The Sun and Moonby BurnedPigeonChaptersChapter 1Chapter 2Chapter 3Chapter 4Chapter 5Chapter 6Chapter 8Chapter 9Chapter 10Chapter 11Chapter 7Chapter 1Thought to Reality ________________________________________ Throughout the magical land of Equestria, countless mythical creatures thrive as ponies, griffons, dragons, and many other species live side by side in harmony underneath the vigilant gaze of the Sun and Moon. At the heart of this land lies the city of Canterlot, filled with buildings of white and covered with beautiful rooftops of purple as spiraling towers of gold stretches far within the sky. Tonight, as the city of Canterlot slumbers under the white glow of the Moon, a blue mare watches from atop a balcony, sitting on the side of a spiraling tower built upon a castle that reflects the moonlight from its silvery walls. "And yet another boring night as I watch over this place…" says the blue mare, letting out a sigh. "At least you don't have to deal with the problems that ponies have when they come to the castle every morning, Luna…" says a voice. Luna rolls her eyes before turning and facing a white mare with a flowing rainbow mane. "Oh, sure. Try watching over thousands of dreams and making sure there's not a single pony having a nightmare, Tia…" she says, frowning. "Fair enough," says Celestia with a small laugh. "I guess dealing with ponies every morning is tiring," says Luna, laughing with a hoof over her mouth. "A-anyway, is everything okay?" asks Celestia, blinking. "I guess so. The scenery is beautiful, no matter how many times I look at it," says Luna, turning her head as her eyes reflect the stars in the night sky. "Oh, Luna," says Celestia, giggling. "And what are you laughing about?" asks Luna, lifting a brow. "It's just how you're speaking so casually. I remember when you used to speak more… formal," says Celestia, chuckling with a hoof over her mouth. "Ugh, you just had to bring that up…" says Luna, rolling her eyes. "I'll admit I was behind the times of how ponies talk nowadays, but thanks to you, Twilight, and her friends, I wouldn't be talking like this without you all there for me…" she says, frowning. "Luna…" says Celestia, furrowing her brows. "Well, enough of that…" says Luna, sighing. She then faces Celestia, blinking. "So, why are you here, Tia? You usually visit at this time when there's something important." "Is it wrong that I want to spend some time with my beloved sister under this beautiful night?" asks Celestia, raising a brow. "Pfft! When you put it like that, I-I guess I can't say no," says Luna, chuckling with a hoof over her mouth. "But I have to say, you truly have outdone yourself once again, Luna," says Celestia, lifting her head and gazing up at the night sky. "Enough with the flattery," says Luna, smiling and rolling her eyes. Celestia joins Luna on her side as they sit on their haunches, looking above as light shoots through the night sky while the Moon's glow reflects in their eyes. They then close their eyes, breathing in before letting out a long sigh. "So, Tia, how are Twilight and her friends?" asks Luna, opening an eye. Celestia opens an eye. "Twilight has been doing fairly well since her coronation. But after becoming a princess, she seems to be overworking herself with her studies. Not to mention the injuries she gets from using her new wings…" "I bet that didn't go well. I still remember her flying straight into the castle wall when she wanted to visit us by flying…" says Luna, huffing. "I-I should probably tell Twilight to take a break. Knowing her, she'll probably push herself until she collapses…" says Celestia, letting out a sigh. "You should. I know Twilight's friends warn her and all, but you're probably the only pony that she'll listen to, Tia," says Luna, rolling her eyes. "I guess you're right…" says Celestia, putting a hoof to her face. "What about her friends?" asks Luna, lifting a brow. "They're doing well, I guess. Honestly, I'm just glad Twilight has such good friends," says Celestia, smiling. "Speaking of friends, Tia, what is Discord doing now?" asks Luna, frowning. "You just had to ask about him…" says Celestia, letting out a sigh. "Well, it's always a good idea to know what he's up to…" says Luna, huffing. "I guess he's fine for now, thanks to Fluttershy. But he still likes to play pranks on Twilight and her friends, especially the residents of Ponyville and other places…" says Celestia, dragging a hoof down her face. Ugh, just talking about him is making me remember the time he came to Canterlot and made pies come to life and throw themselves on ponies' faces… "You shouldn't be too worried about him. I mean, it's what he does for a living…" says Luna, rolling her eyes. "That's true, I suppose…" says Celestia, rubbing her chin with a hoof. "Oh, Tia, what about Cadance and Shining Armor? I haven't heard from them in a while," says Luna, blinking. "Hmm…" says Celestia, tapping her chin with a hoof. "Cadance is doing well with the Crystal Empire. As for Shining Armor, he's doing whatever he can to help Cadance and maintain his duties as the captain of the Royal Guard." "That's it?" asks Luna, raising a brow. "Well, there was this time that Cadance came to the castle and asked me to tell Shining Armor to take some time off," says Celestia, blinking. "Why?" asks Luna, frowning. "Cadance was worried that Shining Armor might work himself to death. She even told me how he wouldn't listen to her. To be honest, it's amazing how he's similar to Twilight…" says Celestia, sighing. "Like brother, like sister," says Luna, snickering with a hoof over her mouth. "You're right," says Celestia with a chuckle. "Um, sorry, Tia, but talking about Cadance and Shining Armor is making me worried about somepony…" says Luna, rubbing the side of her neck with a hoof. "Who?" asks Celestia, blinking. "It's, well, Chrysalis…" says Luna, biting her bottom lip. "O-oh…" says Celestia, frowning. "Sorry, Luna, but I don't know anything about her and the rest of the changelings. But don't worry, I already prepared spells and tighter security around Canterlot after Cadance and Shining Armor's wedding…" "I see…" says Luna, furrowing her brows. "Ugh, that's right! I forgot to tell you that Shining Armor has trained the Royal Guard on using a spell to see if there are any ponies disguised as changelings…" says Celestia, placing a hoof over her face. "Then I guess you're prepared if Chrysalis and the rest of the changelings ever come back…" says Luna, rubbing an arm with a hoof. "Luna, you should already know that I will do anything to keep everypony safe…" says Celestia, wrinkling her brows. "I know, I know…" says Luna, sighing. "By the way, Luna, where were you when the changelings were here?" asks Celestia, lifting a brow. "O-oh, um, I-I was taking care of… some problems!" says Luna with a sheepish grin. "Luna, are you lying to me?" asks Celestia, glaring. "I-I…" says Luna, her eyes darting about as sweat runs down her face. Celestia closes her eyes and breathes in before letting out a sigh. She opens her eyes and faces Luna with an unwavering gaze. "Luna, you were eating donuts again, weren't you?" "Y-yes…" says Luna, hanging her head. "Luna, you should always let me know if you're planning to go somewhere. Especially for emergencies…" says Celestia, furrowing her brows. "I-I'm sorry…" says Luna with tears welling up in her eyes. "You know, you could at least get a box of donuts for me," says Celestia, smiling. "Well, I guess that's something I could do to make it up to you…" says Luna, lifting her head with a small smile. "I hope so," says Celestia with a small laugh. "But a lot has happened since then, right?" asks Luna, smiling. "You're right," says Celestia, nodding her head. "A lot of things happened in our fair land of Equestria, and I must say it's quite a tale." "I guess so…" says Luna, turning and gazing up at the Moon. "Tia, I've been wondering, but when did it all change?" "Change?" asks Celestia, blinking. "I mean, when did we become so distant from everything?" asks Luna, furrowing her brows. "Wh-what do you mean?" asks Celestia, frowning. "You know, this, the castle! It slowly changed us! There was a time when we could just talk with other ponies without them barely batting an eye! Now, everypony is afraid of the slightest mistake they make, they fear we'll do something outrageous to them! Even a maid in the castle today dropped a teacup when I was there and begged me not to send her to the Moon!" says Luna, stomping a hoof. "Luna, I-I'm sorry, but where are you going with this?" asks Celestia, her brows drawing together. "Tia, be honest with me. When was the last time you were able to carry a conversation like this with somepony other than me?" asks Luna with a watery gaze. "I-I don't know…" says Celestia, placing a hoof on her head. Luna's right. There was a time when I corrected a small mistake within the budget we should use for a new library within the city. How could I forget the ponies' faces who looked at me like it was the end of the world… "T-Tia, are you okay?" asks Luna, placing a hoof on Celestia's shoulder. "Y-you're right, Luna. I've always noticed, but I can't remember if we had a normal talk with anypony besides the ones close to us…" Luna slowly moves next to Celestia and wraps her hooves around her. Letting their heads rest upon each other's wings, the two stays locked in an embrace as the night air quietly flows around them. "Tia, do you think they ever get lonely?" asks Luna, her eyes reflecting the Moon above. "Who?" asks Celestia, putting her hooves on Luna's shoulders and slowly pushing herself away. "The Moon and Sun, I mean…" says Luna, pointing a hoof to the night sky. She then shakes her head and waves a hoof. "Ugh, just forget about it-" "Maybe…" says Celestia, lifting her head and gazing at the Moon. "Really?" asks Luna, raising a brow. "Well, when I raise the Sun, I've always felt like… something was there when I grasp it with my magic. The same feeling was there when I first started raising the Moon, even though it was slightly different. Have you ever noticed something?" asks Celestia, blinking. "I guess so. But I've never thought about it…" says Luna, gazing at the Moon above with a small smile. Maybe we're more alike than I thought… "Oh? Does my little sister have a crush?" asks Celestia, giggling with a hoof over her mouth. "Wh-what? No!" says Luna, shaking her head with a bright red face. "But that's not what your face is telling me," says Celestia, smirking. "Ugh! I don't have a crush on the Moon!" says Luna, stomping a hoof. "All right. I promise I won't say anything about my little sister's love life," says Celestia with a small smile. "I'm not little…" says Luna, pouting. "I know, but to me, you will always be my little sister," says Celestia, nuzzling Luna's cheek. "Ugh! Don't do that!" says Luna, pushing Celestia with a hoof. "You always treat me like this when we're alone!" "But you're so adorable," says Celestia with a small laugh. She then jerks, blinking. "Oh, speaking of the Sun and Moon, I think it's about time to begin the new day." "Oh, it's that time already?" asks Luna, rubbing her head with a hoof. "I suppose it is," says Celestia, turning and walking to the door in front. "I guess I'll be leaving. I don't want to keep Twilight and her friends waiting." "Wait, Twilight and her friends are here?" asks Luna with a wide smile. "Well, not yet. But I invited them over for tea this morning, so they should be arriving soon. I don't suppose I could interest you in attending?" asks Celestia, tilting her head. "Don't look at me like that! Of course, I'll join!" says Luna, pouting. ________________________________________ Far beyond the reaches of Equestria, the Sun and Moon float along a path traveled since time immemorial. To the naked eye, all seems well with the two orbiting spheres. However, a closer look shows the two bodies giving off a faint, translucent glow. They continue to pulse until a yellow and blue tendrils of light start to leak out, returning them to their former state soon after. The tendrils of light slowly make their way across space as almost if they were dancing around each other towards Equestria. As the two streaks plunge downwards through the atmosphere, their glow subsides, making them nearly opaque. As the ground grows closer, the landing point becomes clear, an immense tree located deep within the bowels of the mysterious Everfree Forest. The tendrils of energy weave around the branches of the tree, slowly making their way down the base before branching off of it, hovering just a bit over the patches of grass and flowers. Suddenly, they start to intertwine with each other, forming a small dome of bright colors. The dome of light continues to swirl, growing brighter and brighter as each second passes by, kicking up a strong gust as it blows off patches of grass and flowers in the process. Slowly, the dome of light begins to slow down and dispersing throughout the night sky, revealing two figures under the huge tree. Upon a closer look, the two figures appear to be in a slumbering state, slowly rising and falling in a breathing motion. The first of the two appears to be larger than the other with a pure white coat, but with a mane and tail of yellow, blending its way to a darker orange and giving it an image of a sunset. The second figure had a midnight blue coat, an ice blue color for its transparent mane and tail, giving it an image of a night sky. However, what are almost immediately noticeable are not their sleek physique and beautiful coats and mane, it was the pair of majestic wings and spiraling horn each possessed. Although these features were not the only things that would catch the eye, for if one were to look upon the symbols that adorned their flanks, they would see a brilliant Sun on the white alicorn and a vibrant crescent Moon on the blue alicorn. As the night went on, many animals of birds, squirrels, rabbits, and many more have gathered to see the spectacle of events that have played out in front of them. The sudden dome of light had drawn the group of animals to gather at its location, witnessing the birth of two miracles with wide eyes and an open mouth. As the animals stare at the alicorns, they start to feel a familiar presence of two certain celestial bodies until a canary suddenly flies over to the white alicorn, perching on its back. The canary then starts to walk in a circular motion before finally settling down, resting on the alicorn. Other animals follow as birds begin to settle on the alicorns' back. Squirrels and deer, even a bear, settles next to them, all snuggling against the two as if they were a huge plush doll. The animals finally begin to slumber next to the alicorns, basking in the familiar presences they felt since the time they were born into the land of Equestria, a warm and comfortable sensation of the Sun, and the cold soothing glow of the Moon. To be continued… Chapter 2Awakening ________________________________________ As the Sun rises into the blue sky, light shines on the face of a white alicorn as he blinks his eyes open, revealing a soft amber within them. Lifting his head, his ears twitch at the soft sound of snores around him. Turning his head, he tilts it at the sight of squirrels nuzzling their head against his side and rabbits curled up against the other. Slowly, the white alicorn stands, but falls on his underside, waking the birds on his back as their eyes quickly open before stretching their wings and flying into the sky. The birds hover over the white alicorn, blinking as he stands on his shaking hooves. Finally, the alicorn stands stall, closing his eyes, and unfolds his wings as they shimmer under the morning light. As the Sun rises higher into the sky, the group of rabbits and squirrels around the alicorn slowly open their eyes and shake their head. Noticing the white alicorn with his wings out, their eyes widen and move from the base of the alicorn's wings to the soft feathers that line upon it. Opening his eyes, the white alicorn turns his head from side to side. Blinking at a nearby patch uncovered by the surrounding trees, he folds his wings and begins to walk as his legs shake with each step. Upon reaching the spot, away from the large tree's cover, the white alicorn rests himself on his underside. Smiling, his eyes roll down at his hooves, moving them up and down with wide eyes. He then blinks, noticing his chest colored in clear white before looking at one of his hooves and brushes it against his chest. Tilting his head, his hoof feels a pulse from his chest and closes his eyes. The group of squirrels and rabbits face each other, blinking. They then move to the white alicorn as the squirrels sit next to his side and the rabbits on the other. The birds hovering above nod at each other before flying down, perching on the white alicorn's back. With the Sun rising higher, light shines upon the face of a blue alicorn as his eyes blink open, revealing a beautiful ice blue. Lifting his head, his ears twitch at the soft sound of snores. Turning his head, he tilts it at the sight of a deer resting its head on his side and a bear on the other. As the blue alicorn stands on his shaking hooves, he suddenly falls flat on his underside. He then slowly pushes himself up on his hooves again and stands tall before unfolding his wings. The deer and bear resting next to the blue alicorn open their eyes and lifts their head, each rubbing a hoof and paw under their eye. Looking up, their eyes widen at the blue alicorn's wings glowing softly under the morning light. Turning his head, the blue alicorn blinks at the white alicorn in the distance. Folding his wings, he walks as his legs shake with each step. As the deer and bear watch the blue alicorn stumbling on his hooves, the deer frowns, while the bear bites its paw. Stopping, the blue alicorn then settles on his underside next to the white alicorn and puts a hoof over the other. "I see that thou art awake," says the white alicorn, opening his eyes. "Aye," says the blue alicorn, nodding. "And it seems that we have been given a form…" says the white alicorn, frowning. "But we should be grateful that we are able to walk upon this world," says the blue alicorn, smiling. "True, but this is a strange place we have woken to…" says the white alicorn, turning his head and seeing tall grass stretching until meeting the borders of the dark trees around him. "Aye…" says the blue alicorn, furrowing his brows. "Tell me, little one, where are we?" asks the white alicorn, facing a squirrel below. The squirrel blinks. It turns and faces a group of squirrels and rabbits with sweat running down their face. They each flail their paws while shaking their head. "Is something wrong?" asks the white alicorn, tilting his head. The squirrel cranes its head to the white alicorn, gulping. Slowly, its lips move while pointing a paw at the dark trees around them. "The Everfree Forest, I see…" says the white alicorn, blinking. The squirrel blinks its eyes before shaking its head. Its lips move while pointing a paw at itself. "Aye, little one, I understand thee," says the white alicorn, nodding. The squirrel then turns its head, facing a bear and deer while pointing a paw at the white alicorn. The bear shrugs, while the deer shakes its head. The squirrel then faces the white alicorn. Its lips move while pointing a paw at itself. "Ah, so there are beings in this world that are not able to understand thee…" says the white alicorn, frowning. The squirrel nods. "I see. But forgive me, little one, how do I show my gratitude to thee?" asks the white alicorn, tilting his head. The squirrel turns and looks at the group of rabbits, pointing a paw at the white alicorn. The rabbits face each other before looking at the squirrel, shrugging. However, a lone rabbit pats a paw on its cheek. The squirrel's eyes widen as its cheeks turn red while shaking its head. The rabbit points a paw at the white alicorn and lifts a brow. The squirrel lets out a sigh and faces the white alicorn. Its lips move white pointing a paw at the alicorn's head. "Aye," says the white alicorn, lowering his head. As the alicorn's head is within reach, the squirrel walks up to his face before pressing its lips on his cheek. The squirrel then moves away from the alicorn as its lips move while pointing a paw at him. "Ah, so thou art saying that I must kiss others in order to show my gratitude?" asks the white alicorn, blinking. The squirrel smiles. Its lips move while pointing a paw at the white alicorn. "Then I must say thank you? Strange…" says the white alicorn, wrinkling his brows. The squirrel shrugs. "Nay, I believe thee, little one. If that is how the inhabitants of this world show their gratitude, then I have no complaints," says the white alicorn, smiling. The squirrel grins and rubs a paw behind its head. "Now then…" says the white alicorn, placing his lips on the squirrel's cheek, the latter, its eyes widening. A group of squirrels' eyes widens and another group of rabbits' faces turns bright red. A bear among the animals places a paw over its mouth, while a deer's cheeks turn into a shade of red. "Thank you, little one," says the white alicorn, smiling. The squirrel places a paw over its cheek and looks at the alicorn with an open mouth. "Is something wrong?" asks the white alicorn, frowning. The squirrel shakes its head and makes a sheepish grin. It then turns around, placing a paw over its chest, and letting out a sigh as its cheeks turn red. "Forgive me, but how did we arrive here?" asks the blue alicorn, facing a deer. The deer points a hoof at the sky before pointing at the large tree in the distance. "A sphere of light?" says the blue alicorn, tilting his head. The deer shrugs and frowns. "Do not apologize. I understand that thou art confused as much as I am. But thank you," says the blue alicorn, pressing his lips on the deer's cheek, the latter, its eyes widening with bright red cheeks. A canary among the birds above rolls its eyes. It flies down, perching on the white alicorn's hoof. It then lifts a wing and waves. "Ah, greetings, little one," says the white alicorn, smiling. The canary smiles. It then points a wing at the white alicorn. "Ah, forgive me, but I do not know what the inhabitants of this world address me as. But if I were to put it into words, that would be me," says the white alicorn, pointing a hoof at a bright light in the sky. The canary tilts its head. It lifts a wing, pointing at the light in the sky. "I see. Then I am the Sun," says the white alicorn, nodding. A bear among the animals blinks. It looks at the blue alicorn, its lips moving while pointing a paw at the sky. "Aye, I am the Moon that thou speakest of," says the blue alicorn, smiling. A group of squirrels quickly cuddle, wrapping their paws around each other as their bodies shake. Another group of rabbits hides behind the bear, frowning with their bodies trembling. The birds on the white alicorn's back quickly spread their wings, flying into the sky, while a deer places its head on the ground and puts its shaking hooves over its face. "Is something wrong?" asks the blue alicorn, blinking. Among the animals, a bear frowns with its lips moving and pointing a paw at the alicorns. "Fear us? Forgive me, but I do not understand…" says the blue alicorn, his brows gathering in. A rabbit behind the bear lifts a shaking paw and points it at the alicorns. "Wh-why would I cause thee such discontent? I do not wish to harm the inhabitants of this world…" says the blue alicorn with a watery gaze. "If we truly are troubling thee with our presence, then perhaps would be best if we take our leave of thee…" says the white alicorn, wrinkling his brows. Standing to their hooves, the alicorns slowly walk to the dark trees with their head hanging. The bear among the animals stands and turns, glaring at them while pointing a paw at the alicorns. A group of squirrels frowns. Another group of rabbits rubs a paw behind their head. A deer lets out a sigh, while clusters of birds above slowly nod. The bear smiles. It then turns and runs towards the alicorns, stopping in front of them. "Do not worry. We are leaving…" says the white alicorn, frowning. "And forgive us for troubling thee…" says the blue alicorn, furrowing his brows. Shaking its head, the bear's lips move while pointing a paw at the alicorns. "Nay, do not apologize. We understand if 'tis a misunderstanding," says the white alicorn, smiling. "But there is something troubling…" says the blue alicorn, hanging his head. "What is thy concern?" asks the white alicorn, blinking. "The Azure One…" says the blue alicorn, lifting his head with a watery gaze. "I see…" says the white alicorn, frowning. The bear blinks as its lips move. "Ah, forgive us, but we are searching for a being in this world," says the white alicorn. "I only wish to meet the Azure One, but we are clueless as to where to begin our search…" says the blue alicorn, hanging his head. The bear rubs a paw to its chin. Its eyes lighting up, its lips move while pointing a paw at a path that leads through the dark trees ahead. "Ah, so these ponies that thou speakest of will aid in our search?" asks the white alicorn, tilting his head. The bear smiles and nods. "I see. We are grateful. Thank you," says the blue alicorn, pressing his lips on the bear's cheek. He then pulls his face away, smiling. The bear grins while rubbing a paw behind its head. The alicorns turn and face the animals behind. "We apologize for earlier…" says the white alicorn, wrinkling his brows. "Forgive us, but we must be leaving now. If our paths meet again, 'twould be pleasant to speak to thee," says the blue alicorn, smiling. A group of squirrels smiles. Another group of rabbits waves a paw. A deer smiles, while the birds in the air nod their head. "Now then, let us be off," says the white alicorn with a small smile. "Aye," says the blue alicorn, smiling. ________________________________________ As the alicorns walk through the dark trees, their eyes move to the dark shade of trunks to the vines that dangle from the branches above. Their eyes then move to different patches of flowers of soft blue to bright yellow ones on the side of the path below. "This is a strange place…" says the white alicorn, tilting his head. "This form we have taken is strange as well…" says the blue alicorn, unfolding his wings. "Aye, but we should be grateful for our situation," says the white alicorn, rubbing the spiraling horn on his head with a hoof. "Forgive me, but I do not understand…" says the blue alicorn, wrinkling his brows. "Our forms resemble the Azure One," says the white alicorn with a small smile. "Ah, that is right…" says the blue alicorn with wide eyes. He then smiles. "It truly must be fate." "Perhaps, but let us leave that for another time. We must move on," says the white alicorn, walking ahead. "Aye," says the blue alicorn, nodding. Walking deeper on the path ahead, the alicorns notice a castle off in the clearing. Upon a closer look, towers on the sides of the castle stretch far into the sky while cracked walls with openings are open to the air around. "Another strange place…" says the white alicorn, tilting his head. "Aye…" says the blue alicorn, blinking. "Ah, we can enter through there," says the white alicorn, pointing a hoof at a large opening of the castle's wall. "Let us go. Perhaps we can find answers to the Azure One we seek," says the blue alicorn with a small smile. "Aye," says the white alicorn, nodding. Walking through the open wall, they come across a room of a large gray pedestal with vines and moss around it. "What is this place?" asks the blue alicorn, blinking. "I do not know…" says the white alicorn, furrowing his brows. "Strange…" says the blue alicorn, standing next to the pedestal. He then lifts a hoof, stroking it against the structure. "It truly is…" says the white alicorn, placing a hoof on the pedestal. Both alicorns' eyes widen as their bodies tense as a strong energy surges through them, which they quickly remove their hoof from the pedestal. Sitting on their haunches, they close their eyes as they place a hoof on their chest, gasping for air as they quickly breathe in and out. "A-art thou well?" asks the blue alicorn, opening his eyes and shaking his head. "A-aye…" says the white alicorn, opening his eyes and placing a hoof over his head. "That strange feeling, the Azure One was here," says the blue alicorn, smiling. "And something else. 'Twas a different presence and yet familiar…" says the white alicorn, frowning. "Aye, 'twas similar to thee…" says the blue alicorn, blinking. "But it seems we have found our answers. 'Tis unfortunate, but we will not find the Azure One here…" says the white alicorn, shaking his head. "Then let us move on," says the blue alicorn with a small smile. "Aye," says the white alicorn, nodding. Leaving the room through the opening in the castle's wall, the alicorns notice a wooden rope bridge over a cliff in the distance. Crossing the bridge, they walk on the path through the dark trees once more and arrives at a raging river of currents. "There is no path…" says the white alicorn, furrowing his brows. "Ah, perhaps we can cross over that," says the blue alicorn, pointing a hoof. Turning his head, the white alicorn notices a purple sea serpent with its body stretching far to the path on the other side of the river. "Let us go," says the white alicorn. "Aye," says the blue alicorn, nodding. The alicorns walk over the serpent's back, earning a few grunts from it. Once across, the white alicorn stands to the side as the blue alicorn walks up to the serpent's face with a long mustache and places his lips on the serpent's cheek. "Thank you," says the blue alicorn, smiling. He then turns and follows the white alicorn as they walk into the trees ahead. "Huh?" says the serpent, opening his eyes. He then lifts his head, looking side to side. "I thought I heard something…" he says, blinking. He shrugs and puts his head on the ground below, closing his eyes. Walking on the path ahead, the alicorns pass a large tree with gourds hanging on the branches above. They continue on, passing a zebra picking up brown mushrooms and red flowers with a hoof. "Hmm?" says the zebra, turning her head and blinking. She then shrugs and picks up another red flower with a hoof. In the distance, the alicorns see a clearing with light at the end. Coming through, they squint their eyes at the bright light. They then blink, seeing brighter colored flowers of red, yellow, and blue on the green hills around. "The life here is much more vibrant…" says the white alicorn, blinking. "Aye…" says the blue alicorn, tilting his head. "Perhaps we can find more answers there," says the white alicorn, pointing a hoof. Turning his head, the blue alicorn notices a cottage in the distance with multiple animal burrows in the ground and birdhouses around the building. "Let us go," says the blue alicorn, walking ahead. "Aye," says the white alicorn, nodding. Coming to a stop in front of the cottage's door, the blue alicorn prods a hoof at it, earning a few knocks. "Strange…" says the blue alicorn, blinking. "Aye…" says the white alicorn, frowning. "What is this?" asks the blue alicorn, tilting his head. "I do not know…" says the white alicorn, shaking his head. "I see no further reason to stay," says the blue alicorn. "Then let us move on," says the white alicorn. Turning, the alicorns' eyes widen upon a town in the distance. Facing each other, they nod and walk on the path ahead. As the alicorns leave, the cottage's door opens, revealing a white rabbit at the doorway, rubbing a paw under its eye. Looking around, the rabbit then shrugs and pulls the door with a paw, closing it. On the path to the town ahead, the alicorns pass a bush that rustles, revealing an orange, yellow, and white filly popping their head out of the bush. "Uh, Apple Bloom, who are those guys?" asks the orange filly, blinking. "I'm not sure, Scoot. Maybe they're here to visit Twilight? I mean, they're alicorns and all," says Apple Bloom, shrugging. "Yeah, but Twilight's not here, remember? She's at Canterlot with the others. Besides, don't you think it's weird that those guys came from the Everfree Forest?" asks Scootaloo, lifting a brow. "Y-yeah…" says Apple Bloom, rubbing a hoof behind her head. She then faces a white filly. "What do you think, Sweetie Belle?" "I don't know, but I really like their manes! And they're so dreamy…" says Sweetie Belle, letting out a long sigh. "Uh-huh…" says Apple Bloom, resting her elbows on the bush and putting her head on her hooves. "Do you think they have a special somepony?" asks Sweetie Belle, blinking. "I hope not…" says Apple Bloom, frowning. "Come on! Enough with the mushy talk! Let's follow them and see what's up!" says Scootaloo, jumping out of the bush. "Yeah…" says Apple Bloom, gazing at the white alicorn with half-lidded eyes. "Okay…" says Sweetie Belle, looking at the blue alicorn with heart-shaped eyes. "Ugh! I hate it when they're like this…" says Scootaloo, rolling her eyes. To be continued… Chapter 3Strange Meeting ________________________________________ As the Sun shines brightly over a town below, a pale-yellow mare lifts a green watering can with her mouth and pours water over roses in clay pots below her. "Morning, Rose!" says a voice. "AHH!" says Rose, dropping the watering can from her mouth as water splashes on her face. Turning her head, she lifts a hoof and pushes the strands of red hair to the side of her face, seeing a beige mare. "S-sorry?" says the beige mare with a sheepish grin. "Ugh! Bon Bon! What was that for!" says Rose, stomping a hoof. "I-I'm really sorry! I didn't mean to surprise you like that!" says Bon Bon, shaking her head. "You probably did it on purpose…" says Rose, glaring. "Listen, it was just an accident, okay?" says Bon Bon, raising a brow. "Yeah! And it's your fault!" says Rose, pointing a hoof at Bon Bon. "Ugh…" says Bon Bon, rolling her eyes. "Anyway, ignoring that you ruined my morning, what are you doing here?" asks Rose, sitting and squeezing her wet mane with her hooves. "Well, I was going to buy some apples for me and Lyra, but I saw you and thought I would come over to say hi!" says Bon Bon, grinning. "Yeah, to surprise me…" says Rose, huffing. "Will you drop it! I said I was sorry!" says Bon Bon, stomping a hoof. "Whatever. So, anything else happened during your stroll around town?" asks Rose, lifting a brow. "I guess I did see Twilight and her friends…" says Bon Bon, tapping her chin with a hoof. She then chuckles. "B-but you should've seen them! They were pushing their way against this whole crowd of ponies to get to a carriage!" "A carriage?" says Rose, blinking. "Yeah, some guards from Canterlot were waiting for them," says Bon Bon, shrugging. "Probably something important from the princesses again…" says Rose, letting out a sigh. "But Twilight wasn't wearing her crown and stuff," says Bon Bon, rubbing her chin with a hoof. "I don't know. Maybe some get-together, I guess," says Rose, rubbing her head with a hoof. "Speaking of Twilight, it's been kind of hard to talk to her nowadays…" says Bon Bon, furrowing her brows. "Yeah, she tells everypony to just be themselves around her, but it's not easy to forget that she's a princess now…" says Rose, frowning. "I know what you mean. I tried to talk to her once, but I just kind of felt uneasy being around her…" says Bon Bon, letting out a sigh. "A-anyway, since you're here and all, want to eat breakfast somewhere?" asks Rose, smiling. "Sure!" says Bon Bon with a grin. "I mean, I'm not in a rush… or anything…" she says, turning her head and blinking. "H-hey, what's wrong?" asks Rose, her brows gathering in. "Um, Rose, why's everypony just standing still?" asks Bon Bon, pointing a hoof. "Huh?" says Rose, turning her head as her eyes widen. "Y-you're right…" "Hold on, I think they're looking at something…" says Bon Bon, turning her head and squinting her eyes. "N-no way…" she says with an open mouth. "Wh-what is it?" asks Rose, putting a hoof over her shaking arm. "Ugh! Just look!" says Bon Bon, turning Rose's head with her hooves. "W-wow… who's that?" asks Rose, her eyes reflecting a pony with amber eyes and a flowing yellow mane. "I-I don't know, but he's so handsome…" says Bon Bon, her eyes reflecting a pony with ice blue eyes and a flowing blue mane. ________________________________________ A few minutes earlier… As a white and blue alicorn make their way to a town ahead, they stop next to a cottage and tilt their head as their eyes move from the cottage's timber-framed walls to the thatched roof. "Strange…" says the white alicorn, furrowing his brows. "What is this?" asks the blue alicorn, rubbing a hoof on the cottage's wall. "Perhaps some sort of refuge known as a… shelter?" says the white alicorn, blinking. "I am not sure…" says the blue alicorn, shaking his head. He then lifts his head, seeing a red mare flapping her wings in the sky. "I see some inhabitants here. Perhaps they must be the ponies the inhabitants of the Everfree Forest spoke of. We should ask them to aid us in our search." "Aye," says the white alicorn, walking ahead. "But 'tis strange that the ponies here resemble our forms…" says the blue alicorn, walking and tilting his head. "Indeed…" says the white alicorn, his eyes upon a pink mare with her horn glowing pink while a bag filled with apples and oranges floats in front of her in a similar light. "Ah…" says the blue alicorn, seeing a brown stallion moving in the air while flapping his wings. "These serve a purpose then…" he says, stopping and unfolding his wings. "Aye…" says the white alicorn, stopping and rubbing his spiraling horn with a hoof. "Hmm…" says the blue alicorn, lifting his wings into the air before quickly moving them down and blowing dust around him. The white alicorn closes his eyes and coughs. "Interesting…" he says, blinking. "Ah, forgive me…" says the blue alicorn, frowning. "Do not apologize. I was curious about these as well," says the white alicorn, unfolding his wings. "Strange…" says the blue alicorn, folding his wings. He then turns his head and blinks. "Is something wrong?" asks the white alicorn, folding his wings and tilting his head. "I do not know, but the ponies are looking at us…" says the blue alicorn, wrinkling his brows. "Ah…" says the white alicorn, facing a yellow mare, the latter, with a bright red face. "Forgive us, little one, we did not mean to startle thee…" he says, furrowing his brows. "I-I'm sorry!" says the yellow mare, kneeling and bowing her head. She then turns and runs. "Was that another form of greeting?" asks the blue alicorn, blinking. "I do not know, but we should ask some of the ponies around…" says the white alicorn, frowning. "But whom?" asks the blue alicorn, tilting his head. "Perhaps them?" asks the white alicorn, pointing a hoof at a pale-yellow and beige mare. "Let us go," says the blue alicorn, walking. "Aye," says the white alicorn, nodding. "H-hey, Rose, they're coming to us! What should we do!" says the beige mare, placing her hooves on Rose's shoulders and shaking her. "Ugh! Bon Bon! Stop!" says Rose, pushing Bon Bon with a hoof. "Look, I'm freaking out as much as you are, so don't look at me for help-" "Greetings, little ones," says the blue alicorn, smiling. "I-I'm so sorry! Whatever we did, it's her fault!" says Bon Bon, putting her head on the ground with a hoof over her face while pointing another hoof at Rose. "WHAT!" says Rose with wide eyes. "Forgive me, but I do not understand…" says the white alicorn, his brows gathering in. "U-um, just ignore her, Your Highnesses! She didn't, uh, get enough sleep last night!" says Rose with a sheepish grin. "Your Highnesses?" says the blue alicorn, blinking. "Forgive me, but whom dost thou speakest of?" asks the white alicorn, tilting his head. W-wait, what? thinks Rose, blinking. "U-uh, excuse me for a second!" she says, grabbing the nape of Bon Bon's neck with a hoof and lifting her. "OW! Rose, that hurts!" says Bon Bon, rubbing the nape of her neck with a hoof. "What was that earlier! You almost made me look like an idiot in front of them!" says Rose, poking a hoof on Bon Bon's chest. "I-I can't help it! I was panicking, okay!" says Bon Bon, stomping a hoof. "Ugh! Forget it! Right now, I'm worried about what they said…" says Rose, dragging a hoof down her face. "Y-yeah, it's kind of weird they said that…" says Bon Bon, frowning. "Should we tell them or something?" asks Rose, rubbing her head with a hoof. "Why should we tell them something they should already know?" asks Bon Bon, lifting a brow. "Forgive me for interrupting, but is something wrong?" asks the blue alicorn, his brows gathering in. "If we caused thee any trouble, forgive us…" says the white alicorn, hanging his head. "N-no! You're not troubling us or anything!" says Rose with a sheepish grin. "It's just about what you said earlier is bothering us. I mean, you're both princes…" says Bon Bon, rubbing an arm with a hoof. "Princes?" says the blue alicorn, blinking. "Forgive us, but we truly do not understand…" says the white alicorn, wrinkling his brows. "Y-you seriously don't know?" asks Rose with an open mouth. "Aye…" says the white alicorn, nodding. "Ugh, my head's starting to hurt…" says Bon Bon, rubbing her head with a hoof. "Then do you at least know that you're alicorns?" asks Rose, frowning. "Nay…" says the blue alicorn, shaking his head. "This is a first for us to hear about this…" says the white alicorn with a watery gaze. "Bon Bon, I think they're serious. They really don't know what we're talking about…" says Rose, furrowing her brows. "Y-yeah, do you think they lost their memory or something?" asks Bon Bon, rubbing her head with a hoof. "Do not worry. We have kept our memories since long ago," says the white alicorn, nodding. "Aye," says the blue alicorn, smiling. "Then how come you don't know that you're both princes and alicorns?" asks Bon Bon, blinking. "Ah, forgive us, but we were once within the stars above…" says the blue alicorn, furrowing his brows. "We do not know the reason why, but we recently have woken in this world. There are many things we have yet to understand…" says the white alicorn, hanging his head. "Okay, I'm getting really confused right now…" says Bon Bon, placing a hoof over her forehead. "H-how about we just start over with our names first? I'm Rose!" she says, smiling. "And I'm Bon Bon!" she says, grinning. "So, what are your names?" "Names?" says the blue alicorn, tilting his head. "Forgive me if I am wrong, but thou hast referred thyself with these names, correct?" asks the white alicorn, blinking. "Right! It's what we use to address each other with," says Rose, nodding. "Yeah, everypony has a name, so you both should have one too," says Bon Bon with a small smile. "I see…" says the white alicorn, blinking. "Ah, the inhabitants of the Everfree Forest have already said our names…" says the blue alicorn with wide eyes. "Aye," says the white alicorn, nodding. "H-hey, Rose, what are they talking about?" asks Bon Bon, leaning her head. "Just be quiet and listen!" says Rose, glaring. "Rose, Bon Bon, as for our names…" says the white alicorn with an unwavering gaze. "Y-yes!" says Rose with a sheepish grin. "Wh-what is it?" asks Bon Bon, gulping. "My name is Sun," he says, smiling. "And my name is Moon," he says with a small smile. "Weird, they're simpler than I thought…" says Rose, tapping her chin with a hoof. "Yeah, but they really suit them! I mean, they look like they're the Sun and Moon!" says Bon Bon with a grin. "Aye, that is correct," says Sun, nodding. "We are the Sun and Moon. We have been watching over the world since long ago," says Moon, smiling. "WHAT!"says Bon Bon with wide eyes. "Ugh, now my head's starting to hurt…" says Rose, placing a hoof over her forehead. ________________________________________ As flags blow in the air from a building stretching into the sky, a tan mare sits in a chair with her head rested on a hoof while stamping a paper with another. Putting a hoof over the paper, she drags it over the desk next to a stack of papers and lets out a sigh. "Ugh! I can't take it anymore! Ever since Twilight became a princess, work has been piling up every day!" says the tan mare, throwing her hooves in the air. As the tan mare slumps in her chair, her legs hit the desk, causing the stack of papers to scatter over the floor. "Great!" says the tan mare, rolling her eyes. "Now I have to reorganize all of that again! Can things get any worse!" Through a window, a shadow grows bigger before crashing through, scattering shards of glass over the floor. "AHH!" says the tan mare, flailing her hooves and falling on the floor from her chair. "Wh-what was that?" she asks, shaking her head. "O-ow, I should slow down next time…" says a voice. As the tan mare lifts her head, she sees a gray mare on the floor upside down with her back to the wall and her yellow eyes moving in a circular motion. "D-Derpy?" says the tan mare, blinking. "Oh, Mayor Mare! Wait, why are you upside down?" asks Derpy, lifting a brow. "Ugh…" says Mayor Mare, huffing. She stands on her hooves and walks to Derpy, lifting her up on her hooves. "Hey, everything's back to normal now!" says Derpy, smiling. "Derpy, why did you fly through the window?" asks Mayor Mare, frowning. "Oh, about that, I-I was kind of in a rush and forgot to slow down. Want a muffin?" asks Derpy, bringing a muffin from behind her with a hoof. "No…" says Mayor Mare, letting out a sigh. "S-sorry, I screwed up again, didn't I?" asks Derpy with tears welling up in her eyes. "N-no! Derpy, it's okay! We all make mistakes!" says Mayor Mare, placing a hoof on Derpy's shoulder. "Yeah, but I'm always making mistakes wherever I go…" says Derpy while tears flow down her cheeks. "Listen, I do it all the time!" says Mayor Mare, smiling. "R-really?" asks Derpy, wiping her tears with a hoof. "Of course! There was this time when I was out, ponies started to look at me. I was wondering what they were looking at until I realized I forgot to dye my mane…" says Mayor Mare, blinking. Her eyes then widen while putting a hoof over her mouth. I can't believe I told her that! "Oh, don't worry! Everypony in Ponyville knows all about it!" says Derpy, chuckling with a hoof over her mouth. "S-since when?" asks Mayor Mare with a blue face. "You know, the whole Gabby Gums thing," says Derpy, rubbing her head with a hoof. "I-I forgot about that…" says Mayor Mare, letting out a sigh. "Cheer up!" says Derpy, patting a hoof on Mayor Mare's back. "Wait, Derpy, why are you here again?" asks Mayor Mare, blinking. "Oh, I forgot to tell you this, but when I was going home, I saw two alicorns…" says Derpy, tapping her chin with a hoof. "WHAT!" says Mayor Mare with wide eyes. "Yeah, you should've seen them, they're really handsome! I thought it was Princess Celestia and Princess Luna at first, but they were both guys I've never seen before!" says Derpy, throwing her hooves in the air. "Why didn't you tell me earlier!" says Mayor Mare, stomping a hoof. "You never asked," says Derpy, blinking. "Ugh!" says Mayor Mare, dragging a hoof down her face. Can this day get any worse! To be continued… Chapter 4Questions and Answers ________________________________________ Under the warm light of the Sun, colts and fillies push their way through the legs of a crowd of ponies. Reaching the front of the crowd, their eyes widen at the sight of an alicorn with amber eyes of a sunset to his pure white coat that shines under the daylight. Their eyes then move to another alicorn with ice blue eyes and a flowing blue mane that resembles the night sky. However, among the crowd of ponies, a large group of mares glares while others grind their teeth at a pale-yellow and beige mare next to the alicorns. "Okay, let me get this straight, you're saying that you're the Sun and Moon, right?" asks Rose, tapping her chin with a hoof. "Aye," says Sun, nodding. "Rose, thou hast been asking the same question. Is there a reason why?" asks Moon, tilting his head. "Yeah, for the past ten minutes…" says Bon Bon, rolling her eyes. "B-but how can you be the Sun and Moon if they're still in the sky!" says Rose, stomping a hoof. "Rose, don't think too hard about it. I mean, a lot of weird things happen in Ponyville, remember?" asks Bon Bon, lifting a brow. "R-right…" says Rose, rubbing the side of her neck with a hoof. "Besides, their cutie mark already proves it," says Bon Bon. "Cutie mark?" says Moon, blinking. "Oh yeah, you both don't know what a cutie mark is either…" says Bon Bon, walking to Moon's side. She stops and points a hoof to Moon's flank. "It's this mark right here." "Strange…" says Moon, blinking at a crescent moon on his flank. "Y-yeah, it's kind of weird…" says Bon Bon, her eyes widening at Moon's flank. "Bon Bon, is something wrong?" asks Moon, furrowing his brows. "Huh? O-oh, nothing!" says Bon Bon with a sheepish grin. "I can't believe you were staring at his flank…" says Rose, rolling her eyes. "Sh-shut it!" says Bon Bon with bright red cheeks. "Forgive me, but are these cutie mark of ours important?" asks Sun, blinking. "Yeah! They show your special talent! Look, mine's a rose!"says Rose while facing her flank to Sun. "I see…" says Sun, lowering his head with his eyes on Rose's flank. "U-um… Sun?" says Rose, her cheeks filling with red. "Is something wrong?" asks Sun, blinking. "I-I don't mind, but just don't s-stare at it too long…" says Rose, red rising from her chin to her ears. "Ah, forgive me. I did not mean to cause thee any discomfort…" says Sun, frowning and lifting his head. "I-it's okay!" says Rose, flailing her hooves. "Nice, Rose, you got him to look at yours…" says Bon Bon, scoffing. "Will you shut it!" says Rose, stomping a hoof. "Whatever…" says Bon Bon, rolling her eyes. She then blinks, seeing a gray blur in the sky. "U-uh, Rose, what's that?" "What's what?" asks Rose, lifting her head. Her eyes then widen at a gray blur growing bigger. "I-I don't know, but it's getting closer…" The gray blur slams into the left side of Sun, colliding into Moon as the three skids over the ground. "SUN!" says Rose with wide eyes. "MOON!" says Bon Bon, placing her hooves on her head. "O-ow…" says a gray mare, shaking her head. "W-wait, why's the ground soft?" she asks, rubbing a hoof on the white surface. Her eyes roll down, seeing amber ones. "Greetings, little one," says Sun, blinking. "U-um, hi…" says the gray mare, her cheeks turning red. She then blinks her eyes before turning her head, seeing Moon with his face close to her rear. "Forgive me, little one, but art thou well?" asks Moon, his brows gathering in. "I-I'm so sorry! I didn't mean to hit you both!" says the gray mare, jumping away. "Do not apologize. What matters most is that thou art not hurt," says Moon, pushing himself up on his hooves. He then faces Sun. "Art thou in good health as well?" "Aye," says Sun, standing. He then faces the gray mare. "Now then, little one, I wish to hear thy name." "Oh, I'm Derpy, Derpy Hooves, but you can just call me Derpy for short!" she says, grinning. "Greetings, Derpy. My name is Sun," he says, smiling. "It's nice to meet you, Sun!" says Derpy, grabbing Sun's hoof with her own and shaking it. "Derpy, forgive me, but I do not understand this gesture…" says Sun, frowning. "Wh-what are you talking about? It's a hoofshake. Don't you know about it?" asks Derpy, blinking and letting go of Sun's hoof. "Nay," says Sun, shaking his head. "What is this hoofshake?" asks Moon, furrowing his brows. "Um…" says Derpy, turning her head as she notices Rose and Bon Bon with scowls on their face. "Can you both help me? I'm kind of not good at explaining things…" "Ugh, it's just another way of greeting somepony…" says Rose, rolling her eyes. "Interesting…" says Sun with wide eyes. "Are there more ways to greet others?" asks Moon, tilting his head. "Y-yeah, but there's kind of a lot…" says Bon Bon, rubbing her head with a hoof. "S-sorry to interrupt, but what's your name?" asks Derpy, pointing a hoof at Moon. "Ah, forgive me, Derpy. My name is Moon," he says with a small smile. "It's nice to meet you, Moon!" says Derpy, grabbing Moon's hoof with her own and shaking it. "This is truly a strange gesture…" says Moon, blinking. "Oh, before I forget! This is for hitting you guys earlier as an apology!" says Derpy, bringing a cupcake-like bread from behind her and putting it on Moon's hoof. She then trots to Sun, grabbing his hoof and placing another on it. "Derpy, what is this?" asks Sun, lifting the pastry on his hoof to his face. "That's a banana muffin! And Moon's holding a blueberry one! Muffins are my favorite kind of food to eat!" says Derpy, jumping up and down. "Muffin? Food? Forgive me, but I do not understand…" says Moon, wrinkling his brows. "Ugh, that's right! I forgot that you're both the Moon and Sun!" says Bon Bon, placing a hoof over her face. "Y-yeah, that's why they don't know something like a muffin…" says Rose, rubbing her head with a hoof. "What are you guys talking about?" asks Derpy, blinking. "It's nothing, Derpy…" says Bon Bon, letting out a sigh. She then faces Moon and Sun. "A-anyway, aren't you guys hungry?" "Hungry?" says Sun, tilting his head. His ears twitch, hearing the sound of rumbling before sitting on his haunches and putting a hoof on his stomach. "Strange…" "Aye…" says Moon, placing a hoof on his stomach as it growls. "Sun, Moon, that sound means you're hungry. Just eat your muffin," says Rose, chuckling with a hoof over her mouth. "Eat… the muffin?" says Sun, his eyes looking down at the muffin on his hoof. "Wh-what are you guys waiting for? Just eat them…" says Derpy, furrowing her brows. "I-I do not understand…" says Moon with a watery gaze. "Um, Derpy, you should probably show them how to eat it…" says Rose, her brows gathering in. "Why? Don't they already know how?" asks Derpy, raising a brow. "Listen, Derpy, I know this will sound weird, but Moon and Sun don't know anything…" says Bon Bon, frowning. "W-wait, what? You're joking, right?" asks Derpy with wide eyes. "No…" says Rose, shaking her head. "Y-yeah, so just show them, okay?" asks Bon Bon with a small smile. "Well, if you say so…" says Derpy, wrinkling her brows. She then faces Sun and Moon, bringing a muffin from behind herself with a hoof. "Just take a bite, like this!" she says, biting a part of her muffin, chewing, and gulping. "I see…" says Sun, lifting the muffin on his hoof to his mouth, biting it. His eyes light up, chewing with a smile. "Moon, you should try it too!" says Derpy, smiling. "Aye…" says Moon, lifting the muffin on his hoof to his mouth, biting it. His eyes widen, chewing with a smile. "So, what do you guys think? They're good, right?" asks Derpy, grinning. "Derpy, I don't think you have to ask," says Rose with a small laugh. "Yeah, their face already shows it," says Bon Bon, giggling with a hoof over her mouth. "Derpy, I finally found you!" says a voice. "Huh?" says Derpy, turning her head and seeing a tan mare with a frazzled mane. "Oh, Mayor Mare, what took you so long?" "Y-you… I told you to slow down!" says Mayor Mare, stomping a hoof. "S-sorry, but I really wanted to see the alicorns…" says Derpy with a sheepish grin. "Oh, speaking of them, where are they?" asks Mayor Mare, turning her head side to side. "Behind you," says Derpy, pointing a hoof. "Really?" asks Mayor Mare, blinking. She turns and sees a white and blue wall before lifting her head as her eyes widen. "Th-they're huge…" "Wait, Derpy, you told Mayor Mare about Sun and Moon?" asks Rose, rubbing her head with a hoof. "Well, she did tell everypony to let her know if somepony important shows up, remember?" asks Derpy, lifting a brow. "Oh, I forgot…" says Bon Bon, blinking. "W-welcome to Ponyville, Your Highnesses!" says Mayor Mare, kneeling and bowing her head. "Little one, please stand and look at us," says Sun. "Y-yes!" says Mayor Mare, standing and lifting her head as her body shakes. "Now then, what is thy name?" asks Moon, tilting his head. "I-it's Mayor Mare!" she says while sweat runs down her face. "Greetings, Mayor Mare. My name is Sun," he says, smiling. "And my name is Moon," he says with a small smile. "O-oh, it's nice to meet you…" says Mayor Mare as her body stops shaking. "Ah, forgive me, but what was that strange gesture earlier?" asks Moon, frowning. "What?" asks Mayor Mare with an open mouth. "U-uh, Moon, Mayor Mare was just bowing!" says Bon Bon. "Bowing?" says Moon, blinking. "Is it another way of greeting others?" asks Sun with wide eyes. "Sort of. I mean, it's common courtesy for somepony to bow to royalty…" says Bon Bon, rubbing behind her head with a hoof. "Royalty?" says Moon, tilting his head. "Oh, Sun, Moon, remember when I asked if you both knew that you were alicorns?" asks Rose, blinking. "Aye," says Moon, nodding. "But what are these alicorns?" asks Sun, his brows gathering in. "Well, you guys are alicorns," says Bon Bon, pointing a hoof. "Yeah, alicorns are blessed with the three races of ponies; pegasi, unicorns, and earth ponies," says Rose, nodding. "We are blessed with… all three ponies?" asks Sun, tilting his head. "Yep!" says Derpy, trotting and stopping next to Sun's side. She then grabs Sun's wing with a hoof, stretching it. "See, I'm a pegasus, and you have wings like me!" "Interesting. I have also seen another pegasus using their wings, but I do not know how to describe it…" says Moon, shaking his head. "You mean flying?" asks Bon Bon, lifting a brow. "If that is the word to describe it," says Moon, smiling. "Well, since we're already talking about this, Sun, can you lower your head for me?" asks Rose, walking and stopping in front of Sun. "Aye," says Sun, lowering his head. "Okay, do you feel this thing?" asks Rose, rubbing a hoof on Sun's spiraling horn. "Aye," says Sun, nodding. "It's called a horn," says Rose, removing her hoof from Sun's spiraling horn. "Horn?" says Sun, frowning. "It's something that allows unicorns and alicorns to use magic," says Rose, rubbing an arm with a hoof. "What is this magic thou speakest of?" asks Moon, furrowing his brows. "Sorry, but we don't know much about magic since none of us are unicorns…" says Bon Bon, letting out a sigh. "Y-yeah…" says Rose, hanging her head. "S-sorry…" says Derpy, her brows gathering in. "Do not apologize," says Sun, shaking his head. "Thou hast been helpful in ways we cannot hope to repay," says Moon with a small smile. "Well, at least Rose and I are earth ponies," says Bon Bon, smiling. "That's something we can tell you guys about-" "Rose, Bon Bon, Derpy, I'm sorry to interrupt, but there are some things I want to ask our guests. But seeing that you three got along quickly with them, I'd like to thank you for keeping them company," says Mayor Mare, smiling. "N-no! It's the least we could do!" says Rose, her cheeks turning red. "Y-yeah, Moon and Sun needed our help, so it's no problem…" says Bon Bon, rubbing a hoof behind her head. "Besides, it's fun talking to them!" says Derpy, grinning. "I'm sure it was," says Mayor Mare, chuckling with a hoof over her mouth. She then faces Sun and Moon. "Your Highnesses, I know that you both have a lot of questions, but can you please save it for another time? There's sort of a big crowd behind us…" she says, pointing a hoof. Turning their head, Sun and Moon's eyes widen, seeing colts and fillies waving a hoof, stallions smiling and nodding, and mares in the crowd averting their gaze as their cheeks turn bright red. "Big? More like everypony is here!" says Rose with wide eyes. "It's mostly mares though…" says Bon Bon, huffing. "I guess everypony wanted to see Sun and Moon!" says Derpy with a small laugh. I'm more worried about the mares in the crowd eyeing you three out! thinks Mayor Mare, biting her bottom lip. She then places a hoof over her chest, taking a deep breath. "All right, everypony, please go back to your daily business!" Colts and fillies wave a hoof before running off into town. Stallions nod and turn, walking away. However, a group of mares walking turn their head, scowling as their eyes reflect Rose, Bon Bon, and Derpy. "H-hey, why did they look at us like that?" asks Derpy, blinking. "Just ignore them, Derpy…" says Rose, letting out a sigh. I-I don't think I should walk around town tomorrow… "They're just jealous…" says Bon Bon, rolling her eyes. "Jealous? Of what?" asks Derpy, furrowing her brows. "A-anyway, Your Highnesses, to what do we owe the honor of this visit?" asks Mayor Mare with a sheepish grin. "Mayor Mare, there is no need to address Moon and I in that manner. Feel free to address us with our names," says Sun, smiling. "Aye, we do not wish to inconvenience thee," says Moon with a small smile. "Your Highnesses…" says Mayor Mare with wide eyes. She then puts a hoof over her mouth, seeing Moon and Sun frowning. "I-I mean, Sun, Moon!" "As to thy question, Moon and I are searching for…" says Sun, blinking. "Forgive me, thou wouldst refer to others with the terms pony and somepony, correct?" "Y-yes…" says Mayor Mare, nodding. "I see. Now then, we have been searching for somepony, though we do not know this pony's name…" says Sun, furrowing his brows. "However, we refer to this pony as the Azure One. Perhaps thou hast seen this pony?" asks Moon with a watery gaze. "Azure One?" says Mayor Mare, tapping her chin with a hoof. She then shakes her head. "I-I'm sorry, but I don't know anypony that comes to mind…" "Do not apologize. We understand. Moon, it seems our search will be longer than expected…" says Sun, hanging his head. "Aye…" says Moon, frowning and nodding. "Actually, I know somepony that could help, but she isn't here at the moment…" says Mayor Mare, letting out a sigh. "She?" says Sun, tilting his head. "You see, here in Ponyville, we also have a princess who is an alicorn," says Mayor Mare, smiling. "Ah, where is this princess?" asks Moon with bright eyes. "She's in Canterlot. It's over there," says Mayor Mare, pointing a hoof. Following Mayor Mare's hoof, Sun and Moon's eyes widen at a white city with a castle sitting on the side of a mountain that stretches far into the sky. "Mayor Mare, forgive us, but Sun and I wish to go there…" says Moon, his brows gathering in. "It's okay. I already knew that you were planning to go there," says Mayor Mare with a small laugh. She then turns her head. "Derpy, I'm sorry, but can you come with me and our guests to Town Hall?" "Sure, but for what?" asks Derpy, rubbing her head with a hoof. "I need you to deliver a letter to the Royal Guard at Canterlot. It's to request a chariot for our guests," says Mayor Mare. "Okay!" says Derpy, grinning. "Now that everything's settled, Sun, Moon, please follow me," says Mayor Mare, smiling. "Aye," says Moon with a small smile. Sun nods his head. "W-wait!" says Rose, stomping a hoof. "Rose, is something wrong?" asks Sun, wrinkling his brows. "Will you guys be okay without us?" asks Rose with a watery gaze. "Aye," says Sun, smiling. "A-are you sure?" asks Bon Bon, rubbing an arm with a hoof. "Aye, we do not wish to trouble thee more than we already have," says Moon, shaking his head. "O-oh…" says Rose, hanging her head. "If you say so…" says Bon Bon, letting out a sigh. Sun and Moon face each other, frowning. Nodding, Sun comes to a stop in front of Rose, while Moon stands in front of Bon Bon. "Rose, please look at me," says Sun, lowering his head. "Bon Bon, please look at me as well," says Moon, lowering his head. "Wh-what is it, Sun?" asks Rose, lifting her head as her cheeks turn bright red. "M-Moon…" says Bon Bon, lifting her head while her face turns beet red. Too close! Too close! "I wish to thank thee for thy help…" says Sun, pressing his lips on Rose's cheek, the latter, her eyes widening. "Now then…" says Moon, pressing his lips on Bon Bon's cheek, the latter, her eyes widening. Mayor Mare's jaw drops on the ground. "Thank you," says Sun and Moon, lifting their head and smiling. "I-it's fine! I'm just g-glad I could help!" says Rose with steam coming out her ears while flailing her hooves. "Y-yeah!" says Bon Bon with a sheepish grin. She then turns and places a hoof over her chest. I-I thought my heart was about to explode! "Oh, Sun, Moon, do I get a kiss on the cheek too!" says Derpy, jumping up and down. "Aye, I would like to thank thee for the muffin," says Sun, pressing his lips on Derpy's left cheek. "The muffin was truly interesting. Thank you," says Moon, pressing his lips on Derpy's right cheek. Mayor Mare's jaw drops on the ground, cracking it. "You're welcome!" says Derpy, giggling with a hoof over her mouth. "Strange…" says Moon, tilting his head. "Derpy, are those words one would say for the gratitude given to them?" "Yeah!" says Derpy, nodding. "Ah, interesting," says Moon, smiling. "It truly is," says Sun with a small smile. He then turns his head. "Mayor Mare, as to earlier, please lead the way." "Huh? O-oh, right!" says Mayor Mare, shaking her head. Turning, she walks as Sun, Moon, and Derpy follow behind. "Rose, do you think we will see them again?" asks Bon Bon, gazing at Moon with a hoof on her cheek. "I hope so…" says Rose, smiling at Sun with a soft glow within her eyes. To be continued… Chapter 5Destined Encounter ________________________________________ As Mayor Mare leads Sun and Moon through the town of Ponyville, Derpy runs ahead and comes to a stop as her eyes widen. "Oh, Moon, that's the bowling alley over there!" says Derpy, pointing a hoof. "Bowling?" says Moon, blinking at a building with a sign of bowling pins and bowling balls. "Yeah, you and Sun should try it!" says Derpy, jumping up and down. "Aye, but another time, Derpy. Sun and I wish to find the Azure One first," says Moon, smiling. "Oh, right!" says Derpy with a sheepish grin. "Ugh, I'm sorry for Derpy's behavior, Sun…" says Mayor Mare, letting out a sigh. "Do not apologize. There are many interesting places here that Moon and I wish to visit in the future," says Sun with gleaming eyes. "I'm guessing you like Ponyville?" asks Mayor Mare, chuckling with a hoof over her mouth. "Aye," says Sun, smiling at a group of fillies and colts chasing each other as their laughs echo through the town. He then blinks his eyes, facing a blue and green mare waving a hoof with a shade of red in their cheeks. "Sun, you should probably do the same," says Mayor Mare with a small smile. Nodding, Sun lifts a hoof and slowly waves it. "H-he waved back!" says the blue mare, placing a hoof on her chest as she falls on her back. "Yeah…" says the green mare, her eyes turning into heart shapes before falling on her back. "Mayor Mare, did I do something wrong?" asks Sun, looking down at his hoof and frowning. "Don't worry, you did nothing wrong…" says Mayor Mare, dragging a hoof down her face. Her eyes then widen, seeing a building with a sign of a quill and sofa. "Um, Derpy, can you stay with Sun and Moon?" "Huh? Oh, sure, but why?" asks Derpy, blinking. "I need to buy some ink for the letter I'm writing…" says Mayor Mare, letting out a sigh. It's because when you flew through the window, my last bottle of ink fell on the floor! "Okay!" says Derpy, grinning. "Stay here and don't move! I'll be back!" says Mayor Mare, turning and running. "Hey, an ice cream stand! Come on, Moon, let's go!" says Derpy, grabbing Moon's hoof with her own and dragging him. "Ice cream?" says Moon, tilting his head. "Yeah, it's really good!" says Derpy, grinning. "Derpy, perhaps we should listen to Mayor Mare…" says Sun, reaching out a hoof. He then hangs his head, frowning. "Hey, you!" says a voice. Blinking, Sun turns his head side to side. "Down here!" says the voice. Looking down, Sun sees an orange filly folding her hooves. "Took you long enough…" says the orange filly, huffing. "Greetings, little one," says Sun, smiling. "H-hey, I'm not little! And I'm still growing!" says the orange filly, stomping a hoof. "Forgive me, I did not mean thee any harm…" says Sun, wrinkling his brows. "Whatever…" says the orange filly, rolling her eyes. She then places a hoof on her chest. "Oh, if you're wondering, the name's Scootaloo! And I'm going to be the best flyer in Equestria- GAH!" A yellow blur slams into Scootaloo as she flies before skidding to a stop in the ground with her face. "Howdy!" says a voice. Turning his head, Sun sees a yellow filly with a smile. "What's your name, mister?" asks the yellow filly, giggling with a hoof over her mouth. "Sun," he says with a small smile. Sun, huh? That's a nice name… thinks the yellow filly, her eyes on Sun's amber eyes to his spiraling horn. "Forgive me, little one, but what is thy name?" asks Sun, tilting his head. "Oh, my name's Apple Bloom!" she says, grinning. She then points a hoof at Scootaloo. "Sorry if she was bein' rude to you earlier…" "Do not apologize. But I am worried about Scootaloo…" says Sun, furrowing his brows. "She'll be fine," says Apple Bloom, waving off a hoof. "If thou sayest so. Now then, dost thou require something of me?" asks Sun, blinking. "N-nothin', really…" says Apple Bloom, her cheeks turning red while rubbing an arm with a hoof. "It's just that… do you, I don't know, have a special somepony-" "What was that for!" says Scootaloo with her forehead touching Apple Bloom's. "Well, duh! You were bein' rude to him!" says Apple Bloom, pushing Scootaloo's forehead with her own. "That doesn't mean you can just ram into me like that!" says Scootaloo, pushing Apple Bloom's forehead with her own. "Hey, girls!" says a voice. "WHAT!" says Scootaloo and Apple Bloom, glaring. As Sun turns his head, he sees a white filly standing next to Moon and Derpy. "Geez, what's wrong with you two?" asks the white filly, lifting a brow. "Apple Bloom started it!" says Scootaloo, stomping a hoof. "But it's your fault for bein' rude to him in the first place!" says Apple Bloom, pointing a hoof at Sun. "Ugh…" says the white filly, placing a hoof on her face. She then turns and lifts her head. "Sorry about that, Moon. They're usually not like this…" "Do not apologize. They are interesting ponies," says Moon, smiling. "But can you believe it, Moon! How did they run out of ice cream that fast!" says Derpy, stomping a hoof. She then hangs her head, letting out a sigh. "I really wanted you and Sun to try it…" "Aye…" says Moon, frowning. "Don't worry, you guys, there's always tomorrow! Besides, aren't you going to introduce me to him, Moon?" asks the white filly, pointing a hoof at Sun. "Ah, Sun, this is Sweetie Belle," says Moon, smiling. "Greetings, Sweetie Belle. My name is Sun," he says with a smile. "It's nice to meet you, Sun!" says Sweetie Belle with a wide grin. She then looks at Apple Bloom and Scootaloo. "Are you girls going to introduce yourselves to Moon or not?" "Not until she apologizes first!" says Scootaloo, pointing a hoof at Apple Bloom. "How about you apologize to Sun first!" says Apple Bloom, folding her hooves. "Ugh, I hate it when they're like this…" says Sweetie Belle, rolling her eyes. She then faces Moon. "Um, Moon, the orange one with a temper is Scootaloo and the yellow that's stubborn is Apple Bloom." "H-hey, don't make up any lies about me!" says Scootaloo, stomping a hoof. "Y-yeah! I'm not stubborn!" says Apple Bloom, pouting. "Well, you guys didn't want to introduce yourselves, so I did it for you!" says Sweetie Belle, closing her eyes and lifting her head. "There you are!" says a voice. Turning their head, Sun and Moon see a tan mare with a bag in her mouth and a frazzled mane. "Oh, Mayor Mare, what took you so long?" asks Derpy, raising a brow. Mayor Mare lowers her head and drops the bag from her mouth. "I had to run to another store to get some ink because the store before only sells quills and sofas! Only quills and sofas! Can you believe it!" "Oh, I forgot to tell you about that…" says Derpy, rubbing her chin with a hoof. "Wh-what? You knew?" asks Mayor Mare with an open mouth. "I-I kind of deliver some stuff there…" says Derpy, rubbing a hoof behind her head. "Then why didn't you tell me!" says Mayor Mare, stomping a hoof. "I forgot…" says Derpy with a sheepish grin. "Ugh! Forget it, but at least tell me why the Crusaders are here…" says Mayor Mare, placing a hoof on her face. "Crusaders?" says Moon, blinking. "Yeah, we're the Cutie Mark Crusaders! Me, Apple Bloom, and Scootaloo are on a quest to find our special talents," says Sweetie Belle, facing her flank to Moon. "See, I don't have my cutie mark yet." "Forgive me, but what is a special talent?" asks Moon, tilting his head. "Ah, I have been wondering about that as well…" says Sun, furrowing his brows. "A special talent is something a pony is good at. See that pony over there?" asks Sweetie Belle, pointing a hoof. Following Sweetie Belle's hoof, Sun and Moon notice a mare with a trowel in her mouth, digging a small hole in her yard. The yellow mare then grabs a patch of sunflowers, placing them in the hole before quickly filling the rest of the hole with dirt. Smiling, the yellow mare grabs a green watering can with her mouth, pouring water over the patch of sunflowers. "Her special talent must be gardening…" says Sweetie Belle, blinking. She then faces Sun and Moon. "Wait, why am I telling you this? Shouldn't you both already know about it?" "Nay," says Sun, shaking his head. "Forgive us, but we do not…" says Moon, hanging his head. "You don't!" says Sweetie Belle with wide eyes. She then walks around Sun and Moon with her eyes on their flank before coming to a stop in front of them. "How do you not know anything when you both already have your cutie marks?" Derpy walks over, lowering her head next to Sweetie Belle's ear. "Um, Sweetie Belle, when I met Sun and Moon, Rose and Bon Bon was there with them. They told me that Sun and Moon don't know anything…" "Really?" asks Sweetie Belle with an open mouth. "Yeah, we even had to tell them what an alicorn is…" says Derpy, furrowing her brows. "But aren't they alicorns?" asks Sweetie Belle, lifting a brow. "They are, but I just kind of went along with it," says Derpy, shrugging. That's weird… thinks Sweetie Belle, frowning. She then faces Sun and Moon. "Um, why are you both here in Ponyville?" "We are looking for somepony…" says Moon, wrinkling his brows. "Who?" asks Sweetie Belle, blinking. "We do not know. Mayor Mare and Derpy are aiding with our search," says Sun. "Oh, we can help!" says Sweetie Belle, grinning. She then turns her head. "Hey, girls, I got an idea! Let's help Moon and Sun find somepony! Maybe we can get our cutie marks!" "Forget it! Apple Bloom still didn't say she's sorry!" says Scootaloo, folding her hooves. "And you still didn't apologize to Sun!" says Apple Bloom, stomping a hoof. "Fine, I'll do it myself…" says Sweetie Belle, huffing. "Um, Sweetie Belle, don't you have other stuff to do?" asks Mayor Mare with a sheepish grin. "Nope! That's why if I help Moon and Sun, maybe I can get my cutie mark!" says Sweetie Belle, jumping up and down. That's the last thing I want you to do! I already know how you and the girls always make things worse when you try to help! thinks Mayor Mare with sweat running down her face. "I-I'm sorry, Sweetie Belle, but Sun and Moon won't be here for long." "Why?" asks Sweetie Belle, blinking. "It's because they're going to Canterlot…" says Mayor Mare, rubbing an arm with a hoof. "Oh…" says Sweetie Belle, furrowing her brows. She faces Moon and Sun. "Before you go, can you at least tell me about yourself-" "Sweetie Belle, please! I need to get the preparations done for Sun and Moon's departure!" says Mayor Mare, glaring. "B-but can I least talk with them before they go!" says Sweetie Belle, stomping a hoof. "I'm sorry…" says Mayor Mare, shaking her head. "But I really need-" "Mayor Mare, I do not mind if Sweetie Belle joins us. In fact, I welcome it. Perhaps thou shouldst consider?" asks Moon, smiling. "I-I don't know…" says Mayor Mare, biting her bottom lip. "Sun, what are thy thoughts on this matter?" asks Moon, tilting his head. As Sun looks down, Sweetie Belle's lips shake as her eyes well up with tears. "Aye, Sweetie Belle may join us," says Sun with a small smile. "But, Your Highnesses!" says Mayor Mare, stomping a hoof. She then puts a hoof over her mouth, seeing Sun and Moon frowning. "All right, if that's what you wish…" she says, letting out a sigh. "YAY!" says Sweetie Belle, hopping around Moon and Sun. "Sweetie Belle, forgive me, but what about Apple Bloom and Scootaloo?" asks Moon, furrowing his brows. "Oh, them. I don't think so. But I'm sure they'll be okay if we leave them here," says Sweetie Belle, smiling. "I see. Now then, Mayor Mare, please lead the way," says Sun. "Y-yes…" says Mayor Mare, slowly nodding. She then picks up the bag on the ground with her mouth before turning and walking as Sun, Moon, Derpy, and Sweetie Belle follow behind. "W-wait! I'm sorry! I'm coming too!" says Apple Bloom, flailing her hooves. "Oh, now you apologize?" asks Scootaloo, glaring. "Not right now! They're leavin' us!" says Apple Bloom, stomping a hoof. Sweetie Belle stops and turns, lifting a brow. "Are you coming or not? Or are you just going to argue all day?" "Okay, okay!" says Apple Bloom, biting her bottom lip. "Fine…" says Scootaloo, rolling her eyes. ________________________________________ Lifting her hooves, Mayor Mare pushes two doors of a building with flags blowing in the wind. She then lifts a hoof and waves it before walking inside the building. Walking through the doorway, Sun and Moon's eyes widen at the interior of the room, seeing loges as curtains dressed the edges of the large windows around. Their eyes then move to the banners on the walls with images of ponies, constellations, and flowers. "What is this place?" asks Moon, blinking. Mayor Mare places the bag in her mouth on the floor. "This is Town Hall. Everypony comes here for meetings and other sorts," she says, smiling. She then lets out a sigh. Or they just come here to complain about something… "Forgive me, but I do not understand…" says Sun, shaking his head. "What is a meeting?" asks Moon, furrowing his brows. What? They don't even know something like a meeting either? thinks Mayor Mare with an open mouth. She then rubs a hoof behind her head. "Um, let's just say that a meeting is when ponies come to discuss something." "I see…" says Sun, walking to the center of the room with his eyes on the banners hanging on the walls. "Strange…" says Moon, walking to a curtain before stroking a hoof on it. "I've been wondering, but why do Sun and Moon ask questions they should already know?" asks Mayor Mare, her brows drawing together. "I don't know, but they asked a lot on our way here…" says Apple Bloom, rubbing a hoof behind her head. "Tell me about it. Sun and Moon asked me about the saddlebags that ponies carry on their back. Kind of weird, if you ask me," says Scootaloo, twirling a hoof next to her head and sticking her tongue out. "Maybe something happened to them and they just forgot…" says Sweetie Belle, frowning. "That's the weird part. I already told Sweetie Belle about this, but when I first met Sun and Moon, Rose and Bon Bon were there with them. They said that Sun and Moon didn't know anything…" says Derpy, wrinkling her brows. "What do you mean?" asks Mayor Mare, blinking. "Well, for starters, they didn't even know that they were alicorns," says Derpy, shrugging. "WHAT!" says Apple Bloom and Scootaloo with wide eyes. "Th-that's right! I forgot that Rose, Bon Bon, and Derpy were telling them about that! They even asked what I was doing when I first met them too…" says Mayor Mare, placing a hoof on her face. "Oh, that time when you were bowing to them?" asks Derpy, rubbing her head with a hoof. "Yes…" says Mayor Mare, slowly nodding. "I-I don't know what happened to Sun and Moon, but I think we shouldn't dwell on it any longer. It must be something that doesn't concern us…" "Maybe Twilight would know what to do…" says Sweetie Belle, frowning. "Heh! Knowing her, I think she would!" says Scootaloo, smirking. "Yeah, if there's anypony that could help, it's Twilight!" says Apple Bloom, grinning. "I'm sure she would," says Mayor Mare, smiling. She then faces Derpy. "Derpy, as for what I said before, please follow me to my office. I'm going to write a letter for you to give to the Royal Guard at Canterlot." "Okay, but before I go…" says Derpy, turning and waving a hoof. "Sun, Moon, can you come here for a second?" Turning, Moon walks over to Derpy as Sun follows behind. Coming to a stop, they sit on their haunches. "Is something wrong?" asks Moon, wrinkling his brows. "No, I just wanted to give you guys this before I go," says Derpy, bringing two muffins from behind herself with a hoof as Sun and Moon each take one. "It's my last two that were supposed to be an apology to somepony for being late again, but I think she wouldn't mind if I gave them to you both." "And who is this pony?" asks Sun, tilting his head. "Her name is Dinky. She's my sister and my little special somepony who means the whole world to me," says Derpy with a small smile. "Sister?" says Moon, blinking. "Just picture somepony you've been with your whole life. Oh, now that I think about it, are you guys brothers?" asks Derpy, rubbing her head with a hoof. "Brothers?" says Sun, furrowing his brows. "It's like sisters. You know, sisters for girls, and brothers for boys," says Derpy, lifting a brow. "Forgive me, but I do not understand…" says Moon, shaking his head. "Aye…" says Sun, hanging his head. "Wow, you guys really don't know anything…" saysDerpy with wide eyes. She then frowns. "Sorry, I'd like to tell you, but I really have to go. Besides, I'm not good at explaining things…" "Do not apologize. We understand," says Sun, nodding. "And Sun and I wish to thank thee," says Moon with a small smile. "For what?" asks Derpy, blinking. Lowering their head, Moon and Sun press their lips on Derpy's cheeks. "Not again…" says Mayor Mare, placing a hoof over her red face. "Wh-why are they kissin' her!" says Apple Bloom with a bright red face. "That's not fair! I want Moon to do the same to me…" says Sweetie Belle, biting her bottom lip. "Eww…" says Scootaloo, curling her lip. "You know, I'm never going to get used to that. What was that for?" asks Derpy, giggling with a hoof over her mouth. "We are grateful that thou art willing to aid us with our search," says Sun, smiling. "And for the muffins," says Moon with a small smile. "You're welcome! Oh, and if you guys ever decide to come back to Ponyville, maybe I could introduce you both to Dinky! I'm sure she would like to meet you both!" says Derpy, jumping up and down. "Aye," says Sun, nodding. "If our paths meet again, I wish to meet this Dinky," says Moon, smiling. "Got it!" says Derpy, grinning. She then faces Mayor Mare. "Okay, ready when you are!" "O-oh!" says Mayor Mare, shaking her head. "Um, Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo, can you do me a favor?" "What is it?" asks Sweetie Belle, blinking. "I would like you to stay with Sun and Moon while I'm gone. Can I trust you girls to handle it?" asks Mayor Mare, raising a brow. "Sure! You can count on us!" says Apple Bloom, placing a hoof on her chest. "Yeah, I guess. There's nothing to do around here anyway," says Scootaloo, shrugging. "Thank you," says Mayor Mare, smiling. She then picks up the bag on the floor with her mouth and walks to a staircase as Derpy follows behind. "So, what should we do now?" asks Apple Bloom, rubbing the side of her neck with a hoof. "Maybe we can find out why Moon and Sun don't know anything?" asks Sweetie Belle, smiling. "I-I don't think that's a good idea…" says Apple Bloom, shaking her head. "But I really want to know! I mean, they came from the Everfree Forest and that's weird! Don't you want to know more about them!" says Sweetie Belle, stomping a hoof. "I do, but we can't just ask… them…" says Apple Bloom, blinking. "Wait, where's Scoot?" "Huh?" says Sweetie Belle, turning her head side to side. "Where is she?" "Oh, there she is!" says Apple Bloom, pointing a hoof. Turning her head, Sweetie Belle sees Scootaloo sitting in front of Moon and Sun. "So, why do you guys keep asking questions all the time?" asks Scootaloo, lifting a brow. "Scoot, don't you remember what Mayor Mare said!" says Apple Bloom, stomping a hoof. "Yeah, but I just wanted to know," says Scootaloo, shrugging. "Can't you at least listen for once?" asks Sweetie Belle, huffing. "Hey, don't give me that! I bet that you guys wanted to know about it too!" says Scootaloo, stomping a hoof. "Yeah, but it could be somethin' they don't want to talk about!" says Apple Bloom, pointing a hoof at Sun and Moon. "If thou art curious, then Sun and I will tell thee," says Moon, blinking. "See! Even Moon said it himself!" says Apple Bloom, stomping a hoof. She then blinks before facing Moon. "W-wait, you're goin' to tell us?" "Aye, I am grateful for the aid thou hast given us, so 'tis granted that we should explain the reason for our cause. Sweetie Belle, I believe I told thee about the pony that Sun and I have been searching for, correct?" asks Moon, tilting his head. "Oh, I remember that!" says Sweetie Belle, nodding. Moon smiles before facing Sun. "I believe we should explain from the beginning." "Aye," says Sun, nodding. He then faces the Crusaders. "Since the beginning of thy world's creation, I have watched over it for countless years as it changed from a lifeless place to a world, teeming with life." "And during that time, I was bound to watch over thy world as the years passed…" says Moon, furrowing his brows. He then smiles. "But one day, Sun and I found ourselves waking in this world-" "Whoa, whoa, whoa! Hold up!" says Scootaloo, lifting a hoof. She then lifts a brow. "What are you guys talking about?" "I-I don't get it! You both sound like you're saying you're the Moon and Sun!" says Sweetie Belle, flailing her hooves. "Yeah, and what do you mean by our world's creation? It sounds like some old pony's tale!" says Apple Bloom, stomping a hoof. "If this is true, then who are you two?" asks a voice. As Sun and Moon turn their head, they see Mayor Mare coming to a stop and sitting next to the Crusaders. "Ah, Mayor Mare, I believe the preparations are done?" asks Sun, blinking. "Yes, Derpy's already on her way to Canterlot," says Mayor Mare, nodding. She then glares. "And your story just now doesn't make sense. I'm sorry, but can you both tell me who you really are?" "I am the Sun," he says with an unwavering gaze. "And I am the Moon," he says with a soft glow within his eyes. "We have been watching thy world from the stars above," says Sun, smiling. "And now we stand before you within this world," says Moon with a small smile. Mayor Mare and the Crusaders' eyes widen while their jaw hangs in the air. Blinking, Sun and Moon look down at their hoof with a muffin on it and lifts it to their mouth, biting a part of it. "Y-you're just making this up, right?" asks Scootaloo, glaring. Sun makes an audible gulp. "Nay, the words that we speak are the truth." "But how does that have to do with anything to the pony you've been trying to find?" asks Sweetie Belle, frowning. Moon makes an audible gulp. "The pony we are searching for is somepony we are grateful to. Without this pony, Sun and I would not have become who we are today. Unfortunately, we do not know this pony's name, but refer to this pony as the Azure One." "Azure One? That's a weird name…"says Scootaloo, lifting a brow. "Well, obviously, they're just trying to find somepony who has an azure color," says Sweetie Belle, rolling her eyes. "Ugh, why do you always have to be such a smart-mouth! You might as well be a dictionary!" says Scootaloo, huffing. "Didn't I say not to call me that!" says Sweetie Belle, stomping a hoof. "It's not my fault you are one!" says Scootaloo, poking a hoof on Sweetie Belle's chest. "H-hey, girls, calm down…" says Apple Bloom with sweat running down her face. "Let's all just relax and-" "Oh, you want to go right now!" says Sweetie Belle, pressing her forehead against Scootaloo's. "Bring it!" says Scootaloo, pushing Sweetie Belle's forehead with her own. Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo jump at each other, forming a dust cloud as they bite on each other's tail, pulling it. "Apple Bloom, did we do something wrong?" asks Sun, putting the rest of the muffin on his hoof in his mouth and chewing. "D-don't worry, it's not your fault…" says Apple Bloom, letting out a sigh. "If thou sayest so," says Moon, biting and chewing the last piece of the muffin on his hoof. Wh-what's going on? If Sun and Moon are here, then shouldn't the Sun and Moon be gone? But I guess it makes sense why they don't know anything. Ugh, just thinking about it is hurting my head! thinks Mayor Mare, dragging a hoof down her face. "Excuse me! Is anypony there!" says a voice. "Oh, that must be them! Sun, Moon, can you wait here with the Crusaders?" asks Mayor Mare. "Aye," says Sun, nodding. "But is something wrong?" asks Moon, frowning. "No, but there are some ponies here that I need to speak to…" says Mayor Mare, rubbing an arm with a hoof. "Ah, I understand," says Moon, smiling. "So can I ask you both to be patient and wait for me to call you?" asks Mayor Mare with a sheepish grin. "Then do not let us stop thee," says Sun with a small smile. "Thank you," says Mayor Mare, chuckling with a hoof over her mouth. As Mayor Mare walks to the doorway, her eyes widen at four stallions in gold armor with a gold chariot behind them. She then walks down some stairs as the stallions remove the harness on their bodies and form a row. "Good morning. You must be Mayor Mare, right?" asks the stallion with a red-crested helmet. "Yes," says Mayor Mare, smiling. "I'm Commander Highwind," he says, placing a hoof on his chest. He then points a hoof at the three stallions next to him with blue-crested helmets. "And they are Top Notch, Summer Set, and Pleasant Breeze. As for our reason here, the Royal Guard received a letter containing reports of two alicorns in Ponyville. Is this true?" "Yes," says Mayor Mare, nodding. "Honestly, we were skeptical of this at first, but the mare who delivered the letter argued with us and said that these alicorns need Princess Twilight's help…" says Highwind, letting out a sigh. "I-I'm sorry if she caused you any trouble…" says Mayor Mare, putting a hoof on her face. "Don't worry. Anyway, I'm sorry, but we will escort these alicorns to Canterlot after seeing what you stated in the letter is true. The security regulations we have at the castle is much more strict after the changeling incident, so please understand…" says Highwind, furrowing his brows. "Of course," says Mayor Mare, smiling. She then turns and places a hoof next to her mouth. "Sun, Moon, can you please come out!" Slowly, Sun appears at the doorway and walks down the stairs while his flowing mane glitters under the daylight. Moon then appears at the doorway, walking down the stairs as his blue coat emits a soft glow under the morning light with the Crusaders following behind him. "Whoa…" says Pleasant with wide eyes. "I-I can't believe they're real…" says Summer with an open mouth. "Yeah, even I thought that gray mare was crazy or something, but she was right…" says Top Notch, blinking. I guess I owe that gray mare an apology if I see her… thinks Highwind, wrinkling his brows. He then walks to Sun and Moon before kneeling and lowering his head. "Good morning, Your Highnesses." "And whom might thou be?" asks Moon, blinking. Highwind stands and puts a hoof on his forehead. "Allow me to introduce myself. My name is Highwind, and I'm here with my fellow guards to escort you both to Canterlot." "Ah, I see. But, Highwind, thou art free to address me as Sun," he says with a small smile. "And feel free to address me as Moon. We do not wish to inconvenience thee," says Moon, smiling. "I can't do that…" says Highwind, shaking his head. "Strange, I do not understand…" says Sun, furrowing his brows. "Forgive me, but is there a reason why?" asks Moon, tilting his head. "I-I'm sorry, Your Highnesses, but it's against proper decorum to address royalty without their proper title…" says Highwind, rubbing behind his head with a hoof. "Sun, Moon, please understand that there will be other ponies that will address you in the same manner…" says Mayor Mare, frowning. "Perhaps the reason why is that Sun and I are alicorns?" asks Moon, his brows gathering in. "Y-yes…" says Mayor Mare, slowly nodding. "I see…" says Sun, hanging his head. "This is unfortunate…" says Moon with a watery gaze. "I know you both dislike the thought of it, but it's only natural that ponies will treat you with respect," says Mayor Mare with a small smile. "I understand," says Moon, smiling. "Then I have no complaints. Highwind, let us go to Canterlot," says Sun, nodding. "Before we leave, Your Highnesses, there's a safety measure you must go through…" says Highwind with a sheepish grin. "Safety measure?" says Moon, tilting his head. "Yes, it's by royal decree that we check each pony, regardless of status, to ensure the safety of Canterlot…" says Highwind, letting out a sigh. "If this is to ensure that there will be no harm, then I will not decline. What are thy thoughts on this matter, Moon?" asks Sun, blinking. "I have no reason to refuse," says Moon, shaking his head. "I see. Now then, Highwind, please continue," says Sun with a small smile. "Thank you for understanding, Your Highnesses," says Highwind, smiling. He then turns and stomps a hoof. "Pleasant, Summer, get the crystal balls ready!" "Yes, sir!" says Pleasant and Summer, placing a hoof on their forehead. Putting a hoof in their saddlebag on their back, Summer and Pleasant each take out a crystal ball that shines brightly under the morning light. Pleasant walks over to Moon, while Summer moves to Sun as they lift their crystal ball up to them. "That is a strange object…" says Moon, blinking. "Oh, the crystal ball? I guess it's weird, but it's cool how it tells us if somepony is a changeling in disguise by the color it shows. It turns blue if they're not or green if they are," says Pleasant, patting a hoof on the crystal ball. "Changeling?" says Sun, tilting his head. "They sort of look like a pony and a bug combined. They're also able to change the way they look into anything they want," says Summer, rubbing a hoof on the side of his neck. "Last time they appeared was when they took over Canterlot. It wasn't a pretty sight…" says Pleasant, letting out a sigh. "I see…" says Sun, wrinkling his brows. "That is why this safety measure is required…" says Moon, gathering his brows in. "Y-yeah…" says Pleasant, slowly nodding. "Wait, why are we telling you this? Don't you guys already know all about it?" asks Summer, lifting a brow. "Hey, Summer, Pleasant, stop talking and pay attention! The crystal balls are already blue! Pack up and get the chariot ready!" says Highwind, stomping a hoof. "S-sorry, sir!" says Pleasant and Summer, putting their crystal ball in their saddlebag and running to the chariot. "What about me, sir?" asks Top Notch, blinking. "What do you think?" asks Highwind, raising a brow. "Uh, get the chariot ready?" asks Top Notch with a sheepish grin. "Then don't just stand there! Hurry up and go!" says Highwind, stomping a hoof. "Y-yes, sir!" says Top Notch, running to the chariot. Ugh, now I'm starting to wonder how those three idiots joined the Royal Guard… thinks Highwind, dragging a hoof down his face. He then faces Sun and Moon while pointing a hoof at the chariot. "Now then, Your Highnesses, please sit yourselves and we'll be on our way." "Aye," says Sun, nodding. "Sun, forgive me, but will we be able to find the Azure One?" asks Moon with a watery gaze. "Do not worry, Moon. Perhaps our search will finally come to an end," says Sun, smiling. "W-wait!" says a voice. Sun and Moon turn their head, seeing Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle with tears welling up in their eyes. "Sun, will I ever see you again?" asks Apple Bloom, biting her bottom lip. "The same goes for you too, Moon!" says Sweetie Belle, pointing a hoof. "I-I do not know…" says Sun, shaking his head. "Perhaps our paths will meet again," says Moon with a small smile. "No! Promise us that you'll visit again!" says Sweetie Belle, stomping a hoof. "Yeah! Do you Pinkie Promise?" asks Apple Bloom, pouting. "Forgive me, but I do not understand…" says Moon, his brows gathering in. "What is this Pinkie Promise?" asks Sun, furrowing his brows. "It's a promise that you should never break, but if you break that promise, you'll regret it!" says Sweetie Belle, glaring. "Very well, then I Pinkie Promise," says Moon, smiling. "I Pinkie Promise as well," says Sun, nodding. "No! You're not doin' it right!" says Apple Bloom, shaking her head. "This Pinkie Promise is truly difficult…" says Sun, hanging his head. "Then what tasks must we perform for this Pinkie Promise?" asks Moon, tilting his head. "We'll tell you!" says Sweetie Belle, grinning. "Yeah, so pay attention!" says Apple Bloom, stomping a hoof. "Repeat after me! Cross my heart and hope to fly!" says Sweetie Belle, moving a hoof in a cross-motion on her chest. "Stick a cupcake in my eye!" says Apple Bloom, putting a hoof over her eye. "Now it's your turn!" says Sweetie Belle, jumping up and down. "Cross my heart and hope to fly…" says Moon, moving a hoof in a cross-motion on his chest. "Stick a cupcake in my eye…" says Sun, placing a hoof over his eye. He then groans and removes his hoof from his eye before shaking his head. "Sun, maybe you should close your eye before doin' that next time," says Apple Bloom with a chuckle. "I-I see…" says Sun, rubbing his eye with a hoof. "O-oh, Sun, if you ever come back… can I become your special somepony?" asks Apple Bloom as her cheeks turn red. "Moon, can I-I be your special somepony too?" asks Sweetie Belle, her face turning red while rubbing an arm with a hoof. "Special somepony?" says Sun, blinking. "What is a special somepony?" asks Moon, tilting his head. As Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle open their mouth, their eyes widen as they fall flat on the ground, and seeing Sun and Moon growing smaller. "I think that's enough, you lovebirds! We still have the rest of the day to go crusading!" says Scootaloo, dragging Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle by their tail with a hoof. "W-wait, I'm not done talkin' to Sun yet!" says Apple Bloom, digging her hooves into the ground. "Can I talk to Moon for a little bit more?" asks Sweetie Belle, reaching out a hoof to Moon. "So you guys can waste more time? Yeah, not happening…" says Scootaloo, rolling her eyes. "Aww!" says Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle, pouting. "The Crusaders are strange…" says Sun, tilting his head. "But they are interesting ponies to be around," says Moon, smiling. "Your Highnesses, I don't mean to rush you both, but we must leave soon!" says Highwind, waving a hoof. "Aye," says Sun, nodding. He then faces Moon. "Before we leave, there is another pony that we should show our gratitude." "Ah, I almost forgot…" says Moon, blinking. Turning their head, Sun and Moon face Mayor Mare as she jerks her head back. Wh-why do I have a feeling they're about to do something to me? thinks Mayor Mare, gulping with sweat running down her face. "Mayor Mare, we are grateful for what thou hast done for us," says Sun, nodding. "That is why we wish to express our gratitude to thee," says Moon, smiling. "Th-there's no need to thank me!" says Mayor Mare, flailing her hooves. "It's only right that I help those in need-" Mayor Mare's eyes widen as Sun and Moon press their lips on her cheeks. As Sun and Moon pull their lips away, Mayor Mare's face turns bright red while she looks at Sun and Moon with an open mouth. "We will forever be grateful to thee," says Sun with a radiant glow in his gaze. "Thank you, Mayor Mare," says Moon with a soft glow within his eyes. "Sun, Moon…" says Mayor Mare with wide eyes. She then smiles. "Go on. There's still somepony you have to find, right?" "Aye," says Sun, smiling. "We will find the Azure One," says Moon with a small smile. "I know you will," says Mayor Mare, chuckling with a hoof over her mouth. Nodding their head, Moon and Sun turns and walks to the chariot, passing Pleasant, Summer, and Top Notch as their eyes follow them. "How are they able to just kiss somepony like that?" asks Top Notch, lifting a brow. "I would never be able to do that with some random mare…" says Pleasant, letting out a sigh. "Nah, you're just too scared to do it!" says Summer, smirking. "You're one to talk! You start sweating like crazy when a nice-looking mare walks by!" says Pleasant, poking a hoof on Summer's chest. "Want to run that by me again?" asks Summer, clenching a hoof. "I'm only telling the truth," says Pleasant, closing his eyes and lifting his head. "You idiots! Stop talking and get ready for departure!" says Highwind, stomping a hoof. "Y-yes, sir!" says Top Notch, Summer, and Pleasant as they unfold their wings. Highwind turns his head, facing Sun and Moon inside the chariot. "Your Highnesses, are you ready to leave?" "Aye," says Sun, nodding. "Let us go," says Moon, smiling. "You heard them!" says Highwind, stomping a hoof. "Yes, sir!" says Summer, Top Notch, and Pleasant. As Highwind and the guards run across the ground, they quickly flap their wings while pulling the chariot before taking off into the sky. Watching the chariot growing smaller in the sky, Mayor Mare frowns. Sun, Moon, I hope that you find what you're searching for… ________________________________________ As the chariot flies through the blue sky, Moon closes his eyes and takes a deep breath while the wind flows through his mane. Is this how it feels to fly? Maybe Sun and I can learn this after finding the Azure One… Moon then opens his eyes and turns his head. He looks down as his eyes widen at hills and rivers that stretch to the horizon. There is so much life within this world. Is this what Sun and I have been watching over through the years? he thinks before turning his head. "Sun, the view up here is truly remarkable, is it not?" "F-forgive me, Moon. It seems I was lost in thought…" says Sun, shaking his head. "Is something wrong?" asks Moon, wrinkling his brows. "I do not know. But what Derpy said earlier troubles me. 'Twas called brothers, I believe…" says Sun, his brows gathering in. "Ah, if I remember, 'tis used for somepony that we have been together with throughout the years, correct?" asks Moon, blinking. "Aye," says Sun, nodding. He then furrows his brows. "Moon, are we considered brothers?" "I do not know. But the years we have spent together watching over this world is something I do not regret. I truly am glad I was able to meet thee, Sun," says Moon, smiling and putting a hoof on Sun's cheek. "Moon…" says Sun with wide eyes. He then smiles. "Aye, I am glad I was able to meet thee as well." "Your Highnesses, we're here!" says Highwind. As Sun and Moon look down, their eyes widen at a white castle, hanging on the side of a mountain as it shines under the rays of light. "Welcome to Canterlot Castle!" says Highwind. As the chariot descends, it lands on a stone path, coming to a stop in front of a drawbridge. "Here we are, Your Highnesses. Please exit the chariot and I will lead you to the princess," says Highwind, removing the harness on his body. Nodding their head, Sun and Moon put a hoof on the ground as they walk out from the chariot. Their eyes widen while lifting their head as the white castle in front of them stretches far into the sky. "This is Canterlot Castle…" says Sun, blinking. "'Tis different than the structures at Ponyville…" says Moon with an open mouth. "I said the same thing when I first saw the castle," says Highwind with a small laugh. He then turns his head. "Top Notch, Summer, Pleasant, bring the chariot to the back of the castle! Once you're done, go to the barracks and wait for further orders!" "Yes, sir!" says Top Notch, Summer, and Pleasant as they spread their wings. "Ah, before I forget, perhaps I can show my gratitude to thee?" asks Sun, smiling. "I wish to do the same," says Moon with a small smile. "Geh!" says Top Notch as his face turns blue. "N-no! It's fine, Your Highnesses! We're just glad we can help!" says Summer with a sheepish grin. "Y-yeah!" says Pleasant with sweat running down his face. "A-anyway, we'll be leaving now!" says Top Notch, grinning. Top Notch, Summer, and Pleasant flap their wings while running across the stone path before taking off in the sky. "This is unfortunate that we could not show them our gratitude…" says Sun, hanging his head. "D-don't worry, you can try again when you see them!" says Highwind with a sheepish grin. "Highwind, perhaps Sun and I can show our gratitude to thee?" asks Moon, smiling. "Oh, uh, I-I think that's not necessary, Your Highness…" says Highwind, his cheeks turning red while coughing into a hoof. "Anyway, please follow me and I shall escort you both to the princess." As Highwind walks ahead, Sun and Moon face each other and tilts their head. They then follow Highwind as they cross the drawbridge. In front of them, two dark stallions in gold armor stand on the sides of a gate between them. Seeing Sun and Moon, the dark stallions blink with an open mouth before kneeling and lowering their head. "Good morning, you two. This is Prince Sun and Prince Moon. They're here to meet with Princess Twilight," says Highwind, placing a hoof on his forehead. The dark stallions stand and place a hoof over their forehead. "Are these the alicorns that were mentioned within the letter from the mayor of Ponyville?" asks the guard on the right. "Yes," says Highwind, nodding. "Have they already consented to the preliminary check?" asks the guard on the left. "We already did a full scan on them at Ponyville," says Highwind, smiling. "Your Highnesses, is it fine if we conduct a secondary check?" asks the guard on the right. "Aye," says Moon with a small smile. "Of course," says Sun, nodding. Facing each other, the dark stallions nod before closing their eyes as their horn glows blue. A blue sphere appears around Highwind, Sun, and Moon while a white ring forms within the blue sphere, moving up and down. "Strange…" says Sun, blinking. "What is this?" asks Moon, poking a hoof against the blue sphere. "Your Highness, please don't touch it…" says Highwind, furrowing his brows. "Ah, forgive me. This an interesting experience," says Moon, smiling. "I believe this is magic?" asks Sun, tilting his head. Wait, what? Being alicorns, shouldn't they already know magic? thinks Highwind, lifting a brow. "Commander Highwind, we have finished our search," says the guard on the right. "Huh? O-oh, where can we find Princess Twilight?" asks Highwind, blinking. "She is with her friends and the other princesses in the dining room," says the guard on the left. "Please wait for a moment. We will open the gate," says the guard on the right. Closing their eyes, the dark stallions' horn glows blue, wrapping the gate between them in a similar light as it lifts up. "You may enter," says the guard on the left. "One more thing. Prince Sun, Prince Moon, please enjoy your stay here at the castle," says the guard on the right with a small smile. "We will," says Moon, smiling. Sun nods his head. "Your Highnesses, please follow me," says Highwind, walking ahead. As Sun and Moon follow Highwind, the dark stallions' horn glows blue, shrouding the gate in a blue glow as it slowly comes down. "Hey, you think Princess Celestia and Princess Luna will be surprised?" asks the guard on the left, lifting a brow. "Who wouldn't be? I mean, all the alicorns in Equestria are mares. I never thought I'd see two alicorns that were guys…" says the guard on the right, rubbing a hoof behind his head. "It's too bad we can't see the look on Princess Celestia and Princess Luna's face…" says the guard on the left, letting out a sigh. "Yeah, guarding the gate is really boring…" says the guard on the right, huffing. ________________________________________ As Sun and Moon follow Highwind, they walk through the halls of the castle as red carpeting stretches into the distance. "Greetings," says Moon, smiling at a brown mare in a black and white dress. "Hello…" says the brown mare with bright red cheeks, dropping a tray of teacups. "Greetings, little one," says Sun, nodding at an orange mare in a black and white dress. "H-hi…" says the orange mare with wide eyes, dropping a tray of plates. Ugh, every mare we passed has been dropping expensive tableware when they see Prince Sun and Prince Moon. It's a good thing Lyrical isn't here or she'd probably blow her bits… thinks Highwind, letting out a sigh. "Highwind, is something wrong?" asks Sun, frowning. "If we did something to trouble thee, forgive us…" says Moon, furrowing his brows. "N-no, you did nothing wrong! Oh, look! We're here!" says Highwind, pointing a hoof. Following Highwind's hoof, Sun and Moon sees two gold doors in front of them. "Is this where we will meet the princess?" asks Moon, tilting his head. "Yes, but please wait. I'll see if she's not busy," says Highwind. "Aye," says Sun, nodding. Highwind leans his body against one of the gold doors and pushes it. As the door creaks to a stop, he sees a blue and pink mare pulling on a plate. "Hey, let go!" says the blue mare, glaring. "Why don't you let go! I saw it first!" says the pink mare, baring her teeth. "Um, but that was my cake…" says a yellow mare, lifting a hoof. "Ugh, my mane! There's a frizzle sticking out of place!" says a white mare, placing her hooves on her cheeks. "Will y'all pipe it down! And I saw that there cake first!" says an orange mare, pointing a hoof. "WILL YOU ALL BE QUIET!" says a purple mare, stomping a hoof. Highwind ducks on the ground and puts his hooves over his ears. Sun and Moon stand in place as their flowing mane blows in the wind of the ear screeching voice. "I can't believe you guys were fighting over a cake in front of the princesses!" says the purple mare as her breathing grows heavy. "Twilight, please calm down,"says a white alicorn. "O-oh, I'm sorry…" says Twilight, hanging her head. "But Twilight is right. There's no need for you all to fight amongst yourselves for a cake. And if you asked, we have more to go around," says a blue alicorn, chuckling with a hoof over her mouth. "But I think we have to put our little tea party on hold. Now then, is there something you need, Highwind?" asks the white alicorn with a small smile. "I-I'm sorry to bother you all! Princess Twilight, if you're not busy, there are two ponies that want to meet you!" says Highwind, placing a hoof on his forehead. "Huh? Two ponies?" says Twilight, blinking. "Apparently, it's something urgent. They traveled from Ponyville to ask for your help," says Highwind, furrowing his brows. "Ponyville? Hmm… who are these ponies?" asks Twilight, lifting a brow. "Please speak to them yourself," says Highwind. He then pushes the other gold door open and stands to the side, kneeling and lowering his head. "Your Highnesses, you may enter." Slowly, Sun makes his way into the room as his coat shimmers while Moon walks beside Sun with his flowing mane glittering under the light. "Whoa…" says the blue mare with wide eyes. "I've never seen those guys before…" says the pink mare, blinking. "Oh my…" says the yellow mare, placing a hoof over her mouth. "Now that's somethin' you don't see often…" says the orange mare, rubbing behind her head with a hoof. "Who? What? Where?" asks the white mare as her breathing grows heavy. She then puts a hoof on her forehead while her eyes roll up before falling on the floor. "Wh-who are they?" asks Twilight with an open mouth. Coming to a stop, Sun and Moon blink their eyes, gazing at the end of a table in the room. Two mares remain in place as one with a rainbow mane, flowing in a non-existent breeze, and her purple eyes meeting Sun's. The other mare had a purple flowing mane, giving an image of the night sky, and her turquoise eyes meeting Moon's. Moon smiles while facing the blue mare in front of him. "We finally meet, Azure One." To be continued… Chapter 6Untold Truth ________________________________________ Standing next to the entrance of the dining room was the first of the alicorn pair, Sun, facing the mare before him, his eyes slowly going up and down, moving from the mare's white coat that shimmers under the light, and her rainbow mane that flows in a non-existent breeze, the latter, meeting Sun's eyes with an unwavering gaze. Standing next to Sun was Moon, smiling at the blue mare before him, the latter, blinking her eyes at him with her mouth slightly open. Standing at a distance from Sun and Moon, Highwind slowly looks between the four alicorns, his face dripping with sweat. H-how long are they going to keep looking at each other like that! It's so awkward in here that I can barely breathe! Highwind then shakes his head. Ugh! That's right! I forgot about that mare! he thinks, his eyes darting about the room before noticing a white mare unconscious on the floor. Oh, there she is! Moving his hooves, Highwind runs and comes to a stop next to the white mare. "Madam, are you okay?" he asks, lifting the mare and fanning a hoof over her face. Slowly, the white mare's eyes open. "What a strange dream…" she says, rubbing a hoof to her eye. Closing his eyes, Highwind lets out a sigh. "I'm glad you're fine," he says, lifting the white mare up on her hooves. "Thank you, good sir," says the white mare with a smile. "Oh! I'm sorry, but is this Canterlot? Do forgive me as my memory is a bit hazy…" she says, rubbing a hoof to her forehead. "Yeah, we're still in Canterlot, Rarity," says a voice. Turning their head, Highwind and Rarity see a purple alicorn walking over to them. "Oh, Twilight, are we still having tea with the princesses?" asks Rarity, blinking. "I-I don't think right now is the best time for that…" says Twilight, rubbing an arm with a hoof. "And why is that?" asks Rarity, raising a brow. "You should probably see for yourself…" says Twilight, pointing a hoof. "You're probably just exaggerating it, Twilight," says Rarity, rolling her eyes. She then follows Twilight's hoof. "What could possibly be more important than our tea get-together with the princesses-" Rarity's eyes widen at the sight of Moon and Sun, standing in the distance. Her eyes quickly move from Moon's flowing silky mane while his coat glistens under the light of the room before moving to Sun's tall and slender body to his eyes that resemble a sunset. "Who? Wh-what? Where?" asks Rarity, her breathing growing heavy. "Rarity, I know what you're thinking, but please calm down! Take deep breaths!" says Twilight, putting a hoof on Rarity's shoulder. Placing a hoof on her chest, Rarity quickly breathes in and out while fanning a hoof over her face. Her eyes then roll up as she places a hoof over her forehead before falling on the floor. "Ugh…" says Twilight, placing a hoof over her face. "I don't mean to bother you, but will she be okay?" asks Highwind, raising a brow. "Yeah, she'll be fine, I think…" says Twilight, sighing. "Well, if you say so…" says Highwind, looking down at Rarity before shrugging. "Oh, sorry, and you must be?" asks Twilight, blinking. "Ah, I think we haven't met yet, Princess Twilight. I'm Commander Highwind. Pleased to meet you," he says, bowing his head. Twilight frowns. Guess I'm still not used to the whole princess thing yet… she thinks, letting out a sigh. "Is something wrong, Your Highness?" asks Highwind, frowning. "Huh? Oh! N-nothing!" says Twilight, waving off a hoof. "A-anyway, could you tell me about those two?" she asks, pointing a hoof at Sun and Moon. Highwind follows Twilight's hoof before facing her. "Oh, about that. The white alicorn you see is Prince Sun, and the other is Prince Moon. I don't know much, but they've come here to Canterlot to meet with you." "Really?" asks Twilight, raising a brow. "Yes. It was a sudden notice from the mayor in Ponyville. She stated in a letter that they suddenly appeared in Ponyville and doesn't know where they've come from or any other details about them," says Highwind, rubbing his head with a hoof. "That's strange…" says Twilight, blinking. "Yeah, I was hoping that you might know them, but from the look on your face, I doubt it…" says Highwind, sighing. "S-sorry…" says Twilight, frowning. "Hey, Twilight!" says a voice. Highwind and Twilight see four mares, a blue and orange one, a pink one taking a bite from a cake in her hoof, and a yellow one hiding behind the group. "Oh, girls," says Twilight, smiling. The orange mare notices Rarity on the floor before raising a brow and facing Twilight. "Let me guess. Rarity's out cold because of those two, right?" she asks, pointing a hoof at Sun and Moon. "Yeah," says Twilight, rolling her eyes. "So, any idea what's going on?" asks the blue mare, raising a brow. "Oh, about that, Rainbow. I was asking Commander Highwind here about those two. To put it shortly, the white one is Sun and the blue one is Moon. Apparently, they came to Canterlot to meet with me." "Really?" asks Rainbow, blinking. She then looks at Sun and Moon before facing Twilight. "Doesn't look like that to me. It's more like they're having a staring contest with the princesses." "Pfft! Good one, Rainbow Dash!" says the pink mare, laughing as crumbs of cake spray from her mouth and lands on Rainbow. "Ugh! Don't talk with your mouth full, Pinkie!" says Rainbow, shielding herself with a hoof. "Oops! Sorry!" says Pinkie before shoving the last piece of cake from her hoof into her mouth. "So, where are they from? I mean, bein' alicorns and all, shouldn't anypony have heard about them?" asks the orange mare, rubbing her chin with a hoof. "I don't know, Applejack. But Commander Highwind was explaining that to me," says Twilight, facing Highwind. "Sorry for the interruption, but can you continue?" "Of course," says Highwind, nodding. "Now then-" "Hey, guys!" says Pinkie. "Ugh! What now, Pinkie!" says Twilight, stomping a hoof. "That Moon guy is doing something!" says Pinkie, pointing a hoof. Following Pinkie's hoof, Twilight and her friends see Moon walking over to Luna. Stopping, Moon towers over the mare before him with a smile as Luna blinks at him with an open mouth. "What's he doing?" asks Rainbow, lifting a brow. "Shhh!" says Pinkie, pulling a bag of popcorn from behind her with a hoof. "Wait, what? Pinkie, where did you get the popcorn?" asks Rainbow with wide eyes. "Huh? Oh, want some?" asks Pinkie, offering the bag of popcorn to Rainbow with a hoof as she shoves another hoof with popcorn in her mouth. "B-but! Ugh! Just forget it!" says Rainbow, huffing and folding her hooves. "Well, you want some or not?" asks Pinkie, raising a brow. "Whatever," says Rainbow, shrugging. She then grabs a hoof-full of popcorn and shoves it in her mouth. As Twilight and her friends watch, they gasp as Moon lifts a hoof and inches it towards Luna's face. Noticing Moon's hoof, Luna jumps away from him. "Wh-what are you doing!" she says, glaring. "Ah, forgive me. I did not mean to startle thee…" says Moon, frowning and lowering his hoof. "Startle? Startle! You suddenly appear before me and try to touch my face as if you knew me!" says Luna, stomping a hoof and cracking the floor as her lips pull back, revealing her teeth. "Um, guys, shouldn't we do somethin'?" asks Applejack, frowning. "Are you crazy! Didn't you see her crack the floor like it was nothing! I mean, I'm awesome and all, but I wouldn't mess with somepony like Princess Luna that's about to blow her bits!" says Rainbow, placing a hoof over her chest. "Rainbow's right. Even I'm not sure if I can calm Princess Luna down after seeing that," says Pinkie before shoving a hoof with popcorn in her mouth. "Pinkie, how can you be eating popcorn at a time like this?" asks Twilight, glaring. "Want some?" asks Pinkie, offering the bag of popcorn with a hoof. "NO!" says Twilight, stomping a hoof. "Well, your loss," says Pinkie, shrugging. "Ugh…" says Twilight, dragging a hoof down her face. She then jerks before blinking her eyes, looking behind herself. "Fluttershy, what are you doing?" "S-sorry, Twilight, but Princess Luna is kind of scary right now…" says Fluttershy, pressing her face on Twilight's back. "Great…" says Twilight, sighing. She then looks ahead, frowning at Luna. But this is the first time I've seen her like this… "Listen here, whoever you are! Don't think for a second you can just waltz in here and do whatever you please!" says Luna, clicking her tongue. Moon hangs his head, frowning. "Luna, please calm down," says the white alicorn, furrowing her brows. "But, Tia!" says Luna, pointing a hoof at Moon. "He tried to touch-" "That is enough! This is unforgivable for a princess like you! I won't tolerate any more disrespect towards our guests!" says Celestia, glaring. "S-sorry…" says Luna, hanging her head and biting her bottom lip. "I'm very sorry about my sister's behavior. Please forgive her…" says Celestia, bowing her head to Moon. "Nay, 'tis I that should ask for thy forgiveness…" says Moon, shaking his head. How polite… thinks Celestia, blinking. "You seem to know my sister, but I can't say the same for her. Luna, are you sure you haven't met him?" she asks, facing her sister. Luna looks at Moon, her eyes moving from his flowing blue mane to his ice blue eyes. "I'm sure of it…" she says, glaring. "If that's the case, then did you mistake my sister for somepony else?" asks Celestia, facing Moon. "Nay," says Moon, shaking his head. "Azure One and I have met long ago." "Azure One? I'm sorry, but who is this Azure One?"asks Celestia, blinking. Lifting a hoof, Moon points at Luna, the latter, her eyes widening. "Wait, what! Princess Luna said that she's never met Moon before, but Moon is saying that he met her! Ugh! It's so confusing!" says Rainbow, ruffling her mane with her hooves. "I know, right! It's driving me crazy!" says Pinkie, throwing her bag of popcorn in the air before dragging her hooves down her face. "Applejack, can you tell if Moon is lying or not?" asks Twilight, frowning. "Even I'm not sure anymore, but Moon's tellin' the truth…" says Applejack, rubbing a hoof behind her head. "Then is Princess Luna lying?" asks Fluttershy, placing a hoof over her mouth. "Nope. She's also tellin' the truth…" says Applejack, sighing. "If Moon and Luna are both telling the truth, then what's going on?" asks Twilight, dragging a hoof down her face. "Well, there's no point in rattlin' our brains. Let's just wait and see," says Applejack, folding her hooves. "I guess…" says Twilight, letting out a sigh. Luna's mouth opens, blinking her eyes at Moon. She then shakes her head and slowly points a hoof at herself. "M-me?" "Aye," says Moon, nodding and smiling. "Luna, are you being honest with me?" asks Celestia, glaring. "I am! I really am!" says Luna, stomping a hoof. "Tia, he must be lying! I swear to you that I've never met him in my entire-" "Forgive me, but the words that Moon speak are naught but the truth," says Sun, standing next to Moon. Oh, so his name is Moon… thinks Celestia, facing Moon. She then looks at Sun. "And you must be?" "Sun," he says, nodding. Sun… Sun… thinks Celestia, tapping her chin with a hoof. "Sun, if what you're saying is true, then why does Luna not remember anything about Moon?" "Luna…" says Moon, his eyes widening. He then faces Sun. "Sun, please allow me to explain everything." Sun stares into Moon's eyes, the latter, facing Sun with a watery gaze. Sun then closes his eyes before opening them, looking at Moon with a soft glow within his gaze. "Aye," says Sun, smiling. Moon's eyes widen. He then closes his eyes and puts his lips on Sun's cheek. "Thank you," he says, removing his lips from Sun's cheek, opening his eyes, and smiles. Geh! The kissing again! thinks Highwind, his face burning red while coughing into a hoof. "Whoa, whoa, whoa! Why'd Moon kiss Sun!" says Rainbow, her cheeks turning bright red. "I don't know, but Rarity's missing out…" says Pinkie, blinking with a shade of red in her cheeks. "Well, that's somethin' you don't see often…" says Applejack, tilting her hat down with a hoof that covers her bright red face. "Oh my…" says Fluttershy, covering her beet red face with her hooves while her wings stretch out. "Fluttershy, your wings! Your wings!" says Twilight, pointing a hoof. "Uh, Twilight, your wings are out too," says Rainbow, lifting a brow. "O-oh, haha…" says Twilight, quickly folding her wings as red creeps from her chin to the tip of her ears. H-how could they do something so embarrassing like that in front of others! thinks Luna, her cheeks turning bright red while rubbing an arm with a hoof. Th-that was unexpected… thinks Celestia, her cheeks turning red while placing a hoof over her mouth. Moon then faces Luna and Celestia, frowning. "Forgive me, and I thank both of thee for thy patience." Luna shakes her head. "N-no, it's fine…" she says, coughing into a hoof. "There's no need to apologize," says Celestia, chuckling with a hoof over her mouth. Moon smiles and nods. "Now then, Sun and I have traveled here after receiving aid from the inhabitants of this world. Through our search, they informed us that we should be able to find the pony we have been searching for by meeting with the princess that resides in Ponyville." "U-um, excuse me!" says Twilight, waving a hoof. "And whom might thou be?" asks Moon, tilting his head. "I-I'm Twilight Sparkle," she says, placing a hoof on her chest. "I'm the princess you mentioned that lives in Ponyville." "Ah, so thou art the princess that resides in Ponyville," says Moon, smiling. "Yes, and I wanted to ask something. Did you and Sun come here to see me?" asks Twilight, pointing a hoof at herself. "Aye," says Moon, nodding. "Well, is there something you need from me?" asks Twilight, blinking. "Nay," says Moon, shaking his head. "It seems that Sun and I finally found what we have been searching for." "I'm guessing it's Princess Luna," says Twilight, rubbing her chin with a hoof. "Aye," says Moon with a small smile. "Um, do you mind if I ask where you both came from?" asks Twilight, rubbing her head with a hoof. "I mean, I've never seen you and Sun before-" "Twilight, I know you have questions, but could you let me handle this?" asks Luna, placing a hoof on Twilight's shoulder. "O-oh, um, sure…" says Twilight, frowning. She then walks over to her friends while hanging her head. But there's a lot of questions I wanted to ask Moon and Sun… "Now then, Moon, I don't know who you are, but you seem to know me personally. I'll ask the same thing as Twilight, where did you come from?" asks Luna, furrowing her brows. Moon blinks. He then slowly closes his eyes before opening them. "The Moon." "The Moon? And what about it?" asks Luna, raising a brow. "Time has passed since I last saw thee, and now I am finally able to speak to thee. Thou must be confused as to how I know thee. 