The tallest tower of Canterlot castle, known fondly as "Luna's Landing", was the perfect vantage point. It didn't matter what you needed vantage of exactly - the tower would provide. From one side the whole of Canterlot lay open to view: the streets threading their way through the cacophony of the merchant district or the grid pattern of the nobler sections, weighed with thick cobblestones and old traditions and stuffy mannerisms. The other side held Equestria, the rivers and forests and valleys stretching out as far as the eye could see. On a clear day only the gentle slope of the horizon could hope to hide the world from view.
By tradition access to the tower, at least for members of the public, was controlled by the captain of the tower guard. He would, on request, present a visitor with one of a deck of permits so old that only a few of Canterlot's scholars could still translate them. Such a permit once obtained would allow the visitor the opportunity of a long climb up a seemingly endless set of stairs. Once conquered the stairs would reward the perseverant with it's treasures: not only the best vantage point of Equestria but certainly of the stars above it as well. A telescope had been provided for those of an astronomical disposition and it was much loved, much used and much replaced. It was possible that in times gone by a trip up the tower was a privilege, hence the permits, but in these modern times obtaining one was as easy as walking up to the tower and grabbing one from the pile at the door, nodding to the elderly door keeper and, if you liked, commenting on the weather as you entered. For many years the doorkeeper was mostly undisturbed and short of news about the summer heat or incoming thunderstorms but in recent times the tower had experienced something of a renaissance and, though never exactly bustling, was often visited. The reason for the renewed popularity was a consequence of the tower's newest nick name. It was a favourite of Princess Luna, who loved her stargazing as much as the most devout astronomer and could often be found there ready to talk about obscure comets or constellations or the weather or indeed whatever the topic du jour was. The most gracious hostess she was loved by all those who made the pilgrimage up those endless, endless stairs.
Tonight she was alone. The last visitors had left as midnight approached and she was enjoying having the tower to herself. In the moonlight the landscape was shaded evenly in darkness. It was tranquil. Still. The city below her, cacophonous during the day, had settled into a silence interrupted periodically by the odd dog barking or cat yowling. The taverns that would normally supply a pleasant rumble of mixed conversations and music were closing and whatever sounds they could still contribute were swept away by a light breeze. Looking out over the guard rail the sky looked tempting as if it was waiting for something. Luna stared at it, seemingly considering if she should take up the tacit offer. She stood for a while, as if waiting for something. Finally she lifted her head and came to a decision.
She leapt over the guard rail, spread her wings and soared. The night welcomed it's own as she traced the cool zephyrs with delicate wing beats and a calm smile. Executing a controlled series of barrel rolls she left Canterlot behind her, fading away first in a haze and then into blackness. She concentrated on the wind as it ran it's fingers through her mane - such an intimate gesture from an old friend. Far below the night lights of outlying towns dotted the landscape like a faint echo of the stars above them. The night air was almost sweet and Luna drew in as much as she could as she swooped among the clouds. Clouds were more to her than just condensed water droplets - they were fluffy and soft - they consisted of the substance dreamed of by children when they imagine what it must be like to fly.
Executing an acrobatic series of manoeuvres she closed her eyes, rolled and, rather improbably, crashed into something.
A collision, midair and at high speed is known to ruin the day of almost anyone. It certainly disrupted Luna's tranquil outlook. Spinning, she flew into the motion rather than fighting it raising her wings at just the right angle to counter the opposing forces and was back in control in startling time. The navy blue pegasus she had collided with was not so skilled and was plummeting. Magic flaring, Luna dived grabbing the pegasus with her telekinesis. Given the circumstances and the speed of it all she had no right making the motion look like a graceful swan dive but she did anyway.
Realising he wasn't about to die, the pegasus swore shook his head and turned towards Luna.
"Bloody hell, why don't you look where you're flying..." his eye's grew wide as he realised just who it was he was talking to.
"Umm... That is. I'm real sorry for bumping into you like that... umm..."
"May I ask your name?" asked Luna.
"The name's Lucky Packet your majesty."
"Greetings to you Mr Packet. My name is Luna."
"Of course, your majesty. I recognised you immediately. I'm sorry for bumping into you like that."
"I am rather hard to spot at night and should have been watching where I was going."
"Oh no, ma'am, I was rushing about and paying no attention. This is my fault."
"Mr Packet, we could play this game until sunrise but I tire of blame allocation unless we play with the full set of pieces, cards and
referees. Shall we rather call it a draw? I will understand if you feel you can play for advantage but I must warn you that I have been a Princess for a long time and am exceedingly skilled."
"Umm... I wouldn't want to... Umm..."
"Come Mr Packet, we have shared an accident and survived. We are survivors and can dispense with the formalities."
"Yes, o' course, your majesty. I... of course."
Luna gave Lucky Packet a moment to collect himself before asking:
"It is very late for one to be flying about - are you a courier?"
"Not as such ma'am. Not in so many words. In fact, no ma'am I am not a courier at all."
"Ah. I thought you might be performing an overnight delivery. What then brings you to the night sky at such a time as this?"
"Oh, I was just going for a midnight flap your majesty."
"Indeed? Is this a custom of yours? I do not believe I have seen you out here before and I frequent these skies."
"Not so much a custom. Not really. I, well, ma'am I just needed some air tonight."
"Well" said Luna looking around theatrically "It appears you have succeeded in your quest."
"Uh, yes ma'am."
"If you want quality air I can recommend the Whitetail Woods. There is a fragrance there I find most aromatic. I believe it is the Jasmine. Everfree has a spicier scent but I would not recommend it at this time of night. It is not for the inexperienced."
"Yes ma'am, I'm not so picky about my air. It's quite lovely right here."
Luna inhaled deeply "I see what you mean. Very wise to want what you already have."
"Uh, thank you ma'am. I didn't mean to disturb you ma'am. I know the night is yours..." he looked around, ill at ease with royalty.
"I am told the night belongs now to the poets and the dreamers" said Luna smiling.
"Ah, well your majesty I wouldn't know too much about that."
"It seems true. I have met many poets and dreamers these past months. Which would you be?"
"Ma'am?"
"You are out and about at midnight - are you a poet or a dreamer?"
He looked a little taken aback, then thoughtful.
"Oh I'm a dreamer right enough, ma'am. Though I won't say I haven't turned a phrase in my time."
"I see."
Luna closed her eyes and drifted lazily. The conversation seemed to have stalled and Lucky Packet, not wanting an uncomfortable silence tried to restart it.
"What about you ma'am? Poet or dreamer?"
Luna's eyes opened at the question "I suppose I must side with you and call myself a dreamer as well."
"I would've thought you'd have a fine way with words. Ma'am."
"Perhaps, but dreams are precious things and need looking after. Still, perhaps I'm a poet who dreams and has no need for further elaboration."
"Elaboration? See, knew you were one for the words your majesty."
"You have caught me, Mr Packet. I do enjoy a good word from time to time."
"I must say ma'am, you're not what I expected."
"Is that so? Indeed, what did you expect?"
"I don't rightly know. I thought you'd be more - well I thought you wouldn't want to talk to the likes of me."
"My sister is quite famous for being ready to talk to any pony."
