Luna's Twilight Problemby FeatherBChaptersChapter 1Chapter 2Chapter 3Chapter 1The final rays of daylight streaked across the Equestrian landscape in a harmonious display of red, violet, and gold. As the last sliver of the sun vanished behind the distant snow-capped mountains, Celestia allowed herself a tiny smile of satisfaction. Another day had gone by without the threat of kingdom-wide destruction, the kind of which that seemed far too common since her sister’s return. Not that she was suggesting Luna was in any way responsible. No, at most her sister was only guilty of sleeping through the worst of the world’s problems, which reminded the Sun Princess of another duty she had yet to fulfill. With a soft sigh, Celestia slid her hooves from the parapet and returned from her Canterlot balcony to the tower, her golden shoes clicking faintly on the stone. With a brief glow of magic she tossed open the glass doors and strode into the antechamber. The air inside was a fraction warmer than the now sunless sky, but it was sufficient for the princess’ needs, as were the many conveniences spread about the room: from the plush sofa, powder table, and full-sized mirror, to the toaster, coffee machine, and mini fridge. A thick cream-colored carpet covered most of the floor, half hiding the feet of the last item in the room, a kitchen table and its two bench seats. But it was the sofa that Celestia was far more interested in occupying. Piece by piece the goddess began to remove her jewelry, starting with her crown, which floated to rest upon the surface of the powder table. Her peytral came next, followed then by her golden shoes. With a lift of her hind leg, the final one drifted away, but this time toward a door at the far end of the room. “Best to do it now,” she muttered, rapping on the door’s ebony surface with the shoe. There was a loud snort and the rustling of covers, followed by a long irritable groan. A wide smirk grew across Celestia’s otherwise dignified face. “Luna, it’s time to raise the moon,” she said, knocking once again. The door flew open with a crash, sending the shoe cartwheeling across the room and to the floor where it slid out of sight under a dresser. From within the gaping abyss the door had left, the dusk blue princess emerged, her head hanging. Celestia placed a hoof over her mouth to cover a laugh. Luna was in all her evening glory; dark rings hung beneath her eyes, partly covered by her mane that somewhat resembled a galaxy exploding, sending wispy streams of stars in every direction. Her wings were almost as disheveled, with feathers sticking out at every imaginable angle, and as much as she ruffled them, they would not lie flat against her. But the icing on the cake was visible as her hind legs left the doorway. Over one, though slightly sagging, was a violet sock with pink stripes. Its match had all but fallen off the other leg, and was now clinging to her hoof like a trail of toilet paper, which she dragged behind her. “Good evening, Sister,” Celestia said, sweetly. Luna grunted in what might have been a reply, and continued her trek across the room toward the balcony. As she reached the glass doors and gazed groggily into the night, Celestia’s horn flared and she made a quick grasp for her missing shoe. A moment later the shimmering hoof-piece had floated into place on the powder table alongside the others. By this time Luna had the moon about halfway into the sky, and no further. She was now sitting quietly with her head against her chest, the only movement was the ethereal waves of her mane and tail. Celestia rolled her eyes and magically clicked on the coffee machine, though not before dumping the chunky remains that had been occupying the pot from the night prior. With a majestic sigh, Celestia flopped herself onto the sofa. It was nice to have a place where she could be herself, out from under the scrutiny of every pony in Canterlot. She fluffed up the pillows and leaned into them, watching her sister twitch in her sleep, while the toilet-sock trailed out from under her flank like a brightly colored snake. While she waited, one, no two—three donuts slipped out from the fridge and lined up on the coffee table before her. She nibbled daintily on the first, a pink frosted one with sprinkles that tasted like it had been going stale for weeks... mostly because it had. She would have to send a guard to Joe’s in the morning, but this time there would be no more jelly filled. It would be crème or nothing at all, as it should be. Luna started awake with another snort, her nose lifting toward the smell of coffee that had begun to waft through the room. “Oh dear,” she muttered, and with a quick swish of her horn, shoved the moon the rest of its way between the stars. There was a great yawn as she turned back to the room, which she barely hid behind the very tip of one wing. Celestia caught the yawn as well, but didn’t bother covering it at all as she stretched her mouth as wide as it would go. “Why did you not wake me, Sister?” Luna asked before the Sun Goddess had finished. Celestia motioned aimlessly with a forehoof until she was able to sink her head back into the pillows. “You just looked so peaceful,” she said with a smirk. Luna scowled but said nothing, the faint rustle of her one sock following behind her as she went to the kitchen table. Across the way, the cupboard opened and she drifted an empty mug to join her at the table where she took a seat, plopping her head sideways on the mahogany surface which puffed out her cheek. As the mug was placed upright beside her with tender care, the painted likeness of Starswirl the Bearded came into Celestia’s view. “Isn’t that the mug Twilight got you for Hearth’s Warming?” she asked, shrewdly. Luna’s head perked off the table, red coloring her cheeks. “Oh—I was not aware...” she said, tilting the mug as if to study it. “Please Luna, we have been over this, and it’s nothing to be embarrassed about,” Celestia said, suppressing another yawn. “Twilight is a very talented pony, not to mention a Princess now. I don’t see any reason why you shouldn’t at least try.” Luna’s head had sunk back onto the table, a faraway look in her eyes as the coffee pot floated over in her blue aura and began filling her mug. “I wish it were that simple, Sister, but you know Twilight Sparkle as well as I—” “More than you,” Celestia corrected. Luna’s eyes rolled in her squished face as she continued preparing her coffee, now dropping in two cubes of sugar and what she must have thought was cream. “Then you know ‘tis true when I say she will share this news with her friends, or even you, Sister. All of Equestria will know within a week that I tried to court her!” Luna’s voice grew more determined as she spoke, the weariness replaced by fierce blushing. “What will our subjects think of me then? A princess who shirks her duties for love.” Celestia slid off the sofa and onto her bare hooves, wiping the last traces of donut from her mouth. Luna was staring her down from the tabletop, a spoon magically stirring her coffee with enough ferocity that it threatened to splash out over the sides. “Luna, our subjects will adore you no matter who you give your affections to. Your return is proof enough of that,” Celestia said, calmly. “As for who she confides in, does it truly matter that much to you? If Twilight wrote a letter to me, I would guide her as best I could, and tell nopony else. If she sought out her friends instead, would it really be so terrible for them to know?” “It would!” she said indignantly, tossing aside the spoon and taking an angry swig from her mug. Coffee sprayed everywhere. Luna went into a fit of gagging, knocking over the mug and spilling more coffee over the table. She tried desperately to upright it quickly while keeping her tongue out of her mouth. Celestia was laughing uncontrollably, tears leaking from her eyes while her sister tried to keep more coffee from going everywhere. “Wha—what did you put in this?” Luna demanded, shaking out a foreleg which dripped large goblets of rich brown liquid. With a hoof over her mouth Celestia managed to stifle the most of her giggles, though her cheeks hurt from holding it in. “That was your own doing,” she said. “You added salad dressing instead of cream.” Luna swelled, her wings puffed out at her sides, but before she could say anything a heavy knock came at the castle door. A gruff voice followed after it. “Princess Twilight Sparkle is here to speak with you, Princess Celestia.” Luna’s eyes went as wide as dinner plates. Celestia did not move at all, but looked rather smug. “Early as always,” she said quietly, but then shrugged. “Send her in!” “Sister!” Luna hissed, glancing at herself in the mirror across the room, and then back at the spilled coffee. The castle door swung open, but Luna disappeared in a pop of blue light moments before a familiar lavender face poked in. “Princess Celestia, I hope this isn’t a bad time,” Twilight said quickly as she trotted into the room. “I know I wasn’t due until morning, but I was already packed and the friendship lesson I’m teaching starts so early tomorrow, I just had to get a head start; not to mention the Canterlot library has several books I should definitely read before it starts. I just thought I really should let you know I was here before I did anything else, so here I am!” Celestia chuckled, lowering her head so she could embrace her