Sincerely, Starlight

Chapters

Correspondence via Spike & Starlight
Letter 3 - Starlight to Luna
Letter 4 - Luna to Starlight
Letter 5 - Starlight to Luna
Correspondence via Maud & Starlight
Correspondence via Filthy Rich & Starlight
Letter 7 - Starlight to Luna
Letter 8 - Luna to Starlight
Letter 9 - Starlight to Luna
Correspondence via Sunset Shimmer & Starlight
Letter 11 - Starlight to Luna
Correspondence via Trixie Lulamoon & Starlight
Letter 14 - Starlight to Sunburst
Letter 15 - Starlight to Luna
Letter 16 - Luna to Starlight
Correspondence via Twilight Sparkle & Starlight
Letter 17 - Sunburst to Starlight
Letter 18 - Starlight to Luna
Epilogue: Correspondence via Princess Luna & Starlight
Letter 1 - Starlight to Luna
Letter 2 - Luna to Starlight
Correspondence via Pinkie & Starlight
Letter 6 - Luna to Starlight
Correspondence via Starlight & Starlight
Letter 10 - Luna to Starlight
Letter 12 - Luna to Starlight
Letter 13 - Sunburst to Starlight

Correspondence via Spike & Starlight

Spike, have you seen my copy of Unity and Unicorns?
--S.G.

Uh, no?
--Spike

Okay? But I was pretty sure I left it on the study table last night... Didn't you tidy the room this morning? I need it for a lesson!
--S.G.

Of course I tidied up! But I'm a dragon, not a camera. I don't have photographic memory, sheesh.
--Spike

Spike, did I do something to upset you?
--S.G.

Sorry. I get a little defensive whenever somepony asks me about something missing in the castle. Golden Oak Library was easy to keep track of. This place is so big, though! Twilight is always moving the books around.
--Spike

Ha! Yeah... Twilight does have a tendency of walking and reading.
--S.G.

And eating and reading.
--Spike

And sleeping and reading.
--S.G.

And bathing and reading.
--Spike

Woah, I think that might've been TMI?
--S.G.

It totally was.
P.S.
STOP PASSING NOTES DURING MY LECTURES.
--T.S.

Letter 3 - Starlight to Luna

Dear Princess Luna,

Thank you.

My waste bin is full of false starts: Long-winded gratitude, nervous anecdotes, and I think I even tried to crack a bad ex-villain joke at one point?

Then I remembered something Twilight once told me. "Successful relationships can be boiled down to three things: Patience, communication, and simplicity." I thought she was joking with the last one. Simplicity? Like her mile-long lists? But... I think what she means is, simplicity is without conceit. It's true that feelings can get complicated and tangled, but how do you solve the worst knots? Go back to the beginning and move carefully forward. All you have to do is follow the thread. Simple.

I am grateful for your last letter, so I say, "Thank you!" and leave it at that.

Though I guess I already failed that, huh? Twilight says simplicity is a lifelong pursuit. That's one big knot if you ask me!

As for forgiving myself... It's strange. I can hardly recognize the pony in the mirror most days. I want so badly to forget the things I've done, but that just leads to repeating mistakes. I visit my foalhood friend Sunburst on the weekends, and he picks my brain about how I traveled through time. I'm happy to share the knowledge, but it digs up bad memories. I have nightmares of the wasteland Twilight showed me.

At the risk of sounding rude, your choices led to one possible bad future. In my case, my choices very nearly led to all of them.

Though I guess to soften the harshness of that fact, Sunburst claims time is a linear track, and even though the futures changed depending on how I tried to change history, only one of them could have been possible. Meaning none of them were since Twilight talked me out of it. But then Dr. Hooves, a resident here at Ponyville, argued vehemently that from a non-linear, non-subjective viewpoint, time is more like a big ball of wibbly-wobbly, timey-wimey stuff. Meaning I guess that all the futures could have been true? And are? I'd bring it up with Twilight, but I can only handle so many lectures in a week.

Still Grateful And Wishing All The Best,
Starlight Glimmer

Letter 4 - Luna to Starlight

Dear Starlight Glimmer,

On the matter of time: let it wash over thee, then trickle away. Let its mark remain in the lines of age it carves, and the salt it leaves... But it can cleanse if thou lets it. I count my salt crystals like my stars. A second at a time. With all due respect to Dr. Hooves, I know nothing of this "wibbly-wobbly" or "timey-wimey" business. I confess ignorance to many things, but I should think time, even in the abstract sense, I should be an expert at! During my banishment, twas all I could do but count its passage in the deep dark craters of the moon.

Still, I think thou should heed thy teacher and follow her excellent instruction. Though, knowing Twilight Sparkle, I think thou art right on calling shenanigans when she claims simplicity!

Prithee, keep that between us. Should my sister discover my scandalous admissions, I shall be host to the longest of lectures on the importance of maintaining a royal aspect. Not that she stands stiffly on tradition, far from it, but she is rather proud of her star pupil, and she knows the power of perception.

Ah... Perception. That timeless foe of mine. Since my return I have struggled still to gain the faith of the ponies of Equestria. Their attitude toward me has softened, but I am seldom received with complete warmth outside of my sister's presence. Perhaps that is why she fusses so particularly about my reputation? And why perhaps Twilight emphasizes simplicity for thee.

The frustration. I heard it like a singing bell in thy latest correspondence. I understand that frustration. Of feeling broken and lesser before these accomplished peers who all seem to have an opinion on how we should conduct ourselves. I suppose the best way of looking at it is that we are cared for, to have such ponies eager to see us on the right path. Still, it is better to choose who to listen to and drown out the rest. Including the nasty voice in thy head.

One last matter I wish to comment on: perhaps thou should inform Sunburst that while he holds an academic interest in thy past exploits, underscore for him that those wounds are still healing. From the brief chats I've had with the fellow, I'm afraid such things are a bit out of his expertise.

Wishing All The Best,
Princess Luna

Letter 5 - Starlight to Luna

Dear Princess Luna,

How dense of me! That I'd bring up time and totally forget that you're immortal! Geez, it must be this new sociology paper Twilight has me doing. She feels my curriculum would be strengthened by some social science, given my technical skills. I haven't had the heart to tell her that I've needed Sunburst's help. Not that sociology is his expertise, but he sure knows his way around a library! I wish this "egghead stuff" (as Rainbow Dash would call it) came as easily as magic did to me.

Speaking of Sunburst... I did talk to him. Thanks to you I found the words. He was very understanding and apologetic. He said he hadn't meant to dig up painful memories for me. He wants to make it up to me. I told him the help with the research paper was enough, but he insisted he does something more meaningful. When I asked what he meant he kind of stammered and said he'd get back to me on that. That stallion is so eccentric! But it makes me feel better, to be honest. It's nice knowing I'm not the only one who sweats the details.

Do you know what the biggest challenge is in my new life? Not micro-managing. It can feel like I'm so messed up sometimes. I nitpick my actions. Fret over how others will respond. The lack of control is frightening. I was always so afraid. I still am. In the past, that fear led to anger and-- well... I fear my fear, I guess? I mean, I controlled an entire village because I didn't want to be hurt again! What's so screwed up is that, for all my attempts at self-analysis, I still do things without even realizing they aren't okay. Somepony always has to point it out to me.