"Your sister, right enough ma'am. I wasn't so sure of..." he trailed off.
"Yes Mr Packet?"
"I'm sorry ma'am, I shouldn't have spoken."
"You were going to say you were not so sure of one who was, not so long ago, the Mare in the Moon?"
"Yes, ma'am. I'm sorry ma'am. I shouldn't have mentioned it."
"Nonsense, I am here and we are under the moon as we speak. It is only natural you would think of it."
They were drifting quite lazily and they rode a passing breeze much like one would drift with a wave in the ocean.
"How come you don't hate it, umm... your majesty?"
"The moon?"
"Well, yes. It was your prison."
Luna nodded her expression neutral.
"Can I tell you a secret Mr Packet."
"I guess so your majesty."
Luna leaned in conspiratorially "The moon is just a lump of rock" she whispered.
She almost laughed at the look of confusion on Lucky Packet's face.
"No Mr Packet, I can bear it no malice for, in truth, it never harmed me. No, the real villain in that story was myself and only myself"
"Sounds like quite a thing your majesty."
"Oh it was."
Another moment of silence passed between them. The young pegasus shifted uneasily but couldn't think of anything to say.
"Would you like to hear a story?" asked Luna.
"A story ma'am?"
"You said you suspected I had a way with words - would you put me to the test?"
"Oh no, ma'am! I believe you, no proof necessary!"
"You do not want to hear the story then?" the sad face that Luna was very obviously putting on made Lucky Packet extremely uncomfortable. He had the impression that she was enjoying a joke at his expense and he had missed the punchline. Still it didn't do to insult immortal princesses.
"I would like to hear the story very much" he said.
Luna broke out into a grin "Thank you. It is a very old story about a very old adversary."
When Discord first appeared many years ago (said Luna) my sister and I hardly knew what to make of him. We could see he was powerful but he seemed harmless and he paid his respects with all the formality and deference we could have wanted. He soon became something of a jester among us and, I dare say, quite popular. We were in the middle of a difficult debate with the Northern Elk and his antics were a boon to my sister who was under enormous strain trying to negotiate with the Elk King. The boorish ambassadors were trying my sister's patience which, if you know my sister, was a remarkable feat of unpleasantness. As I mentioned I had little to do with politics back then and I would often abandon these debates for more pleasurable pursuits.
It was on such an occasion, as I was attending a rather delightful matinee at the Canterlot theatre, when Discord appeared by my side with no invitation. I was startled at first but he managed to explain away his appearance with an alarmingly complex fabrication that I eventually gave into out of sheer exhaustion in attempting to follow it. We subsequently talked about the play, which he had strong opinions over and about the unbearably boring political meeting of which we were truant. I confess I enjoyed his mockeries of the proceedings almost as much as I had enjoyed the play and we left the theatre in good spirits.
"Ah, if only everyday would be as amusing" I said as we trotted along the Canterlot streets. I had cast a spell so that the gazes of the passersby would slip off me, like the proverbial water off a duck, and so hidden I was not disturbed. My sister disliked this subterfuge but I could think of no other way to have some privacy.
"I prefer making my own amusement, thank you very much" Discord did little to disguise himself and enjoyed the stares of the passersby.
"Yes, I have noticed."
"Well? Are you still bored?"
"No, I have recovered from my political maladies, thank you."
"Excellent. If you've recovered enough perhaps I can suggest something else to keep us busy?"
"What do you suggest?"
"Why a game of course! Surely you're not averse to a little game my dear."
"What sort of game?" I asked eagerly.
"Oh a duel of wits, of course! Wouldn't that be grand? The best of Equestria against, well, me. I have no doubt that bards will tell the tale of it in time to come."
I confess I felt a small thrill when he called me the 'best of Equestria'. I had a reputation for being good at games and it seemed Discord had heard of it. I was the Canterlot chess champion at the time (a title I'm hoping to regain by the way).
"I like games" I said.
"Well then you'll like this one."
"What shall we play?"
"We'll play for a soul - that's the real test isn't it? We only get three moves each. What fun!"
"Moves? A soul?"
"Isn't that the grandest of games? The gods playing with the mortals?"
"We are not gods."
"Oh pooh - we're close enough."
"I do not understand how this will work..."
"I'll explain. We choose a pony. A pony on the brink - he or she could go either way. Then we choose sides and try and push him or her one way or another."
"Push?"
"Don't be so literal - think of it. Maybe we find some pony who can't decide between two choices. We each choose one and we have three moves to convince our player to decide on our choice. Or whatever. Imagine Luna - it's chess
with pieces that think for themselves."
This intrigued me.
"Alright - how shall we choose our subject."
Discord shrugged "Does it matter? All we need to do is look."
And look we did. It took the rest of the day as Discord and I bickered over candidate after candidate. I could not fathom Discord. He disqualified perfectly reasonable ponies for ridiculous reasons: too short, too tall, too perfect, too green, not shiny enough, too lopsided, not lopsided enough, breathing in a manner offensive to geese and, a candidate I thought most acceptable, existing one step to the right of where they should have been. I began to question whether Discord wanted to play at all or if, perhaps, choosing the candidate was the game itself. I was about to give up when we found Mulligan.
"I like him" said Discord indicating a pinto coloured stallion trotting along and doing deliveries.
"Are you sure that he is the correct height? Or width?" I asked. It had been a long day and I was tired.
"How uncharitable of you Luna. You mustn't be so pernickety. I think he'll be perfect."
"How so?"
"He's not nobody but not somebody either. Exactly in between greatness and obscurity. I think he'll make a fine pawn in our little game."
I was ready to agree to anything at this point but Discord insisted we should make sure of him. So we followed along - Discord taking notes with a quill and I trying my best not to yawn.
Mulligan's last delivery was for a tavern and we watched and as he delivered his wares. I expected him to leave immediately as he had with all previous customers but instead he lingered near the tavern piano. A pretty grey unicorn was playing some popular tunes and he appeared to be staring at her with rapt attention.
"Well, well, well. I do believe our candidate is smitten."
I had come to a similar conclusion myself. Mulligan's stare said all it needed to.
The unicorn finished her set and greeted Mulligan warmly.
"Well if it isn't the delivery boy" she said looking Mulligan up and down. She had a pleasant contralto voice.
"You were sounding good today Grace."
"You say that every day."
"Particularly good. Better than usual."
"You say that every day too" said Grace smiling as she said so. Mulligan did not appear to be unwelcome.
Discord slapped my back causing me to start.
"We have a winner! The game is afoot!" he said gesturing dramatically.
"Finally" I muttered.
"Yes, it's simple too - it's obvious these two love birds need a push but which way? Here's the game - I will try and pull them apart and you will try and push them together!"
I was not comfortable with that idea and said so.
"Luna - We've been looking for someone like this all day. I would have thought you'd be more excited"
"This is private. I do not think we should interfere."
"Oh. Well I suppose I could always play alone. Although that would make the game tragically... short."
This was a low blow. I had not expected such manipulation but it was effective. I could not let Discord sunder these poor souls.
"Then you leave me no choice. We shall play."
