A Competition in Mortality

by forestpip

Rating: everyone
Tags: Princess Celestia, Twilight Sparkle, Main 6, Princess Luna, Drama, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Princess Cadance, Romance, Comedy, Random
Length: 7518

Celestia and Luna have both fallen for Twilight Sparkle. So naturally the only way to fight for her love is to make themselves normal! At least, as normal as two princesses can be.

Celestia and Luna are very competitive. So much so that when they find out that they're both in love with Twilight Sparkle, they decide there's only one way to handle this: becoming mortal. Will their disappearance weaken Twilight's availability for love, or will she choose a sister to spend her eternal life with?

Cover art by Xazteiin: http://xazteiin.deviantart.com/

Published 2016-02-13 00:10:02 UTC
Last updated 2016-03-24 01:46:34 UTC

The Journey Begins

Celestia paced along her stained glass window room. She liked it here. It was nice and warm when the sunlight streamed through and it was the one place she can stare at her love without judgement; after all, she was just admiring the decor. Who would’ve known, that her former student Twilight Sparkle would capture her heart just after ascending to her alicorn status. Did that mean she would eventually fall for Celestia? She was immortal now. With enough time maybe, but she didn’t want to wait that long. If only she had time to see Twilight when Equestria was not in danger.

A door opened behind her and interrupted her thoughts.

“Hello, sister. How goes the day?” Luna asked, yawning from her brief nap.

“It goes well. If only it weren’t so lonely” Celestia responded, looking downward.

“Missing someone are we?” Luna asked, wiggling her eyebrows teasingly.

“Yes, it seems so. I can’t remove her from my mind.” Celestia’s brow furrowed with frustration at this statement.

“I fear I have a similar problem.”

“She’s just so kind.”

“Mine as well, and so heroic.”

“Her coat is the most wonderful color too.”

“Lavender” They both sighed, a dreamy look in their eyes.

“Wait, lavender? I only know one lavender coated pony”

“That is why I came. I want to ask your approval to woo Twilight.
I know you’re very possessive of your students” Luna responded, nervously avoiding her sister’s eyes. This could either end with support or she could end up back on the moon. There was no middle ground.

“You’re right about that, but I fear you’re a tad bit too late. Her heart is mine.”

“I know she’s immortal now, but that doesn’t mean she’ll be eternally yours. I have just as much of an opportunity as you do.” Luna defended, losing confidence in her chances all the same.

“I’m already close to her. You didn’t teach her to control her magic. You didn’t care for and advise her for years on end. You don’t have the long-standing close relationship with her that I do. I made her who she is today. I’m the one she loves.”
“If you’re so confident, then why not talk her? You only ever send her letters. Is the great ‘princess of the sun’ afraid?”

“Don’t be ridiculous. I would have no competition even as a mortal.”

“If you’re so sure, let’s make a bet. We both surrender our magic to Cadence and fight for the love of Twilight. The first to earn a kiss gets exclusive rights to her love. The other abandons her forever”

“True love’s kiss should be won. A simple peck doesn’t show love, just pity.”

“Then let’s go.I don’t want to waste any time.” Luna said, trotting toward the door.

****

Celestia’s feathers ruffled in anticipation. This wasn’t something she wanted to do, but she didn’t want to give up either. Across from her, Luna glared at the passing trees.

“I don’t see why we have to take the train. We have chariots for a reason.” Luna complained.

“If we’re going to become like our citizens, we should travel with them.” Celestia explained.

“Honestly, I’m surprised you agreed to do this in the first place.” Luna said, shrugging her shoulders.

“It’s a learning experience.” Celestia said, giving a slight smile.

Silence filled the train car. At least, it would be silent if not for the other ponies whispering and taking pictures. Luna turned to face Celestia.

“How are you smiling?” Luna asked, a hint of bitterness in her tone.

“I look horrible in a photo if I’m not smiling. Entire headlines were written about it after you were banished.” Celestia explained, perfectly aware or the flashing cameras.

“I wouldn’t have been banished if you were a better listener.” Luna muttered, looking down at her hooves.

“I got better after you left.” Celestia defended, slightly hurt by her sister’s words.

“No you didn’t. The only person who trusted you to listen after that was Sunset Shimmer and she went to another world to get away from you!” Luna spat, her voice rising. Ponies around them lowered their heads and folded their ears back, quivering in fear. Nopony had ever seen two alicorns fighting like this since Nightmare Moon tried to take over. Though nopony on the train had been alive then, the tales of the battle were quite terrifying.

“Hot could you possibly know that! You weren’t even here to see her leaving! You don’t know what really happened!” Celestia shouted, standing up with her wings outstretched.

“The proof is in the metaphorical pudding! You don’t listen to Twilight; you aren’t even at her side when Equestria’s in danger!” Luna also rose, using her royal Canterlot voice to prove her point. By now, the staff of the train had been sent to deal with the two alicorns, but both attendees had been too afraid and humored by the situation.

“At least I’m willing to defend my subjects at my own expense! You don’t even risk your life in that stupid dreamscape!” Celestia yelled, shaking the train.

