Fly Too Close to the Sun... She May Never Let Go

Chapters

Part I
Part II
Part III
Part IV

Part I

You feel the steady hum of the powerful engine rumble through you, its call to push the throttle forward at the front of your mind. You sit inside the small Cessna aircraft awaiting your turn to take to the skies. Even though your headset muffled outside noise, you still heard the heavy roar of the Boeing Seven Forty-Seven as it took off, leaving you next in line.

Minutes later, the magic phrase rang in your ears. "November Three-Three-Two, Tower. Wind estimated five at zero three zero, cleared for takeoff." You slowly slid the throttle forward, the wheels on your aircraft inching forward as you guided it through the turn onto the runway, the last step before taking to the skies.

"Tower, November Three-Three-Two, copy. Cleared for takeoff." Coming out of the turn in the center of the runway, you slammed the throttle forward, the rumbles turning into their own pitch of sound that sang like music to your ears. The sudden acceleration forced you to the back of your chair, a feeling you never thought would get old, and the aircraft zoomed forward, building acceleration towards that magical number.

Grasping the yoke, you began to pull on it, the wheels lifting off the ground as you began a steady climb. It was a beautiful day outside without a single cloud in the sky, so you could fly almost wherever you wanted; you had a good six hours of fuel on board, so there was no rush.

Slowly the land ebbed away into water as you flew south, putting you over the Gulf of Mexico. Reaching behind the seat, you pull out a small bag containing your camera, ready to take more photographs to add to your collection.

Minutes later, while looking through the viewfinder, the plane rocks as it hits a pocket of air. The turbulence jams the eyepiece against your face, causing you to let out a curse as you drop the camera into your lap to grab the yoke. The turbulence continues to occasionally buffet you, throwing your small aircraft all over the sky.

Fighting with the yoke, you point the plane's nose down, trying to get underneath this pocket of disturbed air. However, it seems Murphy wanted you to share in his misery, and a crack reaches your ears through the headset, something giving way underneath the buffeting wind. You jerk the yoke, getting no response as your plane continues its dive down.

You key up the radio, knowing it to be a pointless endeavor. "Mayday, mayday, mayday..." you continue to talk as you try every trick you know to bring the plane out of a dive. Without your steering though, you can't do much except look at the altimeter and pray.

Three thousand feet. The worst part about this is that you know there's nothing you can do to prevent it now, but there's still a good thirty seconds before you meet the water. The light blue of the sky gives way to the dark blue of the violent gulf, and its looming threat to consume you like it has so many before.

In the last few seconds before impact, a bright flash fills the interior, your camera flash going off. The aircraft hits, and everything goes black.

You jump up in bed, grabbing at your chest as your heart's beating threatens to rip itself from your chest. You don't dream often, but when you do the dreams are typically consumed by nightmares of your arrival, or of things from home you now miss.

Simply sitting in bed, you notice the moon looming on the horizon, mere minutes from setting. Letting out a small smile, you look over to your bed partner who is still asleep. She's gotten good at sleeping through your occasional nightmare, no need to wake her up early with your troubles after all.

Gently moving the flowing mane out of the way, you lovingly gaze upon her serene face. Celestia was one to always work and worry, almost never taking time for herself. To see her at such peace, such serenity... it was a rare moment that you always savored. A gentle sound of the door closing drew your focus to the hallway's entry, a cart filled with tea and breakfast sitting inside the room.

Satisfied that your heart wasn't going to remove itself today, your hand moves from your chest to reach out towards the cart. Ever so slowly, your eyes light up with a golden hue and the cart begins to inch itself forward, courtesy of the minor amount of levitation you could use.

When you had crossed through dimensions, you were in a pretty bad way. Apparently appearing in the midst of an open court session at Celestia's hooves, she had tried something desperate to save your life. Lucky for you it worked, and as a plus you even gained the ability to utilize a very small amount of magic. It wasn't enough for anything more than very basic manipulation, but at times like this as you lay in bed, it made all the difference.

Suddenly you burst out with laughter as the sun raised, hooves seeking out your sides from behind. The cart stopped in its tracks, your focus broken as you turned to try and fend off Celestia's hooves. As you turned, a mouth met yours, the tickling turning into an embrace; one which you returned with pleasure.

Breaking off the kiss, you stared into Celestia's deep pools of magenta, the same ones that had been your first sight in Equestria. "Good morning, Sunshine." you say with warmth, tightly embracing her in a hug.

Celestia sighed, enjoying the contact and what little time of relaxation she could afford before the daily turmoil of the royal life. "Morning to you as well, love..." her gaze focused on the forgotten cart that had made half the journey to the bedside, a quick burst of magic bringing it the rest of the way.

Resting her head on your shoulder, you heard the tell-tale clinking of china signaling her pouring of tea. You take in a deep breath, the faintest aroma teasing your senses. "Earl Grey, Celestia?" she chuckles, confirming that you are correct again. "They must think that you really love that, that's... the sixth time this month?"

"If nothing else, my ponies love their consistency and doing what they know." Celestia chuckles as she raised a cup in front of your eyes, causing you to pull back from the hug and take the offered glass. Tea between the two of you has become something of a morning ritual, just a small part of the day that you can call yours and hers exclusively. Raising it to your lips, you take a sip, actually enjoying the taste that greets your taste buds.