It was late and I convinced Discord that we should adjourn until tomorrow. That night I questioned a few ponies in the palace who made it their business to know everything about everypony. Mulligan, they said, hailed from a family of good reputation but unfortunate means. He was a stock trader by vocation and his vegetable and spice stocks were reckoned to be among the best in all of Canterlot. He had come to Canterlot to seek his fortune, leaving his family behind in a small village not too far away. The city had accepted him and it did not take long for him to find work.
Mulligan was employed by Ye Olde Lode Bearing Company run by the earth pony Pay Load, a name you may be familiar with. This was at the beginning of the Load family's fortunes and indeed their empire had recently been founded on the skills of Pay Load's mother. An imposing mare of great ambition she had worked her whole life to plant the seeds of success and was reaping them now with fervour. There were rumours that she would be elevated into the nobility though, at the time, I had no idea whether or not my sister truly intended to do so. (It turned out that she did not).
The pianist, Grace Note, had a different story. She was born and raised in Canterlot and was from a wealthy family with a minor title. She was the youngest of several siblings and had, to date, avoided her family's fascination with money, titles and gossip. Surrounded by culture from an early age she learnt to play piano and it turned out to be her special talent. However, instead of becoming a concert performer, she accepted a low paying job at a tavern much to her family's dismay which, I believe, was the point.
***
I met with Discord the next morning, outside Ye Olde Lode Bearing Company. I felt some small trepidation, not knowing what to expect.
"On time Luna? If you want to show how confident you are it's better to be fashionably late."
"Perhaps but it would still be rude."
"Oh what good are manners. Silly posturing" he waved a claw dismissively.
"Have you made your move yet?"
"Not yet. I was waiting for you" he rubbed his beard as if a thought had just occurred to him "Besides, isn't it more polite to be early?"
"Propriety dictates that one is on time, neither early nor late."
"Propriety sounds horribly boring. Nevertheless we shall begin! I will start with this!" Discord triumphantly held out a large custard pie for my inspection.
"Your first move is a pie?"
"Yes, of course. You have heard of the Advanced Pie Gambit surely? You must answer either with the Kumquat Variation or the Pekingese Defence. You do want to be competitive don't you?"
"I have no idea what you are talking about."
"Play the Pekingese then. It's better for beginners."
I shook my head, ignoring Discord's lecture on goodness-knows-what and instead watched Mulligan as he arrived for work. He greeted several co-workers as he entered asking after their wives if they were married, or their children if they were married and so afflicted. Those still single were joined in commiseration over the Canterlot Colts's latest loss to the Manehatten Manticores in that year's polo league. I am given to understand that it caused no small amount of pain to those loyal fans who were hoping for their first win in several years. Mulligan's voice was soothing and promised "perhaps, next year..." to sage nods. Once he had extricated himself from his social duties he arrived in an enormous kitchen, filled to the brim with ponies, pots, pastries and packets of all sorts of ingredients. In this melee of flavour he found his corner, mercifully free from the worst of the tussle and began working on his stocks. He seemed content with his lot and he smiled happily as herbs and spices were carefully simmered.
Unbeknownst to Mulligan a rumour was sneaking it's way across the kitchen, hidden in careful whispers and knowing nods. The matriarch of Ye Olde Lode Bearing Company was due for a visit: a surprise inspection. She was a rare sight these days; her son managing the day to day aspects of the enterprise. Still she was feared and the rumour dampened the spirits of those on the floor. Its progress could be measured by the frowns it left in its wake.
The rumour missed Mulligan by inches diffusing to a bigger group. As it was about to rebound on itself, as co-workers began confirming what they had just heard as if the information had been theirs to begin with, a delivery pony made his way across the floor.
"Delivery for Mulligan. Where is Mr Mulligan?"
He was duly directed towards the offending recipient.
Mulligan rose looking confused "But I didn't order a pie?"
"Look it says here that I am to deliver to Mulligan of Lode Bearing etcetera and so forth. You're him aren't you?"
"Well, I suppose I am..."
"Don't suppose, I need accuracy. Are you him or not. Reflect sir, the answer must come to you eventually"
"Well in that case, yes I am" said Mulligan testily.
"Very good sir. Wisely chosen. Here's your pie"
"But I don't even like custard."
"What can I say sir? I was tasked with delivering it no matter how distasteful it is. There, my duty is done. I do hope your day improves, life is not all pies after all."
The delivery pony left swiftly, expertly dodging his way through the kitchen. Mulligan inspected the pie holding it gingerly in his hooves. It appeared to be an ordinary if, unexpected, custard pie. It was sprinkled with cinnamon.
"What do you have there, Mulligan?"
The voice of Pay Load was higher pitched than it should have been for a stallion of his size. Not one to skimp on dessert he was a pony of impressive girth. Worse, he would puff himself up as he walked. It looked like he was floating, his legs more a device tethering him to the floor than a means of motion. As an outside observer I was most impressed at how efficiently he had tracked the progress of the pie across the kitchen.
"It's a pie sir."
"Well? What are you doing with it?"
"I'm not sure. It just happened."
"What? Pies do not just happen. Preposterous."
"Yessir. I mean to say it was delivered."
"Natural state for pies. Often getting delivered. Give it here."
"Sir?"
"Give me the pie. Confiscating it. Illegal contraband, you know. Don't expect it back."
"Oh, that's fine. I didn't want it really."
Pay Load reached for the pie and miscalculated. Sadly more pies are lost during the handover process than should be the case. Mulligan realising that the pie was about to slip from his hooves and that Pay Load was not adequately prepared for this pulled back in an attempt to save the situation. In this he overcompensated and the pie leapt from his hooves and disappeared from view. Mulligan and Pay Load's eyes met for a split second and then they whipped around in unison.
The pie flew through the air in an agonising arc. It was halfway when Mulligan realised where it was heading. Pay Load's mother, the matriarch of Ye Olde Lode Bearing Company, had just stepped through the doorway and was rewarded for her temerity by a custard pie as it applied itself, with no small force and much cinnamon, to her face. The sudden silence on the kitchen floor was punctuated by a series of cuss words the like of which are seldom heard anymore.
Mulligan fled the scene before the shocked onlookers could stir themselves. It was not a good day for Ye Olde Lode Bearing.
I was stunned as I watched the scene play out before me.
"That was mean!" I was about to remonstrate but stopped myself when a more urgent question presented itself "How did you know that was going to happen?"
"My dear - everyone knows Pay Load is an unapologetic glutton who would try and take the pie. Although I must say that worked out better than I expected."
"You sent the pie just to cause trouble?"
"As a princess you may not know the hell that is a manager whom you cannot stand and who cannot stand you. A pie is just a catalyst"
"But I do not see the point. This has nothing to do with his courtship of Miss Grace Note?"
"Doesn't it? How much time for a relationship will there be if he has no work and no money?"
This was something I had not considered.
Mulligan hid in an alley outside the building. It was not the best of hiding places and his co-workers caught up to him without trouble. He resigned himself to his fate and was led back towards the building. Pay Load was waiting at the entrance.
"A bad plot" he said shaking his head as Mulligan approached. "Dastardly. Smuggling in pies as ammunition. Would not have thought it possible"
"I didn't smuggle anything! The pie was delivered!"