student. “It’s good to see you, Twilight.” But her student did not reply. Instead, she stepped sideways out of her embrace, and when Celestia pulled away she noticed Twilight’s eyes were fixated on something behind the princess. “Is everything alright, Twilight?” “With me?” she blinked. “Of course! But uh... is everything okay with you? Because it looks like a swarm of parasprites attacked your breakfast table.” Celestia turned her attention to the catastrophe that Twilight was referring to. Coffee was spilling everywhere over the sides of the table and onto the seats. The coffeepot, mug, spoon, and salad dressing had likewise been strewn over the surface, giving the appearance that a giant explosion had occurred. Lying alone on the floor, was a single purple and pink striped sock, left behind by its owner and helpless before the advancing liquid. The princess moved so that she was between Twilight and the unsightly scene. “Luna was... performing an experiment.” “Really?” “Indeed,” Celestia nodded regally. “I believe she concluded that other cream based ingredients are not able to be subsisted for regular coffee creamer.” A faint huffing noise came from somewhere beyond Luna’s door. “Well that’s a bit ridiculous,” Twilight said, though she bore an expression of devout curiosity. “Why would she want to try something like that?” Celestia wrapped Luna’s sock with her magic, saving it from permanent staining, and tossed it through the narrow crack in her sister’s doorway. “I’m sure she has her reasons. If you like, I can ask her to drop by the library once she returns.” Another sound echoed from Luna’s room, though whether it was a gasp, or her sister had suddenly choked on something, Celestia could not be sure. But Twilight had noticed as well, and her ears perked. “Did you hear something?” Celestia stepped forward, placing a gentle hoof over her student’s shoulders. “Never mind that. I’ll take care of the mess here. You should go ahead and begin your studies.” Twilight gazed at her teacher with mild suspicion, but then bowed with dramatic effect. “Of course, Princess,” she said, and trotted away with only a quick smile over her shoulder before disappearing into the hall. Not entirely convinced the coast was clear, Celestia coughed lightly into her hoof, and waited. Twilight’s head reappeared in the door, looking quizzical. Celestia laughed. “Thank you, Twilight, that will be all.” “Just checking!” she sang, and vanished once again. As promised, Celestia turned to the mess that had claimed the table and began cleaning. In a shroud of golden light, the spilled coffee lifted into the air and went spiraling down into the sink. Then, as she began returning the mug and other contents to the places, a faint voice came from Luna’s room. “Is... is she gone?” “Yes Luna, you can come out now,” Celestia sighed. The Moon Princess stepped carefully out of her hiding place, quickly glancing toward the hall as if she couldn’t trust her own sister to tell the truth. “You really should go and see her tonight,” Celestia said after the table had finally been cleared. “It’s no different than your first Nightmare Night. You will never know what she thinks of you if you don’t give her a chance.” Luna ran a hoof through her mane, which had now been groomed to appear almost normal. “That was different, Sister, and you know it. Accepting me for not being a monster is one thing, but asking Twilight to court me is another matter entirely. I do not wish to place my own feelings before my duties as a princess.” Celestia’s eye twitched. “Honestly, Luna! If you do not express your feelings to Twilight tonight, I will banish you to the moon again!” Luna gaped. “You—how could you—I cannot believe you would say that!” she shouted, and stormed back into her room, slamming the door behind her. Celestia didn’t move, her face stuck somewhere between a scowl and a look of regret. The hall door creaked, drawing her attention. Beside it was the royal guard, who had been trying to close it unnoticed. “Too soon?” she asked him. The guard had enough sense not to answer. Chapter 2Luna stormed through her room, nostrils flared, and looking for something to throw. Sometimes her sister was even more infuriating than her video games. How dare she mention our banishment! A dress was extracted from the mounds on the floor and flew across the room in a flash of the blue light. Does she not know how it hurts us still? She scooped up a pillow with her hoof and sent it sailing into a dresser, which did little except rattle the picture frames on top. With a snort, she marched over to her four-poster bed and fell back onto it. Then she held up her hind leg that was still snugly covered by a pink and purple sock. With great effort she bent forward and gripped it in her teeth, sliding it off as she laid back again. Why does speaking with Twilight worry me so? Luna wondered with a sigh, dropping the sock by her bedside. I have spoken to her many times before, and she has always been kind to me. Why wouldn’t she be now? Luna imagined the look on Twilight’s face; scornful, maybe even disgusted, with her eyes and nose scrunched up. Princess Luna, how could you suggest we court one another? You’re a thousand years old, and I have studying to do. “No, Twilight does not sound like that,” Luna growled. “We are being foalish.” He mind was made up. Rolling out of her bed, her horn flared and snatched up the pieces of her jewelry that were scattered about the room. As each silvery piece fell into place, she became more resolute. She would go about her nightly duties regardless of Twilight’s presence. There were important matters to attend to somewhere... but should Twilight have need of her, then she would use that opportunity to express her feelings. If not, then she wouldn’t force an encounter between them. Her sister would be asleep by then anyway, and it would be better to let fate decide. Luna’s tiara lowered onto her head, dark and glittering. She observed it in her small beside mirror. With a hoof, she brushed the last few stray strands of her mane into place, and stared deeply into her own eyes. “We will not intrude on Twilight tonight,” she promised herself. There will be other times to speak with her. Then, when Luna was confident that she no longer looked like a complete mess, she strode out of her room to begin the night. Luna found herself standing outside the library’s vast wooden doors unable to move from the spot. Somewhere inside Twilight was studying her books. She could tell from the wavering candlelight that seeped out from under the doors. All she had to do was knock. No! We promised to leave her be, she reminded herself. But her body remained rooted stubbornly in place. Sister did tell her that we might stop and visit tonight. Yet the thought of opening the door and interrupting Twilight’s studies was more than she could bear. And so the castle hall remained still except for the wave of Luna’s mane, while her inner struggle raged on. Minutes slipped by, until the sudden “thump” of a book closing startled Luna into action. Now is our chance! Come on, move... Her hoof raised slowly to the doors, but instead of knocking she pressed lightly against one and pushed it open a crack. With forced caution she slid her nose through until she was able to see into the room. The library was filled with books, as all libraries are, but each was presented neatly on ornate wooden shelves that towered against the walls. Like the rest of the castle, lit torches flickered in their brackets, but were carefully spaced between the shelves. Solid, low lying tables were scattered about the room and surrounded by cushions that were half-hidden in the dancing shadows. Twilight sat at the far table by an empty fireplace. She had instead lit several candles to read by and lain them about the table’s surface. Her hoof was resting on a stack of four books which Luna presumed she must have already finished, as Twilight was now perusing the covers of another stack, which were lying on the floor next to her. Go forth and speak with her, or at least say something, anything! Luna’s mind crashed around like a storm. She couldn’t bring herself to move, let alone speak when her tongue felt as if it had swollen to twice its size. Oh, why does this have to be so hard? We haven’t any trouble speaking with our other subjects. But, as if by magic, Twilight seemed to sense something was amiss. Her eyes shifted in Luna’s direction, just as she was floating another book to the table. For a moment neither of them moved, and Twilight’s face remained cast in the lavender hue of her levitation spell. “Hello?” Luna could hide no longer. She walked into the library, putting on a smile that was certainly not the least bit nervous. “Greetings, Twilight!” She cringed at the volume of her own voice. “Oh, Princess Luna.” Twilight got to her hooves. “Celestia said you might be stopping by.” See? She was expecting us. What were we so worried about? It took all of Luna’s willpower not to canter the rest of the way to her. “Please, have a seat, Twilight. I—I only wish to speak with you a moment.” Twilight plopped back down onto her pillow, her face growing serious. “Is everything alright? Has something happened?” Luna stopped and stood opposite from her. The moment had arrived, but with it came a thousand butterflies filling her stomach. She tried to fight against it, desperately