Author's Note
I decided to put my previous story A Ripe Harvest on a hiatus, im really having trouble with what Ive written so far and most likely I'll end up revamping the whole story.
Anyways this story i got the idea from the Evanescence song My Immortal. A warning though, this story while not have a happy ending and there will be lots of flashbacks, it is mostly from best princess Luna's POV, with some other characters POVs here and there
As always please read and review, any critcism is appreciated, I really want to become a better writer
The curse of eternity
The night was slowly giving way to the dawn and with it my powers dwindled. My sister would soon be at full strength as the sun rose to its alter in the sky.
Once long ago there was a time when I envied my sister. The daylight was hers to rule, and she was loved for it. Nopony feared the light or the warmth that she radiated upon them. But everypony was wary of the dark, fearful of what thier eyes could not see.
As such, I was.....misunderstood. Ponies obeyed my sister out of respect and love, while I.....I was obeyed out of fear. So it had been since our mother had given up her immortality to join our father in the stables of the Gods.
Although the waning of the moon also meant the diminishing of my magic, there was a reason that I welcomed it. A time to myself, time which I would always spend in the same place.
High in the Arcadian mountains, nearly 3 days journey from Canterlot, as the Pegasus flies was my refuge of peace and solitude.
Although my powers over the night and the dreams of others faded with the rising sun, I was never completely helpless. My Alicorn nature meant that magic was a part of my very being, as such I still possesed the ability to teleport and perform other, minor magics.
As the sun fully rose and my authority ended I concentrated on those mountains. I thought of the jagged edges and sheer surfaces, of the snow covered ridges and peaks, of ice that was as transparent as glass, of the small stone temple that perched precariously on the highest point.
As my mind was filled with these images, I felt a familiar tug, a pull, as if someone was dragging me forward. I embraced it, welcomed the feeling and soon the bright, calm morning my sister had constructed gave way to overcast skies and bone chilling gusts of wind.
I had materialized at the base of an impressive stone staircase that led to my sanctuary. A spell I had cast many millenia ago prevented anypony, even an Alicorn as powerful as myself and my sister from teleporting into the temple proper.
Few were aware this place even exsisted, for none now live who remember its significance. Even Cadence, my neice and fellow princess was oblivious to this place. And I planned to keep it that way.
The cold air stung and bit at my body and wings, my fingers shivering. I focused on warmth and a dark cloak materialized around my person, complete with a hood that I quickly donned to hide my face from the elements.
My wings folded in against my back and I placed a hoof upon the first step as I looked up. The steps were steep and wound around the summit at a very narrow angle. I had designed it to be nearly impossible to reach.
By order of Celestia and myself the pegasi were to keep a permanent haze of ice and snow upon these mountains to discourage any visitors. As if on cue large ivory flakes began to dance upon the breeze, contrasting with my dark navy coat.
With a deep breathe I began the ascent. I was not nervous, I had made this climb everymorning for the last 3,000 years. It was not apprehension that gripped me, but anticipation. Even though I knew full well what awaited me inside this stone relic, every morning seemed like the first time I had ever set hoof inside.
Celestia rarely visisted this place, but then again her connection to it was far less resolute than mine.
A strong gust of icy wind came from around the mountain side causing me to shiver and pull my cloak around me tighter. I continued up the ice covered stone steps, taking careful steps, not being too eager to fall off the mountain side. Of course my wings would keep me from plummeting to my death, but I was not keen on having to reclimb this enchanted mountain.
The temple was but a plain stone construct. Four large stone pillars supporting a stone roof. The walls were made of granite and the only door was constructed of two stone slabs.
As i reached the massive door, my horn glowed a soft dark blue and slowy but surely the twin slabs creaked as they opened inward. It had been designed as such. Only a sufficiently powerful magic could gain entry from the outside, and yet no magic was needed to exit. There were only four ponies alive with the power to forcibly enter this place and I was one of them.
The hanging lamps were extinguished as the cold, brutal air surged forward from the outside. Turning I quickly pushed the doors closed, even my great strength struggling slightly against such a heavy obstacle. My horn glowed again, more brightly this time as I illuminated the darkend room.
On a simple stone table lay a few items that at first glance seemed superflous enough. Two pieces of flint, a bottle of ink and a quill and a large stack of rough parchment. On the floor next to it, small logs which would burn for days when ignited. Grabbing the two flint rocks and a few logs under my arm I set about rekindling the flames in the lamp.
Soon a orange glow filled the room which quickly dispersed the cold air that had invaded my sanctuary. The lamps themselves where situated above a large stone object. Purposefully, a single lamp was positioned above each corner.
This hewn mound of stone was my sole purpose for coming to this isolated mountain every morning for the last 3 millenia. It was the sole reason why this temple was built and such powerful wards cast upon it.
I stepped forward and gently and slowly slid the lid from the stone sarcophagus and layed it quietly on the floor. Inside a sapphire blue substance rolled about gently in defiance of being disturbed by my movements. When in motion the substance was akin to a liquid, but when undisturbed took on a more solid appearance, almost like ice.
But it was not the potion within but what lay submerged in it that drew me to this cold, forbidding place every morning.
His face was serene, no sign of pain or suffering. It had been such for centuries. His smooth hairless skin had not atrophied at all. His black hair had not grown an inch. The strong arms that once held me close in the daylight hours were layed peacefully at his side. Only the gentle rise and fall of his chest hinted at the eternal slumber that he had been cursed with.
I smiled as I traced my finger along the side of his stone resting place. How I longed to feel his naked skin against my coat. How I missed the contrast of my dark body against his strong, pale frame. I longed for the contact I had been denied for millenia, that I would be denied for eternity.....
For to simply reach out and touch him would be the death of him, as the one who cursed him had warned. Perhaps they had been lying, perhaps he would not surely die, but the love I held for him would not let me, even in my eternal longing, take such a risk based soley on a perhaps.