"So you say. Suspicious. That's what all pie smugglers say."
Mulligan's eyebrows knitted together "They do?"
"Assuredly. Known for it."
Pay Load shook his head sadly.
"Mama is not happy with you. I could say that she may even be displeased."
"Ah yes... I didn't want the pie to fall you see..."
"No. No more of this pie obsession, Mulligan. We allow no pie addiction here. Pies, until further notice, are off the menu. As are you"
"I'm... what?"
"We're down sizing the stock department. No future in stock trading. No more place for you. Go home and think about what you've done. Was the pie worth it? I think not"
"But... what will I do? You can't do this! I need this job."
"Should have thought of that before attacking innocents with pastries."
"It was all a mistake... You wanted the pie I was just handing it over!"
"Yes a clever subterfuge. Don't think I didn't notice that you tried to implicate me. Good day, Mulligan. Please hand in your apron."
Mulligan removed his apron. It hung defeated on his hooves for a moment before it was taken away by Pay Load.
"We will discuss damages another time" Pay Load turned to leave and disappeared into the building.
Mulligan wandered the Canterlot streets in a daze after that. He let the pedestrian currents pull him to and fro, tracing a chaotic path through the city. He would mumble to himself and shake his head. It was all too unbelievable, all too sudden. With no destination in mind he nevertheless found himself drawn to a particular spot. His random walk through the city eventually deposited him on the doorstep of Grace's tavern. He entered and veered off towards the piano.
Which was unoccupied.
It was not too unusual for Grace to take a break between sessions and Mulligan trotted towards the tavern staircase to find her.
Upstairs were several rooms and he could hear voices from one of them. Tip toeing closer he could make out Grace's voice and someone else. Recognising the other voice he was shocked to the core. He could not help but eavesdrop.
"Please say yes" said the voice of Pay Load and it did not have the same confident ring that it normally did. He sounded pleading. It was enough that Mulligan almost did not recognise him.
"Of course I will".
Mulligan heard his nemesis sigh in relief.
"Thank you, I am honoured."
"As am I Mr Load. This will be a fine engagement."
Mulligan started at that last word.
"Yes. Mama will be pleased. Always saying you are from good stock."
"If she says so. The Palamino Hall then, Wednesday?"
"Yes. Will be a grand event. Miss Note you have no idea how happy this makes me."
Hoovesteps! They were leaving the room. Mulligan had no time to retreat and so dashed into a random door. He managed to close it just in time to see Grace Note and Pay Load walk past. He could not believe it. They were smiling.
"I'm sorry sonny, can I help you?" an elderly stallion, looking quite concerned, was sitting beside a cup of tea. His demeanour was such to suggest that visitors, announced or unannounced were not welcome.
Mulligan, not in the correct state of mind to pick this up, merely shook his head sadly "I'm afraid I don't think you can" he said sadly and left.
He followed the two at a distance. They were talking animatedly and looked for the all the world like good friends or even... Mulligan shook his head sadly and left them in peace.
The scene played out before me, underneath me really, as I had taken to the air to better observe it.
"How on earth did that happen?" I asked myself.
"Oh I can explain that easily enough" Discord floated lazily beside me sipping something from an ornate cup and lounging on a cloud. He was wearing a strange pair of darkened spectacles.
"You can?"
"Naturally. That was my second move."
"You cheated! I never had my turn!"
"Oh come now Luna. No one ever said we had to alternate turns. I only said we get three each. It's not my fault you failed to pay attention"
"But, I thought..."
"You didn't pay attention. The rules said we get three turns and nothing more."
"How did you even get Pay Load there exactly?"
"They know each other; went to school with each other in fact. All it took was a note."
This was bad. Not only had Mulligan suffered a blow with his job but now his prospects with Grace Note appeared to be evaporating. I had three moves and I had to act quickly.
His lack of a job was the first and easiest solved. The second was more difficult but I had a plan. I suspected that if Mulligan and Grace Note could meet and talk then all would become clear.
First things first was securing Mulligan a new place of employment. To accomplish this I made my way to the palace. I walked past the guards and down the stairs heading towards my goal - the kitchen.
The kitchen was, at the time, less of a single place than a network of rooms sharing a culinary theme. Chefs of all descriptions scurried in and out, catering to the whims of royalty. An inordinate amount of food was being produced - not surprising if you consider that the palace had so many servants, nobles and guests to feed.
"Where is Sous Pan?" I asked a passerby. Sous Pan was our head chef.
I was duly directed toward him and, as I approached, I heard him giving directions to a group of servants as to the proper presentation of his ratatouille. He acknowledged my presence with a nod of his head as he finished his orders and I, in the domain of an expert, waited patiently.
"Forgive me, your majesty" he said as the last servant left "the elk have voracious appetites but poor taste. I am trying to educate them but they are resistant. I fear our servants are being mistreated"
"It is a difficult situation, but I trust that you have things well in hand?"
"Assuredly, your majesty. Assuredly. I would not let things slip."
"Very good. I have a favour to ask you."
"Anything, your majesty, anything."
"I have heard of a stock trader in Canterlot who is most skilled and I was wondering if we could offer him a position here in the palace. It might help alleviate some of your burden."
"A stock trader? Well, I must say we could probably do with one. Candle Stick is currently handling our stocks but it is not her forte."
"His name is Mulligan, formerly of Ye Olde Lode Bearing Company. I believe he is currently seeking employment."
"This is good news, your majesty. Thank you. I shall seek him out as soon as I have time."
"I would not delay if I were you. He may not be seeking employment for long. It is best to act soon."
Sous Pan looked around, apparently trying to decide if the kitchen would survive without him for a short time. He ran a tight ship and only a poor leader makes themselves indispensable. His workers were well trained.
"I believe I can make the time, your majesty" he said eventually.
I told him were he could find Mulligan and discreetly followed as he left. This would nullify Discord's first move, I was sure.
I needed a fine sense of timing for my second move. I had observed Grace Note's route home and I knew that if I delayed Mulligan on his daily walk to the tavern at a certain point then he and Grace would almost certainly meet. I told Sous Pan to meet him at this point and managed to delay Mulligan by a series of magical accidents the details of which will not concern us. (Nor will the lecture I received from Celestia who had a lot to say about someone manipulating traffic for personal ends). Discord, unbelievably, aided me in this even though I told him that it would constitute my second move. I believe he had the entire city deadlocked within a few minutes. When all was ready and it was clear that Mulligan was going to be on time for his meeting with Sous Pan, Discord and I made our way to the meeting point.
"That was fun. I wouldn't have thought of bringing an entire city to it's knees just to win a game."
"You will recall that I told you we only needed to secure Main street. The entire city did not have to suffer anything."
"But I wanted to help. What if he had randomly decided to go in the opposite direction? What then?"
"That would have been unlikely."
"But I still planned for it. Superior tactics Luna. You should take notes" a quill and notepad appeared in his paw.
I refused the offer and waited. I had made provision for Sous Pan and he appeared on time (looking a little nervous after being delivered by a pegasus guard). Mulligan appeared as well, almost exactly on time, coming up the other end of the street.
"Oh great not that pony again."
It took me a second to realise that Discord was not talking about Mulligan.