The two of you simply enjoy each other's company in the bed, making short work of the teapot, for the next few minutes. Sadly, there's not much time to spare, and soon you're setting down the teacup onto the tray, Celestia's joining yours. You turn and meet her lips once more, this time with a quick, chaste kiss.

"Do you recall what today is, Celestia?" you ask as you hop out of bed, rummaging through your dresser for a clean set of clothes.

You can't help but laugh as you turn around and see her with a hoof underneath her chin, her brows creased as she attempts to nail down what you're hinting at. Her eyes widen, and you know she has it. "Five years already, isn't it?" you nod, pausing partway to the bathroom. "No matter when it is, time always seems to fly by." she says somewhat introspectively before getting up and walking to the bathroom with you.

"Joining me in the shower?" you suggestively ask, wriggling your eyebrows. Celestia cracks with laughter, sauntering up to you and kissing your cheek.

"I suppose I can, although we don't have time for any... games, sadly." you simply wrap an arm around her barrel for the very short walk to the shower, your clothes underneath your other arm. Dropping them off on the countertop as you enter the bathroom, you walk over to the shower and adjust the temperature.

Clouds, and their many uses... You'll never get over just how amazing it is. Celestia imbued you with a permanent spell that lets you walk on clouds, which is a very good thing as the shower was made of them. A simple turn of a knob, and Celestia and you had warm water with which to clean yourselves. Showering itself didn't take much time, between Celestia's magic and your hands the two of you made short work of getting clean.

Turning off the water, Celestia used a spell that was one of her favorites. Within seconds, you were warm and dry, as well as her. She walked out of the room as you donned your clothes, ready for a day of preparation for what would hopefully be a special night. Straightening your tee shirt, you walked out the bathroom and slipped on your shoes just as Celestia was putting on the last of her regalia.

"Well, I suppose it's time then. Have a good day, Sunshine." you say, smiling gently as you wrap your arms around Celestia's neck, inhaling in the scent of summer that seemed to accompany her mane.

Celestia returned your hug with a nuzzle, the soft coat brushing against your cheek. "And you too, love. I'll be ending court at noon, I believe I have a reservation at a spa courtesy of a secret admirer?" you pulled your arms back as she lifted her head, letting your lips meet for one last kiss.

Pulling back, you savor the memory of her lips on yours, a smile slipping onto your face as you walked alongside her as you both leave her room. Ignoring the presence of the guards that take up flanking positions around you two, you focus on walking Celestia to another session of Day Court.

"Our garden, Celestia, seven tonight, okay? Please don't get caught up in paperwork!" you say, arriving at the doors that herald the start of her duties. She laughs, knowing full well that you are aware of her hatred of paperwork.

"Very well, I'll see you tonight, then. Be safe, love." she whispers before standing up tall and straight, putting Celestia up as the Princess of the Day comes out. You watch as she walks into the throne room, her very presence and posture all but demanding respect as she goes to open her court for yet another day.

You would love to stay and watch her at work, but today there are other more important plans to see to. All for preparation for tonight, this special evening that, if all goes well, will be forever remembered by you both. Whistling, you turn and start walking towards the castle's exit, ready to visit the first stop of many. Tonight will be one for the books.

Author's Note

Well, here is part one of my second person point-of-view experiment. I'll see how it works, first and last time doing this most likely. Was something different though for me.

~75 minutes spent on this segment.

Part II

You feel yourself drifting within a void, an inky blackness that has no depth or meaning to it. Frantically you look around, trying to claw your way through it to someplace unknown. So long as it isn't here. A voice in the back of your head tells you to be calm, relax, and just let it carry you away.

Slowly you listen to the voice, your movements slowing as you begin to lay back. You feel an invisible cushion against your back, and the more you let go, the more comfortable it becomes. For some reason, you liken it to a warm, comfortable bed on a cold winter day... it's just so comfortable you don't want to leave.

Your eyes slowly begin to close, when suddenly a piercing light breaks through, dispelling the darkness as a sun rises. A bright figure descends on wings of light, an appendage reaching out, urging you to take it. Strength slowly returns to your arm, allowing you to reach it out. When they touch, heat floods your body, nearly burning you from the inside.

As the heat runs rampant through your body, the being helps you up to your feet, pointing the two of you towards the radiant sun in the distance. While it burns, there is no pain, only the warmth that chases away the chill of a cold day. One foot moves forward, then the next, and within moments you and it are walking towards the sun...

A warmth encompasses you, your body feeling like lead as you attempt to move. Slowly, your eyes open as a feminine voice greets your ears. "Did it wor– oh, thank goodness, it did." Your eyes open and begin rapidly blinking in an attempt to clear them so that you may focus on the fuzzy, white figure filling your vision.

You can't help but let out a groan as the needle-like sensation races across your being as feeling slowly returns to your body. Your vision finally focuses, noticing two magenta orbs looking at you in concern. For some reason, they are familiar, even though you have never seen them before. As your attention strays, you can't help but notice what you are looking at.

"Are you okay? Can you speak?" she asks, a near motherly concern filling that melodic voice. However, your attention is solely focused on the fact that a talking horse, with a horn, is currently supporting you, and your mind is unable to comprehend such a thing.