“Welcome to the Crystal Empire!” the conductor called. Everypony around them rushed off the train.

“My dreamscape is better than what you do! Name one pony you comfort every day!” Luna stated, her face red with rage.

“TWILIGHT SPARKLE!” Celestia had never been so angry in her life. She didn’t argue with luna often, but when she did, it never ended well.

“Ahem.” Cadence broke them out of their trance. “I hope I’m not interrupting an important political discussion.” The look on Cadence’s face told them she didn’t approve of their public bickering. “We can continue this later. Let’s get to the castle.”

The two sisters lowered their heads in shame, but only for a moment, because there was still the public image to worry about. Once in the castle, Cadence led them straight to the conference room, sat them down, and conjured a silence bubble.

“So, what’s the emergency?” Cadence asked the grin of potential adventure in her eyes.

“Does there have to be an emergency for us to visit? How’s the baby doing? Still developing healthily I presume?” Luna asked, nervously shifting her eyes about the room.

“The baby’s fine, but if you were ‘just visiting’ then why would your letter say there was a ‘matter if great significance to be discussed immediately?” Cadence asked, now skeptical about the nature of this emergency.

“Cadence, it seems we’ve both found ourselves in love.” Celestia explained, nervously shifting in her seat.

“Okay, so what’s the problem?” Cadence asked, curiously leaning forward. Love was her area of expertise after all.

“What my sister fails to mention is that we are in love with the same pony.” Luna explained, looking down to avoid eye contact.

“Okay, so which of you saw them first?” Cadence asked, rolling her eyes. Ponies had this problem way too often. Maybe she should make a pamphlet of love FAQ’s. that would make her job easier.

“I did.” Celestia calmly stated, a small smirk on her face.

“That’s not fair, I was on the moon when that happened. Besides, Twilight was just a filly then.” Luna defended.

“You two are fighting over Twilight?” Cadence questioned, regaining her interest.

“That’s we’ve come, we’ve come up with a solution. To win the heart of Twilight, we will rid ourselves of our magic.” Celestia said dramatically.

“How is that going to help?” Cadence asked, her eyes wide in surprise.

“We’re going to become normal citizens, in order to woo her without drawing attention or having the distraction of royal duties. So we politely ask for your assistance.” Luna said, her eyes filled with a glint of hope.

“Is that safe for my baby?” Cadence asked, greatly concerned.

“Absolutely if anything, it should make your child even more magically powerful, but it won’t do any harm.” Celestia assured.

“Alright, but under one condition. Cadence replied. “Don’t destroy Ponyville.”

“Why would we do that?” Celestia asked.

“Ponies have done crazier things in love.” Cadence simply answered.

Author's Note

If you've survived this far, congratulations! Please leave a comment if you are enjoying this so far, but keep in mind that this is my first fanfic.

Have a nice day,
Forestpip.

Becoming Mortal

“Before we do this, do you have a plan?” Cadence asked.

“Of course we have a plan.” Luna replied, eyes once again darting about the room.

“You don’t have a plan?” Cadence asked, with no surprise whatsoever.
“I’m surprised I got Luna onto the train. She insists that they’re the spawn of Santa.” Celestia replied, slightly giggling.

“Do you mean Satan?” Cadence questioned, stifling a laugh.

“No, I mean Santa.” Celestia answered, a large grin on her face.

“The stallion watches you all year long, judging your actions, then enters your house without permission and leaves something based on that judgement. He’s a stalker and a criminal!” Luna insisted.

Celestia and Cadence fell out of their seats laughing. They were smiling so hard that their cheeks hurt, and they laughed so hard they forgot to breathe.

“Can we move on to plan making?” Luna complained, her cheeks tinted with a slight blush.

“Yes, yes of course.” Cadence replied, wiping a tear from her eye. She and Celestia dusted themselves off and sat back in their chairs to plan.

The two sisters were to stay at a house on the edge of town close to Twilight’s castle. The royal treasury would pay for the first month’s rent, but after that, they would have to get jobs. It would be announced to the public that Celestia and Luna were going undercover to better understand their subjects and that Cadence would handle things until they returned.

Cadence stood between Celestia and Luna for the magic transfer. A large ball of golden and blue magic swirled above them before being sucked into Cadence.

With a flourish of magic, Cadence transformed Celestia and luna into pegasi, releasing enough magic to let them fly.

Celestia was given a meadow green coat with a wavy emerald mane and tail, Her cutie mark was a sunflower. Luna was given a light orange coat with a caramel fluffy brown mane and tail. /her cutie mark was two autumn leaves blowing in the wind.

“Luna, your new name is Autumn Breeze. Celestia, you now go by Flower Vine. Any questions?” Cadence asked, her horn zapping with magic.

“Yes, what do these cutie marks mean?” Autumn asked, staring at her new flank. At least the remnants of Nightmare Moon are gone. She thought, skeptical about this new life.

“Figure it out. You’re normal now and normal ponies have to hurry for the next train. It’s not going to wait for you!” Cadence exclaimed, lifting them with her magic. She magically opened the nearest window and shot them out of it.
Flower and Autumn rocketed toward the ground, both desperately trying to teleport.