"Who?" I asked.
He indicated an average looking citizen.
"That one. He's still one step to the right. That just get's right up my nose."
I rolled my eyes and concentrated on the meeting.
Sous Pan had noticed Mulligan and was approached him.
"I'm sorry sir, but are you Mulligan? Formerly of Ye Olde Load Bearing?"
Mulligan sighed "Not this again. Yes I am. I am sure of it on sworn testimony of my mother."
Sous Pan blinked at this but rose to the occasion.
"Pleased to meet you sir. Do you have moment? I'd like to discuss something that may interest you."
Mulligan looked as if he was about to protest but he resigned himself and said "If you like, what's up?"
"My name is Sous Pan and I am the head chef at the palace. It is my duty that their majesties Celstia and Luna are fed in a fitting manner"
Mulligan's face lit up at this news.
"You work in the palace! That's amazing! I've always wondered what it must be like..."
"Well, sir, wonder no more. I have been instructed by Luna herself to offer you a position."
"I accept" said Mulligan immediately.
"That is most gratifying. Luna will be pleased. You will get a kitchen of your own of course and all the supplies you need."
If Mulligan had been a pegasus he would have lifted off into the sky "This is fantastic! My own kitchen? And supplies? I will of course need sufficient thyme..."
"Ah sir, there I believe we may have a problem. I am afraid we do not have thyme."
Mulligan goggled "But, I mean, how can that be? I can't very well be asked to do my best work without enough thyme."
"That may be sir, but I'm afraid we're right out of thyme. There's something of a shortage at the moment."
"But I had mounds of the stuff yesterday!"
"Yesterday you worked for Mr Load and his company. They are the reason for the shortage. They have all the thyme in the world at the moment."
Mulligan was stunned. This was not salvation. He could not possibly accept a position where he would be obliged to produce inferior work.
"I'm afraid I can't accept" he told Sous Pan forlornly.
"But sir, the Princess asked for you personally."
"I understand but how can I accept if I don't have the materials? What else would a Stock Trader in my position do? Would you have me work without Rosemary?"
"Certainly not sir. We are not barbarians."
"Then you must understand."
Strangers, these two still felt a strong kinship. Practitioners, both, of the catering arts they understood each other on a level deeper than would at first have been suspected. Sous Pan looked upon Mulligan with respect and accepted his decision as any true artist must accept the decision of his equals. It galled him to think of one such as Mulligan in such terrible straits and him with the means to help, but he could not ask anyone to forsake his art over such trivial concerns as welfare and survival.
"I do sir, and I hope that the situation may be resolved to your satisfaction."
"So do I, yes... So do I"
This was not the outcome I had hoped for.
"Oh tough luck. Who would have seen that coming?" said Discord.
I had no time to respond because, as I had anticipated, Grace Note had just turned into the street and was walking towards Mulligan. She saw him from a distance and began walking towards him.
"Mully, what on earth are you doing here?" asked Grace Note as she arrived.
Mulligan started from his reverie.
"Grace! Where did you come from?"
"Well if you must know I came from the tavern and took a left into Park and then a right into Hill. And then I bumped into you"
"That's extraordinary."
"I don't think so. I walk this way everyday."
"No, that you took Hill. You should cut through Mustang. It'll save you five minutes."
"And you've been moping here waiting to tell me that? Besides Mustang is too busy."
Mulligan raised himself "I was not moping"
"It certainly seemed like you were moping. I saw you from a distance and said to myself 'that looks like a stallion who needs a swift kick to the rump'. Then I saw it was you and I rejoiced because it seems feminine intuition is still infallible."
"Well, you would mope too if you had just lost your job."
"Mully! That's terrible!"
I hoped that Mulligan was paying attention because Grace Note's tone was as concerned as a would be suitor could have hoped.
Grace Note however followed this up with a hoof on Mulligan's shoulder asking "So what did you do?"
"What do you mean what did I do?"
"Mully, let's face it, in all probability you goofed. It happens from time to time."
"Well if you must know it was all because of someone you know very well."
Grace's face went blank.
"It wasn't Charity Belle was it? That filly is always causing trouble."
"No. It was my boss, ex-boss, Pay Load" Mulligan tried to hiss the name of his former employee and failed, of course, due to the lack of sibilants. It was, however, a fine try.
"Oh dear. What happened?"
"He attempted to confiscate a pie."
"Yes that does sound like him. Why were you tempting him with pies?"
"I was not tempting anyone. The pie was delivered. Anonymously I might add."
"Well, someone was obviously trying to be nice."
"Well I would prefer if next time they deliver a large spider or something. It's less painful in the long run."
"Maybe you can apologise? Load can be reasonable if you offer him enough sugar cubes..."
"I want nothing to do with him. I know about you two."
I leaned forward - I was hoping the conversation would take a turn such as this.
Grace Note looked confused "What about the two of us?"
"I heard you talking in the tavern."
"Oh. That. I wouldn't have thought you'd mind."
"I mind"
"Well what's it to you? It's a great opportunity."
"He fired me!"
"You shouldn't hold grudges Mully."
"I can't understand how you can even bear to be close to him! He's repulsive!"
"Now just a second - you're being mean. I've never heard you being mean before."
"Well I can be mean if the times call for it."
"Well you don't seem to be considering my feelings. I just told you this means a lot to me."
"You won't reconsider?"
"Mully, can you even begin to think what this would mean for my family? How could I pass it up?"
"Fine. Don't. Good day" Mulligan turned to leave.
"Mully..."
"No. You've said what you wanted. I'm going. You'll want to take Fourth if you're heading home."
"Fathead. It's quicker to skirt around Third into Tabby avenue."
This was too much for Mulligan. He snorted and started trotting away leaving a very confused Grace Note and one nonplussed princess.
"Oh dear, that didn't seem to go very well did it."
I sighed "No it did not."
***
Mulligan had headed directly to another tavern, had sat down and immediately ordered something to soothe. A malted barley and water was delivered without ceremony and he sipped it carefully. However, one malted barley and water was insufficient and soon another was required. And then another. At some point he decided that there was no future in parsimony and he began ordering two at once.
It did not take long for him to reach the point where he was ready to open up his soul to whoever would listen. He began by holding forth on the topic of the fickleness of women, something his fellow drinkers had much to say about. Eventually he could not hold in his story anymore.
"I heard them talking" he said to the pony on his left "they sounded cozy."
The pony on his left took this in his stride nodding seriously. After a moment however, he pursed his lips as if he was working out a complicated bit of algebra.
"You heard who talking?" he asked eventually, getting to the heart of the matter.
"Them. They were in the tavern."
"Ah. Talking you say."
"Yes."
"Them."
"That's what I said."
The pony nodded sagely once more. The pursed lips, however, did not budge.
"You did say who?"
"Who?"
"Who was talking."
"I did?"
"That's what I asked."
Mulligan shook his head. The conversation had become too metaphysical for him. I could see him muttering under his breath as he attempted to make some sense of it. Eventually light dawned.
"Oh, I see. It was Grace and that hell hound Pay Load"
His neighbour had unfortunately not been concentrating and had obviously thought their conversation was done. He looked up startled and incredulous.
"You saw a graceful hell hound?"