How I wished his eyes would open just once. So that I could gaze into those emerald orbs and that he would gaze back at me, if only for just a moment.
I would often speak to him as if he could hear me. I would tell him about my night, and about Celestia. I would tell him tales my mother had told me as a child. And sometimes I would gently sing, hoping against hope that he could hear me.
We had always been close, even before we became lovers. We had grown up together, He and Celestia and I. My immortal memory had never failed me and I could still remember the first time I'd laid eyes on my beloved human
"MOM! HURRY! COME QUICK!" Celestia shouted upon seeing the strange creature unconscious by the riverside. I on the other hand was silent, standing watch in case the creature were to suddenly spring up and attack. We were young then, even by mortal standards, still young foals. I had just turned 7 and my sister 9.
Through the trees I heard my mother approaching swiftly. Her golden wings folded behind her and her horn a glow in anticipation of the danger we may have been in.
She stopped when she found us and quickly pulled us to her, her crimson eyes wide in worry. She fussed over us, checking to see if we were hurt in anyway. "In the name of Faust what is wrong" she asked. Celestia pulled away from her and turned as she pointed to the still creature. "LOOK! WHAT IS IT!?" my sister questioned, her shouting getting louder.
My mother shushed Celestia while approaching the creature slowly. Its upper body was face down in the mud, while the rest of it was submerged in the dark river water. Mother commanded us to remain behind her, illiciting a groan from Celestia. Using her magic mother slowly and carefully lifed the creature into the air and gently lowered it, face up, into the grass of the forest. My sister and I both peered around our mother eager for a glimpse of the creatures face. Using her powers my mother slowly cleaned the creatures face, revealing the younger visage of the human that I had fallen for many years later. Although at the time my first thought was not how perfect and handsome he was, but rather how strange and diffrent he looked.
He had hands like us yes, but no hooves. No horn or wings or coat adorned his naked flesh. His hair was messy and unkempt. Cuts and scratches riddled his body and his breathing was quite shallow.
My mother, who I had always seen as confident and sure of herself let out a gasp at the creature's appearance. Surely my all powerful mother was not frightened?
I was even more shocked when she knelt beside creature, studying it closely. For the first time I spoke "what is it mother?" I asked softly.
It was as if she barely heard me, as if she was in awe of the creature before us. She beckoned us closer, whispering for us to be silent as she spoke. "This 'creature' is not a creature at all, but a sentient being of great power. Yet I have never seen one in all my years. My grandmother's grandmother used to tell her tales that she in turn told me. Tales of a race of beings that ruled this world long before we Alicorns. She spoke of how they ruled before the first ponies walked upright, before the first ponies learned to speak, indeed they ruled these lands before even magic exsisted"
Celestia's mouth opened as she "Oooohed" quietly. For my part it all seemed a little farfetched, although i trusted my mothers word absolutley, i still found it hard to believe. "What happened to them?" Celestia asked inching closer the being before us, while i scowled at her refusal to obey mothers command to stay behind her.
"I do not know. It is said that they left this world in ships of silver and fire that flew higher and faster than any Alicorn or Pegasus. It is said that they went to live amongst the stars". Celestia piped up again "Ooh! oooh! you said they ruled, so that means they were like royalty, maybe hes a prince or even a king!" She said as she danced in a circle. For my part I merely shook my head at her childish behavior.
My mother smiled slightly before quieting my elder sister. "Perhaps he is Celestia although I think it more likely he is a warrior" Celestia groaned, but at the mention of warriors my own interest was peaked. "Warriors?" I asked barely above a whisper. "Yes Luna, warriors. They were commanded by the ruling class of humans to stay behind and help the first Alicorns battle a great evil, but they were all slain in the final battle.....or so the stories go" at this it was my turn to Ooh softly.
The human was quite small for a warrior though, our royal gaurds while smaller than mother were still larger than the small human before us. I voiced this opinion to my mother as she smiled. "The humans my grandmother spoke off were said to be tall, taller than any pony, as tall as an Alicorn even.....I believe this human is not fully grown, I suspect he is just a foal, like the two of you" at this Celestia Ooohed again as she spoke up "Can we keep him mama? Please? please? PLEASE???".
Mother smiled as she ruffled my sisters hair. "He is not a pet Celestia, he is of an ancient lineage, far older than any Alicorn bloodline, older even than ours"
"We cant leave him here though" my sister pouted. "No we cannot and we shall not. We shall take him to the castle to recuperate and from there may Faust guide us" mother said as she gently lifted the frail looking 'human' in her arms as she walked gently back towards the castle with me and my sister following behind, Celestia giggling and asked many annoying questions, and myself deep in thought....
I shook my head as I forced myself out of my reverie. Dwelling in the past wasnt not something I was proud of, yet every memory of him made me smile. Mother had been true to her word as she had him placed under the best care in Equestria, and he had healed rapidly. But though he was clearly more than a mere animal, he did not behave as such. He could not speak or write, and he had had no sense of personal space whatsoever.
Regardless my mother, Celestia and I adopted him into our family. And over the months and years he progressed until he spoke like us, behaved civily (for the most part) and was raised up in the royal household as Celestia's and my brother. Our mother treated him like her own foal and he in return referred to her as mother.
Still not all ponies were as forthcoming as my mother had been, and even some of our own maids and guards regarded him with suspiscion.
Perhaps it was the teeth. His teeth were formed to devour vegetation and to shred flesh. His canines particularly were a source of much concern as well as his cravings for meat.
He also grew quickly, much quicker than a normal pony, his growth matched my sisters and my own, and within a few short years he was as tall as any of the guards. Perhaps the fact that he was still not fully matured cause them some discomfort.
His strength also was great. Even as an adolescent his strength rivaled even fully grown Earth ponies. He also seemed to have an innate resistance to magic, that is any magic that may cause him bodily harm was severely weakened against him. A blast of energy that could incinerate a normal pony merely singed his hair. In addition to his accelerated growth rate and carnivorous appetite, I could understand why some would feel threatened.
