia felt tense, could even feel her heart beat quickening in anticipation as they wound through small talk. "Well then good, I imagine my sister will be bringing them then." The object of her (secret) affection did not even reply with a 'eeyup' at that, but he was observing her quietly all the same. It was a look that she often gave ponies, and being 'under the spotlight' for a change was totally foreign to Celestia. And oh, there were too many guards within earshot for what she wanted to say too. The butterflies were back with a vengeance. "Ahem, Big Macintosh?" Her throat felt dry as he lifted an eyebrow. "Would you mind speaking with me out in the hallway? I have something I'd like to ask you." Where that persistent guarded look she'd observed before had been subtle, Big Macintosh looked almost outright alarmed now. "Er, well I suppose that'd be okay..." He drawled, his words coming a beat faster than were usual. Did he suspect? No, of course he couldn't have. Celestia hadn't figured it out herself until yesterday. The door to the throne room shut behind her, and the two were left in the empty hallway by themselves. Alone. If Big Macintosh hadn't been forthcoming before he wasn't going to prompt her now. Best to start with the proper tact. "I had a chance to stroll through the apple trees you planted, Big Macintosh. Your work was excellent, and you went to far greater lengths than you had to." Big, silent green eyes were watching her closely while she spoke. At last he nodded, still clearly wary. Maybe he did suspect she had something in store after all, she hadn't developed a crush on a pony without intelligence. "It wasn't nothing, really. Glad you like them though." "Well of course, Big Macintosh. I..." Celestia paused to gather herself, truly not completely sure how to proceed. The warning she'd felt before was blaring now for her to not finish her words. She ignored them, though, having already started this plan she knew she had to see it through. "I saw how able you were while working in the Canterlot Royal Gardens. Green Hoof spoke very highly of your talents as well. Would you possibly be interested in taking his place as groundskeeper when he retired?" Silence fell, and Big Mac did not visibly react except to look off to the side and away from her. Was that a good or bad sign? Celestia couldn't tell, couldn't even guess. "If you are concerned about the compensation being enough to offset your work in Ponyville I would of course be happy to discuss the exact amount you would be pa-" "You're offering me this job on account'a you liking me, ain't that right?" Big Macintosh had cut her off neatly, sweeping his gaze back to focus on her. His tone hadn't been even close to happy. Celestia was left grasping, unsure how to even begin to respond to that. This hadn't been...she hadn't anticipated this at all. "W-well, that is..." An abysmal response that did everything to confirm that he'd been right in his guess. Big Mac snorted, frowning now. "Then no, I don't want to play at being your stud." There'd been acid dripping in his voice, and it torn through her. Her chest squeezed tight, to the point where she hardly felt like she could breath. Tears were already threatening to well up as well in barely constrained emotion at knowing she'd just made an enormous mistake. This was not what was supposed to happen. "I didn't intend-" "No?" Again, Big Macintosh had cut her off, punctuated with a stamp of a front hoof. "Princess, with all due respect I ain't a dumb farm pony. You been leadin me all around here and there, tryin to butter me up this whole week. The only reason I'm even here is on account of you inviting us. You knew there was gonna be a reason to send my sister and her friends off, and you wanted my other sister and her friends to play with your sister. What am I spose to think about why I'm here, when we go off walking in the woods together on your 'day off'?" He was terribly, awfully right. So right that Celestia couldn't even begin to form a counter to disprove what he'd said. The only problem was that he had drawn the right conclusion in the worst possible way. What had she done? Once riled up, Big Mac didn't seem inclined to stop and began to pace back and forth in front of her. It was startling to see just how livid he could become. "So you want to spend time with me, cause you like me for whatever reason. That's fine and all, even if you didn't ask me what I thought or if'n there was somepony else. Was I supposed to just accept working here by day and come visit your bed at night? Right up until I got all used up, worn out or you got bored of me, right? Did you have a plan for that too?" The accusations were getting off their mark, but still hurt more than she could have ever imagined. All of the positive she'd been building up for the past few days had suddenly turned themselves to dust. Not so much because of what he was saying, but the twist and perspective he'd been applying to her actions. Was that where they would have been heading if he hadn't said anything? It made more sense than Celestia wished. At what point would Big Macintosh have been able to tell her 'no' if he had been uncomfortable? But still it was terribly unfair, and even as her breath hitched in a choked by sob she did her best to defend herself. "Big Mac, I would have never-" She was cut off again, not that her words had been anything but half hearted. "You say that, but how much am I suppose to know what you 'would have' done? Everything's planned out by you, ain't it? Maybe cept me telling you this right now. You introduce me to Green Hoof, set me to work so he'd have less of a choice about you firin him. You set it up so that the farm'll get more money even if I'd be gone, and now here you're trying to set me up neat as a bow so you can watch me outta your window. Well I'm never gonna abandon my family, not ever! I ain't my Pa, and I know who I am. Hope you have more luck with the next guard you like, good bye." Simple as that, Big Macintosh stormed off towards the exit without another word. Celestia wasn't going to follow him, and sat there in her hallway. Somewhere in the middle she'd started to cry and it wasn't going to stop anytime soon. She'd ruined everything now, and the spiral of thoughts threatened to consume her. Worse even than the terrible feeling of rejection was what would have to come after. How could she greet Twilight and the Elements who were about to arrive? How could she return to Ponyville now? "S-sister?! What is the matter?" Luna was next to her now, she'd come at both the worst and best time. Distantly the figures of the CMC far down the hall registered, hopefully out of hearing. Celestia couldn't compose herself even when her little sister draped a wing across her back. Nor could she stop herself from keeping the break of emotion out of her voice. "I made a mistake, Luna." It would sound so innocuous from any other pony, but to her it was all she could do not to break down. "I was wrong." She still had duties to perform though, anything to take away the memories of what he'd said. "I'm-I'm sorry, but I've got to-." It wasn't just Big Mac who was going to interrupt her today, though Luna was far more gentle about it. "No, you don't have to do anything right now big sister. We will intercede with the Elements on your behalf and then return to comfort you. Do not worry about it." Her sister was right, it would do more harm than good to be seen like this. Questions she would never want to answer from her student, her friends or any other pony who would see her in this state. The embarrassment of even being like this over something so seemingly minor was only serving to mount the self recriminations and doubts she felt. This was why she hadn't wanted to open herself up in the first place, something so tiny could hurt so much and threaten Equestria. The worst thing of all, beyond all the others, was the look she'd seen on Big Macintosh's face when he'd started to turn away. He hadn't looked entirely angry for one second, he'd looked almost as hurt as she knew she felt. Now she knew what that persistent look on his face every time she'd tried to nudge herself closer to him had meant. There was something there that he must have felt for her, and his angry reaction only confirmed it. If he hadn't had feelings he wouldn't have lashed out at all, and the blame could only be leveled at herself for trying to manipulate him. Like she did with everyone else. Now he was gone and her hopes ruined. What had she done? Author's Note The End! Lol, no not really. There's one more (likely very long) chapter left to go. Sorry for the long delays again! I have a habit of wanting to try and perfect everything I can and in this case I wanted to publish both this and the previous chapter close together. Because I set up a cliff hanger and in this case it's not to let a reader hang too long. I will neither confirm or deny whether this story has a happy ending or not. I will say I had the majority of the plot laid out when I started writing the first few words so nothing has changed from what I planned. It is a bit longer than I would have thought though! Thanks for reading, hopefully I don't get destroyed too much for making Celestia cry.