"No. You misunderstand. There was Grace and then the hound."
"You talk in too many riddles sir. Be clear. Was there a hell hound or not."
"There was not."
"Then why bring it up? Gave me a turn just mentioning the thing."
This would, I suspected, have gone on for some time had they not been interrupted.
"'Ere you talking about Miss Grace and that Pay Load?"
The neighbour shook his head sadly.
"We were on the topic of hell hounds..." he began but Mulligan cut him off.
"Yes we were."
"Ah - what a couple them! 'Eard they was going to tie knot now weren't they?"
Mulligan leapt from his seat stunned "You did! When?"
"Oh it's been a done deal for a while, guv. Thick as thieves them. Went to the same school don'tchaknow. Real classic love story if you ask me"
Mulligan drew himself up haughtily "I did not ask" he said. I think he must have wanted to look down on the interloper but too much malted barley can disrupt one's aim and he instead looked down haughtily at a chair leg. I could not tell how the chair leg felt about this because Mulligan did not linger. He left.
I found it suspicious that the pony who interrupted him left soon after. I waited just outside the tavern, intending to question him about what he had said. He took me by surprise by seeing straight through my spell and walking towards me. As he did so his form shifted and faded into Discord.
"You!"
"My third move. Quite clever don't you think? He really believes now. Admirable how the word of a stranger in a pub is taken for gospel isn't it?"
"You lied to him!"
"So?"
I was not sure what to reply to that. Of course we never said that lying was against the rules. Mulligan, a dejected sorry sight, disappeared from view.
"But... How could you!"
"How could I what? Play to win? You really don't listen to rules do you?"
"This was supposed to be a game. Ponies are getting hurt!"
"Do go on. I'm intrigued by this molehill-to-mountain conversion process."
"He was happy and we have taken that away from him. Surely that should give you pause?"
"My dear, worse things happen at sea every day. Besides, it will be good for him. A little chaos can take him a long way."
"I fail to see how this is going to end in his advantage."
"Well, isn't that up to you? Your move Princess Luna. No pressure or anything" and he disappeared.
I was left alone and I did not know what to do. Mulligan had no job and had refused the one I had tried to give him. Worse all evidence now pointed to the pony he loved not being interested in him anymore. I could see it in the way he walked away. He had lost hope.
I was so upset with the situation that I found myself, through no conscious effort, drifting towards my sister and the ongoing Elk negotiations. They paid little attention to me when I entered and I think it was some time before I caught up with what was happening. They were discussing obscure points of legal precedent - apparently several of our treaties had wording ambiguous enough as to void much of their intention and Celestia was trying to effect a reasonable amendment. As I listened I felt a growing discomfort. Celestia, in her quiet way, was navigating a labyrinth of rules and interpretations - a difficult game where your opponent would try and sway the interpretation of a badly worded sentence and your defence rested on your ability to make your opponent see reason. I was reminded of the way Discord had left the rules of our game open to reinterpretation. Finally paying attention I was amazed at how skillfully Celestia was handling things. Each 'move' of the ambassadors was countered by a reasoned rebuttal; a demand that import costs be lowered would be met with a quiet reminder that Equestria did not, in fact, need to import anything from the Elk lands and that the import tax was to offset the extortionate drayage costs that the Elk were prone to. Here was the truth: Discord had not chosen me because I was the 'best of Equestria'. Quite the opposite. I confess, as I watched my sister, I felt envious of her. Envious of how easily she would have won the game against Discord. Envious of how the negotiations were slowly progressing in her favour despite the hostility of her opponents. I felt a fool.
I left without saying a word, my presence neither noted nor necessary. As the light faded I walked the Canterlot streets. I had no clear destination in mind but found myself, by degrees, coming closer and closer to Mulligan's home. Through the window I could see him packing, mumbling under his breath. He was leaving Canterlot and going back to his village. I was invisible yet I felt opaque and glowing with the slimy guilt of my failure. It clung to me as did the shame that I had ever taken part in such a barbarous game. If Celestia found out... I did not want to think about it. I was thankful Discord left me alone then - chewing on bitter disappointment is best done alone in the dark.
That night I raised the moon from my room in the palace. I had instructed my maid servants that I was not to be disturbed. I needed to think. It was no use. I fell asleep.
I woke with a start that morning. My mind was still racing with possibilities. How could I convince Mulligan that all was not lost? I half thought that I should abandon the game and confront him as a Princess of Equestria. I could order him to take the job with Sous Pan and to talk it out with Grace. I balked at the idea. I really did not want this to become public and what else would happen if I appeared in an official capacity? It was then that I realised that this was a solved problem. Discord himself had played a similar move. I jumped up and ran out of the room. Then I ran back into the room to change out of my pajamas and then ran out again.
I knew what to do. I would confront him. I held the keys that would restore him. Cloaking myself in the image of a brown earth pony I stationed myself on the outskirts of Canterlot to intercept him as he left. There was no railway in those days so he had only one possible exit from Canterlot. The image I chose was of an old mare, wrinkled with age and labour. It was not a lie, really. By his standards I was an old mare. I hoped that the appearance of age would lead, naturally, to the appearance of wisdom.
It was far down the mountain road, almost at the base, when I found him. It took some careful planning but I maneuvered myself such that I ended up trotting next to him in the crowds of carts and travelers.
"You do not look like a trader."
Mulligan was deep in thought and took a moment to register my presence.
"I'm sorry, what?"
"I said, you do not look like a trader."
"Oh I see. Yes. I suppose I don't look much like one. Although I'm not sure what traders normally look like. Something about the eyes isn't it? Although I am one really. I trade in stocks."
"Indeed. I see you have no wares."
"Oh, you know, I'm just going for a walk really. To clear my mind. No wares for now."
"This is a very long walk for a clear mind."
"Yes well. Mine's more cluttered than you may think."
"Ah. You must be having filly trouble. I can tell."
"You can?"
"I have been around this block more than once young man."
"Yes, it's a very long block isn't it? How many times have you been round it?"
"I meant that metaphorically."
Mulligan nodded sagely though I am sure he had no idea what I meant "Metaphorically. Yes, of course. So, at least twice then?"
I sighed "Maybe even three times."
"A good number three."
"Quite."
There were other conversations around us enough for us to be well concealed in the noise. We trotted a moment before Mulligan talked again.
"Is it true?"
"Is what true?"
"Well, that older ponies have more wisdom? I heard that somewhere."
"I cannot say for sure. Perhaps we do."
"I think I lost everything you know."
"Really?"
"She wouldn't listen... And the pie of course. I had to turn the chef down, didn't I?"
"I am not sure I follow you..."
"It's why I'm running away."
"I thought you were clearing your mind?"
"I can multitask. I'm running away and clearing my mind."
"Quite a feat."
"Thank you."
A few more contemplative steps.
"Tell me about her."
"Who?"
"The mare you are running away from."
He stared at the ground for a moment.
"She's a pianist. An amazing one. Can play anything really. I'd deliver stocks to the tavern she played in and it was the best part of my day. I'd sit for hours just watching her."
"That sounds very nice."
"It was."
"May I ask then, why are you running away?"