"T-talking horse..."

Walking through the castle gates that lead into Canterlot proper, you pause to take in a deep breath of the crisp, morning air. That is one thing that is so much different from Earth, here one can smell the different scents of the seasons; a lack of exhaust, smog, and other byproducts of humanity simply do not exist here. Each breath is refreshing and rich, and even after five years it is still novel to you.

Setting one foot in front of the other, you begin walking with a very familiar destination on mind. As you pass through the streets, sounds of the morning greets your ears from all around. Vendors selling coffee, tea and baked goods mingle with the crisp, clopping sound that comes from ponies walking the streets. The turning of newspaper pages mingled with the idle chatter of random ponies passing by. All in all, it was the familiar and comforting morning sounds of a city waking up.

Your feet take you to the first stop, where you reach out and open a door. A bell attached to the top rings, signaling your arrival and catching the attention of the owner. "Ah, morning! The usual?" Pony Joe calls out to you as the pleasing aroma of coffee and donuts fills your nostrils.

"Morning, Joe. Not today, I actually need a bribe," you take a look at the display, thinking on what to get. "Can you give me three of the raspberry cream-filled ones, and then six of the normal glazed?"

Joe grins, moving to package your order. "So, a bribe hey? What are ya working on?" he removes the donuts in question, packaging them up for you with a speed born from years of experience. Setting it on the counter, he walks over to the register, pulling out a notepad.

"Oh, nothing too big. I just need a favor from somepony, and their favorite donuts will go a long way. Parents of a particularly favorite princess of yours." Smiling widely, you reach for the bag, carefully putting it underneath an arm. "Just add it to my tab if you don't mind, Joe."

"Already done," he smugly replies as he sets down the notepad, "I don't want to take up your time, so I shall simply say good luck today."

You start walking out the door, one arm in the air waving. "Have a good one, Joe. I'll swing by later in the week and let you know how things went."

Stepping back out into the street, you begin making your way to your next destination; one which you've frequented numerous times the past few years. The couple that lived there were amazing at listening when you had troubles and helping you find your way through it. Because of them, you stayed mostly sane in those first few months of your arrival.

Raising your hand, you solidly knock on the door, a quiet voice reaching your ears. A few seconds later the door opens, an older mare smiling at you. "Good morning, come on in!"

"Good morning to you too, Velvet." Closing the door behind the two of you, Twilight Velvet guides you inside to the dining room, where you set down the bag from Joe's. "I've got some donuts for you and Night, figured I'd soften you two up before asking a favor."

She laughs, simultaneously grabbing some plates and opening the bag. "Oh? You know you didn't need to get the donuts, you've always been dear to us two, and we're glad to help." she fills a few glasses with water, offering one to you. "So, what can Night and I help you with today?"

"Well," you begin, taking a seat next to her at the table, "I've got a lot of shopping to take care of tonight. I'm setting up something... special." Grinning, you tap your forehead, causing Velvet's eyes to widen slightly as she raises an eyebrow. "But, I can't bring anything back to the castle, it might ruin the surprise. So, I thought that I could stash everything here until the shopping is done."

Velvet simply smiles at first, a knowing look on her face. "Yes, dear, I have no issue with that at all. Especially if it helps to keep tonight such a surprise..." her eyes lit up. "Oh, you should ask my son for some pointers, he should be down here any minute now!"

You raise your eyebrows as Shining Armor himself walks into the room, a half asleep look on his face as his wings rustle at his side. "You look like death warmed over, King of the Crystal Empire." you jokingly say, barely eliciting a response from him.

Shining reminds you of a zombie as he walks for the kitchen, presumably for the coffee. You cannot help but watch in amusement as he completely ignored everypony during the process of getting his morning ambrosia. Once he takes a sip, he nearly jumps as you just sit there, grinning and waving at him.

"Oh, hey there. How're things with Celestia?" he quietly asked, nursing his coffee as if his life depended on it.

"Pretty good, looking at how you are this morning," you start, noticing how even with coffee he looks like Death warmed over, "I'd say slightly better than things with Cadance are going for you right now."

Shining just grumbles, taking another sip of his coffee. "Things are actually going great, it's just that... foals. They never stop crying. The only reason I'm down here is because I was letting the parents know that they're grandparents now." he weakly smiled, switching his attention from the coffee to you. "So, what brings you by the parent's place?"

Quickly you fill him in on the plan, causing a massive grin to cross his face. "So, any advice for me?" you ask once finished filling him in.

"Yup! Good luck, and just be yourself. Everything will be just fine for you, call it a hunch." he grins, finishing off his coffee and slamming the cup down on the table. "I would suggest seeing to those plans though, best to make sure that you're not scrambling around last minute."

Laughing, you pat him on the back, a sign of friendship. Thanks to the large amount of time you spent with his sister, Twilight, during your early time here, Shining was one of your best friends. Even if he was off in the Crystal Empire most of the time.

"Shining has a point, dear, you really should get started if you have all that planned." Velvet speaks up, looking at the clock. You follow her gaze and nearly jump out of the chair. Shining hadn't drank one cup of coffee, but an entire pot, and you took over an hour talking with him. "Wow, yeah. I need to get started, got quite a few stops to make." Leaning over, you give Velvet a hug, "Thanks again, as always. I'll probably be by two or three times before I have everything gathered."