Take this last weekend for example. I cast a spell on all of Twilight's friends to follow my every command after she tasked me with doing friendship assignments with them. Sounds like a big step backward, right? All that work to do some lessons "efficiently" to impress Twilight was just me being afraid of failure. I missed the point of the lessons entirely...

But they forgave me. I apologized and they forgave me! And somehow, Twilight said I'd succeeded.

I barely passed Rainbow's "chillaxing" lesson, though.

Boundaries are definitely something I need to work on, and it's true that I feel self-conscious of how much I still need to learn and change about myself... But I also think my life must be blessed when I have such great friends to accept me, even when I make big mistakes. Friendship is such a wondrous power.

If you'll forgive my boldness, but Princess, do you have anyponies you call close friends? Because I just want you to know, after the kindness and wisdom you've shared with me, you can definitely count on me as one.

Sincerely,
Starlight Glimmer

Correspondence via Maud & Starlight

Hello, Maud! Just leaving a note since you're out, but I was wondering if you wanted to go flying kites with me tomorrow? I built this new cellular kite that can do barrel rolls! Rainbow Dash told me the wind speeds will be perfect for flying, so it'd be great to have my best kite partner join me! I could also use some help getting it into the air, if that's okay.
--Starlight
P.S. Not that I only want you to come for the manual labor! I genuinely just wanna hang out with you!

Ok.
--Maud

Hoo boy! I came back down here just to reiterate how I'm totally not that kind of friend who invites ponies to stuff just to make them work, but it was a good thing my insecurity got the better of me, otherwise, I wouldn't have seen your response! Maybe you can leave your reply somewhere I can see it instead of outside of your cave again?

Anyway, let's meet up tomorrow around noon at the usual field.
--Starlight

Ok.
--Maud

All right, I realize it's past midnight, but who better to deliver last-minute messages than an owl? Owlowiscious doesn't mind. At least I don't think he minds? Owls are supposed to be nocturnal after all.

Sorry. I guess maybe I wasn't clear enough before, but when I said 'leave a message somewhere I can see it' I didn't mean my sleeping face. How did you get in here, anyway? I thought Twilight was still locking the front doors at night after that incident with the skunked Diamond Dogs? If you're awake, please send something back with Owlowiscious.
--Starlight

She is still locking the doors. Not to rub basalt in the wound, but the castle security isn't exactly rock solid.

Sorry if I creeped you out.
--Maud

Oh good, you're awake! And making rock puns! Yay!

So maybe you can share your insights with Twilight? So that we can not have those holes in security anymore? Mostly because Chrysalis is still out there and still has it out for me? And hey, full honesty: what you did was a bit creepy, but I forgive you. I was being a bit pushy for replies and I guess you were just trying to be nice by responding when you could. Which was apparently in the middle of the night.

Now I'm curious, but what in the hay are you doing up at this hour?
--Starlight

Just getting in my mylonite.
--Maud

"Mile a night." Ha. Fine, be enigmatic.
--Starlight

Better than being anti-cline-actic.
--Maud

You're such a kidder.

Okay, seriously, this is my last message, because now I'm preeeeetty sure Owlowicious is getting tired of this. Don't ask me how, maybe Fluttershy is rubbing off on me. Or maybe his clicking beak and ruffling feathers are giving it away.

Are we still on for flying kites?? I kind of got mixed up.
--Starlight

Yes.
--Maud

Correspondence via Filthy Rich & Starlight

Mr. Filthy Rich,

I would like to inform you that your Frazzle Hazzle to Razzle Dazzle Mane Conditioner has left me more than a little dissatisfied. The packaging reads that, "Any mare without the essential oils found in this conditioner will forever be denied the magical dazzlement that guarantees success in life's pursuits." It's true that my mane, which Rarity tells me all the time is "on point", has failed to attain any "Razzle" OR "Dazzle" by her standards--and she should know! Spike and I even used Twilight's Dazzle meter. We are barely pinging three out of ten!

I cannot underscore enough the blow this has had on my psyche. My life feels lackluster. Without any Razzle Dazzle, I don't even try anymore. Why bother? Without a brilliant mane to enchant the ponies around me, I am only half a mare. Failure is my destiny so long as Razzle Dazzle eludes me.

I would strongly advise that you reconsider this product's inclusion in your next stock shipment lest you have an uprising on your hooves. Thirty bits is not cheap! The counseling I've had to receive is even more expensive...

With All Due Respect,
Starlight Glimmer

My dearest Starlight Glimmer,

While I am truly sorry to hear of your dissatisfaction, I must remind you that all sales are final.

I also have it on good authority that this "Dazzle" meter you've used is meant for magical saturation in manure, not hair.

With The Utmost Gratitude For Your Continued Patronage,
Filthy Rich

Filthy Rich,

Twilight has informed me that, while laughter is an important aspect of friendship, she has made it clear to me that every joke has its audience. Clearly, I picked the wrong one.

Still, Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie got a few laughs out of it! That's good... Right?

All Apologies,
Starlight Glimmer

Starlight,
Why you mistake me, dear! I am a stallion who LOVES a good laugh.

So I'm sure you'll appreciate my amusement when I revoke your preferred pony perks card. Indefinitely.

All The Best,
Filthy Rich

[From the diary of Starlight Glimmer]

Regarding the matter with Filthy Rich: I went to apologize to him personally. I felt a little nauseous and sort of annoyed, I mean--revoking my perks card seemed a bit much for such a small prank! (which, in hindsight seemed less like I wanted to apologize so much as argue) only to have him look at me, burst out laughing and say, "Gotcha!"

Pranks are so not my thing...

Letter 7 - Starlight to Luna

Dear Princess Luna,

So I went to dinner with Sunburst. It was nice, I suppose. It was at some fancy restaurant I couldn't pronounce that served lots of little dishes and really bubbly champagne. There were even lit candles! I don't think I've ever eaten somewhere so... Flammable? Sunburst kept sweating and stuttering. He even pulled out my chair when I went to sit! And do you know what else? I think he combed his mane! And put styling product on it! It took all my will not to stare.

It wasn't until we'd finished our meal and stumbled through a conversation about transfiguration theory that he asked if I'd be willing to have dinner with him again.

I was REALLY confused. I mean, he'd already apologized and bought me dinner. Was it necessary to do it all again? I told him he didn't need to keep taking me out because I'd already forgiven him. He sort of... slumped... then mumbled that he liked taking me out. He suggested maybe something else instead, like a trip to the beach, or maybe a personal tour of the crystal castle.

Luna, when it finally clicked what was happening, I ran away. Like, full gallop.

A date!? Sunburst took me on a DATE?

I really, really have no idea what to think about this! He's supposed to be my foalhood friend! How long has he felt like this? What am I supposed to do?

Still Freaking Out,
Starlight Glimmer

Letter 8 - Luna to Starlight

Dearest Starlight,

As I'm certain thou hast done a wonderful job of stirring thyself into a fine white froth of fear, bewilderment, and self-loathing, I must beg thee to breathe. I mean this with all seriousness. Not to put too fine a point on it, but I am the steward of all dreams, good and bad. I try to give those ponies I'm closest to the privacy they deserve by providing relief from afar, as it is perfectly within my power to smooth troubled slumbers with but a wave of my hoof, but on more than one occasion I felt compelled to intervene more directly on thy behalf due to the severity of thy nightmares.

Breathe! Deep.

