Phases of the Moon

Back in Luna’s suite, Octavia and Mapper got undressed while Luna ordered lunch for the four of them. “Thank you again for the game. It was more than I expected, yet it was all I could have hoped for.”

“You’re very welcome, Luna,” said Mapper. “I know I had fun. I believe we still have a few hours of snuggling on the schedule.”

Octavia asked, “Do you think Tia knew we were out in her foyer?”

“She was pretty busy with that mountain of scrolls,” responded Mapper.

“I doubt we could have snuck in on my sister,” said Luna, “but the only thing that would distract Tia from work is cake.”

Mapper laughed, “I’m woefully unprepared for that! I didn’t bring any of Thespian’s cake with me.”

Luna giggled, “Tia did enjoy the cake I brought back the other day.”

“After you made her wait, you prankster,” said Octavia.

Luna nodded, “You should have seen her face when she thought I was eating the only slice.”

“You are such a naughty filly,” Octavia said as she kissed her wife.

“A good naughty,” said Mapper. “A bad naughty would have been if it was the only slice. While Thespian is married to a zebra you still risked your life eating a cake meant for Celestia.”

The lunch service arrived with coffee for everypony. Daisy and cucumber sandwiches, fried okra, and fruit salad made up the meal. “I’d had enough tea to last me forever!” said Luna.

After the meal, the four of them settled down for some serious snuggle time. Mapper commented, “Last night was a lot of fun, but I do think I heard a shout that sounded a lot like you, Mistress Luna. I think they shouted, ‘Come on!’ or something to that effect.”

Luna blushed, “Oh, you heard that.”

“All ponies are bad ponies,” said Serenity, “but some are better at it than others.”

“They are indeed,” agreed Octavia.

Luna feigned an innocent look, “What? You lot had your fun with Dusk. We were trying to have a nice little threesome.” Luna nudged her two guests, “We weren’t the ponies that set off the alarms. Twice!” Mapper waved a fore hoof like it was a small thing. Luna kissed Mapper, “What was the first one? A level five gravity spell?” Luna kissed Serenity, “The second alarm went off right when Tia was about to mount me.”

Mapper smiled, “I’m responsible for the gravity spell. Just shows my level of control to keep it to level five while receiving a well done horn job. Senior pet,” Mapper giggled as Serenity’s cheeks turned red. “She was the second alarm and she was wearing a level ten inhibitor at the time.”

“Really, Miss Serenity?” said an amazed Octavia.

“That is impressive,” said Luna. “I’m glad you had the inhibitor on. Rebuilding half the castle is such a hassle.” Luna giggled, “Had there been a third time, Tia was going to let the guards arrest you.”

Mapper leaned in and whispered, “Don’t let Omega know his horn job went unnoticed.”

“Well,” said Octavia, “Tia does hate it when her sexy time is interrupted.”

“I won’t say a word, Mapper,” said Luna. “And what Tavi says is true, we have to schedule months in advance!” The four of them laughed out loud at that.

“I have a bag of level nine inhibitors that are broken,” said Mapper as Serenity’s blush intensified. “I’m going to take them by the school to be repaired. It has been awhile since I had such talent to pleasure Senior Pet at both ends.”

Luna kissed Serenity’s cheek and quickly pulled away waving a hoof over her mouth. “Careful Serenity, that blush might catch the castle on fire.” Serenity decided to act naughty and stuck her tongue out at Luna. Luna laughed, “Oh my, how ‘cheeky’. It’s good that Dusk let you use Vocal’s inhibitor. He insisted on wearing it when he was Dusk’s ‘puppy’. My fault I got him that job to go back on the road. I used to like our walkies.”

“If you don’t mind foregoing some cuddle time, you can take Senior Pet on walkies,” suggested Mapper quickly. “She is fully house broken too, so no messy accidents.”

Luna chuckled, “You should have Dusk tell you about the problems he had with Vocal when they went outdoors. Yes, I’d be happy to go for a walk in the gardens with your pet.”

“Mistress Luna, your gardens are beautiful,” Serenity said. “I visited them during my free time and enjoyed resting by the fountain. I will only use the toilet on your command, Mistress.”

“Dusky said it was less than convenient at times,” said Mapper.

Octavia laughed, “Vocal dropped a load in the middle of the market district one afternoon. Dusk almost died of embarrassment. He put Vocal in his cage for a few nights.”

Mapper tilted her head, “Was that a punishment or a reward?”

“It was definitely a punishment,” said Luna. “Vocal liked his pet bed, but wasn’t keen on the cage. He usually got just a few hours instead of a few days in it. I do have a collar and lead in my toy box, Mapper, unless you have your own?”

Mapper smiled, “The one I have is pink, so feel free to use your own.”

Luna rolled her eyes, “Of course it would be pink.” She levitated a dark blue collar and leash out of her toy box and fastened the collar around Serenity’s neck. Luna attached the leash to the collar and said, “One thing, you won’t bark at me, will you?”

“So, you wish for her to be a dog,” said Mapper. “No barking at all or barking only on command? Like if somepony is annoying you?”

Luna smiled, “I was going to say no, but maybe barking at a few nobles would be fun.”

Mapper asked, “High level of training?”

Luna nodded, “If you wouldn’t mind.”

“Already done.” Mapper smiled, “Please let her know her bark command cue. She is very observant and will work to ear commands. Also, if you’re worried about her doing her business, even though she is highly trained, you can put a lunar guard nappy on her.”

Luna laughed, “I’m not worried about that.” She looked at Serenity, “Pup, my left ear flick means bark, understand?” Luna flicked her left ear. Serenity barked loudly. “Oh my,” Luna exclaimed, “Has somepony been practicing?”

Mapper looked off to the side, “Maybe.”

Serenity pulled lightly at the leash. “Okay pup, let’s take you out to the garden so you can sniff some trees.” Luna moved towards the exit and Serenity followed on Luna’s left one pace back. “You have a very well trained pup, Mistress Mapper.”

Mapper agreed, “The finest Celestia’s school can produce.”