However it was all unfounded, as he was the gentlest of stallions. Whenever he would galavant about town, all the fillies and colts would rush to him and force him into all sorts of ridiculous games. Being adopted by the Queen granted him royal status, yet he never abused it. He was humble and modest, traits that once I found unbefitting of his supposed warrior heritage, I now found to be noble.
No doubt his popularity with the children contributed to the widefound acceptance he soon enjoyed. But even then there were those who were threatened not by his power, but by his position. His adoption by the queen effectively put him in line to be a prince, perhaps even king. Mother had explained his status as a human once he reached a suitable age of understanding. All of the more learned and older Alicorn leaders knew that as the last known human, his right to rule superceeded all others. Some were outraged that thier years of bribery and politics and climbing the social ladder could be undone by his very exsistence. On the other hand there were those that heralded his arrival as a return to Equestria's golden age. But he never desired the throne, and was adamant that the truth of his heritage never be revealed to the general population. He merely wanted a normal, quiet life.
So noble.....so honorable, I think, if I was honest with myself, that I loved him before I ever made the realization. My only love, my human, my dearest Essix.
I placed a kiss upon the stone resting place of my beloved. The cold rock sent a shiver down my spine at the contact. I placed the lid, reluctantly, back over his sleeping visage. I did not extinguish the flames as I left. Even though in my heart of hearts I knew it was foolish, some part of me hoped that one day he would awaken, and I did not intend for him to be left in the dark and the cold.
Hours had passed by swiftly, as they always do. Though I hated to leave his side, the night would soon approach and sleep sounded like a heavenly idea. Focusing my magic, I teleported away from the frigid mountain peak and into a dark room.
At my appearnce the lamps immediately ignited, a soft blue fire in each as I stood in the middle of my bedroom. I was tired, not physically, but emotionally. So tired was my heart that I declined to take my usual shower before bed. I stripped my clothes off unceremoniously and as they pooled around my feet they were instantly teleported to the laundry room.
After dousing the lamps, I sighed as I drew back the covers and lay down. A mortals eternity had passed since last my beloved Essix had shared this bed with me, and still it was just as empty and barren feeling as that first night without him. I had cryed myself into hysteria that night.
It was as if all of Equestria mourned his fate. The wind itself howled in agony and the sky shed its tears as the soft patter of rain had splashed against my window. No moon or stars were raised that night. The sky itself reflecting my mood of lonliness.
There was a light knock on my door. Behind the mahogany wood a gentle voice sounded. "Luna.....may I come in?"
"Yes sister" I ansewered. The door slowly creaked open and my ivory coated sister stepped into the door way. Shutting the door behind her she sat upon the edge of my bed. Her natural aura casting a soft white glow about the room. "I did not see you at breakfast" she said, concern in her tone. "No, I spent a little longer with Essix this morning". "Ah well i can certainly understand that......the date is fast approaching isnt it". I knew what she reffered to. The date we would have been wed, if not for the circumstances surrounding his cursed slumber. "Yes sister, our 3000th and 1st anniversary, would be in 3 weeks"
Celestia smiled gently "Im sure he is dreaming of it Luna" she meant well, I knew this but I seethed at her words. "Dream? Surely you arent serious?" Her smiled fell as my eyes narrowed at her. "He has not dreamed, not once in 3 millenia, I would know wouldnt I dear sister, is it not part of my duties to moniter the dreams of all those in our realm? That bastard Sombra was clear in his dying words that Essix and I would not be torn apart by death, but by an eternity of life. Life! What should have been a gift, he turned into a curse!. An eternity of living! Knowing that you can never touch or speak to the one you long for, not even in thier dreams.....he was very thorough in his curse, so you more than any one should know better than to say something so idiotic!" I spat these words like poisoned cider at my sister. I immediately regretted it as tears filled her eyes.
I immediately moved to apologize but she held up a delicate manicured hand to stop me. "No Luna, there is no need for an apology, I should have thought before I spoke".
A long silence followed, the only sounds were our own soft breathing and the sound of Celestia's wings rustling as she adjusted her position on the bed.
"I loved him too you know" she said idly tracing the designs on the bed post. I opened my mouth to say something, but she continued speaking. "Not like you of course, but in my own way I did. We were raised up together after all....he will always be my brother". She turned to me. "Do you remember how we used to prank eachother?" I smiled and nodded at our childhood antics. "Yes, I especially recall the time Essix and yourself dyed my coat pink for a month". Celestia smiled at the memory and then giggled.
CELESTIA'S POV
"Hurry Essy before she wakes up" I whispered urgently. My human brother fumbled in his pocket for the vial we had stolen from the royal hair dresser. We were outside Luna's room, the sun had not yet risen and we had little time before mother would be along to gather us all for breakfast.
Essy was nervous, but because of my hooves I couldnt sneak up on Luna as easy as he could. I quietly opened her bedroom door and peaked inside. "Luna?" I whispered. I tried again, this time a little louder. Again no ansewer and I ushered Essy forward.
"Remember just pour it in her hair and then get out quick" I said. "Yeah, yeah I know just keep a lookout for mom" he said looking around as if just mentioning her would cause her to appear. I held the door open gingerly as he slipped underneath my arm into the room.
There was a small shuffling noise and then a small pop, as if a cork had been loosened from a bottle of cider. Seconds seemed like hours as I waited for my brother to hurry back. When he finally slid back out of Luna's room I quickly shut the door.
"Well?" I whispered. He grinned at me as he stood, "Mission accomplished". I grinned back and rubbed my hands together like a mad scientist. "Excellent, excellent" I said putting on my best evil genius impersonation.
Essy chuckled "I cant wait for her to wake up". "Cant wait for who to wake up?" We both paused in the middle of a highfive as mother came around the corner.