'Tis given since thou hast not seen me in this form," says Moon, frowning. "I-I'm sorry, but you're not making any sense. What is this form you're talking about?" asks Luna, blinking. "At a time, thou were once inside the Moon…" says Moon with a small smile. "Wh-why are you bringing this up?" asks Luna with wide eyes. "Because I am the Moon…" says Moon with a soft glow within his gaze. "Is this some sort of… a joke to you?" asks Luna, tears welling up in her eyes. "Joke?" says Moon, tilting his head. "DON'T PLAY DUMB WITH ME!" says Luna as her powerful voice echoes throughout the room. "Ugh, I thought my ears were about to blow…" says Rainbow, rubbing her hooves on her ears. "Wh-why is Luna so angry all of a sudden?" asks Twilight, rubbing her ears with her hooves. "Huh? Did you say something, Twilight?" asks Pinkie, blinking her eyes and rubbing her ear with a hoof. "I said, why is Luna angry!" says Twilight, stomping a hoof. "What was that?" asks Pinkie, putting a hoof to her ear. "Ugh! Forget it!" says Twilight, placing a hoof over her face. "Um, Twilight?" says Applejack, nudging Twilight's shoulder with a hoof. "Huh? Oh, Applejack, what's wrong?" asks Twilight, blinking. "You might want to look at that…" says Applejack, pointing a hoof. Following Applejack's hoof, Twilight's eyes widen, seeing a flowing stream of tears trailing down Luna's face. "Why is she crying?" asks Twilight, frowning. "I don't know, but Moon probably said somethin' to make her that mad," says Applejack, shrugging. From afar, Celestia frowns as her eyes move back and forth between Luna and Moon. Why did Moon bring up that memory again? And why did he mention about being the Moon itself? Wh-why can't I stop crying? thinks Luna, wiping her tears with a hoof. Her eyes then quickly widen, noticing Moon reaching out a hoof towards her as she swipes his hoof away with her own. "How dare you try to take advantage of my carelessness!" she says, glaring. "Forgive me…" says Moon, frowning and lowering his hoof. "Please let me explain-" "And to tell another lie!" says Luna, baring her teeth. "Why… why do you constantly tell me lies! How can I believe such a ridiculous thing when you suddenly tell me that you're the Moon!" "I-I did not mean to cause thee any harm…" says Moon, furrowing his brows. "Enough! I already heard enough! Just stop it and leave me alone!" says Luna, closing her eyes as tears seep through them. Watching from a distance, Twilight frowns at Luna. Isn't there something I can do? she thinks, hanging her head. "U-um, Twilight?" says a voice. "Huh?" says Twilight, lifting and turning her head. "O-oh, hey, Fluttershy…" "You know, I've never seen Princess Luna this sad before…" says Fluttershy, rubbing an arm with a hoof. "Y-yeah…" says Twilight, frowning. "Do you think she will be okay after this?" asks Fluttershy, her brows gathering in. "I-I don't know…" says Twilight, closing her eyes and shaking her head. "Um, Princess Twilight?" says a voice. "Oh, Commander Highwind, did you need something?" asks Twilight, blinking. "About what you and your friend were talking about, do you mind if I say something?" asks Highwind, wrinkling his brows. "Sure…" says Twilight with a small smile. "About Princess Luna and Prince Moon, I kind of overheard their conversation just now, and I think I know why Princess Luna's like that…" says Highwind, rubbing a hoof behind his head. "Really?" asks Twilight with wide eyes. "What happened?" asks Fluttershy, blinking. "Prince Moon kind of brought up Princess Luna's past by mentioning about her imprisonment in the Moon. As for the rest of the conversation, I couldn't make it out…" says Highwind, sighing. "Oh my. So that's what happened…" says Fluttershy, placing a hoof over her mouth. "Wait, why is Moon bringing up Luna's past in the first place?" asks Twilight, lifting a brow. "I-I'm not sure…" says Highwind, sighing. "Well, I guess that explains why Luna suddenly got so mad. I mean, Luna was sealed away for a thousand years, and even I would get angry if some random pony brought up a memory that I wanted to forget…" says Twilight, frowning. "Y-yeah…" says Highwind, slowly nodding. "Then should we stop them?" asks Fluttershy, blinking. "No," says Twilight, shaking her head. "It'd probably be even worse if we interrupt…" "O-oh…" says Fluttershy, hanging her head. "Believe me, I'd like to try and do something, but all we can do is wait and see how things turn out, I guess…" says Twilight, dragging a hoof down her face. Celestia looks at Luna, frowning. Oh, Luna, I know what you're facing is difficult, but you have to overcome this yourself. Please stay strong… Why? Why must I go through that feeling again? It hurts so much just remembering being trapped… in that cold place! I thought I left it in the past and moved on! thinks Luna, closing her eyes and wiping her tears with a hoof. "Luna, forgive me…" says Moon, reaching out a hoof and places it on Luna's cheek. Luna's eyes quickly open, seeing Moon's hoof before glaring. "You… I told you not to touch-" Slowly, Luna's eyes widen as her surroundings fade away and turn pitch dark. "Wh-where is everypony! Tia! Twilight! Anypony!" says Luna, her lips trembling. She then stomps a hoof. "If this is a prank or something, then it's not funny! I'm serious!" As Luna's voice echoes through the darkness, she quickly looks left and right with her eyes shrinking. N-no! It's like when I was trapped inside the Moon! thinks Luna with tears trailing down her cheeks. She then closes her eyes and lifts her head. "Please! Anypony! Answer me! I-I don't want to be alone again!" Within the shadows, a light is seen far in the distance, which Luna slowly opens and squints her eyes. Her eyes then widen, opening her mouth at the sight of a blue planet, colored in a beautiful green. "Wh-what is this place?" asks Luna, looking left and right as her eyes reflect lights that flicker above. Luna then notices a light from the corner of her eyes. She turns her head, her eyes widening upon seeing a large light that casts its warm glow on her. "W-wait, is that the Sun?" asks Luna, blinking. Luna's eyes then widen as her surroundings turn dark, which she quickly closes her eyes. "Wh-why is it cold all of a sudden?" asks Luna, blinking her eyes open. She notices the ground colored in white and large craters that cover the surface around her. Turning her head, her eyes widen at a familiar blue planet in the distance. "Am I standing on… the Moon?" Once more, a blinding light appears as Luna quickly closes her eyes. Slowly, she opens her eyes as tears trickle down her face. "I-I can't believe it. That cold feeling, it's the same as your hoof. Moon, are you really… the Moon?" "Aye…" says Moon with a small smile. "You really are the Moon…" says Luna, rubbing a hoof on Moon's cheek, the latter, standing in place with a soft glow within his gaze. "W-wait, hold up a second! Luna looked like she was about to blow everything to bits! But now she's all touchy with Moon…" says Rainbow, rubbing her head with a hoof. "Beats me," says Applejack, shrugging. "But I'm glad she's not mad anymore," says Fluttershy, smiling. "You know, I'm kind of surprised that Rarity didn't wake up after all that noise earlier," says Pinkie, poking Rarity's cheek with a hoof. "And I thought I was a heavy sleeper…" says Rainbow, rolling her eyes. "Um, Twilight, do you know what happened to Luna?" asks Fluttershy, blinking. "S-sorry, I don't…" says Twilight, shaking her head. What's going on? Why did Luna suddenly change after Moon touched her? thinks Celestia, frowning. "Tia!" says Luna, running and stopping before her sister with a wide smile. "Wh-what is it, Luna?" asks Celestia, blinking. "Tia, you wouldn't believe this! That's Moon!" says Luna, pointing a hoof at Moon. "Luna, I already know his name is Moon…" says Celestia, furrowing her brows. "No!" says Luna, shaking her head. "What I mean is that he is the Moon! The very Moon I was entrusted to raise every night!" Wh-what is she talking about? thinks Celestia with an open mouth. "Luna, I'm sorry to say this, but how can he be the very Moon that brings the night?" "I-I know it sounds ridiculous, but please believe me!" says Luna, stomping a hoof. "And do you have proof?" asks Celestia, glaring. "N-no, I don't…" says Luna, hanging her head. "Luna…" says Celestia, sighing. "Please be honest with me-" "When he touched me…" says Luna, lifting her head and facing Celestia with an unwavering gaze. "When Moon touched my face, I saw something which convinced me that he is the Moon, something I've never seen before." "And that is?" asks Celestia, blinking. "A view of our world. A view that only he had seen for so long…" says Luna, frowning. A view of our world? thinks Celestia with wide eyes. "Luna, I don't understand. What are you talking-" "Don't you get it, Tia! Moon has always been watching over the world! And if you don't believe me, I'll prove it to you!" says Luna, stomping a hoof. She then turns her head, facing Moon. "Moon, could you touch my sister's face as you did to me?" "Aye," says Moon, nodding. He then walks before coming to a stop in front of Celestia. "Forgive me, but it seems that I have not heard thy name." "Celestia," she says, glaring. "Greetings, Celestia," says Moon, smiling. "O-oh, and to you as well, Moon," says Celestia, blinking. "Now then…" says Moon, lifting a hoof to Celestia's face. Seeing Moon's hoof getting closer, Celestia quickly shuts her eyes. She then slowly opens her eyes, blinking. "Luna, was something supposed to happen when Moon touches my face?" "Y-yes, you're supposed to see something…" says Luna with an open mouth. "But nothing happened…" says Celestia, frowning. "B-but it should've worked! I mean, when Moon touched my face, I was able to see it! Moon, are you sure you're doing it right!" says Luna, stomping a hoof. "Aye," says Moon, nodding and removing his hoof from Celestia's cheek. Then why didn't it work? thinks Luna, rubbing her chin with a hoof. Her eyes then widen, noticing Sun walking past her. Wh-what is he doing? As Sun walks, his eyes remain on Celestia. Noticing Sun, Moon moves to the side as Sun comes to a stop, towering over Celestia, the latter, meeting his eyes with an unwavering gaze. "Thy name is Celestia, correct?" asks Sun, tilting his head. "Y-yes…" says Celestia, frowning. "Now then, Celestia. As to what Moon has done to Luna, I shall do the same to thee. However, if thou dost not agree, then I understand," says Sun, smiling. How considerate… thinks Celestia, blinking. She then looks at Luna, seeing her watery gaze. "Luna, I-I'm not sure if I should go through with this…" "Tia, please give it a chance. I know Moon and Sun have no intention to harm anypony. Besides, I'm sure you'll see how important Sun is to you as to how Moon is to me…" says Luna with a small smile. "Luna…" says Celestia with wide eyes. She then lets out a sigh before facing Sun with an unwavering gaze. "Sun, if this will let me understand you and Moon, then please continue." "I see," says Sun, smiling. Reaching out a hoof, Sun places it on Celestia's cheek, causing her eyes to widen as the room around her turns dark. In the distance, a bright light comes into view, which Celestia shields her eyes with a hoof. "Is it over?" asks Celestia, lowering her hoof and blinking her eyes. Her eyes then widen, seeing a blue planet, colored with green, and a white glowing circle in the distance. This must be what Luna was talking about. There's the Moon, along with the world… At the corner of her eyes, Celestia notices a light and turns her head, her eyes widening upon a bright light in the distance. "Th-this warm feeling. That's the Sun…" says Celestia with an open mouth. Once more, a bright light appears as Celestia closes her eyes. She then opens her eyes, seeing Sun, smiling. "Now I understand. Sun, you're the Sun…" says Celestia with wide eyes. "Aye…" says Sun, nodding. "And you're the Moon…" says Celestia, facing Moon. "Aye…" says Moon, smiling. "Do you believe me now, Tia?" asks Luna, chuckling as she stands next to Moon. "Y-yes, and I'm sorry for doubting you, Luna…" says Celestia, frowning. "There's no need to apologize. Even I was suspecting Moon at first, but now I don't know what to say…" says Luna, facing Moon with a smile, the latter, smiling. "Neither do I…" says Celestia, facing Sun, the latter, tilting his head. "Now that we know who Moon and Sun really are, what should we do?" asks Luna, blinking. "Well, we should probably let Twilight and her friends know about Sun and Moon. It's the least we could do after making them wait," says Celestia with a small smile. "Ugh! I feel terrible for ignoring them this whole time…" says Luna, dragging a hoof down her face. "It's only right that we let them know-" "Forgive me, Luna, but is there food?" asks Moon, frowning and placing a hoof over his stomach. "Forgive me, Celestia, but I wish to eat as well…" says Sun, wrinkling his brows and putting a hoof over his stomach. "Maybe we should tell Twilight and her friends at the table," says Luna with a small laugh. "You're right," says Celestia, chuckling with a hoof over her mouth. She then turns her head, facing Twilight. "I'm so sorry for making you and your friends wait, Twilight, but please bring everypony to the table. Luna and I will explain everything that's happened so far." "Okay!" says Twilight, smiling. She then faces her friends. "Well, girls, you heard her. Let's go!" "Does that mean we get seconds?" asks Pinkie, licking her lips. "Uh, Pinkie, didn't you just eat a whole lot of cake and stuff when we got here, and all that popcorn you just ate?" asks Applejack, raising a brow. "Yeah, but everything in Canterlot is so good!" says Pinkie, jumping in the air. She then runs to the table, grabbing different pastries with her hooves and shoving them in her mouth. "Pinkie, Pinkie, Pinkie…" says Applejack, rolling her eyes before trotting off to the table. "Hey, Pinkie, stop eating everything and leave some for us!" says Rainbow, stomping a hoof. "Um, Rainbow Dash?" says Fluttershy, tapping her hooves together. "Huh? Oh, what's wrong, Fluttershy?" asks Rainbow, lifting a brow. "Well, what should we do about Rarity?" asks Fluttershy, frowning. "She's still sleeping?" asks Rainbow, blinking. "Yes, and she won't wake up…" says Fluttershy, nudging Rarity's side with a hoof. "Sheesh…" says Rainbow, rubbing the back of her head with a hoof. Her eyes then light up. "Oh, I got an idea!" "What is it?" asks Fluttershy, blinking. "Just watch!" says Rainbow, grinning. She then faces Rarity. "Hey, Rarity! Opal is scratching up your dresses again!" Rarity's eyes shoot open and quickly stands on her hooves, darting her eyes. "Not again! When I get my hooves on her, I'll… wait, where's Opal?" "So, you awake yet, Rarity?" asks Rainbow, snickering with a hoof over her mouth. "Rainbow, will you please stop making jokes like that!" says Rarity, stomping a hoof. Rainbow rolls her eyes. "Just hurry up! Twilight and the others are waiting for us!" she says, pointing a hoof. "Really?" asks Rarity, following Rainbow's hoof as her eyes widen upon seeing Sun and Moon. "Who? Wh-what? Where?" she asks as her breathing grows heavy. "Oh no! She's doing it again! Rarity, take deep breaths! Deep breaths!" says Fluttershy, flailing her hooves. Putting a hoof on her chest, Rarity quickly breathes in and out while fanning a hoof over her face. Her eyes then roll up as she places a hoof over her forehead before falling on the floor. "Not this time!" says Rainbow, catching Rarity with her hooves and lifting her up. She then pushes Rarity from behind with her head as Rarity slides over the floor while flailing her hooves. "W-wait, Rainbow Dash, I think my mane is a mess!" says Rarity, rubbing her mane with a hoof. "Looks good to me," says Rainbow, rolling her eyes. "B-but I think my makeup is ruined!" says Rarity, putting her hooves on her cheeks. "Don't worry about it!" says Rainbow, huffing. "NO!" says Rarity, closing her eyes as tears seep through them. "Oh, Rarity," says Fluttershy, giggling with a hoof over her mouth. Well, I'm glad everything turned out okay… thinks Highwind, smiling. He then turns and trots to the doors in front of him. "Highwind?" says a voice. "Huh? O-oh, Princess Celestia, did you need something?" asks Highwind, blinking. "Would you like to join us? We still have a lot of food," says Celestia with a small laugh. "Thanks for the offer, but I think I'll have to refuse since there's more work for me to do," says Highwind with a small smile. "Come now, a little break won't hurt. You deserve it after all the work you've done for the Royal Guard," says Celestia, chuckling with a hoof over her mouth. "W-well, if you say so, then I guess I'll accept your offer," says Highwind, smiling. Celestia smiles before turning and walking to the table, while Highwind hangs his head. Looks like I have a long day ahead of me… thinks Highwind, sighing. ________________________________________ Sitting at the dining table, everypony blinks their eyes, watching as Sun and Moon each use a hoof to bring a plate with a pastry on it. They then lower their head, squinting their eyes, while staring at the pastry before pushing them back to their respective spots. "Eh-hem," says Celestia, coughing into a hoof. "Everypony, as you may have noticed, we have two important guests that are here with us today." "No kidding…" says Rainbow, rolling her eyes. Lifting an arm, Applejack elbows Rainbow on the side. "OW! What was that for!" says Rainbow, rubbing a hoof to her side. "Just listen, okay?" asks Applejack, raising a brow. "Whatever…" says Rainbow, huffing. "Now then, allow me to introduce them. Sitting next to me is Sun," says Celestia, pointing a hoof to Sun. "Greetings," says Sun, nodding. "Sitting next to Luna is Moon," says Celestia, pointing a hoof at Moon. "Greetings," says Moon, smiling. "Sun, Moon, allow me to introduce the girls," says Celestia, pointing a hoof at Twilight. "You already met her before, but this is Twilight Sparkle." "It's an honor to meet you both," says Twilight with a smile. "Sitting next to Twilight is Applejack," says Celestia. "Pleasure to meet you both," says Applejack, tipping her hat with a hoof. "Next to Applejack is Rainbow Dash," says Celestia. "Hey," says Rainbow, lifting a hoof. "This is Fluttershy," says Celestia, pointing a hoof. "N-nice to meet you both…" says Fluttershy, bowing her head. "And this is Rarity," says Celestia, pointing a hoof. Lowering her head, Rarity faces the table as she fidgets with her hooves. "Rarity?" says Celestia, blinking. "O-oh! Yes!" says Rarity, quickly lifting her head. "Are you okay?" asks Celestia, frowning. "Y-yes! I'm quite fine!" says Rarity with a sheepish grin. "Rarity, can I say a few words to thee?" asks Moon, blinking. "O-of course, Your Highness!" says Rarity, nodding her head while sweat drips down her face. "'Tis important to tend to thy health. I do not wish to trouble thee over a simple matter as our greetings to one another…" says Moon, furrowing his brows. "Your Highness…" says Rarity with wide eyes. She then smiles. "Don't worry. I'm fine and thank you for worrying." "I see, and feel free to address me as Moon," he says, smiling. "I-I will!" says Rarity, grinning with bright red cheeks. It's amazing how polite Sun and Moon are… thinks Celestia, blinking. Moon, what else is there that I don't know about you? thinks Luna, facing Moon with a small smile. "Oh! Oh! I'm next!" says Pinkie, lifting a hoof. "Then I won't stop you, Pinkie. Go ahead," says Celestia, chuckling. "Hi, Sun! Hi, Moon! I'm Pinkie Pie! Nice to meet you!" says Pinkie with a wide smile. "So, when is your birthday? What kind of food do you like? Because cupcakes are my favorite! Oh! Maybe you guys should come over to Sugarcube Corner sometime! There are a lot of tasty things you should try there! And then maybe-" "Pinkie Pie, I'm sure you're eager to know more about our two guests, but please wait. There is an important matter that Luna and I must tell you and your friends," says Celestia, smiling. "Okay! I can wait!" says Pinkie, grinning. "Thank you," says Celestia, chuckling. "And last, we have a special guest with us, everypony. Sun, Moon, seeing as you already met him, allow me to introduce him once more. This is Commander Highwind and thanks for joining us," she says, pointing a hoof. "No, the pleasure is mine, Your Highness," says Highwind, bowing his head. "And it's an honor to eat with you both," he says, bowing his head to Sun and Moon. "Now that introductions are aside, everypony, there is something that my sister and I would like to discuss with all of you…" says Celestia, frowning. "Yes, and something that will change the way you see our world…" says Luna, furrowing her brows. "Wh-what is it?" asks Twilight, biting her bottom lip. "Now then…" says Celestia, sighing. "You see, Sun and Moon are actually the-" "Celestia?" says Sun. "Y-yes?" says Celestia, blinking. "Forgive me for interrupting, but is there any muffins?" asks Sun, tilting his head. "Muffins? Yes, we should have some, if I remember correctly…" says Celestia, darting her eyes on the table below. "Oh, about those muffins, Pinkie kind of ate them all…" says Applejack, glaring at Pinkie. "S-sorry!" says Pinkie with a sheepish grin. "I see…" says Sun, furrowing his brows. "Um, Sun, I know it's not a muffin, but would you like to try some of this bread? I think you might like it," says Celestia, pushing a plate of brown bread with a hoof. "What is this?" asks Sun, poking the bread with a hoof. "It's called banana bread. It's one of my favorites," says Celestia, smiling. "I see…" says Sun, lowering his head and biting a piece of the bread. His eyes then light up before closing them and chewing with a smile. "So, is it to your liking, Sun?" asks Celestia, blinking. Sun then gulps before facing Celestia with a small smile. "Aye." "I'm glad you like it," says Celestia, chuckling with a hoof over her mouth. She then faces Twilight and her friends. "Now then, everypony, what I'm about to tell you may seem a bit strange…" "Uh, I don't mean to be rude and all, but what are you talking about? I mean, with all the crazy stuff we dealt with back then, what could be weirder than that?" asks Rainbow, lifting a brow. "And I'm very grateful to you and your friends, Rainbow Dash. Without your friendship, we wouldn't be having a peaceful morning like this, so I hope you all continue to do your best," says Celestia with a small smile. "Sure thing!" says Rainbow, smirking. "So, Princess Celestia, what's so important about Sun and Moon here?" asks Applejack, blinking. "Oh, about that, Applejack," says Celestia, smiling. "You see, Sun and Moon are actually the-" Highwind's mouth drops on the table. "H-how bold!" says Rarity, placing her hooves over her mouth as red creeps from her chin to her ears. "Wh-whoa, I didn't see that coming…" says Rainbow with wide eyes and bright red cheeks. "Y-yeah…" says Applejack, tipping her hat down with a hoof as her hat covers her beet red face. "Oh my…" says Fluttershy, her cheeks turning red while placing a hoof over her mouth. "Okay, I can't miss this!" says Pinkie, bringing a camera from behind her with a hoof and holding it up to her face. She then uses another hoof and presses a button on the camera, causing a flash of light. "Pinkie!" says Twilight, glaring. "Ugh! Fine…" says Pinkie, tossing the camera to the side before folding her hooves. Twilight then looks at Celestia and Sun, her cheeks burning red while biting a hoof. O-oh my gosh! How can Sun just kiss her like that! I-I've never seen any stallion brave enough to make a move on Tia before… thinks Luna, her mouth hanging open while her cheeks turn red as an apple. "Sun, wh-why did you k-k-kiss me?" asks Celestia, her lips trembling as her face turns red while steam comes out her ears. "I have forgotten to thank thee for thy bread earlier," says Sun, smiling. "You kissed her for a dumb reason like that!" says Twilight, pounding a hoof on the table. Her eyes widen before placing her hooves over her mouth. "Nice one, Twilight…" says Rainbow, rolling her eyes. "Haha…" says Twilight, her cheeks turning red while rubbing a hoof behind her head. C-calm down, Celestia… she thinks, closing her eyes and sighing. She then opens her eyes, facing Sun with a small smile. "You're welcome." "Luna, forgive me, but what is that?" asks Moon, pointing a hoof. "Huh?" says Luna, following Moon's hoof. Her eyes come upon a donut on a plate, sitting below her. "Oh, that's a blueberry donut. It's actually a favorite of mine. Do you want to try it?" "Aye," says Moon, smiling and nodding. "I can see you're eager to have some," says Luna with a small laugh. Using a hoof, she pushes the plate with a donut to Moon. "Go ahead. Try some." Moon lowers his head and bites a piece of the donut below him. His eyes then light up before closing them and chewing with a smile on his face. "Guessing from your face, you like it, don't you?" asks Luna, smirking. "Aye," says Moon with a small smile. "I thought so!" says Luna, closing her eyes and puffing her chest. "It goes to show that blueberry is the best flavor for a donut-" Moon closes his eyes and puts his lips on Luna's cheek, the latter, her eyes widening. Highwind's mouth drops on the table, cracking it. "It's not fair! I wonder if Moon would do the same to me if I gave him something…" says Rarity, pouting with a shade of red in her cheeks. "Don't! I've seen enough mushy stuff for one day…" says Rainbow, gagging. "I-I have to agree with Rainbow on that…" says Applejack, her cheeks turning red while coughing into a hoof. "Is Moon still k-kissing Luna?" asks Fluttershy with her hooves over her beet red face. "Yeah! And somepony won't let me take a picture! Come on, Twilight, just one wouldn't hurt, right?" asks Pinkie, grinning. "NO!" says Twilight, pounding a hoof on the table. "M-Moon, why did you k-k-kiss me?" asks Luna with an open mouth. "To thank thee for the donut," says Moon, smiling. "You know, Luna, after what Sun did to me, you should've known that Moon would probably do the same if you gave him your donut," says Celestia, giggling with a hoof over mouth. "I didn't, okay!" says Luna, glaring with bright red cheeks. "U-um, Princess Celestia?" says Twilight, biting her bottom lip. "O-oh, Twilight, what's wrong? You don't look well…" says Celestia, frowning. "I-I'm fine! It's just… I-I don't want to ruin the mood and everything, but I thought you and Luna were going to tell us something about Sun and Moon?" asks Twilight, rubbing her neck with a hoof. "Ah, I-I'm so sorry, everypony! I can't believe I forgot about that…" says Celestia, placing a hoof over her face. "I have to apologize as well! Tia and I sort of lost track of things…" says Luna, tapping her hooves together as her cheeks turn into a shade of red. "More like flirting…" says Rainbow, rolling her eyes. Applejack lets out a sigh. She then lifts an arm and elbows Rainbow on the side. "OW! What the hay was that for!" says Rainbow, glaring and rubbing a hoof to her side. "Maybe be a little more considerate?" asks Applejack, raising a brow. "Whatever…" says Rainbow, folding her hooves. "I-I'm sorry about Rainbow, but could you continue to what you were saying, Celestia?" asks Twilight with a sheepish grin. "R-right!" says Celestia, coughing into a hoof. "Now then, as to what I was saying before. You see, Sun and Moon are quite special…" "Wait, how special are we talking about?" asks Pinkie, rubbing her chin with a hoof. "Like as in the fate of Equestria kind of special? Or maybe the special kind where the whole world is at stake-" "Pinkie!" says Twilight, glaring. "S-sorry!" says Pinkie with a sheepish grin. "Actually, Pinkie Pie is close," says Luna, blinking. "Really?" asks Twilight, lifting a brow. "Luna's right. Everypony, don't be alarmed, but this might change the way you see the world because Sun and Moon are actually… the Sun and Moon," says Celestia. "Uh, sorry for sayin' this, but… what?" asks Applejack with an open mouth. "I have to agree with Applejack, seeing that it sounds quite silly for them to actually be the Sun and Moon," says Rarity with a small laugh. "I'm afraid it's not some jest that my sister is telling, Rarity. It's hard to believe it at first, but I will say this myself. Sun and Moon are the embodiment of the Sun and Moon themselves. They are the very things that my sister and I have been raising day and night…" says Luna, frowning. "WHAT!" says Highwind with wide eyes. "O-okay, I take that back! Out of all the weird things we've dealt with, this one takes the cake!" says Rainbow, ruffling her mane with her hooves. "Wait, if Sun and Moon are here and the Sun and Moon in the sky are there…" says Pinkie before placing both hooves on her head. "Ugh! Just thinking about it is driving me crazy!" "Y-yeah, I think my head's startin' to hurt…" says Applejack, placing a hoof over her forehead. "Who would've thought that the Moon and Sun would become such… remarkable stallions!" says Rarity, dragging both hooves down her face. "That's what you care about?" asks Rainbow, lifting a brow. "Hmph! Don't judge me!" says Rarity, closing her eyes and placing a hoof over her chest. "I know it sounds like a funny joke, seeing that Moon and Sun, who are supposed to be in the stars, are now sitting and having breakfast with us," says Luna with a small laugh. "But that's not possible! Actually, how is that even possible? I thought the Moon was just a big rock, and the Sun, a giant ball of gas!" says Twilight, pounding her hooves on the table below. "Twilight, please calm down," says Celestia, frowning. "O-oh, sorry…" says Twilight, hanging her head. "Egghead…" says Rainbow, rolling her eyes. "Want me to elbow you again, Rainbow?" asks Applejack, glaring. "Okay! Okay! I'm sorry!" says Rainbow, sweat running down her face. "Twilight, I know it's hard to believe, but Luna and I are telling you all the truth…" says Celestia, furrowing her brows. "Um, can I ask something?" asks Fluttershy, lifting a hoof. "Of course, Fluttershy," says Celestia, smiling. "How did you know that they're the Sun and Moon?" asks Fluttershy, furrowing her brows. "Th-that's actually a good question…" says Luna, blinking. She then faces Moon, the latter, with his cheeks puffed out while chewing with a smile. "I don't know what to say…" "Did I ask something weird? I-I'm sorry…" says Fluttershy, hiding her face behind her mane. "No, don't apologize…" says Celestia, shaking her head. "It's just that I'm also finding it hard to put it into words…" "Actually, I think it's better if I tell you and everypony what I saw, Fluttershy. Since you and your friends were watching, do you remember seeing Moon putting his hoof on my face?" asks Luna, blinking. "Y-yes…" says Fluttershy, nodding. "Well, when Moon touched my face, I suddenly realized I was standing on the Moon, and in front of me was the world that we all live on. It came to me that this must be the view Moon has been looking at when he was up in the stars. B-but it also felt lonely at the same time…" says Luna, wrinkling her brows. Turning her head, tears well up in Luna's eyes as she watches Moon lifting a piece of cake with a hoof before shoving it into his mouth, and chewing with a smile. Moon, how are you able to live with yourself? How can you smile like that after watching the world for who knows how long? If it was me, I would… I would… thinks Luna, biting her bottom lip as tears stream down her face. "Luna, is something wrong?" asks Moon, frowning. "Huh? Oh! N-no! It's nothing!" says Luna, wiping the tears from her eyes with a hoof. "Luna, if there's something on your mind, would you like to talk about it?" asks Celestia, furrowing her brows. "It's really nothing! It's just something I remembered, that's all…" says Luna, rubbing an arm with a hoof. Just the thought of what Moon has been through is making me remember my imprisonment again… "Then if you're okay, I'll leave it at that," says Celestia, smiling. "Thank you, Tia," says Luna with a small smile. She then turns her head before bowing. "And I'm sorry for showing you all a shameful side of me…" "You don't have to apologize, Luna. If it's something hard to talk about, I understand," says Twilight with a smile. "Yeah, it's cool. I mean, we all have our days when we feel bummed out," says Rainbow with a small laugh. "Even I have it rough being in charge of the Royal Guard here every day…" says Highwind, sighing. "When I'm feeling down, I like to eat something good! Like this donut!" says Pinkie, lifting a hoof with a donut before shoving it into her mouth. "Well, when I'm feeling moody, I look at the bright side of things," says Rarity, smiling. "Don't you stuff your face with a bucket of ice cream when that happens?" asks Applejack, lifting a brow. "Yes, and thanks for telling every other pony here that didn't know!" says Rarity, glaring as her face turns red. "Oh, uh, sorry?" says Applejack with a sheepish grin. "If anything, it's me who should apologize…" says Fluttershy, frowning. "It's okay, Fluttershy. Especially to you all. Thank you," says Luna, chuckling with a hoof over her mouth. "Anyway, going back to Fluttershy's question, I saw the same thing as Luna. When Sun touched my face, I saw the world that we live on, and the Moon as well. However, I also felt something that convinced me that Sun is, well, the Sun. If I were to describe it, it felt warm and gentle, something I've felt many times whenever I raised the Sun. But it's still quite unbelievable, seeing as the Sun is sitting right next to me," says Celestia, facing Sun, the latter, lifting a plate with a slice of cake on it while tilting his head. "But even if you say that, Princess Celestia, it's still kind of hard to believe it all…" says Twilight, frowning. "True. But from all the things that happened here in Equestria, what else is there to be surprised about?" asks Celestia, raising a brow. "You know, she's got a point there, Twilight. A good one too," says Rainbow with a small laugh. "Yep," says Applejack, chuckling. "I agree," says Rarity, giggling with a hoof over her mouth. "Yeah, Twilight! I mean, think about all those baddies we dealt with back then! But we still got through it all!" says Pinkie, grinning. "D-don't forget that it was scary too…" says Fluttershy, frowning. "Ugh! Some friends you guys are…" says Twilight, rolling her eyes. It's amazing how Princess Twilight and her friends are able to joke around after putting their lives on the line. I guess that's why they're able to use the Elements of Harmony… thinks Highwind, smiling. He then turns his head as his eyes widen upon seeing Sun and Moon with their eyes closed while clenching their hooves against their stomach. "YOUR HIGHNESSES!" he says, slamming his hooves on the table below. "Hey! What's your problem, Highwind! I thought my ears were about to explode!" says Rainbow, rubbing her hooves on her ears. "That was certainly rude! And you scared poor Fluttershy!" says Rarity, stroking a hoof over Fluttershy's head, the latter, with her eyes closed and her hooves wrapped around Rarity as her body shakes. "I'm sorry! But there's something wrong with Prince Sun and Prince Moon!" says Highwind, pointing a hoof. Celestia and Luna quickly follow Highwind's hoof. Their eyes widen, seeing Sun and Moon groaning as they lower their head. "Moon! What's wrong!" says Luna, rubbing a hoof over Moon's back. "I-I do not know, but forgive me for worrying thee, Luna…" says Moon with a small smile. He then closes his eyes and clenches his teeth. "Enough! Don't talk anymore, Moon!" says Luna with tears welling up in her eyes. She then faces Celestia with shaking lips. "T-Tia! What's wrong with them!" "I don't know…" says Celestia, frowning and rubbing a hoof over Sun's back. "I-I have to apologize to thee as well, Celestia…" says Sun, furrowing his brows. He then closes his eyes and grits his teeth. "Don't speak, Sun. You'll be okay…" says Celestia with a small smile. "Commander Highwind, what happened to them!" says Twilight, pounding her hooves on the table below. "I-I don't know! I was just listening to you and your friends talking and they were suddenly like that!" says Highwind, biting his bottom lip. "I-is there anything we can do?" asks Rarity, wrinkling her brows. "Ugh! Isn't there some kind of doctor here in Canterlot!" says Twilight, ruffling her mane with a hoof. "Tia, what about Doctor Wiseheart? Maybe she can help since she usually stays in the castle," says Luna, furrowing her brows. "I'm afraid she isn't here. She recently went on a vacation with Melody and Lyrical, and she won't be back until tomorrow morning…" says Celestia, frowning. "I-I can't believe I forgot about that!" says Luna, dragging a hoof down her face. "Are you kidding me! Why is she on a vacation at a time like this!" says Rainbow, throwing both hooves in the air. "How about the city here in Canterlot? There must be a doctor that could help?" asks Fluttershy, blinking. "No, that wouldn't help…" says Luna, shaking her head. "And why's that?" asks Applejack, raising a brow. "Because the doctors in the city don't specialize in alicorns. As to what I asked my sister before, Doctor Wiseheart is the only doctor that treats alicorns. It's the very reason why she is staying here in the castle as our personal doctor…" says Luna, sighing. "Ugh! That's right! Cadance and I go to her for our checkups as well!" says Twilight, putting a hoof to her face. "Great! Then what are we supposed to do now!" says Rainbow, folding her hooves. "QUIET!" says Pinkie, pounding a hoof on the table. "Geez, you're all making so much noise that I can barely think!" "And what's your idea, Pinkie!" says Rainbow, glaring. "Well, first off, where's the nearest bathroom?" asks Pinkie, raising a brow. "Pinkie, this isn't the time to joke around! We have something much more serious to worry about than your bathroom break!" says Twilight, baring her teeth. "What are you talking about? The bathroom is for Moon and Sun," says Pinkie, blinking. "Wow, Pinkie, I knew you were weird and all, but I think you crossed the line on this one…" says Rainbow, lifting a brow. "Hey! I'm being serious about this!" says Pinkie, pouting. "Ugh! Then could you tell us why they have to use the bathroom?" asks Twilight, dragging a hoof down her face. "I'm glad you asked that, Twilight," says Pinkie, bringing a monocle from behind her with a hoof and places it over her right eye. She then brings a top hat and mustache from behind her before placing the hat on her head and the mustache under her nose. "W-wait, where did she get those?" asks Highwind, blinking. "Just ignore it. The others and I asked her the same thing, but all we know is that it's Pinkie being, well, Pinkie…" says Rarity, rolling her eyes. "Now then, the reason Moon and Sun are like that is very simple," says Pinkie, stroking her mustache with a hoof. "For the love of… Pinkie, quit the fancy talk and get to the point already!" says Rainbow, pounding a hoof on the table. "Okay, okay! Sheesh! Somepony's a party pooper!" says Pinkie, grabbing her hat, monocle, and mustache with a hoof before throwing it to the side. "What did you say?" asks Rainbow, clenching a hoof. "Stop it! Both of you!" says Twilight, glaring. "Hmph!" says Pinkie and Rainbow, folding their hooves. "Pinkie, please just tell us already, okay?" asks Twilight, sighing. "Fine…" says Pinkie, rolling her eyes. "As I said, the reason why Sun and Moon are like that is that they have a tummy ache." "Tummy ache?" says Applejack, lifting a brow. "Yeah," says Pinkie, nodding. "They probably ate too much, and just by looking at Sun and Moon's faces right now, it looks like they have to go-" Sun and Moon groan, wrapping their hooves around their stomach as their head falls on top of the table, causing all the plates with pastries to fly in the air before landing and scattering around the table. "On second thought, they need to go… badly!" says Pinkie, biting her bottom lip. "Then what are we waiting for? Let's go!" says Rainbow, unfolding her wings before taking off in the air and zipping straight to the dining room's doors. She then shows her face through the opening between the doors, blinking. "Um, which way is the bathroom?" "Oh, Rainbow…" says Twilight, rolling her eyes. ________________________________________ "Hey, we're here!" says Rainbow, pointing a hoof at a hallway. "It's a good thing the nearest bathroom is close by…" says Celestia, walking with Sun resting a hoof over her back. "And just in time too. Moon is a little heavy…" says Luna, walking with Moon resting a hoof over her back. "F-forgive me, Luna…" says Moon, furrowing his brows. "Moon, you don't have to apologize. I'm just glad I could help. More importantly, you should hurry and go," says Luna with a small smile. "Aye…" says Moon, removing his hoof from Luna's back and walks through the hallway. "Sun, you should hurry as well," says Celestia, smiling. "Aye…" says Sun, nodding. He removes his hoof from Celestia's back and walks through the hallway. Coming to a stop, Sun and Moon face each other. They turn and face Celestia, Luna, and the others, blinking. "Sun, Moon, what's wrong?" asks Twilight, blinking. "Forgive me, but what is this bathroom thou speakest of?" asks Sun, frowning. "Is there some sort of task that Sun and I must fulfill in this… bathroom?" asks Moon, tilting his head. W-wait, now that I think about it, if they're really the Sun and Moon, that must mean they don't know anything about this world! thinks Twilight with wide eyes. She then shakes her head. "Um, Sun, Moon, do you know how to use the bathroom?" "Nay…" says Sun, hanging his head. "Forgive us…" says Moon, furrowing his brows. "Come on! First, you have a sore stomach and now you don't even know how to use the bathroom!" says Rainbow, stomping a hoof. "What now?" asks Applejack, raising a brow. "W-well, Sun and Moon are both guys, and all of us are mostly girls, so… we can't just exactly go in there with them, you know?" says Twilight with a shade of red in her cheeks. "R-right…" says Rainbow, rubbing a hoof behind her head. "U-um, I have an idea…" says Fluttershy, tapping her hooves together. "Oh, what is it, Fluttershy?" asks Twilight, blinking. "M-maybe Commander Highwind could… teach them?" asks Fluttershy with a sheepish grin. "W-wait… me?" asks Highwind, pointing a hoof to himself. "Good idea, Fluttershy! Commander Highwind, could you please teach them?" asks Rarity, smiling. "H-hold on a second!" says Highwind, waving both hooves quickly. "Do I even have a say in this!" "Highwind, I don't mean to force you, but there's nopony else we can rely on besides you…" says Celestia, frowning. "I'm sorry, Highwind, but Tia's right. You're the only one here that can teach Moon and Sun…" says Luna, wrinkling her brows. "B-but I… I…" says Highwind, biting his bottom lip. He then hangs his head, sighing. "Fine…" "Thank you, Highwind," says Celestia with a small smile. "We're truly grateful," says Luna, smiling. "Y-yeah…" says Highwind, slowly nodding. He then walks over to Sun and Moon. "Your Highnesses, please follow me…" Nodding their head, Sun and Moon follow Highwind as they walk through the hallway before turning a corner. "D-do you think Commander Highwind will be okay?" asks Fluttershy, rubbing an arm with a hoof. "He'll be fine," says Applejack, waving off a hoof. "I kind of feel bad for making him do this…" says Twilight, rubbing the nape of her neck with a hoof. "Hey, can't help it," says Rainbow, shrugging. "Oh, anypony want to play a board game while we wait?" asks Pinkie, grinning. "And just where are we going to find one?" asks Twilight, raising a brow. "Don't worry, I have one right here!" says Pinkie, taking a square board out from behind her and setting it on the floor, showing different colored tiles on the board and cards lying on the side. "Monopoly, anypony?" "I'm game!" says Rainbow, sitting next to Pinkie. "Move over, Rainbow. You might not know, but I'm pretty good at this kind of games," says Applejack, sitting next to Rainbow. "I guess a game or two wouldn't hurt," says Rarity, sitting next to Applejack. "Oh, that looks fun," says Fluttershy, sitting next to Rarity. "That's an interesting game. Pinkie Pie, could you show me how to play?" asks Luna, sitting next to Fluttershy. "Sure!" says Pinkie with a wide grin. "I can't believe they're playing a board game at a time like this…" says Twilight, putting a hoof over her face. "So, how is my once faithful student?" asks Celestia, smiling. "Not so good, now that you ask…" says Twilight, sighing. "And why is that?" asks Celestia, blinking. "After becoming a princess, a lot of things happened since then. Everypony in Ponyville treats me differently compared to when I was just a unicorn. Not to mention how hard it is to sleep with these things on my back…" says Twilight, unfolding her wings. "I can agree with that," says Celestia with a small laugh. "But there is something bothering me…" says Twilight, rubbing her neck with a hoof. "What's wrong?" asks Celestia, frowning. "Well, ever since I became a princess, what am I supposed to do now? I mean, you and Luna are guiding everypony in Equestria, being rulers and all. Even Cadance is busy with the Crystal Empire, and here I am, having a tea party, well, which was supposed to be one…" says Twilight, hanging her head. "Twilight, I know that you're still searching for your path. Now that you're a princess, give it time and you will find your given role in this world one day. Besides, you have your friends, so try to enjoy yourself," says Celestia, chuckling with a hoof over her mouth. "You're right…" says Twilight with a small smile. "How long has it been since we've talked like this?" asks Celestia, blinking. "Back when I was still living here in Canterlot, I guess," says Twilight with a small laugh. "At that time, it was quite hard to teach you everything, you know?" says Celestia, lifting a brow. "Ugh! Don't remind me about it! I was just a filly back then…" says Twilight, pouting. "But those days will always be precious to me…" says Celestia, smiling. "Yeah, I'll always remember those fun times…" says Twilight, giggling with a hoof over her mouth. "However, Twilight, I've been wondering about something…" says Celestia, tapping her chin with a hoof. "What is it?" asks Twilight, blinking. "We may not be a teacher and student anymore, but you sometimes call me by honorifics. Honestly, we're friends now, so you can just call me by name," says Celestia, smiling. "I know, I know. Just a force of habit that's hard to forget…" says Twilight, rolling her eyes. "Well, I guess old habits are hard to leave behind," says Celestia with a giggle. "Anyway, I've been wondering, but what do you think about Sun and Moon?" asks Twilight, rubbing a hoof behind her head. "And why do you want to know?" asks Celestia, blinking. "I mean, they just showed up out of nowhere and said they're the Sun and Moon out of the blue. To be honest, I thought they were, you know…" says Twilight, twirling a hoof next to her head. "True. Even I thought they were suspicious at first, but that all changed when I found out who they truly were," says Celestia, smiling. "But it's still amazing, seeing that they're here and all! There are a lot of things that I want to ask them about!" says Twilight, clapping her hooves. "I see that your thirst for knowledge still hasn't changed," says Celestia, smirking. "I-I can't help it! I mean, you don't normally see two walking celestial bodies!" says Twilight, stomping a hoof. "Twilight, it's true that Sun and Moon were once the celestial bodies, but please keep in mind that they are living in the same world as us now. There might be things that they don't want to talk about…" says Celestia, furrowing her brows. "O-oh, right. But there's also one thing…" says Twilight, rubbing an arm with a hoof. "And that is?" asks Celestia, blinking. "I know I must be overthinking things, but when Sun and Moon asked about how to use the bathroom, it got me thinking that they might not know anything about the world we live in. It's like they were thrown here without any knowledge or guidance to help them…" says Twilight, frowning. "I think you might be right. There's still a lot we don't know about them…" says Celestia, wrinkling her brows. "Yeah, but I don't want to force them to talk. I mean, since they're the Sun and Moon, I'm guessing they were watching the world for a long time and must have a lot on their mind. The last thing I want is making them feel out of place or something…" says Twilight, sighing. "If we give them time, I'm sure they'll talk about it. Speaking of Sun and Moon, it looks like they finished," says Celestia, pointing a hoof. "Really?" asks Twilight, turning her head. In the front, Highwind walks with his head hanging as Sun and Moon follow behind. "Th-they'll be fine now…" says Highwind with dull eyes. "Uh, you don't look so good. Something happened?" asks Rainbow, raising a brow. "I've seen things that nopony should ever have to experience. Especially teaching two full-grown stallions on how to use the bathroom…" says Highwind, clicking his tongue. "Like what?" asks Pinkie, blinking. "I'll leave that to your imagination…" says Highwind, huffing. "Sun, Moon, are you feeling better now?" asks Fluttershy, smiling. "Aye," says Sun, nodding. "Highwind's aid was truly helpful in our time of need." "Highwind, perhaps Sun and I can show our gratitude to thee?" asks Moon, tilting his head. "NO! I-I mean, you don't have to, Your Highnesses! I'm just glad I could help!" says Highwind with a sheepish grin. Any more and I think I might lose my dignity as a guy! "It's a good thing it wasn't something serious…" says Luna, sighing. "Yeah! We thought you guys were done for or something!" says Rainbow, stomping a hoof. "Maybe slow down on the eatin' next time," says Applejack, smiling. "There was a lot of food. You both didn't have to rush," says Rarity, giggling with a hoof over her mouth. "But the food was truly interesting. Sun and I did not know there are many different things to eat," says Moon with a small smile. "Oh! Oh! I totally get it! I mean, when I see different food, I can't help but want to try them all!" says Pinkie, jumping up and down. "But be careful. We were very worried…" says Fluttershy, frowning. "Forgive us. Moon and I did not mean to worry thee…" says Sun, wrinkling his brows. "You don't have to apologize. We understand," says Celestia with a small laugh. "Um, I don't mean to ruin the mood or anything, but now what? I mean, after Moon and Sun's problem, they kind of messed up the whole table and stuff," says Rainbow, folding her hooves. "I know this might be off-topic, but what time is it?" asks Twilight, blinking. "It should be noon right now," says Highwind, tapping his chin with a hoof. "Noon?" says Rarity, rubbing her chin with a hoof. "Ugh! That's right! I still need to finish some dresses I promised some clients that would be ready this weekend!" "I forgot I still have to help out at Sugarcube Corner! We're having a sale at the moment…" says Pinkie, putting a hoof over her face. "And I have to go help out back at the farm. I kind of told Big Mac that I would be back around noon…" says Applejack, rubbing a hoof behind her head. "Ah!" says Fluttershy with wide eyes. "What's wrong, Fluttershy?" asks Rainbow, blinking. "W-well, now that I think about it, I forgot to feed the animals this morning…" says Fluttershy, sighing. "I thought you did?" asks Rainbow, lifting a brow. "It's because we were in a rush this morning, remember?" asks Fluttershy, frowning. "Oh yeah! Thanks to Twilight being a princess and all, we had some annoying ponies trying to take some pictures of us…" says Rainbow, huffing. "Honestly, those ponies taking pictures of us at Ponyville can't understand personal space!" says Rarity, stomping a hoof. "Even I was starting to get annoyed!" says Pinkie, rolling her eyes. "And scary…" says Fluttershy, placing a hoof over her shaking arm. "Sorry, but it kind of is your fault, Twilight…" says Applejack, rubbing a hoof on the side of her neck. "Hey! I didn't ask for any of that to happen!" says Twilight, stomping a hoof. "Yeah, yeah, Your Highness…" says Rainbow, rolling her eyes. "Pfft! Your Highness…" says Highwind with a small laugh. "And what are you laughing at!" says Twilight, baring her teeth. "N-nothing!" says Highwind, his face dripping with sweat. "Are Twilight Sparkle and the others usually like this?" asks Sun, tilting his head. "You get used to it," says Celestia, chuckling. "They are quite interesting…" says Moon, smiling. "And that's why I'll always enjoy their company," says Luna, giggling. "Oh, Princess Celestia, Princess Luna!" says Twilight, waving a hoof. "And what did we talk about?" asks Celestia, lifting a brow. "S-sorry, a force of habit…" says Twilight with a sheepish grin. "Anyway, we decided to head back to Ponyville, and thanks for inviting us over for breakfast!" "Well, if that's what you and your friends decided, then I guess I can't help it," says Celestia with a small smile. "Twilight, you and your friends are always welcome here. Oh, and a carriage should be waiting at the entrance of the castle," says Luna, smiling. "Thanks!" says Twilight with a wide smile. "Oh! Sun, Moon, it's been nice meeting you guys!" "Aye, the same to thee," says Moon, smiling. "Perhaps we will meet again," says Sun, nodding. "Don't worry. I think we'll be seeing each other again soon. Besides, there's a ton of things I want to ask you both! Oh, and you should meet Spike later on. I think he'd like to meet you guys," says Twilight, chuckling with a hoof over her mouth. Sun and Moon nod their head, which Twilight and her friends wave a hoof before turning and walking through the hallway. "Speakin' of Spike, where is the little guy?" asks Applejack, raising a brow. "Sleeping at home," says Twilight, rolling her eyes. "Well, he's still a growing dragon," says Rarity, giggling. "Hey, I have an idea!" says Rainbow with a grin. "No pranks, Rainbow," says Twilight, shaking her head. "Party pooper…" says Rainbow, clicking her tongue. "Hey! You copied me!" says Pinkie, glaring. "There they go. It feels quite lonely, now that they're gone…" says Luna, frowning. "They will return again. But more importantly, Luna, we still have two more guests with us," says Celestia, smiling. "I know, I know. Honestly, I'm worried about them more than Twilight and her friends…" says Luna, sighing. She then faces Moon and Sun. "Moon, what are you and Sun going to do now?" "I do not know. Sun and I only wished to find thee, Luna…" says Moon, furrowing his brows. "Hmm…" says Luna, tapping her chin with a hoof. "Do you have any place to stay for the time being?" "Unfortunately, Sun and I do not know any place we could seek shelter from…" says Moon, hanging his head. "And we do not want to trouble other ponies either…" says Sun, frowning. "Then would you like to stay here in the castle?" asks Luna with a small smile. "We would be truly grateful, but Sun and I do not want to trouble Celestia and thee any further…" says Moon, shaking his head. "Tia, are you fine with them staying in the castle?" asks Luna, blinking. "I have no reason to say no," says Celestia with a smile. There are some things I want to ask Sun as well… "There you have it! Moon, you and Sun won't trouble my sister and me for staying here in the castle. In fact, it would make the castle much livelier if you stayed," says Luna, chuckling. And for me as well… Moon's eyes widen. He then stands in front of Luna with a soft glow within his gaze. "Wh-what's wrong, Moon?" asks Luna with a shade of red in her cheeks. "Luna, thank you…" says Moon, closing his eyes and pressing his lips on Luna's cheek, the latter, her eyes widening. "Don't fall for him, Luna," says Celestia, smirking. "Sh-shut it!" says Luna, her face turning bright red while stomping a hoof. "Oh, Luna," says Celestia, chuckling with a hoof over her mouth. She then notices a shadow looming over her, seeing Sun with a radiant glow within his gaze. "O-oh, Sun, is something wrong?" "Celestia, it seems I must show my gratitude to thee as well. Thank you…" says Sun, closing his eyes and pressing his lips on Celestia's cheek, the latter, her eyes widening. "Oh, what is this? Is Tia finally falling for somepony?" asks Luna, snickering. "I-I'm not!" says Celestia, pouting with red cheeks. I-I have to give Prince Sun and Prince Moon credit. No guy would even try to make a move on the princesses like that… thinks Highwind, his cheeks turning red while rubbing a hoof behind his head. "A-anyway, now that everything is decided, I think we should prepare a room for them…" says Celestia, coughing into a hoof. "You should make that two. I mean, Moon and Sun are pretty big ponies…" says Luna, blinking. "I guess so. Oh, shouldn't they take a bath? They probably had a long day," says Celestia, tapping her chin with a hoof. "Forgive me, but what is a bath?" asks Moon, tilting his head. "Don't tell me you don't know what's a bath either?" asks Luna with an open mouth. "Unfortunately, there is much that Sun and I do not know about this world…" says Moon, hanging his head. "Aye…" says Sun, frowning and nodding. Twilight was right when she said that Sun and Moon don't know much about the world… thinks Celestia, furrowing her brows. She then turns her head, facing Highwind. "Um, Highwind, could I ask you a favor?" "Of course, Your Highness!" says Highwind, saluting. "Could you please show Sun and Moon how to properly wash in the bathhouse?" asks Celestia, smiling. "Wait, what?" asks Highwind with an open mouth. He then shakes his head. "I-I'm sorry, Your Highness, but for a second there, it sounded like you wanted me to show the princes how to take a bath…" "Yes, I'm asking if you could join Sun and Moon in the bathhouse and show them how to wash their bodies," says Celestia, blinking. I-I thought so! thinks Highwind, his face turning blue. "B-but, Your Highness, there's a lot of things I have to do today!" he says with a sheepish grin. "It's fine, Highwind. Tia and I will ask somepony else…" says Luna with a watery gaze. No! Don't give me those puppy eyes, Princess Luna! That's not fair! thinks Highwind, biting his bottom lip. He then hangs his head. "F-fine. I'll do it…" "Really? Thank you, Highwind," says Luna, smiling. "We're really grateful," says Celestia with a small smile. "Y-yeah, no problem…" says Highwind, slowly nodding. He then walks down the hallway. "Prince Sun, Prince Moon, please follow me…" "Aye," says Sun, nodding and walking behind Highwind. "Highwind, what must we do in this bath?" asks Moon, blinking and walking next to Sun. "I'll tell you both when we get there…" says Highwind, sighing. "Oh, Moon," says Luna, chuckling with a hoof over her mouth. "And what are you so happy about, Luna?" asks Celestia, smirking. "Ugh! I hate the face you're making right now…" says Luna, rolling her eyes. "But I've never seen you smile like this before," says Celestia with a small smile. "I can't help it. I mean, I finally found somepony that might understand me. Somepony that could relate to me all those years ago…" says Luna, gazing at Moon with a soft glow within her eyes. "Luna…" says Celestia, frowning and placing a hoof on Luna's shoulder. "And now, he's right there in front of me…" says Luna, tears welling up in her eyes. "I know how you feel…" says Celestia, looking at Sun with a radiant glow within her gaze. "Tia, throughout the years, I never thought I could enjoy life again. But this time, maybe I can look at it the same as I did long ago with Moon here…" says Luna as tears trickle down her face. "Oh, Luna…" says Celestia, pulling and wrapping her hooves around Luna. "S-sorry, Tia, but just let me stay like this…" says Luna, closing her eyes and nuzzling her face against Celestia's chest as the tears seep through her eyes. "It's fine…" says Celestia with a small smile. She then closes her eyes and rests her head on Luna's as tears seep through her eyes. You're right, Luna. Maybe life will be different from now on… To be continued… Chapter 8New Day ________________________________________ Throughout Canterlot Castle, shadows cover the corridors as the sound of an aimless wind passes through the empty halls. However, a warm light emits from the large windows that span across the stone walls, whereas light chases the shadows, bringing the walls to a brightening white. Echoing through the air, the sound of hooves is heard as a shadow follows along a red carpet, stretching far through the hallway. The shadow then comes into the light of the hall, revealing a pink mare, gazing through the windows as green land stretches until meeting the borders of mountains, covered at the peak with snow. "I guess Tia's done raising the Sun for now," says the pink mare with a smile. She then sits before stretching her forehooves into the air. "Mmmm… it's so good to be back home again!" she says before standing to her hooves. "Oh, better hurry. I don't want Tia to scold me again, hehe!" The pink mare trots along the halls, turning her head from side to side as the stone walls and windows pass her view. "Hmm… I guess I didn't need to worry about the castle. All the girls did a good job keeping things nice and tidy while Lyrical and I was gone," she says, coming to a stop as her body shakes. "Geh, just thinking about it makes me wonder how angry Lyrical would get if the place wasn't kept in check…" The pink mare trots again, keeping her eyes on the stone walls passing by her eyes. "Let's see, Tia said that the room should be right around… here!" she says, coming to a stop next to a white door. "So, behind this door is one of these so-called 'princes' I've been hearing about. I even begged Tia and Lulu to tell me about them, but they just said I should see them for myself!" she says, throwing both hooves in the air before sighing. "Ah, whatever, it's better to see them than thinking about how they would look like." The pink mare then lifts a hoof before giving a few knocks on the door in front of her. "Hello? Is anypony there?" she asks before putting her hoof on the floor. "Hmm… I guess he's still sleeping," she says, blinking. The pink mare's horn begins to glow in a blue aura, which the same glow covers the gold doorknob in front of her, twisting it. "Oh, it's open…" she says as the door creaks across the floor. She then peeks an eye through the opening of the doorway, glancing from side to side. "Hey, if you're there, I'm letting myself in!" As the door opens in plain view, the mare's eyes dart about the room. "It's a bit dark in here…" she says, walking. She suddenly stops as her eyes lock in front of her, seeing a golden framed bed with a large lump on it, slowly moving up and down under the covers of a blanket. "That must be him…" she says, placing her hooves lightly on the red carpet below her. As the pink mare moves to the far side of the bed, she stops as her eyes widen at the sight of an alicorn with a dazzling blond mane, glittering under the faintest of light. "Wow, so this must be Sun, huh? Those rumors about his looks are nothing to joke at…" she says, blinking. She then grins. I just got an idea, she thinks with a chuckle. The pink mare turns around, walking towards a red curtain as her horn begins to glow blue, shrouding the curtain in a similar light. "Rise and shine, sleepyhead!" she says as the curtain quickly folds to the sides, covering the room in a blinding light. That should wake him up! she thinks with a giggle, turning around. Sun quietly breathes as his eyes were closed. Guess that didn't work… thinks the pink mare, pouting. She quickly walks to the bed, lifts a hoof, and nudges Sun's hoof. "Wakey-wakey, sleepyhead! Today's a new day!" she says with a grin. Once more, Sun quietly breathes as his eyes were still closed. Ugh! This guy is getting on my nerves! she thinks as a vein appears above her brow. She then leans over and grabs Sun's hoof before shaking it. "Wake up! Wake up! Wake up! Wake up! WAKE UP!" Sun's eyes slowly open, blinking them a few times. He then sees a pink hoof in front him, which his eyes roll up, meeting face to face with another, the latter, smiling. "Forgive me…" says Sun, blinking. "But whom might thou-" "Hold that thought," says the pink mare, lifting a hoof. "First, lift yourself up before asking that. It's considered rude to others if you don't." "Ah, forgive me…" says Sun, pushing himself up with his hooves. The blanket covered up to the nape of his neck slides off as he lies on the underside of his body, crossing his hooves. Wow, he's huge… thinks the pink mare, lifting her head, and blinking with a slightly open mouth. "Now then…" says Sun, looking down. "Whom might thou-" "Secondly," says the pink mare, lifting a hoof again. "It's rude if you don't introduce yourself first." Sun blinks his eyes. "Forgive-" "Third, you apologize too much," says the mare, lifting a brow. Sun hangs his head. "Hahahaha!" says the pink mare, falling on her back as she clutches her stomach. "S-sorry, but you're just so gullible!" The pink mare rolls onto her hooves, pushing herself up, and looks up to Sun. "A-anyway," says the pink mare, wiping away a tear under her eye with a hoof. "I know who you are, Sun. Oh, and my name's Lovely Melody, but call me Melody for short!" "Melody…" says Sun, blinking. "Mhm! Don't wear it out!" says Melody, grinning. "Now then, Melody…" says Sun, tilting his head. "Dost thou-" "Fourth," says Melody, lifting a hoof. "I'm here because Tia sent me." "Dost thou mean Celestia?" asks Sun. "Yeah, but 'Tia' for short," says Melody. "Ah…" says Sun, blinking. "Luna has addressed Celestia the same. I have been meaning to ask, but why do Luna and thee address Celestia in that manner?" "Because it's cute," says Melody with a chuckle. "Cute?" says Sun, tilting his head. "Ah…" says Melody, blinking. That's right. Tia did say something about making things simple for Sun to understand. I don't know why, but she said she would explain it later. "Melody?" says Sun. "Oh, sorry," says Melody, rubbing a hoof behind her head. "Don't think about it too much. I just like calling Tia that because I want to. As for Lulu, it's just easier for her than saying Tia's full name," she says before rolling her eyes. Talk about lazy, if you ask me… "When thou mention Lulu, dost thou mean Luna?" asks Sun. "Yep," says Melody, nodding with a smile. "I see…" says Sun. "Then does that mean I am able to address Celestia in a similar manner?" Hmm… I wonder how that would go? thinks Melody, tapping her chin with a hoof. She then grins. "Sure, I bet she would like that!" Sun smiles. "Then-" "On one condition," says Melody, lifting a hoof. "Say it when you see her, okay?" "Aye," says Sun, nodding. Wait, if I remember, the other prince's name is Moon. Maybe I should have him do the same to Lulu, thinks Melody, smirking. "Melody?" says Sun. "Eh-hem," says Melody, coughing into a hoof. "Yes?" she says with a smile. "Since Celestia has sent thee, then dost thou require something of me?" asks Sun. "Oh, right. Let me start over again. Sun, as you already know my name, I'm here to greet you as one of the head maids and personal maid to Tia," says Melody. "I… do not understand…" says Sun, blinking. "Let's just say I'm one of the ponies in charge of keeping the castle the way it is and to help Tia whenever I'm needed," says Melody with a soft smile. "I see…" says Sun. "Anyway, Tia has sent me to wake you up and bring you over to the dining room for breakfast. She also mentioned something about 'banana bread.' I don't know why, but Tia said that you would understand if you hear it," says Melody, rubbing her head with a hoof. Drool begins to seep through the sides of Sun's mouth. Oh, that's what Tia meant. Sun's just too honest with himself, thinks Melody with a chuckle. "But first, we'll have to get you ready for the day." "What dost thou mean?" asks Sun. "Well, let's see…" says Melody, pointing a hoof. "Your mane is a mess, and your eyes look like some dead fish. Since you're an alicorn, it's polite to make yourself presentable to others. I'm sorry, but your bread will have to wait," she says, sitting and folding her hooves. And your breath stinks! "I see…" says Sun, frowning. Pffft! Too easy! He's too easy to read! thinks Melody, chuckling with a hoof over her mouth. "Then what tasks must I do to… prepare for the day?" asks Sun, blinking. "Don't worry! Just leave it all to me!" says Melody, standing to her hooves with a grin. ________________________________________ Hanging from a ceiling is a crystal chandelier, reflecting a soft glow of light, coming from behind a red curtain to the far side of a dark room. However, a white door, with little light coming from under it, is blocked out by a shadow. Upon the door's gold doorknob, a pink aura covers it, twisting itself as the door creaks across the floor. As the door is fully opened, a shadow reveals itself as its pink eyes dart about the room while standing at the entrance of the doorway. The shadow's eyes center itself and begin to trail through the darkness, passing a golden framed bed with a large blue lump, slowly moving up and down, before coming to a stop in front of a red curtain. Suddenly, the shadow lifts itself, placing two of its limbs upon the red curtain, moving it aside, and revealing a dark mare, standing in front of the bright light that covers her and the entire room. Turning her head, her eyes meet ice blue ones, the latter, staring at her with half-lidded eyes. "Good morning, Moon," says the dark mare. "Greetings…" says Moon, blinking. "Forgive me, but whom might thou-" "Before I answer your questions, please lift yourself up from your bed," says the dark mare. "Ah, forgive me…" says Moon, pushing himself up with his hooves. "Now then… whom might thou be?" "As to your question, my name is Lyrical Note, but you may call me Lyrical if you wish. I'm also one of the head maids and Luna's personal maid," she says, bowing her head. "Greetings, Lyrical," says Moon with a smile. "But… forgive me. I do not understand this 'maid' thou speakest of." "Simply know that I'm responsible for keeping this place as it is now, and to always help Luna whenever I'm needed," says Lyrical. "I see," says Moon, nodding. "However, Lyrical, dost thou require something of me?" "Ah, yes. Luna has sent me in her place to wake you up, seeing that it's almost time for breakfast," says Lyrical. "Breakfast?" says Moon, tilting his head. "Luna has said that you would understand if I mentioned 'blueberry donuts,'" says Lyrical. Moon's mouth slightly opens as drool dangles from the sides of his mouth. "It seems that you understand. However, Moon, there is something I must ask you," says Lyrical. "What is thy question?" asks Moon, blinking. "When I entered your room, I noticed that you were sleeping without a blanket over yourself. Is there a reason why?" asks Lyrical. "Ah, forgive me…" says Moon, frowning. "I must have forgotten since the bed felt quite pleasant after resting myself on it." "I understand," says Lyrical, nodding. "However, I advise you to use the blanket next time. It would cause a commotion if a pony of your stature were to become sick." "Sick?" says Moon, tilting his head. "If I were to put it simple, it's something very, very unpleasant, and Luna would also be very worried," says Lyrical. "Ah, I do not want to worry Luna…" says Moon, drawing his brows in. "I would not want to worry her either. Now that you understand, please get out of bed and follow me. I will assist you in preparations for the day," says Lyrical, turning and walking towards the door. However, Lyrical suddenly stops as her ears twitch at the sound of a loud thump. She turns her head, seeing Moon lying flat on his face while his hooves were tangled by his blanket. "Are you okay?" asks Lyrical. Moon lifts his head, blinking. "Ah, forgive me, Lyrical. I did not mean to startle thee…" "It's fine," says Lyrical, sighing. "But you should be more careful next time. It would be troubling if you were to injure yourself." "Forgive me…" says Moon, hanging his head. "It's fine," says Lyrical. Her horn begins to glow pink, covering the tangled blanket around Moon's hooves in the same aura, which disappears in a flash of light and appears on Moon's bed, neatly tucked away. "Interesting…" says Moon, blinking his eyes. "It's only a simple spell. It's not something that you should be impressed by," says Lyrical. "Nay," says Moon, shaking his head. "There are many things in this world that I wish to learn. 'Tis why I am truly glad to be able to walk upon it," he says with a smile. "I see…" says Lyrical. Maybe this is why Luna has spoken highly of him. "Lyrical, is something troubling thee?" asks Moon, tilting his head. "No, it's nothing," says Lyrical, shaking her head. "But more importantly, Moon, we must hurry. Luna is awaiting our arrival." "Aye," says Moon, pushing himself up with his hooves. "However, Lyrical, what preparations must we prepare for the day?" Upon Moon's question, Lyrical's eyes move from Moon's unbrushed coat to his curly mane. "Lyrical?" says Moon, blinking. "Oh, don't worry. Leave everything to me," says Lyrical with a glint in her eyes. ________________________________________ "U-um, sorry, Sun…" says Melody, rubbing her arm with a hoof. "I guess I kind of went too far…" "'Tis fine…" says Sun, placing a hoof on the side of his cheek. "Though 'brushing the teeth' is quite unpleasant…" "A-anyway, let's hurry! Tia and the others are waiting for us!" says Melody, quickly turning and trotting. "Aye," says Sun, nodding. Melody and Sun walk through the vast castle, passing halls with a large display of windows on the side of the walls, showing the city of Canterlot as the purple rooftops of buildings glitter while spiraling towers of gold reflect the warm sunlight under the blue sky. "Isn't it amazing?" asks Melody, stopping as she gazes through the windows. "I never get tired of this view." "Aye," says Sun, stopping behind Melody, and staring at the city below. "Words cannot describe it." "Right?" says Melody, her eyes growing soft with a smile. "And to think Tia was keeping this place safe for a thousand years by herself. Well, until Lulu came back." "Aye…" says Sun, drawing his brows together. "Hmm?" says Melody, facing Sun. "Hey, what's wrong?" she asks, wrinkling her brows. "Did I say something weird?" "Does that mean Celestia and Luna were not by each other's side for that period of time?" asks Sun, lifting his head, and staring at Melody with watery eyes. "Oh… yeah. It's not exactly a happy story, now that you mention it…" says Melody, drooping her shoulders. "But don't you already know about it?" "Aye…" says Sun, frowning. "And which I have come to know that Celestia is the same as I…" he says, walking ahead. Wh-what? What did he mean by that? thinks Melody with wide eyes. She then quickly faces Sun. "Wait! What did you mean-" "Melody, we must hurry, correct?" asks Sun, tilting his head. "U-uh, yeah, that's right!" says Melody with a smile. I guess it's best if I don't ask him. After all, it's probably something he doesn't want to talk about… "Melody, is this perhaps the correct path?" asks Sun, pointing a hoof. "Ah, wait, Sun! That's the wrong way!" says Melody, running ahead. As Melody and Sun walk through the large white halls of Canterlot Castle, they occasionally pass by maids using cloths, covered in a similar light to the maids' lit horns, which are seen in the air as it wipes the large windows throughout the halls, while other maids are seen with a pair of a broom and dustpan, sweeping away the long halls of the castle. However, upon seeing Sun, the maids' lit horns quickly lose their glow, causing their tools to drop to the floor as they stare with wide eyes and flushed cheeks. Hmm… thinks Melody, her eyes looking to her side on Sun. Well, looking at him now, I guess it's obvious that any mare would find him to their tastes. But I never thought it was to the point that some maids almost dropped those expensive pieces of glass for the castle's windows. It's a good thing I was there… she thinks, sighing. "Melody, are we perhaps there?" asks Sun. "Huh? Oh! Yeah, we're almost there. Just around this corner," says Melody. "I see…" says Sun with drool seeping to the sides of his mouth. "You really want that bread, huh?" asks Melody, raising a brow. "Aye," says Sun, smiling. Hehe. It's funny how Tia's the same when it comes to one of her favorite treats, thinks Melody with a small smile. "Well, don't worry. I'm sure there's a lot for you-" "Oh, Melody, you just got back from your vacation?" asks a voice. "Huh?" says Melody, facing the voice. Her eyes come upon a white pony with dark circles under his eyes, sitting to the side of a two-golden door. "Oh, hey, Highwind. And yeah, I just got back early this morning. But… what's wrong? Didn't get enough sleep?" she asks, raising a brow. "Don't worry about it…" says Highwind, rubbing a hoof under his eye. "Oh, and why did your cold-hearted sister tell me to come here, even though I'm so busy with the Royal Guard." "Hey, she's not that cold!" says Melody, stomping a hoof. "Anyway, Tia and Lulu wanted you to come here, and told Lyrical to go find you." "Oh, that's why," says Highwind, sighing. "Anyway, good morning, Your Highness," he says, facing Sun. It's because of you and Prince Moon's so-called 'gratitude' that I couldn't sleep! "Good… morning, Highwind. Forgive me, but is this 'good morning' thou speakest of perhaps the same as goodnight?" asks Sun, tilting his head. Great! Here's the first question of the day! thinks Highwind, sighing. "Yes, Your Highness, but just remember that it's used early in the day. Oh, there's good afternoon as well, but it's used during the middle of the day when… well, you'll know when to use it when the Sun is really high up in the sky," he says, rubbing his head with a hoof. Well, there's good evening as well, but I'm too lazy to explain it… "I see…" says Sun, nodding. "Perhaps I should let Moon know this." Yeah, you do that. That will save me the trouble, thinks Highwind, rolling his eyes. "U-uh, Highwind, not to butt in and all, but why were you explaining something so, well, common?" asks Melody, blinking. "Oh, that's right. You don't know about Prince Sun and Prince Moon's situation…" says Highwind, rubbing a hoof down his face. "Um, yeah. I mean, I just met this guy," says Melody, poking a hoof to Sun's side. "Should I know about something?" "It's not my right to say anything, and I bet the princesses would rather explain it themselves," says Highwind. "Oh, Tia did say that…" says Melody, tapping her chin with a hoof. "Then why ask me about it?" asks Highwind, raising a brow. "Oops, forgot," says Melody, hitting herself softly on the head with a hoof, winking, and sticking her tongue out. Annoying… thinks Highwind, frowning. "Highwind, forgive me, but where is Moon?" asks Sun, wrinkling his brows. "Oh, he's not here yet, Your Highness. Don't worry, I'm sure he'll be here soon," says Highwind, smiling. "You know, smiling with your eyes like that is kind of creepy…" says Melody, shivering. "Shut it!" says Highwind, glaring. "Anyway, knowing Lyrical, I thought she would be here first," says Melody, rubbing a hoof to her head. "She's the type to-" "MELODY!" says three voices, echoing throughout the hall. Melody, Highwind, and Sun face the voices, seeing three familiar mares in a black and white dress running towards them. As the three mares close in, they suddenly jump towards Melody with their hooves in front of them. "GAH!" says Melody as she and the three mares skid across the carpet floor. "Why is it always like this?" asks Highwind, sighing. Sun tilts his head at the four mares below him; a yellow mare, nuzzling against Melody's face, a lime mare, nuzzling against Melody's neck, and a blue mare with tears flowing down her cheeks as she rubs her face against Melody's chest. "Melody, you're finally back!" says the yellow mare. "It's nice to see you too, Vera," says Melody, rubbing a hoof over Vera's mane. "You were gone for too long!" says the lime mare, glaring. "Truce, we were only gone for a month," says Melody, raising a brow. "I don't care! Make it shorter next time!" says Truce, pouting. "Welcome back, Melody," says the blue mare, smiling, and wiping her tears with a hoof. "Thanks, Risky," says Melody with a smile. "Eh-hem," says Highwind, coughing into a hoof. "Not to ruin the moment and all, but would you guys stop it?" "Don't be such a buzzkill, Highwind!" says Truce, glaring. "Yeah, why should we?" asks Vera, narrowing her eyes. Highwind rolls his eyes. "I know you guys are happy to see Melody, but don't just ignore our more important guest," he says, pointing a hoof. Following Highwind's hoof, Vera, Truce, and Risky see Sun staring down at them, which their eyes shrink as they quickly stand to their hooves. "U-um, good morning, Prince Sun!" says Vera, grinning. "S-sorry! We didn't see you there…" says Truce, rubbing a hoof behind her head. "We're just happy to see Melody after so long," says Risky with watery eyes. "Do not apologize. I understand that thou hast longed to see Melody because I wish to see Moon as well," says Sun, smiling. "Speaking of Prince Moon, where is he, Your Highness?" asks Vera, blinking. "I… do not know…" says Sun, frowning. "Oh, don't worry, Sun. Moon's probably with Lyrical now because Lulu sent her to get him," says Melody, standing to her hooves. "Oh great… I forgot that since Melody's back, the evil sister should be here too…" says Truce, biting a hoof. "H-hey, Lyrical's not that bad!" says Melody, stomping a hoof. "She's just too shy to admit her-" "Admit my what?" asks a voice. Highwind, Vera, Truce, and Risky shudder at the voice, which they crane their heads, seeing a familiar dark mare. "Oh, hi, Lyrical!" says Melody, waving a hoof. "We were just talking about your- BLEH!" she grunts as Lyrical hits her on the head with a hoof. Vera, Truce, and Risky quickly cuddle, holding each other with their hooves as their bodies tremble. "Will Melody be all right?" asks Sun, drawing his brows in. "Don't worry, it's always like this…" says Highwind, sighing. "Ow! Lyrical, that hurts…" says Melody with tears in her eyes. "Then don't make up any lies about me," says Lyrical. "What?" says Melody, blinking. "But-" "Do I have to repeat myself?" asks Lyrical, clenching a hoof. "N-no, sorry…" says Melody, hanging her head. "Now that my annoying older sister is quiet, I see that we have quite the crowd here. Is there any reason for that, Highwind?" asks Lyrical. "H-hey, I just came here like you asked, so don't drag me into this!" says Highwind, his face dripping with sweat. "And what about you three?" asks Lyrical, facing Vera, Truce, and Risky. "W-we just came to say hi to Melody!" says Vera, smiling as sweat runs down her face. "Y-yeah, that's all!" says Truce, quickly nodding her head. "Um, it's g-good to see you again, Lyrical…" says Risky with a wide grin. "The same to you three as well," says Lyrical, nodding. She then faces Sun. "You must be Sun, correct?" "Aye, and thou art Lyrical, I presume?" asks Sun, tilting his head. "Yes," says Lyrical, nodding. "Greetings, though forgive me, but where is Moon?" asks Sun, frowning. "Ah, he should be behind me," says Lyrical, turning around, seeing nopony in sight. "Please wait a moment, Sun," she says, walking ahead before turning a corner, and waving a hoof. "I'm over here." "Ah, forgive me, Lyrical. The view of Canterlot is most interesting," says a familiar voice. "It's fine, but please do not wander off next time. However, it seems there's somepony waiting to see you," says Lyrical, taking a few steps back, and pointing a hoof. Appearing from the corner of the hall, a blue alicorn steps out in sight, gazing at Sun with wide eyes. "Moon…" says Sun, smiling with a radiant glow in his eyes. "Sun…" says Moon, smiling with a watery gaze. He then slowly walks up to Sun, lifting his face as his muzzle is within reach of Sun's. "We are together once more…" Slowly, Sun presses his head against Moon's as they gaze into each other's eyes. "Moon, I missed thee…" says Sun. "Thou missed me?" asks Moon, blinking. "As we parted ways, I did not understand, but… Celestia explained that the discomfort I felt is because I wished to see thee, to stand by thy side once more…" says Sun, wrinkling his brows. Moon frowns, saying, "Forgive me, Sun. Even though I told thee to follow Highwind to thy room, it pained me to see thee leave. It seems that I missed thee as well…" "But now we are together, and I wish to tell thee of what I learned," says Sun, smiling. "Aye, and I wish to do the same," says Moon with a smile. Looking at Sun and Moon, Highwind had a hoof over his face, while Vera, Truce, Risky, and Melody's mouths were on the floor. However, Lyrical watches from afar in silence. Those two… I can't believe they're doing it again! thinks Highwind, removing his hoof from his face with flushed cheeks. "Wh-wh-what's going on? Wh-why are they so close to each other?" asks Vera, her face brightening as red creeps from her chin to the tip of her ears. "Forget that! I want them to do that to me too!" says Truce, biting the neck area of her dress and stretching it. "Oh my…" says Risky, covering her bright red face with her hooves, but peeks through the gap between her hooves. Lyrical taps her chin with a hoof. "Maybe it's because they're lover-" "NO!" says Melody, quickly putting a hoof over Lyrical's mouth. "Don't make it more confusing than it already is!" "Will you guys be quiet!" says Highwind, stomping a hoof. He then walks past the mares, stopping in front of Sun and Moon. "Prince Sun, it was only just for the night, but now you're back with Prince Moon again. It wasn't that long, right?" he asks with a smile. "Aye," says Sun, smiling. "However, Highwind, 'twas thee that helped in my time of need. And for that, thank you." "O-oh, it was nothing…" says Highwind, turning and rubbing the back of his head with a hoof. Wait, did he say thank you? Uh-oh… he thinks, his eyes shrinking. "Prince Sun, wait! There's no need to thank-" Highwind's eyes widen at the soft touch of Sun's lips pressing against his cheek. He then looks up, his eyes meeting Sun's gentle gaze as his cheeks turn red. Moon smiles, however, Lyrical, again, quietly watches from the side, while Vera, Truce, Risky, and Melody's mouths, this time, drop on the floor, cracking it. Ugh! I can't believe I forgot all about that! thinks Highwind. Oh no! Those girls might misunderstand something! he thinks, his face dripping with sweat. He quickly turns around, only to come face to face with Truce, the latter, glaring at him with lifeless eyes. "W-wait, Truce! I can expla-" "Why do you get a kiss from one of the two hottest ponies in Equestria!" says Truce, wrapping her hooves around Highwind's neck tightly. "Oh, I get it! You just wanted to do all the favors for them, so you can keep all the kisses for yourself!" "Highwind, is that true?" asks Vera with a cold gaze. "Wow, I didn't know you swing that way, Highwind…" says Melody, shuddering. "S-sorry, Highwind, I don't know what to say…" says Risky, averting her gaze. "Death sentence," says Lyrical, sliding a hoof across her neck. "W-wait, what! No!" says Highwind, putting his hooves on Truce's, struggling from her grip. She's really trying to kill me! Sun frowns as he stops next to Truce and Highwind, placing a hoof over Truce's. "Forgive me, little one, I believe we have not met." "Huh?" says Truce, looking up. "O-oh, Your Highness, I guess I didn't introduce myself before," she says, releasing her grip on Highwind's neck. S-saved! thinks Highwind, putting a hoof around his neck, and gasping. "And what is thy name?" asks Sun. "It's T-Truce…" she says, circling a hoof over the floor with red cheeks. "Greetings, Truce. However, 'tis I that should apologize to thee…" says Sun, furrowing his brows. "Wh-what for?" asks Truce, blinking. "It seems that I have caused much trouble for Highwind, and I do not wish to see Highwind harmed," says Sun. "N-no, it's not your fault, Your Highness. I guess I went a little too far…" says Truce, rubbing a hoof behind her head. "A little?" says Highwind, raising a brow. "Will you shut it!" says Truce, glaring. She quickly faces Sun again. "A-anyway, it's me who should apologize," she says, smiling. "Thank you," says Sun, placing his lips over Truce's cheek. Truce's eyes change into heart shapes. "I can finally die happy," she says, sighing. "See, Truce, you finally got what you asked for," says Risky, smiling. "I wouldn't be too sure about that," says Vera, giggling. "About what?" asks Risky, blinking. "Well, look," says Vera, pointing a hoof. "Uh, okay?" says Risky, looking to her side, only to see blue. She slowly looks up, meeting a pair of ice blue eyes. "P-Prince Moon, do you n-need something?" she asks with wide eyes. "If I remember, thou art the pony that had given me a towel, correct?" asks Moon, tilting his head. "Y-yes, Your Highness!" says Risky, nodding her head quickly. "I still have yet to hear thy name," says Moon. "I-it's Risky!" she says as her breathing grows heavy. "Risky, I see. Now then…" says Moon, placing his lips on Risky's cheek. Oh dear, oh dear, oh dear, oh dear! thinks Risky, her face coloring into a bright red. She gapes as Moon pulls his lips away, gazing at her with gentle eyes. "Thank you…" says Moon, smiling. "Y-you're welcome…" says Risky, covering her red face with her hooves. "Aren't you glad you got one too, Risky?" asks Vera, chuckling. "Y-yes…" says Risky, placing a hoof over her cheek. "And what is thy name, little one?" asks Moon, facing Vera. "Indeed. Moon and I have yet to hear thy name," says Sun. "Oh, I'm Vera! Sorry that we forgot to tell you our names before…" she says, rubbing her arm with a hoof. "'Tis fine," says Moon, smiling. "And greetings, Vera," says Sun with a smile. "Hehe…" says Vera, rubbing the back of her head with a hoof. "It's nice to meet you both-" "Hey, Vera. Mind explaining about the whole, you know, kisses earlier?" asks Melody, raising a brow. Lyrical nods her head. "Oh, about that…" says Vera with red cheeks, and rubbing her arm with a hoof. "It's just Prince Sun and Prince Moon's way-" "I'm guessing that's the princes' way of thanking somepony," says a sudden voice. Quickly looking at the voice, a green eye peeks through the gap between the slightly open doors behind them. The two gold doors quickly shroud itself in a green light, creaking across the floor, revealing a green mare walking out before the doors behind her closes. "Wiseheart!" says Vera, running before wrapping her hooves around Wiseheart. "It's nice to see you too, Vera," says Wiseheart with a chuckle. "How long were you there?" asks Melody, raising a brow. "Oh, you know, from the whole 'kissy thing' with Highwind, Truce, and Risky," says Wiseheart with a smirk. "Then you were there this whole time…" says Melody, sighing. "H-how was your vacation?" asks Risky with bright red cheeks. Please forget about that embarrassing thing… "It was nice since Melody and Lyrical were with me. Well, except that Melody was always trying out different foods and getting an upset stomach," says Wiseheart, sighing. "But it was so good!" says Melody with a grin. Lyrical rolls her eyes. "Anyway, Highwind, what are you doing?" asks Wiseheart, raising a brow. "Oh, don't mind me…" says Highwind, waving a hoof while pressing his head against the wall in front of him. Now rumors will spread about me and the princes… "Truce, hi!" says Wiseheart, waving a hoof. "Kisses…" says Truce with a deep sigh. Wiseheart rolls her eyes. "And last but not least, Sun and Moon. I'm Doctor Wiseheart, but please just call me Wiseheart. It's nice to finally meet you both," she says, bowing her head. "Greetings, Wiseheart," says Moon, smiling. Sun nods his head, smiling. "Tia and Lulu have told me a lot of you both," says Wiseheart, smiling. "Lulu?" says Moon, blinking. "Oh, about that. Moon, lower your head for me a bit," says Melody. "Aye," says Moon, lowering his head. Melody then whispers into Moon's ear. "I see…" says Moon, nodding. "Do that, okay?" asks Melody with a grin. "Aye," says Moon, smiling. "Hey, what did you just tell him?" asks Lyrical, glaring. "Nothing," says Melody, whistling. "Don't blame me for whatever happens," says Lyrical, sighing. "Anyway, everypony, Tia and Lulu are waiting in the dining room, and there's much to explain about Sun and Moon," says Wiseheart. "What about me, Risky, and Truce?" asks Vera. "Of course! I already asked Tia and Lulu since I heard you three behind the door," says Wiseheart, smiling. "Sweet! That means no cleaning for the day!" says Truce, clapping her hooves. "Do you want more work to do?" asks Lyrical, raising a brow. "I-I mean, after hearing from Princess Celestia and Princess Luna!" says Truce, her face dripping with sweat. "Anyway, everypony, follow me!" says Wiseheart. Wiseheart's horn begins to glow green, shrouding the two gold doors behind her in a similar light as it creaks across the floor. Opening in full view, Wiseheart walks through, while Sun, Moon, and the others follow behind. In the dining room, a chandelier hangs from the ceiling as a long and wide table sits in the middle of the room, layered with a wide display of pastries across the table. However, sitting at the sides of the end of the table were two alicorns; one with a rainbow mane and another with a flowing purple mane, sitting in wait with a smile. "Tia, Lulu, we're here!" says Wiseheart with a grin. "Hello, everypony," says Celestia, smiling. "Wiseheart, would you please stop calling me that," says Luna, glaring. "But it's so adorable!" says Wiseheart, giggling. "Right?" says Melody with a grin. "Why me?" asks Luna, sighing. "Now then, please make yourselves comfortable, since Luna and I have a lot to explain," says Celestia, gesturing a hoof. "And there's plenty of food to go around," says Luna, smiling. "Come on, girls!" says Vera, licking her mouth before running ahead. "Vera, don't you dare go for those crème puffs! I saw them first!" says Truce, running ahead. "Please wait!" says Risky, running ahead, only to fall flat on her face. She quickly jumps onto her hooves, shaking her head, before running again. "Honestly, those three don't have any manners…" says Highwind, trotting ahead with a sigh. "Please save some of those crème puffs for me too!" says Wiseheart, which the green glow over her horn fades as the doors behind her closes. She then trots towards the dining table. "Please settle down, everypony. There will be more," says Celestia with a chuckle. She then faces Sun. "Sun, please sit next to me. There's something I want to show you." "And you too, Moon," says Luna with a smile. "Aye," says Moon, smiling. Sun nods his head. Sitting next to their respective alicorns, Sun and Moon look over the variety of pastries across the table, however, their faces begin to turn into frowns. "Moon, is this what you were looking for?" asks Luna, pushing a plate of blueberry donuts with a hoof. Moon's eyes begin to widen. "Aye," he says, drooling. "Thought so," says Luna with a small laugh. "Sun, as for what I said before, here's the bread I promised," says Celestia, pushing a plate of banana bread with a hoof. Sun and Moon quickly lower their heads, taking a huge bite from their respected pastries. They close their eyes, chewing their food with a smile on their faces. "Tia, Lulu, aren't those your favorites?" asks Melody, tilting her head. "Well, yes, but now it seems there's somepony else who enjoys them as much as me," says Celestia, facing Sun with a soft smile. "And I'm really glad to be able to meet him," says Luna, facing Moon with a soft glow in her eyes. "Luna, is there something that you and your sister wanted to discuss with us?" asks Lyrical. "Ah, about that," says Luna, tapping her chin with a hoof. "Tia and I wish to tell you all about Moon and Sun's-" "Lulu, is there perhaps more of these?" asks Moon with a donut on his hoof. "Forgive me, but I wish to have more of this bread, Tia," says Sun before lowering his head and taking another bite of his pastry. "T-Tia?" says Celestia, blinking with red cheeks. "Moon, wh-what did you just call me?" asks Luna, glaring with bright red cheeks. Sun swallows before saying, "Is it fine to call thee Tia?" he asks, tilting his head. "And I wish to call thee Lulu," says Moon, smiling. "NO! I-I mean, Moon, please don't call me that!" says Luna, her face turning red as a cherry. It's really embarrassing when you're the one who's saying it! "Sun, p-please do the same. However, did somepony convince you to do this?" asks Celestia, her face as bright as an apple. "Aye," says Sun, nodding. "Who?" asks Luna, glaring. "'Twas Melody," says Moon, pointing a hoof. Looking at the said pony, Celestia and Luna glare while baring their teeth. "Uh-oh…" says Melody, her eyes shrinking as sweat drips from her brows. "Nothing, you said," says Lyrical, rolling her eyes. "I-it was only a joke, hehe…" says Melody, rubbing her head with a hoof. "And a joke I won't take too kindly…" says Luna, clenching a hoof. "Melody, after this is over, I want to have a word with you…" says Celestia, tapping the table with a hoof. "Well, it was all worth it in the end!" says Melody, grinning. Not to mention the look on Tia and Lulu's faces! Celestia and Luna sigh before each pushing another plate of their favorite pastries to Sun and Moon, which they quickly take a bite and chew with a smile once more. "Now then, everypony, as to what I was going to say before, I will now explain about Sun and Moon," says Luna. "Oh, are they from some other place we haven't heard about before?" asks Vera with beaming eyes. "Or maybe they're searching for a special somepony, so they can bring them back with them to their own kingdom!" says Truce, clapping her hooves. "No," says Luna with a bitter smile. "Aww…" says Vera and Truce, hanging their heads. "U-um, I never saw ponies like Prince Sun and Prince Moon before, and they are the first alicorns I've seen that are stallions," says Risky. "A very good point, Risky," says Luna, smiling. "It's because they are the first ones my sister and I have actually met." "Wow, really?" asks Melody, blinking. "However, Sun and Moon are much more than it meets the eye," says Celestia, furrowing her brows. Highwind droops his shoulders, while Wiseheart lowers her head with wet eyes. "I'm guessing it's something not very happy," says Lyrical. "Unfortunately, yes," says Luna, wrinkling her brows. "That's why Tia and I are about to share this because we believe you all will be able to help them in the future." "Then lay it on us! I'm sure we're ready to handle it!" says Melody with a wide smile. "I'm sure you all will," says Celestia, smiling. "Now then, let's start from when Luna and I first met Sun and Moon…" ________________________________________ "WAHHHHH!" says Melody, tears spraying from her eyes like a fountain. "I-I wasn't ready for that!" "Wh-what kind of story is that?" asks Vera, wiping away a large stream of tears from her eyes with both hooves. "Th-that's way too cruel!" "H-how could anypony go through a life like that!" says Truce, grabbing a napkin from the table with a hoof and blowing her nose into it. "I-it's much sadder than any story I've heard when I was a filly!" "I-I don't know what to say…" says Risky, tears falling from her face into a small puddle on the table below. "Melody, stop crying. You're getting my mane wet," says Lyrical, pushing her sister away with a hoof. "B-but I can't!" says Melody, wrapping her hooves around Lyrical. "It's just so sad!" "W-well, I can understand…" says Wiseheart, wiping her tears away with a napkin. "When I heard about what Sun and Moon went through, I couldn't help but cry myself…" "Yeah, just hearing it again is still a lot to take in…" says Highwind with teary eyes. "Everypony, just take a moment to calm yourselves," says Celestia with a small smile. "But, Tia, Moon and Sun really did go through a lot…" says Luna, facing Moon, the latter, taking another bite from a donut on his hoof, which his lips were covered with glaze. "I know. It really does make our past seem small in comparison to theirs…" says Celestia, facing Sun, the latter, with crumbs of bread over his cheeks as he chews. "Um, Princess Celestia, Princess Luna, is it all right to tell us about this?" asks Vera, drawing her brows together. "Yeah, I mean, it sounds like something that shouldn't be made light of, especially how rumors tend to spread like wildfire in Equestria…" says Truce, rubbing her head with a hoof. "Fair point. I wouldn't want ponies all over the place talking about my life's story…" says Highwind, frowning. "I bet it's boring anyway," says Truce, smirking. "I agree," says Lyrical, nodding. "This is why I hate you both the most!" says Highwind, baring his teeth. "Anyway, excluding that Twilight and her friends already know of Sun and Moon's situation, Luna and I have discussed this and it seems like it was a better idea to tell a few select ponies for now," says Celestia. "But why us? I can understand Wiseheart since she is a doctor that specializes in alicorns," says Melody, blinking. "Melody, you're my personal maid, and a friend I have known for years now. It's because of this that I trust you completely, and I wish for you to do the same for Sun," says Celestia, smiling. "Hehe…" says Melody, her cheeks turning red as she rubs the back of her head with a hoof. "The same for you, Lyrical. It may not have been as long as Tia and Melody, but ever since I came back to Canterlot, you were amongst the first ponies to stay by my side. Please treat Moon the same as you did with me," says Luna, smiling. "I would be honored," says Lyrical with a small smile. "Highwind, though you already know of Sun and Moon's past, since Shining Armor appointed you as his second in command of the Royal Guard here at Canterlot, you've been loyal and exceeded Luna and my expectations time and time again. That's why I hope for you to give some guidance to Sun and Moon when they need it," says Celestia, smiling. "I would be glad to help, Your Highness!" says Highwind, puffing his chest out and saluting. But I hope I don't have to teach Prince Sun and Prince Moon things like how to use the bathroom or to wash themselves again… "Vera, Truce, Risky…" says Luna, facing the said ponies. "Yes, Princess Luna?" asks Vera, Truce, and Risky. "Out of all the maids that Lyrical and Melody are in charge of, you three have shown much promise," says Luna. "Really?" says Vera and Truce with beaming eyes. "In what way?" asks Risky, fidgeting with her hooves. "The friendship between you three rivals that of Twilight Sparkle and her friends. That's why Tia and I are wondering if you three would help Sun and Moon in the future," says Luna. "Sure!" says Vera, clapping her hooves. "I would be glad to help," says Risky with a small smile. "Well, I do want more kisses, hehe…" says Truce, grinning with reddish cheeks. "And what about me? Do I get a very emotional speech too?" asks Wiseheart, raising a brow. "No," says Celestia with a smirk. "Tia and I have no words for the pony that we owe our lives to," says Luna, chuckling. "You know me well," says Wiseheart, raising her head high. Everypony in the room laughs, except for Sun and Moon who were still chewing with a smile on their faces while rows of stacks of plates were lined up next to them. "Moon, your face is dirty again…" says Luna, sighing. Her horn glows in a blue light as a napkin from the table lifts itself up in a blue light, and flies to Moon's face, wiping away the glazes from his lips and cheeks. "Sun, slow down. There's still more bread," says Celestia with a small smile. Her horn glows in a yellow light as a napkin in a similar light flies to Sun, wiping away the crumbs from his cheeks and lips. "Ah, thank you, Luna," says Moon, pressing his lips against Luna's cheek. He then pulls away, facing Luna with a smile. "Celestia, thank you as well," says Sun, pressing his lips against Celestia's cheek. He also pulls away, facing Celestia with a gentle smile. "O-oh, you're welcome…" says Luna, her face turning red as she fidgets with her hooves. "I-it's the least I could do…" says Celestia, averting her gaze with a small shade of red in her cheeks. "Oh-ho! This is the first time I've seen Tia and Lulu this close to another stallion," says Wiseheart, smirking. "It looks like Cadance won't be the only alicorn that has a special somepony now," says Melody, giggling. "They're a match made from the stars themselves," says Lyrical, nodding. "I can hear the wedding bells ringing!" says Vera with a wide grin. "They would make a perfect couple," says Risky, smiling. "Aww, I want a kiss too!" says Truce, biting a hoof. Ugh, mares… thinks Highwind, rolling his eyes. "I-it's not like that!" says Luna, stomping a hoof. "Moon is important to me, b-but not in that kind of way!" "Aye, Luna is important to me as well," says Moon, smiling. "Oh, but Moon thinks of you in the same way," says Wiseheart, smirking. "MOON, BE QUIET!" says Luna, glaring with red reaching the tip of her ears as bright as a cherry. "Everypony, please don't tease me and my sister," says Celestia, sighing. "And what do you think of Sun, Tia?" asks Wiseheart with a small smile. "He is somepony that I can relate to in many ways, and somepony I can talk to as equals, but that is all," says Celestia. "And what about you, Sun? What do you think of Tia?" asks Wiseheart. "Celestia has taught me many things about this world and myself. 'Tis for that reason I wish to be of some use and to stand by Celestia's side," says Sun with a small smile. "Wow! That almost sounds like a proposal to me!" says Melody, giggling. "Tia, Sun's opinion of you is very honest. That's a plus in my book," says Wiseheart with a chuckle. Celestia lowers her head, staring at the table below with bright red cheeks. "Anyway, all jokes aside, there are some things I want to know," says Wiseheart. "And that is?" asks Luna, blinking. "How old are Sun and Moon? How are they able to speak in that manner without raising their voice? Many things," says Wiseheart. "And how will you do that?" asks Truce, tilting her head. "I'll show you, but I need Sun and Moon's permission if that's all right with the both of you?" asks Wiseheart. "Aye," says Moon, smiling. "Of course," says Sun, nodding. "Great!" says Wiseheart, standing to her hooves. She then walks towards Moon, stopping in front of him. "Moon, please lower your head for me." Nodding, Moon lowers his head, while Wiseheart closes her eyes and presses her horn against Moon's. Soon, Wiseheart's horn begins to glow green before covering Moon's entire body in the same light. "Um, what's she doing?" asks Vera, blinking. "It looks like some kind of scanning magic," says Highwind, rubbing his head with a hoof. "Close, but it's entirely different," says Celestia. "Then what kind of magic is it?" asks Risky. "Apparently, Wiseheart covers her patients' bodies in her magic, which allows her to see these colorful lights," says Luna. "And what are these 'colorful lights'?" asks Truce, tilting her head. "The lights show information about her patients' bodies through various colors, but it's a unique type of magic that only Wiseheart can use," says Celestia. "But why doesn't she use it on other ponies in the castle? I'm sure it would be easier for her," says Vera, tapping her chin with a hoof. "She once tested it, but the pony who volunteered fell asleep for a whole day. However, alicorns are different since their bodies tend to hold a much larger amount of magic than normal ponies," says Celestia. "It's this very reason why Tia and I decided for her to be our personal doctor, especially for other alicorns like Twilight Sparkle and Cadance," says Luna. "Wow, that's kind of cool…" says Truce with wide eyes. Afterward, the green light around Moon's body fades away as Wiseheart opens her eyes. "That's strange…" says Wiseheart, rubbing her head with a hoof. "Is something wrong with Moon?" asks Luna, wrinkling her brows. "I'm not sure, but I want to check Sun's body too," says Wiseheart, walking towards the said pony. "Sun, please lower your head." "Aye," says Sun, lowering his head. "It'll last a few seconds," says Wiseheart, pressing her horn against Sun's, which his body begins to glow in a green light. She then opens her eyes, blinking. "Okay, now that's weird…" "Will Sun and Moon be okay?" asks Celestia, drawing her brows in. "Oh, they're fine all right. But the thing is, despite their appearances, Sun and Moon are actually… newborns…" says Wiseheart, rubbing her head with a hoof. "WHAT!" shouts everypony in the room, while Sun and Moon tilt their heads. "Surely you jest, Wiseheart," says Luna, blinking. "Oh, believe me, I'm not," says Wiseheart, pointing a hoof to Sun and Moon. "In fact, as of today, those two are now two days old." "But what about their appearances? They don't look like newborns," says Celestia. "That's what boggles me. Sun and Moon may be two days old, but their bodies are already matured for their age," says Wiseheart. "Honestly, I'm not even surprised anymore. I mean, they are the 'Sun and Moon.' What else is there to know?" asks Highwind, shrugging. "Oh, the fact there's nothing in Equestria that compares to their mental state," says Wiseheart, raising a brow. "Come again?" asks Highwind, blinking. "It's frightening, but…" Wiseheart trails off, facing Sun and Moon with tears flowing down her cheeks. "Seeing as they were in the stars, I can't imagine how they were able to stay sane after so long…" Looking at Sun and Moon, Celestia and Luna begin to frown. "O-oh…" says Highwind, hanging his head. "However, I did find something else," says Wiseheart, wiping away her tears with a hoof, and smiles. "They're siblings." "Oh yeah! I was wondering if they were related or not! But thanks for telling us!" says Melody with a grin. "Oh, but here's my favorite part!" says Wiseheart, tapping a hoof to Sun's neck. "Have you all wondered how Sun and Moon are talking without yelling all the time?" "Yeah, it's kind of weird, now that you mention it," says Vera, tapping her chin with a hoof. "They're actually using magic that gives their voice that soft echo you hear all the time!" says Wiseheart, clapping her hooves. "Isn't it just a simple amplify spell then?" asks Luna, blinking. "Yes, but it's quite different. There's some kind of powerful magic inside their throat that won't weaken over time," says Wiseheart, rubbing her head with a hoof. "But, Tia, Lulu, if you're considering trying to disperse that magic, don't." "Why?" asks Celestia, wrinkling her brows. "Even I'm not sure what might happen…" says Wiseheart, furrowing her brows. "Even so," says Luna, facing Moon. "Moon, at least you're on your way to learning magic now," she says, smiling. "Aye," says Moon with a smile. "But I do want to try this magic myself…" says Luna as her horn begins to glow blue, covering her neck in a similar light before fading away. "Now then, everypony, how do I sound now?" "Wow, that's amazing, Princess Luna! You're talking like Moon and Sun!" says Truce, clapping her hooves. "I'm impressed that you were able to figure out that sort of magic so quickly," says Wiseheart, blinking. "Well, I am a princess, and I should be capable of this," says Luna, raising her head. Celestia rolls her eyes. "Eh-hem," says Luna, coughing into a hoof before facing Moon. "What dost thou think, Moon? I am now speaking in the same manner as thee," she says with a smile. "Thou art speaking as thou hast spoken then. A time that I recall when thou were in the Moon. 'Tis that very day that I truly am glad to meet thee, Luna," says Moon, smiling with a soft glow in his eyes. "Wh-wh-what are you saying!" says Luna as red rises from her chin to her ears. "I-it's me who should say that…" she says, tapping her hooves together. "Honestly, you're so adorable when you're embarrassed, Lulu," says Celestia with a giggle. "Stop teasing me, Tia! And you called me by that name again!" says Luna, baring her teeth. "Aww, don't worry, Lulu! You and Moon can go flirt more afterward!" says Melody with a chuckle. "Ugh!" says Luna, stomping a hoof. "I hate you both- OW!" she says, rubbing her neck with a hoof. "Luna, what's wrong?" asks Lyrical, frowning. "I'm not sure, but hold on…" says Luna as her horn begins to glow blue, covering her neck in a similar light before fading away once more. "Oh, now I see. Using this kind of magic puts a strain on your throat." "If that's true, then it's surprising how Moon and Sun are still using that kind of magic," says Wiseheart. "Celestia, couldst thou perhaps use the same magic as Luna?" asks Sun. "Well, yes, but why do you ask?" asks Celestia, blinking. "Forgive me, but I wish to hear thee speaking in the same manner," says Sun, smiling. "Oh, nice one, Sun!" says Melody, clapping her hooves. "Tia, I'd like to see that too!" "I'm sorry, Sun, but I would like to pass on that…" says Celestia, rubbing her arm with a hoof. "'Tis fine…" says Sun, hanging his head. "Oh, don't be like that, Tia. It's just a small favor," says Wiseheart with a small smile. "And it's been many, many years since I last heard you speaking in the royal voice. It would be nice to hear it again," says Luna, smiling. "I want to hear it," says Lyrical. "Oh, oh, me too!" says Vera with a smile. "Just once won't hurt, Princess Celestia!" says Truce with a grin. "I would like to hear it too," says Risky, smiling. "What's wrong with you guys!" says Highwind, glaring. "If Princess Celestia says she doesn't want to, then don't force her-" "I'll dump a bucket of ice water over you when you're sleeping from now on," says Lyrical with cold eyes. "O-oh, uh, on s-second thought, Princess Celestia, I'd like to hear it too!" says Highwind, grinning with sweat dripping from his brows. "Fine, I'll do this just once…" says Celestia, sighing. Her horn begins to glow yellow, covering her neck in a similar light before fading away. "Sun, art thou satisfied with my voice?" "Aye," says Sun, nodding. He then presses his lips to Celestia's cheek before pulling away. "Thank you," he says, smiling. "Y-you're welcome…" says Celestia, her cheeks a shade of red while rubbing an arm with a hoof. "Oh come on, Tia! Talk some more!" says Melody, pouting. "If thou continue to pester me, then know that thy punishment shall not be a light one…" says Celestia, glaring. "Stingy…" says Melody, clicking her tongue. "Idiot," says Lyrical, hitting Melody's head with a hoof. "OW! Lyrical, what was that for?" asks Melody, rubbing her head with a hoof. "Don't push it," says Lyrical, glaring. "You know, Tia, the way you talk is almost like you're a completely different pony," says Wiseheart, blinking. "That's why I didn't want to do this…" says Celestia as her horn begins to glow yellow, covering her neck in a similar light before fading away again. "It doesn't suit me." "Right? It suits Lulu better than you," says Melody with a small laugh. "And what do you mean by that?" asks Luna, glaring. "Oh, you know, 'Listen, my little ponies, for I am the Princess of the Night! Now, hear me roar!' Or something like that! Bwahahahaha!" says Melody, falling on her back and kicking her hooves in the air. "O-oh my gosh, th-that actually sounds like her…" says Truce, her eyes tearing up with both hooves over her mouth. "Ahahahaha!" she says, clutching her stomach with her hooves and kicking the air. "Mmph!" says Highwind, quickly putting a hoof over his mouth. His face begins to turn red as his cheeks puff out. He then falls on his back and kicks the air with his hind legs. "Gahahahaha!" "S-sorry, Lulu, but that's actually how I see you," says Melody with a chuckle. "I agree," says Lyrical, nodding. "Same," says Risky, giggling with a hoof over her mouth. "It does suit thee, Luna," says Moon, smiling. "Aye," says Sun with a small smile. "E-even Moon and Sun say so! Ahahahaha!" says Melody, clutching her stomach with her hooves and rolls from side to side. "I'm so sorry, Luna, but they do have a point," says Celestia, chuckling with a hoof over her mouth. "I hate you all…" says Luna with a bright red face while baring her teeth. "All jokes aside, everypony, it was nice to have breakfast with you all, but I have some work to do today," says Wiseheart, smiling. "Aww! Do you have to?" asks Melody, standing to her hooves with a frown. "Of course, since now there are two more alicorns I have to file on," says Wiseheart with a giggle. "Then, Wiseheart, thank you for today. We learned a lot about Sun and Moon because of you," says Celestia, smiling. "We are in your debt again," says Luna with a small smile. "Oh, hush, you two," says Wiseheart, waving a hoof. "It's the least I could do for my two favorite princesses. Anyway, you know where to find me!" she says, walking towards the dining room's doors. However, she turns around, saying, "Oh, before I go, there's one more thing I have to say to Sun and Moon." "What dost thou require of us, Wiseheart?" asks Moon, blinking. "Ah, it's not a favor or anything. I just want to thank you both," says Wiseheart, giggling. "Strange, we have done nothing to deserve thy gratitude," says Sun, tilting his head. "Oh, but you did. You came into Tia and Lulu's life…" says Wiseheart with a small smile. "Wiseheart, if you're planning to tease Tia and me again, please don't," says Luna, frowning. "I had enough for one day…" says Celestia, sighing. "This time, I'm serious…" says Wiseheart with distant eyes. "Tia, Lulu, in the past, you both seemed so gloomy, despite that you were reunited after so long. I've kept quiet about this, but it hurts me just to watch…" "I… don't understand…" says Luna, frowning. "Wiseheart, Luna and I seem quite fine after all this time, but… why are you bringing this up now?" asks Celestia, drawing her brows together. "Because I felt so helpless, even though I was your doctor for so long, I-I still couldn't do anything to help you both…" says Wiseheart with a stream of tears flowing down her cheeks. "B-but now that Sun and Moon appeared, your faces became much more bright and cheerful lately, and I don't need some magic spell to know after all the years I've known you two…" "I-I guess I didn't really notice…" says Celestia, frowning. "Same…" says Luna, hanging her head. Vera, Truce, and Risky's eyes were overflowing with tears running down their faces as they wrap their hooves around each other. Melody also quickly wraps her hooves around Lyrical, nuzzling her teary eyes against her sister's neck, while Lyrical watches in silence with a frown on her face. Highwind sits quietly with an inward gaze while clenching a hoof. "Sun, Moon, this is why I'm thanking you both. Not on my behalf, but for doing something for Tia and Lulu that I could've never done in my life…" says Wiseheart, wiping her tears with a hoof, and smiling. "I see…" says Moon with a small smile. "Then we accept your gratitude…" says Sun, nodding with a smile. "A-anyway, I'm sorry I made it so awkward for everypony. I'll be taking my leave now…" says Wiseheart, bowing her head. She then turns around, walking towards the dining room's doors as her horn glows green, covering the doors in the same light. She then walks through the opening as the doors creak across the floor before turning around. "Bye!" she says with a grin as the doors close on her and its green glow fading away. "Wow…" says Melody, frowning. "You know, I've never seen Wiseheart like that before. She usually has that easygoing personality, but I guess there's more to her than I thought…" "That just shows how much she actually cares for others," says Lyrical, smiling. "I guess we're lucky to have somepony like her," says Vera, rubbing her head with a hoof. "Yeah, I know what you mean. She did take care of me when I wasn't feeling good…" says Truce, rubbing an arm with a hoof. "Isn't that your fault for eating an entire tray of apple tarts from before?" asks Vera, raising a brow. "I was hungry, okay!" says Truce, glaring. "But still, to think that she actually thanked somepony she just met. I guess Moon and Sun must be very special," says Risky, smiling. "Speaking of that," says Melody, facing Sun and Moon. "What do you both plan to do from now on? I mean, you were up in the stars for who knows how long, but now that you're here in Equestria, there must be things that you guys want to do, right?" "I do wish to learn magic, though I am not sure…" says Moon, frowning. "There is much to learn about this world, but I have not yet decided." "Moon, perhaps there is something we can begin with," says Sun. "And what art thou suggesting?" asks Moon, tilting his head. "Our promises," says Sun, smiling. "Art thou speaking of the 'Pinkie Promise' we made to certain ponies in Ponyville?" asks Moon, blinking. "Aye," says Sun, nodding. "I see. Perhaps we should fulfill those promises then," says Moon, smiling. "So, you both have already decided on what to do?" asks Luna. "Aye…" says Moon, frowning. "Forgive me, Luna, but it seems there are matters I must tend to first…" "There's no need to apologize, and a Pinkie Promise should always be kept," says Luna, smiling. It's a shame, but I wished that you would stay here at the castle a little longer, Moon… "But I do wish to stay by thy side again soon. There is much I wish to learn from thee," says Moon, smiling. "And what does he want to learn from you, Luna?" asks Celestia, raising a brow. "Oh, you naughty mare," says Melody, smirking. "Wow, Princess Luna, you sure don't waste any time," says Vera, giggling. "Yeah, I'm impressed," says Truce, folding her hooves. "Oh my…" says Risky, her cheeks slightly red while placing a hoof over her mouth. "As expected of the Princess of the Night," says Lyrical, nodding. Annoying… thinks Highwind, huffing. "Y-you're wrong! It's not like that!" says Luna with a burning red face as sweat drips from her brows. "Moon j-just wants to learn magic, and I'm willing to teach him! Th-that's all!" "You're planning to make him your student?" asks Celestia, blinking. "Of course! Since he's the Moon, it's common sense that I should be the one to teach him!" says Luna, puffing out her chest. "Hmm, that does make sense…" says Celestia, tapping her chin with a hoof. She then faces Sun. "Sun, do you want to learn magic from me?" "If thou art willing to, then I shall accept," says Sun, smiling. "Then it's settled," says Celestia with a smile. To think I would take in another student again… she thinks before facing Highwind. "Highwind, I know that you're very busy, but could you please bring Sun and Moon to Ponyville?" "Of course!" says Highwind, saluting. "I'll get the chariot and guards ready for departure, so please bring Prince Sun and Prince Moon to the castle's entrance." "Thank you," says Celestia, smiling. "Anyway, I'll be going now. Oh, and thank you for the breakfast," says Highwind, bowing his head. "And thank you for joining us," says Luna, smiling. "But, Highwind, even though you're busy, please don't overwork yourself." "I'll keep that in mind," says Highwind with a smile. "Now then, I must be off," he says, standing to his hooves as he walks to the two-golden door, pushing against one of them with his body as he walks out before pushing the door back, closing it. "Then I guess we should go too. There's a lot of things we have to do around the castle," says Lyrical. "Aww, but I'm so full!" says Vera, pouting. "Can't we just stay here for a bit?" asks Truce, folding her hooves. "Just for a few minutes?" asks Risky, frowning. "Or better yet, how about we relax for one more day, Lyrical?" asks Melody with a grin. "We already had a month for vacation, and you and I are supposed to set an example since we're the ones in charge of all the other maids in the castle," says Lyrical, poking and rubbing a hoof on Melody's cheek. "Ow, ow, ow! Lyrical, that hurts!" says Melody, rubbing her cheek with a hoof. "As for you three…" says Lyrical, facing Vera, Truce, and Risky. "You don't mind if I increase your workload, right?" "W-wait, okay! We're sorry!" says Vera, clasping her hooves together. "Y-yeah, so please don't!" says Truce with sweat dripping down her face. "S-sorry, Lyrical…" says Risky, hanging her head. "Good. Now, go get ready," says Lyrical, pointing a hoof at the dining room's doors. Slowly nodding, Melody, Vera, Truce, and Risky stand on their hooves, making their way towards the doors with their heads hanging. "Luna, Celestia, thank you for the breakfast," says Lyrical, smiling. "You're welcome," says Luna with a smile. "But, Lyrical, please don't be too hard on the girls," says Celestia, wrinkling her brows. "If I do that, they'll just slack off again. Besides, it's thanks to your sister that I became like this," says Lyrical. "Luna, what is she talking about?" asks Celestia, frowning. "Whatever do you mean?" asks Luna as sweat runs down her face. "When I first became Luna's personal maid, she worked me to the point of death," says Lyrical. "Luna…" says Celestia, glaring. "U-um, sorry?" says Luna with a grin. "Anyway, I'll leave that story for another time. Now then, I'll be going," says Lyrical, bowing her head. She then makes her way towards the golden doors, where Melody, Vera, Truce, and Risky stand in wait on the other side. "Moon, Sun, it was nice to meet you both," she says as her horn glows pink, covering the doors in a similar light before closing themselves. "Well, everypony left, but what do you think, Sun, Moon? Aren't you glad to have met wonderful ponies?" asks Celestia, smiling. "Aye," says Sun, nodding. "'Twas interesting to see that each pony is different," says Moon, smiling. "Well, it looks like you've both begun to learn new things. However, as what you have said before, Moon, I would like the both of you to keep in mind that the ponies you meet from now on will be different in their own way," says Luna with a chuckle. "It will also serve as a lesson of how each individual plays their part in making Equestria to what it is today," says Celestia with a smile. "I see. Then perhaps there is more to learn about this world," says Sun, smiling. "Aye, but there is something that troubles me…" says Moon, frowning. "What is it?" asks Luna, blinking. "I wish to have more donuts…" says Moon, placing a hoof on his belly as it growls. "And I wish to have more bread as well…" says Sun, placing a hoof upon his belly as it growls as well. Celestia and Luna burst into tears and laughter at the sound of Sun and Moon's rumbling stomachs, the latter, tilting their heads. "D-don't worry, there will be more where that came from," says Celestia, wiping her tears away with a hoof. Honestly, these two are too honest with themselves, she thinks, smiling. "I can't believe that you're both still hungry after eating so much," says Luna, pointing a hoof at piles of plates sitting next to Moon and Sun. But I guess that's what makes them unique in their own way, she thinks with a smile. To be continued… Chapter 9Old Faces and New ________________________________________ Under the warm gaze of the Sun, Highwind is seen in gold armor, trotting back and forth next to a drawbridge in front of Canterlot Castle. As time passes, his pace picks up as four figures are seen on the horizon of the castle's stone path. "Ugh! Where are those three idiots! They should've been here already!" says Highwind, stomping a hoof. "When I get my hooves on them, I'll-" "You'll what?" asks a voice. Highwind cranes his head at the voice, seeing a blue alicorn with a raised brow. "Oh, uh, n-nothing, Princess Luna…" says Highwind with a sheepish grin. "Right," says Luna, rolling her eyes. "Is something wrong, Highwind?" asks the white alicorn next to Luna. "N-no, nothing, Princess Celestia!" says Highwind, shaking his head. "Well, don't push yourself," says Celestia, blinking. "Of course! A-anyway…" says Highwind, looking to a similar pair of alicorns. "Prince Sun, Prince Moon, how was your breakfast?" "I enjoyed it," says Sun, smiling. "I as well," says Moon with a small smile. "Well, they did eat a lot. They each probably ate over thirty plates…" says Luna, sighing. "Th-thirty plates!" says Highwind, his mouth hanging. "It's been some time since I met ponies that ate so much," says Celestia, chuckling. I kind of feel bad for whoever's taking care of those plates… thinks Highwind, frowning. "By the way, Highwind, where is the chariot?" asks Luna, blinking. "O-oh, about that…" says Highwind, rubbing a hoof behind his head. "The guards I asked are still not here yet…" "Well, I understand that they might be late because of a last-minute decision…" says Luna. "What do you mean?" asks Highwind, blinking. "You should probably ask them that yourself," says Celestia, pointing a hoof. Looking up, a golden chariot is seen being pulled through the sky by three pegasi in gold armor. Quickly, they descend before making a smooth landing on the stone path next to Highwind and the others. Slowly, Highwind stomps his way to the three stallions that were unhitching themselves from the chariot. "O-oh, uh, hey, sir…" says a stallion, grinning. "Yeah, hey, Pleasant," says Highwind, his eye twitching. "Sorry that we're late, sir. We kind of had to do something…" says another stallion. "I bet you did, Summer," says Highwind, clenching a hoof. "And what's your excuse, Top Notch?" "J-just calm down a second, sir!" says Top Notch, his face dripping with sweat. "We really had something important to-" "SHUT IT!" says Highwind, stomping a hoof. "I don't want to hear your excuses! Do you know how much of an idiot I looked like when the princesses showed up, and you three weren't here yet!" "Highwind, please calm down," says Celestia. "But, Your Highness!" says Highwind, facing Celestia. "It's my fault for their careless behavior. I should-" "Highwind, you should at least hear them out first," says Luna, sighing. "Oh…" says Highwind, rubbing a hoof behind his head. He then looks to the three stallions in question. "S-sorry, guys, I didn't mean to-" "So, Prince Sun, Prince Moon, is it true that you both came from a distant land?" asks Summer, raising a brow. "Distant… land?" says Sun, tilting his head. "Yeah, everypony in the castle's talking about it. Well, mostly mares…" says Pleasant. "Forgive me, but I do not understand…" says Moon, frowning. "See! I knew all those mares in the castle were just making it up! Now cough up those bits!" says Top Notch, pointing a hoof to Summer and Pleasant. "DON'T IGNORE ME!" says Highwind, stomping a hoof. "Yes, sir!" says Summer, Pleasant, and Top Notch, saluting. "Ah, forget it…" says Highwind, rubbing a hoof down his face. "Anyway, why were you guys late?" "Oh, well, we were impressed with how much food the princes ate when we went to the dining room, so we kind of got sidetracked," says Summer, rubbing the back of his head with a hoof. "Yeah, you should've seen it, sir! The princes were just gulping their food down like crazy!" says Pleasant, grinning. "Meaning you three were slacking off again," says Highwind, raising a brow. "You idiots! I thought we agreed not to say anything about that!" says Top Notch, glaring. "Uh-oh…" says Pleasant, his face dripping with sweat. "It just kind of slipped out…" says Summer with a sheepish grin. "Oh, don't worry. I'll be sure to add more to your training regimen later, so look forward to it," says Highwind, smiling. "Aww…" says Pleasant, Summer, and Top Notch, hanging their heads. "But why were you guys there in the first place?" asks Highwind, rubbing his head with a hoof. "It's because they wanted to ask if you could take a day off," says Luna. "Me? Take a day off?" asks Highwind, pointing a hoof to himself. "Yes. But honestly, how long does it take for you four to clear up a misunderstanding? Look, Moon and Sun are already taking a nap," says Luna, pointing a hoof. Following Luna's hoof, Moon is seen resting his head against Sun's neck, while Sun rests his chin over Moon's head, both sitting up on their haunches as their chests slowly rise up and down with their eyes closed. "They look so adorable. It reminds me of the days Luna slept while I carried her on my back when she was just a filly," says Celestia with a chuckle. "T-Tia!" says Luna, stomping a hoof as her face turns bright red. "Oh, Luna, you're just so adorable when you're flustered," says Celestia, smiling. "Ugh!" says Luna, rolling her eyes. She then faces Highwind. "A-anyway, Highwind, the three of your guards asked Tia and I if you could take a break." "But, Your Highness, there are a lot of things I need to do to keep the Royal Guard in check! There's no time for me to take even a single day off!" says Highwind, stomping a hoof. "And that's precisely why Luna and I agreed for you to rest at least for a day. We're worried that you might overwork yourself," says Celestia, frowning. "But… if I did take a break, what should I do for the whole day?" asks Highwind, sighing. "It's a good thing Moon and Sun are going to Ponyville, so Tia and I are wondering if you could go with them. It might be good for you to take a look around and enjoy yourself, and we would appreciate it if you could look after Moon and Sun while you're there with them," says Luna, smiling. "W-well, if you both say so, then I guess I wouldn't mind looking after the princes, and taking a break once in a while wouldn't hurt…" says Highwind with a small smile. "Then it's settled," says Celestia, smiling as her horn glows yellow, which a similar light shrouds Highwind before causing a bright flash, revealing Highwind without his gold armor. "U-um, Your Highness, where's my armor?" asks Highwind, turning his head and facing his body. "It's currently in your room. Besides, there's no point in bringing your armor when taking some time off, right?" asks Celestia, giggling. "I guess so…" says Highwind, rubbing an arm with a hoof. "Were you actually thinking of bringing your armor along?" asks Luna, raising a brow. "Y-yes…" says Highwind with a sheepish grin. Luna rolls her eyes before facing Summer, Pleasant, and Top Notch. "As for you three, please get ready for departure." "Yes, Your Highness!" says Summer, Pleasant, and Top Notch, saluting. "Good. Now then…" says Luna, facing Sun and Moon. "Moon, Sun, wake up!" Moon slowly opens his eyes before blinking them. He then pulls his head away from Sun's neck before rubbing a hoof to his eye, while Sun quickly falls to the ground, face first, before lifting his head up and blinking his eyes open. "Ah, good morning, Luna," says Moon, smiling. He then turns to his side before tilting his head. "Sun, art thou resting still?" "Nay…" says Sun, pushing himself up with his hooves before rubbing a hoof to his eye. "Though I still wish to…" "Well, that's something you don't see quite often," says Top Notch with a chuckle. "As always, they're going at their own pace…" says Highwind, sighing. "Pfft! The princes are weird," says Summer with a snicker. "Haha, I can't say I don't like it though. They're funny," says Pleasant, smiling. "Well, that's just how they are," says Luna, smiling. "I have to agree with that," says Celestia with a giggle. "However, why are you three not preparing the chariot for departure?" asks Luna, raising a brow. "Forgive us, Your Highness!" says Summer, Pleasant, and Top Notch, grinning with sweat dripping down their faces. They quickly turn around before running towards the chariot. "Oh!" says Top Notch, quickly stopping and turning. "Prince Sun, Prince Moon, please follow us!" he says before turning and running towards the chariot. "Sun, let us follow them," says Moon, smiling. "Aye," says Sun, nodding. "Once again, I'm sorry for the behavior of those three…" says Highwind, frowning. "It's fine," says Luna, smiling. "Oh, before I forget. Highwind, I've already let Twilight know that Sun and Moon are coming to visit Ponyville. She should be waiting at Town Hall. Ah, and please bring Sun and Moon back to the castle during the evening. Twilight will let you know in case you forget," says Celestia. "Also, Tia and I prepared a bag of bits. It should be in the saddlebag on the chariot," says Luna. "Are the bits for something, Your Highness?" asks Highwind, blinking. "To buy some food at the marketplace in Ponyville. In case Moon and Sun get hungry," says Luna with a chuckle. "Oh, right…" says Highwind, rubbing his head with a hoof. "You're free to use those bits to buy some food for yourself as well, Highwind," says Luna, smiling. "In that case, I'll take you up on your offer. Thank you," says Highwind, smiling. "Well, we shouldn't keep you waiting any longer," says Celestia. "But there's one more thing Tia and I would like to remind you, Highwind," says Luna. "What is it?" asks Highwind, blinking. "Please keep Moon and Sun safe…" says Luna, frowning. "They're both still new to this world, and Luna and I are worried about nopony being there to guide them. Honestly, we would take Sun and Moon to Ponyville ourselves, but we can only rely on you since you know how busy we are…" says Celestia, sighing. "Don't worry, Your Highnesses!" says Highwind, puffing his chest out. "I swear on my pride as the commander of the Royal Guard! I won't let you both down!" "I know you won't," says Luna, smiling. "Now then, go on," says Celestia with a chuckle. "I'll be off then," says Highwind, grinning. He then turns before trotting off to the chariot. "So, what did the princesses say, sir?" asks Top Notch, raising a brow. "Just to keep watch over the princes," says Highwind. "Ah, babysitting, I see," says Summer, smirking. "Don't make me add more to your training," says Highwind, glaring. "I-I was just kidding!" says Summer with sweat dripping from his brows. "Anyway, aren't you glad you get to take a day off?" asks Pleasant, chuckling. "Thanks to you guys. But I'm wondering why you three asked the princesses in the first place? It's not like you guys to do something this nice. Actually, what are you three planning?" asks Highwind, glaring. "Wh-what are you talking about?" asks Summer, rubbing an arm with a hoof. Uh-oh! He's starting to suspect us! "Y-yeah! Maybe you just really need the day off, sir! I'm sure you're tired!" says Top Notch with a sheepish grin. We're done for if he finds out that we wanted him to take the day off, so we could slack off for today! It's because he keeps working us and the other guards to death! "Wh-what they said!" says Pleasant, sweat dripping down his face. "It's not like we asked the princesses for you to take the day off, so we could slack off for the day! Right, guys?" Summer and Top Notch crane their heads to Pleasant, their eyes turning dull as dead fishes. "Uh-oh…" says Pleasant, his eyes shrinking. "Oh, I see…" says Highwind, tapping his chin with a hoof. "I have to praise you three for coming up with a plan like that. Well, it doesn't matter since I'll let you guys off this once," says Highwind, smiling. "R-really?" says Pleasant, Summer, and Top Notch with tears welling up in their eyes. "But just know that tomorrow, I'll be doubling the training you and the other guards usually do. Oh, I'll also let the other guards know that it was you three that caused all of this," says Highwind, grinning. Pleasant, Summer, and Top Notch's faces turn blue as their bodies begin to shudder. We're so dead… thinks Summer, gulping. The other guards will kill us… thinks Top Notch with sweat dripping down his entire body. "Come on, sir! Y-you're joking, right? If you tell the others, they'll really kill us!" says Pleasant as tears stream down his cheeks. And who's fault is that! thinks Summer and Top Notch, glaring at Pleasant. "Oh, not my problem, that's for sure. But remember not to do this again, okay?" asks Highwind, smiling. "Yes, sir…" says Pleasant, Summer, and Top Notch, hanging their heads. "Anyway, sorry for keeping you both waiting, Your Highnesses," says Highwind, facing Sun and Moon. "'Tis fine, Highwind," says Sun, nodding. "I understand that thou art tending to important matters," says Moon, smiling. "Thanks for understanding, Your Highnesses," says Highwind, smiling. "Now then, we should be going now," he says while hitching himself to the chariot. "Uh, sir, what are you doing?" asks Top Notch, blinking. "Getting ready to pull the chariot. What else?" asks Highwind, raising a brow. "But it's your day off. We can't let you do that," says Summer. "Yeah, you should just leave this to us," says Pleasant, smiling. "Then what else should I do!" says Highwind, stomping a hoof. "Duh, just sit with the princes," says Summer, rolling his eyes. "Besides, there's been rumors going around the castle lately," says Pleasant with a wide grin. "What rumors?" asks Highwind, blinking. "That you and the princes get along quite well," says Top Notch, smirking. "Oh, Your Highnesses, is it okay if Commander Highwind sits with you two?" asks Pleasant, facing Moon and Sun. "Of course," says Sun, smiling. "Highwind is always welcome to join us," says Moon with a smile. "So, there you have it," says Top Notch, smirking. "Yeah, so hurry it up and sit with them!" says Summer with a wide grin. Oh no! It's happening! I bet it was either Melody, Lyrical, or those three idiot maids spreading rumors about me and the princes! thinks Highwind before facing Sun and Moon, the latter, both smiling at him with a warm gaze, while his face turns blue. "What are you waiting for, sir? Go sit with them and we can finally leave!" says Pleasant. "Y-you're wrong! The princes and I are not like that!" says Highwind, his face turning red. "Oh, but we didn't say anything about you and the princes being that way," says Summer, smirking. "Care to explain?" asks Top Notch with a chuckle. "Geh!" says Highwind, his face turning bright red as sweat drips down his face. "Ugh! Fine! I'll sit with them, just to make you three shut it!" he says, trotting quickly to the back of the chariot as Sun and Moon each move to the side while he jumps before sitting between them. "There! Happy!" "Come on, sir! We're just joking around!" says Summer, chuckling. "Yeah, just a prank!" says Pleasant, grinning. "Yeah, don't be mad! Unless… you really do swing that way?" asks Top Notch, smirking. "Ugh! Just go already!" says Highwind, his face turning beet red while folding his hooves. "Yes, sir!" says Pleasant, Summer, and Top Notch with a small laugh. As Pleasant, Summer, and Top Notch quickly run across the stone path, pulling the chariot behind, they suddenly lift off towards the sky. Celestia and Luna gaze from afar, watching the chariot growing smaller in the distance. "There they go…" says Luna, frowning. "They sure took quite a while to leave, right?" asks Celestia, chuckling. "It's because those three guards kept teasing Highwind," says Luna, rolling her eyes. "That just shows how much Highwind has grown closer towards his fellow guards," says Celestia, smiling. "Yeah, but… it wasn't like that when Highwind was first appointed as the commander of the Royal Guard. It was quite disheartening seeing him being treated that way from the other guards in the past…" says Luna, furrowing her brows. "Yes…" says Celestia, frowning. "His situation was similar…" says Luna, clenching her teeth. "Similar to mi-" "Luna, enough…" says Celestia. "S-sorry…" says Luna, hanging her head. "It's fine…" says Celestia, sighing. "We should go. Today's another busy day for me, and you should go rest before night, Luna." "You go ahead. I'll be staying here for a bit," says Luna with a small smile. "Worried about Moon?" asks Celestia with a giggle. "Don't even start about that…" says Luna, pouting. "I won't. Besides, I'm also worried about Sun, but they'll be okay since Highwind's with them, and Twilight will be there as well," says Celestia with a small smile. "I guess you're right. Just go on, Tia. I'll be returning to my room later," says Luna, smiling. "Okay, but if you need me, you know where to find me," says Celestia. "Yes, yes," says Luna, rolling her eyes. Celestia chuckles before turning and walking towards the castle, while Luna turns and lifts her head, gazing at the sky. "Moon, I hope you enjoy yourself," says Luna, smiling. "Oh, I'm sure he will," says a voice, chuckling. "N-no…" says Luna, her eyes shrinking. "Why are you-" "Talking?" asks the voice. "NO! Why are you free?" asks Luna, baring her teeth. "Oh, Lulu, it's been quite some time since we last spoke, and that's the first thing you ask me instead of how well I've been doing?" asks the voice. "Don't you ever call me that! And I don't care about your well-being!" says Luna, stomping a hoof and cracking the stone path. "How cruel! Is that how you treat your guests?" asks the voice. "Enough! I thought I sealed you away deep inside my consciousness! So why are you free!" says Luna, her nostrils flaring as her breathing grows heavy. "Well, there's a lot to explain, and I'm sure you'd like to speak with me personally. So, why don't you come on over and visit me? You know, in the dream world," says the voice with a small laugh. "You're right! I'm coming over right now!" says Luna as her horn glows blue before a bright flash emits from her horn. As the flash of light disappears, a rift is seen in front of her before she slowly walks through it, which the rift closes, disappearing into thin air. ________________________________________ "There, guys!" says Highwind, pointing a hoof at a purple mare waving a hoof from below. "Land there!" "Yes, sir!" says Summer, Pleasant, Top Notch. As the chariot descends to a small town below, it quickly comes to a smooth landing next to a building with flags flowing in the air. However, a purple mare is seen standing in front of the building with a wide grin before running to the chariot. "Sun, Moon, you're finally here!" says the purple mare, stopping next to the chariot. "Ah, greetings, Twilight Sparkle," says Sun, smiling. "We meet again," says Moon with a small smile. "Geez, I know I mentioned my full name when I first met you guys, but you can just call me Twilight," she says with a small laugh. "Thy suggestion is much preferable, Twilight," says Moon, smiling. "Then Twilight it is," says Sun, nodding. "Okay, Prince Sun, Prince Moon, out of the chariot. You can talk to the princess after that," says Highwind, picking up a saddlebag with his mouth before swinging and placing it on his back. "Aye," says Moon, lowering himself from the chariot. Sun nods before following Moon. "Wait, you're… Commander Highwind, right?" asks Twilight, blinking. "Good morning, Your Highness," says Highwind, bowing his head. "But if you want, just Highwind is fine." "O-oh, sure. Sorry, I didn't recognize you without your armor," says Twilight, rubbing an arm with a hoof. "Don't worry. I get that all the time," says Highwind, jumping off the chariot. "Anyway, Pleasant, Summer, Top Notch, go back to the barracks and tell the others that they're free to do whatever they want for the day. Oh, and please bring the chariot back here during the evening to pick us up." "Yes, sir!" says Summer, Pleasant, and Top Notch, saluting. "Ah, now I remember. Thou art the ponies that aided Moon and I, correct?" asks Sun, blinking. "Yes, Your Highness," says Top Notch, nodding. "Oh, I think we forgot to introduce ourselves properly to you both yesterday. In that case, I'm Top Notch." "I'm Summer Set!" he says, smiling. "And I'm Pleasant Breeze!" he says, grinning. "I see," says Sun, smiling. "Since thou art leaving, perhaps Sun and I could thank thee?" asks Moon with a smile. "O-oh, uh, it's fine, Your Highnesses!" says Top Notch, his face turning blue. It's just like yesterday! "Y-yeah! It's the least we could do!" says Summer, his face turning blue while sweat drips down his face. This is bad! This is bad! "A-anyway, we have to go!" says Pleasant with a wide grin and a blue face. I'd rather die than be kissed by them! Top Notch, Summer, and Pleasant face each other before quickly nodding. They then run across the ground before taking off in the air with the chariot behind them. "Moon, we have not thanked them yet…" says Sun, hanging his head. "Aye…" says Moon, frowning. "D-don't worry, Your Highnesses! I'm sure you will get your chance someday!" says Highwind with a small laugh before sighing. He then faces Twilight. "Sorry that you had to see that…" "W-well, I can understand why those three would want to leave quickly since I've seen how bold Sun and Moon can be…" says Twilight, rubbing her head with a hoof. "Especially what they did with Princess Celestia and Princess Luna when you and your friends were there yesterday…" says Highwind, rubbing a hoof down his face. "Y-yeah, I've never seen anypony kiss the princesses out of the blue like that…" says Twilight, her face turning red. "A-anyway, Princess Twilight, since Princess Celestia noticed you in advance about our visit, is there a reason that you wanted to meet here instead of your home?" asks Highwind, blinking. "Well, it's because of the message Celestia sent about Sun and Moon. While reading through it, I kind of thought that I should show them around Ponyville. But I was really shocked to know that Sun and Moon are actually newborns…" says Twilight, rubbing her head with a hoof. "Honestly, I couldn't believe it at first, but since it's Doctor Wiseheart's magic that told us more about them, I had to believe it…" says Highwind, sighing. "But it's interesting to know that Moon and Sun are using a sort of amplify spell to talk like that!" says Twilight, clapping her hooves together. "Maybe I should try it out-" "Eh-hem!" says