“Yes, I knew that school existed for a reason.” Luna laughed and moved around the room and Serenity stayed in position. She kissed Octavia, “Do try to be good for Mapper, my love.”

“No promises.” Octavia followed up with another kiss.

Luna moved on out of the room. Although she was out of sight the two remaining mares heard Serenity bark in the hallway. Mapper moved to sit next to Octavia, “Now that the Mistress is away, how shall the mares play?”

Octavia bowed, “Anyway you like, Mistress Mapper.”

Mapper shook her head, “Octavia, at this moment there are no Mistresses. Just two mares that know each other and this mare would like to learn how to please the other.”

“Of course,” Octavia giggled. “Now that you mention it, I’ve always liked my collarbone nibbled.”

“How interesting,” said Mapper. “It just so happens that I like to nibble on collarbones. And, while it is not a secret, I like it when anypony plays with my horn.” Mapper nuzzled Octavia’s ear, “No fear, no shame. I won’t judge you for what you like or dislike.”

Octavia blushed, “Seeing those nappies brought back a lot of fond memories, and seeing Lulu in them made me wonder.” She moved her head and kissed Mapper’s horn.

“Do you think I’d look good in nappies, Tavi, my dear?” questioned Mapper as she nibbled on Octavia’s collarbone.

Octavia stroked Mapper’s brown mane and paused in licking her horn, “We could find out?’

Mapper moved from nibbling a collarbone to nuzzling Octavia’s neck, “May I be your little filly, Momma Tavi?”

Octavia’s face lit up with anticipation. “Oh, I’d like that.” she said, “I’d like that a lot.” She gave Mapper’s nose a chaste kiss, “My little filly.” Mapper stopped nibbling and softly nuzzled as she made googling and cooing noses.

Octavia looked at Mapper and had an idea, “Would my little filly like to play with some toys?” Mapper smiled and waved her hooves. “Well, we best get you dressed first.” Octavia giggled, “We don’t want any accidents.” Octavia carried Mapper over to the day bed and laid her on her back. She quickly gathered the powder and Luna cutie mark nappies.

Mapper briefly thought of giving Octavia a golden shower for her efforts. While she was sure her newborn would get her at least once with that trick, Mapper decided Octavia was in too good a mood to spoil. She’d wait till later to give the gray mare a stinky to change.

Octavia expertly applied the powder and put the Luna cutie mark nappy on the unicorn. She left off the protective cover since mapper had no outfit to ruin with a messy diaper. “Let’s take you to the nursery.” Octavia put Mapper on her back and left the suite.

Mapper thought about what age foal she should be for Octavia. Since the nursery would most likely have newborn foal toys, Mapper thought six months would be a good age to act. She let out a giggling laugh as Octavia carried her. She couldn’t help it as she thought the nursery would have a couple dozen musical interments along with the toys. Mapper started chewing on Octavia’s mane since it was available.

Octavia hoofed open the door, “I’m sure my filly will find something in here to interest her.” She sat Mapper in the middle of the room on the padded floor. The unicorn looked around and saw a variety of toys that ranged from newborn to a two year old. She grabbed at the nearest thing which was an alphabet block and stuck it part way in her mouth. Octavia saw what Mapper did and picked up a stuffed teddy bear. “That’s not food.” She said as she swapped the teddy for the block.

Mapper took the teddy bear and rolled to her belly. She used the bear to attack another block that was nearby. She lost her balance and fell over. Mapper dropped the teddy bear and rolled to her side. She couldn’t see the bear behind her, and started to whimper.

“It’s okay, dear,” said Octavia. She pulled the bear from behind Mapper and moved it to her front, “Boo!” Mapper squealed with glee. She grabbed the bear and continued her assault on the alphabet block.

Octavia started to stack the blocks. Mapper held off her assault until the wall was three blocks high. She lunged forward with the bear. “Grrr,” she exclaimed as the bear knocked over the wall. Mapper’s laughter filled the room.

Octavia laughed with her. It had been a long time since she had this sort of fun. Octavia grabbed a teddy bear for herself and started rebuilding the wall with the bear hiding behind it. Mapper stopped her attack on the wall as she hid behind her own bear. Once the wall was four blocks high, Octavia stood up her own bear, “Grrowl.”

Mapper blinked in surprise at the foreign bear. That was her wall, and not his. She lunged forward again with the bear, “Grrr!”

Octavia met the attack with her bear to defend the wall, and do a very poor job of it as Mapper knocked it down again. Her bear danced in rage as she quickly rebuilt the wall, only to have it knocked down again. She reached out and grabbed a rattle.

All thoughts of the bear war fled Mapper’s mind when she heard the rattle. She dropped the bear and reached out for the rattle. Octavia released it to her possession and she shook it for all she was worth. The noise was nice. She hit the padded floor and then the bear with the rattle. The noise wasn’t what she was looking for. Then she hit a block and shouted with glee at the loud noise.

Octavia laughed at how easily Mapper was distracted, and how focused she was on the new toy. Her heart filled with a longing. This is what she wanted in her life.

Another foal.

Mapper dropped the rattle and looked around her for something else to do. Octavia whispered, “Would my little filly like a pony ride?” Mapper gurgled and held up her hooves. Octavia wrapped her foal in a hug and kissed the filly’s nose. She put Mapper on her back and started to prance around the room. Mapper held onto Octavia’s mane and giggled. She lightly kicked the gray mare’s flanks to get her to go faster.

After a few minutes of prancing, Octavia started to buck her hips. The filly on her back bounced and laughed even harder.Mapper continued to giggle until she let go of Octavia’s main. Her forelegs wind milled as she cried out, and slipped off to the side.

Octavia quickly spun in place and caught Mapper in her forelegs. She lowered her filly to the floor and nuzzled her belly. “Was mama to rough?” She held her filly close, “Mommy has you, sweetie, it’s all right.” Mapper, the scare soon forgotten, held on to Octavia, and was soon chewing on her mane again.

Octavia laughed and rolled onto her back as she pulled Mapper with her. She started tossing Mapper into the air and catching her showing off her earth pony strength.