“We have to fly!” Flower screamed over the rushing wind.

Both pegasi spread their wings and gave a powerful flap of their wings, which shot them promptly upward.

“It doesn’t take as much effort to fly.” Autumn observed, looking down at the ground.

From far away they heard the sound of a train whistle. They dashed for the train station and landed on the station’s deck with a loud plonk.

“You bought return tickets right?” Flower asked, catching her breath.

“I thought you were handling that.” Autumn replied, hunched over.

“Well, this is just wonderful!” Flower cried, watching the train arrive. An attendee opened the cargo car and began to load large crates.

“Wait, I have an idea!” Autumn exclaimed, sneaking over to the crates.

“No! We are not sneaking onto that train. It’s illegal!” Flower whisper yelled.

“No it isn’t.” Autumn argued.

“Yes, it is! I wrote that law!” Flower responded, glowering at her sister.

“We’ll be fine, I do this all the time.” Autumn assured, hiding behind some crates in the car. “Come on, there’s a big one here we can fit in.”

“Lu-” Flower sighed “-Autumn, you can’t just break the law because you’re a princess.”

“I don’t, now get in!” Autumn replied, climbing into a long crate.

“You just said you do this all the time!” Flower scolded, wiggling into the crate after her.

“Yeah, in my video games!” Autumn defended in a hushed tone.

“Come on stupid, the train is supposed to leave in 5 minutes! Hurry up with those!” An unknown mare yelled.

“Yes ma’am.” A stallion answered, quite clearly sad.

“She’s not allowed to say that to him. Judging by his tone of voice, she’s been doing that for a while. Remind me when we get to Canterlot to find out who that is.” Flower said, as the train's conductor gave the final call to board.

“You need to clear your mind of politics. Have some fun.” Autumn said, carefully avoiding the contents of the box. The train lurched forward.

“What’s in here? Flower asked, moving the hay around. “There’s a note. ‘Dear Lyra Heartstrings, if Bonbon destroys this, you won’t get a refund.’”

“It’s a leg! No, wait, it’s a lamp? It’s a leg-lamp?” Autumn asked confused.

“Put that back. Please wake me up when we get there.” Flower asked, dozing off into a peaceful nap.

Goodbye Canterlot

The stopping of the train slammed Flower against the back of the crate. She opened her eyes as Autumn cracked open the lid. Flower followed clumsily. Together they waited for the door to open and when no one was looking, took off for the castle.

“How are we going to get in?’ Autumn asked, eying a nearby guard.

“Did your video games not teach you how to get into your own castle?” Flower scoffed, clearly unamused.

“No, just how to break into someone else’s castle.” Autumn responded, oblivious to her sister’s tone.

“If Twilight can break into our library, we can get into our own castle.” Flower snapped, crouching low. “How much exploring have you done?”

“Less than I should have.” Autumn replied, looking sheepish.

“Okay then, follow me.” Flower said, running straight into a bush.

Autumn reluctantly followed, only to find her sister gone. She ducked her head into the bush to find a rock had been hastily moved aside. A gaping hole was where it used to be. She stretched her neck, sticking her head in. Two hooves reached up and grabbed her head, pulling her in, the shoving her down a slide backwards.

“Aaaaah!” Autumn screamed, desperately trying to stop the pull of gravity. She landed on the ground with a thud, before promptly being collided with.
“Don’t you know how slides work?” Flower asked, standing up and shaking the dirt off her back leg.

“Yes, I do. You let someone slide down on their own!” Why do we even have a slide?” Autumn questioned, a scowl on her face.

“I got bored” Flower simply answered.

“You can’t just build a slide without asking me!” Autumn argued, wings opening in anger.

“What was I supposed to do, wait 500 years for Nightmare Moon returned and ask her? ‘Hey, I know you’re busy trying to take over Equestria, but what do you think of a slide into the case one of us can’t get in for one reason? We could even add some new paintings to hide the entrances of the tunnels into the castle! Wouldn’t that be lovely! We could bring back those tacky tapestries you loved so much!’” Flower said in a mocking tone, chuckling slightly.

“That would be really funny. Wait, that was a 500 hundred-year-old slide? Isn’t that a safety hazard?” Autumn replied, laughing a little. “The tapestries weren’t tacky. They were beautiful.”

“You there, stop in the name of Celestia!” A guard yelled. By order of the princess, you must come with me.”

“Oh yeah, there are guards down here too.” Flower said, looking down.

“You remember that now? Really?” Autumn asked, still laughing.

“I don’t want to ask again, follow me.” The guard said, leading them forward.

Reluctantly, they both followed the guard out of the tunnels and into the castle itself. He led them through several hallways, causing Flower to be more and more perplexed.

“This isn’t the way to the dungeon.” Flower noted out loud, glancing at the passing doors.

“Of course it isn’t princess.” The guard replied, a large smile on his face.

Flower and Autumn stopped in their tracks.

“How did you know?” Autumn asked, eyes wide in surprise.