Firstly, thou must forgive thyself for fleeing as thou did. Thou were caught completely unawares by the advances of thou dear friend. This friendship was of such importance in thy life that, without it, thou felt lost to misguided quests for power. In regaining this friendship, thou hast grown much. To have this newfound stability changed can feel threatening. I do not fault thee for this reaction one bit. But it is not a reaction that can be left on its own.

Secondly, I would be remiss if I didn't also ask for thee to consider Sunburst's feelings. Truthfully, he could have been more straightforward about his intentions, but no doubt he feared just such a reaction as the one thou had should he suddenly out with it. My guess is that the poor fellow hoped to ease thee into seriously considering his courtship with a series of non-threatening rendez-vous galants. Even if ye cannot consider such a relationship with him, at the least, as his friend, thou can grant him the dignity of an honest response to his advances. Tis all that thou owes him. How he receives thy final response is not for thee to take responsibility for as long as thou art clear and compassionate in thy words. Staving off a real response for fear of hurting him does neither of thee any favors.

Which leads to my third point. Starlight, thou must understand that love is a force all its own, and no pony can control where it appears any more than they can will the direction of the winds. Sunburst hardly intended for his feelings, and he may have harbored them for some time upon reuniting with thee before finally drumming up the courage to act on them. Instead of cursing thy circumstances, why not see them from another perspective? Is it not wondrous that thy foalhood friend, having been apart from thee for years--tumultuous years I might add--not only found thee worthy of friendship again but desirable enough for more?

Before thou hastens to turn Sunburst down, ask thyself why. Dost thou truly find him as an unsuitable beau? Or does the problem truly lie within thyself? If the problems are truly within thyself, are these of such magnitude that thou cannot overcome them for a chance at something greater? Is it a matter of feeling safe? Or is it that such prospects fail to ignite thee to any sort of enthusiasm?

Whilst considering these things, please do remember to breathe.

All The Best,
Princess Luna

P.S.
Try lavender scents and quiet meditation before bed. It should help with thy nightmares.

Letter 9 - Starlight to Luna

Dear Princess Luna,

I've spent the last few days considering your last letter--all whilst taking care to breathe, breathe, breathe--and I've decided... that I don't know precisely what I feel. Which is bizarre! Weird! Strange! I may be a lot of things, but Luna, I'm usually not undecided. What I am is impulsive. An idea pops into my head and I roll with it, sometimes without fully thinking through the potential consequences! How can this be? How can I not have a clear heading on this? It seems an easy answer, right? Sunburst is my friend. How can I see him as anything else? Only the matter didn't feel settled. I couldn't bring myself to come outright and refuse him. Was I afraid of hurting him? Yes. But that wasn't it. My mind was working overtime, but my gut was refusing to play along! In fact, my insides just twisted around like I'd just had three beet smoothies in a row. The more I tried to deny, the worse my stomach pains felt.

Maybe you saw it during your nightly duties, but I had a dream that I was playing poker with three versions of myself in an arid desert. The high noon sun beat down on us and I was thirsty, but there wasn't a thing to drink. I had a great hoof of cards, but I was trying to keep from giving myself away. I wanted my other selves to ante up so that I could earn more when it came time to put our cards down.

My other selves were like pure embodiments of my negative emotions: fear, anger, and sadness. Angery Me kept accusing me of cheating. Sad Me kept sighing that she was going to lose, but she made small bets anyway. Fearful Me dragged the game out whenever her turn came, second-guessing on whether to bet or fold. I felt sure I had them all beat until it was time to show our hooves. I went first, and when I did I got a shock. Luna, my cards became blank! The others just stared at me, and I stared back at them. No one else moved or did anything. Heck, I even think a tumbleweed went by. That's about when I woke up.

I kept wondering what the dream could possibly mean. I almost wrote to you the night it happened, hoping you'd help me decipher it. I decided against it because I realized that I had to confront this myself. After a bottle or two of cider, I remembered what you said about the "why." For what reason was I actually going to reject Sunburst? Was it for his personality? No! We get along quite well! Is it because of his looks? No! He isn't hard on the eyes at all! Over and over, the reasons came and fell away.

So then I just kind of came to this gradual conclusion that I have no reason to turn him down. Not yet. Not until I can give him a real chance, y'know? But while I'm willing to go on another date with him (a real one this time) I can't say I return his feelings just yet. Today, I'm going to tell him as much. My coat reeks of sweat, I'm so nervous! I think I've bathed five times today and it's barely past noon!

Wish me luck!

Sincerely,
Starlight Glimmer

P.S.
The lavender did help, thanks.

Correspondence via Sunset Shimmer & Starlight

[From the pages of Twilight Sparkle's magical journal.]

Hi, Sunset! This is Starlight Glimmer. Twilight said it would be all right if I borrowed her book to contact you. I had a question that I was hoping you could answer, whenever you're free. How are you, by the way? How's Juniper Montage been?

Hi, Starlight! It's so nice to hear from you! I'm doing well. We haven't had a magical incident in a while, so it's been a nice breather. For once I get to focus on school! Human history might be my favorite subject. Just the other day I learned that horses were tamed over five thousand years ago, and humans lived in close harmony with them in nomadic tribes!

That's pretty interesting!

Yeah! As for Juniper, she's doing well. Last week she went on a picnic with us, and I introduced her to another friend of mine, Wallflower Blush. They are almost opposites in personality. You know how Juniper is on the aggressive side? Wallflower is much quieter. When they get together though, they really balance each other out! It's nice.

I'm really glad to hear that.

Anyway, what can I help you with?

Actually, this is a little embarrassing. Twilight said it would be fine for me to rip the pages out after, but it's kinda taking everything I have just to write my question.

[Three minutes go by.]

Starlight? You still there?

Yes! I totally am. Sorry. I just sort of froze there for a bit.

[Starlight's normally neat writing becomes sloppy and small, as if written in a hurry.]

I was hoping you could give me advice on dating? You've been on dates before so I figured you'd know better than anypony I talk to.

Oh! Wow! Sure!

[A minute goes by.]

Do you want general advice, or

[Starlight's words begin to appear beneath Sunset's mid-sentence.]

General advice is good. Great, even.

All right, well... Just relax and be yourse

[Starlight's writing appears early again.]

Yep, see except maybe that's too general? Like, is there general advice that isn't the same thing everypony else says?

That would kind of make it not general, wouldn't it?

Maybe? I guess I was just hoping you could tell me something that would, I dunno, make me good at dating?

You want to be good... at dating?

Yep.

Starlight, if I might be frank, I think your attitude about this might be a bit off.

Huh? Sorry, I'm not following.

What I mean is, dating isn't some challenge for you to defeat or even a skill for you to master. It's kind of like having fun. You just sort of... do it. In fact, a lot of the lessons Twilight's already given you about friendship are applicable in this situation!

Really?

Yeah! See, when you go on a date, you're trying to connect and get along with someone, right? If this is the first date, then that's pretty much all you have to worry about. Don't stress about how far along you go. Take your time. If you like this ~~person~~ pony, then I'm sure everything else will just fall into place naturally.

What if I've already been friends with this pony, though? What if the first date starts feeling too much like every other time we've ever hung out? There must be more to it!

It's true that dating someone is about going beyond being friends. But if you're just starting, there's no need to pressure yourself about how things are going to change. I'm guessing the other pony asked you out, right?

Yeah.

Then let them lead the date. If they asked first, the burden of keeping your interest is kind of on them. Just be clear about what you're comfortable with.

But what do you even try on a first date? What do you try on a second date for that matter?