searching for the right words. “Oh no, nothing like that. We... that it is I—” She had planned on sitting, but now her heart was racing so quickly the thought seemed absurd. She felt like running, or flying as far away as she could, but it was too late for that now, wasn’t it? She took a few steps back, her shoes clicking on the stone. Twilight waited patiently, her face framed in the glowing light of the candles, soft and concerned. Her eyes were wide and attentive, and in those deep violet pools, Luna could see herself as she only grew more panicked. Her face flushed, her whole body growing hot despite the cool castle air. I cannot do this. “I’m sorry, I can’t!” Luna cried, and before she knew it, her legs were carrying her out of the Library and down the hall, her escape echoing off the walls. “Princess Luna? Wait!” Twilight called after her, but Luna did not stop. She had humiliated herself, and as the castle doors rushed past, she couldn’t imagine ever facing her again. Twilight appeared in a brilliant flash of light, the sound drowning out Luna’s whinny as she skidded to a halt. “Luna, what is going on?” Twilight demanded, her beautiful wings outstretched and blocking the hall. The Princess’ breath came in ragged gasps, her mind reeling with each gulp of air. She could feel Twilight’s gaze burning into her, but she kept her own eyes fixated on the floor. “I’m sorry... I should not have gone... to speak with you. I have many other duties to attend to, and I should not have let my emotions get in the way.” Luna could hear Twilight fold her wings, feel the light flutter of air, and the soft sound of her hooves as she approached. “Luna, you can tell me,” she said in that gentle voice. “I’m here to help. There’s no problem too big or too small.” Very slowly, Luna lifted her head and looked at Twilight. She was wearing the same troubled expression as the one in the library, but perhaps even more pronounced. She pities me, Luna thought, shivering against a draft of wind. A rock had settled into her stomach, crushing the butterflies, and suddenly the whole thing didn’t seem to matter as much anymore. She drew in a deep breath, and managed a half-hearted smile. “We—sorry, I wished to inform you that I’ve never met a pony as brilliant or beautiful as you, Twilight. I had wanted to ask if you might... might be willing to court—that is, I mean to date me.” Luna shook herself. “I wish to know if you will date me.” Twilight’s mouth was hanging half open, as if ready to speak, but no words were coming out. “I know it’s foalish,” Luna said, quickly. “How could you see me as anything more than a princess, or a friend? Please, forget I said anything.” Twilight blinked, and closed her mouth. “No, no I’m sorry, Luna, it’s not anything like that. It’s just, well... unexpected, that’s all.” Luna’s heart leapt. “So you will?” “No—I mean maybe,” Twilight grinned awkwardly. “I appreciate you letting me know, but I just need some time to think about this. I mean, it’s not every day you get asked out by a ruler of Equestria,” she chuckled, and Luna’s heart crashed back onto the ground. “Of course,” she nodded stiffly. “Take whatever time you need.” For a moment the world stood still, as they both seemed unwilling to be the first to leave, or continue the conversation. Luna fidgeted. Her mane was starting to swirl before her face, but should couldn’t bring herself to brush it aside. Instead, Twilight made the first move, carefully walking up next to the moon princess. “Luna, I do mean it when I say I’ll consider... ‘courting’ you,” she said with another small smile. “I just wasn’t quite prepared for this.” “Thank you, Twilight,” Luna said quietly. “You’re welcome, though I should probably get back to studying now.” Luna, got to her hooves, unaware of when she had sat down. “Yes, I have... things to attend to as well.” “Great! I’ll see you later then.” “Farewell.” Luna waited, unmoving, until the Twilight’s hoofsteps faded behind her. Then the tears came. They were silent, streaking down her face, though she did not shudder or grieve along with them. It felt as if a great weight had been lifted from her shoulders. Instead of being crushed she felt free, but not any better for it. Many minutes later, she finally went on her way, thankful none of the night guard had crossed her path. There were other matters to attend to, though they were foggy in her mind. If she was to get through the night it was best to distract herself with whatever those tasks might be, and she would follow the rows of shuddering torches to wherever they wanted to take her. Chapter 3With the early hours of the night came the faint pitter-patter of rain. Luna had gone about her duties bleary-eyed and absent minded, and the time had snuck past more quickly than she could have imagined. Her head hung low as she made her way back to her chambers. She had yet to walk the dreams of the ponies in Equestria, finding them when they needed her most. But tonight she did not wish to. After all, how could she help them when nopony was there to comfort her? Certainly, Twilight had not rejected her outright, but Luna had been around long enough to know what her reaction had meant. With a heavy sigh, she nudged her way through the door and into the antechamber. The room had been thoroughly cleaned of any evidence leading to that evening’s coffee scandal. Not a single stain was left on the floor, and the table had been cleaned of all clutter, except for one particular mug; a mug with Starswirl the Bearded displayed prominently on the front. Luna wrapped it in magic and tossed the thing into a cupboard, slamming the door behind it without so much as a second glance. “Thank you Sister, that is exactly the reminder I need right now.” She marched into her room, securing the latch as she went, and flopped back into her bed. I never should have left, she thought glumly. Her eyes turned to the bedside mirror, peering at it over the rumpled covers. Her mane swirled in the dim reflection, resembling a twinkling starscape more than ever. She huffed and rolled upright. Now is not the time for brooding! We have work to do. I must get hold of myself, she thought, and swiftly smacked herself across the cheek. The fiery sting was immediate, and would have been less so if she had remembered to remove her silver shoes. Muttering curses about her own incompetence, she floated all four of them away, but kept her tiara and peytral, as the night was not yet finished. Settling down again, she breathed deeply and tucked her now bare hooves in toward herself. Then, closing her eyes she summoned her magic, feeling the familiar warmth rush down from the tip of her head to the rest of her body. When Luna opened her eyes, a vast, shimmering night sky greeted her. She was suspended in space, but her hooves stood as if on solid ground. On either side of her were doors, lined one after the other until they faded into the distance. She smiled faintly for the first time since she had spoken with Twilight. If anything could get her mind off her own perils, it was helping others with theirs. Starting off slowly, she proceeded along the invisible passage. Doors of every shape and sized moved past her; some made of mahogany or oak, others in shades of green, blue, or pink, with diamond shaped windows cut into the center. Each was unique as the pony that slept and dreamed beyond it. But at that moment none were calling to her. So instead, she stopped by a simple door made of unadorned wood, which hung slightly crooked on its hinges. She won’t mind, Luna thought, and pushed through the door, closing her eyes against the blinding light that burst forth from the other side. She was in a rolling green meadow dotted by daises and dandelions that swayed with the grass around them. The sky was a striking blue and covered only by the occasional cloud. But high among them was a flock of geese being chased by a single grey Pegasus mare, whose mane shimmered like gold under the sun. Luna breathed deeply, drinking in the scent of the wildflowers as she watched the winged creatures fly about. The flock dived, and the mare spiraled after them, honking the entire way. A moment later they swooped overhead, and the Pegasus paused in her pursuit to wave merrily at the princess. Luna chuckled and waved back, almost wishing to join her as the pony went on her way again. But then a voice called to Luna, distant, as if from the back of her mind. It was a cry for help. In seconds she had summoned her magic, enveloping herself in swirling blue light. There was a tugging at her chest like an invisible string, then with a pop everything vanished, and it felt as if she were soaring through the air without use of her wings. But as quickly as she had gone, a new place materialized around her. The sky was darker here, choked by rumbling storm clouds, and the air which was thick with fog. Wilted grass lay beneath Luna’s hooves, and farther out the ghostly forms of enormous ponies seemed to be drifting through the mist. They sang words and other unintelligible jeers, all directed at a figure huddled alone in the center of them. Luna slowly walked toward it, watching as the fog parted before her. Soon, she could hear the whimpers of the colt who was lying there, his forelegs held up over his head to shield himself. Tears had marked his cheeks, and his brown mane and tail were terribly frayed. With a sad smile, Luna