The Moon On Her Flankby RachanaRoxxChaptersThe New PrincessesThe Celestial RaiseThe Lunar RaiseThe Sick AlicornThe Role She PlayedThe Unexpected VisitThe New PrincessesBefore my and Celestia’s rule, Equestria was ruled over my father and mother. My father, King Phoenix, was as high and mighty as they get. Not one, who saw him with his caramel coat and blood red mane, as well as the confident look in his eyes, could deny his title as a child of the sun. He was an alicorn of pride, holding his head high as dignities from other lands come to admire his kingdom. My mother, Queen Tenebris, was of a different character. Her snow white coat with a deep blue mane was as beautiful as the starry sky itself. She was as beautiful as the night sky, and was painted her as an angel in the eyes of her subjects. She was gentle, kind, and patient with her citizens, but was no push-over, and was not afraid to get her hooves dirty. She rose the moon with elegance and grace. It was a day of celebration across all of Equestria, the birth of their newest Princess, Princess Celestia. My father’s eyes sparkled as he looked to see his new daughter, a child of the sun. Equestria danced to welcome the arrival of the new Princess. But then something unexpected happened: They had me. More than that was the fact that I was a child of the moon. ‘But how can this be?!’, Father would argue, the same argument I’ve heard so many times before. ‘I don’t see the problem with this. The way I see it, we were blessed with both a child of the sun and moon.’ said Mama. ‘But it is tradition. Star Swirled the Bearded laid the prophecy down clearly! “By every generation, born will be the children of the celestials. One, a child of royal blood and one of common blood. When the time comes, the two will take over the kingdom as King and Queen, keeping balance in our world”. It is as simple as that. It is not even in some complicated rhyme. And now this second has ruined everything!’ ‘Phoenix! Don’t talk that way about Luna. She is just as important as Celestia.’ ‘Tell me this, Tenebris, who will rule Equestria after our time is done?’, Father questioned. ‘Well…’ Mama hesitated,’...I suppose Celestia and Luna will’ ‘And after them? Who will carry down our royal blood?’ Mama said nothing. She knew that in a way, Father was right. Father and Mama raised us, teaching us how to be Princesses and fulfil our duties as rulers of Equestria. Father taught Celestia the mightiness of the sun, while Mama taught me the majesty of the moon. Every night, she would take me onto the Palace balcony. ‘Luna, do you know what my role is in Equestria?’ Mama asked. ‘Um...you raise the moon?’ ‘Right. And do you know why I raise the moon?’ I lifted my shoulders. ‘Nope!’ I saw with a naughty smile. ‘Look out there,’ she began, gesturing to the houses below,’Those ponies down there need the night. They need the sleep so that they can gain strength and do they most that they can during the day. The world needs balance. Your father gives one half, and I provide the other. This is how we create harmony.’ Mama looked out to the night, admiring its peaceful beauty. ‘One day, you will look after this night. Remember, Luna, there is a difference between darkness and the night. Don't you ever forget that.’ Mama kissed me on my forehead, and left without another word, leaving me alone on the balcony. I looked up into the night to try and see what Mama saw, but it just looked like the same dark sky I saw every night. ‘Looks pretty dark to me…’ The Celestial RaiseAfter 100 moons of training, it was the day of truth: The Celestial Raise. ‘As per tradition’, Father said, ‘The royal celestial child will raise either the sun or the moon, signifying glory and proving their place as a ruler of Equestia! And you, my dear Celestia, will be the shining star in the night sky!” The way he said “night sky” made me feel uncomfortable, as if he is trying to say, “The sun needs to bring some real beauty to that dark sky”. I was about to speak up, but Celestia slowly shook her head. “Don’t.”, her eyes said. The four of us went out into the balcony to begin the ceremony. The air was still yet festive. Ponies from all over Equestria came to witness Celestia raise the sun for the first time. Celestia took her place, Father and Mama between us. I looked around and wished that I could have my ceremony at the same time as my sister, but Father was so stubborn when it came to tradition. Mama must have seen me upset. “Don’t you worry, sweetheart. Remember, you get your chance at dusk.” That made me feel better. I looked across to Celestia, expecting to see a filly with head held high. But instead, I saw a pony who looks like she is about to have a heart attack. She was shaking like she was trying to contain an earthquake. ‘Pss...Tia…..Tia!’ I signaled to Celestia behind my parents. She looked at me, eyes filled with horror. ‘What…?’ she whispered back to me. ‘You alright?’ ‘Yeah...maybe...not really! Look at all those ponies! What if I can’t do it?!’ ‘Tia! Snap out of it! I’ve seen you practice, and you are amazing. You’re a natural at this. Just take a deep breathe and do it!’ ‘Celestia! Luna! Enough.’ Father sayed, turning back with eyes narrowing. I looked over at Celestia again. She still seemed a bit nervous, but with less of an earthquake effect. She took a deep breathe. Her body stoped shaking almost instantly. She looked right at me. ‘Thanks’ she mouthed at me. I nodded my head. ‘Good luck.’ I mouthed back. The trumpets blew, and the crowd silenced themselves. Father stepped forward and began. ‘Citizens of Equestia! Welcome to this momentous occasion. Today, only moments before dawn, my daughter, Princess Celestia of Equestria, will raise the sun to begin the day. My wife, Queen Tenebris, will do the honors of lowering the moon, making way for the shining light of the sun! Princess Celestia…’ Fathers turned to Celestia,’ ...please step forward.’ Celestia, looking as calm as she possibly could, walked up to the front of the balcony. Mama and Celestia took their places. Slowly, the moon started to set. Celestia controlled all her magic into her horn, and surely, the sun started to move. The crowd went wild as the light hit the shadowed land. Celestia didn’t look at them. Her only concern looked to be getting the sun high enough. Everything seemed to be going according to plan. She spread her wings, preparing to fly up to complete the raise. The sun continued to rise, but Celestia was still on the ground. She should have been in the air by then! ‘Are you alright?’ I tried to ask as quietly as possible. ‘Can’t…fly…!’ she says, her voice as scared as ever. I looked at Father, disappointment and shame written all over his face. I can’t let Tia fail at a time like this!, I thought, she has worked too hard for this to happen! I took a step into the shadows without Father noticing. I mustered up as much magic as I could. Then, my horn began to glow. I pointed it at Celestia, and thankfully, she was lifted off the ground. Holding a filly my size was not too much of a challenge, but it was no walk in the park either. Finally, Celestia spread her wings. I cut off the magic, watching her complete the ceremony. Inches before the sun reaches it’s place, Tia’s entire body lit up, even brighter than the body she was lifting. Everypony shaded their eyes. Once the extra light disappeared, we were exposed to what it hid. On her once spotless flank laid a picture of the sun, and we all knew what that meant. Celestia got her cutie mark! The crowd was in awe, cheering harder than ever before! Celestia, however, didn’t seem to notice. With her last bit on energy and one final push, the sun was finally in the sky. Celestia lowered herself, collapsing on the ground the moment she hit it. I ran up to give her a hug, but Mama stopped me. She gestures to the crowd, and I got the message: Let her have this moment. The crowd of ponies stomped and roared for longer than I thought! After some news ponies come to talk to Father and Celestia, she trotted over to me. I ran to her, giving her a hug so big that even the sun would choke from it. ‘That was AMAZING, Tia! I mean, WOW! The crowd loved it!’ I said, still in awe. ‘I am still shocked myself.’ she said, catching her breathe, ‘By the way, thanks for levitating me. Who knows what would have happened if you hadn’t! You are the best!’ ‘I know! But on more important matters’, I pointed to her flank, ‘You finally got your---’ We looked at each other in excitement. Celestia began the countdown, ‘Three...two...one…’ ‘CUTIE MARK!!!’ we said in unison! The two of us rambled on about her new cutie mark. Then Celesia had an idea. ‘Wait...I got my cutie mark by raising the sun. So that means that you might get your by raising the moon tonight!’ ‘You think?’ ‘Positive! It makes sense.’ My grin widened even further. Maybe tonight will be my chance to shine! I decided to relax for the rest of the day, conserving my strength for tonight’s ceremony. Mama gave me some extra tips for raising the moon and I was ready. Now all there was to do was wait. And wait. And wait. The Lunar RaiseIt was only a few hours until the Lunar Rise, and I was nervous! I l laid on my bed, stiff as a rock. The door creaked open behind me. ‘Luna?’ a voice called from behind, ‘Are you alright?’ ‘Not really!’ I called back, remaining in my motionless state. Celestia walked over to the bed, tilting her head at my strange position, my hooves curled up together as though I was holding a blanket. ‘It really isn’t that big of a deal.’ Her grin widened unnaturally. ‘Easy for you to say! You are “The shining star of the night sky”’ I say in a bad impression of Father. ‘Luna, that reminds me. You have no idea what Dad was saying to those dignitaries that came by a while ago!’ Celestia clears her throat and does the fairly good impression of Father. ‘Princess Celestia is the royal blood at it’s finest. I am proud to be the father of this prodigy. She will be one of the finest Queens the world has ever seen! You know, she is quite the pianist, artist and singer as well. You simply must see it for yourself! Why don’t you sing something for them, dear? Show them your absolutely stunning voice!’ That got a laugh out of me. I try my best at an impression of Father,’Celestia! Luna! You simply cannot be seen in such simple gowns! You need to be the belle of the ball tonight. As Equestrian royalty, it is our duty to attend every possible event, as little as it may concern us, to represent the family and the nation.’ Celestia and I shared a good laugh at the absurdity. I continued my impression. ‘Luna! Why can’t you be more like Celestia? She volunteered at the orphanage. What have you done?’ I let all my anger out, only semi-conscious of what I am actually saying, ‘Oh, that’s right, you did! But I wouldn’t know that because I am too busy adoring your prodigy of a sister! It isn’t like you even stood a chance, even if you deserve it, because I will always love perfect little Celestia and see you as some big…’ I hesitate to say the last word, but let it out anyway,’...MISTAKE!!!’ I was blinded by my anger, all burnt out like a volcano that had just erupted. I took a moment to cool down, and when I did, I saw the damage my lava had done. Celestia had taken a step back, her eyes speaking more than I wanted to hear: Fear, shock, disbelief, anger, horror, it was all there. She tried to speak, but only a faint squeak escaped her mouth before she bolted out of the room. ‘Wait!’ I called out to her, but she was gone,’UGH! I am such an idiot!’ I collapsed on the bed once again and resumed my original position. How could I have hurt Celestia like that? It wasn’t her fault. I felt awful for what I said, trying and failing to recall any of it. I tried to think positive, hoping that I could calm myself enough to talk to her. It started to work. I could feel myself getting lighter, freer and happier. But all that disappeared after a single call from Mama, ‘Luna! Get ready! The Lunar Rise is about to start!’ I slung back into my original position. No, I am not doing this again, I thought. Using as much confidence and energy as I could generate, I shakily stood up made my way to the balcony. On my way there, I saw Celestia. ‘Tia! Wait!’ I called to her. She turned around and froze, her eyes staring into mine fearfully. I buried her head into her arms. ‘Tia. I am so sorry! I-I didn’t know what I was saying.’ Celestia peaked up from inside her arms. I rest my hoof on her shoulder. ‘I got a bit carried away, and sorta just exploded like a volcano. I should never have let my lava burn you too. I really am sorry.’ With no hope of forgiveness, I lifted my hand off her shoulder and continued to the balcony. After only about five steps, a voice from behind stopped me. ‘Luna.’ Celestia took a deep breathe, ‘I-It’s okay.’ She sent a supportive smile my way. She caught up to me and gave me a hug I didn't know I needed, but once I had it, I never wanted her to let go. ‘I guess we never know when you are going to erupt!’ she said with a friendly hit in the shoulder. All this thinking about volcanoes reminded me of an old Equestrian saying. ‘Lava hearts, may turn to stone,’ I started. Celestia finished the line, ‘But not if you are never alone’, elbowing me. It was awkward for a moment, but luckily Mama broke the ice by coming to tell us that we were running late. It was moments before dusk. The only thing stopping it was...well...us. The four of us positioned ourselves as we had before, I and Celestia at the edges with Mama and Father in between. The crowd was as festive and cheerful as this morning, which helped me understand why Celestia was so nervous this morning. I wasn’t too nervous. Honestly, I was too emotionally exhausted to feel anything. Celestia called me from behind my parents. ‘Luna, good luck!’ She said. I mouthed a “thanks” to her. This was the moment I have been waiting for. I thought about this morning, and how this turned out for Celestia. Begin...fly...rise...done. Simple enough. I looked at my empty flank, remembering what Celestia has said. She was the sun, I was the moon. Her cutie mark is the sun, mine will be a _____. It wasn’t very hard to fill in the blank. Now is my chance to shine. As the crowd hushed itself, Mama began, her introduction almost identical to Father’s. “Citizens of Equestia! Welcome to this momentous occasion. Today, only moments before dusk, my daughter, Princess Luna of Equestria, will raise the moon to begin the night. My husband, King Phoenix, will do the honors of lowering the sun, making way for the calming light of the moon! Princess Luna…’ Mama turned to me,’ ...please step forward.’ The moon is considerably lighter than the sun, and a lot less bright, making it a lot easier to raise. I focused my magic into my horn and concentrate on nothing else. Soon, I was in the air, positioning the moon perfectly. After only a few minutes, it was over. I lowered myself onto the ground, looking around to see if I had forgotten to do anything. Nothing. It was over. The crowd cheered, I took bow and the four of us returned to the castle. ‘That was great, Luna! You seemed so calm and in control.’ said Celestia. I barely heard her. ‘What? Oh...yeah. I guess’ ‘What is wrong? It isn’t about before, is it?’ ‘Not at all! It’s just…’ I say with a sigh, looking down at my blank flank. Neither of us spoke, which wasn’t a bad thing. I needed some time to think. After dinner, I headed straight to the balcony, looking up at the twinkling stars shining in the dark sky. What was so great about it anyway? It was dark and glum. No pony came outside. and it was just...useless. I mean, sure, crops would dry up, ponies wouldn’t get enough rest, bla bla bla. But why should I care? Celestia gets the day, when all the ponies are up and living their lives. Going to school. Doing their jobs. What a spectacle to see. At night, they just slept. That’s all. I look back at my flank. Moonless. But maybe there was still hope for me. Maybe there was hope. The Sick AlicornIt was a week before Heartswarming, and I was loving it! The beautiful white snowy blanket covering every bit of ground as far as the eye could see. The cold gusts of wind in my face. The soothing atmosphere. It was perfect! I always liked the cold weather. It practically rejuvenated me. Celestia, however, could not say the same. She prefered warmer temperatures. I asked her if she would play in the snow with me, just for once. Although she hesitated, she agreed. She prepared herself, her body covered with over five layers of snow gear. I rolled my eyes and ran out into the snow. We got back, and it was normal. But then a sound that was all too familiar during winter escaped Celestia’s mouth. ‘Ah-ah-AH---CHOO!’ Celestia sniffled, collapsing on her bed. I ran to get Mama and Father, who called the doctor. ‘Yup, she has got a cold and mild fever,’ said the doctor, ‘Don’t worry, Your Highnesses, the Princess will be fine. All she needs is a bit of rest. Just make sure she gets plenty of warm soup, and nothing cold. She will feel better in a few days.’ Mama thanked the doctor, who bowed and left. She checked Celestia’s forehead and stroked her hair. ‘There, there, sweetie. It will be alright. The doctor said that you will feel better in a few days.’ Mama kissed Celestia’s forehead and left with Father. I stayed with Celestia, talking to her, reading stories to her and getting her whatever she needed. Anything she needed to feel more comfortable. I went to the kitchen to get her a glass of water, when I overheard Mama and Father talking in her bedroom. ‘What about sunrise?’ Father asked, sounding distressed. ‘Phoenix, Celestia is far too weak to do it tomorrow.’ Mama opposed ‘But missing even one day can off-set her progress. She needs to practice every day.’ ‘Well too bad. You will just have to do it. Think practically. She is sick, and there is no way she will have the energy to lift a celestial body as big as the sun.’ ‘You are right,’ Father said with a sigh, ‘I guess I will be raising the sun tomorrow morning.’ I thought about what this meant. I finally had a chance to prove myself. I looked at my flank, which told me the answer I wanted. I peaked into the room. ‘Mama? Father? Can I come in?’ ‘Luna? Of course dear.’ said Mama. ‘Well, I overheard both talking about Celestia not being able to raise the sun tomorrow…’ Father raised an eyebrow. ‘...so, I was wondering if I could try. Raising the sun. Tomorrow.’ ‘Luna?!’ Mama snapped, but quickly tried to hide her shock. She cleared her throat, ‘Luna, dear, why would you want to do that? You raise the moon every dusk.’ ‘Yeah, but-’ I turned to Father, I couldn’t read his expression, so I just crossed my hooves that he would agree. ‘No.’ My eyes flung open. ‘But-but why not?’ Father said nothing. Mama, realizing this, spoke for him. ‘Luna. Raising the sun will be too much for you. You aren’t ready.’ ‘But I did perfect during the Lunar Rise!’ ‘Luna...listen-’ Mama tried to say. ‘Celestia does it. Why can’t I?’ ‘Celestia is-’ ‘It is not fair!’ I barked. ‘Luna!’ Father finally said. ‘That is enough!’ He looked down at me, his eyes like the calm hiding the storm. Tears escaped my eyes before I could even process what had happened. I open my mouth to speak, but I couldn’t even manage a squeak. I bolted out of the room and into my bedroom. It wasn’t fair, I thought, why couldn’t I at least try? I kneeled down next to Celestia and watched her sleep. She looked so peaceful, breathing so calmly like she was completely in control. Even a fever didn’t look to be bothering her. At that moment, I envied her more than I ever had. Then it dawned on me. What I needed was to prove myself. What I needed was a plan. I had eight hours until sunrise. After two hours of strategizing, I had finally come up with a fool-proof plan: I was going to distract the King and Queen, and raise the sun while no one was looking. I know, maybe not the best plan ever, but it would have to do. An hour and a half hour until sunrise, and my heart was hammering at my stomach. ‘I can do this!’ I told myself, pacing back and forth, trying to push back the doubt. I looked at sleeping Celestia, and imagined what she would be saying to me right now. ‘This is a bad idea.’ Celestia would say. ‘No it isn’t. It will work. And then Mama and Father will finally see how strong I am.’ ‘Or it will destroy their trust in you completely.’ ‘But if I don’t, I will never get another opportunity to show them how strong I really am. And maybe, I might even get my cutie mark! ‘But what if you fail?’ ‘Well, I-’ ‘And you know as much as I do that you won’t get your cutie mark like this.’ ‘But I have to! Otherwise, what is my destiny?’ I glanced at the clock. 