A second date, huh? You're sounding optimistic!

Sunset, I'm serious!

Okay, okay. Look, it's about gradually increasing intimacy. Maybe the stallion (it's a stallion, right?) might sit close to you on a park bench. Maybe they'll ask you to slow dance with them. Maybe they'll try to touch hooves. I understand if this might be a little intimidating, but that's stuff you can handle. And if you don't like it? Just say so!

But what if I do like it, Sun? I've been friends with this stallion a long time. What if

[The writing stops. Sunset begins to write, her words appearing slowly.]

Starlight, I'm not going to lie to you and tell you that dating your friend won't forever change your relationship. But you've made the decision to try, right? Otherwise, you wouldn't be asking me about this. If you're afraid of things not working out, don't. He must want this if he asked you. If you stop dating, maybe you'll still be friends? But if you go into it thinking it's going to fail, you're going to sabotage yourself by second-guessing everything and not acting naturally.

So you're basically telling me to 'relax and be yourself'.

Basically.

Thanks, Sunset.

Anytime, Starlight.

Letter 11 - Starlight to Luna

Dear Princess Luna,

I went on a date with Sunburst. I went on a date with Sunburst and I enjoyed myself. We went out last weekend to a play about Starswirl the Bearded. After that we went out for dinner and talked about it. Then we talked about magic. Then we talked about-- No wait. First let me say something.

It's true that I was nervous. Heck I was borderline freaking out. I checked out books on dating. I wondered if there was some spell out there that could ensure that no matter what happens, neither of us would get our feelings hurt. (Spoiler: there is no such spell.) I even wrote to Sunset Shimmer and asked for her advice.

That last step was a big help. I went to the date intent on having a good time with my friend. It was wonderful! But y'know, I fretted so much about how dating was supposed to be "different" from just a friendly outing. There's this underlying intention beneath it all, right? I kept thinking, "Do I have to tap into some new and strange energy to keep this from blowing up in our faces? What if I don't feel anything?"

Luna, while we were eating dinner, just talking about the stuff we usually talk about, I realized that I felt comfortable. Happy. And when I looked across the table at Sunburst and that scruffy little beard of his, I wondered if it would tickle me if we kissed. Just like that, I was seeing him in a new light. It was still a little scary, but also kind of exciting?

So when Sunburst asked if I'd go with him on another date, I didn't think about it at all. I did what I usually do, and went with my gut.

I told him yes.

On top of that, I said I wanted to pick where we went next. Is that me being a control freak again? I've never been very good at being traditional. I guess I just figured, instead of being "led", I'd like to have a hoof in how we progress. Passivity just isn't my thing. Sunburst didn't seem to mind, at any rate.

Still Dazed,
Starlight Glimmer

Correspondence via Trixie Lulamoon & Starlight

Dear Starlight,

Prepare yourself for fun, for Trixie is coming into town early next month! We should have a spa day and catch up. I have plenty of tales to tell. You wouldn't believe the crowds in Baltimare! They wouldn't stop throwing produce at me! I didn't have to buy food for a week.

The life of a performer has its trials, but few things in life are as exquisite as an adoring audience.

--Trixie
P.S. Post to Fillydelphia! I'm trying a new show circuit this month.

Dear Trixie,

I am so ready for a spa day! A lot's happened since you last visited. The last week especially has been a bit trying. It's worked out, but I could definitely use with some freshening up! Maybe even sprucing up?

I hope you'll forgive me for taking so long in telling you. Nopony else knows but Princess Luna, and that's because she's been a frequent pen pal as of late, but I guess I've started dating Sunburst? We haven't gone on our second date yet, but it's scheduled for next week. It's my turn to decide what we do. Maybe you could help me brainstorm when you get here?

--Starlight

Starlight!

Starlight, Starlight, STARLIGHT!

The Amazing and Merciful Trixie forgives your lapse in disclosure, and all she asks is that she be fully brought up to speed whilst receiving the full package at the spa! Mare, I say this because I love you, but you need more than "freshening up" if you've got a new stallion calling. Fear not! In my magnanimity, I am more than happy to share the funds I saved in Baltimare to invest in your beautification. Love is like a good show, you've got to put your best hoof forward!

--Trixie
P.S. Post to Manehattan next.

Trixie,

This stallion came calling when the storefront was shuttered and there was an "Out of Business" sign hanging in the window! How much work could I possibly need? I mean, sure, maybe I haven't watered my proverbial garden in a while, but the way he puts it I'm the cat's meow! I'm practically winning cat shows!

Okay so I'm getting my metaphors mixed up, but you know what I mean.

--Starlight

My Silly Starlight,

Now don't go getting your tail in a twist. You know I know you're anything but basic, but the fact is, new romance warrants a little effort. You are NEARLY as amazing as I am, and that counts for a lot. But I know you know how routine you can get. All I'm suggesting (fine, insisting) is that you lay down some fresh fertilizer and throw on a new coat of paint on your cat.

Somehow that sounded better in my head.

--Trixie
P.S. Last stop, your old village!

Dear Trixie,

All right! All right. I get it. We can schedule a full spa package and indulge a bit. Thanks.

Say hi to everypony for me!

--Starlight

Starlight,

Excellent! I'll be in town in about two days or so if there's anything else. Just promise me that if we end up getting smoothies, you won't get me beet flavor again.
--Trixie

TRIXIE THAT WAS ONE TIME.
--Starlight

Letter 14 - Starlight to Sunburst

Dear Sunburst,

I should first point out that this quality you so admire in me also led me to transforming you into a foal against your will just to play a board game. Not that I'm eager to bring up lackluster moments of the past, but I guess I'm just trying to check your perspective? It's my blind spot, and somepony much wiser than me explained that I'm probably going to have to wrestle with that lesson again and again. I overdo. I cross boundaries. Never with the intention of hurting anypony, but it just happens. I think I've gotten better at avoiding that, so it doesn't happen as often as it used to, but I'd hate to hurt you.

We've had to relearn how to relate to each other again, and in some ways, we're still learning about the interests of the other. You've been very encouraging about my interests in kites, and I've come to appreciate your love of antiques a little better than before. We both like board games, we both have trying parents, and we love magic. Your stance on quantum energy teleportation is a little maddening, but it's nice having somepony other than Twilight comprehend the effects teleportation spells could have on mass transit. Even Luna's eyes cross when I try to talk about the particular dilemma of proper teleportation protocol for more than two ponies. It's pretty funny!

Sunburst, you know that it's been an adjustment for me, us seeing each other like this. I just want you to know that I am enjoying myself. I like being with you, and I hope that you'll enjoy where we're going next. Are you still okay with me planning things? I want to make you happy like you've made me happy. It takes two to make things work, doesn't it? We survived Sires Hollow together, after all.

Sincerely,
Starlight Glimmer

Letter 15 - Starlight to Luna

Dear Princess Luna,

We've gone on our second date. Actually, it became more of a trip than just a quick outing because we had to stay a night. Following the advice of my friend Trixie, I took Sunburst to a special observatory in Hollow Shades. I'm sure you're familiar with it, as most of your Night Guard come from there. Not many creatures have gone there over the years but with the recently expanded efforts in spreading friendship, the town has become more accessible to outsiders. It was really exciting, taking a train and getting off at the newly built station. When our guide led us through the forest to the town, it was like stepping into this hidden world. They use soft red lights to see because red is the lowest light on the spectrum. From the tops of the trees, they grow all kinds of exotic fruits. Sunburst and I enjoyed their mangoes. They were super delicious!