"Take care, and like Shining said, good luck." Velvet warmly smiled as she escorted you to the door.

You quickly run down the list of places you need to visit to properly pull off this dinner. Candles, chocolates and flowers were always a big thing; while stereotypical they worked very well. Plus, Celestia always appreciated those last two, so why not indulge her. Also, a visit to the jewelers was in order, you have to pick up a present for her that had been ordered almost a month ago. It was kind of the centerpiece of the entire meal. The food was already taken care of, there was this one gryphon cook in the kitchens who had everything under control.

Deciding to get the larger things out of the way, you head for one of the many candle shops in the city. You know what you're looking for, as it's Celestia's favorite scent, but it was too easy to get them from the castle's stores. Plus, there was a chance of her finding out if you had.

Walking in, the trademark spectrum of smells greets you as you walk through the door. Candles always held a fascinating array of scents, not to mention the numerous times back on Earth they had saved you from stubbing toes during periods when the electricity went out. Although you knew exactly which scent was the one needed, you decided to take a look around for a few minutes first.

After taking a fair amount of time to tickle your senses, you grab a half dozen candles of Celestia's favorite scent, running one underneath your nose as if it were a fine cigar. Satisfied, you bring them to the counter, pulling out a few bits to pay for them. Walking out of the store with a small bundle in one arm, you head to a specialty flower shop just a few blocks down the way.

According to Twilight, this one shop was owned by a trio of sisters who started out in Ponyville, where she lived. They had teamed up with a confectioner by the name of Bon Bon and opened up a new shop in Canterlot in an attempt to expand. You have been to only a few other flower and candy shops besides theirs, and none compared. Obviously, it was a resounding success for them, and the only place in town worth visiting when you needed flowers, chocolate, or both.

"Hey, Lily!" You holler a greeting as you walk in the door, noticing that she's the one working today. Her face lights up as she sees you, calmly walking over to your side.

"Morning, what brings the Royal Consort over today, hmm?" she teases as your face flushes red. That title was something that you considered a necessary evil and still didn't like to hear, even after a few years of it. Apparently, some nobles had take fault at your relation with their ruler, and Celestia had dug deep into the law archives to pull out the title. It basically made you immune to anything they could try, although you didn't enjoy the assumed authority ponies thought came with it.

Shaking your head, you refocus back on Lily, who is patiently waiting for an answer. "Hey, Lily. I need..." you look around the shop, searching for a particular plant, "a dozen blue roses, if you have any. Also, the customary box of chocolates, please?"

"Sure thing, boss. Just give me a minute, okay?" she walks off, going through a door in the back of the shop. You patiently wait, looking around the place to kill time. Dozens of varieties of flowers can be found in baskets, and as your sight falls on one containing sunflowers, a chuckle escapes your lips. Celestia, despite being the custodian of the sun, absolutely loathes the things apparently. It was somewhat ironic, but at the same time you understood it when she mentioned that they got tired after the first ten years. The next thousand plus were just too much after that.

Lily walks back into the room, both items in hoof. You carefully take each from her and set them down on the counter, paying her before waving goodbye. With both arms filled, you decide it's time to make the first stop back to Velvet's house so that you can free up your arms for the next trip.

Looking up at the sun, you realize it is rapidly reaching noon, and you hasten your pace. The last thing needed is to have Celestia accidentally bump into you with arms filled with items for tonight. Luckily, it is just a short walk there, and in no time at all you've deposited the first round of things and are right back outside.

Spending the next few minutes just walking around, you enjoy the spectacular day. There's only one place left to visit now, where you are going to pick up the masterpiece of everything. A weight settles on your shoulder out of the blue, causing you to jump a little as you turn. Greeting your eye is a magenta one surrounded by white fur, and you let out a laugh, taking your far arm and wrapping it around the pony's neck.

"Hi, Celestia. On the way to the spa?" you ask, noticing the two guards escorting her hanging back a little. You tightly grasp your hands around her neck as she nuzzles your cheek in return.

"Yes, I'm on the way to meet with Rarity... I'm told she has something for me that is, and I quote, absolutely, magnificently, one-of-a-kind fabulous." you chuckle, as it does indeed sound exactly like Rarity. "I'm assuming you had something to do with that?"

"Quite possibly." Coyly replying, you just smile as you look her in the eyes. "I might have asked her for something, as well as setting up this spa reservation for you. She owed me a small favor and it seemed like the perfect time to call it in."

Celestia laughs, then kisses you briefly. "Something tells me she would've done such a thing even if you hadn't helped her with whatever it was. She always seems to enjoy doing anything for Luna, Cadance or myself when it comes to such things." she closed her eyes a moment, then reopens them. "I suppose if I'm to make my appointment, I must be off though. I'll see you at seven, love."

With one last kiss, the two of you separate from each other and go on your own way. Now that you know she is safely on the way to the spa, the jewelry story is where your steps take you next. It only takes a few minutes to arrive, even with the increase of foot traffic during the lunch hour.

The owner spots you as the door opens, a large smile on his face. "I take it you're here for it?" he asks, to which you give him a quick nod. "Excellent! Let me go get it from the back. Be back in one moment."

