As the landscape passes by leaving me further and further away, my heart yearns for an alternative. I didn’t want to go. Only now that I’ve made my decision and take the trip do I truly realize how difficult this will be. Homesickness before even arriving. With a sigh I slump back into my seat.

“Feel like I’m going to puke” a pink appendage rubs away at my arm.

“Are you sure you’re okay with this? We can stop now if you want” she sounds desperate, almost pleading me to be selfish.

“We both know this is for the best Pinkie”

“Is it? If you’re all sick the whole time then you should just stay home! I don’t want you to be hurting”

“It’s just nerves. I’ll be fine after a week I’m sure”

“And if you aren’t? What if things get worse? What if you get so sick you turn green? What if you stay green!?”

“I’m not going to change into the Incredible Hulk Pinkie”

“I don’t know what that is”

“Huh? Really? After everything I’ve ever said, that’s the thing you don’t know about?”

“What do you expect? It’s not like I’m a hooman” she shrugs.

“Yeah but, you like… know shit all the time that you shouldn’t know. It’s fucking weird”

“I have no idea what you’re talking about Joey. I’m a perfectly normal mare” she can’t even keep a straight face without giggling.

It cheers me up a little bit, only for the moment. Soon my nausea returns along with a frown. She notices and pats her lap requesting I rest my head. I comply, laying down on the furry pillow. Sadly the train seats small size requires me to tuck my own legs in to avoid pressing then into the wall. She lightly scratches my head with the edge of her hoof. Against expectations, It’s oddly delightful. So delightful in fact that I close my eyes to enjoy. Pinkies hums begin to fill the room, vibrating my very core. Her voice so soft and delicate when she needs it to be. Only if it was enough to dull the pain eating away at me.

We stay like this for most of the ride until the trains horn makes it clear we’re approaching our stop. Lifting myself from her lap the lack of warmth against me makes my heart ache immediately as if she already left my side. Eyes focused on mine I can tell she’s fighting to keep it together. Always trying to be so strong for me. Taking a her hoof into my hand I use my other to hold her cheek.

“It’s okay, I’ll be back before you know it”

A single tear breaks free letting her true emotions show. She stutters, “I- I…” until it becomes too much, settling for a nod. I brush away her tear with my thumb and meet her lips with a kiss.

It’s light and quick yet the passion could be felt all the same. “Promise me you’ll stay safe while I’m gone”

“C-cross my heart, h-hope to f-fly…” pulling her into a hug I silence her little routine.

“Shhh, you don’t have to do all that”

Pushing me away she finishes the rest of it and looks away with pouting eyes, “I absolutely positively have to do it…”

With a sad smile I boop her nose gently, “Stay perfect, just the way you are Pinkie”

Wiping her eyes she gives me a light punch on the arm, “And you don’t get into any trouble without me. You know I hate missing out on any fun”

“I’m sure when you come and visit, me and you can mess around with some of the nobles and staff so long as Luna doesn’t get too mad”

“Or princess Celestia”

“Or sun mare”

She holds back some unsure if she should ask but grows the strength to anyway. “Are you and Celestia still mad at each other? If you are, what are you going to do when you have to live around her everyday?”

“I don’t know if I’d say mad is the word. I forgive her but, would you understand if I said being around her feels awkward? It doesn’t really matter though, I’ll be a night owl given that Luna sleeps during the day”

“Maybe you should try and make things not awkward?”

“Easy for you to say miss outgoing”

“Was that a compliment? It didn’t sound like one”

“Eh, I can’t really say anything bad about you”

“I could” she says while rolling her eyes.

“Pfft, what? Too cute? Too nice?”

“Too messy! Too loud! Annoying!”

“Who said you were any of those?”

“Nopony exactly… I can just tell when ponies feel that way. It’s not like I’m oblivious to that kinda stuff ya know. I just choose to ignore it”

“I think-“

The train comes to screeching haunt interrupting my sentence. A loud bellowing horn gives us riders the heads up. Out the window lay cobbled streets and tourist attractions, we’d made it to Canterlot all right. Pinkies hoof brings my attention back.

“Be safe”

We share a kiss and I give her a wink as I sit up grabbing my luggage. “I will”

Embracing for one last hug she walks me off the train onto the platform leaving us to our final moment together for a while. Through a pained expression she gives me a smile.

“I love you”

“Love you too Pink, love you too”

Left to watch her renter the train, she heads back to her seat pulling the window down to wave me goodbye.

“And don’t do anything stupid like you always do!”

“Hey! …. I’ll try”

With a loud poof of smoke from the front, her ride starts to take off once more leaving me to my lonesome. It’s painfully loud screeches begin to fade away as I continue to stand there watching. I probably looked like a lost child in the mall.

This was no time to sulk however, I needed to make my way to the palace. Grabbing my luggage I spin around and almost trip over the pony behind me.

“Woah, hey easy there!”

It’s a royal guard, decked out in full regalia. Actually make it two royal guards! Both standing directly in front of me with salutes held high.

“Ummm, what’s up?”

The left one steps forward, “We are your protection assigned by princess Celestia to accompany you to the castle”

“Why do I need protection? Is she just trying to butter me up or something?” My blatant lack of respect draws the slightest twitch from his brow yet he holds firm in his disposition.

“I’m just following orders sir”

“Really? She didn’t tell you anymore than that?”

“Didn’t say anything about watching over a diamond dog”

The one to my right whispers faintly. Unfortunately for him I overheard.

“Our orders were just that, to accompany you”

“Alright let’s get going then. Don’t want to keep her majesty waiting”

They guide me throughout the city, up the spiraling streets of Canterlots many paths. We make our way higher and higher up the mountain even passing the place of my abduction. What a cruel word this place could truly be. All hidden under a guise of friendship and rainbows, peace and tranquility. Celestia had made her country’s issues seem to disappear with messages of prosperity, shoving the real issues into the closet for another date. Perhaps I was being too critical given my bias but, to act like nothing is wrong and at the very same time have a trafficking ring family just outside your city is beyond ignorance. Or would the better term be hypocritical? I guess it depends on her knowledge of the subject beforehand.

Avoiding any more negatives thoughts I change focus to my surroundings. Without winter’s brutal cold and snowfall, the city streets become much more sophisticated in appearance. I couldn’t tell how nicely shaped the road was including little detailed carvings in some of the bricks. They really tried hard to impress, almost as much as the snobby nobles taking notice of my arrival. Unlike last time, a few of them were willing to give a friendly wave. It’s likely appreciation for that thing I did. You know, the whole busting a trafficking ring on accident. I return the gesture a few times until enough noses turn up at my appearance that I begin to ignore the attention.

My little golden boys in their clinking armor eventually stop in front the palace gate, taking a moment to exchange code words. Security seems to have really tightened up since the wedding as several more guards maintain the palace walls.

“Is the added security all just for me? Oh you shouldn’t have” Sadly they don’t oblige and keep their focus forward. They probably wouldn’t even know if I stopped following them.

Now inside I get to see the palace in its full glory, the entrance stationed so that the very sun beams brightly atop, as if the buildings peak was its mantle. It’s a nice touch, I’ll give them that. Stepping into the main hall there’s the large twin doors leading into the throne room just like I remember.

