Ponyticsby PickleChaptersThe Letter WarCelestia's PlotNot This AgainThe Letter WarDear Princess Celestia, Today I learned about a concept that seems very peculiar. It's called democracy. Democracy is supposedly a type of government in which everypony alike gets to express their opinion to determine public matters. I don't have a problem with you; it's just that I don't recall ever being able to have a say in the laws of Equestria. I wasn't able to read too much into the subject because it was just a small paragraph in one of those old encyclopedias in the library's basement. Please reply to me with more information about democracy. I await your response. Your faithful student, Twilight Sparkle. ~~~~~ Dear Twilight Sparkle, I haven't heard from you for a week now; it's good to hear from you. You know I always look forward to reading your letters and your friends' letters. Speaking of your friends, how are they? In fact, I've been needing a nice gown for a social event I shall be attending in Fillydelphia, so would you mind asking Rarity if she would be interested? Also, the famous playwright Wonderment Steedspeare will be doing a book signing in Hoofston if you are interested. Thank you for writing. Your mentor, Princess Celestia. ~~~~~ Dear Princess Celestia, I appreciate your informing me about the book signing and Rarity was overjoyed by your offer, but you didn't address the question that initially I wrote to you about. I'm sure you are very busy, what with you being the princess and all, but I really would like to hear your opinion about democracy. I think that if you implemented democracy, you wouldn't be as busy are you are. Your faithful student, Twilight Sparkle. ~~~~~ Dear Twilight Sparkle, I am so sorry that I did not comment on your question in my previous letter. I just felt that the subject of democracy was so trivial that there was no point in looking into it, but if you are that eager to learn about it, I can accommodate you. Democracy is indeed a form of government where the citizens have input on public laws and such, but it's not as simple as it sounds. Now while democracy allows for everypony to have an opinion, it leads to chaos when no pony will compromise over one subject. Such a topic, like how doors should be shaped, quickly causes mass disorder due to all the opposing ideas. So as you can see, democracy is an outdated and barbaric form of government. Rest assured that I will be wise in my decisions of how everypony should live their lives. Your princess and mentor, Princess Celestia. ~~~~~ Dear Princess Celestia, I actually found another book that dives more in depth on democracy. "Oh crap," Celestia groaned as she read this sentence. After reading this book, your letter seems invalid. This book says that, in democracy, how everypony expresses their opinion is through a ballot system where the more popular opinions of an issue are chosen and then voted on. The choice that receives the most votes wins. Personally, I don't see this as barbaric. In fact, I believe that Equestria would be more civilized with this system implemented because then everypony would feel as though their voice is being heard. I just read here that sometimes representatives are chosen to represent a group's opinion. I will read more about this, but please consider adding this system somehow. Your student, Twilight Sparkle. ~~~~~ Dear Twilight Sparkle, I am extremely grateful for your persistence in trying to improve the quality of Equestrian life, but I am certain that democracy would do Equestria no good. If I were to input democracy, ponies would soon become corrupt. Think about it: If ponies began to chose laws and regulations based on popular vote, then many would start to bribe or force others to think their way. Also, democracy could start up some friction or even violence between opposing sides of a law. I've always taught you to be tolerant Twilight, but now you want to utilize a form of government that would spark up conflict based on contrasting viewpoints. I did not become the ruler of Equestria by being ignorant, so you can trust me when I tell you that democracy is bad news and politics are fine as they are. Now please, leave it alone. Princess Celestia. ~~~~~ Dear Celestia, After reading your last letter, I was curious about a few things. The first being politics. This was the word used by you in the previous letter, but I had no idea what it meant. Politics refers to the process by which groups of ponies make a collective decision. You said that politics were 'fine as they were,' but if that's true then there should be a collective decision, not a single one. This then intrigued me as to who then leads these groups and helps regulate everything in democracy. Further research informed me that, in democracy, there is one pony that is elected to the highest position in government. Right now, you are the highest position in government: Princess. But records prove that no election process took place that ever gave anypony the choice to decide on who the princess should be. You have been a wonderful mentor, but I think that it would be a little dishonest to deny the citizens of Equestria the ability to pick who their ruler should be. Twilight Sparkle. ~~~~~ Dear wonderful and gracious student Twilight Sparkle, I applaud you for your hard work researching democracy so thoroughly. Your words have enlightened me and I have decided that you are most certainly correct! Everypony should be able to elect their ruler and vote on laws. You may have just changed Equestria forever by your generous endeavor of informing me about democracy. Please, I wish for you to come and stay at my castle in Canterlot so that we may discuss the necessary adaptions I must implement. I shall send for my royal coach to pick you up as soon as possible. Also, bring any book that you have found that even mentions the word democracy so that we may reference them. Equestria will forever be in your debt Twilight Sparkle. Your faithful mentor and friend, Celestia. ~~~~~ Dear Celestia, I am overjoyed to hear that you have had a change of heart and listened to common sense! I'm packing for my leave as I write this and am looking forward to seeing and working with you. I'll see you in a few hours! Your always faithful student, Twilight Sparkle. Celestia opened up Twilight's scrolled letter and read it. "Oh thank myself, she's coming! Now where did I put that memory-erasing powder?" THE END...? Celestia's PlotPrincess Celestia stood next to the windowsill, tapping her hoof on the floor in anticipation. Oh, how much longer is this going to take? Celestia thought as she watched the sky. "Celly!?" Luna shouted as she galloped into Celestia's bedchamber, a wide grin plastered on her face. Celestia gasped upon hearing her younger sister call out her name. "Lulu, what is it!?" "Oh, I am sorry sister. You are not busy are you?" Celestia gave one last glance towards the clouds to see if her royal coach was in sight. It wasn't. "No, not at the moment." "Well then I have some news for you! I just read about a wonderful creation called daylight saving time. It's this mystical power that allows the moon to set one hour later during a part of the year, which means that I get to have one more hour of glory!" "Lulu--" Without allowing her sister to interject, Luna kept talking. "I know this may be quite upsetting for you, Celly, seeing as how your sun doesnt have as much time as my illustrious moon anymore, but rest assured I will not think anything less of you." "Lulu--- "You know Celly, if you play your cards right I might just---" "Luna!" Celestia said, cutting through her sister's proud attitude. "Even though the moon may set an hour later, the sun also sets an hour later." Luna giggled at Celestia's statement. "Celly, I know that this may be hard for you to believe, but you should not fib to resolve your problems." Luna posed augustly while her sister facehoofed. Accepting that Luna would obviously not let go of her delusion of grander, Celestia continued the conversation. "Is that all you had to tell me, Lulu?" Celestia asked in a stern tone. Luna's stance sank as she looked upon her straight-faced sister. "Is something wrong, Celly?" Celestia exhaled deeply and massaged her forehead. "No, it's just that..." Celestia's words halted as she recalled what exactly she was waiting for. Luna... She was the last one who brought up the subject of democracy. So many lives lost; so much bloodshed. And it only took a mass air drop of memory-erasing powder and a one-way ticket to the moon to clean up that whole mess. There's no way Luna can be here when Twilight arrives! Luna stared closely at her sister's blank