A stage where everyone must play a part, and mine is a sad one.Somewhere outside of the farmhouse a rooster sounded the call to wake up, which Big Macintosh answered with a half grumbled murmur against his pillow. Something was off about the shrill crowing. Entering into more coherent thought, the next call made it more clear that the natural alarm clock was not following the prescribed routine it was meant to. Cock-a-doodle....do? The rooster sounded confused, which in turn left Big Mac confused. Confused was not something he particularly wanted to be early in the morning. The painful cobwebs floating in the back of his mind at waking were even less pleasant. He hadn't gotten much sleep last night, and the reason he hadn't was being put as far out of his sleepy mind as he could manage it. Even with his eyes closed he could feel the sunlight creeping in through the window on his face. Usually it was soothing, an added warmth to the enveloping blanket draped over him. Now it seemed to be wavering in and out of strength which was the final straw as far as Big Macintosh was concerned. He immediately sat up, opened his eyes and ignored the head rush to glare out his window at whatever it was that was the matter. Everything was completely normal, with the exception that the sun was slightly wobbling in the sky. Something very much not normal actually, and Big Mac stared at the ball of light as best he could without it hurting his eyes. It traveled here and there, looking like it wasn't quite sure where it was supposed to be. Finally it settled down in a spot a touch higher than usual and remained steady at last. Hardly a flawless start to the day. "Did you see that, Twi?" Applejack's muffled voice sounded from downstairs, just on the edge of his hearing. Another voice sounded, Big Mac made out the sound of chairs scraping along the wooden floors of the dining room. "I did, I think that was Princess Luna. She mentioned that she was taking on some additional responsibilities, but raising the sun?" More chairs scraping along the floor, it wasn't hard to guess that they'd probably went to the window and then back to the table. "You sure ya don't know what the matter is with Princess Celestia? I mean, Princess Luna didn't tell you?" "No, she wouldn't say..." Big Macintosh snorted and threw his sheets off of his legs, landing on the floor next to his bed and slowly twisting his neck this way and that. The pop of cartilage was satisfying, but did nothing to remove the painful throbbing in his head. He'd wake up with a little cof- "Actually I came over here to ask you if you knew anything," Twilight had interrupted his train of thought. "Did Big Mac say anything after you got home?" Coffee didn't sound like a good idea actually, but work did. His familiar yoke was sitting next to the door, he hadn't worn it in over a week. It fit snug against his shoulders, right where it belonged. He should get out of the house before he ended up eavesdropping on something that would end up souring his already less than happy mood. "Not a thing, though that ain't always a surprise coming from Mac. He just went straight up to his room and shut the door with one heck of a noise, I think it half scared granny to death. You reckon that has something to do with why we didn't see Princess Celestia?" Big Mac opened the door, eyes set straight ahead and thinking about the near ceaseless apple harvest. The south field would get bucked today, he decided. Twilight was answering his sister, "I really wish I knew. She hasn't answered any of my letters, and on the third one Princess Luna was the one who wrote back asking me to just allow her some time to reply. Applebloom, are you sure you didn't see anything?" "Uh, I don't think so. I mean, Big Mac and the Princess were together a lot this week and all but nothin out of the ordinary." Applebloom was a touch louder than either of the others, or maybe it was that Big Macintosh was now walking down the hallway. He wasn't walking softly, but his hoof steps hadn't made enough of a noise to quiet them apparently. "They were together this whole week?" Applejack sounded shocked at the revelation, and now Big Macintosh was at the top of the stairs leading down. He wavered a moment, his jaw tightening as he listened to Twilight speak up next. "You don't think that they were-" Unlike the second floor, the stairs were particularly creaky when one applied just the right amount of pressure on them. Coming down the steps filled the entire building with the noisy groans of wood against wood. Twilight's voice had died immediately as soon as he'd started, and Big Macintosh could feel the weight of six eyes watching him from the adjacent room. "Er, mornin' Big Mac," Applejack sounded like she'd got up from her chair. He hadn't looked, opening the door outside instead. "Did you want me to get you some breakf-" Out the door he'd went, and out of earshot. It was more than a little rude of him, but so was talking about a pony without them present. He had not been intentionally eavesdropping, so it wasn't his fault at what he'd overheard. He'd already learned his lesson about listening in on conversations a few days ago. One thing was for sure, he didn't want to be in the house for the rest of the day if he could help it. Good thing there was a lot of work that needed to get done. He passed by the animal pens, past the equipment shed and out towards the orchards. The morning was chilly, and the crisp air was doing wonders for banishing the remnants of sleep still lingering. The downside with being alert with only his destination in front of him was that his mind would wander. It was almost entirely unavoidable, the first few trees he passed stirred up a memory. Princess Celestia had been staring at him for the last few minutes, almost as soon as they'd entered the forest. Being looked at wasn't so much an issue for him, but it was a bit unusual to be under the spotlight of the Princess. She was better at hiding it than most, but Big Macintosh could feel her eyes even when he was studiously looking at the various trees and creatures who darted out of sight when they got too close. This wasn't even the first time he'd been stared at today. Comparing Princess Celestia to those other mares felt shameful, but Big Macintosh was brought back to the catcalling from earlier. She'd been a great deal more subtle about it, but there were not too many other ways to interpret being asked out here to take a walk in the gardens. The stumbling, tongue tied way she'd set the pretext about planting apple trees was a screen even easier to see through than why his family, his sister's friends and he had all been summoned to Canterlot. About the only piece of the puzzle that Macintosh couldn't figure out was why Princess Celestia was interested in him in the first place. Not only could he not puzzle out the why, but he was entirely unsure of 'how much' she was interested. Big Mac was not being egotistical when he thought of himself as handsome, virtually every mare (and a few stallions, much to his confusion) had seen fit to mention as much to him if the topic came up. Very few of those ponies had been able to spark much interest on his part, as far as he could discern they wanted him for his looks and not much else. Surely Princess Celestia wasn't the same. Every pony knew the crass rumors and jokes that were bandied about regarding the Royal Guard and the Princesses. A large castle composed almost wholly of handsome stallions? Big Macintosh had never been a fan of those sorts of whispers, and neither were the majority of ponies that made up Equestria. One knew exactly the quality of the pony in question when they started those sorts of conversations up. So why was he taking an intimate stroll through the gardens with Princess Celestia? Princess Celestia practically qualified as an institution, an unshakeable and unapproachable figure who had the absolute faith of her subjects. An unapproachable figure who had been 'checking him out' for the last few minutes. It was difficult to make sense of, or know how to react. No matter how pretty or perfect she was, Big Macintosh knew better than to even think of flirting back. It wasn't as if she intimidated him by being a princess, Big Mac just knew what his place was. Princess Celestia came to a halt in their walk, with him doing likewise. Turning to face her, he expected her to speak up first. "Do you see anywhere good?" There was a hint of tension that he could hear, that nervousness he'd seen before written all over her face. Since they were in the middle of the woods the question left him more than a little confused. He decided to meet one question with another. "Anywhere good?" He echoed, wondering if they were going to drop