extended her right wing and reached down to brush his head. “What’s wrong, little one?” The colt hiccupped in surprise, his bright eyes gazing up at her. “P-princess Luna, you came!” “Of course I did,” she said, helping him up. “Now, why don’t you tell me what’s troubling you.” Still shaking, the colt glanced around, though Luna did not need to as she already knew that the shadowy figures had gone. “They... they were laughing at me,” he explained, spinning in a circle as if to assure himself it really was safe. “Your friends?” Luna asked gently. “Why would they do that?” He stared at the ground, pawing at it with a hoof, and muttered something. Luna wondered if this was how she had looked like to Twilight only a few hours ago. “Little one, you called for my help and that is what I am here for, but I cannot if you do not let me.” He looked up again, new tears shining in his eyes. “They’ll think my new cutie mark is s-stupid.” Luna had expected something as much. Carefully, she circled around him so that his tiny flank was in view. On it was the likeness of a paw-print with a little bandage covering its center. The colt sniffled, and quickly covered the cutie mark with his tail. Luna resisted the urge to giggle, and instead let it turn into a reassuring smile. “You wish to become a veterinarian.” The colt looked at her blankly, his mouth trying to form the word she had just spoken. “An animal doctor,” she amended. He nodded ever so slightly. “That is an admirable goal.” “It is?” he asked, as if it had been the first time somepony had told him that. This time Luna did laugh. “Very much so. You care deeply for other creatures and that is nothing to be embarrassed about. When you are willing to give your heart to something you love, it’s not important what others think. All that matters is...” Luna faltered as she realized the words she had just spoken. No, our situation is not that simple, she assured herself. But then why had she thought of it? “Princess Luna?” She shook her head and looked back at the colt. “My apologies little one. Where was I?” “You were telling me about what really matters,” he said, his eyes wide and hopeful. The image of Twilight’s own astonishment flickered through Luna’s mind. “Right, well... make sure you eat your vegetables,” she said, already trotting back the way she had come. “Wait, I don’t get it!” the colt cried after her. “All I eat are vegi-tables, a-and oats!” But she did not turn back. The mist had already swallowed her up, billowing under her hooves as she rose with her wings to the edge of the dream. I must go speak with her again, was all she could think of. Leaving the colt’s nightmare was like slipping through a thin sheet of cool water. The air rippled around her, and suddenly she was standing in the ethereal hall of doors again. She galloped along them, willing for the one she wanted to spring into existence and ignored the rest. Surely she must be asleep by now, Luna thought. And sure enough, no longer than the thought had left her mind did the familiar purple door fade into view. Huzzah! Luna grinned triumphantly. We will tell her that it does not matter if she returns our feelings or not. We will not lose heart, and our affection will remain thus whether as friends or... or more. It is not foalish to care for somepony as we do. It is only in how we choose to show it. Yet still she hesitated. She had never entered Twilight’s dreams without her permission before. Would she think of her as obsessive if she were to suddenly appear so quickly after their previous conversation? Most likely, but it had to be done. Luna puffed out her chest and moved regally onward. The door swung in before her and she strode into a dimly lit room. The place was immediately familiar, or at least had traces of the familiar. Books lined the walls, resting on shelves carved into the wooden exterior. But while the walls and floor were made of wood, it was more like they were the wood; naturally twisting and folding in places, or showing deep grooves in others. Tables rose from the floor on root-like legs, supporting tops like tree stumps, and all around the room tiny orbs of light drifted and danced. But they were not the only source of light. A warm, crackling fireplace rested on the far side of the room, alive but not spreading to the wood around it, as it could only do in a dream. And lying on a thick patterned rug in front of the fire, was the outline of a pony. Luna’s breath quickened. She desperately wanted to rush over and explain everything to Twilight, but something stopped her. It wasn’t that she appeared to be asleep, but something else, something off. She crept closer, and as she did there was another form distinguishable from the first, nearer the fire than Twilight, and with their forelegs intertwined with hers. Luna’s heart nearly leapt out her throat. A swell of unexplainable warmth spread from her chest to the tips of her hooves and nose, forcing the corners of her mouth to turn up as far as they would reach. She was staring at a younger version of herself. The form in which she had first met Twilight; small and short-maned. And that’s when Luna realized what had been off about the purple Unicorn. It was in fact, that she was indeed a Unicorn. There were no wings folded at her sides, only the horn on her head, which was tilted toward the younger Luna so that it rested against hers. For a moment Luna could do nothing but stand there, with her mouth slightly agape just as Twilight’s had been before. A million thoughts were rushing through her mind, all of which spun just out of reach. But she knew it made one thing absolutely clear, whether Twilight realized it yet or not. Unable to hold in her excitement any longer, Luna spun about and raced out of the room. Only as the door was closing did she allow herself to look back and savor one last glimpse of the scene. As the door shut completely the magic around Luna began to slide away, and much like rising out of a deep lake, she awoke. Her eyes snapped open and her head shot upright, a cry of triumph on her lips. “Sister!” Luna scrambled from her bed, stumbling over her piles of various items on the floor in her haste to leave. She slammed into the locked door and fell back on her rump, but despite the pain, she simply laughed. “Sister!” she called again, unlatching the door and striding into the antechamber, where she immediately veered toward Celestia’s room. Her door was unlocked, and Luna exploded through it with a loud bang. “Sister, I’ve done it!” A drawn out groan came from the mess of covers half on the bed and half on the floor. But unlike Luna’s, the chambers of the sun princess were clear of debris, and Luna crossed over to her sister with ease. “Sister!” she shouted, prodding one of Celestia’s dangling legs with her hoof. “Awaken from thy slumber, today is to be one of great celebration! We must make haste!” Celestia sluggishly untangled herself from the covers, rolling on her legs to face Luna with leering, bloodshot eyes. “What in Equestria are you talking about,” she grumbled, her horn flaring gold for an instant. “Your birthday isn’t for another month yet.” “You are most correct, but ‘tis not what we speak of,” Luna said gleefully. “She hath agreed, Sister! Your advice was well given and we are eternally grateful!” “Who agreed to what?” Celestia moaned, carefully climbing off the bed to stand on unsteady hooves. “And why are you speaking like that?” “Twilight, of course!” Luna exclaimed, and galloped back into the antechamber. Early sunlight was spilling into the room from the balcony, a testament to her Sister’s experience with rude awakenings. Without further prompting, Luna dashed outside to greet the day. “Good morning, Equestria!” she shouted, her voice carrying out over the cityscape. Down among the polished white building she could already see ponies running about in the early morning shadows, and she was certain a few yelled back to her. It was odd though, for them to be up so swiftly at the dawn. Perhaps it had something to do with the many colored dots which seemed to be chasing them. Luna turned back and entered the castle just as Celestia was emerging from her room, her mane already properly groomed. “Sister, there is a parasprite infestation in the city,” she told her cheerfully. Celestia paused in her tracks, staring at Luna with half-lidded eyes. When the moon princess said nothing she sighed and continued toward the door to the hall. “I’ll fetch Twilight.” Luna beamed. “And I shall make the coffee, without salad dressing,” she said, opening the cupboards with her magic. As Celestia left the room, Luna began to hum a little tune. The mug of Starswirl the Bearded landed gently on the table, followed by a plain one for her sister. The coffee machine was filled with fresh water, and the coffee pot was placed under it, clean for the first in a long time. Luna’s spirits could not be dampened, regardless if Canterlot was in chaos, or how her sister was completely unenthused. The day was the start of something new and wonderful, she was sure of it. Author's Note There has been a lot of Twilight/Luna fiction pieces out lately. It's about time I added my own to the mix. As mentioned in the description, this story had no editors, other than yours truly. Feel free to point out any glaring mistakes you might find in the grammar or such. As always, any constructive feedback at all is welcome. Thanks for reading.