“Princess Cadence sent a letter informing the guards of your noble mission to understand. your subjects and make Equestria a better place for more than just the nobility. Thank you for not forgetting the lower citizens of your country.” The guard said, bowing.

“What kind of princesses would we be if we didn’t think about all of our subjects. Flower replied. May we get the money we need now?”

“Yes, yes, this way.” the guard said, flustered.

Autumn and Flower each grabbed 60 bits for their coin bags and packed small items for their new home into their saddlebags.

“Can’t I bring one of my consoles?” Autumn whined.

“No. You can only bring what you need. besides, all that gaming is no good for you!” Flower replied, stamping her hoof.

“I do need these games! They’ve helped us so far!” Autumn argued, holding the games close to her chest.

I said no! I’m not paying for the extra baggage fee.” Flower responded, walking away to finish her own packing. It was hard for Flower to choose between her books. She couldn’t pack all of them.

It’ll all be worth it for Twilight, she thought, closing her saddle bags. Everything will sort itself out.

Author's Note

Whenever someone compliments the story you made up, just go along with it!:trollestia:

I hope you guys enjoyed this chapter. Make sure to check out the blog post I made!

Thanks for being awesome,
Forestpip.

Hello Ponyville, and Hello Twilight

The next morning, a train pulled into Ponyville carrying two very anxious pegasi.

“This is it, once we step onto the platform, our competition begins.” Flower said, standing at the door.

‘“Tis true sister.” Autumn said with a gulp. “This very moment changes our lives forever.”

“Um, excuse me, can you please move? You’re um, blocking the door.” said a soft voice behind them.

The two cautiously placed a hoof on the platform, then another. When nothing happened, they walked forward slowly.

“Wait, I know that voice! Fluttershy, is that you?” Flower exclaimed, a large grin on her face.

Fluttershy shrank onto the platform. How do you know my name?” She asked, pupils shrinking.

“You’re the Element of Kindness. You’ve saved Equestria multiple times. How could we not know?” Autumn responded.

“I Don’t know. It was nice meeting you, but I have to go. Bye!” Fluttershy said before dashing off in a blur.

Flower and autumn made their way to their new home to find it practically unfurnished. The first piece of furniture they saw was a low-quality refrigerator that was making way too much noise to be working properly.

“A repairman would cost at least 15 bits, and since we each have 50 bits after the train ticket cost, we may be able to afford a 20 to 30-bit replacement. Luna do we have a bed?” Flower yelled to her sister upstairs.

“It’s Autumn now! Yes, we have a bed, but there’s a problem!” Autumn yelled back.

“Besides the fact that we have no real kitchen to speak of? The only room in the house with what we need in it is the bathroom.” Flower said, walking up the stairs.

“There’s only one bedroom.” Autumn said to Flower once she was in the room.

Someone knocked on the door downstairs. When they opened to door, Twilight Sparkle was before them.

“Princess Twilight, what are you doing here?” Flower asked, her heart racing. She hastily bowed along with her sister.

“There’s no need to do that. I’m just here to welcome my new neighbors to Ponyville! Do you need any help unpacking?” Twilight asked, looking around the room. “I thought you just got here. Where are all the boxes? Where’s the furniture?”

“We didn’t have much to pack.” Autumn explained. “Don’t most houses come like this?”

“No. Most houses come furnished. I think the previous owner might have scammed you. Have you already signed the contract?” Twilight asked, growing concerned.

“We weren’t involved in the purchasing. Someone else helped us. We don’t know anything about this.” Flower explained.

“I’ll talk to the mayor. Are there any other discrepancies?” Twilight asked, preparing to fly.

“We were of the belief that this was a two bedroom house. There’s also an odd smell. Can you tell what that is?” Flower asked, sniffing lightly.

Twilight smelled the air. “It might be a has leak. How’s your stove?”

“Non-existent.” Autumn replied.

“Then there’s your problem. I’ll get somebody to come by on the way back from the town hall.”

“You don’t have to do that for us. We don’t want to be a bother.” Flower responded, growing increasingly nervous. Twilight was right there, helping them and just being beautiful. Nothing compared to that smile. She was everything Celestia could ever want, and she wasn’t going to give up.

“Flower? Hello? Are you okay?” Twilight asked, waving a hoof in front of her face.

“What? Huh?” Flower asked, shaking out of her trance.

“We need to get you out of this house. I think the gas might be affecting you. You can wait in the castle while I sort things out.” Twilight said, turning around.

Autumn and Flower followed Twilight to the castle. She had them wait in the giant lobby that she’d turned into a semi-public library. When she returned, she had a confused look on her face.

“I don’t understand. The mayor’s never heard if you.” Twilight said.

“Now what do we do?” Autumn asked.

“I could let you stay in the guest room.” Twilight said, her eyes lighting up. “It could be like a really long sleepover until your situation gets sorted out! Wouldn’t that be fun?”

“You really don’t have to do this, you’ve been so kind to us already.” Flower said.

“It’s okay, really. What kind of pony would I be if I let myself, the Princess of Friendship, leave two friends in need of help I can so easily give.” Twilight replied, practically beaming.