As interesting as Hollow Shades itself was, my real interest was still the observatory. You see, because the bat ponies prefer darkness, they don't have a lot of light pollution. This gives them a great view of the night sky. I think Sunburst and I spent hours just stargazing and chatting about astronomy. A platform had been built above the forest canopy-- it was new, built for the recent influx of visitors I think-- and we went up there to sit and enjoy the open sky.

Sunburst then scooted a little closer on the bench and he asked me how I was feeling. We'd been sitting quietly for a little while, so the question sort of caught me off guard. "Content," I answered. I think he pouted a little when I said that, and I couldn't help but giggle at his reaction. I scooted closer to him, close enough that I could feel the heat of his side through his cloak, and I said, "I'm content because I'm here with you."

Then he looked at me, pushed up his glasses, and stammered, "Really?"

I just nodded at him. Luna, I don't know what I'm supposed to feel, but I know I feel happy with him. Maybe he's got some expectations I don't understand, but after I explained myself a little better, he seemed to relax a bit. He touched my hoof, and I didn't shy away. I did jump a little, and boy did I blush, but... I smiled. After a while, I put my head on his shoulder. It just felt right.

I think we saw a shooting star. I'm still wondering what Sunburst wished for.

Luna, we're going on a third date. A third! He's picking where we go this time. I'm trying to stay calm. Somehow, I don't think I was this nervous on the first date. Maybe because... maybe because I feel like I'm coming to a point where I have to make a choice?

I'd love it if we can meet for tea again. I'm in suspense over the fate of the griffon cub.

Sincerely,
Starlight Glimmer

Letter 16 - Luna to Starlight

Dear Starlight Glimmer,

Thy nerves are not without reason. Time has passed, and a point is being reached on whether or not thou should commit to being in a true relationship. Tisn't a bond set in stone, by no means, but it is a commitment nonetheless that requires deliberate intent and an allocation of energy. In being so committed to Sunburst, thou art making a promise of sorts to prioritize him and his needs. This is a mutual commitment, Starlight. In the same way thou would treasure him, he would treasure thee.

Thou must search thy heart and challenge the depth of thy feelings. Thou hast given the stallion a chance. Has his courtship pleased thee? Thou hast admitted as much. But dost thou simply adore the attention? For this alone is not sufficient to be his new partner in romance.

The feelings must be moving and growing in the same direction, even if they are not quite of the same magnitude. This is often the case in romance, Starlight. Do not be dismayed if Sunburst's feelings seem deeper than thine. It is possible that thou could come to care for him in equal measure. For now, evaluate only if thy affection is growing, and could grow further still.

I must state that there is another side to this. That perhaps, thy feelings do not blossom but remain a closed bud. Such was the case for this princess generations ago before Discord ravaged our land with his mad magic. A mare of my Night Court made plain her affection for me. This was during a time when such romances were quite frowned upon, for I was royalty and she but a servant. Starved for attention and already barreling toward my lonely fate on the moon, I fanned her fancy until it raged like wildfire-- not because I truly returned her feelings, but simply because I basked in the love-sick worship she lavished upon me. I neglected her, dear Starlight, and she suffered greatly. My sister, never one to let ponies suffer in her orbit, took the servant mare aside. Their palaver was long, and Celestia's patience was unyielding. She broke through to that poor mare, and with her help, she found a new station as a lady-in-waiting for a noblemare in Prance. Oh, the tantrum I threw! My toy had been taken away from me.

Starlight, I know very well that thou art nowhere near as cruel and as callous as I was then... But I must warn thee that should ye judge thy feelings poorly, or perhaps hope vainly for them to grow when there lacks even seed to germinate, Sunburst may suffer in a similar fashion as my mistreated servant. In such an instance, though it may pain you some and him more, t'would be a kindness to end the courtship before it can advance further.

If these thoughts dampen thy spirits, then set them aside for now, Starlight. Enjoy thy time with Sunburst. I trust that thou willst do right when the time comes.

Sincerely,
Princess Luna

Correspondence via Twilight Sparkle & Starlight

Twilight,

I'm going to be out of town for a few days. I just need a change of scenery to help clear my mind. I've decided to visit my old village. I'm hoping it'll help me with a decision I have to make.

--Starlight Glimmer
P.S. Sorry, I sort of gag every time I have to write "my old village." I've tried to encourage them to pick a proper name for themselves because the cartographers are gonna wanna know soon, but all they've come up with so far is "Our Town." It's a little maddening!

Starlight,

Is it pushy of me to send mail in response to a goodbye note? I'm not trying to hover, but I do hope everything is okay! Remember that you can talk to me anytime.

--Twilight Sparkle
P.S. Yes the lack of a proper village name does pose some logistical problems. When I told the courier "Our Town's Post Office" he just stared at me and said we were standing outside of it. Yikes!

Twilight,

I'm okay! You really didn't need to pay for a messenger service. Really. I mean geez, was Spike not around to send this by dragon fire? Did you pay extra for overnight? I seriously just got here, and this poor colt is drenched in sweat from having run the whole way. I gave him a big tip, and Sugar Belle set him up with something to eat.

Sorry. I really didn't mean to worry you. What's got me so preoccupied isn't anything awful. It's... Well, I've been on a few dates with Sunburst and I just want to do a little soul searching to see how I really feel about it all, y'know? I had the idea that maybe coming back here again might help me to see how far I've come, and maybe put everything I've learned into perspective.

So please, stop worrying. I'll be okay.

--Starlight Glimmer

Starlight,

Oh my gosh! You've been dating Sunburst? That's great news! I mean, is it great news? I guess that's why you need time to think.

Ugh, I'm sorry I couldn't have been more help to you. I suppose Princess Cadance would have been a more suitable pony to talk to than me. If there's something I could do, please let me know.

--Twilight Sparkle
P.S. Spike says hi!

Twilight,

The thought of contacting Cadance had crossed my mind, and the few times I've met her she has been very kind, but the truth is I just didn't feel comfortable sharing this with her. Actually, my letters with Princess Luna have been a massive help through all this-- and you were the one who urged me to start writing to somepony regularly, so thank you for that. You're plenty helpful.

--Starlight Glimmer
P.S. Hi Spike! Does sending letters by dragon fire give you heartburn? When Twilight's message appeared there was some spicy smoke!

Starlight,

Last message, I promise!

I suppose I just want you to know that you are a great mare. You know your heart better than anypony, and I'm sure that in the company of your friends, you'll find the answers you need. We've missed you these last few days. Please take care of yourself, and try not to stress too much, okay?

Can I share an observation with you? It may help with your decision, or it may not, but... In all the time I've known you, you've really demonstrated that you must care about something to even try. Tolerating these dates if your heart wasn't interested just doesn't sound like you.

Food for thought! Take care and safe travels when you come home.

--Twilight Sparkle
P.S. Spike says he doesn't get heartburn from dragon fire, but if he's had a spicy burrito before sending a message it can leave an 'aroma' to the spell.

[From the diary of Starlight Glimmer]

Can it really be like Twilight Sparkle says? I know I wrote to Luna saying that if I'm guilty of anything it's impulsivity, but it almost seems too simple. "I keep going on dates with Sunburst, therefore I must really like him"? Is it just my own perception of myself that I'm having trouble with? But being in a relationship was never something I'd ever even considered! It's not that I'm opposed to love, I guess I just don't see where it fits into my picture!