Highwind, raising a brow. "U-uh, sorry! I was getting carried away…" says Twilight with a sheepish grin. "I know. I heard you're eager to learn about new things," says Highwind with a small laugh. "Y-yeah…" says Twilight, coughing into a hoof with red cheeks. "A-about what we were talking about, I thought I'd show Moon and Sun around town since they don't know much about our world, so I started first with introducing them to the mayor." "O-oh, I see…" says Highwind, rubbing his head with a hoof. "What? Did I say something weird?" asks Twilight, blinking. "About that…" says Highwind, putting his hooves together. "Prince Sun and Prince Moon kind of already met-" "Princess Twilight!" says a voice. Highwind and Twilight look to the voice, seeing a tan mare trotting over to them with a smile. "Oh, morning, Mayor Mare!" says Twilight with a smile. "What are you doing here? Is there something you need from me?" asks Mayor Mare, stopping next to Twilight. "I'm just here as a guide to show some guests around Ponyville," says Twilight. "Guests?" says Mayor Mare, facing Highwind, the latter, grinning and waving a hoof. "Wait, aren't you… Commander Highwind?" "You can just call me Highwind, and it's nice to see you again," says Highwind, smiling. "You look different without your armor," says Mayor Mare, blinking. "Y-yeah, I get that all the time…" says Highwind, sighing. "W-wait a minute…" says Twilight, rubbing her head with a hoof. "You both already met?" "Yesterday, to be precise," says Mayor Mare. "Oh, and if you're wondering why I'm here, Mayor Mare, I'm here on break and to watch over our two weird princes," says Highwind, smiling. "Y-you mean…" says Mayor Mare, her mouth opening slightly. She then looks past Highwind, seeing two familiar alicorns. "Sun, Moon!" Looking to the voice, Sun and Moon quickly notice Mayor Mare as both their eyes widen before growing into a soft gaze. "Mayor Mare," says Sun, smiling. "'Tis good to see thee again," says Moon with a smile. "Oh, you two!" says Mayor Mare, running over to Sun and Moon with tears trailing down her cheeks before stopping next to them. "I was so worried about you both!" "Forgive us…" says Sun, frowning. "We did not mean to worry thee…" says Moon, hanging his head. "I-it's fine!" says Mayor Mare, lifting her glasses with a hoof and wiping the tears from her eyes with another hoof. "Anyway, have you both found what you were searching for?" "Aye," says Sun, nodding. "If you did, then who was the Azure One?" asks Mayor Mare, blinking. "Luna," says Moon, smiling. "It was Princess Luna all along!" says Mayor Mare with wide eyes. She then smiles. "I should've known it was her since she's similar to you, Moon." "And because of thy aid, Sun and I were able to meet Luna," says Moon with a radiant glow in his eyes. "Oh, enough! I would do whatever I can to help you two! But for now, I'm just glad you both are okay!" says Mayor Mare, chuckling. "Now then, both of you lower your faces for me!" Nodding, Sun and Moon lower their heads, while Mayor Mare walks towards them, wrapping her hooves on each of their faces, which the three close their eyes with a smile on their faces. "H-hey, Highwind…" says Twilight with wide eyes and a beet red face. "Did something happen when I wasn't here?" "Uh, about that…" says Highwind, rubbing his head with a hoof. "Remember when I told you yesterday about Mayor Mare's letter? Well, that's what led to the princes coming to Canterlot Castle to meet you. Well, supposed to meet you…" "So that's what happened! Ugh, I was excited to show Sun and Moon around Ponyville that I forgot all about that…" says Twilight, placing a hoof over her face. However, a gray blur zooms past Highwind and Twilight before slamming into the left side of Sun, colliding into Moon as the three skids over the ground. "Well, I had a feeling she was going to show up sooner or later…" says Mayor Mare, sighing. "Moon, Sun, you're back!" says a gray mare, standing on top Moon and Sun with a wide smile on her face. "Ah, greetings, Derpy," says Sun, smiling. "Thou still greet Sun and I in unusual ways," says Moon with a smile. "Hehe!" says Derpy, grinning and rubbing a hoof behind her head. Twilight's jaw drops before facing Highwind with a glare. "O-oh, did I forget to mention that it was her that delivered the letter?" says Highwind, grinning with sweat trailing down his face. "Yeah, thanks for letting me know," says Twilight, rolling her eyes. She then faces Derpy. "Hey, Derpy!" "Huh? Oh, hi, Princess Twilight!" says Derpy, waving a hoof. "It's nice to see you, but can you please get off Sun and Moon!" says Twilight, stomping a hoof. "O-oh!" says Derpy, quickly hopping off Moon and Sun. "Sun, Moon, are you okay?" asks Twilight, frowning. "Aye," says Moon, smiling. Sun nods his head. "That's good…" says Twilight, sighing. I don't know what Celestia and Luna would do to me if Sun and Moon were to get hurt! "S-sorry, Princess Twilight…" says Derpy, hanging her head. "It's fine. But what are you doing here?" asks Twilight, blinking. "Well, I just finished delivering letters, and I was on my way home until I noticed Sun and Moon here!" says Derpy, jumping up and down with a grin. "I understand how you feel, but just don't ram into them like that, okay?" asks Twilight, raising a brow. "Sure!" says Derpy, smiling. "Anyway, since Moon and Sun already met Mayor Mare…" says Twilight, facing the alicorns in question. "Sun, Moon, I heard from Celestia that there were some ponies you wanted to meet?" "Aye," says Sun. "Then tell me their names and I can probably lead you to them," says Twilight. "Mayor Mare is one of them," says Sun, smiling. "Oh, Sun!" says Mayor Mare, chuckling with a shade of red in her cheeks. "And Derpy as well," says Moon with a smile. "Hehe!" says Derpy, rubbing a hoof to her head with red cheeks. "Oh, Sun, Moon, since you're here, maybe I can introduce you both to Dinky!" "Ah, perhaps, but I wish to meet the others first," says Sun. "Who in particular?" asks Twilight. "Sun, perhaps we could meet with Bon Bon and Rose?" asks Moon, tilting his head. "Aye," says Sun, smiling. "Then, Twilight, Sun and I wish to meet Bon Bon and Rose," says Moon with a smile. "That's surprising…" says Twilight, blinking. "Is something wrong?" asks Moon, frowning. "N-no, it's just that I didn't expect you both to mention them out of all the ponies in Ponyville…" says Twilight, tapping her chin with a hoof. "Is there a reason why?" "Rose and Bon Bon are the first ponies to aid us after our arrival in Ponyville," says Sun. "And we are thankful to them both," says Moon, smiling. "I see. Then I guess I should thank them for helping you two as a fellow alicorn," says Twilight, chuckling. "Anyway, I think I know where to find them, so follow me." "Oh, oh, can I come?" asks Derpy, jumping up and down. "You're coming along too! It would be weird if you're not there to introduce Dinky to Sun and Moon, right?" asks Twilight, raising a brow. "I guess I never thought of it that way…" says Derpy, rubbing her head with a hoof. Oh, Derpy… thinks Twilight, rolling her eyes. "What about you, Mayor Mare?" "Honestly, I would love to come along, but you should already know how busy a pony with a status like me and you are, right?" asks Mayor Mare, sighing. "Ugh! Tell me about it…" says Twilight, rubbing a hoof down her face. "It can't be that bad being a princess or a mayor, right?" asks Derpy, blinking. I can't believe she said that… thinks Highwind, putting a hoof over his face. "Yeah, you would think that…" says Twilight, glaring at Derpy. "Maybe you should try it…" says Mayor Mare, huffing. "Sure!" says Derpy, grinning. "Ugh…" says Twilight and Mayor Mare, rolling their eyes. "Ignoring Derpy… Mayor Mare, as a princess, I must thank you for helping Moon and Sun," says Twilight, smiling. "Of course, but you must get going since time is short, right?" asks Mayor Mare, chuckling. "Right," says Twilight with a small laugh. "Anyway, Sun, Moon, Highwind, and you, Derpy, follow me." "Yes, Your Highness," says Highwind, nodding. "Hey, aren't you that mean guard I met at Canterlot Castle yesterday?" asks Derpy, glaring at Highwind. "Nice to meet you, Derpy. I'm Highwind, and I apologize for yesterday, but just know that anypony would be skeptical if they heard that two alicorns suddenly appeared in Ponyville, right?" asks Highwind, raising a brow. "Well, I guess you're right…" says Derpy, rubbing her head with a hoof. Such an easy mare… thinks Highwind, rolling his eyes. "Now then, Mayor Mare, it's nice meeting you again, but I must be going," says Highwind, bowing his head. "Yeah, see you around, Mayor Mare!" says Derpy, grinning. "'Twas nice to see thee again, Mayor Mare," says Sun, smiling. "Once again, thank you for aiding Sun and I," says Moon with a smile. "Moon, Sun, just know that I'll do whatever I can to help you. But for now, just enjoy yourself here at Ponyville," says Mayor Mare, smiling with a warm gaze. "Hey, are you guys coming or not!" says Twilight, stomping a hoof. "Well, go on. You shouldn't keep a princess waiting," says Mayor Mare, chuckling. "Let's go, guys!" says Derpy, turning and trotting to Twilight. Ugh… thinks Highwind, sighing before following Derpy. "I bid thee farewell, Mayor Mare," says Sun, smiling. "Perhaps we will meet again," says Moon with a smile before he and Sun turn and follow Highwind. Moon, Sun, take care, thinks Mayor Mare, smiling and waving a hoof. She then drags a hoof down her face before sighing. Now that I think about it, I finished all that paperwork yesterday. Maybe I should've joined them… ________________________________________ "Moon, Sun, welcome to the marketplace!" says Twilight, pointing a hoof. Following Twilight's hoof, Sun and Moon notice a storm of ponies roaming around the area, talking to ponies in stalls with different varieties of food, ranging from pies, drinks, tomatoes, even cooking utensils and books. "Twilight, it seems there are many ponies here," says Sun, blinking. "Is there a reason why?" asks Moon, tilting his head. "It's natural that this area is filled with a lot of ponies. Because they're all here to acquire things for the daily necessities of life," says Twilight, smiling. "Forgive me, but I do not understand…" says Moon, frowning. "Aye…" says Sun, hanging his head. Hmm… I think the message Celestia sent said something about making it simple for Sun and Moon to understand, thinks Twilight, tapping her chin with a hoof. "Oh! Let's just say that the important things ponies tend to find here are food." "Food…" says Moon, his mouth opening slightly as drool falls from it. "I see…" says Sun, drool seeping through the sides of his mouth. "Looks like you're both hungry," says Twilight, chuckling. Celestia was right when she said that Sun and Moon love to eat. "It's a good thing Princess Celestia and Princess Luna gave me those bits," says Highwind, sighing. "That sounds like them to prepare things in case something happens," says Twilight, chuckling. "Um, guys…" says Derpy, quickly looking side to side. "What's wrong, Derpy?" asks Twilight, blinking. "Where's Moon and Sun?" asks Derpy, frowning. "Oh, Derpy, they're right next to… us…" says Twilight, looking to her side as her eyes shrink. "They're gone…" "Quick! Look for them!" says Highwind, his face dripping with sweat. "O-oh! I found Sun!" says Derpy, pointing a hoof. Following Derpy's hoof, Twilight and Highwind notice Sun at a stall filled with pies, while a mare was staring at Sun with a red face and a distant gaze. "Sun!" says Twilight, running and stopping next to Sun. "Please don't just leave without letting me know!" "Forgive me, Twilight, but I wish to know what this is?" asks Sun, pointing a hoof. "Oh, that's a pie. Would you like to try it?" asks Twilight. "Aye," says Sun while drool dangles from his mouth. "Um, excuse me. How much is one pie?" asks Twilight, facing a yellow mare. "O-oh, Princess Twilight, hello! As for the pie…" says the yellow mare, facing Sun. "It's on the house…" "W-wait, it's free?" asks Twilight, blinking. "Uh-huh…" says the yellow mare with a long sigh. "Well, thanks!" says Twilight, smiling. She then faces Sun. "Sun, she's giving a pie to us. You should thank her." "Aye," says Sun, nodding. He then lowers his head, placing his lips on the yellow mare's cheek before lifting his head, and smiling with a warm gaze. "Thank you." "Y-you're welcome!" says the yellow mare, her eyes turning into heart shapes before falling on the ground with a wide grin and a twitching hoof. "Right, the kissing…" says Twilight, placing a hoof on her face. It's obvious that any mare would react like that if they were kissed by somepony like Sun or Moon… "Princess Twilight!" says Highwind. "Oh, Highwind, looks like you found Moon," says Twilight, looking behind Highwind and noticing Moon chewing with a cookie in a hoof. "Yeah, and I got a lot of food," says Highwind, pointing a hoof at a basket full of cookies, corn, and carrots on his back. "Yeah, all the mares were nice enough to give us all this food!" says Derpy before grabbing a cookie from the basket with a hoof and biting it. "Let me guess. They're all free," says Twilight, sighing. "Y-yeah, how'd you know?" asks Derpy, tilting her head. "Wait, did a mare give that pie that Prince Sun is holding for free?" asks Highwind, blinking. "Yeah, and did Moon kiss the mares that gave all the food in that basket before falling on the ground and making a weird face?" asks Twilight, raising a brow. "Yeah," says Highwind, rolling his eyes. So much for using the bits that Princess Celestia and Princess Luna prepared for the princes… "Ugh…" says Twilight, dragging a hoof down her face. "I think we should find Rose and Bon Bon before this whole place goes out of business…" "Not only that, but we're starting to get a lot of attention," says Highwind, pointing a hoof. Following Highwind's hoof, Twilight looks around, noticing a gathering of ponies looking at them and whispering amongst themselves. "Great, and they're mostly mares…" says Twilight, sighing. "Ugh! I know Bon Bon and Rose should be here, but where are they!" "Oh, if it's about them, then I found them not too long ago," says Derpy before biting another piece of a cookie in her hoof. "Then why didn't you say so!" says Twilight as she and Highwind glare at Derpy. "You didn't ask," says Derpy. "Ugh…" says Twilight and Highwind, sighing. "Moon, the cookie's good, right?" asks Derpy, grinning. "Aye," says Moon before biting another piece of a cookie in his hoof. "Hey, Sun, can I try some of that pie you're eating?" asks Derpy. "Aye, but perhaps I can have some of your cookie?" asks Sun. "Let's trade then!" says Derpy, smiling. "Will you guys stop eating and take this seriously!" says Twilight, stomping a hoof before her stomach gives off a growl. "Cookie?" asks Highwind, offering a hoof with a cookie in it. "Maybe we can take a break…" says Twilight, her cheeks turning red as she takes the cookie from Highwind with a hoof before biting it. ________________________________________ At a certain stall, a pale-yellow mare was enjoying the sunny day, watering her beautiful patches of roses in clay pots. "Hey, Rose!" says a cheery voice. "AHH!" says Rose, dropping a green watering can from her mouth, and splashing water over her face. Rose turns her head, facing her unexpected guest with a soaked mane, dangling down her face. Placing a hoof over her wet mane, she pushes the strands of red hair to the side of her face, seeing a beige mare. "Before you say anything," says the beige mare, lifting a hoof. "Just know that I'm sorry-" "Ugh! Bon Bon! You jerk! Didn't I say not to surprise me like that!" says Rose, stomping a hoof. "I didn't mean it!" says Bon Bon. "Liar! You did it on purpose! Just like yesterday!" says Rose, pressing her forehead against Bon Bon's. "There you go again! Accusing me of something I didn't mean to do!" says Bon Bon, pushing against Rose's forehead with her own. "Ugh! Will you two fillies stop fighting!" says a pale-magenta mare. "Yeah! You're going to scare all the customers away!" says a raspberry mare. "O-oh, sorry, Daisy, Lily…" says Rose, frowning. "I didn't start it…" says Bon Bon, huffing. "You did!" says Rose, glaring at Bon Bon. "Enough!" says Lily, stomping a hoof. "Look, Bon Bon, did you need a bouquet or something?" asks Daisy, raising a brow. "No, I just came to say hi," says Bon Bon, smiling. "Well, it's nice to see you too," says Daisy with a smile. "By the way, where's Lyra?" asks Lily, blinking. "She said she was going to look at something and left me, so here I am…" says Bon Bon, sighing. "Some friend she is," says Rose, rolling her eyes. "H-hey, girls?" says Lily, blinking. "What now?" asks Daisy, frowning. "I-I think we have guests. Important guests…" says Lily, her cheeks turning red while gazing at a white and blue alicorn in the distance. "What are you talking… about…?" asks Daisy with a shade of red in her cheeks, noticing a pair of alicorns walking together in the distance. "Guests?" says Bon Bon and Rose, blinking at each other. They both turn around, noticing a purple mare. "I finally found you two!" says the purple mare, smiling. "O-oh, uh, hey, Princess Twilight…" says Bon Bon, rubbing her head with a hoof. "H-hi, Princess Twilight…" says Rose, her brows gathering in. "Come on, you two. There's no need for formalities. Just Twilight's fine," she says with a small smile. "S-sorry…" says Bon Bon, frowning. Easy for you to say… "Y-yeah…" says Rose, rubbing an arm with a hoof. You're a princess now… "Anyway, I'm glad I found you both. There are two ponies that wanted to meet you," says Twilight. "Really?" says Bon Bon, blinking. "Who?" asks Rose, tilting her head. "Well, talk to them yourselves," says Twilight, stepping to the side. "No way…" says Bon Bon, her eyes welling up with tears. "Moon?" "Greetings, Bon Bon," says Moon, smiling. "It really is you…" says Bon Bon, slowly walking towards Moon before pressing her forehead against his chest. "Idiot, you made me worry…" "Forgive me…" says Moon, frowning while putting a hoof on Bon Bon's head. "Sun!" says Rose, running towards Sun before rubbing her face against his chest. "I-I'm glad you're okay!" "We meet again, Rose. Forgive me for worrying thee…" says Sun, smiling with a hoof over Rose's head. "D-don't apologize! It's okay!" says Rose with tears streaming down her face. "W-wait…" says Bon Bon, pulling her face away from Moon and quickly wipes her tears with a hoof. She then turns her head, seeing a gray mare with her hooves wrapped around her. "Derpy, what are you doing?" "Well, everypony is hugging each other, so I thought I'd join in," says Derpy, grinning. "Ugh! Get off!" says Bon Bon, pushing Derpy away with a hoof. "What? Derpy?" says Rose, pulling her face away from Sun and wiping her tears with a hoof. "You again! Why do you always show up when Sun and Moon are here!" "Oh, I'm planning to let Moon and Sun meet Dinky after this!" says Derpy, smiling. This mare… thinks Rose, glaring at Derpy. How annoying! thinks Bon Bon, baring her teeth. "Pssst! Hey, Bon Bon, Rose!" says Lily. "Huh?" says Rose and Bon Bon, turning their head and seeing Lily and Daisy waving a hoof. "Come here!" says Daisy. "What's up?" asks Bon Bon, walking over to Daisy and Lily. "You're both acting weird," says Rose, stopping next to Bon Bon with a raised brow. "Weird? You guys are weird!" says Lily, stomping a hoof. "You both started crying like fillies when those two showed up!" says Daisy, pointing a hoof to Sun and Moon. "H-hey, I wasn't crying like a filly!" says Rose, glaring with bright red cheeks. "Y-yeah!" says Bon Bon, stomping a hoof with slightly red cheeks. "No, I'm sure you both were," says Lily, raising a brow. "Ugh! Who cares about that! More importantly, are those two hotties the rumored princes that suddenly appeared in Ponyville yesterday!" says Daisy, pointing a hoof to Sun and Moon. "Oh, Moon and Sun? Yeah, they are," says Bon Bon. "Rose, you jerk! How come you never told us that you knew them! Even though we're best friends!" says Lily, stomping a hoof. "H-hey, the thought never came to mind, okay!" says Rose with a sheepish grin. "I bet you wanted a head start, huh!" says Daisy, huffing. "Whatever, just introduce us to them-" "Forgive me for interrupting, but is there something wrong?" asks Sun, blinking. "Perhaps 'twas wrong of us to intrude upon thee?" asks Moon, frowning. "N-no, it's okay, Moon!" says Bon Bon. "Oh, Sun, Moon, let me introduce these two. The one next to me is Lily," says Rose, pointing a hoof. "U-um, it's nice to meet you, Your Highnesses!" says Lily, grinning with a shade of red in her cheeks. Oh my gosh! Oh my gosh! They're both so hot! "And the one next to Lily is Daisy," says Rose, pointing a hoof. "It's a p-pleasure to meet you both!" says Daisy, grinning while her cheeks turn beet red. W-wow! They're so tall up close! "Greetings, Lily," says Sun, smiling. "And to thee as well, Daisy," says Moon with a smile. "S-so, Sun, right?" asks Lily, gulping with a tint of red in her cheeks. H-he said my name! "Aye," says Sun, nodding. "A-and you're Moon, right?" asks Daisy, giggling with red cheeks. "Aye, Daisy," says Moon. The way he says my name is so heavenly… thinks Daisy with a long sigh. She then shakes her head. "A-anyway, what are you two doing here in Ponyville?" "Ah, Moon and I wished to see certain ponies here. And Rose is one of them," says Sun, facing Rose with a soft glow in his eyes. "Including Bon Bon," says Moon, facing Bon Bon with a warm gaze. "You don't say?" says Lily and Daisy, glaring at Rose and Bon Bon, the latter, both sheepishly grinning with sweat running down their faces. "Ah, and Derpy as well," says Sun, facing Derpy with a small smile. "Hehe!" says Derpy, grinning with red cheeks. "I-I see…" says Lily, forcing a small smile. Even this clumsy mare! "G-good for you, Derpy!" says Daisy, twitching an eye. Th-this annoying mare! "U-um, Moon! About when you and Sun left Ponyville, did you both find the Azure One?" asks Bon Bon with a sheepish grin. Geh! Lily and Daisy were seriously getting annoyed! "Y-yeah!" says Rose, smiling. Nice save, Bon Bon! Lily and Daisy looked like they were going to blow their bits! "Wait, Azure One?" says Lily, raising a brow. "Weird name." "What are you guys talking about?" asks Daisy, blinking. "U-uh, you see, when Sun and Moon were here yesterday, they were looking for somepony," says Rose. "And that pony was called the Azure One," says Bon Bon. "Azure One, huh?" says Lily, tapping her chin with a hoof. "Well, I can't picture anypony in mind that would fit that name." "Yeah, I wonder who it could be?" asks Daisy, rubbing her head with a hoof. "'Twas Luna," says Moon, smiling. "WHAT!" says Lily, Daisy, Bon Bon, Rose, and Derpy. "Aye, Luna is the Azure One," says Sun. "I should've known it was her!" says Bon Bon, rubbing a hoof down her face. "Yeah, she fits the name so well! Why didn't I think of her?" asks Rose, hitting her head with a hoof. "Well, we don't exactly see her all the time, you know?" says Lily, raising a brow. "And she's a princess as well," says Daisy, rubbing a hoof behind her head. "Oh, Moon, Sun, could you tell us what happened when you went to Canterlot? I would like to hear about it!" says Derpy, grinning. "Oh, me too!" says Bon Bon, smiling. "I would love to hear about it as well!" says Rose, clapping her hooves together. "Sounds interesting," says Lily, sitting on her haunches. "Well, I guess I could take a break from selling bouquets all day," says Daisy, yawning with a hoof over her mouth. "Then, if thou dost not mind, Sun and I shall tell thee of what transpired in Canterlot," says Moon, smiling. "Let us begin," says Sun with a smile. Looking from afar, Twilight gazes at Sun and Moon with a smile. However, her smile slowly turns into a frown. "It's not fair…" says Twilight, hanging her head. "What's not fair?" asks a voice. Turning her head, Twilight sees a white stallion, the latter, blinking at her. "AHH! Highwind, don't scare me like that!" says Twilight, stomping a hoof. "S-sorry, Your Highness. I didn't mean to startle you," says Highwind, frowning. "It's fine…" says Twilight, letting out a sigh. "But since when were you there?" "After you introduced the princes to those mares," says Highwind, raising a brow. "Oh…" says Twilight, her cheeks turning a tint of red while rubbing her head with a hoof. "I-I guess I didn't notice you…" "Don't worry," says Highwind, waving off a hoof. "Anyway, sorry for overhearing you, but what did you mean earlier?" "Geh! I thought you would forget about that…" says Twilight with a sheepish grin. "It's too bad that I have a good memory," says Highwind, smiling. "Jerk," says Twilight with a chuckle. "But are you concerned about something that involves the princes?" asks Highwind. "You're pretty sharp," says Twilight, blinking. "A habit I picked up over the years," says Highwind with a small laugh. "Not sure if that's a good thing or a bad one," says Twilight, rolling her eyes. "I'll take that as a compliment," says Highwind, smiling. He then frowns. "All jokes aside, if there's something weighing on your mind, maybe I can listen to your problems?" "Well, I guess I can take you up on your offer," says Twilight with a smile. She then lets out a long sigh. "It's just… it's just that I'm jealous of Sun and Moon." "And why would you be jealous of them?" asks Highwind, blinking. "Well…" says Twilight, facing Sun and Moon. "I'm glad that they're fitting in well here at Ponyville, but that's the thing. They're being treated as if they were normal ponies, even though they're an alicorn like me. You know, no honorifics, just their name. And I'm jealous of that fact because everypony used to look at me as a friend they could talk to as an equal. But now it's always the princess treatment after these things showed up…" she says, unfolding her wings. "I see…" says Highwind, frowning. "Sometimes, I wish I could've stayed as a unicorn, but I guess fate has a different path for me…" says Twilight, tears welling up in her eyes. "Well, just know that I address royalty by their status naturally, given my position," says Highwind, closing his eyes and puffing out his chest. He then opens an eye, seeing Twilight glaring at him. "I-I guess I shouldn't have said that…" "Naturally," says Twilight, huffing. "S-sorry, let me rethink that…" says Highwind, rubbing the back of his head with a hoof. "Just forget about it," says Twilight, waving off a hoof. "Let's put it this way, Your Highness. Why do you think I address you with honorifics?" asks Highwind. "Because I'm a princess?" says Twilight, raising a brow. "True. But think of it this way. I don't see you not only as a princess but as somepony that has earned my respect," says Highwind. "Respect?" says Twilight, blinking. "Yes. You, including your friends, have saved Equestria countless times. It's because of that I should be thankful to you. And now that you're a princess, perhaps the other ponies are seeing you in a similar way and decided to treat you with the respect you deserve. Besides, being a princess, ponies will continue to seek guidance from you in the present and in the future," says Highwind, smiling. "Wow, I never thought of it that way…" says Twilight, blinking. "However, the same can be said about Prince Sun and Prince Moon. Maybe they'll come across a point where they both will earn the respect of the ponies throughout Equestria, just like you and the other princesses," says Highwind, smiling. "Fair point. But maybe now I understand what's it like for Celestia, Luna, and Cadance," says Twilight, smiling. "Yep," says Highwind, nodding. "Kind of a big responsibility though," says Twilight, sighing. "I know that feeling too well," says Highwind, huffing. "Right, being a commander and all that annoying stuff," says Twilight with a chuckle. "Yeah," says Highwind, smiling and rolling his eyes. "But, Highwind, thanks for the advice," says Twilight with a small smile. "I'm glad I could help," says Highwind, smiling and placing a hoof over his chest. "However, I think our weird princes might be finished with their business here," he says, pointing a hoof. "Really?" says Twilight, turning her head, noticing a white and blue figure towering over her. She then looks up. "Oh, Sun, Moon, are you done talking to Rose and Bon Bon?" "Aye," says Sun, nodding. "All that is left is to meet Dinky," says Moon, smiling. "Wait, where's Derpy?" asks Twilight, blinking. "Here!" says Derpy, appearing from behind Sun. "What are you doing behind him?" asks Twilight, raising a brow. "Oh! Have you ever wrapped yourself in Sun or Moon's tail? It's so smooth, silky, and warm!" says Derpy, rubbing her cheek with Sun's tail in her hoof. Twilight and Highwind face each other before rolling their eyes. "Twilight!" says two voices. Turning her head, Twilight notices Rose and Bon Bon waving a hoof from afar. "Thanks for letting us meet Moon and Sun again!" says Bon Bon, smiling. "Yeah! We owe you big time, Twilight!" says Rose, grinning. Tears well up in Twilight's eyes before trailing down her cheeks. She then feels something on her shoulder and turns her head, noticing Highwind's hoof on her. "What was that about ponies calling you a princess and not by name again?" asks Highwind with a smile. "Shut it," says Twilight, smiling. She then quickly wipes her tears with a hoof and faces Rose and Bon Bon. "You're welcome!" "Thanks again, Twilight! Oh, Moon! Please visit again!" says Bon Bon, grinning. "Aye," says Moon with a smile. "You too, Sun!" says Rose, smiling. "Aye, we will meet again," says Sun, nodding. "Derpy, stop playing with Sun's tail and lead us to Dinky already!" says Twilight, stomping a hoof. "Okay!" says Derpy, removing her hoof from Sun's tail. She then trots ahead before stopping next to Highwind. "Can I have another cookie?" "Help yourself," says Highwind, rolling his eyes. "Thanks!" says Derpy, grabbing a cookie with a hoof from the basket on Highwind's back. She then trots ahead before waving a hoof. "Follow me!" As Twilight's group follows Derpy, Rose and Bon Bon frown as they watch Sun and Moon grow smaller in the distance. "It's frustrating, but Moon looks much more cheerful when he talks about Princess Luna…" says Bon Bon, biting her bottom lip as tears well up in her eyes. "Even Sun smiles more often when he talks about Princess Celestia…" says Rose, clenching a hoof tightly on her arm. "I-it's not fair…" says Bon Bon with tears streaming down her cheeks. "I-I hate it… but what can we do about it?" asks Rose, gritting her teeth as tears trickle down her cheeks. "Ugh! Stop crying about it!" says Lily, stomping a hoof. "And stop thinking like that!" says Daisy, huffing. "What then!" says Bon Bon, glaring at Daisy and Lily. "If you're so smart, then what should we do!" says Rose, stomping a hoof. "Duh! Get them to notice you!" says Lily, glaring. "And win their heart, obviously!" says Daisy, rolling her eyes. "Easy for you to say…" says Rose, huffing. "Yeah…" says Bon Bon, sighing. "Look, I know it's not easy, but never give up, or else Sun and Moon will be taken by another mare," says Lily, frowning. "And that's not something you both want, right?" asks Daisy, raising a brow. "Right…" says Rose and Bon Bon, hanging their head. "So, give it a try next time. You know, ask them to go with you somewhere when you meet them again," says Lily, smiling. "I-I don't think I can do that…" says Bon Bon, moving a hoof on the ground in a circle. "Y-yeah…" says Rose, rubbing an arm with a hoof. "Don't worry. Knowing you two, I'm sure you can do it!" says Daisy, grinning. "I mean, you both can already stir up trouble here at the market," says Lily, smirking. "She started it," says Rose, pointing a hoof at Bon Bon. "H-hey! I already apologized for that!" says Bon Bon, stomping a hoof. "Whatever," says Rose, rolling her eyes. "See, just like that," says Lily with a chuckle. "Anyway, just be confident in yourself as a mare," says Daisy, smiling. "I guess you're right," says Rose with a smile. "Yeah, thanks, you two," says Bon Bon, smiling. "Oh, and one more thing. I call dibs on Sun," says Lily, smirking. "Dibs on Moon," says Daisy, grinning. "Wait, what!" says Rose, stomping a hoof. "I thought you two were cheering us on!" says Bon Bon, glaring. "I don't see your name on Moon and Sun," says Daisy, folding her hooves. "You think we're just going to do nothing when there are two princes that hot roaming around?" asks Lily, raising a brow. "Ugh! You traitors!" says Rose, baring her teeth. "Hey, every mare for herself," says Lily, shrugging. "Fine! It's on then!" says Bon Bon, glaring and pointing a hoof. "That's the spirit," says Daisy, smirking. Spreading their hooves apart, Rose, Lily, Daisy, and Bon Bon glare at each other, baring their teeth. However, a dark stallion with a mohawk from afar blinks at them. "Ugh, mares…" says the dark stallion, rolling his eyes. ________________________________________ "Sun, Moon, we're here!" says Derpy, pointing a hoof. Following Derpy's hoof, Moon and Sun notice a two-story cottage with trees to the side of it, and bushes, colored with flowers of yellow and red, in front of the building. "Is this perhaps where Moon and I will meet Dinky?" asks Sun, tilting his head. "Yep!" says Derpy. "I see," says Moon, smiling. "It's been a while since I've seen Dinky," says Twilight with a giggle. "This place feels cozy," says Highwind with a smile. "Thanks!" says Derpy, grinning. "Anyway, just give me a second…" she says before taking a deep breath. "DINKY! I'M HOME!" Listening closely, the sound of little hooves is heard within the second floor of the cottage, quickly moving to the first floor as the cottage's door bursts open, revealing a pale-purple filly with a wide smile. "Dinky!" says Derpy, sitting and spreading her arms apart. "Derpy!" says Dinky while running before jumping into Derpy's arms. "I missed you so much!" says Derpy, wrapping her hooves around Dinky. "I missed you too!" says Dinky, nuzzling Derpy's chest. "Oh, Dinky, you wouldn't believe who's here to visit!" says Derpy, lowering Dinky on the ground. "Who?" asks Dinky, turning her head. Her eyes begin to widen. "Oh, Princess Twilight!" "Hi, Dinky, it's been a while!" says Twilight, waving a hoof. "It's fine! I know you're busy, but I'm happy that you visited!" says Dinky, jumping up and down with a smile. "I'm glad you feel that way," says Twilight, chuckling with a hoof over her mouth. "Not only is Princess Twilight here, but we also have three more guests!" says Derpy, pointing a hoof. Following Derpy's hoof, Dinky notices Highwind waving a hoof with a sheepish grin before looking up, seeing Sun and Moon gazing down on her. Dinky's eyes shrink before hiding behind Derpy's legs. "Who are they?" asks Dinky, peeking from Derpy's legs with a frown. "Dinky, don't be shy. They're here to meet you," says Derpy, smiling. "But they look really scary!" says Dinky, closing her eyes while wrapping her hooves around Derpy's leg. "Well, I understand that he can be a jerk sometimes," says Derpy, pointing a hoof at Highwind. "H-hey! Don't just ruin her first impression of me!" says Highwind, stomping a hoof. "Pfft! A jerk sometimes. She's got that right," says Twilight, laughing with a hoof over her mouth. "Not you too, Princess Twilight…" says Highwind, hanging his head. "Dinky, remember those two really nice princes I talked about yesterday?" asks Derpy. "Oh yeah!" says Dinky, nodding her head. "That's them!" says Derpy, pointing a hoof at Sun and Moon. "Not only that, they're really handsome, right?" "Yeah!" says Dinky, smiling. She then walks to Sun and Moon, lifting her head as her eyes meet theirs. "U-um, I'm Dinky! It's nice to meet you both!" "Greetings, Dinky. I am Sun," he says, smiling. "And I am Moon," he says with a smile. "If I remember, thou art considered a special somepony to Derpy," says Sun, blinking. "If that is correct?" asks Moon, tilting his head. "H-hey, Sun, Moon, you don't need to bring that up!" says Derpy, pouting with bright red cheeks. "Yes, you're both right. Derpy is also my special somepony," says Dinky, smiling. "Dinky…" says Derpy with tears welling up in her eyes. "What about you two? Do you consider each other as your special somepony?" asks Dinky, blinking. "Forgive me…" says Sun, frowning. "It seems I have yet to understand the meaning of a special somepony…" "Neither do I…" says Moon, hanging his head. Oh no! I forgot that the message Celestia sent said how Sun and Moon don't know much about Equestria's common knowledge! thinks Twilight, her eyes shrinking. "U-uh, Sun, Moon, it means-" "You're both funny!" says Dinky with a small laugh. "Let's just say that you want to see each other safe and would do anything to help each other!" Well, Dinky's not far from the real meaning, but I guess that's one way to describe a special somepony… thinks Twilight, smiling. "I see…" says Sun, facing Moon with a radiant glow in his eyes. "Perhaps I do consider Moon a special somepony." "And I consider Sun the same," says Moon, facing Sun with a soft glow in his eyes. "Geh! I-it's nice they feel that way about each other, but I just can't see it that way!" says Highwind with bright red cheeks. "I know what you mean! When they look at each other like that, it just feels… it feels so wrong!" says Twilight, placing both hooves over her face as red creeps from her chin to her ears. "What are you guys talking about?" asks Derpy, blinking. "Nothing!" says Twilight and Highwind with a sheepish grin. "DERPY!" says a voice. "Huh?" says Derpy, blinking. She then turns her head, only to see a pink mare glaring at her with a frazzled mane. "Oh, hey, Amethyst!" "Don't you hey me! And why do you always yell just to let Dinky know you're here!" says Amethyst, stomping a hoof. "But Dinky doesn't mind and she likes it when I do," says Derpy. "Ugh! But I do mind and I hate it when you do that!" says Amethyst, stomping a hoof. "And where the hay have you been! There were things that I wanted to do, but I ended up watching Dinky the whole entire day! I wanted to at least take a nap, but you-" "Hey, Amethyst," says Twilight, waving a hoof. "Oh, hey, Twilight," says Amethyst, smiling. She then glares at Derpy. "As to what I was saying, you have to stop- wait… Twilight?" she says, blinking. "The one and only!" says Twilight, closing her eyes and puffing her chest. "What are you doing here?" asks Amethyst, rubbing her head with a hoof. "Can't I pay an old friend a visit?" asks Twilight, raising a brow. "Well, I can't say that I'm not happy to see you, Twilight, but I'm trying to have a talk with Derpy… here…" says Amethyst, frowning. "What's with the creepy grin?" "S-sorry, but I'm just so happy because you're one of the few ponies that just calls me by name!" says Twilight, clapping her hooves. "Well, yeah. I mean, you're a princess and all, but you're still the same old Twilight to me," says Amethyst, raising a brow. "See! Why can't everypony be just like you!" says Twilight with a wide grin. "Who knows?" says Amethyst, shrugging. "Oh, oh, Amethyst, you wouldn't believe who's here!" says Derpy, jumping up and down. "Another loudmouth like you?" asks Amethyst, raising a brow. "Well, no, but just look!" says Derpy, pointing a hoof. Following Derpy's hoof, Amethyst's eyes gaze upon Highwind lifting Dinky with his hooves and placing her on Moon's back. Moon then walks in a circle around Sun, the latter, blinking, while Dinky is seen closing her eyes with a wide smile. "Looks like Dinky's enjoying herself," says Twilight, smiling. "Yeah, it's been a while since I've seen her having that much fun," says Derpy with a small smile. "Good for her," says Twilight, chuckling. "Derpy!" says Amethyst, placing both hooves on Derpy's shoulders and gazing into her eyes. "U-um, Amethyst, you're too close…" says Derpy, blinking with a shade of red in her cheeks. "Forget that! Aren't those the two princes that were here yesterday!" says Amethyst, shaking Derpy back and forth. "Y-yeah! B-but please stop sh-shaking me!" says Derpy, her eyes moving quickly in a circular motion. "S-sorry…" says Amethyst, removing her hooves from Derpy's shoulders. "But what are the princes doing here!" "Well, I wanted to introduce them to Dinky. Do you want me to introduce you to them too?" asks Derpy. "Derpy, for once in my life, I'm actually glad to have you as a friend…" says Amethyst, smiling while placing a hoof on Derpy's shoulder. "You're welcome?" says Derpy, blinking. Geh! That was harsh of Amethyst to say that! It's a good thing Derpy didn't know what she meant… thinks Twilight, placing a hoof over her face. "So, do you want me to introduce you to them or not, Amethyst?" asks Derpy. "U-uh, hold that thought!" says Amethyst before becoming a blur and racing towards the cottage. She then appears in front of Derpy, revealing her smooth, straight mane. "Okay, I'm ready!" she says, grinning. "Okay," says Derpy, turning her head. "Sun, Moon, there's somepony I want you to meet!" Sun walks to Derpy while Moon trails behind with Dinky on his back. They then stop next to Derpy, towering over Amethyst. "And whom might this be?" asks Sun, tilting his head. "This is Amethyst Star! She's my best friend that's staying with me! She also helps me watch Dinky when I'm not around!" says Derpy, placing a hoof behind Amethyst's neck and onto her shoulder. "About what Derpy said earlier, just call me Amethyst. A-anyway, it's nice to meet you both," says Amethyst, grinning with red cheeks. "Greetings, Amethyst. My name is Moon," he says with a smile. "And I am Sun," he says, nodding. "Oh, and that's Highwind over there," says Derpy, pointing a hoof. "H-hey," says Highwind, waving a hoof with a sheepish grin. Amethyst blinks at Highwind. She then quickly faces Sun and Moon. "Moon, Sun, thank you for coming to visit us!" she says with a smile. D-did she just… ignore me? thinks Highwind, his mouth opening slightly. "Nay," says Sun, shaking his head. "We do not deserve thy gratitude." "'Tis Sun and I that should be thanking thee, Amethyst," says Moon. "What do you mean?" asks Amethyst, blinking. "To be able to meet a pony that is important to Dinky and Derpy," says Moon, smiling. "Aye," says Sun, nodding. "That's… that's actually one of the nicest things anypony has ever said to me…" says Amethyst, smiling with a warm gaze. "I do owe you a lot for what you've done for us, Amethyst. You're the best friend ever," says Derpy, chuckling. "Aren't Moon and Sun the nicest ponies you ever met?" asks Dinky, gently wrapping her hooves and nuzzling her face against Moon's neck. "Derpy, thanks. And yeah, Dinky, Sun and Moon are the nicest ponies I've met. Well, more like the nicest princes," says Amethyst with a giggle. "Sorry to interrupt, everypony, but it seems it's almost time for Prince Sun and Prince Moon to return," says Highwind, pointing a hoof. "Wait, it's evening already?" asks Twilight, blinking. She follows Highwind's hoof, noticing the Sun in the sky lowering itself behind the mountains in the horizon. "Huh? Time sure flies," she says, rubbing her head with a hoof. "Aww…" says Derpy and Dinky, frowning. "Oh, don't be like that, you two," says Amethyst. Her horn glows into a pink aura, which the same light appears around Dinky, lifting her off from Moon's back and placing her on the ground next to her before the light fades away. "I know it wasn't long, but at least you both had fun, right?" "But I wanted Sun and Moon to stay longer…" says Dinky, hanging her head. "Yeah…" says Derpy, tears welling up in her eyes. "I'm sorry, you two, but I was given a message from Celestia to bring Sun and Moon back in the evening," says Twilight, frowning. "Perhaps Sun and I could visit again?" asks Moon. "Only if thou still wish to see Moon and I…" says Sun, frowning. "Aye…" says Moon, hanging his head. "What are you guys talking about? You're always welcome to visit us, right, Dinky?" asks Amethyst, sitting and placing both hooves on Dinky's shoulders. "Right!" says Dinky, smiling. "Come on, Derpy! At least give Sun and Moon the okay sign!" says Amethyst. Her horn glows pink, wrapping a similar light around Derpy's wing, stretching it, while folding tips of the wing and leaving some pointing out. "Huh? I never thought it could bend that way…" says Derpy, turning her head and looking at her wing. "Sun, Moon, you got Dinky and Derpy's approval, and mine's too. So, you can always visit anytime you want!" says Amethyst, grinning. "Then we shall visit in the near future," says Sun, nodding. "I look forward to seeing thee again," says Moon, smiling. "Amethyst, Derpy, Dinky, thanks for spending some time with Sun and Moon. I really appreciate it," says Twilight, smiling. "Anything for you, Your Highness," says Amethyst, smirking. "Haha…" says Twilight, rolling her eyes. Her eyes then widen before looking down, noticing Dinky's hooves wrapped around her hoof. "Dinky?" "Thanks, Twilight, for everything you've done for everypony in Equestria," says Dinky, removing her hooves from Twilight's hoof. "To me, you're my favorite princess of them all," she says with a wide smile. "Yeah, and thanks for bringing Moon and Sun along, Twilight," says Derpy, grinning. "You guys…" says Twilight with tears streaming down her cheeks. "H-hey, why are you crying?" asks Amethyst, frowning. "Did we say something we shouldn't have said?" asks Dinky, her brows gathering in. "If we did, sorry," says Derpy, rubbing a hoof behind her head. "N-no, I'm just happy to have friends like you three," says Twilight, wiping her tears with a hoof. Well, I can't blame Princess Twilight. She's probably happy that they're just calling her by name, but most of all, she's finally getting treated like an equal again to the ponies that accepted her for who she is, thinks Highwind, smiling. "Anyway, Sun, Moon, let's get going," says Twilight, turning and walking. "We don't want Celestia and Luna to be worried about you two." "Aye," says Sun, nodding. He follows behind Twilight. "I do not want to worry Luna," says Moon, frowning. He then follows behind Sun. "I must thank you three for taking the time to spend with Prince Sun and Prince Moon as well," says Highwind, smiling. "You're welcome," says Dinky, smiling. "Sure thing," says Derpy, grinning. "Sorry, who are you again?" asks Amethyst, raising a brow. "It's Highwind!" he says, stomping a hoof. "Yeah, I'll try to remember," says Amethyst, waving off a hoof. "Hey, Dinky, I'll race you to the kitchen to make muffins!" says Derpy. "You're on!" says Dinky, quickly running to the cottage. "Cheater!" says Derpy, running after Dinky. "H-hey, don't run in the house!" says Amethyst, running after Derpy and Dinky. "Geez, they act like fillies…" says Highwind, rubbing a hoof behind his head. "Hey, Highwind, you coming or not!" says Twilight, stomping a hoof. "Coming!" says Highwind, running and stopping next to Twilight. "S-sorry for keeping you waiting…" "It's fine," says Twilight, waving off a hoof. "But as for you two…" she says, facing Sun and Moon. "Did you both enjoy yourselves today?" "Aye," says Moon, nodding. "I have learned much today." "That's good," says Twilight, chuckling. "What about you, Sun-" "Wh-what was that for!" says Twilight, jumping away and stomping a hoof with her face flushing red to the tip of her ears. "Thank you for what thou hast done for today, Twilight. Moon and I were able to meet the ponies we wished to see again because of thee," says Sun, smiling. "O-oh, uh, yeah. Y-you're welcome…" says Twilight, her face turning bright red while steam comes out of her ears, and slowly tapping her hooves together. Th-that's the first time a guy kissed me on the cheek! she thinks. She then feels something tapping her shoulder before noticing Highwind. "What?" "Don't fall for him," says Highwind, smirking. "I-I'm not!" says Twilight, her face turning bright as a cherry and stomping a hoof. "I'm joking, Your Highness," says Highwind with a small laugh. "Besides, at least you-" Highwind's eyes shrink upon Moon's lips pressing against his cheek. Moon then removes his lips, gazing at Highwind with a soft glow in his eyes. "Highwind, I thank thee for aiding Sun and I in visiting Ponyville once more," says Moon, smiling. "Y-you're welcome, Your Highness…" says Highwind, placing a hoof on his cheek with an open mouth. He then feels something tapping his shoulder before noticing Twilight. "What?" "So, who's falling for who now?" asks Twilight, smirking. "I-I let my guard down, that's all!" says Highwind, his face burning red and folding his hooves. "Liar!" says Twilight, pressing her forehead against Highwind's. "Am not!" says Highwind, pushing against Twilight's forehead with his own. "Are too!" says Twilight, pushing against Highwind's forehead with her own. As Twilight and Highwind push each other back and forth, the basket on Highwind's back falls. "Ah," says Moon, quickly catching the basket with a hoof. He then places it on the ground and grabs a cookie from the basket with a hoof. "Sun, perhaps we should eat as we wait for Twilight and Highwind." "Aye," says Sun, grabbing a cookie from the basket with a hoof. "However, Moon, it seems there is something of concern…" "What dost thou mean?" asks Moon, tilting his head. "Our promise with the Crusaders…" says Sun, frowning. "Ah, it seems I have forgotten about it…" says Moon, blinking. "Will they forgive us?" asks Sun, hanging his head. "I do not know. But for now, Sun, let us eat," says Moon, lifting Sun's face with a hoof and pressing his own forehead against his. "Thank you, Moon," says Sun, pressing his lips against Moon's cheek. "You're welcome," says Moon, smiling. "But it seems it may be a while before Twilight and Highwind finishes," says Sun, biting a piece of a cookie in his hoof. "Aye," says Moon, biting a piece of a cookie in his hoof. ________________________________________ In a mysterious place, light and dark swirls throughout the sky, stretching far into the horizon. However, a blue mare is seen as she treads upon the shallow, clear water with each step causing a ripple below her. "Where is she? I've been searching for hours already…" says the blue mare, sighing. "Oh, Luna, what's wrong? Losing your breath already? You poor thing," says a voice with a small laugh. "Enough! I'm sick of hearing your sarcasm! I've already searched through thousands of dreams, but you still refuse to show yourself!" says Luna, stomping a hoof as water splashes all over her. "You should play in the water more. You know, to cool down that temper of yours," says the voice, chuckling. "Ugh, your sense of humor really is horrible," says Luna, wiping away the droplets of water from her face with a hoof. "Well, it originally came from a certain moody, boring princess, if I say so myself," says the voice. "I'm not moody! And I certainly am not boring!" says Luna, glaring. "There you go again, being stubborn. It's no wonder everypony tends to compare you to Tia," says the voice, sighing. "Leave her out of this!" says Luna, baring her teeth. "Ah, did I hit a nerve?" asks the voice with a chuckle. "ENOUGH!" says Luna, her powerful voice echoing through the air while the clear water below ripples and splits before coming together. "Quit toying with me and show yourself already!" "I'll consider it if you ask nicely," says the voice, giggling. "I won't say it again. Show yourself," says Luna, her horn glowing bright blue. "You stubborn mare. Fine, if you're so desperate to speak with me, then look forward," says the voice. As Luna's horn's glow fades, she looks ahead, her eyes gazing upon a flat, stone land in the middle of the vast clear water around her. Upon the land, a round table rests upon it with a dark mare sitting behind. "Are you happy now?" asks the dark mare, raising a brow. She then places an elbow on the table and rests her head on a hoof. "Hello, Luna," she says, grinning. "Nightmare Moon…" says Luna, glaring. "Oh, don't say my name in such a sinister way. You're making me feel bad. Anyway, come and sit with me, Luna. There's a lot we need to catch up on, right?" asks Nightmare with a wide grin. To be continued… Chapter 10Distant Shadow ________________________________________ Under the twirling sky of light and dark, Luna walks in small steps towards the dry land of stone in front of her. Her eyes remain in a dagger gaze, focusing on Nightmare Moon, the latter, sitting behind a round table and yawning into a hoof. "Will you hurry up? Or are you just going to take your time, looking at me with that ridiculous look on your face?" asks Nightmare, lifting a brow. "And why should I listen? Besides, I have the right to be wary of anypony, including you," says Luna, glaring. "And here I thought you were grateful to me all those years ago…" says Nightmare, sighing. "And I was a fool to ask for your help!" says Luna, stopping in front of the round table, and pointing a hoof at Nightmare. "Then do you regret asking me?" asks Nightmare, furrowing her brows. "Of course! Thanks to you, I betrayed the trust and friendship of everypony I cherished the most long ago, including my sister!" says Luna, baring her teeth as tears well up in her eyes. "And what has that trust and friendship left you with? Oh, that's right, nothing!" says Nightmare, glaring. "Y-you're wrong…" says Luna, frowning. "Wrong? Do I have to remind you that those ponies, including your sister, failed to understand you all those years ago!" says Nightmare, stomping a hoof. "No. Even now, I realized that it was selfish and foolish of me refusing to lower the Moon to bring about the day…" says Luna, gathering her brows in. "You've changed, Luna…" says Nightmare, huffing. "And it's thanks to the many friends I made now that helped me realize the error of my ways. Even now, the bond between Tia and I grows stronger each day," says Luna with a small smile. Lifting a hoof, Nightmare slams it to the side of the round table, sending it into the air in pieces. She stands to her hooves, walking before stopping in front of Luna with their faces barely touching. "You of all ponies don't have the right to speak about friends when you betrayed me!" says Nightmare, baring her teeth. "How… how could I betray you when we were never friends in the first place!" says Luna, glaring. "Because I believed we were friends!" says Nightmare, stomping a hoof and cracking the stone floor below. "Wh-what are you talking about?" asks Luna with an open mouth. "Don't you realize it yet! I thought of you as a friend! I cared about you! I trusted you, Luna! But how dare you trample over my feelings by mentioning anything about friends when you sealed me away!" says Nightmare, clenching her teeth as tears well up in her eyes. "You're lying! Why should I believe you when you ruined my life all those years ago!" says Luna, stomping a hoof. "Because it was all for you!" says Nightmare, tears streaming down her cheeks. "What?" asks Luna, her eyes widening. "Luna, I came into existence because I wanted revenge for the ponies that ridiculed you, especially Tia for not giving the time to hear you out! The feelings of despair and helplessness built up within you was so unbearable that I couldn't watch anymore!" says Nightmare, clenching a hoof. "But I never wanted revenge! I just wanted a chance to show ponies that the night was something they could enjoy too!" says Luna, placing a hoof on her chest. "Don't lie to yourself, Luna. The feelings you had then were real, and I took over to protect you from the ponies that would dare mock you…" says Nightmare, her horn giving off a dark aura. "Wh-what is this!" says Luna, looking down and noticing dark claws grasping her hooves tightly. "Know this, Luna, those are the same things that dragged me into the abyss when you trapped me in your consciousness…" says Nightmare with a frown. "NO!" says Luna, her eyes shrinking as her horn glows blue, shrouding the same light around the dark claws. However, the blue light disperses along with her horn's glow. "Why can't I stop it! This place was supposed to be under my control!" "Oh, not anymore," says Nightmare with a small laugh. "You see, when you were looking for me by snooping around in the dreams of ponies from all over Equestria, I followed you, stealing what little magic each dream had to offer, and before I knew it, I had all this power surging through me!" "Y-you used me?" asks Luna with wide eyes. "Of course! And now I'm confident that you, Tia, Cadance, and that infuriating Twilight Sparkle are no match for me, even when you're together!" says Nightmare, grinning. "Please, Nightmare Moon, if you believe we're friends, don't do this! I-I don't want to be alone again!" says Luna, tears welling up in her eyes. "And did you bother to think of how I felt when you trapped me in a dark, cold place, even though we went through the same fate together all those years ago!" says Nightmare, glaring. "And I'm sorry I did that to you!" says Luna, reaching out a hoof to Nightmare. "I know I can't make amends now, but if you give me a chance-" "Never!" says Nightmare, stomping a hoof. "I will carry out my revenge on Equestria, even if I have to go through you! Oh, and one more thing, Luna. Have you ever wondered why I'm free? I'll give you a hint. It's a certain pony that is the embodiment of the very thing you raised every night!" "M-Moon?" says Luna, her eyes widening. She then glares. "What does he have to do with this!" "Everything! Ever since you first met him, he caused your emotions to waver, and for a brief moment, it allowed me to escape! After you're gone, Luna, the first thing I'll do is go see Moon as yourself!" says Nightmare with a grin. Her horn then glows blue, wrapping a similar light around herself as a flash of light appears before revealing her blue coat and flowing purple mane. "N-no, no, no… NO! Leave Moon out of this! He already suffered enough!" says Luna, tears trailing down her cheeks. "That's exactly why he will come to understand me. Goodbye, Luna…" says Nightmare, frowning. Moon, Moon, Moon… thinks Luna, closing her eyes as a part of her face sinks into the dark rift below. "I'm sorry…" she says as her entire face sinks in the dark rift and disappears into thin air. ________________________________________ Up in the sky, a golden chariot cuts through the wind while being pulled by three pegasi in gold armor. However, in the chariot, a white pegasi looks at the horizon with a distant look in his eyes. I can't believe I argued with Princess Twilight… thinks the white pegasi, placing both hooves over his face and dragging them down. "Highwind, is there something troubling thee?" asks a voice. "Huh?" says Highwind, looking to his side, noticing a white alicorn with a frown. "U-uh, it's nothing, Prince Sun," he says, waving off a hoof. "If thou sayest so," says Sun, blinking. "A-anyway, isn't it great that we're going back to the castle?" asks Highwind, rubbing his head with a hoof. Because I am! I don't ever want to go back to Ponyville again… "I do not know. Though I wish to stay in Ponyville longer, I also wish to have more of the bread that Celestia eats…" says Sun, his mouth opening slightly as drool seeps out. "I-I see…" says Highwind with a sheepish grin. Is food all you ever think about! he thinks, sighing. He then turns his head, seeing a blue alicorn. "What about you, Prince Moon? Aren't you glad to go back to the castle?" "Ah…" says Moon, blinking. He then shakes his head. "Forgive me, Highwind, it seems I was lost in thought…" "Is there something wrong, Your Highness?" asks Highwind, drawing his brows together. "I do not know. But for a moment, I heard Luna…" says Moon, frowning. "Weird. I didn't hear anything. What about you, Prince Sun?" asks Highwind, blinking. "Nay," says Sun, shaking his head. "Maybe you're just tired from today, Prince Moon," says Highwind with a small laugh. "Perhaps so, but I still worry for Luna…" says Moon with a watery gaze. "Moon…" says Sun, wrinkling his brows. Geh! I-I have to cheer them up somehow! thinks Highwind, biting a hoof. "Prince Moon, don't worry about Princess Luna! I bet she's fine! O-oh, look! We're here at the castle!" he says, pointing a hoof. Looking below from inside the chariot, Sun and Moon notice Canterlot Castle glowing in an orange hue as the Sun in the horizon casts its warm light. "S-so, what do you both think of the view?" asks Highwind with a sheepish grin. "I do not know…" says Moon, smiling as his eyes reflect the orange glow of the castle. "Words cannot describe it…" says Sun, gazing at the sunset with a small smile. Well, at least they're smiling… thinks Highwind, sighing. As the chariot descends, it lands smoothly on the ground before coming to a stop next to the drawbridge of the castle. "All right, Your Highnesses, out of the chariot!" says Highwind, jumping off the chariot. "Aye," says Moon, placing a hoof on the ground and walks out of the chariot. Sun nods his head and follows behind Moon. "Now then, Pleasant, Summer, Top Notch, bring the chariot to the back of the castle and return to the barracks!" says Highwind. "Yes, sir!" says Pleasant, Summer, and Top Notch, saluting. "Oh, before we leave, Prince Moon, Prince Sun, did you enjoy Ponyville?" asks Pleasant, smiling. "Aye, and I wish to visit again," says Moon, smiling. "We have learned much today," says Sun with a smile. "That's good. It's great to go out and see the world for yourself," says Pleasant, grinning. "What about you, sir? How was your time off?" asks Summer, blinking. "Don't think for a second that I forgot about that stunt you three pulled…" says Highwind, glaring. "Yeah, yeah, we get it," says Top Notch, waving off a hoof. "We just wanted to know what happened, that's all." "Ugh, do you have to ask? Well, I guess it was good, except for some ponies I met…" says Highwind, rubbing a hoof down his face. "Were they mares?" asks Summer, raising a brow. "Yeah…" says Highwind, huffing. "Were they cute?" asks Top Notch, blinking. "You should consider asking somepony else instead of me…" says Highwind, clicking his tongue. "Your Highnesses, what did you think of the mares in Ponyville?" asks Summer, blinking. "Yeah, were there some attractive ones?" asks Top Notch, smirking. "Please say yes. I mean, the mares here in Canterlot are kind of… meh," says Pleasant, rolling his eyes. "Forgive me, but I do not understand…" says Moon, frowning. "Attractive?" asks Sun, tilting his head. Ugh! Prince Sun and Prince Moon are the last ponies these idiots should be asking! thinks Highwind, twitching an eye. "H-hey, guys, how about we just call it a day-" "U-uh, speaking of mares, looks like two of them are coming this way!" says Pleasant, pointing a hoof. Following Pleasant's hoof, a pink and dark unicorn is seen walking across the drawbridge. "A-anyway, sir, we'll be on our way!" says Summer with a sheepish grin. "Y-yeah!" says Pleasant with a wide grin. "You idiots! Let's get out of here already!" says Top Notch, his face dripping with sweat. "R-right!" says Pleasant and Summer, nodding quickly. Together, Summer, Pleasant, and Top Notch run across the stone path, pulling the chariot behind them as they take off in the sky. Stopping next to Highwind, a pink mare looks up at Top Notch and the others as they disappear behind Canterlot Castle before facing Highwind. "Hey, why were those guys in a hurry? They could've said hi," says the pink mare, frowning. "I can already guess…" says Highwind, facing a dark mare. "What?" asks the dark mare. "N-nothing!" says Highwind with a sheepish grin. "Ah, Melody, greetings," says Sun, smiling. "Oh, Sun!" says Melody, jumping and wrapping her hooves around Sun's chest. "Did you miss me?" "Aye," says Sun, nodding. "Hehe!" says Melody, grinning. "Lyrical, 'tis good to see thee," says Moon with a smile. "Good evening, Moon. How was your trip to Ponyville?" asks Lyrical, tilting her head. "I enjoyed it," says Moon, nodding. "I see," says Lyrical with a small smile. "So, why are you two here?" asks Highwind, blinking. "What? We can't say hi to Sun and Moon?" asks Melody, raising a brow. "As rude as always, Highwind," says Lyrical, sighing. "You're one to talk, Lyrical," says Highwind, huffing. "Threatening to dump a bucket of ice water over me whenever I sleep when you and the others forced Princess Celestia to-" "Do you still want me to?" asks Lyrical, glaring. "O-on second thought, forget what I said…" says Highwind with a sheepish grin. "Come on, Highwind, we're only joking," says Melody with a small laugh. "I wasn't," says Lyrical. "Lyrical!" says Melody, stomping a hoof. "Fine, it was only a joke," says Lyrical, clicking her tongue. "Geez…" says Melody, sighing. "Anyway, Tia wanted to welcome you guys, but she's too busy dealing with some snot-nosed nobles," she says, huffing. "Apparently, some ponies in Canterlot are having a rivalry and kept remodeling their home to see who has the better design. This has been going on for the past month…" says Lyrical, sighing. "Now they're here asking Tia to decide for them," says Melody, rolling her eyes. "Seriously?" asks Highwind, raising a brow. "Yeah…" says Melody, rubbing a hoof down her face. "I can't believe the ridiculous things that Tia deals with nowadays!" "Hmm…" says Lyrical, tapping her chin with a hoof. "If it was me, I would use my magic and blow-" "Okay, okay, stop!" says Melody, putting a hoof over Lyrical's mouth. "Lyrical, be careful of what you say. We still have kids here," she says, pointing a hoof at Sun and Moon. Sun and Moon tilt their head. "Oh, right," says Lyrical. "Ah, I almost forgot. Moon, there's somepony that wanted to see you," says Melody, smiling. "Whom art thou speaking of?" asks Moon. "Lyrical, wake him up," says Melody, grinning. "Okay," says Lyrical, poking a hoof against her mane. Slowly, a small creature appears from Lyrical's mane, rubbing a paw against its eye. "Ah, Tibbles," says Moon, blinking. Tibbles' ears twitch before facing Moon, waving both of his paws. "'Tis good to see thee as well," says Moon, smiling. Tibbles then faces Sun, tilting his head before pointing a paw at him and looking at Moon. "Aye, Tibbles, that is Sun," says Moon, nodding. Tibbles then faces Sun, closing his eyes, and waves a paw. "And greetings to thee, Tibbles," says Sun, smiling. "H-hold on a second… Sun, Moon, you understand what Tibbles is saying?" asks Melody with an open mouth. "Aye," says Sun, nodding. "Is it perhaps strange?" asks Moon, frowning. "Strange? It's amazing!" says Melody, throwing both hooves in the air. "Melody's right, Your Highnesses! Talking to animals is something of a gift!" says Highwind, smiling. "Even I'm impressed," says Lyrical with a small smile. "You see, Your Highnesses, we can only understand Tibbles through yes or no questions, and he either nods or shakes his head," says Highwind, sighing. "Yeah, and the only ponies I know that can talk to animals is Lulu and one of Twilight's friends. But I forgot her name…" says Melody, tapping her chin with a hoof. "Her name's Fluttershy, I believe," says Lyrical. "Yeah, her!" says Melody, nodding. "I wonder why Tia and Lulu didn't mention anything about Sun and Moon being able to talk to animals though?" "Maybe it's because we didn't ask them about it?" says Lyrical. "Geh! I guess you're right…" says Melody, hanging her head. Tibbles then faces Moon, rubbing his eye with a paw and points another paw at Canterlot Castle. "Ah, forgive me, Tibbles…" says Moon, frowning. "What did Tibbles say?" asks Highwind, blinking. "Tibbles mentioned staying up and waiting at the castle all day for Moon," says Sun. "Ugh! It took Lyrical and I forever to figure out that Tibbles wanted to come along and see Moon…" says Melody, sighing. "He's supposed to be resting at this time as well…" says Lyrical, frowning. "Tibbles, was there something you needed from Prince Moon that you stayed up this long?" asks Highwind, rubbing his head with a hoof. Tibbles shakes his head. "Did you just want to see Prince Moon?" asks Highwind, blinking. Tibbles nods his head before looking at Moon, closing his eyes and waving a paw. "Aye, I consider thee important as well, Tibbles," says Moon, smiling. "Geez, I never thought there would be somepony Tibbles likes as much as Lulu," says Melody with a small smile. "Well, Moon is similar to Luna," says Lyrical, smiling. "I guess," says Melody, shrugging. Tibbles lifts a paw to his mouth, yawning into it. "I think it's time I bring Tibbles back, and I have to wake up Luna since she tends to sleep past the scheduled time to raise the Moon…" says Lyrical, sighing. "To think she's the Princess of the Night…" says Melody, rolling her eyes. "Then, Moon, Sun, I wish you both a good evening," says Lyrical, bowing her head. Tibbles waves a paw. "Farewell, Tibbles," says Moon, smiling. "And to thee as well, Lyrical," says Sun with a small smile. Tibbles then dives into Lyrical's mane as she turns and walks to the castle. "So, Moon, Sun, you guys hungry?" asks Melody, tilting her head. "Nay," says Moon, shaking his head. "I wish to eat more banana bread, but perhaps another time," says Sun. "That's weird. I thought you both would be hungry when you came back…" says Melody, tapping her chin with a hoof. "Well, they did eat a lot at Ponyville…" says Highwind, rubbing his head with a hoof. "Oh, then since you both aren't hungry, want to take a bath?" asks Melody, facing Sun and Moon. "Aye," says Sun with beaming eyes. Haha, it's funny how Tia's the same when it comes to a bath, thinks Melody, giggling with a hoof over her mouth. "Sun, you really like baths, huh?" "Aye," says Sun with a small smile. "So, what about you, Highwind?" asks Melody, blinking. "Yeah, I guess. It'd be nice after all the things I dealt with today…" says Highwind, sighing. "I see. I guess those rumors around the castle that you're going after the princes were right," says Melody, smirking. "H-hey! I already said that I don't swing that way!" says Highwind, stomping a hoof with bright red cheeks. "I'm joking! I'm joking! Geez, you take things so serious sometimes," says Melody, raising a brow. "Hmph!" says Highwind, sitting and folding his hooves. Ah, he's sulking now, thinks Melody, chuckling with a hoof over her mouth. She then faces Moon. "What about you, Moon?" "Nay," says Moon, shaking his head. Highwind's ears twitch before facing Moon. What? I thought Prince Moon enjoyed baths as much as Prince Sun… "Moon, are you sure you don't want to join Sun and Highwind?" asks Melody, blinking. "Aye, I wish to rest for the night…" says Moon with a small smile. "Wait for a second, Prince Moon, I thought you liked baths?" asks Highwind, standing to his hooves. "Forgive me, Highwind, but it seems I am not feeling well…" says Moon, wrinkling his brows. "Hey, Highwind!" says Melody, stomping a hoof. "If Moon is not feeling well, you don't have to-" "Melody, sorry, but please be quiet," says Highwind, lifting a hoof. He then faces Moon with an unwavering gaze. "Prince Moon, be honest with me. Are you still worried about that voice you heard?" Moon's eyes widen before furrowing his brows. "Aye, as of now, I fear that something must have happened to Luna…" "Then why were you trying to hide it?" asks Highwind, frowning. "Forgive me…" says Moon, lowering his gaze. "I… I…" "Moon," says Sun. Turning their head, Moon, Highwind, and Melody notice Sun with a watery gaze. Sun then moves closer before standing in front of Moon with their muzzles barely touching. Slowly, Sun presses his head against Moon's as they gaze into each other's eyes. "Why art thou not being honest with thyself?" asks Sun, his brows drawing together. "Because… because I do not wish to trouble others after everything they have done for us…" says Moon, averting his gaze. "Moon, I understand, but given our time here, I have come to know that there will be difficulties as we learn more about this world. Though I wish to not trouble others as much as thee, I feel that 'tis right to request the aid of others for answers that we do not know," says Sun with a small smile. "Sun…" says Moon with wide eyes. Ah, that is right. Luna mentioned if I am lost, I should consult somepony about my concerns… he thinks, placing his lips on Sun's cheek. He then removes his lips, smiling at Sun with a soft glow in his eyes. "Thank you." "You're welcome," says Sun, smiling. "Geez, I'll never get used to it when they kiss somepony like that…" says Melody, fanning a hoof at her face with a shade of red in her cheeks. "I'm just glad that Prince Moon is smiling again…" says Highwind, frowning. "From what I see, you don't look too happy," says Melody, raising a brow. "I can't help it! I'm still angry at myself for failing to understand Prince Moon! I mean, I can't believe I forgot that even though he may have a body of a grown pony, I didn't consider the fact that he's still a child at heart, not wanting to cause trouble for others! The same can be said for Prince Sun…" says Highwind, clenching a hoof. "Well, yeah. I mean, if ponies are doing everything they can to help you, it makes sense you'd try not to trouble them. Even I understand where Sun and Moon are coming from since me and Lyrical were kind of in a similar spot…" says Melody, her brows gathering in. "Melody…" says Highwind, frowning. "That's right. You and Lyrical were-" Lifting a hoof, Melody smacks Highwind's back. "OW! What was that for!" says Highwind, rubbing his back with a hoof. "Let's leave it at that. Besides, I think somepony wants to talk to you," says Melody, pointing a hoof. Following Melody's hoof, Highwind notices Moon towering over him, looking at him with a stern gaze. "D-do you need something, Your Highness?" asks Highwind with a sheepish grin. "Forgive me for not being honest with thee, Highwind…" says Moon, furrowing his brows. "N-no! It's fine! If anything, it's me who should apologize!" says Highwind, shaking his head and waving both hooves. "Nay…" says Moon, shaking his head. "'Tis I that should apologize for my mistake. I should have consulted thee about my concerns when I am troubled…" Highwind lets out a sigh. "You know, Your Highness, just know that either Melody or I will do whatever we can to help you and Prince Sun," he says with a small smile. "Highwind's right. Besides, we're some of the ponies Tia and Lulu asked to be there for you and Sun whenever you need help, remember?" asks Melody, raising a brow. "Ah, it seems I have forgotten…" says Moon, blinking. "Don't worry too much about it, but just know that you can always rely on us," says Melody, grinning. "Aye," says Moon, nodding with a smile. "Good boy. Anyway, aren't you glad you have somepony like Sun that worries about you?" asks Melody, smiling. "That is why I am fortunate to have Sun by my side…" says Moon, his eyes turning soft with an inner glow while facing Sun. Noticing Moon's gaze, Sun looks at him with gentle eyes and a small smile. "Ugh! I'm so jealous! I wish Lyrical could appreciate me more like that!" says Melody, biting a hoof. "You know Lyrical wouldn't do that, right?" asks Highwind, raising a brow. "Don't remind me! Even though I'm her older sister, she never treats me with the respect I deserve!" says Melody, tears spurting out of her eyes. "Well, you always act like a filly and tend to slack off from your job…" says Highwind, muttering to himself. "What did you say?" asks Melody, glaring at Highwind. "Nothing! A-anyway, I'm still worried about what Prince Moon said!" says Highwind, his face dripping with sweat. "Oh, speaking of that, what did you mean earlier about a voice?" asks Melody, blinking. "I'm not sure, but Prince Moon said something about hearing Princess Luna…" says Highwind, frowning. "Wait, what?" asks Melody, raising a brow. "Ugh! Prince Moon, are you sure the voice you heard was Princess Luna?" asks Highwind, quickly rubbing his head with a hoof. "Aye…" says Moon, frowning and slowly nodding his head. "If I remember, Luna asked for help, but I do not understand why…" "So, what you're both saying is that you think this voice Moon heard is Lulu asking for help, but you don't know why?" asks Melody, tapping her chin with a hoof. "Pretty much," says Highwind, blinking. Taking a deep breath, Melody lets out a sigh. "You know, if somepony else heard this, they'd think Moon's crazy. Heck, even I thought so, but knowing him and Sun, they're just way too honest, and Moon has no reason to lie…" she says, folding her hooves. "And that's why I believe him…" says Highwind, placing a hoof over his face. "So, what should we do now, Commander?" asks Melody, raising a brow. "For now, Prince Sun, Prince Moon, I'm sorry, but the bath will be for another time, and you both will go to your rooms instead," says Highwind. "I see…" says Moon, frowning. "'Tis unfortunate…" says Sun, hanging his head. "Sorry, you two, it's for your own safety. After this is over, you can stay in the bath as much as you want. Well, not too long, okay?" asks Melody, smiling. "Aye," says Sun with a smile. "Forgive me, but could Sun perhaps spend the night in my room?" asks Moon. "That's fine, but why?" asks Highwind, blinking. "I… I just wish for Sun to stay by my side…" says Moon, his brows gathering in. "Oh, I can see it now!" says Melody with steam coming from her nose as her cheeks turn red. "Two brothers in a forbidden relationship as Sun pushes Moon on the bed, and they-" "Stop having weird thoughts about them!" says Highwind, hitting Melody on the head with a hoof. "OW! Geez, you're no fun…" says Melody, pouting. Highwind rolls his eyes. "Anyway, Prince Moon, that's a great idea, but is Prince Sun okay with it?" "Sun, dost thou hast any complaints?" asks Moon, frowning. "Nay, I also wish to stay by thy side, Moon," says Sun, smiling. "Sun…" says Moon with a small smile. "Well, if Prince Sun agrees, Melody, can you arrange Prince Moon's room for both of them to sleep in?" "No problem!" says Melody, puffing out her chest. "Then I'll ask some guards to watch the room, and it's easier for them to keep an eye on the princes since they're together," says Highwind. "Um, Highwind, shouldn't we tell Tia about this? I mean, this is pretty serious…" says Melody, wrinkling her brows. "No. If we do, she probably might go see Princess Luna herself," says Highwind, sighing. "But Tia's powerful, you know?" says Melody, raising a brow. "And so is Princess Luna…" says Highwind, frowning. "Oh…" says Melody, slumping her shoulders. "Look, I'm just worried about what Prince Moon said about Princess Luna asking for help. If that's true, then whatever we're dealing with, it's powerful enough to deal with alicorns, and I don't want to put Princess Celestia in danger…" says Highwind, clenching a hoof. "D-do you think it's Queen Chrysalis?" asks Melody, her body shivering. "It could be…" says Highwind, glaring. "But didn't Tia put some sort of barrier around the city and the castle to prevent changelings from entering?" asks Melody, twirling a hoof. "She did, but you can never be too sure. Besides, there's something else that bothers me more, and that's to see if Princess Luna is an imposter or not. If she really is a fake, then we can't just bring a group of guards, or she might get too cautious…" says Highwind, furrowing his brows. "I-I guess you're right…" says Melody, rubbing a hoof to her head. "Wait, what about Lyrical?" asks Highwind, blinking. "She's probably with that fake Lulu, so I guess we'll have to do this without her…" says Melody, frowning. "Guess this will be harder than I thought…" says Highwind, rubbing a hoof down his face. "Wait…" says Melody, tapping her chin with a hoof. She then grins. "I think I have an idea!" ________________________________________ Atop the spiraling towers of Canterlot Castle, a rift appears atop a balcony. Through the rift, a blue hoof appears and touches the floor as the owner of the hoof comes through, revealing a blue mare. "It's been a while since I set hoof on solid ground," says the blue mare, looking down and tapping a hoof on the stone floor. Lifting her head, the blue mare glances from side to side before setting her eyes on the sunset in the horizon. "And the Sun is still the same after all this time…" says the blue mare, glaring. She then lets out a sigh. As much as I want to drown Equestria in the night, there are things that I must do first… "Luna?" says a voice. "Huh?" says Luna, turning her head, noticing a dark mare. Wait, she must be my, well, her personal maid. Her name is… Lyrical, if I recall. Maybe she knows where Moon is? Question is though, how did Luna behave around her again? Ah, now I remember… she thinks, blinking. "Oh, Lyrical, did you need something?" "Did you forget already? I always come around this time to wake you up. Honestly, Luna, you're not a filly anymore, so you should learn to get up yourself," says Lyrical, glaring. "S-sorry…" says Luna with a sheepish grin. How dare she speak to me like that! If I didn't need you, I would've just blown you away! "Anyway, I just put Tibbles on your bed, so he's sleeping right now. I can't believe he stayed up so long just to see Moon…" says Lyrical, sighing. Tibbles? Oh, that disgusting creature I supposedly keep as a pet, thinks Luna, tapping her chin with a hoof. "Thanks for looking after him." "It's fine. By the way, why are you up early, Luna? You're usually snoring away in your bed right now…" says Lyrical with a glare. "Oh, uh, I-I guess I couldn't sleep well…" says Luna, rubbing her arm with a hoof. "Hmm…" says Lyrical, squinting her eyes and looking into Luna's own. D-did she notice something! thinks Luna, her face dripping with sweat. "You seem fine, I guess. Did you wake up early because you were hungry or something?" asks Lyrical, tilting her head. "Uh, yes! I am kind of hungry…" says Luna with a sheepish grin. "Well, you do have a long night. I don't want you to do your duties on an empty stomach," says Lyrical. "If you say so…" says Luna, sighing. I have to be more careful around this mare… "But, Luna, since we're out here on the balcony, you should start raising the Moon. Look, Celestia's already bringing the Sun down," says Lyrical, pointing a hoof. "Oh, right!" says Luna, blinking. She then turns around and grinds her teeth. Ugh! I can't believe this stupid mare is telling me what to do! If only I knew how to use a mind control spell or something! Closing her eyes, Luna's horn glows bright blue as a white glow emerges from the mountains in the distance. Soon, the Moon reveals itself, rising up as stars sparkle throughout the night sky. "As I thought, the night is beautiful, no matter how many times I see it…" says Luna, her eyes reflecting the multiple lights, flickering in the night sky. "And it always will be," says Lyrical. "It's a shame that ponies sleep throughout the night…" says Luna, frowning. "True, but there are many ponies that enjoy it," says Lyrical with a small smile. "Really?" asks Luna, blinking. "Well, I do like to read at night, especially since it's the only time where it's quiet throughout the castle. But I'm just one of the many ponies that can truly enjoy themselves at night than during the day…" says Lyrical, her brows gathering in. "And what would that be?" asks Luna, raising a brow. "For somepony that watches over the dream world, I thought you came across some of those examples already," says Lyrical, sighing. "I only check the dreams of ponies that have nightmares, you know? Sorry for being clueless…" says Luna, huffing. Lyrical rolls her eyes. "Look, from morning to evening, I have to deal with maids throughout the castle that slacks off, especially when it comes to my older sister that's setting a stupid example. It's only when the day's over that I can finally get some peace to myself…" "Pfft! I-I guess that's a very good reason!" says Luna, laughing with a hoof over her mouth. "That's rare for somepony like me to make you laugh," says Lyrical, tilting her head. "You underestimate yourself," says Luna, smiling. "You know, we've never talked like this before…" says Lyrical, frowning. "We didn't?" asks Luna, blinking. "Of course. You and I are always busy, but I'm glad we did…" says Lyrical with a small smile. "Lyrical…" says Luna, furrowing her brows. To think I thought of her as an annoyance at first, but I'm starting to think differently of her now. If only we didn't meet under different circumstances, I would've liked to talk to her more… "Well, let's not waste more time. You're hungry, right?" asks Lyrical, smiling. "R-right…" says Luna with a sheepish grin. "Oh, Lyrical, I forgot to ask, but where is Moon?" "He should be with my sister, I think. Is there something you need from him?" asks Lyrical, tilting her head. "Oh, nothing. I just wanted to have a little talk with him," says Luna, chuckling. "I guess we can find him on the way to the dining room. I'll go with you," says Lyrical, turning around and walking through a doorway. "Thank you, Lyrical," says Luna, smiling. She then frowns and bites her bottom lip. And I'm sorry for deceiving you… ________________________________________ Through the halls of Canterlot Castle, Highwind is seen standing on his hind legs with his back against a wall. He then peeks his head in an intersection of the hallway, glancing from left to right. "What are you doing?" asks a voice. "AHH!" says Highwind, leaping into the air before landing face first. He then groans and lifts his head, noticing a pink mare laughing with a hoof over her mouth. "Melody!" he says, glaring. "It's not my fault you get scared easily," says Melody, grinning. "Ugh! Don't do that!" says Highwind, jumping to his hooves. "I thought you… were…" he says with an open mouth, noticing a white alicorn next to Melody. "What's wrong, Highwind?" asks the white alicorn, blinking. "U-um, excuse me for a second, Princess Celestia!" says Highwind with a sheepish grin. He then grabs Melody by the nape of her neck with a hoof and drags her away. "OW! Highwind, you jerk! That really hurts! Why'd you do that for!" says Melody, glaring and rubbing the nape of her neck with a hoof. "What the hay, Melody! Why'd you bring Princess Celestia! Even after I told you that we shouldn't involve her!" says Highwind, stomping a hoof. "Don't worry! It's all part of my plan!" says Melody, puffing out her chest. "And why did that plan have to involve her out of all ponies!" says Highwind, sitting and placing both hooves over his face before dragging them down. "Like it or not, we'll still need Tia's help to deal with whoever the fake Lulu is…" says Melody, frowning. "Geh! I-I can't deny that…" says Highwind, sighing. "Oh, and I managed to prepare Moon's room for him and Sun, so they're together right now. How did it go on your end with the guards for them?" asks Melody, raising a brow. "O-oh, uh, I…" says Highwind, his face dripping with sweat. "What happened now?" asks Melody, glaring. "You see, I thought of actually bringing some guards with us before going up against the imposter, but… when I went to the barracks, there was only Pleasant, Summer, and Top Notch. So, I asked them to guard Prince Moon's room…" says Highwind, rubbing an arm with a hoof. "Wait, only those three? What happened to the others?" asks Melody, blinking. "Well, they're actually out somewhere in Canterlot drinking or something…" says Highwind with a sheepish grin. "WHAT!" says Melody, her eyes shrinking. She then stomps a hoof. "Why would they do that!" "I-it's kind of a long story…" says Highwind, sighing. It's because I told Pleasant, Summer, and Top Notch to let the other guards know that they're free to do whatever they want for the day… "Forget it. I don't want to hear it," says Melody, huffing. "You know, I sometimes think that the Royal Guard is useless for never being there when we need them the most." "I-I've got nothing to say to that…" says Highwind, hanging his head. He then quickly lifts his head. "Wait, how about we ask some of the maids?" "Are you an idiot!" says Melody, glaring. "Did you forget that at this time, all the maids go home! And even if they were here, they don't know any powerful spells to protect themselves like me and Lyrical-" "I'm sorry to interrupt, but what are you two talking about?" asks Celestia, blinking. "N-nothing!" says Highwind and Melody with a sheepish grin. Celestia lets out a sigh before facing Melody with a frown. "Melody, you do realize that I have to be up early again tomorrow, right? Then why did you ask me to come here at this time?" "I know, I know! I'm so sorry, Tia, but it's something very important!" says Melody, repeatedly bowing her head. "And that is?" asks Celestia, raising a brow. "I can't tell you now, but could you please be patient!" says Melody, putting her hooves together and facing Celestia with large watery eyes. "Fine. I don't know what you're up to, but you better explain after this is over…" says Celestia, glaring. "Thanks, Tia," says Melody, smiling. Highwind leans over to Melody. "You didn't tell her what's going on?" "If I did, do you think she'd believe what Moon said?" asks Melody, raising a brow. "No…" says Highwind, frowning. "Then be quiet and play along!" says Melody, glaring. She then faces Celestia. "Um, Tia, do you mind doing me a big favor?" "What is it now?" asks Celestia, furrowing her brows. "Are you able to turn invisible?" asks Melody with a sheepish grin. "And why are you asking me this?" asks Celestia, glaring. "Could you please do that and stay that way for now?" asks Melody, putting her hooves together. "Melody, I'm starting to grow impatient as to why you're hiding something from me. But I will listen to you just this once because I've known you for a long time…" says Celestia, scowling. "Tia, I'm so sorry for asking you this, but I really need your help right now…" says Melody, furrowing her brows. "And I should apologize to you as well, Your Highness, but please listen to Melody…" says Highwind, bowing his head. "I don't know what's going on, but I can see that you're both determined to carry this out. It would pain me to stand by and do nothing when ponies like you two desperately need my help…" says Celestia, wrinkling her brows. "Thank you, Your Highness," says Highwind, smiling. "U-um, Tia, one more thing. While you're invisible, from here on out, please don't say anything and just follow us, okay?" asks Melody, drawing her brows together. Nodding, Celestia's horn glows yellow as a similar light shrouds her body, causing herself to turn transparent before fading away. "By the way, Melody, you said that Lyrical should be coming pass here. How do you know that?" asks Highwind, raising a brow. "With my overflowing love for my little sister, of course! I can sense her anywhere!" says Melody, puffing out her chest. "Melody, th-that's really… creepy…" says Highwind, his face turning blue. "H-hey, don't look at me like that, Highwind!" says Melody, stomping a hoof. "I'm sorry, Melody, but I have to agree with Highwind on this…" says Celestia. "Even Tia too! Ugh, even though you're invisible, just imagining how you're looking at me is starting to make me cry…" says Melody, tears welling up in her eyes. "Wait, I think I hear somepony coming this way!" says Highwind, his ears twitching. He then peeks his head in the hallway intersection, noticing a dark mare. "It's Lyrical…" "Really?" asks Melody, blinking. "Great! We can ask her about-" "Hold on!" says Highwind, squinting his eyes. His eyes then widen. "Great, Princess Luna's with her too! Melody, are you sure that plan you mentioned is going to work?" "Don't worry. Just follow my lead," says Melody, smiling. She then walks ahead, turning at the intersection of the hallway. "Oh, Lyrical, there you are!" "Melody? What are you doing here?" asks Lyrical. "Oh, just wanted to see how things are doing on your side," says Melody, grinning. "Then why is that useless idiot here?" asks Lyrical, glaring at Highwind. "Nice to see you too, Lyrical," says Highwind, rolling his eyes. "Highwind was helping me with setting up Moon's room. Apparently, Moon wanted Sun to stay with him for the night, right, Highwind?" asks Melody, elbowing Highwind's side. "R-right!" says Highwind with a sheepish grin. "And why did Moon suggest that?" asks Lyrical, tilting her head. "Well, I guess Moon was lonely or something…" says Melody, tapping her chin with a hoof. "Or maybe he wanted a passionate night with Sun, doing things like-" "Enough," says Lyrical, putting a hoof over Melody's mouth. "I don't want to hear what's going on in that head of yours." "Oh, and good evening, Princess Luna," says Highwind, smiling. "And to you as well, Highwind," says Luna with a small smile. "Oh, Lulu, what about me?" asks Melody, pointing a hoof at herself. "Yes, I didn't forget about you, Melody. Good evening," says Luna, chuckling. "So, Lulu, why are you with Lyrical? Aren't you supposed to be watching over the dream world or something?" asks Melody, raising a brow. "Well, I wanted to eat something before doing my duties. Oh, I also wanted to talk with Moon, but I'm not sure where he is, so I'm here with Lyrical to find him," says Luna, frowning. "But now we don't need to find him since we know where he is now. You're actually useful for once, Melody," says Lyrical, rubbing and twisting a hoof against Melody's nose. "Ow, ow, ow! That hurts, Lyrical!" says Melody, pushing Lyrical's hoof away with her own and placing another hoof on her nose. "Anyway, let's not waste any time, Luna. You have a long night," says Lyrical. "I know, I know…" says Luna, sighing. "Wait, before you go, there's something I need to ask you, Lulu," says Melody, smiling. "What is it?" asks Luna, blinking. Melody's smile slowly fades away as her eyes turn into a dagger gaze. "Where is the real Lulu?" "Excuse me?" asks Luna with an open mouth. "Melody, if this is another one of your jokes, I really will get angry…" says Lyrical, glaring. "Believe me, this isn't a joke. You caught on too, right, Highwind?" asks Melody, her horn glowing bright blue. "Yeah…" says Highwind with a glare. He then spreads his hooves apart and unfolds his wings. "Do you both realize what you're doing?" asks Luna, narrowing her eyes. "Oh, I do, and I'll ask again. Where is the real Lulu?" asks Melody, scowling. "Melody, Highwind, stop it! Are you both crazy!" says Lyrical, stomping a hoof. "Lyrical, you might not have noticed, but that's not the real Lulu…" says Melody, frowning. "And how do you know that!" says Lyrical. "Come on, Lyrical, even you should have noticed it! It's so simple that everypony in the castle knows that Lulu hates it when you call her that…" says Melody, sighing. "And from our talk earlier, this Princess Luna never once said anything when Melody called her by that name!" says Highwind, pointing a hoof at Luna. Lyrical's eyes widen before facing Luna with a glare as her horn glows bright pink. "Who are you?" Luna lets out a sigh. "I can't believe because of a stupid mistake; my disguise was ruined! But to think there are some ponies in the castle who aren't dumb after all!" she says with a wide grin. Her horn glows blue as a similar light shrouds her body, causing a flash of light that quickly disappears. Highwind, Melody, and Lyrical's eyes widen from the shadowy figure standing before them. Their bodies begin to tremble as the shadow's familiar black coat and flowing purple mane reflect in their eyes. "N-no way…" says Highwind, his legs giving out as he falls on his haunches. "Wh-what's going on!" "Wh-why is she here? I thought she was g-gone for good…" says Melody, her face turning pale. "Nightmare Moon…" says Lyrical, clenching a hoof on her shaking arm. "Oh, what's wrong? For a second there, you three were prepared for anything, but now you're trembling before me," says Nightmare, chuckling. "W-we're not scared of you!" says Highwind, standing to his hooves. "Y-yeah! And why are you here!" says Melody, glaring. "Where's Luna! Give her back!" says Lyrical, stomping a hoof. "I'm afraid I can't do that. Besides, what can you three weaklings do to me?" asks Nightmare, laughing. "They're not alone…" says a voice. Nightmare's eyes widen, noticing Celestia as her transparent body fully comes into view. "Well, well, this is a surprise. I never thought I'd see your annoying face so soon, Tia," says Nightmare, grinning. "You of all ponies have no right to call me that!" says Celestia, glaring as her horn turns bright yellow. "I'll repeat what Melody asked you before, where is my sister?" "What's wrong? Can't recognize your own sister standing before you? You do know that Luna and I are one and the same, right?" asks Nightmare, raising a brow. "And I refuse to believe that! Now tell me where my sister is!" says Celestia, stomping a hoof. "As always, you're so impatient and quick at ordering others," says Nightmare, rolling her eyes. "Well, if you must know, she's not hurt and sleeping somewhere like the good princess she is," she says with a wide grin. Celestia bares her teeth as her horn releases a beam of light, flying straight at Nightmare. Standing her ground, Nightmare looks at the light with an unwavering gaze as it engulfs her and her surroundings. As the beam of light disappears, the walls and pillars of the hallway lay in rubble, revealing a large hole in the castle's wall, exposed to the open night air. However, Celestia's eyes widen, noticing Nightmare dusting off her shoulder with a hoof while standing in the middle of the rubble around her. "N-no way! There's not a scratch on her!" says Highwind, his eyes shrinking. "That was one of Celestia's most powerful spells…" says Lyrical, frowning. "Wh-what should we do!" says Melody, throwing both hooves in the air. "Calm down, you three," says Celestia, spreading her hooves apart. "There must be a way to-" "Is that all, Tia?" asks Nightmare, raising a brow. "What did you do!" says Celestia, glaring. "It's simple. You're just too weak!" says Nightmare, stomping a hoof and cracking the stone floor. "Now then, it's my turn!" she says, grinning. Her horn then glows blue, covering Celestia, Highwind, Melody, and Lyrical in the same light before slamming them on the floor. "I-I can't move!" says Highwind, barely lifting a hoof before it falls back on the floor. "M-me too!" says Melody, her face firmly planted on the floor. "It feels like there's something heavy on me…" says Lyrical, clenching her teeth. "H-hold on, everypony…" says Celestia, her horn glowing yellow, shrouding a similar light over herself. However, the light disperses into the air. "My magic's not working…" she says with an open mouth. "That's because I'm suppressing your magic," says Nightmare, walking before coming to a stop in front of Celestia. "It's a good thing I placed a large barrier around us when you selfishly attacked me. Otherwise, it would be a problem if others heard that loud noise." "Why… why are you doing this!" says Celestia, glaring. "Why? Why! It's all to get back at you and all the ponies that shunned me and Luna all those years ago! Especially when you banished us to the Moon!" says Nightmare, her nostrils flaring. "I-I had no choice! I couldn't reason with you!" says Celestia, tears welling up in her eyes. "Reason with? You had all those times to talk with Luna, but do you know why she ended up as me in the end? It's because you ridiculed her by saying how it was ridiculous and selfish of her! She only wanted to change it were ponies could see that they could also enjoy the night like the day for one day, one simple day! I know how Luna felt then, and she would've understood if you kindly talked to her about it, but you ended up mocking her in front of all those ponies that time and those very same ponies started to look down on her! Do you know how that feels like!" says Nightmare, her eyes overflowing with tears that trails down her cheeks. "And I'm sorry for putting you both through that! I've always regretted hurting you and Luna ever since then, and I wish I listened and tried to understand, but I can only make amends and ask for your forgiveness!" says Celestia, tears trickling down her face. "I'll never forgive you!" says Nightmare, baring her teeth. She then lifts a hoof, placing it over Celestia's head. "Melody, tell me where Moon is and I'll spare this failure of a princess! And don't you dare try to deceive me! Because, believe me, I know when somepony is lying…" "What are you going to do if I tell you?" asks Melody, glaring. "Isn't that obvious? I want Moon to become like me! And you also mentioned that Sun is with Moon, right? Well, I've been thinking what would happen if I got rid of the embodiment of the Sun," says Nightmare, grinning. "Nightmare Moon, I-I beg of you! Please… please don't involve those two!" says Celestia with a shaky voice. "You are in no position to make any demands!" says Nightmare, glaring down at Celestia. She then faces Melody. "Now, make your choice!" "Don't tell her, Melody!" says Lyrical. "We can still do something to stop this!" says Highwind. "Melody, please don't…" says Celestia with a watery gaze. Melody's body trembles, looking into Celestia's eyes before clenching her own shut as tears seep through the corner of her eyes. I'm sorry, Tia. I can't let you get hurt… she thinks, opening her eyes. "On my right, go down straight that hall and make a left. Keep going and you should come across some guards watching a door. That's where Moon and Sun is…" "Melody!" says Highwind and Lyrical, their eyes widening. Celestia frowns at Melody before averting her gaze and closing her eyes. "Good girl," says Nightmare, chuckling. "There! I told you! Now let Tia go!" says Melody, stomping a hoof. "All right, I won't hurt her, is what an idiot would say!" says Nightmare with a wide grin. Her horn glows black, causing a pool of dark claws to emerge from under Celestia, Highwind, Lyrical, and Melody, grabbing hold of their bodies. "Wh-what is this!" says Highwind, struggling from the dark claws' grip. "It's pulling me down!" says Lyrical, shaking her body. "I-it hurts!" says Melody, clenching her eyes shut. Celestia's eyes widen before facing Nightmare with a glare. "Nightmare Moon, don't hurt them! This doesn't involve them!" "Oh, Tia, Tia…" says Nightmare, shaking her head. "They were already involved from the start. Besides, it's best that I get rid of them, along with you. That way, nopony will stand in my way." "What are you going to do with us?" asks Celestia, furrowing her brows. "Don't worry. You're going to where Luna is. In a dark, cold place to sleep forever," says Nightmare, grinning. "No! Stop!" says Highwind, his eyes shrinking. He lifts a shaking hoof, barely touching the floor, and grasps the empty air as the dark claws drag him into the abyss. "Lyrical!" says Melody, tears flowing down her face while slowly reaching out a hoof to her sister. "Melody, hold on!" says Lyrical, inching out a hoof to her sister. "I'm sorry…" says Melody with a small smile as the dark claws drag her down into the dark pool below. "NO! No, no, no, no…" says Lyrical, closing her eyes and clenching a hoof. Tears seep through the corner of her eyes as the dark claws drag her down into the abyss. "Highwind! Melody! Lyrical!" says Celestia, tears welling up in her eyes. She then rolls her eyes up, glaring at Nightmare as her lips pull back, revealing her teeth. "I'll never forgive you…" "The same goes for me, Tia. Goodbye…" says Nightmare, narrowing her eyes. Celestia closes her eyes as the dark claws drag her down into the dark pool below. "Now, nopony will stand in my way…" says Nightmare, slumping her shoulders and looking down at the floor with dull eyes. "This is all for you, Luna…" ________________________________________ Standing in front of a windowed door, Moon looks up with his eyes reflecting the stars that glitter across the night sky. "Moon, is there something troubling thee?" asks a voice. Turning his head, Moon's eyes meet another, seeing a white alicorn resting on a gold-frame bed. "Nay, Sun," says Moon, shaking his head. "I was… thinking if Highwind and Melody resolved my concern on Luna." "I see…" says Sun, frowning. Moon wrinkles his brows, walking over to Sun before stopping in front of him. "Forgive me, Sun. I did not mean to worry thee…" "Do not apologize, Moon. 'Tis I that should apologize for asking thee," says Sun, placing a hoof under Moon's chin and pulling his face close to his own. He then presses his own forehead against his. "And for being unable to help thee in thy time of need…" "Sun, please do not say such a thing…" says Moon with a watery gaze. "Thou art-" A woody rattle of knocks is heard as a door opens, revealing a stallion in gold armor. "E-excuse me, Your Highnesses! Pleasant here, and I came to see if you're both… okay…" he says, his eyes widening as his cheeks turn bright red. "I'm so sorry for disturbing you two!" says Pleasant, quickly shutting the door. "Hey, Pleasant, don't just slam the door like that!" says a stallion in gold armor, glaring. "Yeah! I thought my heart stopped for a second!" says another stallion in gold armor, stomping a hoof. "S-sorry, Top Notch, Summer. I was just kind of surprised when I checked on the princes…" says Pleasant, rubbing an arm with a hoof. "Did something happen?" asks Summer, frowning. "Wait, why's your face red?" asks Top Notch, blinking. "I-I don't want to talk about it, okay!" says Pleasant, stomping a hoof. "Ugh, whatever," says Summer, rolling his eyes. "You're so weird sometimes, Pleasant," says Top Notch, raising a brow. From within Moon's room, Sun and Moon stare at the door before facing each other, blinking. "It seems we have troubled Pleasant…" says Moon, hanging his head. "Aye…" says Sun, furrowing his brows. "Sun, should we perhaps apologize to Pleasant?" asks Moon, frowning. "I do not know…" says Sun, shaking his head. "'Tis truly difficult… to understand the norms of this world, is it not?" asks Moon with a watery gaze. "But with thee by my side, Moon, the experiences we share are truly enjoyable," says Sun, smiling. "Sun…" says Moon, his eyes widening. He then faces Sun with a weightless gaze. "Aye, it truly is." Sun then yawns and rubs a hoof to his eye. "Forgive me, Moon. It seems I am feeling a bit weary…" "Then thou shouldst rest for the night," says Moon with a small smile. "Perhaps… I will…" says Sun, his eyes slowly closing and resting his head on a pillow below him. Looking to the side of Sun, Moon places a hoof over a blanket, dragging it over Sun's body. Moon then lowers his head next to Sun's face, placing his lips on his cheek before lifting his head. "Thank you, Sun," says Moon, rubbing a hoof over Sun's mane. At the sound of rattling knocks, Moon's ears twitch before facing the door behind him. "Moon, are you still awake?" asks a voice. "Luna?" says Moon, blinking. "Yes. May I come in?" asks Luna. "Aye…" says Moon, frowning. Perhaps Highwind was speaking the truth. 'Twas needless to worry about Luna… "Then excuse me," says Luna. As Moon looks at the door, he notices the doorknob twisting as the door creaks across the floor, revealing Luna standing at the doorway as her blue coat glows under the moonlight. "I'm sorry for coming at a short notice…" says Luna, frowning. "There is no need to apologize," says Moon, shaking his head. "But what has become of the ponies Pleasant, Summer, and Top Notch?" "Oh, them? I told them that they could go back since I'll watch over you and Sun instead," says Luna, smiling. Sleeping in the dream world, that is. "Strange, is there a reason that thou wishest to watch over us?" asks Moon, tilting his head. "Well, I just wanted to talk more with you, Moon. But did I come at the wrong time?" asks Luna, furrowing her brows. "Nay," says Moon, smiling. "Good," says Luna, chuckling. She then walks past Moon and stops in front of Sun, glaring at him. To think this idiot is the reason why we suffered! she thinks before facing Moon. "Did Sun just recently fall asleep?" "Aye," says Moon, nodding. "I'm guessing he was tired from today, huh?" asks Luna, her horn glowing blue, which a similar light shrouds Sun before fading away. "Luna, was that magic?" asks Moon, tilting his head. "Oh, it's just a simple spell to help Sun sleep better. I don't want to disturb him when we're talking," says Luna, smiling. I'll deal with Sun later… "I see…" says Moon, blinking. "As to what I was saying before, I wish to talk to you about some… matters, but I think we should speak somewhere else. Just to make sure we don't wake up Sun, right?" asks Luna, chuckling with a hoof over her mouth. "Aye," says Moon with a small smile. Turning her head, Luna notices a window door as her horn glows blue, wrapping a similar light around the door's doorknob, twisting itself. At the sound of a click, the door creaks across the floor as the blue light around Luna's horn fades away. As the door stops, Luna walks through the doorway and stops in front of a stone railing. "Moon, come sit with me," says Luna, sitting and patting a hoof on the stone floor. "Aye," says Moon, walking through the doorway and sitting next to Luna. "So, tell me, how is your stay in Equestria so far?" asks Luna, smiling. "I do not know. Through my experiences, there are many things I have yet to understand, and questions I do not have answers to…" says Moon, gazing up as his eyes reflect the white glow of the Moon itself. "Is Sun the same?" asks Luna, blinking. "Aye…" says Moon, frowning and nodding. "Sun understands as much as I that there will be many difficulties ahead…" "Don't concern yourself for what you wish to know right now. In time, your questions and doubts will be answered. But know this, Moon, the world can be cruel to you at unexpected times…" says Luna, glaring. Even the ones close to you… "Regardless, Sun and I wish to learn more about this world, yet we do not wish to impose on others through our helplessness…" says Moon, hanging his head. "I see…" says Luna. Learn about this world? Not wanting to impose on others? As if I care about any of those useless things! she thinks, snarling. "But I am grateful to the ponies Sun and I have met that are willing to aid us…" says Moon, smiling. "Lies…" says Luna, clenching her teeth. "You say that ponies are willing to help others from the goodness of their hearts? Then why did we have to suffer from the very same ponies we tried to protect!" she says, stomping a hoof and cracking the stone floor. "Luna?" says Moon, blinking. "It's disgusting! You don't understand that ponies in this world are so quick to judge and blame others that they do not understand!" says Luna, her breathing growing heavy. "Luna…" says Moon with an inward gaze. "What art thou-" "Don't you get it, Moon! I'm saying that you shouldn't trust others so easily!" says Luna, glaring. Moon's eyes widen, noticing one of Luna's eyes with a vertical pupil compared to the other. "Thou… thou art not Luna…" says Moon with an open mouth. Luna's eyes widen and quickly turns her head, facing the window door behind her as it casts her reflection, and notices an eye that is different from the other. Great! I let my emotions take over and forgot to keep my disguise in check! thinks Luna, clicking her tongue. "You're right. I'm not Luna." "Then whom might thou be?" asks Moon, frowning. Luna's horn glows blue as a similar light shrouds her body, causing a flash of light. As the light fades away, Moon's eyes widen at the shadowy figure's black coat and flowing purple mane. "Nightmare Moon," she says, her piercing eyes gazing at Moon's. "I see…" says Moon, blinking. He then smiles. "Greetings, Nightmare Moon." "Strange…" says Nightmare, raising a brow. "Ponies that hear my name tremble in fear and run with their tail between their legs upon seeing me. Even Tia and that infuriating Twilight Sparkle would bare their fangs at me, but you don't. Is there a reason why?" "I… do not know. Is there a reason why I must harbor such intent to thee?" asks Moon, tilting his head. "What?" asks Nightmare, blinking. "Pfft!" she says, placing a hoof over her chest as she laughs with her powerful voice, echoing through the air. "I-I can't believe I forgot that you're clueless about this world." "Forgive me…" says Moon, frowning. "Why are you apologizing?" asks Nightmare, chuckling with a hoof over mouth. "You've done nothing wrong." "Nay…" says Moon, hanging his head. "'Tis times like this that I should be aware of, yet I do not know…" "Moon, know that if you knew what I've done, even you would come to bare such ill intentions against me…" says Nightmare, glaring. "But what of the words thou hast spoken earlier?" asks Moon, frowning. "And you believe me after deceiving you as Luna?" asks Nightmare, raising a brow. "Aye," says Moon, smiling with a soft gaze. "Wh-what?" asks Nightmare, her cheeks flushing bright red. Her lips then pull back, revealing her teeth. "YOU IDIOT!" she says, her powerful voice echoing through the air. The echo of Nightmare's voice sends a strong gust of wind, blowing past Moon, the latter, his eyes unfazed as his mane flutters violently in the wind. "Did you forget what I said earlier! I told you not to trust others so easily!" says Nightmare, pressing and twisting a hoof against Moon's nose. "But I believe thee," says Moon, smiling. "And how do you know if I'm lying!" says Nightmare, glaring. "I do not know," says Moon, blinking. "I-I can't believe what I'm hearing…" says Nightmare, dragging a hoof down her face. "'Tis strange, but I feel at ease around thee. Thy presence is similar to Luna, but I do not understand why. 'Tis this very reason that I cannot help but believe in thy words…" says Moon, frowning. "How can you say that after just meeting me! Don't you at least doubt me or something!" says Nightmare, stomping a hoof. "I have no reason to doubt thee," says Moon, shaking his head. "Then would you believe that Luna and I are one and the same?" asks Nightmare, glaring. As Moon looks at Nightmare's eyes, he notices tears welling up in them. He then closes his eyes before opening them, facing Nightmare with a soft glow within his gaze. "Aye." "W-would you believe that all the things I've done… were for L-Luna?" asks Nightmare, her lips trembling. "Aye," says Moon, nodding. "Would you believe that I-I only wish to stay… by Luna's side?" asks Nightmare, tears trickling down her face. "Aye, and I understand it well to realize the feelings of having somepony by thy side. 'Tis truly enjoyable to know there is somepony we can share our experiences with, and something that cannot be replaced as I walk this world with Sun. That is why I believe thee, Nightmare Moon. Though I do not know thy circumstances, thy concern for Luna is enough for a clueless pony as I that wishes to help thee," says Moon, smiling. That's right. I-I thought it couldn't happen, no matter how much I wished for it! But now, there's somepony that wants to help. It was all I asked for… thinks Nightmare. "Moon, don't move," she says, smiling. "Do not move?" asks Moon, blinking. "What dost thou mean-" Moon's eyes widen as Nightmare runs to him, wrapping her hooves around him, and resting her face against his chest. Looking down, Moon notices Nightmare's eyes closed as her tears soak his coat. Tears begin to well up before trailing down Moon's face as he smiles, and rubbing a hoof behind Nightmare's head. Huh? thinks Nightmare, feeling droplets falling on her face before looking up. "Y-you idiot, why are you crying too?" "Perhaps… perhaps I understand how it feels to not be with the pony thou hast in mind. As thou wishest to be with Luna, I wish to have Sun by my side as well…" says Moon with a small smile. He really does understand me… thinks Nightmare, lifting a hoof and wiping the tears away from Moon's eyes. She then wipes her tears with a hoof before placing both hooves on Moon's chest and pushes herself away from him. "You do realize that Sun is just behind us, right?" "Aye, but I understand that there will be times where we cannot be together, though I wish to always be with Sun…" says Moon, furrowing his brows. "Sun is really important to you, huh?" asks Nightmare, sighing. To the point that it's almost scary… "Aye," says Moon, smiling and nodding. "Well, after seeing somepony like you making that face… I feel like I can trust you now. Thank you, Moon," she says, chuckling. "Nay," says Moon, shaking his head. "'Tis I that should be thanking thee." "For what?" asks Nightmare, raising a brow. "Wh-why'd you kiss me!" says Nightmare, jumping away from Moon with a beet red face. "To thank thee for the advice thou hast given before," says Moon, blinking. "You kissed me for a stupid reason like that!" says Nightmare, bright red reaching from her chin to the tip of her ears. "'Tis only right that I thank thee," says Moon, smiling. "Yeah, for an idiot like you!" says Nightmare, stomping a hoof. She then turns around, walking to the stone railing before sitting down, and lets out a huff. I can't believe he did that! I know he's an idiot and all, but… but I guess it's thanks to him that I know what I should do now… she thinks with a small smile and placing a hoof on her cheek. "Did I perhaps do something wrong?" asks Moon, frowning. "Don't talk to me! I'm trying to concentrate!" says Nightmare, glaring with bright red cheeks. "Aye…" says Moon, hanging his head. Letting out a sigh, Nightmare's horn emits a black aura, creating multiple shadow rifts within the night sky. Through a rift, a pink mare falls through and lands on a bush below. "OW!" says the pink mare, rubbing her back with a hoof. She then blinks, glancing from left to right. "Wait, where am I?" "WAHHH!" says a voice. As the pink mare looks up, she notices a white pony falling and lands into a bush, face first. Rustling through the bush, the white pony pops out, gasping for breath. "Oh, hey, Highwind," says the pink mare, blinking. "Wh-what? Melody?" says Highwind, rubbing his head with a hoof. He then looks left and right before blinking. "Wait, where are we?" "Who knows?" says Melody, shrugging. "Great…" says Highwind, rubbing his head with a hoof. "And here I thought we- AHH!" "Now what?" asks Melody, raising a brow. "J-just now, something… something l-landed in a bush next to me!" says Highwind, his teeth chattering. "Well, go see what it is," says Melody, pointing a hoof. "Are you crazy!" says Highwind, glaring. "Why should I-" "Boo," says a voice. "AHHHHH!" says Highwind, quickly jumping into his bush with his flank sticking out. Melody blinks, noticing a dark mare in a bush next to Highwind's. "Oh, Lyrical." "Lyrical?" says Highwind, popping out from his bush, and looks to his side. "Hey! Don't scare me like that!" "It's not my fault you get scared easily," says Lyrical, rolling her eyes. "Wh-what!" says Highwind, glaring. "I don't get scared-" "Are you three all right?" asks a voice. Melody, Highwind, and Lyrical's eyes widen at a white alicorn, towering over them with a small smile. "Tia!" says Melody, jumping and wrapping her hooves around Celestia's chest. "I'm glad you're okay, Melody," says Celestia, rubbing a hoof on Melody's head. Melody's eyes shrink before pushing herself away from Celestia. "Melody, what's wrong?" asks Celestia, frowning. "Tia, I-I'm sorry for earlier…" says Melody, hanging her head. "No. I understand that you were just doing what's right. There's no need to apologize," says Celestia, smiling. "Thank you…" says Melody, lifting her head with a small smile. "I'm glad you're not hurt, Your Highness," says Highwind, smiling. "And to you as well, Highwind," says Celestia, chuckling. "Celestia, didn't you fall from somewhere?" asks Lyrical, tilting her head. "Well, I did, but I managed to recover myself and safely fly down after I noticed you three," says Celestia. "As expected of a princess," says Lyrical, clapping her hooves together. "I know, right?" asks Melody, grinning. Annoying… thinks Highwind, rolling his eyes. "As much as I am glad that you three are fine, now's not the time to be talking amongst ourselves," says Celestia, turning and lifting her head with a glare. "Isn't that right, Nightmare Moon?" "Well, how kind of you to notice me. Unlike those three idiots," says Nightmare, smirking. "Nightmare Moon!" says Highwind, jumping out of his bush and unfolding his wings. "And Moon's with her…" says Lyrical, glaring. "Moon, get away from her!" says Melody, stomping a hoof. "Melody, forgive me, but I see no reason to move," says Moon, blinking. "Reason? There's a lot of things that are wrong with her!" says Melody, pointing a hoof at Nightmare. "She's danger-" "Do you see, Moon? She's an example of a pony that's quick to judge others…" says Nightmare, furrowing her brows. "I see…" says Moon, frowning. "H-hey! Don't make him misunderstand things!" says Melody, stomping a hoof. "And now she's trying to fool you with lies…" says Nightmare, letting out a sigh. "WHAT!" says Melody, her nostrils flaring. "You're the one who's-" "Melody, that's enough," says Celestia, holding up a hoof in front of Melody's face. "S-sorry, Tia…" says Melody, hanging her head. "Nightmare Moon, what did you do to him?" asks Celestia, glaring. "Do to him?" says Nightmare, facing Moon. She then looks at Celestia and lifts a brow. "Nothing." "You're lying!" says Celestia, stomping a hoof. "Celestia, Nightmare Moon speaks the truth," says Moon, furrowing his brows. "Moon…" says Celestia with wide eyes. "See?" says Nightmare, sticking out her tongue. "I know you did something to him!" says Celestia, baring her teeth. "Ugh!" says Nightmare, rolling her eyes. "I don't care if you believe me or not, but I have more important things to deal with than an uptight princess like you!" "Tia's not uptight! Wait…" says Melody, rubbing her chin with a hoof. "She kind of is… and a little selfish-" "Melody!" says Celestia, glaring. "S-sorry…" says Melody with a sheepish grin. Lyrical lets out a sigh. "Ignoring my annoying sister, I'm glad that Moon is fine, but there's something I'm more concerned about…" she says, glaring at Nightmare. "Where is Luna?" "I was getting to it…" says Nightmare, huffing. She then turns her head. "Moon, can I ask something of you?" "What is thy request?" asks Moon, blinking. "I'm… I'm not sure if I can face Luna by myself, and I know she's probably going to ignore everything I say. So, I'm wondering if you can convince her to listen to me…" says Nightmare, frowning. Moon stares into Nightmare's eyes, noticing her watery gaze. He then closes his eyes before opening them, meeting Nightmare's gaze with a serene smile. "Aye." Nightmare's eyes widen with a tint of red in her cheeks. It's hard to believe the Moon himself is able to make such a face… she thinks, chuckling with a hoof over her mouth. "Thank you, Moon," she says with a small smile. Closing her eyes, Nightmare's horn emits a dark glow, causing a shadowy rift to appear on the balcony floor. Slowly, a blue mare emerges from the rift, showing her chest rising up and down with her eyes closed. "Luna…" says Moon, blinking. He then faces Nightmare. "Forgive me, Nightmare Moon, but I still worry about the three ponies that were watching over Sun and I…" "Oh, them. I brought them out along with Luna," says Nightmare, pointing a hoof. Following Nightmare's hoof, Moon notices three familiar ponies in golden armor. Resting on each side next to Sun, Top Notch and Summer snoozes quietly with their eyes closed, while Pleasant is on Sun's back, nuzzling his face against Sun's neck with closed eyes and a small smile. "I wonder how their faces would look like when they realize they slept with Sun," says Nightmare, grinning. "I am just glad they are not hurt," says Moon, smiling. "Hmph! You're too soft, Moon…" says Nightmare, folding her hooves. Moon then faces Nightmare. "Once again, thank you, Nightmare Moon-" Nightmare places a hoof over Moon's mouth. "Nightmare, just call me Nightmare, and don't thank me all the time…" she says, pouting with red cheeks. It's embarrassing, you idiot… Moon blinks his eyes. "Then Nightmare it is," he says, smiling. "Anyway, Moon, here I go…" says Nightmare, letting out a sigh. "Aye," says Moon, nodding. Turning around, Nightmare walks ahead before stopping and lowering her gaze on Luna resting on the floor before her. Lifting a hoof, Nightmare nudges Luna's cheek with it, earning some groans from her. She was always a sleepyhead… thinks Nightmare, chuckling. "Luna, wake up." Slowly, Luna blinks her eyes open. "T-Tia?" she asks, lifting her head and rubbing a hoof to her eye. "No," says Nightmare, sighing. "Ugh, is it Lyrical?" asks Luna, closing her eyes and shaking her head. She then opens her eyes, seeing Nightmare with a smile. "Oh, Nightmare Moon…" she says, yawning into a hoof. Her eyes quickly open wide, jumping away, and spreading her hooves with her horn glowing bright blue. "What do you want!" "Took you long to notice," says Nightmare, raising a brow. "Where am I!" says Luna, stomping a hoof. "And last time I saw you, you sent me… to that dark place…" she says, her horn's glow fading away. "How was it?" asks Nightmare, frowning. "The same as when I was trapped in the Moon…" says Luna, hanging her head. She then lifts her head, glaring at Nightmare with her horn glowing bright blue once more. "That's not the point! I know we're not inside the dream world anymore, but why are we here back at the castle!" "I…" says Nightmare, her lips shaking. "I-I wanted to apologize…" "Apologize?" says Luna with wide eyes. She then glares. "Why should I forgive you after what you've done!" "I know what I've done, all right!" says Nightmare, stomping a hoof with tears flowing down her cheeks. "Please… please just listen to me for once!" "Never! I'll never listen to you again!" says Luna, glaring with tears trailing down her face. Nightmare's eyes widen before closing her eyes. "Fine…" she says, biting her bottom lip. Walking ahead, Moon stands beside Nightmare, facing Luna. "M-Moon, what are you doing here?" asks Luna, her eyes widening. "Ah, Nightmare wished to speak on the…" says Moon, tilting his head. "Forgive me, Luna, but what are we standing on?" "It's called a balcony…" says Luna, sighing. Moon, you idiot… thinks Nightmare, placing a hoof over her face. "Now then, Sun is resting behind us in my room, and Nightmare wished to speak on the balcony as to not disturb Sun," says Moon. "And you listened to her! For all I know, she was probably up to something!" says Luna, stomping a hoof. "Aye, 'tis true that Nightmare deceived me by becoming thee, Luna," says Moon, nodding. Nightmare hangs her head, gripping her arm tightly with a hoof. Moon, don't tell me you're siding with her too? Then were you lying to me all this time? I knew it! I should've never placed my trust in somepony else! "See what I mean!" says Luna, pointing a hoof at Nightmare. "That's why you should never-" "But that is of the past. Now I have come to know that Nightmare is not the pony that thou hast in mind," says Moon, frowning. "Moon…" says Nightmare with wide eyes. She then smiles as tears well up in her eyes. I'm such an idiot! Even after what he said to me, I'm so stupid for not believing him… "Wh-what?" asks Luna with an open mouth. She then glares. "Moon, get away from her!" "Nay," says Moon, shaking his head. "Do you even realize what she's done! She's dangerous and somepony you shouldn't trust!" says Luna, stomping a hoof. "But I wish to believe Nightmare. If there is nopony that is willing to understand, then I do not mind if I am the last," says Moon, smiling. "Moon, enough!" says Nightmare. Turning his head, Moon notices Nightmare's watery gaze and trembling lips. Moon frowns. "But, Nightmare, thou-" "I know already! But there's no point if Luna won't even listen to you! Honestly, just knowing that you tried was enough, and I couldn't ask for anything more than that…" says Nightmare, laughing as tears trickle down her face. "Nightmare, know that I truly wish to help thee. 