the apple tree planting pretext entirely. In the end he really had planted quite a few trees in the gardens, and made quite a tidy profit for the farm in the process. The revelation for why she'd asked him in the first place stuck in his craw though. Big Macintosh clenched his teeth at just thinking about the last conversation he'd had with the Princess. Having everything he thought he knew about her turn out to be utterly wrong was...no, he really needed to stop focusing on it. Few enough ponies knew it, but Big Macintosh had the unusual gift of a near photographic memory. It wasn't like he'd had much need to mention it, it was just a useful skill that helped him remember where he'd put the keys to the barn. Now it had the downside of dredging up moments he'd have rather forgotten. The whole last week was laid out before him like a storybook, the events clashed with one another while he fought to make sense of them. In the end, it'd been fun. He'd had a good time, and he did like Princess Celestia. She lived up to almost every bit of praise spoken of her. Caring, intelligent beyond all belief and she even had a warm, but slightly wry sense of humor that Big Macintosh enjoyed matching. This was even leaving behind her natural beauty, which was a sidestep to avoid how inappropriate he felt it was to think in those terms about her. Almost everything about the week had been great, only the last few minutes had spoiled everything. By now he was firmly on the other side of the apple orchard, so far out of sight and mind that he could have shouted and not a single pony would hear him. Usually he worked in silence, but his foray into past memories had welled enough tension in him that he felt compelled to give it comment. "You got played for a damn fool, Mac." Deftly he turned his back to a apple tree teeming with ripe apples and delivered a swift kick. Down they went, the fruit pattering onto the soft ground and then spreading out. Stupid, he'd forgotten to haul buckets to catch them. A whole bunch of apples were now wasted, unless he wanted to take up his time picking likely bruised apples off the ground. That was a whole lot less satisfying than kicking trees at this point, so instead he went for a nearby shed that held the buckets. Just because he was angry didn't mean he was going to vent his frustration unproductively. He wasn't a foal anymore. Opening the dark shed sparked another memory, and this one laid at the heart of why he was so upset. He'd been trying to find his way around the palace, having finished up the paperwork for planting trees in the garden. It was an impossibly large building as far as he was concerned, how any pony found their way around was a complete mystery. The guards hadn't given him more than an aside glance when he'd passed them, so he had assumed he had free reign to explore. Sooner or later he'd find an office and maybe a helpful bureaucrat to direct him to the right place. That was going to be difficult, it was getting to be late. Few self respecting ponies were going to be up at this point, and even fewer were likely to be the kind he needed to speak with. Maybe he could just go to Princess Celestia's office. She'd been the one who had suggested this whole project, and she'd made it abundantly clear that he was free to see her anytime. Big Macintosh was smiling at that point, reminded of the poker game and night out he'd had the day before. His fears and apprehensions about the odd start of a friendship he'd began with the Princess were beginning to fade away. If she was truly interested in him then by now she'd showed it was a great deal more than...well, unwholesome intentions. Why would he even think that way about Princess Celestia in the first place, anyway? "-would be a great deal more tolerable if she hid it better, I think. He's a simple peasant, it goes against all propriety to go dragging him around to social gatherings." That was a particularly smug, aristocratic sounding stallion's voice echoing along a side hallway. Big Macintosh stopped dead in his tracks, frowning as he processed what he'd heard. They were talking about him and the Princess, and it had not been said with anything approaching approval. "Yes, well," a more familiar, but equally haughty voice replied, "I think we can allow Auntie to have her...indiscretions. We do owe her quite a bit for her prestigious rule. I myself have fancied a few of the lower sort from time to time. They have a simple charm about them, far removed from the complexities and stresses of our higher stations." The other voice snorted, sounding a bit closer, they were bound to walk right in front of him at some point. "It will provoke quite a scandal though, and it hardly seems like the Princess cares. What will the rabble think about this? It will lead to them presuming some measure of social equality, I'm sure of it. How long do you think it will even last? How can you be so relaxed about this, Prince Blueblood?" Macintosh hadn't needed the other pony providing the name to match that voice up with the prissy stallion he'd formed a very low opinion of the day before. Just hearing his voice conjured up the arrogant and dismissive body language Blueblood practically oozed. If Big Macintosh hadn't liked the unicorn before, he might possibly come to hate him for what he was saying now. "I suppose it comes with being very familiar with my dear aunt's methods. It is likely for some purpose or another. From the gathering yesterday it seems this isn't entirely an ordinary peasant. He has ties to one of the Elements of Harmony, I've mused on the subject of whether the source of her attention resides there." Blueblood gave a dry chuckle, "Or perhaps she's simply drawn to him in the most simplest ways, you do know what they say about the composition of our guard." The other stallion laughed a bit louder, and more nastier. "Oh I do know what you mean. I suppose you're right, Blueblood. In any event, we should tread a bit more carefully around Princess Celestia for now. Did she really see through the purpose of your budget recommendations that quickly?" "I'm afraid she did," Blueblood sounded less than pleased at giving the news, and the voices had grown all the closer. They were slowly walking towards the open hallway, but he hadn't moved an inch while listening to them speak. "As I said before, I am familiar with her methods. She is unparalleled in uncovering plots, and executing her own. Much as it may annoy, we have little other recourse. As far as defeats go, this is comparatively mild. I don't suppose I told you of the time that I was the chief suitor for the hoof of Princess Cadance did I?" "Why I have not heard that, are you saying that the royal wedding was a matter of Princess Celestia's design as well?" "It was, and one likely spanning years by how Cadance was set for the Sparkle family. Certainly better than peasants, but barely qualifying as nobleponies. A waste of a good potential bloodline." Blueblood snorted in open derision. By now Big Macintosh had had quite enough with these two colts and what they'd been speaking about. Confrontation, especially physical confrontation, was best to avoid. Midway through the overheard conversation his blood had started to boil. He didn't care what they thought of him, but the sort of rumors they were likely to spread about Princess Celestia were intolerable. He was stopped by what was said next, though. The other stallion spoke up almost immediately, "A very subtle ploy, but I can't help but wonder about the last few days with our Princess. Increasing subsidies for fruit producers? Do you suppose it's a matter of rewarding for...services rendered, or...?" "More likely we are about to attain a new gardener, judging by the paces that our Princess has been putting the object of her affection through. I think the budget recommendations serve as a most unconventional dowry." The two shared a laugh and rounded the corner, but away from and missing Big Macintosh entirely. He'd been shielded by a shadowed portion of the hallway, and far enough away to be out of sight. Watching their retreating forms, still amiably gossiping between one another, Big Mac finally decided against chasing them down and doing his level best to be thrown in prison. They weren't worth it, not by a long shot. Regardless of that, those last words though had come uncomfortably close to his own observations. Wouldn't these two know the inner workings of life in Canterlot better than he? No, Big Macintosh didn't want to dignify the disgusting things they'd said by taking them to heart. Try as he might though, he couldn't stop the idea from gnawing at him. Having spent so much time immersed in his memories, Big Macintosh had been mechanically going through the motions of laying buckets, kicking trees free of their apples and then moving the now full containers off to the side. He'd only managed to become steadily more frustrated as he went, culminating with the realization that he'd completely let