True to his word, within a minute he is back with a small case encased within magic. Setting it down on the counter, he motions a hoof towards it. "Go on ahead, it's made exactly to your specifications. I hope that it's to your liking."

Picking up the soft, velvet covered case, you slowly open it up to reveal a gleaming piece of jewelry inside. Wiping your hands on your clothes, you carefully remove it from the container with one hand, holding it up to the light. A large band of white gold rests in your grasp, polished to such a point that you see your reflection in it. You could easily put it around your wrist if you so desired, but that was not its intended use.

Rotating it around, you see just why this was the artisan recommended to you by Rarity. A golden gilded sun is set in the center on the band, an exact replica of Celestia's cutie mark. Diamonds are inset periodically in the band, and on the interior your name and Celestia's are both inscribed right next to each other. "It's perfect." you simply state as you continue to examine it.

Such a piece would usually cost most ponies nearly a year's worth of pay. Luckily for you, when Twilight had spent that time helping you learn about Equestria's society, you had likewise helped her. Something as simple as a pen had been a big deal to her, as they still had quills and ink as the primary writing device. The small royalty from that one thing alone gave you an astronomical income, and that is before taking into account a couple other such simple devices.

"I'm glad it's to your liking. All I need is your signature," he pulls out a form, bringing it before you, "here and here. The money will be automatically withdrawn from your account in two days." Grabbing the pen from him, you sign your name in the two spots, and with a smile return it back to him.

"I wish you luck, maybe you'll have a new title soon, hmm?" you can't help but chuckle, slightly nervous as you walk out the door, the box safely tucked away from sight. You walk straight to Velvet's house at such a pace that ponies stop and stare at you as you pass them by. Still, you are not too concerned about them, all that holds your attention is getting this package there safely.

Shining is the one that let's you into the house this time, looking much more awake and alive than this morning. "Oh, hey. So, everything taken care of?" he asks as the door closes, and you pull out the case. He takes it within his magic, opening it up and letting out a long whistle. "Wow. Yeah, this is something else... very good choice."

You take the case back from him, putting it with the rest of the items you gathered today. "Yeah, Rarity suggested the pony who did this." you take a seat, the nervousness continuing to increase. "Is it right to be nervous?"

Courting rituals, as the ponies referred to them, were vastly different here in Equestria. You had talked to Cadance about tonight some months ago, and learned some weird, but very valuable, information. Apparently, in a situation involving nobility or royalty, the one who was considered to be in a 'lesser station,' which in your eyes was a load of bunk, was the one who proposed. It made no sense, but it made things very easy for when the time finally came.

Shining just chuckled, pulling you from your thoughts. "Yeah. You should've seen me minutes before proposing to Cady. I was sweating, a wreck... She actually came up to me and thought I was sick." he let out a laugh, which you joined. "After telling her I didn't need to see a doctor, I just sort of blurted it out. I'd say you'll have an easier time. If you're feeling too antsy, though, go ahead and take a nap on the couch. I'll make sure you're up in time."

Deciding to go ahead and take him up on the offer, you look at the case one last time before leaving the room, knowing that so long as its here, it is safe. Laying down on the couch, you close your eyes and try to calm your nerves, counting down the minutes until tonight. The sweet embrace of sleep slowly creeps over you, your last thoughts of the rapidly approaching evening.

Part III

The weeks following your apparent rescue by the 'talking horse' were a whirlwind of activity. Although left physically weak from the ordeal that had somehow broken the barrier between worlds, your mind was focused on learning how this new world worked. There was heavy uncertainty surrounding whether or not the ponies could find you a path home, and so you threw yourself into learning, trying to avoid having to come to terms that you may very well be stuck in Equestria, as the locals called their interesting country.

You had help from the very start, even though you turned it away at first. Celestia had brought in one Twilight Sparkle, a curious academic type who tutored you on various aspects of the pony culture and general knowledge... to the ponies, anyways. Magic astounded you most of all, and many hours were lost speaking with Twilight on where its limitations laid. Through Twilight, you met her brother, her sister-in-law, and her parents as well, all wonderful ponies who brightened your days.

Perhaps what was more important, however, was that Celestia herself seemed to take a personal interest in you. You were a bit uncertain at first, one of the leaders of a nation of tens of millions, taking precious time out of her day to spend it with you. It was too much, she had her duty, and you were just an intruder. Even so, she made a point to speak with you, some times while she raised the sun, other times a last minute summons to have tea or lunch in a quiet garden. You had even been brought along while she was walking from one meeting to another. It seemed random, but you were grateful for it.

All of the friends you made had softened the blow somewhat, when two months in it had been confirmed. There was simply no viable method to return you home. Equestria was home now, apparently Luna had already filled out the paperwork for you to legally call it such, and all it required was your signature to make it official. For the icing on the cake, Twilight's parents had offered to consider you family, to lend their support if it was needed. However, the only thing you could do was stand there, shell shocked, staring at the piece of paper that would forever cement the change in course your life had taken.

It was hard to feel any emotions at this point. You had not even noticed when Celestia had walked up and set the papers aside, quietly shooing Luna away. The soft touch of her feathers on a shoulder did draw your attention, but even then you could do little more than simply stare at her, eyes unseeing, feet automatically shuffling along the floor as she guided you somewhere. It was only when she pulled you into a room, her bedroom, and sat you on the bed before those wings encompassed you in a hug did the dam break. You had cried for who knows how long, clinging to the one who offered you support.