"Erhm....nobody mom hehe" I chuckled nervously. Mom looked from me to Essy, a look of suspiscion on her face. "What are you two doing outside Luna's room this early?" I fished around in my mind for a quick excuse, but Essy was quicker. "We uhmm came to wake her up for breakfast, so you wouldnt have to" he said, the worlds least convincing smile adorning his face.
Suddenly a piercing scream filled the castle and a crash as Luna's bedroom dooe flew off its hinges. There she stood in the doorway, the epitome of righteous anger. Her eyes blazed in wrath and she looked ready to kill anypony in her path.
And yet her bright pink coat would not allow me too be afraid. Essy and I glanced at eachother behind mothers back and then burst into a fit of laughter.
"Oh my Faust Luna look at you!" I said as tears formed from the force of my laughter. "You actually look like a-" I was cut off as Luna lunged for me only to be caught by our mom's strong grasp. "Dont you dare say the P word!" She shouted struggling futilely in mom's arms.
Essy and I exchanged another glance and he blurted out the unholy word "PRINCESS!" At this we both rolled on the ground in laughter.
"Come now Luna, it doesnt look terribly awful" mother said fighting a smile of her own. Luna looked up at mom, a look of utmost betrayal on her face. "But mom....im...im PINK!" she snarled lunging at us both again.
"Luna fair is fair, last week didnt you cast a spell on Celestia and Essix that caused them to switch bodies for a day?" Luna stopped struggling and looked at the ground as she grumbled acknowledgement. "Well then I'd say the three of you are even, wouldnt you?" Luna kicked at the floor "I guess" "Good then I expect to see you all at breakfast" mother turned to walk away, then adding over her shoulder "And I do mean ALL of you" before disappearing around the corner.
"But mom I cant be seen! Im PINK!" Luna said, but mother was already gone. Essix and I had to hold eachother up to keep from falling over we were laughing just that hard. Luna turned and gave us a stare that couldve frozen a Basilisk. "Hahaha! Princess!" I laughed pointing. I barely heard the roar as My sister launched herself at Essix and I
LUNA'S POV
I shook my head and smiled at the memory, although at the time I had been livid. "I remember you wouldnt speak to either of us for a month AFTER that hideous pink finally faded away" Celestia chuckled. "Yes....it was the ugliest shade of pink I've ever seen" I agreed.
Another silence followed as we both were lost in our own thoughts. I missed those days very much indeed. The time before any of us had any real responsibilities. Just two adolescent mares and a young human without a care in the world. I remembered how we would wake early in the morning and go out into the gardens and trim the hedges into all manner of inappropriate shapes and figures, much to the chagrin of the royal gardners. Or how we would fill the indoor pool so full of suds and bubbles that they seeped under the doors and into the hallways. Or even better how we used to sneak glasses of hard apple cider on hearthswarming eve only to have mother force our hangovers out of us the next morning by heavy manual labor. So many memories that had not been very memorable at the time, had now become more precious than any gem.
"Sooooo" Celestia said interupting my internal monolouge. My ears perked up listening. "How did you pull it off anyway?"
"pull what off?" She laughed at my confused look. "That body switch spell, that was pretty powerful magic for a teenage mare" I laughed "Uhmm well Aunt Nebula may have had a hand in that particular incident" I confessed giggling. Celestia's eyes widened "No way? Not Aunt Nebula she was always so dull". "Yes I know. I believe you and Essix made it an easy desiscion for her after the two of you switched the chocolate frosting on her morning desert with blended mud and frog eggs" Celestia's face contorted as she struggled to remember this specific prank, which numbered among thousands.
She snapped her fingers, no no that was cousin Star Luster, we switched his birthday cake icing with frog eggs and mud. For Aunt Nebula we put old Griffon feathers and paste inside her apple fritter. Oh my Faust she still had a feather glued to her tongue the next day!"
Celestia rubbed her back side, "Mom sure gave us a good punishing, my plot was sore for days". I laughed remembering her and Essix waddling around the castle for more than a few days.
"Thank you sister" I said. "No need Luna, I know I would want somepony to cheer me up if I was in your hooves" she pulled me close and hugged me. "No matter how many millenia pass by you'll always be my little sister". I smiled a single tear welling up. Celestia stood up "Now get some sleep and I'll see you later this evening" I nodded as she left the warm glow of her aura disappearing as she shut the door behind her.
I was alone again and then slowly like a poison, or an assassins dagger, the lonliness and depression seeped back into my heart. I sighed as I rolled over and hugged the pillow that had once been Essix's, his scent having faded long ago.
I could only force my eyes closed and pray to Faust that my dreams of him tonight would be pleasant
Author's Note
Sorry if this chapter seems a little rushed, i was trying to finish it while watching the panthers get murdered last night but anyway heres chapter 2. Warning solo clop
Drinking the moon
"But mommmm I dont want to go" I said pouting. My mother sighed in frustration. "I know Luna but its not an option this time" I rolled my eyes at moms unwillingness to compromise. "I'll do anything else I swear to Faust. I'll do all the laundry in the whole castle, I'll trim the bushes, I'll water the flowers, I'll clean the gutters just please PLEASE dont make me go" I begged.
Mom set down her coffee and looked at me "Luna listen I detest social gatherings and fancy do's just as much as you, but you are a princess whether you like it or not and its time you started attending these events". "But im not Celestia I hate all the fake smiles and compliments, why cant I just stay in bed, you can tell every one im sick" I said hopefully. Mother grimaced "Thats your excuse everytime. Luna im not going to be queen forever and you need to mingle with your subjects if your going to gain thier trust, you need to make friends"
"But I have friends already...." I started before Mom waved her hand cutting me off. "Friends besides Celestia and Essix and that little bat pony....erm what was her name?". "Nightshade" I grumbled. "Ah yes Nightshade". "Mom I-" "ENOUGH! Luna you are going to the ball and thats final. All you do is stay up all night with Essix practicing sword play and offensive magic, its time you took a more active role as a princess of Equestria"
I pushed my breakfast around on my plate as I mumbled to myself. "What was that dear?" Mother asked looking up from a letter. "Nothing" I replied knowing it was hopeless to argue with her.