the conversation he'd overheard influence what he'd said to Celestia. Thoughts matched actions, and Big Mac was jerked out of his thoughts by the loud, thudding impact of his back hooves against a tree. The sharp crack of timber was what had alarmed him, and turning to look at nearly uprooted tree was all the confirmation for what he'd done. He'd left the tree sagging away from him, roots clinging to the earth in an attempt to stay upright. He'd ended up hitting the tree so hard it'd nearly fallen over. He turned with an unhappy sigh to stare at the damage, he'd ended up inadvertently letting his temper get the best of him and now he'd made more work for himself. The tree could be righted and settled, though the sizable hoof print embedded in the bark was going to be permanent. He wasn't a foal anymore, and he hadn't lost control of himself like that in years. Even just thinking back to that time caused that particular memory to spring to the surface and start to play itself out. But this was interrupted by a quick bit of movement that jerked him out of his reverie. There was a shuffle of hoofsteps and an alarmed intake of breath off to his left, his eyes naturally drawing there. Standing halfway against a tree only a few dozen feet away was Princess Celestia. She looked to be on the verge of panic at being caught and Big Mac wouldn't have been surprised if she vanished into thin air. For a brief moment he even thought it might have simply been his mind playing a trick on him. But it was no trick, as she'd stayed quite where she was. Also Big Mac had never seen Princess Celestia missing her tiara, ornate horse shoes and necklace before. He'd also never seen her with red ringed eyes and her mane quite so limp and defeated. It made her seem smaller somehow, and it only took a few moments of consideration before Big Macintosh realized what the full impact of his words had caused. Visibly swallowing, Celestia took a step forward and glanced towards the nearly uprooted tree he'd kicked. The glance only persisted for a few seconds, then she focused entirely on him. "I...Big Macintosh," she began, sounding tentative and unsure. "I came here to apologize. Would it be alright if I spoke with you for a few moments?" Big Mac didn't answer immediately, his usual style born out of patience. Anything that was important to say deserved fair consideration. Did he want to talk with her? The pause deepened, though by what he saw from Princess Celestia she didn't look nervous about the wait. Finally he gave a single nod and steeled himself for a conversation that was liable to last a great deal longer than a 'few moments'. "Eeyup." Running Day Court for a second time was a great deal less pleasant than it had been before. A heavy gloom had fallen over the entire assembly of ponies, and Luna felt the gloomiest of them all. It had been a very long night, punctuated with intercepting half a dozen letters from Twilight Sparkle. Her sister's pupil meant well but it hadn't been a distraction that Luna particularly wanted. Courtiers, noble ponies and visitors alike were milling about the large chamber in hurried, hushed conversation. Occasionally she caught whispers of her sister's name or a glance towards the throne. Being its current occupant, Luna was finding it irritating to meet gazes that would quickly turn away. In a way it was very fortunate that she'd had previous practice in running Day Court. Without even that bit of precedent her presence here would have been terribly awkward. As it stood, it was only slightly so. With tensions running high it was outside of Luna's expertise to sooth them. There was no speech, no proclamation that she could think to give that would settle their nerves. "Your highness?" A voice off to her right spoke up to catch her attention. Luna glanced over to behold Notetaker, Celestia's aide. The filly in question wilted like a flower under her gaze, which Luna had come to understand wasn't so out of the usual for the flighty earth pony. Oh, Notetaker was likely waiting for her to speak first. "Yes, Notetaker?" Was she missing something important? The previous Daycourt had simply been petitions on the part of her subjects. Swallowing, and then glancing behind her, Notetaker pushed at her glasses and finally replied. "W-well, today was planned to be the entering of the yearly budget into the royal record. Perhaps it would be best to announce it for another, uh, day?" An opportunity to read off a very long, dry manuscript of numbers? Luna could not imagine anything that would be more welcome to her at the moment, the alternative was to sit in awkward silence in front of countless ponies. "No, we shall take up this piece of business. Bring it forth." Her sister's aide nodded immediately and made a beeline for a side door. Now all Luna had to do was bring the room into order, which seemed easy enough. Standing, which did half the work in quieting those assembled, she cleared her throat. "Hear now, it is time to read that which will continue thy royal government!" Only after speaking did she recall the gentle reminder her sister had given a few days ago that 'The Royal Canterlot Voice' had not been used in daycourt for hundreds of years. Still, yelling at the top of her lungs had succeeded in properly cowing the many ponies before her into silence. If they seemed a bit...frazzled at their princess shouting at them it was a sacrifice Luna would just have to make. Though not every pony was brought into complete silence. A hint of movement and what was undoubtedly a snide comment made under his breath brought Luna's gaze upon a certain nephews of hers. It really would have been in 'Prince' Blueblood's best interest not to have come to court today, she thought. Mounting on the many headaches facing her was a quiet tip that had arrived from an editor at a local Canterlot newspaper. The news concerning her sister and her crush on Big Macintosh had finally reached the press. The editor had sworn up and down, after a very stern interrogation on Luna's part, that his paper would not breath a word of the crude rumors and speculation. That would still not stop the many tabloids that likely had countless pictures of the pair to fuel their disgusting articles. This latest bit of the unfolding drama would make it all the worse. Luna knew exactly who was responsible for the majority of these rumors, the unsourced quotes from a 'prestigious member of the Canterlot aristocracy'. Reading the snippets the editor had brought were enough to leave Luna seeing red. Blueblood must have been very unhappy about losing in his power play on the Crystal Empire. He'd covered his tracks well though, and she could see no way in calling him on it. She'd spent so long focused in on Blueblood that Luna missed the quiet nudge of Notetaker trying to catch her attention. "U-uhm, Princess Luna? Here is the budget. Would you like to have a pony enter it into the record officially for you?" Luna turned, looking down at Notetaker trying to be helpful. The skittish little pony looked as if Luna was about to banish her to a far off land for the slightest trespass. If only she could inspire such a feeling from her neph- A terrible, wonderful idea came to her just then. "No, that shall not be necessary. We shall read it, but first I wish to make an announcement." Notetaker only looked confused, as did those within earshot at her words. Luna only turned to look at the assembled court to make her address. "An ancient land has opened itself up to access once more," she began. "One of great magic and mighty beings. It is from this land that we, the Royal Sisters, hail and once called home. Fear not for danger, for those who dwell in those far off places are content to their own affairs. But," Luna drawled slowly now, knowing she couldn't keep a predatory sort of glee out of her voice. "Equestria shall need a voice in this place known as Asgard. One who shall weather the ceaseless battles made in sport and the threat of powerful and terrifying monsters at their doorstep. They shall do this so that we may be safe and sound knowing our interests are known, our far off ambassador. Prince Blueblood." Jerking in utter surprise, Blueblood stared with wide eyes up at her. The assembled ponies had turned to look at him, and a gasp had gone through more than once at her description of the place. "M-me? A-auntie..I mean, why would you wish to select me for such a...a honor, Princess Luna?" He was thinking of some way out now, which was just icing on the cake as far as she was concerned. "We would not wish to insult our new neighbors, Prince Blueblood. Only one so near an equal to ourselves would be worthy as serving as ambassador. There is hardly a moment to waste, either. I encourage you to make for the train that will take you north within the day. I suggest you bring warm clothes, it will be a long journey." It was hard to not turn her tone down into a low, threatening one when so many ponies were present to hear it. If she'd thought to