'Tis through our meeting that I have decided that thou art a special somepony," says Moon with a small smile. "Huh?" says Nightmare, blinking. "It can't be…" says Luna with an open mouth. "Okay, I didn't see that coming…" says Melody, blinking. "Did Moon really confess to her… of all ponies?" asks Celestia with a tint of red in her cheeks. "I'm more impressed that Moon said something any guy would die from embarrassment," says Lyrical, nodding. I-I can't believe Prince Moon said that! I know he's not wrong in a way, but that's not something you should just throw out to anypony! Ugh, maybe it's because of that filly named Dinky we met earlier that taught the princes… thinks Highwind, dragging a hoof down his face. "M-Moon, what are you saying so suddenly, you idiot!" says Nightmare, her face burning red. "You can't possibly think of this… this deceiving mare as a special somepony!" says Luna, pointing a hoof at Nightmare. "And what do you mean by that!" says Nightmare, snarling at Luna. "How about you stay out of this!" says Luna, baring her teeth at Nightmare. "Nightmare, Luna, know that I also consider Sun a special somepony," says Moon, blinking. Oh, now I get it. This idiot doesn't know what it really means… thinks Nightmare, sighing. I can't believe I was worried for nothing… thinks Luna, placing a hoof over her red face. "Did I perhaps say something wrong?" asks Moon, tilting his head. "Forget about that! Who taught you the meaning of those words!" says Nightmare, glaring. "Dinky," says Moon, smiling. "Sounds like a mare…" says Nightmare, scoffing. "Moon, I won't ask about this Dinky…" says Luna, clicking her tongue. "But you really have a lot to learn." "I'll say. He's clueless at reading the mood…" says Nightmare, huffing. "Don't get me started about that…" says Luna, rolling her eyes. "He needs to-" Looking at Nightmare with an open mouth, Luna quickly averts her gaze. I can't believe I agreed with her… thinks Luna, frowning. We just… talked… thinks Nightmare, blinking. She then shakes her head. No! Don't give up! This might be my only chance to talk to her! she thinks, placing a hoof on Luna's shoulder. "Luna, please! I just want you to hear-" "No!" says Luna, swiping away Nightmare's hoof with her own. Nightmare looks at her swatted hoof before clenching it and faces Luna with her lips trembling. "I-I'm sorry, okay! But can you blame me! I only wanted to be there for you when nopony heard your cries! I only wanted to protect you, Luna! I honestly did! But now I realize I was just hurting you instead! So, please… please don't ignore me!" Luna quickly wraps her hooves around Nightmare, tears seeping through her closed eyes. "And I'm sorry for putting you through that loneliness again! I'm such a fool for giving it thought of putting somepony through that again when you suffered the same fate as me! I should've considered your feelings, but you're right! I betrayed you, and I don't deserve the right to be called your friend!" In their embrace, Luna and Nightmare's tears soak each other's coat, their sniffles deafening out by the cool night air. Lifting their head from the warm touch of the other's shoulder, Luna and Nightmare open their eyes, gazing into one another, and their lips turning into smiles. "Luna, d-do you think… we can start all over?" asks Nightmare, sniffling. "If you want to, then we can…" says Luna, wiping the tears from Nightmare's eyes with a hoof. "H-honestly, I never thought the day would come where you and I make up…" says Nightmare with a small laugh. "Same, but I guess we both have somepony to thank for that, right?" asks Luna, facing Moon with a smile. "He may be a clueless idiot, but I guess you're right," says Nightmare, chuckling with a hoof over her mouth. "Is there something wrong?" asks Moon, tilting his head. Luna and Nightmare blink at each other before bursting out in laughter. However, looking from below, Celestia looks at Nightmare with a frown. "Tia, what are you going to do now?" asks Melody, rubbing her arm with a hoof. "What do you mean?" asks Celestia, blinking. "You know, about Nightmare Moon. I don't know what to think about her anymore…" says Melody, furrowing her brows. "Melody, don't tell me you're letting it go after what she's done to us! Not to mention she was after Prince Moon and Prince Sun! Even if you think that way, in the end, she's still Nightmare Moon!" says Highwind, stomping a hoof. "Melody, I have to agree with Highwind. I can't just ignore everything Nightmare Moon has done, especially when she put the lives of the ponies close to me in danger…" says Celestia, glaring. "Even so, can you both say the same thing after looking at that?" asks Lyrical, pointing a hoof. Following Lyrical's hoof, Celestia and Highwind lift their head, noticing Nightmare laughing with her eyes closed as Luna rubs and twists a hoof against Moon's nose with a dagger gaze. "No…" says Highwind, clicking his tongue. Celestia hangs her head and frowns. "Celestia, I know Nightmare Moon is dangerous, but that doesn't change the fact that she's still a princess. Besides, I think you already know Luna wouldn't agree with you after finally accepting her…" says Lyrical, her brows gathering in. "That's what I'm afraid of. Though I don't know how Nightmare Moon was able to become a pony of her own, it doesn't change the fact that Luna now accepts her. And no matter how much I ignore it, I also have to realize the truth that Nightmare Moon is still my sister…" says Celestia, clenching a hoof. "Tia, I know it's hard not to put your feelings first before your duty as a princess, but I believe all ponies deserve a second chance…" says Melody, smiling. Closing her eyes, Celestia lets out a long sigh. She then opens her eyes. "I never thought it would come to this, but I'll have to call the other princesses, including Twilight's friends. It's not my right alone to judge somepony, even if it's Nightmare Moon." "You know, it's been a while since I've seen Twilight and Cadance. Wait, now that I think about it, Tia, does Cadance know about Sun and Moon?" asks Melody, blinking. "No. I was too busy that I forgot to tell her about them…" says Celestia, dragging a hoof down her face. "Well, I can't blame you. Besides, I can't wait to see the look on her face when she meets them," says Melody, snickering. Lifting a hoof, Lyrical hits Melody on the head. "OW! What was that for!" says Melody, pouting and rubbing a hoof on her head. "Don't take it as a chance to slack off. Besides, we still have to clean up the whole mess that Celestia made," says Lyrical, facing Celestia, the latter, grinning. "I guess I'll go find the other guards…" says Highwind, sighing. "And once you're done with that, you and the other guards can help repair that big hole in the wall that Celestia made," says Lyrical. "WHAT!" says Highwind, stomping a hoof. "But I-" "I noticed that there were no guards around the castle when I was on my way to Luna's room. I bet you did something dumb, especially when we needed them the most when Nightmare Moon showed up," says Lyrical, glaring. "Geh!" says Highwind, his face dripping with sweat. He then hangs his head. "Fine…" "Thank you, you three," says Celestia, smiling. She then looks up, gazing at Nightmare. I just hope things will go as planned… To be continued… Chapter 11Opposed Feelings ________________________________________ As light shines through the windows of a white hallway, a pink mare trots ahead with a smile, while a dark mare follows behind. "Come on, Lyrical! We're almost there!" says the pink mare, turning and waving a hoof. "Melody, wait," says Lyrical, stopping. "What's wrong? Can't keep up with your older sister?" asks Melody, smirking. "No. It's annoying whenever you're in a good mood. It makes me want to hit you," says Lyrical, clenching a hoof. "Come on, don't be like that! Besides, I'm just excited to see Twilight and Cadance again!" says Melody, jumping up and down. "Well, stop it. It's making me sick when you act like a filly," says Lyrical, huffing. "What about you? Aren't you glad to see Twilight and Cadance after so long?" asks Melody, lifting a brow. "I am, but I don't act like a filly whenever they come. Anyway, let's stop wasting time. We still have to wake Moon and Sun," says Lyrical, walking ahead. "Race you there!" says Melody, running ahead. "And here I wonder who's the older one…" says Lyrical, letting out a sigh. As Melody and Lyrical walk ahead, they notice three stallions in gold armor standing in front of a white door. "Well, if it isn't Top Notch, Summer, and Pleasant. So, how's it like to sleep with a prince last night?" asks Melody, smirking. "Shut up, Melody! I'm trying to forget that!" says Summer, his cheeks turning red while stomping a hoof. "I'm just glad the other guards don't know about it…" says Top Notch, letting out a sigh. "Do you want me to tell them?" asks Lyrical, tilting her head. "Please don't!" says Top Notch with a blue face. "Y-yeah, the other guards will always hold us up to that if you do!" says Summer with sweat running down his face. "Then don't make me angry," says Lyrical, smiling. "Well, at least it's a good thing Prince Sun was still asleep when we woke up. Otherwise, I don't know how I would face him…" says Top Notch, letting out a sigh. "You know, sleeping with Prince Sun was pretty comfortable…" says Pleasant, tapping his chin with a hoof. Craning their head, Top Notch and Summer gaze at Pleasant with distant eyes. "What?" asks Pleasant, blinking. "Anyway, did you girls come to wake the princes up?" asks Top Notch, lifting a brow. "Yeah, Tia and Lulu want them to be at the meeting," says Melody, smiling. "And it's a good chance for them to greet Cadance, Twilight, and their friends when they arrive," says Lyrical. "Tia and Lulu wanted to, but they decided Sun and Moon should do it in their place. They're busy keeping a certain princess in check…" says Melody, scoffing. "Oh, right, Nightmare Moon. I thought that side of Princess Luna was gone for good, but I never thought I'd see Princess Luna and Nightmare Moon together…" says Summer, rubbing his head with a hoof. "Who cares about that! It's Nightmare Moon's fault for making us sleep with Prince Sun in the first place!" says Top Notch, stomping a hoof. "Um, Lyrical, Melody, just asking, but do you think everything's going to be okay with Nightmare Moon around?" asks Pleasant, furrowing his brows. "Who knows?" says Lyrical, shrugging. "Don't worry. Besides, it's thanks to Moon that we're okay. Without him, well, we'd probably be sleeping forever…" says Melody with a sheepish grin. "Oh, one more thing. Your stupid commander asked us to tell you three to patrol around the castle," says Lyrical, rolling her eyes. "Patrol duty again?" asks Summer with wide eyes. "But that's so boring!" says Top Notch, dragging a hoof down his face. "But it's nice to look at the scenery and all!" says Pleasant, grinning. "Looks like Pleasant is the only positive one here," says Melody, sighing and shaking her head. "Stop complaining and go do your jobs. Or else I'll tell the other guards about your night with Sun," says Lyrical, glaring. "Okay, okay!" says Top Notch, flailing his hooves. "We're going!" says Summer with sweat running down his face. "I'll lead!" says Pleasant, walking ahead. "Hey, who died and made you the leader!" says Summer, trotting ahead. "W-wait for me!" says Top Notch, running ahead. "There they go," says Melody, chuckling with a hoof over her mouth. "I always wonder how those idiots got in the Royal Guard…" says Lyrical, letting out a sigh. "Anyway, let's hurry and wake Sun and Moon up," says Melody, smiling. Walking to the door in front, Melody puts a hoof on a doorknob and twists it. Pushing the door open, she notices a white alicorn in the room standing in front of a window door with his flowing blond mane glittering in the morning light. "Oh, Sun, you're awake!" says Melody, walking through the doorway. Sun turns and smiles. "Ah, Melody, good morning." "We kind of made a lot of noise outside the room. Sorry if that woke you up…" says Melody, rubbing a hoof behind her head. "Do not apologize. I was long awake," says Sun, smiling. "It's good that Sun's awake, but the other idiot is still sleeping," says Lyrical, stopping next to a blue alicorn on a bed. She then lifts a hoof and pokes the blue alicorn's cheek. "I can't believe Moon's able to sleep after what happened last night…" says Melody, rolling her eyes and shaking her head. As Lyrical's horn glows pink, a similar light appears around a pillow beside Moon and lifts itself. The pillow hovers in the air before stopping and slamming itself on Moon's face. "Lyrical, why'd you do that!" says Melody with wide eyes. "What? This is how I wake up Luna when she doesn't want to get out of bed," says Lyrical, tilting her head. "But you can't just hit other ponies in the face with a pillow while they're sleeping!" says Melody, glaring. The pillow on Moon's face hovers in the air and falls to the side, which Moon blinks his eyes open. "Ah, Lyrical, greetings," says Moon, lifting his head and smiling. "See? It works," says Lyrical, smiling. "That's not the point!" says Melody, stomping a hoof. "Whatever. Anyway, Moon, please get up. There are ponies that you and Sun have to greet when they get here," says Lyrical. "Ponies?" says Moon, rubbing a hoof over his eye. "Whom dost thou speakest of?" asks Sun, blinking. "Twilight and her friends," says Lyrical. "I see," says Moon, smiling. "Oh, and you guys finally get to meet Cadance!" says Melody, jumping up and down. "Ah, if I remember, Cadance is another princess and an alicorn, correct?" asks Sun, blinking. "Y-yeah, but how did you know about her?" asks Melody, rubbing her head with a hoof. "Cadance's name has been mentioned from the ponies we have met so far," says Moon. "Really? Who?" asks Melody, blinking. "Twilight has mentioned about Cadance before. Moon and I have also learned from Highwind that the chandeliers in each of our rooms were given to Celestia and Luna from Cadance," says Sun. "Thou hast mentioned Cadance as well, Melody," says Moon, smiling. "Huh, I guess I did mention her. But I'm surprised you guys remembered all of that…" says Melody, rubbing her chin with a hoof. "Hmm…" says Lyrical, tapping her chin with a hoof. "And here I thought Moon and Sun were dense idiots-" "Um, let's just get you guys ready, okay? Cadance, Twilight, and her friends should almost be here," says Melody with a hoof over Lyrical's mouth. "Aye," says Moon, nodding. He then lifts a hoof over his mouth and yawns. "Moon, is something wrong? It seems thou hast not rested enough…" says Sun, furrowing his brows. "Ah, forgive me if I worried thee, Sun. I was up long through the night while talking with Luna and Nightmare…" says Moon, rubbing a hoof over his eye. "Nightmare?" says Sun, blinking. "U-um, Sun, it's a long story, but there's kind of another princess in the castle right now. Tia and Lulu are there with her and will explain everything when everypony's here. For now, Lyrical and I have to help you guys get ready for today…" says Melody, frowning. "I understand," says Sun, nodding. "Good boy!" says Melody, grinning. "At least Sun and Moon do as they're told, unlike some useless ponies I deal with. That includes you, Melody," says Lyrical, rubbing and twisting a hoof on Melody's nose. "Ow, ow, ow! That hurts, Lyrical!" says Melody, pushing Lyrical's hoof with her own and rubbing another hoof on her nose. "Ah, Melody, Lyrical, when I woke this morning, Top Notch, Summer, and Pleasant were resting with me. I did not wish to disturb them and decided to sleep once more. Tell me, are they well?" asks Sun, his brows gathering in. "Oh, them? Don't worry. Thanks to you, they slept well," says Lyrical, smiling. "Y-yeah!" says Melody with a sheepish grin. Looks like Sun already knows… ________________________________________ Leading on through the hallway, Lyrical and Melody walk ahead, while Moon and Sun follow behind. "I can't believe we're late. Twilight and Cadance are probably here already…" says Lyrical, huffing. "H-hey, I'm sorry, okay! It's just that Sun didn't want me to help him brush his teeth…" says Melody, pouting. "But he asked me instead," says Lyrical. She then stops and turns. "Sun, why didn't you let Melody help you? We could've finished sooner." "Forgive me, Lyrical, but Moon seemed to enjoy thy brushing. When I went through the same task with Melody yesterday, 'twas not pleasant…" says Sun, frowning and placing a hoof on his cheek. "Aye, Lyrical's brushing is quite pleasant," says Moon, smiling. "Oh, now I understand. You never fail to impress me how useless you are, Melody," says Lyrical, glaring. "U-uh, sorry?" says Melody with a sheepish grin. "I'd hit you on the head, but we're wasting time. Moon, Sun, I'll teach you how to properly brush your teeth another time. That way, you both won't need to rely on me or my stupid sister," says Lyrical, pointing a hoof at Melody. "So mean! How can you say that to your older sister!" says Melody with teary eyes. "Ignore her. Anyway, Moon, Sun, do you understand?" asks Lyrical, tilting her head. "Aye," says Moon with a small smile. "I understand," says Sun, nodding. "Good. Now, follow me. We're already late," says Lyrical, turning and walking. As Lyrical walks ahead, Sun and Moon follow, while Melody trails behind with her head hanging. Nearing the end of the hallway, Moon and Sun's ears twitch. "Ugh! What could it possibly be this time!" says a voice. "Ah, that voice," says Moon with wide eyes. "It belongs to Twilight," says Sun, smiling. "Yeah, that sounds like Twilight," says Melody with a chuckle. "She's probably stressing over something dumb again," says Lyrical, rolling her eyes. As Sun and Moon enter a large room, they see a purple mare quickly trotting back and forth with a frazzled mane. "Twilight, calm down. There's no point in stressing yourself when Celestia and Luna are not here yet," says a white mare, letting out a sigh. "Rarity's right, Twilight. Just sit still and relax for once," says an orange mare, lifting a brow. "How can I just relax, Applejack! Celestia suddenly called all of us here! And for all I know, it's probably something important!" says Twilight, stomping a hoof. "You're always exaggerating over everything, Twilight! Here! Maybe this cupcake will calm you down!" says a pink mare, bringing a cupcake out from behind her with a hoof. "There's chocolate filling in it!" "No, Pinkie!" says Twilight, glaring. "Maybe try taking deep breaths? I usually do those to calm myself down," says a yellow mare, smiling. "Or maybe stretch your wings or something?" asks a blue mare, shrugging. "Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, thanks, but I don't think that's going to work…" says Twilight, dragging a hoof down her face. "Twilight, I'm worried as much as you are, but please try to calm down," says a pink mare, placing a hoof on Twilight's shoulder. "S-sorry, Cadance, but I can't help it. Even you were called here, so it must be something important if all the princesses are here…" says Twilight, letting out a sigh. "I bet I can cheer you up!" says Melody. As Twilight and Cadance turn their head, their eyes widen upon seeing Melody sitting and grinning with open arms. "Well, are you going to make me sit here all day?" asks Melody, lifting a brow. "Melody!" says Twilight and Cadance, running into Melody's arms and wrapping their hooves around each other. "It's so good to see you again, Melody!" says Twilight, nuzzling her cheek against Melody's. "It's been so long since we've been together like this!" says Cadance, nuzzling her cheek against Melody's neck. "And I've missed you both so much!" says Melody with a wide smile. "Ugh, can you three stop? Just looking at you idiots is making me feel sick," says Lyrical, clicking her tongue. "Lyrical!" says Twilight and Cadance, pulling Lyrical in and wrapping a hoof around her. "I hate group hugs…" says Lyrical, snarling. "Come on, Lyrical! You used to love doing this with Twilight and Cadance back when we first started working here at the castle!" says Melody, grinning. "Used to, but for Twilight and Cadance, I'll make an exception," says Lyrical, huffing. "Aww, I missed you too, Lyrical," says Twilight, chuckling. "It's good to see you again, Lyrical," says Cadance with a small smile. "Me too, but we should talk later," says Lyrical, pushing herself from Twilight and Cadance with a hoof. She then points a hoof. "There are two other ponies that want to say hi." "Really?" asks Twilight and Cadance, blinking. They turn around, seeing a blue and white wall in front of them before looking up, meeting a pair of ice blue eyes and another pair of amber ones. "AHH! Sun, Moon, at least say something!" says Twilight, stomping a hoof. "Forgive us, Twilight. We did not mean to startle thee…" says Sun, his brows gathering in. "We did not wish to interrupt thee. Thy reunion with Lyrical and Melody seemed important…" says Moon, furrowing his brows. "Well, you're not wrong about that. I've known Melody and Lyrical back when I used to live here in Canterlot," says Twilight with a small laugh. "Yeah, we go way back!" says Melody, grinning. "I see," says Moon, smiling. "Twilight, I presume the pony next to thee is Cadance?" asks Sun, blinking. "Yeah. I'm guessing this is yours and Moon's first time meeting her, right?" asks Twilight, smiling. "Aye," says Sun, nodding. He then faces Cadance with a small smile. "Greetings, Cadance. It seems we finally meet." "Sun and I have heard much of thee. I am glad we can meet," says Moon, smiling. "It's n-nice to meet you both too…" says Cadance with a distant gaze and red cheeks. "Um, Cadance? You okay?" asks Twilight, frowning and placing a hoof on Cadance's shoulder. "H-huh? Oh! Yeah! I-I'm okay…" says Cadance, shaking her head. "So, Cadance, what do you think of Sun and Moon?" asks Melody, snickering with a hoof over her mouth. "W-well, the letter Celestia sent did mention that they were charming and all, but I didn't expect this much…" says Cadance, her face turning red while sitting and tapping her hooves together. "More charming than Shining Armor?" asks Melody, smirking. "What are you talking about?" asks Cadance, lifting a brow. "They're way more charming than Shining-" Cadance quickly puts a hoof over her mouth and cranes her head, seeing Twilight with tears welling up in her eyes. "I-I'm only joking, Twilight! You know how much I love your brother!" says Cadance with a sheepish grin. "Y-you mean it?" asks Twilight with shaking lips. "Yes!" says Cadance, quickly nodding. "S-sorry, Twilight, I was only joking…" says Melody, frowning. Lifting a hoof, Lyrical hits Melody on the head. "OW! What was that for!" says Melody, pouting and rubbing her head with a hoof. "You went too far with that one…" says Lyrical, glaring. "She kind of did," says Rainbow, folding her hooves. "Yup," says Applejack, nodding. "That wasn't very nice…" says Fluttershy, furrowing her brows. "You know, I make a lot of jokes, but that one takes the cake! Oh, speaking of cake!" says Pinkie, bringing a cake from behind her with a hoof and shoving it in her mouth. "Yum! Vanilla frosting!" "Honestly, Pinkie…" says Rarity, rolling her eyes. "But I do have to agree on that joke being a tad harsh…" "Ugh! Even Twilight's friends are making me out the bad guy!" says Melody, dragging her hooves down her face. "Oh, Cadance, I forgot to ask, but where's my brother?" asks Twilight, her brows gathering in. "He was supposed to come with me, but he collapsed from exhaustion. I warned him not to overwork himself at the Crystal Empire, but he just didn't listen to me! Honestly, Twilight, you should talk some sense in your brother…" says Cadance, rolling her eyes. "Ugh, I was worried he would do something like that…" says Twilight, putting a hoof over her face. "Sun, Moon, I'm sorry, but I wanted you both to meet Shining Armor…" says Cadance, letting out a sigh. "Do not apologize," says Sun, shaking his head. "We understand," says Moon, smiling. "Uh, Twilight, you're kind of in the same boat as your brother…" says Applejack, frowning. "What do you mean?" asks Twilight, blinking. "You forgot already? You worked Spike until the poor guy collapsed from organizing hundreds of those new books you bought yesterday!" says Rainbow, glaring. "Spike wanted to meet Sun and Moon too…" says Fluttershy, her brows gathering in. "I feel bad for Spike. He told us that he kept asking you to help, but you were always too busy reading," says Pinkie, raising a brow and folding her hooves. "Poor Spike! You should be ashamed of yourself, Twilight!" says Rarity, stomping a hoof. "U-um, sorry?" says Twilight with a sheepish grin. "'Tis unfortunate that Moon and I could not meet Spike, but there will be another time," says Sun with a smile. "When that day comes, perhaps Sun and I can learn more about Spike," says Moon, smiling. "It's too bad I couldn't see Spike again. I missed seeing the little guy…" says Melody, frowning. "At least Spike doesn't get himself in trouble all the time. Unlike this princess over here," says Lyrical, pointing a hoof at Twilight. "Well, sorry for not being so well-behaved…" says Twilight, rolling her eyes. "It looks like everypony is here," says a voice. Turning their head, Sun and Moon notice a white stallion in gold armor with dark circles under his eyes. "Ah, Highwind, good morning," says Sun, smiling. "But it seems thou art not feeling well. Is something wrong?" asks Moon, furrowing his brows. "Don't worry, Your Highnesses. I'm fine," says Highwind with a small smile. Just didn't sleep yet because of Nightmare Moon… "Highwind, I know I said this before, but you should stop smiling with your eyes like that. You look creepy…" says Melody, shuddering. "He always was. I mean, there are rumors in the castle that he's trying to go after Sun and Moon," says Lyrical, smiling. "Shut up, you two! And I already said that I don't swing that way!" says Highwind, stomping a hoof. "Hey, Highwind, it's nice to see you again," says Twilight, smiling. "O-oh, good morning, Princess Twilight…" says Highwind, frowning and rubbing a hoof behind his head. "What's wrong? Did I say something weird?" asks Twilight, her brows gathering in. "I just wanted to apologize for yesterday…" says Highwind, letting out a sigh. "For what? Oh, that argument we had yesterday?" asks Twilight, lifting a brow. "Y-yes…" says Highwind, slowly nodding. "Don't worry about it. Besides, if you argued with me, that means we're friends, right?" asks Twilight, chuckling with a hoof over her mouth. "I guess," says Highwind with a small laugh. He then faces Cadance. "It's good to see you again, Your Highness." "Highwind, there's no need for formalities. We've known each other for a long time, right?" asks Cadance with a smile. "I know, but I have to act like a respectable commander. It's my job," says Highwind, rubbing a hoof behind his head. "Wait, you guys know each other?" asks Twilight, blinking. "Yeah, I'm close friends with your brother, Princess Twilight. Plus, he chose me to be the commander of the Royal Guard here," says Highwind, smiling. "Why didn't you tell me!" says Twilight, stomping a hoof. "You didn't ask," says Highwind, raising a brow. "But you said that we haven't met yet when I first saw you!" says Twilight, glaring. "Yeah, but I've been too busy that I didn't get a chance to talk to you over the years. But I heard a lot about you from your brother though," says Highwind with a sheepish grin. "Ugh, why doesn't anypony tell me these things!" says Twilight, dragging her hooves down her face. "Wait, where's Shining Armor?" asks Highwind, blinking. "He's back at home sleeping from overworking himself…" says Cadance, rolling her eyes. "That sounds like what he'd do," says Highwind with a small laugh. "You're one to talk. You look like you didn't get enough sleep," says Twilight, lifting a brow. "Y-yeah, but I can't help it. There's kind of a problem that's going on here at the castle…" says Highwind, letting out a sigh. "Highwind, about that. Why did Celestia call me, Twilight, and her friends here? She didn't explain what's going on in the letter she sent, but we needed to come early today…" says Cadance, furrowing her brows. "I still have work to do back at the farm…" says Applejack, letting out a sigh. "I promised Angel that we would have a picnic this morning…" says Fluttershy, frowning. "I still have to help at Sugarcube Corner. We have a lot of orders for cakes and stuff…" says Pinkie, rubbing a hoof behind her head. "And I still have dresses to make for my clients!" says Rarity, placing a hoof over her face. "For me…" says Rainbow, rubbing her chin with a hoof. She then shrugs. "Eh, I got nothing to do." "And I apologize on Princess Celestia's behalf for that. I know you all have questions, but I need to guide you all to where Princess Celestia and Princess Luna are…" says Highwind, furrowing his brows. "Melody, Lyrical, do you know what's going on?" asks Twilight, blinking. "Yeah, but you wouldn't believe me if I told you…" says Melody, rubbing an arm with a hoof. "You wouldn't believe me either. It's better if you just see for yourself," says Lyrical, nodding. "Highwind, is Celestia and Luna well?" asks Sun, wrinkling his brows. "Don't worry. They're okay, but our other guest is being impatient and wants Prince Moon there…" says Highwind, dragging a hoof down his face. "Wait, who's this guest you're talking about?" asks Cadance, raising a brow. "Let's just say it's a selfish princess…" says Highwind, clicking his tongue. "Princess?" says Twilight and Cadance, blinking. "Highwind, if I am needed, then please lead the way. I wish to be of some use to Luna and Celestia," says Moon, smiling. "Prince Moon, I know you'll be able to help," says Highwind, smiling. He then waves a hoof. "Anyway, everypony, please follow me!" ________________________________________ As Highwind walks ahead of the group, Pinkie hops up and down next to Sun and Moon. "So, Sun, Moon, how's your stay in the castle so far?" asks Pinkie, blinking. "'Tis pleasant, I suppose," says Sun with a small smile. "There are many things we are learning during our stay. Thanks to the ponies here," says Moon, smiling. "From the look on your faces, I can see you're havin' a good time," says Applejack with a small laugh. "Moon, Sun, did you both happen to visit Ponyville yesterday?" asks Rarity, blinking. "Aye," says Moon, nodding. "Is there a reason thou art asking?" asks Sun, tilting his head. "Of course! You both are the very reason Ponyville is so lively right now!" says Rarity, chuckling. "Everypony in Ponyville is talking about you both," says Fluttershy with a giggle. "Mostly mares though…" says Rainbow, rolling her eyes. Highwind turns his head and lifts a brow. "Princess Twilight, you didn't tell your friends that Prince Sun and Prince Moon were there?" "Well, they all were pretty busy. Besides, I was just showing Sun and Moon around…" says Twilight, tapping her chin with a hoof. "Nonsense, Twilight! If you said that Moon and Sun were visiting, I would've shown them the best places in Ponyville!" says Rarity, placing a hoof over her chest. "Or showed them around Sugarcube Corner and all the tasty stuff we have there!" says Pinkie, licking her lips. "I could've given them a tour around the farm," says Applejack, rubbing her head with a hoof. "Or I could show them the best places to take a nap!" says Rainbow, grinning. "Really? A nap?" asks Applejack, lifting a brow. "What? That's the best I could think of at the moment," says Rainbow, shrugging. "Maybe I could show the animals to them?" asks Fluttershy, smiling. "Oh, Fluttershy, get this. Sun and Moon can talk to animals!" says Melody with a grin. "Really?" asks Fluttershy with wide eyes. "They were able to talk to Tibbles. Luna's pet," says Lyrical. "Whoa! You guys can talk to animals?" asks Rainbow, facing Moon and Sun. "Aye," says Sun, nodding. "This is true," says Moon, smiling. "Well, at least we're learning more about Sun and Moon. But I'm mostly glad to see that they're fitting in well in our world after what Twilight told me just now. It's still hard to believe they're the embodiment of the Sun and Moon though…" says Cadance, blinking. "Y-yeah, I didn't believe it at first when I met them. But I should've known anything can happen in Equestria when there are magic and stuff we don't know about yet…" says Twilight, letting out a sigh. "It's only reasonable anypony would think like that. Well, for you, Twilight," says a voice with a laugh. Turning their head, Cadance and Twilight's eyes widen at a green mare smiling. "Wiseheart!" says Cadance and Twilight, running and wrapping their hooves around Wiseheart. "Oh, it's so good to see that you're both doing well!" says Wiseheart, nuzzling between Twilight and Cadance's face. "I could say the same for you!" says Twilight with a chuckle. "I'm glad you're doing well, Wiseheart," says Cadance, smiling. "Oh, you two!" says Wiseheart, giggling with a hoof over her mouth. "Wiseheart, I thought you were inside the dining room with Princess Celestia and Princess Luna?" asks Highwind, blinking. Wiseheart pushes herself away from Twilight and Cadance. She then hangs her head and lets out a sigh. "I was, but our guest thought I was an eyesore. I asked her if I could use my magic to check her health and stuff, but how wrong I was to even ask. She then told me to get out or else she wouldn't listen to Tia's demands…" "Wh-what? How could she say that!" says Twilight, stomping a hoof. "Twilight's right. You were only worried about her…" says Cadance, frowning. "How can she call herself a princess when she behaves like that!" says Rarity, scoffing. "This princess doesn't sound like good news at all…" says Applejack, glaring. "Yeah, I don't think I can help with a grumpy princess…" says Pinkie, rubbing her head with a hoof. "She sounds scary…" says Fluttershy, shivering. "Well, I don't mind showing her what I think," says Rainbow, clenching a hoof. "I knew she'd do something selfish like that…" says Melody, huffing. "Hmm…" says Lyrical, rubbing her chin with a hoof. "If it was me, I'd use my magic and blow her out of the sky-" "Lyrical, I know how you feel, but don't say that around them," says Melody with a hoof over Lyrical's mouth and pointing another hoof at Moon and Sun. Sun and Moon tilt their head. "Oh, right," says Lyrical, blinking. "Thank you, everypony. But I'm just glad Sun and Moon are here. It's good to see you both," says Wiseheart, smiling. "Greetings, Wiseheart," says Sun, smiling. "We will try to be of some use to Luna and Celestia," says Moon with a small smile. "Oh, I'm sure you'll be able to help," says Wiseheart with a chuckle. "Wait, Wiseheart, where are the guards I asked to watch the doors behind you?" asks Highwind, blinking. "Oh, them…" says Wiseheart, rubbing an arm with a hoof. "They're inside-" "MOON! I KNOW YOU'RE THERE!" says a voice. The powerful voice echoes from behind the gold doors ahead, bursting them open with two dark stallions in gold armor flying through the doorway and landing on the floor in front of Highwind. "Ugh, my ears!" says Highwind, rubbing his hooves over his ears. He then shakes his head and looks down at the two dark stallions. "Y-you guys okay?" "Y-yes, sir…" says the dark stallion on the left with his eyes circling about. "W-wait, did you say something, sir?" asks the dark stallion on the right, blinking and rubbing a hoof over his ear. Highwind lets out a sigh. He then turns around. "Is everypony okay?" "Aye," says Moon, nodding. "But I am concerned about the others…" says Sun, frowning. I'm mostly wondering how you guys didn't flinch at that. My ears are still ringing… thinks Highwind, rubbing his ear with a hoof. He then turns his head. "Anypony else here okay?" "We're good, I guess. But I thought my ears were about to blow…" says Rainbow, rubbing her ears with her hooves. "Same here…" says Applejack, shaking her head. "Why is it that every time we come here, there's always somepony shouting?" asks Rarity, rubbing her ear with a hoof. "Fluttershy, what did Rarity say?" asks Pinkie, digging and twisting a hoof in her ear. "Did you say something, Pinkie?" asks Fluttershy, blinking and rubbing her ear with a hoof. "What? I can't hear you!" says Pinkie, putting a hoof next to her mouth. "C-Cadance, are you okay?" asks Twilight, shaking her head. "I'm fine. But it's been a while since I've heard Luna talking like that…" says Cadance, blinking and shaking her head. "Yeah, but why did she talk like that to Moon?" asks Twilight, rubbing her head with a hoof. "I-I don't think that was Luna…" says Melody, shaking her head. "It's the other one acting selfishly again…" says Lyrical, huffing. "Twilight, you and Cadance should go see for yourself…" says Wiseheart, furrowing her brows. "Um, okay?" says Twilight, lifting a brow. "At least we'll finally know what's going on…" says Cadance, letting out a sigh. "Moon, Sun, please go with them too. I'm worried if you're not there with them, things might not go well…" says Wiseheart, rubbing an arm with a hoof. "Aye," says Moon, smiling. "Of course," says Sun, nodding. As Sun and Moon trail behind, Cadance and Twilight walk through the doorway as their eyes widen at a black mare sitting behind a table, chewing with a donut in her hoof. The black mare makes an audible gulp. "Out of all the ponies that I had to see first thing in the morning, it had to be two useless princesses…" she says, rolling her eyes. "N-Nightmare Moon…" says Cadance, placing a hoof over her shaking arm. "Wh-why are you here! I thought me and my friends defeated you!" says Twilight, glaring. "But here I am, eating donuts. By the way, you both should've seen the look on your faces when you saw me. It's hilarious!" says Nightmare with a small laugh. "Nightmare, enough. The last thing we need is princesses fighting amongst each other…" says a blue mare, letting out a sigh. "Ugh, Luna, you're too soft…" says Nightmare, scoffing. "Luna, thank you. I don't know what I would've done without you here…" says a white mare, sighing. "That's why I'm here, Tia," says Luna, smiling. "She'd probably throw a fit," says Nightmare, chuckling with a hoof over her mouth. "Nightmare!" says Luna, glaring. "I'm only speaking the truth," says Nightmare, closing her eyes and lifting her head. "Celestia, Luna, why is she here!" says Twilight, glaring and pointing a hoof at Nightmare. "B-but I thought Luna and Nightmare Moon were one pony?" asks Cadance with an open mouth. "I know it's confusing, and I'm sorry for not telling you both about it in the letter I sent. But Luna and I decided not to mention Nightmare Moon until you all were here," says Celestia, frowning. "Besides, we don't want everypony in Equestria to know Nightmare Moon is back. It would cause an uproar if word got out…" says Luna, placing a hoof over her face. "All the ponies in the castle are keeping quiet about this for now. But we'll let everypony in Equestria know about this in the future…" says Celestia, sighing. "I-I understand…" says Cadance, slowly nodding. "You're right about everypony in Equestria panicking if they knew Nightmare Moon's back, but I want to know how Luna and Nightmare Moon are here at the same time!" says Twilight, stomping a hoof. "Forget about that! Moon, what took you so long, you idiot!" says Nightmare, glaring. "Forgive me, Nightmare. I did not mean to keep thee waiting…" says Moon, furrowing his brows. "Well, since you apologized, you're forgiven," says Nightmare, grinning. "Moon, is Nightmare Moon the pony thou hast mentioned before?" asks Sun, blinking. "Aye," says Moon, nodding. Sun turns his head and smiles. "Greetings, Nightmare Moon. I am Sun-" "Don't talk to me…" says Nightmare with her lips pulling back and revealing her teeth. "Nightmare!" says Luna with wide eyes. "Hey, what's your problem!" says Twilight, stomping a hoof. "You didn't have to be that rude! Sun was only being polite!" says Cadance, glaring. "I don't care what you two useless princesses have to say! I'll say whatever I want!" says Nightmare, pounding a hoof on the table. "ENOUGH!" says Celestia, her powerful voice echoing in the room. "I didn't gather you all here today just to fight amongst yourselves!" "S-sorry…" says Twilight, hanging her head. "You're right…" says Cadance, her brows gathering in. "And especially you!" says Celestia, pointing a hoof at Nightmare. "I've been tolerating your behavior all this time, but I'm starting to lose my patience!" "Oh, scary…" says Nightmare, rolling her eyes. "Nightmare, please stop antagonizing everypony! Remember why we're here in the first place!" says Luna with a watery gaze. "Ugh! Fine! I guess you're right, Luna…" says Nightmare, ruffling her mane with a hoof. Celestia lets out a sigh. She then turns her head and smiles. "Twilight, please tell your friends and everypony else to come in." "Oh, right!" says Twilight, blinking. She turns around and lifts a brow. "Uh, why is everypony hiding behind Lyrical and Wiseheart?" "I don't know. You tell me," says Lyrical, rolling her eyes. "Even I'm not sure…" says Wiseheart, blinking. "U-um, Twilight, is the yelling over?" asks Fluttershy, peeking her head from behind Lyrical. "Yeah…" says Twilight, sighing. "Finally! I thought it'll never end…" says Applejack, peeking her head from behind Lyrical. "Yeah! I thought there was going to be explosions from all that yelling!" says Pinkie, hopping out from behind Lyrical. "I never thought an argument among alicorns could be so intense…" says Rarity, peeking her head from behind Wiseheart. "Are you kidding me! I thought the whole castle was going to go up in smoke after that!" says Rainbow, peeking her head from behind Wiseheart. "You're telling me! It's been a while since I've seen Tia so mad!" says Melody, walking out from behind Wiseheart. "Wait a second. Where's Highwind?" asks Twilight, blinking. "Over here!" says Highwind, waving a hoof from behind a gold door. "What are you doing there?" asks Twilight, lifting a brow. Highwind walks out from behind the gold door and coughs into a hoof. "Well, I was just preparing if there was going to be magic lasers flying all over the place…" "You were probably scared again," says Lyrical, smiling. "I-I wasn't!" says Highwind, stomping a hoof. "Highwind, what about those other guards earlier?" asks Twilight, furrowing her brows. "Don't worry. I told them they could go back to the barracks after what happened earlier…" says Highwind, rubbing his head with a hoof. "That's a relief…" says Twilight, letting out a sigh. "Anyway, come in, guys. But I can't guarantee things will be quiet after meeting somepony…" "I heard that!" says Nightmare, pointing a hoof at Twilight. "Uh, Twilight, I'm not sure I want to go with this…" says Applejack, rubbing a hoof behind her head. "Wh-why?" asks Twilight, furrowing her brows. "Um, hello? It's Nightmare Moon! You expect all of us just to go in there and have a talk with that crazy pony!" says Rainbow, twirling a hoof next to her head. "And our last run-in with her wasn't exactly a good one…" says Rarity, biting her bottom lip. "Forgive me for interrupting, but thou hast met Nightmare before?" asks Moon, blinking. "Oh, Moon, about that. We met her a while back. Let's just say we had, well, an argument…" says Twilight, huffing. "She probably still hates us after all this time…" says Fluttershy, putting a hoof over her shaking arm. "She probably wants to send us to the Moon…" says Pinkie, rubbing her chin with a hoof. "Pinkie, don't joke about that!" says Rainbow, stomping a hoof. "I see that thy last meeting with Nightmare was not a pleasant one. But know that Nightmare is not the pony thou hast in mind," says Moon, shaking his head. "How can you say that? For all we know, she's probably up to something…" says Twilight, frowning. "Twilight, I assure thee and the others that Nightmare will bring no harm to anypony. For that, I am sure. All I ask is that the others and thee will take the time to speak with and understand Nightmare…" says Moon, smiling with a soft glow within his gaze. "Moon…" says Twilight with wide eyes. She then smiles. "Well, if you're able to trust her, then I'm willing to give her a chance." "Ugh, fine! I'll try to listen to what she has to say…" says Rainbow, folding her hooves. "If Moon's askin' us a favor, then I'll give it a shot…" says Applejack, rubbing her head with a hoof. "Oh, oh, maybe we can become friends with her this time!" says Pinkie, jumping up and down. "That does sound nice, b-but scary at the same time…" says Fluttershy, biting a hoof. "How can I possibly refuse after seeing the look on Moon's face!" says Rarity, placing a hoof over her forehead. "That's what you care about?" asks Rainbow, lifting a brow. "Don't judge me!" says Rarity, closing her eyes and lifting her head. Celestia closes her eyes and smiles. I guess I didn't have to worry… Luna faces Nightmare and smiles. "Aren't you glad Moon is here?" "Hmph! He's still an idiot…" says Nightmare, pouting with red cheeks. I guess even Nightmare Moon has a cute side to her, thinks Cadance, giggling with a hoof over her mouth. "And what are you laughing about!" says Nightmare, baring her teeth. "O-oh, uh, Highwind was telling me a funny story about Sun! Right, Highwind?" asks Cadance with a sheepish grin. "Wh-what?" asks Highwind, blinking. Cadance coughs into a hoof and lifts a brow. "Uh, yeah!" says Highwind, quickly nodding. "Strange…" says Sun, tilting his head. "Cadance, Highwind, I do not remember any conversation between thee-" Lifting an arm, Highwind and Cadance elbow Sun's sides. "Sun, I'm sorry, but please be quiet!" says Cadance with a pale face. "Please listen to her, Your Highness!" says Highwind, his face dripping with sweat. "A-aye…" says Sun, blinking. Melody leans her head next to Wiseheart's face. "You know, Nightmare Moon looks adorable when she's pouting." "She does," says Wiseheart with a chuckle. Lyrical leans her head next to Melody and Wiseheart's. "And you both would probably be dead ponies if she heard that." "You didn't have to state the obvious!" says Wiseheart with sweat running down her face. "Y-yeah!" says Melody with a blue face. "I'm just trying to warn you both the next time you open your mouth," says Lyrical, rolling her eyes. "That's enough, everypony. Please come in and sit. We have much to talk about," says Celestia, smiling. "And there's plenty of food to thank you all for coming here," says Luna, chuckling with a hoof over her mouth. "Before that, Moon, sit with me and Luna," says Nightmare, grinning. Turning his head, Moon faces Sun before facing Nightmare and frowning. "Forgive me, Nightmare, but I wish to sit with Sun-" "Now…" says Nightmare, her lips pulling back and revealing her teeth. "Moon is free to choose where he wishes to sit," says Celestia, glaring. "I wasn't talking to you!" says Nightmare, snarling at Celestia. She turns her head. "Moon, sit here now!" "Why are you so selfish!" says Twilight, stomping a hoof. "If Moon wants to sit with Sun, then let him," says Cadance, frowning. "Don't tell me what to do!" says Nightmare, pointing a hoof at Twilight and Cadance. "Nightmare, please stop it!" says Luna, biting her bottom lip. "No! I want Moon to sit with us now!" says Nightmare, slamming a hoof on the table. "Why!" says Luna with tears welling up in her eyes. Nightmare lifts a hoof and places it on Luna's arm. Looking down, Luna's eyes widen at Nightmare's shaking hoof. "Because… because you and Moon are the only ones I trust in this room…" says Nightmare, gritting her teeth. "Nightmare…" says Luna, her brows gathering in. "Moon, please sit with them," says Sun. Moon faces Sun, frowning. "But I wish to sit with thee-" "Nay," says Sun, shaking his head. He then smiles. "There will be another time. But for now, sit with Luna and Nightmare Moon." "A-aye…" says Moon, walking to Luna and Nightmare with his head hanging. "Sun, thank you for convincing Moon," says Luna, smiling. "I only wish for this day to be a pleasant one," says Sun with a small smile. "Spoken like a true prince!" says Rarity, clapping her hooves. "Yeah," says Applejack, smiling. "I kind of feel sorry for Moon though…" says Rainbow, rubbing behind her head with a hoof. "Poor Moon…" says Fluttershy, frowning. "It hurts to see somepony like Moon that sad…" says Pinkie, furrowing her brows. "I know what you mean. You can't help but want to protect Moon's smile," says Melody, folding her hooves and nodding. "Only you would think of something that stupid, Melody," says Lyrical, sighing. "Sorry, Melody, but I have to go with Lyrical on that one…" says Highwind, rubbing the side of his neck with a hoof. "That's so mean! Wiseheart, was it that bad?" asks Melody with a watery gaze. "Uh, k-kind of?" says Wiseheart with a sheepish grin. "Ugh!" says Melody, stomping a hoof. She turns her head. "Twilight, Cadance, it wasn't that bad, right?" "I-I guess it was a little bit…" says Twilight, biting her bottom lip. "I'll be honest with you. It's bad," says Cadance, frowning. "Why is everypony so mean to me today!" says Melody, putting her head on the floor with a hoof over her eyes and pounding the floor with another hoof. Lifting a brow, Nightmare faces Luna and points a hoof at Melody. "Is she always like that?" "Ignore her," says Luna, letting out a huff. "More importantly, I'm worried about Sun…" says Wiseheart, her brows gathering in. "He seems fine," says Twilight, blinking. "Honestly, Twilight, you have a lot to learn about guys. Sun's just putting up a tough front. Your brother does it too," says Cadance, sighing. "She's right," says Wiseheart, frowning. "O-oh…" says Twilight, hanging her head. Walking ahead, Wiseheart stops and places a hoof on Sun's arm. "Sun, you wanted to sit with Moon, right?" "A-aye…" says Sun, frowning and hanging his head. "Don't worry. You can sit with the rest of us," says Cadance, smiling and placing a hoof on Sun's shoulder. Sun lifts his head and smiles. "Aye." "And since when did we agree that he can stay?" asks Nightmare, lifting a brow. "What are you talking about now?" asks Celestia, glaring. "Are you deaf or something? I'm talking about him!" says Nightmare, pointing a hoof to Sun. "And I'll say it again. I never agreed to him being here!" "Wh-what? Why do we have to agree on Sun being able to stay!" says Twilight, stomping a hoof. "Sun has a choice to stay if he wants!" says Cadance, glaring. Moon frowns. "Nightmare, but I wish for Sun-" "Stay out of this, Moon!" says Nightmare, her nostrils flaring. "A-aye…" says Moon, hanging his head with watery eyes. Luna's lips begin to shake, darting her eyes between Moon and Nightmare. With tears welling up in her eyes, her lips move. "Luna, I know what you're about to say, but let me ask you this. Do you still remember what Sun has done to you and me?" asks Nightmare, frowning. Luna's eyes widen. "B-but things are different now! And there's no reason to blame Sun when he's done nothing wrong!" "You may think that way, but I don't. In my eyes, Sun is the one pony I will never forgive…" says Nightmare, snarling. Luna hangs her head and bites her bottom lip. I know how you feel, Nightmare, but it's wrong to blame Sun for the past he knew nothing of. But how can I say that to her when I'm the reason she's like this! Wh-why am I so useless at times like this! Nightmare turns her head. "As for the rest of you idiots, did you all forget? Sun is the reason this all started in the first place!" Celestia's eyes widen. She then glares. "Why are you bringing Sun into this? He knew nothing of what happened all those years ago!" "She's right!" says Twilight, stomping a hoof. "Sun did nothing wrong!" says Cadance, furrowing her brows. "Really? Then why did the ponies long ago relish the day and shun the night! Why was Luna belittled in front of the same ponies she tried to protect when she wanted a chance to show how the night can be enjoyed as much as the day!" says Nightmare, glaring. Twilight's eyes widen. "Th-that's because-" "I've seen how disgusting ponies can be when they do not understand the unknown! How they will not bat an eye when they do not acknowledge somepony!" says Nightmare, her breathing growing heavy. Cadance frowns. "Th-those ponies were-" "In the end, Sun is to blame for everything! He is the very reason I am standing here today, born from the bitterness within Luna's heart! Do you know how it feels to have the very thing I hate in front of me!" says Nightmare, tears trailing down her cheeks as her chest quickly rises up and down with each breath. With a frown, Celestia puts a hoof over her arm, clenching it. Turning her head, Twilight's brows gather in with a distant gaze. Hanging her head, Cadance closes her eyes with tears seeping through the corner of her eyes. "If any of you think there's something wrong with what I said, feel free to let me know…" says Nightmare, glaring. Leaning her head in, Melody closes her eyes and nuzzles against Lyrical's neck, while Lyrical places a hoof over Melody's head and frowns. "Well, is there nothing you all have to say!" says Nightmare, stomping a hoof. Wiseheart droops her head and bites her bottom lip, while Highwind places a hoof on Wiseheart's shoulder with a sigh. "If none of you are speaking, then you acknowledge that I'm right…" says Nightmare, huffing. "Ugh!" says Rainbow, ruffling her mane with her hooves. "I-I know it's crazy for me to say this, but she's right! There are ponies going through what she said!" "That's right. Even now, there's somepony out there being treated in the same way…" says Rarity, wiping the tears away from her eyes with a hoof. "It's hard to deny it, but there's some truth to what Nightmare Moon's sayin'," says Applejack, placing a hoof on her hat and tilting it over her eyes. "Even I have to agree with Nightmare Moon. As much as I enjoy making ponies smile, I can't ignore the fact that there are ponies out there suffering…" says Pinkie, letting out a sigh. "Discord also went through the same thing. Despite his personality, he just really wanted a friend throughout his years, but nopony would understand him…" says Fluttershy, sniffling with tears running down her cheeks. Lifting a hoof, Sun walks pass Twilight and Cadance with his gaze on Nightmare. Twilight's eyes widen. "S-Sun, what are you doing! Come back here!" she says, reaching out a hoof. "She's right, Sun! You're only going to make this worse for yourself!" says Cadance with wet eyes. Coming to a stop in front of the table, Sun's eyes lock with Nightmare's. "Even after what I've said, you still dare to stand before me?" asks Nightmare, snarling. "Nightmare, dost thou truly resent my existence?" asks Sun with an unwavering gaze. "Resent? Are you asking such a dumb question at a time like this?" asks Nightmare, lifting a brow. "Aye," says Sun, nodding. "Pffft!" says Nightmare, her laughter sending a gust of wind past Sun's face with his mane fluttering violently in the air. "Resent is such an understatement of a word that you cannot even imagine how much rage I harbor towards you!" "Nightmare, p-please calm down!" says Luna, placing a hoof on Nightmare's arm. "NO!" says Nightmare, swiping Luna's hoof with her own. "If this idiot wants to know how much I resent him, then I'll let him know!" "N-Nightmare…" says Luna, her lips shaking with tears running down her face. Moon's eyes well up with tears. "Nightmare, please try to forgive Sun-" "Moon, I will not repeat myself! Stay out of this…" says Nightmare with a red glint in her eyes. "A-aye…" says Moon, hanging his head. "Moon, I-I'm so sorry! It's all my fault this is happening…" says Luna, placing a hoof on Moon's shoulder. "Nay, do not apologize, Luna. P-perhaps everything will be fine after all of this…" says Moon with a small smile and putting a shaking hoof on Luna's arm. "M-Moon…" says Luna, tears running down her face with shaking lips. You idiot! Even you're scared of what's happening… Luna, Moon, I'm so sorry for putting you both through this, but this is something I can't back away from… thinks Nightmare, frowning. She turns and faces Sun with a dagger gaze. "As for you, here's what I think of you! I hate you! I despise you! I want you to disappear from the face of this world for being the reason why Luna and I went through that torture! Luna is the only pony I truly cared about after being brought into this forsaken world, but the rage within me is unbearable just remembering Luna crying all those years ago because of your stupid existence!" "I see…" says Sun, frowning. "Wh-what?" asks Nightmare with wide eyes. She then bites down on her shaking bottom lip. "IS THAT ALL YOU HAVE TO SAY!" "Cadance, I don't think we should let those two talk any longer!" says Twilight with sweat running down her face. "You're right! If this continues, I think Sun's life will be in danger!" says Cadance with a pale face. "Celestia, please! We have to stop them!" says Twilight with a watery gaze. "I-I understand…" says Celestia, frowning. Even I'm starting to fear for Sun's life! I can't let him get hurt for my past mistakes! "Celestia, Cadance, Twilight, please do not interfere," says Sun, lifting a hoof. "Sun…" says Celestia with wide eyes. "Are you crazy! If you keep talking to her, she might hurt you!" says Twilight, glaring. "Sun, Twilight's right! Just walk away from Nightmare Moon!" says Cadance, stomping a hoof. "Nay, I only wish to understand Nightmare for the pony that Moon and Luna have come to know," says Sun with a small smile. "Understand me? What is there to understand when the fact is I hate you!" says Nightmare, shutting her eyes with tears seeping through them. "But I do understand," says Sun. "Lies!" says Nightmare, lifting her head and opening her eyes with a glare. "You will never understand-" "Wh-why… why are you crying?" asks Nightmare with an open mouth. "Because… because I understand thy pain the most. I have also spent countless years within the stars with nopony by my side. Through the years, I-I wondered if my existence served any purpose in this life…" says Sun, smiling with his lips shaking. Nightmare's eyes widen. Her lips shake before biting her bottom lip. H-how could I forget! Not only Moon, but this idiot went through the same fate as Luna and me! No! I-I refuse to have the same sentiment as him! "But that all changed when Moon arrived. Moon's arrival has changed my perspective on how I view life. Without Moon, I-I would have closed my mind to everything…" says Sun, placing a shaking hoof on Nightmare's shoulder. He's frightened… thinks Nightmare, looking at Sun's shaking hoof. She then looks into Sun's watery gaze. "What… what does Moon mean to you?" "More than my life…" says Sun with a soft glow within his gaze. "Th-that's not fair…" says Nightmare, her lips shaking. "Why aren't you loathing me! I said all those horrible things about you!" "Because thou truly cares for Luna. The same way I care for Moon. That is why I cannot bring myself to harbor such intentions towards thee, Nightmare," says Sun, smiling. "No!" says Nightmare, pushing Sun's hoof away with her own. Tears well up in her eyes while gritting her teeth. "I refuse to acknowledge you! If I do, th-then everything I've done… would be meaningless!" "Nightmare Moon, I will not ask for thy forgiveness, but all I ask is for thee to forgive everypony here. If so, then I shall leave this land and never show myself to thee again," says Sun, smiling. "Wh-what?" asks Nightmare, her eyes widening. "Sun…" says Twilight with a pale face. "Wh-why did Sun say that?" asks Cadance, placing a hoof over her mouth. "Sun, I will not let you do something so selfish! Don't you realize how many ponies you will hurt if you go through with your decision!" says Celestia, glaring with a watery gaze. "But if Nightmare were to make amends to everypony here, then perhaps this is the best choice. I have prepared myself for the consequences ahead," says Sun, smiling. "Sun, please reconsider! You don't have to put yourself through this for the sake of others!" says Luna with tears welling up in her eyes. "Forgive me, Luna. If I am able to help Celestia and thee for everything thou hast done for Moon and I, then I will gladly go through with this," says Sun, frowning with a small smile. "Sun…" says Luna with tears trailing down her cheeks. Sun faces Moon and smiles. "Forgive me, Moon. It seems I will not be able to stay by thy side in the future…" "S-Sun, please do not go…" says Moon, reaching out a shaking hoof. "Without thee, I-" Lifting a hoof, Nightmare hits Sun's face. "YOU IDIOT!" "Sun!" says Twilight and Cadance with wide eyes. "Nightmare, you've gone too far! I will not let you do as you please anymore!" says Celestia, standing to her hooves and spreading her wings as her horn glows bright yellow. "No!" says Luna, jumping on the table and placing herself between Nightmare and Celestia. "Tia, please stop!" "Luna, get out of the way!" says Celestia, swiping a hoof. "I can't!" says Luna, shaking her head with tears flowing down her face. "I-I didn't want this to happen! I just wanted you all to try and get along with Nightmare!" "SHUT UP! ALL OF YOU!" says Nightmare, stomping a hoof and cracking the floor. "I'm not finished talking to this idiot in front of me!" she says, pointing a hoof to Sun. Nightmare turns her head, facing Sun. "Sun, look at me!" Sun places a hoof on his reddish cheek. He then faces Nightmare, his eyes widening at Nightmare's tears trailing down her face as her lips curl, revealing her teeth. "How can you say all those things when Moon's the only pony here who's going to suffer the most because of your stupid selfishness!" says Nightmare, pointing a hoof at Moon. Sun frowns. "But I only-" "I'm not finished talking!" says Nightmare, glaring. Nightmare grabs Sun's face with a hoof. Bringing Sun's face close to her own, Nightmare gazes into Sun's eyes. "Who do you think you are, spouting all that nonsense? I never once agreed to your stupid idea! It angers me just thinking about it!" says Nightmare, gritting her teeth. "I-I do not understand…" says Sun, frowning. "Of course not! Because you don't know anything! If you left, do you realize that Moon will become like me in the end!" says Nightmare, tears trailing down her cheeks. Sun's eyes widen. "Moon will fall to despair and slowly come to hate everything! Especially the idiots he has come to know! Even Luna and me!" says Nightmare, her hoof on Sun's face shaking. "Nightmare…" says Luna, frowning. "As much as I hate you, I-I can't bear to see one of the ponies that truly cares about me end up like that! Because… because Luna and Moon are the most important ponies in my life!" says Nightmare, closing her eyes as tears seep through them. Nightmare takes her hoof off Sun's face and opens her eyes, glaring. "So don't you dare say anything that dumb again! Do you understand!" Sun hangs his head and slowly nods. "Good! Now then…" says Nightmare, turning her head. "Tia!" "What now?" asks Celestia with a cold glare. "About your stupid proposal before all these idiots showed up. I will go along with it," says Nightmare, huffing. "That doesn't sound like you to agree with anything I say. Knowing you, there's something you want in return," says Celestia, furrowing her brows. "As expected of my supposedly older sister. You catch on quick," says Nightmare, lifting a brow. "Don't mock me…" says Celestia, glaring. "Calm down, you uptight princess. I won't leave the castle and I'll behave like a good pony. But in return, don't let this idiot have any ideas of leaving Moon's side ever again," says Nightmare, pointing a hoof to Sun. Celestia's eyes widen. She then lets out a sigh and smiles. "That's something I can do." "Ugh! There's that disgusting smile of yours. Honestly, I feel like throwing up whenever I see it," says Nightmare, scoffing. Celestia puts a hoof over her mouth and chuckles. Nightmare rolls her eyes. "Anyway, Luna, I'm going to take a nap in your room. Dealing with all of you idiots is making my head hurt…" she says, rubbing her head with a hoof. "I understand," says Luna, smiling. Nightmare turns and walks to the doorway. However, she comes to a stop. "Luna, Moon, sorry for making you both worry…" says Nightmare. "Do not apologize, Nightmare. We understand," says Moon, smiling. "Go have a nice long rest," says Luna with a chuckle. "Y-yeah, I will…" says Nightmare, walking ahead. Celestia lets out a long sigh. "I'm glad things turned out okay…" "For a second there, I thought we might have to fight against Nightmare again…" says Twilight, sitting on her haunches and letting out a sigh. "More like a relief that it didn't come to that…" says Cadance, placing a hoof over her face. "It's a good thing Moon's here with us. Without him, I don't know what Nightmare would've done…" says Luna, hanging her head. "That's true…" says Celestia, frowning. She faces Moon, smiling. "Moon, thank you for being here." "I truly am glad I was able to help thee and Luna. Especially Nightmare," says Moon with a small smile. "Oh, I almost forgot! Are you guys okay?" asks Twilight, turning. She then lifts a brow, seeing Rainbow and Pinkie with their cheeks puffed out. "Um, Rainbow, Pinkie, why are you holding your breath?" "Pah!" says Rainbow, opening her mouth and taking a deep breath. "F-finally, I can breathe again!" "Like I said, why were you even holding your breath?" asks Twilight, placing a hoof over her face. "I-I can't help it! It felt like I couldn't breathe when Nightmare and you guys started yelling and stuff! I thought if I said anything, you'd all blast each other or something!" says Rainbow, ruffling her mane with her hooves. "Well, I see where you're coming from…" says Twilight, rubbing her arm with a hoof. "Hey, Pinkie, why did you copy me? Did you feel the same way too?" asks Rainbow, lifting a brow. "Puh!" says Pinkie, opening her mouth and taking a deep breath. "Nope! I just wanted to see who could hold their breath the longest! But it looks like I win!" "Hey, I don't remember making this a contest! Let's go again!" says Rainbow, stomping a hoof. "Okay!" says Pinkie, grinning. Twilight rolls her eyes. She then turns her head. "Oh, Applejack, what about you?" "Yeah, I'm fine," says Applejack, nodding. She turns her head, glaring. "Rarity, can you let go of my arm? You've been grippin' it pretty tight for some time now." "O-oh! I'm sorry, Applejack…" says Rarity, pulling her hoof away. "Rarity, are you okay?" asks Twilight, frowning. "Honestly, no. After seeing that argument with Nightmare, you, and the rest of the princesses, I felt like my heart would stop…" says Rarity, placing a hoof over her chest. "Is there anything I can do to help?" asks Twilight with a small smile. "No, it's fine. Just give me some time to catch my breath," says Rarity, smiling. Twilight nods. Her eyes then widen. "Wait, where's Fluttershy?" "She's over here," says a voice. Twilight turns her head, seeing Melody and Lyrical on their haunches. "Oh, Melody, Lyrical, where is she?" asks Twilight, blinking. "She's been hiding behind us the entire time," says Melody, chuckling with a hoof over her mouth. "Yeah," says Lyrical, standing on her hooves and moving to the side, revealing a yellow mare with her head on the ground and her hooves over her face. "Fluttershy, it's over now. You can stop hiding," says Twilight, letting out a sigh. Fluttershy lifts a hoof, revealing an eye. She then stands on her hooves, turning her head from side to side. "Is it r-really over?" "Yes," says Twilight, smiling. "Oh…" says Fluttershy, frowning. Her eyes widen before bowing her head repeatedly. "Um, Melody, Lyrical, I-I'm so sorry for hiding behind you both!" "It's okay. But you do get frightened easily, huh?" asks Melody with a chuckle. "That's an understatement," says Lyrical. "Lyrical!" says Melody, glaring. "What?" asks Lyrical, tilting her head. "Forget it," says Melody, huffing. "Melody, Lyrical, what about you two?" asks Twilight, furrowing her brows. "Oh, us? We're fine. We've been with Tia and Lulu for so long. We already know that these kinds of things are going to happen sooner or later," says Melody, chuckling. "My stupid sister's right. So don't worry about us," says Lyrical with a small smile. "How can you call your older sister stupid!" says Melody with a watery gaze and shaking lips. "That's because you are one," says Lyrical, glaring. "Wiseheart!" says Melody, running with tears spurting out of her eyes. "Here we go again…" says Wiseheart, rolling her eyes and smiling. Wiseheart spreads her arms apart, which Melody stops and nuzzles her face into Wiseheart's chest. "E-even though I'm her older sister, Lyrical always treats me like an idiot!" says Melody, sniffling. "There, there," says Wiseheart, smiling and stroking a hoof over Melody's mane. She faces Lyrical, frowning. "Lyrical, I know you may think of Melody as an annoyance sometimes, but please try to get along with her, okay?" "Whatever…" says Lyrical, huffing. "Honestly, you both are so similar to Tia and Lulu…" says Wiseheart, sighing. "No, we aren't!" says Celestia and Luna, glaring. "Especially how childish they tend to be…" says Highwind in a mutter. "What did you say?" asks Melody and Lyrical, glaring at Highwind. "N-nothing!" says Highwind with a sheepish grin. "I'm just glad everypony's cheering up," says Twilight, smiling. "Not everypony…" says Cadance, frowning. "You're not feeling well, Cadance?" asks Twilight, furrowing her brows. "Not me," says Cadance, shaking her head. She points a hoof. "It's Sun." Twilight follows Cadance's hoof, frowning at the sight of Sun's head hanging. "I'm guessing what Nightmare Moon said is still on his mind…" says Cadance. "I-I'll talk to him," says Twilight, walking to Sun. Cadance puts up a hoof in front of Twilight and shakes her head. "Right now, there's only one pony that can help him," she says, pointing a hoof. Twilight follows Cadance's hoof. She then smiles, seeing Moon walking to Sun. "I guess I never should've worried." Moon stops in front of Sun, furrowing his brows. "Sun." "Moon, please leave me be…" says Sun, closing his eyes. Moon lifts a hoof to Sun's face, stroking it gently across his cheek. Moon then slides his hoof under Sun's chin and slowly lifts his face as both their eyes meet. "Sun, please be honest with me. I understand thou wishest to aid Celestia and Luna, but didst thou truly wish to leave?" asks Moon with a soft glow within his gaze. Sun's eyes widen with tears trailing down his cheeks. "Nay, I-I wish to stay with thee and everypony. From now on and in the future…" "I see…" says Moon, closing his eyes and resting his forehead on Sun's chest. Tears run down his face with his lips shaking. "Th-then please do not consider those thoughts again…" "Aye…" says Sun, closing his eyes and resting his head on Moon's. "WAHHHH!" says Melody, sitting and closing her eyes with tears spurting out. "Wh-why can't Lyrical treat me the same as Moon!" "You forgot that Moon and Sun aren't normal ponies. Besides, I'd rather roll over and die than fawn over you like that…" says Lyrical, huffing. "W-Wiseheart!" says Melody, nuzzling her face into Wiseheart's chest. "Melody, Lyrical might say those things, but deep down, she does care about you. The same way Lulu cares about Tia. Isn't that right, Lulu?" asks Wiseheart, smirking. "Is that true, Luna?" asks Celestia with a sparkling gaze. "Wh-what? No, I don't!" says Luna with a bright red face. "Oh, Lulu, you're not being honest. You always talk to me about how much you worry about Tia not getting enough rest because of her duties," says Wiseheart, chuckling with a hoof over her mouth. "Wiseheart!" says Luna, glaring with steam coming out of her reddish ears. "It's true. Luna tends to talk about her worries about Celestia with me too," says Lyrical, smiling. Luna bites her bottom lip with sweat running down her beet red face. She then closes her eyes with tears seeping through and runs to the doorway. "Lyrical, Wiseheart, I hate you both!" "I-I think I went a little too far…" says Wiseheart, frowning. "She'll get over it," says Lyrical, rolling her eyes. "I'll have to apologize to Luna later. But for now, everypony must be hungry, right?" asks Celestia, smiling. "Hungry? More like starving!" says Rainbow, rubbing a hoof over her stomach as it growls. "Me too!" says Pinkie, jumping up and down. "Honestly, I thought we'd never eat after what happened…" says Applejack, sighing. "I couldn't even bother to think of eating with Nightmare Moon around…" says Rarity, frowning. "Y-yeah…" says Fluttershy, slowly nodding. "Forgive me, but it seems I am also hungry…" says Sun, frowning and placing a hoof over his stomach as it growls. "I feel the same…" says Moon, placing a hoof over his stomach as it growls. "As always, Sun and Moon are honest with themselves," says Melody, chuckling with a hoof over her mouth. "Too honest…" says Lyrical, huffing. "But that's what makes them so adorable," says Wiseheart with a giggle. "True," says Cadance with a chuckle. "Even I've never met anypony as unique like the princes," says Highwind, shaking his head and smiling. "Well, let's not waste any time. Go ahead, everypony. Enjoy yourselves," says Celestia, smiling. "Ah, Sun and Moon are already eating without us!" says Pinkie, pointing a hoof. "Hey, Sun, stop eating all of the apple tarts!" says Rainbow, running ahead. "And Moon's eatin' all the muffins!" says Applejack, running. "Moon, Sun, p-please save some for us!" says Fluttershy, running ahead. "Why does this feel like a repeat of the other day we had tea with the princesses?" asks Rarity, trotting and rolling her eyes. "Wiseheart, Lyrical, let's hurry before they eat everything!" says Melody, running. "Yeah, yeah," says Lyrical, huffing. "I don't know why everypony's in a rush. We can just go ask for more food later," says Wiseheart, walking ahead with a chuckle. "Hopefully there are still more muffins…" says Highwind, walking and sighing. "Don't worry, Highwind. Knowing this place, there's more food to go around," says Cadance, walking beside Highwind. "Let's hope that the castle has anything left when this day is over…" says Highwind, frowning. "Honestly, it's so lively with everypony here," says Celestia with a small chuckle. "Y-yeah, but I'm sorry about my friends being that way," says Twilight, placing a hoof over her face. "Come now, Twilight. There's no need to apologize. Besides, aren't you going to join them?" asks Celestia, blinking. "I will. But right now, there's something I have to tell you…" says Twilight, rubbing an arm with a hoof. "Twilight, you can always talk to me about anything," says Celestia, smiling. "I-I know, but you might not like the sound of this after settling everything with Nightmare Moon…" says Twilight, biting her bottom lip. "Wh-what's wrong?" asks Celestia, frowning. "It's… it's Sunset Shimmer. Earlier this morning, I just received a message from her and she's planning to visit Equestria tomorrow. Mostly to see you…" says Twilight, furrowing her brows. "Sunset's coming here?" asks Celestia with wide eyes. She then frowns. "Oh dear…" To be continued… Chapter 7Emotions and Mistakes ________________________________________ As the day comes to a close, lush green leaves drift along with a gentle breeze as orange takes its place, painting itself across the blue sky. The Sun begins to set behind a wall of mountains, covered at the tip with snow, stretching far beneath the clouds. Under the amber sky, rivers of gold pass through a flower field of yellow and orange, spanning miles until meeting the borders of a thick forest, where its rich leaves of green rustle against the evening wind. Standing with pride, a lone mountain passes through the clouds with a building of silver and gold, sitting on its rocky cliffs. Canterlot Castle; a beautiful structure glowing amongst the vast green land as its silvery walls reflect the orange hue of the amber sky. However, a certain balcony, attached to the side of a gold spiraling tower, shines with a faint yellow light. "There…" says a mare, sighing. "That should be enough until Luna's turn…" Upon the mare's head sits a white spiraling horn, wrapped in a yellow light. Slowly, its yellow glow begins to fade away. Ugh… it's starting to hurt again. Ignore it, just ignore it… thinks the mare, placing a hoof over her head. She shakes her head and puts her hoof to the floor, then unfolds her white feathery wings from her sides, stretching them far and wide into the sky. "I should really go out more. My wings are starting to feel stiff…" "Well, that's not surprising since you're always in the castle, Tia," says a voice with a laugh. "I can't help it," says Celestia, turning. Her purple eyes come upon a blue mare with a flowing purple mane. "You should already know how busy I am, Luna." "But that doesn't mean you should overwork yourself. You really need to relax more often," says Luna, smiling. "Easy for you to say," says Celestia with a huff. "You know, Tia, you tend to show your honest self when others aren't around. Only a few ponies know about this, including me," says Luna with a chuckle. "I can say the same for you. You always appear behind somepony from the most unexpected places," says Celestia. "Well, I can't deny that," says Luna with narrow eyes. "Honestly, please stop. I'm worried that you might scare somepony to death," says Celestia, drawing her brows in. "There you go with the lectures again…" says Luna, rolling her eyes. "I'm serious about this…" says Celestia. "Fine. I'll think about it," says Luna with a huff. "Are you sure?" asks Celestia, raising a brow. "Maybe," says Luna with a grin. "Just don't say I didn't warn you," says Celestia, sighing. "But putting that aside…" says Luna. "Tia, there's something I want to talk about." "Oh, if you need help with something, I'll be happy to lend a hoof," says Celestia. "Well, it's not something you can help with," says Luna, rubbing her arm with a hoof. "In fact, it's me who should be helping you." "Helping me?" says Celestia, blinking. "I came up here to check on you because I was worried. One of the maids in the castle told me that you sometimes put a hoof to your head on your way here. Are you… okay?" asks Luna, wrinkling her brows. "Oh, but I feel quite fine," says Celestia, puffing her chest out. "Don't lie to me, Tia…" says Luna, glaring. "Okay, okay…" says Celestia with a sigh. "I guess you're the only one I can't fool, huh?" "Well, I am your sister," says Luna, lifting a brow. "True," says Celestia with a small laugh. "But please be serious with me, Tia," says Luna with a watery gaze. "You know you can always talk to me about anything, right?" "I know, I know…" says Celestia, turning. She faces ahead with the orange glow of the sunset in her eyes. "Tia," says Luna, walking. She comes to a stop and sits next to her sister. "What's wrong?" "I'm not sure…" says Celestia, putting a hoof to her head. "But I think after meeting Sun and Moon, I started having these… headaches…" "Headaches? About what?" asks Luna, frowning. "It's just that… I remembered something that I wanted to forget…" says Celestia, furrowing her brows. "Do you want to talk about it?" asks Luna, placing a hoof on her sister's shoulder. "No…" says Celestia, shaking her head. "Tia, please. Maybe I can help you," says Luna. "Well, there is something you can help me with," says Celestia with a small smile. "Then leave it to me! I'll always be there for you- mmmpphhh!" says Luna. She quickly lifts her head, gasping for air with wide eyes. "T-Tia, what are you doing?" "Please… please just let me stay like this…" says Celestia, wrapping her hooves around her sister's body. She then closes her eyes and rests her head on the nape of her sister's neck. "Um… okay?" says Luna with a pinch of red in her cheeks. Wh-what's happening? Why is she acting like this? "Luna, I'm so sorry…" says Celestia, nuzzling her sister's neck. "Why are you apologizing? I don't remember you doing anything to anger me," says Luna, blinking. "Remember when you first came back with me to the castle, you told me to let go of the past and move on?" asks Celestia. Oh, that's what she meant… thinks Luna, sighing. "Tia, I thought we went over this?" "But after meeting Sun and Moon, I can't help but remember what I've put you through…" says Celestia. She uses her wrapped hooves and pulls her sister closer to her chest. "Tia, it's okay…" says Luna, putting her forehooves against her sister's chest. She then gently pushes herself away. "N-no, it's not okay…" says Celestia, clenching a hoof. "But it wasn't your fault…" says Luna, drawing her brows in. "I should've-" "No!" says Celestia, shaking her head. "If only I had thought of something else instead of using the Elements of Harmony, then you-" "Tia, please remember that I'll never blame you for my selfishness during that night…" says Luna with dull eyes. "It's my fault for letting my emotions blind my sense of reason and turning me into… that thing…" "L-Luna…" says Celestia with a shaky voice. "But-" "Tia," says Luna with bright eyes. "Please don't blame yourself over the past and look forward to the future. There are so many things we can make new and happy memories from." "Well, if you say so, then I guess you're right…" says Celestia with a small smile. "And let's not forget that Sun and Moon are here with us now. Who knows what the future will tell us." "Exactly! That's exactly what I was about… to say…" Luna trails off, hanging her head. Why… why didn't I notice this sooner? "Luna, what's wrong?" asks Celestia, her smile fading away. "Huh?" says Luna, quickly lifting her head. She then waves a hoof. "It's nothing…" "No. I can't ignore this when you helped me. This time, it's my turn. Now, what's wrong?" asks Celestia, wrinkling her brows. "It's just that I… I…" says Luna, biting her bottom lip. "I just realized something from our talk earlier, and I think it applies to some ponies we know…" "Luna," says Celestia, frowning. "Are you talking about-" "Yes…" says Luna. She hangs her head, her eyes staring at the stone floor. "It's Moon and Sun…" "Oh…" says Celestia. "Th-then, you know…" Luna trails off with trembling lips. "You should know that they went through… a similar p-past as me, righ-" "Please don't say anymore…" says Celestia with wet eyes. She puts a hoof to Luna's chin, lifting her face up. "It's true that they went through something that nopony should ever experience, but there was nothing we could-" "DON'T SAY THAT!" says Luna, stomping a hoof as it cracks a part of the stone floor, and her powerful voice echoing through the air. "I know that there was nothing we could do since we didn't know about them until now! But I hate the fact that they suffered more than anypony! Even me-" "Enough!" says Celestia as her watery eyes pour a river of tears, sliding to the base of her chin. "Luna, I have lived for a long time, learning many things in life, and painfully… what's it like to lose you, my very sister, who I cherish so, so much! But I can't imagine what's it like for Sun and Moon to live that long in solitude, nopony to ever notice their existence in this world, and the fact that they were alive before me, you, or anypony else! Just the thought of going through a life like that is something I can't live with!" "B-but… but…" says Luna, trailing off with trembling lips. She quickly runs to Celestia, burying her face in her sister's chest, and wrapping her forehooves around her sister. She then clenches her eyes as tears seep through and down her face, soaking her sister's coat. "Luna, please stop crying…" says Celestia, wrapping a hoof around Luna's body and another on her head, stroking her mane. "It pains me to see you like this…" "B-but… it's so frustrating! I thought I was all alone up there, but Moon and Sun were there with me this entire time!" says Luna, gritting her teeth. "And for that, I'm grateful to them…" says Celestia, putting both hooves on Luna's shoulders and slowly pushes her away. She looks down, seeing the brim of her sister's damped eyes in red. She then lifts a hoof to her sister's face, wiping the bits of tears. "How about this? Now that Sun and Moon are here, maybe we can make it up to them?" "Make it up to them…?" says Luna, blinking. "I was thinking that we should try our best to make them feel at home here in Equestria. It's the least we can do, don't you think?" asks Celestia, smiling. "Tia, it's times like this that I'm truly glad to have a sister like you," says Luna with a small smile. "You're welcome," says Celestia with a giggle. "But if that's your idea, then I guess there's something I can do…" says Luna, tapping her chin with a hoof. "And that is?" asks Celestia, tilting her head. "Well, it has something to do with Moon, but the rest is a secret," says Luna with a chuckle. "Oh? Then let me guess… is it a date?" asks Celestia with a smug. "Y-you… I hate it when you tease me like that!" says Luna, stomping a hoof as her face turns red as a cherry. "I'm sorry, I'm sorry! It's just so adorable when you're embarrassed!" says Celestia, placing a hoof over her mouth. "Ugh! And I'm guessing you have something better in mind for Sun!" says Luna, pointing a hoof. "Of course! I was planning to… to…" says Celestia, trailing off as her brows draw closer. "I-I don't know…" "Oh…" says Luna, narrowing her eyes. "Luna, what should I do?" asks Celestia with distant eyes. "I-I'm not sure. But, knowing you, I'm sure you'll figure it out," says Luna, placing a hoof on her sister's shoulder. "I guess so…" says Celestia. "Then I'll be going now. Are you sure you'll be all right?" asks Luna, stroking a hoof against her sister's cheek. "You worry too much, Lulu," says Celestia with a small smile. "Don't you ever call me that…" says Luna, pouting with a shade of red in her cheeks. Turning around, she stomps her way to a doorway as her spiraling horn shrouds itself in a blue light. As she stomps through the doorway, a windowed door, covered in a similar blue light, shuts itself as the glow fades away. "Now then, I guess I should think of something for Sun…" says Celestia, letting out a sigh. She then lifts a hoof, placing it over her head. It's starting to hurt again… ________________________________________ Somewhere in Canterlot Castle lies a spacious room, tiled in spotless white as it gleams in the faintest of light. Within the room, statues of ponies, sculpted in different figures; an earth pony holding a vase in its forehooves, pouring a calm stream of water, while another statue shows a pegasi standing on one hoof and holding a harp, spewing water from its mouth into a large pool as steam rises from its surface. Looking closely, three shadows appear faintly, moving in the midst of the hazy room. How did this happen? Why am I teaching two full-grown stallions how to wash themselves? thinks a pegasi, his white coat soaking wet up to his neck. He closes his eyes and puts his forehooves together, scooping a small amount of water from the pool and splashes it over his face. Shaking his head, he opens his eyes, revealing a dazzling green as he slumps his shoulders. I know that Princess Celestia and Princess Luna trusted me with this. But… why does it feel like I'm losing something more important? "Highwind, thou seem to be troubled. Is there something wrong?" asks a voice. "Huh?" says Highwind, turning his head. His eyes reflect another stallion with a white coat and blond mane, hanging to the side of his neck while his amber eyes stare at him. He then quickly waves a hoof. "I-it's nothing, Sun- I mean, Your Highness! But instead of me, how's your bath?" "'Tis a pleasant experience, I suppose," says Sun. "I'll just take that as a yes…" says Highwind, sighing. He turns his head, his eyes coming upon another stallion with a blue coat and an ice blue mane. "Prince Moon, is the bath to your liking?" "I do not know," says Moon, lifting a hoof above his chest. He drops it over the steamy water's surface, causing it to splash upwards into his eyes, which he quickly lifts his forehooves to rub them. "A-are you okay?" asks Highwind, frowning. "I am fine…" says Moon, blinking. He then turns his head. "Sun, thou shouldst try this." "Aye," says Sun, lifting a hoof above his chest. He drops it over the water's surface, causing it to splash a large amount of water into his eyes. He quickly uses his forehooves to rub his eyes and blinks them. "Strange…" It's like they're learning this for the first time… thinks Highwind, rubbing his head with a hoof. Whatever, at least they're enjoying themsel- "Um, excuse me! Are you g-guys almost done?" asks a meek voice. Oh, I guess it's about time we get out, thinks Highwind. He faces the hallway at the end of the hazy room and puts a hoof to the side of his mouth. "Yeah! We're almost done!" "Okay!" says a frisky voice. "Oh, and Princess Celestia and Princess Luna asked us to bring you guys some towels!" "Thanks!" says Highwind. He then turns his head. "Well, Your Highnesses, it's about time we leave." "Aye," says Moon while Sun nods. "Then follow me," says Highwind, standing up as he lifts a hoof, taking big steps through the water. He reaches a staircase, climbing his way up onto the white marble floor, and turns around. "Oh, right…" "Is something wrong, Highwind?" asks Moon, tilting his head. "Well, sort of. It's just that if we go out now, we'll make a mess since we're all wet," says Highwind. "Wet?" says Sun, blinking. "Just look at yourselves, then you'll see why," says Highwind, pointing a hoof. Moon and Sun lower their heads, seeing their chest dripping large amounts of water on the floor. They also turn their heads, seeing their soggy tails on the white marble floor, leaving a trail of water in its path. "I see…" says Sun. "What task must we fulfill for this?" asks Moon. "Just follow my lead," says Highwind. He spreads his hooves apart from each other and shakes his head and body together, causing droplets of water to fly from his mane and tail onto the marble floor. "Now, you try." "Interesting…" says Sun, which he and Moon spread their hooves and quickly shake their heads and bodies. "Uh-oh…" says Highwind. His eyes begin to shrink, seeing a barrage of water droplets flying straight at him. "Now then, shall we move on?" asks Sun. "Highwind, art thou feeling well?" asks Moon, tilting his head. "Oh, don't worry, Your Highnesses. I feel great…" says Highwind with a huff. He lifts a hoof and pushes soggy strands of red hair to the side of his face. "Anyway, just follow me…" Highwind turns and walks to the hallway at the end of the room, while Sun and Moon face each other, blinking. As Highwind turns a corner, he frowns at the sight of three mares wearing a one-piece dress, colored in a black with a white trim, covering their necks to the dockings of their tails. "Hey, Highwind, over here!" says a yellow mare, waving a hoof. "Oh, it's you guys…" says Highwind, clicking his tongue. "Wow, is that how you always say hi to somepony?" asks a lime mare, huffing. "Look, we didn't come here just to see your face. We came because Princess Celestia and Princess Luna asked us to bring some towels. Oh, and we also wanted to see how the princes look like, that's all." "Yeah, I appreciate it, Truce," says Highwind, rolling his eyes. He stops, standing in front of the mares, and puts out a hoof. "Can I please have my towel now?" "I didn't like the way you said that…" says the yellow mare, glaring. She lifts a hoof with a towel over it and drops it over Highwind's hoof. "Oh, and we left your armor back in your room, jerk." "Great, thanks, Vera," says Highwind, huffing. He sits on the red carpet floor, placing his towel over his head, and using his forehooves to move it from side to side. "U-um, Highwind, sorry to bother you, but where are the princes?" asks a blue mare. "What are you talking about, Risky? They're right behind me," says Highwind, turning his head. He quickly darts his eyes about at the empty hall. "But they were here with me a second ago…" "M-maybe something happened to them?" asks Risky, biting a hoof. "Hey, don't joke about that kind of stuff!" says Truce, stomping a hoof. "If something did happen to them, Princess Celestia and Princess Luna would probably blow their bits off!" "Will you both be quiet!" says Vera, flaring her nostrils. "I thought I heard something from the hallway until you blockheads started blabbering!" "Wait, I think I see them…" says Highwind, squinting his eyes. He then waves a hoof. "Your Highnesses, I'm over here!" Sun and Moon turn their heads, seeing Highwind at the end of the hall. They walk together as Sun's blond mane glitters in the light, hanging to the side of his neck, while Moon's blue coat shines with his long blue mane, hanging to the side of his face. "H-hold on a second… that's them?" asks Truce, blinking her eyes. "Of course it's them," says Highwind, putting a hoof to his face. "Wow, they look way better than what I imagined…" says Vera with her mouth hanging. "More like too much, if you ask me," says Truce, tugging a hoof at the neck area of her dress. "Uh-huh…" says Risky with wide eyes. Ugh, mares… thinks Highwind, rolling his eyes. He then walks up to Sun and Moon. "Your Highnesses, where did you go? Did something happen?" "Ah, Sun and I decided to stay longer in the bath," says Moon. He stops walking, towering over Highwind and the mares. "Forgive us," says Sun, standing next to Moon. "Well, it's fine," says Highwind, smiling. "But please let me know next-" "Whoa, and here I thought ponies couldn't get any bigger…" says Truce, lifting her head. "I think they're taller than Princess Celestia…" says Vera, tapping her chin with a hoof. Her eyes move from Moon's head to the tip of Sun's spiraling horn. Annoying… thinks Highwind, frowning. "E-excuse me, Prince Moon!" says Risky, her legs shaking. "Ah, dost thou require something of me, little one?" asks Moon, tilting his head. "N-not really! I'm just here to g-give you this!" says Risky, lifting a shaking hoof with a towel over it. "Strange…" says Moon. He then points a hoof. "Forgive me, but what task must I fulfill… with this?" Great, they don't even know about a towel… thinks Highwind, putting a hoof to his face. "H-huh?" says Risky, blinking. "Your Highness, that's a towel. You use it to dry yourself like this…" says Highwind, sitting on the red carpet floor. He then grasps his forehooves at the ends of the towel on his mane and quickly moves it from side to side. "Now, you try." "Interesting…" says Moon. He picks up the towel from Risky with a hoof. He then sits on the carpet floor, holding each end of the towel with his forehooves before placing it on his mane, and moves it from side to side. "Your Highness, you can stop now," says Highwind. "Aye," says Moon. He stops and pulls his towel away from his mane with a hoof. "Now then, is there other tasks I must fulfill with this towel?" "No. That's all you have to… do…" says Highwind, trailing off with an open mouth. "Mmph!" says Vera, quickly putting a hoof over her mouth. "Oh my…" says Risky, placing a hoof over her mouth. "Mmmppphhhhh!" says Truce, her eyes tearing up with both hooves over her mouth. "Strange…" says Sun, pressing a hoof against Moon's mane. He tilts his head as the hole within Moon's mane springs up. "Bwahahahahahaha!" says Truce, falling on her back, rocking back and forth, and clutching her stomach with her forehooves. "No! I-I shouldn't laugh!" says Risky, falling on her side, and curling herself with a hoof over her mouth. "P-Prince Moon, I don't mean to sound rude, but… your mane looks like a giant furball! Ahahahahaha!" says Vera, falling on her stomach, and pounding her hooves on the floor. "Hey! Don't laugh at his ma- mmph!" says Highwind, quickly putting a hoof over his mouth. His face begins to turn red as his cheeks puff out. He then falls on his back and kicks the air with his hind legs. "Gahahahahaha!" "It looks like everypony is having fun here. Do you mind if I join?" asks a voice. Vera, Risky, and Truce quickly stop laughing as their bodies freeze in place. Craning their heads to the familiar voice, they make an audible gulp as sweat runs down their faces, seeing a blue mare with a half-lidded frown. "P-Princess Luna! Good afternoon!" says Vera, jumping to her hooves. She grins while Truce and Risky hides behind her. "Good afternoon, girls," says Luna. "Now then, what-" "Ahahahahaha!" says Highwind, flailing his hooves in the air. Ugh! That doofus! thinks Vera, putting a hoof to her face. She then puts a hoof next to her mouth. "Highwind! Highwind! STOP LAUGHING, YOU FEATHERBRAIN!" "H-huh? What's going on?" asks Highwind, blinking. He then lifts his head and glares. "Hey! It's your fault that I'm doing this!" "I don't care! Just look up!" says Truce, pointing a hoof. "Why?" asks Highwind, rolling his eyes up. "Uh-oh…" "Uh-oh indeed," says Luna. "Hello, Commander Highwind." "P-P-Princess Luna!" says Highwind, his face dripping with sweat. He quickly rolls onto his hooves, pushing himself up. "Wh-what are you doing here?" "Why am I here?" says Luna, raising a brow. "Well, I was heading to my room to prepare for the night. But I heard a lot of noise coming from this way, so I decided to see what's causing it. And what do I find? You four enjoying yourselves with our guests," she says with a smile. S-scary! I forgot how scary she can be! thinks Highwind, his hooves shaking. Luna… thinks Moon, smiling. He begins to walk towards Luna as a towel over his hoof falls to the floor. With the sound of a thud, Sun's ears twitch as he casts his gaze to the red carpet floor. "Strange…" says Sun, his eyes on the towel below him. He then uses a hoof to pick it up and places it on his mane. "Greetings, Luna," says Moon, smiling. "O-oh, hello, Moon…" says Luna, blinking. "It's nice to see you…" "The same to thee," says Moon. He then tilts his head. "But thou seem to be unwell. Is something troubling thee?" "Y-yes…" says Luna, pointing a hoof. "What happened to your mane?" "Ah…" says Moon, rolling his eyes up. "Highwind was showing Sun and I the uses of… a towel." "Really?" says Luna. She faces the said pony and lifts a brow. "Is that true, Commander?" "U-uh… glad I could help?" says Highwind with a grin. "It's a good thing I'm here…" says Luna, sighing. Her horn begins to glow in a blue color, which a similar aura shrouds Moon's mane, causing a bright flash that quickly fades away. "Luna, was that perhaps magic?" asks Moon, stroking a hoof over his mane. "Yes," says Luna, blinking. "But why do you ask?" "If I am not mistaken, can magic only be used by unicorns?" asks Moon, tilting his head. "Yes. However, there is another that can wield magic as well," says Luna. "Alicorns," says Moon. "That's right," says Luna with a smile. "Ah, 'tis unfortunate, but Sun and I do not know much about magic…" says Moon, hanging his head. "Moon," says Luna, putting a hoof to Moon's chin, and lifting his face. "If you want, my sister and I can tell you both about it." "Nay," says Moon, shaking his head. "I do not want to trouble Celestia and thee any further. Thou hast aided Sun and I in many ways we cannot hope to repay." "Moon, as I said before, you and Sun are not troubling my sister and I. We just want to help you both in any way we can," says Luna, smiling. "Then, if it does not trouble thee, 'twould be of great help," says Moon with a smile. "It's no trouble at all. But, Moon, there are some things that I must finish first, so are you willing to wait for me?" asks Luna. Well, I was planning to have a talk with him tonight, but I guess this is fine… "Aye," says Moon, nodding. "Then I will talk to my sister later about this regarding Sun. Now then, I must be going," says Luna, turning her head. "Commander Highwind, I shall entrust you to show Moon and Sun-" Luna cuts herself off, her mouth hanging with wide eyes. "Huh?" says Highwind, blinking. "Princess Luna, what's wrong-" "Psst, Highwind!" says Vera. "Ugh, what now?" asks Highwind, turning his head. He then raises a brow. "Wait, why are you guys laughing?" "Just look," says Vera, pointing a hoof. She then places a hoof over her mouth. "Th-this is too funny," says Truce with a snicker. Risky nods her head with a hoof over her mouth. "Why? Did something happen- mmph!" says Highwind, quickly putting a hoof over his mouth. "Strange…" says Moon, standing next to Sun. He uses a hoof and pushes down on one of the spikes sticking out from Sun's mane. He then tilts his head as the spike quickly springs back up. "Ahahahahaha!" says Truce, falling on her back while flailing her hooves. "I-I'm sorry, but I can't hold it in any- gahahahaha!" says Vera, falling on her back, and rolling from side to side. "He looks like a porcupine," says Risky with a giggle. "That's enough, everypony," says Luna with a huff. Luna's horn begins to glow blue, shrouding a similar light around Sun's mane, causing a bright flash, and revealing his smooth and spiky mane. "Aww!" says Vera, Risky, and Truce, hanging their heads. "Is there a problem?" asks Luna, lifting a brow. "Nope! Nothing!" says Vera while she, Risky, and Truce grins. "Good. Now then, Commander Highwind," says Luna, turning her head. "Yes, Your Highness?" asks Highwind, saluting. "As I was saying, I shall entrust you to show Moon and Sun their rooms. Oh, and did Vera and her friends inform you about their rooms' location?" asks Luna. "U-um…" says Highwind, glancing to the side, seeing Vera, Risky, and Truce with their faces dripping in sweat. "Y-yes, Your Highness!" "Good. Then I must be going now," says Luna, turning and walking. "Ah, Luna," says Moon. "Oh, what is it, Moon?" asks Luna, turning her head. "Did you need something-" As Moon lightly presses his lips against Luna's cheek, her eyes begin to widen at the sudden touch. Watching from the side, Sun smiles, though Highwind quickly looks away with red coloring his cheeks, while Vera, Risky, and Truce's mouths fall to the floor. Moon pulls his head away and smiles. "I forgot to thank thee earlier." "O-oh, you're welcome…" says Luna, placing a hoof on her cheek. "Luna, thou seem to be unwell again. Art thou sure thou art feeling well?" asks Moon, drawing his brows in. "Y-yes, it's just I was a little surprised…" says Luna, rubbing her arm with a hoof. "Surprised?" says Moon, tilting his head. "N-nothing!" says Luna, grinning. "U-um, well, I-I'll be going now! M-Moon, I'll tell you more about magic later, so please wait for me!" Luna turns and trots quickly down the hall before turning a corner. She then puts a hoof to her chest, quickly panting between each breath with her cheeks flushing red. Letting out a sigh, she removes her hoof from her chest and lifts it up to her face. "Moon, it's me who should be thanking you for being here…" says Luna with a small smile. She then puts her hoof down and begins to walk, disappearing into the hall's shadows. "Weird, I've never seen Princess Luna like that before," says Highwind, blinking. He turns his head with his eyes upon Moon who was speaking to Sun with gleaming eyes, the latter, nodding with a smile. Maybe things will be much more lively, now that they're here… "Hey, Highwind!" says Truce. And there goes the mood… thinks Highwind, narrowing his eyes. He then turns his head. "What do you guys want now?" "W-well, it's about the thing with Princess Luna and Prince Moon…" says Risky with red cheeks. "What thing?" asks Highwind, lifting a brow. "Ugh! I swear you're so dense sometimes…" says Vera, rolling her eyes. She then rubs a hoof on the floor in a circular motion. "It's about, you know, Prince Moon k-kissing Princess Luna…" "O-oh, that…" says Highwind, rubbing a hoof behind his head. "I'd rather not say it…" "Oh come on! Tell us!" says Truce as she, Vera, and Risky inch their faces closer to Highwind's. "Okay, okay! Not too close!" says Highwind, putting out his forehooves, and making a gap between him and the mares. He then coughs into a hoof. "Well, the thing is, Prince Sun and Prince Moon do that when you help them with something…" "Whoa, whoa, whoa," says Truce, lifting a hoof. "If I'm hearing this right, then you're saying that if I were to give them a towel, they'll just straight up and give me a peck, just like that?" "When you put it like that, yeah," says Highwind, blinking. "Are you serious!" says Truce with a wide smile. "Be right back! I'm going to-" "And just where do you think you're going?" asks Vera, raising a brow. "Well, duh!" says Truce. "To get a freebie from the two most handsome ponies in Eques-" "Highwind," says Sun. "Huh?" says Highwind. He turns and lifts his head. "Oh, Your Highnesses, did you need something?" "Aye," says Sun, nodding. "Moon and I require thy aid." "But thou seem to be tending to other matters. Are we perhaps… interrupting?" asks Moon, frowning. "N-no!" says Highwind, waving a hoof. "We were just talking about something, that's all…" "Yeah, about that," says Truce, licking her lips. "Can you both give me a quick peck-" "What she's trying to say is that we're about to go now," says Vera with a hoof over Truce's mouth. "Mmmm!" says Truce, shaking her head from Vera's grip. "Hey! That's not what I was going to-" "Oh, and she hopes that you both enjoy your stay here in the castle," says Vera, pressing a hoof against Truce's mouth. "Isn't that right, Risky?" "U-um, yeah!" says Risky with a grin. "So, we'll be going now!" says Vera. Vera's horn begins to glow yellow, which a yellow sphere surrounds Truce, causing her to float in midair. "Wh-what? No!" says Truce, flailing her hooves. "Let me down, Vera!" "Nope," says Vera. Oh, right, magic! thinks Truce. She grins as her horn glows green. "Time to bust out of here!" "That's not going to work," says Vera with a smile. "And how do you know that?" asks Vera, lifting a brow. "Look at your horn," says Vera, pointing a hoof. "Huh?" says Truce, rolling her eyes up, and seeing a blue glow around her horn. She quickly turns her head and glares. "Risky, you traitor!" "S-sorry…" says Risky with a small grin. "But we still have a lot more places to clean in the castle." "No!" says Truce, flailing her hooves. "That can wait after I get my-" "Did you already forget what we're supposed to be doing?" asks Vera, raising a brow. "Like what!" says Truce, baring her teeth. "Truce, Lyrical is coming back tomorrow. You should know how scary she gets when we slack off…" says Risky with a shudder. "Oh, right…" says Truce, blinking. "But still, I can't miss this chance!" "Yeah, yeah," says Vera, rolling her eyes. She then turns her head. "Hey, Highwind, thanks for covering for us earlier." "Y-yeah, Princess Luna is much scarier than Lyrical…" says Risky, chattering her teeth. "No problem," says Highwind, waving a hoof. "Oh, and before I forget, you can find the rooms in the far back of the castle. Prince Moon's room is on the first floor and Prince Sun's room is on the second. They're pretty close, so you won't miss them," says Vera. She then turns her head. "Come on, Risky, let's go!" "Okay!" says Risky, nodding. Vera and Risky begin to walk down the hallway while Truce pounds her hooves against the yellow sphere surrounding her. "Just give it up, Truce," says Vera. "We have to finish by the end of today." "I know, I know. But can I please just get one peck from them?" asks Truce, putting her forehooves together. "Nope," says Vera. "I thought you guys were my friends!" says Truce, pointing a hoof. "We are," says Risky with a smile. "UGH! YOU BLOCKHEADS!" says Truce, her voice echoing as she and her friends turn a corner down the hall. "Sun, they resemble the Crusaders…" says Moon, blinking. "Aye…" says Sun. He then turns his head. "Highwind, are they perhaps always like this?" "Most of the time, yes," says Highwind, sighing. And you wouldn't believe the kind of troubles they get themselves into… "Ah, I forgot to thank them for the towel…" says Moon, furrowing his brows. "And ask for their names as well…" says Sun, hanging his head. "Oh, don't worry, Your Highnesses. You'll see them again. Anyway, what did you both need help with earlier?" asks Highwind, blinking. "Ah, 'twas to ask thee to lead Moon and I to our rooms," says Sun. "But, Highwind, there is something that troubles Sun and I…" says Moon. "Well, if it's something I can do, I'd be happy to help. So, what is it?" asks Highwind with a smile. "What is a room?" asks Moon while he and Sun tilt their heads. I should've seen that coming… thinks Highwind with a sigh. "Please follow me and I'll show you…" Nodding their heads, Sun and Moon follow Highwind as they make their way through the hallways of the castle. Along the way, Sun and Moon tilt their heads as they walk down a hall with large windows attached to the side. They come to a stop, their eyes gazing through the windows as the city of Canterlot comes into view; towers with spirals of gold, giving off a soft amber glow, and rooftops of purple that glitter under the sunset. However, Sun and Moon's eyes come upon the snowy mountains on the horizon, watching as the sunset disappears into the dark. The darkness did not last long as light comes from behind the mountains, covering the city of Canterlot in a white hue. Soon, the very Moon rises above the snowy mountains as pieces of light cover the once dark and empty void into a sea of stars, glittering across the night sky. "Sun, what dost thou think of this world?" asks Moon, his eyes growing soft with an inner glow. "I do not know…" says Sun, his weightless gaze reflecting a light that shoots across the night sky. "However, Moon, there is much to learn about this world, and words cannot describe how grateful I am to walk upon it." "I agree," says Moon. "Your Highnesses!" says Highwind, waving a hoof. "Are you coming?" "Aye," says Sun. He then turns his head. "Moon, let us move on," he says with a smile. Moon nods, smiling. I truly am grateful to be here as well… ________________________________________ As a cold chill hangs in the air, moonlight passes through a clear array of windows, filling a hallway with a bluish glow. In the distance, Highwind appears from the shadows while Sun and Moon trail behind. Soon, they come to a stop in front of a lone door, giving off a silvery glow from its wooden surface. "Here we are," says Highwind, placing a hoof on a gold doorknob and twists it. He then pushes the door as it creaks across the floor before standing to the side of the doorway. "Prince Sun, Prince Moon, please have a look inside." "Very well," says Moon. "Sun, let us go." "Aye," says Sun, nodding. Walking through the doorway, Moon's eyes begin to widen from the interior of the room, seeing its walls in a spotless white to a red curtain threaded in gold, hanging on the back wall. He turns his head, his eyes coming upon the corners of the room, furnished with a lamp with a gold base, giving off a faint light as it sits on a round table of redwood. "Highwind, is this… a room?" asks Moon. "Yes," says Highwind, walking through the doorway. "Well, not just a room. It's your room," he says, smiling. "Strange…" says Sun. He then points a hoof to a large object, hanging from the ceiling. "This emits stars to the surface above it." "Oh, that's a chandelier," says Highwind, standing next to Sun. "Chandelier?" says Sun. "It was made in the Crystal Empire and was given to Princess Celestia and Princess Luna by Princess Cadance. There's another one in your room as well, Your Highness," says Highwind. Well, the truth is that the princesses received too many from Princess Cadance, and didn't know what to do with the rest. So they asked some of the maids and guards to help place them everywhere in the castle… "Forgive me, but who is this 'Cadance' thou speakest of?" asks Sun, tilting his head. Oh, I forgot that they haven't met her yet… thinks Highwind, sighing. "She's another alicorn like you. But don't worry, I'm sure you and Prince Moon will meet her someday." "I see…" says Sun. He then walks to the walls in front of him, placing and stroking a hoof against it. And here I thought he would ask more about her… thinks Highwind, rubbing a hoof behind his head. Well, whatever. I just hope I don't have to explain more to them by the end of the day. "Forgive me, Highwind, but what is this?" asks Moon, pointing a hoof at a large white object, layered with gold around its frame. I spoke too soon… thinks Highwind, frowning. He walks and stops next to Moon. "That's a bed." "A bed?" says Moon, tilting his head. "Yes," says Highwind. "Put a hoof on it and get a feel of what it's like." "Aye," says Moon. He lifts a hoof and places it over a white surface. "It feels… strange." "Well, it does feel weird at first, but once you try it, you'll grow to like it," says Highwind. "Oh, try and lift it, Your Highness. Just put your hoof on it again and move it to the side while lifting it." "Aye," says Moon, nodding. He puts a hoof on the white surface and drags it across, scooping it into his hoof before lifting it up. "Interesting…" says Sun, standing behind Highwind and Moon. "Oh, you came at a right time, Your Highness," says Highwind, turning and lifting his head. "I'm guessing that you don't know about a bed as well?" "Aye," says Sun. "Okay, it's really simple," says Highwind. He puts a hoof on a white puffy object and pulls it to himself. "This is a pillow," he says, holding it out with his forehooves. "A pillow?" says Moon, blinking. "Yes, and it goes to the top of the bed like this," says Highwind, putting his forehooves in front, and placing the pillow below him. "You'll be putting your head on that when you're sleeping." "I see," says Sun. "Oh, and one more thing," says Highwind, facing Moon. "Your Highness, do you remember what I told you to lift before?" "Aye," says Moon. "That's a blanket. Always remember this simple task. When you're about to head to bed, just lift the blanket like this," says Highwind, grabbing the blanket with a hoof. "After that, place it on yourself, and it will always keep you comfortable." "Ah, thy aid is much appreciated, Highwind," says Moon. "Thou art yet another pony that Moon and I cannot hope to repay…" says Sun, furrowing his brows. "Oh, don't worry about it. I'm just glad I could help," says Highwind, rubbing a hoof behind his head. "But is there a way that Sun and I can show our gratitude to thee?" asks Moon with narrow eyes. Ugh, I know I'm going to regret this… thinks Highwind, sighing. "Well, I guess I can accept your thanks. But first, give me some time to brace-" Sun and Moon press their lips against Highwind's cheeks as his eyes quickly widen from the touch. They then pull their heads away, seeing Highwind with his eyes moving in a circular motion. "Ah, forgive us, Highwind…" says Sun, frowning. "We did not mean to startle thee…" says Moon, drawing his brows in. "I-it's okay!" says Highwind with a grin. He quickly shakes his head with his cheeks burning red. Geh! Now I know how Princess Celestia and Princess Luna felt! "Highwind, art thou… feeling well?" asks Moon. "No! I-I mean, yes!" says Highwind, coughing into a hoof. "Um, Prince Moon, I'll be showing Prince Sun his room now, so please make yourself comfortable." "Once again, thank you, Highwind. I truly am grateful to thee," says Moon with a small smile. "Y-you praise me too much…" says Highwind, rubbing a hoof behind his head. "Nay," says Moon, shaking his head. "I speak only the truth." Okay, seriously, stop! I'm starting to feel weird! thinks Highwind with red cheeks. "A-anyway, Prince Sun, please follow me!" he says, turning and trotting through the doorway. "Moon, it seems we must part ways," says Sun, his brows gathering in. "Sun, know that our situation is much different from our time within the stars," says Moon, frowning. "True it may be, but the thought of parting ways with thee is… discomforting…" says Sun, hanging his head, and closing his eyes. "Sun, do not worry…" says Moon. He puts a hoof to Sun's chin, lifting his face, and presses his own head against his. "We will be together again. But for now, thou shouldst follow Highwind to thy room to rest," he says, smiling. "If thou hast no complaints, then I shall fulfill thy request," says Sun. He opens his eyes and stares into Moon's with a smile. "Thank you," says Moon, pressing his lips against Sun's cheek. I can't believe it… thinks Highwind, peeking an eye from the side of the doorway. He quickly turns his head and presses his back against the wall. He then places a hoof over his chest as his breathing grows heavy while his face turns red from his chin to his ears. I know they're just saying their goodbyes, but if other ponies saw this, they'd probably get the wrong idea! "Highwind," says Sun. "EEEP!" says Highwind as his voice shrieks throughout the hall. He then falls on his back with his hooves in the air. "Forgive me. 'Twas not my intention to cause thee such a startle…" says Sun, wrinkling his brows. "N-no! It's okay!" says Highwind. He rolls onto his hooves, pushing himself up, and quickly waves a hoof. I thought my heart stopped for a second there… he thinks, letting out a sigh. "A-anyway, Your Highness, are you ready to leave?" "Aye," says Sun. He then turns his head, staring through the doorway. "Moon, I bid thee farewell." "And I bid thee the same," says Moon with a smile. Sun smiles and turns his head. "Highwind, let us be on our way." "Yes, Your Highness," says Highwind. He then turns and walks ahead while Sun follows behind. As Sun disappears from view, Moon's smile fades away with distant eyes, staring at the opened door in front of him. How long has it been since I felt this way? thinks Moon, closing his eyes and placing a hoof on his chest. Ah, I remember now. 'Tis the same as I once wandered through the stars… As Moon opens his eyes, he casts his gaze to the red carpet floor. He furrows his brows as his eyes come upon a sphere, threaded in gold and attached to another half of the sphere, threaded in silver. Slowly, Moon lowers himself and rests his body upon the carpet beneath him. Sun, I hope thou art well… thinks Moon. His eyes begin to grow heavy as he rests his head upon the gold sphere below. Lurking in the shadows, a small dark figure appears from the side of the doorway. It scurries across the floor with each step as light as the air, covering the gap from the doorway to the carpet floor in seconds as it heads straight to Moon, lying in the center of the room. Strange… thinks Moon, feeling something pressing against his nose. He slowly opens his eyes, seeing a round pinkish orb with two black beads, tilting its head at him. "And whom might thou be, little one?" The strange creature presses its pinkish nose, moving it to certain areas of Moon's face. It then climbs upon Moon's muzzle, scampering upon his face and into his mane, disappearing from view. "Thou art strange, little one…" says Moon, rolling his eyes up, and seeing his guest's head popping out from his mane. "He's taken a liking to you…" says a voice. Moon focuses his eyes ahead, noticing a dark figure with turquoise eyes, staring from the doorway. "And whom might thou be?" asks Moon, blinking. "I did promise to have a talk with you, didn't I?" asks the dark figure with a chuckle. It moves closer, revealing itself as its purple mane glitters under the dim light of the lamps within the room. "Luna…" says Moon with wide eyes. "Good evening, Moon. But… it looks like I'm disturbing you. Did I come at the wrong time?" asks Luna. "Nay," says Moon, pushing himself up with his hooves. "'Tis good to see thee," he says with a smile. "It's good to see you too," says Luna, smiling. "But… dost thou require something of me?" asks Moon, tilting his head, while the small creature in his mane tilts its head as well. "Moon, did you already forget our promise?" asks Luna, furrowing her brows. "Promise?" says Moon, blinking. "Moon…" says Luna, sighing. "I promised that I would tell you more about magic, remember?" "Ah," says Moon with an open mouth. "Ah?" says Luna, tilting her head. "Forgive me…" says Moon, hanging his head. "Go on…" says Luna, twirling a hoof. "For not remembering our promise…" says Moon. "Apology accepted," says Luna with a snicker. She walks to Moon, putting a hoof to his chin, and lifting his face. "I'm sorry, but I just wanted to have a little fun with you," she says with a smile. "Fun? What is this 'fun' thou speakest of?" asks Moon, blinking. I can't believe how much he reminds me of my old self… thinks Luna with her mouth hanging. "A-anyway, Moon, how is your stay in the castle so far?" she asks, placing her hoof on the floor. "'Tis quite pleasant, I suppose. Especially the bath Sun and I have taken earlier," says Moon, smiling. "Well, I'm not surprised since a bath is the best way to make you feel better," says Luna with a giggle. "But, Luna, there is something that troubles me…" says Moon. "Oh, then maybe I can help," says Luna. "This," says Moon, pointing a hoof. "Hmm?" says Luna, lifting her head. "Oh, I forgot you were there…" she says with her eyes on the creature in Moon's mane, crossing its arms. Using a hoof, Luna lifts it to the creature in Moon's mane, allowing it to scurry across her hoof to the nape of her neck, and sits on her head. "Strange…" says Moon. "Well, he is a strange one," says Luna with a small laugh. The creature lifts a paw, patting Luna's head. "Don't worry, I'm getting to it," says Luna, rolling her eyes. "Moon, let me introduce you to my faithful companion, Tiberius." Lifting a paw, Tiberius pats Luna's head again. "Yes, yes, I know," says Luna. "Moon, he wants you to call him Tibbles instead," she says with a huff. I still can't believe he prefers that name over the one I gave him… "Greetings, Tibbles. My name is Moon," he says, smiling. Tibbles lifts a paw and waves. "So, what do you think of him, Tibbles?" asks Luna, rolling her eyes up. Tibbles points a paw to Moon. Oh, so he's very gentle and caring… thinks Luna with a small smile. Tibbles pats Luna's head with a paw. "Huh?" says Luna, rolling her eyes up again. Tibbles points a paw to Moon, then points at Luna. "Wh-why, you… you have some nerve saying that you prefer him over me! If that's how it's going to be, then you're not getting your favorite strawberry cheesecake from now on!" says Luna, glaring. Tibbles quickly puts his paws together as his eyes turn watery. He then puts a paw on Luna's head, stroking it. "Hmph!" says Luna, turning her head, and closing her eyes. "Instead of apologizing, why don't you go to Moon? I'm sure he will take good care of you." Tibbles slumps his shoulders and turns to face Moon. However, he wrinkles his brows upon the sight of Moon staring with distant eyes. Using a paw, Tibbles pats Luna's head. "Not listening," says Luna. "I'm quite angry with you, so don't bother me." Tibbles puts a paw to his face and drags it down. He then uses his paws, grabbing a strand of Luna's purple mane, and pulls it. "OW! Tibbles, what was that for!" says Luna, glaring. Tibbles frowns, pointing a paw. "What is it now?" asks Luna, turning her head. She then furrows her brows as her eyes soften with a small glint. "Moon?" "Ah," says Moon, averting his gaze. "Forgive me. I did not mean to worry thee…" "Moon, if there's something on your mind, you can talk to me about it," says Luna. "I do not know," says Moon. "As I look at Tibbles and thee, I begin to feel… discomfort…" "Why?" asks Luna. She walks before coming to a stop in front of Moon. "Did Tibbles and I do something wrong?" "Nay," says Moon, shaking his head. "'Tis a strange feeling, but when I look at Tibbles and thee, I am reminded of my parting with Sun…" "But Sun is still here. He hasn't left you. Well… he did, but still, he's close by," says Luna. "Thou hast some truth in thy words. But the thought of it still troubles me…" says Moon, furrowing his brows. Moon, please… please don't make that face… thinks Luna, stepping closer with her face inches away from Moon's. Tibbles blinks his eyes, looking down as Luna raises a hoof. His eyes quickly open wide, losing his footing as he falls from Luna's head. He flails his paws, darting his eyes about as the red carpet below grows closer. Turning his head, his eyes come upon Moon's horn and stretches a paw at it. Gripping the horn tightly as he dangles in the air, Tibbles lifts a paw and wipes away the sweat from his brows. He then grips the horn with both paws and closes his eyes while pulling himself up. Lifting his head above the horn, he opens his eyes as they widen at the view in front of him. "Luna," says Moon with wide eyes. "What art thou-" "Don't say a word. Just close your eyes," saysLuna. "Close my eyes?" says Moon, blinking. "Yes. Just close your eyes," says Luna. "If thou sayest so…" says Moon, closing his eyes. "Now then…" says Luna, stroking a hoof over Moon's mane. "Luna, I feel… strange…" says Moon. "Strange? What do you mean?" asks Luna. "I do not know. But my thoughts have ceased…" says Moon. "That's a good thing," says Luna, placing her forehooves on Moon's shoulders, and slowly pushes him away. "Moon, I understand what you're feeling is not something that you can forget. But please remember that you're not by yourself anymore, and there will be others to stay by your side," she says, smiling. Because I went through the same thing with Tia… Strange… thinks Moon, lifting a hoof and placing it under his eye. He pulls his hoof away, seeing a small droplet sliding down his hoof. "Luna, what is this?" "Moon, you're crying…" says Luna, drawing her brows in. She then lifts a hoof, wiping the tears from Moon's eyes. "I thought you knew about it?" "Nay," says Moon. "Then do you remember when I cried?" asks Luna, placing her hoof on the floor. "Ah… I remember now. 'Tis during when Sun and I met thee and Celestia, correct?" asks Moon. "Yes," says Luna, nodding. "But know this well, Moon. Crying is but a way to show that you're feeling hurt yourself," she says, placing a hoof on Moon's chest. "There are many ways to express yourself when you're feeling this way, and you will come to know this in time." "I see…" says Moon, frowning. "Is there any means to prevent one from this?" "I'm glad you asked," says Luna with a smile. "Moon, you can't prevent yourself from this since there will be times when something happens to make you feel this way. But… if you find yourself lost, you can talk to somepony about it. If you do, I'm sure they will try everything they can to help when you need it the most." "As thou hast done the same?" asks Moon. "Yes," says Luna, closing her eyes with a chuckle. "I talk to my sister or Tibbles whenever I feel something is troubling me. But I guess asking an opossum for advice would be ridiculousssssssssss!" she says, quickly opening her eyes upon Moon pressing his lips against her cheek. As Tibbles climbs down the base of Moon's hind leg, he tilts his head, seeing Luna with a wavy smile, and her eyes circling about. "Ah, forgive me, Luna. I did not mean to startle thee…" says Moon. "N-no! I'm q-quite fine!" says Luna, waving a hoof. "Y-you were just thanking me, right?" she asks, rubbing her arm with a hoof. I thought I was going to faint there for a second! "But art thou sure thou art feeling well?" asks Moon, wrinkling his brows. "No! I-I mean, yes! I'm fine!" says Luna. "A-anyway, Moon, would you like to join me for a walk?" "A walk?" says Moon, tilting his head. "Y-you asked me to tell you more about magic, right?" asks Luna. "Aye," says Moon, nodding. "Well, since it's such a wonderful n-night, I was thinking about telling you more about it during our walk. B-but… if that's fine with you?" asks Luna, her cheeks turning scarlet. "Of course," says Moon, smiling. "Th-then I'll lead the way," says Luna, grinning. "Oh, I almost forgot! Tibbles, do you want to join us?" she asks, turning her head about. "Tibbles, where are you?" "Luna," says Moon. "Y-yes?" says Luna, craning her head. "Tibbles is here," says Moon, pointing a hoof. Luna lifts her head, her eyes coming upon Tibbles waving a paw from inside Moon's mane. "Oh, there you are. Are you joining us?" asks Luna. Tibbles nods. "Then follow me!" says Luna, quickly turning and trotting through the doorway. "Forgive me, Tibbles, but dost thou know if Luna is well?" asks Moon, rolling his eyes up. Tibbles lifts a paw to his chin, scratching it, and shrugs. "'Tis fine if thou dost not know. Now then, let us be on our way," says Moon, walking through the doorway. Leading on through the moonlit halls, Luna walks with her head hanging, while Moon trails behind with Tibbles poking his head out of Moon's mane. I can't believe I behaved so foolishly in front of Moon… thinks Luna, sighing. He must be thinking that I'm weird- "Ah…" says Moon. He rolls his eyes up, seeing Tibbles pointing a paw. "If thou art curious, then I-" "Moon, do you understand what Tibbles is saying?" asks Luna with wide eyes. "Aye," says Moon. "Sun and I were able to speak to similar inhabitants of the Everfree Forest." So, they're both able to talk with animals, just like me. Well, including Fluttershy, but… wait a second… thinks Luna, blinking."Moon, did you just say… the Everfree Forest?" "Aye," says Moon. "Why dost thou ask?" "Moon, the Everfree Forest is a dangerous place! Why were you and Sun there?" asks Luna, frowning. "Forgive me, but I do not know much. When Sun and I had awoken, we came to know that we were upon this world, thus meeting the inhabitants within the Everfree Forest. They have also spoken that Sun and I came to be from a sphere of light," says Moon. "What? But that doesn't make any… never mind…" says Luna with a sigh. "Moon, just promise me that you and Sun will never set a hoof in that place again." Moon tilts his head. "But why dost thou-" "Please…" says Luna with a watery gaze. Moon blinks his eyes. "If thou so wish it, then I shall fulfill thy request," he says with a smile. "Thank you…" says Luna, smiling. She then turns and faces ahead. I just want you and Sun to be safe… "Now then, Tibbles," says Moon, rolling his eyes up. "Thou were asking my thoughts on Luna, correct?" Tibbles nods. Huh? thinks Luna, twitching her ears. "'Tis a strange question thou hast asked of me, but… Luna is somepony I have longed to meet," says Moon. Longed to meet… m-me? thinks Luna, her cheeks flushing red. "Ah, and whom I truly enjoy being with," says Moon with a smile. E-enjoy… being with? thinks Luna, her face brightening as red creeps from her chin to the tip of her ears. "Is that a suitable answer to thee, Tibbles?" asks Moon. Tibbles nods with vigor. "Can I ask thee about thyself?" asks Moon. Tibbles nods. Ugh, I shouldn't have brought Tibbles along… thinks Luna, sighing. ________________________________________ What should I do? thinks Highwind. Turning his head, he furrows his brows as his eyes land on Sun, hanging his head. He's been like that ever since we left Prince Moon… Highwind stops and turns, facing Sun as he stops as well. I should probably say something to cheer him up… thinks Highwind, rubbing a hoof behind his head. "Um, Your Highness, I know it's just for tonight, but don't worry. You'll be able to see Prince Moon again in the morning." "Aye…" says Sun, frowning. Ugh, I think I just made him feel worse… thinks Highwind, putting a hoof to his face. He then takes a deep breath and lets out a sigh. "Your Highness, I know this may sound personal, but can I ask you something?" "Aye…" says Sun. "I heard this earlier from Prince Moon. He said that you both now have a different situation than from your time within the stars?" asks Highwind. "Aye, but why dost thou ask?" asks Sun, lifting his head. "Well, I… I guess I just thought asking you would let me hear your problems, that's all," says Highwind, rubbing his arm with a hoof. "I see…" says Sun. "Actually, just forget I asked that," says Highwind with a small laugh. "Let's just go and get you to your room-" "Then I shall answer thee," says Sun. "U-um, okay…" says Highwind, blinking. "As for what thou hast asked, Moon is the only being I have known throughout my years within the stars," says Sun. "O-oh…" says Highwind, narrowing his eyes. He's only known Prince Moon…? "And, in turn, Moon has known only I. 'Tis why it troubles me to part ways with Moon…" says Sun with distant eyes. That's why they're so close… thinks Highwind. "But, Your Highness, Prince Moon is not the only one now. There are others that will be there for him and you, like me." "Ah… thy words have much meaning, Highwind. Thou hast aided me once more. And for that, I am truly grateful," says Sun, smiling. "O-oh, you're welcome," says Highwind with a grin. "Perhaps I should thank thee again," says Sun. "NO! I-I mean, there's no need to thank me! I just wanted to help, that's all!" says Highwind with a small shade of red in his cheeks. I had enough for one day! "If 'tis thy request, then I shall fulfill it," says Sun. "U-uh, yeah! Anyway, please follow me!" says Highwind, turning and walking ahead. "Aye," says Sun. Walking through the dim hall, Highwind and Sun notice another white door in the distance, bathing in a bluish glow under the moonlight. Coming to a stop next to the door, Highwind places a hoof on a gold doorknob, twisting it, and pushing as the door creaks across the floor. "Go in and have a look, Your Highness," says Highwind, pointing a hoof at the doorway. "It's the same as Prince Moon's room, so you won't notice any difference." "Aye," says Sun. He walks through the doorway with his eyes glancing left and right at the interior of the dim room. He notices a glint in the corner of his eyes and lifts his head. "'Tis true. There is another chandelier here as well." "Now that we're here, Your Highness, I'll be taking my leave now. I need to get up pretty early tomorrow," says Highwind, yawning with a hoof over his mouth. "But before I leave, is there anything you need?" "Nay," says Sun. "Well, goodnight," says Highwind with a smile. He turns and leaves through the doorway, pulling the white door behind him with a hoof. "Highwind," says Sun. "O-oh, what is it?" asks Highwind, turning his head. "What is this 'goodnight' thou speakest of?" asks Sun. Highwind smiles. "It's just something we say to each other when we're about to rest for the night." "I see…" says Sun. Perhaps I should tell Moon about this. "Well, goodnight," says Highwind. "Goodnight," says Sun, smiling. As Sun stands in the middle of the room, he watches as the door creaks across the floor. With an audible thud, the door comes to a close, leaving Sun in the quiet of the night. Looking down, Sun's eyes come upon a sphere on the red carpet below, threaded in gold while attached to another half of the sphere, threaded in silver. Forgive me, Highwind… thinks Sun, furrowing his brows. He lowers himself on the carpet floor and rests his head over the silver half of the sphere. It still pains me to leave Moon… As time moves on, Sun's eyes begin to grow heavy as he closes them. However, his eyes quickly open to the sound of a woody rattle of knocks. Sun lifts his head and turns to the abrupt sound, facing the closed wooden door in front of him. He tilts his head as the door rattles again in a constant tap before coming to a stop. "Sun, are you awake?" asks a motherly voice. "Celestia?" says Sun with wide eyes. "Yes, and I'm glad you're awake…" says Celestia with a sigh. "Did I come at the wrong time?" "Nay," says Sun. "Then, if you're not busy, can I speak with you?" asks Celestia. "Aye," says Sun, pushing himself up onto his hooves. "Please excuse me…" says Celestia. Sun blinks his eyes as the door's gold doorknob glows in a yellow light before twisting itself, causing the door to creak across the floor. As the door opens in plain view, Sun's eyes come upon a dim white glow, coming off from Celestia's pure white coat while her rainbow mane glitters in the midst of the dim light. "Good evening, Sun," says Celestia with a smile. "Greetings…" says Sun, his eyes moving up and down. "U-um, Sun, it's not polite to stare…" says Celestia with red cheeks. "Ah, forgive me…" says Sun, frowning. "Thou dost not resemble our first meeting…" "What do you mean?" asks Celestia, blinking. Using a hoof, Sun puts a hoof over his chest and places it on his head behind his spiraling horn. "Oh, you must mean my necklace and crown," says Celestia. "Necklace? Crown?" says Sun, tilting his head. "It's just something I wear to fulfill my duties during the day," says Celestia. "But why do you ask?" "I do not know. But thou seem to be… different…" says Sun, smiling. "O-oh, well, thank you…" says Celestia, averting her gaze as her cheeks turn into a shade of scarlet. "Celestia, art thou feeling well?" asks Sun. "Y-yes!" says Celestia, coughing into a hoof. "Anyway, are you enjoying your stay in Equestria?" "Equestria?" says Sun, blinking. "What is this 'Equestria' thou speakest of?" To think he was watching over our world this entire time… thinks Celestia, her mouth slightly open. "Sun, can I ask you something?" "Aye," says Sun. "How much do you and Moon know about this world?" asks Celestia. "None," says Sun. That's what I thought… thinks Celestia, sighing. However, she notices a bluish light in the corner of her eyes. "Sun, can you wait here for a second?" "Aye," says Sun. "It won't be long," says Celestia with a smile. Walking past Sun, Celestia stops in front of a red curtain. Her spiraling horn begins to glow in a yellow light, shrouding the curtain in a similar aura. The curtain moves to the side, revealing a large window door behind it as the moonlight casts its glow through it. Celestia's horn glows brighter as another yellow light appears around the door's gold doorknob and twists itself. At the sound of a click, the door creaks across the floor as the yellow light around Celestia's horn fades away. As the door stops, Celestia walks through the doorway before stopping in front of a white stone railing. "Sun, please come here. There's something I want to show you," says Celestia, turning her head. "Aye," says Sun, walking. Through the doorway, he lifts his head with wide eyes and an open mouth. "Speechless, right?" asks Celestia with a small laugh. "Celestia, is there any meaning in showing me this?" asks Sun. "Yes. Sun, when you asked about Equestria, I was thinking it might be best to show you instead," says Celestia. She then points a hoof. "Take a look around and grasp the scenery before you. This is Equestria, a land that is a part of this vast world you and Moon have been watching over for so long." Sun gazes at the horizon, his eyes brightening upon the Moon hovering as small lights glimmer in the night sky. He slowly turns his head, his eyes coming upon a river, covered in the reflection of the stars above to a field of flowers of yellow and blue, casting its vibrant glow before meeting vast shadows of trees in the distance. "So, what do you think?" asks Celestia. "'Tis quite the view," says Sun with a smile. "I'm glad you like it," says Celestia with a chuckle. She then points a hoof. "Oh, and if you look closely, you can see Ponyville from here. Do you see it? It's a small patch of lights in the distance." "Ah, is that it?" asks Sun, pointing a hoof. "Yes. Oh, and if you look over there, you can see… the…" Celestia trails off, blinking. "Sun, what are you looking at?" Celestia's question is met with silence as Sun's eyes were looking down. She follows his gaze as her eyes widen upon two blue figures below, walking along a stone path through a garden filled with flowers of blue, green, and purple, glowing under the moonlight. Oh, so that's what Luna had in mind. It's no wonder the Moon is much closer than usual, thinks Celestia with a small smile. She then squints her eyes, noticing a small creature sticking out of Moon's mane. Ah, so Moon met Tibbles as well. "Celestia," says Sun. "Y-yes?" says Celestia, turning her head. "Hast thou once felt… discomfort?" asks Sun with distant eyes. "Discomfort?" says Celestia, drawing her brows in. "What do you mean?" "I… I cannot describe it. I know that Moon and I will not be apart for long. But as Highwind led the way to our rooms, it soon came to where I had to part ways with Moon. 'Twas… discomforting…" says Sun, placing a hoof on his chest. Oh, now I understand… thinks Celestia. "Sun, that means you miss Moon…" "I… miss Moon?" says Sun, tilting his head. "It means you long to meet him. To stay by Moon's side. And it's something I once felt long ago as well…" says Celestia, frowning. "And a memory I'll never forget…" "Art thou saying thou once parted… with Luna?" asks Sun. "Y-yes…" says Celestia, hanging her head. "How did Luna and thee part ways?" asks Sun with narrow eyes. "I'm sorry…" says Celestia, shaking her head. "But it's something I don't want to talk-" "Celestia," says Sun with a watery gaze. "I do not know what has happened between Luna and thee, but thou seem to be troubled as of now. If thou art willing to speak thy concerns, then I shall gladly listen to thee." "Sun, thank you, but you don't have to trouble yourself over this…" says Celestia with a small smile. Sun closes his eyes and slowly shakes his head. He then opens his eyes, showing a radiant glow within them. "Celestia, what Luna and thee have done for Moon and I is something we truly cannot hope to repay. That is why if I am able to be of some use to thee, then I shall aid thee in any way I am capable of." "Sun…" says Celestia with wide eyes. She then lets out a sigh. "Well, to begin with, Luna and I were living our days together, guiding ponies throughout the years in Equestria. Everything was fine, and I thought it would continue to be that way. But I failed to notice that there was something wrong with Luna, the one pony I had been together with for so long…" she says, clenching a hoof. Sun stares with an inward gaze. "Sun, you might not know this, but the reason Luna changed and why we were separated was because of you and Moon…" says Celestia. "Moon and I?" says Sun, blinking. "Yes, but I will not blame you both for my own past mistakes. You see, I was entrusted to raise the Sun, and Luna, to raise the Moon. On this world, mostly everything tends to move about during the day, but when night came, it was time to rest. It was then that Luna misunderstood that ponies tend to favor the day over the night. I tried to reason with her, but she wouldn't listen, and I didn't know what else to do…" says Celestia, frowning. Sun's eyes begin to soften. "Luna lost control of herself, and… I had no choice but to send her to the Moon…" says Celestia, her breathing growing heavy. "I-I thought I did the right thing, but as time passed, I began to wonder if I could've done something different…" "Then dost thou still consider thy past discretion a mistake?" asks Sun. "Of course I do! There's not a single day where… where I wished I had done something different! Something that would've prevented us from being torn apart! But no! I-I was too naïve!" says Celestia, gritting her teeth. She quickly puts a hoof over her head. It hurts! It hurts so much just thinking about it! Sun wrinkles his brows, while Celestia places another hoof against her head, clenching her eyes shut with a groan. Using a hoof, Sun puts it to Celestia's chin and lifts her face up as he presses his head against hers. "Sun…" says Celestia with red cheeks. "Wh-what are you doin-" "Art thou feeling well?" asks Sun. Huh? Wait, my head doesn't hurt anymore… thinks Celestia, blinking. "Yes…" Sun smiles and pulls his face away. "Celestia, forgive me if I caused thee such discomfort." "N-no…" says Celestia, shaking her head. "I'm the one who should apologize for my behavior earlier." "'Tis fine," says Sun, nodding. "But why were you so close to my… face?" asks Celestia, her cheeks burning red. "Moon and I have recently done the same. It has helped ease my thoughts before I parted ways with Moon," says Sun. "O-oh, I see…" says Celestia. Her face begins to redden from the base of her chin to her ears. That must mean Sun and Moon's faces were close to each other… "But now I understand what it means to miss somepony. Perhaps it truly was fate that Moon and I had met within the stars…" says Sun, gazing up at the night sky. Wait, that doesn't make sense… thinks Celestia, blinking. "Sun, I thought you and Moon were together from long ago?" "Nay," says Sun, shaking his head. "'Twas only I that watched over the world." How… how could anypony go through that? thinks Celestia, frowning."Then… you were by yourself all this time?" "Aye, but that is until Moon appeared…" says Sun, smiling. "What do you mean?" asks Celestia. "Even I do not know, but Moon came from unbeknownst the stars and was bound to thy world, given the same fate as I," says Sun. "You're saying that Moon was by himself too…"says Celestia, wrinkling her brows. "Aye," says Sun, nodding. "And for a time, Moon and I could not speak." "Then… how did you and Moon learn it?"asks Celestia. Sun smiles. "'Twas Luna." "Luna?"saysCelestia, blinking. "If I remember, there was something that resembled a pony on Moon," says Sun. It can't be… thinks Celestia with an open mouth. It must be the time when I sealed Luna away with the Elements of Harmony… "In time, Moon and I learned to speak from Luna," says Sun. I can't believe it… thinks Celestia. "But, Sun, how are you and Moon able to speak without raising your voice?" "Raising… my voice?" says Sun, tilting his head. "When you first came into the castle, do you remember when Twilight spoke in a similar way? Luna did the same thing when she did not believe Moon was… well, the Moon," says Celestia. "Aye, I do remember. But I do not know…" says Sun, frowning. "It's fine. But can you please continue?" asks Celestia with a smile. But it's amazing how you and Moon are able to speak it so naturally… "Aye," says Sun, nodding. "If I remember, the image of a pony on Moon disappeared along with Luna." That must be the day when Twilight and her friends faced Nightmare Moon… thinks Celestia. "Sun, what happened afterward?" "I do not know…" says Sun. "But Moon and I came to be in a place named the Everfree Forest." Celestia's eyes shrink. "Sun, were you and Moon hurt?" "Nay," says Sun, shaking his head. "Moon and I spoke with the inhabitants of the forest, allowing our arrival in Ponyville." "Then are you saying that you and Moon are able to talk to animals?" asks Celestia. "If that is how thou describe the inhabitants of the Everfree Forest, aye," says Sun. Amazing. They're like Luna and Fluttershy… thinks Celestia. "Well, I'm just glad that you and Moon are both safe. But since you arrived in Ponyville, I'm guessing the ponies there helped you?" "Aye," says Sun with a smile. "'Twas interesting meeting the ponies there." "Hmm…" says Celestia, tapping her chin with a hoof. "Sun, did Ponyville give you a proper greeting?" "A proper… greeting?" says Sun, blinking. "I guess that's a no," says Celestia with a chuckle. She stands firm before bowing her head. "Sun, on behalf of everypony, I welcome you and Moon to Equestria." Strange… thinks Sun, placing a hoof over his chest. "Celestia, I feel strange…" "Are you okay?" asks Celestia, drawing her brows in. "I… I do not know. But it puts me at ease…" says Sun, smiling. "That's a relief…" says Celestia, sighing. "I thought you were-" Celestia quickly opens her eyes, feeling a warm touch pressing against her cheek. She stares with an open mouth, while Sun pulls his lips away, gazing at her with half-lidded eyes. "Celestia, please know that thy past discretion is how Moon and I came to be. For that, I truly am grateful to be able to meet thee. Thank you…" says Sun with a smile. "Y-you're welcome…" says Celestia, her cheeks flushing into a rich color of a rose. "Celestia, art thou sure thou art feeling well?" asks Sun. "Y-yes! I'm fine…" says Celestia. She then places a hoof over her chest. Calm down. Just remember that he's only showing his thanks… Celestia turns her head, facing away from Sun. Her eyes roll down, seeing Luna and Moon in the distance, sitting on a lone hill, surrounded by a field of white flowers, glowing faintly under the moonlight. To think that Luna and I would be next to the very things we dedicated our lives to… thinks Celestia with a giggle. "Celestia," says Sun. "Yes?" says Celestia, facing Sun. "Forgive me, but is there more of thy bread?" asks Sun. "Bread? Oh, that bread," says Celestia with a small laugh. "Did you take a liking to it?" "Aye," says Sun with a smile. I guess banana flavor is something Sun and I have in common, thinks Celestia. "I'm sorry, but I don't have any at the moment." "Ah, I see…" says Sun, hanging his head. "Sun, don't worry. I promise there will be more tomorrow morning," says Celestia, smiling. "If thou sayest so," says Sun with a smile. Celestia then lifts her head, gazing up, only to glance to her side. Her eyes come upon Sun with his eyes reflecting the multiple lights, flickering in the night sky. Sun, thank you. I thought I would never forgive myself. But now, I'm glad that my loss was able to help you and Moon in return… To be continued…