So what am I really wrestling with here, diary? Is it whether or not I care about Sunburst that way, or is it whether or not I'm capable of caring for anypony that way? Am I just not mature enough? Because I have no good arguments as to why I should refuse Sunburst! But then I read over Luna's last letter again and I have to stop and reconsider. I know it wasn't her intention to get me thinking like this. I just don't want to be impulsive again. I don't want to cross boundaries again.

I just can't keep putting this off either.

Letter 17 - Sunburst to Starlight

Starlight,

When my last letter confirming our next date was sent back with a note from Twilight Sparkle that you were out of town, I got a little worried. Is everything okay? She said it wasn't a friendship mission, but the tone of her note seemed to suggest that she wasn't sure when you'd return. After my crystaller duties were done for the day, I took the last train down to Ponyville and went to the castle. Spike met me at the doors and said you were back at your old village trying to make up your mind about something important. I'm leaving him this letter for when you return.

Whatever it is you're thinking about... [A fat ink spot trails to the edge of the paper.]

Starlight Glimmer, I know I have my shortcomings. I've been cowardly and insensitive. I get my head stuck in a book, and the next thing I know, I'm up to my neck in problems. But we've worked well together in the past, haven't we? You've drawn out the best in me, even when you felt like you were still failing. I want to support you. To make you happy.

I think I have a pretty good guess as to what you're trying to decide. If it's what I think it is [The ink smears.]

Please meet me at my home at sundown this Saturday. I have something I want to give you.

--Sunburst

Letter 18 - Starlight to Luna

Dear Princess Luna,

Now it's my turn to apologize for this late reply. I'd love to meet for tea soon, but for the time being, I think I may be a little busy. Since it might be some time yet before we meet face to face, I may as well tell you what's been going on with me. I'd hate to leave you in suspense.

Your last letter gave me a lot to think about. I spent more than a week at my old village, AKA Our Town, AKA "that place that could really use with a proper name." I was wrestling with myself-- frustrated with this indecision I'm not used to, constantly feeling like I was on the verge of doing something, but arrested by this awareness that pain is almost inevitable no matter what path I choose. Relationships of any nature are always about taking a chance. Not just for the possibility that you might hurt them, but that they might hurt you.

I struggle with change. Change makes me feel out of control. There was a reason my dad tried to preserve Sires Hollow for me. I fought to control every aspect of ponies lives at Our Town, hoping to stave off change, to make everything "equal" so that nopony gets left behind. Now I was on this new path, and Sunburst was up ahead with his hoof out to me, and I felt frozen. "What if I can't keep up?" I wondered. "What if I stop feeling things entirely?"

But while I was at Our Town, spending time with my friends there, I realized something. Time is on our side. Party Favor, Feather Bangs, Night Glider, Sugar Belle... I hurt these ponies. A lot. But with time, they found it in themselves to forgive me. Weren't you the one who told me to let time wash over me? That time could be cleansing? I couldn't help but remember Dr. Hooves and his belief that time is non-linear. All those bad futures I saw...

Then Twilight Sparkle sent me a letter that moved me to finally return to the castle.

"Tolerating these dates if your heart wasn't interested just doesn't sound like you."

Those were her words verbatim. I balked at this. Princess, I don't know if you've noticed, but I can be a bit stubborn. It's why I dithered in Our Town after your last letter. Sound advice can take time to sink in when I'm really determined to keep my eyes shut.

They got pried open when I got home and found a letter from Sunburst asking me to visit him at the Crystal Empire... that evening. The trains had already stopped running. Luna, I didn't even pause to think about it. Only seconds after I finished reading Sunburt's letter, I closed my eyes and teleported straight to his home. (Long distance teleportation has always been one of my strengths.) The sun had just sunk under the horizon, making me a few minutes late to when he'd asked me to be there.

He answered the door, and my heart hurt to see him. His hair was somehow messier than it usually was, and his eyes looked sunken in like he hadn't been sleeping. He smiled, but it wasn't his big open-hearted smile. It was nervous. He led me inside and we sat at his table. He poured us both some tea, but neither of us touched our cups. It reminded me of when we had first been reunited, and that felt like a big step backward. I didn't like being in that uncertainty. We both had things to say, and we were holding them back.

After we fumbled through some polite conversation, Sunburst cleared his throat and got up. "I got you something," he said. His voice cracked a little. He went into his bedroom and came back with a little box. When I opened it, I found a necklace inside, and on the silver chain, there was a small pendant watch with a full hunter-case. When I opened the cover, I saw that a quote had been engraved inside it. It said, "Any future with you, is an adventure worth having."

I put the watch back into the box with hooves that shook. My whole body felt hot. I could hear Sunburst stammering next to me that if I didn't like the watch, I didn't have to take it. That he'd understand if-- Only I didn't let him finish.

Luna, I kissed him, full on the mouth. Sorry if my writing is getting shaky, but I just had to mention that, even though it makes me flustered. Not because I want to the be the kind of mare who kisses and tells, but because I want you to know that I chose to do it. That I'm aware I chose to do it. Not out of impulse. Not because I was afraid of what would happen if I didn't.

I did it because I genuinely wanted to. I did it because I realized, like a ton of bricks falling on my thick head, that time moves no matter what, even from a non-linear perspective, and it's who we choose to spend that time with that can make the difference.

It's true. Sunburst can hurt me and I can hurt him. But offsetting that is a mutual desire to make the other happy. Maybe his feelings are deeper than mine. That doesn't make my feelings for him any less true or real. They could grow. They already have. Because I've found somepony who has never measured me by my past or (possible) futures! Somepony who understands my interests and accepts my faults.

With Sunburst time kind of just washes away. So, Princess Luna, I'll have to take a raincheck on the tea. I'm afraid I'm taking a trip with my new coltfriend and won't be back for a little while.

I'll send postcards from the Fillypines!

Ever Grateful,
Starlight Glimmer

Epilogue: Correspondence via Princess Luna & Starlight

Dear Princess Luna,

We've been having a blast at the Fillypines. The beaches here are gorgeous, and they've got such a vibrant nightlife! Sunburst has four left hooves, but he manages a slow dance. Our stay here isn't long-- we kind of came out here spur-of-the-moment. I suppose we just wanted to enjoy our new relationship without much interruption. I'm still looking forward to tea!

--Starlight Glimmer

Starlight,

Huzzah! It does my heart glad to hear from thee!

Thine extended retreat to Our Town had me worried, but upon receiving thy last letter, I was quite relieved. Starlight, rest and relish thy time with thy new beau. My teacups are waiting patiently.

--Princess Luna
P.S. Ha ha! I adored the postcard! The mouse deer in a top hat and monocle made Celestia squirt milk from her nose. I could live eternity twice and that wouldst never get tiresome.

Princess Luna,

Celestia doing something so unseemly is a hard image to conjure, so I'm just going to have to take your word for it!

Our tea time may be sooner than I thought. Romance is not acceptable currency abroad, just so you know! We have just enough to stay another night, then we're returning to the Crystal Empire tomorrow. Another thing we failed to bring was sunscreen. I'm fine, but Sunburst has sunburn. Like, full body.

The poor thing keeps wincing, and whenever something touches him he let's out this cute yelp. If I'm being totally honest, I'm enjoying his misfortune a little more than is appropriate, but I'm making up for it by doting on him.