75 minutes ‘til sunrise. There is no turning back now, I thought with a sigh, time to put my plan into action. I snuck into Mama and Father’s bedroom. Luckily, they were still asleep. I slithered in and turned their their alarm clock off. That will stop them from waking up, I hoped. I crept away and ran to the balcony before I somepony caught me. I looked out and took in the entire scene. The blanket of white snow covering the brown soil. The stars twinkling like little jewels in the deep blue sky. I could feel the general peace in the cold air. I felt wonderful. I didn’t have a moment to waste. It will be just like the Lunar Raise, I reminded myself. I took a deep breathe and concentrated my magic into my horn, and pointed it at the hidden sun. No problem! Problem! Two second in and my plan already had a blunder. The sun was heavy! I had to pour in every drop of magic I could muster up just to make it budge, and now I had to guide it across the whole sky! The sun crawled across the sky, taking time I didn’t have. I needed it to move faster. I sped it up as much as I could, but I could feel my magic draining it fast. Suddenly, the sun stopped. I look up at it, and not even halfway to where it should be! I tried to resummon my magic, then realized I had drained myself of it all. Now I was panicking! Come on, I pleaded to my horn, give me some magic! Nothing. I sunk into my arms, ready to face Father. It was hopeless. Father would come any moment and see that I disobeyed him, and there was no telling what he was going to do to me! Worst of all, I failed. I couldn’t raise the sun, the one thing that could get Father to be proud of me, and prove that I was strong. I felt like nothing. Suddenly, it felt warmer. At first, I thought that it was just my head inside my arms, but then my whole body felt warmer. Soon warm turned into hot. I looked up and couldn’t believe this was happening to me! Slowly, the sun was getting closer and closer! Without my magic holding it up and not staying on it’s path, it must have broken free from orbit! I try again to summon my magic. A spark flew from my horn and gave me hope. I looked around me, and it was not looking good. The snow on the ground melted, animals sheltered themselves under trees, and the trees themselves looked like they were going to burst into flames! I had no time to lose. Quickly, I convert my remaining strength directly into raw magic, and once again shoot a levitation beam straight as the descending sun. It was still really heavy. I felt like I was carrying the sun on my shoulders, being crushed by it’s enormous weight. Then it got lighter, like I was just relieved from a huge burden. I lift myself up and look directly above me, the sun exactly where it was suppose to be. I felt so proud of myself. I had actually done it. Then a throat cleared behind me My body stiffened, then froze completely. I willed myself to turn around, knowing very well whose angry face will be looking straight at me. ‘Luna!’ His voice was harsh and raspy, the kind of voice you do not want against you. I dared myself to look into his eyes, but immediately regretted it. They were red as a burning flame, locked on mine like a target ready to be fired at. They say that the eyes show how somepony really feels, and right now, Father felt every word that was a synonym of “furious”. ‘Come inside. NOW!’ Inside, he was no calmer. Mama stood next to him. She didn’t look angry, but instead sad or disappointed. She didn’t even look at me in the eyes, which made it a million times worse. ‘Luna. You disobeyed a direct order. What do you have to say for yourself?’ Father stood high and mighty, as though I was on trial by the court. I hung my head, only able to give a whimper as an answer. ‘Very well then. You leave me no choice. Luna, will not leave this castle until further notice. It is time you know your place here.’ I looked at Mama, who nodded her head with a clear message. He is right. I wanted to say how sorry I was and explain why I had done it, but I knew better than to open my mouth. Besides, I wasn’t so sure why I had done it in the first place anymore. I ran to my room, flung myself on the bed and let the tears flow out. How could I have been so stupid? I should have know that this was a bad idea. What else could have resulted from this? Father being proud of me? Proving that I was strong? Finally seeing where and how I belong? Yeah right. All I proved was that I am weak and out of control, without a place in Equestria. I looked at my still blank flank. No sun. No moon. Just blank. I dipped myself back into my arms, trying and failing to contain my emotions. A warm arm rested in my back and pulled me in. I look up and see Celestia’s comforting face, exactly what I needed to see. She didn’t ask me any questions, which made it a lot easier. I didn’t want to talk about it. I didn’t want to remember my dumb mistake. I just wanted to forget about it. Forget about today. The Role She PlayedAfter dinner that evening, I headed straight to my room’s balcony to relax. The air was still and peaceful. I watched as the sun set and made way for the moon. The sky transformed from it’s pink and orange hue into a dark blue tinge. One by one, stars revealed themselves, until they flooded the sky above. It was so quiet. So peaceful. So boring. My bedroom door creaked. ‘Luna, dear?’ called a familiar voice. Hooves gracefully stepped into the balcony towards me. Mama stood next to me, looking up at the sky she brought. ‘It’s beautiful, isn’t it?’ Mama asked, still looking up. ‘Yeah, I guess.’ Neither of us said a word. We just looked up at the deep blue night. After a while, I finally spoke. ‘Mama, why did you tell me to vow to protect the night?’ Mama frowned, ‘Because, as a Princess of Equestria, it is your duty to protect ponies during the night.’ ‘But, nothing happens at night! Ponies just sleep. Maybe there will be a timber-wolf here and there, but for the most part, they don’t need much protection.’’ ‘You may not realize, but your job in Equestria is very important. Even more important than Celestia’s!’ I looked at her, confused. She giggled. ‘I’ll show you. Let’s go out for a moment.’ She held out her hoof. I was about to take it, but then I hesitated. ‘B-but Father said that I wasn’t suppose to leave the castle.’ ‘It will be fine. Now take me hoof’ Slowly, I set my hoof on Mama’s. Mama held her head high, and her horn started to glow. We were being consumed by a white light. I closed my eyes and prepared myself for the worst. I opened my eyes, but we were not in the castle anymore! The Unexpected VisitIt was a quiet day for the CMC as they began their first meeting since their recent re envisionment. ‘Okay, Cutie Mark Crusaders, this meeting is officially in session!’ declared Applebloom. ‘So, um, what do we do now?’ asked Scootaloo, playing with tin foil ball she found on her way. ‘Do we just wait here until the doorbell rings with a problem to solve?’ asked Sweetie Belle. Applebloom considered it. What else could they do? And so they did just that- they waited. And waited. And waited. Finally, their wish was granted by a familiar ring of the doorbell The three fillies raced for the door, only to be greeted on the other side by an unexpected guest. ‘Princess Luna?!’ they said in unison. The deep blue alicorn giggled as she walked in. ‘Hello fillies! I do hope that I am not intruding on anything.’ ‘Not at all!, replied Sweetie Belle, ‘Seriously.’ ‘Well’, the Princess started, ‘I just wanted to congratulate you three on finally earning your cutie marks!’ The fillies proudly gleamed at the tattoo now on their flanks. The Princess continued, ‘I am so very proud of you all. You have been through so much to earn them. Believe me, it will make a very interesting story to tell!’ Then, Sweetie Belle had an idea. ‘Princess Luna?’ ‘Yes, Sweetie Belle?’ ‘Can you tell us the story of how you got your cutie mark?’ Applebloom and Scootaloo nodded their heads in agreement. Princess Luna considered it. She hadn’t told this story in a while, and it was a fairly appropriate time. She glances at her flank and nods her head, ‘All right, fillies. This is the story of how I got my cutie mark.’