“Is mommy behind those doors? That’s the throne room right?”

“Would you please refrain from calling princess Celestia derogatory terms?”

“Oohhh, didn’t know I was talking to Mr. etiquette here. Actually, I can distinctly remember a certain stallion calling me a dog at the station” I tap my finger to my head in thought. “Hmm, who could’ve that been?”

He shifts under my words, clearly not expecting such a rebuttal. The other stallion shakes his head before, hitting the other one. “You dolt! What if he tells princess Celestia what you said? You’ll be discharged tomorrow!”

“Well don’t give him any ideas!”

“Boys boys, listen. We don’t have to get along but, do know this. If you try to fuck with me” I lean close to them both, almost at a whisper. “I will make sure you regret it”

Whether it’s my intimidating stature or the proximity of my scars, they both share a collective gulp. Collecting themselves they hastily lead me to the throne doors and open them accordingly. They creak from their own weight, creating a large draft as well. I can feel my hair brushed back by the force.

Giving the two stallions a bow, I walk down the long red carpet leading to Celestia’s throne where she sat, listening to a mare noble with disdain. It’s not until I’m close enough do I really hear what she’s saying.

“I believe it would mutually benefit us both if you would be willing to loan the money. Surely, we can at least agree on that?” Her tone makes it clear she thinks very highly of herself.

Without batting an eye, Celestia turns over to the mare beside her. “Would you mind getting this mares information for a later date? I am expecting company any time now and-“ she lights up at the sight of me.

It’s not the reaction I was expecting. “But, princess Celestia! I would need-“

“What you need is to come back with a more experienced and tested product then the one you have shown today. I simply could not in good faith loan you such a sum of my own ponies taxed bits for such high risk. It would not only be a mismanagement of kingdom funds but, a heinously risky investment. Surely we can at least agree on that?” She snickers while repeating the mares words back to her.

With a stomp and a pout the noble walks away from the throne to the side with Celestia’s advisor. Stepping forward I fill her spot with a smile.

“You know those doors are ridiculously unnecessary. I can’t imagine how much it costs to maintain them”

She dismisses me with a hoof, “Tsk, a mere simple fix with a little bit of magic”

“Oh yeah…. anyways here I am!” I hold my arms out to show off the spectacle that is I before letting them smack against my sides.

“Yes here you are” returning my smile she gets off her throne and turns over to the nearby guard. “Please close off the throne room for a recess for the next half hour. I’d like to speak with my guest”

Saluting he follows her command along with all of the other ponies in attendance. It’s doesn’t take long til it’s just us. “So how was the trip here? Did my guards treat you fairly?”

“Eh, they’re okay. Little heavy on the whole loyalty thing”

“That would be a good thing no? Loyalty is not something you can just purchase”

“Nor can it be found willy nilly”

She releases a small giggle walking along my side with a motion to follow, “Come, I have much I need to fill you in about”

My ears perk up, “Hm? Do tell. What is it? State secrets? The password to your wine stash? You do know I don’t like wine”

“If I was mistaken I would assume I was speaking with the element of laughter. I’ve heard you could be rather rambunctious at times from my sister. She said she couldn’t determine whether it was from prolonged exposure to miss Pie or a loss of sanity. If it is the latter make sure to tell us please”

“It’s probably a little bit of both”

Following her lead she takes me down a few halls in the direction of what I can only guess is her or Lunas private quarters. I only guess this given the change of scenery the farther we go. Golden trimmed curtains, large luxurious paintings. Things that don’t exactly scream open to the public. Taking a look at one painting in specific, it’s an image of the two princesses standing hip to hip across from an opposing figure. One riddled with strange mutations throughout its body. A mess of animal parts ranging from a goats hoof to a lions paw. Such a sight makes me assume it’s a demon of some sort given my Earthly references.

“This would be the day Luna and I defeated Discord, saving Equestria from his chaotic rule. I never wish to remember the atrocities we experienced back then. However, this painting is rather relevant to what I wished to speak about”

I point toward the strange creature, “That’s Discord? I’ve heard the name before”

“Yes. The god of chaos. He is an individual I would tread careful around”

“I thought you said you defeated him? Why do you say that like he’s still alive?”

“Precisely the point for this conversation. You see, not only did my sister wish to protect you for the time being but, also I have planned another test for my student”

“And you two thought it would be best if I stayed at the caste during it?”

“Exactly” she smiles starting our walk again, “She and her friends will be given the task of reforming Discord”

“A literal god? Do you understand how crazy this sounds?”

“She has the elements of harmony at her side. There is nothing he could do at this time to defeat her however, convincing Discord to turn over a new leaf would be the real challenge. He would need to agree on limiting his use of chaos magic, the very thing that makes him, him”

“And what’s the benefit of this?”

“Why a new pawn to the chessboard” I’m taken aback by her response only for her to start laughing at my expense. “I only kid! Oh you should’ve seen your face”

“I don’t know what’s sadder, the fact I fell for that or the fact that I could’ve believed that”

“Oh you know I would mean nothing of the sort. Besides, such ideas such as conquests and war is more suitable for my sister. She always was the warrior”

“So why do it? What good could come out of redeeming this dude? Like I get the whole peace and friendship y’all love to tote around but, this seems a little too much even for you”

Rounding the corner we come up to a room with the sole purpose of holding a massive staircase. It’s nearly 10 to 15 feet wide going up into the top floor of the castle. Two guards dressed in heavy armor protect its entrance, their helmets reveal not even a glimpse to the ponies inside. They are both Pegasus, with armor sheeting covering the entirety of their wings as well. With one synchronized motion they both pull their halberds back opening the stairway to us with a bow. Returning the motion, Celestia starts up again with me in tow close behind.

“Those stallions looked intense”

“Mares. The most prestigious and well trained knights we have at our service. They are called valkyries”

“Huh, so to even be in consideration they have to be a mare and a Pegasus?”

“There is more. We would look for first hand experience in combat, a well documented resume, and leadership qualities proven by a list of provided peers. It is a relatively new class in response to the changeling invasion”

“Kinda badass”

She chuckles, “Very badass indeed”

“Hey! I like this Celestia more! You should act like that more often”

“We have an image to maintain Mr. Marshall” she stops and turns to me, “However if you were to meet with me during my off hours I’m sure you’d be surprised” she finishes with a wink.

Walking around the top floor of the castle, the first thing that becomes noticeable is the lack of windows. There are none, not a single one at any moment of our walk. Another noticeable feature would be the installation of actual working lights instead of candles. Apparently having a royal budget comes with its luxuries but, we already knew that. It’s just surprising to see those newly invented lightbulbs already available. Another strange thing is the lack of maids and guards making the halls seem almost empty. It’s a sense of quiet stillness that makes me unsettled. Kinda like the feeling you get in an empty hotel.

“So about Discord again. Why the risk?”

“Because everypony deserves a chance at redemption. I’ll have you know as well that he wasn’t always like this. At one point he was even friends with our family but, this was a long time ago…” she drifts off lost in thought.

I leave her to her thoughts and decide to enjoy the sights around me instead. This is likely where I will be staying for a while so best get used to the area now so I don’t get lost later. However, with each additional turn I start to realize it’s a pointless endeavor.