Chapter 1Thought to Reality ________________________________________ Throughout the magical land of Equestria, countless mythical creatures thrive as ponies, griffons, dragons, and many other species live side by side in harmony underneath the vigilant gaze of the Sun and Moon. At the heart of this land lies the city of Canterlot, filled with buildings of white and covered with beautiful rooftops of purple as spiraling towers of gold stretches far within the sky. Tonight, as the city of Canterlot slumbers under the white glow of the Moon, a blue mare watches from atop a balcony, sitting on the side of a spiraling tower built upon a castle that reflects the moonlight from its silvery walls. "And yet another boring night as I watch over this place…" says the blue mare, letting out a sigh. "At least you don't have to deal with the problems that ponies have when they come to the castle every morning, Luna…" says a voice. Luna rolls her eyes before turning and facing a white mare with a flowing rainbow mane. "Oh, sure. Try watching over thousands of dreams and making sure there's not a single pony having a nightmare, Tia…" she says, frowning. "Fair enough," says Celestia with a small laugh. "I guess dealing with ponies every morning is tiring," says Luna, laughing with a hoof over her mouth. "A-anyway, is everything okay?" asks Celestia, blinking. "I guess so. The scenery is beautiful, no matter how many times I look at it," says Luna, turning her head as her eyes reflect the stars in the night sky. "Oh, Luna," says Celestia, giggling. "And what are you laughing about?" asks Luna, lifting a brow. "It's just how you're speaking so casually. I remember when you used to speak more… formal," says Celestia, chuckling with a hoof over her mouth. "Ugh, you just had to bring that up…" says Luna, rolling her eyes. "I'll admit I was behind the times of how ponies talk nowadays, but thanks to you, Twilight, and her friends, I wouldn't be talking like this without you all there for me…" she says, frowning. "Luna…" says Celestia, furrowing her brows. "Well, enough of that…" says Luna, sighing. She then faces Celestia, blinking. "So, why are you here, Tia? You usually visit at this time when there's something important." "Is it wrong that I want to spend some time with my beloved sister under this beautiful night?" asks Celestia, raising a brow. "Pfft! When you put it like that, I-I guess I can't say no," says Luna, chuckling with a hoof over her mouth. "But I have to say, you truly have outdone yourself once again, Luna," says Celestia, lifting her head and gazing up at the night sky. "Enough with the flattery," says Luna, smiling and rolling her eyes. Celestia joins Luna on her side as they sit on their haunches, looking above as light shoots through the night sky while the Moon's glow reflects in their eyes. They then close their eyes, breathing in before letting out a long sigh. "So, Tia, how are Twilight and her friends?" asks Luna, opening an eye. Celestia opens an eye. "Twilight has been doing fairly well since her coronation. But after becoming a princess, she seems to be overworking herself with her studies. Not to mention the injuries she gets from using her new wings…" "I bet that didn't go well. I still remember her flying straight into the castle wall when she wanted to visit us by flying…" says Luna, huffing. "I-I should probably tell Twilight to take a break. Knowing her, she'll probably push herself until she collapses…" says Celestia, letting out a sigh. "You should. I know Twilight's friends warn her and all, but you're probably the only pony that she'll listen to, Tia," says Luna, rolling her eyes. "I guess you're right…" says Celestia, putting a hoof to her face. "What about her friends?" asks Luna, lifting a brow. "They're doing well, I guess. Honestly, I'm just glad Twilight has such good friends," says Celestia, smiling. "Speaking of friends, Tia, what is Discord doing now?" asks Luna, frowning. "You just had to ask about him…" says Celestia, letting out a sigh. "Well, it's always a good idea to know what he's up to…" says Luna, huffing. "I guess he's fine for now, thanks to Fluttershy. But he still likes to play pranks on Twilight and her friends, especially the residents of Ponyville and other places…" says Celestia, dragging a hoof down her face. Ugh, just talking about him is making me remember the time he came to Canterlot and made pies come to life and throw themselves on ponies' faces… "You shouldn't be too worried about him. I mean, it's what he does for a living…" says Luna, rolling her eyes. "That's true, I suppose…" says Celestia, rubbing her chin with a hoof. "Oh, Tia, what about Cadance and Shining Armor? I haven't heard from them in a while," says Luna, blinking. "Hmm…" says Celestia, tapping her chin with a hoof. "Cadance is doing well with the Crystal Empire. As for Shining Armor, he's doing whatever he can to help Cadance and maintain his duties as the captain of the Royal Guard." "That's it?" asks Luna, raising a brow. "Well, there was this time that Cadance came to the castle and asked me to tell Shining Armor to take some time off," says Celestia, blinking. "Why?" asks Luna, frowning. "Cadance was worried that Shining Armor might work himself to death. She even told me how he wouldn't listen to her. To be honest, it's amazing how he's similar to Twilight…" says Celestia, sighing. "Like brother, like sister," says Luna, snickering with a hoof over her mouth. "You're right," says Celestia with a chuckle. "Um, sorry, Tia, but talking about Cadance and Shining Armor is making me worried about somepony…" says Luna, rubbing the side of her neck with a hoof. "Who?" asks Celestia, blinking. "It's, well, Chrysalis…" says Luna, biting her bottom lip. "O-oh…" says Celestia, frowning. "Sorry, Luna, but I don't know anything about her and the rest of the changelings. But don't worry, I already prepared spells and tighter security around Canterlot after Cadance and Shining Armor's wedding…" "I see…" says Luna, furrowing her brows. "Ugh, that's right! I forgot to tell you that Shining Armor has trained the Royal Guard on using a spell to see if there are any ponies disguised as changelings…" says Celestia, placing a hoof over her face. "Then I guess you're prepared if Chrysalis and the rest of the changelings ever come back…" says Luna, rubbing an arm with a hoof. "Luna, you should already know that I will do anything to keep everypony safe…" says Celestia, wrinkling her brows. "I know, I know…" says Luna, sighing. "By the way, Luna, where were you when the changelings were here?" asks Celestia, lifting a brow. "O-oh, um, I-I was taking care of… some problems!" says Luna with a sheepish grin. "Luna, are you lying to me?" asks Celestia, glaring. "I-I…" says Luna, her eyes darting about as sweat runs down her face. Celestia closes her eyes and breathes in before letting out a sigh. She opens her eyes and faces Luna with an unwavering gaze. "Luna, you were eating donuts again, weren't you?" "Y-yes…" says Luna, hanging her head. "Luna, you should always let me know if you're planning to go somewhere. Especially for emergencies…" says Celestia, furrowing her brows. "I-I'm sorry…" says Luna with tears welling up in her eyes. "You know, you could at least get a box of donuts for me," says Celestia, smiling. "Well, I guess that's something I could do to make it up to you…" says Luna, lifting her head with a small smile. "I hope so," says Celestia with a small laugh. "But a lot has happened since then, right?" asks Luna, smiling. "You're right," says Celestia, nodding her head. "A lot of things happened in our fair land of Equestria, and I must say it's quite a tale." "I guess so…" says Luna, turning and gazing up at the Moon. "Tia, I've been wondering, but when did it all change?" "Change?" asks Celestia, blinking. "I mean, when did we become so distant from everything?" asks Luna, furrowing her brows. "Wh-what do you mean?" asks Celestia, frowning. "You know, this, the castle! It slowly changed us! There was a time when we could just talk with other ponies without them barely batting an eye! Now, everypony is afraid of the slightest mistake they make, they fear we'll do something outrageous to them! Even a maid in the castle today dropped a teacup when I was there and begged me not to send her to the Moon!" says Luna, stomping a hoof. "Luna, I-I'm sorry, but where are you going with this?" asks Celestia, her brows drawing together. "Tia, be honest with me. When was the last time you were able to carry a conversation like this with somepony other than me?" asks Luna with a watery gaze. "I-I don't know…" says Celestia, placing a hoof on her head. Luna's right. There was a time when I corrected a small mistake within the budget we should use for a new library within the city. How could I forget the ponies' faces who looked at me like it was the end of the world… "T-Tia, are you okay?" asks Luna, placing a hoof on Celestia's shoulder. "Y-you're right, Luna. I've always noticed, but I can't remember if we had a normal talk with anypony besides the ones close to us…" Luna slowly moves next to Celestia and wraps her hooves around her. Letting their heads rest upon each other's wings, the two stays locked in an embrace as the night air quietly flows around them. "Tia, do you think they ever get lonely?" asks Luna, her eyes reflecting the Moon above. "Who?" asks Celestia, putting her hooves on Luna's shoulders and slowly pushing herself away. "The Moon and Sun, I mean…" says Luna, pointing a hoof to the night sky. She then shakes her head and waves a hoof. "Ugh, just forget about it-" "Maybe…" says Celestia, lifting her head and gazing at the Moon. "Really?" asks Luna, raising a brow. "Well, when I raise the Sun, I've always felt like… something was there when I grasp it with my magic. The same feeling was there when I first started raising the Moon, even though it was slightly different. Have you ever noticed something?" asks Celestia, blinking. "I guess so. But I've never thought about it…" says Luna, gazing at the Moon above with a small smile. Maybe we're more alike than I thought… "Oh? Does my little sister have a crush?" asks Celestia, giggling with a hoof over her mouth. "Wh-what? No!" says Luna, shaking her head with a bright red face. "But that's not what your face is telling me," says Celestia, smirking. "Ugh! I don't have a crush on the Moon!" says Luna, stomping a hoof. "All right. I promise I won't say anything about my little sister's love life," says Celestia with a small smile. "I'm not little…" says Luna, pouting. "I know, but to me, you will always be my little sister," says Celestia, nuzzling Luna's cheek. "Ugh! Don't do that!" says Luna, pushing Celestia with a hoof. "You always treat me like this when we're alone!" "But you're so adorable," says Celestia with a small laugh. She then jerks, blinking. "Oh, speaking of the Sun and Moon, I think it's about time to begin the new day." "Oh, it's that time already?" asks Luna, rubbing her head with a hoof. "I suppose it is," says Celestia, turning and walking to the door in front. "I guess I'll be leaving. I don't want to keep Twilight and her friends waiting." "Wait, Twilight and her friends are here?" asks Luna with a wide smile. "Well, not yet. But I invited them over for tea this morning, so they should be arriving soon. I don't suppose I could interest you in attending?" asks Celestia, tilting her head. "Don't look at me like that! Of course, I'll join!" says Luna, pouting. ________________________________________ Far beyond the reaches of Equestria, the Sun and Moon float along a path traveled since time immemorial. To the naked eye, all seems well with the two orbiting spheres. However, a closer look shows the two bodies giving off a faint, translucent glow. They continue to pulse until a yellow and blue tendrils of light start to leak out, returning them to their former state soon after. The tendrils of light slowly make their way across space as almost if they were dancing around each other towards Equestria. As the two streaks plunge downwards through the atmosphere, their glow subsides, making them nearly opaque. As the ground grows closer, the landing point becomes clear, an immense tree located deep within the bowels of the mysterious Everfree Forest. The tendrils of energy weave around the branches of the tree, slowly making their way down the base before branching off of it, hovering just a bit over the patches of grass and flowers. Suddenly, they start to intertwine with each other, forming a small dome of bright colors. The dome of light continues to swirl, growing brighter and brighter as each second passes by, kicking up a strong gust as it blows off patches of grass and flowers in the process. Slowly, the dome of light begins to slow down and dispersing throughout the night sky, revealing two figures under the huge tree. Upon a closer look, the two figures appear to be in a slumbering state, slowly rising and falling in a breathing motion. The first of the two appears to be larger than the other with a pure white coat, but with a mane and tail of yellow, blending its way to a darker orange and giving it an image of a sunset. The second figure had a midnight blue coat, an ice blue color for its transparent mane and tail, giving it an image of a night sky. However, what are almost immediately noticeable are not their sleek physique and beautiful coats and mane, it was the pair of majestic wings and spiraling horn each possessed. Although these features were not the only things that would catch the eye, for if one were to look upon the symbols that adorned their flanks, they would see a brilliant Sun on the white alicorn and a vibrant crescent Moon on the blue alicorn. As the night went on, many animals of birds, squirrels, rabbits, and many more have gathered to see the spectacle of events that have played out in front of them. The sudden dome of light had drawn the group of animals to gather at its location, witnessing the birth of two miracles with wide eyes and an open mouth. As the animals stare at the alicorns, they start to feel a familiar presence of two certain celestial bodies until a canary suddenly flies over to the white alicorn, perching on its back. The canary then starts to walk in a circular motion before finally settling down, resting on the alicorn. Other animals follow as birds begin to settle on the alicorns' back. Squirrels and deer, even a bear, settles next to them, all snuggling against the two as if they were a huge plush doll. The animals finally begin to slumber next to the alicorns, basking in the familiar presences they felt since the time they were born into the land of Equestria, a warm and comfortable sensation of the Sun, and the cold soothing glow of the Moon. To be continued…
Chapter 2Awakening ________________________________________ As the Sun rises into the blue sky, light shines on the face of a white alicorn as he blinks his eyes open, revealing a soft amber within them. Lifting his head, his ears twitch at the soft sound of snores around him. Turning his head, he tilts it at the sight of squirrels nuzzling their head against his side and rabbits curled up against the other. Slowly, the white alicorn stands, but falls on his underside, waking the birds on his back as their eyes quickly open before stretching their wings and flying into the sky. The birds hover over the white alicorn, blinking as he stands on his shaking hooves. Finally, the alicorn stands stall, closing his eyes, and unfolds his wings as they shimmer under the morning light. As the Sun rises higher into the sky, the group of rabbits and squirrels around the alicorn slowly open their eyes and shake their head. Noticing the white alicorn with his wings out, their eyes widen and move from the base of the alicorn's wings to the soft feathers that line upon it. Opening his eyes, the white alicorn turns his head from side to side. Blinking at a nearby patch uncovered by the surrounding trees, he folds his wings and begins to walk as his legs shake with each step. Upon reaching the spot, away from the large tree's cover, the white alicorn rests himself on his underside. Smiling, his eyes roll down at his hooves, moving them up and down with wide eyes. He then blinks, noticing his chest colored in clear white before looking at one of his hooves and brushes it against his chest. Tilting his head, his hoof feels a pulse from his chest and closes his eyes. The group of squirrels and rabbits face each other, blinking. They then move to the white alicorn as the squirrels sit next to his side and the rabbits on the other. The birds hovering above nod at each other before flying down, perching on the white alicorn's back. With the Sun rising higher, light shines upon the face of a blue alicorn as his eyes blink open, revealing a beautiful ice blue. Lifting his head, his ears twitch at the soft sound of snores. Turning his head, he tilts it at the sight of a deer resting its head on his side and a bear on the other. As the blue alicorn stands on his shaking hooves, he suddenly falls flat on his underside. He then slowly pushes himself up on his hooves again and stands tall before unfolding his wings. The deer and bear resting next to the blue alicorn open their eyes and lifts their head, each rubbing a hoof and paw under their eye. Looking up, their eyes widen at the blue alicorn's wings glowing softly under the morning light. Turning his head, the blue alicorn blinks at the white alicorn in the distance. Folding his wings, he walks as his legs shake with each step. As the deer and bear watch the blue alicorn stumbling on his hooves, the deer frowns, while the bear bites its paw. Stopping, the blue alicorn then settles on his underside next to the white alicorn and puts a hoof over the other. "I see that thou art awake," says the white alicorn, opening his eyes. "Aye," says the blue alicorn, nodding. "And it seems that we have been given a form…" says the white alicorn, frowning. "But we should be grateful that we are able to walk upon this world," says the blue alicorn, smiling. "True, but this is a strange place we have woken to…" says the white alicorn, turning his head and seeing tall grass stretching until meeting the borders of the dark trees around him. "Aye…" says the blue alicorn, furrowing his brows. "Tell me, little one, where are we?" asks the white alicorn, facing a squirrel below. The squirrel blinks. It turns and faces a group of squirrels and rabbits with sweat running down their face. They each flail their paws while shaking their head. "Is something wrong?" asks the white alicorn, tilting his head. The squirrel cranes its head to the white alicorn, gulping. Slowly, its lips move while pointing a paw at the dark trees around them. "The Everfree Forest, I see…" says the white alicorn, blinking. The squirrel blinks its eyes before shaking its head. Its lips move while pointing a paw at itself. "Aye, little one, I understand thee," says the white alicorn, nodding. The squirrel then turns its head, facing a bear and deer while pointing a paw at the white alicorn. The bear shrugs, while the deer shakes its head. The squirrel then faces the white alicorn. Its lips move while pointing a paw at itself. "Ah, so there are beings in this world that are not able to understand thee…" says the white alicorn, frowning. The squirrel nods. "I see. But forgive me, little one, how do I show my gratitude to thee?" asks the white alicorn, tilting his head. The squirrel turns and looks at the group of rabbits, pointing a paw at the white alicorn. The rabbits face each other before looking at the squirrel, shrugging. However, a lone rabbit pats a paw on its cheek. The squirrel's eyes widen as its cheeks turn red while shaking its head. The rabbit points a paw at the white alicorn and lifts a brow. The squirrel lets out a sigh and faces the white alicorn. Its lips move white pointing a paw at the alicorn's head. "Aye," says the white alicorn, lowering his head. As the alicorn's head is within reach, the squirrel walks up to his face before pressing its lips on his cheek. The squirrel then moves away from the alicorn as its lips move while pointing a paw at him. "Ah, so thou art saying that I must kiss others in order to show my gratitude?" asks the white alicorn, blinking. The squirrel smiles. Its lips move while pointing a paw at the white alicorn. "Then I must say thank you? Strange…" says the white alicorn, wrinkling his brows. The squirrel shrugs. "Nay, I believe thee, little one. If that is how the inhabitants of this world show their gratitude, then I have no complaints," says the white alicorn, smiling. The squirrel grins and rubs a paw behind its head. "Now then…" says the white alicorn, placing his lips on the squirrel's cheek, the latter, its eyes widening. A group of squirrels' eyes widens and another group of rabbits' faces turns bright red. A bear among the animals places a paw over its mouth, while a deer's cheeks turn into a shade of red. "Thank you, little one," says the white alicorn, smiling. The squirrel places a paw over its cheek and looks at the alicorn with an open mouth. "Is something wrong?" asks the white alicorn, frowning. The squirrel shakes its head and makes a sheepish grin. It then turns around, placing a paw over its chest, and letting out a sigh as its cheeks turn red. "Forgive me, but how did we arrive here?" asks the blue alicorn, facing a deer. The deer points a hoof at the sky before pointing at the large tree in the distance. "A sphere of light?" says the blue alicorn, tilting his head. The deer shrugs and frowns. "Do not apologize. I understand that thou art confused as much as I am. But thank you," says the blue alicorn, pressing his lips on the deer's cheek, the latter, its eyes widening with bright red cheeks. A canary among the birds above rolls its eyes. It flies down, perching on the white alicorn's hoof. It then lifts a wing and waves. "Ah, greetings, little one," says the white alicorn, smiling. The canary smiles. It then points a wing at the white alicorn. "Ah, forgive me, but I do not know what the inhabitants of this world address me as. But if I were to put it into words, that would be me," says the white alicorn, pointing a hoof at a bright light in the sky. The canary tilts its head. It lifts a wing, pointing at the light in the sky. "I see. Then I am the Sun," says the white alicorn, nodding. A bear among the animals blinks. It looks at the blue alicorn, its lips moving while pointing a paw at the sky. "Aye, I am the Moon that thou speakest of," says the blue alicorn, smiling. A group of squirrels quickly cuddle, wrapping their paws around each other as their bodies shake. Another group of rabbits hides behind the bear, frowning with their bodies trembling. The birds on the white alicorn's back quickly spread their wings, flying into the sky, while a deer places its head on the ground and puts its shaking hooves over its face. "Is something wrong?" asks the blue alicorn, blinking. Among the animals, a bear frowns with its lips moving and pointing a paw at the alicorns. "Fear us? Forgive me, but I do not understand…" says the blue alicorn, his brows gathering in. A rabbit behind the bear lifts a shaking paw and points it at the alicorns. "Wh-why would I cause thee such discontent? I do not wish to harm the inhabitants of this world…" says the blue alicorn with a watery gaze. "If we truly are troubling thee with our presence, then perhaps would be best if we take our leave of thee…" says the white alicorn, wrinkling his brows. Standing to their hooves, the alicorns slowly walk to the dark trees with their head hanging. The bear among the animals stands and turns, glaring at them while pointing a paw at the alicorns. A group of squirrels frowns. Another group of rabbits rubs a paw behind their head. A deer lets out a sigh, while clusters of birds above slowly nod. The bear smiles. It then turns and runs towards the alicorns, stopping in front of them. "Do not worry. We are leaving…" says the white alicorn, frowning. "And forgive us for troubling thee…" says the blue alicorn, furrowing his brows. Shaking its head, the bear's lips move while pointing a paw at the alicorns. "Nay, do not apologize. We understand if 'tis a misunderstanding," says the white alicorn, smiling. "But there is something troubling…" says the blue alicorn, hanging his head. "What is thy concern?" asks the white alicorn, blinking. "The Azure One…" says the blue alicorn, lifting his head with a watery gaze. "I see…" says the white alicorn, frowning. The bear blinks as its lips move. "Ah, forgive us, but we are searching for a being in this world," says the white alicorn. "I only wish to meet the Azure One, but we are clueless as to where to begin our search…" says the blue alicorn, hanging his head. The bear rubs a paw to its chin. Its eyes lighting up, its lips move while pointing a paw at a path that leads through the dark trees ahead. "Ah, so these ponies that thou speakest of will aid in our search?" asks the white alicorn, tilting his head. The bear smiles and nods. "I see. We are grateful. Thank you," says the blue alicorn, pressing his lips on the bear's cheek. He then pulls his face away, smiling. The bear grins while rubbing a paw behind its head. The alicorns turn and face the animals behind. "We apologize for earlier…" says the white alicorn, wrinkling his brows. "Forgive us, but we must be leaving now. If our paths meet again, 'twould be pleasant to speak to thee," says the blue alicorn, smiling. A group of squirrels smiles. Another group of rabbits waves a paw. A deer smiles, while the birds in the air nod their head. "Now then, let us be off," says the white alicorn with a small smile. "Aye," says the blue alicorn, smiling. ________________________________________ As the alicorns walk through the dark trees, their eyes move to the dark shade of trunks to the vines that dangle from the branches above. Their eyes then move to different patches of flowers of soft blue to bright yellow ones on the side of the path below. "This is a strange place…" says the white alicorn, tilting his head. "This form we have taken is strange as well…" says the blue alicorn, unfolding his wings. "Aye, but we should be grateful for our situation," says the white alicorn, rubbing the spiraling horn on his head with a hoof. "Forgive me, but I do not understand…" says the blue alicorn, wrinkling his brows. "Our forms resemble the Azure One," says the white alicorn with a small smile. "Ah, that is right…" says the blue alicorn with wide eyes. He then smiles. "It truly must be fate." "Perhaps, but let us leave that for another time. We must move on," says the white alicorn, walking ahead. "Aye," says the blue alicorn, nodding. Walking deeper on the path ahead, the alicorns notice a castle off in the clearing. Upon a closer look, towers on the sides of the castle stretch far into the sky while cracked walls with openings are open to the air around. "Another strange place…" says the white alicorn, tilting his head. "Aye…" says the blue alicorn, blinking. "Ah, we can enter through there," says the white alicorn, pointing a hoof at a large opening of the castle's wall. "Let us go. Perhaps we can find answers to the Azure One we seek," says the blue alicorn with a small smile. "Aye," says the white alicorn, nodding. Walking through the open wall, they come across a room of a large gray pedestal with vines and moss around it. "What is this place?" asks the blue alicorn, blinking. "I do not know…" says the white alicorn, furrowing his brows. "Strange…" says the blue alicorn, standing next to the pedestal. He then lifts a hoof, stroking it against the structure. "It truly is…" says the white alicorn, placing a hoof on the pedestal. Both alicorns' eyes widen as their bodies tense as a strong energy surges through them, which they quickly remove their hoof from the pedestal. Sitting on their haunches, they close their eyes as they place a hoof on their chest, gasping for air as they quickly breathe in and out. "A-art thou well?" asks the blue alicorn, opening his eyes and shaking his head. "A-aye…" says the white alicorn, opening his eyes and placing a hoof over his head. "That strange feeling, the Azure One was here," says the blue alicorn, smiling. "And something else. 'Twas a different presence and yet familiar…" says the white alicorn, frowning. "Aye, 'twas similar to thee…" says the blue alicorn, blinking. "But it seems we have found our answers. 'Tis unfortunate, but we will not find the Azure One here…" says the white alicorn, shaking his head. "Then let us move on," says the blue alicorn with a small smile. "Aye," says the white alicorn, nodding. Leaving the room through the opening in the castle's wall, the alicorns notice a wooden rope bridge over a cliff in the distance. Crossing the bridge, they walk on the path through the dark trees once more and arrives at a raging river of currents. "There is no path…" says the white alicorn, furrowing his brows. "Ah, perhaps we can cross over that," says the blue alicorn, pointing a hoof. Turning his head, the white alicorn notices a purple sea serpent with its body stretching far to the path on the other side of the river. "Let us go," says the white alicorn. "Aye," says the blue alicorn, nodding. The alicorns walk over the serpent's back, earning a few grunts from it. Once across, the white alicorn stands to the side as the blue alicorn walks up to the serpent's face with a long mustache and places his lips on the serpent's cheek. "Thank you," says the blue alicorn, smiling. He then turns and follows the white alicorn as they walk into the trees ahead. "Huh?" says the serpent, opening his eyes. He then lifts his head, looking side to side. "I thought I heard something…" he says, blinking. He shrugs and puts his head on the ground below, closing his eyes. Walking on the path ahead, the alicorns pass a large tree with gourds hanging on the branches above. They continue on, passing a zebra picking up brown mushrooms and red flowers with a hoof. "Hmm?" says the zebra, turning her head and blinking. She then shrugs and picks up another red flower with a hoof. In the distance, the alicorns see a clearing with light at the end. Coming through, they squint their eyes at the bright light. They then blink, seeing brighter colored flowers of red, yellow, and blue on the green hills around. "The life here is much more vibrant…" says the white alicorn, blinking. "Aye…" says the blue alicorn, tilting his head. "Perhaps we can find more answers there," says the white alicorn, pointing a hoof. Turning his head, the blue alicorn notices a cottage in the distance with multiple animal burrows in the ground and birdhouses around the building. "Let us go," says the blue alicorn, walking ahead. "Aye," says the white alicorn, nodding. Coming to a stop in front of the cottage's door, the blue alicorn prods a hoof at it, earning a few knocks. "Strange…" says the blue alicorn, blinking. "Aye…" says the white alicorn, frowning. "What is this?" asks the blue alicorn, tilting his head. "I do not know…" says the white alicorn, shaking his head. "I see no further reason to stay," says the blue alicorn. "Then let us move on," says the white alicorn. Turning, the alicorns' eyes widen upon a town in the distance. Facing each other, they nod and walk on the path ahead. As the alicorns leave, the cottage's door opens, revealing a white rabbit at the doorway, rubbing a paw under its eye. Looking around, the rabbit then shrugs and pulls the door with a paw, closing it. On the path to the town ahead, the alicorns pass a bush that rustles, revealing an orange, yellow, and white filly popping their head out of the bush. "Uh, Apple Bloom, who are those guys?" asks the orange filly, blinking. "I'm not sure, Scoot. Maybe they're here to visit Twilight? I mean, they're alicorns and all," says Apple Bloom, shrugging. "Yeah, but Twilight's not here, remember? She's at Canterlot with the others. Besides, don't you think it's weird that those guys came from the Everfree Forest?" asks Scootaloo, lifting a brow. "Y-yeah…" says Apple Bloom, rubbing a hoof behind her head. She then faces a white filly. "What do you think, Sweetie Belle?" "I don't know, but I really like their manes! And they're so dreamy…" says Sweetie Belle, letting out a long sigh. "Uh-huh…" says Apple Bloom, resting her elbows on the bush and putting her head on her hooves. "Do you think they have a special somepony?" asks Sweetie Belle, blinking. "I hope not…" says Apple Bloom, frowning. "Come on! Enough with the mushy talk! Let's follow them and see what's up!" says Scootaloo, jumping out of the bush. "Yeah…" says Apple Bloom, gazing at the white alicorn with half-lidded eyes. "Okay…" says Sweetie Belle, looking at the blue alicorn with heart-shaped eyes. "Ugh! I hate it when they're like this…" says Scootaloo, rolling her eyes. To be continued…
Chapter 3Strange Meeting ________________________________________ As the Sun shines brightly over a town below, a pale-yellow mare lifts a green watering can with her mouth and pours water over roses in clay pots below her. "Morning, Rose!" says a voice. "AHH!" says Rose, dropping the watering can from her mouth as water splashes on her face. Turning her head, she lifts a hoof and pushes the strands of red hair to the side of her face, seeing a beige mare. "S-sorry?" says the beige mare with a sheepish grin. "Ugh! Bon Bon! What was that for!" says Rose, stomping a hoof. "I-I'm really sorry! I didn't mean to surprise you like that!" says Bon Bon, shaking her head. "You probably did it on purpose…" says Rose, glaring. "Listen, it was just an accident, okay?" says Bon Bon, raising a brow. "Yeah! And it's your fault!" says Rose, pointing a hoof at Bon Bon. "Ugh…" says Bon Bon, rolling her eyes. "Anyway, ignoring that you ruined my morning, what are you doing here?" asks Rose, sitting and squeezing her wet mane with her hooves. "Well, I was going to buy some apples for me and Lyra, but I saw you and thought I would come over to say hi!" says Bon Bon, grinning. "Yeah, to surprise me…" says Rose, huffing. "Will you drop it! I said I was sorry!" says Bon Bon, stomping a hoof. "Whatever. So, anything else happened during your stroll around town?" asks Rose, lifting a brow. "I guess I did see Twilight and her friends…" says Bon Bon, tapping her chin with a hoof. She then chuckles. "B-but you should've seen them! They were pushing their way against this whole crowd of ponies to get to a carriage!" "A carriage?" says Rose, blinking. "Yeah, some guards from Canterlot were waiting for them," says Bon Bon, shrugging. "Probably something important from the princesses again…" says Rose, letting out a sigh. "But Twilight wasn't wearing her crown and stuff," says Bon Bon, rubbing her chin with a hoof. "I don't know. Maybe some get-together, I guess," says Rose, rubbing her head with a hoof. "Speaking of Twilight, it's been kind of hard to talk to her nowadays…" says Bon Bon, furrowing her brows. "Yeah, she tells everypony to just be themselves around her, but it's not easy to forget that she's a princess now…" says Rose, frowning. "I know what you mean. I tried to talk to her once, but I just kind of felt uneasy being around her…" says Bon Bon, letting out a sigh. "A-anyway, since you're here and all, want to eat breakfast somewhere?" asks Rose, smiling. "Sure!" says Bon Bon with a grin. "I mean, I'm not in a rush… or anything…" she says, turning her head and blinking. "H-hey, what's wrong?" asks Rose, her brows gathering in. "Um, Rose, why's everypony just standing still?" asks Bon Bon, pointing a hoof. "Huh?" says Rose, turning her head as her eyes widen. "Y-you're right…" "Hold on, I think they're looking at something…" says Bon Bon, turning her head and squinting her eyes. "N-no way…" she says with an open mouth. "Wh-what is it?" asks Rose, putting a hoof over her shaking arm. "Ugh! Just look!" says Bon Bon, turning Rose's head with her hooves. "W-wow… who's that?" asks Rose, her eyes reflecting a pony with amber eyes and a flowing yellow mane. "I-I don't know, but he's so handsome…" says Bon Bon, her eyes reflecting a pony with ice blue eyes and a flowing blue mane. ________________________________________ A few minutes earlier… As a white and blue alicorn make their way to a town ahead, they stop next to a cottage and tilt their head as their eyes move from the cottage's timber-framed walls to the thatched roof. "Strange…" says the white alicorn, furrowing his brows. "What is this?" asks the blue alicorn, rubbing a hoof on the cottage's wall. "Perhaps some sort of refuge known as a… shelter?" says the white alicorn, blinking. "I am not sure…" says the blue alicorn, shaking his head. He then lifts his head, seeing a red mare flapping her wings in the sky. "I see some inhabitants here. Perhaps they must be the ponies the inhabitants of the Everfree Forest spoke of. We should ask them to aid us in our search." "Aye," says the white alicorn, walking ahead. "But 'tis strange that the ponies here resemble our forms…" says the blue alicorn, walking and tilting his head. "Indeed…" says the white alicorn, his eyes upon a pink mare with her horn glowing pink while a bag filled with apples and oranges floats in front of her in a similar light. "Ah…" says the blue alicorn, seeing a brown stallion moving in the air while flapping his wings. "These serve a purpose then…" he says, stopping and unfolding his wings. "Aye…" says the white alicorn, stopping and rubbing his spiraling horn with a hoof. "Hmm…" says the blue alicorn, lifting his wings into the air before quickly moving them down and blowing dust around him. The white alicorn closes his eyes and coughs. "Interesting…" he says, blinking. "Ah, forgive me…" says the blue alicorn, frowning. "Do not apologize. I was curious about these as well," says the white alicorn, unfolding his wings. "Strange…" says the blue alicorn, folding his wings. He then turns his head and blinks. "Is something wrong?" asks the white alicorn, folding his wings and tilting his head. "I do not know, but the ponies are looking at us…" says the blue alicorn, wrinkling his brows. "Ah…" says the white alicorn, facing a yellow mare, the latter, with a bright red face. "Forgive us, little one, we did not mean to startle thee…" he says, furrowing his brows. "I-I'm sorry!" says the yellow mare, kneeling and bowing her head. She then turns and runs. "Was that another form of greeting?" asks the blue alicorn, blinking. "I do not know, but we should ask some of the ponies around…" says the white alicorn, frowning. "But whom?" asks the blue alicorn, tilting his head. "Perhaps them?" asks the white alicorn, pointing a hoof at a pale-yellow and beige mare. "Let us go," says the blue alicorn, walking. "Aye," says the white alicorn, nodding. "H-hey, Rose, they're coming to us! What should we do!" says the beige mare, placing her hooves on Rose's shoulders and shaking her. "Ugh! Bon Bon! Stop!" says Rose, pushing Bon Bon with a hoof. "Look, I'm freaking out as much as you are, so don't look at me for help-" "Greetings, little ones," says the blue alicorn, smiling. "I-I'm so sorry! Whatever we did, it's her fault!" says Bon Bon, putting her head on the ground with a hoof over her face while pointing another hoof at Rose. "WHAT!" says Rose with wide eyes. "Forgive me, but I do not understand…" says the white alicorn, his brows gathering in. "U-um, just ignore her, Your Highnesses! She didn't, uh, get enough sleep last night!" says Rose with a sheepish grin. "Your Highnesses?" says the blue alicorn, blinking. "Forgive me, but whom dost thou speakest of?" asks the white alicorn, tilting his head. W-wait, what? thinks Rose, blinking. "U-uh, excuse me for a second!" she says, grabbing the nape of Bon Bon's neck with a hoof and lifting her. "OW! Rose, that hurts!" says Bon Bon, rubbing the nape of her neck with a hoof. "What was that earlier! You almost made me look like an idiot in front of them!" says Rose, poking a hoof on Bon Bon's chest. "I-I can't help it! I was panicking, okay!" says Bon Bon, stomping a hoof. "Ugh! Forget it! Right now, I'm worried about what they said…" says Rose, dragging a hoof down her face. "Y-yeah, it's kind of weird they said that…" says Bon Bon, frowning. "Should we tell them or something?" asks Rose, rubbing her head with a hoof. "Why should we tell them something they should already know?" asks Bon Bon, lifting a brow. "Forgive me for interrupting, but is something wrong?" asks the blue alicorn, his brows gathering in. "If we caused thee any trouble, forgive us…" says the white alicorn, hanging his head. "N-no! You're not troubling us or anything!" says Rose with a sheepish grin. "It's just about what you said earlier is bothering us. I mean, you're both princes…" says Bon Bon, rubbing an arm with a hoof. "Princes?" says the blue alicorn, blinking. "Forgive us, but we truly do not understand…" says the white alicorn, wrinkling his brows. "Y-you seriously don't know?" asks Rose with an open mouth. "Aye…" says the white alicorn, nodding. "Ugh, my head's starting to hurt…" says Bon Bon, rubbing her head with a hoof. "Then do you at least know that you're alicorns?" asks Rose, frowning. "Nay…" says the blue alicorn, shaking his head. "This is a first for us to hear about this…" says the white alicorn with a watery gaze. "Bon Bon, I think they're serious. They really don't know what we're talking about…" says Rose, furrowing her brows. "Y-yeah, do you think they lost their memory or something?" asks Bon Bon, rubbing her head with a hoof. "Do not worry. We have kept our memories since long ago," says the white alicorn, nodding. "Aye," says the blue alicorn, smiling. "Then how come you don't know that you're both princes and alicorns?" asks Bon Bon, blinking. "Ah, forgive us, but we were once within the stars above…" says the blue alicorn, furrowing his brows. "We do not know the reason why, but we recently have woken in this world. There are many things we have yet to understand…" says the white alicorn, hanging his head. "Okay, I'm getting really confused right now…" says Bon Bon, placing a hoof over her forehead. "H-how about we just start over with our names first? I'm Rose!" she says, smiling. "And I'm Bon Bon!" she says, grinning. "So, what are your names?" "Names?" says the blue alicorn, tilting his head. "Forgive me if I am wrong, but thou hast referred thyself with these names, correct?" asks the white alicorn, blinking. "Right! It's what we use to address each other with," says Rose, nodding. "Yeah, everypony has a name, so you both should have one too," says Bon Bon with a small smile. "I see…" says the white alicorn, blinking. "Ah, the inhabitants of the Everfree Forest have already said our names…" says the blue alicorn with wide eyes. "Aye," says the white alicorn, nodding. "H-hey, Rose, what are they talking about?" asks Bon Bon, leaning her head. "Just be quiet and listen!" says Rose, glaring. "Rose, Bon Bon, as for our names…" says the white alicorn with an unwavering gaze. "Y-yes!" says Rose with a sheepish grin. "Wh-what is it?" asks Bon Bon, gulping. "My name is Sun," he says, smiling. "And my name is Moon," he says with a small smile. "Weird, they're simpler than I thought…" says Rose, tapping her chin with a hoof. "Yeah, but they really suit them! I mean, they look like they're the Sun and Moon!" says Bon Bon with a grin. "Aye, that is correct," says Sun, nodding. "We are the Sun and Moon. We have been watching over the world since long ago," says Moon, smiling. "WHAT!"says Bon Bon with wide eyes. "Ugh, now my head's starting to hurt…" says Rose, placing a hoof over her forehead. ________________________________________ As flags blow in the air from a building stretching into the sky, a tan mare sits in a chair with her head rested on a hoof while stamping a paper with another. Putting a hoof over the paper, she drags it over the desk next to a stack of papers and lets out a sigh. "Ugh! I can't take it anymore! Ever since Twilight became a princess, work has been piling up every day!" says the tan mare, throwing her hooves in the air. As the tan mare slumps in her chair, her legs hit the desk, causing the stack of papers to scatter over the floor. "Great!" says the tan mare, rolling her eyes. "Now I have to reorganize all of that again! Can things get any worse!" Through a window, a shadow grows bigger before crashing through, scattering shards of glass over the floor. "AHH!" says the tan mare, flailing her hooves and falling on the floor from her chair. "Wh-what was that?" she asks, shaking her head. "O-ow, I should slow down next time…" says a voice. As the tan mare lifts her head, she sees a gray mare on the floor upside down with her back to the wall and her yellow eyes moving in a circular motion. "D-Derpy?" says the tan mare, blinking. "Oh, Mayor Mare! Wait, why are you upside down?" asks Derpy, lifting a brow. "Ugh…" says Mayor Mare, huffing. She stands on her hooves and walks to Derpy, lifting her up on her hooves. "Hey, everything's back to normal now!" says Derpy, smiling. "Derpy, why did you fly through the window?" asks Mayor Mare, frowning. "Oh, about that, I-I was kind of in a rush and forgot to slow down. Want a muffin?" asks Derpy, bringing a muffin from behind her with a hoof. "No…" says Mayor Mare, letting out a sigh. "S-sorry, I screwed up again, didn't I?" asks Derpy with tears welling up in her eyes. "N-no! Derpy, it's okay! We all make mistakes!" says Mayor Mare, placing a hoof on Derpy's shoulder. "Yeah, but I'm always making mistakes wherever I go…" says Derpy while tears flow down her cheeks. "Listen, I do it all the time!" says Mayor Mare, smiling. "R-really?" asks Derpy, wiping her tears with a hoof. "Of course! There was this time when I was out, ponies started to look at me. I was wondering what they were looking at until I realized I forgot to dye my mane…" says Mayor Mare, blinking. Her eyes then widen while putting a hoof over her mouth. I can't believe I told her that! "Oh, don't worry! Everypony in Ponyville knows all about it!" says Derpy, chuckling with a hoof over her mouth. "S-since when?" asks Mayor Mare with a blue face. "You know, the whole Gabby Gums thing," says Derpy, rubbing her head with a hoof. "I-I forgot about that…" says Mayor Mare, letting out a sigh. "Cheer up!" says Derpy, patting a hoof on Mayor Mare's back. "Wait, Derpy, why are you here again?" asks Mayor Mare, blinking. "Oh, I forgot to tell you this, but when I was going home, I saw two alicorns…" says Derpy, tapping her chin with a hoof. "WHAT!" says Mayor Mare with wide eyes. "Yeah, you should've seen them, they're really handsome! I thought it was Princess Celestia and Princess Luna at first, but they were both guys I've never seen before!" says Derpy, throwing her hooves in the air. "Why didn't you tell me earlier!" says Mayor Mare, stomping a hoof. "You never asked," says Derpy, blinking. "Ugh!" says Mayor Mare, dragging a hoof down her face. Can this day get any worse! To be continued…
Chapter 4Questions and Answers ________________________________________ Under the warm light of the Sun, colts and fillies push their way through the legs of a crowd of ponies. Reaching the front of the crowd, their eyes widen at the sight of an alicorn with amber eyes of a sunset to his pure white coat that shines under the daylight. Their eyes then move to another alicorn with ice blue eyes and a flowing blue mane that resembles the night sky. However, among the crowd of ponies, a large group of mares glares while others grind their teeth at a pale-yellow and beige mare next to the alicorns. "Okay, let me get this straight, you're saying that you're the Sun and Moon, right?" asks Rose, tapping her chin with a hoof. "Aye," says Sun, nodding. "Rose, thou hast been asking the same question. Is there a reason why?" asks Moon, tilting his head. "Yeah, for the past ten minutes…" says Bon Bon, rolling her eyes. "B-but how can you be the Sun and Moon if they're still in the sky!" says Rose, stomping a hoof. "Rose, don't think too hard about it. I mean, a lot of weird things happen in Ponyville, remember?" asks Bon Bon, lifting a brow. "R-right…" says Rose, rubbing the side of her neck with a hoof. "Besides, their cutie mark already proves it," says Bon Bon. "Cutie mark?" says Moon, blinking. "Oh yeah, you both don't know what a cutie mark is either…" says Bon Bon, walking to Moon's side. She stops and points a hoof to Moon's flank. "It's this mark right here." "Strange…" says Moon, blinking at a crescent moon on his flank. "Y-yeah, it's kind of weird…" says Bon Bon, her eyes widening at Moon's flank. "Bon Bon, is something wrong?" asks Moon, furrowing his brows. "Huh? O-oh, nothing!" says Bon Bon with a sheepish grin. "I can't believe you were staring at his flank…" says Rose, rolling her eyes. "Sh-shut it!" says Bon Bon with bright red cheeks. "Forgive me, but are these cutie mark of ours important?" asks Sun, blinking. "Yeah! They show your special talent! Look, mine's a rose!"says Rose while facing her flank to Sun. "I see…" says Sun, lowering his head with his eyes on Rose's flank. "U-um… Sun?" says Rose, her cheeks filling with red. "Is something wrong?" asks Sun, blinking. "I-I don't mind, but just don't s-stare at it too long…" says Rose, red rising from her chin to her ears. "Ah, forgive me. I did not mean to cause thee any discomfort…" says Sun, frowning and lifting his head. "I-it's okay!" says Rose, flailing her hooves. "Nice, Rose, you got him to look at yours…" says Bon Bon, scoffing. "Will you shut it!" says Rose, stomping a hoof. "Whatever…" says Bon Bon, rolling her eyes. She then blinks, seeing a gray blur in the sky. "U-uh, Rose, what's that?" "What's what?" asks Rose, lifting her head. Her eyes then widen at a gray blur growing bigger. "I-I don't know, but it's getting closer…" The gray blur slams into the left side of Sun, colliding into Moon as the three skids over the ground. "SUN!" says Rose with wide eyes. "MOON!" says Bon Bon, placing her hooves on her head. "O-ow…" says a gray mare, shaking her head. "W-wait, why's the ground soft?" she asks, rubbing a hoof on the white surface. Her eyes roll down, seeing amber ones. "Greetings, little one," says Sun, blinking. "U-um, hi…" says the gray mare, her cheeks turning red. She then blinks her eyes before turning her head, seeing Moon with his face close to her rear. "Forgive me, little one, but art thou well?" asks Moon, his brows gathering in. "I-I'm so sorry! I didn't mean to hit you both!" says the gray mare, jumping away. "Do not apologize. What matters most is that thou art not hurt," says Moon, pushing himself up on his hooves. He then faces Sun. "Art thou in good health as well?" "Aye," says Sun, standing. He then faces the gray mare. "Now then, little one, I wish to hear thy name." "Oh, I'm Derpy, Derpy Hooves, but you can just call me Derpy for short!" she says, grinning. "Greetings, Derpy. My name is Sun," he says, smiling. "It's nice to meet you, Sun!" says Derpy, grabbing Sun's hoof with her own and shaking it. "Derpy, forgive me, but I do not understand this gesture…" says Sun, frowning. "Wh-what are you talking about? It's a hoofshake. Don't you know about it?" asks Derpy, blinking and letting go of Sun's hoof. "Nay," says Sun, shaking his head. "What is this hoofshake?" asks Moon, furrowing his brows. "Um…" says Derpy, turning her head as she notices Rose and Bon Bon with scowls on their face. "Can you both help me? I'm kind of not good at explaining things…" "Ugh, it's just another way of greeting somepony…" says Rose, rolling her eyes. "Interesting…" says Sun with wide eyes. "Are there more ways to greet others?" asks Moon, tilting his head. "Y-yeah, but there's kind of a lot…" says Bon Bon, rubbing her head with a hoof. "S-sorry to interrupt, but what's your name?" asks Derpy, pointing a hoof at Moon. "Ah, forgive me, Derpy. My name is Moon," he says with a small smile. "It's nice to meet you, Moon!" says Derpy, grabbing Moon's hoof with her own and shaking it. "This is truly a strange gesture…" says Moon, blinking. "Oh, before I forget! This is for hitting you guys earlier as an apology!" says Derpy, bringing a cupcake-like bread from behind her and putting it on Moon's hoof. She then trots to Sun, grabbing his hoof and placing another on it. "Derpy, what is this?" asks Sun, lifting the pastry on his hoof to his face. "That's a banana muffin! And Moon's holding a blueberry one! Muffins are my favorite kind of food to eat!" says Derpy, jumping up and down. "Muffin? Food? Forgive me, but I do not understand…" says Moon, wrinkling his brows. "Ugh, that's right! I forgot that you're both the Moon and Sun!" says Bon Bon, placing a hoof over her face. "Y-yeah, that's why they don't know something like a muffin…" says Rose, rubbing her head with a hoof. "What are you guys talking about?" asks Derpy, blinking. "It's nothing, Derpy…" says Bon Bon, letting out a sigh. She then faces Moon and Sun. "A-anyway, aren't you guys hungry?" "Hungry?" says Sun, tilting his head. His ears twitch, hearing the sound of rumbling before sitting on his haunches and putting a hoof on his stomach. "Strange…" "Aye…" says Moon, placing a hoof on his stomach as it growls. "Sun, Moon, that sound means you're hungry. Just eat your muffin," says Rose, chuckling with a hoof over her mouth. "Eat… the muffin?" says Sun, his eyes looking down at the muffin on his hoof. "Wh-what are you guys waiting for? Just eat them…" says Derpy, furrowing her brows. "I-I do not understand…" says Moon with a watery gaze. "Um, Derpy, you should probably show them how to eat it…" says Rose, her brows gathering in. "Why? Don't they already know how?" asks Derpy, raising a brow. "Listen, Derpy, I know this will sound weird, but Moon and Sun don't know anything…" says Bon Bon, frowning. "W-wait, what? You're joking, right?" asks Derpy with wide eyes. "No…" says Rose, shaking her head. "Y-yeah, so just show them, okay?" asks Bon Bon with a small smile. "Well, if you say so…" says Derpy, wrinkling her brows. She then faces Sun and Moon, bringing a muffin from behind herself with a hoof. "Just take a bite, like this!" she says, biting a part of her muffin, chewing, and gulping. "I see…" says Sun, lifting the muffin on his hoof to his mouth, biting it. His eyes light up, chewing with a smile. "Moon, you should try it too!" says Derpy, smiling. "Aye…" says Moon, lifting the muffin on his hoof to his mouth, biting it. His eyes widen, chewing with a smile. "So, what do you guys think? They're good, right?" asks Derpy, grinning. "Derpy, I don't think you have to ask," says Rose with a small laugh. "Yeah, their face already shows it," says Bon Bon, giggling with a hoof over her mouth. "Derpy, I finally found you!" says a voice. "Huh?" says Derpy, turning her head and seeing a tan mare with a frazzled mane. "Oh, Mayor Mare, what took you so long?" "Y-you… I told you to slow down!" says Mayor Mare, stomping a hoof. "S-sorry, but I really wanted to see the alicorns…" says Derpy with a sheepish grin. "Oh, speaking of them, where are they?" asks Mayor Mare, turning her head side to side. "Behind you," says Derpy, pointing a hoof. "Really?" asks Mayor Mare, blinking. She turns and sees a white and blue wall before lifting her head as her eyes widen. "Th-they're huge…" "Wait, Derpy, you told Mayor Mare about Sun and Moon?" asks Rose, rubbing her head with a hoof. "Well, she did tell everypony to let her know if somepony important shows up, remember?" asks Derpy, lifting a brow. "Oh, I forgot…" says Bon Bon, blinking. "W-welcome to Ponyville, Your Highnesses!" says Mayor Mare, kneeling and bowing her head. "Little one, please stand and look at us," says Sun. "Y-yes!" says Mayor Mare, standing and lifting her head as her body shakes. "Now then, what is thy name?" asks Moon, tilting his head. "I-it's Mayor Mare!" she says while sweat runs down her face. "Greetings, Mayor Mare. My name is Sun," he says, smiling. "And my name is Moon," he says with a small smile. "O-oh, it's nice to meet you…" says Mayor Mare as her body stops shaking. "Ah, forgive me, but what was that strange gesture earlier?" asks Moon, frowning. "What?" asks Mayor Mare with an open mouth. "U-uh, Moon, Mayor Mare was just bowing!" says Bon Bon. "Bowing?" says Moon, blinking. "Is it another way of greeting others?" asks Sun with wide eyes. "Sort of. I mean, it's common courtesy for somepony to bow to royalty…" says Bon Bon, rubbing behind her head with a hoof. "Royalty?" says Moon, tilting his head. "Oh, Sun, Moon, remember when I asked if you both knew that you were alicorns?" asks Rose, blinking. "Aye," says Moon, nodding. "But what are these alicorns?" asks Sun, his brows gathering in. "Well, you guys are alicorns," says Bon Bon, pointing a hoof. "Yeah, alicorns are blessed with the three races of ponies; pegasi, unicorns, and earth ponies," says Rose, nodding. "We are blessed with… all three ponies?" asks Sun, tilting his head. "Yep!" says Derpy, trotting and stopping next to Sun's side. She then grabs Sun's wing with a hoof, stretching it. "See, I'm a pegasus, and you have wings like me!" "Interesting. I have also seen another pegasus using their wings, but I do not know how to describe it…" says Moon, shaking his head. "You mean flying?" asks Bon Bon, lifting a brow. "If that is the word to describe it," says Moon, smiling. "Well, since we're already talking about this, Sun, can you lower your head for me?" asks Rose, walking and stopping in front of Sun. "Aye," says Sun, lowering his head. "Okay, do you feel this thing?" asks Rose, rubbing a hoof on Sun's spiraling horn. "Aye," says Sun, nodding. "It's called a horn," says Rose, removing her hoof from Sun's spiraling horn. "Horn?" says Sun, frowning. "It's something that allows unicorns and alicorns to use magic," says Rose, rubbing an arm with a hoof. "What is this magic thou speakest of?" asks Moon, furrowing his brows. "Sorry, but we don't know much about magic since none of us are unicorns…" says Bon Bon, letting out a sigh. "Y-yeah…" says Rose, hanging her head. "S-sorry…" says Derpy, her brows gathering in. "Do not apologize," says Sun, shaking his head. "Thou hast been helpful in ways we cannot hope to repay," says Moon with a small smile. "Well, at least Rose and I are earth ponies," says Bon Bon, smiling. "That's something we can tell you guys about-" "Rose, Bon Bon, Derpy, I'm sorry to interrupt, but there are some things I want to ask our guests. But seeing that you three got along quickly with them, I'd like to thank you for keeping them company," says Mayor Mare, smiling. "N-no! It's the least we could do!" says Rose, her cheeks turning red. "Y-yeah, Moon and Sun needed our help, so it's no problem…" says Bon Bon, rubbing a hoof behind her head. "Besides, it's fun talking to them!" says Derpy, grinning. "I'm sure it was," says Mayor Mare, chuckling with a hoof over her mouth. She then faces Sun and Moon. "Your Highnesses, I know that you both have a lot of questions, but can you please save it for another time? There's sort of a big crowd behind us…" she says, pointing a hoof. Turning their head, Sun and Moon's eyes widen, seeing colts and fillies waving a hoof, stallions smiling and nodding, and mares in the crowd averting their gaze as their cheeks turn bright red. "Big? More like everypony is here!" says Rose with wide eyes. "It's mostly mares though…" says Bon Bon, huffing. "I guess everypony wanted to see Sun and Moon!" says Derpy with a small laugh. I'm more worried about the mares in the crowd eyeing you three out! thinks Mayor Mare, biting her bottom lip. She then places a hoof over her chest, taking a deep breath. "All right, everypony, please go back to your daily business!" Colts and fillies wave a hoof before running off into town. Stallions nod and turn, walking away. However, a group of mares walking turn their head, scowling as their eyes reflect Rose, Bon Bon, and Derpy. "H-hey, why did they look at us like that?" asks Derpy, blinking. "Just ignore them, Derpy…" says Rose, letting out a sigh. I-I don't think I should walk around town tomorrow… "They're just jealous…" says Bon Bon, rolling her eyes. "Jealous? Of what?" asks Derpy, furrowing her brows. "A-anyway, Your Highnesses, to what do we owe the honor of this visit?" asks Mayor Mare with a sheepish grin. "Mayor Mare, there is no need to address Moon and I in that manner. Feel free to address us with our names," says Sun, smiling. "Aye, we do not wish to inconvenience thee," says Moon with a small smile. "Your Highnesses…" says Mayor Mare with wide eyes. She then puts a hoof over her mouth, seeing Moon and Sun frowning. "I-I mean, Sun, Moon!" "As to thy question, Moon and I are searching for…" says Sun, blinking. "Forgive me, thou wouldst refer to others with the terms pony and somepony, correct?" "Y-yes…" says Mayor Mare, nodding. "I see. Now then, we have been searching for somepony, though we do not know this pony's name…" says Sun, furrowing his brows. "However, we refer to this pony as the Azure One. Perhaps thou hast seen this pony?" asks Moon with a watery gaze. "Azure One?" says Mayor Mare, tapping her chin with a hoof. She then shakes her head. "I-I'm sorry, but I don't know anypony that comes to mind…" "Do not apologize. We understand. Moon, it seems our search will be longer than expected…" says Sun, hanging his head. "Aye…" says Moon, frowning and nodding. "Actually, I know somepony that could help, but she isn't here at the moment…" says Mayor Mare, letting out a sigh. "She?" says Sun, tilting his head. "You see, here in Ponyville, we also have a princess who is an alicorn," says Mayor Mare, smiling. "Ah, where is this princess?" asks Moon with bright eyes. "She's in Canterlot. It's over there," says Mayor Mare, pointing a hoof. Following Mayor Mare's hoof, Sun and Moon's eyes widen at a white city with a castle sitting on the side of a mountain that stretches far into the sky. "Mayor Mare, forgive us, but Sun and I wish to go there…" says Moon, his brows gathering in. "It's okay. I already knew that you were planning to go there," says Mayor Mare with a small laugh. She then turns her head. "Derpy, I'm sorry, but can you come with me and our guests to Town Hall?" "Sure, but for what?" asks Derpy, rubbing her head with a hoof. "I need you to deliver a letter to the Royal Guard at Canterlot. It's to request a chariot for our guests," says Mayor Mare. "Okay!" says Derpy, grinning. "Now that everything's settled, Sun, Moon, please follow me," says Mayor Mare, smiling. "Aye," says Moon with a small smile. Sun nods his head. "W-wait!" says Rose, stomping a hoof. "Rose, is something wrong?" asks Sun, wrinkling his brows. "Will you guys be okay without us?" asks Rose with a watery gaze. "Aye," says Sun, smiling. "A-are you sure?" asks Bon Bon, rubbing an arm with a hoof. "Aye, we do not wish to trouble thee more than we already have," says Moon, shaking his head. "O-oh…" says Rose, hanging her head. "If you say so…" says Bon Bon, letting out a sigh. Sun and Moon face each other, frowning. Nodding, Sun comes to a stop in front of Rose, while Moon stands in front of Bon Bon. "Rose, please look at me," says Sun, lowering his head. "Bon Bon, please look at me as well," says Moon, lowering his head. "Wh-what is it, Sun?" asks Rose, lifting her head as her cheeks turn bright red. "M-Moon…" says Bon Bon, lifting her head while her face turns beet red. Too close! Too close! "I wish to thank thee for thy help…" says Sun, pressing his lips on Rose's cheek, the latter, her eyes widening. "Now then…" says Moon, pressing his lips on Bon Bon's cheek, the latter, her eyes widening. Mayor Mare's jaw drops on the ground. "Thank you," says Sun and Moon, lifting their head and smiling. "I-it's fine! I'm just g-glad I could help!" says Rose with steam coming out her ears while flailing her hooves. "Y-yeah!" says Bon Bon with a sheepish grin. She then turns and places a hoof over her chest. I-I thought my heart was about to explode! "Oh, Sun, Moon, do I get a kiss on the cheek too!" says Derpy, jumping up and down. "Aye, I would like to thank thee for the muffin," says Sun, pressing his lips on Derpy's left cheek. "The muffin was truly interesting. Thank you," says Moon, pressing his lips on Derpy's right cheek. Mayor Mare's jaw drops on the ground, cracking it. "You're welcome!" says Derpy, giggling with a hoof over her mouth. "Strange…" says Moon, tilting his head. "Derpy, are those words one would say for the gratitude given to them?" "Yeah!" says Derpy, nodding. "Ah, interesting," says Moon, smiling. "It truly is," says Sun with a small smile. He then turns his head. "Mayor Mare, as to earlier, please lead the way." "Huh? O-oh, right!" says Mayor Mare, shaking her head. Turning, she walks as Sun, Moon, and Derpy follow behind. "Rose, do you think we will see them again?" asks Bon Bon, gazing at Moon with a hoof on her cheek. "I hope so…" says Rose, smiling at Sun with a soft glow within her eyes. To be continued…
Chapter 5Destined Encounter ________________________________________ As Mayor Mare leads Sun and Moon through the town of Ponyville, Derpy runs ahead and comes to a stop as her eyes widen. "Oh, Moon, that's the bowling alley over there!" says Derpy, pointing a hoof. "Bowling?" says Moon, blinking at a building with a sign of bowling pins and bowling balls. "Yeah, you and Sun should try it!" says Derpy, jumping up and down. "Aye, but another time, Derpy. Sun and I wish to find the Azure One first," says Moon, smiling. "Oh, right!" says Derpy with a sheepish grin. "Ugh, I'm sorry for Derpy's behavior, Sun…" says Mayor Mare, letting out a sigh. "Do not apologize. There are many interesting places here that Moon and I wish to visit in the future," says Sun with gleaming eyes. "I'm guessing you like Ponyville?" asks Mayor Mare, chuckling with a hoof over her mouth. "Aye," says Sun, smiling at a group of fillies and colts chasing each other as their laughs echo through the town. He then blinks his eyes, facing a blue and green mare waving a hoof with a shade of red in their cheeks. "Sun, you should probably do the same," says Mayor Mare with a small smile. Nodding, Sun lifts a hoof and slowly waves it. "H-he waved back!" says the blue mare, placing a hoof on her chest as she falls on her back. "Yeah…" says the green mare, her eyes turning into heart shapes before falling on her back. "Mayor Mare, did I do something wrong?" asks Sun, looking down at his hoof and frowning. "Don't worry, you did nothing wrong…" says Mayor Mare, dragging a hoof down her face. Her eyes then widen, seeing a building with a sign of a quill and sofa. "Um, Derpy, can you stay with Sun and Moon?" "Huh? Oh, sure, but why?" asks Derpy, blinking. "I need to buy some ink for the letter I'm writing…" says Mayor Mare, letting out a sigh. It's because when you flew through the window, my last bottle of ink fell on the floor! "Okay!" says Derpy, grinning. "Stay here and don't move! I'll be back!" says Mayor Mare, turning and running. "Hey, an ice cream stand! Come on, Moon, let's go!" says Derpy, grabbing Moon's hoof with her own and dragging him. "Ice cream?" says Moon, tilting his head. "Yeah, it's really good!" says Derpy, grinning. "Derpy, perhaps we should listen to Mayor Mare…" says Sun, reaching out a hoof. He then hangs his head, frowning. "Hey, you!" says a voice. Blinking, Sun turns his head side to side. "Down here!" says the voice. Looking down, Sun sees an orange filly folding her hooves. "Took you long enough…" says the orange filly, huffing. "Greetings, little one," says Sun, smiling. "H-hey, I'm not little! And I'm still growing!" says the orange filly, stomping a hoof. "Forgive me, I did not mean thee any harm…" says Sun, wrinkling his brows. "Whatever…" says the orange filly, rolling her eyes. She then places a hoof on her chest. "Oh, if you're wondering, the name's Scootaloo! And I'm going to be the best flyer in Equestria- GAH!" A yellow blur slams into Scootaloo as she flies before skidding to a stop in the ground with her face. "Howdy!" says a voice. Turning his head, Sun sees a yellow filly with a smile. "What's your name, mister?" asks the yellow filly, giggling with a hoof over her mouth. "Sun," he says with a small smile. Sun, huh? That's a nice name… thinks the yellow filly, her eyes on Sun's amber eyes to his spiraling horn. "Forgive me, little one, but what is thy name?" asks Sun, tilting his head. "Oh, my name's Apple Bloom!" she says, grinning. She then points a hoof at Scootaloo. "Sorry if she was bein' rude to you earlier…" "Do not apologize. But I am worried about Scootaloo…" says Sun, furrowing his brows. "She'll be fine," says Apple Bloom, waving off a hoof. "If thou sayest so. Now then, dost thou require something of me?" asks Sun, blinking. "N-nothin', really…" says Apple Bloom, her cheeks turning red while rubbing an arm with a hoof. "It's just that… do you, I don't know, have a special somepony-" "What was that for!" says Scootaloo with her forehead touching Apple Bloom's. "Well, duh! You were bein' rude to him!" says Apple Bloom, pushing Scootaloo's forehead with her own. "That doesn't mean you can just ram into me like that!" says Scootaloo, pushing Apple Bloom's forehead with her own. "Hey, girls!" says a voice. "WHAT!" says Scootaloo and Apple Bloom, glaring. As Sun turns his head, he sees a white filly standing next to Moon and Derpy. "Geez, what's wrong with you two?" asks the white filly, lifting a brow. "Apple Bloom started it!" says Scootaloo, stomping a hoof. "But it's your fault for bein' rude to him in the first place!" says Apple Bloom, pointing a hoof at Sun. "Ugh…" says the white filly, placing a hoof on her face. She then turns and lifts her head. "Sorry about that, Moon. They're usually not like this…" "Do not apologize. They are interesting ponies," says Moon, smiling. "But can you believe it, Moon! How did they run out of ice cream that fast!" says Derpy, stomping a hoof. She then hangs her head, letting out a sigh. "I really wanted you and Sun to try it…" "Aye…" says Moon, frowning. "Don't worry, you guys, there's always tomorrow! Besides, aren't you going to introduce me to him, Moon?" asks the white filly, pointing a hoof at Sun. "Ah, Sun, this is Sweetie Belle," says Moon, smiling. "Greetings, Sweetie Belle. My name is Sun," he says with a smile. "It's nice to meet you, Sun!" says Sweetie Belle with a wide grin. She then looks at Apple Bloom and Scootaloo. "Are you girls going to introduce yourselves to Moon or not?" "Not until she apologizes first!" says Scootaloo, pointing a hoof at Apple Bloom. "How about you apologize to Sun first!" says Apple Bloom, folding her hooves. "Ugh, I hate it when they're like this…" says Sweetie Belle, rolling her eyes. She then faces Moon. "Um, Moon, the orange one with a temper is Scootaloo and the yellow that's stubborn is Apple Bloom." "H-hey, don't make up any lies about me!" says Scootaloo, stomping a hoof. "Y-yeah! I'm not stubborn!" says Apple Bloom, pouting. "Well, you guys didn't want to introduce yourselves, so I did it for you!" says Sweetie Belle, closing her eyes and lifting her head. "There you are!" says a voice. Turning their head, Sun and Moon see a tan mare with a bag in her mouth and a frazzled mane. "Oh, Mayor Mare, what took you so long?" asks Derpy, raising a brow. Mayor Mare lowers her head and drops the bag from her mouth. "I had to run to another store to get some ink because the store before only sells quills and sofas! Only quills and sofas! Can you believe it!" "Oh, I forgot to tell you about that…" says Derpy, rubbing her chin with a hoof. "Wh-what? You knew?" asks Mayor Mare with an open mouth. "I-I kind of deliver some stuff there…" says Derpy, rubbing a hoof behind her head. "Then why didn't you tell me!" says Mayor Mare, stomping a hoof. "I forgot…" says Derpy with a sheepish grin. "Ugh! Forget it, but at least tell me why the Crusaders are here…" says Mayor Mare, placing a hoof on her face. "Crusaders?" says Moon, blinking. "Yeah, we're the Cutie Mark Crusaders! Me, Apple Bloom, and Scootaloo are on a quest to find our special talents," says Sweetie Belle, facing her flank to Moon. "See, I don't have my cutie mark yet." "Forgive me, but what is a special talent?" asks Moon, tilting his head. "Ah, I have been wondering about that as well…" says Sun, furrowing his brows. "A special talent is something a pony is good at. See that pony over there?" asks Sweetie Belle, pointing a hoof. Following Sweetie Belle's hoof, Sun and Moon notice a mare with a trowel in her mouth, digging a small hole in her yard. The yellow mare then grabs a patch of sunflowers, placing them in the hole before quickly filling the rest of the hole with dirt. Smiling, the yellow mare grabs a green watering can with her mouth, pouring water over the patch of sunflowers. "Her special talent must be gardening…" says Sweetie Belle, blinking. She then faces Sun and Moon. "Wait, why am I telling you this? Shouldn't you both already know about it?" "Nay," says Sun, shaking his head. "Forgive us, but we do not…" says Moon, hanging his head. "You don't!" says Sweetie Belle with wide eyes. She then walks around Sun and Moon with her eyes on their flank before coming to a stop in front of them. "How do you not know anything when you both already have your cutie marks?" Derpy walks over, lowering her head next to Sweetie Belle's ear. "Um, Sweetie Belle, when I met Sun and Moon, Rose and Bon Bon was there with them. They told me that Sun and Moon don't know anything…" "Really?" asks Sweetie Belle with an open mouth. "Yeah, we even had to tell them what an alicorn is…" says Derpy, furrowing her brows. "But aren't they alicorns?" asks Sweetie Belle, lifting a brow. "They are, but I just kind of went along with it," says Derpy, shrugging. That's weird… thinks Sweetie Belle, frowning. She then faces Sun and Moon. "Um, why are you both here in Ponyville?" "We are looking for somepony…" says Moon, wrinkling his brows. "Who?" asks Sweetie Belle, blinking. "We do not know. Mayor Mare and Derpy are aiding with our search," says Sun. "Oh, we can help!" says Sweetie Belle, grinning. She then turns her head. "Hey, girls, I got an idea! Let's help Moon and Sun find somepony! Maybe we can get our cutie marks!" "Forget it! Apple Bloom still didn't say she's sorry!" says Scootaloo, folding her hooves. "And you still didn't apologize to Sun!" says Apple Bloom, stomping a hoof. "Fine, I'll do it myself…" says Sweetie Belle, huffing. "Um, Sweetie Belle, don't you have other stuff to do?" asks Mayor Mare with a sheepish grin. "Nope! That's why if I help Moon and Sun, maybe I can get my cutie mark!" says Sweetie Belle, jumping up and down. That's the last thing I want you to do! I already know how you and the girls always make things worse when you try to help! thinks Mayor Mare with sweat running down her face. "I-I'm sorry, Sweetie Belle, but Sun and Moon won't be here for long." "Why?" asks Sweetie Belle, blinking. "It's because they're going to Canterlot…" says Mayor Mare, rubbing an arm with a hoof. "Oh…" says Sweetie Belle, furrowing her brows. She faces Moon and Sun. "Before you go, can you at least tell me about yourself-" "Sweetie Belle, please! I need to get the preparations done for Sun and Moon's departure!" says Mayor Mare, glaring. "B-but can I least talk with them before they go!" says Sweetie Belle, stomping a hoof. "I'm sorry…" says Mayor Mare, shaking her head. "But I really need-" "Mayor Mare, I do not mind if Sweetie Belle joins us. In fact, I welcome it. Perhaps thou shouldst consider?" asks Moon, smiling. "I-I don't know…" says Mayor Mare, biting her bottom lip. "Sun, what are thy thoughts on this matter?" asks Moon, tilting his head. As Sun looks down, Sweetie Belle's lips shake as her eyes well up with tears. "Aye, Sweetie Belle may join us," says Sun with a small smile. "But, Your Highnesses!" says Mayor Mare, stomping a hoof. She then puts a hoof over her mouth, seeing Sun and Moon frowning. "All right, if that's what you wish…" she says, letting out a sigh. "YAY!" says Sweetie Belle, hopping around Moon and Sun. "Sweetie Belle, forgive me, but what about Apple Bloom and Scootaloo?" asks Moon, furrowing his brows. "Oh, them. I don't think so. But I'm sure they'll be okay if we leave them here," says Sweetie Belle, smiling. "I see. Now then, Mayor Mare, please lead the way," says Sun. "Y-yes…" says Mayor Mare, slowly nodding. She then picks up the bag on the ground with her mouth before turning and walking as Sun, Moon, Derpy, and Sweetie Belle follow behind. "W-wait! I'm sorry! I'm coming too!" says Apple Bloom, flailing her hooves. "Oh, now you apologize?" asks Scootaloo, glaring. "Not right now! They're leavin' us!" says Apple Bloom, stomping a hoof. Sweetie Belle stops and turns, lifting a brow. "Are you coming or not? Or are you just going to argue all day?" "Okay, okay!" says Apple Bloom, biting her bottom lip. "Fine…" says Scootaloo, rolling her eyes. ________________________________________ Lifting her hooves, Mayor Mare pushes two doors of a building with flags blowing in the wind. She then lifts a hoof and waves it before walking inside the building. Walking through the doorway, Sun and Moon's eyes widen at the interior of the room, seeing loges as curtains dressed the edges of the large windows around. Their eyes then move to the banners on the walls with images of ponies, constellations, and flowers. "What is this place?" asks Moon, blinking. Mayor Mare places the bag in her mouth on the floor. "This is Town Hall. Everypony comes here for meetings and other sorts," she says, smiling. She then lets out a sigh. Or they just come here to complain about something… "Forgive me, but I do not understand…" says Sun, shaking his head. "What is a meeting?" asks Moon, furrowing his brows. What? They don't even know something like a meeting either? thinks Mayor Mare with an open mouth. She then rubs a hoof behind her head. "Um, let's just say that a meeting is when ponies come to discuss something." "I see…" says Sun, walking to the center of the room with his eyes on the banners hanging on the walls. "Strange…" says Moon, walking to a curtain before stroking a hoof on it. "I've been wondering, but why do Sun and Moon ask questions they should already know?" asks Mayor Mare, her brows drawing together. "I don't know, but they asked a lot on our way here…" says Apple Bloom, rubbing a hoof behind her head. "Tell me about it. Sun and Moon asked me about the saddlebags that ponies carry on their back. Kind of weird, if you ask me," says Scootaloo, twirling a hoof next to her head and sticking her tongue out. "Maybe something happened to them and they just forgot…" says Sweetie Belle, frowning. "That's the weird part. I already told Sweetie Belle about this, but when I first met Sun and Moon, Rose and Bon Bon were there with them. They said that Sun and Moon didn't know anything…" says Derpy, wrinkling her brows. "What do you mean?" asks Mayor Mare, blinking. "Well, for starters, they didn't even know that they were alicorns," says Derpy, shrugging. "WHAT!" says Apple Bloom and Scootaloo with wide eyes. "Th-that's right! I forgot that Rose, Bon Bon, and Derpy were telling them about that! They even asked what I was doing when I first met them too…" says Mayor Mare, placing a hoof on her face. "Oh, that time when you were bowing to them?" asks Derpy, rubbing her head with a hoof. "Yes…" says Mayor Mare, slowly nodding. "I-I don't know what happened to Sun and Moon, but I think we shouldn't dwell on it any longer. It must be something that doesn't concern us…" "Maybe Twilight would know what to do…" says Sweetie Belle, frowning. "Heh! Knowing her, I think she would!" says Scootaloo, smirking. "Yeah, if there's anypony that could help, it's Twilight!" says Apple Bloom, grinning. "I'm sure she would," says Mayor Mare, smiling. She then faces Derpy. "Derpy, as for what I said before, please follow me to my office. I'm going to write a letter for you to give to the Royal Guard at Canterlot." "Okay, but before I go…" says Derpy, turning and waving a hoof. "Sun, Moon, can you come here for a second?" Turning, Moon walks over to Derpy as Sun follows behind. Coming to a stop, they sit on their haunches. "Is something wrong?" asks Moon, wrinkling his brows. "No, I just wanted to give you guys this before I go," says Derpy, bringing two muffins from behind herself with a hoof as Sun and Moon each take one. "It's my last two that were supposed to be an apology to somepony for being late again, but I think she wouldn't mind if I gave them to you both." "And who is this pony?" asks Sun, tilting his head. "Her name is Dinky. She's my sister and my little special somepony who means the whole world to me," says Derpy with a small smile. "Sister?" says Moon, blinking. "Just picture somepony you've been with your whole life. Oh, now that I think about it, are you guys brothers?" asks Derpy, rubbing her head with a hoof. "Brothers?" says Sun, furrowing his brows. "It's like sisters. You know, sisters for girls, and brothers for boys," says Derpy, lifting a brow. "Forgive me, but I do not understand…" says Moon, shaking his head. "Aye…" says Sun, hanging his head. "Wow, you guys really don't know anything…" saysDerpy with wide eyes. She then frowns. "Sorry, I'd like to tell you, but I really have to go. Besides, I'm not good at explaining things…" "Do not apologize. We understand," says Sun, nodding. "And Sun and I wish to thank thee," says Moon with a small smile. "For what?" asks Derpy, blinking. Lowering their head, Moon and Sun press their lips on Derpy's cheeks. "Not again…" says Mayor Mare, placing a hoof over her red face. "Wh-why are they kissin' her!" says Apple Bloom with a bright red face. "That's not fair! I want Moon to do the same to me…" says Sweetie Belle, biting her bottom lip. "Eww…" says Scootaloo, curling her lip. "You know, I'm never going to get used to that. What was that for?" asks Derpy, giggling with a hoof over her mouth. "We are grateful that thou art willing to aid us with our search," says Sun, smiling. "And for the muffins," says Moon with a small smile. "You're welcome! Oh, and if you guys ever decide to come back to Ponyville, maybe I could introduce you both to Dinky! I'm sure she would like to meet you both!" says Derpy, jumping up and down. "Aye," says Sun, nodding. "If our paths meet again, I wish to meet this Dinky," says Moon, smiling. "Got it!" says Derpy, grinning. She then faces Mayor Mare. "Okay, ready when you are!" "O-oh!" says Mayor Mare, shaking her head. "Um, Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo, can you do me a favor?" "What is it?" asks Sweetie Belle, blinking. "I would like you to stay with Sun and Moon while I'm gone. Can I trust you girls to handle it?" asks Mayor Mare, raising a brow. "Sure! You can count on us!" says Apple Bloom, placing a hoof on her chest. "Yeah, I guess. There's nothing to do around here anyway," says Scootaloo, shrugging. "Thank you," says Mayor Mare, smiling. She then picks up the bag on the floor with her mouth and walks to a staircase as Derpy follows behind. "So, what should we do now?" asks Apple Bloom, rubbing the side of her neck with a hoof. "Maybe we can find out why Moon and Sun don't know anything?" asks Sweetie Belle, smiling. "I-I don't think that's a good idea…" says Apple Bloom, shaking her head. "But I really want to know! I mean, they came from the Everfree Forest and that's weird! Don't you want to know more about them!" says Sweetie Belle, stomping a hoof. "I do, but we can't just ask… them…" says Apple Bloom, blinking. "Wait, where's Scoot?" "Huh?" says Sweetie Belle, turning her head side to side. "Where is she?" "Oh, there she is!" says Apple Bloom, pointing a hoof. Turning her head, Sweetie Belle sees Scootaloo sitting in front of Moon and Sun. "So, why do you guys keep asking questions all the time?" asks Scootaloo, lifting a brow. "Scoot, don't you remember what Mayor Mare said!" says Apple Bloom, stomping a hoof. "Yeah, but I just wanted to know," says Scootaloo, shrugging. "Can't you at least listen for once?" asks Sweetie Belle, huffing. "Hey, don't give me that! I bet that you guys wanted to know about it too!" says Scootaloo, stomping a hoof. "Yeah, but it could be somethin' they don't want to talk about!" says Apple Bloom, pointing a hoof at Sun and Moon. "If thou art curious, then Sun and I will tell thee," says Moon, blinking. "See! Even Moon said it himself!" says Apple Bloom, stomping a hoof. She then blinks before facing Moon. "W-wait, you're goin' to tell us?" "Aye, I am grateful for the aid thou hast given us, so 'tis granted that we should explain the reason for our cause. Sweetie Belle, I believe I told thee about the pony that Sun and I have been searching for, correct?" asks Moon, tilting his head. "Oh, I remember that!" says Sweetie Belle, nodding. Moon smiles before facing Sun. "I believe we should explain from the beginning." "Aye," says Sun, nodding. He then faces the Crusaders. "Since the beginning of thy world's creation, I have watched over it for countless years as it changed from a lifeless place to a world, teeming with life." "And during that time, I was bound to watch over thy world as the years passed…" says Moon, furrowing his brows. He then smiles. "But one day, Sun and I found ourselves waking in this world-" "Whoa, whoa, whoa! Hold up!" says Scootaloo, lifting a hoof. She then lifts a brow. "What are you guys talking about?" "I-I don't get it! You both sound like you're saying you're the Moon and Sun!" says Sweetie Belle, flailing her hooves. "Yeah, and what do you mean by our world's creation? It sounds like some old pony's tale!" says Apple Bloom, stomping a hoof. "If this is true, then who are you two?" asks a voice. As Sun and Moon turn their head, they see Mayor Mare coming to a stop and sitting next to the Crusaders. "Ah, Mayor Mare, I believe the preparations are done?" asks Sun, blinking. "Yes, Derpy's already on her way to Canterlot," says Mayor Mare, nodding. She then glares. "And your story just now doesn't make sense. I'm sorry, but can you both tell me who you really are?" "I am the Sun," he says with an unwavering gaze. "And I am the Moon," he says with a soft glow within his eyes. "We have been watching thy world from the stars above," says Sun, smiling. "And now we stand before you within this world," says Moon with a small smile. Mayor Mare and the Crusaders' eyes widen while their jaw hangs in the air. Blinking, Sun and Moon look down at their hoof with a muffin on it and lifts it to their mouth, biting a part of it. "Y-you're just making this up, right?" asks Scootaloo, glaring. Sun makes an audible gulp. "Nay, the words that we speak are the truth." "But how does that have to do with anything to the pony you've been trying to find?" asks Sweetie Belle, frowning. Moon makes an audible gulp. "The pony we are searching for is somepony we are grateful to. Without this pony, Sun and I would not have become who we are today. Unfortunately, we do not know this pony's name, but refer to this pony as the Azure One." "Azure One? That's a weird name…"says Scootaloo, lifting a brow. "Well, obviously, they're just trying to find somepony who has an azure color," says Sweetie Belle, rolling her eyes. "Ugh, why do you always have to be such a smart-mouth! You might as well be a dictionary!" says Scootaloo, huffing. "Didn't I say not to call me that!" says Sweetie Belle, stomping a hoof. "It's not my fault you are one!" says Scootaloo, poking a hoof on Sweetie Belle's chest. "H-hey, girls, calm down…" says Apple Bloom with sweat running down her face. "Let's all just relax and-" "Oh, you want to go right now!" says Sweetie Belle, pressing her forehead against Scootaloo's. "Bring it!" says Scootaloo, pushing Sweetie Belle's forehead with her own. Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo jump at each other, forming a dust cloud as they bite on each other's tail, pulling it. "Apple Bloom, did we do something wrong?" asks Sun, putting the rest of the muffin on his hoof in his mouth and chewing. "D-don't worry, it's not your fault…" says Apple Bloom, letting out a sigh. "If thou sayest so," says Moon, biting and chewing the last piece of the muffin on his hoof. Wh-what's going on? If Sun and Moon are here, then shouldn't the Sun and Moon be gone? But I guess it makes sense why they don't know anything. Ugh, just thinking about it is hurting my head! thinks Mayor Mare, dragging a hoof down her face. "Excuse me! Is anypony there!" says a voice. "Oh, that must be them! Sun, Moon, can you wait here with the Crusaders?" asks Mayor Mare. "Aye," says Sun, nodding. "But is something wrong?" asks Moon, frowning. "No, but there are some ponies here that I need to speak to…" says Mayor Mare, rubbing an arm with a hoof. "Ah, I understand," says Moon, smiling. "So can I ask you both to be patient and wait for me to call you?" asks Mayor Mare with a sheepish grin. "Then do not let us stop thee," says Sun with a small smile. "Thank you," says Mayor Mare, chuckling with a hoof over her mouth. As Mayor Mare walks to the doorway, her eyes widen at four stallions in gold armor with a gold chariot behind them. She then walks down some stairs as the stallions remove the harness on their bodies and form a row. "Good morning. You must be Mayor Mare, right?" asks the stallion with a red-crested helmet. "Yes," says Mayor Mare, smiling. "I'm Commander Highwind," he says, placing a hoof on his chest. He then points a hoof at the three stallions next to him with blue-crested helmets. "And they are Top Notch, Summer Set, and Pleasant Breeze. As for our reason here, the Royal Guard received a letter containing reports of two alicorns in Ponyville. Is this true?" "Yes," says Mayor Mare, nodding. "Honestly, we were skeptical of this at first, but the mare who delivered the letter argued with us and said that these alicorns need Princess Twilight's help…" says Highwind, letting out a sigh. "I-I'm sorry if she caused you any trouble…" says Mayor Mare, putting a hoof on her face. "Don't worry. Anyway, I'm sorry, but we will escort these alicorns to Canterlot after seeing what you stated in the letter is true. The security regulations we have at the castle is much more strict after the changeling incident, so please understand…" says Highwind, furrowing his brows. "Of course," says Mayor Mare, smiling. She then turns and places a hoof next to her mouth. "Sun, Moon, can you please come out!" Slowly, Sun appears at the doorway and walks down the stairs while his flowing mane glitters under the daylight. Moon then appears at the doorway, walking down the stairs as his blue coat emits a soft glow under the morning light with the Crusaders following behind him. "Whoa…" says Pleasant with wide eyes. "I-I can't believe they're real…" says Summer with an open mouth. "Yeah, even I thought that gray mare was crazy or something, but she was right…" says Top Notch, blinking. I guess I owe that gray mare an apology if I see her… thinks Highwind, wrinkling his brows. He then walks to Sun and Moon before kneeling and lowering his head. "Good morning, Your Highnesses." "And whom might thou be?" asks Moon, blinking. Highwind stands and puts a hoof on his forehead. "Allow me to introduce myself. My name is Highwind, and I'm here with my fellow guards to escort you both to Canterlot." "Ah, I see. But, Highwind, thou art free to address me as Sun," he says with a small smile. "And feel free to address me as Moon. We do not wish to inconvenience thee," says Moon, smiling. "I can't do that…" says Highwind, shaking his head. "Strange, I do not understand…" says Sun, furrowing his brows. "Forgive me, but is there a reason why?" asks Moon, tilting his head. "I-I'm sorry, Your Highnesses, but it's against proper decorum to address royalty without their proper title…" says Highwind, rubbing behind his head with a hoof. "Sun, Moon, please understand that there will be other ponies that will address you in the same manner…" says Mayor Mare, frowning. "Perhaps the reason why is that Sun and I are alicorns?" asks Moon, his brows gathering in. "Y-yes…" says Mayor Mare, slowly nodding. "I see…" says Sun, hanging his head. "This is unfortunate…" says Moon with a watery gaze. "I know you both dislike the thought of it, but it's only natural that ponies will treat you with respect," says Mayor Mare with a small smile. "I understand," says Moon, smiling. "Then I have no complaints. Highwind, let us go to Canterlot," says Sun, nodding. "Before we leave, Your Highnesses, there's a safety measure you must go through…" says Highwind with a sheepish grin. "Safety measure?" says Moon, tilting his head. "Yes, it's by royal decree that we check each pony, regardless of status, to ensure the safety of Canterlot…" says Highwind, letting out a sigh. "If this is to ensure that there will be no harm, then I will not decline. What are thy thoughts on this matter, Moon?" asks Sun, blinking. "I have no reason to refuse," says Moon, shaking his head. "I see. Now then, Highwind, please continue," says Sun with a small smile. "Thank you for understanding, Your Highnesses," says Highwind, smiling. He then turns and stomps a hoof. "Pleasant, Summer, get the crystal balls ready!" "Yes, sir!" says Pleasant and Summer, placing a hoof on their forehead. Putting a hoof in their saddlebag on their back, Summer and Pleasant each take out a crystal ball that shines brightly under the morning light. Pleasant walks over to Moon, while Summer moves to Sun as they lift their crystal ball up to them. "That is a strange object…" says Moon, blinking. "Oh, the crystal ball? I guess it's weird, but it's cool how it tells us if somepony is a changeling in disguise by the color it shows. It turns blue if they're not or green if they are," says Pleasant, patting a hoof on the crystal ball. "Changeling?" says Sun, tilting his head. "They sort of look like a pony and a bug combined. They're also able to change the way they look into anything they want," says Summer, rubbing a hoof on the side of his neck. "Last time they appeared was when they took over Canterlot. It wasn't a pretty sight…" says Pleasant, letting out a sigh. "I see…" says Sun, wrinkling his brows. "That is why this safety measure is required…" says Moon, gathering his brows in. "Y-yeah…" says Pleasant, slowly nodding. "Wait, why are we telling you this? Don't you guys already know all about it?" asks Summer, lifting a brow. "Hey, Summer, Pleasant, stop talking and pay attention! The crystal balls are already blue! Pack up and get the chariot ready!" says Highwind, stomping a hoof. "S-sorry, sir!" says Pleasant and Summer, putting their crystal ball in their saddlebag and running to the chariot. "What about me, sir?" asks Top Notch, blinking. "What do you think?" asks Highwind, raising a brow. "Uh, get the chariot ready?" asks Top Notch with a sheepish grin. "Then don't just stand there! Hurry up and go!" says Highwind, stomping a hoof. "Y-yes, sir!" says Top Notch, running to the chariot. Ugh, now I'm starting to wonder how those three idiots joined the Royal Guard… thinks Highwind, dragging a hoof down his face. He then faces Sun and Moon while pointing a hoof at the chariot. "Now then, Your Highnesses, please sit yourselves and we'll be on our way." "Aye," says Sun, nodding. "Sun, forgive me, but will we be able to find the Azure One?" asks Moon with a watery gaze. "Do not worry, Moon. Perhaps our search will finally come to an end," says Sun, smiling. "W-wait!" says a voice. Sun and Moon turn their head, seeing Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle with tears welling up in their eyes. "Sun, will I ever see you again?" asks Apple Bloom, biting her bottom lip. "The same goes for you too, Moon!" says Sweetie Belle, pointing a hoof. "I-I do not know…" says Sun, shaking his head. "Perhaps our paths will meet again," says Moon with a small smile. "No! Promise us that you'll visit again!" says Sweetie Belle, stomping a hoof. "Yeah! Do you Pinkie Promise?" asks Apple Bloom, pouting. "Forgive me, but I do not understand…" says Moon, his brows gathering in. "What is this Pinkie Promise?" asks Sun, furrowing his brows. "It's a promise that you should never break, but if you break that promise, you'll regret it!" says Sweetie Belle, glaring. "Very well, then I Pinkie Promise," says Moon, smiling. "I Pinkie Promise as well," says Sun, nodding. "No! You're not doin' it right!" says Apple Bloom, shaking her head. "This Pinkie Promise is truly difficult…" says Sun, hanging his head. "Then what tasks must we perform for this Pinkie Promise?" asks Moon, tilting his head. "We'll tell you!" says Sweetie Belle, grinning. "Yeah, so pay attention!" says Apple Bloom, stomping a hoof. "Repeat after me! Cross my heart and hope to fly!" says Sweetie Belle, moving a hoof in a cross-motion on her chest. "Stick a cupcake in my eye!" says Apple Bloom, putting a hoof over her eye. "Now it's your turn!" says Sweetie Belle, jumping up and down. "Cross my heart and hope to fly…" says Moon, moving a hoof in a cross-motion on his chest. "Stick a cupcake in my eye…" says Sun, placing a hoof over his eye. He then groans and removes his hoof from his eye before shaking his head. "Sun, maybe you should close your eye before doin' that next time," says Apple Bloom with a chuckle. "I-I see…" says Sun, rubbing his eye with a hoof. "O-oh, Sun, if you ever come back… can I become your special somepony?" asks Apple Bloom as her cheeks turn red. "Moon, can I-I be your special somepony too?" asks Sweetie Belle, her face turning red while rubbing an arm with a hoof. "Special somepony?" says Sun, blinking. "What is a special somepony?" asks Moon, tilting his head. As Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle open their mouth, their eyes widen as they fall flat on the ground, and seeing Sun and Moon growing smaller. "I think that's enough, you lovebirds! We still have the rest of the day to go crusading!" says Scootaloo, dragging Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle by their tail with a hoof. "W-wait, I'm not done talkin' to Sun yet!" says Apple Bloom, digging her hooves into the ground. "Can I talk to Moon for a little bit more?" asks Sweetie Belle, reaching out a hoof to Moon. "So you guys can waste more time? Yeah, not happening…" says Scootaloo, rolling her eyes. "Aww!" says Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle, pouting. "The Crusaders are strange…" says Sun, tilting his head. "But they are interesting ponies to be around," says Moon, smiling. "Your Highnesses, I don't mean to rush you both, but we must leave soon!" says Highwind, waving a hoof. "Aye," says Sun, nodding. He then faces Moon. "Before we leave, there is another pony that we should show our gratitude." "Ah, I almost forgot…" says Moon, blinking. Turning their head, Sun and Moon face Mayor Mare as she jerks her head back. Wh-why do I have a feeling they're about to do something to me? thinks Mayor Mare, gulping with sweat running down her face. "Mayor Mare, we are grateful for what thou hast done for us," says Sun, nodding. "That is why we wish to express our gratitude to thee," says Moon, smiling. "Th-there's no need to thank me!" says Mayor Mare, flailing her hooves. "It's only right that I help those in need-" Mayor Mare's eyes widen as Sun and Moon press their lips on her cheeks. As Sun and Moon pull their lips away, Mayor Mare's face turns bright red while she looks at Sun and Moon with an open mouth. "We will forever be grateful to thee," says Sun with a radiant glow in his gaze. "Thank you, Mayor Mare," says Moon with a soft glow within his eyes. "Sun, Moon…" says Mayor Mare with wide eyes. She then smiles. "Go on. There's still somepony you have to find, right?" "Aye," says Sun, smiling. "We will find the Azure One," says Moon with a small smile. "I know you will," says Mayor Mare, chuckling with a hoof over her mouth. Nodding their head, Moon and Sun turns and walks to the chariot, passing Pleasant, Summer, and Top Notch as their eyes follow them. "How are they able to just kiss somepony like that?" asks Top Notch, lifting a brow. "I would never be able to do that with some random mare…" says Pleasant, letting out a sigh. "Nah, you're just too scared to do it!" says Summer, smirking. "You're one to talk! You start sweating like crazy when a nice-looking mare walks by!" says Pleasant, poking a hoof on Summer's chest. "Want to run that by me again?" asks Summer, clenching a hoof. "I'm only telling the truth," says Pleasant, closing his eyes and lifting his head. "You idiots! Stop talking and get ready for departure!" says Highwind, stomping a hoof. "Y-yes, sir!" says Top Notch, Summer, and Pleasant as they unfold their wings. Highwind turns his head, facing Sun and Moon inside the chariot. "Your Highnesses, are you ready to leave?" "Aye," says Sun, nodding. "Let us go," says Moon, smiling. "You heard them!" says Highwind, stomping a hoof. "Yes, sir!" says Summer, Top Notch, and Pleasant. As Highwind and the guards run across the ground, they quickly flap their wings while pulling the chariot before taking off into the sky. Watching the chariot growing smaller in the sky, Mayor Mare frowns. Sun, Moon, I hope that you find what you're searching for… ________________________________________ As the chariot flies through the blue sky, Moon closes his eyes and takes a deep breath while the wind flows through his mane. Is this how it feels to fly? Maybe Sun and I can learn this after finding the Azure One… Moon then opens his eyes and turns his head. He looks down as his eyes widen at hills and rivers that stretch to the horizon. There is so much life within this world. Is this what Sun and I have been watching over through the years? he thinks before turning his head. "Sun, the view up here is truly remarkable, is it not?" "F-forgive me, Moon. It seems I was lost in thought…" says Sun, shaking his head. "Is something wrong?" asks Moon, wrinkling his brows. "I do not know. But what Derpy said earlier troubles me. 'Twas called brothers, I believe…" says Sun, his brows gathering in. "Ah, if I remember, 'tis used for somepony that we have been together with throughout the years, correct?" asks Moon, blinking. "Aye," says Sun, nodding. He then furrows his brows. "Moon, are we considered brothers?" "I do not know. But the years we have spent together watching over this world is something I do not regret. I truly am glad I was able to meet thee, Sun," says Moon, smiling and putting a hoof on Sun's cheek. "Moon…" says Sun with wide eyes. He then smiles. "Aye, I am glad I was able to meet thee as well." "Your Highnesses, we're here!" says Highwind. As Sun and Moon look down, their eyes widen at a white castle, hanging on the side of a mountain as it shines under the rays of light. "Welcome to Canterlot Castle!" says Highwind. As the chariot descends, it lands on a stone path, coming to a stop in front of a drawbridge. "Here we are, Your Highnesses. Please exit the chariot and I will lead you to the princess," says Highwind, removing the harness on his body. Nodding their head, Sun and Moon put a hoof on the ground as they walk out from the chariot. Their eyes widen while lifting their head as the white castle in front of them stretches far into the sky. "This is Canterlot Castle…" says Sun, blinking. "'Tis different than the structures at Ponyville…" says Moon with an open mouth. "I said the same thing when I first saw the castle," says Highwind with a small laugh. He then turns his head. "Top Notch, Summer, Pleasant, bring the chariot to the back of the castle! Once you're done, go to the barracks and wait for further orders!" "Yes, sir!" says Top Notch, Summer, and Pleasant as they spread their wings. "Ah, before I forget, perhaps I can show my gratitude to thee?" asks Sun, smiling. "I wish to do the same," says Moon with a small smile. "Geh!" says Top Notch as his face turns blue. "N-no! It's fine, Your Highnesses! We're just glad we can help!" says Summer with a sheepish grin. "Y-yeah!" says Pleasant with sweat running down his face. "A-anyway, we'll be leaving now!" says Top Notch, grinning. Top Notch, Summer, and Pleasant flap their wings while running across the stone path before taking off in the sky. "This is unfortunate that we could not show them our gratitude…" says Sun, hanging his head. "D-don't worry, you can try again when you see them!" says Highwind with a sheepish grin. "Highwind, perhaps Sun and I can show our gratitude to thee?" asks Moon, smiling. "Oh, uh, I-I think that's not necessary, Your Highness…" says Highwind, his cheeks turning red while coughing into a hoof. "Anyway, please follow me and I shall escort you both to the princess." As Highwind walks ahead, Sun and Moon face each other and tilts their head. They then follow Highwind as they cross the drawbridge. In front of them, two dark stallions in gold armor stand on the sides of a gate between them. Seeing Sun and Moon, the dark stallions blink with an open mouth before kneeling and lowering their head. "Good morning, you two. This is Prince Sun and Prince Moon. They're here to meet with Princess Twilight," says Highwind, placing a hoof on his forehead. The dark stallions stand and place a hoof over their forehead. "Are these the alicorns that were mentioned within the letter from the mayor of Ponyville?" asks the guard on the right. "Yes," says Highwind, nodding. "Have they already consented to the preliminary check?" asks the guard on the left. "We already did a full scan on them at Ponyville," says Highwind, smiling. "Your Highnesses, is it fine if we conduct a secondary check?" asks the guard on the right. "Aye," says Moon with a small smile. "Of course," says Sun, nodding. Facing each other, the dark stallions nod before closing their eyes as their horn glows blue. A blue sphere appears around Highwind, Sun, and Moon while a white ring forms within the blue sphere, moving up and down. "Strange…" says Sun, blinking. "What is this?" asks Moon, poking a hoof against the blue sphere. "Your Highness, please don't touch it…" says Highwind, furrowing his brows. "Ah, forgive me. This an interesting experience," says Moon, smiling. "I believe this is magic?" asks Sun, tilting his head. Wait, what? Being alicorns, shouldn't they already know magic? thinks Highwind, lifting a brow. "Commander Highwind, we have finished our search," says the guard on the right. "Huh? O-oh, where can we find Princess Twilight?" asks Highwind, blinking. "She is with her friends and the other princesses in the dining room," says the guard on the left. "Please wait for a moment. We will open the gate," says the guard on the right. Closing their eyes, the dark stallions' horn glows blue, wrapping the gate between them in a similar light as it lifts up. "You may enter," says the guard on the left. "One more thing. Prince Sun, Prince Moon, please enjoy your stay here at the castle," says the guard on the right with a small smile. "We will," says Moon, smiling. Sun nods his head. "Your Highnesses, please follow me," says Highwind, walking ahead. As Sun and Moon follow Highwind, the dark stallions' horn glows blue, shrouding the gate in a blue glow as it slowly comes down. "Hey, you think Princess Celestia and Princess Luna will be surprised?" asks the guard on the left, lifting a brow. "Who wouldn't be? I mean, all the alicorns in Equestria are mares. I never thought I'd see two alicorns that were guys…" says the guard on the right, rubbing a hoof behind his head. "It's too bad we can't see the look on Princess Celestia and Princess Luna's face…" says the guard on the left, letting out a sigh. "Yeah, guarding the gate is really boring…" says the guard on the right, huffing. ________________________________________ As Sun and Moon follow Highwind, they walk through the halls of the castle as red carpeting stretches into the distance. "Greetings," says Moon, smiling at a brown mare in a black and white dress. "Hello…" says the brown mare with bright red cheeks, dropping a tray of teacups. "Greetings, little one," says Sun, nodding at an orange mare in a black and white dress. "H-hi…" says the orange mare with wide eyes, dropping a tray of plates. Ugh, every mare we passed has been dropping expensive tableware when they see Prince Sun and Prince Moon. It's a good thing Lyrical isn't here or she'd probably blow her bits… thinks Highwind, letting out a sigh. "Highwind, is something wrong?" asks Sun, frowning. "If we did something to trouble thee, forgive us…" says Moon, furrowing his brows. "N-no, you did nothing wrong! Oh, look! We're here!" says Highwind, pointing a hoof. Following Highwind's hoof, Sun and Moon sees two gold doors in front of them. "Is this where we will meet the princess?" asks Moon, tilting his head. "Yes, but please wait. I'll see if she's not busy," says Highwind. "Aye," says Sun, nodding. Highwind leans his body against one of the gold doors and pushes it. As the door creaks to a stop, he sees a blue and pink mare pulling on a plate. "Hey, let go!" says the blue mare, glaring. "Why don't you let go! I saw it first!" says the pink mare, baring her teeth. "Um, but that was my cake…" says a yellow mare, lifting a hoof. "Ugh, my mane! There's a frizzle sticking out of place!" says a white mare, placing her hooves on her cheeks. "Will y'all pipe it down! And I saw that there cake first!" says an orange mare, pointing a hoof. "WILL YOU ALL BE QUIET!" says a purple mare, stomping a hoof. Highwind ducks on the ground and puts his hooves over his ears. Sun and Moon stand in place as their flowing mane blows in the wind of the ear screeching voice. "I can't believe you guys were fighting over a cake in front of the princesses!" says the purple mare as her breathing grows heavy. "Twilight, please calm down,"says a white alicorn. "O-oh, I'm sorry…" says Twilight, hanging her head. "But Twilight is right. There's no need for you all to fight amongst yourselves for a cake. And if you asked, we have more to go around," says a blue alicorn, chuckling with a hoof over her mouth. "But I think we have to put our little tea party on hold. Now then, is there something you need, Highwind?" asks the white alicorn with a small smile. "I-I'm sorry to bother you all! Princess Twilight, if you're not busy, there are two ponies that want to meet you!" says Highwind, placing a hoof on his forehead. "Huh? Two ponies?" says Twilight, blinking. "Apparently, it's something urgent. They traveled from Ponyville to ask for your help," says Highwind, furrowing his brows. "Ponyville? Hmm… who are these ponies?" asks Twilight, lifting a brow. "Please speak to them yourself," says Highwind. He then pushes the other gold door open and stands to the side, kneeling and lowering his head. "Your Highnesses, you may enter." Slowly, Sun makes his way into the room as his coat shimmers while Moon walks beside Sun with his flowing mane glittering under the light. "Whoa…" says the blue mare with wide eyes. "I've never seen those guys before…" says the pink mare, blinking. "Oh my…" says the yellow mare, placing a hoof over her mouth. "Now that's somethin' you don't see often…" says the orange mare, rubbing behind her head with a hoof. "Who? What? Where?" asks the white mare as her breathing grows heavy. She then puts a hoof on her forehead while her eyes roll up before falling on the floor. "Wh-who are they?" asks Twilight with an open mouth. Coming to a stop, Sun and Moon blink their eyes, gazing at the end of a table in the room. Two mares remain in place as one with a rainbow mane, flowing in a non-existent breeze, and her purple eyes meeting Sun's. The other mare had a purple flowing mane, giving an image of the night sky, and her turquoise eyes meeting Moon's. Moon smiles while facing the blue mare in front of him. "We finally meet, Azure One." To be continued…
Chapter 6Untold Truth ________________________________________ Standing next to the entrance of the dining room was the first of the alicorn pair, Sun, facing the mare before him, his eyes slowly going up and down, moving from the mare's white coat that shimmers under the light, and her rainbow mane that flows in a non-existent breeze, the latter, meeting Sun's eyes with an unwavering gaze. Standing next to Sun was Moon, smiling at the blue mare before him, the latter, blinking her eyes at him with her mouth slightly open. Standing at a distance from Sun and Moon, Highwind slowly looks between the four alicorns, his face dripping with sweat. H-how long are they going to keep looking at each other like that! It's so awkward in here that I can barely breathe! Highwind then shakes his head. Ugh! That's right! I forgot about that mare! he thinks, his eyes darting about the room before noticing a white mare unconscious on the floor. Oh, there she is! Moving his hooves, Highwind runs and comes to a stop next to the white mare. "Madam, are you okay?" he asks, lifting the mare and fanning a hoof over her face. Slowly, the white mare's eyes open. "What a strange dream…" she says, rubbing a hoof to her eye. Closing his eyes, Highwind lets out a sigh. "I'm glad you're fine," he says, lifting the white mare up on her hooves. "Thank you, good sir," says the white mare with a smile. "Oh! I'm sorry, but is this Canterlot? Do forgive me as my memory is a bit hazy…" she says, rubbing a hoof to her forehead. "Yeah, we're still in Canterlot, Rarity," says a voice. Turning their head, Highwind and Rarity see a purple alicorn walking over to them. "Oh, Twilight, are we still having tea with the princesses?" asks Rarity, blinking. "I-I don't think right now is the best time for that…" says Twilight, rubbing an arm with a hoof. "And why is that?" asks Rarity, raising a brow. "You should probably see for yourself…" says Twilight, pointing a hoof. "You're probably just exaggerating it, Twilight," says Rarity, rolling her eyes. She then follows Twilight's hoof. "What could possibly be more important than our tea get-together with the princesses-" Rarity's eyes widen at the sight of Moon and Sun, standing in the distance. Her eyes quickly move from Moon's flowing silky mane while his coat glistens under the light of the room before moving to Sun's tall and slender body to his eyes that resemble a sunset. "Who? Wh-what? Where?" asks Rarity, her breathing growing heavy. "Rarity, I know what you're thinking, but please calm down! Take deep breaths!" says Twilight, putting a hoof on Rarity's shoulder. Placing a hoof on her chest, Rarity quickly breathes in and out while fanning a hoof over her face. Her eyes then roll up as she places a hoof over her forehead before falling on the floor. "Ugh…" says Twilight, placing a hoof over her face. "I don't mean to bother you, but will she be okay?" asks Highwind, raising a brow. "Yeah, she'll be fine, I think…" says Twilight, sighing. "Well, if you say so…" says Highwind, looking down at Rarity before shrugging. "Oh, sorry, and you must be?" asks Twilight, blinking. "Ah, I think we haven't met yet, Princess Twilight. I'm Commander Highwind. Pleased to meet you," he says, bowing his head. Twilight frowns. Guess I'm still not used to the whole princess thing yet… she thinks, letting out a sigh. "Is something wrong, Your Highness?" asks Highwind, frowning. "Huh? Oh! N-nothing!" says Twilight, waving off a hoof. "A-anyway, could you tell me about those two?" she asks, pointing a hoof at Sun and Moon. Highwind follows Twilight's hoof before facing her. "Oh, about that. The white alicorn you see is Prince Sun, and the other is Prince Moon. I don't know much, but they've come here to Canterlot to meet with you." "Really?" asks Twilight, raising a brow. "Yes. It was a sudden notice from the mayor in Ponyville. She stated in a letter that they suddenly appeared in Ponyville and doesn't know where they've come from or any other details about them," says Highwind, rubbing his head with a hoof. "That's strange…" says Twilight, blinking. "Yeah, I was hoping that you might know them, but from the look on your face, I doubt it…" says Highwind, sighing. "S-sorry…" says Twilight, frowning. "Hey, Twilight!" says a voice. Highwind and Twilight see four mares, a blue and orange one, a pink one taking a bite from a cake in her hoof, and a yellow one hiding behind the group. "Oh, girls," says Twilight, smiling. The orange mare notices Rarity on the floor before raising a brow and facing Twilight. "Let me guess. Rarity's out cold because of those two, right?" she asks, pointing a hoof at Sun and Moon. "Yeah," says Twilight, rolling her eyes. "So, any idea what's going on?" asks the blue mare, raising a brow. "Oh, about that, Rainbow. I was asking Commander Highwind here about those two. To put it shortly, the white one is Sun and the blue one is Moon. Apparently, they came to Canterlot to meet with me." "Really?" asks Rainbow, blinking. She then looks at Sun and Moon before facing Twilight. "Doesn't look like that to me. It's more like they're having a staring contest with the princesses." "Pfft! Good one, Rainbow Dash!" says the pink mare, laughing as crumbs of cake spray from her mouth and lands on Rainbow. "Ugh! Don't talk with your mouth full, Pinkie!" says Rainbow, shielding herself with a hoof. "Oops! Sorry!" says Pinkie before shoving the last piece of cake from her hoof into her mouth. "So, where are they from? I mean, bein' alicorns and all, shouldn't anypony have heard about them?" asks the orange mare, rubbing her chin with a hoof. "I don't know, Applejack. But Commander Highwind was explaining that to me," says Twilight, facing Highwind. "Sorry for the interruption, but can you continue?" "Of course," says Highwind, nodding. "Now then-" "Hey, guys!" says Pinkie. "Ugh! What now, Pinkie!" says Twilight, stomping a hoof. "That Moon guy is doing something!" says Pinkie, pointing a hoof. Following Pinkie's hoof, Twilight and her friends see Moon walking over to Luna. Stopping, Moon towers over the mare before him with a smile as Luna blinks at him with an open mouth. "What's he doing?" asks Rainbow, lifting a brow. "Shhh!" says Pinkie, pulling a bag of popcorn from behind her with a hoof. "Wait, what? Pinkie, where did you get the popcorn?" asks Rainbow with wide eyes. "Huh? Oh, want some?" asks Pinkie, offering the bag of popcorn to Rainbow with a hoof as she shoves another hoof with popcorn in her mouth. "B-but! Ugh! Just forget it!" says Rainbow, huffing and folding her hooves. "Well, you want some or not?" asks Pinkie, raising a brow. "Whatever," says Rainbow, shrugging. She then grabs a hoof-full of popcorn and shoves it in her mouth. As Twilight and her friends watch, they gasp as Moon lifts a hoof and inches it towards Luna's face. Noticing Moon's hoof, Luna jumps away from him. "Wh-what are you doing!" she says, glaring. "Ah, forgive me. I did not mean to startle thee…" says Moon, frowning and lowering his hoof. "Startle? Startle! You suddenly appear before me and try to touch my face as if you knew me!" says Luna, stomping a hoof and cracking the floor as her lips pull back, revealing her teeth. "Um, guys, shouldn't we do somethin'?" asks Applejack, frowning. "Are you crazy! Didn't you see her crack the floor like it was nothing! I mean, I'm awesome and all, but I wouldn't mess with somepony like Princess Luna that's about to blow her bits!" says Rainbow, placing a hoof over her chest. "Rainbow's right. Even I'm not sure if I can calm Princess Luna down after seeing that," says Pinkie before shoving a hoof with popcorn in her mouth. "Pinkie, how can you be eating popcorn at a time like this?" asks Twilight, glaring. "Want some?" asks Pinkie, offering the bag of popcorn with a hoof. "NO!" says Twilight, stomping a hoof. "Well, your loss," says Pinkie, shrugging. "Ugh…" says Twilight, dragging a hoof down her face. She then jerks before blinking her eyes, looking behind herself. "Fluttershy, what are you doing?" "S-sorry, Twilight, but Princess Luna is kind of scary right now…" says Fluttershy, pressing her face on Twilight's back. "Great…" says Twilight, sighing. She then looks ahead, frowning at Luna. But this is the first time I've seen her like this… "Listen here, whoever you are! Don't think for a second you can just waltz in here and do whatever you please!" says Luna, clicking her tongue. Moon hangs his head, frowning. "Luna, please calm down," says the white alicorn, furrowing her brows. "But, Tia!" says Luna, pointing a hoof at Moon. "He tried to touch-" "That is enough! This is unforgivable for a princess like you! I won't tolerate any more disrespect towards our guests!" says Celestia, glaring. "S-sorry…" says Luna, hanging her head and biting her bottom lip. "I'm very sorry about my sister's behavior. Please forgive her…" says Celestia, bowing her head to Moon. "Nay, 'tis I that should ask for thy forgiveness…" says Moon, shaking his head. How polite… thinks Celestia, blinking. "You seem to know my sister, but I can't say the same for her. Luna, are you sure you haven't met him?" she asks, facing her sister. Luna looks at Moon, her eyes moving from his flowing blue mane to his ice blue eyes. "I'm sure of it…" she says, glaring. "If that's the case, then did you mistake my sister for somepony else?" asks Celestia, facing Moon. "Nay," says Moon, shaking his head. "Azure One and I have met long ago." "Azure One? I'm sorry, but who is this Azure One?"asks Celestia, blinking. Lifting a hoof, Moon points at Luna, the latter, her eyes widening. "Wait, what! Princess Luna said that she's never met Moon before, but Moon is saying that he met her! Ugh! It's so confusing!" says Rainbow, ruffling her mane with her hooves. "I know, right! It's driving me crazy!" says Pinkie, throwing her bag of popcorn in the air before dragging her hooves down her face. "Applejack, can you tell if Moon is lying or not?" asks Twilight, frowning. "Even I'm not sure anymore, but Moon's tellin' the truth…" says Applejack, rubbing a hoof behind her head. "Then is Princess Luna lying?" asks Fluttershy, placing a hoof over her mouth. "Nope. She's also tellin' the truth…" says Applejack, sighing. "If Moon and Luna are both telling the truth, then what's going on?" asks Twilight, dragging a hoof down her face. "Well, there's no point in rattlin' our brains. Let's just wait and see," says Applejack, folding her hooves. "I guess…" says Twilight, letting out a sigh. Luna's mouth opens, blinking her eyes at Moon. She then shakes her head and slowly points a hoof at herself. "M-me?" "Aye," says Moon, nodding and smiling. "Luna, are you being honest with me?" asks Celestia, glaring. "I am! I really am!" says Luna, stomping a hoof. "Tia, he must be lying! I swear to you that I've never met him in my entire-" "Forgive me, but the words that Moon speak are naught but the truth," says Sun, standing next to Moon. Oh, so his name is Moon… thinks Celestia, facing Moon. She then looks at Sun. "And you must be?" "Sun," he says, nodding. Sun… Sun… thinks Celestia, tapping her chin with a hoof. "Sun, if what you're saying is true, then why does Luna not remember anything about Moon?" "Luna…" says Moon, his eyes widening. He then faces Sun. "Sun, please allow me to explain everything." Sun stares into Moon's eyes, the latter, facing Sun with a watery gaze. Sun then closes his eyes before opening them, looking at Moon with a soft glow within his gaze. "Aye," says Sun, smiling. Moon's eyes widen. He then closes his eyes and puts his lips on Sun's cheek. "Thank you," he says, removing his lips from Sun's cheek, opening his eyes, and smiles. Geh! The kissing again! thinks Highwind, his face burning red while coughing into a hoof. "Whoa, whoa, whoa! Why'd Moon kiss Sun!" says Rainbow, her cheeks turning bright red. "I don't know, but Rarity's missing out…" says Pinkie, blinking with a shade of red in her cheeks. "Well, that's somethin' you don't see often…" says Applejack, tilting her hat down with a hoof that covers her bright red face. "Oh my…" says Fluttershy, covering her beet red face with her hooves while her wings stretch out. "Fluttershy, your wings! Your wings!" says Twilight, pointing a hoof. "Uh, Twilight, your wings are out too," says Rainbow, lifting a brow. "O-oh, haha…" says Twilight, quickly folding her wings as red creeps from her chin to the tip of her ears. H-how could they do something so embarrassing like that in front of others! thinks Luna, her cheeks turning bright red while rubbing an arm with a hoof. Th-that was unexpected… thinks Celestia, her cheeks turning red while placing a hoof over her mouth. Moon then faces Luna and Celestia, frowning. "Forgive me, and I thank both of thee for thy patience." Luna shakes her head. "N-no, it's fine…" she says, coughing into a hoof. "There's no need to apologize," says Celestia, chuckling with a hoof over her mouth. Moon smiles and nods. "Now then, Sun and I have traveled here after receiving aid from the inhabitants of this world. Through our search, they informed us that we should be able to find the pony we have been searching for by meeting with the princess that resides in Ponyville." "U-um, excuse me!" says Twilight, waving a hoof. "And whom might thou be?" asks Moon, tilting his head. "I-I'm Twilight Sparkle," she says, placing a hoof on her chest. "I'm the princess you mentioned that lives in Ponyville." "Ah, so thou art the princess that resides in Ponyville," says Moon, smiling. "Yes, and I wanted to ask something. Did you and Sun come here to see me?" asks Twilight, pointing a hoof at herself. "Aye," says Moon, nodding. "Well, is there something you need from me?" asks Twilight, blinking. "Nay," says Moon, shaking his head. "It seems that Sun and I finally found what we have been searching for." "I'm guessing it's Princess Luna," says Twilight, rubbing her chin with a hoof. "Aye," says Moon with a small smile. "Um, do you mind if I ask where you both came from?" asks Twilight, rubbing her head with a hoof. "I mean, I've never seen you and Sun before-" "Twilight, I know you have questions, but could you let me handle this?" asks Luna, placing a hoof on Twilight's shoulder. "O-oh, um, sure…" says Twilight, frowning. She then walks over to her friends while hanging her head. But there's a lot of questions I wanted to ask Moon and Sun… "Now then, Moon, I don't know who you are, but you seem to know me personally. I'll ask the same thing as Twilight, where did you come from?" asks Luna, furrowing her brows. Moon blinks. He then slowly closes his eyes before opening them. "The Moon." "The Moon? And what about it?" asks Luna, raising a brow. "Time has passed since I last saw thee, and now I am finally able to speak to thee. Thou must be confused as to how I know thee. 