wait for a private audience she'd have been a great deal less nice about his new position. Though this way was better, he could hardly refuse her when she'd heaped so much praise on him. The look of absolute horror from the reality of it all was what made it worth it. She couldn't be sure what part he'd find the worst, but from what she knew of him it was liable to be the utterly crass feasting done on a near constant basis. Prince Blueblood would likely find out in a hurry what the Æsir had to think about particularly uptight, smug unicorns. With that done, and no attempts at argument forthcoming from her nephew, Luna turned back to Notetaker. There was a respectable stack of papers next to her. "This is the budget, correct?" Notetaker could only nod, eyes wide likely from the description of Asgard. Truthfully Luna had exaggerated, but not by much. "Ahem," Luna began after she levitated up the appropriate documents. It'd be a long read ahead of her, but at least she felt a little better about how her day was going. It was keeping her mind off of more pressing issues. Her sister had left the castle sometime a few hours ago, and there were only a few places she could be. Luna could only hope that things ended on a better note than they had before. On Celestia's suggestion they'd both gone for a short, silent walk away from where he'd been working. Big Macintosh hadn't been looking her way, hadn't even been thinking much. She was here to apologize to him? It was best to give her the chance to say what she liked, that was the most he could decide on. There wasn't much anger inside of him, not now that she was right here. If anything it seemed like his angry tirade had happened years ago. "I didn't know you were going to be at the dinner, before." Celestia had spoken up so quietly that Big Mac registered the words a few seconds after the fact. It was such a huge difference from her usual confident way of speaking that it hardly seemed like she was the same pony. Pausing, he turned to look at her closely. Even after all of his misgivings it felt impossible to think that Princess Celestia would be lying to him. He still took a moment to examine her, allowing the comment to hang and see if even a hint of dishonesty would fall out. Celestia didn't shrink, though she still looked as sad as ever. Perhaps she was telling the truth, and he cleared his throat. "The invitation was for all of us." She nodded, and this time her reply carried a bit more confidence in it. "You were right about why I'd wanted your sisters and their friends at the palace. I'd made plans for both, as you saw. I have become very skilled in making plans throughout my rule. Being a Princess is," Celestia faltered for a moment and glanced towards the distant mountain of Canterlot. For a brief moment Big Mac thought she was going to sigh. "It is a great deal of responsibility, and I have found that a light touch serves best rather than merely giving commands." "So my showing up was just a mistake or something?" Applejack hadn't been the only member of their family to inherit a strong conviction towards honesty. The whole last week had been spent with Big Macintosh observing those little manipulations from Princess Celestia. Just subtle enough that until she'd offered him the job he hadn't seen a way of calling attention to them. It also hadn't been quite enough to make him upset, either. Being 'very skilled' was an understatement as far as he was concerned, and he'd found it impossible to be completely at ease while having a conversation with her. It'd been like a game of chess, but now Big Mac supposed that the stress was a given when he'd suspected she was trying to trick him into....well, into what he'd accused her of. There was a ghost of a smile from Princess Celestia at his words, but it hadn't lasted long. "I would call it an oversight, if anything. It's simply that," she paused again, closing her mouth and looking contemplative for a second. "I suppose there is no way of saying such a thing nicely. Before the previous week I had not given you very much thought, Big Macintosh." Much like how she'd half-smiled, Big Mac snorted at that. It hadn't been very funny, but recalling how flustered she'd gotten at their first 'meeting' now made a great deal more sense. His very first assumption had been wrong then, and there was a needling feeling of shame at his yelling at her. Still there were countless unanswered questions about the rest of last week. "I reckon I'm pretty easy to overlook, been days I've gone without saying more'n a half dozen words." Celestia was the one here to apologize, and so far she hadn't yet. Still the wound up knot of anger he'd made within himself had begun to unravel a fraction. She looked more relaxed, and he watched as Princess Celestia took in a particularly large breath and released it with her eyes closed. After another moment she sat, rather than remain standing as they'd had until now. Big Macintosh didn't follow the motion, waiting for her to continue. "You were right about the other things you said." Despite the previous show of relaxing, Princess Celestia looked nervous all over again. "I did attempt to maneuver you into becoming the groundskeeper of the palace, and I did...I do like you a great deal." Now it was out in the open, and Celestia looked away rather than meet his eyes. "I am so very sorry that I did not tell you sooner about the way in which I came to feel. It was a terrible mistake to try and manipulate you. The conclusions you reached were not what I intended, but in your position I could not see what else you could have thought." It was a curious thing but Big Macintosh had noticed that Princess Celestia had a habit of over complicating her words when she was nervous. Or perhaps it was simply when she was around him, since he'd never witnessed her anything but resolutely calm before last week. Big Mac was feeling a bit uneasy himself at the moment. Not only had she went ahead and confessed that she had had feelings for him, but that she still did. The concept itself that he'd caught the eye of Princess Celestia was heavy, difficult to fully internalize. Here she was though, and waiting for some sort of an answer. He came to one, but discarded the most pressing question that had been hounding him for a safer bet. "Why'd you want me to work in the gardens, then?" What he'd really wanted to ask was 'why do you like me?', but it was likely a better idea to ask the other question first. Were either of them prepared for her to try and answer that question anyway? Celestia nodded after a moment, and he wondered if she'd been waiting for the other question too. Most likely, she was smart. Incredibly smart. It was just one of the many things he liked about her. That notion was clamped down on, and hard, otherwise it might have gotten away from him. Of course he liked Princess Celestia, possibly as much as she liked him. It would only ever remain 'liked' though, he was certain of it. "That..." She stopped almost as soon as she stopped, Big Macintosh waiting for her to choose her words carefully. "It was to avoid having to admit how I felt." Princess Celestia had been looking at him now, rather than glancing away. It didn't make the conversation feel any less awkward in Big Mac's opinion. The answer itself was not really surprising in light of this side of Celestia he was now seeing. He'd crafted so many negative intentions out of only guesswork, all without knowing the why. They would be coming to the all important why soon, he realized. "You were just hoping to have the same week we'd had on a more regular basis?" Celestia nodded by way of reply. "That was my wish, Big Macintosh. I have had very little experience in this manner of relationship, but that is no excuse for my immaturity. The feelings that our," Princess Celestia paused once more to collect her thoughts, "time together brought were not something I was use to. I was afraid that you would not return them, that I would lose what little I'd had." During that momentary pause where she'd been picking her words carefully, Big Macintosh could almost swear he'd caught the hint of a blush. It was cute, something he was finding attractive. Vulnerable, the word dawned on him. It went a long way to explain things in his mind. A need to know drove at him to blurt out the definitive question he'd been so hesitant to ask before. "So why is it you reckon you like me so much?" There, now he'd asked it at long last. Princess Celestia surprisingly didn't react much to the question, she only let out a long exhale. "That is a question I have given a great deal of thought. Before I felt it was because of how very independent you are, the lack of being needed." Celestia stood up, then, and paced off a few steps to face towards Canterlot. "I believe it may be more than that, though. Something I cannot explain, a connection perhaps. I like spending time with you, Big Macintosh. Even now." Big Mac remained silent for the moment, simply watching