The New PrincessesBefore my and Celestia’s rule, Equestria was ruled over my father and mother. My father, King Phoenix, was as high and mighty as they get. Not one, who saw him with his caramel coat and blood red mane, as well as the confident look in his eyes, could deny his title as a child of the sun. He was an alicorn of pride, holding his head high as dignities from other lands come to admire his kingdom. My mother, Queen Tenebris, was of a different character. Her snow white coat with a deep blue mane was as beautiful as the starry sky itself. She was as beautiful as the night sky, and was painted her as an angel in the eyes of her subjects. She was gentle, kind, and patient with her citizens, but was no push-over, and was not afraid to get her hooves dirty. She rose the moon with elegance and grace. It was a day of celebration across all of Equestria, the birth of their newest Princess, Princess Celestia. My father’s eyes sparkled as he looked to see his new daughter, a child of the sun. Equestria danced to welcome the arrival of the new Princess. But then something unexpected happened: They had me. More than that was the fact that I was a child of the moon. ‘But how can this be?!’, Father would argue, the same argument I’ve heard so many times before. ‘I don’t see the problem with this. The way I see it, we were blessed with both a child of the sun and moon.’ said Mama. ‘But it is tradition. Star Swirled the Bearded laid the prophecy down clearly! “By every generation, born will be the children of the celestials. One, a child of royal blood and one of common blood. When the time comes, the two will take over the kingdom as King and Queen, keeping balance in our world”. It is as simple as that. It is not even in some complicated rhyme. And now this second has ruined everything!’ ‘Phoenix! Don’t talk that way about Luna. She is just as important as Celestia.’ ‘Tell me this, Tenebris, who will rule Equestria after our time is done?’, Father questioned. ‘Well…’ Mama hesitated,’...I suppose Celestia and Luna will’ ‘And after them? Who will carry down our royal blood?’ Mama said nothing. She knew that in a way, Father was right. Father and Mama raised us, teaching us how to be Princesses and fulfil our duties as rulers of Equestria. Father taught Celestia the mightiness of the sun, while Mama taught me the majesty of the moon. Every night, she would take me onto the Palace balcony. ‘Luna, do you know what my role is in Equestria?’ Mama asked. ‘Um...you raise the moon?’ ‘Right. And do you know why I raise the moon?’ I lifted my shoulders. ‘Nope!’ I saw with a naughty smile. ‘Look out there,’ she began, gesturing to the houses below,’Those ponies down there need the night. They need the sleep so that they can gain strength and do they most that they can during the day. The world needs balance. Your father gives one half, and I provide the other. This is how we create harmony.’ Mama looked out to the night, admiring its peaceful beauty. ‘One day, you will look after this night. Remember, Luna, there is a difference between darkness and the night. Don't you ever forget that.’ Mama kissed me on my forehead, and left without another word, leaving me alone on the balcony. I looked up into the night to try and see what Mama saw, but it just looked like the same dark sky I saw every night. ‘Looks pretty dark to me…’
The Celestial RaiseAfter 100 moons of training, it was the day of truth: The Celestial Raise. ‘As per tradition’, Father said, ‘The royal celestial child will raise either the sun or the moon, signifying glory and proving their place as a ruler of Equestia! And you, my dear Celestia, will be the shining star in the night sky!” The way he said “night sky” made me feel uncomfortable, as if he is trying to say, “The sun needs to bring some real beauty to that dark sky”. I was about to speak up, but Celestia slowly shook her head. “Don’t.”, her eyes said. The four of us went out into the balcony to begin the ceremony. The air was still yet festive. Ponies from all over Equestria came to witness Celestia raise the sun for the first time. Celestia took her place, Father and Mama between us. I looked around and wished that I could have my ceremony at the same time as my sister, but Father was so stubborn when it came to tradition. Mama must have seen me upset. “Don’t you worry, sweetheart. Remember, you get your chance at dusk.” That made me feel better. I looked across to Celestia, expecting to see a filly with head held high. But instead, I saw a pony who looks like she is about to have a heart attack. She was shaking like she was trying to contain an earthquake. ‘Pss...Tia…..Tia!’ I signaled to Celestia behind my parents. She looked at me, eyes filled with horror. ‘What…?’ she whispered back to me. ‘You alright?’ ‘Yeah...maybe...not really! Look at all those ponies! What if I can’t do it?!’ ‘Tia! Snap out of it! I’ve seen you practice, and you are amazing. You’re a natural at this. Just take a deep breathe and do it!’ ‘Celestia! Luna! Enough.’ Father sayed, turning back with eyes narrowing. I looked over at Celestia again. She still seemed a bit nervous, but with less of an earthquake effect. She took a deep breathe. Her body stoped shaking almost instantly. She looked right at me. ‘Thanks’ she mouthed at me. I nodded my head. ‘Good luck.’ I mouthed back. The trumpets blew, and the crowd silenced themselves. Father stepped forward and began. ‘Citizens of Equestia! Welcome to this momentous occasion. Today, only moments before dawn, my daughter, Princess Celestia of Equestria, will raise the sun to begin the day. My wife, Queen Tenebris, will do the honors of lowering the moon, making way for the shining light of the sun! Princess Celestia…’ Fathers turned to Celestia,’ ...please step forward.’ Celestia, looking as calm as she possibly could, walked up to the front of the balcony. Mama and Celestia took their places. Slowly, the moon started to set. Celestia controlled all her magic into her horn, and surely, the sun started to move. The crowd went wild as the light hit the shadowed land. Celestia didn’t look at them. Her only concern looked to be getting the sun high enough. Everything seemed to be going according to plan. She spread her wings, preparing to fly up to complete the raise. The sun continued to rise, but Celestia was still on the ground. She should have been in the air by then! ‘Are you alright?’ I tried to ask as quietly as possible. ‘Can’t…fly…!’ she says, her voice as scared as ever. I looked at Father, disappointment and shame written all over his face. I can’t let Tia fail at a time like this!, I thought, she has worked too hard for this to happen! I took a step into the shadows without Father noticing. I mustered up as much magic as I could. Then, my horn began to glow. I pointed it at Celestia, and thankfully, she was lifted off the ground. Holding a filly my size was not too much of a challenge, but it was no walk in the park either. Finally, Celestia spread her wings. I cut off the magic, watching her complete the ceremony. Inches before the sun reaches it’s place, Tia’s entire body lit up, even brighter than the body she was lifting. Everypony shaded their eyes. Once the extra light disappeared, we were exposed to what it hid. On her once spotless flank laid a picture of the sun, and we all knew what that meant. Celestia got her cutie mark! The crowd was in awe, cheering harder than ever before! Celestia, however, didn’t seem to notice. With her last bit on energy and one final push, the sun was finally in the sky. Celestia lowered herself, collapsing on the ground the moment she hit it. I ran up to give her a hug, but Mama stopped me. She gestures to the crowd, and I got the message: Let her have this moment. The crowd of ponies stomped and roared for longer than I thought! After some news ponies come to talk to Father and Celestia, she trotted over to me. I ran to her, giving her a hug so big that even the sun would choke from it. ‘That was AMAZING, Tia! I mean, WOW! The crowd loved it!’ I said, still in awe. ‘I am still shocked myself.’ she said, catching her breathe, ‘By the way, thanks for levitating me. Who knows what would have happened if you hadn’t! You are the best!’ ‘I know! But on more important matters’, I pointed to her flank, ‘You finally got your---’ We looked at each other in excitement. Celestia began the countdown, ‘Three...two...one…’ ‘CUTIE MARK!!!’ we said in unison! The two of us rambled on about her new cutie mark. Then Celesia had an idea. ‘Wait...I got my cutie mark by raising the sun. So that means that you might get your by raising the moon tonight!’ ‘You think?’ ‘Positive! It makes sense.’ My grin widened even further. Maybe tonight will be my chance to shine! I decided to relax for the rest of the day, conserving my strength for tonight’s ceremony. Mama gave me some extra tips for raising the moon and I was ready. Now all there was to do was wait. And wait. And wait.
The Lunar RaiseIt was only a few hours until the Lunar Rise, and I was nervous! I l laid on my bed, stiff as a rock. The door creaked open behind me. ‘Luna?’ a voice called from behind, ‘Are you alright?’ ‘Not really!’ I called back, remaining in my motionless state. Celestia walked over to the bed, tilting her head at my strange position, my hooves curled up together as though I was holding a blanket. ‘It really isn’t that big of a deal.’ Her grin widened unnaturally. ‘Easy for you to say! You are “The shining star of the night sky”’ I say in a bad impression of Father. ‘Luna, that reminds me. You have no idea what Dad was saying to those dignitaries that came by a while ago!’ Celestia clears her throat and does the fairly good impression of Father. ‘Princess Celestia is the royal blood at it’s finest. I am proud to be the father of this prodigy. She will be one of the finest Queens the world has ever seen! You know, she is quite the pianist, artist and singer as well. You simply must see it for yourself! Why don’t you sing something for them, dear? Show them your absolutely stunning voice!’ That got a laugh out of me. I try my best at an impression of Father,’Celestia! Luna! You simply cannot be seen in such simple gowns! You need to be the belle of the ball tonight. As Equestrian royalty, it is our duty to attend every possible event, as little as it may concern us, to represent the family and the nation.’ Celestia and I shared a good laugh at the absurdity. I continued my impression. ‘Luna! Why can’t you be more like Celestia? She volunteered at the orphanage. What have you done?’ I let all my anger out, only semi-conscious of what I am actually saying, ‘Oh, that’s right, you did! But I wouldn’t know that because I am too busy adoring your prodigy of a sister! It isn’t like you even stood a chance, even if you deserve it, because I will always love perfect little Celestia and see you as some big…’ I hesitate to say the last word, but let it out anyway,’...MISTAKE!!!’ I was blinded by my anger, all burnt out like a volcano that had just erupted. I took a moment to cool down, and when I did, I saw the damage my lava had done. Celestia had taken a step back, her eyes speaking more than I wanted to hear: Fear, shock, disbelief, anger, horror, it was all there. She tried to speak, but only a faint squeak escaped her mouth before she bolted out of the room. ‘Wait!’ I called out to her, but she was gone,’UGH! I am such an idiot!’ I collapsed on the bed once again and resumed my original position. How could I have hurt Celestia like that? It wasn’t her fault. I felt awful for what I said, trying and failing to recall any of it. I tried to think positive, hoping that I could calm myself enough to talk to her. It started to work. I could feel myself getting lighter, freer and happier. But all that disappeared after a single call from Mama, ‘Luna! Get ready! The Lunar Rise is about to start!’ I slung back into my original position. No, I am not doing this again, I thought. Using as much confidence and energy as I could generate, I shakily stood up made my way to the balcony. On my way there, I saw Celestia. ‘Tia! Wait!’ I called to her. She turned around and froze, her eyes staring into mine fearfully. I buried her head into her arms. ‘Tia. I am so sorry! I-I didn’t know what I was saying.’ Celestia peaked up from inside her arms. I rest my hoof on her shoulder. ‘I got a bit carried away, and sorta just exploded like a volcano. I should never have let my lava burn you too. I really am sorry.’ With no hope of forgiveness, I lifted my hand off her shoulder and continued to the balcony. After only about five steps, a voice from behind stopped me. ‘Luna.’ Celestia took a deep breathe, ‘I-It’s okay.’ She sent a supportive smile my way. She caught up to me and gave me a hug I didn't know I needed, but once I had it, I never wanted her to let go. ‘I guess we never know when you are going to erupt!’ she said with a friendly hit in the shoulder. All this thinking about volcanoes reminded me of an old Equestrian saying. ‘Lava hearts, may turn to stone,’ I started. Celestia finished the line, ‘But not if you are never alone’, elbowing me. It was awkward for a moment, but luckily Mama broke the ice by coming to tell us that we were running late. It was moments before dusk. The only thing stopping it was...well...us. The four of us positioned ourselves as we had before, I and Celestia at the edges with Mama and Father in between. The crowd was as festive and cheerful as this morning, which helped me understand why Celestia was so nervous this morning. I wasn’t too nervous. Honestly, I was too emotionally exhausted to feel anything. Celestia called me from behind my parents. ‘Luna, good luck!’ She said. I mouthed a “thanks” to her. This was the moment I have been waiting for. I thought about this morning, and how this turned out for Celestia. Begin...fly...rise...done. Simple enough. I looked at my empty flank, remembering what Celestia has said. She was the sun, I was the moon. Her cutie mark is the sun, mine will be a _____. It wasn’t very hard to fill in the blank. Now is my chance to shine. As the crowd hushed itself, Mama began, her introduction almost identical to Father’s. “Citizens of Equestia! Welcome to this momentous occasion. Today, only moments before dusk, my daughter, Princess Luna of Equestria, will raise the moon to begin the night. My husband, King Phoenix, will do the honors of lowering the sun, making way for the calming light of the moon! Princess Luna…’ Mama turned to me,’ ...please step forward.’ The moon is considerably lighter than the sun, and a lot less bright, making it a lot easier to raise. I focused my magic into my horn and concentrate on nothing else. Soon, I was in the air, positioning the moon perfectly. After only a few minutes, it was over. I lowered myself onto the ground, looking around to see if I had forgotten to do anything. Nothing. It was over. The crowd cheered, I took bow and the four of us returned to the castle. ‘That was great, Luna! You seemed so calm and in control.’ said Celestia. I barely heard her. ‘What? Oh...yeah. I guess’ ‘What is wrong? It isn’t about before, is it?’ ‘Not at all! It’s just…’ I say with a sigh, looking down at my blank flank. Neither of us spoke, which wasn’t a bad thing. I needed some time to think. After dinner, I headed straight to the balcony, looking up at the twinkling stars shining in the dark sky. What was so great about it anyway? It was dark and glum. No pony came outside. and it was just...useless. I mean, sure, crops would dry up, ponies wouldn’t get enough rest, bla bla bla. But why should I care? Celestia gets the day, when all the ponies are up and living their lives. Going to school. Doing their jobs. What a spectacle to see. At night, they just slept. That’s all. I look back at my flank. Moonless. But maybe there was still hope for me. Maybe there was hope.
The Sick AlicornIt was a week before Heartswarming, and I was loving it! The beautiful white snowy blanket covering every bit of ground as far as the eye could see. The cold gusts of wind in my face. The soothing atmosphere. It was perfect! I always liked the cold weather. It practically rejuvenated me. Celestia, however, could not say the same. She prefered warmer temperatures. I asked her if she would play in the snow with me, just for once. Although she hesitated, she agreed. She prepared herself, her body covered with over five layers of snow gear. I rolled my eyes and ran out into the snow. We got back, and it was normal. But then a sound that was all too familiar during winter escaped Celestia’s mouth. ‘Ah-ah-AH---CHOO!’ Celestia sniffled, collapsing on her bed. I ran to get Mama and Father, who called the doctor. ‘Yup, she has got a cold and mild fever,’ said the doctor, ‘Don’t worry, Your Highnesses, the Princess will be fine. All she needs is a bit of rest. Just make sure she gets plenty of warm soup, and nothing cold. She will feel better in a few days.’ Mama thanked the doctor, who bowed and left. She checked Celestia’s forehead and stroked her hair. ‘There, there, sweetie. It will be alright. The doctor said that you will feel better in a few days.’ Mama kissed Celestia’s forehead and left with Father. I stayed with Celestia, talking to her, reading stories to her and getting her whatever she needed. Anything she needed to feel more comfortable. I went to the kitchen to get her a glass of water, when I overheard Mama and Father talking in her bedroom. ‘What about sunrise?’ Father asked, sounding distressed. ‘Phoenix, Celestia is far too weak to do it tomorrow.’ Mama opposed ‘But missing even one day can off-set her progress. She needs to practice every day.’ ‘Well too bad. You will just have to do it. Think practically. She is sick, and there is no way she will have the energy to lift a celestial body as big as the sun.’ ‘You are right,’ Father said with a sigh, ‘I guess I will be raising the sun tomorrow morning.’ I thought about what this meant. I finally had a chance to prove myself. I looked at my flank, which told me the answer I wanted. I peaked into the room. ‘Mama? Father? Can I come in?’ ‘Luna? Of course dear.’ said Mama. ‘Well, I overheard both talking about Celestia not being able to raise the sun tomorrow…’ Father raised an eyebrow. ‘...so, I was wondering if I could try. Raising the sun. Tomorrow.’ ‘Luna?!’ Mama snapped, but quickly tried to hide her shock. She cleared her throat, ‘Luna, dear, why would you want to do that? You raise the moon every dusk.’ ‘Yeah, but-’ I turned to Father, I couldn’t read his expression, so I just crossed my hooves that he would agree. ‘No.’ My eyes flung open. ‘But-but why not?’ Father said nothing. Mama, realizing this, spoke for him. ‘Luna. Raising the sun will be too much for you. You aren’t ready.’ ‘But I did perfect during the Lunar Rise!’ ‘Luna...listen-’ Mama tried to say. ‘Celestia does it. Why can’t I?’ ‘Celestia is-’ ‘It is not fair!’ I barked. ‘Luna!’ Father finally said. ‘That is enough!’ He looked down at me, his eyes like the calm hiding the storm. Tears escaped my eyes before I could even process what had happened. I open my mouth to speak, but I couldn’t even manage a squeak. I bolted out of the room and into my bedroom. It wasn’t fair, I thought, why couldn’t I at least try? I kneeled down next to Celestia and watched her sleep. She looked so peaceful, breathing so calmly like she was completely in control. Even a fever didn’t look to be bothering her. At that moment, I envied her more than I ever had. Then it dawned on me. What I needed was to prove myself. What I needed was a plan. I had eight hours until sunrise. After two hours of strategizing, I had finally come up with a fool-proof plan: I was going to distract the King and Queen, and raise the sun while no one was looking. I know, maybe not the best plan ever, but it would have to do. An hour and a half hour until sunrise, and my heart was hammering at my stomach. ‘I can do this!’ I told myself, pacing back and forth, trying to push back the doubt. I looked at sleeping Celestia, and imagined what she would be saying to me right now. ‘This is a bad idea.’ Celestia would say. ‘No it isn’t. It will work. And then Mama and Father will finally see how strong I am.’ ‘Or it will destroy their trust in you completely.’ ‘But if I don’t, I will never get another opportunity to show them how strong I really am. And maybe, I might even get my cutie mark! ‘But what if you fail?’ ‘Well, I-’ ‘And you know as much as I do that you won’t get your cutie mark like this.’ ‘But I have to! Otherwise, what is my destiny?’ I glanced at the clock. 