Now that I think on it, maybe me doting on somepony is as hard to imagine as Celestia squirting milk from her nose?
--Starlight Glimmer

Starlight,

Hopefully this message reaches thee without trouble, as I'm sure thou will have arrived back in the Crystal Empire by the time I send this.

Starlight, it is no trouble for this princess to envision thee caring for another pony. Thou only needed a proper partner to bring such loving care from thy heart.

Romance may not be a currency that can be exchanged for goods and services, but never doubt that thou art richer for its presence in thy life.

I look forward to seeing thee, my friend.
--Princess Luna

Author's Note

I absolutely considered drawing out the romantic drama with Starlight and Sunburst, but then I decided I just wanted a happy ending. Aaaaand I didn't want another incomplete story in my list. I hope you guys enjoyed it!

Thank you for reading!

EDIT - 12/6/24: I've written a sequel! Please read Tangled Words, Simple Hearts next!

Letter 1 - Starlight to Luna

Dear Princess Luna,

I hope you don't mind me writing? Twilight thought I could use with some correspondence, like the kind she had with Princess Celestia. Her reasoning was that letter writing visited potent revelations on the part of the writer, but since we live in the same castle, she thought it best that I write to somepony else of experience. She dislikes function absent of purpose, you see.

I thought to write to your sister, but then... well, then I thought of you. In all the years since your return, do you receive much mail? If correspondence is such a pleasure, I decided it would be best to share it with somepony who receives messages as seldom as I do. Not that, being royal, you don't have important missives to read over. But personal letters.

Is this too presumptuous? I try really, really hard to improve my empathy, but I always seem to cross some line with other ponies. Once, I cast a spell on Applejack's brother because I wanted him to talk more. (That day, Twilight added, "Boundaries" to the lesson plan.)

Trixie Lulamoon is a dear friend. She understands what it's like to have a past that follows you around. But Twilight insisted I write to somepony with more experience in life. I think she worries that, with her royal duties, she might neglect me as a student. (She doesn't, by the way. Twilight's a great teacher and a friend. The problem is me.)

So please, Princess. I hope you will let this humble subject write to you? If you're too busy, I'd understand. Tending to the night is a pretty big responsibility! I just... I hope you don't find it insulting that I feel you, like Trixie, might understand what it's like to have done things you're really not proud of. Things that had serious consequences. I think you're an inspiration, to have overcome your mistakes and the passage of time to lead others.

Me? If I could have just a sliver of your resilience, I'd be happy just to make friends and avoid stepping on any(more) hooves.

With the Greatest Admiration,
Starlight Glimmer

Letter 2 - Luna to Starlight

Dear Starlight Glimmer,

I am humbled thou wouldst think of me as a candidate for thy latest lesson in friendship. Please pardon the tardiness of this response-- a spot of trouble arose in my Night Court that involved the rising tides, some crabs, and an errant pair of lovers. My sister may deal with many a serious matter, but seldom, methinks, of a nature I have contended with!

Dost my style put thee off? I have strived to emulate the modern tongue, but I find it a falsehood in writing to perpetuate the effort. I would write to thee as one unadorned by pretense. Occasionally, even in pony, I cannot help but fall to the old ways of speaking. Oh Starlight... the looks this princess receives when a rebellious "thou" or "thine" escapes these lips! Luna affrights grown stallions with just a dusty breath. Pah! As if I were so weak-willed as to let my lesser nature take hold again with just the stirring of an archaic tongue...

Thou must know that the specter of the past is a lingering thing. I do not share this with a mind to discourage thee-- nay, just the opposite! What I hope to impart to thee is the understanding that redemption is variable and fluid. It is anchored as much in deed as it is state of mind. More specifically, thy state of mind.

Has dearest Twilight Sparkle shared the trouble I stirred last year with the Tantabus? If not, allow me to summarize: in my torment over my past, I had created an entity which forced upon me nightmares of my dark self. This vile thing escaped, plaguing first Twilight and her friends, then all of Ponyville. It nearly went on to spread to all of Equestria... Until thy teacher in friendship and the good villagers showed me that it was my guilt that was powering the Tantabus. It was only after I had forgiven myself that I was able to control the entity, free the villagers, and find solace in my sleep. So thou sees... Ponies remember, but they must forgive. In my case, I had skipped a crucial step in my own redemption, and it very nearly had serious consequences.

Starlight Glimmer, even in thy letter to me, I could sense a lingering regret. Cast off this burden! Thou have already done much in the way of serving thy fellow ponies. Thou art a good mare, and all the more admirable for the challenges thou hast overcome.

Do remember thy mistakes. Learn from them. But remember to forgive thyself.

Wishing All The Best,
Princess Luna

Correspondence via Pinkie & Starlight

To The Glimmerest Glimmer That Ever Winked A Starlight,

Pinkamena Diane Pie humbly requests your presence at the big send off for Captain Gummy's latest nummable cruise ship, the Good Ship Lollipop tomorrow at the lake at 1200 hours sharp. Please RSVP by the time you finish reading this invitation! The suspense is KILLING US.

-P.D.P.

To The Pinkest And Sweetest Of All The Pies,

At your insistence, I am writing my acceptance of your invitation (even though you're standing right in front of me) and shall arrive with bells and whistles!

-S.G.

To The Ever Kind And Uber Swell Starry Light of Glim-Glim,

Pinkamena Diane Pie asks with a heavy heart for your support in mourning the loss of the Good Ship Lollipop. May it rest peacefully at the bottom of the lake... (And may the fishes find it deeeelicious!) The "Super Sorry Your Sweet Sails Sank Captain Gummy" Party will be held at Sugarcube Corner at 1900 hours!

-P.D.P.

To The Super Duper Party Pony Pinkie Pie,

My deepest sympathies for the loss of Captain Gummy's ship. Count me in for the party. Though might I suggest next time that you use coated nougat instead of solid chocolate for life boats? They're more buoyant.

Also, Twilight says that candy, however sweet, is still technically littering when it's at the bottom of a lake. I can help with clean up!

-S.G.

To The Fully Redeemed, Highly Esteemed, Incredibly Fun, Never Outdone, Splenderous, Awesomest, Bestest, Brighter Than The Rest-est, Always Up To The Test-est, Unless She Forgets To Study, Which Never Happens, Amazing Gal Pal, Starlight Glimmer,

Thanks a bunch for the help!

-P.D.P.

Letter 6 - Luna to Starlight

Dear Starlight Glimmer,

Thine extension of friendship is heartily accepted and most welcome! I will cherish it all my days. Perhaps we should meet word with deed and meet for tea? Tis a loathsome thought for thee to feel that I am out of reach. If we are to be friends, then let us be so in earnest. I am not SO busy that I cannot spare a moment to chat in pony.

I am glad to hear of positive development with thy friend, and more so to hear that thou art seriously contemplating the nature of thy being. To be truthful, I worried that my guidance may have been taken out of context, but I was wrong to have such fears. Starlight Glimmer, thou art a very intelligent mare, and thine ability to recognize thy wrongs is what separates thee from those that are doomed to repeat such mistakes...

Or at least, from repeating them overly much! Sometimes lessons must be learned more than once, so do not be disheartened. I must admit, I sometimes wonder if I am at risk of committing the same wrongs over and over myself.