Mapper laughed as she was tossed into the air. Octavia sheer strength impressed her as she tossed her higher and higher. The grey mare added belly raspberries which set Mapper off to laughing even louder. Until she was overcome with hic-ups. Octavia lowered Mapper to her chest and rubbed her back. “My little filly get the hic-ups?”

The unicorn soon calmed down and started chewing on Octavia’s mane. As she chewed, Mapper drooled down the grey mare’s neck.

Octavia giggled and placed Mapper on her back on the mat. “Is my filly hungry?” Mapper gurgled and reached out to her. “Mommy will get you some milk sweetie.” She trotted over to the intercom, “Please bring a jug of warm milk to the nursery. Yes, the nursery.” Octavia hurried over to the changing table as Mapper started to fuss. She gathered a bottle. “It won’t be long, sweetie,” Octavia said as she returned to Mapper’s side. Mapper continued to fuss as she reached out. Octavia put a pacifier in the unicorn’s mouth only to have her filly spit it out. She put the pacifier back in, “Just a few more minutes, little one.”

Mapper continued to cry as she refused the pacifier. A knock on the door had Octavia up in a flash as she went to retrieve the warm jug of milk. “It’s here,” she said as she turned around. She wasted no time filling the bottle and offering it to Mapper. The unicorn pushed the bottle away and cried louder. “Come on, little one. The milk is right here,” said Octavia as she tried to offer the bottle without success.

Mapper cried out and rolled away from Octavia. She ignored the grey mare as she called out to her. Instead she grabbed a bunch of alphabet blocks and quickly lined them up. Octavia was going to pull Mapper back to her, but instead she looked at what the mare was doing. “Oh…” She laughed as Mapper looked at her with teary eyes. Octavia pulled Mapper to her and moved her head to a teat. “Drink up, my little filly.”

Mapper latched onto a teat and suckled for all she was worth. She enjoyed Octavia as she ran a hoof through her mane. After a few minutes Mapper switched to the other nipple and continued to suck greedily. Octavia cooed happily. She glanced at the alphabet blocks, “It’s a good thing I have such a cleaver filly to let momma know what she wants.” She continued to stroke her filly’s mane, “You drink all you want so you can grow big and strong.”

Mapper smiled around the nipple and giggled as she sucked. Then she stopped suckling, and a look of great concentration crossed her muzzle. Octavia looked at her filly, “Are you okay, little one?” A noise and odour were soon followed by a sigh from Mapper. Octavia laughed, “Okay, it is changing time!” She picked Mapper up and moved her to the changing table. She then gave the unicorn the teddy bear to keep her occupied while she changed her.

Mapper used the bear to attack the nearest thing, which was Octavia. “Grrr.” The closest she got was her own chest fur. For a brief moment she thought of giving her ‘momma’ a golden shower, but decided against it, since both of them were having so much fun.

Octavia loosened the cloth diaper on Mapper and wrinkled her nose. “Oh, my!” Breathing through her mouth she put the dirty nappy in a bag and in the hamper.

Even Mapper wrinkled her nose. ‘What did I eat last night?’ She found if she held the bear to her muzzle it helped to hide the smell.

Taking the wipes, she cleaned up her filly, who had made quite the mess. Soon the wipes were in the trash, and Mapper’s clean bum was powdered, and nappied. “Now you are a clean filly!” She moved Mapper back to the floor. “I’ll be right back once I put these stinkers away.” She made sure to set the hamper and trash bin near the door for later, after making double sure that both were sealed.

While Octavia’s back was turned, Mapper started to crawl across the floor. She was on the hunt for something noisy. Octavia watched Mapper for a few moments before she snuck up on the foal. “Where are you going?” She lowered herself and used her forehooves to tickle Mapper’s hind hooves.

Mapper squealed with laughter and used her only weapon. She tossed the bear at Octavia, but that proved to be ineffective. She then curled up to try and protect her hooves.

“Some filly have tickly hooves?” Octavia smiled as Mapper curled up to protect herself. “Does my filly have…” She moved from the hooves to the ribs, “Tickly ribs?” Mapper squealed even louder and promptly uncurled to try and roll away, only to leave her hooves exposed which Octavia quickly moved to tickle. She lightly batted at the grey mare with her forehooves.

Octavia backed off to let Mapper catch her breath. She picked up the bear that her filly tossed at her. Mapper reached out for it, only to leave herself open for another tickle assault. As her last defense she wrapped her legs around Octavia’s tickling leg.

Octavia was laughing so hard at Mapper’s antics she had tears streaming from her eyes. She stopped tickling and wrapped Mapper up in a hug. “Oh, my little filly, you make this old mare feel young again.” Her filly, in turn wrapped her up in a hug.

“Mama,” stated Mapper, and she kissed Octavia’s cheek.

Octavia returned the kiss to Mapper’s cheek, “I love you, my little filly.” They lay there together snuggling. Octavia lets loose a soft sigh, and kissed Mapper’s horn, “Thank you for this time, my little filly.”

Mapper stroked Octavia’s mane, “You know, inside this old mare.” She tapped Octavia’s chest, “There is still a young mare alive and well. Tell me, Junior Pet, why do you torment your Mistress so?”

Octavia blinked and leaned back to look at Mapper. “Torment her?” She looked away, “Because I’m a silly foolish pet, Mistress Mapper.”

Mapper moved her head back to face her and kissed her lightly, “All pets are silly, but not all are foolish. You judge yourself by a mirror, and not by Luna’s eyes.” She smiled as she relayed a thought to Serenity, “I think you’ll be in for a surprise if she sends you to that mirror room again. Which one, I don’t know.” Her hoof drifted down Octavia’s body, “Do you miss having dusky at your breast?”

Octavia nodded, “Yes, yes I do.”

“Have you reached menopause yet?” asked Mapper.

“I haven’t, not yet Mistress,” answered Octavia. “A grace for earth ponies.”

Mapper smiled and gave Octavia another kiss. “So, do you want to bear another foal, or maybe your wife can carry this burden?”