her; thinking on the weight of the words. It hadn't been said outright, but it wouldn't have been any stretch to substitute one 'L' word for another, more powerful one. What would he say to that? Before he could think of a reply, or even how he felt, Celestia spoke up again. "Do you remember when I asked you how you earned your Cutiemark before?" He hadn't been expecting a question like that at all, and he cleared his throat to stall for time. "I remember that, yeah." "I learned so much about you over the week, and I'd come to feel the way I did because of that." Celestia turned to look, smiling. It was a mournful smile though. "I never gave you an opportunity to learn many things about me, did I?" Big Macintosh still could not think of a reply, but Celestia wasn't done speaking anyway. "When Princess Luna and I were fillies the powerful beings that I spoke about were far more common in Equestria." Celestia had went back to looking up at Canterlot, her tone now distant in recalling what had to have been a long time ago. "There were very few pony settlements, and our family had regular dealings with the Æsir. It was such a long time ago that I did not go by the name Celestia, either. I was Sól, my father named Luna and I after the sun and the moon." With little else to do but listen, Big Macintosh finally took his seat. It just so happened that he had moved to be much closer to Celestia than he'd had before. All previous misgivings aside, it was a rare honor to be told something like this. Big Mac appreciated it a great deal, having never heard the origin of either of the Alicorn princesses. "When the Æsir learned that we'd been named after each celestial body they saw fit to elevate us. 'To make us worthy of such lofty titles' was how they put it." Celestia brought her wings up to demonstrate, dipping her head a fraction to also bring attention to her long, thin horn. "We were set to govern over both bodies, to move them in place of their original caretakers. At the time we were both all too eager to enter into that world, to join in their pantheon." Only hints had been given before during that dinner which started all of this. If he'd thought to ask, Applejack might have been able to provide quite a bit of information. He'd had his guesses as to what might have happened when he cared to dwell on it, mostly that it must have been unhappy. Celestia had paused for a moment, her eyes going distant in thought from the ancient memories. "Though we entered willingly, it soon became apparent the place we were meant to take. The Æsir needed warriors, more fighters in their endless conflicts with the giants. When my sister and I learned of the prophecy regarding the end of the world, we learned that we were to be devoured by fearsome wolves. Rather than face that destiny, we fled just before the entire land was frozen utterly." From just that little bit it sounded like 'unhappy' was an understatement. He'd been watching her closely, could see the subtle frowns and looks of pain. There was a long history in just that short summary, with more possible questions than could be answered in a day. "The history books don't paint it as much of a happy time," he commented, not knowing what else to say. "No, they were certainly not. The conflicts did not end when we returned to establish Equestria. Discord, and many other evils which needed to be stopped roamed free. After we had all of our victories there was a brief moment in which I thought we might have peace, but then my sister fell into darkness." Where there had been a simple retelling, Celestia grew solemn and quiet on finishing those last words. They were nearly upon the modern day in her story, if a thousand years could be counted as 'nearly modern'. Big Mac could see just the hint of the root of how Celestia had come to be the pony she was today. "It was peaceful after that, mostly anyway." was his answer after a few seconds. Looking over to him, the corners of her mouth turned up into a smile that did not quite finish. "It has been, though at a great cost. After all this time I see that I have come to close myself from almost everything. In times of crisis I have needed to be the strength which others could rely on. I think that now I have come upon a time in which I might want more. I have you to thank for that, Big Macintosh." There was a note of finality in that, and Big Mac perked up as Celestia stood from where they'd been sitting together. He rose to join her, not saying anything immediately. It looked as if she was about to leave, was there time together about to come to an end? With a deep exhale, Celestia stretched her neck back and closed her eyes. "I will hold last week in a special place, even though nothing ended up coming of it. I will leave you to your work now, Big Macintosh. Though, do you accept my apology for trying to manipulate you?" She opened them to look down at him, and it was a bit troubling to see the 'mask' falling back into place. That vulnerability he'd seen before was fading away, retreating. She was expecting him to accept, which would quite cleanly end things. Big Mac would have liked a day to think it over, maybe a month. Decisions like that shouldn't happen so quickly. Maybe that was part of his problem, the thought occurred. As muddled and confused as his feelings had become from so much new information there was one thing he was sure of. He didn't want her to go, just yet. "I reckon if you told me the story of how you got your mark, I might as well tell you mine. If'n you're not so busy you have to go." He ventured at long last, and enjoyed the sight of genuine surprise from Princess Celestia. Her eyes had jumped, her mouth had fallen open. She was of her guard once more, shocked at his offer. In a odd way it made him feel good, and sad at the same time. She must have thought he hadn't felt the same way at all, though even he wasn't sure if he did. "I...would love to hear your story, Big Macintosh." Celestia sounded hesitant, everything felt alive and on a knife's edge all over again. Assuming she was right about how they might share a connection Big Mac could guess that she felt the same. Some of the things that she'd spoken of about being strong for the sake of others had sprung up memories in his own past. It was some of why he'd been willing to share, he'd understood what she was saying. They did seem more similiar than he'd first believed. Maybe she would understand him, he hoped so when he began to speak. "I really was out in a field with my pa, just like I said," he began. The vivid details swirled just in front of his eyes, taking him away from the apple orchard of the now to one only a few dozen feet from here. Though it was many years earlier, he could remember it well. "One thing I left out though was I'd just gotten in a fight..." His eye stung terribly, the swelling made it even a little difficult to see out of. Macintosh didn't care for a second about that, pulling the plow along the empty field at a fever pitch. He'd be sore, but he had to channel the frustration and anger somewhere. Every so often he'd have a flash back to the fight, and despite being in so much trouble now he could feel pride at having given much more than he'd gotten. That was going to be the last time that his classmates teased him about his family being poor apple farmers. It wasn't as if he disliked the work, or his family, it was merely the stigma that left him frustrated to no end. The things expected of him, the hard work he had to do early in the morning when his friends could goof off around town. His father was walking out into the field now, probably come to horse whip or give him an earful about hoof fights after school. He'd recognize the familiar hat his pa wore anywhere, as well as the bit of straw he occasionally liked to chew on. Macintosh ducked his head to avoid the imagined stern gaze, and made the turn around with his plow to finish another row. What did his father know about how he felt, anyway? He was happy to farm apples his whole life, happy to be poor. Unfortunately, the strategy of ignoring his father wasn't working out. No matter how frustrated he was, Macintosh couldn't hope to pull the plow faster than his dad could move to intercept and stand straight in front of him. "I know what yer gonna say already," Macintosh challenged straightaway, now looking right up into his father's eyes in defiance. The anger hadn't died at all, now he was channeling it into a different direction. His father raised a single eyebrow so that it practically touched the hat on his head. "Oh you do? Probably make it an easier conversation if you do all the talkin, then." That did nothing to dissipate his frustration, in fact it only served to make him more angry. "I ain't sorry, not one bit." He held his head up high just to prove how very much not sorry he was. "They got what was comin to them, and I'd do it again." "Yeah, I reckon they probably did," his father shrugged and shifted the bit of straw in his