Chapter 1The final rays of daylight streaked across the Equestrian landscape in a harmonious display of red, violet, and gold. As the last sliver of the sun vanished behind the distant snow-capped mountains, Celestia allowed herself a tiny smile of satisfaction. Another day had gone by without the threat of kingdom-wide destruction, the kind of which that seemed far too common since her sister’s return. Not that she was suggesting Luna was in any way responsible. No, at most her sister was only guilty of sleeping through the worst of the world’s problems, which reminded the Sun Princess of another duty she had yet to fulfill. With a soft sigh, Celestia slid her hooves from the parapet and returned from her Canterlot balcony to the tower, her golden shoes clicking faintly on the stone. With a brief glow of magic she tossed open the glass doors and strode into the antechamber. The air inside was a fraction warmer than the now sunless sky, but it was sufficient for the princess’ needs, as were the many conveniences spread about the room: from the plush sofa, powder table, and full-sized mirror, to the toaster, coffee machine, and mini fridge. A thick cream-colored carpet covered most of the floor, half hiding the feet of the last item in the room, a kitchen table and its two bench seats. But it was the sofa that Celestia was far more interested in occupying. Piece by piece the goddess began to remove her jewelry, starting with her crown, which floated to rest upon the surface of the powder table. Her peytral came next, followed then by her golden shoes. With a lift of her hind leg, the final one drifted away, but this time toward a door at the far end of the room. “Best to do it now,” she muttered, rapping on the door’s ebony surface with the shoe. There was a loud snort and the rustling of covers, followed by a long irritable groan. A wide smirk grew across Celestia’s otherwise dignified face. “Luna, it’s time to raise the moon,” she said, knocking once again. The door flew open with a crash, sending the shoe cartwheeling across the room and to the floor where it slid out of sight under a dresser. From within the gaping abyss the door had left, the dusk blue princess emerged, her head hanging. Celestia placed a hoof over her mouth to cover a laugh. Luna was in all her evening glory; dark rings hung beneath her eyes, partly covered by her mane that somewhat resembled a galaxy exploding, sending wispy streams of stars in every direction. Her wings were almost as disheveled, with feathers sticking out at every imaginable angle, and as much as she ruffled them, they would not lie flat against her. But the icing on the cake was visible as her hind legs left the doorway. Over one, though slightly sagging, was a violet sock with pink stripes. Its match had all but fallen off the other leg, and was now clinging to her hoof like a trail of toilet paper, which she dragged behind her. “Good evening, Sister,” Celestia said, sweetly. Luna grunted in what might have been a reply, and continued her trek across the room toward the balcony. As she reached the glass doors and gazed groggily into the night, Celestia’s horn flared and she made a quick grasp for her missing shoe. A moment later the shimmering hoof-piece had floated into place on the powder table alongside the others. By this time Luna had the moon about halfway into the sky, and no further. She was now sitting quietly with her head against her chest, the only movement was the ethereal waves of her mane and tail. Celestia rolled her eyes and magically clicked on the coffee machine, though not before dumping the chunky remains that had been occupying the pot from the night prior. With a majestic sigh, Celestia flopped herself onto the sofa. It was nice to have a place where she could be herself, out from under the scrutiny of every pony in Canterlot. She fluffed up the pillows and leaned into them, watching her sister twitch in her sleep, while the toilet-sock trailed out from under her flank like a brightly colored snake. While she waited, one, no two—three donuts slipped out from the fridge and lined up on the coffee table before her. She nibbled daintily on the first, a pink frosted one with sprinkles that tasted like it had been going stale for weeks... mostly because it had. She would have to send a guard to Joe’s in the morning, but this time there would be no more jelly filled. It would be crème or nothing at all, as it should be. Luna started awake with another snort, her nose lifting toward the smell of coffee that had begun to waft through the room. “Oh dear,” she muttered, and with a quick swish of her horn, shoved the moon the rest of its way between the stars. There was a great yawn as she turned back to the room, which she barely hid behind the very tip of one wing. Celestia caught the yawn as well, but didn’t bother covering it at all as she stretched her mouth as wide as it would go. “Why did you not wake me, Sister?” Luna asked before the Sun Goddess had finished. Celestia motioned aimlessly with a forehoof until she was able to sink her head back into the pillows. “You just looked so peaceful,” she said with a smirk. Luna scowled but said nothing, the faint rustle of her one sock following behind her as she went to the kitchen table. Across the way, the cupboard opened and she drifted an empty mug to join her at the table where she took a seat, plopping her head sideways on the mahogany surface which puffed out her cheek. As the mug was placed upright beside her with tender care, the painted likeness of Starswirl the Bearded came into Celestia’s view. “Isn’t that the mug Twilight got you for Hearth’s Warming?” she asked, shrewdly. Luna’s head perked off the table, red coloring her cheeks. “Oh—I was not aware...” she said, tilting the mug as if to study it. “Please Luna, we have been over this, and it’s nothing to be embarrassed about,” Celestia said, suppressing another yawn. “Twilight is a very talented pony, not to mention a Princess now. I don’t see any reason why you shouldn’t at least try.” Luna’s head had sunk back onto the table, a faraway look in her eyes as the coffee pot floated over in her blue aura and began filling her mug. “I wish it were that simple, Sister, but you know Twilight Sparkle as well as I—” “More than you,” Celestia corrected. Luna’s eyes rolled in her squished face as she continued preparing her coffee, now dropping in two cubes of sugar and what she must have thought was cream. “Then you know ‘tis true when I say she will share this news with her friends, or even you, Sister. All of Equestria will know within a week that I tried to court her!” Luna’s voice grew more determined as she spoke, the weariness replaced by fierce blushing. “What will our subjects think of me then? A princess who shirks her duties for love.” Celestia slid off the sofa and onto her bare hooves, wiping the last traces of donut from her mouth. Luna was staring her down from the tabletop, a spoon magically stirring her coffee with enough ferocity that it threatened to splash out over the sides. “Luna, our subjects will adore you no matter who you give your affections to. Your return is proof enough of that,” Celestia said, calmly. “As for who she confides in, does it truly matter that much to you? If Twilight wrote a letter to me, I would guide her as best I could, and tell nopony else. If she sought out her friends instead, would it really be so terrible for them to know?” “It would!” she said indignantly, tossing aside the spoon and taking an angry swig from her mug. Coffee sprayed everywhere. Luna went into a fit of gagging, knocking over the mug and spilling more coffee over the table. She tried desperately to upright it quickly while keeping her tongue out of her mouth. Celestia was laughing uncontrollably, tears leaking from her eyes while her sister tried to keep more coffee from going everywhere. “Wha—what did you put in this?” Luna demanded, shaking out a foreleg which dripped large goblets of rich brown liquid. With a hoof over her mouth Celestia managed to stifle the most of her giggles, though her cheeks hurt from holding it in. “That was your own doing,” she said. “You added salad dressing instead of cream.” Luna swelled, her wings puffed out at her sides, but before she could say anything a heavy knock came at the castle door. A gruff voice followed after it. “Princess Twilight Sparkle is here to speak with you, Princess Celestia.” Luna’s eyes went as wide as dinner plates. Celestia did not move at all, but looked rather smug. “Early as always,” she said quietly, but then shrugged. “Send her in!” “Sister!” Luna hissed, glancing at herself in the mirror across the room, and then back at the spilled coffee. The castle door swung open, but Luna disappeared in a pop of blue light moments before a familiar lavender face poked in. “Princess Celestia, I hope this isn’t a bad time,” Twilight said quickly as she trotted into the room. “I know I wasn’t due until morning, but I was already packed and the friendship lesson I’m teaching starts so early tomorrow, I just had to get a head start; not to mention the Canterlot library has several books I should definitely read before it starts. I just thought I really should let you know I was here before I did anything else, so here I am!” Celestia chuckled, lowering her head so she could embrace her student. “It’s good to see