Another Sun Rises

by Foal Star

Rating: teen
Tags: Princess Luna, Original Character, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Princess Celestia, Alternate Universe
Length: 25992

A Random Royal Guard has been selected for a special duty to take Celestia's place while she goes on vacation.

(This story takes place after season 4)

Princess Celestia has been ruling Equestria for quite some time and decides she needs a long overdue vacation. So she creates a plan to have one of her royal guards take her place, an introvert named North Star. He is a simple royal guard who simply never really did much in his life and didn't have much going for him. He was a perfect candidate as nopony would miss him, and his absence would be hidden under the guise of a "secret assignment." North Star accepts and goes through the transformation, turning into a copy of the princess in almost every way. The truth is he feels more alive as the princess and decides that he should try living a little as her. But he also has to realize anything he does will reflect back on the real Princess Celestia and, most of all, he cannot expose her absence.

Published 2020-12-23 10:00:01 UTC
Last updated 2024-08-22 17:50:51 UTC

Chapter one: The new princess of the sun is born

I am standing at attention in the halls of Canterlot Palace, looking straight at a window across from me. My name is North Star; I'm twenty-three years old. Staring at my reflection, looking at my dark blue coat with a set of gold armor; my tail was colored black and cut short, my eyes were bright gold, and my cutie marked a gold star on a shield. I have been a royal guard for a few years now, but I've been a nobody my entire life. Even though I've been knocked about and mostly been the one saved by Twilight and her friends. Celestia seems to like me more than most; she usually ruffles my mane when I'm posted at her door or gives me some of her cake when she doesn't want to finish it. She talks to me a lot, maybe because I don't have any friends of my own. I have a routine I stick to: wake up, eat breakfast, mostly a hardboiled egg and some coffee, polish my armor, go to the palace, do my job, eat a dandelion sandwich for lunch with extra mustard, go home and workout, take a shower, read some Daring Do, eat dinner which was usually whatever is in my fridge, then go to sleep by ten.

I haven't broken from this routine in over two years. Everything seemed as expected this morning, and my inner clock struck like a chime. I took off going down the hall on my usual patrol, going around the castle's inner halls. As I was going down the aisles, one of the royal guards came running towards me. He was a white-coated pegasus with a blue mane and eyes, one of the typical macho pegasi who probably have a kid or two, saluted me. "Sir Star, I have special orders for you."

I turned my head and quickly saluted back, seeing the stallion's rank was higher than mine, and responded curtly. "Yes, sir."

The pegasus took a scroll from its wings and handed it over; as I took the scroll in my magic, my fellow guard explained. "Princess Celestia herself ordered me to bring this to you immediately."

I was now quite nervous as I slowly unfurled the scroll in front of me and read it. "Dear North Star, I have a special assignment for you and only you; I am waiting in the cafe called "Sunbucks." You'll see it as you leave through the front gates of the palace. You must take it. Meet me there during your lunch break. From Princess Celestia."

I was stunned that the princess wanted to meet me privately. It was unheard of; if I'm not mistaken, this is unprofessional. I gulped, wondering if this was a test to see if I would fraternize with the princess of Equestria or a prank by some of the other guards. But the scroll had the royal seal on it. After reading many formal letters by the princess, the penmanship was undoubtedly Celestia's. It looked like I had no choice but to comply. So I rolled the scroll up and gave a salute back. "Yes, thank you for this."

"No problem...um… Glow Star, right?" the other guard asked sheepishly.

I sighed but wasn't too angry; most of the Guards didn't even know I existed, and I simply responded, "My name is North Star."

"Right, carry on, North Star." the other guard replied as he trotted off. I just rolled my eyes and walked off down the castle, wondering what to expect from this meeting with the princess.

I continued through the castle halls, deep in my thoughts and what to expect. My most obvious guess was this was a prank; the guards had pranked me many times before. But copying the royal seal would be punishable by court-martial, and no pony would risk that. So it had to be an informal meeting with Celestia; why would she be interested in meeting with me in Equestria? I continued to walk out of the palace and through the gates. I looked around the streets of Canterlot, wondering where this coffee shop was. I eventually spotted the sign "Sunbucks." I saw an alicorn logo with a cup of coffee in her wings on a green background. Besides that, the building looked like any other standard cafe, with metallic tables and chairs outside and those silly umbrellas in the middle. I slowly trotted to the door and saw the sign read "closed." I sighed, seeing that this meeting would be strictly private. But it made sense, considering this was way too informal and would raise eyebrows if Celestia was caught having "coffee" with any pony, let alone one of her guards. I slowly used my magic to test the doorknob and saw it open. I slowly walked into the shop, looked around, and realized that it was just like any other cafe: the wooden floors, the small tables and chairs around the place, and photos of steaming cups, coffee, and coffee beans plastered.