“There is something I should tell you before I give you off to Luna” her expression is somewhat worrying, almost nervous like. “Please do not get mad when I say this but, another reason for redeeming Discord would be for his help”

I tilt my head confused, “Help with what? Seems like Equestrias in pretty good shape to me beside a few bumps and bruises”

“We still have not came any closer to solving your issue and I do apologize for us both. Luna has worked tirelessly to find a solution and I have spoken with several other nations best healers as well. We are at a loss as of now and thought with the help of Discord we could potentially have a revelation or breakthrough” I don’t respond right away leaving her to stop and turn to me. “I am truly sorry for my continued failure. It is not often that I am unable to help one of my ponies”

I can tell her pain is genuine. She was genuinely hurt by this and was seeking forgiveness. “There’s no need to apologize. You’re saying you’re sorry because you can’t help me good enough. Trust me princess, your effort is enough. I recognize your pain and I want you to know I’m okay with whatever you think might work” I shrug my shoulders. “I mean you two have a better chance of solving this than I do so let’s go with the whole Discord plan… so long as you think it’s safe”

Relief fills the color back into her face, “Thank you for your understanding and yes, if Twilight is to be successful then I would believe it safe”

“Then we’re great!… and thank you for… doing all that extra stuff just for me. It’s not like I’m anypony important so to do the whole Discord thing just for-“

“Oh no no no” she laughs. “That is not the reason. It just so happens to be convenient timing is all”

“Wha- oh yeah of course, of course. I was just joking” I wasn’t.

I share a smile with her as we approach of a large set of black doors. Etched into the wood display an alicorn with her moon halberd. Her body curls elegantly around its staff as of made of liquid. Surrounding the outside of its frame are several flowers of dark purple, their edges tinged with black and at the base rest a golden plaque. A name engraved in a language I cannot read.

“This Luna’s office or something?”

“Office? No, we do not have private offices, either of us. If I was to speak technicalities, one could say our rooms are our offices but, it’s more practical as a bedroom then any other utility. It would be best explained once Luna shows you inside”

“Wait, you took me to her bedroom? How come there’s no guards watching the door or anything? And this wasn’t even where she was during the wedding either!”

“Oh, you must mean our guest room. She was sleeping in one of the rooms I use for foreign diplomats. Sometimes she claims it’s too exhausting to head back to her actual room. A real drama queen at times. As for guards, there are the some of my valkyries on this floor scattered around, they just avoid being seen. A testimony to their skill”

“Why so little protection though? I get you two are both super powerful and can probably protect yourselves but, what about when you have to sleep and stuff?”

“I’ll let you in on a little secret. This entire floor we are standing on is invisible to the outside. It’s an illusion placed upon the palace. If you were to go outside and peer at the highest floor you would see it is the floor beneath us”

“Damn, that’s pretty sneaky. Kinda sick too”

She looks confused at my words but goes on, “I don’t know about it being ill but, that is not the end to this floors secrecy. There is more I will refrain from telling you”

“Sick means it’s cool by the way and is it one of those things where if you tell me it means you have to kill me?”

“Ha! Absurd assumption! More like burden you with kingdom secrets. I do not wish to place that sort of responsibility on you, specially given your history”

“Listen I didn’t try to get kidnapped”

“And yet you did. I will apologize for that as well however, as that did occur within my city and was inexcusable. If there is any way I could make you feel safer during your stay here please do tell”

“Please with the apologies and I’m fine for right now”

“Are you sure? I could accommodate you with your own royal guards whenever you leave the palace grounds”

“Tempting but, no” I look back to Luna’s bedroom doors. “So should we just knock or…?”

“These doors are covered by a sound proof barrier so knocking normally will not work. There is a way though if you look closely enough”

With a golden glow, Celestia’s horn light up and pulls the very figurine of Luna on the door outward. With a few slams it becomes more clear to me it was a door knocker the entire time. It looks so strange when put to rest though, like it’s within the door rather than protruding. Glancing from the side it really is engraved.

“How did you- actually don’t answer that” magic.

“It doesn’t require magic Mr. Marshall, if you-“

“Please just call me Joey” she’s a little surprised. “If we’re going to do this whole fresh start thing then we have to at least address each other as friends would do so please, call me Joey”

“And you may call me any nickname you’d like. Actually I’d prefer you gave me one. The name LuLu that you gave Luna is adorable. It only makes me wish for one of my own” she stomps her hooves a little in excitement.

She still is a pony at heart

“You can’t force it on me right now. Give it some time and I’m sure I’ll come up with something”

“I mean it is just a nickname, surely you could-“

A creek from the doors beside us silence our conversation and with a slow emergence, Luna peeks her sleepy mug around the door. Her mane is ruffled and flat unlike it’s normal astral appearance. Eyes dark and tired.

“W-what… *yawn* why has thou knocked on my door sister? Hath thou forgot the time and who- Joey?!?” She looks between us both in confusion, rubbing her eyes to make sure they don’t deceive her. “We- I did not know he would be here tonight! Why have you failed to tell me?” A dagger like stare is shot Celestias way.

Deflected with a giggle she pushes me toward the door, “Surprise! Consider this an early birthday present!”

“Sister our birthday-“

“I’m sure you two have a lot of catching up to do and I’ve taken a little too much time from my day court. Toot-a-loo!”

With a final shove I’m pushed into Luna’s room nearly knocking her over in the process. I catch myself against her and pull back, only a few inches away from her face. We separate quickly and Luna rushes away toward a nearby mirror.

“We did not know you would be coming so soon!” With a comb she frantically fights away at her mane, “Oh we look dreadful! Please avert thine eyes from such a ungodly sight!”

Chuckling I walk over to her and pat her messy mane, “You look absolutely adorable like this”

“We are no better then a savage”

“Hehe, yeah okay miss royalty. Maybe lower your expectations when you’re alone with friends. It’s not like I’m going to judge”

“Judge? No you would never… but lust? How could one yearn for… this!” She points toward herself in the mirror in disappointment. “I can’t believe you’ve seen me like this”

She can be so open about this stuff, it’s disturbing

“Calm down LuLu, it’s not a big deal”

“Ugh, you would never understand”

Moving away from the mirror she slowly trots over to the large king sized mattress. With a flop and a sigh she makes herself comfortable.

She pleads with heavy eyes, “Come, entice me with those hands of yours. We demand a head scratch for invasion of my privacy!”

Sighing I place my luggage down and climb onto the large bed with her, placing her head on my lap as I rest against the bed frame. With a few strokes of her mane she’s quick to close her eyes. It gives me a chance to really see her normal self. There was no alters to her appearance, no front. She was at her most vulnerable and was too tired to really even notice.

“Sorry for waking you up, it wasn’t really my plan”

“Hm… I figured as much but, do not fret. We have been unable to sleep anyways”

“Huh? What do you mean? Aren’t you the queen of the dreamscape and stuff? I thought you just put yourself to sleep with a spell or something. How have you been able to do your job?”

“Too many questions! We desire two thing right now. Pampering and peace. Please… help us rest”

“Okay” I speak in a low voice. “But could you tell me exactly why you can’t sleep?” With an angry peek of her eye she relaxes back into me.