Across the table Aunt Nebula had just finished up her morning dessert. "Trust me Luna darling I know these gatherings can be quite dull, but its a good chance to meet some nice young colts" she said as if that would change my mind. "Celestia has enough coltfriends for the both of us" I argued. "Thats because she's making an effort" mother said idly. "Aurora is right Luna, just put your best hoof forward and you may be suprised how much fun you'll have" Aunt Nebula said eyeing another pastry.
"But mommm, Essix doesnt have to do all this royal stuff, he gets to stay in the armory all day and night if he wishes" I said pushing my untouched plate away. Mom sighed and focused on me again. "We've already discussed this Luna, Essix is a special case, as the rightful ruler of this world, he can do pretty much as he pleases. If he were to desire the throne I would gladly step down after he was properly groomed for it. As it is he detests the thought of being 'prince Essix', he would rather be a knight, and that is his perogative" she narrowed her eyes and glared at me "You however are a princess first and a warrior last and Nebula is right, you may have more fun than you think". "And no more buts" she said as I opened my mouth to say that very word.
Knowing better than to keep pushing the issue I decided to just keep silent. "If it makes you feel any better Essix will be attending as well" mother said. I looked up quickly "Really?" I said. "Yes, I had to force him no less than you but in the end he agreed". Well maybe it wouldnt be all bad at least Essix and I both despised social events. We could huddle up against the wall and discuss how much we hated being dragged into it "Yes, Aurora has been recieving countless letters from parents who wish to arrange a marriage between Essix and thier daughters" Nebula said.
"What? Which parents? What daughters?" I asked quickly lookin from mom to my aunt. They both chuckled "Why Luna is that a blush? If I didnt know better I'd say you were jealous" Aunt Nebula teased.
"Wha-? Jealous? Hahahah" I said forcing a laugh. "You havent developed a crush on our dear Essix have you?" Aunt Nebula prodded. "No! I havent!" I said rather too defensively. "He's like my brother" I added. "Well he isnt technically any blood relation to you dear, and he has grown into quite the strapping young colt, i've seen more than a few of the castle maids staring after him" Aunt Nebula said matter of factly.
My ears grew hot at this "Well I...I mean....thats good for him" I finished lamely. "Luna if you've grown attracted to Essix its quite all right, he IS a very handsome colt" mother said. "MOM! Your taking Aunt Nebula's side? Celestia and Essix and I used to bathe together! How could you even suggest something so....so crass". "Yes you did used to bathe together and now your practice swords together. Now you two go off into the Everfree forest to hunt ghosts and timberwolves, in fact you spend more time with Essix than anypony else"Aunt Nebula said.
Before I could retort mother spoke up "Luna the way Celestia and Essix used to be inseperable made me wonder if perhaps they would one day become special someponies. But that was all childhood fun, they are still close, but they have grown apart in thier interests. Now you and he have more in common and that means that instead of growing apart you have grown closer" I was silent as I really couldnt argue with that, we HAD been spending an awful lot of time together. But we just had similiar interests that was all.....wasnt it?
"Your wrong, Essix will always be my brother and nothing more" I replied determined to win this argument. Aunt Nebula leaned forward and intertwined her fingers. "If what you say is true and you have no feelings for Essix then go to the ball tonight and meet some nice young colts, and let Essix meet some pretty fillies, if you can survive then I'll believe you" she said smugly.
I stumbled around for a reply. Mother chuckled while Aunt Nebula spoke up again "Whats wrong dear? Afraid you might lose?"
I stood up from the table "You have a deal" I said turning to leave. "Luna" mother called my name. I half turned towards her, staring questioningly. "Put your chair under the table" she said, sipping her coffee. "Yes mother" I grumbled
My eyes opened as the dream ended, my face was half embedded in his pillow. I breathed deeply hoping for at least a lingering trace of his scent. Sighed I sat up and stretched first my arms, then my wings. My internal clock told me there was an hour before I had to raise the moon and stars.
Once I had been very meticulous in the patterns that I painted in the sky. But as of late they had become mere random configurations. I had simply stopped caring long ago.
I remember mother once spoke to me of such pain. An Alicorn only took one mate in its lifetime. And thier hearts were said to be bound for eternity. An Alicorn is immortal in almost every sense of the word. Our memories never fade, our magic and knowledge and youth never naturally diminish. And our love lasts as long as we do, alas so does our heartache.
My mother had lived through the love and the heartache when she lost my father Sagittarius.
It took a great deal of magic and energy to conceive and birth an Alicorn foal. No couple had ever birthed two Alicorns, not for many centuries. The siblings would always be born as very powerful Unicorns or particularly talented Pegasi. I was the first second born Alicorn in 1,500 years. But the strain on my mother had been great, so much energy from the mother was required, that the physicians feared she would not survive a second birthing.
My father loved my mother very much, at least thats what she told me, I never met him. He had given up his lifeforce to save my mother and to allow me to be born. It had drained him to the point that his body had simply withered away. There were only two ways to kill an Alicorn. A death through violence or the relinquishing of ones lifeforce, which was akin to suicide in our culture.
My father had sacrificed himself to give life to me and to save my mothers. She had lived with the pain every day and night of her life. Sometimes at night I would hear her crying softly. But she had Celestia and I to remind her of him. She said it made the pain more bearable.
I thought I understood her pain then, but now I truly felt the weight of longing and yearning. How blessed was Celestia that she had never taken a mate, other than for recreation. Essix was my first lover, and my last, I would never allow another to touch that which only his hands had ever caressed.