expression. "Celly? Are you alr--" "Luna!" Celestia shouted, breaking from her abrupt silence and causing her sister to fall backwards. Luna panted on the floor. "Lulu, uh... You can't be here!" Luna, who was still choking on her own breath, questioned, "What?" Celesta, recovering from her slip up, anxiously said, "I mean, Lulu, you don't want to stay cramped up in this stuffy old castle on such a beautiful day now would you?" Celestia gave a pseudo-pleasant grin and batted her eyelashes, as sweat cascaded down her cheeks. Luna put a hoof to her chin. "But I thought you said that I needed to treat my position with more respect instead of playing around with--" "Yes yes, Lulu. I know what I said, but you've worked hard enough lately, right? You've done all your chores, so you should take a break." Celestia was practically shoving Luna out of the room as she backed Luna towards her bedchamber's door. The dark alicorn bit her lower lip, and rubbed the back of her head. "Actually, I haven't really finished all my chores completely." Celestia's eyes turned a 360 as she sighed. "Well have you at least written up the guards' duties chart for the month?" "Um... no." "Did you listen to some of the citizens' pleas lately?" "No." "Have you cleaned Philomena's cage?" "Uh-uh." "Did you get a new carton of milk?" "Oh!" Celestia perked up from not hearing an instant "no" from Luna. "You never gave me my allowance, so I couldn't buy any." Celestia moaned. You're asking for allowance now! Were you even paying attention to any of this? "Please Luna! Have you done anything today?" "Well--" "Anything productive?" "Oh..." Luna frowned, gazing into the marble floor for some type of answer. "Hmm... I know! I put away all my socks like you told me too!" Celestia threw her hooves in the air. "Thank myself, she actually did something!" An over ecstatic beam came across Celestia's face and was mirrored on Luna's. "Okay, Lulu. Because you put away your socks, I want you to go and have fun." A saddlebag glowed with a yellow aura that surrounded it and plopped onto Luna's back. "But what should I do, sister?" Luna asked as Celestia was now really pushing Luna across the massively regal bedroom. "I don't know. Go play with Pipsqueak. Check out that one DJ everypony's talking about. Just get ou... er, have fun!" Luna grunted as Celestia gave one last nudge to get Luna out of the room. "Can I at least have my allowance?" A shower a bits shot out of the bedchamber, shortly followed up by the slamming door. ~~~~~ Resuming her post from earlier, Celestia anticipated her student's arrival. I thought I told those two coachcolts to have Twilight here by two. She peered over at the sundial that was planted in the center of her room. It's almost three! Those two are definitely get a horseshoe up their... Just then, a chariot chauffeured by two pegasi broke through a distant cloud. Celestia gasped, the urgency of what this meeting truly was hitting her like a hug from Tom. Celestia sprinted out the doorway and headed to the castle's entrance foyer. Entering the foyer, Celestia found a couple of servants waiting in as she had directed previously. "Princess," the first of the chefs began as she proceeded down the curved stairway. "The meal you ordered me to prepare is ready anytime you want it." "Good. Thank you. I will whistle once when I want you to bring it out." "Yes, your Majesty," the chef replied, saluting the Princess before returning to the kitchen. The baker approached her this time. "Princess Celestia, I've got the chocolate souffles keeping warm, awaiting your orders." "Excellent. The second time I whistle, you will bring the the souffles to me." Saluting, "Of course, Princess." He then fled to the kitchen as well. Celestia's nerves loosened. Everything seems like it will run smoothly. I think I may pull this off without a hitch! Hearing the faint sound of a carriage landing, Celestia moved a curtain out the way to see her front yard. She found one of the pegasi opening the door and helping Twilight out of the vehicle; the other servant ached as he carried a bulky sack up the stone stairs, towards to front door. Celestia propped the doors open, allowing for the pegasus to drop the sack onto the main entrance's floor. Twilight, who was kindly talking with the servant about who knows what, slowly ambled up the stairway. Once Twilight had made it to the top, Celestia sweetly greeted her. "Why hello Twilight. How are you this fine day?" Twilight grinned at her glowing mentor, replying, "Good day, Celestia. I am very good today. Thank you for asking." Her student's calling her by her first name pierced Celestia. Celestia was peeved by it, but she had to make sure that Twilight was in a pleasant mood. Faking a small laugh, Celestia said, "I'm glad to hear that you are doing well my dear student. Please, tell me about your day." And don't be afraid to keep it short and simple. Celestia gestured for Twilight to come in to her home as the young unicorn commenced with the explanation of her day. "Well let's see... I woke up, and then I went over my hygiene check list. First, showering. I used a new shampoo Rarity gave me that had kusambi, yarrow..." As Twilight droned on about the ingredients of her shampoo, Celestia thought, It looks as though that bag is filled with all those books Twilight found about democracy. Wow, I really did a horrible job of confiscating all those books. It's going to take awhile to burn all of them. I don't think burning the books while I 'go to the bathroom' will work now. I'm going to have to think of a longer excuse. Uh-oh. I think she quit discussing her shampoo. What is she talking about? Oh well, just keep nodding and smiling... Tuning back into Twilight's voice, Celestia heard, "...And then Spike fell off the ladder and landed on his bum! It was a great laugh to start off my day. And then I--" "Twilight, I've prepared some lunch for us. You haven't already eaten have you?" Twilight held her stomach as it rumbled. "Does that answer your question?" the student giggled. "Great! I had the chefs whip up your favorite dishes because nothing's too much for my most faithful protege." Twilight squealed with excitement. "You made me carrot and potato stew?" Celestia's smiled drooped. "...I thought your favorite meal was chrysanthemum and lavender salad?" "Oh," Twilight chuckled, trying to hack threw the awkwardness in the room. "I guess my tastes have changed a little." Celestia slapped the grin back on her mouth, attempting to please Twilight. "No, it's quite alright. I'll just have my chef make us another--" "Celestia," Twilight interrupted the alicorn that had pivoted to leave for the kitchen. "There's no need to change the dish. I will still enjoy a nice meal." "If you insist." Celestia and Twilight navigated through a few rooms, finally entering the dining room. The two planted themselves on the fancy, red velvet pillows that rested beside the table. Putting a hoof into her mouth, Celestia whistled for her first chef to bring out the chrysanthemum and lavender salad. A silent moment slowly breezed by without so much as the noise of any hoofsteps. Impatient with her workers, Celestia whistled once more. Almost immediately, the clopping hoofsteps could be heard from the room over and grew louder as the chef made his way to the dining room. The chef was dragging a silver cart with two covered platters. "Very good," Celestia remarked at the chef's arrival. The chef placed one tray in front of each of the two and lifted the platters' covers in unison. The scent of the dish spread throughout the dining room, gracing the three ponys' nostrils with its delectable aroma. Such a delicious smell of chocolate. Chocolate...? Celestia gazed upon her plate and Twilight's across from her, with her eyes as platters themselves. "Chef, why have you brought us the souffles?" Celestia asked, agitated. "We haven't even got our lunch yet?" His body quivering and hooves shaking, the chef answered, "Well uh... that's what you told me to do the second time you whistled." Celestia scowled, but knew not to yell at her servant. "Then what happened to the other chef I whistled for?" "Well, Princess, it looked as though he tripped over some large sack that was in the foyer." Servants these days... Celestia sighed. "Okay. I want you to clean up his mess, while he remakes our meals." "Celestia," Twilight interjected, "I'm really hungry. How about we just have peanut butter and jelly sandwiches with our souffles?" "Are you sure, Twilight?" Grasping her tummy as it barked once more, she replied, "Yes, I'm sure." ~~~~~ "Again, I am deeply sorry for the disaster during lunch," Celestia apologized, holding her bedchamber door