75 minutes ‘til sunrise. There is no turning back now, I thought with a sigh, time to put my plan into action. I snuck into Mama and Father’s bedroom. Luckily, they were still asleep. I slithered in and turned their their alarm clock off. That will stop them from waking up, I hoped. I crept away and ran to the balcony before I somepony caught me. I looked out and took in the entire scene. The blanket of white snow covering the brown soil. The stars twinkling like little jewels in the deep blue sky. I could feel the general peace in the cold air. I felt wonderful. I didn’t have a moment to waste. It will be just like the Lunar Raise, I reminded myself. I took a deep breathe and concentrated my magic into my horn, and pointed it at the hidden sun. No problem! Problem! Two second in and my plan already had a blunder. The sun was heavy! I had to pour in every drop of magic I could muster up just to make it budge, and now I had to guide it across the whole sky! The sun crawled across the sky, taking time I didn’t have. I needed it to move faster. I sped it up as much as I could, but I could feel my magic draining it fast. Suddenly, the sun stopped. I look up at it, and not even halfway to where it should be! I tried to resummon my magic, then realized I had drained myself of it all. Now I was panicking! Come on, I pleaded to my horn, give me some magic! Nothing. I sunk into my arms, ready to face Father. It was hopeless. Father would come any moment and see that I disobeyed him, and there was no telling what he was going to do to me! Worst of all, I failed. I couldn’t raise the sun, the one thing that could get Father to be proud of me, and prove that I was strong. I felt like nothing. Suddenly, it felt warmer. At first, I thought that it was just my head inside my arms, but then my whole body felt warmer. Soon warm turned into hot. I looked up and couldn’t believe this was happening to me! Slowly, the sun was getting closer and closer! Without my magic holding it up and not staying on it’s path, it must have broken free from orbit! I try again to summon my magic. A spark flew from my horn and gave me hope. I looked around me, and it was not looking good. The snow on the ground melted, animals sheltered themselves under trees, and the trees themselves looked like they were going to burst into flames! I had no time to lose. Quickly, I convert my remaining strength directly into raw magic, and once again shoot a levitation beam straight as the descending sun. It was still really heavy. I felt like I was carrying the sun on my shoulders, being crushed by it’s enormous weight. Then it got lighter, like I was just relieved from a huge burden. I lift myself up and look directly above me, the sun exactly where it was suppose to be. I felt so proud of myself. I had actually done it. Then a throat cleared behind me My body stiffened, then froze completely. I willed myself to turn around, knowing very well whose angry face will be looking straight at me. ‘Luna!’ His voice was harsh and raspy, the kind of voice you do not want against you. I dared myself to look into his eyes, but immediately regretted it. They were red as a burning flame, locked on mine like a target ready to be fired at. They say that the eyes show how somepony really feels, and right now, Father felt every word that was a synonym of “furious”. ‘Come inside. NOW!’ Inside, he was no calmer. Mama stood next to him. She didn’t look angry, but instead sad or disappointed. She didn’t even look at me in the eyes, which made it a million times worse. ‘Luna. You disobeyed a direct order. What do you have to say for yourself?’ Father stood high and mighty, as though I was on trial by the court. I hung my head, only able to give a whimper as an answer. ‘Very well then. You leave me no choice. Luna, will not leave this castle until further notice. It is time you know your place here.’ I looked at Mama, who nodded her head with a clear message. He is right. I wanted to say how sorry I was and explain why I had done it, but I knew better than to open my mouth. Besides, I wasn’t so sure why I had done it in the first place anymore. I ran to my room, flung myself on the bed and let the tears flow out. How could I have been so stupid? I should have know that this was a bad idea. What else could have resulted from this? Father being proud of me? Proving that I was strong? Finally seeing where and how I belong? Yeah right. All I proved was that I am weak and out of control, without a place in Equestria. I looked at my still blank flank. No sun. No moon. Just blank. I dipped myself back into my arms, trying and failing to contain my emotions. A warm arm rested in my back and pulled me in. I look up and see Celestia’s comforting face, exactly what I needed to see. She didn’t ask me any questions, which made it a lot easier. I didn’t want to talk about it. I didn’t want to remember my dumb mistake. I just wanted to forget about it. Forget about today.
The Role She PlayedAfter dinner that evening, I headed straight to my room’s balcony to relax. The air was still and peaceful. I watched as the sun set and made way for the moon. The sky transformed from it’s pink and orange hue into a dark blue tinge. One by one, stars revealed themselves, until they flooded the sky above. It was so quiet. So peaceful. So boring. My bedroom door creaked. ‘Luna, dear?’ called a familiar voice. Hooves gracefully stepped into the balcony towards me. Mama stood next to me, looking up at the sky she brought. ‘It’s beautiful, isn’t it?’ Mama asked, still looking up. ‘Yeah, I guess.’ Neither of us said a word. We just looked up at the deep blue night. After a while, I finally spoke. ‘Mama, why did you tell me to vow to protect the night?’ Mama frowned, ‘Because, as a Princess of Equestria, it is your duty to protect ponies during the night.’ ‘But, nothing happens at night! Ponies just sleep. Maybe there will be a timber-wolf here and there, but for the most part, they don’t need much protection.’’ ‘You may not realize, but your job in Equestria is very important. Even more important than Celestia’s!’ I looked at her, confused. She giggled. ‘I’ll show you. Let’s go out for a moment.’ She held out her hoof. I was about to take it, but then I hesitated. ‘B-but Father said that I wasn’t suppose to leave the castle.’ ‘It will be fine. Now take me hoof’ Slowly, I set my hoof on Mama’s. Mama held her head high, and her horn started to glow. We were being consumed by a white light. I closed my eyes and prepared myself for the worst. I opened my eyes, but we were not in the castle anymore!
The Unexpected VisitIt was a quiet day for the CMC as they began their first meeting since their recent re envisionment. ‘Okay, Cutie Mark Crusaders, this meeting is officially in session!’ declared Applebloom. ‘So, um, what do we do now?’ asked Scootaloo, playing with tin foil ball she found on her way. ‘Do we just wait here until the doorbell rings with a problem to solve?’ asked Sweetie Belle. Applebloom considered it. What else could they do? And so they did just that- they waited. And waited. And waited. Finally, their wish was granted by a familiar ring of the doorbell The three fillies raced for the door, only to be greeted on the other side by an unexpected guest. ‘Princess Luna?!’ they said in unison. The deep blue alicorn giggled as she walked in. ‘Hello fillies! I do hope that I am not intruding on anything.’ ‘Not at all!, replied Sweetie Belle, ‘Seriously.’ ‘Well’, the Princess started, ‘I just wanted to congratulate you three on finally earning your cutie marks!’ The fillies proudly gleamed at the tattoo now on their flanks. The Princess continued, ‘I am so very proud of you all. You have been through so much to earn them. Believe me, it will make a very interesting story to tell!’ Then, Sweetie Belle had an idea. ‘Princess Luna?’ ‘Yes, Sweetie Belle?’ ‘Can you tell us the story of how you got your cutie mark?’ Applebloom and Scootaloo nodded their heads in agreement. Princess Luna considered it. She hadn’t told this story in a while, and it was a fairly appropriate time. She glances at her flank and nods her head, ‘All right, fillies. This is the story of how I got my cutie mark.’