you, Twilight.” But her student did not reply. Instead, she stepped sideways out of her embrace, and when Celestia pulled away she noticed Twilight’s eyes were fixated on something behind the princess. “Is everything alright, Twilight?” “With me?” she blinked. “Of course! But uh... is everything okay with you? Because it looks like a swarm of parasprites attacked your breakfast table.” Celestia turned her attention to the catastrophe that Twilight was referring to. Coffee was spilling everywhere over the sides of the table and onto the seats. The coffeepot, mug, spoon, and salad dressing had likewise been strewn over the surface, giving the appearance that a giant explosion had occurred. Lying alone on the floor, was a single purple and pink striped sock, left behind by its owner and helpless before the advancing liquid. The princess moved so that she was between Twilight and the unsightly scene. “Luna was... performing an experiment.” “Really?” “Indeed,” Celestia nodded regally. “I believe she concluded that other cream based ingredients are not able to be subsisted for regular coffee creamer.” A faint huffing noise came from somewhere beyond Luna’s door. “Well that’s a bit ridiculous,” Twilight said, though she bore an expression of devout curiosity. “Why would she want to try something like that?” Celestia wrapped Luna’s sock with her magic, saving it from permanent staining, and tossed it through the narrow crack in her sister’s doorway. “I’m sure she has her reasons. If you like, I can ask her to drop by the library once she returns.” Another sound echoed from Luna’s room, though whether it was a gasp, or her sister had suddenly choked on something, Celestia could not be sure. But Twilight had noticed as well, and her ears perked. “Did you hear something?” Celestia stepped forward, placing a gentle hoof over her student’s shoulders. “Never mind that. I’ll take care of the mess here. You should go ahead and begin your studies.” Twilight gazed at her teacher with mild suspicion, but then bowed with dramatic effect. “Of course, Princess,” she said, and trotted away with only a quick smile over her shoulder before disappearing into the hall. Not entirely convinced the coast was clear, Celestia coughed lightly into her hoof, and waited. Twilight’s head reappeared in the door, looking quizzical. Celestia laughed. “Thank you, Twilight, that will be all.” “Just checking!” she sang, and vanished once again. As promised, Celestia turned to the mess that had claimed the table and began cleaning. In a shroud of golden light, the spilled coffee lifted into the air and went spiraling down into the sink. Then, as she began returning the mug and other contents to the places, a faint voice came from Luna’s room. “Is... is she gone?” “Yes Luna, you can come out now,” Celestia sighed. The Moon Princess stepped carefully out of her hiding place, quickly glancing toward the hall as if she couldn’t trust her own sister to tell the truth. “You really should go and see her tonight,” Celestia said after the table had finally been cleared. “It’s no different than your first Nightmare Night. You will never know what she thinks of you if you don’t give her a chance.” Luna ran a hoof through her mane, which had now been groomed to appear almost normal. “That was different, Sister, and you know it. Accepting me for not being a monster is one thing, but asking Twilight to court me is another matter entirely. I do not wish to place my own feelings before my duties as a princess.” Celestia’s eye twitched. “Honestly, Luna! If you do not express your feelings to Twilight tonight, I will banish you to the moon again!” Luna gaped. “You—how could you—I cannot believe you would say that!” she shouted, and stormed back into her room, slamming the door behind her. Celestia didn’t move, her face stuck somewhere between a scowl and a look of regret. The hall door creaked, drawing her attention. Beside it was the royal guard, who had been trying to close it unnoticed. “Too soon?” she asked him. The guard had enough sense not to answer.
Chapter 2Luna stormed through her room, nostrils flared, and looking for something to throw. Sometimes her sister was even more infuriating than her video games. How dare she mention our banishment! A dress was extracted from the mounds on the floor and flew across the room in a flash of the blue light. Does she not know how it hurts us still? She scooped up a pillow with her hoof and sent it sailing into a dresser, which did little except rattle the picture frames on top. With a snort, she marched over to her four-poster bed and fell back onto it. Then she held up her hind leg that was still snugly covered by a pink and purple sock. With great effort she bent forward and gripped it in her teeth, sliding it off as she laid back again. Why does speaking with Twilight worry me so? Luna wondered with a sigh, dropping the sock by her bedside. I have spoken to her many times before, and she has always been kind to me. Why wouldn’t she be now? Luna imagined the look on Twilight’s face; scornful, maybe even disgusted, with her eyes and nose scrunched up. Princess Luna, how could you suggest we court one another? You’re a thousand years old, and I have studying to do. “No, Twilight does not sound like that,” Luna growled. “We are being foalish.” He mind was made up. Rolling out of her bed, her horn flared and snatched up the pieces of her jewelry that were scattered about the room. As each silvery piece fell into place, she became more resolute. She would go about her nightly duties regardless of Twilight’s presence. There were important matters to attend to somewhere... but should Twilight have need of her, then she would use that opportunity to express her feelings. If not, then she wouldn’t force an encounter between them. Her sister would be asleep by then anyway, and it would be better to let fate decide. Luna’s tiara lowered onto her head, dark and glittering. She observed it in her small beside mirror. With a hoof, she brushed the last few stray strands of her mane into place, and stared deeply into her own eyes. “We will not intrude on Twilight tonight,” she promised herself. There will be other times to speak with her. Then, when Luna was confident that she no longer looked like a complete mess, she strode out of her room to begin the night. Luna found herself standing outside the library’s vast wooden doors unable to move from the spot. Somewhere inside Twilight was studying her books. She could tell from the wavering candlelight that seeped out from under the doors. All she had to do was knock. No! We promised to leave her be, she reminded herself. But her body remained rooted stubbornly in place. Sister did tell her that we might stop and visit tonight. Yet the thought of opening the door and interrupting Twilight’s studies was more than she could bear. And so the castle hall remained still except for the wave of Luna’s mane, while her inner struggle raged on. Minutes slipped by, until the sudden “thump” of a book closing startled Luna into action. Now is our chance! Come on, move... Her hoof raised slowly to the doors, but instead of knocking she pressed lightly against one and pushed it open a crack. With forced caution she slid her nose through until she was able to see into the room. The library was filled with books, as all libraries are, but each was presented neatly on ornate wooden shelves that towered against the walls. Like the rest of the castle, lit torches flickered in their brackets, but were carefully spaced between the shelves. Solid, low lying tables were scattered about the room and surrounded by cushions that were half-hidden in the dancing shadows. Twilight sat at the far table by an empty fireplace. She had instead lit several candles to read by and lain them about the table’s surface. Her hoof was resting on a stack of four books which Luna presumed she must have already finished, as Twilight was now perusing the covers of another stack, which were lying on the floor next to her. Go forth and speak with her, or at least say something, anything! Luna’s mind crashed around like a storm. She couldn’t bring herself to move, let alone speak when her tongue felt as if it had swollen to twice its size. Oh, why does this have to be so hard? We haven’t any trouble speaking with our other subjects. But, as if by magic, Twilight seemed to sense something was amiss. Her eyes shifted in Luna’s direction, just as she was floating another book to the table. For a moment neither of them moved, and Twilight’s face remained cast in the lavender hue of her levitation spell. “Hello?” Luna could hide no longer. She walked into the library, putting on a smile that was certainly not the least bit nervous. “Greetings, Twilight!” She cringed at the volume of her own voice. “Oh, Princess Luna.” Twilight got to her hooves. “Celestia said you might be stopping by.” See? She was expecting us. What were we so worried about? It took all of Luna’s willpower not to canter the rest of the way to her. “Please, have a seat, Twilight. I—I only wish to speak with you a moment.” Twilight plopped back down onto her pillow, her face growing serious. “Is everything alright? Has something happened?” Luna stopped and stood opposite from her. The moment had arrived, but with it came a thousand butterflies filling her stomach. She tried to fight against it, desperately searching for the right words. “Oh