mouth. He'd tipped his hat back and surveyed out over the field Macintosh had been plowing. "Doing some fine work out here, Mac." Instead of being angry now, Macintosh could only gawk. Far from what he'd been expecting, now he was only confused. Where was the lecture? "Beg yer pardon?" Turning to look back at him, his father nodded. "You're getting to be a mighty strong stallion, Mac. I figure nothin in all of Equestria could stop you if'n you wanted to put your mind and muscles to it." Confusion reigned, and Macintosh eased back from the straps held tight to the plow. "Ain't you goin to yell at me about pickin fights?" He asked, the question now too much for him to avoid asking. "I thought you knew what I was already gonna say about all that," was his father's reply. He'd actually started to smile, which caused a flare of frustration from Mac at the idea he was being made fun of. "I could though," his father continued, "could probably get out the old strap and tan your hide too. Wouldn't learn you none, just like you said. There'll be a day that I won't be able to yell and holler at you at all, matter of fact." This was an entirely new manner of parenting, one that Mac couldn't wrap his mind around. He could make out the angle, where the conversation was going to go. Rather than reply, he stayed silent. It seemed better to wait and see what his father would say next. They looked evenly at one another for a long moment before his dad motioned off to the side. "Get yourself out of that plow and come for a walk with me." No matter how frustrated or angry Macintosh felt an order from his father wasn't to be refused. Some things were still sacred, anyway. Following off a few paces to the side of his father, Mac was looking downward. His eye still stung, and now his body felt sore from the paces he'd been putting himself through. He'd bounce back soon enough with the advantages of being young, but it was distracting him away from his built up indignation. It didn't take long before his father slowed down, which caused Macintosh to also slow. This particular part of the field gave a scenic view of the distant mountain of Canterlot. Macintosh had never been there, but he imagined it as a place where all important ponies congregated. Certainly not a place for him. "Reckon I felt about the same way you do about being a farmer when I was about your age," his father started to speak up again. It snapped Macintosh out of his contemplation and back into focus. "No two ways about it, ain't much money in it. Certainly ain't no room for fame, and you're more'n likely to meet a pony here and there that thinks they're better than you on account of their hooves never getting dirty." Mac didn't need to be reminded of all of that, he'd had those thoughts and more. "So, why bother be'n a farmer than?" He felt brave enough to ask, since questions had never been something to avoid in his family. Tipping the brim of his hat up, his father gave a shrug. "Somepony has to be, I reckon. No food to eat if nopony growing it, not that we don't have plenty. Us ponies are nice folk for the most part, so it ain't like we're bout to go hungry." Pausing in thought, he gave an annoyed grunt. "What I'm tryin'n to say is that you can be any pony you like, Mac. Plenty of ponies around who got special talents that honestly ain't worth much to anyone. We take care of them all the same, but you got to decide which one you'd rather be. We'd never stop lovin you even if'n you never buck another apple tree in your life. What kind a pony you want to be, Mac?" It was a mountain to contemplate, a new spin that he'd not appreciated before. Of course he'd known that the work his and all the other farms throughout Equestria was important, vital even. The chance was still there to walk away, and it would always be there. It was tempting to be sure, and Macintosh took a long moment to think on it. Was he willing to take a life of ceaseless hard work? One where he would rarely be thanked for? A life of early mornings and aching muscles. Of scraping by for a living, because the alternative of getting rich meant hungry ponies? The more he thought about it the more he had to wonder why anyone would ever choose something like that. Only after replaying what his father had said did that reason dawn on him. It needed to be done, and the difficulty in such a choice meant that few would accept it. If he wouldn't, who would? His family needed him, and so did all of the other ponies. Even the ones who sneered at him and called him a dumb hick. The sound of a cleared throat broke Mac's final conclusion. Jerking his head up, he saw his father smiling down at him. "I knew you'd make the right choice, son. I'm proud of you." Confused, Macintosh could only tilt his head. "What do ya mean, pa?" Answering without words, his father merely gestured towards his side. Turning, Mac saw a new mark on his flank. A simple green apple, split down the middle showing its center. Somehow he'd earned his cutiemark, but it really didn't seem so strange truthfully. He'd had that spark of inner reflection and that was all it took. The anger was gone, and he could be content he'd found what he'd be good at. Being an Apple to the core. "I reckon it ain't the grandest story of how a pony earned their Cutiemark, but it's mine." Big Macintosh finished talking and shrugged, returned out of his memories and back next to Celestia. She was smiling warmly now, as brightly as he'd ever seen. It had felt good to share, better than Big Mac had thought. "It was a lovely story, Big Mac. You have become a very admirable stallion," Princess Celestia replied and remained smiling for a long moment. Then there was a flicker, some thought must have occurred to her. Surprisingly enough to him, Big Macintosh thought he knew what it must have been. If he was right, it wasn't a question she'd ever ask on her own. The long unspoken question of the Sweet Apple Acres family. As much as it had felt nice recounting his Cutiemark story, Big Mac knew that this story would never feel good telling. Still, Celestia had shared her unhappy past, he should share his. They were being honest with each other now after all. Clearing his throat, Big Macintosh spoke up against his inner reluctance to do so. "Not too long after that, Applebloom was born. We was all happy as can be at another Apple. Cept that Ma took to sleeping a whole lot during the day, more'n a mare should after a foal. By the time we called for a doctor it was too late, some sort of long fancy name for a disease you get from a little mosquito. She's buried over on the other edge of the farm." Those last lines had been delivered in complete monotone, as well as his gesture in the general direction. By now a large white wing was wrapped around him, bringing him closer to its owner. Celestia was so much bigger this close, and warmer even than he would have thought. There was only concern written on her face, and she leaned down to press her head up against his in an instant hug. Big Macintosh did not mind the closeness at all. "I am so very sorry, Big Macintosh," she said gently. Still, he wasn't finished. "Pa was never the same after that, he took to drink and wouldn't shake it off. Years went by and me'n Applejack started to take over the farm. Things seemed normal up until there was an accident out in the barn, Pa'd said he'd be getting back into work and broke his neck in one of the rafters. He's buried next to Ma now." The hug only tightened, and it did some good in dispelling the coiled up feelings he'd long since repressed deep down inside. What was worse was that he'd told Princess Celestia a lie, or at least an incomplete truth. Not even a rare moment of opening up could get him to tell her, not anyone in the world, what he knew. He clamped down on the few bursts of vivid imagery that threatened to swirl, foremost a note telling him to come to the barn. A note that reminded him to take care of his family. "Thank you for telling me, Big Mac," Celestia spoke quietly, still hugging him rather fiercely. Coming back from the dark emotions, Big Macintosh wondered when embarrassment might set in. This was quite a bit closer than either of them had ever been to one another. It didn't seem likely to stop anytime soon either, and on reflection he realized how rude it was not to return a hug given by a Princess. With great effort he willed his right hoof up and gingerly snaked it around Celestia's neck. That felt good too, and he could feel the slight stiffen from her at the returned bit of intimacy. Slowly, though still too fast than he would have liked, the hug came to an end. They were still all but flank to flank even with it ended, and they remained there. A moment passed, and Celestia began to clear her throat. He could see that she was a bit red, blushing, and she was about to speak up. Though Macintosh had one last thing he wanted to say. "What you'd said before got me thinkin about all that, about how we're more alike than you or I thought. We