“We… were eager… no… that is not it. Nervous? Ugh, tis embarrassing to say the reason!”

I lean close and whisper into her ear, “Nervous about me?”

She recoils at the tickle in her ear. “DO NOT joke around like that Joey Marshall or we shall show thou the meaning of suffering”

“I don’t know, sounds like big bad LuLu was a little nervous about her crush coming over. Now look, he’s gone and surprised you, seen you at your worst! Oh, heavens! What a nightmare!”

“Yes a nightmare we would wish for. Anything that would conclude with us in slumber”

“Well I’m doing my best here-“

“Perhaps not talking would be better?”

“Yeesh, no need to be rude”

Spinning to face me she looks on with an apologetic frown, “We are sorry for our behavior but, please understand I am exhausted. Just.. give me this moment. Please”

I don’t reply, instead focusing my attention to putting the poor mare on my lap to sleep. Maybe twenty minutes go by before I believe she’s finally out but, when I stop my hands she stirs.

“We cannot sleep” a broken tone, desperate for relief. “Why must I suffer with such an ironic fate. The bringer of dreams, conquerer of the night unable to rest for even a second!”

“I’m sorry Lu, is there anything more I can do?”

“Mm… continue to keep us company”

I’m not exactly sure what to reply so I stay silent. Copying my approach the sprawled out princess remains quiet and still, her steady breaths are the only noise between us. That and the light sound of nails running through her mane. I be careful not to brush her horn and enjoy the view from where I sit. She’s much larger then most ponies the more I look at her. Her head alone takes up almost my entire lap unlike Pinkies and it weighs much heavier as well. It weighs enough to make my legs fall asleep but, it wasn’t like I was going to move now. I’d made a commitment to at the very least help her sleep.

“How long you been like this?”

“Maybe… maybe a week”

“And you think it’s because you’re nervous about something?”

“We know it’s because I’m nervous”

“… you can tell me”

Even with her eyes still closed I can see the blush run across her face, “I worry” she pauses unlike my hand still running circles into her head. “What if I fail to find anything? What if I waste your time here? Thou is already making a sacrifice by staying here and to say it was all for naught in the end? What would that make us? A selfish princess begging for attention by any means, clearly unfit for maintaining the royal throne. If it weren’t for you we wouldn’t have helped during the wedding either! Instead sleeping away and avoiding duties… sisters patience with me amazes”

“Lu you’re being way too hard on yourself”

“Are we? I am expected to be a representation of perfection yet, all I feel like we are is a glass doll to be maintained in public eye. Fragile when given the most minor of tasks”

“Luna you’re way more than that! You maintain the dreamscape and protect ponies at their weakest. You saved everypony during the wedding whether I helped you or not. You helped me during my worst nights… gave my somepony to talk to when I felt so alone” I take her hoof into my hand. “Luna you mean a lot to everypony… you mean a lot to me”

When she looks back to me I have to look away, the heat rising to my face. “Joey?”

Slowly I pan back to find her close, an inch from my face. Eyes matched I’m unsure what to do next, should I…

She answers for me and wraps her hooves around me in a hug, “We are grateful to have a friend as wonderful as you” When she pulls away she can tell I was expecting something else, “Oh, what is this? Did you imagine I’d kiss you?”

“Err fuckin… you’re always teasing me and shit and… like how am I not supposed to think that.. that you weren’t gonna?!?”

Giggling she attempts to hide her laugh, “It is rather entertaining to see thou so flustered. Our beauty must fully encapsulate you at times. We must apologize for such inconvenience”

“How about you focus on getting some sleep beautiful”

“But we find this much more enjoyable! If such a small action could create such emotion, we can only imagine the possibilities we could obtain”

“Like me leaving?”

“You joke!”

“Do I?” I pretend to get up causing her to press me down with a hoof.

“Please we shall stop. Twas all in good fun”

“Twas…”

“We apologize”

“You know this all would have been avoided if you just kissed me instead of toying around”

“Yes but the implications behind a kiss are deeper then just love for us. We would be making thou are own. Would you even wish this responsibility?”

“Responsibility? What are you a foal? What are you talkin-“

“Royalty cannot court members outside of nobility or rank without scrutiny! We would be ostracized from Canterlot’s higher society and you would suffer the targeting of being non-royal”

“So we just do it in private and to be honest I don’t think that’s how things work anymore Luna. Maybe before your banishment but, have you asked your sister if things are still the same?”

“No, we have not. Perhaps we should talk with her soon. I apologize for getting riled”

“No it’s fine, you might be right anyway”

Bashfully she looks away, “We would be willing to court you either way” she peeks to see my reaction.

With a smile I place my hand to her cheek, “I know you would, you’re smitten with me”

“WE ARE- I… grrrr” her growl breaks me into laughter and I fall back into her bed.

“Smitten!”

Taking the opportunity she leaps over me and attacks with several tickles. Even without hands I’m somehow stricken by a deadly assault at her wrath. I fight my best to push her off, failing miserably at her considerable strength. Her once angry expression slips to laughter and she stops my torture with a proud stance over me.

“Thou dared to insult our name with lustful accusations! Look at him now where he lay! We smote his ruin upon the bedside!”

I pretend to be defeated, nearly dead from my wounds, “I have failed… my people”

“Yes you have failed! And now, I claim my prize”

“Wha-?”

Softly she presses her lips into mine, resting her body onto me within the same motion. Her smell is wonderful and intoxicating causing me to relax into the touch. Then, I stop. This felt wrong. Not because it was Luna but, because of the circumstance. Here I had just left Pinkie and I was already sucking face with another pony? Felt like I was cheating, a getaway to my other newly found love.

“Joey? What is a matter? Was it too much? Did we rush things?” Without speaking, the worry on my face was enough to tell Luna something was wrong.

“Maybe…” I’m at a loss for words, hesitant to explain. I run a hand through my hair thinking of a way to explain.

“I’m sorry… I didn’t mean to make you feel overwhelmed” her ears lay flat. “Would you prefer if we gave thou some space?”

I stop her with a hand, “Just… just give me a second to think. Nothings wrong I swear I just… need to think”

Nodding she rolls off me and rests at my side, her head still on my chest, eyes closed. Thankfully her stillness is enough to keep my mind from scattering about. I use the momentary peace to decompress.

Was this okay? In Equestria? Yes. On Earth? Depends. To me? Not right now but, why? I wasn’t on Earth anymore. Ponies generally have multiple lovers. Pinkie even gave me the okay, so why was I still bothered? Was it a small part of me welled up deep inside that desired the former normalcy I was accustomed to? Was it the pressure of dating a princess and the responsibility that came with? Was it the pressure I would be putting on Luna in courting me, or was it because… I was afraid of change? Maybe I didn’t want to admit to myself that even after all this time that I wasn’t going home. That if I did this I would be fully acknowledging the situation. A surrender of my chances to return home. I already knew this but, was I subconsciously still holding on? There was only one way to find out.

“Luna… I’m sorry for ruining the mood. Some parts of my past are still kinda holding me back from really accepting how things really are and… I think I need to just bury them”

“Bury your past? How?”