ajar as Twilight entered the massive room. "It's no big deal," Twilight softly said, checking out her teacher's room. Not much had changed since Twilight had been in here as a filly. The nostalgia of the room caused Twilight to turn a little giddy. "Oh Celestia, your room is exactly as I remember. Even that stain in the floor from when you drank all of that weird bottled liquid and got really silly and dizzy, and then---" "Yes Twilight, I remember what happened." I wouldn't mind having some of that right now though. This whole ordeal is driving me insane! I just need to come up with something to distract Twilight long even so that I can--- Crashing her train of thought, the sound of springs compressing echoed throughout the bedroom. The bright alicorn peered over to her bed to find Twilight hopping up and down on it like a foal might. Celestia wasn't sure how to initially react, but Twilight was having a grand time bouncing on the bed, squeaking out a "wee" or a "whoa" every time she hit the mattress. After a few more hops, Twilight laid back on the bed, huffing with tired excitement. "Celestia. I haven't. Done that. Since I was. A little filly." Smirking at Twilight's random bit of immaturity, Celestia replied, "Well I'm glad you still enjoy doing that." Eureka! "If you like'd that, then is there anything else that you would like to that you haven't since you were a filly?" The reminiscing unicorn pondered this offer for a moment. "Uh... Not that I can recall... Oh wait! Could we play hide and go seek?" Usually this game was very boring and childish, but when the game is between two magical creatures and inside one of the largest building in all of Equestria, it has more appeal. "Of course we can! If only I had though of such a splendid idea." Celestia had one more thing to say to secure her plan. "You can hide first." Twilight's expression was full of udder glee as she contemplated where to hide. "Okay, start counting and no peeking." Twilight followed that statement up by heading out of the room. "Yes, yes." Covering her eyes with a hoof, Celestia began her role in the game. "One. Two. Three. Four. Five..." As soon as Twilight was out of the room and far enough away to be out of earshot, Celestia set up a magical portal that allowed her to see her student. She waited until Twilight had secured herself a location to hide. Behind a curtain on the third floor? Twilight's hiding spots haven't changed at all. Celestia left the bedchamber and raced to the foyer where the large sack of books remained. Acting stealthily and swiftly, Celestia levitated the bag to the basement. She found the worker pony down there that controls the castle's boiler room. Ordering him to dispose of the sack without inspecting any of its contents, Celestia triumphantly ascending up from the basement. Locating Twilight sticking out like a sore hoof on the third floor, Celestia quickly retrieved her mind-erasing powder from her room. The final step of her plan was finally going to happen. All possible tragedy and revolution would be avoided. A large amount of the evidence of democracy would be destroyed. No pony would be sent to the moon! Carefully, Celestia approached her unaware student as she untied the small knot that sealed off the bag of mind-erasing powder. The knot slipped loose and Celestia's victory over democracy was just seconds-- "Achoo!" Dammit! "Aw, you found me Celestia!" Twilight laughed as she stepped out from behind the curtain. Luckily, Celestia had not lost any of the powder and was able to keep it hidden from Twilight's view. "That must have been the longest time I've gone without being found. I must be getting better." The irritated alicorn let Twilight pass her by in the hallway, now planning on just throwing it on her from behind. "Yes Twilight. You are getting better," Celestia added, attempting to keep Twilight's guard down. As Twilight trotted down the hallway, Celestia gradually floated the tiny bag of powder over her student's head. "This was fun, but we must get on to discussing democracy." Celestia didn't even respond, about ready to douse Twilight in a heaping helping of amnesia dust. "Before we read all the books though, can I read all the letters I sent you? I want to make sure Spike copied everything correctly." Celestia froze and so did the bag. "Spike?" Celestia quietly questioned. "You had Spike write all your letters?" Twilight about faced, and answered, "Yes. I'm usually preoccupied to write them." Celestia's knees felt like jello, shaking and jiggling just from her heartbeat that was abnormally fast. "So you're not the only pony who knows about democracy?" "Yep. In fact, all my friends know about it. I kinda spilled the beans before you told me not to tell anypony. That's not a big deal though, right?" Swallowing all anger, grief, and depression, Celestia accepted the fact that democracy was now public again, after 1,000 years. Understanding that she may be able to maintain the situation with the help of Twilight, Celestia exclaimed, "Twilight, I have something to tell you..." Not This AgainCelestia sighed as she watched her student meticulously look over all her paperwork. Sheets of paper piled up around the room, all proofread at least twice by Twilight. Since finally spilling the beans to Twilight, Celestia had spent the last week lounging around her castle, waiting for the unicorn to complete all her preparations. Of course the elder alicorn had attempted multiple times to convince her student otherwise, but she was set on setting up this democratic system. "And... finished!" Twilight floated the final paper down. She trotted over to the former Princess, who rested on her ironically king-sized bed. "Now Celestia, you are positive that the first step in this election is for ponies to nominate candidates?" "Yes Twilight, I'm positive," the older mare replied, knowing this process like the back of her hoof. "Great." Twilight poked her head out of the bedroom and whistled for the servants to come. Promptly, one worker cantered to the bedroom. "Yes, Miss Sparkle?" "I have completed preparations for the election. Please assemble a team of pegasi to deliver a letter to each major city and town in Equestria. The letter requests that the mayor holds a nomination for each member to decide on who is best suited to rule Equestria." Yes, Miss Sparkle. Right away," the servant responded. Twilight levitated a bag of letters to the servant and sent him off. "Twilight, mind if I ask you a question?" "Of course not," the unicorn said as she went back to reviewing paperwork. "What is your plan if one of those letters doesn't get delivered?" Twilight hesitated for a moment. "I trust that your workers will be able to get the job done." She smiled and went back to work. "That's not what I asked Twilight..." Twilight stopped and glanced at her teacher. "I-I guess I would send them another letter." "Well what happens if a town disobeys your request?" "Then they don't get to participate." "But what if they get mad that they don't have a say?" "Celestia, you aren't making any sense! Please, stop with the needless hypothetical questions. I've already taken the appropriate precautions, so let me work." Needless hypothetical questions? Celestia thought to herself. That's what Luna thought too. The bright pony watched her student as she worked towards the impossible goal, or at least that's what it was in Celestia's perspective. She's so much like Luna... I only hope she won't suffer the same way. ~~~~~ For the next few months, Twilight Sparkle dedicated her time to organizing the rest of the election process. It seemed that every town contacted with a letter promptly returned the nomination results by the deadline that was specified in Twilight's letter. Twilight recruited workers to read through the lengthy nomination lists and create a list of all the ponies that had received a significant amount of votes. Another minor election would be held to decide which five ponies from that list would be able to be elected as ruler of Equestria, so everypony began to advertise themselves for votes. Eventually, Twilight successfully completed the minor election and Equestria was down to five candidates to be the ruler. ~~~~~ Celestia and Twilight waited in the grand hall. Celestia was planted in her former royal throne/overpriced chair and Twilight stood next to her. Twilight yawned. The long days and nights overseeing all the campaigning and keeping updated with all the news and informing the public of that news really took a toll on the fairly young unicorn. One of Celestia's workers galloped into the room and announced, "Miss Sparkle, all the candidates have arrived." "Thank you very