"I fouled everything up. Hit someone with a pie and turned down a job the next day. Well, I lost the job. The first one, because of the pie. Although I guess I lost the second job too because I turned it down. That is, if I'm allowed to say I lost it if I turned it down. Are you allowed saying that?"
"We can make an exception for now."
"That's very big of you. Grace does that for me all the time. Always an exception."
"So now you are running away?"
"Yes. She's throwing herself away. Marrying the very stallion who fired me."
"I can see why you would not want to stay."
"Yes. I'm going to head home. It's a village not far from here."
I nodded and looked around. The bottom of the mountain was approaching and with it the crossroads that would lead across Equestria.
"Does she love him?" I asked.
"Who?"
"This pony you say she intends to marry. Does she love him?"
"I don't know. Maybe. She said it was important to her. A great opportunity."
"Opportunity? A strange word to use when you are talking about your fiance."
"Yes. Well she also said it was very important to her family."
"Her family? Is she a noblemare? I cannot think of anyone else who would marry just to please their family."
"She is. Well her family is. She's never been one for that stuff."
"I would think not. You did say she played piano in a tavern?"
"I did."
"Not the place you would expect to find a noblemare?"
"She said she did it because she rather likes playing and it made her mother turn purple. I think she meant that poetically but you never know."
"It sounds odd that she would now marry an unsuitable suitor just to please them."
"Yes... It... does..."
"And surely you are just as unsuitable a choice?"
"I'm sorry?
"Think - you have no work and no title. You are a terrible choice."
"Yes, I am terrible. That's wonderful! I hadn't thought of that!"
"Perhaps you should tell her."
"I should I..." he trailed off
"I can't" he said. He deflated.
"Why not?"
"I can't ask her to marry me if I can't support her. Her family would cut her off and then what?"
"You said you had a job offer that you turned down?"
"They didn't have the ingredients I needed for my stocks..."
I nodded thoughtfully.
"It does sound like you have landed yourself in the soup."
"The worst. Pea soup I guess. It's the thickest. Although tomato is spicier. Maybe it's that..."
"I think pea soup describes the situation quite well. It is a pity you don't have other options."
Mulligan stopped abruptly, causing a stallion behind him to walk into him.
"'Ey, watch were yer going!"
Mulligan just stood there ignoring the comments of the passers by. I stopped next to him.
"Are you alright?" I asked.
"Other. Stock. Options" he said seemingly staring into another dimension.
"That's what I said."
"Yes..." he said his voice faraway "yes..."
"You are blocking the road just a bit."
He shook his head as if coming awake.
"I need to go."
"You are heading back to Canterlot?"
"Yes, I think my head just cleared."
"Well good luck to you. I hope things work out."
"So do I."
He trotted, no, cantered off. I had played my final move.
It did not take me long to find Discord.
"I made my last move."
"Did you now? Without even letting me watch? Tsk, tsk. Rude. Tell me, what did you do? I'm all ears."
"I talked to him."
"Oh dear really? I'm sure talking wasn't in the rules..."
"You talked with Mulligan. And as you have made clear what we can and can not do was never specified."
"Ha ha. No it wasn't. Why Luna! Have you finally started leaning towards the less likely? Does the lustre of your latest insight lead you to new lessons?"
"Mock me all you like, the die has been cast."
"So serious. It's the end game. It's exciting, don't look so glum" he elbowed me in the ribs.
"Before this ends, I would like to know: what purpose was there to this game?"
"To have fun of course! Aren't you having fun? Isn't the tension getting to you? The suspense?"
"We could have had all that playing chess."
"Pah! Chess. A game for people whose imaginations need rules."
"I like chess."
"As I said."
We headed towards the tavern. It was early when we entered and the place was mostly empty. Taking up a table I used my spell to effectively block off our entire corner. We would not be disturbed.
"What are we waiting for?" asked Discord curiously.
"You'll see."
A moment later:
"You do know that this is boring don't you?"
"Be patient."
"Boring. Booooooorrrrrinnnggg."
"Shush."
He pouted. Eventually we passed the time by playing bridge of all things. Discord playing North, South and East. It was a most disconcerting game.
It took some time but gradually the tavern filled. Grace Note arrived and began her set. She was not as lively as usual and I wondered if that was because Mulligan had not arrived to watch her play. It was late afternoon and the sun was setting when Mulligan finally arrived.
He burst backwards into the tavern carrying a pot in his mouth. Every head turned to see him as he headed straight towards the piano.
"Grafe!" he said.
"Mully! What on earth are you doing?"
Mulligan carefully placed the pot on the floor, spitting out the handle.
"I tried to run away, you know. I was half way down the mountain when I couldn't go on anymore. I had to turn back."
"You what?" Grace looked alarmed.
The whole tavern had become quiet. Discord was studying the scene with an enormous grin.
"I came back. I... Taste this, tell me what you think?" his voice was pleading and Grace Note could not refuse him.
"What is it?" she asked.
"Soup. I made soup. And broth. And gravy. They're all variations on stock aren't they? I should be able to do them..."
Grace Note nodded hesitantly and tasted the soup. She licked her lips thoughtfully and smiled.
"It's good."
Mulligan visibly deflated in relief. You could see his hind legs were shaking.
"I never tried, you see. I was good at one thing, and I left it there. I thought that was all you needed, right? Success and the girl and then a happy ending. Bells and things. But, maybe. Umm. I think, I know now. There's never enough thyme, you see? Always something missing"
Grace cocked her head to the side looking thoughtful. Mulligan continued.
"I just want to say that I think I'm just as bad a choice as Pay Load" he said lifting his head proudly.
This confused not only Grace Note but everyone else in the tavern.
"He's what?" said an elderly stallion who was promptly shushed by his wife as she strained to get a better view.
"I can support you so that's not a problem. I asked Sous Pan, the palace chef if they needed stock with options. He agreed. Said he would order from me and I could deliver. They always need gravies and things. Broths. Stocks. It's enough. So you don't have to marry Pay Load. I'm available"
The entire tavern paused for a moment. Grace's jaw dropped.
"I'm sorry. What?"
"I said you don't need to marry Pay Load - I'm willing to fill in."
The elderly stallion nudged the wife again "Wassee saying?" and was shushed again.
"Pay Load? You think I want to marry Pay Load?"
"Well..." Mulligan, so full of confidence a moment before, looked uncertain "wasn't that the engagement you were two were talking about?"
"Engagement? Oh you silly ass" and she burst out laughing.
Mulligan frowned, this speech was not going as he had planned. It took a moment for Grace to catch her breath. Then she looked up at Mulligan and burst into yet another paroxysm of laughter.
"Umm... Was it something I said?" he asked.
There were tears flowing down Grace's cheeks.
"You ass" she managed between gasps "I wasn't marrying anyone. Pay Load asked me to play piano at his mother's birthday party"
"Oh" then the penny dropped "Oh. But I thought I heard..."
Wiping the tears from her eyes but still grinning Grace patted him on the shoulder
"I really don't think you thought at all. I am quite touched that you tried to save me though."
"Well fate worse than death you know" mumbled Mulligan suddenly aware that he was not alone and that this scene would be talked about for years to come.