No matter my age or my station, I am not beyond making mistakes... Nor is my sister. Thou werest there. Thou helped us. I wished to speak more frankly with thee, and I am sorry that thy visit was so centered on the issues my sister and I shared, but I am GLAD. Glad that thou were there to so boldly put us in our place, and that my sister and I had grown enough that we could stop and LISTEN.

Though, if I am being honest, there was perhaps a small chance that Celestia would have thrown thee into the dungeon for switching our cutie marks. Just something to consider next time! (Ah sorry, I jest! Thou art safe. Celestia uses the dungeon for sugar storage.)

Be proud! It all worked out and all thanks to thee. I think thou givest thyself much too little credit. We are so grateful to thee for thine assistance in bringing us closer together as sisters. I have ever more faith that thy challenges, both in the present and future, shall come to positive conclusions!

All The Best My Dearest Friend,
Princess Luna

Correspondence via Starlight & Starlight

[From the diary of Starlight Glimmer]

Note to self: Trixie loves smoothies. Maybe I should get her a gift certificate so she can get as much as she wants? I think her birthday is coming up. I mean... She REALLY loves smoothies. She'll pretty much go for any flavor!

Note to self TWO: Except for beets. Learned that the hard way. Gave her the apple banana smoothie I ordered instead. Geez, now I have to drink it.

RE: Note to self TWO: No, wait. Nevermind. I've decided I hate them too. I'm giving this to Spike.

...
...
...

Dear Future Starlight Glimmer,

In the future, please think twice before ordering your Great and Powerful Friend something in the largest size available without bothering to check what she's into. You'll only find yourself stuck eating/drinking whatever it is she doesn't want for lunch. Also... why DO you order something different from your friends? Even when you're picking for them? It's like you decide that they must like the thing that you aren't into! (Not that you knew what beets tasted like, but that sounds almost worse now that I am writing this down. That's like being a vegan all your life and ordering someone liver because, "Hey, it's meat!" Like, wow, stereotype much?)

Another thing to remember is that Spike also hates beets. He says they taste like someone sprinkled sugar over a tree root. I am inclined to agree with him.

Last thing: maybe don't try to shovel stuff you don't like onto the little guy? He's not your food disposal!

Sincerely,
Past Starlight Glimmer

P.S.
Oh, and you totally need to write down when Trixie's birthday is because it sure as Tartarus wasn't anytime soon! Now we have a gift certificate to the Ponyville Cafe that expires in three months and nopony to give it to. Lame.

P.P.S.
Also, I totally meant for the time joke, Future Starlight Glimmer. You need more reasons to laugh. Even when you have to wince while doing it.

P.P.P.S.
Yes, I AM distracting myself from what happened with Sunburst. Stop judging ~~me~~ ~~you~~ us.

Letter 10 - Luna to Starlight

Dear Starlight Glimmer,

Please forgive the tardiness of this response! A problem arose in my Night Court that unfortunately turned out to be a rather drawn-out ordeal spanning several days. My sister and I have been all but consumed by it, and I have barely slept. And what trouble could have demanded such attention, thou must wonder? For matters of security, all I can say is it had to do with a blind stallion, a cursed hunk of cheese, and a rather cantankerous group of geese. I'll be happy to impart the whole tale to thee next time ye visit. This was quite worse than the hullabaloo with the crabs and errant lovers!

What I am far more interested in hearing about is thy time with Sunburst! Or have ye not yet ventured on an outing? Please allow me to say how glad I was to hear that thou would give the fellow a chance. I haven't visited the Crystal Kingdom in a moon's cycle, but I am sure Sunburst must be brimming with joy!

Thou art a brave mare, Starlight. Please remember that. Thine intelligence and strength of character are evident in thine ability to break thyself free of self-deception. And self-deception of the heart, ah! That is the hardest sort! Thou hath grown much, and in so growing made room for lasting delights. Keep moving forward, Starlight.

Sincerely,
Princess Luna

Letter 12 - Luna to Starlight

Dearest Starlight,

Thou wouldst have laughed at the way your letter so roused me to cheers! It startled my Night Guard something fierce. Or perhaps thou wouldst have blushed and pleaded for decorum? I say nay to any such shying! Mare, this is good cause for celebrating! Many a day this dilemma of the heart hast darkened thy thoughts, drawing long thy features, and clenching tight thy withers! Ghastly sights the likes of which have not been seen in Tartarus haunted thy dreams as pure undiluted manifestations of thy fears! My hooves were kept busy by thee, toiling furiously in the wee hours, as I think few have such psychic strength as thou dost. I do not tell thee this with the intent of conjuring your contrition, but only to call attention to the importance of maintaining thy mental state. Thou holds great power, and with unchecked stress that power runs amok in thy subconscious.

Yet that storm has passed. In thy wisdom and honesty, thou were able to decipher the mystery of that dream in the desert all thyself. Now thou hast sunlight in thy mind, a clear and game expression, thou body uncoiled, and thy dreams are of beauteous and radiant things. Enjoy this. Starlight Glimmer, I beg thee, enjoy this! By the gleaming strands of my sister's mane, I tell thee that there are fewer delights as rich and as quenching as a budding new romance. Be bold, be adventurous, and always stay true to thy heart.

When not taken with thy new beau, I beg thee, please visit again! I have new tales of the night to impart that I'm sure thou wouldst enjoy. My newest involves an abundance of whipped cream and the shaved bottom of a giggling griffon cub.

Wishing All The Best,
Princess Luna

Letter 13 - Sunburst to Starlight

Dear Starlight Glimmer,

I had such a good time with you the other night. I'm glad you agreed to come out with me again.

I had been so afraid I'd ruined things that I'd given up hope that you'd ever want to see me again. I know that getting involved with somepony was the furthest thing from your mind, and I just need you to know how honored I am that you would even give me the time of day, let alone humor my clumsy advances. I feel like I've found a rare first edition copy of Definitive Centaurian History! Autographed! In mint condition! [There is a messy splat of ink where the dot for the exclamation mark would have gone.]

Sorry, I know I'm not great at writing letters. Or ink. I keep my ink pots away from the books because I'm afraid of being my usual, messy self.

I'm not really great at abstract concepts either. I go by the book, and it's hard to see past the words on the pages. But you're amazing at it. You always have been. Your power with magic comes from the strength of your mind, and it allows you take theory and make it into reality. That's one of the things I enjoy the most about you, Starlight. You have this instinct that I lack. I envy your ability to follow your gut. I'm far from quixotic, but when I think of what you can do, I feel breathless at the possibilities for good to be done. Do you understand that? You are a powerful force for good. I can't apologize enough for digging up your painful memories. The last thing I want is to make you feel negative about yourself. I'm proud just to know you.

It took me a long time to even recognize what I was feeling. I know that maybe my mind takes different routes from yours, but while this particular path was long, the destination didn't leave a lot of room for me to question. I really like you. I think it struck me after I visited you in Ponyville and made that giant version of Dragon Pit. I hadn't been very attentive to how you were feeling, and those two days really highlighted how much we'd changed. I became alarmed at the prospect of losing you as a friend. Talking to the others-- Trixie, Maud, and Twilight-- I came to see how much I appreciate you. I was determined to bridge the gap. Since then, our friendship has been wonderful.

So when I scared you off, I feared that was truly it. "Way to go, Sunburst, you blew it," I thought. But then you came back and-- [there is a dense, dark scribble where the ink has spread like a bruise.]

I'm without words that we're on this new path. One we can walk together. I'll work hard to make sure you won't regret it.

Sincerely,
Sunburst