do what we can for everypony who needs it, whether they're thankful or not. Seems like it ends up not always working out though, that bad things are bound to happen. Reckon that's what we're there for too, to be tough and dependable when other ponies would rather cry their eyes out." He nodded at last, confirming his thoughts on the matter. It had been quite a bit more talking than he usually did, his mouth felt dry. Surely it was just the talking; he reflected, while looking at Princess Celestia sitting next to him. She didn't answer for a number of seconds, and then nodded herself. "I think you're right, Big Macintosh." Then there was silence again, the pair of them sitting together. It was a nice silence, a gentle breeze rustled through the grass and shook the apple trees. The warmth of the hug still lingered, and he could feel just the faintest contact of their flanks. They were alternating between looking quietly at one another, and occasionally away at other things. The silence was gradually turning awkward though, and try as he might Big Mac couldn't think of something to break it. They'd reached this...whatever it was, and he certainly didn't think it time to pull back. Princess Celestia spoke up again, "Do you think..." Then she stopped herself, pausing and closing her mouth before the question could finish. There were guesses on his part on what it would be, but Big Macintosh didn't want to risk being wrong. "Yeah?" He asked. Taking a deep breath, Celestia appeared to center herself to finish her train of thought. "Do you think it is possible for ponies like us to have another, a pony we can depend on when we're the ones in need?" Everything seemed to have led up to this point. Big Macintosh could feel his heart beating quickly, and his mouth felt like a desert. Curiously his mind was a blank, but that was probably a good thing. He looked closely up at the imposing, regal Alicorn princess who had made his last week one of the most complicated of his life. A choice was there, much like how he'd earned his special purpose. She was waiting, and he could see just how nervous a question like that was leaving her. As exposed and vulnerable as she'd ever been, far more than the last time she'd asked something so important of him. He didn't have much the heart to leave her in tears this time, but truthfully he couldn't think of a single thing to say. Then he realized just how close they were, and how to reply to her question became obvious. Long, flowery answers weren't much of his style anyway. Before Big Mac could think about how it might be a bad idea, he gave his answer. Leaning up, his eyes caught surprise but no pull away from her. Celestia's lips were warm, and though she didn't press back much for the kiss he could tell it wasn't unwelcome. He lingered for only a few moments, and then, giddy all over, he broke the quick peck and returned to looking up at her. She looked flushed and he could tell that his style of answer had probably not been something she'd have expected. Celestia gave a nervous laugh. "I suppose that would be a yes, correct?" It was nice to see how flustered something so simple had gotten her, Big Macintosh wondered if that would become something he'd try to do often. "Eeyup," a familiar answer seemed best. Otherwise he'd probably have just went to kiss her again, which seemed entirely appealing in his opinion anyway. Celestia only smiled, and he returned it with a grin of his own. "Things will be very complicated because of this," Celestia said quietly. He already figured as much when he'd kissed her. "Reckon they will be." Celestia looked towards Canterlot, and then smiled. "I do not mind complicated, but what should we do now?" That was actually a good question, they'd spent quite a bit of time out here in the fields. "There's breakfast back at the house, you have time to stay for awhile?" Blinking, Princess Celestia had a genuine laugh at the suggestion. "I do have time, I confess that I did not have breakfast this morning. I hope that your family will approve of me, Big Macintosh." It was a funny joke, but Big Macintosh knew that they were both about to be bombarded with questions. A lot of questions, though that was not going to be limited to just the ponies they knew. "Reckon you'll pass Granny Smith's standards, though Twilight came over for a visit. Think I'll pass hers?" They'd both stood up and started to slowly make their way to the farmhouse. He was enjoying this, and things seemed as lively and vibrant as they'd been during the more pleasant moments last week. Celestia nudged him gently with her nearest wing. "It's not Twilight you should be concerned about, Big Mac. I imagine that my sister will have quite a few things to say." He could already see how she might, but it seemed a minor concern in the large scheme of things. The farmhouse was drawing closer now. The first of many things they'd share together, those first introductions and surprised reactions from loved ones. All of those experiences, and many more, he was looking forward to it. Glancing over to Celestia, he could see only a warm smile. She met his eyes, and the look they shared was all the confirmation he needed to know she felt the same. Excerpts from the front page of The Ponyville Daily Princess Celestia and her new coltfriend take a walk through Ponyville, by Ink Stain It has been a week since the story broke throughout all of Equestria about Princess Celestia's sudden decision to have a coltfriend. Where only rumors had swirled before, now there is definitive proof. Her royal highness paid an official visit to Ponyville yesterday, and was seen walking to Sugar Cube Corner with Ponyville local 'Big' Macintosh Apple. This appears to have been their first date, and all evidence points to it being a success. Curiously, there appears to have been a significant lack of members of the Canterlot press following the Princess on her return visit in stark contrast to the previous few days where they had virtually invaded Ponyville. (Editors Note, for a related news story see 'Princess Luna's War on Freedom of the Press: A Secret Dungeon Under the Palace?' on page 2.) The reaction among regular ponies in Ponyville appears to be overwhelmingly positive for the new change. Pinkie Pie, close confidant in the Princess's inner circle and employee at Sugar Cube Corner had this to say. "Oh it's just so sweet! I'm so happy that I could throw a party. You know what? I will! Oh oh, and did you know something? The Princess and Big Mac could name their first foal Monarch! Wouldn't that be great?!" Speculation to that extent is still highly theoretical, though this reporter agrees that it would be a good choice. Other locals had their own interesting perspectives to put forward, two other members of the Princess's inner circle, Rarity and Fluttershy, were reached for comment. "It's absolutely romantic, I think. Do you know what the truly dreadful thing is though?", Rarity was quoted as saying. "First Twilight's older brother gets married to a princess, and now Applejack's is dating Princess Celestia? Why don't I have an older brother!?" Fluttershy could not be reached for similiar comments instead to say that she approved. Neither of the Elements of Harmony closest to the Princess and her new Coltfriend would agree to an interview. Applejack and Twilight Sparkle, sister and student to 'Big' Macintosh and Princess Celestia respectively, declined to speak on the record citing privacy. Though on returning from Sweet Apple Acres this reporter was met with the last member of the Elements of Harmony, Rainbow Dash, who insisted we include her in the article as well. "I don't care about any of that mushy stuff with the Princess and Applejack's brother. Do you know all the cool, totally super awesome things we did up in Asgard?" It should be noted during this interview that Rainbow Dash was wearing a rather large helmet with horns on it. "I hoof wrestled just about everypony there and even got to swing this huge axe! I also got to fly with Valkyries! Do you know what a Valkyrie is? They're like Wonderbolts but they have these huge spears and kick so much flank. After I become a Wonderbolt I'm going to have us race to see who's faster, and it's going to be us." The interview went on for a great deal longer, but returning to the subject at hoof this reporter can sum up all commentary on the Princess's new relationship with this opinion shared by every pony she spoke with in Ponville. We are very happy to know that Princess Celestia has found a pony to be happy with, and can only wish her and Big Macintosh the best. Author's Note The End. No really, and I'm very glad to have successfully completed my first story. It has taken me over a year to write the whole thing, much much much longer than I thought. There is a great deal of potential for a sequel, but no promises if it will come anytime soon. I have a few ideas kicking around, and it may just turn into a full fledged story. Thank you for reading!