"Yes. Probably. I was only taking the gig because mother would be apoplectic. She despises the Loads."
"I never knew I had that in common with her. Wise woman your mum?"
"Not in the least. She wouldn't like you at all."
"Ah. Wait - was that a compliment?"
"You're very sweet you know that?"
Mulligan was a stallion's stallion and brushed this comment off.
"I am not."
"Yes you are."
They stood smiling at one another.
"Well go on! Kiss 'er then!" yelled a fat stallion in the back, breaking the spell. The entire tavern burst into similar sentiments, whistles and whoops.
Mulligan froze, caught between impropriety and desire.
It was up to Grace Note to lean forward and do the deed.
I thought Discord would be angry at his failure. Instead he laughed. A deep belly laugh as if everything that happened was simply the funniest thing.
"Oh my, what a delightful escapade. You managed to surprise me my dear, how wonderful. Shall we do a best out of three? Should we raise the stakes? I can ante an ant-eater if you like?"
"I'm done playing Discord. We should not play with other ponies fates."
"But have you thought of the possibilities? Didn't you have fun?"
"I'll not play again."
"Such a pity, this was most amusing. And think - you've proven that you truly are the superior games player. Would Celestia have won this?"
"I do not know. But yes, she probably would have."
"It must be so hard to live in her shadow. Is that why you prefer the night? Shadows everywhere so you can finally escape her?"
"I do not need to escape my sister."
"But look how successful you are without her. You should get your due."
"I have my due" I said as Grace resumed playing a joyful tune with the whole tavern bustling as it had never bustled before.
"Well there is that. But my dear I think there is something important that you've forgotten."
I raised an eyebrow at him.
"I do not think so. I believe I won quite nicely thank you."
Discord pointed a paw in the air.
"Are you sure you haven't forgotten anything?"
"Oh my gosh the moon!"
Evening was a little late that day.
Luna trailed off. The alicorn and the pegasus did not look at one another and for a moment both seemed lost in thought.
"It was not long after when Discord started his reign of chaos. He caught us off guard. He knew everything about us, the extent of our powers. If it wasn't for the Elements of Harmony... " she trailed off.
They had flown some way during the story and the landscape had changed a few times underneath them. It was now forest, a lush carpet of leaves and smells.
Lucky Packet's expression was distant "You know don't you?"
"That you are running away? Yes I do."
He sighed "I didn't think anyone would notice."
Luna nodded solemnly "Mr Packet, someone always notices."
Lucky Packet looked surprised at that.
"Is that true?" he asked.
"I believe so. It is almost impossible to live a life and not touch someone else along the way. We are noticed everyday"
"I don't want to go back."
Luna didn't say anything but smiled gently.
"He's not... He's not a bad pony you know. Things just didn't work out for him..." he stopped, looking away "please don't make me go back."
"Mr Packet I no longer play games. I have learnt my lesson. I will not take your choice from you."
Lucky Packet sighed in relief "Thank you ma'am" he said.
"Where are you heading?" asked Luna.
"Anywhere. I haven't really thought about it"
Luna nodded.
"You have lived with your father all your life. Why are you running away now?"
"I... I lost my temper. At my mother. Just like he does. I can't stay. You have to understand Princess..."
"I do. Remember, few have as much experience losing one's temper at family members as I do"
"Yes. I suppose you do. Do you think I should? Go back, I mean?"
"You are asking the wrong question Mr Packet. What you have here is not a choice between staying and leaving."
"It isn't?"
"When I became Nightmare Moon, when my resentment for my sister forced me to confront her, I thought I was doing the right thing. I thought that it would make things right. It did not. I was banished and being banished is a lot like running away. That also did not solve my problem. I stewed in bitter resentment for all those years and started the same war the moment I returned. It took the Elements of Harmony to make me realise that I could not change Celestia, nor could I change Equestria. I could only change myself."
"Okay, I don't see how..."
"Mr Packet, you believe your choice is between running away from home and staying in the place that has caused you pain. It is neither. Your pain will follow you regardless which you choose. The real choice before you is this: will you let your pain fester and turn you into the very thing you detest or will you find some way to free yourself?"
Lucky Packet didn't say anything. His flight path veered a bit and he avoided eye contact.
"Mr Packet?" said Luna eventually.
"How" Lucky Packet's face contorted into a grimace as he barely controlled himself "That's so easy to say. Everyone says things like 'choose your destiny' or 'follow your heart'. How do I do that. What does it mean?"
"That is never easy. But Mr Packet we are the sum of our choices. Forgive yourself. Choose to forgive yourself. Too often we take the pain of what is done to us and think - I am already lost, why should I turn aside now? But if we turn aside now, Mr Packet, now, then we are already on the way to salvation. You fear the curses are true - that you are indeed worthless. You fear your father's anger is in you. It is. My anger is still in me. I did not transform when the Elements freed me, I was merely given a second chance. But we are not slaves to our darkness. We can choose another path. Just because we have the potential for evil does not make us evil."
"I don't know if I can do that."
"It is doable. It is much easier if you do not attempt it alone."
"I don't know anyone else. I don't really have friends."
"If you need to talk I can easily be found at the Canterlot tower. They call it Luna's Landing now."
"You... You'd let me come visit?"
"Certainly."
"But you're a Princess! You raise the moon!"
"I am the princess of the night. I am the princess of darkness. Who better to help you with your darkness?"
Lucky Packet stirred "Your majesty, I don't know what to say."
Luna smiled "In such circumstances I find saying nothing suffices. It is often the wisest course of action" she shrugged "Or so my sister tells me."
"Then, thank you... ma'am. Thank you."
"My pleasure."
"If you don't mind, ma'am, I think I'll leave you now. I think I should be getting home."
Luna turned her head inquisitively "You have made your choice?"
Lucky Packet shook his head "No. But I don't want my mother to worry. I'll..." he trailed off.
"Something to remember, perhaps, is that you now know a Princess. One who commands the royal guard" Luna grinned in the night.
Lucky Packet joined her in a smile "I didn't think of that" he said.
"Goodbye Mr Packet."
"Goodbye your majesty."
"You can call me Luna."
"Umm... Yes. Goodbye... Luna."
He pulled away and soared back into the darkness. She watched him for a moment. It was only in the stillness that followed that she realised that her heart was throbbing and a tension began to ease out of her.
She turned and flexed her wings, changing direction and flying straight towards her stars. She flew so fast even Rainbow Dash would have had to exert herself to keep up. The thinning air didn't seem to bother her as she gained altitude at an alarming rate. Eventually she slowed and stopped, higher than the highest peak with patchwork clouds far beneath her. There was nothing between her and the stars here and she appeared to shine in their light. For a moment her eyes fell on the moon and her face was solemn. Soon, however, a mischievous smile faded in along her muzzle and with a whoop of joy she dived.
The doorkeeper for Luna's Landing was fast asleep when she returned. She placed her permit with some reverence on the pile. It was an odd tradition. The permits had no reason to exist anymore but sometimes you didn't need a reason. Luna liked taking part even if it meant an argument when the doorkeeper insisted she needn't.
It would be dawn soon and time for her breakfast with Celestia. She wondered if she had to write a letter or if reporting the incident in person would suffice.