much," Twilight replied. "Please show them in." "Yes Miss Sparkle." The worked trotted back and around a corner. A few moments later five ponies, who were all chatting, approached the room. Twilight thought they had sounded a bit familiar. And they should have, for once they entered the grand hall, Twilight was overcome with joy. "Hey Twilight!" Pinkie Pie yelled out, the call resonating throughout the massive room. Twilight moved toward her five friends as each one of them gave their own greeting. Hugging all her friends, Twilight said, "It's so good to see all of you! I've been so busy with the election that I've only been to Ponyville three times in the past five months." Celestia, who remained in her chair, grinned softly as she watched her student express a sincere happiness. Twilight, I sent you to Ponyville to study friendship. I never would have guessed that I would be the reason that you would slack on those studies. "Darling Twilight," Rarity began. "We know dear, that's why we were elated when we heard would be able to see you" Twilight pulled away from the hug, realizing something. "Wait a minute. If you are all here, then does that mean you five are the candidates?" Rainbow Dash was the first to laugh, but soon the other four joined in. "Twilight, do you really think we're suited for ruling Equestria?" Rainbow Dash laughingly asked. "Excuse me, Rainbow Dash, but I think that I would make a magnificent Princess!" As Rarity posed as though she was royalty, Fluttershy giggled at her amusing claim. Rarity immediately glared back at the quiet pegasus. With a tiny smile, Fluttershy squeaked out, "Sorry." "Anyway," Rainbow Dash said, drifting back on topic. "We're here to support Applejack." With a small shove, Applejack was moved in front of the others with a small blush on her face." "Wow. Congratulations Applejack!" "Thanks Twilight. Ah'm still a bit surprised myself," the apple farmer modestly admitted. Putting a reassuring hoof on her friend's should, Twilight stated, "Well I'm sure you will be a truly great candidate, Applejack, but just remember that I must remain impartial." "Of course. I wouldn't expect anything different from ya, Twilight." "Good. Now I need to kn--" Twilight got silent as she saw a shadow approaching from around the corner. Her friends turned around to look at the arched door way too. Slowly the silhouette turned into a white-furred unicorn, with a mane like water washing over his body. "Shining Armor!"Twilight sprinted over to her older brother as he entered the room and hugged him sweetly. "Hey Twili! I've been looking forward to seeing you." She let go of Shining Armor and confirmed, "You're a candidate?" "Yeah. Being the Captain of the Equestrian Guard really helped me to get votes." Even though Celestia was no longer Princess, many things did not change. Equestria still required the services that were preformed under Celestia's rule, so Twilight and Celestia just renamed the positions so that they did not have to do with Celestia being a princess. Shining noticed Twilight's friends standing behind her and asked, "Are any of you candidates?" Pinkie Pie, hopping up and down, cheered, "Applejack is! Applejack is!" The masculine unicorn trotted over to Applejack and extended a hoof to her. "Well I would like to wish you the best of luck with your candidacy." Applejack met his hoof with hers and replied, "Likewise. I'm happy to be running against a friendly face." With all the camaraderie going on, no pony noticed that another pony had made his way into the room. "Well isn't this just adorable?" the older stallion rhetorically asked as he entered. "It's good to see Equestria's youth taking initiative." Twilight walked to the colt. "Good afternoon, Mr. Rich. I can safely assume that you are here for the candidates meeting?" With a deep chuckle, the grayish-amber stallion said, "Please Twilight Sparkle, Mr. Rich was my father. You may call me Mr. Filthy Rich. And yes, I am here for the meeting." "Alright. You are the third candidate to---" The grand hall quieted as an unrecognizable shouting was heard from the outside walkway. The yelling grew closer. "The Great and Powerful Trixie does not require your petty directions! She already knows where to go!" Twilight, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, and Fluttershy all gave a moan of frustration once they heard that voice. Celestia, still in her seat, Shining Armor, and Filthy Rich looked at the groaning ponies in confusion. Pinkie Pie, however, was guffawing almost like a maniac. "Pinkie, do you not remember who Trixie is?" Rainbow Dash questioned. "No, I remember. Why?" "You're laughing." "Oh! My bad. Wrong emotion." Pinkie Pie then let out an annoyed moan. Everypony would have stared at Pinkie Pie with massive amounts of confusion, had the great and powerful shadow not been growing closer. Twilight Sparkle closed her eyes and breathed deeply. Then she forced herself into a large, cheesy smile, not wanting to have any beef with Trixie. As soon as Trixie appeared in the doorway, she walked past the doorway, continuing down the corridor. "Uh..." Twilight didn't know how to react. Twilight poked her head around the corner and called out, "Excuse me." The showpony turned around, caught off guard by Twilight's call. "Yes?" "Are you here for the candidates meeting?" "What else would Trixie be here for?" The mare snobbishly asked. "Yes, well the meeting will take place in here." "T-Trixie knew that! She was just going to... admire this beautiful piece of art!" Trixie motioned to a portrait that hung on the wall by her. "Okay..." "Trixie will join you now." Trixie strolled in the room with her head held high. No pony was too eager to great the magician. "It's good to see you again Trixie," Twilight politely said using the best of her acting abilities. "Well of course it is! It is always an amazement to see The Great and Powerful Trixie!" As always, Rainbow Dash was the first to speak up. "Amazement? Do you call getting you flank handed to you by---" Twilight wasted no time to silence her friend. With a hoof over her friend's mouth, Twilight whispered, "Please don't say anything to Trixie, Rainbow Dash. I know she can be a pain, but I don't think she remembers us, so let's leave it that way." Twilight removed her hoof off her friend's mouth. "But---" "Please Rainbow Dash!" "Fine..." The pegasus stepped back to her crowd of friends, scowling. "That's right. Do not even try to mess with The Great and Powerful Trixie!" Rainbow Dash groaned. Twilight rolled her eyes. "Now Trixie, you are the fourth candidate to arrive. The fifth one should be here any moment now." "Trixie doesn't know why we are even holding this silly election. Everypony in Equestria knows that The Great and Powerful Trixie is the only suitable candidate for ruler of Equestria." Everypony in the room each gave Trixie their own look of scorn. Rainbow Dash bit down on her lower lip to keep herself from speaking up. Twilight was the only one still able to keep a fake smile and awkwardly chuckle to break the silence. "I think I here the final candidate coming," Twilight announced in order to draw everyponies attention away from hating Trixie. All eyes in the room gazed at the doorway as the final candidate approached. Finally, to complete the roll call, around the corner walked... TO BE CONTINUED... RIGHT NOW! Around the corner walked one of Celestia's workers. Confusion swept throughout the room as no pony saw this coming. "Uh, are you a candidate?" "No Miss Sparkle, but I am here to tell you who it is." "Why couldn't they come themselves?" "Miss Sparkle, they are already here." "They are? But only four have arrived." "Miss Sparkle, Celestia is one of the candidates." Pinkie Pie gasped loudly, but then looked around at everypony else. "Was I the only pony who was surprised?" Fluttershy murmured, "No Pinkie, but if you think about it, it makes sense that Celestia be a candidate. She has already ruled Equestria before." "Oh yeah," Pinkie giggled. With wide eyes, Twilight asked, "C-Celestia?" Hearing her own name, the glorious white alicorn rose from her seat to join the crowd. Twilight thought about this for a moment and considered that there would be no harm in allowing Celestia to run. It would at least be fair. Twilight looked at the guard and ordered, "Will you please show my friends to the lounging area?" "Yes, Miss Sparkle." "Wait, why can't we stay?" Rainbow Dash queried. "We need to keep these affairs on the down low, so please just wait. This meeting shouldn't take too long." Her four friends all agreed and followed the worker out of the room without anymore hesitation. "Alright. Now that all five of you are here, we can begin our meeting."