no, nothing like that. We... that it is I—” She had planned on sitting, but now her heart was racing so quickly the thought seemed absurd. She felt like running, or flying as far away as she could, but it was too late for that now, wasn’t it? She took a few steps back, her shoes clicking on the stone. Twilight waited patiently, her face framed in the glowing light of the candles, soft and concerned. Her eyes were wide and attentive, and in those deep violet pools, Luna could see herself as she only grew more panicked. Her face flushed, her whole body growing hot despite the cool castle air. I cannot do this. “I’m sorry, I can’t!” Luna cried, and before she knew it, her legs were carrying her out of the Library and down the hall, her escape echoing off the walls. “Princess Luna? Wait!” Twilight called after her, but Luna did not stop. She had humiliated herself, and as the castle doors rushed past, she couldn’t imagine ever facing her again. Twilight appeared in a brilliant flash of light, the sound drowning out Luna’s whinny as she skidded to a halt. “Luna, what is going on?” Twilight demanded, her beautiful wings outstretched and blocking the hall. The Princess’ breath came in ragged gasps, her mind reeling with each gulp of air. She could feel Twilight’s gaze burning into her, but she kept her own eyes fixated on the floor. “I’m sorry... I should not have gone... to speak with you. I have many other duties to attend to, and I should not have let my emotions get in the way.” Luna could hear Twilight fold her wings, feel the light flutter of air, and the soft sound of her hooves as she approached. “Luna, you can tell me,” she said in that gentle voice. “I’m here to help. There’s no problem too big or too small.” Very slowly, Luna lifted her head and looked at Twilight. She was wearing the same troubled expression as the one in the library, but perhaps even more pronounced. She pities me, Luna thought, shivering against a draft of wind. A rock had settled into her stomach, crushing the butterflies, and suddenly the whole thing didn’t seem to matter as much anymore. She drew in a deep breath, and managed a half-hearted smile. “We—sorry, I wished to inform you that I’ve never met a pony as brilliant or beautiful as you, Twilight. I had wanted to ask if you might... might be willing to court—that is, I mean to date me.” Luna shook herself. “I wish to know if you will date me.” Twilight’s mouth was hanging half open, as if ready to speak, but no words were coming out. “I know it’s foalish,” Luna said, quickly. “How could you see me as anything more than a princess, or a friend? Please, forget I said anything.” Twilight blinked, and closed her mouth. “No, no I’m sorry, Luna, it’s not anything like that. It’s just, well... unexpected, that’s all.” Luna’s heart leapt. “So you will?” “No—I mean maybe,” Twilight grinned awkwardly. “I appreciate you letting me know, but I just need some time to think about this. I mean, it’s not every day you get asked out by a ruler of Equestria,” she chuckled, and Luna’s heart crashed back onto the ground. “Of course,” she nodded stiffly. “Take whatever time you need.” For a moment the world stood still, as they both seemed unwilling to be the first to leave, or continue the conversation. Luna fidgeted. Her mane was starting to swirl before her face, but should couldn’t bring herself to brush it aside. Instead, Twilight made the first move, carefully walking up next to the moon princess. “Luna, I do mean it when I say I’ll consider... ‘courting’ you,” she said with another small smile. “I just wasn’t quite prepared for this.” “Thank you, Twilight,” Luna said quietly. “You’re welcome, though I should probably get back to studying now.” Luna, got to her hooves, unaware of when she had sat down. “Yes, I have... things to attend to as well.” “Great! I’ll see you later then.” “Farewell.” Luna waited, unmoving, until the Twilight’s hoofsteps faded behind her. Then the tears came. They were silent, streaking down her face, though she did not shudder or grieve along with them. It felt as if a great weight had been lifted from her shoulders. Instead of being crushed she felt free, but not any better for it. Many minutes later, she finally went on her way, thankful none of the night guard had crossed her path. There were other matters to attend to, though they were foggy in her mind. If she was to get through the night it was best to distract herself with whatever those tasks might be, and she would follow the rows of shuddering torches to wherever they wanted to take her.
Chapter 3With the early hours of the night came the faint pitter-patter of rain. Luna had gone about her duties bleary-eyed and absent minded, and the time had snuck past more quickly than she could have imagined. Her head hung low as she made her way back to her chambers. She had yet to walk the dreams of the ponies in Equestria, finding them when they needed her most. But tonight she did not wish to. After all, how could she help them when nopony was there to comfort her? Certainly, Twilight had not rejected her outright, but Luna had been around long enough to know what her reaction had meant. With a heavy sigh, she nudged her way through the door and into the antechamber. The room had been thoroughly cleaned of any evidence leading to that evening’s coffee scandal. Not a single stain was left on the floor, and the table had been cleaned of all clutter, except for one particular mug; a mug with Starswirl the Bearded displayed prominently on the front. Luna wrapped it in magic and tossed the thing into a cupboard, slamming the door behind it without so much as a second glance. “Thank you Sister, that is exactly the reminder I need right now.” She marched into her room, securing the latch as she went, and flopped back into her bed. I never should have left, she thought glumly. Her eyes turned to the bedside mirror, peering at it over the rumpled covers. Her mane swirled in the dim reflection, resembling a twinkling starscape more than ever. She huffed and rolled upright. Now is not the time for brooding! We have work to do. I must get hold of myself, she thought, and swiftly smacked herself across the cheek. The fiery sting was immediate, and would have been less so if she had remembered to remove her silver shoes. Muttering curses about her own incompetence, she floated all four of them away, but kept her tiara and peytral, as the night was not yet finished. Settling down again, she breathed deeply and tucked her now bare hooves in toward herself. Then, closing her eyes she summoned her magic, feeling the familiar warmth rush down from the tip of her head to the rest of her body. When Luna opened her eyes, a vast, shimmering night sky greeted her. She was suspended in space, but her hooves stood as if on solid ground. On either side of her were doors, lined one after the other until they faded into the distance. She smiled faintly for the first time since she had spoken with Twilight. If anything could get her mind off her own perils, it was helping others with theirs. Starting off slowly, she proceeded along the invisible passage. Doors of every shape and sized moved past her; some made of mahogany or oak, others in shades of green, blue, or pink, with diamond shaped windows cut into the center. Each was unique as the pony that slept and dreamed beyond it. But at that moment none were calling to her. So instead, she stopped by a simple door made of unadorned wood, which hung slightly crooked on its hinges. She won’t mind, Luna thought, and pushed through the door, closing her eyes against the blinding light that burst forth from the other side. She was in a rolling green meadow dotted by daises and dandelions that swayed with the grass around them. The sky was a striking blue and covered only by the occasional cloud. But high among them was a flock of geese being chased by a single grey Pegasus mare, whose mane shimmered like gold under the sun. Luna breathed deeply, drinking in the scent of the wildflowers as she watched the winged creatures fly about. The flock dived, and the mare spiraled after them, honking the entire way. A moment later they swooped overhead, and the Pegasus paused in her pursuit to wave merrily at the princess. Luna chuckled and waved back, almost wishing to join her as the pony went on her way again. But then a voice called to Luna, distant, as if from the back of her mind. It was a cry for help. In seconds she had summoned her magic, enveloping herself in swirling blue light. There was a tugging at her chest like an invisible string, then with a pop everything vanished, and it felt as if she were soaring through the air without use of her wings. But as quickly as she had gone, a new place materialized around her. The sky was darker here, choked by rumbling storm clouds, and the air which was thick with fog. Wilted grass lay beneath Luna’s hooves, and farther out the ghostly forms of enormous ponies seemed to be drifting through the mist. They sang words and other unintelligible jeers, all directed at a figure huddled alone in the center of them. Luna slowly walked toward it, watching as the fog parted before her. Soon, she could hear the whimpers of the colt who was lying there, his forelegs held up over his head to shield himself. Tears had marked his cheeks, and his brown mane and tail were terribly frayed. With a sad smile, Luna extended her right wing and reached