“Like this” Taking her into my hands I initiated our kiss again. This time without hesitation.

At first her eyes remain wide and awake but, as we continue she melts in my hands. Passionate and erotic, our bodies press against each other until we pause for an exasperated breath.

“Wow, we did not expect that!” A blush colors her face.

“I’ve been unfair to you and I’ve been letting my past dictate how I live but, I’m not on Earth anymore. I need to accept the way things are here and I’d be doing that by accepting your courtship. Luna, would you be willing to court me even if I’m an idiot?”

She giggles with happy tears brimming, “We would love to. Who else would be willing to take such a daunting task?”

“Well there’s Pinkie… and Twilight”

“Hmm, easy competition” she notices my stare, “We- I mean, what a lovely herd! I would be glad to be a part of this relationship!”

“Things must have been different before the whole moon thing than now huh?”

“No… herding was rather common then as well. We only expected to have our love to ourselves. Not selfishly of course! It’s just that most princesses or princes only take one lover at a time or at least one publicly”

“Luna I-“

“However, we can adjust” she smiles. “Whatever is necessary so that I can be with you”

“Luna…”

“Save your appreciation, we know we are wonderful” she tries to play it cool laying her head back down onto my chest yet her tail betrays her, swishing widely behind her.

“You’re so cute”

“We are not cute”

“I beg to differ”

Our light bantering goes on for some time until she eventually falls asleep, the good news perhaps enough reason to help her rest. It leaves me to my thoughts that ever so often drift toward my love, Pinkie. My heart still yearns for her presence and feels uneasy at the actions taking place as of now but, I ignore them best I can. This is normal now and selfishly it’s a win win for me so let’s shut up, stop worrying, and enjoy it. Before I know it, I’m fast asleep as well.

Warmth. It’s draped around me in a soft embrace and my body rests against the gentlest of cushions. I’d never been so comfortable in my life. With a peek through my heavy eyes I can see the large princess facing me still asleep. Her rested expression was much different from her hardened gaze of dictatorial leadership. It was even stranger then the flirty expression she always used when messing with me. She was completely at peace, trusting of my companionship. Oh how innocent she looked, much younger than her age would suggest. Thousands of years? No, this mare appeared to be only in her early twenties.

I swallow an urge to brush her mane, unwilling to disturb the much needed sleep she desired. Instead I go to leave her bed in order to avoid waking her only to be pulled back into a hug. She uses me like a teddy bear, squeezing the air out of my lungs.

“Luna!”

“Yes my love?” She eases her death grip.

“You’re awake?”

“Yes, we could not sleep through our raising of the moon now could we?”

With a glance to the balcony I can see the night sky glimmering in starlight. “What time is? How long did I sleep for?”

“Not as long as we would desire yet, we must get up. Night court calls for our aid and I would love for you to accompany us”

“You sure I wouldn’t be in the way?”

“Nonsense! Barely any souls ever drift into my courtroom anyway. Besides, we could use your advice in certain situations. We have no assistant as of now and would see no greater fit”

“Listen, I’m no politician. I have no idea how to run a country or-“

She interrupts me with a fit of laughter, “No you have it all wrong! We would make any final decision however, if we feel stumped or perhaps in need of a second opinion then we would ask of you of your thoughts. I would not ask of you anything we thought was too difficult to answer or too important to the country. Plus, it would make things less…”

“Boring?”

“Precisely!”

Well I have nothing better to do

“Sure why not”

“Wonderful! However…” she looks over my body. “You would need a change of attire” with a flash of her horn a sudden knock at the door startles me.

“You may enter!”

With a swing of the door a small mare dressed in maid attire walks over to us. Her simplistic gray coat and black mane fit her emotionless expression. With a bow she addresses the princess.

“What is it that you require your majesty?”

“Would you please find a formal wear for my friend here? He will be assisting me tonight in night court and requires an outfit fitted for such occasion”

“Yes your majesty, consider it done”

“Now I will leave you two while I find myself something to eat. Please, escort him to the dinner hall once you are finished here”

With a nod she holds her bow until Luna is completely through the door. Pausing just before the door shuts, Luna spins and throws me a wink. “We cannot wait to see how you’ll look. See you soon”

“See you soon”

With an exaggerated swish of the tail she leaves us alone. In an instant the mare is over me, wrapping a measuring tape over several parts of my body.

“Spread out your arms please. Now your legs”

“Easy there, no need to get so touchy”

Her expression remains flat, “Don’t get ahead of yourself”

“Yeesh, so cold”

She sighs, “Please, I deal with over confident nobles for the entirety of my shift. The least you could do is stay silent and do what I say”

“Sounds like you really love your job”

“… whatever keeps my little fillies in a safe place to live” her voice made it seem there was more to what she said then she let on.

“Troubled past?”

“Please don’t bother to pity me. I have a nice job and my family is safe now. I have nothing to complain about”

“Sorry, I was just curious”

“Yes and curiosity killed the Sphinx”

“It’s cat”

“Maybe from where ever you came from it is”

“Curious?”

“Not in the slightest”

“You know you might be the warmest pony I’ve ever met”

“It didn’t say in my job description that I need to be nice”

“Nor does it say you need to judge me before even knowing me”

“I haven’t judged you”

“Then why are you so curt with me?”

“Because you’re annoying and conversation with you will bring me nothing”

At this point the challenge of befriending this mare becomes so seemingly impossible it actually encourages me to try. I peer at her cutie mark, It’s a book and quill.

“What if I could get you a job you actually like?”

She stops her measuring for a second and looks me over. “How?”

“Well I’m good friends with-“

She shakes her head, “On second thought, never mind”

“Can you not be an ass for two seconds and just listen to me?”

“And can you not assume just because your some sort of royalty that you cant solve every problem with reputation and coin?” She turns away working on a white collard shirt and black dress pants.

“Ah, there’s where your wrong”

“You’re only proving my point”

“No you got it all wrong. I’m not nobility”

“Then why are you in the princesses private quarters before…. wait are you her…?” Her face blushes suddenly. “I never took princess Luna as one so mischievous”

“Wait what the fuck are you thinking over there? I’m not her sex servant or whatever your thinking!”

“He even went out and said it…”

“Would you stop-“

“Here” she holds out the shirt to me. “Try it on”

I start to take off my shirt but, notice her still staring. “Excuse me”

“What?”

“Can you not look at me while I change?”

“Trust me I’ve seen all types of different penises, there’s-“

“I’d prefer you didn’t see my dick though!”

“Oookayyy… weirdo”

Angrily I mutter to myself while I start to dress, “Weirdo? You’re the fuckin weirdo”

“Are you almost done?”

“Wow you’re insufferable”

“Hey I was thinking the exact same thing about you!”

“Ugh… can’t believe I thought about helping you”

“Yeah, helping me. Then you help me get undressed, then help me suck your penis”

“Holy shit you suck. Ever heard of somebody being nice before?”

“Somepony” she corrects. “What are you illiterate too?”

“Fuck you”

“Buck you!”