The Letter WarDear Princess Celestia, Today I learned about a concept that seems very peculiar. It's called democracy. Democracy is supposedly a type of government in which everypony alike gets to express their opinion to determine public matters. I don't have a problem with you; it's just that I don't recall ever being able to have a say in the laws of Equestria. I wasn't able to read too much into the subject because it was just a small paragraph in one of those old encyclopedias in the library's basement. Please reply to me with more information about democracy. I await your response. Your faithful student, Twilight Sparkle. ~~~~~ Dear Twilight Sparkle, I haven't heard from you for a week now; it's good to hear from you. You know I always look forward to reading your letters and your friends' letters. Speaking of your friends, how are they? In fact, I've been needing a nice gown for a social event I shall be attending in Fillydelphia, so would you mind asking Rarity if she would be interested? Also, the famous playwright Wonderment Steedspeare will be doing a book signing in Hoofston if you are interested. Thank you for writing. Your mentor, Princess Celestia. ~~~~~ Dear Princess Celestia, I appreciate your informing me about the book signing and Rarity was overjoyed by your offer, but you didn't address the question that initially I wrote to you about. I'm sure you are very busy, what with you being the princess and all, but I really would like to hear your opinion about democracy. I think that if you implemented democracy, you wouldn't be as busy are you are. Your faithful student, Twilight Sparkle. ~~~~~ Dear Twilight Sparkle, I am so sorry that I did not comment on your question in my previous letter. I just felt that the subject of democracy was so trivial that there was no point in looking into it, but if you are that eager to learn about it, I can accommodate you. Democracy is indeed a form of government where the citizens have input on public laws and such, but it's not as simple as it sounds. Now while democracy allows for everypony to have an opinion, it leads to chaos when no pony will compromise over one subject. Such a topic, like how doors should be shaped, quickly causes mass disorder due to all the opposing ideas. So as you can see, democracy is an outdated and barbaric form of government. Rest assured that I will be wise in my decisions of how everypony should live their lives. Your princess and mentor, Princess Celestia. ~~~~~ Dear Princess Celestia, I actually found another book that dives more in depth on democracy. "Oh crap," Celestia groaned as she read this sentence. After reading this book, your letter seems invalid. This book says that, in democracy, how everypony expresses their opinion is through a ballot system where the more popular opinions of an issue are chosen and then voted on. The choice that receives the most votes wins. Personally, I don't see this as barbaric. In fact, I believe that Equestria would be more civilized with this system implemented because then everypony would feel as though their voice is being heard. I just read here that sometimes representatives are chosen to represent a group's opinion. I will read more about this, but please consider adding this system somehow. Your student, Twilight Sparkle. ~~~~~ Dear Twilight Sparkle, I am extremely grateful for your persistence in trying to improve the quality of Equestrian life, but I am certain that democracy would do Equestria no good. If I were to input democracy, ponies would soon become corrupt. Think about it: If ponies began to chose laws and regulations based on popular vote, then many would start to bribe or force others to think their way. Also, democracy could start up some friction or even violence between opposing sides of a law. I've always taught you to be tolerant Twilight, but now you want to utilize a form of government that would spark up conflict based on contrasting viewpoints. I did not become the ruler of Equestria by being ignorant, so you can trust me when I tell you that democracy is bad news and politics are fine as they are. Now please, leave it alone. Princess Celestia. ~~~~~ Dear Celestia, After reading your last letter, I was curious about a few things. The first being politics. This was the word used by you in the previous letter, but I had no idea what it meant. Politics refers to the process by which groups of ponies make a collective decision. You said that politics were 'fine as they were,' but if that's true then there should be a collective decision, not a single one. This then intrigued me as to who then leads these groups and helps regulate everything in democracy. Further research informed me that, in democracy, there is one pony that is elected to the highest position in government. Right now, you are the highest position in government: Princess. But records prove that no election process took place that ever gave anypony the choice to decide on who the princess should be. You have been a wonderful mentor, but I think that it would be a little dishonest to deny the citizens of Equestria the ability to pick who their ruler should be. Twilight Sparkle. ~~~~~ Dear wonderful and gracious student Twilight Sparkle, I applaud you for your hard work researching democracy so thoroughly. Your words have enlightened me and I have decided that you are most certainly correct! Everypony should be able to elect their ruler and vote on laws. You may have just changed Equestria forever by your generous endeavor of informing me about democracy. Please, I wish for you to come and stay at my castle in Canterlot so that we may discuss the necessary adaptions I must implement. I shall send for my royal coach to pick you up as soon as possible. Also, bring any book that you have found that even mentions the word democracy so that we may reference them. Equestria will forever be in your debt Twilight Sparkle. Your faithful mentor and friend, Celestia. ~~~~~ Dear Celestia, I am overjoyed to hear that you have had a change of heart and listened to common sense! I'm packing for my leave as I write this and am looking forward to seeing and working with you. I'll see you in a few hours! Your always faithful student, Twilight Sparkle. Celestia opened up Twilight's scrolled letter and read it. "Oh thank myself, she's coming! Now where did I put that memory-erasing powder?" THE END...?
Celestia's PlotPrincess Celestia stood next to the windowsill, tapping her hoof on the floor in anticipation. Oh, how much longer is this going to take? Celestia thought as she watched the sky. "Celly!?" Luna shouted as she galloped into Celestia's bedchamber, a wide grin plastered on her face. Celestia gasped upon hearing her younger sister call out her name. "Lulu, what is it!?" "Oh, I am sorry sister. You are not busy are you?" Celestia gave one last glance towards the clouds to see if her royal coach was in sight. It wasn't. "No, not at the moment." "Well then I have some news for you! I just read about a wonderful creation called daylight saving time. It's this mystical power that allows the moon to set one hour later during a part of the year, which means that I get to have one more hour of glory!" "Lulu--" Without allowing her sister to interject, Luna kept talking. "I know this may be quite upsetting for you, Celly, seeing as how your sun doesnt have as much time as my illustrious moon anymore, but rest assured I will not think anything less of you." "Lulu--- "You know Celly, if you play your cards right I might just---" "Luna!" Celestia said, cutting through her sister's proud attitude. "Even though the moon may set an hour later, the sun also sets an hour later." Luna giggled at Celestia's statement. "Celly, I know that this may be hard for you to believe, but you should not fib to resolve your problems." Luna posed augustly while her sister facehoofed. Accepting that Luna would obviously not let go of her delusion of grander, Celestia continued the conversation. "Is that all you had to tell me, Lulu?" Celestia asked in a stern tone. Luna's stance sank as she looked upon her straight-faced sister. "Is something wrong, Celly?" Celestia exhaled deeply and massaged her forehead. "No, it's just that..." Celestia's words halted as she recalled what exactly she was waiting for. Luna... She was the last one who brought up the subject of democracy. So many lives lost; so much bloodshed. And it only took a mass air drop of memory-erasing powder and a one-way ticket to the moon to clean up that whole mess. There's no way Luna can be here when Twilight arrives! Luna stared closely at her sister's blank expression. "Celly? Are you alr--" "Luna!" Celestia