Behind the counter, which had pastries on display, there were a few machines in the back and some odd coffee names on a chalkboard behind it. The names were rather funny, like,
"Big Maciatto," "Twilightlatte," "Luna Mocha," and even a "Rainbow Dash frappuccino."

I scratched my head and was quite confused and unsure of what this was all about. When I saw a teenage mare come forward with a light bubblegum pink mane and white coat with velvet eyes and wearing a green apron with the logo on the building printed on it, she turned to face me with a smile and waved a hoof. "Hello, North Star; glad you came to join me."

I was somewhat confused seeing this mare come forth; she looked oddly like Celestia, but she looked way younger and different; it couldn't be...but as the mare came closer, my eyes grew wide seeing her cutie mark of a coffee cup with a sun plastered on it. Then it suddenly clicked, and I realized it had to be the princess. I cried out. "Princess Celestia!"

"Oh darn, this isn't a good disguise, huh? Even Luna said this was too obvious," she grumbled irritably.

I couldn't help but snicker at this response, but I quickly regained my military bearing. "Sorry about that."

The princess gave me a soft smile and waved a hoof. "Stop being so stiff; take off that armor and relax."

I was still on edge, but I did as she asked, removing my armor bit by bit from my body and gently placing my helmet down, showing off my short-cut black mane.

"My goodness, you take the military code too seriously? Do you ever loosen up?" The princess asked with a concerned tone.

"I'm just following orders, princess," I responded back. I wasn't concerned with how I looked, following protocol because it's what was asked of me.

Celestia was now leaning over the counter with a smirk. "Oh, is that so? Well, I want you to order a coffee. Choose what you like; it's on me.

"Um...just a Twilightlatte for me…" I stammer; she then goes to one of the machines and pours me the drink while also making herself a cup. We then go over to one of the tables with a platter of donuts in the middle and sit across from each other. It was so awkward for me as I had never been on a date before, and now I was sitting across a table with the princess of Equestria and having coffee with her. I never realized how big and beautiful her eyes were and how her mane looked so curly around her head. All these little details I'd never noticed about the princess started to stand out. Celestia gave me a smile and said, "So, you're probably wondering why I called you here so informally...in truth, this is my little hideout, a place where I can escape from the pressure of being royalty."

"Why are you showing this place to me?" I asked with a gulp and was unsure how to take this news. I am excited but skeptical of the princess showing me one of her secrets.

Celestia sipped her coffee and sighed, "Look, I trust all my royal guards, but...I think you'll be the only one to accept the task I'm about to give."

I sipped my drink, and it was surprisingly good. The coffee was quite strong, with the milk and sweetener mixed well and well balanced. "I had no idea you were a barista?"

"Well, it's one of my many hobbies, though it would be rather awkward if I served coffee to my subjects."

It made sense; honestly, I wanted to know why I was here. I looked up from my drink and asked, "What's this task you wish to assign me?"

Celestia smiled sheepishly and replied, "I want you to take my place for a year."

I spat out my coffee instantly, and when I looked up, I realized, to my horror, that I had spat coffee all over Celestia's face with her pristine white coat now covered in brown liquid! I cried out, took a few napkins, and started to wipe her face as I cried out. "I'm so sorry! I didn't mean to do that!"

The princess just laughed as she used her magic and removed the coffee from her mane. "It's quite alright. I should've expected a response like that."

I sat back down, still stunned and feeling nervous about this whole thing. She must've been joking, or I misheard what Celestia said and asked, "Now tell me again exactly what you want me to do?"

The princess sighed again as she looked over at me with those big velvet eyes. "Run my kingdom as me for a year. You will be transformed into a copy of me; you'll look, talk, and even think like me."

"What!?" I cried. I couldn't believe what I was hearing. It had to be a dream, or maybe this mare was a changeling in disguise. I rose up from my seat and shouted, "You can't be serious!"

Celestia blinked as she sipped her coffee; she continued, "I am; this isn't a joke…"

I was still stunned, with sweat now running down my brow like bullets. "This is insane...I...I can't do this…"

"North Star, the reason I chose you is that nopony will really notice your absence. I know that sounds harsh, but you're my only option. If you say no...then I guess my vacation will be canceled." Celestia whispered meekly, seeming to be a bit disheartened.

I gulped down the rest of the coffee and finished my donut. There was silence as I finished my meal, contemplating my options; if I said no, everything would return to normal. I spend my shift going to work out, eating the leftover pizza in the fridge, finishing the new Daring Do book, and continuing my routine. But If I say yes, Celestia will be indebted to me, and I will be indeed one of her favorites; in fact, it could also mean promotion...and what? I just have to change my gender for a year? And have the treatment of an alicorn princess as well. This deal sounds better and better as I thought it over. "Alright, I accept, but disclose everything to me. What will happen? How will I become...um...you…" I asked with a gulp.