'Tis given since thou hast not seen me in this form," says Moon, frowning. "I-I'm sorry, but you're not making any sense. What is this form you're talking about?" asks Luna, blinking. "At a time, thou were once inside the Moon…" says Moon with a small smile. "Wh-why are you bringing this up?" asks Luna with wide eyes. "Because I am the Moon…" says Moon with a soft glow within his gaze. "Is this some sort of… a joke to you?" asks Luna, tears welling up in her eyes. "Joke?" says Moon, tilting his head. "DON'T PLAY DUMB WITH ME!" says Luna as her powerful voice echoes throughout the room. "Ugh, I thought my ears were about to blow…" says Rainbow, rubbing her hooves on her ears. "Wh-why is Luna so angry all of a sudden?" asks Twilight, rubbing her ears with her hooves. "Huh? Did you say something, Twilight?" asks Pinkie, blinking her eyes and rubbing her ear with a hoof. "I said, why is Luna angry!" says Twilight, stomping a hoof. "What was that?" asks Pinkie, putting a hoof to her ear. "Ugh! Forget it!" says Twilight, placing a hoof over her face. "Um, Twilight?" says Applejack, nudging Twilight's shoulder with a hoof. "Huh? Oh, Applejack, what's wrong?" asks Twilight, blinking. "You might want to look at that…" says Applejack, pointing a hoof. Following Applejack's hoof, Twilight's eyes widen, seeing a flowing stream of tears trailing down Luna's face. "Why is she crying?" asks Twilight, frowning. "I don't know, but Moon probably said somethin' to make her that mad," says Applejack, shrugging. From afar, Celestia frowns as her eyes move back and forth between Luna and Moon. Why did Moon bring up that memory again? And why did he mention about being the Moon itself? Wh-why can't I stop crying? thinks Luna, wiping her tears with a hoof. Her eyes then quickly widen, noticing Moon reaching out a hoof towards her as she swipes his hoof away with her own. "How dare you try to take advantage of my carelessness!" she says, glaring. "Forgive me…" says Moon, frowning and lowering his hoof. "Please let me explain-" "And to tell another lie!" says Luna, baring her teeth. "Why… why do you constantly tell me lies! How can I believe such a ridiculous thing when you suddenly tell me that you're the Moon!" "I-I did not mean to cause thee any harm…" says Moon, furrowing his brows. "Enough! I already heard enough! Just stop it and leave me alone!" says Luna, closing her eyes as tears seep through them. Watching from a distance, Twilight frowns at Luna. Isn't there something I can do? she thinks, hanging her head. "U-um, Twilight?" says a voice. "Huh?" says Twilight, lifting and turning her head. "O-oh, hey, Fluttershy…" "You know, I've never seen Princess Luna this sad before…" says Fluttershy, rubbing an arm with a hoof. "Y-yeah…" says Twilight, frowning. "Do you think she will be okay after this?" asks Fluttershy, her brows gathering in. "I-I don't know…" says Twilight, closing her eyes and shaking her head. "Um, Princess Twilight?" says a voice. "Oh, Commander Highwind, did you need something?" asks Twilight, blinking. "About what you and your friend were talking about, do you mind if I say something?" asks Highwind, wrinkling his brows. "Sure…" says Twilight with a small smile. "About Princess Luna and Prince Moon, I kind of overheard their conversation just now, and I think I know why Princess Luna's like that…" says Highwind, rubbing a hoof behind his head. "Really?" asks Twilight with wide eyes. "What happened?" asks Fluttershy, blinking. "Prince Moon kind of brought up Princess Luna's past by mentioning about her imprisonment in the Moon. As for the rest of the conversation, I couldn't make it out…" says Highwind, sighing. "Oh my. So that's what happened…" says Fluttershy, placing a hoof over her mouth. "Wait, why is Moon bringing up Luna's past in the first place?" asks Twilight, lifting a brow. "I-I'm not sure…" says Highwind, sighing. "Well, I guess that explains why Luna suddenly got so mad. I mean, Luna was sealed away for a thousand years, and even I would get angry if some random pony brought up a memory that I wanted to forget…" says Twilight, frowning. "Y-yeah…" says Highwind, slowly nodding. "Then should we stop them?" asks Fluttershy, blinking. "No," says Twilight, shaking her head. "It'd probably be even worse if we interrupt…" "O-oh…" says Fluttershy, hanging her head. "Believe me, I'd like to try and do something, but all we can do is wait and see how things turn out, I guess…" says Twilight, dragging a hoof down her face. Celestia looks at Luna, frowning. Oh, Luna, I know what you're facing is difficult, but you have to overcome this yourself. Please stay strong… Why? Why must I go through that feeling again? It hurts so much just remembering being trapped… in that cold place! I thought I left it in the past and moved on! thinks Luna, closing her eyes and wiping her tears with a hoof. "Luna, forgive me…" says Moon, reaching out a hoof and places it on Luna's cheek. Luna's eyes quickly open, seeing Moon's hoof before glaring. "You… I told you not to touch-" Slowly, Luna's eyes widen as her surroundings fade away and turn pitch dark. "Wh-where is everypony! Tia! Twilight! Anypony!" says Luna, her lips trembling. She then stomps a hoof. "If this is a prank or something, then it's not funny! I'm serious!" As Luna's voice echoes through the darkness, she quickly looks left and right with her eyes shrinking. N-no! It's like when I was trapped inside the Moon! thinks Luna with tears trailing down her cheeks. She then closes her eyes and lifts her head. "Please! Anypony! Answer me! I-I don't want to be alone again!" Within the shadows, a light is seen far in the distance, which Luna slowly opens and squints her eyes. Her eyes then widen, opening her mouth at the sight of a blue planet, colored in a beautiful green. "Wh-what is this place?" asks Luna, looking left and right as her eyes reflect lights that flicker above. Luna then notices a light from the corner of her eyes. She turns her head, her eyes widening upon seeing a large light that casts its warm glow on her. "W-wait, is that the Sun?" asks Luna, blinking. Luna's eyes then widen as her surroundings turn dark, which she quickly closes her eyes. "Wh-why is it cold all of a sudden?" asks Luna, blinking her eyes open. She notices the ground colored in white and large craters that cover the surface around her. Turning her head, her eyes widen at a familiar blue planet in the distance. "Am I standing on… the Moon?" Once more, a blinding light appears as Luna quickly closes her eyes. Slowly, she opens her eyes as tears trickle down her face. "I-I can't believe it. That cold feeling, it's the same as your hoof. Moon, are you really… the Moon?" "Aye…" says Moon with a small smile. "You really are the Moon…" says Luna, rubbing a hoof on Moon's cheek, the latter, standing in place with a soft glow within his gaze. "W-wait, hold up a second! Luna looked like she was about to blow everything to bits! But now she's all touchy with Moon…" says Rainbow, rubbing her head with a hoof. "Beats me," says Applejack, shrugging. "But I'm glad she's not mad anymore," says Fluttershy, smiling. "You know, I'm kind of surprised that Rarity didn't wake up after all that noise earlier," says Pinkie, poking Rarity's cheek with a hoof. "And I thought I was a heavy sleeper…" says Rainbow, rolling her eyes. "Um, Twilight, do you know what happened to Luna?" asks Fluttershy, blinking. "S-sorry, I don't…" says Twilight, shaking her head. What's going on? Why did Luna suddenly change after Moon touched her? thinks Celestia, frowning. "Tia!" says Luna, running and stopping before her sister with a wide smile. "Wh-what is it, Luna?" asks Celestia, blinking. "Tia, you wouldn't believe this! That's Moon!" says Luna, pointing a hoof at Moon. "Luna, I already know his name is Moon…" says Celestia, furrowing her brows. "No!" says Luna, shaking her head. "What I mean is that he is the Moon! The very Moon I was entrusted to raise every night!" Wh-what is she talking about? thinks Celestia with an open mouth. "Luna, I'm sorry to say this, but how can he be the very Moon that brings the night?" "I-I know it sounds ridiculous, but please believe me!" says Luna, stomping a hoof. "And do you have proof?" asks Celestia, glaring. "N-no, I don't…" says Luna, hanging her head. "Luna…" says Celestia, sighing. "Please be honest with me-" "When he touched me…" says Luna, lifting her head and facing Celestia with an unwavering gaze. "When Moon touched my face, I saw something which convinced me that he is the Moon, something I've never seen before." "And that is?" asks Celestia, blinking. "A view of our world. A view that only he had seen for so long…" says Luna, frowning. A view of our world? thinks Celestia with wide eyes. "Luna, I don't understand. What are you talking-" "Don't you get it, Tia! Moon has always been watching over the world! And if you don't believe me, I'll prove it to you!" says Luna, stomping a hoof. She then turns her head, facing Moon. "Moon, could you touch my sister's face as you did to me?" "Aye," says Moon, nodding. He then walks before coming to a stop in front of Celestia. "Forgive me, but it seems that I have not heard thy name." "Celestia," she says, glaring. "Greetings, Celestia," says Moon, smiling. "O-oh, and to you as well, Moon," says Celestia, blinking. "Now then…" says Moon, lifting a hoof to Celestia's face. Seeing Moon's hoof getting closer, Celestia quickly shuts her eyes. She then slowly opens her eyes, blinking. "Luna, was something supposed to happen when Moon touches my face?" "Y-yes, you're supposed to see something…" says Luna with an open mouth. "But nothing happened…" says Celestia, frowning. "B-but it should've worked! I mean, when Moon touched my face, I was able to see it! Moon, are you sure you're doing it right!" says Luna, stomping a hoof. "Aye," says Moon, nodding and removing his hoof from Celestia's cheek. Then why didn't it work? thinks Luna, rubbing her chin with a hoof. Her eyes then widen, noticing Sun walking past her. Wh-what is he doing? As Sun walks, his eyes remain on Celestia. Noticing Sun, Moon moves to the side as Sun comes to a stop, towering over Celestia, the latter, meeting his eyes with an unwavering gaze. "Thy name is Celestia, correct?" asks Sun, tilting his head. "Y-yes…" says Celestia, frowning. "Now then, Celestia. As to what Moon has done to Luna, I shall do the same to thee. However, if thou dost not agree, then I understand," says Sun, smiling. How considerate… thinks Celestia, blinking. She then looks at Luna, seeing her watery gaze. "Luna, I-I'm not sure if I should go through with this…" "Tia, please give it a chance. I know Moon and Sun have no intention to harm anypony. Besides, I'm sure you'll see how important Sun is to you as to how Moon is to me…" says Luna with a small smile. "Luna…" says Celestia with wide eyes. She then lets out a sigh before facing Sun with an unwavering gaze. "Sun, if this will let me understand you and Moon, then please continue." "I see," says Sun, smiling. Reaching out a hoof, Sun places it on Celestia's cheek, causing her eyes to widen as the room around her turns dark. In the distance, a bright light comes into view, which Celestia shields her eyes with a hoof. "Is it over?" asks Celestia, lowering her hoof and blinking her eyes. Her eyes then widen, seeing a blue planet, colored with green, and a white glowing circle in the distance. This must be what Luna was talking about. There's the Moon, along with the world… At the corner of her eyes, Celestia notices a light and turns her head, her eyes widening upon a bright light in the distance. "Th-this warm feeling. That's the Sun…" says Celestia with an open mouth. Once more, a bright light appears as Celestia closes her eyes. She then opens her eyes, seeing Sun, smiling. "Now I understand. Sun, you're the Sun…" says Celestia with wide eyes. "Aye…" says Sun, nodding. "And you're the Moon…" says Celestia, facing Moon. "Aye…" says Moon, smiling. "Do you believe me now, Tia?" asks Luna, chuckling as she stands next to Moon. "Y-yes, and I'm sorry for doubting you, Luna…" says Celestia, frowning. "There's no need to apologize. Even I was suspecting Moon at first, but now I don't know what to say…" says Luna, facing Moon with a smile, the latter, smiling. "Neither do I…" says Celestia, facing Sun, the latter, tilting his head. "Now that we know who Moon and Sun really are, what should we do?" asks Luna, blinking. "Well, we should probably let Twilight and her friends know about Sun and Moon. It's the least we could do after making them wait," says Celestia with a small smile. "Ugh! I feel terrible for ignoring them this whole time…" says Luna, dragging a hoof down her face. "It's only right that we let them know-" "Forgive me, Luna, but is there food?" asks Moon, frowning and placing a hoof over his stomach. "Forgive me, Celestia, but I wish to eat as well…" says Sun, wrinkling his brows and putting a hoof over his stomach. "Maybe we should tell Twilight and her friends at the table," says Luna with a small laugh. "You're right," says Celestia, chuckling with a hoof over her mouth. She then turns her head, facing Twilight. "I'm so sorry for making you and your friends wait, Twilight, but please bring everypony to the table. Luna and I will explain everything that's happened so far." "Okay!" says Twilight, smiling. She then faces her friends. "Well, girls, you heard her. Let's go!" "Does that mean we get seconds?" asks Pinkie, licking her lips. "Uh, Pinkie, didn't you just eat a whole lot of cake and stuff when we got here, and all that popcorn you just ate?" asks Applejack, raising a brow. "Yeah, but everything in Canterlot is so good!" says Pinkie, jumping in the air. She then runs to the table, grabbing different pastries with her hooves and shoving them in her mouth. "Pinkie, Pinkie, Pinkie…" says Applejack, rolling her eyes before trotting off to the table. "Hey, Pinkie, stop eating everything and leave some for us!" says Rainbow, stomping a hoof. "Um, Rainbow Dash?" says Fluttershy, tapping her hooves together. "Huh? Oh, what's wrong, Fluttershy?" asks Rainbow, lifting a brow. "Well, what should we do about Rarity?" asks Fluttershy, frowning. "She's still sleeping?" asks Rainbow, blinking. "Yes, and she won't wake up…" says Fluttershy, nudging Rarity's side with a hoof. "Sheesh…" says Rainbow, rubbing the back of her head with a hoof. Her eyes then light up. "Oh, I got an idea!" "What is it?" asks Fluttershy, blinking. "Just watch!" says Rainbow, grinning. She then faces Rarity. "Hey, Rarity! Opal is scratching up your dresses again!" Rarity's eyes shoot open and quickly stands on her hooves, darting her eyes. "Not again! When I get my hooves on her, I'll… wait, where's Opal?" "So, you awake yet, Rarity?" asks Rainbow, snickering with a hoof over her mouth. "Rainbow, will you please stop making jokes like that!" says Rarity, stomping a hoof. Rainbow rolls her eyes. "Just hurry up! Twilight and the others are waiting for us!" she says, pointing a hoof. "Really?" asks Rarity, following Rainbow's hoof as her eyes widen upon seeing Sun and Moon. "Who? Wh-what? Where?" she asks as her breathing grows heavy. "Oh no! She's doing it again! Rarity, take deep breaths! Deep breaths!" says Fluttershy, flailing her hooves. Putting a hoof on her chest, Rarity quickly breathes in and out while fanning a hoof over her face. Her eyes then roll up as she places a hoof over her forehead before falling on the floor. "Not this time!" says Rainbow, catching Rarity with her hooves and lifting her up. She then pushes Rarity from behind with her head as Rarity slides over the floor while flailing her hooves. "W-wait, Rainbow Dash, I think my mane is a mess!" says Rarity, rubbing her mane with a hoof. "Looks good to me," says Rainbow, rolling her eyes. "B-but I think my makeup is ruined!" says Rarity, putting her hooves on her cheeks. "Don't worry about it!" says Rainbow, huffing. "NO!" says Rarity, closing her eyes as tears seep through them. "Oh, Rarity," says Fluttershy, giggling with a hoof over her mouth. Well, I'm glad everything turned out okay… thinks Highwind, smiling. He then turns and trots to the doors in front of him. "Highwind?" says a voice. "Huh? O-oh, Princess Celestia, did you need something?" asks Highwind, blinking. "Would you like to join us? We still have a lot of food," says Celestia with a small laugh. "Thanks for the offer, but I think I'll have to refuse since there's more work for me to do," says Highwind with a small smile. "Come now, a little break won't hurt. You deserve it after all the work you've done for the Royal Guard," says Celestia, chuckling with a hoof over her mouth. "W-well, if you say so, then I guess I'll accept your offer," says Highwind, smiling. Celestia smiles before turning and walking to the table, while Highwind hangs his head. Looks like I have a long day ahead of me… thinks Highwind, sighing. ________________________________________ Sitting at the dining table, everypony blinks their eyes, watching as Sun and Moon each use a hoof to bring a plate with a pastry on it. They then lower their head, squinting their eyes, while staring at the pastry before pushing them back to their respective spots. "Eh-hem," says Celestia, coughing into a hoof. "Everypony, as you may have noticed, we have two important guests that are here with us today." "No kidding…" says Rainbow, rolling her eyes. Lifting an arm, Applejack elbows Rainbow on the side. "OW! What was that for!" says Rainbow, rubbing a hoof to her side. "Just listen, okay?" asks Applejack, raising a brow. "Whatever…" says Rainbow, huffing. "Now then, allow me to introduce them. Sitting next to me is Sun," says Celestia, pointing a hoof to Sun. "Greetings," says Sun, nodding. "Sitting next to Luna is Moon," says Celestia, pointing a hoof at Moon. "Greetings," says Moon, smiling. "Sun, Moon, allow me to introduce the girls," says Celestia, pointing a hoof at Twilight. "You already met her before, but this is Twilight Sparkle." "It's an honor to meet you both," says Twilight with a smile. "Sitting next to Twilight is Applejack," says Celestia. "Pleasure to meet you both," says Applejack, tipping her hat with a hoof. "Next to Applejack is Rainbow Dash," says Celestia. "Hey," says Rainbow, lifting a hoof. "This is Fluttershy," says Celestia, pointing a hoof. "N-nice to meet you both…" says Fluttershy, bowing her head. "And this is Rarity," says Celestia, pointing a hoof. Lowering her head, Rarity faces the table as she fidgets with her hooves. "Rarity?" says Celestia, blinking. "O-oh! Yes!" says Rarity, quickly lifting her head. "Are you okay?" asks Celestia, frowning. "Y-yes! I'm quite fine!" says Rarity with a sheepish grin. "Rarity, can I say a few words to thee?" asks Moon, blinking. "O-of course, Your Highness!" says Rarity, nodding her head while sweat drips down her face. "'Tis important to tend to thy health. I do not wish to trouble thee over a simple matter as our greetings to one another…" says Moon, furrowing his brows. "Your Highness…" says Rarity with wide eyes. She then smiles. "Don't worry. I'm fine and thank you for worrying." "I see, and feel free to address me as Moon," he says, smiling. "I-I will!" says Rarity, grinning with bright red cheeks. It's amazing how polite Sun and Moon are… thinks Celestia, blinking. Moon, what else is there that I don't know about you? thinks Luna, facing Moon with a small smile. "Oh! Oh! I'm next!" says Pinkie, lifting a hoof. "Then I won't stop you, Pinkie. Go ahead," says Celestia, chuckling. "Hi, Sun! Hi, Moon! I'm Pinkie Pie! Nice to meet you!" says Pinkie with a wide smile. "So, when is your birthday? What kind of food do you like? Because cupcakes are my favorite! Oh! Maybe you guys should come over to Sugarcube Corner sometime! There are a lot of tasty things you should try there! And then maybe-" "Pinkie Pie, I'm sure you're eager to know more about our two guests, but please wait. There is an important matter that Luna and I must tell you and your friends," says Celestia, smiling. "Okay! I can wait!" says Pinkie, grinning. "Thank you," says Celestia, chuckling. "And last, we have a special guest with us, everypony. Sun, Moon, seeing as you already met him, allow me to introduce him once more. This is Commander Highwind and thanks for joining us," she says, pointing a hoof. "No, the pleasure is mine, Your Highness," says Highwind, bowing his head. "And it's an honor to eat with you both," he says, bowing his head to Sun and Moon. "Now that introductions are aside, everypony, there is something that my sister and I would like to discuss with all of you…" says Celestia, frowning. "Yes, and something that will change the way you see our world…" says Luna, furrowing her brows. "Wh-what is it?" asks Twilight, biting her bottom lip. "Now then…" says Celestia, sighing. "You see, Sun and Moon are actually the-" "Celestia?" says Sun. "Y-yes?" says Celestia, blinking. "Forgive me for interrupting, but is there any muffins?" asks Sun, tilting his head. "Muffins? Yes, we should have some, if I remember correctly…" says Celestia, darting her eyes on the table below. "Oh, about those muffins, Pinkie kind of ate them all…" says Applejack, glaring at Pinkie. "S-sorry!" says Pinkie with a sheepish grin. "I see…" says Sun, furrowing his brows. "Um, Sun, I know it's not a muffin, but would you like to try some of this bread? I think you might like it," says Celestia, pushing a plate of brown bread with a hoof. "What is this?" asks Sun, poking the bread with a hoof. "It's called banana bread. It's one of my favorites," says Celestia, smiling. "I see…" says Sun, lowering his head and biting a piece of the bread. His eyes then light up before closing them and chewing with a smile. "So, is it to your liking, Sun?" asks Celestia, blinking. Sun then gulps before facing Celestia with a small smile. "Aye." "I'm glad you like it," says Celestia, chuckling with a hoof over her mouth. She then faces Twilight and her friends. "Now then, everypony, what I'm about to tell you may seem a bit strange…" "Uh, I don't mean to be rude and all, but what are you talking about? I mean, with all the crazy stuff we dealt with back then, what could be weirder than that?" asks Rainbow, lifting a brow. "And I'm very grateful to you and your friends, Rainbow Dash. Without your friendship, we wouldn't be having a peaceful morning like this, so I hope you all continue to do your best," says Celestia with a small smile. "Sure thing!" says Rainbow, smirking. "So, Princess Celestia, what's so important about Sun and Moon here?" asks Applejack, blinking. "Oh, about that, Applejack," says Celestia, smiling. "You see, Sun and Moon are actually the-" Highwind's mouth drops on the table. "H-how bold!" says Rarity, placing her hooves over her mouth as red creeps from her chin to her ears. "Wh-whoa, I didn't see that coming…" says Rainbow with wide eyes and bright red cheeks. "Y-yeah…" says Applejack, tipping her hat down with a hoof as her hat covers her beet red face. "Oh my…" says Fluttershy, her cheeks turning red while placing a hoof over her mouth. "Okay, I can't miss this!" says Pinkie, bringing a camera from behind her with a hoof and holding it up to her face. She then uses another hoof and presses a button on the camera, causing a flash of light. "Pinkie!" says Twilight, glaring. "Ugh! Fine…" says Pinkie, tossing the camera to the side before folding her hooves. Twilight then looks at Celestia and Sun, her cheeks burning red while biting a hoof. O-oh my gosh! How can Sun just kiss her like that! I-I've never seen any stallion brave enough to make a move on Tia before… thinks Luna, her mouth hanging open while her cheeks turn red as an apple. "Sun, wh-why did you k-k-kiss me?" asks Celestia, her lips trembling as her face turns red while steam comes out her ears. "I have forgotten to thank thee for thy bread earlier," says Sun, smiling. "You kissed her for a dumb reason like that!" says Twilight, pounding a hoof on the table. Her eyes widen before placing her hooves over her mouth. "Nice one, Twilight…" says Rainbow, rolling her eyes. "Haha…" says Twilight, her cheeks turning red while rubbing a hoof behind her head. C-calm down, Celestia… she thinks, closing her eyes and sighing. She then opens her eyes, facing Sun with a small smile. "You're welcome." "Luna, forgive me, but what is that?" asks Moon, pointing a hoof. "Huh?" says Luna, following Moon's hoof. Her eyes come upon a donut on a plate, sitting below her. "Oh, that's a blueberry donut. It's actually a favorite of mine. Do you want to try it?" "Aye," says Moon, smiling and nodding. "I can see you're eager to have some," says Luna with a small laugh. Using a hoof, she pushes the plate with a donut to Moon. "Go ahead. Try some." Moon lowers his head and bites a piece of the donut below him. His eyes then light up before closing them and chewing with a smile on his face. "Guessing from your face, you like it, don't you?" asks Luna, smirking. "Aye," says Moon with a small smile. "I thought so!" says Luna, closing her eyes and puffing her chest. "It goes to show that blueberry is the best flavor for a donut-" Moon closes his eyes and puts his lips on Luna's cheek, the latter, her eyes widening. Highwind's mouth drops on the table, cracking it. "It's not fair! I wonder if Moon would do the same to me if I gave him something…" says Rarity, pouting with a shade of red in her cheeks. "Don't! I've seen enough mushy stuff for one day…" says Rainbow, gagging. "I-I have to agree with Rainbow on that…" says Applejack, her cheeks turning red while coughing into a hoof. "Is Moon still k-kissing Luna?" asks Fluttershy with her hooves over her beet red face. "Yeah! And somepony won't let me take a picture! Come on, Twilight, just one wouldn't hurt, right?" asks Pinkie, grinning. "NO!" says Twilight, pounding a hoof on the table. "M-Moon, why did you k-k-kiss me?" asks Luna with an open mouth. "To thank thee for the donut," says Moon, smiling. "You know, Luna, after what Sun did to me, you should've known that Moon would probably do the same if you gave him your donut," says Celestia, giggling with a hoof over mouth. "I didn't, okay!" says Luna, glaring with bright red cheeks. "U-um, Princess Celestia?" says Twilight, biting her bottom lip. "O-oh, Twilight, what's wrong? You don't look well…" says Celestia, frowning. "I-I'm fine! It's just… I-I don't want to ruin the mood and everything, but I thought you and Luna were going to tell us something about Sun and Moon?" asks Twilight, rubbing her neck with a hoof. "Ah, I-I'm so sorry, everypony! I can't believe I forgot about that…" says Celestia, placing a hoof over her face. "I have to apologize as well! Tia and I sort of lost track of things…" says Luna, tapping her hooves together as her cheeks turn into a shade of red. "More like flirting…" says Rainbow, rolling her eyes. Applejack lets out a sigh. She then lifts an arm and elbows Rainbow on the side. "OW! What the hay was that for!" says Rainbow, glaring and rubbing a hoof to her side. "Maybe be a little more considerate?" asks Applejack, raising a brow. "Whatever…" says Rainbow, folding her hooves. "I-I'm sorry about Rainbow, but could you continue to what you were saying, Celestia?" asks Twilight with a sheepish grin. "R-right!" says Celestia, coughing into a hoof. "Now then, as to what I was saying before. You see, Sun and Moon are quite special…" "Wait, how special are we talking about?" asks Pinkie, rubbing her chin with a hoof. "Like as in the fate of Equestria kind of special? Or maybe the special kind where the whole world is at stake-" "Pinkie!" says Twilight, glaring. "S-sorry!" says Pinkie with a sheepish grin. "Actually, Pinkie Pie is close," says Luna, blinking. "Really?" asks Twilight, lifting a brow. "Luna's right. Everypony, don't be alarmed, but this might change the way you see the world because Sun and Moon are actually… the Sun and Moon," says Celestia. "Uh, sorry for sayin' this, but… what?" asks Applejack with an open mouth. "I have to agree with Applejack, seeing that it sounds quite silly for them to actually be the Sun and Moon," says Rarity with a small laugh. "I'm afraid it's not some jest that my sister is telling, Rarity. It's hard to believe it at first, but I will say this myself. Sun and Moon are the embodiment of the Sun and Moon themselves. They are the very things that my sister and I have been raising day and night…" says Luna, frowning. "WHAT!" says Highwind with wide eyes. "O-okay, I take that back! Out of all the weird things we've dealt with, this one takes the cake!" says Rainbow, ruffling her mane with her hooves. "Wait, if Sun and Moon are here and the Sun and Moon in the sky are there…" says Pinkie before placing both hooves on her head. "Ugh! Just thinking about it is driving me crazy!" "Y-yeah, I think my head's startin' to hurt…" says Applejack, placing a hoof over her forehead. "Who would've thought that the Moon and Sun would become such… remarkable stallions!" says Rarity, dragging both hooves down her face. "That's what you care about?" asks Rainbow, lifting a brow. "Hmph! Don't judge me!" says Rarity, closing her eyes and placing a hoof over her chest. "I know it sounds like a funny joke, seeing that Moon and Sun, who are supposed to be in the stars, are now sitting and having breakfast with us," says Luna with a small laugh. "But that's not possible! Actually, how is that even possible? I thought the Moon was just a big rock, and the Sun, a giant ball of gas!" says Twilight, pounding her hooves on the table below. "Twilight, please calm down," says Celestia, frowning. "O-oh, sorry…" says Twilight, hanging her head. "Egghead…" says Rainbow, rolling her eyes. "Want me to elbow you again, Rainbow?" asks Applejack, glaring. "Okay! Okay! I'm sorry!" says Rainbow, sweat running down her face. "Twilight, I know it's hard to believe, but Luna and I are telling you all the truth…" says Celestia, furrowing her brows. "Um, can I ask something?" asks Fluttershy, lifting a hoof. "Of course, Fluttershy," says Celestia, smiling. "How did you know that they're the Sun and Moon?" asks Fluttershy, furrowing her brows. "Th-that's actually a good question…" says Luna, blinking. She then faces Moon, the latter, with his cheeks puffed out while chewing with a smile. "I don't know what to say…" "Did I ask something weird? I-I'm sorry…" says Fluttershy, hiding her face behind her mane. "No, don't apologize…" says Celestia, shaking her head. "It's just that I'm also finding it hard to put it into words…" "Actually, I think it's better if I tell you and everypony what I saw, Fluttershy. Since you and your friends were watching, do you remember seeing Moon putting his hoof on my face?" asks Luna, blinking. "Y-yes…" says Fluttershy, nodding. "Well, when Moon touched my face, I suddenly realized I was standing on the Moon, and in front of me was the world that we all live on. It came to me that this must be the view Moon has been looking at when he was up in the stars. B-but it also felt lonely at the same time…" says Luna, wrinkling her brows. Turning her head, tears well up in Luna's eyes as she watches Moon lifting a piece of cake with a hoof before shoving it into his mouth, and chewing with a smile. Moon, how are you able to live with yourself? How can you smile like that after watching the world for who knows how long? If it was me, I would… I would… thinks Luna, biting her bottom lip as tears stream down her face. "Luna, is something wrong?" asks Moon, frowning. "Huh? Oh! N-no! It's nothing!" says Luna, wiping the tears from her eyes with a hoof. "Luna, if there's something on your mind, would you like to talk about it?" asks Celestia, furrowing her brows. "It's really nothing! It's just something I remembered, that's all…" says Luna, rubbing an arm with a hoof. Just the thought of what Moon has been through is making me remember my imprisonment again… "Then if you're okay, I'll leave it at that," says Celestia, smiling. "Thank you, Tia," says Luna with a small smile. She then turns her head before bowing. "And I'm sorry for showing you all a shameful side of me…" "You don't have to apologize, Luna. If it's something hard to talk about, I understand," says Twilight with a smile. "Yeah, it's cool. I mean, we all have our days when we feel bummed out," says Rainbow with a small laugh. "Even I have it rough being in charge of the Royal Guard here every day…" says Highwind, sighing. "When I'm feeling down, I like to eat something good! Like this donut!" says Pinkie, lifting a hoof with a donut before shoving it into her mouth. "Well, when I'm feeling moody, I look at the bright side of things," says Rarity, smiling. "Don't you stuff your face with a bucket of ice cream when that happens?" asks Applejack, lifting a brow. "Yes, and thanks for telling every other pony here that didn't know!" says Rarity, glaring as her face turns red. "Oh, uh, sorry?" says Applejack with a sheepish grin. "If anything, it's me who should apologize…" says Fluttershy, frowning. "It's okay, Fluttershy. Especially to you all. Thank you," says Luna, chuckling with a hoof over her mouth. "Anyway, going back to Fluttershy's question, I saw the same thing as Luna. When Sun touched my face, I saw the world that we live on, and the Moon as well. However, I also felt something that convinced me that Sun is, well, the Sun. If I were to describe it, it felt warm and gentle, something I've felt many times whenever I raised the Sun. But it's still quite unbelievable, seeing as the Sun is sitting right next to me," says Celestia, facing Sun, the latter, lifting a plate with a slice of cake on it while tilting his head. "But even if you say that, Princess Celestia, it's still kind of hard to believe it all…" says Twilight, frowning. "True. But from all the things that happened here in Equestria, what else is there to be surprised about?" asks Celestia, raising a brow. "You know, she's got a point there, Twilight. A good one too," says Rainbow with a small laugh. "Yep," says Applejack, chuckling. "I agree," says Rarity, giggling with a hoof over her mouth. "Yeah, Twilight! I mean, think about all those baddies we dealt with back then! But we still got through it all!" says Pinkie, grinning. "D-don't forget that it was scary too…" says Fluttershy, frowning. "Ugh! Some friends you guys are…" says Twilight, rolling her eyes. It's amazing how Princess Twilight and her friends are able to joke around after putting their lives on the line. I guess that's why they're able to use the Elements of Harmony… thinks Highwind, smiling. He then turns his head as his eyes widen upon seeing Sun and Moon with their eyes closed while clenching their hooves against their stomach. "YOUR HIGHNESSES!" he says, slamming his hooves on the table below. "Hey! What's your problem, Highwind! I thought my ears were about to explode!" says Rainbow, rubbing her hooves on her ears. "That was certainly rude! And you scared poor Fluttershy!" says Rarity, stroking a hoof over Fluttershy's head, the latter, with her eyes closed and her hooves wrapped around Rarity as her body shakes. "I'm sorry! But there's something wrong with Prince Sun and Prince Moon!" says Highwind, pointing a hoof. Celestia and Luna quickly follow Highwind's hoof. Their eyes widen, seeing Sun and Moon groaning as they lower their head. "Moon! What's wrong!" says Luna, rubbing a hoof over Moon's back. "I-I do not know, but forgive me for worrying thee, Luna…" says Moon with a small smile. He then closes his eyes and clenches his teeth. "Enough! Don't talk anymore, Moon!" says Luna with tears welling up in her eyes. She then faces Celestia with shaking lips. "T-Tia! What's wrong with them!" "I don't know…" says Celestia, frowning and rubbing a hoof over Sun's back. "I-I have to apologize to thee as well, Celestia…" says Sun, furrowing his brows. He then closes his eyes and grits his teeth. "Don't speak, Sun. You'll be okay…" says Celestia with a small smile. "Commander Highwind, what happened to them!" says Twilight, pounding her hooves on the table below. "I-I don't know! I was just listening to you and your friends talking and they were suddenly like that!" says Highwind, biting his bottom lip. "I-is there anything we can do?" asks Rarity, wrinkling her brows. "Ugh! Isn't there some kind of doctor here in Canterlot!" says Twilight, ruffling her mane with a hoof. "Tia, what about Doctor Wiseheart? Maybe she can help since she usually stays in the castle," says Luna, furrowing her brows. "I'm afraid she isn't here. She recently went on a vacation with Melody and Lyrical, and she won't be back until tomorrow morning…" says Celestia, frowning. "I-I can't believe I forgot about that!" says Luna, dragging a hoof down her face. "Are you kidding me! Why is she on a vacation at a time like this!" says Rainbow, throwing both hooves in the air. "How about the city here in Canterlot? There must be a doctor that could help?" asks Fluttershy, blinking. "No, that wouldn't help…" says Luna, shaking her head. "And why's that?" asks Applejack, raising a brow. "Because the doctors in the city don't specialize in alicorns. As to what I asked my sister before, Doctor Wiseheart is the only doctor that treats alicorns. It's the very reason why she is staying here in the castle as our personal doctor…" says Luna, sighing. "Ugh! That's right! Cadance and I go to her for our checkups as well!" says Twilight, putting a hoof to her face. "Great! Then what are we supposed to do now!" says Rainbow, folding her hooves. "QUIET!" says Pinkie, pounding a hoof on the table. "Geez, you're all making so much noise that I can barely think!" "And what's your idea, Pinkie!" says Rainbow, glaring. "Well, first off, where's the nearest bathroom?" asks Pinkie, raising a brow. "Pinkie, this isn't the time to joke around! We have something much more serious to worry about than your bathroom break!" says Twilight, baring her teeth. "What are you talking about? The bathroom is for Moon and Sun," says Pinkie, blinking. "Wow, Pinkie, I knew you were weird and all, but I think you crossed the line on this one…" says Rainbow, lifting a brow. "Hey! I'm being serious about this!" says Pinkie, pouting. "Ugh! Then could you tell us why they have to use the bathroom?" asks Twilight, dragging a hoof down her face. "I'm glad you asked that, Twilight," says Pinkie, bringing a monocle from behind her with a hoof and places it over her right eye. She then brings a top hat and mustache from behind her before placing the hat on her head and the mustache under her nose. "W-wait, where did she get those?" asks Highwind, blinking. "Just ignore it. The others and I asked her the same thing, but all we know is that it's Pinkie being, well, Pinkie…" says Rarity, rolling her eyes. "Now then, the reason Moon and Sun are like that is very simple," says Pinkie, stroking her mustache with a hoof. "For the love of… Pinkie, quit the fancy talk and get to the point already!" says Rainbow, pounding a hoof on the table. "Okay, okay! Sheesh! Somepony's a party pooper!" says Pinkie, grabbing her hat, monocle, and mustache with a hoof before throwing it to the side. "What did you say?" asks Rainbow, clenching a hoof. "Stop it! Both of you!" says Twilight, glaring. "Hmph!" says Pinkie and Rainbow, folding their hooves. "Pinkie, please just tell us already, okay?" asks Twilight, sighing. "Fine…" says Pinkie, rolling her eyes. "As I said, the reason why Sun and Moon are like that is that they have a tummy ache." "Tummy ache?" says Applejack, lifting a brow. "Yeah," says Pinkie, nodding. "They probably ate too much, and just by looking at Sun and Moon's faces right now, it looks like they have to go-" Sun and Moon groan, wrapping their hooves around their stomach as their head falls on top of the table, causing all the plates with pastries to fly in the air before landing and scattering around the table. "On second thought, they need to go… badly!" says Pinkie, biting her bottom lip. "Then what are we waiting for? Let's go!" says Rainbow, unfolding her wings before taking off in the air and zipping straight to the dining room's doors. She then shows her face through the opening between the doors, blinking. "Um, which way is the bathroom?" "Oh, Rainbow…" says Twilight, rolling her eyes. ________________________________________ "Hey, we're here!" says Rainbow, pointing a hoof at a hallway. "It's a good thing the nearest bathroom is close by…" says Celestia, walking with Sun resting a hoof over her back. "And just in time too. Moon is a little heavy…" says Luna, walking with Moon resting a hoof over her back. "F-forgive me, Luna…" says Moon, furrowing his brows. "Moon, you don't have to apologize. I'm just glad I could help. More importantly, you should hurry and go," says Luna with a small smile. "Aye…" says Moon, removing his hoof from Luna's back and walks through the hallway. "Sun, you should hurry as well," says Celestia, smiling. "Aye…" says Sun, nodding. He removes his hoof from Celestia's back and walks through the hallway. Coming to a stop, Sun and Moon face each other. They turn and face Celestia, Luna, and the others, blinking. "Sun, Moon, what's wrong?" asks Twilight, blinking. "Forgive me, but what is this bathroom thou speakest of?" asks Sun, frowning. "Is there some sort of task that Sun and I must fulfill in this… bathroom?" asks Moon, tilting his head. W-wait, now that I think about it, if they're really the Sun and Moon, that must mean they don't know anything about this world! thinks Twilight with wide eyes. She then shakes her head. "Um, Sun, Moon, do you know how to use the bathroom?" "Nay…" says Sun, hanging his head. "Forgive us…" says Moon, furrowing his brows. "Come on! First, you have a sore stomach and now you don't even know how to use the bathroom!" says Rainbow, stomping a hoof. "What now?" asks Applejack, raising a brow. "W-well, Sun and Moon are both guys, and all of us are mostly girls, so… we can't just exactly go in there with them, you know?" says Twilight with a shade of red in her cheeks. "R-right…" says Rainbow, rubbing a hoof behind her head. "U-um, I have an idea…" says Fluttershy, tapping her hooves together. "Oh, what is it, Fluttershy?" asks Twilight, blinking. "M-maybe Commander Highwind could… teach them?" asks Fluttershy with a sheepish grin. "W-wait… me?" asks Highwind, pointing a hoof to himself. "Good idea, Fluttershy! Commander Highwind, could you please teach them?" asks Rarity, smiling. "H-hold on a second!" says Highwind, waving both hooves quickly. "Do I even have a say in this!" "Highwind, I don't mean to force you, but there's nopony else we can rely on besides you…" says Celestia, frowning. "I'm sorry, Highwind, but Tia's right. You're the only one here that can teach Moon and Sun…" says Luna, wrinkling her brows. "B-but I… I…" says Highwind, biting his bottom lip. He then hangs his head, sighing. "Fine…" "Thank you, Highwind," says Celestia with a small smile. "We're truly grateful," says Luna, smiling. "Y-yeah…" says Highwind, slowly nodding. He then walks over to Sun and Moon. "Your Highnesses, please follow me…" Nodding their head, Sun and Moon follow Highwind as they walk through the hallway before turning a corner. "D-do you think Commander Highwind will be okay?" asks Fluttershy, rubbing an arm with a hoof. "He'll be fine," says Applejack, waving off a hoof. "I kind of feel bad for making him do this…" says Twilight, rubbing the nape of her neck with a hoof. "Hey, can't help it," says Rainbow, shrugging. "Oh, anypony want to play a board game while we wait?" asks Pinkie, grinning. "And just where are we going to find one?" asks Twilight, raising a brow. "Don't worry, I have one right here!" says Pinkie, taking a square board out from behind her and setting it on the floor, showing different colored tiles on the board and cards lying on the side. "Monopoly, anypony?" "I'm game!" says Rainbow, sitting next to Pinkie. "Move over, Rainbow. You might not know, but I'm pretty good at this kind of games," says Applejack, sitting next to Rainbow. "I guess a game or two wouldn't hurt," says Rarity, sitting next to Applejack. "Oh, that looks fun," says Fluttershy, sitting next to Rarity. "That's an interesting game. Pinkie Pie, could you show me how to play?" asks Luna, sitting next to Fluttershy. "Sure!" says Pinkie with a wide grin. "I can't believe they're playing a board game at a time like this…" says Twilight, putting a hoof over her face. "So, how is my once faithful student?" asks Celestia, smiling. "Not so good, now that you ask…" says Twilight, sighing. "And why is that?" asks Celestia, blinking. "After becoming a princess, a lot of things happened since then. Everypony in Ponyville treats me differently compared to when I was just a unicorn. Not to mention how hard it is to sleep with these things on my back…" says Twilight, unfolding her wings. "I can agree with that," says Celestia with a small laugh. "But there is something bothering me…" says Twilight, rubbing her neck with a hoof. "What's wrong?" asks Celestia, frowning. "Well, ever since I became a princess, what am I supposed to do now? I mean, you and Luna are guiding everypony in Equestria, being rulers and all. Even Cadance is busy with the Crystal Empire, and here I am, having a tea party, well, which was supposed to be one…" says Twilight, hanging her head. "Twilight, I know that you're still searching for your path. Now that you're a princess, give it time and you will find your given role in this world one day. Besides, you have your friends, so try to enjoy yourself," says Celestia, chuckling with a hoof over her mouth. "You're right…" says Twilight with a small smile. "How long has it been since we've talked like this?" asks Celestia, blinking. "Back when I was still living here in Canterlot, I guess," says Twilight with a small laugh. "At that time, it was quite hard to teach you everything, you know?" says Celestia, lifting a brow. "Ugh! Don't remind me about it! I was just a filly back then…" says Twilight, pouting. "But those days will always be precious to me…" says Celestia, smiling. "Yeah, I'll always remember those fun times…" says Twilight, giggling with a hoof over her mouth. "However, Twilight, I've been wondering about something…" says Celestia, tapping her chin with a hoof. "What is it?" asks Twilight, blinking. "We may not be a teacher and student anymore, but you sometimes call me by honorifics. Honestly, we're friends now, so you can just call me by name," says Celestia, smiling. "I know, I know. Just a force of habit that's hard to forget…" says Twilight, rolling her eyes. "Well, I guess old habits are hard to leave behind," says Celestia with a giggle. "Anyway, I've been wondering, but what do you think about Sun and Moon?" asks Twilight, rubbing a hoof behind her head. "And why do you want to know?" asks Celestia, blinking. "I mean, they just showed up out of nowhere and said they're the Sun and Moon out of the blue. To be honest, I thought they were, you know…" says Twilight, twirling a hoof next to her head. "True. Even I thought they were suspicious at first, but that all changed when I found out who they truly were," says Celestia, smiling. "But it's still amazing, seeing that they're here and all! There are a lot of things that I want to ask them about!" says Twilight, clapping her hooves. "I see that your thirst for knowledge still hasn't changed," says Celestia, smirking. "I-I can't help it! I mean, you don't normally see two walking celestial bodies!" says Twilight, stomping a hoof. "Twilight, it's true that Sun and Moon were once the celestial bodies, but please keep in mind that they are living in the same world as us now. There might be things that they don't want to talk about…" says Celestia, furrowing her brows. "O-oh, right. But there's also one thing…" says Twilight, rubbing an arm with a hoof. "And that is?" asks Celestia, blinking. "I know I must be overthinking things, but when Sun and Moon asked about how to use the bathroom, it got me thinking that they might not know anything about the world we live in. It's like they were thrown here without any knowledge or guidance to help them…" says Twilight, frowning. "I think you might be right. There's still a lot we don't know about them…" says Celestia, wrinkling her brows. "Yeah, but I don't want to force them to talk. I mean, since they're the Sun and Moon, I'm guessing they were watching the world for a long time and must have a lot on their mind. The last thing I want is making them feel out of place or something…" says Twilight, sighing. "If we give them time, I'm sure they'll talk about it. Speaking of Sun and Moon, it looks like they finished," says Celestia, pointing a hoof. "Really?" asks Twilight, turning her head. In the front, Highwind walks with his head hanging as Sun and Moon follow behind. "Th-they'll be fine now…" says Highwind with dull eyes. "Uh, you don't look so good. Something happened?" asks Rainbow, raising a brow. "I've seen things that nopony should ever have to experience. Especially teaching two full-grown stallions on how to use the bathroom…" says Highwind, clicking his tongue. "Like what?" asks Pinkie, blinking. "I'll leave that to your imagination…" says Highwind, huffing. "Sun, Moon, are you feeling better now?" asks Fluttershy, smiling. "Aye," says Sun, nodding. "Highwind's aid was truly helpful in our time of need." "Highwind, perhaps Sun and I can show our gratitude to thee?" asks Moon, tilting his head. "NO! I-I mean, you don't have to, Your Highnesses! I'm just glad I could help!" says Highwind with a sheepish grin. Any more and I think I might lose my dignity as a guy! "It's a good thing it wasn't something serious…" says Luna, sighing. "Yeah! We thought you guys were done for or something!" says Rainbow, stomping a hoof. "Maybe slow down on the eatin' next time," says Applejack, smiling. "There was a lot of food. You both didn't have to rush," says Rarity, giggling with a hoof over her mouth. "But the food was truly interesting. Sun and I did not know there are many different things to eat," says Moon with a small smile. "Oh! Oh! I totally get it! I mean, when I see different food, I can't help but want to try them all!" says Pinkie, jumping up and down. "But be careful. We were very worried…" says Fluttershy, frowning. "Forgive us. Moon and I did not mean to worry thee…" says Sun, wrinkling his brows. "You don't have to apologize. We understand," says Celestia with a small laugh. "Um, I don't mean to ruin the mood or anything, but now what? I mean, after Moon and Sun's problem, they kind of messed up the whole table and stuff," says Rainbow, folding her hooves. "I know this might be off-topic, but what time is it?" asks Twilight, blinking. "It should be noon right now," says Highwind, tapping his chin with a hoof. "Noon?" says Rarity, rubbing her chin with a hoof. "Ugh! That's right! I still need to finish some dresses I promised some clients that would be ready this weekend!" "I forgot I still have to help out at Sugarcube Corner! We're having a sale at the moment…" says Pinkie, putting a hoof over her face. "And I have to go help out back at the farm. I kind of told Big Mac that I would be back around noon…" says Applejack, rubbing a hoof behind her head. "Ah!" says Fluttershy with wide eyes. "What's wrong, Fluttershy?" asks Rainbow, blinking. "W-well, now that I think about it, I forgot to feed the animals this morning…" says Fluttershy, sighing. "I thought you did?" asks Rainbow, lifting a brow. "It's because we were in a rush this morning, remember?" asks Fluttershy, frowning. "Oh yeah! Thanks to Twilight being a princess and all, we had some annoying ponies trying to take some pictures of us…" says Rainbow, huffing. "Honestly, those ponies taking pictures of us at Ponyville can't understand personal space!" says Rarity, stomping a hoof. "Even I was starting to get annoyed!" says Pinkie, rolling her eyes. "And scary…" says Fluttershy, placing a hoof over her shaking arm. "Sorry, but it kind of is your fault, Twilight…" says Applejack, rubbing a hoof on the side of her neck. "Hey! I didn't ask for any of that to happen!" says Twilight, stomping a hoof. "Yeah, yeah, Your Highness…" says Rainbow, rolling her eyes. "Pfft! Your Highness…" says Highwind with a small laugh. "And what are you laughing at!" says Twilight, baring her teeth. "N-nothing!" says Highwind, his face dripping with sweat. "Are Twilight Sparkle and the others usually like this?" asks Sun, tilting his head. "You get used to it," says Celestia, chuckling. "They are quite interesting…" says Moon, smiling. "And that's why I'll always enjoy their company," says Luna, giggling. "Oh, Princess Celestia, Princess Luna!" says Twilight, waving a hoof. "And what did we talk about?" asks Celestia, lifting a brow. "S-sorry, a force of habit…" says Twilight with a sheepish grin. "Anyway, we decided to head back to Ponyville, and thanks for inviting us over for breakfast!" "Well, if that's what you and your friends decided, then I guess I can't help it," says Celestia with a small smile. "Twilight, you and your friends are always welcome here. Oh, and a carriage should be waiting at the entrance of the castle," says Luna, smiling. "Thanks!" says Twilight with a wide smile. "Oh! Sun, Moon, it's been nice meeting you guys!" "Aye, the same to thee," says Moon, smiling. "Perhaps we will meet again," says Sun, nodding. "Don't worry. I think we'll be seeing each other again soon. Besides, there's a ton of things I want to ask you both! Oh, and you should meet Spike later on. I think he'd like to meet you guys," says Twilight, chuckling with a hoof over her mouth. Sun and Moon nod their head, which Twilight and her friends wave a hoof before turning and walking through the hallway. "Speakin' of Spike, where is the little guy?" asks Applejack, raising a brow. "Sleeping at home," says Twilight, rolling her eyes. "Well, he's still a growing dragon," says Rarity, giggling. "Hey, I have an idea!" says Rainbow with a grin. "No pranks, Rainbow," says Twilight, shaking her head. "Party pooper…" says Rainbow, clicking her tongue. "Hey! You copied me!" says Pinkie, glaring. "There they go. It feels quite lonely, now that they're gone…" says Luna, frowning. "They will return again. But more importantly, Luna, we still have two more guests with us," says Celestia, smiling. "I know, I know. Honestly, I'm worried about them more than Twilight and her friends…" says Luna, sighing. She then faces Moon and Sun. "Moon, what are you and Sun going to do now?" "I do not know. Sun and I only wished to find thee, Luna…" says Moon, furrowing his brows. "Hmm…" says Luna, tapping her chin with a hoof. "Do you have any place to stay for the time being?" "Unfortunately, Sun and I do not know any place we could seek shelter from…" says Moon, hanging his head. "And we do not want to trouble other ponies either…" says Sun, frowning. "Then would you like to stay here in the castle?" asks Luna with a small smile. "We would be truly grateful, but Sun and I do not want to trouble Celestia and thee any further…" says Moon, shaking his head. "Tia, are you fine with them staying in the castle?" asks Luna, blinking. "I have no reason to say no," says Celestia with a smile. There are some things I want to ask Sun as well… "There you have it! Moon, you and Sun won't trouble my sister and me for staying here in the castle. In fact, it would make the castle much livelier if you stayed," says Luna, chuckling. And for me as well… Moon's eyes widen. He then stands in front of Luna with a soft glow within his gaze. "Wh-what's wrong, Moon?" asks Luna with a shade of red in her cheeks. "Luna, thank you…" says Moon, closing his eyes and pressing his lips on Luna's cheek, the latter, her eyes widening. "Don't fall for him, Luna," says Celestia, smirking. "Sh-shut it!" says Luna, her face turning bright red while stomping a hoof. "Oh, Luna," says Celestia, chuckling with a hoof over her mouth. She then notices a shadow looming over her, seeing Sun with a radiant glow within his gaze. "O-oh, Sun, is something wrong?" "Celestia, it seems I must show my gratitude to thee as well. Thank you…" says Sun, closing his eyes and pressing his lips on Celestia's cheek, the latter, her eyes widening. "Oh, what is this? Is Tia finally falling for somepony?" asks Luna, snickering. "I-I'm not!" says Celestia, pouting with red cheeks. I-I have to give Prince Sun and Prince Moon credit. No guy would even try to make a move on the princesses like that… thinks Highwind, his cheeks turning red while rubbing a hoof behind his head. "A-anyway, now that everything is decided, I think we should prepare a room for them…" says Celestia, coughing into a hoof. "You should make that two. I mean, Moon and Sun are pretty big ponies…" says Luna, blinking. "I guess so. Oh, shouldn't they take a bath? They probably had a long day," says Celestia, tapping her chin with a hoof. "Forgive me, but what is a bath?" asks Moon, tilting his head. "Don't tell me you don't know what's a bath either?" asks Luna with an open mouth. "Unfortunately, there is much that Sun and I do not know about this world…" says Moon, hanging his head. "Aye…" says Sun, frowning and nodding. Twilight was right when she said that Sun and Moon don't know much about the world… thinks Celestia, furrowing her brows. She then turns her head, facing Highwind. "Um, Highwind, could I ask you a favor?" "Of course, Your Highness!" says Highwind, saluting. "Could you please show Sun and Moon how to properly wash in the bathhouse?" asks Celestia, smiling. "Wait, what?" asks Highwind with an open mouth. He then shakes his head. "I-I'm sorry, Your Highness, but for a second there, it sounded like you wanted me to show the princes how to take a bath…" "Yes, I'm asking if you could join Sun and Moon in the bathhouse and show them how to wash their bodies," says Celestia, blinking. I-I thought so! thinks Highwind, his face turning blue. "B-but, Your Highness, there's a lot of things I have to do today!" he says with a sheepish grin. "It's fine, Highwind. Tia and I will ask somepony else…" says Luna with a watery gaze. No! Don't give me those puppy eyes, Princess Luna! That's not fair! thinks Highwind, biting his bottom lip. He then hangs his head. "F-fine. I'll do it…" "Really? Thank you, Highwind," says Luna, smiling. "We're really grateful," says Celestia with a small smile. "Y-yeah, no problem…" says Highwind, slowly nodding. He then walks down the hallway. "Prince Sun, Prince Moon, please follow me…" "Aye," says Sun, nodding and walking behind Highwind. "Highwind, what must we do in this bath?" asks Moon, blinking and walking next to Sun. "I'll tell you both when we get there…" says Highwind, sighing. "Oh, Moon," says Luna, chuckling with a hoof over her mouth. "And what are you so happy about, Luna?" asks Celestia, smirking. "Ugh! I hate the face you're making right now…" says Luna, rolling her eyes. "But I've never seen you smile like this before," says Celestia with a small smile. "I can't help it. I mean, I finally found somepony that might understand me. Somepony that could relate to me all those years ago…" says Luna, gazing at Moon with a soft glow within her eyes. "Luna…" says Celestia, frowning and placing a hoof on Luna's shoulder. "And now, he's right there in front of me…" says Luna, tears welling up in her eyes. "I know how you feel…" says Celestia, looking at Sun with a radiant glow within her gaze. "Tia, throughout the years, I never thought I could enjoy life again. But this time, maybe I can look at it the same as I did long ago with Moon here…" says Luna as tears trickle down her face. "Oh, Luna…" says Celestia, pulling and wrapping her hooves around Luna. "S-sorry, Tia, but just let me stay like this…" says Luna, closing her eyes and nuzzling her face against Celestia's chest as the tears seep through her eyes. "It's fine…" says Celestia with a small smile. She then closes her eyes and rests her head on Luna's as tears seep through her eyes. You're right, Luna. Maybe life will be different from now on… To be continued…
Chapter 8New Day ________________________________________ Throughout Canterlot Castle, shadows cover the corridors as the sound of an aimless wind passes through the empty halls. However, a warm light emits from the large windows that span across the stone walls, whereas light chases the shadows, bringing the walls to a brightening white. Echoing through the air, the sound of hooves is heard as a shadow follows along a red carpet, stretching far through the hallway. The shadow then comes into the light of the hall, revealing a pink mare, gazing through the windows as green land stretches until meeting the borders of mountains, covered at the peak with snow. "I guess Tia's done raising the Sun for now," says the pink mare with a smile. She then sits before stretching her forehooves into the air. "Mmmm… it's so good to be back home again!" she says before standing to her hooves. "Oh, better hurry. I don't want Tia to scold me again, hehe!" The pink mare trots along the halls, turning her head from side to side as the stone walls and windows pass her view. "Hmm… I guess I didn't need to worry about the castle. All the girls did a good job keeping things nice and tidy while Lyrical and I was gone," she says, coming to a stop as her body shakes. "Geh, just thinking about it makes me wonder how angry Lyrical would get if the place wasn't kept in check…" The pink mare trots again, keeping her eyes on the stone walls passing by her eyes. "Let's see, Tia said that the room should be right around… here!" she says, coming to a stop next to a white door. "So, behind this door is one of these so-called 'princes' I've been hearing about. I even begged Tia and Lulu to tell me about them, but they just said I should see them for myself!" she says, throwing both hooves in the air before sighing. "Ah, whatever, it's better to see them than thinking about how they would look like." The pink mare then lifts a hoof before giving a few knocks on the door in front of her. "Hello? Is anypony there?" she asks before putting her hoof on the floor. "Hmm… I guess he's still sleeping," she says, blinking. The pink mare's horn begins to glow in a blue aura, which the same glow covers the gold doorknob in front of her, twisting it. "Oh, it's open…" she says as the door creaks across the floor. She then peeks an eye through the opening of the doorway, glancing from side to side. "Hey, if you're there, I'm letting myself in!" As the door opens in plain view, the mare's eyes dart about the room. "It's a bit dark in here…" she says, walking. She suddenly stops as her eyes lock in front of her, seeing a golden framed bed with a large lump on it, slowly moving up and down under the covers of a blanket. "That must be him…" she says, placing her hooves lightly on the red carpet below her. As the pink mare moves to the far side of the bed, she stops as her eyes widen at the sight of an alicorn with a dazzling blond mane, glittering under the faintest of light. "Wow, so this must be Sun, huh? Those rumors about his looks are nothing to joke at…" she says, blinking. She then grins. I just got an idea, she thinks with a chuckle. The pink mare turns around, walking towards a red curtain as her horn begins to glow blue, shrouding the curtain in a similar light. "Rise and shine, sleepyhead!" she says as the curtain quickly folds to the sides, covering the room in a blinding light. That should wake him up! she thinks with a giggle, turning around. Sun quietly breathes as his eyes were closed. Guess that didn't work… thinks the pink mare, pouting. She quickly walks to the bed, lifts a hoof, and nudges Sun's hoof. "Wakey-wakey, sleepyhead! Today's a new day!" she says with a grin. Once more, Sun quietly breathes as his eyes were still closed. Ugh! This guy is getting on my nerves! she thinks as a vein appears above her brow. She then leans over and grabs Sun's hoof before shaking it. "Wake up! Wake up! Wake up! Wake up! WAKE UP!" Sun's eyes slowly open, blinking them a few times. He then sees a pink hoof in front him, which his eyes roll up, meeting face to face with another, the latter, smiling. "Forgive me…" says Sun, blinking. "But whom might thou-" "Hold that thought," says the pink mare, lifting a hoof. "First, lift yourself up before asking that. It's considered rude to others if you don't." "Ah, forgive me…" says Sun, pushing himself up with his hooves. The blanket covered up to the nape of his neck slides off as he lies on the underside of his body, crossing his hooves. Wow, he's huge… thinks the pink mare, lifting her head, and blinking with a slightly open mouth. "Now then…" says Sun, looking down. "Whom might thou-" "Secondly," says the pink mare, lifting a hoof again. "It's rude if you don't introduce yourself first." Sun blinks his eyes. "Forgive-" "Third, you apologize too much," says the mare, lifting a brow. Sun hangs his head. "Hahahaha!" says the pink mare, falling on her back as she clutches her stomach. "S-sorry, but you're just so gullible!" The pink mare rolls onto her hooves, pushing herself up, and looks up to Sun. "A-anyway," says the pink mare, wiping away a tear under her eye with a hoof. "I know who you are, Sun. Oh, and my name's Lovely Melody, but call me Melody for short!" "Melody…" says Sun, blinking. "Mhm! Don't wear it out!" says Melody, grinning. "Now then, Melody…" says Sun, tilting his head. "Dost thou-" "Fourth," says Melody, lifting a hoof. "I'm here because Tia sent me." "Dost thou mean Celestia?" asks Sun. "Yeah, but 'Tia' for short," says Melody. "Ah…" says Sun, blinking. "Luna has addressed Celestia the same. I have been meaning to ask, but why do Luna and thee address Celestia in that manner?" "Because it's cute," says Melody with a chuckle. "Cute?" says Sun, tilting his head. "Ah…" says Melody, blinking. That's right. Tia did say something about making things simple for Sun to understand. I don't know why, but she said she would explain it later. "Melody?" says Sun. "Oh, sorry," says Melody, rubbing a hoof behind her head. "Don't think about it too much. I just like calling Tia that because I want to. As for Lulu, it's just easier for her than saying Tia's full name," she says before rolling her eyes. Talk about lazy, if you ask me… "When thou mention Lulu, dost thou mean Luna?" asks Sun. "Yep," says Melody, nodding with a smile. "I see…" says Sun. "Then does that mean I am able to address Celestia in a similar manner?" Hmm… I wonder how that would go? thinks Melody, tapping her chin with a hoof. She then grins. "Sure, I bet she would like that!" Sun smiles. "Then-" "On one condition," says Melody, lifting a hoof. "Say it when you see her, okay?" "Aye," says Sun, nodding. Wait, if I remember, the other prince's name is Moon. Maybe I should have him do the same to Lulu, thinks Melody, smirking. "Melody?" says Sun. "Eh-hem," says Melody, coughing into a hoof. "Yes?" she says with a smile. "Since Celestia has sent thee, then dost thou require something of me?" asks Sun. "Oh, right. Let me start over again. Sun, as you already know my name, I'm here to greet you as one of the head maids and personal maid to Tia," says Melody. "I… do not understand…" says Sun, blinking. "Let's just say I'm one of the ponies in charge of keeping the castle the way it is and to help Tia whenever I'm needed," says Melody with a soft smile. "I see…" says Sun. "Anyway, Tia has sent me to wake you up and bring you over to the dining room for breakfast. She also mentioned something about 'banana bread.' I don't know why, but Tia said that you would understand if you hear it," says Melody, rubbing her head with a hoof. Drool begins to seep through the sides of Sun's mouth. Oh, that's what Tia meant. Sun's just too honest with himself, thinks Melody with a chuckle. "But first, we'll have to get you ready for the day." "What dost thou mean?" asks Sun. "Well, let's see…" says Melody, pointing a hoof. "Your mane is a mess, and your eyes look like some dead fish. Since you're an alicorn, it's polite to make yourself presentable to others. I'm sorry, but your bread will have to wait," she says, sitting and folding her hooves. And your breath stinks! "I see…" says Sun, frowning. Pffft! Too easy! He's too easy to read! thinks Melody, chuckling with a hoof over her mouth. "Then what tasks must I do to… prepare for the day?" asks Sun, blinking. "Don't worry! Just leave it all to me!" says Melody, standing to her hooves with a grin. ________________________________________ Hanging from a ceiling is a crystal chandelier, reflecting a soft glow of light, coming from behind a red curtain to the far side of a dark room. However, a white door, with little light coming from under it, is blocked out by a shadow. Upon the door's gold doorknob, a pink aura covers it, twisting itself as the door creaks across the floor. As the door is fully opened, a shadow reveals itself as its pink eyes dart about the room while standing at the entrance of the doorway. The shadow's eyes center itself and begin to trail through the darkness, passing a golden framed bed with a large blue lump, slowly moving up and down, before coming to a stop in front of a red curtain. Suddenly, the shadow lifts itself, placing two of its limbs upon the red curtain, moving it aside, and revealing a dark mare, standing in front of the bright light that covers her and the entire room. Turning her head, her eyes meet ice blue ones, the latter, staring at her with half-lidded eyes. "Good morning, Moon," says the dark mare. "Greetings…" says Moon, blinking. "Forgive me, but whom might thou-" "Before I answer your questions, please lift yourself up from your bed," says the dark mare. "Ah, forgive me…" says Moon, pushing himself up with his hooves. "Now then… whom might thou be?" "As to your question, my name is Lyrical Note, but you may call me Lyrical if you wish. I'm also one of the head maids and Luna's personal maid," she says, bowing her head. "Greetings, Lyrical," says Moon with a smile. "But… forgive me. I do not understand this 'maid' thou speakest of." "Simply know that I'm responsible for keeping this place as it is now, and to always help Luna whenever I'm needed," says Lyrical. "I see," says Moon, nodding. "However, Lyrical, dost thou require something of me?" "Ah, yes. Luna has sent me in her place to wake you up, seeing that it's almost time for breakfast," says Lyrical. "Breakfast?" says Moon, tilting his head. "Luna has said that you would understand if I mentioned 'blueberry donuts,'" says Lyrical. Moon's mouth slightly opens as drool dangles from the sides of his mouth. "It seems that you understand. However, Moon, there is something I must ask you," says Lyrical. "What is thy question?" asks Moon, blinking. "When I entered your room, I noticed that you were sleeping without a blanket over yourself. Is there a reason why?" asks Lyrical. "Ah, forgive me…" says Moon, frowning. "I must have forgotten since the bed felt quite pleasant after resting myself on it." "I understand," says Lyrical, nodding. "However, I advise you to use the blanket next time. It would cause a commotion if a pony of your stature were to become sick." "Sick?" says Moon, tilting his head. "If I were to put it simple, it's something very, very unpleasant, and Luna would also be very worried," says Lyrical. "Ah, I do not want to worry Luna…" says Moon, drawing his brows in. "I would not want to worry her either. Now that you understand, please get out of bed and follow me. I will assist you in preparations for the day," says Lyrical, turning and walking towards the door. However, Lyrical suddenly stops as her ears twitch at the sound of a loud thump. She turns her head, seeing Moon lying flat on his face while his hooves were tangled by his blanket. "Are you okay?" asks Lyrical. Moon lifts his head, blinking. "Ah, forgive me, Lyrical. I did not mean to startle thee…" "It's fine," says Lyrical, sighing. "But you should be more careful next time. It would be troubling if you were to injure yourself." "Forgive me…" says Moon, hanging his head. "It's fine," says Lyrical. Her horn begins to glow pink, covering the tangled blanket around Moon's hooves in the same aura, which disappears in a flash of light and appears on Moon's bed, neatly tucked away. "Interesting…" says Moon, blinking his eyes. "It's only a simple spell. It's not something that you should be impressed by," says Lyrical. "Nay," says Moon, shaking his head. "There are many things in this world that I wish to learn. 'Tis why I am truly glad to be able to walk upon it," he says with a smile. "I see…" says Lyrical. Maybe this is why Luna has spoken highly of him. "Lyrical, is something troubling thee?" asks Moon, tilting his head. "No, it's nothing," says Lyrical, shaking her head. "But more importantly, Moon, we must hurry. Luna is awaiting our arrival." "Aye," says Moon, pushing himself up with his hooves. "However, Lyrical, what preparations must we prepare for the day?" Upon Moon's question, Lyrical's eyes move from Moon's unbrushed coat to his curly mane. "Lyrical?" says Moon, blinking. "Oh, don't worry. Leave everything to me," says Lyrical with a glint in her eyes. ________________________________________ "U-um, sorry, Sun…" says Melody, rubbing her arm with a hoof. "I guess I kind of went too far…" "'Tis fine…" says Sun, placing a hoof on the side of his cheek. "Though 'brushing the teeth' is quite unpleasant…" "A-anyway, let's hurry! Tia and the others are waiting for us!" says Melody, quickly turning and trotting. "Aye," says Sun, nodding. Melody and Sun walk through the vast castle, passing halls with a large display of windows on the side of the walls, showing the city of Canterlot as the purple rooftops of buildings glitter while spiraling towers of gold reflect the warm sunlight under the blue sky. "Isn't it amazing?" asks Melody, stopping as she gazes through the windows. "I never get tired of this view." "Aye," says Sun, stopping behind Melody, and staring at the city below. "Words cannot describe it." "Right?" says Melody, her eyes growing soft with a smile. "And to think Tia was keeping this place safe for a thousand years by herself. Well, until Lulu came back." "Aye…" says Sun, drawing his brows together. "Hmm?" says Melody, facing Sun. "Hey, what's wrong?" she asks, wrinkling her brows. "Did I say something weird?" "Does that mean Celestia and Luna were not by each other's side for that period of time?" asks Sun, lifting his head, and staring at Melody with watery eyes. "Oh… yeah. It's not exactly a happy story, now that you mention it…" says Melody, drooping her shoulders. "But don't you already know about it?" "Aye…" says Sun, frowning. "And which I have come to know that Celestia is the same as I…" he says, walking ahead. Wh-what? What did he mean by that? thinks Melody with wide eyes. She then quickly faces Sun. "Wait! What did you mean-" "Melody, we must hurry, correct?" asks Sun, tilting his head. "U-uh, yeah, that's right!" says Melody with a smile. I guess it's best if I don't ask him. After all, it's probably something he doesn't want to talk about… "Melody, is this perhaps the correct path?" asks Sun, pointing a hoof. "Ah, wait, Sun! That's the wrong way!" says Melody, running ahead. As Melody and Sun walk through the large white halls of Canterlot Castle, they occasionally pass by maids using cloths, covered in a similar light to the maids' lit horns, which are seen in the air as it wipes the large windows throughout the halls, while other maids are seen with a pair of a broom and dustpan, sweeping away the long halls of the castle. However, upon seeing Sun, the maids' lit horns quickly lose their glow, causing their tools to drop to the floor as they stare with wide eyes and flushed cheeks. Hmm… thinks Melody, her eyes looking to her side on Sun. Well, looking at him now, I guess it's obvious that any mare would find him to their tastes. But I never thought it was to the point that some maids almost dropped those expensive pieces of glass for the castle's windows. It's a good thing I was there… she thinks, sighing. "Melody, are we perhaps there?" asks Sun. "Huh? Oh! Yeah, we're almost there. Just around this corner," says Melody. "I see…" says Sun with drool seeping to the sides of his mouth. "You really want that bread, huh?" asks Melody, raising a brow. "Aye," says Sun, smiling. Hehe. It's funny how Tia's the same when it comes to one of her favorite treats, thinks Melody with a small smile. "Well, don't worry. I'm sure there's a lot for you-" "Oh, Melody, you just got back from your vacation?" asks a voice. "Huh?" says Melody, facing the voice. Her eyes come upon a white pony with dark circles under his eyes, sitting to the side of a two-golden door. "Oh, hey, Highwind. And yeah, I just got back early this morning. But… what's wrong? Didn't get enough sleep?" she asks, raising a brow. "Don't worry about it…" says Highwind, rubbing a hoof under his eye. "Oh, and why did your cold-hearted sister tell me to come here, even though I'm so busy with the Royal Guard." "Hey, she's not that cold!" says Melody, stomping a hoof. "Anyway, Tia and Lulu wanted you to come here, and told Lyrical to go find you." "Oh, that's why," says Highwind, sighing. "Anyway, good morning, Your Highness," he says, facing Sun. It's because of you and Prince Moon's so-called 'gratitude' that I couldn't sleep! "Good… morning, Highwind. Forgive me, but is this 'good morning' thou speakest of perhaps the same as goodnight?" asks Sun, tilting his head. Great! Here's the first question of the day! thinks Highwind, sighing. "Yes, Your Highness, but just remember that it's used early in the day. Oh, there's good afternoon as well, but it's used during the middle of the day when… well, you'll know when to use it when the Sun is really high up in the sky," he says, rubbing his head with a hoof. Well, there's good evening as well, but I'm too lazy to explain it… "I see…" says Sun, nodding. "Perhaps I should let Moon know this." Yeah, you do that. That will save me the trouble, thinks Highwind, rolling his eyes. "U-uh, Highwind, not to butt in and all, but why were you explaining something so, well, common?" asks Melody, blinking. "Oh, that's right. You don't know about Prince Sun and Prince Moon's situation…" says Highwind, rubbing a hoof down his face. "Um, yeah. I mean, I just met this guy," says Melody, poking a hoof to Sun's side. "Should I know about something?" "It's not my right to say anything, and I bet the princesses would rather explain it themselves," says Highwind. "Oh, Tia did say that…" says Melody, tapping her chin with a hoof. "Then why ask me about it?" asks Highwind, raising a brow. "Oops, forgot," says Melody, hitting herself softly on the head with a hoof, winking, and sticking her tongue out. Annoying… thinks Highwind, frowning. "Highwind, forgive me, but where is Moon?" asks Sun, wrinkling his brows. "Oh, he's not here yet, Your Highness. Don't worry, I'm sure he'll be here soon," says Highwind, smiling. "You know, smiling with your eyes like that is kind of creepy…" says Melody, shivering. "Shut it!" says Highwind, glaring. "Anyway, knowing Lyrical, I thought she would be here first," says Melody, rubbing a hoof to her head. "She's the type to-" "MELODY!" says three voices, echoing throughout the hall. Melody, Highwind, and Sun face the voices, seeing three familiar mares in a black and white dress running towards them. As the three mares close in, they suddenly jump towards Melody with their hooves in front of them. "GAH!" says Melody as she and the three mares skid across the carpet floor. "Why is it always like this?" asks Highwind, sighing. Sun tilts his head at the four mares below him; a yellow mare, nuzzling against Melody's face, a lime mare, nuzzling against Melody's neck, and a blue mare with tears flowing down her cheeks as she rubs her face against Melody's chest. "Melody, you're finally back!" says the yellow mare. "It's nice to see you too, Vera," says Melody, rubbing a hoof over Vera's mane. "You were gone for too long!" says the lime mare, glaring. "Truce, we were only gone for a month," says Melody, raising a brow. "I don't care! Make it shorter next time!" says Truce, pouting. "Welcome back, Melody," says the blue mare, smiling, and wiping her tears with a hoof. "Thanks, Risky," says Melody with a smile. "Eh-hem," says Highwind, coughing into a hoof. "Not to ruin the moment and all, but would you guys stop it?" "Don't be such a buzzkill, Highwind!" says Truce, glaring. "Yeah, why should we?" asks Vera, narrowing her eyes. Highwind rolls his eyes. "I know you guys are happy to see Melody, but don't just ignore our more important guest," he says, pointing a hoof. Following Highwind's hoof, Vera, Truce, and Risky see Sun staring down at them, which their eyes shrink as they quickly stand to their hooves. "U-um, good morning, Prince Sun!" says Vera, grinning. "S-sorry! We didn't see you there…" says Truce, rubbing a hoof behind her head. "We're just happy to see Melody after so long," says Risky with watery eyes. "Do not apologize. I understand that thou hast longed to see Melody because I wish to see Moon as well," says Sun, smiling. "Speaking of Prince Moon, where is he, Your Highness?" asks Vera, blinking. "I… do not know…" says Sun, frowning. "Oh, don't worry, Sun. Moon's probably with Lyrical now because Lulu sent her to get him," says Melody, standing to her hooves. "Oh great… I forgot that since Melody's back, the evil sister should be here too…" says Truce, biting a hoof. "H-hey, Lyrical's not that bad!" says Melody, stomping a hoof. "She's just too shy to admit her-" "Admit my what?" asks a voice. Highwind, Vera, Truce, and Risky shudder at the voice, which they crane their heads, seeing a familiar dark mare. "Oh, hi, Lyrical!" says Melody, waving a hoof. "We were just talking about your- BLEH!" she grunts as Lyrical hits her on the head with a hoof. Vera, Truce, and Risky quickly cuddle, holding each other with their hooves as their bodies tremble. "Will Melody be all right?" asks Sun, drawing his brows in. "Don't worry, it's always like this…" says Highwind, sighing. "Ow! Lyrical, that hurts…" says Melody with tears in her eyes. "Then don't make up any lies about me," says Lyrical. "What?" says Melody, blinking. "But-" "Do I have to repeat myself?" asks Lyrical, clenching a hoof. "N-no, sorry…" says Melody, hanging her head. "Now that my annoying older sister is quiet, I see that we have quite the crowd here. Is there any reason for that, Highwind?" asks Lyrical. "H-hey, I just came here like you asked, so don't drag me into this!" says Highwind, his face dripping with sweat. "And what about you three?" asks Lyrical, facing Vera, Truce, and Risky. "W-we just came to say hi to Melody!" says Vera, smiling as sweat runs down her face. "Y-yeah, that's all!" says Truce, quickly nodding her head. "Um, it's g-good to see you again, Lyrical…" says Risky with a wide grin. "The same to you three as well," says Lyrical, nodding. She then faces Sun. "You must be Sun, correct?" "Aye, and thou art Lyrical, I presume?" asks Sun, tilting his head. "Yes," says Lyrical, nodding. "Greetings, though forgive me, but where is Moon?" asks Sun, frowning. "Ah, he should be behind me," says Lyrical, turning around, seeing nopony in sight. "Please wait a moment, Sun," she says, walking ahead before turning a corner, and waving a hoof. "I'm over here." "Ah, forgive me, Lyrical. The view of Canterlot is most interesting," says a familiar voice. "It's fine, but please do not wander off next time. However, it seems there's somepony waiting to see you," says Lyrical, taking a few steps back, and pointing a hoof. Appearing from the corner of the hall, a blue alicorn steps out in sight, gazing at Sun with wide eyes. "Moon…" says Sun, smiling with a radiant glow in his eyes. "Sun…" says Moon, smiling with a watery gaze. He then slowly walks up to Sun, lifting his face as his muzzle is within reach of Sun's. "We are together once more…" Slowly, Sun presses his head against Moon's as they gaze into each other's eyes. "Moon, I missed thee…" says Sun. "Thou missed me?" asks Moon, blinking. "As we parted ways, I did not understand, but… Celestia explained that the discomfort I felt is because I wished to see thee, to stand by thy side once more…" says Sun, wrinkling his brows. Moon frowns, saying, "Forgive me, Sun. Even though I told thee to follow Highwind to thy room, it pained me to see thee leave. It seems that I missed thee as well…" "But now we are together, and I wish to tell thee of what I learned," says Sun, smiling. "Aye, and I wish to do the same," says Moon with a smile. Looking at Sun and Moon, Highwind had a hoof over his face, while Vera, Truce, Risky, and Melody's mouths were on the floor. However, Lyrical watches from afar in silence. Those two… I can't believe they're doing it again! thinks Highwind, removing his hoof from his face with flushed cheeks. "Wh-wh-what's going on? Wh-why are they so close to each other?" asks Vera, her face brightening as red creeps from her chin to the tip of her ears. "Forget that! I want them to do that to me too!" says Truce, biting the neck area of her dress and stretching it. "Oh my…" says Risky, covering her bright red face with her hooves, but peeks through the gap between her hooves. Lyrical taps her chin with a hoof. "Maybe it's because they're lover-" "NO!" says Melody, quickly putting a hoof over Lyrical's mouth. "Don't make it more confusing than it already is!" "Will you guys be quiet!" says Highwind, stomping a hoof. He then walks past the mares, stopping in front of Sun and Moon. "Prince Sun, it was only just for the night, but now you're back with Prince Moon again. It wasn't that long, right?" he asks with a smile. "Aye," says Sun, smiling. "However, Highwind, 'twas thee that helped in my time of need. And for that, thank you." "O-oh, it was nothing…" says Highwind, turning and rubbing the back of his head with a hoof. Wait, did he say thank you? Uh-oh… he thinks, his eyes shrinking. "Prince Sun, wait! There's no need to thank-" Highwind's eyes widen at the soft touch of Sun's lips pressing against his cheek. He then looks up, his eyes meeting Sun's gentle gaze as his cheeks turn red. Moon smiles, however, Lyrical, again, quietly watches from the side, while Vera, Truce, Risky, and Melody's mouths, this time, drop on the floor, cracking it. Ugh! I can't believe I forgot all about that! thinks Highwind. Oh no! Those girls might misunderstand something! he thinks, his face dripping with sweat. He quickly turns around, only to come face to face with Truce, the latter, glaring at him with lifeless eyes. "W-wait, Truce! I can expla-" "Why do you get a kiss from one of the two hottest ponies in Equestria!" says Truce, wrapping her hooves around Highwind's neck tightly. "Oh, I get it! You just wanted to do all the favors for them, so you can keep all the kisses for yourself!" "Highwind, is that true?" asks Vera with a cold gaze. "Wow, I didn't know you swing that way, Highwind…" says Melody, shuddering. "S-sorry, Highwind, I don't know what to say…" says Risky, averting her gaze. "Death sentence," says Lyrical, sliding a hoof across her neck. "W-wait, what! No!" says Highwind, putting his hooves on Truce's, struggling from her grip. She's really trying to kill me! Sun frowns as he stops next to Truce and Highwind, placing a hoof over Truce's. "Forgive me, little one, I believe we have not met." "Huh?" says Truce, looking up. "O-oh, Your Highness, I guess I didn't introduce myself before," she says, releasing her grip on Highwind's neck. S-saved! thinks Highwind, putting a hoof around his neck, and gasping. "And what is thy name?" asks Sun. "It's T-Truce…" she says, circling a hoof over the floor with red cheeks. "Greetings, Truce. However, 'tis I that should apologize to thee…" says Sun, furrowing his brows. "Wh-what for?" asks Truce, blinking. "It seems that I have caused much trouble for Highwind, and I do not wish to see Highwind harmed," says Sun. "N-no, it's not your fault, Your Highness. I guess I went a little too far…" says Truce, rubbing a hoof behind her head. "A little?" says Highwind, raising a brow. "Will you shut it!" says Truce, glaring. She quickly faces Sun again. "A-anyway, it's me who should apologize," she says, smiling. "Thank you," says Sun, placing his lips over Truce's cheek. Truce's eyes change into heart shapes. "I can finally die happy," she says, sighing. "See, Truce, you finally got what you asked for," says Risky, smiling. "I wouldn't be too sure about that," says Vera, giggling. "About what?" asks Risky, blinking. "Well, look," says Vera, pointing a hoof. "Uh, okay?" says Risky, looking to her side, only to see blue. She slowly looks up, meeting a pair of ice blue eyes. "P-Prince Moon, do you n-need something?" she asks with wide eyes. "If I remember, thou art the pony that had given me a towel, correct?" asks Moon, tilting his head. "Y-yes, Your Highness!" says Risky, nodding her head quickly. "I still have yet to hear thy name," says Moon. "I-it's Risky!" she says as her breathing grows heavy. "Risky, I see. Now then…" says Moon, placing his lips on Risky's cheek. Oh dear, oh dear, oh dear, oh dear! thinks Risky, her face coloring into a bright red. She gapes as Moon pulls his lips away, gazing at her with gentle eyes. "Thank you…" says Moon, smiling. "Y-you're welcome…" says Risky, covering her red face with her hooves. "Aren't you glad you got one too, Risky?" asks Vera, chuckling. "Y-yes…" says Risky, placing a hoof over her cheek. "And what is thy name, little one?" asks Moon, facing Vera. "Indeed. Moon and I have yet to hear thy name," says Sun. "Oh, I'm Vera! Sorry that we forgot to tell you our names before…" she says, rubbing her arm with a hoof. "'Tis fine," says Moon, smiling. "And greetings, Vera," says Sun with a smile. "Hehe…" says Vera, rubbing the back of her head with a hoof. "It's nice to meet you both-" "Hey, Vera. Mind explaining about the whole, you know, kisses earlier?" asks Melody, raising a brow. Lyrical nods her head. "Oh, about that…" says Vera with red cheeks, and rubbing her arm with a hoof. "It's just Prince Sun and Prince Moon's way-" "I'm guessing that's the princes' way of thanking somepony," says a sudden voice. Quickly looking at the voice, a green eye peeks through the gap between the slightly open doors behind them. The two gold doors quickly shroud itself in a green light, creaking across the floor, revealing a green mare walking out before the doors behind her closes. "Wiseheart!" says Vera, running before wrapping her hooves around Wiseheart. "It's nice to see you too, Vera," says Wiseheart with a chuckle. "How long were you there?" asks Melody, raising a brow. "Oh, you know, from the whole 'kissy thing' with Highwind, Truce, and Risky," says Wiseheart with a smirk. "Then you were there this whole time…" says Melody, sighing. "H-how was your vacation?" asks Risky with bright red cheeks. Please forget about that embarrassing thing… "It was nice since Melody and Lyrical were with me. Well, except that Melody was always trying out different foods and getting an upset stomach," says Wiseheart, sighing. "But it was so good!" says Melody with a grin. Lyrical rolls her eyes. "Anyway, Highwind, what are you doing?" asks Wiseheart, raising a brow. "Oh, don't mind me…" says Highwind, waving a hoof while pressing his head against the wall in front of him. Now rumors will spread about me and the princes… "Truce, hi!" says Wiseheart, waving a hoof. "Kisses…" says Truce with a deep sigh. Wiseheart rolls her eyes. "And last but not least, Sun and Moon. I'm Doctor Wiseheart, but please just call me Wiseheart. It's nice to finally meet you both," she says, bowing her head. "Greetings, Wiseheart," says Moon, smiling. Sun nods his head, smiling. "Tia and Lulu have told me a lot of you both," says Wiseheart, smiling. "Lulu?" says Moon, blinking. "Oh, about that. Moon, lower your head for me a bit," says Melody. "Aye," says Moon, lowering his head. Melody then whispers into Moon's ear. "I see…" says Moon, nodding. "Do that, okay?" asks Melody with a grin. "Aye," says Moon, smiling. "Hey, what did you just tell him?" asks Lyrical, glaring. "Nothing," says Melody, whistling. "Don't blame me for whatever happens," says Lyrical, sighing. "Anyway, everypony, Tia and Lulu are waiting in the dining room, and there's much to explain about Sun and Moon," says Wiseheart. "What about me, Risky, and Truce?" asks Vera. "Of course! I already asked Tia and Lulu since I heard you three behind the door," says Wiseheart, smiling. "Sweet! That means no cleaning for the day!" says Truce, clapping her hooves. "Do you want more work to do?" asks Lyrical, raising a brow. "I-I mean, after hearing from Princess Celestia and Princess Luna!" says Truce, her face dripping with sweat. "Anyway, everypony, follow me!" says Wiseheart. Wiseheart's horn begins to glow green, shrouding the two gold doors behind her in a similar light as it creaks across the floor. Opening in full view, Wiseheart walks through, while Sun, Moon, and the others follow behind. In the dining room, a chandelier hangs from the ceiling as a long and wide table sits in the middle of the room, layered with a wide display of pastries across the table. However, sitting at the sides of the end of the table were two alicorns; one with a rainbow mane and another with a flowing purple mane, sitting in wait with a smile. "Tia, Lulu, we're here!" says Wiseheart with a grin. "Hello, everypony," says Celestia, smiling. "Wiseheart, would you please stop calling me that," says Luna, glaring. "But it's so adorable!" says Wiseheart, giggling. "Right?" says Melody with a grin. "Why me?" asks Luna, sighing. "Now then, please make yourselves comfortable, since Luna and I have a lot to explain," says Celestia, gesturing a hoof. "And there's plenty of food to go around," says Luna, smiling. "Come on, girls!" says Vera, licking her mouth before running ahead. "Vera, don't you dare go for those crème puffs! I saw them first!" says Truce, running ahead. "Please wait!" says Risky, running ahead, only to fall flat on her face. She quickly jumps onto her hooves, shaking her head, before running again. "Honestly, those three don't have any manners…" says Highwind, trotting ahead with a sigh. "Please save some of those crème puffs for me too!" says Wiseheart, which the green glow over her horn fades as the doors behind her closes. She then trots towards the dining table. "Please settle down, everypony. There will be more," says Celestia with a chuckle. She then faces Sun. "Sun, please sit next to me. There's something I want to show you." "And you too, Moon," says Luna with a smile. "Aye," says Moon, smiling. Sun nods his head. Sitting next to their respective alicorns, Sun and Moon look over the variety of pastries across the table, however, their faces begin to turn into frowns. "Moon, is this what you were looking for?" asks Luna, pushing a plate of blueberry donuts with a hoof. Moon's eyes begin to widen. "Aye," he says, drooling. "Thought so," says Luna with a small laugh. "Sun, as for what I said before, here's the bread I promised," says Celestia, pushing a plate of banana bread with a hoof. Sun and Moon quickly lower their heads, taking a huge bite from their respected pastries. They close their eyes, chewing their food with a smile on their faces. "Tia, Lulu, aren't those your favorites?" asks Melody, tilting her head. "Well, yes, but now it seems there's somepony else who enjoys them as much as me," says Celestia, facing Sun with a soft smile. "And I'm really glad to be able to meet him," says Luna, facing Moon with a soft glow in her eyes. "Luna, is there something that you and your sister wanted to discuss with us?" asks Lyrical. "Ah, about that," says Luna, tapping her chin with a hoof. "Tia and I wish to tell you all about Moon and Sun's-" "Lulu, is there perhaps more of these?" asks Moon with a donut on his hoof. "Forgive me, but I wish to have more of this bread, Tia," says Sun before lowering his head and taking another bite of his pastry. "T-Tia?" says Celestia, blinking with red cheeks. "Moon, wh-what did you just call me?" asks Luna, glaring with bright red cheeks. Sun swallows before saying, "Is it fine to call thee Tia?" he asks, tilting his head. "And I wish to call thee Lulu," says Moon, smiling. "NO! I-I mean, Moon, please don't call me that!" says Luna, her face turning red as a cherry. It's really embarrassing when you're the one who's saying it! "Sun, p-please do the same. However, did somepony convince you to do this?" asks Celestia, her face as bright as an apple. "Aye," says Sun, nodding. "Who?" asks Luna, glaring. "'Twas Melody," says Moon, pointing a hoof. Looking at the said pony, Celestia and Luna glare while baring their teeth. "Uh-oh…" says Melody, her eyes shrinking as sweat drips from her brows. "Nothing, you said," says Lyrical, rolling her eyes. "I-it was only a joke, hehe…" says Melody, rubbing her head with a hoof. "And a joke I won't take too kindly…" says Luna, clenching a hoof. "Melody, after this is over, I want to have a word with you…" says Celestia, tapping the table with a hoof. "Well, it was all worth it in the end!" says Melody, grinning. Not to mention the look on Tia and Lulu's faces! Celestia and Luna sigh before each pushing another plate of their favorite pastries to Sun and Moon, which they quickly take a bite and chew with a smile once more. "Now then, everypony, as to what I was going to say before, I will now explain about Sun and Moon," says Luna. "Oh, are they from some other place we haven't heard about before?" asks Vera with beaming eyes. "Or maybe they're searching for a special somepony, so they can bring them back with them to their own kingdom!" says Truce, clapping her hooves. "No," says Luna with a bitter smile. "Aww…" says Vera and Truce, hanging their heads. "U-um, I never saw ponies like Prince Sun and Prince Moon before, and they are the first alicorns I've seen that are stallions," says Risky. "A very good point, Risky," says Luna, smiling. "It's because they are the first ones my sister and I have actually met." "Wow, really?" asks Melody, blinking. "However, Sun and Moon are much more than it meets the eye," says Celestia, furrowing her brows. Highwind droops his shoulders, while Wiseheart lowers her head with wet eyes. "I'm guessing it's something not very happy," says Lyrical. "Unfortunately, yes," says Luna, wrinkling her brows. "That's why Tia and I are about to share this because we believe you all will be able to help them in the future." "Then lay it on us! I'm sure we're ready to handle it!" says Melody with a wide smile. "I'm sure you all will," says Celestia, smiling. "Now then, let's start from when Luna and I first met Sun and Moon…" ________________________________________ "WAHHHHH!" says Melody, tears spraying from her eyes like a fountain. "I-I wasn't ready for that!" "Wh-what kind of story is that?" asks Vera, wiping away a large stream of tears from her eyes with both hooves. "Th-that's way too cruel!" "H-how could anypony go through a life like that!" says Truce, grabbing a napkin from the table with a hoof and blowing her nose into it. "I-it's much sadder than any story I've heard when I was a filly!" "I-I don't know what to say…" says Risky, tears falling from her face into a small puddle on the table below. "Melody, stop crying. You're getting my mane wet," says Lyrical, pushing her sister away with a hoof. "B-but I can't!" says Melody, wrapping her hooves around Lyrical. "It's just so sad!" "W-well, I can understand…" says Wiseheart, wiping her tears away with a napkin. "When I heard about what Sun and Moon went through, I couldn't help but cry myself…" "Yeah, just hearing it again is still a lot to take in…" says Highwind with teary eyes. "Everypony, just take a moment to calm yourselves," says Celestia with a small smile. "But, Tia, Moon and Sun really did go through a lot…" says Luna, facing Moon, the latter, taking another bite from a donut on his hoof, which his lips were covered with glaze. "I know. It really does make our past seem small in comparison to theirs…" says Celestia, facing Sun, the latter, with crumbs of bread over his cheeks as he chews. "Um, Princess Celestia, Princess Luna, is it all right to tell us about this?" asks Vera, drawing her brows together. "Yeah, I mean, it sounds like something that shouldn't be made light of, especially how rumors tend to spread like wildfire in Equestria…" says Truce, rubbing her head with a hoof. "Fair point. I wouldn't want ponies all over the place talking about my life's story…" says Highwind, frowning. "I bet it's boring anyway," says Truce, smirking. "I agree," says Lyrical, nodding. "This is why I hate you both the most!" says Highwind, baring his teeth. "Anyway, excluding that Twilight and her friends already know of Sun and Moon's situation, Luna and I have discussed this and it seems like it was a better idea to tell a few select ponies for now," says Celestia. "But why us? I can understand Wiseheart since she is a doctor that specializes in alicorns," says Melody, blinking. "Melody, you're my personal maid, and a friend I have known for years now. It's because of this that I trust you completely, and I wish for you to do the same for Sun," says Celestia, smiling. "Hehe…" says Melody, her cheeks turning red as she rubs the back of her head with a hoof. "The same for you, Lyrical. It may not have been as long as Tia and Melody, but ever since I came back to Canterlot, you were amongst the first ponies to stay by my side. Please treat Moon the same as you did with me," says Luna, smiling. "I would be honored," says Lyrical with a small smile. "Highwind, though you already know of Sun and Moon's past, since Shining Armor appointed you as his second in command of the Royal Guard here at Canterlot, you've been loyal and exceeded Luna and my expectations time and time again. That's why I hope for you to give some guidance to Sun and Moon when they need it," says Celestia, smiling. "I would be glad to help, Your Highness!" says Highwind, puffing his chest out and saluting. But I hope I don't have to teach Prince Sun and Prince Moon things like how to use the bathroom or to wash themselves again… "Vera, Truce, Risky…" says Luna, facing the said ponies. "Yes, Princess Luna?" asks Vera, Truce, and Risky. "Out of all the maids that Lyrical and Melody are in charge of, you three have shown much promise," says Luna. "Really?" says Vera and Truce with beaming eyes. "In what way?" asks Risky, fidgeting with her hooves. "The friendship between you three rivals that of Twilight Sparkle and her friends. That's why Tia and I are wondering if you three would help Sun and Moon in the future," says Luna. "Sure!" says Vera, clapping her hooves. "I would be glad to help," says Risky with a small smile. "Well, I do want more kisses, hehe…" says Truce, grinning with reddish cheeks. "And what about me? Do I get a very emotional speech too?" asks Wiseheart, raising a brow. "No," says Celestia with a smirk. "Tia and I have no words for the pony that we owe our lives to," says Luna, chuckling. "You know me well," says Wiseheart, raising her head high. Everypony in the room laughs, except for Sun and Moon who were still chewing with a smile on their faces while rows of stacks of plates were lined up next to them. "Moon, your face is dirty again…" says Luna, sighing. Her horn glows in a blue light as a napkin from the table lifts itself up in a blue light, and flies to Moon's face, wiping away the glazes from his lips and cheeks. "Sun, slow down. There's still more bread," says Celestia with a small smile. Her horn glows in a yellow light as a napkin in a similar light flies to Sun, wiping away the crumbs from his cheeks and lips. "Ah, thank you, Luna," says Moon, pressing his lips against Luna's cheek. He then pulls away, facing Luna with a smile. "Celestia, thank you as well," says Sun, pressing his lips against Celestia's cheek. He also pulls away, facing Celestia with a gentle smile. "O-oh, you're welcome…" says Luna, her face turning red as she fidgets with her hooves. "I-it's the least I could do…" says Celestia, averting her gaze with a small shade of red in her cheeks. "Oh-ho! This is the first time I've seen Tia and Lulu this close to another stallion," says Wiseheart, smirking. "It looks like Cadance won't be the only alicorn that has a special somepony now," says Melody, giggling. "They're a match made from the stars themselves," says Lyrical, nodding. "I can hear the wedding bells ringing!" says Vera with a wide grin. "They would make a perfect couple," says Risky, smiling. "Aww, I want a kiss too!" says Truce, biting a hoof. Ugh, mares… thinks Highwind, rolling his eyes. "I-it's not like that!" says Luna, stomping a hoof. "Moon is important to me, b-but not in that kind of way!" "Aye, Luna is important to me as well," says Moon, smiling. "Oh, but Moon thinks of you in the same way," says Wiseheart, smirking. "MOON, BE QUIET!" says Luna, glaring with red reaching the tip of her ears as bright as a cherry. "Everypony, please don't tease me and my sister," says Celestia, sighing. "And what do you think of Sun, Tia?" asks Wiseheart with a small smile. "He is somepony that I can relate to in many ways, and somepony I can talk to as equals, but that is all," says Celestia. "And what about you, Sun? What do you think of Tia?" asks Wiseheart. "Celestia has taught me many things about this world and myself. 'Tis for that reason I wish to be of some use and to stand by Celestia's side," says Sun with a small smile. "Wow! That almost sounds like a proposal to me!" says Melody, giggling. "Tia, Sun's opinion of you is very honest. That's a plus in my book," says Wiseheart with a chuckle. Celestia lowers her head, staring at the table below with bright red cheeks. "Anyway, all jokes aside, there are some things I want to know," says Wiseheart. "And that is?" asks Luna, blinking. "How old are Sun and Moon? How are they able to speak in that manner without raising their voice? Many things," says Wiseheart. "And how will you do that?" asks Truce, tilting her head. "I'll show you, but I need Sun and Moon's permission if that's all right with the both of you?" asks Wiseheart. "Aye," says Moon, smiling. "Of course," says Sun, nodding. "Great!" says Wiseheart, standing to her hooves. She then walks towards Moon, stopping in front of him. "Moon, please lower your head for me." Nodding, Moon lowers his head, while Wiseheart closes her eyes and presses her horn against Moon's. Soon, Wiseheart's horn begins to glow green before covering Moon's entire body in the same light. "Um, what's she doing?" asks Vera, blinking. "It looks like some kind of scanning magic," says Highwind, rubbing his head with a hoof. "Close, but it's entirely different," says Celestia. "Then what kind of magic is it?" asks Risky. "Apparently, Wiseheart covers her patients' bodies in her magic, which allows her to see these colorful lights," says Luna. "And what are these 'colorful lights'?" asks Truce, tilting her head. "The lights show information about her patients' bodies through various colors, but it's a unique type of magic that only Wiseheart can use," says Celestia. "But why doesn't she use it on other ponies in the castle? I'm sure it would be easier for her," says Vera, tapping her chin with a hoof. "She once tested it, but the pony who volunteered fell asleep for a whole day. However, alicorns are different since their bodies tend to hold a much larger amount of magic than normal ponies," says Celestia. "It's this very reason why Tia and I decided for her to be our personal doctor, especially for other alicorns like Twilight Sparkle and Cadance," says Luna. "Wow, that's kind of cool…" says Truce with wide eyes. Afterward, the green light around Moon's body fades away as Wiseheart opens her eyes. "That's strange…" says Wiseheart, rubbing her head with a hoof. "Is something wrong with Moon?" asks Luna, wrinkling her brows. "I'm not sure, but I want to check Sun's body too," says Wiseheart, walking towards the said pony. "Sun, please lower your head." "Aye," says Sun, lowering his head. "It'll last a few seconds," says Wiseheart, pressing her horn against Sun's, which his body begins to glow in a green light. She then opens her eyes, blinking. "Okay, now that's weird…" "Will Sun and Moon be okay?" asks Celestia, drawing her brows in. "Oh, they're fine all right. But the thing is, despite their appearances, Sun and Moon are actually… newborns…" says Wiseheart, rubbing her head with a hoof. "WHAT!" shouts everypony in the room, while Sun and Moon tilt their heads. "Surely you jest, Wiseheart," says Luna, blinking. "Oh, believe me, I'm not," says Wiseheart, pointing a hoof to Sun and Moon. "In fact, as of today, those two are now two days old." "But what about their appearances? They don't look like newborns," says Celestia. "That's what boggles me. Sun and Moon may be two days old, but their bodies are already matured for their age," says Wiseheart. "Honestly, I'm not even surprised anymore. I mean, they are the 'Sun and Moon.' What else is there to know?" asks Highwind, shrugging. "Oh, the fact there's nothing in Equestria that compares to their mental state," says Wiseheart, raising a brow. "Come again?" asks Highwind, blinking. "It's frightening, but…" Wiseheart trails off, facing Sun and Moon with tears flowing down her cheeks. "Seeing as they were in the stars, I can't imagine how they were able to stay sane after so long…" Looking at Sun and Moon, Celestia and Luna begin to frown. "O-oh…" says Highwind, hanging his head. "However, I did find something else," says Wiseheart, wiping away her tears with a hoof, and smiles. "They're siblings." "Oh yeah! I was wondering if they were related or not! But thanks for telling us!" says Melody with a grin. "Oh, but here's my favorite part!" says Wiseheart, tapping a hoof to Sun's neck. "Have you all wondered how Sun and Moon are talking without yelling all the time?" "Yeah, it's kind of weird, now that you mention it," says Vera, tapping her chin with a hoof. "They're actually using magic that gives their voice that soft echo you hear all the time!" says Wiseheart, clapping her hooves. "Isn't it just a simple amplify spell then?" asks Luna, blinking. "Yes, but it's quite different. There's some kind of powerful magic inside their throat that won't weaken over time," says Wiseheart, rubbing her head with a hoof. "But, Tia, Lulu, if you're considering trying to disperse that magic, don't." "Why?" asks Celestia, wrinkling her brows. "Even I'm not sure what might happen…" says Wiseheart, furrowing her brows. "Even so," says Luna, facing Moon. "Moon, at least you're on your way to learning magic now," she says, smiling. "Aye," says Moon with a smile. "But I do want to try this magic myself…" says Luna as her horn begins to glow blue, covering her neck in a similar light before fading away. "Now then, everypony, how do I sound now?" "Wow, that's amazing, Princess Luna! You're talking like Moon and Sun!" says Truce, clapping her hooves. "I'm impressed that you were able to figure out that sort of magic so quickly," says Wiseheart, blinking. "Well, I am a princess, and I should be capable of this," says Luna, raising her head. Celestia rolls her eyes. "Eh-hem," says Luna, coughing into a hoof before facing Moon. "What dost thou think, Moon? I am now speaking in the same manner as thee," she says with a smile. "Thou art speaking as thou hast spoken then. A time that I recall when thou were in the Moon. 'Tis that very day that I truly am glad to meet thee, Luna," says Moon, smiling with a soft glow in his eyes. "Wh-wh-what are you saying!" says Luna as red rises from her chin to her ears. "I-it's me who should say that…" she says, tapping her hooves together. "Honestly, you're so adorable when you're embarrassed, Lulu," says Celestia with a giggle. "Stop teasing me, Tia! And you called me by that name again!" says Luna, baring her teeth. "Aww, don't worry, Lulu! You and Moon can go flirt more afterward!" says Melody with a chuckle. "Ugh!" says Luna, stomping a hoof. "I hate you both- OW!" she says, rubbing her neck with a hoof. "Luna, what's wrong?" asks Lyrical, frowning. "I'm not sure, but hold on…" says Luna as her horn begins to glow blue, covering her neck in a similar light before fading away once more. "Oh, now I see. Using this kind of magic puts a strain on your throat." "If that's true, then it's surprising how Moon and Sun are still using that kind of magic," says Wiseheart. "Celestia, couldst thou perhaps use the same magic as Luna?" asks Sun. "Well, yes, but why do you ask?" asks Celestia, blinking. "Forgive me, but I wish to hear thee speaking in the same manner," says Sun, smiling. "Oh, nice one, Sun!" says Melody, clapping her hooves. "Tia, I'd like to see that too!" "I'm sorry, Sun, but I would like to pass on that…" says Celestia, rubbing her arm with a hoof. "'Tis fine…" says Sun, hanging his head. "Oh, don't be like that, Tia. It's just a small favor," says Wiseheart with a small smile. "And it's been many, many years since I last heard you speaking in the royal voice. It would be nice to hear it again," says Luna, smiling. "I want to hear it," says Lyrical. "Oh, oh, me too!" says Vera with a smile. "Just once won't hurt, Princess Celestia!" says Truce with a grin. "I would like to hear it too," says Risky, smiling. "What's wrong with you guys!" says Highwind, glaring. "If Princess Celestia says she doesn't want to, then don't force her-" "I'll dump a bucket of ice water over you when you're sleeping from now on," says Lyrical with cold eyes. "O-oh, uh, on s-second thought, Princess Celestia, I'd like to hear it too!" says Highwind, grinning with sweat dripping from his brows. "Fine, I'll do this just once…" says Celestia, sighing. Her horn begins to glow yellow, covering her neck in a similar light before fading away. "Sun, art thou satisfied with my voice?" "Aye," says Sun, nodding. He then presses his lips to Celestia's cheek before pulling away. "Thank you," he says, smiling. "Y-you're welcome…" says Celestia, her cheeks a shade of red while rubbing an arm with a hoof. "Oh come on, Tia! Talk some more!" says Melody, pouting. "If thou continue to pester me, then know that thy punishment shall not be a light one…" says Celestia, glaring. "Stingy…" says Melody, clicking her tongue. "Idiot," says Lyrical, hitting Melody's head with a hoof. "OW! Lyrical, what was that for?" asks Melody, rubbing her head with a hoof. "Don't push it," says Lyrical, glaring. "You know, Tia, the way you talk is almost like you're a completely different pony," says Wiseheart, blinking. "That's why I didn't want to do this…" says Celestia as her horn begins to glow yellow, covering her neck in a similar light before fading away again. "It doesn't suit me." "Right? It suits Lulu better than you," says Melody with a small laugh. "And what do you mean by that?" asks Luna, glaring. "Oh, you know, 'Listen, my little ponies, for I am the Princess of the Night! Now, hear me roar!' Or something like that! Bwahahahaha!" says Melody, falling on her back and kicking her hooves in the air. "O-oh my gosh, th-that actually sounds like her…" says Truce, her eyes tearing up with both hooves over her mouth. "Ahahahaha!" she says, clutching her stomach with her hooves and kicking the air. "Mmph!" says Highwind, quickly putting a hoof over his mouth. His face begins to turn red as his cheeks puff out. He then falls on his back and kicks the air with his hind legs. "Gahahahaha!" "S-sorry, Lulu, but that's actually how I see you," says Melody with a chuckle. "I agree," says Lyrical, nodding. "Same," says Risky, giggling with a hoof over her mouth. "It does suit thee, Luna," says Moon, smiling. "Aye," says Sun with a small smile. "E-even Moon and Sun say so! Ahahahaha!" says Melody, clutching her stomach with her hooves and rolls from side to side. "I'm so sorry, Luna, but they do have a point," says Celestia, chuckling with a hoof over her mouth. "I hate you all…" says Luna with a bright red face while baring her teeth. "All jokes aside, everypony, it was nice to have breakfast with you all, but I have some work to do today," says Wiseheart, smiling. "Aww! Do you have to?" asks Melody, standing to her hooves with a frown. "Of course, since now there are two more alicorns I have to file on," says Wiseheart with a giggle. "Then, Wiseheart, thank you for today. We learned a lot about Sun and Moon because of you," says Celestia, smiling. "We are in your debt again," says Luna with a small smile. "Oh, hush, you two," says Wiseheart, waving a hoof. "It's the least I could do for my two favorite princesses. Anyway, you know where to find me!" she says, walking towards the dining room's doors. However, she turns around, saying, "Oh, before I go, there's one more thing I have to say to Sun and Moon." "What dost thou require of us, Wiseheart?" asks Moon, blinking. "Ah, it's not a favor or anything. I just want to thank you both," says Wiseheart, giggling. "Strange, we have done nothing to deserve thy gratitude," says Sun, tilting his head. "Oh, but you did. You came into Tia and Lulu's life…" says Wiseheart with a small smile. "Wiseheart, if you're planning to tease Tia and me again, please don't," says Luna, frowning. "I had enough for one day…" says Celestia, sighing. "This time, I'm serious…" says Wiseheart with distant eyes. "Tia, Lulu, in the past, you both seemed so gloomy, despite that you were reunited after so long. I've kept quiet about this, but it hurts me just to watch…" "I… don't understand…" says Luna, frowning. "Wiseheart, Luna and I seem quite fine after all this time, but… why are you bringing this up now?" asks Celestia, drawing her brows together. "Because I felt so helpless, even though I was your doctor for so long, I-I still couldn't do anything to help you both…" says Wiseheart with a stream of tears flowing down her cheeks. "B-but now that Sun and Moon appeared, your faces became much more bright and cheerful lately, and I don't need some magic spell to know after all the years I've known you two…" "I-I guess I didn't really notice…" says Celestia, frowning. "Same…" says Luna, hanging her head. Vera, Truce, and Risky's eyes were overflowing with tears running down their faces as they wrap their hooves around each other. Melody also quickly wraps her hooves around Lyrical, nuzzling her teary eyes against her sister's neck, while Lyrical watches in silence with a frown on her face. Highwind sits quietly with an inward gaze while clenching a hoof. "Sun, Moon, this is why I'm thanking you both. Not on my behalf, but for doing something for Tia and Lulu that I could've never done in my life…" says Wiseheart, wiping her tears with a hoof, and smiling. "I see…" says Moon with a small smile. "Then we accept your gratitude…" says Sun, nodding with a smile. "A-anyway, I'm sorry I made it so awkward for everypony. I'll be taking my leave now…" says Wiseheart, bowing her head. She then turns around, walking towards the dining room's doors as her horn glows green, covering the doors in the same light. She then walks through the opening as the doors creak across the floor before turning around. "Bye!" she says with a grin as the doors close on her and its green glow fading away. "Wow…" says Melody, frowning. "You know, I've never seen Wiseheart like that before. She usually has that easygoing personality, but I guess there's more to her than I thought…" "That just shows how much she actually cares for others," says Lyrical, smiling. "I guess we're lucky to have somepony like her," says Vera, rubbing her head with a hoof. "Yeah, I know what you mean. She did take care of me when I wasn't feeling good…" says Truce, rubbing an arm with a hoof. "Isn't that your fault for eating an entire tray of apple tarts from before?" asks Vera, raising a brow. "I was hungry, okay!" says Truce, glaring. "But still, to think that she actually thanked somepony she just met. I guess Moon and Sun must be very special," says Risky, smiling. "Speaking of that," says Melody, facing Sun and Moon. "What do you both plan to do from now on? I mean, you were up in the stars for who knows how long, but now that you're here in Equestria, there must be things that you guys want to do, right?" "I do wish to learn magic, though I am not sure…" says Moon, frowning. "There is much to learn about this world, but I have not yet decided." "Moon, perhaps there is something we can begin with," says Sun. "And what art thou suggesting?" asks Moon, tilting his head. "Our promises," says Sun, smiling. "Art thou speaking of the 'Pinkie Promise' we made to certain ponies in Ponyville?" asks Moon, blinking. "Aye," says Sun, nodding. "I see. Perhaps we should fulfill those promises then," says Moon, smiling. "So, you both have already decided on what to do?" asks Luna. "Aye…" says Moon, frowning. "Forgive me, Luna, but it seems there are matters I must tend to first…" "There's no need to apologize, and a Pinkie Promise should always be kept," says Luna, smiling. It's a shame, but I wished that you would stay here at the castle a little longer, Moon… "But I do wish to stay by thy side again soon. There is much I wish to learn from thee," says Moon, smiling. "And what does he want to learn from you, Luna?" asks Celestia, raising a brow. "Oh, you naughty mare," says Melody, smirking. "Wow, Princess Luna, you sure don't waste any time," says Vera, giggling. "Yeah, I'm impressed," says Truce, folding her hooves. "Oh my…" says Risky, her cheeks slightly red while placing a hoof over her mouth. "As expected of the Princess of the Night," says Lyrical, nodding. Annoying… thinks Highwind, huffing. "Y-you're wrong! It's not like that!" says Luna with a burning red face as sweat drips from her brows. "Moon j-just wants to learn magic, and I'm willing to teach him! Th-that's all!" "You're planning to make him your student?" asks Celestia, blinking. "Of course! Since he's the Moon, it's common sense that I should be the one to teach him!" says Luna, puffing out her chest. "Hmm, that does make sense…" says Celestia, tapping her chin with a hoof. She then faces Sun. "Sun, do you want to learn magic from me?" "If thou art willing to, then I shall accept," says Sun, smiling. "Then it's settled," says Celestia with a smile. To think I would take in another student again… she thinks before facing Highwind. "Highwind, I know that you're very busy, but could you please bring Sun and Moon to Ponyville?" "Of course!" says Highwind, saluting. "I'll get the chariot and guards ready for departure, so please bring Prince Sun and Prince Moon to the castle's entrance." "Thank you," says Celestia, smiling. "Anyway, I'll be going now. Oh, and thank you for the breakfast," says Highwind, bowing his head. "And thank you for joining us," says Luna, smiling. "But, Highwind, even though you're busy, please don't overwork yourself." "I'll keep that in mind," says Highwind with a smile. "Now then, I must be off," he says, standing to his hooves as he walks to the two-golden door, pushing against one of them with his body as he walks out before pushing the door back, closing it. "Then I guess we should go too. There's a lot of things we have to do around the castle," says Lyrical. "Aww, but I'm so full!" says Vera, pouting. "Can't we just stay here for a bit?" asks Truce, folding her hooves. "Just for a few minutes?" asks Risky, frowning. "Or better yet, how about we relax for one more day, Lyrical?" asks Melody with a grin. "We already had a month for vacation, and you and I are supposed to set an example since we're the ones in charge of all the other maids in the castle," says Lyrical, poking and rubbing a hoof on Melody's cheek. "Ow, ow, ow! Lyrical, that hurts!" says Melody, rubbing her cheek with a hoof. "As for you three…" says Lyrical, facing Vera, Truce, and Risky. "You don't mind if I increase your workload, right?" "W-wait, okay! We're sorry!" says Vera, clasping her hooves together. "Y-yeah, so please don't!" says Truce with sweat dripping down her face. "S-sorry, Lyrical…" says Risky, hanging her head. "Good. Now, go get ready," says Lyrical, pointing a hoof at the dining room's doors. Slowly nodding, Melody, Vera, Truce, and Risky stand on their hooves, making their way towards the doors with their heads hanging. "Luna, Celestia, thank you for the breakfast," says Lyrical, smiling. "You're welcome," says Luna with a smile. "But, Lyrical, please don't be too hard on the girls," says Celestia, wrinkling her brows. "If I do that, they'll just slack off again. Besides, it's thanks to your sister that I became like this," says Lyrical. "Luna, what is she talking about?" asks Celestia, frowning. "Whatever do you mean?" asks Luna as sweat runs down her face. "When I first became Luna's personal maid, she worked me to the point of death," says Lyrical. "Luna…" says Celestia, glaring. "U-um, sorry?" says Luna with a grin. "Anyway, I'll leave that story for another time. Now then, I'll be going," says Lyrical, bowing her head. She then makes her way towards the golden doors, where Melody, Vera, Truce, and Risky stand in wait on the other side. "Moon, Sun, it was nice to meet you both," she says as her horn glows pink, covering the doors in a similar light before closing themselves. "Well, everypony left, but what do you think, Sun, Moon? Aren't you glad to have met wonderful ponies?" asks Celestia, smiling. "Aye," says Sun, nodding. "'Twas interesting to see that each pony is different," says Moon, smiling. "Well, it looks like you've both begun to learn new things. However, as what you have said before, Moon, I would like the both of you to keep in mind that the ponies you meet from now on will be different in their own way," says Luna with a chuckle. "It will also serve as a lesson of how each individual plays their part in making Equestria to what it is today," says Celestia with a smile. "I see. Then perhaps there is more to learn about this world," says Sun, smiling. "Aye, but there is something that troubles me…" says Moon, frowning. "What is it?" asks Luna, blinking. "I wish to have more donuts…" says Moon, placing a hoof on his belly as it growls. "And I wish to have more bread as well…" says Sun, placing a hoof upon his belly as it growls as well. Celestia and Luna burst into tears and laughter at the sound of Sun and Moon's rumbling stomachs, the latter, tilting their heads. "D-don't worry, there will be more where that came from," says Celestia, wiping her tears away with a hoof. Honestly, these two are too honest with themselves, she thinks, smiling. "I can't believe that you're both still hungry after eating so much," says Luna, pointing a hoof at piles of plates sitting next to Moon and Sun. But I guess that's what makes them unique in their own way, she thinks with a smile. To be continued…
Chapter 9Old Faces and New ________________________________________ Under the warm gaze of the Sun, Highwind is seen in gold armor, trotting back and forth next to a drawbridge in front of Canterlot Castle. As time passes, his pace picks up as four figures are seen on the horizon of the castle's stone path. "Ugh! Where are those three idiots! They should've been here already!" says Highwind, stomping a hoof. "When I get my hooves on them, I'll-" "You'll what?" asks a voice. Highwind cranes his head at the voice, seeing a blue alicorn with a raised brow. "Oh, uh, n-nothing, Princess Luna…" says Highwind with a sheepish grin. "Right," says Luna, rolling her eyes. "Is something wrong, Highwind?" asks the white alicorn next to Luna. "N-no, nothing, Princess Celestia!" says Highwind, shaking his head. "Well, don't push yourself," says Celestia, blinking. "Of course! A-anyway…" says Highwind, looking to a similar pair of alicorns. "Prince Sun, Prince Moon, how was your breakfast?" "I enjoyed it," says Sun, smiling. "I as well," says Moon with a small smile. "Well, they did eat a lot. They each probably ate over thirty plates…" says Luna, sighing. "Th-thirty plates!" says Highwind, his mouth hanging. "It's been some time since I met ponies that ate so much," says Celestia, chuckling. I kind of feel bad for whoever's taking care of those plates… thinks Highwind, frowning. "By the way, Highwind, where is the chariot?" asks Luna, blinking. "O-oh, about that…" says Highwind, rubbing a hoof behind his head. "The guards I asked are still not here yet…" "Well, I understand that they might be late because of a last-minute decision…" says Luna. "What do you mean?" asks Highwind, blinking. "You should probably ask them that yourself," says Celestia, pointing a hoof. Looking up, a golden chariot is seen being pulled through the sky by three pegasi in gold armor. Quickly, they descend before making a smooth landing on the stone path next to Highwind and the others. Slowly, Highwind stomps his way to the three stallions that were unhitching themselves from the chariot. "O-oh, uh, hey, sir…" says a stallion, grinning. "Yeah, hey, Pleasant," says Highwind, his eye twitching. "Sorry that we're late, sir. We kind of had to do something…" says another stallion. "I bet you did, Summer," says Highwind, clenching a hoof. "And what's your excuse, Top Notch?" "J-just calm down a second, sir!" says Top Notch, his face dripping with sweat. "We really had something important to-" "SHUT IT!" says Highwind, stomping a hoof. "I don't want to hear your excuses! Do you know how much of an idiot I looked like when the princesses showed up, and you three weren't here yet!" "Highwind, please calm down," says Celestia. "But, Your Highness!" says Highwind, facing Celestia. "It's my fault for their careless behavior. I should-" "Highwind, you should at least hear them out first," says Luna, sighing. "Oh…" says Highwind, rubbing a hoof behind his head. He then looks to the three stallions in question. "S-sorry, guys, I didn't mean to-" "So, Prince Sun, Prince Moon, is it true that you both came from a distant land?" asks Summer, raising a brow. "Distant… land?" says Sun, tilting his head. "Yeah, everypony in the castle's talking about it. Well, mostly mares…" says Pleasant. "Forgive me, but I do not understand…" says Moon, frowning. "See! I knew all those mares in the castle were just making it up! Now cough up those bits!" says Top Notch, pointing a hoof to Summer and Pleasant. "DON'T IGNORE ME!" says Highwind, stomping a hoof. "Yes, sir!" says Summer, Pleasant, and Top Notch, saluting. "Ah, forget it…" says Highwind, rubbing a hoof down his face. "Anyway, why were you guys late?" "Oh, well, we were impressed with how much food the princes ate when we went to the dining room, so we kind of got sidetracked," says Summer, rubbing the back of his head with a hoof. "Yeah, you should've seen it, sir! The princes were just gulping their food down like crazy!" says Pleasant, grinning. "Meaning you three were slacking off again," says Highwind, raising a brow. "You idiots! I thought we agreed not to say anything about that!" says Top Notch, glaring. "Uh-oh…" says Pleasant, his face dripping with sweat. "It just kind of slipped out…" says Summer with a sheepish grin. "Oh, don't worry. I'll be sure to add more to your training regimen later, so look forward to it," says Highwind, smiling. "Aww…" says Pleasant, Summer, and Top Notch, hanging their heads. "But why were you guys there in the first place?" asks Highwind, rubbing his head with a hoof. "It's because they wanted to ask if you could take a day off," says Luna. "Me? Take a day off?" asks Highwind, pointing a hoof to himself. "Yes. But honestly, how long does it take for you four to clear up a misunderstanding? Look, Moon and Sun are already taking a nap," says Luna, pointing a hoof. Following Luna's hoof, Moon is seen resting his head against Sun's neck, while Sun rests his chin over Moon's head, both sitting up on their haunches as their chests slowly rise up and down with their eyes closed. "They look so adorable. It reminds me of the days Luna slept while I carried her on my back when she was just a filly," says Celestia with a chuckle. "T-Tia!" says Luna, stomping a hoof as her face turns bright red. "Oh, Luna, you're just so adorable when you're flustered," says Celestia, smiling. "Ugh!" says Luna, rolling her eyes. She then faces Highwind. "A-anyway, Highwind, the three of your guards asked Tia and I if you could take a break." "But, Your Highness, there are a lot of things I need to do to keep the Royal Guard in check! There's no time for me to take even a single day off!" says Highwind, stomping a hoof. "And that's precisely why Luna and I agreed for you to rest at least for a day. We're worried that you might overwork yourself," says Celestia, frowning. "But… if I did take a break, what should I do for the whole day?" asks Highwind, sighing. "It's a good thing Moon and Sun are going to Ponyville, so Tia and I are wondering if you could go with them. It might be good for you to take a look around and enjoy yourself, and we would appreciate it if you could look after Moon and Sun while you're there with them," says Luna, smiling. "W-well, if you both say so, then I guess I wouldn't mind looking after the princes, and taking a break once in a while wouldn't hurt…" says Highwind with a small smile. "Then it's settled," says Celestia, smiling as her horn glows yellow, which a similar light shrouds Highwind before causing a bright flash, revealing Highwind without his gold armor. "U-um, Your Highness, where's my armor?" asks Highwind, turning his head and facing his body. "It's currently in your room. Besides, there's no point in bringing your armor when taking some time off, right?" asks Celestia, giggling. "I guess so…" says Highwind, rubbing an arm with a hoof. "Were you actually thinking of bringing your armor along?" asks Luna, raising a brow. "Y-yes…" says Highwind with a sheepish grin. Luna rolls her eyes before facing Summer, Pleasant, and Top Notch. "As for you three, please get ready for departure." "Yes, Your Highness!" says Summer, Pleasant, and Top Notch, saluting. "Good. Now then…" says Luna, facing Sun and Moon. "Moon, Sun, wake up!" Moon slowly opens his eyes before blinking them. He then pulls his head away from Sun's neck before rubbing a hoof to his eye, while Sun quickly falls to the ground, face first, before lifting his head up and blinking his eyes open. "Ah, good morning, Luna," says Moon, smiling. He then turns to his side before tilting his head. "Sun, art thou resting still?" "Nay…" says Sun, pushing himself up with his hooves before rubbing a hoof to his eye. "Though I still wish to…" "Well, that's something you don't see quite often," says Top Notch with a chuckle. "As always, they're going at their own pace…" says Highwind, sighing. "Pfft! The princes are weird," says Summer with a snicker. "Haha, I can't say I don't like it though. They're funny," says Pleasant, smiling. "Well, that's just how they are," says Luna, smiling. "I have to agree with that," says Celestia with a giggle. "However, why are you three not preparing the chariot for departure?" asks Luna, raising a brow. "Forgive us, Your Highness!" says Summer, Pleasant, and Top Notch, grinning with sweat dripping down their faces. They quickly turn around before running towards the chariot. "Oh!" says Top Notch, quickly stopping and turning. "Prince Sun, Prince Moon, please follow us!" he says before turning and running towards the chariot. "Sun, let us follow them," says Moon, smiling. "Aye," says Sun, nodding. "Once again, I'm sorry for the behavior of those three…" says Highwind, frowning. "It's fine," says Luna, smiling. "Oh, before I forget. Highwind, I've already let Twilight know that Sun and Moon are coming to visit Ponyville. She should be waiting at Town Hall. Ah, and please bring Sun and Moon back to the castle during the evening. Twilight will let you know in case you forget," says Celestia. "Also, Tia and I prepared a bag of bits. It should be in the saddlebag on the chariot," says Luna. "Are the bits for something, Your Highness?" asks Highwind, blinking. "To buy some food at the marketplace in Ponyville. In case Moon and Sun get hungry," says Luna with a chuckle. "Oh, right…" says Highwind, rubbing his head with a hoof. "You're free to use those bits to buy some food for yourself as well, Highwind," says Luna, smiling. "In that case, I'll take you up on your offer. Thank you," says Highwind, smiling. "Well, we shouldn't keep you waiting any longer," says Celestia. "But there's one more thing Tia and I would like to remind you, Highwind," says Luna. "What is it?" asks Highwind, blinking. "Please keep Moon and Sun safe…" says Luna, frowning. "They're both still new to this world, and Luna and I are worried about nopony being there to guide them. Honestly, we would take Sun and Moon to Ponyville ourselves, but we can only rely on you since you know how busy we are…" says Celestia, sighing. "Don't worry, Your Highnesses!" says Highwind, puffing his chest out. "I swear on my pride as the commander of the Royal Guard! I won't let you both down!" "I know you won't," says Luna, smiling. "Now then, go on," says Celestia with a chuckle. "I'll be off then," says Highwind, grinning. He then turns before trotting off to the chariot. "So, what did the princesses say, sir?" asks Top Notch, raising a brow. "Just to keep watch over the princes," says Highwind. "Ah, babysitting, I see," says Summer, smirking. "Don't make me add more to your training," says Highwind, glaring. "I-I was just kidding!" says Summer with sweat dripping from his brows. "Anyway, aren't you glad you get to take a day off?" asks Pleasant, chuckling. "Thanks to you guys. But I'm wondering why you three asked the princesses in the first place? It's not like you guys to do something this nice. Actually, what are you three planning?" asks Highwind, glaring. "Wh-what are you talking about?" asks Summer, rubbing an arm with a hoof. Uh-oh! He's starting to suspect us! "Y-yeah! Maybe you just really need the day off, sir! I'm sure you're tired!" says Top Notch with a sheepish grin. We're done for if he finds out that we wanted him to take the day off, so we could slack off for today! It's because he keeps working us and the other guards to death! "Wh-what they said!" says Pleasant, sweat dripping down his face. "It's not like we asked the princesses for you to take the day off, so we could slack off for the day! Right, guys?" Summer and Top Notch crane their heads to Pleasant, their eyes turning dull as dead fishes. "Uh-oh…" says Pleasant, his eyes shrinking. "Oh, I see…" says Highwind, tapping his chin with a hoof. "I have to praise you three for coming up with a plan like that. Well, it doesn't matter since I'll let you guys off this once," says Highwind, smiling. "R-really?" says Pleasant, Summer, and Top Notch with tears welling up in their eyes. "But just know that tomorrow, I'll be doubling the training you and the other guards usually do. Oh, I'll also let the other guards know that it was you three that caused all of this," says Highwind, grinning. Pleasant, Summer, and Top Notch's faces turn blue as their bodies begin to shudder. We're so dead… thinks Summer, gulping. The other guards will kill us… thinks Top Notch with sweat dripping down his entire body. "Come on, sir! Y-you're joking, right? If you tell the others, they'll really kill us!" says Pleasant as tears stream down his cheeks. And who's fault is that! thinks Summer and Top Notch, glaring at Pleasant. "Oh, not my problem, that's for sure. But remember not to do this again, okay?" asks Highwind, smiling. "Yes, sir…" says Pleasant, Summer, and Top Notch, hanging their heads. "Anyway, sorry for keeping you both waiting, Your Highnesses," says Highwind, facing Sun and Moon. "'Tis fine, Highwind," says Sun, nodding. "I understand that thou art tending to important matters," says Moon, smiling. "Thanks for understanding, Your Highnesses," says Highwind, smiling. "Now then, we should be going now," he says while hitching himself to the chariot. "Uh, sir, what are you doing?" asks Top Notch, blinking. "Getting ready to pull the chariot. What else?" asks Highwind, raising a brow. "But it's your day off. We can't let you do that," says Summer. "Yeah, you should just leave this to us," says Pleasant, smiling. "Then what else should I do!" says Highwind, stomping a hoof. "Duh, just sit with the princes," says Summer, rolling his eyes. "Besides, there's been rumors going around the castle lately," says Pleasant with a wide grin. "What rumors?" asks Highwind, blinking. "That you and the princes get along quite well," says Top Notch, smirking. "Oh, Your Highnesses, is it okay if Commander Highwind sits with you two?" asks Pleasant, facing Moon and Sun. "Of course," says Sun, smiling. "Highwind is always welcome to join us," says Moon with a smile. "So, there you have it," says Top Notch, smirking. "Yeah, so hurry it up and sit with them!" says Summer with a wide grin. Oh no! It's happening! I bet it was either Melody, Lyrical, or those three idiot maids spreading rumors about me and the princes! thinks Highwind before facing Sun and Moon, the latter, both smiling at him with a warm gaze, while his face turns blue. "What are you waiting for, sir? Go sit with them and we can finally leave!" says Pleasant. "Y-you're wrong! The princes and I are not like that!" says Highwind, his face turning red. "Oh, but we didn't say anything about you and the princes being that way," says Summer, smirking. "Care to explain?" asks Top Notch with a chuckle. "Geh!" says Highwind, his face turning bright red as sweat drips down his face. "Ugh! Fine! I'll sit with them, just to make you three shut it!" he says, trotting quickly to the back of the chariot as Sun and Moon each move to the side while he jumps before sitting between them. "There! Happy!" "Come on, sir! We're just joking around!" says Summer, chuckling. "Yeah, just a prank!" says Pleasant, grinning. "Yeah, don't be mad! Unless… you really do swing that way?" asks Top Notch, smirking. "Ugh! Just go already!" says Highwind, his face turning beet red while folding his hooves. "Yes, sir!" says Pleasant, Summer, and Top Notch with a small laugh. As Pleasant, Summer, and Top Notch quickly run across the stone path, pulling the chariot behind, they suddenly lift off towards the sky. Celestia and Luna gaze from afar, watching the chariot growing smaller in the distance. "There they go…" says Luna, frowning. "They sure took quite a while to leave, right?" asks Celestia, chuckling. "It's because those three guards kept teasing Highwind," says Luna, rolling her eyes. "That just shows how much Highwind has grown closer towards his fellow guards," says Celestia, smiling. "Yeah, but… it wasn't like that when Highwind was first appointed as the commander of the Royal Guard. It was quite disheartening seeing him being treated that way from the other guards in the past…" says Luna, furrowing her brows. "Yes…" says Celestia, frowning. "His situation was similar…" says Luna, clenching her teeth. "Similar to mi-" "Luna, enough…" says Celestia. "S-sorry…" says Luna, hanging her head. "It's fine…" says Celestia, sighing. "We should go. Today's another busy day for me, and you should go rest before night, Luna." "You go ahead. I'll be staying here for a bit," says Luna with a small smile. "Worried about Moon?" asks Celestia with a giggle. "Don't even start about that…" says Luna, pouting. "I won't. Besides, I'm also worried about Sun, but they'll be okay since Highwind's with them, and Twilight will be there as well," says Celestia with a small smile. "I guess you're right. Just go on, Tia. I'll be returning to my room later," says Luna, smiling. "Okay, but if you need me, you know where to find me," says Celestia. "Yes, yes," says Luna, rolling her eyes. Celestia chuckles before turning and walking towards the castle, while Luna turns and lifts her head, gazing at the sky. "Moon, I hope you enjoy yourself," says Luna, smiling. "Oh, I'm sure he will," says a voice, chuckling. "N-no…" says Luna, her eyes shrinking. "Why are you-" "Talking?" asks the voice. "NO! Why are you free?" asks Luna, baring her teeth. "Oh, Lulu, it's been quite some time since we last spoke, and that's the first thing you ask me instead of how well I've been doing?" asks the voice. "Don't you ever call me that! And I don't care about your well-being!" says Luna, stomping a hoof and cracking the stone path. "How cruel! Is that how you treat your guests?" asks the voice. "Enough! I thought I sealed you away deep inside my consciousness! So why are you free!" says Luna, her nostrils flaring as her breathing grows heavy. "Well, there's a lot to explain, and I'm sure you'd like to speak with me personally. So, why don't you come on over and visit me? You know, in the dream world," says the voice with a small laugh. "You're right! I'm coming over right now!" says Luna as her horn glows blue before a bright flash emits from her horn. As the flash of light disappears, a rift is seen in front of her before she slowly walks through it, which the rift closes, disappearing into thin air. ________________________________________ "There, guys!" says Highwind, pointing a hoof at a purple mare waving a hoof from below. "Land there!" "Yes, sir!" says Summer, Pleasant, Top Notch. As the chariot descends to a small town below, it quickly comes to a smooth landing next to a building with flags flowing in the air. However, a purple mare is seen standing in front of the building with a wide grin before running to the chariot. "Sun, Moon, you're finally here!" says the purple mare, stopping next to the chariot. "Ah, greetings, Twilight Sparkle," says Sun, smiling. "We meet again," says Moon with a small smile. "Geez, I know I mentioned my full name when I first met you guys, but you can just call me Twilight," she says with a small laugh. "Thy suggestion is much preferable, Twilight," says Moon, smiling. "Then Twilight it is," says Sun, nodding. "Okay, Prince Sun, Prince Moon, out of the chariot. You can talk to the princess after that," says Highwind, picking up a saddlebag with his mouth before swinging and placing it on his back. "Aye," says Moon, lowering himself from the chariot. Sun nods before following Moon. "Wait, you're… Commander Highwind, right?" asks Twilight, blinking. "Good morning, Your Highness," says Highwind, bowing his head. "But if you want, just Highwind is fine." "O-oh, sure. Sorry, I didn't recognize you without your armor," says Twilight, rubbing an arm with a hoof. "Don't worry. I get that all the time," says Highwind, jumping off the chariot. "Anyway, Pleasant, Summer, Top Notch, go back to the barracks and tell the others that they're free to do whatever they want for the day. Oh, and please bring the chariot back here during the evening to pick us up." "Yes, sir!" says Summer, Pleasant, and Top Notch, saluting. "Ah, now I remember. Thou art the ponies that aided Moon and I, correct?" asks Sun, blinking. "Yes, Your Highness," says Top Notch, nodding. "Oh, I think we forgot to introduce ourselves properly to you both yesterday. In that case, I'm Top Notch." "I'm Summer Set!" he says, smiling. "And I'm Pleasant Breeze!" he says, grinning. "I see," says Sun, smiling. "Since thou art leaving, perhaps Sun and I could thank thee?" asks Moon with a smile. "O-oh, uh, it's fine, Your Highnesses!" says Top Notch, his face turning blue. It's just like yesterday! "Y-yeah! It's the least we could do!" says Summer, his face turning blue while sweat drips down his face. This is bad! This is bad! "A-anyway, we have to go!" says Pleasant with a wide grin and a blue face. I'd rather die than be kissed by them! Top Notch, Summer, and Pleasant face each other before quickly nodding. They then run across the ground before taking off in the air with the chariot behind them. "Moon, we have not thanked them yet…" says Sun, hanging his head. "Aye…" says Moon, frowning. "D-don't worry, Your Highnesses! I'm sure you will get your chance someday!" says Highwind with a small laugh before sighing. He then faces Twilight. "Sorry that you had to see that…" "W-well, I can understand why those three would want to leave quickly since I've seen how bold Sun and Moon can be…" says Twilight, rubbing her head with a hoof. "Especially what they did with Princess Celestia and Princess Luna when you and your friends were there yesterday…" says Highwind, rubbing a hoof down his face. "Y-yeah, I've never seen anypony kiss the princesses out of the blue like that…" says Twilight, her face turning red. "A-anyway, Princess Twilight, since Princess Celestia noticed you in advance about our visit, is there a reason that you wanted to meet here instead of your home?" asks Highwind, blinking. "Well, it's because of the message Celestia sent about Sun and Moon. While reading through it, I kind of thought that I should show them around Ponyville. But I was really shocked to know that Sun and Moon are actually newborns…" says Twilight, rubbing her head with a hoof. "Honestly, I couldn't believe it at first, but since it's Doctor Wiseheart's magic that told us more about them, I had to believe it…" says Highwind, sighing. "But it's interesting to know that Moon and Sun are using a sort of amplify spell to talk like that!" says Twilight, clapping her hooves together. "Maybe I should try it out-" "Eh-hem!" says Highwind, raising a brow. "U-uh, sorry! I was getting carried away…" says