Octavia’s face lit up, “I would love to carry another foal, Mistress Mapper. My wife has said she’d carry this time, but her work, what she does, I’d rather bear the foal.”

“Maybe,” Mapper said after some thought, and communication with Serenity, “Luna doesn’t want an old mare to carry that burden. Now if you were the pretty mare she wakes up to every day, then she might let you carry the foal, and share the joy of the birth with her pretty mare.”

“I understand, Mistress Mapper.” Octavia smiled, “Thank you for helping me find this young mare in me once more.” She kissed the end of Mapper’s nose and ran her tickly hooves down the unicorn’s side.

Mapper laughed, “Am I old enough to retaliate?”

Octavia giggled, “You’re as old as you want to be, Mistress Mapper.”

“Mama!” squealed Mapper as she tried to roll away to escape.

Octavia continued the tickle attack while Mapper rolled around. After a few minutes, Mapper put an end to it as she carefully seized Octavia in her magic. She rolled to her back and lowered Octavia on top of herself. She kissed the mare on her lips, “Remember your own words. You’re as old as you want to be.”

Octavia kissed back, “Thank you for this lesson, Mistress Mapper. I’ll not forget it.” She added another kiss. “You do make for an adorable filly.”

“That’s what my mother said to me, too.” Mapper smiled, “Would you like a filly this time, or pot luck?”

“I think a filly would be nice,” responded Octavia. “Dusk could use a sister.”

Mapper giggled, “Dusky would be a role model for her. You went the natural route the first time?”

Octavia nodded, “It was one of Luna’s guard stallions, and that is a story in, and of itself.”

“If you considered the magic route, you could use your egg and Luna’s egg. That would guarantee a filly, and I’m sure the Queen of Libraries would have a solution.”

Octavia laughed, “That is a good idea, Mistress. I’m sure Lulu would agree with it.”

“Good!” stated Mapper. “Now, while you are a mare of good taste, you’re not very filling. Shall we enjoy that milk you had delivered?”

“Why not,” giggled Octavia. She watched Mapper take up the bottle. “You can unscrew the teat, if you like Mistress.”

Mapper suckled on the bottle for a moment, “You’re right, this will take forever.” She removed the nipple and drank down the contents. After she refilled the bottle form the jug, she hoofed it over to Octavia.

Octavia took the bottle, “So you do like it after all, Mistress? And here was me thinking I was poisoning my filly.” She drank down the milk.

“Nothing tastes better than momma!” giggled Mapper. “I thought for a moment you never breast fed Dusky.”

Octavia shook her head, “I did. It’s just been awhile.”

Mapper took the bottle back and refilled it. She then downed the liquid and refilled it again with the last of the jug. “It’s a good thing you have such a smart filly, then.”

Octavia looked over at the alphabet blocks and took the offered bottle. She tousled Mapper’s mane. “You were a very clever filly, Mistress.” She finished off the bottle.

“I know what I want,” said Mapper. “Shall we return? Senior Pet and I must prepare for our next engagement, and I think someone still wants more snuggle time. And maybe a bit of sleep.”

“I think we should.” Octavia stood with Mapper and led the way to the door. She opened it to let the unicorn go first, “Thank you for playing in the nursery with me, Mistress. I’m glad this lesson didn’t require the crop.”

Mapper moved past her into the hall, “The crop was at the bottom of my lesson plan.” She giggled, “Get it? Bottom.”

Octavia followed Mapper out into the hall, “My bottom did indeed get it, Mistress.” As they walked down the hall, Octavia added, “It was a pleasure, Mistress, though I don’t remember Dusky smelling that bad on just milk.” She watched Mapper’s pink cheeks turn red, and grinned, “Although, I’ve smelt worse, Mistress.”

Mapper gasped, “Pray tell, do you mean the Goddess of the Sun passes wind?”

“Let’s just say, that not everything smells of roses and rainbows.” Octavia opened the door to her suite and let Mapper enter first. Octavia followed and dropped one bag in the trash, and the other in the laundry. “A drink, Mistress Mapper?”

“Four, I think,” said Mapper. “The other two should be along shortly.”

~ ~ ~

Luna led Serenity out of her suite, and both guards stared straight ahead. Luna flicked her left ear and Serenity barked loudly. Neither guard flinched. “I’ll be in the royal gardens should my sister have need of me.”

The guard on the left continued to stare straight ahead, “Understood, your Highness.”

Luna continued along the path she was led earlier, and was pleased that Stonewall was still standing guard. She led Serenity up to him and flicked her ear. Serenity stopped and sniffed the guard, and then barked loudly. To his credit, Stonewall didn’t flinch, but he did say, “Yes, your Highness, I’ll be happy to wear any uniform you choose.”

“That is good to know, Stonewall,” said Luna. She deviated from her earlier path by continuing down another set of stairs that led to the throne room. She peeked in through a secret window in the door. Her sister held session with the usual assortment of buffoons before her. Luna briefly entertained the thought of leading Serenity through the throne room, but dismissed the idea just as briefly.

As Luna moved through the corridors, Serenity held guard position looking at every pony that came near. If a pony stopped to talk with Luna, Serenity would sniff them, but nothing else. Alone in a corridor, Luna said, “I dare say you’re as diligent as one of my personal guards.” Serenity just smiled in return.

Luna exited out a side door of the castle into the gardens. She stopped and greeted the guard at the entrance to the royal gardens. Serenity sniffed the guard, but held her position next to Luna. Once past the gate, Luna said, “Did you enjoy the fountain, pup?” Serenity looked back at her with a silly smile and her tongue lolled out. “Then let’s find that fountain, pup!” Luna took off at a fast trot, and Serenity remained at her side. She quickened the pace as she took a roundabout way to the fountain. The unicorn remained her faithful hound at her side.