Celestia continued, "Well, it's simple; I will pour some of my milk into another cup of coffee and mix it with a spell. You'll transform physically into me within a few minutes. The transformation will be permanent until I reverse it when I get back."

I gulped and continued, "ok...so...um...anything else I should know?"

"Well, as for you, North Star, I have the paperwork ready to put in false orders of a secret mission by my sister Luna if you accept. So your house will still be under your name, and you'll still receive your monthly paycheck and an added bonus." Celestia explained.

I tapped a hoof on the table, nodding, seeing that, at the very least, nobody would be tracking me down, thinking I went AWOL, and asked, "ok...anything else?"

The princess's cheeks flushed pink, and she continued, "The transformation will not only change your body; it will alter your mind and your thought process, your mannerisms, and how you act...in all instances, you will become me."

I slowly finished my coffee and ate the rest of my donuts. I thought again how a year of Celestia would be interesting. Still, it would also be a lot of responsibility...responsibility.

I wasn't sure I would be ready for." I have to admit, being you for a year would be fun...but what about the responsibilities of running the kingdom and raising the sun? Can I get some training or something?"

Celestia turned with a smile, "You won't need any training; the transformation will make you a copy of me; the only pony who will know you, not me, would be my sister. Trust me, I've planned this for a while."

I tapped a hoof on the table and was still unsure of all of this. The worst part was that I was uncertain what to do, but Celestia gave me this pleading look, hoping I would say yes. That look sold it for me; it would break the princess's heart if I said no and I finally spat out. "Yeah, I'll do it."

The princess clapped her hooves and squealed, "Yes! Trust me, you won't regret it!"

She got up and skipped over behind the counter as she started to fix up another cup of coffee. Still, she did something different, taking the cup beneath her underbelly. I could hear the hisss and the smell of something sweet emanating across the cafe'. She hoofed over the coffee with that playful smirk. "Go ahead, drink up; you should be lucky to drink pure alicorn milk."

I was shaking like a leaf as this was probably the weirdest day of my life. I took the cup in my magic and started to drink the coffee. I gulped it down, tasting the coffee again and the sweet, creamy milk running down my throat. I never tasted anything so good as I gulped the coffee down. That was when I started to feel different as soon as my body morphed around me. My body slowly began to grow in length; I groaned as I began to grow taller and lankier; it felt like I was being stretched like a piece of rubber. This transformation started to hurt as I could feel my bones creak and my muscles and organs change. It felt so weird and made me squirm about. I had to lay down on my back, and as I did, I looked down at my belly and saw my dark blue coat turned into a pure white. I then knew what would come next and saw my long, slick stallionhood slipping between my legs. I couldn't help but groan, feeling my insides getting rearranged, and watched my testicles morph into a long slit between my legs. I moaned out loud with my octaves changing, becoming more feminine. That was when I felt my face morph and shift as it grew out in length. I could feel something grow on my forehead. I couldn't see it, but my horn was increasing in size. I felt the bones creak, and my muscles finished rearranging themselves on my face. Then, the most painful part was when my wings started to grow from my sides. I cried out as I felt like my sides were burning and could feel my skin and muscles splitting for the new appendages to emerge. I gritted my teeth as I thought something slowly grew out from the sides of my body. I laid my head back, hearing a few more pops as my bones adjusted to my new appendages. The last thing that changed was my black mane going out and changing to a light rainbow color.

The real Celestia then trotted over with a worried look, standing over me with a smile as she rubbed a hoof down my body. "Oh my, you are so beautiful, more so than I expected….welcome, Princess Celestia."

I could feel my face burn from sheer embarrassment as she took my hoof and lifted me onto my hooves. I squeaked, stumbling about getting used to my wings and a new body. The real Celestia, however, looked over me, ensuring everything looked good. She trotted around me, and I looked around and got a look at my rump. Celestia's cutie mark was now printed on my butt, which I had to admit was quite big.

"Alright, seems you're looking like me...now come on, take a seat." The princess cooed. I sighed and followed her, blushing as I stumbled about on my lanky legs. I followed Celestia to our booth and slowly sat in my new body. I was again shaking like a leaf with my wings folded to my sides. The real Celestia gave a sigh, "Seriously, loosen up."

The princess then hoofed over a piece of cake. "This always cheers me up, go and eat up."