Twilight with a sheepish grin. "I know. I heard you're eager to learn about new things," says Highwind with a small laugh. "Y-yeah…" says Twilight, coughing into a hoof with red cheeks. "A-about what we were talking about, I thought I'd show Moon and Sun around town since they don't know much about our world, so I started first with introducing them to the mayor." "O-oh, I see…" says Highwind, rubbing his head with a hoof. "What? Did I say something weird?" asks Twilight, blinking. "About that…" says Highwind, putting his hooves together. "Prince Sun and Prince Moon kind of already met-" "Princess Twilight!" says a voice. Highwind and Twilight look to the voice, seeing a tan mare trotting over to them with a smile. "Oh, morning, Mayor Mare!" says Twilight with a smile. "What are you doing here? Is there something you need from me?" asks Mayor Mare, stopping next to Twilight. "I'm just here as a guide to show some guests around Ponyville," says Twilight. "Guests?" says Mayor Mare, facing Highwind, the latter, grinning and waving a hoof. "Wait, aren't you… Commander Highwind?" "You can just call me Highwind, and it's nice to see you again," says Highwind, smiling. "You look different without your armor," says Mayor Mare, blinking. "Y-yeah, I get that all the time…" says Highwind, sighing. "W-wait a minute…" says Twilight, rubbing her head with a hoof. "You both already met?" "Yesterday, to be precise," says Mayor Mare. "Oh, and if you're wondering why I'm here, Mayor Mare, I'm here on break and to watch over our two weird princes," says Highwind, smiling. "Y-you mean…" says Mayor Mare, her mouth opening slightly. She then looks past Highwind, seeing two familiar alicorns. "Sun, Moon!" Looking to the voice, Sun and Moon quickly notice Mayor Mare as both their eyes widen before growing into a soft gaze. "Mayor Mare," says Sun, smiling. "'Tis good to see thee again," says Moon with a smile. "Oh, you two!" says Mayor Mare, running over to Sun and Moon with tears trailing down her cheeks before stopping next to them. "I was so worried about you both!" "Forgive us…" says Sun, frowning. "We did not mean to worry thee…" says Moon, hanging his head. "I-it's fine!" says Mayor Mare, lifting her glasses with a hoof and wiping the tears from her eyes with another hoof. "Anyway, have you both found what you were searching for?" "Aye," says Sun, nodding. "If you did, then who was the Azure One?" asks Mayor Mare, blinking. "Luna," says Moon, smiling. "It was Princess Luna all along!" says Mayor Mare with wide eyes. She then smiles. "I should've known it was her since she's similar to you, Moon." "And because of thy aid, Sun and I were able to meet Luna," says Moon with a radiant glow in his eyes. "Oh, enough! I would do whatever I can to help you two! But for now, I'm just glad you both are okay!" says Mayor Mare, chuckling. "Now then, both of you lower your faces for me!" Nodding, Sun and Moon lower their heads, while Mayor Mare walks towards them, wrapping her hooves on each of their faces, which the three close their eyes with a smile on their faces. "H-hey, Highwind…" says Twilight with wide eyes and a beet red face. "Did something happen when I wasn't here?" "Uh, about that…" says Highwind, rubbing his head with a hoof. "Remember when I told you yesterday about Mayor Mare's letter? Well, that's what led to the princes coming to Canterlot Castle to meet you. Well, supposed to meet you…" "So that's what happened! Ugh, I was excited to show Sun and Moon around Ponyville that I forgot all about that…" says Twilight, placing a hoof over her face. However, a gray blur zooms past Highwind and Twilight before slamming into the left side of Sun, colliding into Moon as the three skids over the ground. "Well, I had a feeling she was going to show up sooner or later…" says Mayor Mare, sighing. "Moon, Sun, you're back!" says a gray mare, standing on top Moon and Sun with a wide smile on her face. "Ah, greetings, Derpy," says Sun, smiling. "Thou still greet Sun and I in unusual ways," says Moon with a smile. "Hehe!" says Derpy, grinning and rubbing a hoof behind her head. Twilight's jaw drops before facing Highwind with a glare. "O-oh, did I forget to mention that it was her that delivered the letter?" says Highwind, grinning with sweat trailing down his face. "Yeah, thanks for letting me know," says Twilight, rolling her eyes. She then faces Derpy. "Hey, Derpy!" "Huh? Oh, hi, Princess Twilight!" says Derpy, waving a hoof. "It's nice to see you, but can you please get off Sun and Moon!" says Twilight, stomping a hoof. "O-oh!" says Derpy, quickly hopping off Moon and Sun. "Sun, Moon, are you okay?" asks Twilight, frowning. "Aye," says Moon, smiling. Sun nods his head. "That's good…" says Twilight, sighing. I don't know what Celestia and Luna would do to me if Sun and Moon were to get hurt! "S-sorry, Princess Twilight…" says Derpy, hanging her head. "It's fine. But what are you doing here?" asks Twilight, blinking. "Well, I just finished delivering letters, and I was on my way home until I noticed Sun and Moon here!" says Derpy, jumping up and down with a grin. "I understand how you feel, but just don't ram into them like that, okay?" asks Twilight, raising a brow. "Sure!" says Derpy, smiling. "Anyway, since Moon and Sun already met Mayor Mare…" says Twilight, facing the alicorns in question. "Sun, Moon, I heard from Celestia that there were some ponies you wanted to meet?" "Aye," says Sun. "Then tell me their names and I can probably lead you to them," says Twilight. "Mayor Mare is one of them," says Sun, smiling. "Oh, Sun!" says Mayor Mare, chuckling with a shade of red in her cheeks. "And Derpy as well," says Moon with a smile. "Hehe!" says Derpy, rubbing a hoof to her head with red cheeks. "Oh, Sun, Moon, since you're here, maybe I can introduce you both to Dinky!" "Ah, perhaps, but I wish to meet the others first," says Sun. "Who in particular?" asks Twilight. "Sun, perhaps we could meet with Bon Bon and Rose?" asks Moon, tilting his head. "Aye," says Sun, smiling. "Then, Twilight, Sun and I wish to meet Bon Bon and Rose," says Moon with a smile. "That's surprising…" says Twilight, blinking. "Is something wrong?" asks Moon, frowning. "N-no, it's just that I didn't expect you both to mention them out of all the ponies in Ponyville…" says Twilight, tapping her chin with a hoof. "Is there a reason why?" "Rose and Bon Bon are the first ponies to aid us after our arrival in Ponyville," says Sun. "And we are thankful to them both," says Moon, smiling. "I see. Then I guess I should thank them for helping you two as a fellow alicorn," says Twilight, chuckling. "Anyway, I think I know where to find them, so follow me." "Oh, oh, can I come?" asks Derpy, jumping up and down. "You're coming along too! It would be weird if you're not there to introduce Dinky to Sun and Moon, right?" asks Twilight, raising a brow. "I guess I never thought of it that way…" says Derpy, rubbing her head with a hoof. Oh, Derpy… thinks Twilight, rolling her eyes. "What about you, Mayor Mare?" "Honestly, I would love to come along, but you should already know how busy a pony with a status like me and you are, right?" asks Mayor Mare, sighing. "Ugh! Tell me about it…" says Twilight, rubbing a hoof down her face. "It can't be that bad being a princess or a mayor, right?" asks Derpy, blinking. I can't believe she said that… thinks Highwind, putting a hoof over his face. "Yeah, you would think that…" says Twilight, glaring at Derpy. "Maybe you should try it…" says Mayor Mare, huffing. "Sure!" says Derpy, grinning. "Ugh…" says Twilight and Mayor Mare, rolling their eyes. "Ignoring Derpy… Mayor Mare, as a princess, I must thank you for helping Moon and Sun," says Twilight, smiling. "Of course, but you must get going since time is short, right?" asks Mayor Mare, chuckling. "Right," says Twilight with a small laugh. "Anyway, Sun, Moon, Highwind, and you, Derpy, follow me." "Yes, Your Highness," says Highwind, nodding. "Hey, aren't you that mean guard I met at Canterlot Castle yesterday?" asks Derpy, glaring at Highwind. "Nice to meet you, Derpy. I'm Highwind, and I apologize for yesterday, but just know that anypony would be skeptical if they heard that two alicorns suddenly appeared in Ponyville, right?" asks Highwind, raising a brow. "Well, I guess you're right…" says Derpy, rubbing her head with a hoof. Such an easy mare… thinks Highwind, rolling his eyes. "Now then, Mayor Mare, it's nice meeting you again, but I must be going," says Highwind, bowing his head. "Yeah, see you around, Mayor Mare!" says Derpy, grinning. "'Twas nice to see thee again, Mayor Mare," says Sun, smiling. "Once again, thank you for aiding Sun and I," says Moon with a smile. "Moon, Sun, just know that I'll do whatever I can to help you. But for now, just enjoy yourself here at Ponyville," says Mayor Mare, smiling with a warm gaze. "Hey, are you guys coming or not!" says Twilight, stomping a hoof. "Well, go on. You shouldn't keep a princess waiting," says Mayor Mare, chuckling. "Let's go, guys!" says Derpy, turning and trotting to Twilight. Ugh… thinks Highwind, sighing before following Derpy. "I bid thee farewell, Mayor Mare," says Sun, smiling. "Perhaps we will meet again," says Moon with a smile before he and Sun turn and follow Highwind. Moon, Sun, take care, thinks Mayor Mare, smiling and waving a hoof. She then drags a hoof down her face before sighing. Now that I think about it, I finished all that paperwork yesterday. Maybe I should've joined them… ________________________________________ "Moon, Sun, welcome to the marketplace!" says Twilight, pointing a hoof. Following Twilight's hoof, Sun and Moon notice a storm of ponies roaming around the area, talking to ponies in stalls with different varieties of food, ranging from pies, drinks, tomatoes, even cooking utensils and books. "Twilight, it seems there are many ponies here," says Sun, blinking. "Is there a reason why?" asks Moon, tilting his head. "It's natural that this area is filled with a lot of ponies. Because they're all here to acquire things for the daily necessities of life," says Twilight, smiling. "Forgive me, but I do not understand…" says Moon, frowning. "Aye…" says Sun, hanging his head. Hmm… I think the message Celestia sent said something about making it simple for Sun and Moon to understand, thinks Twilight, tapping her chin with a hoof. "Oh! Let's just say that the important things ponies tend to find here are food." "Food…" says Moon, his mouth opening slightly as drool falls from it. "I see…" says Sun, drool seeping through the sides of his mouth. "Looks like you're both hungry," says Twilight, chuckling. Celestia was right when she said that Sun and Moon love to eat. "It's a good thing Princess Celestia and Princess Luna gave me those bits," says Highwind, sighing. "That sounds like them to prepare things in case something happens," says Twilight, chuckling. "Um, guys…" says Derpy, quickly looking side to side. "What's wrong, Derpy?" asks Twilight, blinking. "Where's Moon and Sun?" asks Derpy, frowning. "Oh, Derpy, they're right next to… us…" says Twilight, looking to her side as her eyes shrink. "They're gone…" "Quick! Look for them!" says Highwind, his face dripping with sweat. "O-oh! I found Sun!" says Derpy, pointing a hoof. Following Derpy's hoof, Twilight and Highwind notice Sun at a stall filled with pies, while a mare was staring at Sun with a red face and a distant gaze. "Sun!" says Twilight, running and stopping next to Sun. "Please don't just leave without letting me know!" "Forgive me, Twilight, but I wish to know what this is?" asks Sun, pointing a hoof. "Oh, that's a pie. Would you like to try it?" asks Twilight. "Aye," says Sun while drool dangles from his mouth. "Um, excuse me. How much is one pie?" asks Twilight, facing a yellow mare. "O-oh, Princess Twilight, hello! As for the pie…" says the yellow mare, facing Sun. "It's on the house…" "W-wait, it's free?" asks Twilight, blinking. "Uh-huh…" says the yellow mare with a long sigh. "Well, thanks!" says Twilight, smiling. She then faces Sun. "Sun, she's giving a pie to us. You should thank her." "Aye," says Sun, nodding. He then lowers his head, placing his lips on the yellow mare's cheek before lifting his head, and smiling with a warm gaze. "Thank you." "Y-you're welcome!" says the yellow mare, her eyes turning into heart shapes before falling on the ground with a wide grin and a twitching hoof. "Right, the kissing…" says Twilight, placing a hoof on her face. It's obvious that any mare would react like that if they were kissed by somepony like Sun or Moon… "Princess Twilight!" says Highwind. "Oh, Highwind, looks like you found Moon," says Twilight, looking behind Highwind and noticing Moon chewing with a cookie in a hoof. "Yeah, and I got a lot of food," says Highwind, pointing a hoof at a basket full of cookies, corn, and carrots on his back. "Yeah, all the mares were nice enough to give us all this food!" says Derpy before grabbing a cookie from the basket with a hoof and biting it. "Let me guess. They're all free," says Twilight, sighing. "Y-yeah, how'd you know?" asks Derpy, tilting her head. "Wait, did a mare give that pie that Prince Sun is holding for free?" asks Highwind, blinking. "Yeah, and did Moon kiss the mares that gave all the food in that basket before falling on the ground and making a weird face?" asks Twilight, raising a brow. "Yeah," says Highwind, rolling his eyes. So much for using the bits that Princess Celestia and Princess Luna prepared for the princes… "Ugh…" says Twilight, dragging a hoof down her face. "I think we should find Rose and Bon Bon before this whole place goes out of business…" "Not only that, but we're starting to get a lot of attention," says Highwind, pointing a hoof. Following Highwind's hoof, Twilight looks around, noticing a gathering of ponies looking at them and whispering amongst themselves. "Great, and they're mostly mares…" says Twilight, sighing. "Ugh! I know Bon Bon and Rose should be here, but where are they!" "Oh, if it's about them, then I found them not too long ago," says Derpy before biting another piece of a cookie in her hoof. "Then why didn't you say so!" says Twilight as she and Highwind glare at Derpy. "You didn't ask," says Derpy. "Ugh…" says Twilight and Highwind, sighing. "Moon, the cookie's good, right?" asks Derpy, grinning. "Aye," says Moon before biting another piece of a cookie in his hoof. "Hey, Sun, can I try some of that pie you're eating?" asks Derpy. "Aye, but perhaps I can have some of your cookie?" asks Sun. "Let's trade then!" says Derpy, smiling. "Will you guys stop eating and take this seriously!" says Twilight, stomping a hoof before her stomach gives off a growl. "Cookie?" asks Highwind, offering a hoof with a cookie in it. "Maybe we can take a break…" says Twilight, her cheeks turning red as she takes the cookie from Highwind with a hoof before biting it. ________________________________________ At a certain stall, a pale-yellow mare was enjoying the sunny day, watering her beautiful patches of roses in clay pots. "Hey, Rose!" says a cheery voice. "AHH!" says Rose, dropping a green watering can from her mouth, and splashing water over her face. Rose turns her head, facing her unexpected guest with a soaked mane, dangling down her face. Placing a hoof over her wet mane, she pushes the strands of red hair to the side of her face, seeing a beige mare. "Before you say anything," says the beige mare, lifting a hoof. "Just know that I'm sorry-" "Ugh! Bon Bon! You jerk! Didn't I say not to surprise me like that!" says Rose, stomping a hoof. "I didn't mean it!" says Bon Bon. "Liar! You did it on purpose! Just like yesterday!" says Rose, pressing her forehead against Bon Bon's. "There you go again! Accusing me of something I didn't mean to do!" says Bon Bon, pushing against Rose's forehead with her own. "Ugh! Will you two fillies stop fighting!" says a pale-magenta mare. "Yeah! You're going to scare all the customers away!" says a raspberry mare. "O-oh, sorry, Daisy, Lily…" says Rose, frowning. "I didn't start it…" says Bon Bon, huffing. "You did!" says Rose, glaring at Bon Bon. "Enough!" says Lily, stomping a hoof. "Look, Bon Bon, did you need a bouquet or something?" asks Daisy, raising a brow. "No, I just came to say hi," says Bon Bon, smiling. "Well, it's nice to see you too," says Daisy with a smile. "By the way, where's Lyra?" asks Lily, blinking. "She said she was going to look at something and left me, so here I am…" says Bon Bon, sighing. "Some friend she is," says Rose, rolling her eyes. "H-hey, girls?" says Lily, blinking. "What now?" asks Daisy, frowning. "I-I think we have guests. Important guests…" says Lily, her cheeks turning red while gazing at a white and blue alicorn in the distance. "What are you talking… about…?" asks Daisy with a shade of red in her cheeks, noticing a pair of alicorns walking together in the distance. "Guests?" says Bon Bon and Rose, blinking at each other. They both turn around, noticing a purple mare. "I finally found you two!" says the purple mare, smiling. "O-oh, uh, hey, Princess Twilight…" says Bon Bon, rubbing her head with a hoof. "H-hi, Princess Twilight…" says Rose, her brows gathering in. "Come on, you two. There's no need for formalities. Just Twilight's fine," she says with a small smile. "S-sorry…" says Bon Bon, frowning. Easy for you to say… "Y-yeah…" says Rose, rubbing an arm with a hoof. You're a princess now… "Anyway, I'm glad I found you both. There are two ponies that wanted to meet you," says Twilight. "Really?" says Bon Bon, blinking. "Who?" asks Rose, tilting her head. "Well, talk to them yourselves," says Twilight, stepping to the side. "No way…" says Bon Bon, her eyes welling up with tears. "Moon?" "Greetings, Bon Bon," says Moon, smiling. "It really is you…" says Bon Bon, slowly walking towards Moon before pressing her forehead against his chest. "Idiot, you made me worry…" "Forgive me…" says Moon, frowning while putting a hoof on Bon Bon's head. "Sun!" says Rose, running towards Sun before rubbing her face against his chest. "I-I'm glad you're okay!" "We meet again, Rose. Forgive me for worrying thee…" says Sun, smiling with a hoof over Rose's head. "D-don't apologize! It's okay!" says Rose with tears streaming down her face. "W-wait…" says Bon Bon, pulling her face away from Moon and quickly wipes her tears with a hoof. She then turns her head, seeing a gray mare with her hooves wrapped around her. "Derpy, what are you doing?" "Well, everypony is hugging each other, so I thought I'd join in," says Derpy, grinning. "Ugh! Get off!" says Bon Bon, pushing Derpy away with a hoof. "What? Derpy?" says Rose, pulling her face away from Sun and wiping her tears with a hoof. "You again! Why do you always show up when Sun and Moon are here!" "Oh, I'm planning to let Moon and Sun meet Dinky after this!" says Derpy, smiling. This mare… thinks Rose, glaring at Derpy. How annoying! thinks Bon Bon, baring her teeth. "Pssst! Hey, Bon Bon, Rose!" says Lily. "Huh?" says Rose and Bon Bon, turning their head and seeing Lily and Daisy waving a hoof. "Come here!" says Daisy. "What's up?" asks Bon Bon, walking over to Daisy and Lily. "You're both acting weird," says Rose, stopping next to Bon Bon with a raised brow. "Weird? You guys are weird!" says Lily, stomping a hoof. "You both started crying like fillies when those two showed up!" says Daisy, pointing a hoof to Sun and Moon. "H-hey, I wasn't crying like a filly!" says Rose, glaring with bright red cheeks. "Y-yeah!" says Bon Bon, stomping a hoof with slightly red cheeks. "No, I'm sure you both were," says Lily, raising a brow. "Ugh! Who cares about that! More importantly, are those two hotties the rumored princes that suddenly appeared in Ponyville yesterday!" says Daisy, pointing a hoof to Sun and Moon. "Oh, Moon and Sun? Yeah, they are," says Bon Bon. "Rose, you jerk! How come you never told us that you knew them! Even though we're best friends!" says Lily, stomping a hoof. "H-hey, the thought never came to mind, okay!" says Rose with a sheepish grin. "I bet you wanted a head start, huh!" says Daisy, huffing. "Whatever, just introduce us to them-" "Forgive me for interrupting, but is there something wrong?" asks Sun, blinking. "Perhaps 'twas wrong of us to intrude upon thee?" asks Moon, frowning. "N-no, it's okay, Moon!" says Bon Bon. "Oh, Sun, Moon, let me introduce these two. The one next to me is Lily," says Rose, pointing a hoof. "U-um, it's nice to meet you, Your Highnesses!" says Lily, grinning with a shade of red in her cheeks. Oh my gosh! Oh my gosh! They're both so hot! "And the one next to Lily is Daisy," says Rose, pointing a hoof. "It's a p-pleasure to meet you both!" says Daisy, grinning while her cheeks turn beet red. W-wow! They're so tall up close! "Greetings, Lily," says Sun, smiling. "And to thee as well, Daisy," says Moon with a smile. "S-so, Sun, right?" asks Lily, gulping with a tint of red in her cheeks. H-he said my name! "Aye," says Sun, nodding. "A-and you're Moon, right?" asks Daisy, giggling with red cheeks. "Aye, Daisy," says Moon. The way he says my name is so heavenly… thinks Daisy with a long sigh. She then shakes her head. "A-anyway, what are you two doing here in Ponyville?" "Ah, Moon and I wished to see certain ponies here. And Rose is one of them," says Sun, facing Rose with a soft glow in his eyes. "Including Bon Bon," says Moon, facing Bon Bon with a warm gaze. "You don't say?" says Lily and Daisy, glaring at Rose and Bon Bon, the latter, both sheepishly grinning with sweat running down their faces. "Ah, and Derpy as well," says Sun, facing Derpy with a small smile. "Hehe!" says Derpy, grinning with red cheeks. "I-I see…" says Lily, forcing a small smile. Even this clumsy mare! "G-good for you, Derpy!" says Daisy, twitching an eye. Th-this annoying mare! "U-um, Moon! About when you and Sun left Ponyville, did you both find the Azure One?" asks Bon Bon with a sheepish grin. Geh! Lily and Daisy were seriously getting annoyed! "Y-yeah!" says Rose, smiling. Nice save, Bon Bon! Lily and Daisy looked like they were going to blow their bits! "Wait, Azure One?" says Lily, raising a brow. "Weird name." "What are you guys talking about?" asks Daisy, blinking. "U-uh, you see, when Sun and Moon were here yesterday, they were looking for somepony," says Rose. "And that pony was called the Azure One," says Bon Bon. "Azure One, huh?" says Lily, tapping her chin with a hoof. "Well, I can't picture anypony in mind that would fit that name." "Yeah, I wonder who it could be?" asks Daisy, rubbing her head with a hoof. "'Twas Luna," says Moon, smiling. "WHAT!" says Lily, Daisy, Bon Bon, Rose, and Derpy. "Aye, Luna is the Azure One," says Sun. "I should've known it was her!" says Bon Bon, rubbing a hoof down her face. "Yeah, she fits the name so well! Why didn't I think of her?" asks Rose, hitting her head with a hoof. "Well, we don't exactly see her all the time, you know?" says Lily, raising a brow. "And she's a princess as well," says Daisy, rubbing a hoof behind her head. "Oh, Moon, Sun, could you tell us what happened when you went to Canterlot? I would like to hear about it!" says Derpy, grinning. "Oh, me too!" says Bon Bon, smiling. "I would love to hear about it as well!" says Rose, clapping her hooves together. "Sounds interesting," says Lily, sitting on her haunches. "Well, I guess I could take a break from selling bouquets all day," says Daisy, yawning with a hoof over her mouth. "Then, if thou dost not mind, Sun and I shall tell thee of what transpired in Canterlot," says Moon, smiling. "Let us begin," says Sun with a smile. Looking from afar, Twilight gazes at Sun and Moon with a smile. However, her smile slowly turns into a frown. "It's not fair…" says Twilight, hanging her head. "What's not fair?" asks a voice. Turning her head, Twilight sees a white stallion, the latter, blinking at her. "AHH! Highwind, don't scare me like that!" says Twilight, stomping a hoof. "S-sorry, Your Highness. I didn't mean to startle you," says Highwind, frowning. "It's fine…" says Twilight, letting out a sigh. "But since when were you there?" "After you introduced the princes to those mares," says Highwind, raising a brow. "Oh…" says Twilight, her cheeks turning a tint of red while rubbing her head with a hoof. "I-I guess I didn't notice you…" "Don't worry," says Highwind, waving off a hoof. "Anyway, sorry for overhearing you, but what did you mean earlier?" "Geh! I thought you would forget about that…" says Twilight with a sheepish grin. "It's too bad that I have a good memory," says Highwind, smiling. "Jerk," says Twilight with a chuckle. "But are you concerned about something that involves the princes?" asks Highwind. "You're pretty sharp," says Twilight, blinking. "A habit I picked up over the years," says Highwind with a small laugh. "Not sure if that's a good thing or a bad one," says Twilight, rolling her eyes. "I'll take that as a compliment," says Highwind, smiling. He then frowns. "All jokes aside, if there's something weighing on your mind, maybe I can listen to your problems?" "Well, I guess I can take you up on your offer," says Twilight with a smile. She then lets out a long sigh. "It's just… it's just that I'm jealous of Sun and Moon." "And why would you be jealous of them?" asks Highwind, blinking. "Well…" says Twilight, facing Sun and Moon. "I'm glad that they're fitting in well here at Ponyville, but that's the thing. They're being treated as if they were normal ponies, even though they're an alicorn like me. You know, no honorifics, just their name. And I'm jealous of that fact because everypony used to look at me as a friend they could talk to as an equal. But now it's always the princess treatment after these things showed up…" she says, unfolding her wings. "I see…" says Highwind, frowning. "Sometimes, I wish I could've stayed as a unicorn, but I guess fate has a different path for me…" says Twilight, tears welling up in her eyes. "Well, just know that I address royalty by their status naturally, given my position," says Highwind, closing his eyes and puffing out his chest. He then opens an eye, seeing Twilight glaring at him. "I-I guess I shouldn't have said that…" "Naturally," says Twilight, huffing. "S-sorry, let me rethink that…" says Highwind, rubbing the back of his head with a hoof. "Just forget about it," says Twilight, waving off a hoof. "Let's put it this way, Your Highness. Why do you think I address you with honorifics?" asks Highwind. "Because I'm a princess?" says Twilight, raising a brow. "True. But think of it this way. I don't see you not only as a princess but as somepony that has earned my respect," says Highwind. "Respect?" says Twilight, blinking. "Yes. You, including your friends, have saved Equestria countless times. It's because of that I should be thankful to you. And now that you're a princess, perhaps the other ponies are seeing you in a similar way and decided to treat you with the respect you deserve. Besides, being a princess, ponies will continue to seek guidance from you in the present and in the future," says Highwind, smiling. "Wow, I never thought of it that way…" says Twilight, blinking. "However, the same can be said about Prince Sun and Prince Moon. Maybe they'll come across a point where they both will earn the respect of the ponies throughout Equestria, just like you and the other princesses," says Highwind, smiling. "Fair point. But maybe now I understand what's it like for Celestia, Luna, and Cadance," says Twilight, smiling. "Yep," says Highwind, nodding. "Kind of a big responsibility though," says Twilight, sighing. "I know that feeling too well," says Highwind, huffing. "Right, being a commander and all that annoying stuff," says Twilight with a chuckle. "Yeah," says Highwind, smiling and rolling his eyes. "But, Highwind, thanks for the advice," says Twilight with a small smile. "I'm glad I could help," says Highwind, smiling and placing a hoof over his chest. "However, I think our weird princes might be finished with their business here," he says, pointing a hoof. "Really?" says Twilight, turning her head, noticing a white and blue figure towering over her. She then looks up. "Oh, Sun, Moon, are you done talking to Rose and Bon Bon?" "Aye," says Sun, nodding. "All that is left is to meet Dinky," says Moon, smiling. "Wait, where's Derpy?" asks Twilight, blinking. "Here!" says Derpy, appearing from behind Sun. "What are you doing behind him?" asks Twilight, raising a brow. "Oh! Have you ever wrapped yourself in Sun or Moon's tail? It's so smooth, silky, and warm!" says Derpy, rubbing her cheek with Sun's tail in her hoof. Twilight and Highwind face each other before rolling their eyes. "Twilight!" says two voices. Turning her head, Twilight notices Rose and Bon Bon waving a hoof from afar. "Thanks for letting us meet Moon and Sun again!" says Bon Bon, smiling. "Yeah! We owe you big time, Twilight!" says Rose, grinning. Tears well up in Twilight's eyes before trailing down her cheeks. She then feels something on her shoulder and turns her head, noticing Highwind's hoof on her. "What was that about ponies calling you a princess and not by name again?" asks Highwind with a smile. "Shut it," says Twilight, smiling. She then quickly wipes her tears with a hoof and faces Rose and Bon Bon. "You're welcome!" "Thanks again, Twilight! Oh, Moon! Please visit again!" says Bon Bon, grinning. "Aye," says Moon with a smile. "You too, Sun!" says Rose, smiling. "Aye, we will meet again," says Sun, nodding. "Derpy, stop playing with Sun's tail and lead us to Dinky already!" says Twilight, stomping a hoof. "Okay!" says Derpy, removing her hoof from Sun's tail. She then trots ahead before stopping next to Highwind. "Can I have another cookie?" "Help yourself," says Highwind, rolling his eyes. "Thanks!" says Derpy, grabbing a cookie with a hoof from the basket on Highwind's back. She then trots ahead before waving a hoof. "Follow me!" As Twilight's group follows Derpy, Rose and Bon Bon frown as they watch Sun and Moon grow smaller in the distance. "It's frustrating, but Moon looks much more cheerful when he talks about Princess Luna…" says Bon Bon, biting her bottom lip as tears well up in her eyes. "Even Sun smiles more often when he talks about Princess Celestia…" says Rose, clenching a hoof tightly on her arm. "I-it's not fair…" says Bon Bon with tears streaming down her cheeks. "I-I hate it… but what can we do about it?" asks Rose, gritting her teeth as tears trickle down her cheeks. "Ugh! Stop crying about it!" says Lily, stomping a hoof. "And stop thinking like that!" says Daisy, huffing. "What then!" says Bon Bon, glaring at Daisy and Lily. "If you're so smart, then what should we do!" says Rose, stomping a hoof. "Duh! Get them to notice you!" says Lily, glaring. "And win their heart, obviously!" says Daisy, rolling her eyes. "Easy for you to say…" says Rose, huffing. "Yeah…" says Bon Bon, sighing. "Look, I know it's not easy, but never give up, or else Sun and Moon will be taken by another mare," says Lily, frowning. "And that's not something you both want, right?" asks Daisy, raising a brow. "Right…" says Rose and Bon Bon, hanging their head. "So, give it a try next time. You know, ask them to go with you somewhere when you meet them again," says Lily, smiling. "I-I don't think I can do that…" says Bon Bon, moving a hoof on the ground in a circle. "Y-yeah…" says Rose, rubbing an arm with a hoof. "Don't worry. Knowing you two, I'm sure you can do it!" says Daisy, grinning. "I mean, you both can already stir up trouble here at the market," says Lily, smirking. "She started it," says Rose, pointing a hoof at Bon Bon. "H-hey! I already apologized for that!" says Bon Bon, stomping a hoof. "Whatever," says Rose, rolling her eyes. "See, just like that," says Lily with a chuckle. "Anyway, just be confident in yourself as a mare," says Daisy, smiling. "I guess you're right," says Rose with a smile. "Yeah, thanks, you two," says Bon Bon, smiling. "Oh, and one more thing. I call dibs on Sun," says Lily, smirking. "Dibs on Moon," says Daisy, grinning. "Wait, what!" says Rose, stomping a hoof. "I thought you two were cheering us on!" says Bon Bon, glaring. "I don't see your name on Moon and Sun," says Daisy, folding her hooves. "You think we're just going to do nothing when there are two princes that hot roaming around?" asks Lily, raising a brow. "Ugh! You traitors!" says Rose, baring her teeth. "Hey, every mare for herself," says Lily, shrugging. "Fine! It's on then!" says Bon Bon, glaring and pointing a hoof. "That's the spirit," says Daisy, smirking. Spreading their hooves apart, Rose, Lily, Daisy, and Bon Bon glare at each other, baring their teeth. However, a dark stallion with a mohawk from afar blinks at them. "Ugh, mares…" says the dark stallion, rolling his eyes. ________________________________________ "Sun, Moon, we're here!" says Derpy, pointing a hoof. Following Derpy's hoof, Moon and Sun notice a two-story cottage with trees to the side of it, and bushes, colored with flowers of yellow and red, in front of the building. "Is this perhaps where Moon and I will meet Dinky?" asks Sun, tilting his head. "Yep!" says Derpy. "I see," says Moon, smiling. "It's been a while since I've seen Dinky," says Twilight with a giggle. "This place feels cozy," says Highwind with a smile. "Thanks!" says Derpy, grinning. "Anyway, just give me a second…" she says before taking a deep breath. "DINKY! I'M HOME!" Listening closely, the sound of little hooves is heard within the second floor of the cottage, quickly moving to the first floor as the cottage's door bursts open, revealing a pale-purple filly with a wide smile. "Dinky!" says Derpy, sitting and spreading her arms apart. "Derpy!" says Dinky while running before jumping into Derpy's arms. "I missed you so much!" says Derpy, wrapping her hooves around Dinky. "I missed you too!" says Dinky, nuzzling Derpy's chest. "Oh, Dinky, you wouldn't believe who's here to visit!" says Derpy, lowering Dinky on the ground. "Who?" asks Dinky, turning her head. Her eyes begin to widen. "Oh, Princess Twilight!" "Hi, Dinky, it's been a while!" says Twilight, waving a hoof. "It's fine! I know you're busy, but I'm happy that you visited!" says Dinky, jumping up and down with a smile. "I'm glad you feel that way," says Twilight, chuckling with a hoof over her mouth. "Not only is Princess Twilight here, but we also have three more guests!" says Derpy, pointing a hoof. Following Derpy's hoof, Dinky notices Highwind waving a hoof with a sheepish grin before looking up, seeing Sun and Moon gazing down on her. Dinky's eyes shrink before hiding behind Derpy's legs. "Who are they?" asks Dinky, peeking from Derpy's legs with a frown. "Dinky, don't be shy. They're here to meet you," says Derpy, smiling. "But they look really scary!" says Dinky, closing her eyes while wrapping her hooves around Derpy's leg. "Well, I understand that he can be a jerk sometimes," says Derpy, pointing a hoof at Highwind. "H-hey! Don't just ruin her first impression of me!" says Highwind, stomping a hoof. "Pfft! A jerk sometimes. She's got that right," says Twilight, laughing with a hoof over her mouth. "Not you too, Princess Twilight…" says Highwind, hanging his head. "Dinky, remember those two really nice princes I talked about yesterday?" asks Derpy. "Oh yeah!" says Dinky, nodding her head. "That's them!" says Derpy, pointing a hoof at Sun and Moon. "Not only that, they're really handsome, right?" "Yeah!" says Dinky, smiling. She then walks to Sun and Moon, lifting her head as her eyes meet theirs. "U-um, I'm Dinky! It's nice to meet you both!" "Greetings, Dinky. I am Sun," he says, smiling. "And I am Moon," he says with a smile. "If I remember, thou art considered a special somepony to Derpy," says Sun, blinking. "If that is correct?" asks Moon, tilting his head. "H-hey, Sun, Moon, you don't need to bring that up!" says Derpy, pouting with bright red cheeks. "Yes, you're both right. Derpy is also my special somepony," says Dinky, smiling. "Dinky…" says Derpy with tears welling up in her eyes. "What about you two? Do you consider each other as your special somepony?" asks Dinky, blinking. "Forgive me…" says Sun, frowning. "It seems I have yet to understand the meaning of a special somepony…" "Neither do I…" says Moon, hanging his head. Oh no! I forgot that the message Celestia sent said how Sun and Moon don't know much about Equestria's common knowledge! thinks Twilight, her eyes shrinking. "U-uh, Sun, Moon, it means-" "You're both funny!" says Dinky with a small laugh. "Let's just say that you want to see each other safe and would do anything to help each other!" Well, Dinky's not far from the real meaning, but I guess that's one way to describe a special somepony… thinks Twilight, smiling. "I see…" says Sun, facing Moon with a radiant glow in his eyes. "Perhaps I do consider Moon a special somepony." "And I consider Sun the same," says Moon, facing Sun with a soft glow in his eyes. "Geh! I-it's nice they feel that way about each other, but I just can't see it that way!" says Highwind with bright red cheeks. "I know what you mean! When they look at each other like that, it just feels… it feels so wrong!" says Twilight, placing both hooves over her face as red creeps from her chin to her ears. "What are you guys talking about?" asks Derpy, blinking. "Nothing!" says Twilight and Highwind with a sheepish grin. "DERPY!" says a voice. "Huh?" says Derpy, blinking. She then turns her head, only to see a pink mare glaring at her with a frazzled mane. "Oh, hey, Amethyst!" "Don't you hey me! And why do you always yell just to let Dinky know you're here!" says Amethyst, stomping a hoof. "But Dinky doesn't mind and she likes it when I do," says Derpy. "Ugh! But I do mind and I hate it when you do that!" says Amethyst, stomping a hoof. "And where the hay have you been! There were things that I wanted to do, but I ended up watching Dinky the whole entire day! I wanted to at least take a nap, but you-" "Hey, Amethyst," says Twilight, waving a hoof. "Oh, hey, Twilight," says Amethyst, smiling. She then glares at Derpy. "As to what I was saying, you have to stop- wait… Twilight?" she says, blinking. "The one and only!" says Twilight, closing her eyes and puffing her chest. "What are you doing here?" asks Amethyst, rubbing her head with a hoof. "Can't I pay an old friend a visit?" asks Twilight, raising a brow. "Well, I can't say that I'm not happy to see you, Twilight, but I'm trying to have a talk with Derpy… here…" says Amethyst, frowning. "What's with the creepy grin?" "S-sorry, but I'm just so happy because you're one of the few ponies that just calls me by name!" says Twilight, clapping her hooves. "Well, yeah. I mean, you're a princess and all, but you're still the same old Twilight to me," says Amethyst, raising a brow. "See! Why can't everypony be just like you!" says Twilight with a wide grin. "Who knows?" says Amethyst, shrugging. "Oh, oh, Amethyst, you wouldn't believe who's here!" says Derpy, jumping up and down. "Another loudmouth like you?" asks Amethyst, raising a brow. "Well, no, but just look!" says Derpy, pointing a hoof. Following Derpy's hoof, Amethyst's eyes gaze upon Highwind lifting Dinky with his hooves and placing her on Moon's back. Moon then walks in a circle around Sun, the latter, blinking, while Dinky is seen closing her eyes with a wide smile. "Looks like Dinky's enjoying herself," says Twilight, smiling. "Yeah, it's been a while since I've seen her having that much fun," says Derpy with a small smile. "Good for her," says Twilight, chuckling. "Derpy!" says Amethyst, placing both hooves on Derpy's shoulders and gazing into her eyes. "U-um, Amethyst, you're too close…" says Derpy, blinking with a shade of red in her cheeks. "Forget that! Aren't those the two princes that were here yesterday!" says Amethyst, shaking Derpy back and forth. "Y-yeah! B-but please stop sh-shaking me!" says Derpy, her eyes moving quickly in a circular motion. "S-sorry…" says Amethyst, removing her hooves from Derpy's shoulders. "But what are the princes doing here!" "Well, I wanted to introduce them to Dinky. Do you want me to introduce you to them too?" asks Derpy. "Derpy, for once in my life, I'm actually glad to have you as a friend…" says Amethyst, smiling while placing a hoof on Derpy's shoulder. "You're welcome?" says Derpy, blinking. Geh! That was harsh of Amethyst to say that! It's a good thing Derpy didn't know what she meant… thinks Twilight, placing a hoof over her face. "So, do you want me to introduce you to them or not, Amethyst?" asks Derpy. "U-uh, hold that thought!" says Amethyst before becoming a blur and racing towards the cottage. She then appears in front of Derpy, revealing her smooth, straight mane. "Okay, I'm ready!" she says, grinning. "Okay," says Derpy, turning her head. "Sun, Moon, there's somepony I want you to meet!" Sun walks to Derpy while Moon trails behind with Dinky on his back. They then stop next to Derpy, towering over Amethyst. "And whom might this be?" asks Sun, tilting his head. "This is Amethyst Star! She's my best friend that's staying with me! She also helps me watch Dinky when I'm not around!" says Derpy, placing a hoof behind Amethyst's neck and onto her shoulder. "About what Derpy said earlier, just call me Amethyst. A-anyway, it's nice to meet you both," says Amethyst, grinning with red cheeks. "Greetings, Amethyst. My name is Moon," he says with a smile. "And I am Sun," he says, nodding. "Oh, and that's Highwind over there," says Derpy, pointing a hoof. "H-hey," says Highwind, waving a hoof with a sheepish grin. Amethyst blinks at Highwind. She then quickly faces Sun and Moon. "Moon, Sun, thank you for coming to visit us!" she says with a smile. D-did she just… ignore me? thinks Highwind, his mouth opening slightly. "Nay," says Sun, shaking his head. "We do not deserve thy gratitude." "'Tis Sun and I that should be thanking thee, Amethyst," says Moon. "What do you mean?" asks Amethyst, blinking. "To be able to meet a pony that is important to Dinky and Derpy," says Moon, smiling. "Aye," says Sun, nodding. "That's… that's actually one of the nicest things anypony has ever said to me…" says Amethyst, smiling with a warm gaze. "I do owe you a lot for what you've done for us, Amethyst. You're the best friend ever," says Derpy, chuckling. "Aren't Moon and Sun the nicest ponies you ever met?" asks Dinky, gently wrapping her hooves and nuzzling her face against Moon's neck. "Derpy, thanks. And yeah, Dinky, Sun and Moon are the nicest ponies I've met. Well, more like the nicest princes," says Amethyst with a giggle. "Sorry to interrupt, everypony, but it seems it's almost time for Prince Sun and Prince Moon to return," says Highwind, pointing a hoof. "Wait, it's evening already?" asks Twilight, blinking. She follows Highwind's hoof, noticing the Sun in the sky lowering itself behind the mountains in the horizon. "Huh? Time sure flies," she says, rubbing her head with a hoof. "Aww…" says Derpy and Dinky, frowning. "Oh, don't be like that, you two," says Amethyst. Her horn glows into a pink aura, which the same light appears around Dinky, lifting her off from Moon's back and placing her on the ground next to her before the light fades away. "I know it wasn't long, but at least you both had fun, right?" "But I wanted Sun and Moon to stay longer…" says Dinky, hanging her head. "Yeah…" says Derpy, tears welling up in her eyes. "I'm sorry, you two, but I was given a message from Celestia to bring Sun and Moon back in the evening," says Twilight, frowning. "Perhaps Sun and I could visit again?" asks Moon. "Only if thou still wish to see Moon and I…" says Sun, frowning. "Aye…" says Moon, hanging his head. "What are you guys talking about? You're always welcome to visit us, right, Dinky?" asks Amethyst, sitting and placing both hooves on Dinky's shoulders. "Right!" says Dinky, smiling. "Come on, Derpy! At least give Sun and Moon the okay sign!" says Amethyst. Her horn glows pink, wrapping a similar light around Derpy's wing, stretching it, while folding tips of the wing and leaving some pointing out. "Huh? I never thought it could bend that way…" says Derpy, turning her head and looking at her wing. "Sun, Moon, you got Dinky and Derpy's approval, and mine's too. So, you can always visit anytime you want!" says Amethyst, grinning. "Then we shall visit in the near future," says Sun, nodding. "I look forward to seeing thee again," says Moon, smiling. "Amethyst, Derpy, Dinky, thanks for spending some time with Sun and Moon. I really appreciate it," says Twilight, smiling. "Anything for you, Your Highness," says Amethyst, smirking. "Haha…" says Twilight, rolling her eyes. Her eyes then widen before looking down, noticing Dinky's hooves wrapped around her hoof. "Dinky?" "Thanks, Twilight, for everything you've done for everypony in Equestria," says Dinky, removing her hooves from Twilight's hoof. "To me, you're my favorite princess of them all," she says with a wide smile. "Yeah, and thanks for bringing Moon and Sun along, Twilight," says Derpy, grinning. "You guys…" says Twilight with tears streaming down her cheeks. "H-hey, why are you crying?" asks Amethyst, frowning. "Did we say something we shouldn't have said?" asks Dinky, her brows gathering in. "If we did, sorry," says Derpy, rubbing a hoof behind her head. "N-no, I'm just happy to have friends like you three," says Twilight, wiping her tears with a hoof. Well, I can't blame Princess Twilight. She's probably happy that they're just calling her by name, but most of all, she's finally getting treated like an equal again to the ponies that accepted her for who she is, thinks Highwind, smiling. "Anyway, Sun, Moon, let's get going," says Twilight, turning and walking. "We don't want Celestia and Luna to be worried about you two." "Aye," says Sun, nodding. He follows behind Twilight. "I do not want to worry Luna," says Moon, frowning. He then follows behind Sun. "I must thank you three for taking the time to spend with Prince Sun and Prince Moon as well," says Highwind, smiling. "You're welcome," says Dinky, smiling. "Sure thing," says Derpy, grinning. "Sorry, who are you again?" asks Amethyst, raising a brow. "It's Highwind!" he says, stomping a hoof. "Yeah, I'll try to remember," says Amethyst, waving off a hoof. "Hey, Dinky, I'll race you to the kitchen to make muffins!" says Derpy. "You're on!" says Dinky, quickly running to the cottage. "Cheater!" says Derpy, running after Dinky. "H-hey, don't run in the house!" says Amethyst, running after Derpy and Dinky. "Geez, they act like fillies…" says Highwind, rubbing a hoof behind his head. "Hey, Highwind, you coming or not!" says Twilight, stomping a hoof. "Coming!" says Highwind, running and stopping next to Twilight. "S-sorry for keeping you waiting…" "It's fine," says Twilight, waving off a hoof. "But as for you two…" she says, facing Sun and Moon. "Did you both enjoy yourselves today?" "Aye," says Moon, nodding. "I have learned much today." "That's good," says Twilight, chuckling. "What about you, Sun-" "Wh-what was that for!" says Twilight, jumping away and stomping a hoof with her face flushing red to the tip of her ears. "Thank you for what thou hast done for today, Twilight. Moon and I were able to meet the ponies we wished to see again because of thee," says Sun, smiling. "O-oh, uh, yeah. Y-you're welcome…" says Twilight, her face turning bright red while steam comes out of her ears, and slowly tapping her hooves together. Th-that's the first time a guy kissed me on the cheek! she thinks. She then feels something tapping her shoulder before noticing Highwind. "What?" "Don't fall for him," says Highwind, smirking. "I-I'm not!" says Twilight, her face turning bright as a cherry and stomping a hoof. "I'm joking, Your Highness," says Highwind with a small laugh. "Besides, at least you-" Highwind's eyes shrink upon Moon's lips pressing against his cheek. Moon then removes his lips, gazing at Highwind with a soft glow in his eyes. "Highwind, I thank thee for aiding Sun and I in visiting Ponyville once more," says Moon, smiling. "Y-you're welcome, Your Highness…" says Highwind, placing a hoof on his cheek with an open mouth. He then feels something tapping his shoulder before noticing Twilight. "What?" "So, who's falling for who now?" asks Twilight, smirking. "I-I let my guard down, that's all!" says Highwind, his face burning red and folding his hooves. "Liar!" says Twilight, pressing her forehead against Highwind's. "Am not!" says Highwind, pushing against Twilight's forehead with his own. "Are too!" says Twilight, pushing against Highwind's forehead with her own. As Twilight and Highwind push each other back and forth, the basket on Highwind's back falls. "Ah," says Moon, quickly catching the basket with a hoof. He then places it on the ground and grabs a cookie from the basket with a hoof. "Sun, perhaps we should eat as we wait for Twilight and Highwind." "Aye," says Sun, grabbing a cookie from the basket with a hoof. "However, Moon, it seems there is something of concern…" "What dost thou mean?" asks Moon, tilting his head. "Our promise with the Crusaders…" says Sun, frowning. "Ah, it seems I have forgotten about it…" says Moon, blinking. "Will they forgive us?" asks Sun, hanging his head. "I do not know. But for now, Sun, let us eat," says Moon, lifting Sun's face with a hoof and pressing his own forehead against his. "Thank you, Moon," says Sun, pressing his lips against Moon's cheek. "You're welcome," says Moon, smiling. "But it seems it may be a while before Twilight and Highwind finishes," says Sun, biting a piece of a cookie in his hoof. "Aye," says Moon, biting a piece of a cookie in his hoof. ________________________________________ In a mysterious place, light and dark swirls throughout the sky, stretching far into the horizon. However, a blue mare is seen as she treads upon the shallow, clear water with each step causing a ripple below her. "Where is she? I've been searching for hours already…" says the blue mare, sighing. "Oh, Luna, what's wrong? Losing your breath already? You poor thing," says a voice with a small laugh. "Enough! I'm sick of hearing your sarcasm! I've already searched through thousands of dreams, but you still refuse to show yourself!" says Luna, stomping a hoof as water splashes all over her. "You should play in the water more. You know, to cool down that temper of yours," says the voice, chuckling. "Ugh, your sense of humor really is horrible," says Luna, wiping away the droplets of water from her face with a hoof. "Well, it originally came from a certain moody, boring princess, if I say so myself," says the voice. "I'm not moody! And I certainly am not boring!" says Luna, glaring. "There you go again, being stubborn. It's no wonder everypony tends to compare you to Tia," says the voice, sighing. "Leave her out of this!" says Luna, baring her teeth. "Ah, did I hit a nerve?" asks the voice with a chuckle. "ENOUGH!" says Luna, her powerful voice echoing through the air while the clear water below ripples and splits before coming together. "Quit toying with me and show yourself already!" "I'll consider it if you ask nicely," says the voice, giggling. "I won't say it again. Show yourself," says Luna, her horn glowing bright blue. "You stubborn mare. Fine, if you're so desperate to speak with me, then look forward," says the voice. As Luna's horn's glow fades, she looks ahead, her eyes gazing upon a flat, stone land in the middle of the vast clear water around her. Upon the land, a round table rests upon it with a dark mare sitting behind. "Are you happy now?" asks the dark mare, raising a brow. She then places an elbow on the table and rests her head on a hoof. "Hello, Luna," she says, grinning. "Nightmare Moon…" says Luna, glaring. "Oh, don't say my name in such a sinister way. You're making me feel bad. Anyway, come and sit with me, Luna. There's a lot we need to catch up on, right?" asks Nightmare with a wide grin. To be continued…
Chapter 10Distant Shadow ________________________________________ Under the twirling sky of light and dark, Luna walks in small steps towards the dry land of stone in front of her. Her eyes remain in a dagger gaze, focusing on Nightmare Moon, the latter, sitting behind a round table and yawning into a hoof. "Will you hurry up? Or are you just going to take your time, looking at me with that ridiculous look on your face?" asks Nightmare, lifting a brow. "And why should I listen? Besides, I have the right to be wary of anypony, including you," says Luna, glaring. "And here I thought you were grateful to me all those years ago…" says Nightmare, sighing. "And I was a fool to ask for your help!" says Luna, stopping in front of the round table, and pointing a hoof at Nightmare. "Then do you regret asking me?" asks Nightmare, furrowing her brows. "Of course! Thanks to you, I betrayed the trust and friendship of everypony I cherished the most long ago, including my sister!" says Luna, baring her teeth as tears well up in her eyes. "And what has that trust and friendship left you with? Oh, that's right, nothing!" says Nightmare, glaring. "Y-you're wrong…" says Luna, frowning. "Wrong? Do I have to remind you that those ponies, including your sister, failed to understand you all those years ago!" says Nightmare, stomping a hoof. "No. Even now, I realized that it was selfish and foolish of me refusing to lower the Moon to bring about the day…" says Luna, gathering her brows in. "You've changed, Luna…" says Nightmare, huffing. "And it's thanks to the many friends I made now that helped me realize the error of my ways. Even now, the bond between Tia and I grows stronger each day," says Luna with a small smile. Lifting a hoof, Nightmare slams it to the side of the round table, sending it into the air in pieces. She stands to her hooves, walking before stopping in front of Luna with their faces barely touching. "You of all ponies don't have the right to speak about friends when you betrayed me!" says Nightmare, baring her teeth. "How… how could I betray you when we were never friends in the first place!" says Luna, glaring. "Because I believed we were friends!" says Nightmare, stomping a hoof and cracking the stone floor below. "Wh-what are you talking about?" asks Luna with an open mouth. "Don't you realize it yet! I thought of you as a friend! I cared about you! I trusted you, Luna! But how dare you trample over my feelings by mentioning anything about friends when you sealed me away!" says Nightmare, clenching her teeth as tears well up in her eyes. "You're lying! Why should I believe you when you ruined my life all those years ago!" says Luna, stomping a hoof. "Because it was all for you!" says Nightmare, tears streaming down her cheeks. "What?" asks Luna, her eyes widening. "Luna, I came into existence because I wanted revenge for the ponies that ridiculed you, especially Tia for not giving the time to hear you out! The feelings of despair and helplessness built up within you was so unbearable that I couldn't watch anymore!" says Nightmare, clenching a hoof. "But I never wanted revenge! I just wanted a chance to show ponies that the night was something they could enjoy too!" says Luna, placing a hoof on her chest. "Don't lie to yourself, Luna. The feelings you had then were real, and I took over to protect you from the ponies that would dare mock you…" says Nightmare, her horn giving off a dark aura. "Wh-what is this!" says Luna, looking down and noticing dark claws grasping her hooves tightly. "Know this, Luna, those are the same things that dragged me into the abyss when you trapped me in your consciousness…" says Nightmare with a frown. "NO!" says Luna, her eyes shrinking as her horn glows blue, shrouding the same light around the dark claws. However, the blue light disperses along with her horn's glow. "Why can't I stop it! This place was supposed to be under my control!" "Oh, not anymore," says Nightmare with a small laugh. "You see, when you were looking for me by snooping around in the dreams of ponies from all over Equestria, I followed you, stealing what little magic each dream had to offer, and before I knew it, I had all this power surging through me!" "Y-you used me?" asks Luna with wide eyes. "Of course! And now I'm confident that you, Tia, Cadance, and that infuriating Twilight Sparkle are no match for me, even when you're together!" says Nightmare, grinning. "Please, Nightmare Moon, if you believe we're friends, don't do this! I-I don't want to be alone again!" says Luna, tears welling up in her eyes. "And did you bother to think of how I felt when you trapped me in a dark, cold place, even though we went through the same fate together all those years ago!" says Nightmare, glaring. "And I'm sorry I did that to you!" says Luna, reaching out a hoof to Nightmare. "I know I can't make amends now, but if you give me a chance-" "Never!" says Nightmare, stomping a hoof. "I will carry out my revenge on Equestria, even if I have to go through you! Oh, and one more thing, Luna. Have you ever wondered why I'm free? I'll give you a hint. It's a certain pony that is the embodiment of the very thing you raised every night!" "M-Moon?" says Luna, her eyes widening. She then glares. "What does he have to do with this!" "Everything! Ever since you first met him, he caused your emotions to waver, and for a brief moment, it allowed me to escape! After you're gone, Luna, the first thing I'll do is go see Moon as yourself!" says Nightmare with a grin. Her horn then glows blue, wrapping a similar light around herself as a flash of light appears before revealing her blue coat and flowing purple mane. "N-no, no, no… NO! Leave Moon out of this! He already suffered enough!" says Luna, tears trailing down her cheeks. "That's exactly why he will come to understand me. Goodbye, Luna…" says Nightmare, frowning. Moon, Moon, Moon… thinks Luna, closing her eyes as a part of her face sinks into the dark rift below. "I'm sorry…" she says as her entire face sinks in the dark rift and disappears into thin air. ________________________________________ Up in the sky, a golden chariot cuts through the wind while being pulled by three pegasi in gold armor. However, in the chariot, a white pegasi looks at the horizon with a distant look in his eyes. I can't believe I argued with Princess Twilight… thinks the white pegasi, placing both hooves over his face and dragging them down. "Highwind, is there something troubling thee?" asks a voice. "Huh?" says Highwind, looking to his side, noticing a white alicorn with a frown. "U-uh, it's nothing, Prince Sun," he says, waving off a hoof. "If thou sayest so," says Sun, blinking. "A-anyway, isn't it great that we're going back to the castle?" asks Highwind, rubbing his head with a hoof. Because I am! I don't ever want to go back to Ponyville again… "I do not know. Though I wish to stay in Ponyville longer, I also wish to have more of the bread that Celestia eats…" says Sun, his mouth opening slightly as drool seeps out. "I-I see…" says Highwind with a sheepish grin. Is food all you ever think about! he thinks, sighing. He then turns his head, seeing a blue alicorn. "What about you, Prince Moon? Aren't you glad to go back to the castle?" "Ah…" says Moon, blinking. He then shakes his head. "Forgive me, Highwind, it seems I was lost in thought…" "Is there something wrong, Your Highness?" asks Highwind, drawing his brows together. "I do not know. But for a moment, I heard Luna…" says Moon, frowning. "Weird. I didn't hear anything. What about you, Prince Sun?" asks Highwind, blinking. "Nay," says Sun, shaking his head. "Maybe you're just tired from today, Prince Moon," says Highwind with a small laugh. "Perhaps so, but I still worry for Luna…" says Moon with a watery gaze. "Moon…" says Sun, wrinkling his brows. Geh! I-I have to cheer them up somehow! thinks Highwind, biting a hoof. "Prince Moon, don't worry about Princess Luna! I bet she's fine! O-oh, look! We're here at the castle!" he says, pointing a hoof. Looking below from inside the chariot, Sun and Moon notice Canterlot Castle glowing in an orange hue as the Sun in the horizon casts its warm light. "S-so, what do you both think of the view?" asks Highwind with a sheepish grin. "I do not know…" says Moon, smiling as his eyes reflect the orange glow of the castle. "Words cannot describe it…" says Sun, gazing at the sunset with a small smile. Well, at least they're smiling… thinks Highwind, sighing. As the chariot descends, it lands smoothly on the ground before coming to a stop next to the drawbridge of the castle. "All right, Your Highnesses, out of the chariot!" says Highwind, jumping off the chariot. "Aye," says Moon, placing a hoof on the ground and walks out of the chariot. Sun nods his head and follows behind Moon. "Now then, Pleasant, Summer, Top Notch, bring the chariot to the back of the castle and return to the barracks!" says Highwind. "Yes, sir!" says Pleasant, Summer, and Top Notch, saluting. "Oh, before we leave, Prince Moon, Prince Sun, did you enjoy Ponyville?" asks Pleasant, smiling. "Aye, and I wish to visit again," says Moon, smiling. "We have learned much today," says Sun with a smile. "That's good. It's great to go out and see the world for yourself," says Pleasant, grinning. "What about you, sir? How was your time off?" asks Summer, blinking. "Don't think for a second that I forgot about that stunt you three pulled…" says Highwind, glaring. "Yeah, yeah, we get it," says Top Notch, waving off a hoof. "We just wanted to know what happened, that's all." "Ugh, do you have to ask? Well, I guess it was good, except for some ponies I met…" says Highwind, rubbing a hoof down his face. "Were they mares?" asks Summer, raising a brow. "Yeah…" says Highwind, huffing. "Were they cute?" asks Top Notch, blinking. "You should consider asking somepony else instead of me…" says Highwind, clicking his tongue. "Your Highnesses, what did you think of the mares in Ponyville?" asks Summer, blinking. "Yeah, were there some attractive ones?" asks Top Notch, smirking. "Please say yes. I mean, the mares here in Canterlot are kind of… meh," says Pleasant, rolling his eyes. "Forgive me, but I do not understand…" says Moon, frowning. "Attractive?" asks Sun, tilting his head. Ugh! Prince Sun and Prince Moon are the last ponies these idiots should be asking! thinks Highwind, twitching an eye. "H-hey, guys, how about we just call it a day-" "U-uh, speaking of mares, looks like two of them are coming this way!" says Pleasant, pointing a hoof. Following Pleasant's hoof, a pink and dark unicorn is seen walking across the drawbridge. "A-anyway, sir, we'll be on our way!" says Summer with a sheepish grin. "Y-yeah!" says Pleasant with a wide grin. "You idiots! Let's get out of here already!" says Top Notch, his face dripping with sweat. "R-right!" says Pleasant and Summer, nodding quickly. Together, Summer, Pleasant, and Top Notch run across the stone path, pulling the chariot behind them as they take off in the sky. Stopping next to Highwind, a pink mare looks up at Top Notch and the others as they disappear behind Canterlot Castle before facing Highwind. "Hey, why were those guys in a hurry? They could've said hi," says the pink mare, frowning. "I can already guess…" says Highwind, facing a dark mare. "What?" asks the dark mare. "N-nothing!" says Highwind with a sheepish grin. "Ah, Melody, greetings," says Sun, smiling. "Oh, Sun!" says Melody, jumping and wrapping her hooves around Sun's chest. "Did you miss me?" "Aye," says Sun, nodding. "Hehe!" says Melody, grinning. "Lyrical, 'tis good to see thee," says Moon with a smile. "Good evening, Moon. How was your trip to Ponyville?" asks Lyrical, tilting her head. "I enjoyed it," says Moon, nodding. "I see," says Lyrical with a small smile. "So, why are you two here?" asks Highwind, blinking. "What? We can't say hi to Sun and Moon?" asks Melody, raising a brow. "As rude as always, Highwind," says Lyrical, sighing. "You're one to talk, Lyrical," says Highwind, huffing. "Threatening to dump a bucket of ice water over me whenever I sleep when you and the others forced Princess Celestia to-" "Do you still want me to?" asks Lyrical, glaring. "O-on second thought, forget what I said…" says Highwind with a sheepish grin. "Come on, Highwind, we're only joking," says Melody with a small laugh. "I wasn't," says Lyrical. "Lyrical!" says Melody, stomping a hoof. "Fine, it was only a joke," says Lyrical, clicking her tongue. "Geez…" says Melody, sighing. "Anyway, Tia wanted to welcome you guys, but she's too busy dealing with some snot-nosed nobles," she says, huffing. "Apparently, some ponies in Canterlot are having a rivalry and kept remodeling their home to see who has the better design. This has been going on for the past month…" says Lyrical, sighing. "Now they're here asking Tia to decide for them," says Melody, rolling her eyes. "Seriously?" asks Highwind, raising a brow. "Yeah…" says Melody, rubbing a hoof down her face. "I can't believe the ridiculous things that Tia deals with nowadays!" "Hmm…" says Lyrical, tapping her chin with a hoof. "If it was me, I would use my magic and blow-" "Okay, okay, stop!" says Melody, putting a hoof over Lyrical's mouth. "Lyrical, be careful of what you say. We still have kids here," she says, pointing a hoof at Sun and Moon. Sun and Moon tilt their head. "Oh, right," says Lyrical. "Ah, I almost forgot. Moon, there's somepony that wanted to see you," says Melody, smiling. "Whom art thou speaking of?" asks Moon. "Lyrical, wake him up," says Melody, grinning. "Okay," says Lyrical, poking a hoof against her mane. Slowly, a small creature appears from Lyrical's mane, rubbing a paw against its eye. "Ah, Tibbles," says Moon, blinking. Tibbles' ears twitch before facing Moon, waving both of his paws. "'Tis good to see thee as well," says Moon, smiling. Tibbles then faces Sun, tilting his head before pointing a paw at him and looking at Moon. "Aye, Tibbles, that is Sun," says Moon, nodding. Tibbles then faces Sun, closing his eyes, and waves a paw. "And greetings to thee, Tibbles," says Sun, smiling. "H-hold on a second… Sun, Moon, you understand what Tibbles is saying?" asks Melody with an open mouth. "Aye," says Sun, nodding. "Is it perhaps strange?" asks Moon, frowning. "Strange? It's amazing!" says Melody, throwing both hooves in the air. "Melody's right, Your Highnesses! Talking to animals is something of a gift!" says Highwind, smiling. "Even I'm impressed," says Lyrical with a small smile. "You see, Your Highnesses, we can only understand Tibbles through yes or no questions, and he either nods or shakes his head," says Highwind, sighing. "Yeah, and the only ponies I know that can talk to animals is Lulu and one of Twilight's friends. But I forgot her name…" says Melody, tapping her chin with a hoof. "Her name's Fluttershy, I believe," says Lyrical. "Yeah, her!" says Melody, nodding. "I wonder why Tia and Lulu didn't mention anything about Sun and Moon being able to talk to animals though?" "Maybe it's because we didn't ask them about it?" says Lyrical. "Geh! I guess you're right…" says Melody, hanging her head. Tibbles then faces Moon, rubbing his eye with a paw and points another paw at Canterlot Castle. "Ah, forgive me, Tibbles…" says Moon, frowning. "What did Tibbles say?" asks Highwind, blinking. "Tibbles mentioned staying up and waiting at the castle all day for Moon," says Sun. "Ugh! It took Lyrical and I forever to figure out that Tibbles wanted to come along and see Moon…" says Melody, sighing. "He's supposed to be resting at this time as well…" says Lyrical, frowning. "Tibbles, was there something you needed from Prince Moon that you stayed up this long?" asks Highwind, rubbing his head with a hoof. Tibbles shakes his head. "Did you just want to see Prince Moon?" asks Highwind, blinking. Tibbles nods his head before looking at Moon, closing his eyes and waving a paw. "Aye, I consider thee important as well, Tibbles," says Moon, smiling. "Geez, I never thought there would be somepony Tibbles likes as much as Lulu," says Melody with a small smile. "Well, Moon is similar to Luna," says Lyrical, smiling. "I guess," says Melody, shrugging. Tibbles lifts a paw to his mouth, yawning into it. "I think it's time I bring Tibbles back, and I have to wake up Luna since she tends to sleep past the scheduled time to raise the Moon…" says Lyrical, sighing. "To think she's the Princess of the Night…" says Melody, rolling her eyes. "Then, Moon, Sun, I wish you both a good evening," says Lyrical, bowing her head. Tibbles waves a paw. "Farewell, Tibbles," says Moon, smiling. "And to thee as well, Lyrical," says Sun with a small smile. Tibbles then dives into Lyrical's mane as she turns and walks to the castle. "So, Moon, Sun, you guys hungry?" asks Melody, tilting her head. "Nay," says Moon, shaking his head. "I wish to eat more banana bread, but perhaps another time," says Sun. "That's weird. I thought you both would be hungry when you came back…" says Melody, tapping her chin with a hoof. "Well, they did eat a lot at Ponyville…" says Highwind, rubbing his head with a hoof. "Oh, then since you both aren't hungry, want to take a bath?" asks Melody, facing Sun and Moon. "Aye," says Sun with beaming eyes. Haha, it's funny how Tia's the same when it comes to a bath, thinks Melody, giggling with a hoof over her mouth. "Sun, you really like baths, huh?" "Aye," says Sun with a small smile. "So, what about you, Highwind?" asks Melody, blinking. "Yeah, I guess. It'd be nice after all the things I dealt with today…" says Highwind, sighing. "I see. I guess those rumors around the castle that you're going after the princes were right," says Melody, smirking. "H-hey! I already said that I don't swing that way!" says Highwind, stomping a hoof with bright red cheeks. "I'm joking! I'm joking! Geez, you take things so serious sometimes," says Melody, raising a brow. "Hmph!" says Highwind, sitting and folding his hooves. Ah, he's sulking now, thinks Melody, chuckling with a hoof over her mouth. She then faces Moon. "What about you, Moon?" "Nay," says Moon, shaking his head. Highwind's ears twitch before facing Moon. What? I thought Prince Moon enjoyed baths as much as Prince Sun… "Moon, are you sure you don't want to join Sun and Highwind?" asks Melody, blinking. "Aye, I wish to rest for the night…" says Moon with a small smile. "Wait for a second, Prince Moon, I thought you liked baths?" asks Highwind, standing to his hooves. "Forgive me, Highwind, but it seems I am not feeling well…" says Moon, wrinkling his brows. "Hey, Highwind!" says Melody, stomping a hoof. "If Moon is not feeling well, you don't have to-" "Melody, sorry, but please be quiet," says Highwind, lifting a hoof. He then faces Moon with an unwavering gaze. "Prince Moon, be honest with me. Are you still worried about that voice you heard?" Moon's eyes widen before furrowing his brows. "Aye, as of now, I fear that something must have happened to Luna…" "Then why were you trying to hide it?" asks Highwind, frowning. "Forgive me…" says Moon, lowering his gaze. "I… I…" "Moon," says Sun. Turning their head, Moon, Highwind, and Melody notice Sun with a watery gaze. Sun then moves closer before standing in front of Moon with their muzzles barely touching. Slowly, Sun presses his head against Moon's as they gaze into each other's eyes. "Why art thou not being honest with thyself?" asks Sun, his brows drawing together. "Because… because I do not wish to trouble others after everything they have done for us…" says Moon, averting his gaze. "Moon, I understand, but given our time here, I have come to know that there will be difficulties as we learn more about this world. Though I wish to not trouble others as much as thee, I feel that 'tis right to request the aid of others for answers that we do not know," says Sun with a small smile. "Sun…" says Moon with wide eyes. Ah, that is right. Luna mentioned if I am lost, I should consult somepony about my concerns… he thinks, placing his lips on Sun's cheek. He then removes his lips, smiling at Sun with a soft glow in his eyes. "Thank you." "You're welcome," says Sun, smiling. "Geez, I'll never get used to it when they kiss somepony like that…" says Melody, fanning a hoof at her face with a shade of red in her cheeks. "I'm just glad that Prince Moon is smiling again…" says Highwind, frowning. "From what I see, you don't look too happy," says Melody, raising a brow. "I can't help it! I'm still angry at myself for failing to understand Prince Moon! I mean, I can't believe I forgot that even though he may have a body of a grown pony, I didn't consider the fact that he's still a child at heart, not wanting to cause trouble for others! The same can be said for Prince Sun…" says Highwind, clenching a hoof. "Well, yeah. I mean, if ponies are doing everything they can to help you, it makes sense you'd try not to trouble them. Even I understand where Sun and Moon are coming from since me and Lyrical were kind of in a similar spot…" says Melody, her brows gathering in. "Melody…" says Highwind, frowning. "That's right. You and Lyrical were-" Lifting a hoof, Melody smacks Highwind's back. "OW! What was that for!" says Highwind, rubbing his back with a hoof. "Let's leave it at that. Besides, I think somepony wants to talk to you," says Melody, pointing a hoof. Following Melody's hoof, Highwind notices Moon towering over him, looking at him with a stern gaze. "D-do you need something, Your Highness?" asks Highwind with a sheepish grin. "Forgive me for not being honest with thee, Highwind…" says Moon, furrowing his brows. "N-no! It's fine! If anything, it's me who should apologize!" says Highwind, shaking his head and waving both hooves. "Nay…" says Moon, shaking his head. "'Tis I that should apologize for my mistake. I should have consulted thee about my concerns when I am troubled…" Highwind lets out a sigh. "You know, Your Highness, just know that either Melody or I will do whatever we can to help you and Prince Sun," he says with a small smile. "Highwind's right. Besides, we're some of the ponies Tia and Lulu asked to be there for you and Sun whenever you need help, remember?" asks Melody, raising a brow. "Ah, it seems I have forgotten…" says Moon, blinking. "Don't worry too much about it, but just know that you can always rely on us," says Melody, grinning. "Aye," says Moon, nodding with a smile. "Good boy. Anyway, aren't you glad you have somepony like Sun that worries about you?" asks Melody, smiling. "That is why I am fortunate to have Sun by my side…" says Moon, his eyes turning soft with an inner glow while facing Sun. Noticing Moon's gaze, Sun looks at him with gentle eyes and a small smile. "Ugh! I'm so jealous! I wish Lyrical could appreciate me more like that!" says Melody, biting a hoof. "You know Lyrical wouldn't do that, right?" asks Highwind, raising a brow. "Don't remind me! Even though I'm her older sister, she never treats me with the respect I deserve!" says Melody, tears spurting out of her eyes. "Well, you always act like a filly and tend to slack off from your job…" says Highwind, muttering to himself. "What did you say?" asks Melody, glaring at Highwind. "Nothing! A-anyway, I'm still worried about what Prince Moon said!" says Highwind, his face dripping with sweat. "Oh, speaking of that, what did you mean earlier about a voice?" asks Melody, blinking. "I'm not sure, but Prince Moon said something about hearing Princess Luna…" says Highwind, frowning. "Wait, what?" asks Melody, raising a brow. "Ugh! Prince Moon, are you sure the voice you heard was Princess Luna?" asks Highwind, quickly rubbing his head with a hoof. "Aye…" says Moon, frowning and slowly nodding his head. "If I remember, Luna asked for help, but I do not understand why…" "So, what you're both saying is that you think this voice Moon heard is Lulu asking for help, but you don't know why?" asks Melody, tapping her chin with a hoof. "Pretty much," says Highwind, blinking. Taking a deep breath, Melody lets out a sigh. "You know, if somepony else heard this, they'd think Moon's crazy. Heck, even I thought so, but knowing him and Sun, they're just way too honest, and Moon has no reason to lie…" she says, folding her hooves. "And that's why I believe him…" says Highwind, placing a hoof over his face. "So, what should we do now, Commander?" asks Melody, raising a brow. "For now, Prince Sun, Prince Moon, I'm sorry, but the bath will be for another time, and you both will go to your rooms instead," says Highwind. "I see…" says Moon, frowning. "'Tis unfortunate…" says Sun, hanging his head. "Sorry, you two, it's for your own safety. After this is over, you can stay in the bath as much as you want. Well, not too long, okay?" asks Melody, smiling. "Aye," says Sun with a smile. "Forgive me, but could Sun perhaps spend the night in my room?" asks Moon. "That's fine, but why?" asks Highwind, blinking. "I… I just wish for Sun to stay by my side…" says Moon, his brows gathering in. "Oh, I can see it now!" says Melody with steam coming from her nose as her cheeks turn red. "Two brothers in a forbidden relationship as Sun pushes Moon on the bed, and they-" "Stop having weird thoughts about them!" says Highwind, hitting Melody on the head with a hoof. "OW! Geez, you're no fun…" says Melody, pouting. Highwind rolls his eyes. "Anyway, Prince Moon, that's a great idea, but is Prince Sun okay with it?" "Sun, dost thou hast any complaints?" asks Moon, frowning. "Nay, I also wish to stay by thy side, Moon," says Sun, smiling. "Sun…" says Moon with a small smile. "Well, if Prince Sun agrees, Melody, can you arrange Prince Moon's room for both of them to sleep in?" "No problem!" says Melody, puffing out her chest. "Then I'll ask some guards to watch the room, and it's easier for them to keep an eye on the princes since they're together," says Highwind. "Um, Highwind, shouldn't we tell Tia about this? I mean, this is pretty serious…" says Melody, wrinkling her brows. "No. If we do, she probably might go see Princess Luna herself," says Highwind, sighing. "But Tia's powerful, you know?" says Melody, raising a brow. "And so is Princess Luna…" says Highwind, frowning. "Oh…" says Melody, slumping her shoulders. "Look, I'm just worried about what Prince Moon said about Princess Luna asking for help. If that's true, then whatever we're dealing with, it's powerful enough to deal with alicorns, and I don't want to put Princess Celestia in danger…" says Highwind, clenching a hoof. "D-do you think it's Queen Chrysalis?" asks Melody, her body shivering. "It could be…" says Highwind, glaring. "But didn't Tia put some sort of barrier around the city and the castle to prevent changelings from entering?" asks Melody, twirling a hoof. "She did, but you can never be too sure. Besides, there's something else that bothers me more, and that's to see if Princess Luna is an imposter or not. If she really is a fake, then we can't just bring a group of guards, or she might get too cautious…" says Highwind, furrowing his brows. "I-I guess you're right…" says Melody, rubbing a hoof to her head. "Wait, what about Lyrical?" asks Highwind, blinking. "She's probably with that fake Lulu, so I guess we'll have to do this without her…" says Melody, frowning. "Guess this will be harder than I thought…" says Highwind, rubbing a hoof down his face. "Wait…" says Melody, tapping her chin with a hoof. She then grins. "I think I have an idea!" ________________________________________ Atop the spiraling towers of Canterlot Castle, a rift appears atop a balcony. Through the rift, a blue hoof appears and touches the floor as the owner of the hoof comes through, revealing a blue mare. "It's been a while since I set hoof on solid ground," says the blue mare, looking down and tapping a hoof on the stone floor. Lifting her head, the blue mare glances from side to side before setting her eyes on the sunset in the horizon. "And the Sun is still the same after all this time…" says the blue mare, glaring. She then lets out a sigh. As much as I want to drown Equestria in the night, there are things that I must do first… "Luna?" says a voice. "Huh?" says Luna, turning her head, noticing a dark mare. Wait, she must be my, well, her personal maid. Her name is… Lyrical, if I recall. Maybe she knows where Moon is? Question is though, how did Luna behave around her again? Ah, now I remember… she thinks, blinking. "Oh, Lyrical, did you need something?" "Did you forget already? I always come around this time to wake you up. Honestly, Luna, you're not a filly anymore, so you should learn to get up yourself," says Lyrical, glaring. "S-sorry…" says Luna with a sheepish grin. How dare she speak to me like that! If I didn't need you, I would've just blown you away! "Anyway, I just put Tibbles on your bed, so he's sleeping right now. I can't believe he stayed up so long just to see Moon…" says Lyrical, sighing. Tibbles? Oh, that disgusting creature I supposedly keep as a pet, thinks Luna, tapping her chin with a hoof. "Thanks for looking after him." "It's fine. By the way, why are you up early, Luna? You're usually snoring away in your bed right now…" says Lyrical with a glare. "Oh, uh, I-I guess I couldn't sleep well…" says Luna, rubbing her arm with a hoof. "Hmm…" says Lyrical, squinting her eyes and looking into Luna's own. D-did she notice something! thinks Luna, her face dripping with sweat. "You seem fine, I guess. Did you wake up early because you were hungry or something?" asks Lyrical, tilting her head. "Uh, yes! I am kind of hungry…" says Luna with a sheepish grin. "Well, you do have a long night. I don't want you to do your duties on an empty stomach," says Lyrical. "If you say so…" says Luna, sighing. I have to be more careful around this mare… "But, Luna, since we're out here on the balcony, you should start raising the Moon. Look, Celestia's already bringing the Sun down," says Lyrical, pointing a hoof. "Oh, right!" says Luna, blinking. She then turns around and grinds her teeth. Ugh! I can't believe this stupid mare is telling me what to do! If only I knew how to use a mind control spell or something! Closing her eyes, Luna's horn glows bright blue as a white glow emerges from the mountains in the distance. Soon, the Moon reveals itself, rising up as stars sparkle throughout the night sky. "As I thought, the night is beautiful, no matter how many times I see it…" says Luna, her eyes reflecting the multiple lights, flickering in the night sky. "And it always will be," says Lyrical. "It's a shame that ponies sleep throughout the night…" says Luna, frowning. "True, but there are many ponies that enjoy it," says Lyrical with a small smile. "Really?" asks Luna, blinking. "Well, I do like to read at night, especially since it's the only time where it's quiet throughout the castle. But I'm just one of the many ponies that can truly enjoy themselves at night than during the day…" says Lyrical, her brows gathering in. "And what would that be?" asks Luna, raising a brow. "For somepony that watches over the dream world, I thought you came across some of those examples already," says Lyrical, sighing. "I only check the dreams of ponies that have nightmares, you know? Sorry for being clueless…" says Luna, huffing. Lyrical rolls her eyes. "Look, from morning to evening, I have to deal with maids throughout the castle that slacks off, especially when it comes to my older sister that's setting a stupid example. It's only when the day's over that I can finally get some peace to myself…" "Pfft! I-I guess that's a very good reason!" says Luna, laughing with a hoof over her mouth. "That's rare for somepony like me to make you laugh," says Lyrical, tilting her head. "You underestimate yourself," says Luna, smiling. "You know, we've never talked like this before…" says Lyrical, frowning. "We didn't?" asks Luna, blinking. "Of course. You and I are always busy, but I'm glad we did…" says Lyrical with a small smile. "Lyrical…" says Luna, furrowing her brows. To think I thought of her as an annoyance at first, but I'm starting to think differently of her now. If only we didn't meet under different circumstances, I would've liked to talk to her more… "Well, let's not waste more time. You're hungry, right?" asks Lyrical, smiling. "R-right…" says Luna with a sheepish grin. "Oh, Lyrical, I forgot to ask, but where is Moon?" "He should be with my sister, I think. Is there something you need from him?" asks Lyrical, tilting her head. "Oh, nothing. I just wanted to have a little talk with him," says Luna, chuckling. "I guess we can find him on the way to the dining room. I'll go with you," says Lyrical, turning around and walking through a doorway. "Thank you, Lyrical," says Luna, smiling. She then frowns and bites her bottom lip. And I'm sorry for deceiving you… ________________________________________ Through the halls of Canterlot Castle, Highwind is seen standing on his hind legs with his back against a wall. He then peeks his head in an intersection of the hallway, glancing from left to right. "What are you doing?" asks a voice. "AHH!" says Highwind, leaping into the air before landing face first. He then groans and lifts his head, noticing a pink mare laughing with a hoof over her mouth. "Melody!" he says, glaring. "It's not my fault you get scared easily," says Melody, grinning. "Ugh! Don't do that!" says Highwind, jumping to his hooves. "I thought you… were…" he says with an open mouth, noticing a white alicorn next to Melody. "What's wrong, Highwind?" asks the white alicorn, blinking. "U-um, excuse me for a second, Princess Celestia!" says Highwind with a sheepish grin. He then grabs Melody by the nape of her neck with a hoof and drags her away. "OW! Highwind, you jerk! That really hurts! Why'd you do that for!" says Melody, glaring and rubbing the nape of her neck with a hoof. "What the hay, Melody! Why'd you bring Princess Celestia! Even after I told you that we shouldn't involve her!" says Highwind, stomping a hoof. "Don't worry! It's all part of my plan!" says Melody, puffing out her chest. "And why did that plan have to involve her out of all ponies!" says Highwind, sitting and placing both hooves over his face before dragging them down. "Like it or not, we'll still need Tia's help to deal with whoever the fake Lulu is…" says Melody, frowning. "Geh! I-I can't deny that…" says Highwind, sighing. "Oh, and I managed to prepare Moon's room for him and Sun, so they're together right now. How did it go on your end with the guards for them?" asks Melody, raising a brow. "O-oh, uh, I…" says Highwind, his face dripping with sweat. "What happened now?" asks Melody, glaring. "You see, I thought of actually bringing some guards with us before going up against the imposter, but… when I went to the barracks, there was only Pleasant, Summer, and Top Notch. So, I asked them to guard Prince Moon's room…" says Highwind, rubbing an arm with a hoof. "Wait, only those three? What happened to the others?" asks Melody, blinking. "Well, they're actually out somewhere in Canterlot drinking or something…" says Highwind with a sheepish grin. "WHAT!" says Melody, her eyes shrinking. She then stomps a hoof. "Why would they do that!" "I-it's kind of a long story…" says Highwind, sighing. It's because I told Pleasant, Summer, and Top Notch to let the other guards know that they're free to do whatever they want for the day… "Forget it. I don't want to hear it," says Melody, huffing. "You know, I sometimes think that the Royal Guard is useless for never being there when we need them the most." "I-I've got nothing to say to that…" says Highwind, hanging his head. He then quickly lifts his head. "Wait, how about we ask some of the maids?" "Are you an idiot!" says Melody, glaring. "Did you forget that at this time, all the maids go home! And even if they were here, they don't know any powerful spells to protect themselves like me and Lyrical-" "I'm sorry to interrupt, but what are you two talking about?" asks Celestia, blinking. "N-nothing!" says Highwind and Melody with a sheepish grin. Celestia lets out a sigh before facing Melody with a frown. "Melody, you do realize that I have to be up early again tomorrow, right? Then why did you ask me to come here at this time?" "I know, I know! I'm so sorry, Tia, but it's something very important!" says Melody, repeatedly bowing her head. "And that is?" asks Celestia, raising a brow. "I can't tell you now, but could you please be patient!" says Melody, putting her hooves together and facing Celestia with large watery eyes. "Fine. I don't know what you're up to, but you better explain after this is over…" says Celestia, glaring. "Thanks, Tia," says Melody, smiling. Highwind leans over to Melody. "You didn't tell her what's going on?" "If I did, do you think she'd believe what Moon said?" asks Melody, raising a brow. "No…" says Highwind, frowning. "Then be quiet and play along!" says Melody, glaring. She then faces Celestia. "Um, Tia, do you mind doing me a big favor?" "What is it now?" asks Celestia, furrowing her brows. "Are you able to turn invisible?" asks Melody with a sheepish grin. "And why are you asking me this?" asks Celestia, glaring. "Could you please do that and stay that way for now?" asks Melody, putting her hooves together. "Melody, I'm starting to grow impatient as to why you're hiding something from me. But I will listen to you just this once because I've known you for a long time…" says Celestia, scowling. "Tia, I'm so sorry for asking you this, but I really need your help right now…" says Melody, furrowing her brows. "And I should apologize to you as well, Your Highness, but please listen to Melody…" says Highwind, bowing his head. "I don't know what's going on, but I can see that you're both determined to carry this out. It would pain me to stand by and do nothing when ponies like you two desperately need my help…" says Celestia, wrinkling her brows. "Thank you, Your Highness," says Highwind, smiling. "U-um, Tia, one more thing. While you're invisible, from here on out, please don't say anything and just follow us, okay?" asks Melody, drawing her brows together. Nodding, Celestia's horn glows yellow as a similar light shrouds her body, causing herself to turn transparent before fading away. "By the way, Melody, you said that Lyrical should be coming pass here. How do you know that?" asks Highwind, raising a brow. "With my overflowing love for my little sister, of course! I can sense her anywhere!" says Melody, puffing out her chest. "Melody, th-that's really… creepy…" says Highwind, his face turning blue. "H-hey, don't look at me like that, Highwind!" says Melody, stomping a hoof. "I'm sorry, Melody, but I have to agree with Highwind on this…" says Celestia. "Even Tia too! Ugh, even though you're invisible, just imagining how you're looking at me is starting to make me cry…" says Melody, tears welling up in her eyes. "Wait, I think I hear somepony coming this way!" says Highwind, his ears twitching. He then peeks his head in the hallway intersection, noticing a dark mare. "It's Lyrical…" "Really?" asks Melody, blinking. "Great! We can ask her about-" "Hold on!" says Highwind, squinting his eyes. His eyes then widen. "Great, Princess Luna's with her too! Melody, are you sure that plan you mentioned is going to work?" "Don't worry. Just follow my lead," says Melody, smiling. She then walks ahead, turning at the intersection of the hallway. "Oh, Lyrical, there you are!" "Melody? What are you doing here?" asks Lyrical. "Oh, just wanted to see how things are doing on your side," says Melody, grinning. "Then why is that useless idiot here?" asks Lyrical, glaring at Highwind. "Nice to see you too, Lyrical," says Highwind, rolling his eyes. "Highwind was helping me with setting up Moon's room. Apparently, Moon wanted Sun to stay with him for the night, right, Highwind?" asks Melody, elbowing Highwind's side. "R-right!" says Highwind with a sheepish grin. "And why did Moon suggest that?" asks Lyrical, tilting her head. "Well, I guess Moon was lonely or something…" says Melody, tapping her chin with a hoof. "Or maybe he wanted a passionate night with Sun, doing things like-" "Enough," says Lyrical, putting a hoof over Melody's mouth. "I don't want to hear what's going on in that head of yours." "Oh, and good evening, Princess Luna," says Highwind, smiling. "And to you as well, Highwind," says Luna with a small smile. "Oh, Lulu, what about me?" asks Melody, pointing a hoof at herself. "Yes, I didn't forget about you, Melody. Good evening," says Luna, chuckling. "So, Lulu, why are you with Lyrical? Aren't you supposed to be watching over the dream world or something?" asks Melody, raising a brow. "Well, I wanted to eat something before doing my duties. Oh, I also wanted to talk with Moon, but I'm not sure where he is, so I'm here with Lyrical to find him," says Luna, frowning. "But now we don't need to find him since we know where he is now. You're actually useful for once, Melody," says Lyrical, rubbing and twisting a hoof against Melody's nose. "Ow, ow, ow! That hurts, Lyrical!" says Melody, pushing Lyrical's hoof away with her own and placing another hoof on her nose. "Anyway, let's not waste any time, Luna. You have a long night," says Lyrical. "I know, I know…" says Luna, sighing. "Wait, before you go, there's something I need to ask you, Lulu," says Melody, smiling. "What is it?" asks Luna, blinking. Melody's smile slowly fades away as her eyes turn into a dagger gaze. "Where is the real Lulu?" "Excuse me?" asks Luna with an open mouth. "Melody, if this is another one of your jokes, I really will get angry…" says Lyrical, glaring. "Believe me, this isn't a joke. You caught on too, right, Highwind?" asks Melody, her horn glowing bright blue. "Yeah…" says Highwind with a glare. He then spreads his hooves apart and unfolds his wings. "Do you both realize what you're doing?" asks Luna, narrowing her eyes. "Oh, I do, and I'll ask again. Where is the real Lulu?" asks Melody, scowling. "Melody, Highwind, stop it! Are you both crazy!" says Lyrical, stomping a hoof. "Lyrical, you might not have noticed, but that's not the real Lulu…" says Melody, frowning. "And how do you know that!" says Lyrical. "Come on, Lyrical, even you should have noticed it! It's so simple that everypony in the castle knows that Lulu hates it when you call her that…" says Melody, sighing. "And from our talk earlier, this Princess Luna never once said anything when Melody called her by that name!" says Highwind, pointing a hoof at Luna. Lyrical's eyes widen before facing Luna with a glare as her horn glows bright pink. "Who are you?" Luna lets out a sigh. "I can't believe because of a stupid mistake; my disguise was ruined! But to think there are some ponies in the castle who aren't dumb after all!" she says with a wide grin. Her horn glows blue as a similar light shrouds her body, causing a flash of light that quickly disappears. Highwind, Melody, and Lyrical's eyes widen from the shadowy figure standing before them. Their bodies begin to tremble as the shadow's familiar black coat and flowing purple mane reflect in their eyes. "N-no way…" says Highwind, his legs giving out as he falls on his haunches. "Wh-what's going on!" "Wh-why is she here? I thought she was g-gone for good…" says Melody, her face turning pale. "Nightmare Moon…" says Lyrical, clenching a hoof on her shaking arm. "Oh, what's wrong? For a second there, you three were prepared for anything, but now you're trembling before me," says Nightmare, chuckling. "W-we're not scared of you!" says Highwind, standing to his hooves. "Y-yeah! And why are you here!" says Melody, glaring. "Where's Luna! Give her back!" says Lyrical, stomping a hoof. "I'm afraid I can't do that. Besides, what can you three weaklings do to me?" asks Nightmare, laughing. "They're not alone…" says a voice. Nightmare's eyes widen, noticing Celestia as her transparent body fully comes into view. "Well, well, this is a surprise. I never thought I'd see your annoying face so soon, Tia," says Nightmare, grinning. "You of all ponies have no right to call me that!" says Celestia, glaring as her horn turns bright yellow. "I'll repeat what Melody asked you before, where is my sister?" "What's wrong? Can't recognize your own sister standing before you? You do know that Luna and I are one and the same, right?" asks Nightmare, raising a brow. "And I refuse to believe that! Now tell me where my sister is!" says Celestia, stomping a hoof. "As always, you're so impatient and quick at ordering others," says Nightmare, rolling her eyes. "Well, if you must know, she's not hurt and sleeping somewhere like the good princess she is," she says with a wide grin. Celestia bares her teeth as her horn releases a beam of light, flying straight at Nightmare. Standing her ground, Nightmare looks at the light with an unwavering gaze as it engulfs her and her surroundings. As the beam of light disappears, the walls and pillars of the hallway lay in rubble, revealing a large hole in the castle's wall, exposed to the open night air. However, Celestia's eyes widen, noticing Nightmare dusting off her shoulder with a hoof while standing in the middle of the rubble around her. "N-no way! There's not a scratch on her!" says Highwind, his eyes shrinking. "That was one of Celestia's most powerful spells…" says Lyrical, frowning. "Wh-what should we do!" says Melody, throwing both hooves in the air. "Calm down, you three," says Celestia, spreading her hooves apart. "There must be a way to-" "Is that all, Tia?" asks Nightmare, raising a brow. "What did you do!" says Celestia, glaring. "It's simple. You're just too weak!" says Nightmare, stomping a hoof and cracking the stone floor. "Now then, it's my turn!" she says, grinning. Her horn then glows blue, covering Celestia, Highwind, Melody, and Lyrical in the same light before slamming them on the floor. "I-I can't move!" says Highwind, barely lifting a hoof before it falls back on the floor. "M-me too!" says Melody, her face firmly planted on the floor. "It feels like there's something heavy on me…" says Lyrical, clenching her teeth. "H-hold on, everypony…" says Celestia, her horn glowing yellow, shrouding a similar light over herself. However, the light disperses into the air. "My magic's not working…" she says with an open mouth. "That's because I'm suppressing your magic," says Nightmare, walking before coming to a stop in front of Celestia. "It's a good thing I placed a large barrier around us when you selfishly attacked me. Otherwise, it would be a problem if others heard that loud noise." "Why… why are you doing this!" says Celestia, glaring. "Why? Why! It's all to get back at you and all the ponies that shunned me and Luna all those years ago! Especially when you banished us to the Moon!" says Nightmare, her nostrils flaring. "I-I had no choice! I couldn't reason with you!" says Celestia, tears welling up in her eyes. "Reason with? You had all those times to talk with Luna, but do you know why she ended up as me in the end? It's because you ridiculed her by saying how it was ridiculous and selfish of her! She only wanted to change it were ponies could see that they could also enjoy the night like the day for one day, one simple day! I know how Luna felt then, and she would've understood if you kindly talked to her about it, but you ended up mocking her in front of all those ponies that time and those very same ponies started to look down on her! Do you know how that feels like!" says Nightmare, her eyes overflowing with tears that trails down her cheeks. "And I'm sorry for putting you both through that! I've always regretted hurting you and Luna ever since then, and I wish I listened and tried to understand, but I can only make amends and ask for your forgiveness!" says Celestia, tears trickling down her face. "I'll never forgive you!" says Nightmare, baring her teeth. She then lifts a hoof, placing it over Celestia's head. "Melody, tell me where Moon is and I'll spare this failure of a princess! And don't you dare try to deceive me! Because, believe me, I know when somepony is lying…" "What are you going to do if I tell you?" asks Melody, glaring. "Isn't that obvious? I want Moon to become like me! And you also mentioned that Sun is with Moon, right? Well, I've been thinking what would happen if I got rid of the embodiment of the Sun," says Nightmare, grinning. "Nightmare Moon, I-I beg of you! Please… please don't involve those two!" says Celestia with a shaky voice. "You are in no position to make any demands!" says Nightmare, glaring down at Celestia. She then faces Melody. "Now, make your choice!" "Don't tell her, Melody!" says Lyrical. "We can still do something to stop this!" says Highwind. "Melody, please don't…" says Celestia with a watery gaze. Melody's body trembles, looking into Celestia's eyes before clenching her own shut as tears seep through the corner of her eyes. I'm sorry, Tia. I can't let you get hurt… she thinks, opening her eyes. "On my right, go down straight that hall and make a left. Keep going and you should come across some guards watching a door. That's where Moon and Sun is…" "Melody!" says Highwind and Lyrical, their eyes widening. Celestia frowns at Melody before averting her gaze and closing her eyes. "Good girl," says Nightmare, chuckling. "There! I told you! Now let Tia go!" says Melody, stomping a hoof. "All right, I won't hurt her, is what an idiot would say!" says Nightmare with a wide grin. Her horn glows black, causing a pool of dark claws to emerge from under Celestia, Highwind, Lyrical, and Melody, grabbing hold of their bodies. "Wh-what is this!" says Highwind, struggling from the dark claws' grip. "It's pulling me down!" says Lyrical, shaking her body. "I-it hurts!" says Melody, clenching her eyes shut. Celestia's eyes widen before facing Nightmare with a glare. "Nightmare Moon, don't hurt them! This doesn't involve them!" "Oh, Tia, Tia…" says Nightmare, shaking her head. "They were already involved from the start. Besides, it's best that I get rid of them, along with you. That way, nopony will stand in my way." "What are you going to do with us?" asks Celestia, furrowing her brows. "Don't worry. You're going to where Luna is. In a dark, cold place to sleep forever," says Nightmare, grinning. "No! Stop!" says Highwind, his eyes shrinking. He lifts a shaking hoof, barely touching the floor, and grasps the empty air as the dark claws drag him into the abyss. "Lyrical!" says Melody, tears flowing down her face while slowly reaching out a hoof to her sister. "Melody, hold on!" says Lyrical, inching out a hoof to her sister. "I'm sorry…" says Melody with a small smile as the dark claws drag her down into the dark pool below. "NO! No, no, no, no…" says Lyrical, closing her eyes and clenching a hoof. Tears seep through the corner of her eyes as the dark claws drag her down into the abyss. "Highwind! Melody! Lyrical!" says Celestia, tears welling up in her eyes. She then rolls her eyes up, glaring at Nightmare as her lips pull back, revealing her teeth. "I'll never forgive you…" "The same goes for me, Tia. Goodbye…" says Nightmare, narrowing her eyes. Celestia closes her eyes as the dark claws drag her down into the dark pool below. "Now, nopony will stand in my way…" says Nightmare, slumping her shoulders and looking down at the floor with dull eyes. "This is all for you, Luna…" ________________________________________ Standing in front of a windowed door, Moon looks up with his eyes reflecting the stars that glitter across the night sky. "Moon, is there something troubling thee?" asks a voice. Turning his head, Moon's eyes meet another, seeing a white alicorn resting on a gold-frame bed. "Nay, Sun," says Moon, shaking his head. "I was… thinking if Highwind and Melody resolved my concern on Luna." "I see…" says Sun, frowning. Moon wrinkles his brows, walking over to Sun before stopping in front of him. "Forgive me, Sun. I did not mean to worry thee…" "Do not apologize, Moon. 'Tis I that should apologize for asking thee," says Sun, placing a hoof under Moon's chin and pulling his face close to his own. He then presses his own forehead against his. "And for being unable to help thee in thy time of need…" "Sun, please do not say such a thing…" says Moon with a watery gaze. "Thou art-" A woody rattle of knocks is heard as a door opens, revealing a stallion in gold armor. "E-excuse me, Your Highnesses! Pleasant here, and I came to see if you're both… okay…" he says, his eyes widening as his cheeks turn bright red. "I'm so sorry for disturbing you two!" says Pleasant, quickly shutting the door. "Hey, Pleasant, don't just slam the door like that!" says a stallion in gold armor, glaring. "Yeah! I thought my heart stopped for a second!" says another stallion in gold armor, stomping a hoof. "S-sorry, Top Notch, Summer. I was just kind of surprised when I checked on the princes…" says Pleasant, rubbing an arm with a hoof. "Did something happen?" asks Summer, frowning. "Wait, why's your face red?" asks Top Notch, blinking. "I-I don't want to talk about it, okay!" says Pleasant, stomping a hoof. "Ugh, whatever," says Summer, rolling his eyes. "You're so weird sometimes, Pleasant," says Top Notch, raising a brow. From within Moon's room, Sun and Moon stare at the door before facing each other, blinking. "It seems we have troubled Pleasant…" says Moon, hanging his head. "Aye…" says Sun, furrowing his brows. "Sun, should we perhaps apologize to Pleasant?" asks Moon, frowning. "I do not know…" says Sun, shaking his head. "'Tis truly difficult… to understand the norms of this world, is it not?" asks Moon with a watery gaze. "But with thee by my side, Moon, the experiences we share are truly enjoyable," says Sun, smiling. "Sun…" says Moon, his eyes widening. He then faces Sun with a weightless gaze. "Aye, it truly is." Sun then yawns and rubs a hoof to his eye. "Forgive me, Moon. It seems I am feeling a bit weary…" "Then thou shouldst rest for the night," says Moon with a small smile. "Perhaps… I will…" says Sun, his eyes slowly closing and resting his head on a pillow below him. Looking to the side of Sun, Moon places a hoof over a blanket, dragging it over Sun's body. Moon then lowers his head next to Sun's face, placing his lips on his cheek before lifting his head. "Thank you, Sun," says Moon, rubbing a hoof over Sun's mane. At the sound of rattling knocks, Moon's ears twitch before facing the door behind him. "Moon, are you still awake?" asks a voice. "Luna?" says Moon, blinking. "Yes. May I come in?" asks Luna. "Aye…" says Moon, frowning. Perhaps Highwind was speaking the truth. 'Twas needless to worry about Luna… "Then excuse me," says Luna. As Moon looks at the door, he notices the doorknob twisting as the door creaks across the floor, revealing Luna standing at the doorway as her blue coat glows under the moonlight. "I'm sorry for coming at a short notice…" says Luna, frowning. "There is no need to apologize," says Moon, shaking his head. "But what has become of the ponies Pleasant, Summer, and Top Notch?" "Oh, them? I told them that they could go back since I'll watch over you and Sun instead," says Luna, smiling. Sleeping in the dream world, that is. "Strange, is there a reason that thou wishest to watch over us?" asks Moon, tilting his head. "Well, I just wanted to talk more with you, Moon. But did I come at the wrong time?" asks Luna, furrowing her brows. "Nay," says Moon, smiling. "Good," says Luna, chuckling. She then walks past Moon and stops in front of Sun, glaring at him. To think this idiot is the reason why we suffered! she thinks before facing Moon. "Did Sun just recently fall asleep?" "Aye," says Moon, nodding. "I'm guessing he was tired from today, huh?" asks Luna, her horn glowing blue, which a similar light shrouds Sun before fading away. "Luna, was that magic?" asks Moon, tilting his head. "Oh, it's just a simple spell to help Sun sleep better. I don't want to disturb him when we're talking," says Luna, smiling. I'll deal with Sun later… "I see…" says Moon, blinking. "As to what I was saying before, I wish to talk to you about some… matters, but I think we should speak somewhere else. Just to make sure we don't wake up Sun, right?" asks Luna, chuckling with a hoof over her mouth. "Aye," says Moon with a small smile. Turning her head, Luna notices a window door as her horn glows blue, wrapping a similar light around the door's doorknob, twisting itself. At the sound of a click, the door creaks across the floor as the blue light around Luna's horn fades away. As the door stops, Luna walks through the doorway and stops in front of a stone railing. "Moon, come sit with me," says Luna, sitting and patting a hoof on the stone floor. "Aye," says Moon, walking through the doorway and sitting next to Luna. "So, tell me, how is your stay in Equestria so far?" asks Luna, smiling. "I do not know. Through my experiences, there are many things I have yet to understand, and questions I do not have answers to…" says Moon, gazing up as his eyes reflect the white glow of the Moon itself. "Is Sun the same?" asks Luna, blinking. "Aye…" says Moon, frowning and nodding. "Sun understands as much as I that there will be many difficulties ahead…" "Don't concern yourself for what you wish to know right now. In time, your questions and doubts will be answered. But know this, Moon, the world can be cruel to you at unexpected times…" says Luna, glaring. Even the ones close to you… "Regardless, Sun and I wish to learn more about this world, yet we do not wish to impose on others through our helplessness…" says Moon, hanging his head. "I see…" says Luna. Learn about this world? Not wanting to impose on others? As if I care about any of those useless things! she thinks, snarling. "But I am grateful to the ponies Sun and I have met that are willing to aid us…" says Moon, smiling. "Lies…" says Luna, clenching her teeth. "You say that ponies are willing to help others from the goodness of their hearts? Then why did we have to suffer from the very same ponies we tried to protect!" she says, stomping a hoof and cracking the stone floor. "Luna?" says Moon, blinking. "It's disgusting! You don't understand that ponies in this world are so quick to judge and blame others that they do not understand!" says Luna, her breathing growing heavy. "Luna…" says Moon with an inward gaze. "What art thou-" "Don't you get it, Moon! I'm saying that you shouldn't trust others so easily!" says Luna, glaring. Moon's eyes widen, noticing one of Luna's eyes with a vertical pupil compared to the other. "Thou… thou art not Luna…" says Moon with an open mouth. Luna's eyes widen and quickly turns her head, facing the window door behind her as it casts her reflection, and notices an eye that is different from the other. Great! I let my emotions take over and forgot to keep my disguise in check! thinks Luna, clicking her tongue. "You're right. I'm not Luna." "Then whom might thou be?" asks Moon, frowning. Luna's horn glows blue as a similar light shrouds her body, causing a flash of light. As the light fades away, Moon's eyes widen at the shadowy figure's black coat and flowing purple mane. "Nightmare Moon," she says, her piercing eyes gazing at Moon's. "I see…" says Moon, blinking. He then smiles. "Greetings, Nightmare Moon." "Strange…" says Nightmare, raising a brow. "Ponies that hear my name tremble in fear and run with their tail between their legs upon seeing me. Even Tia and that infuriating Twilight Sparkle would bare their fangs at me, but you don't. Is there a reason why?" "I… do not know. Is there a reason why I must harbor such intent to thee?" asks Moon, tilting his head. "What?" asks Nightmare, blinking. "Pfft!" she says, placing a hoof over her chest as she laughs with her powerful voice, echoing through the air. "I-I can't believe I forgot that you're clueless about this world." "Forgive me…" says Moon, frowning. "Why are you apologizing?" asks Nightmare, chuckling with a hoof over mouth. "You've done nothing wrong." "Nay…" says Moon, hanging his head. "'Tis times like this that I should be aware of, yet I do not know…" "Moon, know that if you knew what I've done, even you would come to bare such ill intentions against me…" says Nightmare, glaring. "But what of the words thou hast spoken earlier?" asks Moon, frowning. "And you believe me after deceiving you as Luna?" asks Nightmare, raising a brow. "Aye," says Moon, smiling with a soft gaze. "Wh-what?" asks Nightmare, her cheeks flushing bright red. Her lips then pull back, revealing her teeth. "YOU IDIOT!" she says, her powerful voice echoing through the air. The echo of Nightmare's voice sends a strong gust of wind, blowing past Moon, the latter, his eyes unfazed as his mane flutters violently in the wind. "Did you forget what I said earlier! I told you not to trust others so easily!" says Nightmare, pressing and twisting a hoof against Moon's nose. "But I believe thee," says Moon, smiling. "And how do you know if I'm lying!" says Nightmare, glaring. "I do not know," says Moon, blinking. "I-I can't believe what I'm hearing…" says Nightmare, dragging a hoof down her face. "'Tis strange, but I feel at ease around thee. Thy presence is similar to Luna, but I do not understand why. 'Tis this very reason that I cannot help but believe in thy words…" says Moon, frowning. "How can you say that after just meeting me! Don't you at least doubt me or something!" says Nightmare, stomping a hoof. "I have no reason to doubt thee," says Moon, shaking his head. "Then would you believe that Luna and I are one and the same?" asks Nightmare, glaring. As Moon looks at Nightmare's eyes, he notices tears welling up in them. He then closes his eyes before opening them, facing Nightmare with a soft glow within his gaze. "Aye." "W-would you believe that all the things I've done… were for L-Luna?" asks Nightmare, her lips trembling. "Aye," says Moon, nodding. "Would you believe that I-I only wish to stay… by Luna's side?" asks Nightmare, tears trickling down her face. "Aye, and I understand it well to realize the feelings of having somepony by thy side. 'Tis truly enjoyable to know there is somepony we can share our experiences with, and something that cannot be replaced as I walk this world with Sun. That is why I believe thee, Nightmare Moon. Though I do not know thy circumstances, thy concern for Luna is enough for a clueless pony as I that wishes to help thee," says Moon, smiling. That's right. I-I thought it couldn't happen, no matter how much I wished for it! But now, there's somepony that wants to help. It was all I asked for… thinks Nightmare. "Moon, don't move," she says, smiling. "Do not move?" asks Moon, blinking. "What dost thou mean-" Moon's eyes widen as Nightmare runs to him, wrapping her hooves around him, and resting her face against his chest. Looking down, Moon notices Nightmare's eyes closed as her tears soak his coat. Tears begin to well up before trailing down Moon's face as he smiles, and rubbing a hoof behind Nightmare's head. Huh? thinks Nightmare, feeling droplets falling on her face before looking up. "Y-you idiot, why are you crying too?" "Perhaps… perhaps I understand how it feels to not be with the pony thou hast in mind. As thou wishest to be with Luna, I wish to have Sun by my side as well…" says Moon with a small smile. He really does understand me… thinks Nightmare, lifting a hoof and wiping the tears away from Moon's eyes. She then wipes her tears with a hoof before placing both hooves on Moon's chest and pushes herself away from him. "You do realize that Sun is just behind us, right?" "Aye, but I understand that there will be times where we cannot be together, though I wish to always be with Sun…" says Moon, furrowing his brows. "Sun is really important to you, huh?" asks Nightmare, sighing. To the point that it's almost scary… "Aye," says Moon, smiling and nodding. "Well, after seeing somepony like you making that face… I feel like I can trust you now. Thank you, Moon," she says, chuckling. "Nay," says Moon, shaking his head. "'Tis I that should be thanking thee." "For what?" asks Nightmare, raising a brow. "Wh-why'd you kiss me!" says Nightmare, jumping away from Moon with a beet red face. "To thank thee for the advice thou hast given before," says Moon, blinking. "You kissed me for a stupid reason like that!" says Nightmare, bright red reaching from her chin to the tip of her ears. "'Tis only right that I thank thee," says Moon, smiling. "Yeah, for an idiot like you!" says Nightmare, stomping a hoof. She then turns around, walking to the stone railing before sitting down, and lets out a huff. I can't believe he did that! I know he's an idiot and all, but… but I guess it's thanks to him that I know what I should do now… she thinks with a small smile and placing a hoof on her cheek. "Did I perhaps do something wrong?" asks Moon, frowning. "Don't talk to me! I'm trying to concentrate!" says Nightmare, glaring with bright red cheeks. "Aye…" says Moon, hanging his head. Letting out a sigh, Nightmare's horn emits a black aura, creating multiple shadow rifts within the night sky. Through a rift, a pink mare falls through and lands on a bush below. "OW!" says the pink mare, rubbing her back with a hoof. She then blinks, glancing from left to right. "Wait, where am I?" "WAHHH!" says a voice. As the pink mare looks up, she notices a white pony falling and lands into a bush, face first. Rustling through the bush, the white pony pops out, gasping for breath. "Oh, hey, Highwind," says the pink mare, blinking. "Wh-what? Melody?" says Highwind, rubbing his head with a hoof. He then looks left and right before blinking. "Wait, where are we?" "Who knows?" says Melody, shrugging. "Great…" says Highwind, rubbing his head with a hoof. "And here I thought we- AHH!" "Now what?" asks Melody, raising a brow. "J-just now, something… something l-landed in a bush next to me!" says Highwind, his teeth chattering. "Well, go see what it is," says Melody, pointing a hoof. "Are you crazy!" says Highwind, glaring. "Why should I-" "Boo," says a voice. "AHHHHH!" says Highwind, quickly jumping into his bush with his flank sticking out. Melody blinks, noticing a dark mare in a bush next to Highwind's. "Oh, Lyrical." "Lyrical?" says Highwind, popping out from his bush, and looks to his side. "Hey! Don't scare me like that!" "It's not my fault you get scared easily," says Lyrical, rolling her eyes. "Wh-what!" says Highwind, glaring. "I don't get scared-" "Are you three all right?" asks a voice. Melody, Highwind, and Lyrical's eyes widen at a white alicorn, towering over them with a small smile. "Tia!" says Melody, jumping and wrapping her hooves around Celestia's chest. "I'm glad you're okay, Melody," says Celestia, rubbing a hoof on Melody's head. Melody's eyes shrink before pushing herself away from Celestia. "Melody, what's wrong?" asks Celestia, frowning. "Tia, I-I'm sorry for earlier…" says Melody, hanging her head. "No. I understand that you were just doing what's right. There's no need to apologize," says Celestia, smiling. "Thank you…" says Melody, lifting her head with a small smile. "I'm glad you're not hurt, Your Highness," says Highwind, smiling. "And to you as well, Highwind," says Celestia, chuckling. "Celestia, didn't you fall from somewhere?" asks Lyrical, tilting her head. "Well, I did, but I managed to recover myself and safely fly down after I noticed you three," says Celestia. "As expected of a princess," says Lyrical, clapping her hooves together. "I know, right?" asks Melody, grinning. Annoying… thinks Highwind, rolling his eyes. "As much as I am glad that you three are fine, now's not the time to be talking amongst ourselves," says Celestia, turning and lifting her head with a glare. "Isn't that right, Nightmare Moon?" "Well, how kind of you to notice me. Unlike those three idiots," says Nightmare, smirking. "Nightmare Moon!" says Highwind, jumping out of his bush and unfolding his wings. "And Moon's with her…" says Lyrical, glaring. "Moon, get away from her!" says Melody, stomping a hoof. "Melody, forgive me, but I see no reason to move," says Moon, blinking. "Reason? There's a lot of things that are wrong with her!" says Melody, pointing a hoof at Nightmare. "She's danger-" "Do you see, Moon? She's an example of a pony that's quick to judge others…" says Nightmare, furrowing her brows. "I see…" says Moon, frowning. "H-hey! Don't make him misunderstand things!" says Melody, stomping a hoof. "And now she's trying to fool you with lies…" says Nightmare, letting out a sigh. "WHAT!" says Melody, her nostrils flaring. "You're the one who's-" "Melody, that's enough," says Celestia, holding up a hoof in front of Melody's face. "S-sorry, Tia…" says Melody, hanging her head. "Nightmare Moon, what did you do to him?" asks Celestia, glaring. "Do to him?" says Nightmare, facing Moon. She then looks at Celestia and lifts a brow. "Nothing." "You're lying!" says Celestia, stomping a hoof. "Celestia, Nightmare Moon speaks the truth," says Moon, furrowing his brows. "Moon…" says Celestia with wide eyes. "See?" says Nightmare, sticking out her tongue. "I know you did something to him!" says Celestia, baring her teeth. "Ugh!" says Nightmare, rolling her eyes. "I don't care if you believe me or not, but I have more important things to deal with than an uptight princess like you!" "Tia's not uptight! Wait…" says Melody, rubbing her chin with a hoof. "She kind of is… and a little selfish-" "Melody!" says Celestia, glaring. "S-sorry…" says Melody with a sheepish grin. Lyrical lets out a sigh. "Ignoring my annoying sister, I'm glad that Moon is fine, but there's something I'm more concerned about…" she says, glaring at Nightmare. "Where is Luna?" "I was getting to it…" says Nightmare, huffing. She then turns her head. "Moon, can I ask something of you?" "What is thy request?" asks Moon, blinking. "I'm… I'm not sure if I can face Luna by myself, and I know she's probably going to ignore everything I say. So, I'm wondering if you can convince her to listen to me…" says Nightmare, frowning. Moon stares into Nightmare's eyes, noticing her watery gaze. He then closes his eyes before opening them, meeting Nightmare's gaze with a serene smile. "Aye." Nightmare's eyes widen with a tint of red in her cheeks. It's hard to believe the Moon himself is able to make such a face… she thinks, chuckling with a hoof over her mouth. "Thank you, Moon," she says with a small smile. Closing her eyes, Nightmare's horn emits a dark glow, causing a shadowy rift to appear on the balcony floor. Slowly, a blue mare emerges from the rift, showing her chest rising up and down with her eyes closed. "Luna…" says Moon, blinking. He then faces Nightmare. "Forgive me, Nightmare Moon, but I still worry about the three ponies that were watching over Sun and I…" "Oh, them. I brought them out along with Luna," says Nightmare, pointing a hoof. Following Nightmare's hoof, Moon notices three familiar ponies in golden armor. Resting on each side next to Sun, Top Notch and Summer snoozes quietly with their eyes closed, while Pleasant is on Sun's back, nuzzling his face against Sun's neck with closed eyes and a small smile. "I wonder how their faces would look like when they realize they slept with Sun," says Nightmare, grinning. "I am just glad they are not hurt," says Moon, smiling. "Hmph! You're too soft, Moon…" says Nightmare, folding her hooves. Moon then faces Nightmare. "Once again, thank you, Nightmare Moon-" Nightmare places a hoof over Moon's mouth. "Nightmare, just call me Nightmare, and don't thank me all the time…" she says, pouting with red cheeks. It's embarrassing, you idiot… Moon blinks his eyes. "Then Nightmare it is," he says, smiling. "Anyway, Moon, here I go…" says Nightmare, letting out a sigh. "Aye," says Moon, nodding. Turning around, Nightmare walks ahead before stopping and lowering her gaze on Luna resting on the floor before her. Lifting a hoof, Nightmare nudges Luna's cheek with it, earning some groans from her. She was always a sleepyhead… thinks Nightmare, chuckling. "Luna, wake up." Slowly, Luna blinks her eyes open. "T-Tia?" she asks, lifting her head and rubbing a hoof to her eye. "No," says Nightmare, sighing. "Ugh, is it Lyrical?" asks Luna, closing her eyes and shaking her head. She then opens her eyes, seeing Nightmare with a smile. "Oh, Nightmare Moon…" she says, yawning into a hoof. Her eyes quickly open wide, jumping away, and spreading her hooves with her horn glowing bright blue. "What do you want!" "Took you long to notice," says Nightmare, raising a brow. "Where am I!" says Luna, stomping a hoof. "And last time I saw you, you sent me… to that dark place…" she says, her horn's glow fading away. "How was it?" asks Nightmare, frowning. "The same as when I was trapped in the Moon…" says Luna, hanging her head. She then lifts her head, glaring at Nightmare with her horn glowing bright blue once more. "That's not the point! I know we're not inside the dream world anymore, but why are we here back at the castle!" "I…" says Nightmare, her lips shaking. "I-I wanted to apologize…" "Apologize?" says Luna with wide eyes. She then glares. "Why should I forgive you after what you've done!" "I know what I've done, all right!" says Nightmare, stomping a hoof with tears flowing down her cheeks. "Please… please just listen to me for once!" "Never! I'll never listen to you again!" says Luna, glaring with tears trailing down her face. Nightmare's eyes widen before closing her eyes. "Fine…" she says, biting her bottom lip. Walking ahead, Moon stands beside Nightmare, facing Luna. "M-Moon, what are you doing here?" asks Luna, her eyes widening. "Ah, Nightmare wished to speak on the…" says Moon, tilting his head. "Forgive me, Luna, but what are we standing on?" "It's called a balcony…" says Luna, sighing. Moon, you idiot… thinks Nightmare, placing a hoof over her face. "Now then, Sun is resting behind us in my room, and Nightmare wished to speak on the balcony as to not disturb Sun," says Moon. "And you listened to her! For all I know, she was probably up to something!" says Luna, stomping a hoof. "Aye, 'tis true that Nightmare deceived me by becoming thee, Luna," says Moon, nodding. Nightmare hangs her head, gripping her arm tightly with a hoof. Moon, don't tell me you're siding with her too? Then were you lying to me all this time? I knew it! I should've never placed my trust in somepony else! "See what I mean!" says Luna, pointing a hoof at Nightmare. "That's why you should never-" "But that is of the past. Now I have come to know that Nightmare is not the pony that thou hast in mind," says Moon, frowning. "Moon…" says Nightmare with wide eyes. She then smiles as tears well up in her eyes. I'm such an idiot! Even after what he said to me, I'm so stupid for not believing him… "Wh-what?" asks Luna with an open mouth. She then glares. "Moon, get away from her!" "Nay," says Moon, shaking his head. "Do you even realize what she's done! She's dangerous and somepony you shouldn't trust!" says Luna, stomping a hoof. "But I wish to believe Nightmare. If there is nopony that is willing to understand, then I do not mind if I am the last," says Moon, smiling. "Moon, enough!" says Nightmare. Turning his head, Moon notices Nightmare's watery gaze and trembling lips. Moon frowns. "But, Nightmare, thou-" "I know already! But there's no point if Luna won't even listen to you! Honestly, just knowing that you tried was enough, and I couldn't ask for anything more than that…" says Nightmare, laughing as tears trickle down her face. "Nightmare, know that I truly wish to help thee. 'Tis through our meeting that I have decided that thou art a special somepony," says Moon with a small smile. "Huh?" says Nightmare, blinking. "It can't be…" says Luna with an open mouth. "Okay, I didn't see that coming…" says Melody, blinking. "Did Moon really confess to her… of all ponies?" asks Celestia with a tint of red in her cheeks. "I'm more impressed that Moon said something any guy would die from embarrassment," says Lyrical, nodding. I-I can't believe Prince Moon said that! I know he's not wrong in a way, but that's not something you should just throw out to anypony! Ugh, maybe it's because of that filly named Dinky we met earlier that taught the princes… thinks Highwind, dragging a hoof down his face. "M-Moon, what are you saying so suddenly, you idiot!" says Nightmare, her face burning red. "You can't possibly think of this… this deceiving mare as a special somepony!" says Luna, pointing a hoof at Nightmare. "And what do you mean by that!" says Nightmare, snarling at Luna. "How about you stay out of this!" says Luna, baring her teeth at Nightmare. "Nightmare, Luna, know that I also consider Sun a special somepony," says Moon, blinking. Oh, now I get it. This idiot doesn't know what it really means… thinks Nightmare, sighing. I can't believe I was worried for nothing… thinks Luna, placing a hoof over her red face. "Did I perhaps say something wrong?" asks Moon, tilting his head. "Forget about that! Who taught you the meaning of those words!" says Nightmare, glaring. "Dinky," says Moon, smiling. "Sounds like a mare…" says Nightmare, scoffing. "Moon, I won't ask about this Dinky…" says Luna, clicking her tongue. "But you really have a lot to learn." "I'll say. He's clueless at reading the mood…" says Nightmare, huffing. "Don't get me started about that…" says Luna, rolling her eyes. "He needs to-" Looking at Nightmare with an open mouth, Luna quickly averts her gaze. I can't believe I agreed with her… thinks Luna, frowning. We just… talked… thinks Nightmare, blinking. She then shakes her head. No! Don't give up! This might be my only chance to talk to her! she thinks, placing a hoof on Luna's shoulder. "Luna, please! I just want you to hear-" "No!" says Luna, swiping away Nightmare's hoof with her own. Nightmare looks at her swatted hoof before clenching it and faces Luna with her lips trembling. "I-I'm sorry, okay! But can you blame me! I only wanted to be there for you when nopony heard your cries! I only wanted to protect you, Luna! I honestly did! But now I realize I was just hurting you instead! So, please… please don't ignore me!" Luna quickly wraps her hooves around Nightmare, tears seeping through her closed eyes. "And I'm sorry for putting you through that loneliness again! I'm such a fool for giving it thought of putting somepony through that again when you suffered the same fate as me! I should've considered your feelings, but you're right! I betrayed you, and I don't deserve the right to be called your friend!" In their embrace, Luna and Nightmare's tears soak each other's coat, their sniffles deafening out by the cool night air. Lifting their head from the warm touch of the other's shoulder, Luna and Nightmare open their eyes, gazing into one another, and their lips turning into smiles. "Luna, d-do you think… we can start all over?" asks Nightmare, sniffling. "If you want to, then we can…" says Luna, wiping the tears from Nightmare's eyes with a hoof. "H-honestly, I never thought the day would come where you and I make up…" says Nightmare with a small laugh. "Same, but I guess we both have somepony to thank for that, right?" asks Luna, facing Moon with a smile. "He may be a clueless idiot, but I guess you're right," says Nightmare, chuckling with a hoof over her mouth. "Is there something wrong?" asks Moon, tilting his head. Luna and Nightmare blink at each other before bursting out in laughter. However, looking from below, Celestia looks at Nightmare with a frown. "Tia, what are you going to do now?" asks Melody, rubbing her arm with a hoof. "What do you mean?" asks Celestia, blinking. "You know, about Nightmare Moon. I don't know what to think about her anymore…" says Melody, furrowing her brows. "Melody, don't tell me you're letting it go after what she's done to us! Not to mention she was after Prince Moon and Prince Sun! Even if you think that way, in the end, she's still Nightmare Moon!" says Highwind, stomping a hoof. "Melody, I have to agree with Highwind. I can't just ignore everything Nightmare Moon has done, especially when she put the lives of the ponies close to me in danger…" says Celestia, glaring. "Even so, can you both say the same thing after looking at that?" asks Lyrical, pointing a hoof. Following Lyrical's hoof, Celestia and Highwind lift their head, noticing Nightmare laughing with her eyes closed as Luna rubs and twists a hoof against Moon's nose with a dagger gaze. "No…" says Highwind, clicking his tongue. Celestia hangs her head and frowns. "Celestia, I know Nightmare Moon is dangerous, but that doesn't change the fact that she's still a princess. Besides, I think you already know Luna wouldn't agree with you after finally accepting her…" says Lyrical, her brows gathering in. "That's what I'm afraid of. Though I don't know how Nightmare Moon was able to become a pony of her own, it doesn't change the fact that Luna now accepts her. And no matter how much I ignore it, I also have to realize the truth that Nightmare Moon is still my sister…" says Celestia, clenching a hoof. "Tia, I know it's hard not to put your feelings first before your duty as a princess, but I believe all ponies deserve a second chance…" says Melody, smiling. Closing her eyes, Celestia lets out a long sigh. She then opens her eyes. "I never thought it would come to this, but I'll have to call the other princesses, including Twilight's friends. It's not my right alone to judge somepony, even if it's Nightmare Moon." "You know, it's been a while since I've seen Twilight and Cadance. Wait, now that I think about it, Tia, does Cadance know about Sun and Moon?" asks Melody, blinking. "No. I was too busy that I forgot to tell her about them…" says Celestia, dragging a hoof down her face. "Well, I can't blame you. Besides, I can't wait to see the look on her face when she meets them," says Melody, snickering. Lifting a hoof, Lyrical hits Melody on the head. "OW! What was that for!" says Melody, pouting and rubbing a hoof on her head. "Don't take it as a chance to slack off. Besides, we still have to clean up the whole mess that Celestia made," says Lyrical, facing Celestia, the latter, grinning. "I guess I'll go find the other guards…" says Highwind, sighing. "And once you're done with that, you and the other guards can help repair that big hole in the wall that Celestia made," says Lyrical. "WHAT!" says Highwind, stomping a hoof. "But I-" "I noticed that there were no guards around the castle when I was on my way to Luna's room. I bet you did something dumb, especially when we needed them the most when Nightmare Moon showed up," says Lyrical, glaring. "Geh!" says Highwind, his face dripping with sweat. He then hangs his head. "Fine…" "Thank you, you three," says Celestia, smiling. She then looks up, gazing at Nightmare. I just hope things will go as planned… To be continued…