Once she reached the fountain, Luna stopped to scratch at Serenity’s ears. “You’re a good pup, aren’t you?” Serenity had a silly smile plastered on her face. Luna giggled, “Let’s walk over there.” She led her pup to a more secluded spot in the gardens. She unclipped the leash and broke off a small branch from a nearby tree. “Want to play fetch?” Serenity crouched down low, her tail and butt waggled at a furious pace. Luna laughed and cast the stick with her magic.

Serenity gave chase to the stick. Luna noted she didn’t use her magic. It landed near a familiar pegasus statue and her pet retrieved the stick and ran back to her. When Serenity dropped it at Luna’s hooves she picked it up with her magic and ran towards the statue. Serenity gave chase, but when she reached the statue, Luna flung the stick back the way she came. She laughed as Serenity skidded to a halt and ran back to get the stick.

The unicorn grabbed the stick with her mouth and ran back towards the statue, only to see Luna wasn’t there. A quick scan of the garden showed her that Luna had moved off to one side. Without breaking stride, she turned and ran towards Luna. She dropped the stick at the alicorn’s hooves and smiled when Luna scratched her mane.

“You’re a good pup,” said Luna as she scratched the burgundy mane. She picked up the stick and tossed it again before she moved to a new position. Serenity gathered up the stick and searched for her. Soon she ran her way to drop off the stick. The continued the game of fetch and chase, and Luna wondered if the unicorn was ever going to tire.

Luna once again stood by the pegasus statue when Serenity dropped the stick at her hooves. Luna picked up the stick and waved it in front of Serenity. The unicorn watched the stick as her butt and tail moved side to side. Luna flung the stick with her magic and Serenity took off in the direction of the throw. Only Luna never let go. She laughed as Serenity searched for the stick. When she whistled the unicorn looked back at her, and Luna waved the stick. Serenity ran up and crouched before her again.

“You may toilet whenever you need,” said Luna. “But only very bad pups go on the statue behind me.” Luna tossed the stick with her magic, and Serenity took off after it. Once she retrieved the stick, the unicorn ducked off to a bush where she relieved her bladder. Once the bush was well watered she trotted up to Luna and dropped the stick.

“Good pup! Very good pup!” Luna scratched under Serenity’s chin, and the unicorn rolled over in the grass to present her belly for rubs. The alicorn laughed. “Yes, good pups get belly rubs. Bad pups would get a stick on their ass.” Serenity glanced at the statue as if in thought. She looked back at Luna and remained on her back with legs in the air as she enjoyed the belly rub.

“Maybe some pup would have liked a stick on her ass,” commented Luna. Serenity gave a little whine. “I’m glad you know the difference between good and bad naughty.” Serenity quickly rolled to her hooves. Before Luna could question the action, she saw the unicorn take guard position. Luna looked in the direction Serenity pointed and sighed, “They must be nobles to have made it this far.” A pair of unicorn stallions had entered.

One of the unicorns pointed at her, and she sighed again. ‘There is no escape from nobility.’ It looked like a heated argument had started between the two. They were too far away to hear or read lips, and Luna wasn’t going to waste a spell to listen to noble gossip. One had three stacked silver coins for a cutie mark, and Luna realised it was one of her sister’s many finance ministers. The name Silver Bit came to her. The other had an open-door cutie mark and she had no idea who it was. Sadly, she was going to find out as the open-door one headed towards her, while the other lagged behind.

“Luna, I demand you sign my proposal!” stated the stallion as soon as he neared the alicorn.

Her eyes narrowed, and she looked at the other pony. He quickly stepped forward, and bowed respectfully. Something the other stallion did not do. “Pardon, you Highness, I’m…”

“Silver Bit,” interrupted Luna. “We have met. How goes the budget?”

The other stallion snorted, but before he could say anything, Sliver Bit quickly spoke up. “It goes well your Highness.” He saw the Princess glance at the other stallion and then back to him. “This is Heavy Weight, your Highness. Pardon our interruption.”

“My proposal,” announced Heavy Weight, interrupting yet again, “It is very time sensitive, and requires your immediate signature!”

Luna watched Silver Bit wisely take a step away, distancing himself from his companion. “Of course, Heavy Weight.” She watched Silver Bit’s jaw drop. “I’m sure what you have is truly urgent. Please produce the documents for my signature.” She thought Silver Bit had gone into shock. “Silver Bit, do you have a quill and inkwell available?”

“Y-yes your Highness,” Silver Bit stammered as he produced the requested items. His partner had pulled out the documents and was ready to give them over to Luna for signature.

“It is good that you found me, Heavy Weight. I do hope my guards were of assistance.” She saw the smug smile on the stallion’s face. “Pet, please take control of the inkwell and quill while I examine the documents.” She watched Serenity easily slice through Silver Bit’s magic to take over the items. “I’ll be happy to sign next to my sister’s signature to ensure your proposal is fast tracked.”

The smug smiled disappeared and Heavy Weight pulled the documents back closer to his side. “Um, Princess Celestia informed me that your signature was required.”

“Of course,” stated Luna, “But normally such items would wait till I held court. This must be part of my area of expertise then, and of true importance for my sister to send you to me directly.”

Heavy Weight swallowed, “Maybe I was over eager at Princess Celestia’s request. I could come back during your night court.”

“Nay!” exclaimed Luna. “That would be a waste of your valuable time, Heavy Weight.” Luna took the documents from the other unicorn’s magic but noted he did try to resist. “That way you can return to my sister for her signature next to mine and have this fast tracked!” She watched Silver Bit take another step away from his companion. She smiled as Heavy Weight tried to take the documents back and failed.

Heavy Weight opened his mouth, but Luna raised a hoof. “Silence while I read.” The stallion turned to run but was quickly seized in her dark blue magic. “Of course, an area of Canterlot’s Residential District levelled to provide the Noble District with a daytime picnic area for lunch. I do see why my sister would send you to me.” Silver Bit also turned, but Luna spoke up, “Stand fast Silver Bit. So Heavy Weight, just what did my sister say to you in court today?”

The stallion clenched his jaw and said nothing. Luna smiled, “Maybe it was something like this? The homes of these ponies are not a blight on our fair city for they are well maintained.” Luna watched the stallion snort. “And her telling you to find me? I think not.”