It was that day Celestia's role in your life went from savior, to friend.

A bemused Twilight Velvet had awoken you from your nap, magic pinching your cheeks until you'd woken. "Come on, dear, if you don't get moving, you'll ruin the night. Your mare is going to be distracted for the next hour... Let's get your night made, yes? Shining was a dear and picked up your clothes, and I took the liberty to get everything packed up for you."

Getting up from the couch, you smiled and kneeled in front of Velvet. "You've always been so good to me. I suppose you'd like to take a walk with me to the castle?" you asked, looking at the rather inconspicuous travel bag that contained all of the very important items that would make this night one to remember. It frequently traveled with you from the castle to various places, so to bring it back wouldn't raise any suspicion.

"I thought you would never ask, dear! Certainly, I need to make sure you set it up just right. Nothing but the best for two very important ponies to me, after all," Velvet replied with a knowing smirk on her face. She truly made an interesting parental figure, even if you didn't actually need one. "Now, come along, let's get going. That window is only getting smaller."

Quietly laughing, you got up and grabbed for the large travel bag, only for Velvet's magic to grab it. "Velvet," you playfully whined, stretching out her name a bit before heading for the door and letting her have the bag. There was a visible bounce in your step, even as a bit of nervousness began to grow in the center of your chest, underneath all the excitement. "Come on, Mom, then. Let's get moving!" Opening the door, you held it open for her, not even realizing you had a giant smile on your face.

The walk back to the castle was a pleasant one, the city having long since grown accustomed to your presence. It was interesting, watching the ponies out in the city, even after being a part of it yourself for so long. You and them were so different, yet so similar. That was always proven by the spectrum of looks you always received. At first, it was fear, apprehension, and that odd mix that reeked of 'mightier-than-thou.' Now though, you exchanged greetings with many of them as you walked with Velvet, smiles and nods as the castle's gates came into view.

The guards up front cracked the faintest hint of a smile at your approach, giving a curt nod as you and Velvet passed. You were going to make one of them, perhaps two, very happy ponies after tonight. Not directly, but based on the results, somepony was going to be collecting a rather sizable pool of bits. Guards truly enjoyed betting on things within the castle. You even sometimes considered getting in on the bets, at least the more amusing ones.

"Now, where were you going to do this, dear?" Velvet quietly asked, looking around the rather impressive, and mostly empty, castle foyer for any prying ears. You nudged Velvet towards one of the lesser traveled hallways, the two guards at its entrance opening the door for you. This led towards the more private areas of the castle, one of which was quite exclusive... and where you planned to set up tonight's dinner. You had some ideas for the bedroom, too, but you needed to take things in order.

Making another turn, you passed your room. Well, it was yours more in name than actuality at this point. The maids kept it from getting dusty, but there wasn't really anything that was yours, each night spent with your marefriend instead for the last two years. You'd taken the courtship slow, stumbling through the pitfalls and fights and landing on your feet each time, miraculously. "Going to set it all up in our garden, Velvet. Doesn't really get more personal than that, other than the bedroom," you joked.

Tittering softly to herself, Velvet nodded. "Very good choice, Night chose a place that was quite a dive. But, for me and him? It's where we'd first met. Memories are what matter most, in the end." She stopped as you did, following your gaze to look where you were. "Isn't this... your old room?"

Grabbing the travel bag from Velvet's magic, you ignored the odd tingling sensation from her magic and waited for her magic to cease levitating it. "Yeah, it is. Lot of memories there, too. Good and bad, but that's the past. Mind waiting for me here, Velvet? Once I get everything set up, I'll be getting ready in there. Don't want to risk tipping my hand too early," you explained with a tender smile as you set the bag gently on the ground, opening it up.

Velvet nodded, noting as you took out your clothes and offered them to her. "Very well, I'll wait here for you, see what they have to make you look as presentable as possible to your princess. Good thing Twilight's friend Rarity didn't come, isn't it? I imagine not even a day would be enough time to prepare, then," she joked, both of you quietly laughing.

With a quick scratch to her ear you left, hearing the door open and close behind you as you continued on. It was only a few more minutes of walking through the maze-like corridors before you came upon a rather well hidden, out of the way door. Opening it, a guard immediately moved to stop you, but then smiled at your presence. "Everything is just as you wanted, Royal Consort. And, not a word to anypony else, either," she stated, stepping out of your way and outside the door. "Good luck," the guard added, closing the door behind you.

Walking forward a short distance brought you to a turn, which opened into the most lovely garden you had ever seen, and one that very few ponies ever got to see in their lifetime. Celestia herself tended to it, one of her few oasis away from the heavy burden of ruling the country. An array of flowers, most of warm colors, lined the edges of the relatively small enclosure. Where they weren't growing, lush grass spread, all the way until the centerpiece of the garden, a mosaic of the sun.