I clothed myself and teleported into the dining hall, Celestia was absent, no doubt preparing to lower the sun. Knowing where she would be I teleported into the highest tower of the castle. There I found Celestia working her solar magic. Her wings outstretched as her hands drew sigils of white energy into the air. Her eyes glowed a solid white as her magic surged forth.
The sun slowly lowered below the horizon. The lower it fell, the less her aura glowed until finally it faded completely. No words were spoken as I stepped next to her. My wings outstretched in mimic of hers as a soft dark blue glow enveloped my body. My eyes glowed a sapphire hue as I traced sigils in the air of like color.
I did not know what when through my sisters mind as her power raised and lowered the great burning sphere every day. But for me it was exhilirating, or at least it used to be. As my powers grew, my mind reached out into the cosmos. I was aware of every constellation in the Equus system, almost intimately so. Every moon that orbited the lifeless planets that surrounded ours was mine to control, to command. Every constellation was mine to twist and contort as I saw fit. But even such power had dulled with the loss of my mate.
I now merely raised the moon as quickly as I could, splashing random constellation into the black canvas above me. All the sooner to be done.
Once he would stand with me in awe of the masterpieces I would design, more for his pleasure than my own. Now it was just another tedious chore.
As the moon fully rose and my power reached its peak I heard Celestia shuffle her wings. "Nicely done sister" she said. "Thank you, quite the brilliant sunset you concoted, as always". "Well" she said waving her hand dismissively "I have had 4,000 years of practice" she chuckled. I allowed a small smile to grace my lips in return.
Celestia bit her lip, it was a sign that something was on her mind, but she didnt know how to phrase it. She had obtained that little habit as a filly.
"What is it sister?" I queried. She looked up quickly denying that anything was bothering her. As usual I had to coax it out of her. Finally she came clean "I was just wondering, if perhaps you'd join me for dinner tonight? Its been a while since we enjoyes eachothera company over a hot meal". I smiled inwardly, I knew exactly what she was trying to do and I appreciated the gesture, but i would much prefer my own quiet and solitude. The hustle and bustle of the castle had never been intriging and it was even less so these days.
"Thank you 'Tia, but I would rather take a long shower before I begin the rest of my nightly duties". Nodding her head, gave my shoulder a small squeeze and teleported on the spot.
Following suit, I too transported, rematerializing in my opulent bathroom. The color scheme was far diffrent from the purple and dark blues of my bed chambers. The floor was of polished ivory granite tiles. Gold trim seperated the seperate tiles one from another. The bath itself was an even grander affair. Big enough for 10 ponies and made of a light grey onyx stone. In a pinch it could substitute as a small swimming pool.
Passing by I made my way towards the shower. It was an open showers, no doors or knobs, only a drain in the center of the tiled floor and a silver shower head from above. It was easily the newest addition, as I had it made especially for Essix, he always did enjoy showers more than bathing.
I was never a fan of washing with steaming hot water, I always preffered a gentle warm sensation, but Essix would fill the entier bathroom with steam from the heat of his showers, and I must say I had grown accustomed to them as well.
Stripping my gown, I tossed it behind me, hearing the quiet swooshing noise as it teleported before it hit the ground. There I stood fully naked as turned on the water and adjusted the temperature to the desired effect.
Celestia and I had always been polar opposites, in both personality and interests. The shape of our bodies was no diffrent matter. Despite being known as a kind and just ruler, Celestia was also highly regarded and lusted after due to her ample breasts and full thighs. Her plot was the subject of many wet dreams, as I was all too familiar.
For my part, I was more slender and lithe than my voluptious sister. My breasts. were smaller and my hips not nearly as wide. Once I had thought that I was not as beautiful as my elder sister. Despite the many marriage requests and Stallions desiring to rut me. It was only when Essix became more than my adopted brother that I felt truly attractive.
How I missed the attention he lavished upon me. How his masterful hands would caress my coat, how they would work along my spine and trace the dimples in my lower back. How his lips would kiss my neck, and the feeling of his sharp canines nipping playfully at my throat.
I longed for the way he would kiss his was down to my collar bone and gently trace the sensitive area with his tongue, and then pepper my breasts with gentle kisses.
I hadnt even realized that my hands had started to grope my breasts as they remembered his touch. His skillful tongue would swirl around the tips of each soft mound. The flexible appendage contrasting so inticingly against my dark areola.
Slowly my hands crept towards my navel. He had always loved to tease me there with his lips. The area was so sensitive it was almost ticklish. Sometimes he would lavish extra attention upon it just to bring me into fits of laughter.
But his favorite spot, as well as my own was just slightly lower down. My fingers moved of thier own accord as the parted my dark blue lips. With my other hand I slowly pushed a two fingers inside. The water from the shower as well as my own juices made for an easy entry as I gently prodded the place where once his tongue had made its home.
Gently I pulled out both soaking wet digits then returned them with more force, mimicking the piston like motion that he knew I loved.
I could almost envision him atop my body, his strong arms forcing my legs apart as he ravished me with his tongue. How he would hold me in place when the pleasure became too much to bear and I would try to squirm away. A deep moan escaped my lips as I began to stimulate the small nub, that he loved to tease.
He would laugh gently everytime i would grab his head and push him deeper and deeper into my moist folds. I pulled my fingers free from thier tight confine and guided them to my mouth as I tasted myself, something he had loved to see me do. My other hand quickly replaced the missing digits as I furiously assualted my swollen mound.
My breathing was becoming more and more ragged, the moans longer and more drawn out. I could feel my inner muscles clenching tighter and tighter, undulating around my figers like a powerful serpent.
I was so close, just a little more and I would-
And as suddenly as my orgasm had been so close to erupting forth in a tidal wave of pleasure and relief, it was just as suddenly gone. I knew why of course. No matter how clear and lucid my memories they paled in comparison to the real thing. With enough free time I could easily bring myself to climax in my bed or bath. But here in this shower, I could not. Because this was OUR place. At least once a day our bodys intertwined under the fall of crystal lava. Sometimes just a quick session before breakfast, or a long sensual affair after dinner.