down to brush his head. “What’s wrong, little one?” The colt hiccupped in surprise, his bright eyes gazing up at her. “P-princess Luna, you came!” “Of course I did,” she said, helping him up. “Now, why don’t you tell me what’s troubling you.” Still shaking, the colt glanced around, though Luna did not need to as she already knew that the shadowy figures had gone. “They... they were laughing at me,” he explained, spinning in a circle as if to assure himself it really was safe. “Your friends?” Luna asked gently. “Why would they do that?” He stared at the ground, pawing at it with a hoof, and muttered something. Luna wondered if this was how she had looked like to Twilight only a few hours ago. “Little one, you called for my help and that is what I am here for, but I cannot if you do not let me.” He looked up again, new tears shining in his eyes. “They’ll think my new cutie mark is s-stupid.” Luna had expected something as much. Carefully, she circled around him so that his tiny flank was in view. On it was the likeness of a paw-print with a little bandage covering its center. The colt sniffled, and quickly covered the cutie mark with his tail. Luna resisted the urge to giggle, and instead let it turn into a reassuring smile. “You wish to become a veterinarian.” The colt looked at her blankly, his mouth trying to form the word she had just spoken. “An animal doctor,” she amended. He nodded ever so slightly. “That is an admirable goal.” “It is?” he asked, as if it had been the first time somepony had told him that. This time Luna did laugh. “Very much so. You care deeply for other creatures and that is nothing to be embarrassed about. When you are willing to give your heart to something you love, it’s not important what others think. All that matters is...” Luna faltered as she realized the words she had just spoken. No, our situation is not that simple, she assured herself. But then why had she thought of it? “Princess Luna?” She shook her head and looked back at the colt. “My apologies little one. Where was I?” “You were telling me about what really matters,” he said, his eyes wide and hopeful. The image of Twilight’s own astonishment flickered through Luna’s mind. “Right, well... make sure you eat your vegetables,” she said, already trotting back the way she had come. “Wait, I don’t get it!” the colt cried after her. “All I eat are vegi-tables, a-and oats!” But she did not turn back. The mist had already swallowed her up, billowing under her hooves as she rose with her wings to the edge of the dream. I must go speak with her again, was all she could think of. Leaving the colt’s nightmare was like slipping through a thin sheet of cool water. The air rippled around her, and suddenly she was standing in the ethereal hall of doors again. She galloped along them, willing for the one she wanted to spring into existence and ignored the rest. Surely she must be asleep by now, Luna thought. And sure enough, no longer than the thought had left her mind did the familiar purple door fade into view. Huzzah! Luna grinned triumphantly. We will tell her that it does not matter if she returns our feelings or not. We will not lose heart, and our affection will remain thus whether as friends or... or more. It is not foalish to care for somepony as we do. It is only in how we choose to show it. Yet still she hesitated. She had never entered Twilight’s dreams without her permission before. Would she think of her as obsessive if she were to suddenly appear so quickly after their previous conversation? Most likely, but it had to be done. Luna puffed out her chest and moved regally onward. The door swung in before her and she strode into a dimly lit room. The place was immediately familiar, or at least had traces of the familiar. Books lined the walls, resting on shelves carved into the wooden exterior. But while the walls and floor were made of wood, it was more like they were the wood; naturally twisting and folding in places, or showing deep grooves in others. Tables rose from the floor on root-like legs, supporting tops like tree stumps, and all around the room tiny orbs of light drifted and danced. But they were not the only source of light. A warm, crackling fireplace rested on the far side of the room, alive but not spreading to the wood around it, as it could only do in a dream. And lying on a thick patterned rug in front of the fire, was the outline of a pony. Luna’s breath quickened. She desperately wanted to rush over and explain everything to Twilight, but something stopped her. It wasn’t that she appeared to be asleep, but something else, something off. She crept closer, and as she did there was another form distinguishable from the first, nearer the fire than Twilight, and with their forelegs intertwined with hers. Luna’s heart nearly leapt out her throat. A swell of unexplainable warmth spread from her chest to the tips of her hooves and nose, forcing the corners of her mouth to turn up as far as they would reach. She was staring at a younger version of herself. The form in which she had first met Twilight; small and short-maned. And that’s when Luna realized what had been off about the purple Unicorn. It was in fact, that she was indeed a Unicorn. There were no wings folded at her sides, only the horn on her head, which was tilted toward the younger Luna so that it rested against hers. For a moment Luna could do nothing but stand there, with her mouth slightly agape just as Twilight’s had been before. A million thoughts were rushing through her mind, all of which spun just out of reach. But she knew it made one thing absolutely clear, whether Twilight realized it yet or not. Unable to hold in her excitement any longer, Luna spun about and raced out of the room. Only as the door was closing did she allow herself to look back and savor one last glimpse of the scene. As the door shut completely the magic around Luna began to slide away, and much like rising out of a deep lake, she awoke. Her eyes snapped open and her head shot upright, a cry of triumph on her lips. “Sister!” Luna scrambled from her bed, stumbling over her piles of various items on the floor in her haste to leave. She slammed into the locked door and fell back on her rump, but despite the pain, she simply laughed. “Sister!” she called again, unlatching the door and striding into the antechamber, where she immediately veered toward Celestia’s room. Her door was unlocked, and Luna exploded through it with a loud bang. “Sister, I’ve done it!” A drawn out groan came from the mess of covers half on the bed and half on the floor. But unlike Luna’s, the chambers of the sun princess were clear of debris, and Luna crossed over to her sister with ease. “Sister!” she shouted, prodding one of Celestia’s dangling legs with her hoof. “Awaken from thy slumber, today is to be one of great celebration! We must make haste!” Celestia sluggishly untangled herself from the covers, rolling on her legs to face Luna with leering, bloodshot eyes. “What in Equestria are you talking about,” she grumbled, her horn flaring gold for an instant. “Your birthday isn’t for another month yet.” “You are most correct, but ‘tis not what we speak of,” Luna said gleefully. “She hath agreed, Sister! Your advice was well given and we are eternally grateful!” “Who agreed to what?” Celestia moaned, carefully climbing off the bed to stand on unsteady hooves. “And why are you speaking like that?” “Twilight, of course!” Luna exclaimed, and galloped back into the antechamber. Early sunlight was spilling into the room from the balcony, a testament to her Sister’s experience with rude awakenings. Without further prompting, Luna dashed outside to greet the day. “Good morning, Equestria!” she shouted, her voice carrying out over the cityscape. Down among the polished white building she could already see ponies running about in the early morning shadows, and she was certain a few yelled back to her. It was odd though, for them to be up so swiftly at the dawn. Perhaps it had something to do with the many colored dots which seemed to be chasing them. Luna turned back and entered the castle just as Celestia was emerging from her room, her mane already properly groomed. “Sister, there is a parasprite infestation in the city,” she told her cheerfully. Celestia paused in her tracks, staring at Luna with half-lidded eyes. When the moon princess said nothing she sighed and continued toward the door to the hall. “I’ll fetch Twilight.” Luna beamed. “And I shall make the coffee, without salad dressing,” she said, opening the cupboards with her magic. As Celestia left the room, Luna began to hum a little tune. The mug of Starswirl the Bearded landed gently on the table, followed by a plain one for her sister. The coffee machine was filled with fresh water, and the coffee pot was placed under it, clean for the first in a long time. Luna’s spirits could not be dampened, regardless if Canterlot was in chaos, or how her sister was completely unenthused. The day was the start of something new and wonderful, she was sure of it. Author's Note There has been a lot of Twilight/Luna fiction pieces out lately. It's about time I added my own to the mix. As mentioned in the description, this story had no editors, other than yours truly. Feel free to point out any glaring mistakes you might find in the grammar or such. As always, any constructive feedback at all is welcome. Thanks for reading.