On top of the mosaic in the center of the sun itself was a table, complete with two chairs. Various items were on its surface as you walked over to it, carefully setting your travel bag down. A quick check over the table's surface showed that the guard had indeed come through for you, and you went to work. While you were aware of the time crunch you were in before you had to get dressed up for the occasion, you wanted everything to be just right. Scented candles of jasmine and lavender were set up around the garden's edge, simply waiting to be lit. Everything came together, bit by bit, until you were satisfied.

Leaving the garden, you just had one more thing to do before it was time. Stopping by in your old room, you stowed away the now empty travel bag and headed for the shower, grinning at Velvet and giving her a thumb's up. It seemed she had already gotten your clothes ready, and was considering what else she might do to lend her aid to this eve. You wasted no time in the shower, being as quick as you could be, drying off in a haste and throwing on some underwear.

Cracking open the door, you held out your hand, taking your clothes from Velvet's magic. Informing her that it wouldn't be too long, you started getting dressed before coming out of the bathroom. True to your word, it didn't take long, but her fretting over your appearance certainly did. With Velvet's so-called seal of approval she sent you on your way, back to the garden. Now, there was just one thing left to do.

Wait.

Author's Note

Final Chapter tomorrow.

Also, 2nd person POV is still a bitch. 3 years later.

Part IV

It had taken you weeks to climb out of the depression fueled by the door finally shutting on any chance of returning back home. All of the ponies you'd already come to call friends frequently came to your room within the castle, trying to help you through it all. In the end, Celestia had perhaps been the largest help of all, a bright sun in your dim world.

Night and Velvet had been true to their word and offered room in their home for you, but you had decided to remain within the castle instead, the princesses extending their offer of hospitality indefinitely to you. They had even gone so far as to offer you a job, while Twilight continued teaching you the ways of Equestria. You were grateful to all of them for helping keep you busy, giving you less time to mope.

Eventually, you accepted their offer of a job. You were rather surprised when you were directed to Celestia's official office, the princess meeting your confused look with a coy smile. With a point of her hoof, she directed you to take a seat and began explaining what you were to do as her new secretary. The awkwardness slowly melted away, and you found the duties enjoyable enough, especially attending the Day Court, at least once the ponies became more used to your presence.

The days passed, and then weeks, and before you were even aware, Celestia had quietly pulled you aside one morning, her wing draped over your shoulder. While you didn't remember, she had, and commemorated your first full year with them by taking you to her favorite donut shop. They had been delicious, and you found that what had been life shattering wasn't all that bad to you already.

Trips to snatch a bite somewhere, or to sneak to the castle's kitchen became commonplace with her, and it wasn't much longer before you began to notice her. Not Celestia the Princess, but simply the mare. Other mares hadn't really drawn your eye, on account of them being ponies, but Celestia seemed to be different. Of course, you had considered it to be unprofessional, and did your best to hide it, even if you were friends.

No matter how well you hid your awkward and budding feelings for her, you were certain Celestia knew. After all, she was old, and very perceptive. Yet, she seemed to respect it. Eventually, though, even her guards had begun catching on, one of the more zealous ones deciding to quietly confront you over it. What neither of you had expected though, was for Celestia to hear almost every word that had been exchanged between the guard and you. Whether out of annoying at her guard's actions, interest in you, or other odd factors, she chimed in her opinion.

And that was how you landed your first date with Celestia, leading into many, many more.

Candles were lit, the sun had just set, and you were standing just after that turn into the garden, waiting. Eventually, you could hear a voice in the distance, your heart starting to beat faster. "-n, Princess, you know it would ruin it if I told you." Ah, Twilight Sparkle, your willing accomplice in this endeavor. She had squealed so loudly at your intentions that you'd thought yourself deaf afterwards, and had offered her aid once your hearing had returned.

The door opened, and you could hear that quiet laugh you'd grown to love. "Very well, good luck in your studies," Celestia replied, only a slight pause before you could hear the lone set of hoofsteps approaching you, each one growing louder, almost deafeningly so you thought for a brief moment. The faint memory of your first date, and the nervous wreck you'd been, came to mind. Vowing not to repeat the awkwardness, you swallowed your nervousness, just as Celestia stepped around the corner.

"Oh my, this looks a lovely treat," she warmly remarked, walking up to you with a bright smile. Smiling right back, you walked to her, even as you wished you still had a camera to capture her image. While Celestia was normally a lovely mare in your eyes, today she looked exceptionally stunning in the bright moonlight. Her coat was immaculately groomed, not a feather out of place in her wings, and you swore she'd even put on a bit of makeup. The shimmering blue dress she wore also did a lot to enhance her natural beauty.

Giving her a brief hug and kiss as you met her, you moved to the table, pulling out a chair for her. "I wanted to do something special, my Princess," you replied, making no attempt to hide your study of her body, which she seemed to return in kind. Once she was seated, you slightly pushed in her chair before moving around to the other side and taking your own seat. "For you, and to commemorate five years here."

Smiling, Celestia watched as you pulled out one of her favorite brands of wine, the cork already loose enough to simply pull off. As you poured into both of your glasses, she took in a deep breath. "Any time away from my duties spent with those I care deeply for is always welcomed, my not so little human," Celestia softly quipped. "A lovely choice of candles, and a finer choice of wine. Perhaps not so fine as the company I find myself with, though."