“It’ll be fun Flower! Accept a favor for once.” Autumn said, a large grin on her face.

“You’re sure we’re not intruding?” Flower asked, unsure about the convenience of all this.

“I’m sure. As long as you can deal with Pinkie Pie.” Twilight said. “Has she met you two yet?”

“No, I don’t think she has.” Autumn replied, tapping a hoof on her chin.
“Trust me, you’d know if you had met her. She loves throwing Welcome to Ponyville parties.” Twilight explained, pulling a book off the shelf with her magic. “I should probably show you to the guest room. Are you okay with sharing a bed?”

“Yes, we are.” Flower responded.

“Speak for yourself.” Autumn scoffed.

“If it’s a problem, I can make something else work.” Twilight said, trying her best to be hospitable.

“No, no, it’s fine.” Flower responded, nudging Autumn with her elbow.

“Fine.” Autumn said, shuffling forward. “Let’s get to our room. We have more to do today.”

“Um, miss.” Twilight said, pointing the opposite direction. “The guest room is this way.”

Twilight lead them to the room in silence. She quickly removed the decorations from her brother’s visit and left to read the book she had been levitating

“Do you think Cadence planned this?” Autumn asked, unpacking her comb, 3DS, and a decorative flag from her first Nightmare Night. She set the 3DS on the windowsill to charge via solar power. She then plopped down on the bed, unsure of what else to do.

“It seems like something she’d do. I bet she’s in her castle right now, laughing up a storm.” Flower replied, stacking three books she’d brought on the nightstand. “I’m going to go to the library to read.”

“You have three perfectly good books right here.” Autumn argued, pointing to them.

“I don’t read those until late at night. They’re too painful for the light of day.” Flower explained, walking out of the room.

“Your day brings plenty of pain. It’s full of sunburns, hot roads, and baking heat. If you look at that precious Sun of yours burns ponies eyes when they look at it.” Autumn snapped, but Flower was already gone.

Autumn looked at the spines of the books.

“Predictions and prophecies, and two blank, titleless books.” Autumn thought aloud.

One book, though not falling apart was quite clearly a thousand years old; the other was fairly new.

Diaries? Why would she carry around more than one? Especially when one of them is being magically held together. Autumn thought.

She grabbed the newest diary and stared at the cover. It was wrong to read someone else’s diary. It was a breach of trust but then again, It was right there in front of her. Maybe just a peek…
Meanwhile, Flower had finally made her way back to the lobbrary (It’s a mix between lobby and library. Be amazed.)

“Hey Twilight, can I ask you something?” Flower asked.

“Sure.” Twilight responded, placing her bookmark.

“Why are you being so kind to us?” Flower asked, sitting in a chair next to Twilight.

“Why wouldn’t I be nice to you? You’re a pony in need, and I have the ability to help you.” Twilight responded. “Besides, you two are so cute together!”

“We’re sisters.” Flower deadpanned.

“Oh my gosh! I’m so sorry! I didn’t think to ask.’ Twilight said, embarrassed.

“My name’s Flower Vine by the way. My sister’s name is Autumn Breeze. I thought you should know.” Flower said, looking down.

“Those are beautiful names.” Twilight offered, trying to cheer up her new friend.

“Thank you. Do you recommend any books? I came out here to read.” Flower said with a slight smile.

“Here, try this one.” Twilight said, floating a book down. The three princesses spent the day reading.

When they got to bed, Autumn and Flower faced away from each other. When Autumn was finally asleep, Flower cried to herself, clutching her thousand-year-old diary. She could remember the fight with Nightmare Moon like it was yesterday. She could never forgive herself for that. Every time she looked in the mirror she saw the effect that day had on her hair. Of all things, why had the elements sent her sister away? Maybe they were punishing Celestia as well. It was her fault that her sister grew so angry. If only she could be a good listener. Maybe then she would get along with her sister. Maybe then Twilight would love her back.

“I’m so sorry sister. I hope you can forgive me.” Flower sobbed.

Wiping the tears from her eyes, she got up and left the room. Maybe fresh air would do her some good.

Author's Note

Even Twilight ships ponies now and then!:twilightblush:
I hope you guys liked this chapter!

Try not to procrastinate too much,
Forestpip

The Start and End of Many Things

Flower paced in the kitchen. On the one hoof, food always made her feel better. On the other hoof, this was Twilight’s house. Stealing was not a way to make a good impression. Her pacing increased.

“Can’t sleep?” Twilight asked behind her.

“Twilight! I wasn’t going to steal your food I promise!” Flower panicked, turning around too quickly and falling on the floor.

“If you want a midnight snack that’s fine. Here, I came to get something too.” Twilight said, lifting a cookie jar with her magic. Two plates and glasses floated out of the cabinet above the sink. Three cookies placed on each plate and some milk was poured into each glass, before being warmed by her magic.

“Thanks,” Flower said, getting up and sitting at the table.

“So what’s bothering you?” Twilight asked, sitting across from Flower at the table. “You wouldn’t be awake if something wasn’t bothering you.”

“How do you know? I could be an insomniac.” Flower reasoned.