No. No matter how long or hard I tried, this spot was sacred and without him here it was always impossible for me to climax in this place
Sighing I began the actual task of lathering my coat and washing my long, star speckled mane. After a long shower and a role in the proverbial hay, Essix and I would stay fully nude and air dry while we retired to our bed chamber. His antics would always have my sides splitting from laughter. I loved how he talked with his hands, making grand gestures as if his mere words were not enough to convey his meaning.
As much as I wouldve loved to reminesce all night long I had other duties to preform. A small bit of magic later and my coat and mane were fully dry and a dark gown adorned my body. As usual a large hood surround my face, it had become a habit over my years of mourning.
My favourite method of filtering through the dreams of Equestria was to simply glide on the wind above the lands, catching whatever nightmares I came upon and altering them into pleasant dreams. I could have done it from my bedroom, or anywhere for that matter, but I always found this to be the most effective and pleasing manner.
As I drifted above the towns and settlements of our vast lands, I could make out the various dreams of my subjects. Whereever a pleasant dream formed an sapphire aura, almost smoke-like in substance would waft above the residence. In the case of a nightmare the smoke would take on a putrid green color. I was the only one that could see these auras and tonight there was quite a shortage of nightmares, meaning another slow night ahead of me. But in a land as peaceful as this nightmares truly were few and inbetween.
Normally only small foals would experience them, the childish mind has no limit of imagined dangers and monsters. Older ponies and Alicorns had nightmares more frequently due to thier long years and experiences. But tonight every house I passed over exuded a soft blue glow.
I sighed, not that I wished bad dreams upon anypony, but they did tend to keep my mind occupied. I came to rest above Trottingham, which coincedentally was where Aunt Nebula and her son Star Luster once lived. Star and Essix had been best friends growing up, even after Essix took an interest in combat and Star began learning the ways of a politician they remained close. In fact it was Essix that had indirectly been responsible for Star meeting the mare that he would later marry
"I cant believe Aunt Aurora managed to rope you into coming" StarLuster smirked at the obviously irritated human. Essix shook his head "If it was anyone but mom, i wouldve flat out refused" he confided. The castles ball room was large, even by royal standards, but even its extravagant size had limits as 1,500 ponies had managed to attend. Needless to say the dance floor and refreshment areas were so crowded, one barely had room to squeeze through. Essix and StarLuster had been leaning against the wall sipping on thier beverages. Essix was merely uninterested in the festivities, while Star was simply to shy to walk up to a mare and ask her for a dance.
Thats not to say they werent drawing looks from lusting females. Both young royals were attractive and they had certainly dressed for the occasion despite the one's nonchalance and the other's timidness.
"There certainly are some nice looking fillies out tonight" Star murmered over his drink. "Yeah I guess so" Essix shrugged. One particular mare had been eyeing the two friends for some time, deliberately dancing close by as well as putting on a slightly provacative show by dancing with another mare.
"I think she likes you star" Essix said as he swirled his drink around with his finger.
StarLuster blushed "Who?". "That light purple mare with the braids". StarLuster quickly spotted the mare not 10 feet from them. She was gorgeous.....the most beautiful Unicorn he had ever seen.
Her mane was long and silvery, a single purple streak running its length. Her eyes were a bright turqouise. She wore a low cut, form fitting dress that matched her eyes perfectly. Her purple coat almost glittered in the light of the ballroom.
Essix laughed as StarLusters tongue was practically lolling out of his mouth. "Go talk to her" he prodded, nudging his friend in the side. "Wha-!" Star said tearing his eyes ftom the luscious mare. "No I...I'm fine, hehehe this is lame, I'm probably going to leave soon". "Star come on, we've been here two hours and that mare has been giving you bedroom eyes for half that". "R-really?" StarLuster turned to gaze at the purple Unicorn again. "Yeah, she was probably staring at you Ess". Essix shook his head in disbelief. "Come on she practically eye rutting you from across the room". "I...well I mean....maybe I could-". Essix sighed "Wait here" he said cutting Star's rambling off.
The human strode confidently up to the two mare and grandios smile on his face. "Hello my lady" he said offering small bow. This mare was obviously more mature than most her age, instead of gigglishing foalishly, she smiled an returned the bow. "You must be prince Essix" it wasnt a question but a statement. Essix grimaced at the title. "Just Essix is fine, but my friends call me Essy, or Ess" he responded. "Well 'Essy' its a pleasure to make your aquaintence, how relieving that only some of the rumors where true". "Rumors? What sort?". "Well you are tall but certainly not a giant. Your eyes donot glow like fire, though they are quite fetching, and you teeth arent quite as imposing as I had been led to believe".
Essix shook his head as he laughed. "Im must say im ashamed that I dont quite live up to the legends". "On the contrary" the purple mare said batting her eyelashes "I find that the legends dont quite live up to the stallion". "My name is Radiant by the way. RadiantSparkle". Her smile was certainly a sight to behold.
"Im sorry for bothering you but my cousin and I" at this Essix pointed across the room at StarLuster "Were having a debate concerning you". "Oh?" Radiant said, her eyes widening in suprise. "What about?". "Your flank" Essix said bluntly. Rather than look offended, the purple mare actually looked intrigued. "Or more specifically your cutie mark". "What of it?". "Well, we were trying our best to guess what your special talent might be, and Im afraid we ended up at to completely diffrent theories" Essix explained. "And what sort of theories may I ask?" Radiant was really enjoying this as Essix could tell, or at the very least his presence, not exactly what he had planned.