shouted, breaking from her abrupt silence and causing her sister to fall backwards. Luna panted on the floor. "Lulu, uh... You can't be here!" Luna, who was still choking on her own breath, questioned, "What?" Celesta, recovering from her slip up, anxiously said, "I mean, Lulu, you don't want to stay cramped up in this stuffy old castle on such a beautiful day now would you?" Celestia gave a pseudo-pleasant grin and batted her eyelashes, as sweat cascaded down her cheeks. Luna put a hoof to her chin. "But I thought you said that I needed to treat my position with more respect instead of playing around with--" "Yes yes, Lulu. I know what I said, but you've worked hard enough lately, right? You've done all your chores, so you should take a break." Celestia was practically shoving Luna out of the room as she backed Luna towards her bedchamber's door. The dark alicorn bit her lower lip, and rubbed the back of her head. "Actually, I haven't really finished all my chores completely." Celestia's eyes turned a 360 as she sighed. "Well have you at least written up the guards' duties chart for the month?" "Um... no." "Did you listen to some of the citizens' pleas lately?" "No." "Have you cleaned Philomena's cage?" "Uh-uh." "Did you get a new carton of milk?" "Oh!" Celestia perked up from not hearing an instant "no" from Luna. "You never gave me my allowance, so I couldn't buy any." Celestia moaned. You're asking for allowance now! Were you even paying attention to any of this? "Please Luna! Have you done anything today?" "Well--" "Anything productive?" "Oh..." Luna frowned, gazing into the marble floor for some type of answer. "Hmm... I know! I put away all my socks like you told me too!" Celestia threw her hooves in the air. "Thank myself, she actually did something!" An over ecstatic beam came across Celestia's face and was mirrored on Luna's. "Okay, Lulu. Because you put away your socks, I want you to go and have fun." A saddlebag glowed with a yellow aura that surrounded it and plopped onto Luna's back. "But what should I do, sister?" Luna asked as Celestia was now really pushing Luna across the massively regal bedroom. "I don't know. Go play with Pipsqueak. Check out that one DJ everypony's talking about. Just get ou... er, have fun!" Luna grunted as Celestia gave one last nudge to get Luna out of the room. "Can I at least have my allowance?" A shower a bits shot out of the bedchamber, shortly followed up by the slamming door. ~~~~~ Resuming her post from earlier, Celestia anticipated her student's arrival. I thought I told those two coachcolts to have Twilight here by two. She peered over at the sundial that was planted in the center of her room. It's almost three! Those two are definitely get a horseshoe up their... Just then, a chariot chauffeured by two pegasi broke through a distant cloud. Celestia gasped, the urgency of what this meeting truly was hitting her like a hug from Tom. Celestia sprinted out the doorway and headed to the castle's entrance foyer. Entering the foyer, Celestia found a couple of servants waiting in as she had directed previously. "Princess," the first of the chefs began as she proceeded down the curved stairway. "The meal you ordered me to prepare is ready anytime you want it." "Good. Thank you. I will whistle once when I want you to bring it out." "Yes, your Majesty," the chef replied, saluting the Princess before returning to the kitchen. The baker approached her this time. "Princess Celestia, I've got the chocolate souffles keeping warm, awaiting your orders." "Excellent. The second time I whistle, you will bring the the souffles to me." Saluting, "Of course, Princess." He then fled to the kitchen as well. Celestia's nerves loosened. Everything seems like it will run smoothly. I think I may pull this off without a hitch! Hearing the faint sound of a carriage landing, Celestia moved a curtain out the way to see her front yard. She found one of the pegasi opening the door and helping Twilight out of the vehicle; the other servant ached as he carried a bulky sack up the stone stairs, towards to front door. Celestia propped the doors open, allowing for the pegasus to drop the sack onto the main entrance's floor. Twilight, who was kindly talking with the servant about who knows what, slowly ambled up the stairway. Once Twilight had made it to the top, Celestia sweetly greeted her. "Why hello Twilight. How are you this fine day?" Twilight grinned at her glowing mentor, replying, "Good day, Celestia. I am very good today. Thank you for asking." Her student's calling her by her first name pierced Celestia. Celestia was peeved by it, but she had to make sure that Twilight was in a pleasant mood. Faking a small laugh, Celestia said, "I'm glad to hear that you are doing well my dear student. Please, tell me about your day." And don't be afraid to keep it short and simple. Celestia gestured for Twilight to come in to her home as the young unicorn commenced with the explanation of her day. "Well let's see... I woke up, and then I went over my hygiene check list. First, showering. I used a new shampoo Rarity gave me that had kusambi, yarrow..." As Twilight droned on about the ingredients of her shampoo, Celestia thought, It looks as though that bag is filled with all those books Twilight found about democracy. Wow, I really did a horrible job of confiscating all those books. It's going to take awhile to burn all of them. I don't think burning the books while I 'go to the bathroom' will work now. I'm going to have to think of a longer excuse. Uh-oh. I think she quit discussing her shampoo. What is she talking about? Oh well, just keep nodding and smiling... Tuning back into Twilight's voice, Celestia heard, "...And then Spike fell off the ladder and landed on his bum! It was a great laugh to start off my day. And then I--" "Twilight, I've prepared some lunch for us. You haven't already eaten have you?" Twilight held her stomach as it rumbled. "Does that answer your question?" the student giggled. "Great! I had the chefs whip up your favorite dishes because nothing's too much for my most faithful protege." Twilight squealed with excitement. "You made me carrot and potato stew?" Celestia's smiled drooped. "...I thought your favorite meal was chrysanthemum and lavender salad?" "Oh," Twilight chuckled, trying to hack threw the awkwardness in the room. "I guess my tastes have changed a little." Celestia slapped the grin back on her mouth, attempting to please Twilight. "No, it's quite alright. I'll just have my chef make us another--" "Celestia," Twilight interrupted the alicorn that had pivoted to leave for the kitchen. "There's no need to change the dish. I will still enjoy a nice meal." "If you insist." Celestia and Twilight navigated through a few rooms, finally entering the dining room. The two planted themselves on the fancy, red velvet pillows that rested beside the table. Putting a hoof into her mouth, Celestia whistled for her first chef to bring out the chrysanthemum and lavender salad. A silent moment slowly breezed by without so much as the noise of any hoofsteps. Impatient with her workers, Celestia whistled once more. Almost immediately, the clopping hoofsteps could be heard from the room over and grew louder as the chef made his way to the dining room. The chef was dragging a silver cart with two covered platters. "Very good," Celestia remarked at the chef's arrival. The chef placed one tray in front of each of the two and lifted the platters' covers in unison. The scent of the dish spread throughout the dining room, gracing the three ponys' nostrils with its delectable aroma. Such a delicious smell of chocolate. Chocolate...? Celestia gazed upon her plate and Twilight's across from her, with her eyes as platters themselves. "Chef, why have you brought us the souffles?" Celestia asked, agitated. "We haven't even got our lunch yet?" His body quivering and hooves shaking, the chef answered, "Well uh... that's what you told me to do the second time you whistled." Celestia scowled, but knew not to yell at her servant. "Then what happened to the other chef I whistled for?" "Well, Princess, it looked as though he tripped over some large sack that was in the foyer." Servants these days... Celestia sighed. "Okay. I want you to clean up his mess, while he remakes our meals." "Celestia," Twilight interjected, "I'm really hungry. How about we just have peanut butter and jelly sandwiches with our souffles?" "Are you sure, Twilight?" Grasping her tummy as it barked once more, she replied, "Yes, I'm sure." ~~~~~ "Again, I am deeply sorry for the disaster during lunch," Celestia apologized, holding her bedchamber door ajar as Twilight entered the