“You aren’t but your sister is,” Twilight replied calmly, dunking her cookie in her milk.

“What makes you say that?” Flower asked surprised.

“Haven’t you noticed the bags under her eyes? The way she stayed in your room even after traveling all day? She’s been doing a lot of resting for someone who hasn’t had much exercise. She’s either an insomniac, a pony getting used to a new sleep schedule, or a pony who hates travel.” Twilight said matter-of-factly.

“Well whatever it is, I don’t have time to think about it now,” Flower said, finishing her cookies.

“You should make time then. My mentor Celestia learned that the hard way. She wasn’t as good a listener as she is now.” Twilight said before finishing her milk.

“You think she’s a good listener? Flower asked.

“Well, yeah. She’s always been there for me. Even when we’re far apart and I sent her friendship letters, she was always there.” Twilight said a warm smile on her face.

“She never stood up for Equestria with you and your friends. I mean, did she ever even write back?” Flower asked.

“Well, no, but she didn’t have to. I knew she was proud of me, and that’s all I needed. I try to live my life in a way that makes more than just me happy. I want to make her happy too. If I sent her a letter asking what to do when to pegasi were out of a home, I’m sure she’d tell me to take some risks, make new friends, and seek out the adventures in life. That’s why I’ve done so much for you too. I want to make the most of life no matter how long it is. That would make her proud. That would make her love me.” Twilight said with a smile. “Or maybe I’d at least convince her sister.”

Flower nearly choked on her remaining milk.

“I should go to bed. Goodnight!” Flower said, scrambling out of the kitchen.

What’s up with her? Twilight thought. Can’t a mare express her want for love without ponies freaking out. It’s like I said the first day I got here; all the ponies in this town are crazy!

***

All three sat at the table eating breakfast. Autumn had cooked for herself and Twilight some scrambled eggs and toast while Flower ate cereal.

“I had the weirdest dream last night,” Twilight said. “Two glowing hearts attacked each other, the town was panicking again, and a giant cookie declared war on Equestria. The strangest part of the dream was that Celestia and Luna had left Canterlot. Cadence was in charge while they did something else. Luna must have been feeling creative because that would never happen, right?”

The two sisters stopped eating their breakfast and looked at each other. Autumn gulped down the food in her mouth and looked at Twilight.

“You haven’t heard the news have you?” Autumn asked, a concerned look on her face.

“What news?” Twilight asked, slightly worried.

“Celestia and Luna aren’t in Canterlot. They took a break from palace life to better understand their subjects.” Flower explained, eating another spoonful of Cereal.

“What? Why didn’t they tell me? Twilight asked, slightly hurt.

“Probably so you don’t try to find them or accidentally blow their cover. You’re a clever mare. It wouldn’t take you long to find them if they were here.” Autumn explained.

“That makes sense, but I’m still going to have Spike send a letter. I’ll be right back.” Twilight said, excusing herself from the table.

As soon as Twilight was gone, Flower ran from the table. Then, she ran right back.
“Did we bring any quills?” Flower asked out of breath.

“No. We could only bring what we ‘absolutely needed.’” Autumn snapped before sipping some orange juice. “Just use one of your feathers.”

Flower plucked a feather from her wing, then scrunched up her face. She placed the feather on the table.

“What about the ink?” Flower asked, growing more and more desperate. “That letter will arrive any second.”

“You’re really desperate aren’t you?” Autumn asked, a smirk on her face.

“Yes! I need ink! Flower yelled.

“Beg,” Autumn commanded.

“No! Just tell me where the ink is!” Flower responded.

“I won’t tell you until you beg me too,” Autumn said with a hmf, turning her head away.

“Autumn, I don’t have time for this!” Flowered yelled.

“I’m not hearing any begging,” Autumn said, still turned away.

“Okay, fine! Can you please, please, PLEASE, tell me where the ink is!” Flower begged, grabbing the feather from the table in preparation.

“The drawer on the nightstand has some,” Autumn said amused.

Flower galloped away at a speed that could only be rivaled by Pinkie. Just as she got to the nightstand, the letter arrived.

“Dear Princess Celestia” Flower read out loud. “While I’m slightly offended by the lack of a letter explaining the situation, I completely understand. Yesterday was eventful for me as well. Two pegasi moved into the house near my castle, They seemed to be having some difficulty, so I’m letting them stay with me for the time being. Good luck on your adventure, Twilight Sparkle.”

Grabbing a scroll and some ink, she (as quickly as she could without magic) wrote back.

How am I going to send this? she thought.

Flower tiptoed to Spike’s room, where he was reading a comic book.
“Spike, I need you to give this to Twilight and say it’s from Celestia,” Flower said, hoofing over the scroll.

“Why?” Spike asked, greatly confused.

“Let’s just say it’s really important, okay?” Flower replied.

“I don’t even know you. Why would I lie to Twilight just because you told me to?” Spike asked, folding his arms.

Flower sighed.

“Maybe because it would make Celestia very unhappy?” She’s standing right in front of you.” Flower whispered.

“Prove it,” Spike said, his arms still folded. “What’s something only Celestia would know?”