What an asshole. If I didn’t know any better I’d say she was human

“You must have had the most wonderful of experiences working here” I finish dressing up and admire myself in the mirror. The shirt even hides my loose collar underneath. “You did a pretty good job for fixing this up so quickly”

“It was easy, just had to use a template we have for malnourished griffins”

“I feel like that was supposed to be an insult but, I don’t know shit about anything but ponies”

“Why? Some sort of fetish or?”

“Are you ever not an asshole?”

“Right now, duh. Use your eyes and see I’m clearly a pony dealing with a moron of a guest”

“How do you still have your job?”

“Because…” she catches herself. “It doesn’t matter”

“And what if I went to Luna and said how shitty you treated me? What if I asked for you to be replaced?”

Her gaze hardens, “You wouldn’t, you already said yourself that you were a nice pony”

“I said I was trying to be nice”

“I know you wouldn’t”

“What if I promised you I could get you a better job?”

“One that pays as much as this? Doubt that. Cmon, I have to return you to princess Luna”

I follow her lead, “What if I could get you the means to use your special talent and a way to make your job suck less?”

“Yeah and how would you do that?”

“First off what’s your special talent?”

“Writing”

“Really? Have you-“

“Stay on topic please”

“Annoying… what if asked Luna to help get a book you write public and massed produced?”

“And what do you get out of all of this?”

“While you write it, you have to be my personal maid while I stay at the castle”

She draws back in question, “Huh? Why would that benefit you?”

“Is it weird if I say you remind me of back home?”

“Very”

“Well you do. Most of you ponies are super nice and that’s great and all but, at times it feels superficial. It’s almost refreshing to find such an absolute prune as yourself”

“Is that a compliment?”

“It’s the nicest thing you’ll get out of me”

Not responding right away, I can only assume she’s giving it thought. She stays silent for the rest of the walk. It’s not until we’ve almost made it to the dinning hall that she breaks the silence. “Novella”

“Hm?”

“My name is Novella” she holds out her hoof. “You’ll need to know it if you’re going to reference me to the princess”

“Joey” I shake her hoof. “Joey Marshall and try not to get fired before I ask her”

“I know when to push my limit and when to stay quiet. It was obvious when you first start chirping back that you didn’t really care what I said”

“Clear to me you didn’t give a fuck as well”

“Tough to when you have to work around the ponies that live here”

“Hm, I imagine we’ll be good friends when this is all said and done”

The smallest smile breaks through to her face only to be squashed down in an instant, “You’re really strange you know that?”

“Trust me I know”

Soon enough we reach the dinning hall and I find Luna practically swallowing a pancake whole, the flapjack resting on a fork just over her mouth.

“Joey! You look devilishly handsome!” She leans over to look around my backside. “And you carry quite the rump to show for it”

“I haven’t even sat down yet and you’re already sexually harassing me” a cough from behind interrupts us both.

“May I be excused now?”

“Sorry, yes you may go” Luna turns to me, “Please” she pulls out the chair across the table with her magic. “Sit and enjoy”

When I reach the chair I notice there’s already a plate ready for me. A few pancakes, some syrup, an egg, and real bacon. Yes, real bacon.

“Who’d you have to kill to get this?” I hold a strip up and bite down with a satisfying crunch. “Cause *crunch* mhm, I’ve missed this stuff”

“The palace kitchens have anything thou can imagine. Thus the main reason our sister indulges herself with sweets so much. Only if she realized how much they akin to her waist growth”

“Heh, did you just call your sister fat?”

“I would never use such terminology. Rather, she’s extra healthy”

“Wow, low blow coming from the mare drowning her pancakes in syrup” she stops mid pour, the plate nearly overflowing with the rich liquid.

“Are thou stating we our extra healthy ourselves?”

“No… I’m saying that you shouldn’t judge her and then attempt to put yourself into a sugar coma the next minute”

“We didn’t even use butter! This is not nearly as unhealthy as her chocolate cake”

“I don’t know much about sugar and all of that but, I know for a fact there’s way too much of it in syrup if every time I eat it I get sleepy”

“Our kitchens use only the freshest and most natural ingredients. Please, try some for yourself before casting judgment on our syrup”

I grab the bottle and layer my own meal in the golden goo. Taking a bite it’s similar to a more all natural brand syrup then a generic brand label. Not as tasty yet not as thick either. Perhaps she was right in this case.

“Okay so this is a natural syrup I’ll give you that but, it’s still not healthy”

“Better than sisters cake”

“I get a feeling there’s some sort of rivalry going on here between you two?”

She places her fork down not waiting to finish her chewing, “Sche dchoesnt *gulp* understand the lack of variety that comes with chocolate cake!” She lifts her pancake into the air. “Meanwhile there are serval variations I could enjoy from chocolate chip, blueberry, strawberry. There’s a million possibilities!”

“And what if she just finds chocolate cake more delicious?”

“Then she is a fool…”

I can’t hold back my laughter, “HA! My lord Luna. You can be such a filly at times, it’s adorable”

She slams her hoof down on the table, “We are not a filly!”

“Throwing a tantrum at the dinner table? Tsk tsk tsk, typically behavior of a growing mare” With my arms crossed and eyes closed I don’t see the napkin flying my way, smacking my face. “Ptfft hey!” I spit trying to get it away from my face.

“Not letting mommy wipe your dirty chin from breakfast? Typically colt behavior”

“Oh my god Lu, please don’t refer to yourself as mommy again”

“Do we not carry an intrinsic motherly vibe?”

“More like prepubescent teen”

She guffaws at my words, “You sound like my sister”

I focus my attention back to my meal and hurry to catch up to her. “By the way, that maid…”

“Miss Novella?”

“Oh you know her name?”

“I know the names of most our maids and guards. Should we not?”

“No… it’s just surprising is all”

She tilts her head to the side in confusion until a smile bubbles up to her face, “We are different from what you are accustomed to back home are we?”

I roll my eyes, “There’s not exactly any kings and queens that rule over land much anymore. There is one I know of in another country then my own but, their queen is more of a public figure than ruler. At least that’s what I’ve taken away from their situation”

“Thou has no queen? No king? This sounds familiar however, we are unsure exactly what was told to us”

“I might have told you we have a ruler still, elected by the people. Their power is kinda limited though, there’s a bunch of things every bill or law has to go through if they want anything done so I guess in a way were not much different from Europe”

“Your-up?”

“It’s not important”

When I look back her face is very focused, listening intently to what I have to say, “But we think it’s important. I would love to know more about your culture and past if thou would allow it”

Her honesty bleeds through her voice and I can tell the sincerity in what she says. “Maybe after night court I’ll tell you a little about my homeland but, I’m not going into detail about my personal past”

“Tis satisfactory enough!”

“Anyways, that mare. Would it be okay if she was my personal maid while I stay here?”

“Taken a fancy to the serpent?”

“The serpent?”

“It’s what the guards call her due to her poisonous tongue”

“That’s fitting”

“So why wish for her to be a personal maid and what interest would you have in one anyway?”

“Well first off, it seems like she hates her job”

“We could have told you that. It’s not like I haven’t taken every step necessary to help her become comfortable”

“Does she work here because she owes you something?”

“Tis a longer story then we have time for. Perhaps she would tell you herself if thou asks… unlikely though”

“Hm… either way you know me. If she only has to focus on helping me out, she’s would be less ornery then she would be with anypony else”

“You say that as if thou is not annoying”

“Not always!” Lulu giggles in response.