Chapter 11Opposed Feelings ________________________________________ As light shines through the windows of a white hallway, a pink mare trots ahead with a smile, while a dark mare follows behind. "Come on, Lyrical! We're almost there!" says the pink mare, turning and waving a hoof. "Melody, wait," says Lyrical, stopping. "What's wrong? Can't keep up with your older sister?" asks Melody, smirking. "No. It's annoying whenever you're in a good mood. It makes me want to hit you," says Lyrical, clenching a hoof. "Come on, don't be like that! Besides, I'm just excited to see Twilight and Cadance again!" says Melody, jumping up and down. "Well, stop it. It's making me sick when you act like a filly," says Lyrical, huffing. "What about you? Aren't you glad to see Twilight and Cadance after so long?" asks Melody, lifting a brow. "I am, but I don't act like a filly whenever they come. Anyway, let's stop wasting time. We still have to wake Moon and Sun," says Lyrical, walking ahead. "Race you there!" says Melody, running ahead. "And here I wonder who's the older one…" says Lyrical, letting out a sigh. As Melody and Lyrical walk ahead, they notice three stallions in gold armor standing in front of a white door. "Well, if it isn't Top Notch, Summer, and Pleasant. So, how's it like to sleep with a prince last night?" asks Melody, smirking. "Shut up, Melody! I'm trying to forget that!" says Summer, his cheeks turning red while stomping a hoof. "I'm just glad the other guards don't know about it…" says Top Notch, letting out a sigh. "Do you want me to tell them?" asks Lyrical, tilting her head. "Please don't!" says Top Notch with a blue face. "Y-yeah, the other guards will always hold us up to that if you do!" says Summer with sweat running down his face. "Then don't make me angry," says Lyrical, smiling. "Well, at least it's a good thing Prince Sun was still asleep when we woke up. Otherwise, I don't know how I would face him…" says Top Notch, letting out a sigh. "You know, sleeping with Prince Sun was pretty comfortable…" says Pleasant, tapping his chin with a hoof. Craning their head, Top Notch and Summer gaze at Pleasant with distant eyes. "What?" asks Pleasant, blinking. "Anyway, did you girls come to wake the princes up?" asks Top Notch, lifting a brow. "Yeah, Tia and Lulu want them to be at the meeting," says Melody, smiling. "And it's a good chance for them to greet Cadance, Twilight, and their friends when they arrive," says Lyrical. "Tia and Lulu wanted to, but they decided Sun and Moon should do it in their place. They're busy keeping a certain princess in check…" says Melody, scoffing. "Oh, right, Nightmare Moon. I thought that side of Princess Luna was gone for good, but I never thought I'd see Princess Luna and Nightmare Moon together…" says Summer, rubbing his head with a hoof. "Who cares about that! It's Nightmare Moon's fault for making us sleep with Prince Sun in the first place!" says Top Notch, stomping a hoof. "Um, Lyrical, Melody, just asking, but do you think everything's going to be okay with Nightmare Moon around?" asks Pleasant, furrowing his brows. "Who knows?" says Lyrical, shrugging. "Don't worry. Besides, it's thanks to Moon that we're okay. Without him, well, we'd probably be sleeping forever…" says Melody with a sheepish grin. "Oh, one more thing. Your stupid commander asked us to tell you three to patrol around the castle," says Lyrical, rolling her eyes. "Patrol duty again?" asks Summer with wide eyes. "But that's so boring!" says Top Notch, dragging a hoof down his face. "But it's nice to look at the scenery and all!" says Pleasant, grinning. "Looks like Pleasant is the only positive one here," says Melody, sighing and shaking her head. "Stop complaining and go do your jobs. Or else I'll tell the other guards about your night with Sun," says Lyrical, glaring. "Okay, okay!" says Top Notch, flailing his hooves. "We're going!" says Summer with sweat running down his face. "I'll lead!" says Pleasant, walking ahead. "Hey, who died and made you the leader!" says Summer, trotting ahead. "W-wait for me!" says Top Notch, running ahead. "There they go," says Melody, chuckling with a hoof over her mouth. "I always wonder how those idiots got in the Royal Guard…" says Lyrical, letting out a sigh. "Anyway, let's hurry and wake Sun and Moon up," says Melody, smiling. Walking to the door in front, Melody puts a hoof on a doorknob and twists it. Pushing the door open, she notices a white alicorn in the room standing in front of a window door with his flowing blond mane glittering in the morning light. "Oh, Sun, you're awake!" says Melody, walking through the doorway. Sun turns and smiles. "Ah, Melody, good morning." "We kind of made a lot of noise outside the room. Sorry if that woke you up…" says Melody, rubbing a hoof behind her head. "Do not apologize. I was long awake," says Sun, smiling. "It's good that Sun's awake, but the other idiot is still sleeping," says Lyrical, stopping next to a blue alicorn on a bed. She then lifts a hoof and pokes the blue alicorn's cheek. "I can't believe Moon's able to sleep after what happened last night…" says Melody, rolling her eyes and shaking her head. As Lyrical's horn glows pink, a similar light appears around a pillow beside Moon and lifts itself. The pillow hovers in the air before stopping and slamming itself on Moon's face. "Lyrical, why'd you do that!" says Melody with wide eyes. "What? This is how I wake up Luna when she doesn't want to get out of bed," says Lyrical, tilting her head. "But you can't just hit other ponies in the face with a pillow while they're sleeping!" says Melody, glaring. The pillow on Moon's face hovers in the air and falls to the side, which Moon blinks his eyes open. "Ah, Lyrical, greetings," says Moon, lifting his head and smiling. "See? It works," says Lyrical, smiling. "That's not the point!" says Melody, stomping a hoof. "Whatever. Anyway, Moon, please get up. There are ponies that you and Sun have to greet when they get here," says Lyrical. "Ponies?" says Moon, rubbing a hoof over his eye. "Whom dost thou speakest of?" asks Sun, blinking. "Twilight and her friends," says Lyrical. "I see," says Moon, smiling. "Oh, and you guys finally get to meet Cadance!" says Melody, jumping up and down. "Ah, if I remember, Cadance is another princess and an alicorn, correct?" asks Sun, blinking. "Y-yeah, but how did you know about her?" asks Melody, rubbing her head with a hoof. "Cadance's name has been mentioned from the ponies we have met so far," says Moon. "Really? Who?" asks Melody, blinking. "Twilight has mentioned about Cadance before. Moon and I have also learned from Highwind that the chandeliers in each of our rooms were given to Celestia and Luna from Cadance," says Sun. "Thou hast mentioned Cadance as well, Melody," says Moon, smiling. "Huh, I guess I did mention her. But I'm surprised you guys remembered all of that…" says Melody, rubbing her chin with a hoof. "Hmm…" says Lyrical, tapping her chin with a hoof. "And here I thought Moon and Sun were dense idiots-" "Um, let's just get you guys ready, okay? Cadance, Twilight, and her friends should almost be here," says Melody with a hoof over Lyrical's mouth. "Aye," says Moon, nodding. He then lifts a hoof over his mouth and yawns. "Moon, is something wrong? It seems thou hast not rested enough…" says Sun, furrowing his brows. "Ah, forgive me if I worried thee, Sun. I was up long through the night while talking with Luna and Nightmare…" says Moon, rubbing a hoof over his eye. "Nightmare?" says Sun, blinking. "U-um, Sun, it's a long story, but there's kind of another princess in the castle right now. Tia and Lulu are there with her and will explain everything when everypony's here. For now, Lyrical and I have to help you guys get ready for today…" says Melody, frowning. "I understand," says Sun, nodding. "Good boy!" says Melody, grinning. "At least Sun and Moon do as they're told, unlike some useless ponies I deal with. That includes you, Melody," says Lyrical, rubbing and twisting a hoof on Melody's nose. "Ow, ow, ow! That hurts, Lyrical!" says Melody, pushing Lyrical's hoof with her own and rubbing another hoof on her nose. "Ah, Melody, Lyrical, when I woke this morning, Top Notch, Summer, and Pleasant were resting with me. I did not wish to disturb them and decided to sleep once more. Tell me, are they well?" asks Sun, his brows gathering in. "Oh, them? Don't worry. Thanks to you, they slept well," says Lyrical, smiling. "Y-yeah!" says Melody with a sheepish grin. Looks like Sun already knows… ________________________________________ Leading on through the hallway, Lyrical and Melody walk ahead, while Moon and Sun follow behind. "I can't believe we're late. Twilight and Cadance are probably here already…" says Lyrical, huffing. "H-hey, I'm sorry, okay! It's just that Sun didn't want me to help him brush his teeth…" says Melody, pouting. "But he asked me instead," says Lyrical. She then stops and turns. "Sun, why didn't you let Melody help you? We could've finished sooner." "Forgive me, Lyrical, but Moon seemed to enjoy thy brushing. When I went through the same task with Melody yesterday, 'twas not pleasant…" says Sun, frowning and placing a hoof on his cheek. "Aye, Lyrical's brushing is quite pleasant," says Moon, smiling. "Oh, now I understand. You never fail to impress me how useless you are, Melody," says Lyrical, glaring. "U-uh, sorry?" says Melody with a sheepish grin. "I'd hit you on the head, but we're wasting time. Moon, Sun, I'll teach you how to properly brush your teeth another time. That way, you both won't need to rely on me or my stupid sister," says Lyrical, pointing a hoof at Melody. "So mean! How can you say that to your older sister!" says Melody with teary eyes. "Ignore her. Anyway, Moon, Sun, do you understand?" asks Lyrical, tilting her head. "Aye," says Moon with a small smile. "I understand," says Sun, nodding. "Good. Now, follow me. We're already late," says Lyrical, turning and walking. As Lyrical walks ahead, Sun and Moon follow, while Melody trails behind with her head hanging. Nearing the end of the hallway, Moon and Sun's ears twitch. "Ugh! What could it possibly be this time!" says a voice. "Ah, that voice," says Moon with wide eyes. "It belongs to Twilight," says Sun, smiling. "Yeah, that sounds like Twilight," says Melody with a chuckle. "She's probably stressing over something dumb again," says Lyrical, rolling her eyes. As Sun and Moon enter a large room, they see a purple mare quickly trotting back and forth with a frazzled mane. "Twilight, calm down. There's no point in stressing yourself when Celestia and Luna are not here yet," says a white mare, letting out a sigh. "Rarity's right, Twilight. Just sit still and relax for once," says an orange mare, lifting a brow. "How can I just relax, Applejack! Celestia suddenly called all of us here! And for all I know, it's probably something important!" says Twilight, stomping a hoof. "You're always exaggerating over everything, Twilight! Here! Maybe this cupcake will calm you down!" says a pink mare, bringing a cupcake out from behind her with a hoof. "There's chocolate filling in it!" "No, Pinkie!" says Twilight, glaring. "Maybe try taking deep breaths? I usually do those to calm myself down," says a yellow mare, smiling. "Or maybe stretch your wings or something?" asks a blue mare, shrugging. "Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, thanks, but I don't think that's going to work…" says Twilight, dragging a hoof down her face. "Twilight, I'm worried as much as you are, but please try to calm down," says a pink mare, placing a hoof on Twilight's shoulder. "S-sorry, Cadance, but I can't help it. Even you were called here, so it must be something important if all the princesses are here…" says Twilight, letting out a sigh. "I bet I can cheer you up!" says Melody. As Twilight and Cadance turn their head, their eyes widen upon seeing Melody sitting and grinning with open arms. "Well, are you going to make me sit here all day?" asks Melody, lifting a brow. "Melody!" says Twilight and Cadance, running into Melody's arms and wrapping their hooves around each other. "It's so good to see you again, Melody!" says Twilight, nuzzling her cheek against Melody's. "It's been so long since we've been together like this!" says Cadance, nuzzling her cheek against Melody's neck. "And I've missed you both so much!" says Melody with a wide smile. "Ugh, can you three stop? Just looking at you idiots is making me feel sick," says Lyrical, clicking her tongue. "Lyrical!" says Twilight and Cadance, pulling Lyrical in and wrapping a hoof around her. "I hate group hugs…" says Lyrical, snarling. "Come on, Lyrical! You used to love doing this with Twilight and Cadance back when we first started working here at the castle!" says Melody, grinning. "Used to, but for Twilight and Cadance, I'll make an exception," says Lyrical, huffing. "Aww, I missed you too, Lyrical," says Twilight, chuckling. "It's good to see you again, Lyrical," says Cadance with a small smile. "Me too, but we should talk later," says Lyrical, pushing herself from Twilight and Cadance with a hoof. She then points a hoof. "There are two other ponies that want to say hi." "Really?" asks Twilight and Cadance, blinking. They turn around, seeing a blue and white wall in front of them before looking up, meeting a pair of ice blue eyes and another pair of amber ones. "AHH! Sun, Moon, at least say something!" says Twilight, stomping a hoof. "Forgive us, Twilight. We did not mean to startle thee…" says Sun, his brows gathering in. "We did not wish to interrupt thee. Thy reunion with Lyrical and Melody seemed important…" says Moon, furrowing his brows. "Well, you're not wrong about that. I've known Melody and Lyrical back when I used to live here in Canterlot," says Twilight with a small laugh. "Yeah, we go way back!" says Melody, grinning. "I see," says Moon, smiling. "Twilight, I presume the pony next to thee is Cadance?" asks Sun, blinking. "Yeah. I'm guessing this is yours and Moon's first time meeting her, right?" asks Twilight, smiling. "Aye," says Sun, nodding. He then faces Cadance with a small smile. "Greetings, Cadance. It seems we finally meet." "Sun and I have heard much of thee. I am glad we can meet," says Moon, smiling. "It's n-nice to meet you both too…" says Cadance with a distant gaze and red cheeks. "Um, Cadance? You okay?" asks Twilight, frowning and placing a hoof on Cadance's shoulder. "H-huh? Oh! Yeah! I-I'm okay…" says Cadance, shaking her head. "So, Cadance, what do you think of Sun and Moon?" asks Melody, snickering with a hoof over her mouth. "W-well, the letter Celestia sent did mention that they were charming and all, but I didn't expect this much…" says Cadance, her face turning red while sitting and tapping her hooves together. "More charming than Shining Armor?" asks Melody, smirking. "What are you talking about?" asks Cadance, lifting a brow. "They're way more charming than Shining-" Cadance quickly puts a hoof over her mouth and cranes her head, seeing Twilight with tears welling up in her eyes. "I-I'm only joking, Twilight! You know how much I love your brother!" says Cadance with a sheepish grin. "Y-you mean it?" asks Twilight with shaking lips. "Yes!" says Cadance, quickly nodding. "S-sorry, Twilight, I was only joking…" says Melody, frowning. Lifting a hoof, Lyrical hits Melody on the head. "OW! What was that for!" says Melody, pouting and rubbing her head with a hoof. "You went too far with that one…" says Lyrical, glaring. "She kind of did," says Rainbow, folding her hooves. "Yup," says Applejack, nodding. "That wasn't very nice…" says Fluttershy, furrowing her brows. "You know, I make a lot of jokes, but that one takes the cake! Oh, speaking of cake!" says Pinkie, bringing a cake from behind her with a hoof and shoving it in her mouth. "Yum! Vanilla frosting!" "Honestly, Pinkie…" says Rarity, rolling her eyes. "But I do have to agree on that joke being a tad harsh…" "Ugh! Even Twilight's friends are making me out the bad guy!" says Melody, dragging her hooves down her face. "Oh, Cadance, I forgot to ask, but where's my brother?" asks Twilight, her brows gathering in. "He was supposed to come with me, but he collapsed from exhaustion. I warned him not to overwork himself at the Crystal Empire, but he just didn't listen to me! Honestly, Twilight, you should talk some sense in your brother…" says Cadance, rolling her eyes. "Ugh, I was worried he would do something like that…" says Twilight, putting a hoof over her face. "Sun, Moon, I'm sorry, but I wanted you both to meet Shining Armor…" says Cadance, letting out a sigh. "Do not apologize," says Sun, shaking his head. "We understand," says Moon, smiling. "Uh, Twilight, you're kind of in the same boat as your brother…" says Applejack, frowning. "What do you mean?" asks Twilight, blinking. "You forgot already? You worked Spike until the poor guy collapsed from organizing hundreds of those new books you bought yesterday!" says Rainbow, glaring. "Spike wanted to meet Sun and Moon too…" says Fluttershy, her brows gathering in. "I feel bad for Spike. He told us that he kept asking you to help, but you were always too busy reading," says Pinkie, raising a brow and folding her hooves. "Poor Spike! You should be ashamed of yourself, Twilight!" says Rarity, stomping a hoof. "U-um, sorry?" says Twilight with a sheepish grin. "'Tis unfortunate that Moon and I could not meet Spike, but there will be another time," says Sun with a smile. "When that day comes, perhaps Sun and I can learn more about Spike," says Moon, smiling. "It's too bad I couldn't see Spike again. I missed seeing the little guy…" says Melody, frowning. "At least Spike doesn't get himself in trouble all the time. Unlike this princess over here," says Lyrical, pointing a hoof at Twilight. "Well, sorry for not being so well-behaved…" says Twilight, rolling her eyes. "It looks like everypony is here," says a voice. Turning their head, Sun and Moon notice a white stallion in gold armor with dark circles under his eyes. "Ah, Highwind, good morning," says Sun, smiling. "But it seems thou art not feeling well. Is something wrong?" asks Moon, furrowing his brows. "Don't worry, Your Highnesses. I'm fine," says Highwind with a small smile. Just didn't sleep yet because of Nightmare Moon… "Highwind, I know I said this before, but you should stop smiling with your eyes like that. You look creepy…" says Melody, shuddering. "He always was. I mean, there are rumors in the castle that he's trying to go after Sun and Moon," says Lyrical, smiling. "Shut up, you two! And I already said that I don't swing that way!" says Highwind, stomping a hoof. "Hey, Highwind, it's nice to see you again," says Twilight, smiling. "O-oh, good morning, Princess Twilight…" says Highwind, frowning and rubbing a hoof behind his head. "What's wrong? Did I say something weird?" asks Twilight, her brows gathering in. "I just wanted to apologize for yesterday…" says Highwind, letting out a sigh. "For what? Oh, that argument we had yesterday?" asks Twilight, lifting a brow. "Y-yes…" says Highwind, slowly nodding. "Don't worry about it. Besides, if you argued with me, that means we're friends, right?" asks Twilight, chuckling with a hoof over her mouth. "I guess," says Highwind with a small laugh. He then faces Cadance. "It's good to see you again, Your Highness." "Highwind, there's no need for formalities. We've known each other for a long time, right?" asks Cadance with a smile. "I know, but I have to act like a respectable commander. It's my job," says Highwind, rubbing a hoof behind his head. "Wait, you guys know each other?" asks Twilight, blinking. "Yeah, I'm close friends with your brother, Princess Twilight. Plus, he chose me to be the commander of the Royal Guard here," says Highwind, smiling. "Why didn't you tell me!" says Twilight, stomping a hoof. "You didn't ask," says Highwind, raising a brow. "But you said that we haven't met yet when I first saw you!" says Twilight, glaring. "Yeah, but I've been too busy that I didn't get a chance to talk to you over the years. But I heard a lot about you from your brother though," says Highwind with a sheepish grin. "Ugh, why doesn't anypony tell me these things!" says Twilight, dragging her hooves down her face. "Wait, where's Shining Armor?" asks Highwind, blinking. "He's back at home sleeping from overworking himself…" says Cadance, rolling her eyes. "That sounds like what he'd do," says Highwind with a small laugh. "You're one to talk. You look like you didn't get enough sleep," says Twilight, lifting a brow. "Y-yeah, but I can't help it. There's kind of a problem that's going on here at the castle…" says Highwind, letting out a sigh. "Highwind, about that. Why did Celestia call me, Twilight, and her friends here? She didn't explain what's going on in the letter she sent, but we needed to come early today…" says Cadance, furrowing her brows. "I still have work to do back at the farm…" says Applejack, letting out a sigh. "I promised Angel that we would have a picnic this morning…" says Fluttershy, frowning. "I still have to help at Sugarcube Corner. We have a lot of orders for cakes and stuff…" says Pinkie, rubbing a hoof behind her head. "And I still have dresses to make for my clients!" says Rarity, placing a hoof over her face. "For me…" says Rainbow, rubbing her chin with a hoof. She then shrugs. "Eh, I got nothing to do." "And I apologize on Princess Celestia's behalf for that. I know you all have questions, but I need to guide you all to where Princess Celestia and Princess Luna are…" says Highwind, furrowing his brows. "Melody, Lyrical, do you know what's going on?" asks Twilight, blinking. "Yeah, but you wouldn't believe me if I told you…" says Melody, rubbing an arm with a hoof. "You wouldn't believe me either. It's better if you just see for yourself," says Lyrical, nodding. "Highwind, is Celestia and Luna well?" asks Sun, wrinkling his brows. "Don't worry. They're okay, but our other guest is being impatient and wants Prince Moon there…" says Highwind, dragging a hoof down his face. "Wait, who's this guest you're talking about?" asks Cadance, raising a brow. "Let's just say it's a selfish princess…" says Highwind, clicking his tongue. "Princess?" says Twilight and Cadance, blinking. "Highwind, if I am needed, then please lead the way. I wish to be of some use to Luna and Celestia," says Moon, smiling. "Prince Moon, I know you'll be able to help," says Highwind, smiling. He then waves a hoof. "Anyway, everypony, please follow me!" ________________________________________ As Highwind walks ahead of the group, Pinkie hops up and down next to Sun and Moon. "So, Sun, Moon, how's your stay in the castle so far?" asks Pinkie, blinking. "'Tis pleasant, I suppose," says Sun with a small smile. "There are many things we are learning during our stay. Thanks to the ponies here," says Moon, smiling. "From the look on your faces, I can see you're havin' a good time," says Applejack with a small laugh. "Moon, Sun, did you both happen to visit Ponyville yesterday?" asks Rarity, blinking. "Aye," says Moon, nodding. "Is there a reason thou art asking?" asks Sun, tilting his head. "Of course! You both are the very reason Ponyville is so lively right now!" says Rarity, chuckling. "Everypony in Ponyville is talking about you both," says Fluttershy with a giggle. "Mostly mares though…" says Rainbow, rolling her eyes. Highwind turns his head and lifts a brow. "Princess Twilight, you didn't tell your friends that Prince Sun and Prince Moon were there?" "Well, they all were pretty busy. Besides, I was just showing Sun and Moon around…" says Twilight, tapping her chin with a hoof. "Nonsense, Twilight! If you said that Moon and Sun were visiting, I would've shown them the best places in Ponyville!" says Rarity, placing a hoof over her chest. "Or showed them around Sugarcube Corner and all the tasty stuff we have there!" says Pinkie, licking her lips. "I could've given them a tour around the farm," says Applejack, rubbing her head with a hoof. "Or I could show them the best places to take a nap!" says Rainbow, grinning. "Really? A nap?" asks Applejack, lifting a brow. "What? That's the best I could think of at the moment," says Rainbow, shrugging. "Maybe I could show the animals to them?" asks Fluttershy, smiling. "Oh, Fluttershy, get this. Sun and Moon can talk to animals!" says Melody with a grin. "Really?" asks Fluttershy with wide eyes. "They were able to talk to Tibbles. Luna's pet," says Lyrical. "Whoa! You guys can talk to animals?" asks Rainbow, facing Moon and Sun. "Aye," says Sun, nodding. "This is true," says Moon, smiling. "Well, at least we're learning more about Sun and Moon. But I'm mostly glad to see that they're fitting in well in our world after what Twilight told me just now. It's still hard to believe they're the embodiment of the Sun and Moon though…" says Cadance, blinking. "Y-yeah, I didn't believe it at first when I met them. But I should've known anything can happen in Equestria when there are magic and stuff we don't know about yet…" says Twilight, letting out a sigh. "It's only reasonable anypony would think like that. Well, for you, Twilight," says a voice with a laugh. Turning their head, Cadance and Twilight's eyes widen at a green mare smiling. "Wiseheart!" says Cadance and Twilight, running and wrapping their hooves around Wiseheart. "Oh, it's so good to see that you're both doing well!" says Wiseheart, nuzzling between Twilight and Cadance's face. "I could say the same for you!" says Twilight with a chuckle. "I'm glad you're doing well, Wiseheart," says Cadance, smiling. "Oh, you two!" says Wiseheart, giggling with a hoof over her mouth. "Wiseheart, I thought you were inside the dining room with Princess Celestia and Princess Luna?" asks Highwind, blinking. Wiseheart pushes herself away from Twilight and Cadance. She then hangs her head and lets out a sigh. "I was, but our guest thought I was an eyesore. I asked her if I could use my magic to check her health and stuff, but how wrong I was to even ask. She then told me to get out or else she wouldn't listen to Tia's demands…" "Wh-what? How could she say that!" says Twilight, stomping a hoof. "Twilight's right. You were only worried about her…" says Cadance, frowning. "How can she call herself a princess when she behaves like that!" says Rarity, scoffing. "This princess doesn't sound like good news at all…" says Applejack, glaring. "Yeah, I don't think I can help with a grumpy princess…" says Pinkie, rubbing her head with a hoof. "She sounds scary…" says Fluttershy, shivering. "Well, I don't mind showing her what I think," says Rainbow, clenching a hoof. "I knew she'd do something selfish like that…" says Melody, huffing. "Hmm…" says Lyrical, rubbing her chin with a hoof. "If it was me, I'd use my magic and blow her out of the sky-" "Lyrical, I know how you feel, but don't say that around them," says Melody with a hoof over Lyrical's mouth and pointing another hoof at Moon and Sun. Sun and Moon tilt their head. "Oh, right," says Lyrical, blinking. "Thank you, everypony. But I'm just glad Sun and Moon are here. It's good to see you both," says Wiseheart, smiling. "Greetings, Wiseheart," says Sun, smiling. "We will try to be of some use to Luna and Celestia," says Moon with a small smile. "Oh, I'm sure you'll be able to help," says Wiseheart with a chuckle. "Wait, Wiseheart, where are the guards I asked to watch the doors behind you?" asks Highwind, blinking. "Oh, them…" says Wiseheart, rubbing an arm with a hoof. "They're inside-" "MOON! I KNOW YOU'RE THERE!" says a voice. The powerful voice echoes from behind the gold doors ahead, bursting them open with two dark stallions in gold armor flying through the doorway and landing on the floor in front of Highwind. "Ugh, my ears!" says Highwind, rubbing his hooves over his ears. He then shakes his head and looks down at the two dark stallions. "Y-you guys okay?" "Y-yes, sir…" says the dark stallion on the left with his eyes circling about. "W-wait, did you say something, sir?" asks the dark stallion on the right, blinking and rubbing a hoof over his ear. Highwind lets out a sigh. He then turns around. "Is everypony okay?" "Aye," says Moon, nodding. "But I am concerned about the others…" says Sun, frowning. I'm mostly wondering how you guys didn't flinch at that. My ears are still ringing… thinks Highwind, rubbing his ear with a hoof. He then turns his head. "Anypony else here okay?" "We're good, I guess. But I thought my ears were about to blow…" says Rainbow, rubbing her ears with her hooves. "Same here…" says Applejack, shaking her head. "Why is it that every time we come here, there's always somepony shouting?" asks Rarity, rubbing her ear with a hoof. "Fluttershy, what did Rarity say?" asks Pinkie, digging and twisting a hoof in her ear. "Did you say something, Pinkie?" asks Fluttershy, blinking and rubbing her ear with a hoof. "What? I can't hear you!" says Pinkie, putting a hoof next to her mouth. "C-Cadance, are you okay?" asks Twilight, shaking her head. "I'm fine. But it's been a while since I've heard Luna talking like that…" says Cadance, blinking and shaking her head. "Yeah, but why did she talk like that to Moon?" asks Twilight, rubbing her head with a hoof. "I-I don't think that was Luna…" says Melody, shaking her head. "It's the other one acting selfishly again…" says Lyrical, huffing. "Twilight, you and Cadance should go see for yourself…" says Wiseheart, furrowing her brows. "Um, okay?" says Twilight, lifting a brow. "At least we'll finally know what's going on…" says Cadance, letting out a sigh. "Moon, Sun, please go with them too. I'm worried if you're not there with them, things might not go well…" says Wiseheart, rubbing an arm with a hoof. "Aye," says Moon, smiling. "Of course," says Sun, nodding. As Sun and Moon trail behind, Cadance and Twilight walk through the doorway as their eyes widen at a black mare sitting behind a table, chewing with a donut in her hoof. The black mare makes an audible gulp. "Out of all the ponies that I had to see first thing in the morning, it had to be two useless princesses…" she says, rolling her eyes. "N-Nightmare Moon…" says Cadance, placing a hoof over her shaking arm. "Wh-why are you here! I thought me and my friends defeated you!" says Twilight, glaring. "But here I am, eating donuts. By the way, you both should've seen the look on your faces when you saw me. It's hilarious!" says Nightmare with a small laugh. "Nightmare, enough. The last thing we need is princesses fighting amongst each other…" says a blue mare, letting out a sigh. "Ugh, Luna, you're too soft…" says Nightmare, scoffing. "Luna, thank you. I don't know what I would've done without you here…" says a white mare, sighing. "That's why I'm here, Tia," says Luna, smiling. "She'd probably throw a fit," says Nightmare, chuckling with a hoof over her mouth. "Nightmare!" says Luna, glaring. "I'm only speaking the truth," says Nightmare, closing her eyes and lifting her head. "Celestia, Luna, why is she here!" says Twilight, glaring and pointing a hoof at Nightmare. "B-but I thought Luna and Nightmare Moon were one pony?" asks Cadance with an open mouth. "I know it's confusing, and I'm sorry for not telling you both about it in the letter I sent. But Luna and I decided not to mention Nightmare Moon until you all were here," says Celestia, frowning. "Besides, we don't want everypony in Equestria to know Nightmare Moon is back. It would cause an uproar if word got out…" says Luna, placing a hoof over her face. "All the ponies in the castle are keeping quiet about this for now. But we'll let everypony in Equestria know about this in the future…" says Celestia, sighing. "I-I understand…" says Cadance, slowly nodding. "You're right about everypony in Equestria panicking if they knew Nightmare Moon's back, but I want to know how Luna and Nightmare Moon are here at the same time!" says Twilight, stomping a hoof. "Forget about that! Moon, what took you so long, you idiot!" says Nightmare, glaring. "Forgive me, Nightmare. I did not mean to keep thee waiting…" says Moon, furrowing his brows. "Well, since you apologized, you're forgiven," says Nightmare, grinning. "Moon, is Nightmare Moon the pony thou hast mentioned before?" asks Sun, blinking. "Aye," says Moon, nodding. Sun turns his head and smiles. "Greetings, Nightmare Moon. I am Sun-" "Don't talk to me…" says Nightmare with her lips pulling back and revealing her teeth. "Nightmare!" says Luna with wide eyes. "Hey, what's your problem!" says Twilight, stomping a hoof. "You didn't have to be that rude! Sun was only being polite!" says Cadance, glaring. "I don't care what you two useless princesses have to say! I'll say whatever I want!" says Nightmare, pounding a hoof on the table. "ENOUGH!" says Celestia, her powerful voice echoing in the room. "I didn't gather you all here today just to fight amongst yourselves!" "S-sorry…" says Twilight, hanging her head. "You're right…" says Cadance, her brows gathering in. "And especially you!" says Celestia, pointing a hoof at Nightmare. "I've been tolerating your behavior all this time, but I'm starting to lose my patience!" "Oh, scary…" says Nightmare, rolling her eyes. "Nightmare, please stop antagonizing everypony! Remember why we're here in the first place!" says Luna with a watery gaze. "Ugh! Fine! I guess you're right, Luna…" says Nightmare, ruffling her mane with a hoof. Celestia lets out a sigh. She then turns her head and smiles. "Twilight, please tell your friends and everypony else to come in." "Oh, right!" says Twilight, blinking. She turns around and lifts a brow. "Uh, why is everypony hiding behind Lyrical and Wiseheart?" "I don't know. You tell me," says Lyrical, rolling her eyes. "Even I'm not sure…" says Wiseheart, blinking. "U-um, Twilight, is the yelling over?" asks Fluttershy, peeking her head from behind Lyrical. "Yeah…" says Twilight, sighing. "Finally! I thought it'll never end…" says Applejack, peeking her head from behind Lyrical. "Yeah! I thought there was going to be explosions from all that yelling!" says Pinkie, hopping out from behind Lyrical. "I never thought an argument among alicorns could be so intense…" says Rarity, peeking her head from behind Wiseheart. "Are you kidding me! I thought the whole castle was going to go up in smoke after that!" says Rainbow, peeking her head from behind Wiseheart. "You're telling me! It's been a while since I've seen Tia so mad!" says Melody, walking out from behind Wiseheart. "Wait a second. Where's Highwind?" asks Twilight, blinking. "Over here!" says Highwind, waving a hoof from behind a gold door. "What are you doing there?" asks Twilight, lifting a brow. Highwind walks out from behind the gold door and coughs into a hoof. "Well, I was just preparing if there was going to be magic lasers flying all over the place…" "You were probably scared again," says Lyrical, smiling. "I-I wasn't!" says Highwind, stomping a hoof. "Highwind, what about those other guards earlier?" asks Twilight, furrowing her brows. "Don't worry. I told them they could go back to the barracks after what happened earlier…" says Highwind, rubbing his head with a hoof. "That's a relief…" says Twilight, letting out a sigh. "Anyway, come in, guys. But I can't guarantee things will be quiet after meeting somepony…" "I heard that!" says Nightmare, pointing a hoof at Twilight. "Uh, Twilight, I'm not sure I want to go with this…" says Applejack, rubbing a hoof behind her head. "Wh-why?" asks Twilight, furrowing her brows. "Um, hello? It's Nightmare Moon! You expect all of us just to go in there and have a talk with that crazy pony!" says Rainbow, twirling a hoof next to her head. "And our last run-in with her wasn't exactly a good one…" says Rarity, biting her bottom lip. "Forgive me for interrupting, but thou hast met Nightmare before?" asks Moon, blinking. "Oh, Moon, about that. We met her a while back. Let's just say we had, well, an argument…" says Twilight, huffing. "She probably still hates us after all this time…" says Fluttershy, putting a hoof over her shaking arm. "She probably wants to send us to the Moon…" says Pinkie, rubbing her chin with a hoof. "Pinkie, don't joke about that!" says Rainbow, stomping a hoof. "I see that thy last meeting with Nightmare was not a pleasant one. But know that Nightmare is not the pony thou hast in mind," says Moon, shaking his head. "How can you say that? For all we know, she's probably up to something…" says Twilight, frowning. "Twilight, I assure thee and the others that Nightmare will bring no harm to anypony. For that, I am sure. All I ask is that the others and thee will take the time to speak with and understand Nightmare…" says Moon, smiling with a soft glow within his gaze. "Moon…" says Twilight with wide eyes. She then smiles. "Well, if you're able to trust her, then I'm willing to give her a chance." "Ugh, fine! I'll try to listen to what she has to say…" says Rainbow, folding her hooves. "If Moon's askin' us a favor, then I'll give it a shot…" says Applejack, rubbing her head with a hoof. "Oh, oh, maybe we can become friends with her this time!" says Pinkie, jumping up and down. "That does sound nice, b-but scary at the same time…" says Fluttershy, biting a hoof. "How can I possibly refuse after seeing the look on Moon's face!" says Rarity, placing a hoof over her forehead. "That's what you care about?" asks Rainbow, lifting a brow. "Don't judge me!" says Rarity, closing her eyes and lifting her head. Celestia closes her eyes and smiles. I guess I didn't have to worry… Luna faces Nightmare and smiles. "Aren't you glad Moon is here?" "Hmph! He's still an idiot…" says Nightmare, pouting with red cheeks. I guess even Nightmare Moon has a cute side to her, thinks Cadance, giggling with a hoof over her mouth. "And what are you laughing about!" says Nightmare, baring her teeth. "O-oh, uh, Highwind was telling me a funny story about Sun! Right, Highwind?" asks Cadance with a sheepish grin. "Wh-what?" asks Highwind, blinking. Cadance coughs into a hoof and lifts a brow. "Uh, yeah!" says Highwind, quickly nodding. "Strange…" says Sun, tilting his head. "Cadance, Highwind, I do not remember any conversation between thee-" Lifting an arm, Highwind and Cadance elbow Sun's sides. "Sun, I'm sorry, but please be quiet!" says Cadance with a pale face. "Please listen to her, Your Highness!" says Highwind, his face dripping with sweat. "A-aye…" says Sun, blinking. Melody leans her head next to Wiseheart's face. "You know, Nightmare Moon looks adorable when she's pouting." "She does," says Wiseheart with a chuckle. Lyrical leans her head next to Melody and Wiseheart's. "And you both would probably be dead ponies if she heard that." "You didn't have to state the obvious!" says Wiseheart with sweat running down her face. "Y-yeah!" says Melody with a blue face. "I'm just trying to warn you both the next time you open your mouth," says Lyrical, rolling her eyes. "That's enough, everypony. Please come in and sit. We have much to talk about," says Celestia, smiling. "And there's plenty of food to thank you all for coming here," says Luna, chuckling with a hoof over her mouth. "Before that, Moon, sit with me and Luna," says Nightmare, grinning. Turning his head, Moon faces Sun before facing Nightmare and frowning. "Forgive me, Nightmare, but I wish to sit with Sun-" "Now…" says Nightmare, her lips pulling back and revealing her teeth. "Moon is free to choose where he wishes to sit," says Celestia, glaring. "I wasn't talking to you!" says Nightmare, snarling at Celestia. She turns her head. "Moon, sit here now!" "Why are you so selfish!" says Twilight, stomping a hoof. "If Moon wants to sit with Sun, then let him," says Cadance, frowning. "Don't tell me what to do!" says Nightmare, pointing a hoof at Twilight and Cadance. "Nightmare, please stop it!" says Luna, biting her bottom lip. "No! I want Moon to sit with us now!" says Nightmare, slamming a hoof on the table. "Why!" says Luna with tears welling up in her eyes. Nightmare lifts a hoof and places it on Luna's arm. Looking down, Luna's eyes widen at Nightmare's shaking hoof. "Because… because you and Moon are the only ones I trust in this room…" says Nightmare, gritting her teeth. "Nightmare…" says Luna, her brows gathering in. "Moon, please sit with them," says Sun. Moon faces Sun, frowning. "But I wish to sit with thee-" "Nay," says Sun, shaking his head. He then smiles. "There will be another time. But for now, sit with Luna and Nightmare Moon." "A-aye…" says Moon, walking to Luna and Nightmare with his head hanging. "Sun, thank you for convincing Moon," says Luna, smiling. "I only wish for this day to be a pleasant one," says Sun with a small smile. "Spoken like a true prince!" says Rarity, clapping her hooves. "Yeah," says Applejack, smiling. "I kind of feel sorry for Moon though…" says Rainbow, rubbing behind her head with a hoof. "Poor Moon…" says Fluttershy, frowning. "It hurts to see somepony like Moon that sad…" says Pinkie, furrowing her brows. "I know what you mean. You can't help but want to protect Moon's smile," says Melody, folding her hooves and nodding. "Only you would think of something that stupid, Melody," says Lyrical, sighing. "Sorry, Melody, but I have to go with Lyrical on that one…" says Highwind, rubbing the side of his neck with a hoof. "That's so mean! Wiseheart, was it that bad?" asks Melody with a watery gaze. "Uh, k-kind of?" says Wiseheart with a sheepish grin. "Ugh!" says Melody, stomping a hoof. She turns her head. "Twilight, Cadance, it wasn't that bad, right?" "I-I guess it was a little bit…" says Twilight, biting her bottom lip. "I'll be honest with you. It's bad," says Cadance, frowning. "Why is everypony so mean to me today!" says Melody, putting her head on the floor with a hoof over her eyes and pounding the floor with another hoof. Lifting a brow, Nightmare faces Luna and points a hoof at Melody. "Is she always like that?" "Ignore her," says Luna, letting out a huff. "More importantly, I'm worried about Sun…" says Wiseheart, her brows gathering in. "He seems fine," says Twilight, blinking. "Honestly, Twilight, you have a lot to learn about guys. Sun's just putting up a tough front. Your brother does it too," says Cadance, sighing. "She's right," says Wiseheart, frowning. "O-oh…" says Twilight, hanging her head. Walking ahead, Wiseheart stops and places a hoof on Sun's arm. "Sun, you wanted to sit with Moon, right?" "A-aye…" says Sun, frowning and hanging his head. "Don't worry. You can sit with the rest of us," says Cadance, smiling and placing a hoof on Sun's shoulder. Sun lifts his head and smiles. "Aye." "And since when did we agree that he can stay?" asks Nightmare, lifting a brow. "What are you talking about now?" asks Celestia, glaring. "Are you deaf or something? I'm talking about him!" says Nightmare, pointing a hoof to Sun. "And I'll say it again. I never agreed to him being here!" "Wh-what? Why do we have to agree on Sun being able to stay!" says Twilight, stomping a hoof. "Sun has a choice to stay if he wants!" says Cadance, glaring. Moon frowns. "Nightmare, but I wish for Sun-" "Stay out of this, Moon!" says Nightmare, her nostrils flaring. "A-aye…" says Moon, hanging his head with watery eyes. Luna's lips begin to shake, darting her eyes between Moon and Nightmare. With tears welling up in her eyes, her lips move. "Luna, I know what you're about to say, but let me ask you this. Do you still remember what Sun has done to you and me?" asks Nightmare, frowning. Luna's eyes widen. "B-but things are different now! And there's no reason to blame Sun when he's done nothing wrong!" "You may think that way, but I don't. In my eyes, Sun is the one pony I will never forgive…" says Nightmare, snarling. Luna hangs her head and bites her bottom lip. I know how you feel, Nightmare, but it's wrong to blame Sun for the past he knew nothing of. But how can I say that to her when I'm the reason she's like this! Wh-why am I so useless at times like this! Nightmare turns her head. "As for the rest of you idiots, did you all forget? Sun is the reason this all started in the first place!" Celestia's eyes widen. She then glares. "Why are you bringing Sun into this? He knew nothing of what happened all those years ago!" "She's right!" says Twilight, stomping a hoof. "Sun did nothing wrong!" says Cadance, furrowing her brows. "Really? Then why did the ponies long ago relish the day and shun the night! Why was Luna belittled in front of the same ponies she tried to protect when she wanted a chance to show how the night can be enjoyed as much as the day!" says Nightmare, glaring. Twilight's eyes widen. "Th-that's because-" "I've seen how disgusting ponies can be when they do not understand the unknown! How they will not bat an eye when they do not acknowledge somepony!" says Nightmare, her breathing growing heavy. Cadance frowns. "Th-those ponies were-" "In the end, Sun is to blame for everything! He is the very reason I am standing here today, born from the bitterness within Luna's heart! Do you know how it feels to have the very thing I hate in front of me!" says Nightmare, tears trailing down her cheeks as her chest quickly rises up and down with each breath. With a frown, Celestia puts a hoof over her arm, clenching it. Turning her head, Twilight's brows gather in with a distant gaze. Hanging her head, Cadance closes her eyes with tears seeping through the corner of her eyes. "If any of you think there's something wrong with what I said, feel free to let me know…" says Nightmare, glaring. Leaning her head in, Melody closes her eyes and nuzzles against Lyrical's neck, while Lyrical places a hoof over Melody's head and frowns. "Well, is there nothing you all have to say!" says Nightmare, stomping a hoof. Wiseheart droops her head and bites her bottom lip, while Highwind places a hoof on Wiseheart's shoulder with a sigh. "If none of you are speaking, then you acknowledge that I'm right…" says Nightmare, huffing. "Ugh!" says Rainbow, ruffling her mane with her hooves. "I-I know it's crazy for me to say this, but she's right! There are ponies going through what she said!" "That's right. Even now, there's somepony out there being treated in the same way…" says Rarity, wiping the tears away from her eyes with a hoof. "It's hard to deny it, but there's some truth to what Nightmare Moon's sayin'," says Applejack, placing a hoof on her hat and tilting it over her eyes. "Even I have to agree with Nightmare Moon. As much as I enjoy making ponies smile, I can't ignore the fact that there are ponies out there suffering…" says Pinkie, letting out a sigh. "Discord also went through the same thing. Despite his personality, he just really wanted a friend throughout his years, but nopony would understand him…" says Fluttershy, sniffling with tears running down her cheeks. Lifting a hoof, Sun walks pass Twilight and Cadance with his gaze on Nightmare. Twilight's eyes widen. "S-Sun, what are you doing! Come back here!" she says, reaching out a hoof. "She's right, Sun! You're only going to make this worse for yourself!" says Cadance with wet eyes. Coming to a stop in front of the table, Sun's eyes lock with Nightmare's. "Even after what I've said, you still dare to stand before me?" asks Nightmare, snarling. "Nightmare, dost thou truly resent my existence?" asks Sun with an unwavering gaze. "Resent? Are you asking such a dumb question at a time like this?" asks Nightmare, lifting a brow. "Aye," says Sun, nodding. "Pffft!" says Nightmare, her laughter sending a gust of wind past Sun's face with his mane fluttering violently in the air. "Resent is such an understatement of a word that you cannot even imagine how much rage I harbor towards you!" "Nightmare, p-please calm down!" says Luna, placing a hoof on Nightmare's arm. "NO!" says Nightmare, swiping Luna's hoof with her own. "If this idiot wants to know how much I resent him, then I'll let him know!" "N-Nightmare…" says Luna, her lips shaking with tears running down her face. Moon's eyes well up with tears. "Nightmare, please try to forgive Sun-" "Moon, I will not repeat myself! Stay out of this…" says Nightmare with a red glint in her eyes. "A-aye…" says Moon, hanging his head. "Moon, I-I'm so sorry! It's all my fault this is happening…" says Luna, placing a hoof on Moon's shoulder. "Nay, do not apologize, Luna. P-perhaps everything will be fine after all of this…" says Moon with a small smile and putting a shaking hoof on Luna's arm. "M-Moon…" says Luna, tears running down her face with shaking lips. You idiot! Even you're scared of what's happening… Luna, Moon, I'm so sorry for putting you both through this, but this is something I can't back away from… thinks Nightmare, frowning. She turns and faces Sun with a dagger gaze. "As for you, here's what I think of you! I hate you! I despise you! I want you to disappear from the face of this world for being the reason why Luna and I went through that torture! Luna is the only pony I truly cared about after being brought into this forsaken world, but the rage within me is unbearable just remembering Luna crying all those years ago because of your stupid existence!" "I see…" says Sun, frowning. "Wh-what?" asks Nightmare with wide eyes. She then bites down on her shaking bottom lip. "IS THAT ALL YOU HAVE TO SAY!" "Cadance, I don't think we should let those two talk any longer!" says Twilight with sweat running down her face. "You're right! If this continues, I think Sun's life will be in danger!" says Cadance with a pale face. "Celestia, please! We have to stop them!" says Twilight with a watery gaze. "I-I understand…" says Celestia, frowning. Even I'm starting to fear for Sun's life! I can't let him get hurt for my past mistakes! "Celestia, Cadance, Twilight, please do not interfere," says Sun, lifting a hoof. "Sun…" says Celestia with wide eyes. "Are you crazy! If you keep talking to her, she might hurt you!" says Twilight, glaring. "Sun, Twilight's right! Just walk away from Nightmare Moon!" says Cadance, stomping a hoof. "Nay, I only wish to understand Nightmare for the pony that Moon and Luna have come to know," says Sun with a small smile. "Understand me? What is there to understand when the fact is I hate you!" says Nightmare, shutting her eyes with tears seeping through them. "But I do understand," says Sun. "Lies!" says Nightmare, lifting her head and opening her eyes with a glare. "You will never understand-" "Wh-why… why are you crying?" asks Nightmare with an open mouth. "Because… because I understand thy pain the most. I have also spent countless years within the stars with nopony by my side. Through the years, I-I wondered if my existence served any purpose in this life…" says Sun, smiling with his lips shaking. Nightmare's eyes widen. Her lips shake before biting her bottom lip. H-how could I forget! Not only Moon, but this idiot went through the same fate as Luna and me! No! I-I refuse to have the same sentiment as him! "But that all changed when Moon arrived. Moon's arrival has changed my perspective on how I view life. Without Moon, I-I would have closed my mind to everything…" says Sun, placing a shaking hoof on Nightmare's shoulder. He's frightened… thinks Nightmare, looking at Sun's shaking hoof. She then looks into Sun's watery gaze. "What… what does Moon mean to you?" "More than my life…" says Sun with a soft glow within his gaze. "Th-that's not fair…" says Nightmare, her lips shaking. "Why aren't you loathing me! I said all those horrible things about you!" "Because thou truly cares for Luna. The same way I care for Moon. That is why I cannot bring myself to harbor such intentions towards thee, Nightmare," says Sun, smiling. "No!" says Nightmare, pushing Sun's hoof away with her own. Tears well up in her eyes while gritting her teeth. "I refuse to acknowledge you! If I do, th-then everything I've done… would be meaningless!" "Nightmare Moon, I will not ask for thy forgiveness, but all I ask is for thee to forgive everypony here. If so, then I shall leave this land and never show myself to thee again," says Sun, smiling. "Wh-what?" asks Nightmare, her eyes widening. "Sun…" says Twilight with a pale face. "Wh-why did Sun say that?" asks Cadance, placing a hoof over her mouth. "Sun, I will not let you do something so selfish! Don't you realize how many ponies you will hurt if you go through with your decision!" says Celestia, glaring with a watery gaze. "But if Nightmare were to make amends to everypony here, then perhaps this is the best choice. I have prepared myself for the consequences ahead," says Sun, smiling. "Sun, please reconsider! You don't have to put yourself through this for the sake of others!" says Luna with tears welling up in her eyes. "Forgive me, Luna. If I am able to help Celestia and thee for everything thou hast done for Moon and I, then I will gladly go through with this," says Sun, frowning with a small smile. "Sun…" says Luna with tears trailing down her cheeks. Sun faces Moon and smiles. "Forgive me, Moon. It seems I will not be able to stay by thy side in the future…" "S-Sun, please do not go…" says Moon, reaching out a shaking hoof. "Without thee, I-" Lifting a hoof, Nightmare hits Sun's face. "YOU IDIOT!" "Sun!" says Twilight and Cadance with wide eyes. "Nightmare, you've gone too far! I will not let you do as you please anymore!" says Celestia, standing to her hooves and spreading her wings as her horn glows bright yellow. "No!" says Luna, jumping on the table and placing herself between Nightmare and Celestia. "Tia, please stop!" "Luna, get out of the way!" says Celestia, swiping a hoof. "I can't!" says Luna, shaking her head with tears flowing down her face. "I-I didn't want this to happen! I just wanted you all to try and get along with Nightmare!" "SHUT UP! ALL OF YOU!" says Nightmare, stomping a hoof and cracking the floor. "I'm not finished talking to this idiot in front of me!" she says, pointing a hoof to Sun. Nightmare turns her head, facing Sun. "Sun, look at me!" Sun places a hoof on his reddish cheek. He then faces Nightmare, his eyes widening at Nightmare's tears trailing down her face as her lips curl, revealing her teeth. "How can you say all those things when Moon's the only pony here who's going to suffer the most because of your stupid selfishness!" says Nightmare, pointing a hoof at Moon. Sun frowns. "But I only-" "I'm not finished talking!" says Nightmare, glaring. Nightmare grabs Sun's face with a hoof. Bringing Sun's face close to her own, Nightmare gazes into Sun's eyes. "Who do you think you are, spouting all that nonsense? I never once agreed to your stupid idea! It angers me just thinking about it!" says Nightmare, gritting her teeth. "I-I do not understand…" says Sun, frowning. "Of course not! Because you don't know anything! If you left, do you realize that Moon will become like me in the end!" says Nightmare, tears trailing down her cheeks. Sun's eyes widen. "Moon will fall to despair and slowly come to hate everything! Especially the idiots he has come to know! Even Luna and me!" says Nightmare, her hoof on Sun's face shaking. "Nightmare…" says Luna, frowning. "As much as I hate you, I-I can't bear to see one of the ponies that truly cares about me end up like that! Because… because Luna and Moon are the most important ponies in my life!" says Nightmare, closing her eyes as tears seep through them. Nightmare takes her hoof off Sun's face and opens her eyes, glaring. "So don't you dare say anything that dumb again! Do you understand!" Sun hangs his head and slowly nods. "Good! Now then…" says Nightmare, turning her head. "Tia!" "What now?" asks Celestia with a cold glare. "About your stupid proposal before all these idiots showed up. I will go along with it," says Nightmare, huffing. "That doesn't sound like you to agree with anything I say. Knowing you, there's something you want in return," says Celestia, furrowing her brows. "As expected of my supposedly older sister. You catch on quick," says Nightmare, lifting a brow. "Don't mock me…" says Celestia, glaring. "Calm down, you uptight princess. I won't leave the castle and I'll behave like a good pony. But in return, don't let this idiot have any ideas of leaving Moon's side ever again," says Nightmare, pointing a hoof to Sun. Celestia's eyes widen. She then lets out a sigh and smiles. "That's something I can do." "Ugh! There's that disgusting smile of yours. Honestly, I feel like throwing up whenever I see it," says Nightmare, scoffing. Celestia puts a hoof over her mouth and chuckles. Nightmare rolls her eyes. "Anyway, Luna, I'm going to take a nap in your room. Dealing with all of you idiots is making my head hurt…" she says, rubbing her head with a hoof. "I understand," says Luna, smiling. Nightmare turns and walks to the doorway. However, she comes to a stop. "Luna, Moon, sorry for making you both worry…" says Nightmare. "Do not apologize, Nightmare. We understand," says Moon, smiling. "Go have a nice long rest," says Luna with a chuckle. "Y-yeah, I will…" says Nightmare, walking ahead. Celestia lets out a long sigh. "I'm glad things turned out okay…" "For a second there, I thought we might have to fight against Nightmare again…" says Twilight, sitting on her haunches and letting out a sigh. "More like a relief that it didn't come to that…" says Cadance, placing a hoof over her face. "It's a good thing Moon's here with us. Without him, I don't know what Nightmare would've done…" says Luna, hanging her head. "That's true…" says Celestia, frowning. She faces Moon, smiling. "Moon, thank you for being here." "I truly am glad I was able to help thee and Luna. Especially Nightmare," says Moon with a small smile. "Oh, I almost forgot! Are you guys okay?" asks Twilight, turning. She then lifts a brow, seeing Rainbow and Pinkie with their cheeks puffed out. "Um, Rainbow, Pinkie, why are you holding your breath?" "Pah!" says Rainbow, opening her mouth and taking a deep breath. "F-finally, I can breathe again!" "Like I said, why were you even holding your breath?" asks Twilight, placing a hoof over her face. "I-I can't help it! It felt like I couldn't breathe when Nightmare and you guys started yelling and stuff! I thought if I said anything, you'd all blast each other or something!" says Rainbow, ruffling her mane with her hooves. "Well, I see where you're coming from…" says Twilight, rubbing her arm with a hoof. "Hey, Pinkie, why did you copy me? Did you feel the same way too?" asks Rainbow, lifting a brow. "Puh!" says Pinkie, opening her mouth and taking a deep breath. "Nope! I just wanted to see who could hold their breath the longest! But it looks like I win!" "Hey, I don't remember making this a contest! Let's go again!" says Rainbow, stomping a hoof. "Okay!" says Pinkie, grinning. Twilight rolls her eyes. She then turns her head. "Oh, Applejack, what about you?" "Yeah, I'm fine," says Applejack, nodding. She turns her head, glaring. "Rarity, can you let go of my arm? You've been grippin' it pretty tight for some time now." "O-oh! I'm sorry, Applejack…" says Rarity, pulling her hoof away. "Rarity, are you okay?" asks Twilight, frowning. "Honestly, no. After seeing that argument with Nightmare, you, and the rest of the princesses, I felt like my heart would stop…" says Rarity, placing a hoof over her chest. "Is there anything I can do to help?" asks Twilight with a small smile. "No, it's fine. Just give me some time to catch my breath," says Rarity, smiling. Twilight nods. Her eyes then widen. "Wait, where's Fluttershy?" "She's over here," says a voice. Twilight turns her head, seeing Melody and Lyrical on their haunches. "Oh, Melody, Lyrical, where is she?" asks Twilight, blinking. "She's been hiding behind us the entire time," says Melody, chuckling with a hoof over her mouth. "Yeah," says Lyrical, standing on her hooves and moving to the side, revealing a yellow mare with her head on the ground and her hooves over her face. "Fluttershy, it's over now. You can stop hiding," says Twilight, letting out a sigh. Fluttershy lifts a hoof, revealing an eye. She then stands on her hooves, turning her head from side to side. "Is it r-really over?" "Yes," says Twilight, smiling. "Oh…" says Fluttershy, frowning. Her eyes widen before bowing her head repeatedly. "Um, Melody, Lyrical, I-I'm so sorry for hiding behind you both!" "It's okay. But you do get frightened easily, huh?" asks Melody with a chuckle. "That's an understatement," says Lyrical. "Lyrical!" says Melody, glaring. "What?" asks Lyrical, tilting her head. "Forget it," says Melody, huffing. "Melody, Lyrical, what about you two?" asks Twilight, furrowing her brows. "Oh, us? We're fine. We've been with Tia and Lulu for so long. We already know that these kinds of things are going to happen sooner or later," says Melody, chuckling. "My stupid sister's right. So don't worry about us," says Lyrical with a small smile. "How can you call your older sister stupid!" says Melody with a watery gaze and shaking lips. "That's because you are one," says Lyrical, glaring. "Wiseheart!" says Melody, running with tears spurting out of her eyes. "Here we go again…" says Wiseheart, rolling her eyes and smiling. Wiseheart spreads her arms apart, which Melody stops and nuzzles her face into Wiseheart's chest. "E-even though I'm her older sister, Lyrical always treats me like an idiot!" says Melody, sniffling. "There, there," says Wiseheart, smiling and stroking a hoof over Melody's mane. She faces Lyrical, frowning. "Lyrical, I know you may think of Melody as an annoyance sometimes, but please try to get along with her, okay?" "Whatever…" says Lyrical, huffing. "Honestly, you both are so similar to Tia and Lulu…" says Wiseheart, sighing. "No, we aren't!" says Celestia and Luna, glaring. "Especially how childish they tend to be…" says Highwind in a mutter. "What did you say?" asks Melody and Lyrical, glaring at Highwind. "N-nothing!" says Highwind with a sheepish grin. "I'm just glad everypony's cheering up," says Twilight, smiling. "Not everypony…" says Cadance, frowning. "You're not feeling well, Cadance?" asks Twilight, furrowing her brows. "Not me," says Cadance, shaking her head. She points a hoof. "It's Sun." Twilight follows Cadance's hoof, frowning at the sight of Sun's head hanging. "I'm guessing what Nightmare Moon said is still on his mind…" says Cadance. "I-I'll talk to him," says Twilight, walking to Sun. Cadance puts up a hoof in front of Twilight and shakes her head. "Right now, there's only one pony that can help him," she says, pointing a hoof. Twilight follows Cadance's hoof. She then smiles, seeing Moon walking to Sun. "I guess I never should've worried." Moon stops in front of Sun, furrowing his brows. "Sun." "Moon, please leave me be…" says Sun, closing his eyes. Moon lifts a hoof to Sun's face, stroking it gently across his cheek. Moon then slides his hoof under Sun's chin and slowly lifts his face as both their eyes meet. "Sun, please be honest with me. I understand thou wishest to aid Celestia and Luna, but didst thou truly wish to leave?" asks Moon with a soft glow within his gaze. Sun's eyes widen with tears trailing down his cheeks. "Nay, I-I wish to stay with thee and everypony. From now on and in the future…" "I see…" says Moon, closing his eyes and resting his forehead on Sun's chest. Tears run down his face with his lips shaking. "Th-then please do not consider those thoughts again…" "Aye…" says Sun, closing his eyes and resting his head on Moon's. "WAHHHH!" says Melody, sitting and closing her eyes with tears spurting out. "Wh-why can't Lyrical treat me the same as Moon!" "You forgot that Moon and Sun aren't normal ponies. Besides, I'd rather roll over and die than fawn over you like that…" says Lyrical, huffing. "W-Wiseheart!" says Melody, nuzzling her face into Wiseheart's chest. "Melody, Lyrical might say those things, but deep down, she does care about you. The same way Lulu cares about Tia. Isn't that right, Lulu?" asks Wiseheart, smirking. "Is that true, Luna?" asks Celestia with a sparkling gaze. "Wh-what? No, I don't!" says Luna with a bright red face. "Oh, Lulu, you're not being honest. You always talk to me about how much you worry about Tia not getting enough rest because of her duties," says Wiseheart, chuckling with a hoof over her mouth. "Wiseheart!" says Luna, glaring with steam coming out of her reddish ears. "It's true. Luna tends to talk about her worries about Celestia with me too," says Lyrical, smiling. Luna bites her bottom lip with sweat running down her beet red face. She then closes her eyes with tears seeping through and runs to the doorway. "Lyrical, Wiseheart, I hate you both!" "I-I think I went a little too far…" says Wiseheart, frowning. "She'll get over it," says Lyrical, rolling her eyes. "I'll have to apologize to Luna later. But for now, everypony must be hungry, right?" asks Celestia, smiling. "Hungry? More like starving!" says Rainbow, rubbing a hoof over her stomach as it growls. "Me too!" says Pinkie, jumping up and down. "Honestly, I thought we'd never eat after what happened…" says Applejack, sighing. "I couldn't even bother to think of eating with Nightmare Moon around…" says Rarity, frowning. "Y-yeah…" says Fluttershy, slowly nodding. "Forgive me, but it seems I am also hungry…" says Sun, frowning and placing a hoof over his stomach as it growls. "I feel the same…" says Moon, placing a hoof over his stomach as it growls. "As always, Sun and Moon are honest with themselves," says Melody, chuckling with a hoof over her mouth. "Too honest…" says Lyrical, huffing. "But that's what makes them so adorable," says Wiseheart with a giggle. "True," says Cadance with a chuckle. "Even I've never met anypony as unique like the princes," says Highwind, shaking his head and smiling. "Well, let's not waste any time. Go ahead, everypony. Enjoy yourselves," says Celestia, smiling. "Ah, Sun and Moon are already eating without us!" says Pinkie, pointing a hoof. "Hey, Sun, stop eating all of the apple tarts!" says Rainbow, running ahead. "And Moon's eatin' all the muffins!" says Applejack, running. "Moon, Sun, p-please save some for us!" says Fluttershy, running ahead. "Why does this feel like a repeat of the other day we had tea with the princesses?" asks Rarity, trotting and rolling her eyes. "Wiseheart, Lyrical, let's hurry before they eat everything!" says Melody, running. "Yeah, yeah," says Lyrical, huffing. "I don't know why everypony's in a rush. We can just go ask for more food later," says Wiseheart, walking ahead with a chuckle. "Hopefully there are still more muffins…" says Highwind, walking and sighing. "Don't worry, Highwind. Knowing this place, there's more food to go around," says Cadance, walking beside Highwind. "Let's hope that the castle has anything left when this day is over…" says Highwind, frowning. "Honestly, it's so lively with everypony here," says Celestia with a small chuckle. "Y-yeah, but I'm sorry about my friends being that way," says Twilight, placing a hoof over her face. "Come now, Twilight. There's no need to apologize. Besides, aren't you going to join them?" asks Celestia, blinking. "I will. But right now, there's something I have to tell you…" says Twilight, rubbing an arm with a hoof. "Twilight, you can always talk to me about anything," says Celestia, smiling. "I-I know, but you might not like the sound of this after settling everything with Nightmare Moon…" says Twilight, biting her bottom lip. "Wh-what's wrong?" asks Celestia, frowning. "It's… it's Sunset Shimmer. Earlier this morning, I just received a message from her and she's planning to visit Equestria tomorrow. Mostly to see you…" says Twilight, furrowing her brows. "Sunset's coming here?" asks Celestia with wide eyes. She then frowns. "Oh dear…" To be continued…
Chapter 7Emotions and Mistakes ________________________________________ As the day comes to a close, lush green leaves drift along with a gentle breeze as orange takes its place, painting itself across the blue sky. The Sun begins to set behind a wall of mountains, covered at the tip with snow, stretching far beneath the clouds. Under the amber sky, rivers of gold pass through a flower field of yellow and orange, spanning miles until meeting the borders of a thick forest, where its rich leaves of green rustle against the evening wind. Standing with pride, a lone mountain passes through the clouds with a building of silver and gold, sitting on its rocky cliffs. Canterlot Castle; a beautiful structure glowing amongst the vast green land as its silvery walls reflect the orange hue of the amber sky. However, a certain balcony, attached to the side of a gold spiraling tower, shines with a faint yellow light. "There…" says a mare, sighing. "That should be enough until Luna's turn…" Upon the mare's head sits a white spiraling horn, wrapped in a yellow light. Slowly, its yellow glow begins to fade away. Ugh… it's starting to hurt again. Ignore it, just ignore it… thinks the mare, placing a hoof over her head. She shakes her head and puts her hoof to the floor, then unfolds her white feathery wings from her sides, stretching them far and wide into the sky. "I should really go out more. My wings are starting to feel stiff…" "Well, that's not surprising since you're always in the castle, Tia," says a voice with a laugh. "I can't help it," says Celestia, turning. Her purple eyes come upon a blue mare with a flowing purple mane. "You should already know how busy I am, Luna." "But that doesn't mean you should overwork yourself. You really need to relax more often," says Luna, smiling. "Easy for you to say," says Celestia with a huff. "You know, Tia, you tend to show your honest self when others aren't around. Only a few ponies know about this, including me," says Luna with a chuckle. "I can say the same for you. You always appear behind somepony from the most unexpected places," says Celestia. "Well, I can't deny that," says Luna with narrow eyes. "Honestly, please stop. I'm worried that you might scare somepony to death," says Celestia, drawing her brows in. "There you go with the lectures again…" says Luna, rolling her eyes. "I'm serious about this…" says Celestia. "Fine. I'll think about it," says Luna with a huff. "Are you sure?" asks Celestia, raising a brow. "Maybe," says Luna with a grin. "Just don't say I didn't warn you," says Celestia, sighing. "But putting that aside…" says Luna. "Tia, there's something I want to talk about." "Oh, if you need help with something, I'll be happy to lend a hoof," says Celestia. "Well, it's not something you can help with," says Luna, rubbing her arm with a hoof. "In fact, it's me who should be helping you." "Helping me?" says Celestia, blinking. "I came up here to check on you because I was worried. One of the maids in the castle told me that you sometimes put a hoof to your head on your way here. Are you… okay?" asks Luna, wrinkling her brows. "Oh, but I feel quite fine," says Celestia, puffing her chest out. "Don't lie to me, Tia…" says Luna, glaring. "Okay, okay…" says Celestia with a sigh. "I guess you're the only one I can't fool, huh?" "Well, I am your sister," says Luna, lifting a brow. "True," says Celestia with a small laugh. "But please be serious with me, Tia," says Luna with a watery gaze. "You know you can always talk to me about anything, right?" "I know, I know…" says Celestia, turning. She faces ahead with the orange glow of the sunset in her eyes. "Tia," says Luna, walking. She comes to a stop and sits next to her sister. "What's wrong?" "I'm not sure…" says Celestia, putting a hoof to her head. "But I think after meeting Sun and Moon, I started having these… headaches…" "Headaches? About what?" asks Luna, frowning. "It's just that… I remembered something that I wanted to forget…" says Celestia, furrowing her brows. "Do you want to talk about it?" asks Luna, placing a hoof on her sister's shoulder. "No…" says Celestia, shaking her head. "Tia, please. Maybe I can help you," says Luna. "Well, there is something you can help me with," says Celestia with a small smile. "Then leave it to me! I'll always be there for you- mmmpphhh!" says Luna. She quickly lifts her head, gasping for air with wide eyes. "T-Tia, what are you doing?" "Please… please just let me stay like this…" says Celestia, wrapping her hooves around her sister's body. She then closes her eyes and rests her head on the nape of her sister's neck. "Um… okay?" says Luna with a pinch of red in her cheeks. Wh-what's happening? Why is she acting like this? "Luna, I'm so sorry…" says Celestia, nuzzling her sister's neck. "Why are you apologizing? I don't remember you doing anything to anger me," says Luna, blinking. "Remember when you first came back with me to the castle, you told me to let go of the past and move on?" asks Celestia. Oh, that's what she meant… thinks Luna, sighing. "Tia, I thought we went over this?" "But after meeting Sun and Moon, I can't help but remember what I've put you through…" says Celestia. She uses her wrapped hooves and pulls her sister closer to her chest. "Tia, it's okay…" says Luna, putting her forehooves against her sister's chest. She then gently pushes herself away. "N-no, it's not okay…" says Celestia, clenching a hoof. "But it wasn't your fault…" says Luna, drawing her brows in. "I should've-" "No!" says Celestia, shaking her head. "If only I had thought of something else instead of using the Elements of Harmony, then you-" "Tia, please remember that I'll never blame you for my selfishness during that night…" says Luna with dull eyes. "It's my fault for letting my emotions blind my sense of reason and turning me into… that thing…" "L-Luna…" says Celestia with a shaky voice. "But-" "Tia," says Luna with bright eyes. "Please don't blame yourself over the past and look forward to the future. There are so many things we can make new and happy memories from." "Well, if you say so, then I guess you're right…" says Celestia with a small smile. "And let's not forget that Sun and Moon are here with us now. Who knows what the future will tell us." "Exactly! That's exactly what I was about… to say…" Luna trails off, hanging her head. Why… why didn't I notice this sooner? "Luna, what's wrong?" asks Celestia, her smile fading away. "Huh?" says Luna, quickly lifting her head. She then waves a hoof. "It's nothing…" "No. I can't ignore this when you helped me. This time, it's my turn. Now, what's wrong?" asks Celestia, wrinkling her brows. "It's just that I… I…" says Luna, biting her bottom lip. "I just realized something from our talk earlier, and I think it applies to some ponies we know…" "Luna," says Celestia, frowning. "Are you talking about-" "Yes…" says Luna. She hangs her head, her eyes staring at the stone floor. "It's Moon and Sun…" "Oh…" says Celestia. "Th-then, you know…" Luna trails off with trembling lips. "You should know that they went through… a similar p-past as me, righ-" "Please don't say anymore…" says Celestia with wet eyes. She puts a hoof to Luna's chin, lifting her face up. "It's true that they went through something that nopony should ever experience, but there was nothing we could-" "DON'T SAY THAT!" says Luna, stomping a hoof as it cracks a part of the stone floor, and her powerful voice echoing through the air. "I know that there was nothing we could do since we didn't know about them until now! But I hate the fact that they suffered more than anypony! Even me-" "Enough!" says Celestia as her watery eyes pour a river of tears, sliding to the base of her chin. "Luna, I have lived for a long time, learning many things in life, and painfully… what's it like to lose you, my very sister, who I cherish so, so much! But I can't imagine what's it like for Sun and Moon to live that long in solitude, nopony to ever notice their existence in this world, and the fact that they were alive before me, you, or anypony else! Just the thought of going through a life like that is something I can't live with!" "B-but… but…" says Luna, trailing off with trembling lips. She quickly runs to Celestia, burying her face in her sister's chest, and wrapping her forehooves around her sister. She then clenches her eyes as tears seep through and down her face, soaking her sister's coat. "Luna, please stop crying…" says Celestia, wrapping a hoof around Luna's body and another on her head, stroking her mane. "It pains me to see you like this…" "B-but… it's so frustrating! I thought I was all alone up there, but Moon and Sun were there with me this entire time!" says Luna, gritting her teeth. "And for that, I'm grateful to them…" says Celestia, putting both hooves on Luna's shoulders and slowly pushes her away. She looks down, seeing the brim of her sister's damped eyes in red. She then lifts a hoof to her sister's face, wiping the bits of tears. "How about this? Now that Sun and Moon are here, maybe we can make it up to them?" "Make it up to them…?" says Luna, blinking. "I was thinking that we should try our best to make them feel at home here in Equestria. It's the least we can do, don't you think?" asks Celestia, smiling. "Tia, it's times like this that I'm truly glad to have a sister like you," says Luna with a small smile. "You're welcome," says Celestia with a giggle. "But if that's your idea, then I guess there's something I can do…" says Luna, tapping her chin with a hoof. "And that is?" asks Celestia, tilting her head. "Well, it has something to do with Moon, but the rest is a secret," says Luna with a chuckle. "Oh? Then let me guess… is it a date?" asks Celestia with a smug. "Y-you… I hate it when you tease me like that!" says Luna, stomping a hoof as her face turns red as a cherry. "I'm sorry, I'm sorry! It's just so adorable when you're embarrassed!" says Celestia, placing a hoof over her mouth. "Ugh! And I'm guessing you have something better in mind for Sun!" says Luna, pointing a hoof. "Of course! I was planning to… to…" says Celestia, trailing off as her brows draw closer. "I-I don't know…" "Oh…" says Luna, narrowing her eyes. "Luna, what should I do?" asks Celestia with distant eyes. "I-I'm not sure. But, knowing you, I'm sure you'll figure it out," says Luna, placing a hoof on her sister's shoulder. "I guess so…" says Celestia. "Then I'll be going now. Are you sure you'll be all right?" asks Luna, stroking a hoof against her sister's cheek. "You worry too much, Lulu," says Celestia with a small smile. "Don't you ever call me that…" says Luna, pouting with a shade of red in her cheeks. Turning around, she stomps her way to a doorway as her spiraling horn shrouds itself in a blue light. As she stomps through the doorway, a windowed door, covered in a similar blue light, shuts itself as the glow fades away. "Now then, I guess I should think of something for Sun…" says Celestia, letting out a sigh. She then lifts a hoof, placing it over her head. It's starting to hurt again… ________________________________________ Somewhere in Canterlot Castle lies a spacious room, tiled in spotless white as it gleams in the faintest of light. Within the room, statues of ponies, sculpted in different figures; an earth pony holding a vase in its forehooves, pouring a calm stream of water, while another statue shows a pegasi standing on one hoof and holding a harp, spewing water from its mouth into a large pool as steam rises from its surface. Looking closely, three shadows appear faintly, moving in the midst of the hazy room. How did this happen? Why am I teaching two full-grown stallions how to wash themselves? thinks a pegasi, his white coat soaking wet up to his neck. He closes his eyes and puts his forehooves together, scooping a small amount of water from the pool and splashes it over his face. Shaking his head, he opens his eyes, revealing a dazzling green as he slumps his shoulders. I know that Princess Celestia and Princess Luna trusted me with this. But… why does it feel like I'm losing something more important? "Highwind, thou seem to be troubled. Is there something wrong?" asks a voice. "Huh?" says Highwind, turning his head. His eyes reflect another stallion with a white coat and blond mane, hanging to the side of his neck while his amber eyes stare at him. He then quickly waves a hoof. "I-it's nothing, Sun- I mean, Your Highness! But instead of me, how's your bath?" "'Tis a pleasant experience, I suppose," says Sun. "I'll just take that as a yes…" says Highwind, sighing. He turns his head, his eyes coming upon another stallion with a blue coat and an ice blue mane. "Prince Moon, is the bath to your liking?" "I do not know," says Moon, lifting a hoof above his chest. He drops it over the steamy water's surface, causing it to splash upwards into his eyes, which he quickly lifts his forehooves to rub them. "A-are you okay?" asks Highwind, frowning. "I am fine…" says Moon, blinking. He then turns his head. "Sun, thou shouldst try this." "Aye," says Sun, lifting a hoof above his chest. He drops it over the water's surface, causing it to splash a large amount of water into his eyes. He quickly uses his forehooves to rub his eyes and blinks them. "Strange…" It's like they're learning this for the first time… thinks Highwind, rubbing his head with a hoof. Whatever, at least they're enjoying themsel- "Um, excuse me! Are you g-guys almost done?" asks a meek voice. Oh, I guess it's about time we get out, thinks Highwind. He faces the hallway at the end of the hazy room and puts a hoof to the side of his mouth. "Yeah! We're almost done!" "Okay!" says a frisky voice. "Oh, and Princess Celestia and Princess Luna asked us to bring you guys some towels!" "Thanks!" says Highwind. He then turns his head. "Well, Your Highnesses, it's about time we leave." "Aye," says Moon while Sun nods. "Then follow me," says Highwind, standing up as he lifts a hoof, taking big steps through the water. He reaches a staircase, climbing his way up onto the white marble floor, and turns around. "Oh, right…" "Is something wrong, Highwind?" asks Moon, tilting his head. "Well, sort of. It's just that if we go out now, we'll make a mess since we're all wet," says Highwind. "Wet?" says Sun, blinking. "Just look at yourselves, then you'll see why," says Highwind, pointing a hoof. Moon and Sun lower their heads, seeing their chest dripping large amounts of water on the floor. They also turn their heads, seeing their soggy tails on the white marble floor, leaving a trail of water in its path. "I see…" says Sun. "What task must we fulfill for this?" asks Moon. "Just follow my lead," says Highwind. He spreads his hooves apart from each other and shakes his head and body together, causing droplets of water to fly from his mane and tail onto the marble floor. "Now, you try." "Interesting…" says Sun, which he and Moon spread their hooves and quickly shake their heads and bodies. "Uh-oh…" says Highwind. His eyes begin to shrink, seeing a barrage of water droplets flying straight at him. "Now then, shall we move on?" asks Sun. "Highwind, art thou feeling well?" asks Moon, tilting his head. "Oh, don't worry, Your Highnesses. I feel great…" says Highwind with a huff. He lifts a hoof and pushes soggy strands of red hair to the side of his face. "Anyway, just follow me…" Highwind turns and walks to the hallway at the end of the room, while Sun and Moon face each other, blinking. As Highwind turns a corner, he frowns at the sight of three mares wearing a one-piece dress, colored in a black with a white trim, covering their necks to the dockings of their tails. "Hey, Highwind, over here!" says a yellow mare, waving a hoof. "Oh, it's you guys…" says Highwind, clicking his tongue. "Wow, is that how you always say hi to somepony?" asks a lime mare, huffing. "Look, we didn't come here just to see your face. We came because Princess Celestia and Princess Luna asked us to bring some towels. Oh, and we also wanted to see how the princes look like, that's all." "Yeah, I appreciate it, Truce," says Highwind, rolling his eyes. He stops, standing in front of the mares, and puts out a hoof. "Can I please have my towel now?" "I didn't like the way you said that…" says the yellow mare, glaring. She lifts a hoof with a towel over it and drops it over Highwind's hoof. "Oh, and we left your armor back in your room, jerk." "Great, thanks, Vera," says Highwind, huffing. He sits on the red carpet floor, placing his towel over his head, and using his forehooves to move it from side to side. "U-um, Highwind, sorry to bother you, but where are the princes?" asks a blue mare. "What are you talking about, Risky? They're right behind me," says Highwind, turning his head. He quickly darts his eyes about at the empty hall. "But they were here with me a second ago…" "M-maybe something happened to them?" asks Risky, biting a hoof. "Hey, don't joke about that kind of stuff!" says Truce, stomping a hoof. "If something did happen to them, Princess Celestia and Princess Luna would probably blow their bits off!" "Will you both be quiet!" says Vera, flaring her nostrils. "I thought I heard something from the hallway until you blockheads started blabbering!" "Wait, I think I see them…" says Highwind, squinting his eyes. He then waves a hoof. "Your Highnesses, I'm over here!" Sun and Moon turn their heads, seeing Highwind at the end of the hall. They walk together as Sun's blond mane glitters in the light, hanging to the side of his neck, while Moon's blue coat shines with his long blue mane, hanging to the side of his face. "H-hold on a second… that's them?" asks Truce, blinking her eyes. "Of course it's them," says Highwind, putting a hoof to his face. "Wow, they look way better than what I imagined…" says Vera with her mouth hanging. "More like too much, if you ask me," says Truce, tugging a hoof at the neck area of her dress. "Uh-huh…" says Risky with wide eyes. Ugh, mares… thinks Highwind, rolling his eyes. He then walks up to Sun and Moon. "Your Highnesses, where did you go? Did something happen?" "Ah, Sun and I decided to stay longer in the bath," says Moon. He stops walking, towering over Highwind and the mares. "Forgive us," says Sun, standing next to Moon. "Well, it's fine," says Highwind, smiling. "But please let me know next-" "Whoa, and here I thought ponies couldn't get any bigger…" says Truce, lifting her head. "I think they're taller than Princess Celestia…" says Vera, tapping her chin with a hoof. Her eyes move from Moon's head to the tip of Sun's spiraling horn. Annoying… thinks Highwind, frowning. "E-excuse me, Prince Moon!" says Risky, her legs shaking. "Ah, dost thou require something of me, little one?" asks Moon, tilting his head. "N-not really! I'm just here to g-give you this!" says Risky, lifting a shaking hoof with a towel over it. "Strange…" says Moon. He then points a hoof. "Forgive me, but what task must I fulfill… with this?" Great, they don't even know about a towel… thinks Highwind, putting a hoof to his face. "H-huh?" says Risky, blinking. "Your Highness, that's a towel. You use it to dry yourself like this…" says Highwind, sitting on the red carpet floor. He then grasps his forehooves at the ends of the towel on his mane and quickly moves it from side to side. "Now, you try." "Interesting…" says Moon. He picks up the towel from Risky with a hoof. He then sits on the carpet floor, holding each end of the towel with his forehooves before placing it on his mane, and moves it from side to side. "Your Highness, you can stop now," says Highwind. "Aye," says Moon. He stops and pulls his towel away from his mane with a hoof. "Now then, is there other tasks I must fulfill with this towel?" "No. That's all you have to… do…" says Highwind, trailing off with an open mouth. "Mmph!" says Vera, quickly putting a hoof over her mouth. "Oh my…" says Risky, placing a hoof over her mouth. "Mmmppphhhhh!" says Truce, her eyes tearing up with both hooves over her mouth. "Strange…" says Sun, pressing a hoof against Moon's mane. He tilts his head as the hole within Moon's mane springs up. "Bwahahahahahaha!" says Truce, falling on her back, rocking back and forth, and clutching her stomach with her forehooves. "No! I-I shouldn't laugh!" says Risky, falling on her side, and curling herself with a hoof over her mouth. "P-Prince Moon, I don't mean to sound rude, but… your mane looks like a giant furball! Ahahahahaha!" says Vera, falling on her stomach, and pounding her hooves on the floor. "Hey! Don't laugh at his ma- mmph!" says Highwind, quickly putting a hoof over his mouth. His face begins to turn red as his cheeks puff out. He then falls on his back and kicks the air with his hind legs. "Gahahahahaha!" "It looks like everypony is having fun here. Do you mind if I join?" asks a voice. Vera, Risky, and Truce quickly stop laughing as their bodies freeze in place. Craning their heads to the familiar voice, they make an audible gulp as sweat runs down their faces, seeing a blue mare with a half-lidded frown. "P-Princess Luna! Good afternoon!" says Vera, jumping to her hooves. She grins while Truce and Risky hides behind her. "Good afternoon, girls," says Luna. "Now then, what-" "Ahahahahaha!" says Highwind, flailing his hooves in the air. Ugh! That doofus! thinks Vera, putting a hoof to her face. She then puts a hoof next to her mouth. "Highwind! Highwind! STOP LAUGHING, YOU FEATHERBRAIN!" "H-huh? What's going on?" asks Highwind, blinking. He then lifts his head and glares. "Hey! It's your fault that I'm doing this!" "I don't care! Just look up!" says Truce, pointing a hoof. "Why?" asks Highwind, rolling his eyes up. "Uh-oh…" "Uh-oh indeed," says Luna. "Hello, Commander Highwind." "P-P-Princess Luna!" says Highwind, his face dripping with sweat. He quickly rolls onto his hooves, pushing himself up. "Wh-what are you doing here?" "Why am I here?" says Luna, raising a brow. "Well, I was heading to my room to prepare for the night. But I heard a lot of noise coming from this way, so I decided to see what's causing it. And what do I find? You four enjoying yourselves with our guests," she says with a smile. S-scary! I forgot how scary she can be! thinks Highwind, his hooves shaking. Luna… thinks Moon, smiling. He begins to walk towards Luna as a towel over his hoof falls to the floor. With the sound of a thud, Sun's ears twitch as he casts his gaze to the red carpet floor. "Strange…" says Sun, his eyes on the towel below him. He then uses a hoof to pick it up and places it on his mane. "Greetings, Luna," says Moon, smiling. "O-oh, hello, Moon…" says Luna, blinking. "It's nice to see you…" "The same to thee," says Moon. He then tilts his head. "But thou seem to be unwell. Is something troubling thee?" "Y-yes…" says Luna, pointing a hoof. "What happened to your mane?" "Ah…" says Moon, rolling his eyes up. "Highwind was showing Sun and I the uses of… a towel." "Really?" says Luna. She faces the said pony and lifts a brow. "Is that true, Commander?" "U-uh… glad I could help?" says Highwind with a grin. "It's a good thing I'm here…" says Luna, sighing. Her horn begins to glow in a blue color, which a similar aura shrouds Moon's mane, causing a bright flash that quickly fades away. "Luna, was that perhaps magic?" asks Moon, stroking a hoof over his mane. "Yes," says Luna, blinking. "But why do you ask?" "If I am not mistaken, can magic only be used by unicorns?" asks Moon, tilting his head. "Yes. However, there is another that can wield magic as well," says Luna. "Alicorns," says Moon. "That's right," says Luna with a smile. "Ah, 'tis unfortunate, but Sun and I do not know much about magic…" says Moon, hanging his head. "Moon," says Luna, putting a hoof to Moon's chin, and lifting his face. "If you want, my sister and I can tell you both about it." "Nay," says Moon, shaking his head. "I do not want to trouble Celestia and thee any further. Thou hast aided Sun and I in many ways we cannot hope to repay." "Moon, as I said before, you and Sun are not troubling my sister and I. We just want to help you both in any way we can," says Luna, smiling. "Then, if it does not trouble thee, 'twould be of great help," says Moon with a smile. "It's no trouble at all. But, Moon, there are some things that I must finish first, so are you willing to wait for me?" asks Luna. Well, I was planning to have a talk with him tonight, but I guess this is fine… "Aye," says Moon, nodding. "Then I will talk to my sister later about this regarding Sun. Now then, I must be going," says Luna, turning her head. "Commander Highwind, I shall entrust you to show Moon and Sun-" Luna cuts herself off, her mouth hanging with wide eyes. "Huh?" says Highwind, blinking. "Princess Luna, what's wrong-" "Psst, Highwind!" says Vera. "Ugh, what now?" asks Highwind, turning his head. He then raises a brow. "Wait, why are you guys laughing?" "Just look," says Vera, pointing a hoof. She then places a hoof over her mouth. "Th-this is too funny," says Truce with a snicker. Risky nods her head with a hoof over her mouth. "Why? Did something happen- mmph!" says Highwind, quickly putting a hoof over his mouth. "Strange…" says Moon, standing next to Sun. He uses a hoof and pushes down on one of the spikes sticking out from Sun's mane. He then tilts his head as the spike quickly springs back up. "Ahahahahaha!" says Truce, falling on her back while flailing her hooves. "I-I'm sorry, but I can't hold it in any- gahahahaha!" says Vera, falling on her back, and rolling from side to side. "He looks like a porcupine," says Risky with a giggle. "That's enough, everypony," says Luna with a huff. Luna's horn begins to glow blue, shrouding a similar light around Sun's mane, causing a bright flash, and revealing his smooth and spiky mane. "Aww!" says Vera, Risky, and Truce, hanging their heads. "Is there a problem?" asks Luna, lifting a brow. "Nope! Nothing!" says Vera while she, Risky, and Truce grins. "Good. Now then, Commander Highwind," says Luna, turning her head. "Yes, Your Highness?" asks Highwind, saluting. "As I was saying, I shall entrust you to show Moon and Sun their rooms. Oh, and did Vera and her friends inform you about their rooms' location?" asks Luna. "U-um…" says Highwind, glancing to the side, seeing Vera, Risky, and Truce with their faces dripping in sweat. "Y-yes, Your Highness!" "Good. Then I must be going now," says Luna, turning and walking. "Ah, Luna," says Moon. "Oh, what is it, Moon?" asks Luna, turning her head. "Did you need something-" As Moon lightly presses his lips against Luna's cheek, her eyes begin to widen at the sudden touch. Watching from the side, Sun smiles, though Highwind quickly looks away with red coloring his cheeks, while Vera, Risky, and Truce's mouths fall to the floor. Moon pulls his head away and smiles. "I forgot to thank thee earlier." "O-oh, you're welcome…" says Luna, placing a hoof on her cheek. "Luna, thou seem to be unwell again. Art thou sure thou art feeling well?" asks Moon, drawing his brows in. "Y-yes, it's just I was a little surprised…" says Luna, rubbing her arm with a hoof. "Surprised?" says Moon, tilting his head. "N-nothing!" says Luna, grinning. "U-um, well, I-I'll be going now! M-Moon, I'll tell you more about magic later, so please wait for me!" Luna turns and trots quickly down the hall before turning a corner. She then puts a hoof to her chest, quickly panting between each breath with her cheeks flushing red. Letting out a sigh, she removes her hoof from her chest and lifts it up to her face. "Moon, it's me who should be thanking you for being here…" says Luna with a small smile. She then puts her hoof down and begins to walk, disappearing into the hall's shadows. "Weird, I've never seen Princess Luna like that before," says Highwind, blinking. He turns his head with his eyes upon Moon who was speaking to Sun with gleaming eyes, the latter, nodding with a smile. Maybe things will be much more lively, now that they're here… "Hey, Highwind!" says Truce. And there goes the mood… thinks Highwind, narrowing his eyes. He then turns his head. "What do you guys want now?" "W-well, it's about the thing with Princess Luna and Prince Moon…" says Risky with red cheeks. "What thing?" asks Highwind, lifting a brow. "Ugh! I swear you're so dense sometimes…" says Vera, rolling her eyes. She then rubs a hoof on the floor in a circular motion. "It's about, you know, Prince Moon k-kissing Princess Luna…" "O-oh, that…" says Highwind, rubbing a hoof behind his head. "I'd rather not say it…" "Oh come on! Tell us!" says Truce as she, Vera, and Risky inch their faces closer to Highwind's. "Okay, okay! Not too close!" says Highwind, putting out his forehooves, and making a gap between him and the mares. He then coughs into a hoof. "Well, the thing is, Prince Sun and Prince Moon do that when you help them with something…" "Whoa, whoa, whoa," says Truce, lifting a hoof. "If I'm hearing this right, then you're saying that if I were to give them a towel, they'll just straight up and give me a peck, just like that?" "When you put it like that, yeah," says Highwind, blinking. "Are you serious!" says Truce with a wide smile. "Be right back! I'm going to-" "And just where do you think you're going?" asks Vera, raising a brow. "Well, duh!" says Truce. "To get a freebie from the two most handsome ponies in Eques-" "Highwind," says Sun. "Huh?" says Highwind. He turns and lifts his head. "Oh, Your Highnesses, did you need something?" "Aye," says Sun, nodding. "Moon and I require thy aid." "But thou seem to be tending to other matters. Are we perhaps… interrupting?" asks Moon, frowning. "N-no!" says Highwind, waving a hoof. "We were just talking about something, that's all…" "Yeah, about that," says Truce, licking her lips. "Can you both give me a quick peck-" "What she's trying to say is that we're about to go now," says Vera with a hoof over Truce's mouth. "Mmmm!" says Truce, shaking her head from Vera's grip. "Hey! That's not what I was going to-" "Oh, and she hopes that you both enjoy your stay here in the castle," says Vera, pressing a hoof against Truce's mouth. "Isn't that right, Risky?" "U-um, yeah!" says Risky with a grin. "So, we'll be going now!" says Vera. Vera's horn begins to glow yellow, which a yellow sphere surrounds Truce, causing her to float in midair. "Wh-what? No!" says Truce, flailing her hooves. "Let me down, Vera!" "Nope," says Vera. Oh, right, magic! thinks Truce. She grins as her horn glows green. "Time to bust out of here!" "That's not going to work," says Vera with a smile. "And how do you know that?" asks Vera, lifting a brow. "Look at your horn," says Vera, pointing a hoof. "Huh?" says Truce, rolling her eyes up, and seeing a blue glow around her horn. She quickly turns her head and glares. "Risky, you traitor!" "S-sorry…" says Risky with a small grin. "But we still have a lot more places to clean in the castle." "No!" says Truce, flailing her hooves. "That can wait after I get my-" "Did you already forget what we're supposed to be doing?" asks Vera, raising a brow. "Like what!" says Truce, baring her teeth. "Truce, Lyrical is coming back tomorrow. You should know how scary she gets when we slack off…" says Risky with a shudder. "Oh, right…" says Truce, blinking. "But still, I can't miss this chance!" "Yeah, yeah," says Vera, rolling her eyes. She then turns her head. "Hey, Highwind, thanks for covering for us earlier." "Y-yeah, Princess Luna is much scarier than Lyrical…" says Risky, chattering her teeth. "No problem," says Highwind, waving a hoof. "Oh, and before I forget, you can find the rooms in the far back of the castle. Prince Moon's room is on the first floor and Prince Sun's room is on the second. They're pretty close, so you won't miss them," says Vera. She then turns her head. "Come on, Risky, let's go!" "Okay!" says Risky, nodding. Vera and Risky begin to walk down the hallway while Truce pounds her hooves against the yellow sphere surrounding her. "Just give it up, Truce," says Vera. "We have to finish by the end of today." "I know, I know. But can I please just get one peck from them?" asks Truce, putting her forehooves together. "Nope," says Vera. "I thought you guys were my friends!" says Truce, pointing a hoof. "We are," says Risky with a smile. "UGH! YOU BLOCKHEADS!" says Truce, her voice echoing as she and her friends turn a corner down the hall. "Sun, they resemble the Crusaders…" says Moon, blinking. "Aye…" says Sun. He then turns his head. "Highwind, are they perhaps always like this?" "Most of the time, yes," says Highwind, sighing. And you wouldn't believe the kind of troubles they get themselves into… "Ah, I forgot to thank them for the towel…" says Moon, furrowing his brows. "And ask for their names as well…" says Sun, hanging his head. "Oh, don't worry, Your Highnesses. You'll see them again. Anyway, what did you both need help with earlier?" asks Highwind, blinking. "Ah, 'twas to ask thee to lead Moon and I to our rooms," says Sun. "But, Highwind, there is something that troubles Sun and I…" says Moon. "Well, if it's something I can do, I'd be happy to help. So, what is it?" asks Highwind with a smile. "What is a room?" asks Moon while he and Sun tilt their heads. I should've seen that coming… thinks Highwind with a sigh. "Please follow me and I'll show you…" Nodding their heads, Sun and Moon follow Highwind as they make their way through the hallways of the castle. Along the way, Sun and Moon tilt their heads as they walk down a hall with large windows attached to the side. They come to a stop, their eyes gazing through the windows as the city of Canterlot comes into view; towers with spirals of gold, giving off a soft amber glow, and rooftops of purple that glitter under the sunset. However, Sun and Moon's eyes come upon the snowy mountains on the horizon, watching as the sunset disappears into the dark. The darkness did not last long as light comes from behind the mountains, covering the city of Canterlot in a white hue. Soon, the very Moon rises above the snowy mountains as pieces of light cover the once dark and empty void into a sea of stars, glittering across the night sky. "Sun, what dost thou think of this world?" asks Moon, his eyes growing soft with an inner glow. "I do not know…" says Sun, his weightless gaze reflecting a light that shoots across the night sky. "However, Moon, there is much to learn about this world, and words cannot describe how grateful I am to walk upon it." "I agree," says Moon. "Your Highnesses!" says Highwind, waving a hoof. "Are you coming?" "Aye," says Sun. He then turns his head. "Moon, let us move on," he says with a smile. Moon nods, smiling. I truly am grateful to be here as well… ________________________________________ As a cold chill hangs in the air, moonlight passes through a clear array of windows, filling a hallway with a bluish glow. In the distance, Highwind appears from the shadows while Sun and Moon trail behind. Soon, they come to a stop in front of a lone door, giving off a silvery glow from its wooden surface. "Here we are," says Highwind, placing a hoof on a gold doorknob and twists it. He then pushes the door as it creaks across the floor before standing to the side of the doorway. "Prince Sun, Prince Moon, please have a look inside." "Very well," says Moon. "Sun, let us go." "Aye," says Sun, nodding. Walking through the doorway, Moon's eyes begin to widen from the interior of the room, seeing its walls in a spotless white to a red curtain threaded in gold, hanging on the back wall. He turns his head, his eyes coming upon the corners of the room, furnished with a lamp with a gold base, giving off a faint light as it sits on a round table of redwood. "Highwind, is this… a room?" asks Moon. "Yes," says Highwind, walking through the doorway. "Well, not just a room. It's your room," he says, smiling. "Strange…" says Sun. He then points a hoof to a large object, hanging from the ceiling. "This emits stars to the surface above it." "Oh, that's a chandelier," says Highwind, standing next to Sun. "Chandelier?" says Sun. "It was made in the Crystal Empire and was given to Princess Celestia and Princess Luna by Princess Cadance. There's another one in your room as well, Your Highness," says Highwind. Well, the truth is that the princesses received too many from Princess Cadance, and didn't know what to do with the rest. So they asked some of the maids and guards to help place them everywhere in the castle… "Forgive me, but who is this 'Cadance' thou speakest of?" asks Sun, tilting his head. Oh, I forgot that they haven't met her yet… thinks Highwind, sighing. "She's another alicorn like you. But don't worry, I'm sure you and Prince Moon will meet her someday." "I see…" says Sun. He then walks to the walls in front of him, placing and stroking a hoof against it. And here I thought he would ask more about her… thinks Highwind, rubbing a hoof behind his head. Well, whatever. I just hope I don't have to explain more to them by the end of the day. "Forgive me, Highwind, but what is this?" asks Moon, pointing a hoof at a large white object, layered with gold around its frame. I spoke too soon… thinks Highwind, frowning. He walks and stops next to Moon. "That's a bed." "A bed?" says Moon, tilting his head. "Yes," says Highwind. "Put a hoof on it and get a feel of what it's like." "Aye," says Moon. He lifts a hoof and places it over a white surface. "It feels… strange." "Well, it does feel weird at first, but once you try it, you'll grow to like it," says Highwind. "Oh, try and lift it, Your Highness. Just put your hoof on it again and move it to the side while lifting it." "Aye," says Moon, nodding. He puts a hoof on the white surface and drags it across, scooping it into his hoof before lifting it up. "Interesting…" says Sun, standing behind Highwind and Moon. "Oh, you came at a right time, Your Highness," says Highwind, turning and lifting his head. "I'm guessing that you don't know about a bed as well?" "Aye," says Sun. "Okay, it's really simple," says Highwind. He puts a hoof on a white puffy object and pulls it to himself. "This is a pillow," he says, holding it out with his forehooves. "A pillow?" says Moon, blinking. "Yes, and it goes to the top of the bed like this," says Highwind, putting his forehooves in front, and placing the pillow below him. "You'll be putting your head on that when you're sleeping." "I see," says Sun. "Oh, and one more thing," says Highwind, facing Moon. "Your Highness, do you remember what I told you to lift before?" "Aye," says Moon. "That's a blanket. Always remember this simple task. When you're about to head to bed, just lift the blanket like this," says Highwind, grabbing the blanket with a hoof. "After that, place it on yourself, and it will always keep you comfortable." "Ah, thy aid is much appreciated, Highwind," says Moon. "Thou art yet another pony that Moon and I cannot hope to repay…" says Sun, furrowing his brows. "Oh, don't worry about it. I'm just glad I could help," says Highwind, rubbing a hoof behind his head. "But is there a way that Sun and I can show our gratitude to thee?" asks Moon with narrow eyes. Ugh, I know I'm going to regret this… thinks Highwind, sighing. "Well, I guess I can accept your thanks. But first, give me some time to brace-" Sun and Moon press their lips against Highwind's cheeks as his eyes quickly widen from the touch. They then pull their heads away, seeing Highwind with his eyes moving in a circular motion. "Ah, forgive us, Highwind…" says Sun, frowning. "We did not mean to startle thee…" says Moon, drawing his brows in. "I-it's okay!" says Highwind with a grin. He quickly shakes his head with his cheeks burning red. Geh! Now I know how Princess Celestia and Princess Luna felt! "Highwind, art thou… feeling well?" asks Moon. "No! I-I mean, yes!" says Highwind, coughing into a hoof. "Um, Prince Moon, I'll be showing Prince Sun his room now, so please make yourself comfortable." "Once again, thank you, Highwind. I truly am grateful to thee," says Moon with a small smile. "Y-you praise me too much…" says Highwind, rubbing a hoof behind his head. "Nay," says Moon, shaking his head. "I speak only the truth." Okay, seriously, stop! I'm starting to feel weird! thinks Highwind with red cheeks. "A-anyway, Prince Sun, please follow me!" he says, turning and trotting through the doorway. "Moon, it seems we must part ways," says Sun, his brows gathering in. "Sun, know that our situation is much different from our time within the stars," says Moon, frowning. "True it may be, but the thought of parting ways with thee is… discomforting…" says Sun, hanging his head, and closing his eyes. "Sun, do not worry…" says Moon. He puts a hoof to Sun's chin, lifting his face, and presses his own head against his. "We will be together again. But for now, thou shouldst follow Highwind to thy room to rest," he says, smiling. "If thou hast no complaints, then I shall fulfill thy request," says Sun. He opens his eyes and stares into Moon's with a smile. "Thank you," says Moon, pressing his lips against Sun's cheek. I can't believe it… thinks Highwind, peeking an eye from the side of the doorway. He quickly turns his head and presses his back against the wall. He then places a hoof over his chest as his breathing grows heavy while his face turns red from his chin to his ears. I know they're just saying their goodbyes, but if other ponies saw this, they'd probably get the wrong idea! "Highwind," says Sun. "EEEP!" says Highwind as his voice shrieks throughout the hall. He then falls on his back with his hooves in the air. "Forgive me. 'Twas not my intention to cause thee such a startle…" says Sun, wrinkling his brows. "N-no! It's okay!" says Highwind. He rolls onto his hooves, pushing himself up, and quickly waves a hoof. I thought my heart stopped for a second there… he thinks, letting out a sigh. "A-anyway, Your Highness, are you ready to leave?" "Aye," says Sun. He then turns his head, staring through the doorway. "Moon, I bid thee farewell." "And I bid thee the same," says Moon with a smile. Sun smiles and turns his head. "Highwind, let us be on our way." "Yes, Your Highness," says Highwind. He then turns and walks ahead while Sun follows behind. As Sun disappears from view, Moon's smile fades away with distant eyes, staring at the opened door in front of him. How long has it been since I felt this way? thinks Moon, closing his eyes and placing a hoof on his chest. Ah, I remember now. 'Tis the same as I once wandered through the stars… As Moon opens his eyes, he casts his gaze to the red carpet floor. He furrows his brows as his eyes come upon a sphere, threaded in gold and attached to another half of the sphere, threaded in silver. Slowly, Moon lowers himself and rests his body upon the carpet beneath him. Sun, I hope thou art well… thinks Moon. His eyes begin to grow heavy as he rests his head upon the gold sphere below. Lurking in the shadows, a small dark figure appears from the side of the doorway. It scurries across the floor with each step as light as the air, covering the gap from the doorway to the carpet floor in seconds as it heads straight to Moon, lying in the center of the room. Strange… thinks Moon, feeling something pressing against his nose. He slowly opens his eyes, seeing a round pinkish orb with two black beads, tilting its head at him. "And whom might thou be, little one?" The strange creature presses its pinkish nose, moving it to certain areas of Moon's face. It then climbs upon Moon's muzzle, scampering upon his face and into his mane, disappearing from view. "Thou art strange, little one…" says Moon, rolling his eyes up, and seeing his guest's head popping out from his mane. "He's taken a liking to you…" says a voice. Moon focuses his eyes ahead, noticing a dark figure with turquoise eyes, staring from the doorway. "And whom might thou be?" asks Moon, blinking. "I did promise to have a talk with you, didn't I?" asks the dark figure with a chuckle. It moves closer, revealing itself as its purple mane glitters under the dim light of the lamps within the room. "Luna…" says Moon with wide eyes. "Good evening, Moon. But… it looks like I'm disturbing you. Did I come at the wrong time?" asks Luna. "Nay," says Moon, pushing himself up with his hooves. "'Tis good to see thee," he says with a smile. "It's good to see you too," says Luna, smiling. "But… dost thou require something of me?" asks Moon, tilting his head, while the small creature in his mane tilts its head as well. "Moon, did you already forget our promise?" asks Luna, furrowing her brows. "Promise?" says Moon, blinking. "Moon…" says Luna, sighing. "I promised that I would tell you more about magic, remember?" "Ah," says Moon with an open mouth. "Ah?" says Luna, tilting her head. "Forgive me…" says Moon, hanging his head. "Go on…" says Luna, twirling a hoof. "For not remembering our promise…" says Moon. "Apology accepted," says Luna with a snicker. She walks to Moon, putting a hoof to his chin, and lifting his face. "I'm sorry, but I just wanted to have a little fun with you," she says with a smile. "Fun? What is this 'fun' thou speakest of?" asks Moon, blinking. I can't believe how much he reminds me of my old self… thinks Luna with her mouth hanging. "A-anyway, Moon, how is your stay in the castle so far?" she asks, placing her hoof on the floor. "'Tis quite pleasant, I suppose. Especially the bath Sun and I have taken earlier," says Moon, smiling. "Well, I'm not surprised since a bath is the best way to make you feel better," says Luna with a giggle. "But, Luna, there is something that troubles me…" says Moon. "Oh, then maybe I can help," says Luna. "This," says Moon, pointing a hoof. "Hmm?" says Luna, lifting her head. "Oh, I forgot you were there…" she says with her eyes on the creature in Moon's mane, crossing its arms. Using a hoof, Luna lifts it to the creature in Moon's mane, allowing it to scurry across her hoof to the nape of her neck, and sits on her head. "Strange…" says Moon. "Well, he is a strange one," says Luna with a small laugh. The creature lifts a paw, patting Luna's head. "Don't worry, I'm getting to it," says Luna, rolling her eyes. "Moon, let me introduce you to my faithful companion, Tiberius." Lifting a paw, Tiberius pats Luna's head again. "Yes, yes, I know," says Luna. "Moon, he wants you to call him Tibbles instead," she says with a huff. I still can't believe he prefers that name over the one I gave him… "Greetings, Tibbles. My name is Moon," he says, smiling. Tibbles lifts a paw and waves. "So, what do you think of him, Tibbles?" asks Luna, rolling her eyes up. Tibbles points a paw to Moon. Oh, so he's very gentle and caring… thinks Luna with a small smile. Tibbles pats Luna's head with a paw. "Huh?" says Luna, rolling her eyes up again. Tibbles points a paw to Moon, then points at Luna. "Wh-why, you… you have some nerve saying that you prefer him over me! If that's how it's going to be, then you're not getting your favorite strawberry cheesecake from now on!" says Luna, glaring. Tibbles quickly puts his paws together as his eyes turn watery. He then puts a paw on Luna's head, stroking it. "Hmph!" says Luna, turning her head, and closing her eyes. "Instead of apologizing, why don't you go to Moon? I'm sure he will take good care of you." Tibbles slumps his shoulders and turns to face Moon. However, he wrinkles his brows upon the sight of Moon staring with distant eyes. Using a paw, Tibbles pats Luna's head. "Not listening," says Luna. "I'm quite angry with you, so don't bother me." Tibbles puts a paw to his face and drags it down. He then uses his paws, grabbing a strand of Luna's purple mane, and pulls it. "OW! Tibbles, what was that for!" says Luna, glaring. Tibbles frowns, pointing a paw. "What is it now?" asks Luna, turning her head. She then furrows her brows as her eyes soften with a small glint. "Moon?" "Ah," says Moon, averting his gaze. "Forgive me. I did not mean to worry thee…" "Moon, if there's something on your mind, you can talk to me about it," says Luna. "I do not know," says Moon. "As I look at Tibbles and thee, I begin to feel… discomfort…" "Why?" asks Luna. She walks before coming to a stop in front of Moon. "Did Tibbles and I do something wrong?" "Nay," says Moon, shaking his head. "'Tis a strange feeling, but when I look at Tibbles and thee, I am reminded of my parting with Sun…" "But Sun is still here. He hasn't left you. Well… he did, but still, he's close by," says Luna. "Thou hast some truth in thy words. But the thought of it still troubles me…" says Moon, furrowing his brows. Moon, please… please don't make that face… thinks Luna, stepping closer with her face inches away from Moon's. Tibbles blinks his eyes, looking down as Luna raises a hoof. His eyes quickly open wide, losing his footing as he falls from Luna's head. He flails his paws, darting his eyes about as the red carpet below grows closer. Turning his head, his eyes come upon Moon's horn and stretches a paw at it. Gripping the horn tightly as he dangles in the air, Tibbles lifts a paw and wipes away the sweat from his brows. He then grips the horn with both paws and closes his eyes while pulling himself up. Lifting his head above the horn, he opens his eyes as they widen at the view in front of him. "Luna," says Moon with wide eyes. "What art thou-" "Don't say a word. Just close your eyes," saysLuna. "Close my eyes?" says Moon, blinking. "Yes. Just close your eyes," says Luna. "If thou sayest so…" says Moon, closing his eyes. "Now then…" says Luna, stroking a hoof over Moon's mane. "Luna, I feel… strange…" says Moon. "Strange? What do you mean?" asks Luna. "I do not know. But my thoughts have ceased…" says Moon. "That's a good thing," says Luna, placing her forehooves on Moon's shoulders, and slowly pushes him away. "Moon, I understand what you're feeling is not something that you can forget. But please remember that you're not by yourself anymore, and there will be others to stay by your side," she says, smiling. Because I went through the same thing with Tia… Strange… thinks Moon, lifting a hoof and placing it under his eye. He pulls his hoof away, seeing a small droplet sliding down his hoof. "Luna, what is this?" "Moon, you're crying…" says Luna, drawing her brows in. She then lifts a hoof, wiping the tears from Moon's eyes. "I thought you knew about it?" "Nay," says Moon. "Then do you remember when I cried?" asks Luna, placing her hoof on the floor. "Ah… I remember now. 'Tis during when Sun and I met thee and Celestia, correct?" asks Moon. "Yes," says Luna, nodding. "But know this well, Moon. Crying is but a way to show that you're feeling hurt yourself," she says, placing a hoof on Moon's chest. "There are many ways to express yourself when you're feeling this way, and you will come to know this in time." "I see…" says Moon, frowning. "Is there any means to prevent one from this?" "I'm glad you asked," says Luna with a smile. "Moon, you can't prevent yourself from this since there will be times when something happens to make you feel this way. But… if you find yourself lost, you can talk to somepony about it. If you do, I'm sure they will try everything they can to help when you need it the most." "As thou hast done the same?" asks Moon. "Yes," says Luna, closing her eyes with a chuckle. "I talk to my sister or Tibbles whenever I feel something is troubling me. But I guess asking an opossum for advice would be ridiculousssssssssss!" she says, quickly opening her eyes upon Moon pressing his lips against her cheek. As Tibbles climbs down the base of Moon's hind leg, he tilts his head, seeing Luna with a wavy smile, and her eyes circling about. "Ah, forgive me, Luna. I did not mean to startle thee…" says Moon. "N-no! I'm q-quite fine!" says Luna, waving a hoof. "Y-you were just thanking me, right?" she asks, rubbing her arm with a hoof. I thought I was going to faint there for a second! "But art thou sure thou art feeling well?" asks Moon, wrinkling his brows. "No! I-I mean, yes! I'm fine!" says Luna. "A-anyway, Moon, would you like to join me for a walk?" "A walk?" says Moon, tilting his head. "Y-you asked me to tell you more about magic, right?" asks Luna. "Aye," says Moon, nodding. "Well, since it's such a wonderful n-night, I was thinking about telling you more about it during our walk. B-but… if that's fine with you?" asks Luna, her cheeks turning scarlet. "Of course," says Moon, smiling. "Th-then I'll lead the way," says Luna, grinning. "Oh, I almost forgot! Tibbles, do you want to join us?" she asks, turning her head about. "Tibbles, where are you?" "Luna," says Moon. "Y-yes?" says Luna, craning her head. "Tibbles is here," says Moon, pointing a hoof. Luna lifts her head, her eyes coming upon Tibbles waving a paw from inside Moon's mane. "Oh, there you are. Are you joining us?" asks Luna. Tibbles nods. "Then follow me!" says Luna, quickly turning and trotting through the doorway. "Forgive me, Tibbles, but dost thou know if Luna is well?" asks Moon, rolling his eyes up. Tibbles lifts a paw to his chin, scratching it, and shrugs. "'Tis fine if thou dost not know. Now then, let us be on our way," says Moon, walking through the doorway. Leading on through the moonlit halls, Luna walks with her head hanging, while Moon trails behind with Tibbles poking his head out of Moon's mane. I can't believe I behaved so foolishly in front of Moon… thinks Luna, sighing. He must be thinking that I'm weird- "Ah…" says Moon. He rolls his eyes up, seeing Tibbles pointing a paw. "If thou art curious, then I-" "Moon, do you understand what Tibbles is saying?" asks Luna with wide eyes. "Aye," says Moon. "Sun and I were able to speak to similar inhabitants of the Everfree Forest." So, they're both able to talk with animals, just like me. Well, including Fluttershy, but… wait a second… thinks Luna, blinking."Moon, did you just say… the Everfree Forest?" "Aye," says Moon. "Why dost thou ask?" "Moon, the Everfree Forest is a dangerous place! Why were you and Sun there?" asks Luna, frowning. "Forgive me, but I do not know much. When Sun and I had awoken, we came to know that we were upon this world, thus meeting the inhabitants within the Everfree Forest. They have also spoken that Sun and I came to be from a sphere of light," says Moon. "What? But that doesn't make any… never mind…" says Luna with a sigh. "Moon, just promise me that you and Sun will never set a hoof in that place again." Moon tilts his head. "But why dost thou-" "Please…" says Luna with a watery gaze. Moon blinks his eyes. "If thou so wish it, then I shall fulfill thy request," he says with a smile. "Thank you…" says Luna, smiling. She then turns and faces ahead. I just want you and Sun to be safe… "Now then, Tibbles," says Moon, rolling his eyes up. "Thou were asking my thoughts on Luna, correct?" Tibbles nods. Huh? thinks Luna, twitching her ears. "'Tis a strange question thou hast asked of me, but… Luna is somepony I have longed to meet," says Moon. Longed to meet… m-me? thinks Luna, her cheeks flushing red. "Ah, and whom I truly enjoy being with," says Moon with a smile. E-enjoy… being with? thinks Luna, her face brightening as red creeps from her chin to the tip of her ears. "Is that a suitable answer to thee, Tibbles?" asks Moon. Tibbles nods with vigor. "Can I ask thee about thyself?" asks Moon. Tibbles nods. Ugh, I shouldn't have brought Tibbles along… thinks Luna, sighing. ________________________________________ What should I do? thinks Highwind. Turning his head, he furrows his brows as his eyes land on Sun, hanging his head. He's been like that ever since we left Prince Moon… Highwind stops and turns, facing Sun as he stops as well. I should probably say something to cheer him up… thinks Highwind, rubbing a hoof behind his head. "Um, Your Highness, I know it's just for tonight, but don't worry. You'll be able to see Prince Moon again in the morning." "Aye…" says Sun, frowning. Ugh, I think I just made him feel worse… thinks Highwind, putting a hoof to his face. He then takes a deep breath and lets out a sigh. "Your Highness, I know this may sound personal, but can I ask you something?" "Aye…" says Sun. "I heard this earlier from Prince Moon. He said that you both now have a different situation than from your time within the stars?" asks Highwind. "Aye, but why dost thou ask?" asks Sun, lifting his head. "Well, I… I guess I just thought asking you would let me hear your problems, that's all," says Highwind, rubbing his arm with a hoof. "I see…" says Sun. "Actually, just forget I asked that," says Highwind with a small laugh. "Let's just go and get you to your room-" "Then I shall answer thee," says Sun. "U-um, okay…" says Highwind, blinking. "As for what thou hast asked, Moon is the only being I have known throughout my years within the stars," says Sun. "O-oh…" says Highwind, narrowing his eyes. He's only known Prince Moon…? "And, in turn, Moon has known only I. 'Tis why it troubles me to part ways with Moon…" says Sun with distant eyes. That's why they're so close… thinks Highwind. "But, Your Highness, Prince Moon is not the only one now. There are others that will be there for him and you, like me." "Ah… thy words have much meaning, Highwind. Thou hast aided me once more. And for that, I am truly grateful," says Sun, smiling. "O-oh, you're welcome," says Highwind with a grin. "Perhaps I should thank thee again," says Sun. "NO! I-I mean, there's no need to thank me! I just wanted to help, that's all!" says Highwind with a small shade of red in his cheeks. I had enough for one day! "If 'tis thy request, then I shall fulfill it," says Sun. "U-uh, yeah! Anyway, please follow me!" says Highwind, turning and walking ahead. "Aye," says Sun. Walking through the dim hall, Highwind and Sun notice another white door in the distance, bathing in a bluish glow under the moonlight. Coming to a stop next to the door, Highwind places a hoof on a gold doorknob, twisting it, and pushing as the door creaks across the floor. "Go in and have a look, Your Highness," says Highwind, pointing a hoof at the doorway. "It's the same as Prince Moon's room, so you won't notice any difference." "Aye," says Sun. He walks through the doorway with his eyes glancing left and right at the interior of the dim room. He notices a glint in the corner of his eyes and lifts his head. "'Tis true. There is another chandelier here as well." "Now that we're here, Your Highness, I'll be taking my leave now. I need to get up pretty early tomorrow," says Highwind, yawning with a hoof over his mouth. "But before I leave, is there anything you need?" "Nay," says Sun. "Well, goodnight," says Highwind with a smile. He turns and leaves through the doorway, pulling the white door behind him with a hoof. "Highwind," says Sun. "O-oh, what is it?" asks Highwind, turning his head. "What is this 'goodnight' thou speakest of?" asks Sun. Highwind smiles. "It's just something we say to each other when we're about to rest for the night." "I see…" says Sun. Perhaps I should tell Moon about this. "Well, goodnight," says Highwind. "Goodnight," says Sun, smiling. As Sun stands in the middle of the room, he watches as the door creaks across the floor. With an audible thud, the door comes to a close, leaving Sun in the quiet of the night. Looking down, Sun's eyes come upon a sphere on the red carpet below, threaded in gold while attached to another half of the sphere, threaded in silver. Forgive me, Highwind… thinks Sun, furrowing his brows. He lowers himself on the carpet floor and rests his head over the silver half of the sphere. It still pains me to leave Moon… As time moves on, Sun's eyes begin to grow heavy as he closes them. However, his eyes quickly open to the sound of a woody rattle of knocks. Sun lifts his head and turns to the abrupt sound, facing the closed wooden door in front of him. He tilts his head as the door rattles again in a constant tap before coming to a stop. "Sun, are you awake?" asks a motherly voice. "Celestia?" says Sun with wide eyes. "Yes, and I'm glad you're awake…" says Celestia with a sigh. "Did I come at the wrong time?" "Nay," says Sun. "Then, if you're not busy, can I speak with you?" asks Celestia. "Aye," says Sun, pushing himself up onto his hooves. "Please excuse me…" says Celestia. Sun blinks his eyes as the door's gold doorknob glows in a yellow light before twisting itself, causing the door to creak across the floor. As the door opens in plain view, Sun's eyes come upon a dim white glow, coming off from Celestia's pure white coat while her rainbow mane glitters in the midst of the dim light. "Good evening, Sun," says Celestia with a smile. "Greetings…" says Sun, his eyes moving up and down. "U-um, Sun, it's not polite to stare…" says Celestia with red cheeks. "Ah, forgive me…" says Sun, frowning. "Thou dost not resemble our first meeting…" "What do you mean?" asks Celestia, blinking. Using a hoof, Sun puts a hoof over his chest and places it on his head behind his spiraling horn. "Oh, you must mean my necklace and crown," says Celestia. "Necklace? Crown?" says Sun, tilting his head. "It's just something I wear to fulfill my duties during the day," says Celestia. "But why do you ask?" "I do not know. But thou seem to be… different…" says Sun, smiling. "O-oh, well, thank you…" says Celestia, averting her gaze as her cheeks turn into a shade of scarlet. "Celestia, art thou feeling well?" asks Sun. "Y-yes!" says Celestia, coughing into a hoof. "Anyway, are you enjoying your stay in Equestria?" "Equestria?" says Sun, blinking. "What is this 'Equestria' thou speakest of?" To think he was watching over our world this entire time… thinks Celestia, her mouth slightly open. "Sun, can I ask you something?" "Aye," says Sun. "How much do you and Moon know about this world?" asks Celestia. "None," says Sun. That's what I thought… thinks Celestia, sighing. However, she notices a bluish light in the corner of her eyes. "Sun, can you wait here for a second?" "Aye," says Sun. "It won't be long," says Celestia with a smile. Walking past Sun, Celestia stops in front of a red curtain. Her spiraling horn begins to glow in a yellow light, shrouding the curtain in a similar aura. The curtain moves to the side, revealing a large window door behind it as the moonlight casts its glow through it. Celestia's horn glows brighter as another yellow light appears around the door's gold doorknob and twists itself. At the sound of a click, the door creaks across the floor as the yellow light around Celestia's horn fades away. As the door stops, Celestia walks through the doorway before stopping in front of a white stone railing. "Sun, please come here. There's something I want to show you," says Celestia, turning her head. "Aye," says Sun, walking. Through the doorway, he lifts his head with wide eyes and an open mouth. "Speechless, right?" asks Celestia with a small laugh. "Celestia, is there any meaning in showing me this?" asks Sun. "Yes. Sun, when you asked about Equestria, I was thinking it might be best to show you instead," says Celestia. She then points a hoof. "Take a look around and grasp the scenery before you. This is Equestria, a land that is a part of this vast world you and Moon have been watching over for so long." Sun gazes at the horizon, his eyes brightening upon the Moon hovering as small lights glimmer in the night sky. He slowly turns his head, his eyes coming upon a river, covered in the reflection of the stars above to a field of flowers of yellow and blue, casting its vibrant glow before meeting vast shadows of trees in the distance. "So, what do you think?" asks Celestia. "'Tis quite the view," says Sun with a smile. "I'm glad you like it," says Celestia with a chuckle. She then points a hoof. "Oh, and if you look closely, you can see Ponyville from here. Do you see it? It's a small patch of lights in the distance." "Ah, is that it?" asks Sun, pointing a hoof. "Yes. Oh, and if you look over there, you can see… the…" Celestia trails off, blinking. "Sun, what are you looking at?" Celestia's question is met with silence as Sun's eyes were looking down. She follows his gaze as her eyes widen upon two blue figures below, walking along a stone path through a garden filled with flowers of blue, green, and purple, glowing under the moonlight. Oh, so that's what Luna had in mind. It's no wonder the Moon is much closer than usual, thinks Celestia with a small smile. She then squints her eyes, noticing a small creature sticking out of Moon's mane. Ah, so Moon met Tibbles as well. "Celestia," says Sun. "Y-yes?" says Celestia, turning her head. "Hast thou once felt… discomfort?" asks Sun with distant eyes. "Discomfort?" says Celestia, drawing her brows in. "What do you mean?" "I… I cannot describe it. I know that Moon and I will not be apart for long. But as Highwind led the way to our rooms, it soon came to where I had to part ways with Moon. 'Twas… discomforting…" says Sun, placing a hoof on his chest. Oh, now I understand… thinks Celestia. "Sun, that means you miss Moon…" "I… miss Moon?" says Sun, tilting his head. "It means you long to meet him. To stay by Moon's side. And it's something I once felt long ago as well…" says Celestia, frowning. "And a memory I'll never forget…" "Art thou saying thou once parted… with Luna?" asks Sun. "Y-yes…" says Celestia, hanging her head. "How did Luna and thee part ways?" asks Sun with narrow eyes. "I'm sorry…" says Celestia, shaking her head. "But it's something I don't want to talk-" "Celestia," says Sun with a watery gaze. "I do not know what has happened between Luna and thee, but thou seem to be troubled as of now. If thou art willing to speak thy concerns, then I shall gladly listen to thee." "Sun, thank you, but you don't have to trouble yourself over this…" says Celestia with a small smile. Sun closes his eyes and slowly shakes his head. He then opens his eyes, showing a radiant glow within them. "Celestia, what Luna and thee have done for Moon and I is something we truly cannot hope to repay. That is why if I am able to be of some use to thee, then I shall aid thee in any way I am capable of." "Sun…" says Celestia with wide eyes. She then lets out a sigh. "Well, to begin with, Luna and I were living our days together, guiding ponies throughout the years in Equestria. Everything was fine, and I thought it would continue to be that way. But I failed to notice that there was something wrong with Luna, the one pony I had been together with for so long…" she says, clenching a hoof. Sun stares with an inward gaze. "Sun, you might not know this, but the reason Luna changed and why we were separated was because of you and Moon…" says Celestia. "Moon and I?" says Sun, blinking. "Yes, but I will not blame you both for my own past mistakes. You see, I was entrusted to raise the Sun, and Luna, to raise the Moon. On this world, mostly everything tends to move about during the day, but when night came, it was time to rest. It was then that Luna misunderstood that ponies tend to favor the day over the night. I tried to reason with her, but she wouldn't listen, and I didn't know what else to do…" says Celestia, frowning. Sun's eyes begin to soften. "Luna lost control of herself, and… I had no choice but to send her to the Moon…" says Celestia, her breathing growing heavy. "I-I thought I did the right thing, but as time passed, I began to wonder if I could've done something different…" "Then dost thou still consider thy past discretion a mistake?" asks Sun. "Of course I do! There's not a single day where… where I wished I had done something different! Something that would've prevented us from being torn apart! But no! I-I was too naïve!" says Celestia, gritting her teeth. She quickly puts a hoof over her head. It hurts! It hurts so much just thinking about it! Sun wrinkles his brows, while Celestia places another hoof against her head, clenching her eyes shut with a groan. Using a hoof, Sun puts it to Celestia's chin and lifts her face up as he presses his head against hers. "Sun…" says Celestia with red cheeks. "Wh-what are you doin-" "Art thou feeling well?" asks Sun. Huh? Wait, my head doesn't hurt anymore… thinks Celestia, blinking. "Yes…" Sun smiles and pulls his face away. "Celestia, forgive me if I caused thee such discomfort." "N-no…" says Celestia, shaking her head. "I'm the one who should apologize for my behavior earlier." "'Tis fine," says Sun, nodding. "But why were you so close to my… face?" asks Celestia, her cheeks burning red. "Moon and I have recently done the same. It has helped ease my thoughts before I parted ways with Moon," says Sun. "O-oh, I see…" says Celestia. Her face begins to redden from the base of her chin to her ears. That must mean Sun and Moon's faces were close to each other… "But now I understand what it means to miss somepony. Perhaps it truly was fate that Moon and I had met within the stars…" says Sun, gazing up at the night sky. Wait, that doesn't make sense… thinks Celestia, blinking. "Sun, I thought you and Moon were together from long ago?" "Nay," says Sun, shaking his head. "'Twas only I that watched over the world." How… how could anypony go through that? thinks Celestia, frowning."Then… you were by yourself all this time?" "Aye, but that is until Moon appeared…" says Sun, smiling. "What do you mean?" asks Celestia. "Even I do not know, but Moon came from unbeknownst the stars and was bound to thy world, given the same fate as I," says Sun. "You're saying that Moon was by himself too…"says Celestia, wrinkling her brows. "Aye," says Sun, nodding. "And for a time, Moon and I could not speak." "Then… how did you and Moon learn it?"asks Celestia. Sun smiles. "'Twas Luna." "Luna?"saysCelestia, blinking. "If I remember, there was something that resembled a pony on Moon," says Sun. It can't be… thinks Celestia with an open mouth. It must be the time when I sealed Luna away with the Elements of Harmony… "In time, Moon and I learned to speak from Luna," says Sun. I can't believe it… thinks Celestia. "But, Sun, how are you and Moon able to speak without raising your voice?" "Raising… my voice?" says Sun, tilting his head. "When you first came into the castle, do you remember when Twilight spoke in a similar way? Luna did the same thing when she did not believe Moon was… well, the Moon," says Celestia. "Aye, I do remember. But I do not know…" says Sun, frowning. "It's fine. But can you please continue?" asks Celestia with a smile. But it's amazing how you and Moon are able to speak it so naturally… "Aye," says Sun, nodding. "If I remember, the image of a pony on Moon disappeared along with Luna." That must be the day when Twilight and her friends faced Nightmare Moon… thinks Celestia. "Sun, what happened afterward?" "I do not know…" says Sun. "But Moon and I came to be in a place named the Everfree Forest." Celestia's eyes shrink. "Sun, were you and Moon hurt?" "Nay," says Sun, shaking his head. "Moon and I spoke with the inhabitants of the forest, allowing our arrival in Ponyville." "Then are you saying that you and Moon are able to talk to animals?" asks Celestia. "If that is how thou describe the inhabitants of the Everfree Forest, aye," says Sun. Amazing. They're like Luna and Fluttershy… thinks Celestia. "Well, I'm just glad that you and Moon are both safe. But since you arrived in Ponyville, I'm guessing the ponies there helped you?" "Aye," says Sun with a smile. "'Twas interesting meeting the ponies there." "Hmm…" says Celestia, tapping her chin with a hoof. "Sun, did Ponyville give you a proper greeting?" "A proper… greeting?" says Sun, blinking. "I guess that's a no," says Celestia with a chuckle. She stands firm before bowing her head. "Sun, on behalf of everypony, I welcome you and Moon to Equestria." Strange… thinks Sun, placing a hoof over his chest. "Celestia, I feel strange…" "Are you okay?" asks Celestia, drawing her brows in. "I… I do not know. But it puts me at ease…" says Sun, smiling. "That's a relief…" says Celestia, sighing. "I thought you were-" Celestia quickly opens her eyes, feeling a warm touch pressing against her cheek. She stares with an open mouth, while Sun pulls his lips away, gazing at her with half-lidded eyes. "Celestia, please know that thy past discretion is how Moon and I came to be. For that, I truly am grateful to be able to meet thee. Thank you…" says Sun with a smile. "Y-you're welcome…" says Celestia, her cheeks flushing into a rich color of a rose. "Celestia, art thou sure thou art feeling well?" asks Sun. "Y-yes! I'm fine…" says Celestia. She then places a hoof over her chest. Calm down. Just remember that he's only showing his thanks… Celestia turns her head, facing away from Sun. Her eyes roll down, seeing Luna and Moon in the distance, sitting on a lone hill, surrounded by a field of white flowers, glowing faintly under the moonlight. To think that Luna and I would be next to the very things we dedicated our lives to… thinks Celestia with a giggle. "Celestia," says Sun. "Yes?" says Celestia, facing Sun. "Forgive me, but is there more of thy bread?" asks Sun. "Bread? Oh, that bread," says Celestia with a small laugh. "Did you take a liking to it?" "Aye," says Sun with a smile. I guess banana flavor is something Sun and I have in common, thinks Celestia. "I'm sorry, but I don't have any at the moment." "Ah, I see…" says Sun, hanging his head. "Sun, don't worry. I promise there will be more tomorrow morning," says Celestia, smiling. "If thou sayest so," says Sun with a smile. Celestia then lifts her head, gazing up, only to glance to her side. Her eyes come upon Sun with his eyes reflecting the multiple lights, flickering in the night sky. Sun, thank you. I thought I would never forgive myself. But now, I'm glad that my loss was able to help you and Moon in return… To be continued…