“When you were 1-month-old you had a pink blanket you absolutely adored. One day you accidentally set it on fire, so until you got your draconic ability under control we had to fire-proof the whole castle. We also took the blanket away which made you cry and throw temper tantrums for 3 weeks.” Celestia whispered angrily. “Now give Twilight the letter.”

“Yes, Princess!” Spike said, scrambling out the door.

Flower calmly walked back to the kitchen, where Twilight was reading the letter aloud.

“Dear Princess Twilight” She read. “I apologise for not notifying you. I didn’t have much time considering all the preparations that needed to be made. I’m glad you took those two pegasi in. Ponies like them are exactly why I’m doing this. Things aren’t just perfect in Equestria, but with people like you, they could be. Thank you for your concern, Celestia.”

Twilight blushed and read the letter again.

“I knew it! Twilight said with excitement. Celestia does feel the same way! This is wonderful!” Twilight jumped around the table in excitement. “yes yes yes yes yes yes yes yes yes yes yes yes!”

“Check-mate,” Flower said, a smirk on her face.

“Can I talk to you outside for a moment?” Autumn said through clenched teeth.

“Sure,” Flower replied, still acting cocky.

Autumn stomped out of the castle. Flower sauntered confidently behind her.

“What was that?” Autumn yelled. “How was that fair?”

“It’s fair because she loves me, not you!” Flower yelled back.

“You didn’t even give me a chance! We just got here!” Autumn yelled, stomping her hoof.

“I didn’t need to give you a chance! She already loves me!” Flower said, lunging at Autumn.

A cartoon-like ball of smoke surrounded them as they fought each other.

“Woah, nelly!” Applejack yelled, running into the fray to stop them. “Rainbow Dash! Stop flying there and help me separate these two!”

When they had the sisters pulled apart, they were still reaching for each other’s throats.

“You don’t love her as much as I do!” Autumn yelled, struggling against Applejack.

“If you cared about me you wouldn’t love her!” Flower spat, struggling against Rainbow Dash

“I never loved you!” Autumn screamed thinking quickly. What she was about to say was a very powerful blow, but it would get under her sister’s skin, and hit her where it hurt. This is why you read someone else’s diary. “I also never forgave you for banishing me to the moon! It’s your fault I became evil! You never cared about me! I hate you!”

Flower slumped out of a thoroughly confused Rainbow Dash’s grip with tears in her eyes. “Do you mean it?” She asked with a sob.

One word and she could ruin their relationship forever or save it.

Author's Note

Wow, that was long! I hope you guys enjoyed this chapter because things are going to heat up pretty soon.

Prepare for battle (soon-ish)!

Don't run away from problems,
Forestpip.

A Heated Picnic

“Yes,” Luna said. As soon as she said it, she knew she regretted it, but it was too late.

Celestia collapsed in tears. Nothing compared to the pain and self-hatred she felt right now. It was worse than when she sent her sister to the moon. All those years of reassuring herself melted away. Dirt stuck to her tear stained face.

“Celestia, please, compose yourself,” Autumn said coldly.

“Wait, Celestia and Luna? What are you doing here?” Rainbow Dash asked. “Why are you fighting in front of Twilight’s castle?”

Flower and Autumn explained the situation in great detail, and with a couple of sarcastic comments and rude remarks.

“I think you’re out of luck here Lu-Autumn. If Twilight already loved your sister before all this, there’s no real competition to continue.” Rainbow Dash said, hovering above them.

“Even if Twilight already felt one way, the competition was never fair to begin with. It didn’t have any rules.” Applejack reasoned.

“It doesn’t matter how fair the competition was! Twilight loves who she loves! Flower’s clearly right here!” Rainbow Dash argued.

“No, Autumn is!” Applejack argued back angrily. Y're only sayin’ that ‘cus y’re a cheater!”

“I am not! Rainbow Dash yelled.

“Are you guys okay?” Twilight asked, walking out of her castle.

“Just fine,” Applejack said bitterly. “Fluttershy’s having a picnic around lunchtime and asked us to invite you.”

“Neat! Where, and what time exactly do you want me to be there?” Twilight asked.

“In that clearing we found out about y’re brother’s wedding, we meet at about 11-ish,” Applejack answered, back to her cheerful self (almost).

“Can my new friends come? These two are new to town.” Twilight explained.

“I don’t see why not,” answered Rainbow Dash. “I’ve got to go to work. See you later?”

“Actually, before you go, I was wondering if there were any openings in the weather team?” Autumn asked hopefully.
“I’m not sure, but you’re welcome to tag along.” Rainbow Dash answered, shrugging her shoulders.

Rainbow Dash and Autumn flew off into the distance.

***

Everypony except Twilight gathered in the clearing for lunch. They were all a bit early, and Twilight planned on arriving exactly at 11.

“Hi, Celestia and Luna! How nice of you to join us!” Pinkie Pie greeted, unpacking a cake from its box.

“Rainbow? Did you bring the bottle?” Rarity whispered.

“You mean her anti-hallucination meds? Yeah, but she doesn’t need them. Those two really are the royal sisters. They’re normal right now, remember?” Rainbow Dash said.