"It seems you've taken my line, my Princess," you replied with a joking sigh as you raised your full glass. "To your day, and you. And to my arrival here, as scary it was. Who would have known the love of my life would be a 'talking horse,'" you playfully added at the end, lightly clinking your wine glass with Celestia's, the both of you taking a small sip after.

After setting her glass down, Celestia let out a hearty laugh. "We toast to my day, yet here we are beneath my sister's night," she joked back, leaning forward a bit. "Today has already been quite the treat, you did an excellent job arranging it all. But, tonight appears to be just between you and I, hmm?" she questioned, leaning forward just a bit more to smell the flowers in the vase in the center of the table. "Even going so far as to get your hands on fire hydrangeas... I feel quite spoiled."

You quietly laughed at that. "Well, I would be worried if you weren't, Sunshine. But, there's more," you coyly stated, even as the sound of the door opening once more drew the attention of both of you. "Ah, here's one part of it."

Celestia had a momentarily look of annoyance on her face that shifted to confusion as Twilight Sparkle came into view. The two plates levitated in her magic, however, quickly explained her presence. Without a word, a rarity for her, Twilight set down both plates and gave you a wink that Celestia couldn't see before taking her leave.

On each plate was a generous portion of lasagna, complete with a side of garlic bread and cheese covered broccoli. Not quite your average meal for such a date, but it held significance. "... so my sister, and Twilight, are both in on tonight, hmm?" Celestia curiously enquired, picking up a knife in her magic and slicing a small bit of the lasagna. "Is this..."

"Go on, give it a try," you urged Celestia, smiling fondly as you remembered why lasagna had been your meal of choice. You had spent nearly three weeks trying to not only learn, but improve upon, the lasagna recipe made more complicated by the fact that ponies didn't eat meat. Tofu was a poor substitute, but eventually you'd found the right mix of spices, cooking methods, and came out with a delicious meal. The first homecooked meal you could lay claim to in Equestria that you shared with Celestia, as you were now doing.

While temporarily lost in your reminiscence, Celestia had eaten her small cut of lasagna and was letting out a rather content hum of satisfaction. "It is, even tastes like the very first one," she fondly stated, caressing your cheek with her magic, one which you returned in kind as your eyes lit up for the briefest of moments to facilitate your magic use.

The nervousness bloomed once more, the moment you were waiting for rapidly approaching. One hand felt underneath the table, the large box just above your lap, waiting for you to pull it down and present it to her. "Today had me feeling pretty nostalgic, my Princess. So, I did a bit of cooking. Well, prep work, truthfully, all but cooking it," you admitted, fighting to keep your nervousness from showing as you cut your own piece to eat, even as the butterflies in your stomach told you to hold off on food.

"Oh?" Celestia asked as she started to enjoy the simple, yet tasty meal. "Anytime I asked about your actions today, I was given rather cleverly worded, ambiguous answers. I could have sweated a guard or two, but that would have been cheating." Smiling, she let out another hum of satisfaction.

Nodding in agreement, you felt your heartbeat speed up a bit. "I spent some time with Velvet, and went around Canterlot for a bit. Nothing too special," you deflected, trying not to give anything away just yet. "I just thought adding a bit more of suspense would make you more curious."

Slowly, the two of you enjoyed your meal, banter and small talk dominating the conversation. You found your nervousness spiking, heart beating as if you were running a marathon. You didn't think she had caught on yet, or so you hoped, as you met those lovely magenta eyes of hers, raising your wine glass once more after both plates were finally cleared of food. A quiet tink of glasses meeting sounded out before both wine glasses were drained.

This was it, now. The moment you'd been waiting for. "Celestia," you softly spoke, reaching for that box and grabbing it with both hands. "Five years ago, you saved my life, despite not knowing who I was, what I was, or what I could be capable of. You took an interest in me, and in time, our friendship became... something more." You'd gotten up from your seat now, so as to be closer to her. The box was in one hand, hidden behind your back, as your lovely goddess beamed brightly.

That beaming smile washed away any remaining nervousness. "You and I have only continued to grow closer, and despite knowing that your duties to Equestria would always come first, our bond only strengthens," you continued on, seeing it in her eyes that she'd caught on to what you were doing. Still, you had taken the plunge, so you were committed to see it through to its end now. "I know our time may be short, in your eyes, but will you do me the honor of marrying you, oh Princess?" you finished, pulling the box from behind your back and opening it to show the horn ring.

A pregnant pause occurred after you finished your proposal, each second of it excruciating. You felt magic grip your shoulders, carefully pulling you down, her eyes meeting yours as you felt as if she were looking into your very soul. However, only a brief moment passed before you found those soft, pony lips meeting yours. The kiss was passion-fueled, bright like the sun, yet as gentle as Celestia's kind, nurturing nature. When it parted, Celestia looked at you with a loving smile.

"Yes, my little human."

Author's Note

So... three years later and everything. Well, bit more really. Sorry it took so long, but here it is. Done. Over. Finished. This had only begun has an attempt to do a proper 2nd-Person-POV story in which no names, genders, etc were given, where the reader should be able to insert them into the shoes of our protagonist for this short duration. Did it succeed? That's up to you all to decide.

Probably not going to write anymore on this. Especially since I am now focusing on reducing the number of incomplete stories I possess. Here's to knocking that number down by one!