“I’ll have you know, I have influence in this city,” stated Heavy Weight. “You will not…”

Luna’s magic wrapped around the stallion’s jaw. “I do think I’ve heard enough.” The document burst into flames and disappeared so that not even ash remained. “Pet, please write ‘banned from the castle for thirty days’ around his cutie mark and do get both sides.” She easily overcame Heavy Weight’s paltry magic burst to escape.

Serenity dipped the feather end of the quill in the inkwell and boldly wrote Luna’s command around the cutie mark on both sides. Luna cast a spell to ensure it was permeant for the thirty days before it could be washed off. “Please return the inkwell, pet,” Luna turned her attention back to the other stallion, “I’m sorry that I ruined your quill, Silver Bit. Maybe next time ponies will listen to your advice.”

Silver Bit put away the inkwell, “Thank you for being so gracious, your Highness.”

“You have my leave, Sliver Bit.” She watched the stallion quickly trot off. She flicked an ear and Serenity started barking and growling at the remaining pony. “I will give you a head start. Pet, if you catch him before he leaves this inner garden, you may bite him.” Serenity crouched low and continued to growl and bark. Luna released the other stallion and he took off at a gallop.

“You’ve not heard the last of me!” shouted the stallion.

Luna raised a hoof and Serenity gave pursuit. “I hope not,” she said softly.

Serenity nipped at the noble’s flanks but didn’t actually bite him. Just before he cleared the gate she did grab a few tail hairs and yank them out. Both guards at the gate started to laugh, but then they saw Serenity look at them. They quickly returned to attention. The unicorn smiled and trotted back to Luna where she left the few hairs at the Princess’ hooves.

Luna raised the stick and gave two quick strikes so Serenity’s ass. “Bad pup! You shouldn’t litter my garden with such trash!” A burst of magic and the tail hairs disappeared. If she judged the look on Serenity’s face, she had one very happy pup. Luna laughed and attached the leash, “Let’s go for a walk.” Serenity quickly fell in beside the Princess, one pace back.

They exited the inner garden and made their way through the outer garden towards exit. Along the way, Luna saw a unicorn mare sitting on a low bench as she read a book. She saw the red sun in a white sun cutie mark. ‘Yet another noble I don’t recognise.’ She continued on her way in the hope that nothing would happen.

The mare saw the Princess approach and quickly stood up and curtsied. “Greetings, your Highness. It’s an honour to meet you.” She looked between the Princess and the unicorn, before remaining fixed on Luna.

“I’m taking my pup for a walk,” said Luna. “And good day to you…”

“Daybreak, your Highness,” responded the mare. “I’m a member of the literary society.” She watched the unicorn sniff her. “May I please pet your pet?”

Luna was a bit surprised, pleasantly so. “You may.”

Daybreak gently petted the unicorn’s mane. “She is very well trained, your highness. Is her name, by chance, Serenity?”

Luna smiled, “Yes, her name is Serenity. Maybe you have something for my pet to sign?”

“I do!” Daybreak pulled a Playbill and pen out of her saddlebag. “If she could sign this please?” Serenity looked up at Luna and with her nod she signed the Playbill from her show in Manehatten. “Thank you, thank you, thank you.” The mare danced happily as she looked at her signed pamphlet. “Best day ever!”

“I wish you a fine day, Daybreak,” said Luna. She tugged the leash, “Come pet, I’m a thirsty.” She left the dancing mare behind as she led serenity out the castle main gate and into town. Many ponies stopped to stare. Luna wasn’t sure if they were staring at her, or her pet. She paid them no mind as she moved down the street. Her pet remained at her side and sniffed any pony that got close enough. That alone caused the crowd to keep their distance.

Luna spotted a corner café she had visited in the past and led Serenity to an outside table. She tapped a hoof under the table and Serenity squeezed herself beneath the table.

A waiter soon appeared, “Princess Luna, such a pleasure to have you visit again. What may I get you?”

“Coffee, black, for me, please, and a water for my pup,” responded Luna.

“W-water?” The waiter looked at the unicorn under the table. “At once, your Highness!” He scurried off to fetch the order.

Luna giggled and stroked Serenity’s mane. “I’m having fun, and I hope you are too.” Serenity responded by nuzzling the hoof and giving it a little lick.

The waiter soon returned and set the coffee cup and water bowl on the table, “Your drinks, your Highness.” He made no effort to hurry off.

“Thank you, sir.” Luna levitated the water bowl to the ground and picked up her cup. She then flicked her ear and Serenity started barking loudly at the waiter. The waiter jumped back and then quickly returned to the safety of the café. “Good pup,” said Luna as she scratched Serenity’s ears. She relaxed and took a sip of her coffee.

Serenity quickly lapped up the water and then pushed the bowl around with her nose which made a bit of noise. Luna looked down, “What is it up?” Serenity whined. “Oh, you want some more?” Luna giggled when Serenity left her tongue out the side of her mouth and panted. Luna levitated the bowl back up to the table and waved.

The same waiter responded to her wave. “Yes Princess?” He saw the bowl, “Ah, more water. At once your Highness!” Within moments he was back with a fresh bowl of water and this time he placed it on the ground. Serenity slowly lapped up the water. The waiter bowed and departed.

“Thank you again, sir,” Luna called out as he left. She resumed drinking her coffee as she enjoyed the late afternoon sun. Once she finished she levitated the bowl back to the table and saw it had a little water left. Luna put some bits on the table and took up the leash. “Back to the castle, pet, and we can play a bit more.”

Serenity crawled out from under the table and was quickly at Luna’s side. She wagged her tail and had a big smile on her face. The walk back was uneventful until they came across some foals. “Why is she on a leash,” asked one filly.

“She is pretending to be a puppy,” responded Luna.

“Can I be a puppy?” asked the filly.

“You can pretend to be one,” stated Luna. “Do you know how puppies behave?” The filly shook her head. “Watch.” Luna looked at Serenity, “Sit.” The unicorn sat. “Roll over.” Serenity rolled over onto her back and then back to her hooves. “Beg.” Serenity sat and raised her forelegs and whined softly.