massive room. "It's no big deal," Twilight softly said, checking out her teacher's room. Not much had changed since Twilight had been in here as a filly. The nostalgia of the room caused Twilight to turn a little giddy. "Oh Celestia, your room is exactly as I remember. Even that stain in the floor from when you drank all of that weird bottled liquid and got really silly and dizzy, and then---" "Yes Twilight, I remember what happened." I wouldn't mind having some of that right now though. This whole ordeal is driving me insane! I just need to come up with something to distract Twilight long even so that I can--- Crashing her train of thought, the sound of springs compressing echoed throughout the bedroom. The bright alicorn peered over to her bed to find Twilight hopping up and down on it like a foal might. Celestia wasn't sure how to initially react, but Twilight was having a grand time bouncing on the bed, squeaking out a "wee" or a "whoa" every time she hit the mattress. After a few more hops, Twilight laid back on the bed, huffing with tired excitement. "Celestia. I haven't. Done that. Since I was. A little filly." Smirking at Twilight's random bit of immaturity, Celestia replied, "Well I'm glad you still enjoy doing that." Eureka! "If you like'd that, then is there anything else that you would like to that you haven't since you were a filly?" The reminiscing unicorn pondered this offer for a moment. "Uh... Not that I can recall... Oh wait! Could we play hide and go seek?" Usually this game was very boring and childish, but when the game is between two magical creatures and inside one of the largest building in all of Equestria, it has more appeal. "Of course we can! If only I had though of such a splendid idea." Celestia had one more thing to say to secure her plan. "You can hide first." Twilight's expression was full of udder glee as she contemplated where to hide. "Okay, start counting and no peeking." Twilight followed that statement up by heading out of the room. "Yes, yes." Covering her eyes with a hoof, Celestia began her role in the game. "One. Two. Three. Four. Five..." As soon as Twilight was out of the room and far enough away to be out of earshot, Celestia set up a magical portal that allowed her to see her student. She waited until Twilight had secured herself a location to hide. Behind a curtain on the third floor? Twilight's hiding spots haven't changed at all. Celestia left the bedchamber and raced to the foyer where the large sack of books remained. Acting stealthily and swiftly, Celestia levitated the bag to the basement. She found the worker pony down there that controls the castle's boiler room. Ordering him to dispose of the sack without inspecting any of its contents, Celestia triumphantly ascending up from the basement. Locating Twilight sticking out like a sore hoof on the third floor, Celestia quickly retrieved her mind-erasing powder from her room. The final step of her plan was finally going to happen. All possible tragedy and revolution would be avoided. A large amount of the evidence of democracy would be destroyed. No pony would be sent to the moon! Carefully, Celestia approached her unaware student as she untied the small knot that sealed off the bag of mind-erasing powder. The knot slipped loose and Celestia's victory over democracy was just seconds-- "Achoo!" Dammit! "Aw, you found me Celestia!" Twilight laughed as she stepped out from behind the curtain. Luckily, Celestia had not lost any of the powder and was able to keep it hidden from Twilight's view. "That must have been the longest time I've gone without being found. I must be getting better." The irritated alicorn let Twilight pass her by in the hallway, now planning on just throwing it on her from behind. "Yes Twilight. You are getting better," Celestia added, attempting to keep Twilight's guard down. As Twilight trotted down the hallway, Celestia gradually floated the tiny bag of powder over her student's head. "This was fun, but we must get on to discussing democracy." Celestia didn't even respond, about ready to douse Twilight in a heaping helping of amnesia dust. "Before we read all the books though, can I read all the letters I sent you? I want to make sure Spike copied everything correctly." Celestia froze and so did the bag. "Spike?" Celestia quietly questioned. "You had Spike write all your letters?" Twilight about faced, and answered, "Yes. I'm usually preoccupied to write them." Celestia's knees felt like jello, shaking and jiggling just from her heartbeat that was abnormally fast. "So you're not the only pony who knows about democracy?" "Yep. In fact, all my friends know about it. I kinda spilled the beans before you told me not to tell anypony. That's not a big deal though, right?" Swallowing all anger, grief, and depression, Celestia accepted the fact that democracy was now public again, after 1,000 years. Understanding that she may be able to maintain the situation with the help of Twilight, Celestia exclaimed, "Twilight, I have something to tell you..."
Not This AgainCelestia sighed as she watched her student meticulously look over all her paperwork. Sheets of paper piled up around the room, all proofread at least twice by Twilight. Since finally spilling the beans to Twilight, Celestia had spent the last week lounging around her castle, waiting for the unicorn to complete all her preparations. Of course the elder alicorn had attempted multiple times to convince her student otherwise, but she was set on setting up this democratic system. "And... finished!" Twilight floated the final paper down. She trotted over to the former Princess, who rested on her ironically king-sized bed. "Now Celestia, you are positive that the first step in this election is for ponies to nominate candidates?" "Yes Twilight, I'm positive," the older mare replied, knowing this process like the back of her hoof. "Great." Twilight poked her head out of the bedroom and whistled for the servants to come. Promptly, one worker cantered to the bedroom. "Yes, Miss Sparkle?" "I have completed preparations for the election. Please assemble a team of pegasi to deliver a letter to each major city and town in Equestria. The letter requests that the mayor holds a nomination for each member to decide on who is best suited to rule Equestria." Yes, Miss Sparkle. Right away," the servant responded. Twilight levitated a bag of letters to the servant and sent him off. "Twilight, mind if I ask you a question?" "Of course not," the unicorn said as she went back to reviewing paperwork. "What is your plan if one of those letters doesn't get delivered?" Twilight hesitated for a moment. "I trust that your workers will be able to get the job done." She smiled and went back to work. "That's not what I asked Twilight..." Twilight stopped and glanced at her teacher. "I-I guess I would send them another letter." "Well what happens if a town disobeys your request?" "Then they don't get to participate." "But what if they get mad that they don't have a say?" "Celestia, you aren't making any sense! Please, stop with the needless hypothetical questions. I've already taken the appropriate precautions, so let me work." Needless hypothetical questions? Celestia thought to herself. That's what Luna thought too. The bright pony watched her student as she worked towards the impossible goal, or at least that's what it was in Celestia's perspective. She's so much like Luna... I only hope she won't suffer the same way. ~~~~~ For the next few months, Twilight Sparkle dedicated her time to organizing the rest of the election process. It seemed that every town contacted with a letter promptly returned the nomination results by the deadline that was specified in Twilight's letter. Twilight recruited workers to read through the lengthy nomination lists and create a list of all the ponies that had received a significant amount of votes. Another minor election would be held to decide which five ponies from that list would be able to be elected as ruler of Equestria, so everypony began to advertise themselves for votes. Eventually, Twilight successfully completed the minor election and Equestria was down to five candidates to be the ruler. ~~~~~ Celestia and Twilight waited in the grand hall. Celestia was planted in her former royal throne/overpriced chair and Twilight stood next to her. Twilight yawned. The long days and nights overseeing all the campaigning and keeping updated with all the news and informing the public of that news really took a toll on the fairly young unicorn. One of Celestia's workers galloped into the room and announced, "Miss Sparkle, all the candidates have arrived." "Thank you very much," Twilight replied. "Please