“And what exactly do you need help with?”

“Writing a story. You see I have this idea in my head but, I need somepony to write it for me”

She seems to buy my excuse, “Hm, could we receive a sneak peak at what is to come?”

I shake my head no, “That would be spoiling all the fun”

“I guess this would be true… fine. We shall assign her to assist thou in your writing. I must contact the head maid first so understand if there is a delay”

“Thanks, you’ll love it I promise”

She returns my smile and walks over to my side. “Enough chit chat, we have delayed as long we should. We must make haste if I am not to be late again”

“Again?”

Speedily she rushes me to the door with her, “Yes we are always late. You will see why in a moment”

We hurry down several flights of stairs until my legs and lungs begin to burn. It’s at this point she slows down, focusing more on her appearance then timing. I take notice and make myself more presentable as well, brushing my hair back and fixing the buttons on my shirt. Eventually we reach the throne room where Luna takes her rightful place on the throne with me at her side, sitting in my own little chair. Looking up at her during her little royalty display I can’t help but chuckle some. She glanced over with an eye.

“What is it that causes your laughter?”

“Just you… sitting up in the big chair. Looking all high and mighty”

She blushes lightly glancing around to the ponies nearby. She leans forward over to me with a whisper, “Could you perhaps refrain from embarrassing us?”

“Sorry”

And so back to our positions we go, and we wait. Then wait. Then wait some more. Until the doors open and a stallion dressed in his best apparel makes his way down the red carpet. His unexpected arrival causes me to nearly fall out of my chair. I straighten my back and hold my head high.

When the stallion approaches close enough to make out his face it becomes evident the amount of fear he holds. His hooves shake in anticipation, eyes wide soaking in every detail. He might wet himself if I did so little as yell.

Stopping in front of the guard, he kneels to Luna staying down as he speaks, “P-princess Luna, y-your m-majesty!”

“Stand” her voice is stern and frightening almost as much as her appearance. If looks could kill…

He clears his throat and shakily stands back up. His eyes dart to me for a fraction of a second. “I’ve c-come toda- t-tonight to ask f-for y-your help. You see I traveled-“

“To the point please”

“Eep! S-sorry!” He almost composed himself. “The nation of deer have been selling their furniture goods at a much lower price then my company and other pony companies can handle! They even sell for lower prices in Canterlot then they do in Thicket! This has to be illegal princess ther-“

“Lower thy voice” he shrinks in fear. “We have heard your inquiry, now what is it thou wishes to be done?”

“C-can’t you m-make them pay a fee or something to sell here?”

“Thou speaks of a tariff” Luna leans forward from her chair, “Do you understand the implications of such a maneuver?”

“W-well no b-but-“

“If we were to tax the deer folk of Thicket for every individual furniture sold would it be unwise to suggest they might establish a tariff of their own?”

“Well-“

“It was rhetorical. They own a majority of the market and have the power in this situation, we could not use a tariff”

She turns to me with a smile, “What do you believe we should do Mr. Marshall?” It takes a second for me to realize I’m at the center of attention.

Oh shit, it’s go time brain! Please, if there’s anything I’ve learned from my economics classes it would be wonderful if it came to me now!

“Um… isn’t this called dumping? Like what the… deer folk are doing?”

She nods, “Yes and it is rather harmful to our countries domestic producers like this stallion here” her hoof hovers over to the sweaty stallion. “Now do you know what we should do to combat such a nasty technique?”

“Import quota?”

“Yes this would be one of the ways we could handle such a situation. Another option would be through subsidies, paying our stallion here for each unit sold in order to reduce the cost of production and match our neighboring nation. Through an import quota however, we can limit the amount of furniture they are able to sell and help our companies find more opportunity”

The stallion takes a step forward clearly out of his comfort zone, “The whole s-subsidy idea sounds k-kinda-“

“And an import quota we shall implement!” He deflates some. “We must first go over the details with our sister before any rash decision making. Thank you for bringing this to our attention, thou may take their leave”

“Uh.. thank you um.. princess Luna and thank you… Mr…?”

“Marshall”

“Marshall! I won’t forget your wonderful help!”

“May the moonlight shine thou’s path”

Quickly he shuffles out leaving the two of us alone again. Luna turns to me with an excited look. “Impressed?”

“I was too busy trying to not make a fool of myself to really notice anything” she seems a little disappointed. “But I didn’t know you knew so much about economics. That was kinda impressive”

Luna lowers her voice so only we can hear, “Actually I only know a very basic amount. We were hoping you could bail us out there while I collected my thoughts”

“That why you’re waiting to talk it over with Celestia first?”

“Yes it would be most wise to speak with her and her advisors rather than make this decision on our own. Thank you for your help though. We are impressed thou knew the answer as well”

“I went to school for the shit so I better”

“For economics?”

“Yep, can’t say I’m too good at it but, I definitely could understand and hold a conversation about it”

She seems deep in thought, coming to a sudden revelation. “Would thou be willing to join us each night to be our own advisor? We believe there is more you are capable of then you give credit”

“I appreciate the offer but, don’t you know how terrible I do with attention?”

“Nonsense, my night court is always empty. We don’t get most of our inquires til the early morning. Honestly, a good court would receive up to five or six visits” Then it dawns on me why.

“Luna, why do you think most ponies don’t show up to night court?”

“Because of the time of course”

“Yes but, would you say you get less ponies then you probably should?”

“It isn’t something one could just assume a number to” a look of disbelief is enough to get her truth. “Okay, we admit. The night court has been suffering with attendance” she sinks into chair. “It’s one of the reasons we are always late”

I take a deep breath, “I don’t want to seem rude when I say this but, don’t you think you could be a little more… approachable?”

The guard nearby glances a worried peek which Luna catches with a glare, “What does thou mean?! We were courteous!”

“Yeah to me! Not that stallion that was seconds away from pissing himself!”

Her head lifts in disagreement, “We believe you are being dramatic”

“Luna” my serious tone catches her attention. “Give it a try”

With a sigh and a deflation of her shoulders, she gives in. “Fine, we will be more… approachable”

“Like you would treat me”

“… like I would treat a lesser you”

“Close enough”

The court dragged on and the night remained uneventful. There was a two more ponies that appeared beyond our first stallion and to her word, Luna attempted to be more inviting. It went as poorly as you’d expect, her patience drawing thin after only a few moments but, it was a work in progress. Hopefully before I headed home in a few months I could fix up her reputation. Morning drew near and the clock struck 4, it was the end of night court. There would be a 3 hour period where no court was held until Celestia took the throne leaving me and Luna some time to do whatever.

Walking back we take a break in Celestia’s private library to give another look at the text within. Luna does most the searching given the strange squiggle language, while I follow her around pestering.

“Yikes, I don’t know about that one”

“Again, thou cannot read a single one of these texts! How could you possibly assume this is not the book?”

“Cause it’s not old enough I mean look at it” It’s it horrible shape. Any sudden movement might cause the pages to fall clean out from the cover.

“Not old enough? Is thou looking for ancient cave drawings?!”