“Your highnesses!” Rarity gasped, bowing.

“Don’t bow! You give us away to Twilight!” Flower whispered.

“You mean Twilight doesn’t know?” Fluttershy asked.

“That’s the whole point! We’re trying to win her love. How better than to prove just how much we’re willing to give up for her.” Autumn explained for the second time today.

“All of that doesn’t matter now! Twilight’s admitted her love for Celestia!” Rainbow whisper-yelled.

“Luna was never given a fair chance! You ain’t got a lick a sense if think Celestia can just call off the competition because Twilight happens to love her! Celestia has to have true love’s kiss with Twilight. That was the one condition, and she should have to follow it.” Applejack stated matter-of-factly.

“I have to agree with Rainbow here. Competition or no competition, Twilight loves who she loves.” Rarity said, pouring herself some tea and sipping it lightly.

“It’s not fair for Celestia to just end things. She should follow the rules!” Pinkie Pie stated.

“I just wish she knew Fluttershy said.

“Knew what?” Twilight asked, trotting up to the blanket.
“How much we appreciate your company!” Autumn said quickly. She wasn’t the best liar.

“Thank you!” Twilight said smiling.

As Twilight sat down, nopony spoke. They knew they couldn’t give the sisters away by discussing their opposing opinions, but what else was there to talk about? Fluttershy shifted nervously. This wasn’t going to end well. Rarity opened her mouth to speak, then closed it again. Even the birds had stopped chirping. Flower coughed awkwardly. Rainbow Dash, however, seemed perfectly content glaring at Applejack who purposefully ignoring her.

“Is everypony okay? Did I miss something?” Twilight asked, breaking the silence.

“Gummy is sick!” Pinkie Pie wailed, tears forming in her eyes. She winked at her friends. Pinkie lies to the rescue! “He isn't eating much,” Pinkie added with a slight sob.

“That’s terrible!” Rainbow Dash said with fake sympathy.

“I didn’t know alligators could get sick,” Twilight said. “Do you want me to research a cure?”

“Nah, that’s okay! The readers will help me.” Pinkie said enthusiastically.

“The readers?” Rarity asked confused.

“Yeah! The creatures out there who call themselves ‘humans’ are reading this moment in time like a story. I call them the readers. Hey writer, can you make me do something fun?” Pinkie said excitedly.

Pinkie teleported away for a minute, then she teleported back.

“I saw the writer! She told me not to say anything about them. Sorry guys!” Pinkie said with a shrug of her shoulders.

“I always thought there was philosophical value to imagining our lives as a story,” Flower said, looking off into the distance. “The writer must be very bored.”

Everyone was silent for a minute, then they burst into fits of giggles.

“When you put it that way, it does sound a bit silly,” Pinkie admitted, sharing in the laughter.

Once the laughter died down, they started eating food.

“So Twilight, Autumn here tells us you’re letting her and her sister stay at your castle. Care to explain?” Rarity asked, breaking the silence.
“I think the previous owner took their money and ran. The only problem is the fact that the mayor has no clue who they are.” Twilight replied, a worried look on her face. “I plan to sort it out today.”

“Come to think of it, I don’t think I’ve heard of them either. I wasn’t supposed to read the files in Town Hall, but I did scan the names.” Pinkie said, thinking back.

“Not helping,” Rainbow Dash said through clenched teeth.

“Well ‘Ah think it’s real nice of ya’ to to help ‘em out like that. It’s no wonder why both princesses love you so much.” Applejack said, making a point to glare at Rainbow Dash.

Twilight blushed and looked down.

“I see somepony blushing! You look like a filly with a crush!” Rarity pointed out. “Which sister is it? Luna, or Celestia?” She put a little more emphasis on Celestia than she meant to.

“I prefer not to say,” Twilight said, mildly flustered. “Well, this has been fun, but I really need to get going.”

“I’m coming with you!” Applejack and Rainbow Dash said simultaneously. “I said it first!”

“Why don’t you both come?” Twilight offered.

Begrudgingly, Applejack and Rainbow Dash followed Twilight, Autumn, and Flower to town hall.

***

“I told you this before Twilight. There is no record of those two anywhere.” Mayor Mare said, placing her hooves calmly on the desk in front of her.

“There must be something we can do.” Twilight reasoned.

“‘Ah have a guest room one of y’all can stay in.” Applejack offered.

“Flower can stay in my guest room.” Rainbow Dash said, wrapping her hooves around Flower.

“‘Ah guess it’s settled then,” Applejack said, glaring at Rainbow Dash.

“I guess that it is,” Rainbow said bitterly.

Both pairs of ponies walked sideways out of Town Hall, glaring at each other.

“What was that about?” The Mayor asked.
“I have no idea, but I’m going to find out,” Twilight said, squinting her eyes at the empty doorway.

Author's Note

*Shields face from possible pitchforks and torches*
Are we good? Okay.
Sorry for the long wait guys. Life happens.

Unfortunately, the next chapter is the last one. I have more stories planned for the future, but until then, look out for the last chapter! (which won't take as long to come out)