“She is a good puppy,” said a colt who watched the show. “Why is she pretending to be a puppy?”

“She is an actress,” answered Luna. “She has to be able to pretend to be many things for those that watch her show.”

“That looks like fun!” The colt started running around and barked.

“Yeah!” said the filly as she joined the colt in barking.

To the side Luna saw an adult shaking his head, until another pointed out who was with Luna. The adult started clapping his hooves and called out, “You show the Princess how a puppy acts, Emerald!”

Luna waved at the adults and then turned back to the foals. “Remember to be good puppies and listen to your parents.” Both turned to barked then nodded. Luna continued her journey back to the castle.

The mare was no longer on the bench. Luna was sure she went home to put her new treasure in a safe place. When she approached the inner garden she asked the guard, “Is there anypony inside?”

The guard on the left answered, “No, Princess. The garden is clear.”

Luna nodded and moved past them. She returned to the pegasus statue and saw the gardeners had removed her stick already. Luna chuckled and broke off another one. “Go get it girl!” She tossed the stick with her magic, and then sat next to the statue to await Serenity’s return.

Serenity didn’t go after the stick though. Instead she lightly tugged at the leash. Luna laughed, “How silly of me.” She removed the leash and Serenity was off like a shot after the stick. Luna was still laughing when she dropped it at her hooves. “Good pup!” Luna draped a wing over Serenity and looked up at the statue of the rearing pegasus mare. “This was a pony very special to me,” she said as she scratched Serenity’s ears. “You’d have liked her.”

Serenity looked up at the statue and then leaned against Luna under her wing blanket. “Her name was Sky Dive,” explained Luna. She rested her head against Serenity’s. “I miss her, pup.” Luna sighed softly and looked at Serenity, “You want to be you again, or are you happy chasing my stick?” Serenity responded by kissing the alicorn. Luna smiled, “Thanks, and you would have liked her. She was a lot of fun.”

“Yes, Mistress. Was she a bad pony too?” Serenity smiled, “In a good way?”

Luna nodded and laughed, “Sky Dive was a very bad pegasus, in a very good way.” Luna reached out to touch the base of the statue. “She was my last lover before Octavia. Before my banishment. I betrayed and abandoned her when Nightmare Moon took over.” Luna sniffed, “I wanted to see her when I returned, only to find out she had been naught but dust for centuries.”

“Thank you for sharing her with me, Mistress,” said Serenity. “You are right, Mistress, I do like her.”

“You’re welcome, Serenity.” Luna whispered, “Call me Luna.” She nuzzled the unicorn, “I like to think she forgave me in the end.”

“Mistress Luna, is it okay if I call you Mistress Luna?” Serenity giggled, and a change seemed to come over her. “Luna, is there any reason why she wouldn’t forgive you? All ponies are bad ponies, even you, Luna, but I forgive you.”

“You can call me whatever you like, Serenity,” said Luna. Sorrowfully she looked up at the statue. “Sky Dive died eighty years after I was banished. Records her family kept said she died cursing my name because I wasn’t there for her, and that I abandoned her. I wanted to find her when I came back to tell her I was sorry. I was too late.” Luna sniffed again.

Serenity lightly kissed her, “I know not all ponies tell the truth. I know that some will say things to hurt others. Unless you have her own writings that says she did so, then you do not know. I know this Luna. I know of a pony whom I love that would have forgiven you back then, even if it meant her death. Because of her, I can forgive you for all that you have done regardless of the reason you did it.”

Luna didn’t hold back the tears. She nuzzled Serenity, “Thank you.” Both of them sat in silence for a bit, until Luna asked, “When do you have to be leaving?”

“The show at Winter’s house is at seven, so we planned on leaving at six,” said Serenity. “All we need to get ready is at the hotel.” Serenity looked around to make sure they were alone and leaned in close. “Mistress got in trouble at the school earlier today, so she will be playing the part of a stallion at the sorority party tonight at ten.” Serenity used her devastating soulful eye attack, “Maybe you could come, Mistress Luna?”

While Luna had grown immune to such well-aimed and deadly attacks, thanks to her wife, Octavia, she still smiled and wiped away her tears. “Don’t worry, your favorite DJ will be there.”

Serenity nuzzled back, “They don’t have a live DJ, so that will be a lot of fun. Dusky has several of your CD’s in his room.”

“Does he really?” Luna giggled, “I bet a star with your name on it that Vocal put them there.”

Serenity gave a musical laugh, “I think you’re right as they are all bootleg copies.”

Luna gasped in faux shock, “Maybe I should run him in for having counterfeits! Then again, Dusky wouldn’t have any of my music at all.” Luna whispered like it was a state secret, “He is very much Tavi’s double where music is concerned.”

“I like Lady Octavia’s music, then there is no music I don’t like. The music I like most is the music that makes my Mistress face hoof,” Serenity concluded with a giggle.

“Oh?” enquired Luna, “And what is that?”

“Middle Pet got me a Spice Mares CD. I played it once and sang every song. Mistress told me to never play it again.” Serenity smiled, “I sang every song again, but didn’t play the CD. I was such a bad pony she punished me with the cricket bat.” Serenity shivered in pleasure at the memory.

“My, that was a thoughtful gift from Wildfire,” commented Luna. “It was great you got double the fun out of it. I hope you needed a new cricket bat after.”

Serenity shrugged, “Not yet. They still make them well enough to outlast a unicorn’s ass.”

“You know, if you really want to test that cricket bat, I have a Black Lace, and The Firm CD you can have to take home.” Luna laughed, “Tia said if I play them again, I’d be back on the moon.”

Serenity grinned, “Only if you played them, right Mistress Luna? I know what I’ll be singing at karaoke night.”

“Oh yeah,” said Luna, “I’m fairly sure you’re safe.”

“Maybe Lady Octavia will want to do karaoke again?” asked Serenity.