show them in." "Yes Miss Sparkle." The worked trotted back and around a corner. A few moments later five ponies, who were all chatting, approached the room. Twilight thought they had sounded a bit familiar. And they should have, for once they entered the grand hall, Twilight was overcome with joy. "Hey Twilight!" Pinkie Pie yelled out, the call resonating throughout the massive room. Twilight moved toward her five friends as each one of them gave their own greeting. Hugging all her friends, Twilight said, "It's so good to see all of you! I've been so busy with the election that I've only been to Ponyville three times in the past five months." Celestia, who remained in her chair, grinned softly as she watched her student express a sincere happiness. Twilight, I sent you to Ponyville to study friendship. I never would have guessed that I would be the reason that you would slack on those studies. "Darling Twilight," Rarity began. "We know dear, that's why we were elated when we heard would be able to see you" Twilight pulled away from the hug, realizing something. "Wait a minute. If you are all here, then does that mean you five are the candidates?" Rainbow Dash was the first to laugh, but soon the other four joined in. "Twilight, do you really think we're suited for ruling Equestria?" Rainbow Dash laughingly asked. "Excuse me, Rainbow Dash, but I think that I would make a magnificent Princess!" As Rarity posed as though she was royalty, Fluttershy giggled at her amusing claim. Rarity immediately glared back at the quiet pegasus. With a tiny smile, Fluttershy squeaked out, "Sorry." "Anyway," Rainbow Dash said, drifting back on topic. "We're here to support Applejack." With a small shove, Applejack was moved in front of the others with a small blush on her face." "Wow. Congratulations Applejack!" "Thanks Twilight. Ah'm still a bit surprised myself," the apple farmer modestly admitted. Putting a reassuring hoof on her friend's should, Twilight stated, "Well I'm sure you will be a truly great candidate, Applejack, but just remember that I must remain impartial." "Of course. I wouldn't expect anything different from ya, Twilight." "Good. Now I need to kn--" Twilight got silent as she saw a shadow approaching from around the corner. Her friends turned around to look at the arched door way too. Slowly the silhouette turned into a white-furred unicorn, with a mane like water washing over his body. "Shining Armor!"Twilight sprinted over to her older brother as he entered the room and hugged him sweetly. "Hey Twili! I've been looking forward to seeing you." She let go of Shining Armor and confirmed, "You're a candidate?" "Yeah. Being the Captain of the Equestrian Guard really helped me to get votes." Even though Celestia was no longer Princess, many things did not change. Equestria still required the services that were preformed under Celestia's rule, so Twilight and Celestia just renamed the positions so that they did not have to do with Celestia being a princess. Shining noticed Twilight's friends standing behind her and asked, "Are any of you candidates?" Pinkie Pie, hopping up and down, cheered, "Applejack is! Applejack is!" The masculine unicorn trotted over to Applejack and extended a hoof to her. "Well I would like to wish you the best of luck with your candidacy." Applejack met his hoof with hers and replied, "Likewise. I'm happy to be running against a friendly face." With all the camaraderie going on, no pony noticed that another pony had made his way into the room. "Well isn't this just adorable?" the older stallion rhetorically asked as he entered. "It's good to see Equestria's youth taking initiative." Twilight walked to the colt. "Good afternoon, Mr. Rich. I can safely assume that you are here for the candidates meeting?" With a deep chuckle, the grayish-amber stallion said, "Please Twilight Sparkle, Mr. Rich was my father. You may call me Mr. Filthy Rich. And yes, I am here for the meeting." "Alright. You are the third candidate to---" The grand hall quieted as an unrecognizable shouting was heard from the outside walkway. The yelling grew closer. "The Great and Powerful Trixie does not require your petty directions! She already knows where to go!" Twilight, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, and Fluttershy all gave a moan of frustration once they heard that voice. Celestia, still in her seat, Shining Armor, and Filthy Rich looked at the groaning ponies in confusion. Pinkie Pie, however, was guffawing almost like a maniac. "Pinkie, do you not remember who Trixie is?" Rainbow Dash questioned. "No, I remember. Why?" "You're laughing." "Oh! My bad. Wrong emotion." Pinkie Pie then let out an annoyed moan. Everypony would have stared at Pinkie Pie with massive amounts of confusion, had the great and powerful shadow not been growing closer. Twilight Sparkle closed her eyes and breathed deeply. Then she forced herself into a large, cheesy smile, not wanting to have any beef with Trixie. As soon as Trixie appeared in the doorway, she walked past the doorway, continuing down the corridor. "Uh..." Twilight didn't know how to react. Twilight poked her head around the corner and called out, "Excuse me." The showpony turned around, caught off guard by Twilight's call. "Yes?" "Are you here for the candidates meeting?" "What else would Trixie be here for?" The mare snobbishly asked. "Yes, well the meeting will take place in here." "T-Trixie knew that! She was just going to... admire this beautiful piece of art!" Trixie motioned to a portrait that hung on the wall by her. "Okay..." "Trixie will join you now." Trixie strolled in the room with her head held high. No pony was too eager to great the magician. "It's good to see you again Trixie," Twilight politely said using the best of her acting abilities. "Well of course it is! It is always an amazement to see The Great and Powerful Trixie!" As always, Rainbow Dash was the first to speak up. "Amazement? Do you call getting you flank handed to you by---" Twilight wasted no time to silence her friend. With a hoof over her friend's mouth, Twilight whispered, "Please don't say anything to Trixie, Rainbow Dash. I know she can be a pain, but I don't think she remembers us, so let's leave it that way." Twilight removed her hoof off her friend's mouth. "But---" "Please Rainbow Dash!" "Fine..." The pegasus stepped back to her crowd of friends, scowling. "That's right. Do not even try to mess with The Great and Powerful Trixie!" Rainbow Dash groaned. Twilight rolled her eyes. "Now Trixie, you are the fourth candidate to arrive. The fifth one should be here any moment now." "Trixie doesn't know why we are even holding this silly election. Everypony in Equestria knows that The Great and Powerful Trixie is the only suitable candidate for ruler of Equestria." Everypony in the room each gave Trixie their own look of scorn. Rainbow Dash bit down on her lower lip to keep herself from speaking up. Twilight was the only one still able to keep a fake smile and awkwardly chuckle to break the silence. "I think I here the final candidate coming," Twilight announced in order to draw everyponies attention away from hating Trixie. All eyes in the room gazed at the doorway as the final candidate approached. Finally, to complete the roll call, around the corner walked... TO BE CONTINUED... RIGHT NOW! Around the corner walked one of Celestia's workers. Confusion swept throughout the room as no pony saw this coming. "Uh, are you a candidate?" "No Miss Sparkle, but I am here to tell you who it is." "Why couldn't they come themselves?" "Miss Sparkle, they are already here." "They are? But only four have arrived." "Miss Sparkle, Celestia is one of the candidates." Pinkie Pie gasped loudly, but then looked around at everypony else. "Was I the only pony who was surprised?" Fluttershy murmured, "No Pinkie, but if you think about it, it makes sense that Celestia be a candidate. She has already ruled Equestria before." "Oh yeah," Pinkie giggled. With wide eyes, Twilight asked, "C-Celestia?" Hearing her own name, the glorious white alicorn rose from her seat to join the crowd. Twilight thought about this for a moment and considered that there would be no harm in allowing Celestia to run. It would at least be fair. Twilight looked at the guard and ordered, "Will you please show my friends to the lounging area?" "Yes, Miss Sparkle." "Wait, why can't we stay?" Rainbow Dash queried. "We need to keep these affairs on the down low, so please just wait. This meeting shouldn't take too long." Her four friends all agreed and followed the worker out of the room without anymore hesitation. "Alright. Now that all five of you are here, we can begin our meeting."