"Well my cousin, whose name is StarLuster by the way, is convinced that your special talent is navigation". At this RadiantSparkle's eyes widened slightly. "And what basis does he have for his theory?" She asked. "Well he says your cutie mark is made up of two constellations. Eqis Dratonis, and Eqis Valori. Eqis Dratonis is a set of stars revered by scholars, everyone knows the story of the Alicorn twins Dratonis and Valori. Dratonis was a patron of philosophers and teachers. His sister Valori was a guide to the afterlife. It just so happens a star in the Eqis Valori constellation is the brightest star in equstrian astronomy. As such those lost, or having to navigate without the use of magic, rely upon its position in the sky. Now you could just as easily be a teacher or philosopher, but the way your hooves are slightly harder and thicker than the average mare, suggests you spend quite a bit of time standing. You also have exquisite calf muscles which says that you spend alot of time walking, and lastly the way you were shaking your flank earlier is not something most educators would do in public. Thus leading him to the conclusion of navigation". During Essix's explanation RadiantSparkle grew more and more impressed, as well as repeatedly staring at StarLuster with greater interest.
"And your theory?" She said drawing her attention back to the human before her. "Gardening" he said as he turned from her and strode towards the bar, nodding towards the mare that had been silent throughout the whole exchange. Looking intrigued Radiant made her way over to Star, who felt like he was being forced to swallow a rather large pill.
At the bar, mares and stallions were drinking and making idle conversation. A rap of knuckles on hard wood drew the bartender's attention and the jetblack stallion known as BottomsUp approached Essix. "What can I get for you Ess?" He asked, drying out a freshly washed glass.
"Eh, suprise me Bottoms" the human shrugged.
BottomsUp was not the stallions real name of course, that would be ludicrous. His real name was DarkHoof and his talent was carpentry. He was also one hell of a drink mixologist. He got the royal bar man's job due to the fact that he and Celestia used to be special someponies. She was also the one that gave him the nickname BottomsUp. After they had discontinued thier relationship, Queen Aurora had kept him on as head bar man.
The stallion slid a glass filled with a dark liquid towards the human. It was a strange concoction. A bird's eye view revealed small specks of a silver crystylline nature. Any other pony may have been suspicious of unknown crystals in thier drink, but not Essix. Although he wasnt fond of being treated like royalty, it did have it's perks. Noone was going to purposefully drug a royal's drink at an event such as this. Well assassins perhaps, or jealous nobles seeking to remove any competition, or even a slighted lover. In any case Essix had always been more brave than careful, although queen Aurora called it foolishness, and Aunt Nebula had another name for it. Stupid.
The Liqour stung as it made contact with the human's throat. But it was a good burn, which quickly turned to a honey-like flavor. There was also a hint of blueberries and another unknown flavor. Perhaps that was from the crystals?. Regardless Essix was addicted immediately. Well maybe not addicted but very fond of the liquid.
"Whats in this Bottoms?" Essix asked smacking his lips. BottomsUp smiled as he named of the ingredients. "The base is a Blueberry cider, a little honey liqour, and Moon essence". That explained the crystals.
Moon essence was a very rare, mysterious substance. It was supposedly made from the filtered light of the full moon's rays. Only a very talented Unicorn could condense the particles of the moon's beams into crystal form. However it could take several years to accumulate a sizable amount, but the profits were substanstial. A single pound was worth several thousand bits and it was always in high demand. It had many properties, both medicinal a magical, it also was a sought after alchemical ingredient.
"So whats it for?" Essix asked, wondering what such a valuable ingredient was doing in a glass of fermented juice. "Well I figured out a way to use Moon essence to prevent a hangover no matter how much somepony drinks. After I told Queen Aurora about it she ordered 100 pounds for tonights ball". 100 pounds? Well the Queen had spent close to a million bits just to ensure nopony suffered a hangover, but then again money was the least of the Queen's worries. Essix downed the rest of his drink and ordered another.
From his seat at the bar, Essix could make out StarLuster being lead through a side door by RadiantSparkle. He chuckled to himself, as the blushing stallion stumbled along behind her.
Across the room a dark blue Alicorn entered, dressed in a dazzling silver gown. Essix's attention was immediately drawn to the princess. He had never seen Luna look so.......beautiful. But then again he had never paid much attention before. She looked so adorable standing there looking completely lost in such a setting. Essix grinned inwardly, Luna and himself were so alike, he knew she was just as repulsed as he was by the ball. He ordered another drink to take to her.
'Maybe I'll ask for a dance' he thought to himself. It wasnt like they were actual siblings, nevermind the fact that they were two diffrent species. Slowly steeling his resolve, while still unsure if the liqour was effecting his judgement, he made his was through the crowd.
Maybe there was more there than just a familial bond. Perhaps the human had fallen for the princess? Oddly the thought seemed more and more pleasing the closer he came to Luna. What would thier mother say? What would Celestia say? What would anypony say if they found out that Essix may have romantic interests in his adopted sister. Surely it would be a scandalous affair, but in no way illegal. Of course it was all pointless conjecture unless Luna felt the same.
But she must, at least to some degree right? Otherwise they wouldnt spend so much time together. And Essix was sure he'd seen her looking at him with at least mild interest.
With only a few more ponies between himself and the Lunar princess, he strengthened his resolve.
And then had it shattered as a crimson coated Earth pony engaged Luna in conversation. Essix was torn, should he interrupt? Or just wait till Luna got rid of the stallion on her own? Surely she wasnt interested, she'd never shown interest in anyone before. A few moments passed and Essix actually saw the princess smile and blush. The. His heart fell as she took the stallions hand and followed him to to a table where they sat and engaged in conversation.
Thinking quickly, Essix adressed the nearest mare to him, a pretty, silver coated Pegasus. He offered her the extra drink and asked her for a dance, to which she excitedly accepted. But as her hands gripped his shoulders, Essix kept throwing crest fallen looks at Luna who was currently laughing, seemingly transfixed on the red stallion.
He knew he shouldnt have came.