“Hieroglyphics would be pretty nice”

“You learning to read old Poneish would be pretty nice”

“And miss out on an opportunity like this? Cmon we’re having fun!”

“Maybe thou is having fun…” she stomps a hoof lightly.

Maybe 5 more minutes pass and I start to get antsy. “Is there anywhere else that might have an answer? Maybe like another library forgotten in the past?”

“There is the old castle… but, I doubt anything there would still be functional. Most of the grounds would be littered with booby traps and collapsed foundation. Best if we stayed away”

“Only a matter of time until Twilight dives in there on another test”

“Don’t be ridiculous, our sister has no purpose delving into that old crusty castle”

I have to take her word, I don’t know Celestia well enough to argue. “Then let’s just call it for today. I mean it’s my first night here, we’ve already searched here and I bet you’re tired from dealing with those ponies in court”

“Very much so. We didn’t realize how exhausting it is to preform unnecessary friendliness!”

“It’s completely necessary! Don’t you want your ponies to love you not fear you?”

“Weren’t you the one who said they loved us already?”

“… that was Nightmare Night *shiver* your holiday! Course they loved you that night!” The world alone made my skin crawl but, I hide my discomfort.

Luna stays quiet causing me to look over in worry. Her teal eyes carry the burden of pity, “We are sorry our holiday is to be remembered so poorly”

Damage control mode!

“No no no, it’s fine Luna. I still love the holiday and it’s not your fault!”

“But you cannot enjoy it as thou once did! It’s been spoiled, tainted by evil”

I sit down on a nearby stool, slightly bummed from the topic, “Luna if you don’t mind me asking. What ever happened to that stallion at that farm?”

Grim, it’s the only word that could convey her expression. “Redemption”

“Did you… ya know? You don’t have to tell me if it makes you uncomfortable” sitting down beside me she stays quiet for a bit. “We can drop it, honestly. Actually let’s just go back to-“

“We wish the punishment we inflicted that day were more suitable for the crime. His vile soul was relived more suitable for a valiant knight then for the slimy rat he was. Our only regret was not killing him slower”

I’m left in uncertainty. That stallion had given up. Yes he was a monster, yes he deserved to rot behind bars but, to be murdered? I couldn’t disagree that he had it coming but, it makes me wonder if I should’ve killed him instead, so that Luna never would have. She senses my internal conflict and interrupts.

“It is okay if you distain us after such news. Understand however, if we were given the chance to undo what happened, I would not”

I get up and kneel beside her, she faces away from me in shame. With a simple act of a hug her worry melts away in my warmth. “Luna I would never hate you”

“We are not a good pony Joey, we have done unspeakable things in our lifetime. Could you guarantee that promise in the face of what’s not already been told?”

“Yes because I love the pony that’s right here in front of me, the pony you are now”

She rests her face into my shoulder, “We are despicable… having to rely on thou for comfort even after a lifetime as long as ours. You should not have to console me”

Rubbing her back I stay silent, letting my actions speak for me. When she goes to pull away I squeeze her close with a loving care. Her voice shakes, “P-please, we are fine” A shush her and continue to hold tight, gently brushing my hand through her mane. “J-Joey! We… we are….”

Then with a quiet whimper, she squeezes tight against me. Luna’s soft whimpers fill the room and ache my heart. I can only hold her until she’s cried it all out. Whether it was for a few minutes or several, the room eventually falls to a peace with the two of us still wrapped in the middle. Luna is the first to pull away, wiping the tears from her face.

“We are sorry. Thou should never have to see us this way”

I hold her hoof, “It’s okay, I’m here for you”

Although downtrodden, she’s able to give me a smile. “We are truly blessed to have met you” Luna rubs into my shoulder once more to hide her messy face, “Tis been a long time since somepony has seen us cry. We are glad it was you”

“You know it’s okay with me if you need to do this again sometime. I get how at times things get a little out of control and we just need a release. It’s impossible to keep everything pent up forever”

“Hopefully your offer proves unnecessary and we are to experience only joyous times ahead… but, we know how life cycles” She looks to me with a glimmer in her eye. “Promise us you’ll be there when we need you”

“Luna I can’t make a promise like that. We both know that but, I will in my power do whatever it takes to make you happy”

“That will have to do”

Our night is cut short after Luna’s breakdown leading us back to her chambers for the night… or day, whatever makes more sense. Closing her curtains against the rising sun I look over to the princess laying in her bed. She gives her best puppy dog eyes.

“Would you accompany us to bed? At least until we have a fallen asleep?”

I can’t imagine this ends with me anywhere else but sleeping in her bed for the whole night

“Sure”

Giddily she scoots over allowing me enough room as if the bed wasn’t already large enough. Soon as I settle in she latched to my arm.

“This is wonderful, I finally have you to my own”

“Luna your greed is sticking out”

“What is this?” Confused I look to see what she asks of. A hoof rolls under my shirt sleeve revealing my former scars.

“You didn’t know about these?”

“You do not have these in the dreamscape, why has this been hidden from us? Are these recent?!”

“What? No! These are… these are from when I was living alone, before Pinkie moved in” I brush over the surface of my arm, the scarring leaving little speed bumps along the skin. “I wasn’t in the right mindset…”

“We never knew of this Joey… we… I am sorry you experienced such pain”

“It’s fine Lulu, I wouldn’t ever do it again. I learned my lesson once I saw how much it hurt my friends. I never thought they’d feel responsible otherwise I wouldn’t have done it in the first place”

“I can understand. We too did not see how much suffering was inflicted upon our sister having left her with no choice but, to banish us. We let jealousy command our actions and ruin what good standing we still had. It wasn’t until I was reformed did I see the error in my ways. Take solace that my fate wasn’t the same as yours”

“When I look at my arms I can’t help but feel like I’m such an idiot for having done what I did. I don’t mean to pry but does that sound similar to anything you’ve ever felt?”

“Hm, nothing particular. We carry no scars or symbol of our shameful behavior. We are lucky in that regard at least. This does not mean we bear no reminder to our mistake. The Summer Sun celebration in its entirety is a celebration of our defeat at the hooves of our sister. She does not see in it that way and we have learned to embrace it nonetheless. It was our worst mistake in the end and does deserve celebration”

“You don’t still think you’re evil right?”

“We can see where this is already going. Please do not patronize us Joey, I know I am not evil. However I will not consider ourself good either”

Closing my eyes I wrap an arm around Luna, “I think you’re a good pony. I guess I’ll just have to make you realize how good you really are”

Luna rolls her eyes snuggling close, “Ha! Good luck with that endeavor”

“Thank you but, I don’t need luck. It’s my special talent”

“Uh huh, just remember to treat your body more respectfully. We cannot cuddle thou if there is nothing to cuddle”

“You make me feel so wanted”

“That was never our intention”

“Heh… hehe… funny joke”

Author's Note

Turns out I have unipolar depression! Yay!!

But I’ll be okay ;)

I’m tough and writing this story is therapeutic. It’s helped me during some of my low swings and helped me find this new hobby of writing. Always thought about writing my own story and I wish I did it earlier when I had more time but there’s no time for regrets!

This chapter I put some serious time into so hopefully you could tell, otherwise I suck!

Thanks for reading and I hope you have a fucking great day/night!