Luna nodded, “I’m certain she would. I happen to know that Tavi likes Del Shannon, and there is a folk group she likes called Steeleye Span.”

“Oh! I really like Steeleye Span!” exclaimed Serenity. “But do you think Lady Octavia would sing ‘Colour Flashing Hair’?”

“Maybe she would,” replied Luna.

Serenity smiled at the thought of them doing another duet on stage, “I think she would like a group we have back home, called Manehatten Steamroller.”

“She does!” said Luna. “You should hear her sing ‘All Around My Hat’, oh she loves that song. They even have a song named after you.” Serenity blushed, “It’s a good song.” Serenity blushed more.

“Lady Octavia and Mistress had fun too,” stated Serenity. “Would you rather talk to her about it?”

“You’re communicating with Mapper right now, aren’t you?” Serenity nodded, and Luna continued, “I would, but I’d appreciate a ‘heads up’ as the ponies say these days.”

Serenity looked Luna in the eye, “Mistress Mapper played a six month old filly. All the way, if you understand. It reminded Lady Octavia of her youth. That she could still capture that moment now. Time stops for no one, but love will endure.”

“I understand you perfectly, Serenity. I’m going to confide in you, since last Friday, Tavi has spoken of having another foal with me.” Luna took a deep breath. “It was after talking with you and Wildfire after we repaired her wings. Tavi wants to bear the foal, but I might see if I could do it this time.”

“You are good with illusions such as the mirror room and has Lady Octavia reached menopause yet?” inquired Serenity.

Luna tilted her head as such a non-sequitur comment. “I am, and she hasn’t.”

“It is Mistress Mapper’s hope that Lady Octavia will be the young pretty mare you see, and not need that mirror room again.” Serenity scuffed the grass, “May I ask a question that may result in my punishment?”

“I would be over joyed to not use that mirror room again.” Luna lifted Serenity’s head, “You may ask me anything.”

“Does the Princess want to be heavy with foal, or maybe your egg and her body? Sorry, I’m a bad pony, and your life is your own to live. But… While today’s medicine makes bearing a foal safer, there is still a danger. Would Equestria be better served to lose a Princes or a cello player?”

Luna said nothing and looked up at the statue of her former lover. After a few minutes she spoke, “Everything we do bears risk, Serenity. It is whether or not the reward is worth the risk that is the true question. Even if I knew I’d die giving birth to a foal, I’d still do it for Tavi. I’m sure she would say the same.”

Serenity nodded, “Then if it pleases the Mistress, let Lady Octavia bear this foal. If you use your egg and hers it will guarantee a filly. I’m sure the Princess of Libraries would be able to make that solution work.” Serenity placed a hoof on Luna’s chest. “You gave your blessing that Wildfire would bear a filly. I too, wish to bear a filly, if for my Mistress. Maybe the Princess of Libraries could find a solution for us too.”

Luna laughed, “Being heavy with foal would make Night Court drag out even more. I will consult with Twilight on this matter, as the ‘Princess of Libraries’.” Luna shook her head, “That alicorn’s magic has surpassed both mine and Tia’s. I would like to blend Tavi’s and my blood together to form a foal. I’m sure that Twilight can make my blessing come true also.”

Serenity smiled, “I would love for your blessing to come true, as would Middle Pet. Thank you Mistress Luna for listening to this silly pony. Mistress Mapper and Lady Octavia are returning to your suite.”

“I need more silly ponies in my life,” said Luna. “You and Mapper have been a breath of fresh air in this castle and in this city.” Luna yawned, “Let us join them in the suite then.”

Serenity stood up and crouched down as she wagged her tail and butt. Luna attached the leash to her collar. “Hold this for me, pup.” She levitated the stick over for Serenity to take it in her mouth. “Let’s go find your owner.” Luna looked up at the statue, “Fare thee well, Sky Dive. I will love you always, as I will always love Octavia.” The pair trotted out of the garden.

Serenity remained on guard all the way back to the suite. Nopony interfered with their journey. Once inside Luna unclipped the leash. Luna yawned, “Go on pup. Go find your Mistress.” She watched her wife set down the phone, and Mapper in some Lunar Guard nappies. “Serenity wasn’t kidding when she said you’d played a filly, Mapper.” The Princess giggled, “It suits you.”

Mapper giggled, and Serenity blocked her from falling off the couch. Octavia said, “Mistress Mapper was a charming filly.” She remembered the nappy change, “Most of the time anyways.” She gave Luna a lusty kiss, “Did you have fun with your pup?”

Luna nodded and kissed back, “Serenity was an excellent pup. She barked at a few rude ponies for me.”

A knock sounded on the door, and Octavia fetched the four coffees. “Drinks are served.”

Mapper took the stick from Serenity, and Serenity used her magic to remove the nappy. Mapper rolled off the couch and put the stick into Serenity’s saddlebag. She put the nappy in the toy box. “A little something for the road would be nice.”

Luna took her coffee and climbed up on the bed. “I doubt this will keep me up much longer.” The other three joined her on the bed. “Still it has been a good day. You’ve seen all sides of me Mapper.”

“One must if one is to understand a pony, Luna,” said Mapper as she drank her coffee. “Nopony has but one side like a painting.”

“There is a joy in discovering each other,” said Octavia as she cuddled up to Luna.

Mapper gave her empty cup to Serenity, and her wife set both cups on the table. “I wish to thank you both for your hospitality this fine day. Till our paths cross again.”

Luna gave each a kiss, “It was our pleasure, Mapper. I have a feeling I’ll see you soon.”

Octavia followed up with a kiss to each. “Thank you for reminding me what a pretty young mare I am.” She nuzzled Luna, “Till we meet again.”

Mapper and Serenity rolled out of the bed and faced the pair on it. Each bowed deeply and then walked out of the suite leaving the other two to rekindle their love for each other. As they walked the halls, Mapper said, “You’ve been a bad pony, Senior Pet. For that you may sing anything you like tonight, and I will spank you soundly before the moon sets.” Serenity did her happy dance as she followed Mapper out of the castle and onto the streets of Canterlot.