I sniffed the air and smelt the cake. To be honest, I was never a fan of the stuff, but for some reason, I have this profound craving for it now. I bent down, took the cake, and ate it with a fork. Levitating small pieces at first into my mouth. But the sweet vanilla flavor filled my taste buds when I was in heaven. It was like eating pure bliss, and I couldn't help but shove the whole piece in my mouth, munching away as I let out an "mmmm."

The real princess Alicorn smiled, "Yep, you me, alright."

I squealed as I realized I had just eaten a cake like a little filly in front of the princess! I dab my face with a napkin as I gulp down the cake and respond, "I apologize for that; I just couldn't help myself."

I blinked, wondering why I said that in such a formal manner, and my voice was identical to the Princess of the Sun. I touched my throat with a hoof and blinked. "My voice…"

"Yep, it's mine; I told you you're going to sound exactly like me, think like me, etc.…" Celestia chirped quite proudly as she got up. "Now, you should head back to the palace and finish with court duty; today's schedule is pretty light, so you shouldn't have much to worry about."

I quickly stood up with my tail swishing about as I stammered, "I...I...I mean, can you at least walk me through today? I didn't think I would be taking over so suddenly."

The princess walked over and rubbed a hoof over my face with those big velvet eyes staring back at me again. "You got this, also...if Twilight needs anything, just ensure she gets the help she needs."

I started feeling relaxed and nodded, "Of course, princess…" Celestia then strolled off as I stood there, watching her rump shake in front of me. I turned around and sighed, "All alright, guess I should go...um...do my duties…"

I then trotted towards the cafe's door, and as I crossed into Canterlot's street, I looked behind me to see the restaurant was gone. It disappeared like it was never there. I looked around nervously as ponies near me began to bow in reverence, and I gulped before I stammered, "Pl...please do. Don't bow; please rise, my dear subjects."

Some of the ponies gave me an odd look, but most shrugged and continued on their day. I slowly trotted down the street, getting used to my new body, but it seemed to act almost on its own. I held my head up, and my strut was starting to feel more natural. As I came to the palace, many guards bowed, and I simply raised a hoof like before. "Please don't; I just came back from lunch."

They simply rose back up and saluted as they replied, "Yes, princess."

I shivered at them calling me princess, with the surreal feeling coming over me again. Still, I ignored it and continued to trot through the palace's front doors slowly. I began to trot down the hall with the guards, even at their post, not noticing the difference at all. This was all too surreal, and I almost felt like this had to be a dream as I walked towards the princess's throne. I looked at it with awe, seeing how sitting on this thing must be uncomfortable for hours. I then thought that that must be why Celestia keeps her rump so big. But I couldn't think about this theory for long and had to take her seat before this looked suspicious. I sat down on the cold stone throne and shivered as I flexed my wings a bit, giving them a few flaps. I gave a sigh of relief, feeling the aches and pains from the transformation slowly leaving my body. I folded my wings to my sides, looked down the aisle, and proclaimed, "I'm ready to resume court; let's proceed."

Chapter two: Raising the Sun

It was early one morning, and I was awakened out of pure instinct. I don't know why my body had me awake at such an hour. I gave a loud yawn and stretched my giant feathery white wings and long legs over my body. I slowly started getting out of bed as I plopped down onto my hooves and squeaked, stumbling about my much more prominent and lanky body. I slowly began to trot across the room towards my window, where I slowly placed my much larger head over my hoof, gazed out outside the palace, and took in the view of the great city of Canterlot that was wrapped up under a blanket of night. It was beautiful, with the rooftop stars shining brightly in the night sky. I looked right up over the city and admired the moon's light shining down over the capital of Equestria. Canterlot seemed relatively peaceful, covered by the velvet night and how beautiful everything looked. I couldn't help but wonder when the sun would come up. Then it hit me as I slammed a hoof into my face that it was my job to raise the sun!

"Buck!" I shouted out loud as I rushed off to the bathroom, where I started getting ready for the day, hopping into the shower and slowly letting the warm water run all over my body. I raised my head and loved the feeling of the water flowing over my supple mare's body. I lathered a lovely, sweet-smelling shampoo and conditioner into my mane and tail. I then raised my head, and the water trailed through my hair and rinsed the soap and shampoo from my mane and tail. Then I went about using magic to levitate a scrub brush and scrub down my entire body over an inch of my soft white-coated body. I shivered a little going over my rump and nether regions, and I wasn't ready for how sensitive those areas were, making little moaning sounds as I trailed the brush through my underbelly. It felt rather nice, and I continued to stroke my entire body during the meeting for some time.

But, I quickly snapped out of it, seeing I had the sun to rise and after finishing rinsing off whatever soap was clinging to me. I then turned the faucet off and trotted to the sink, where I began brushing my long, light, rainbow-colored mane. I tried to get the tangles out and worked through the long, colorful strands with every brush. I first was wincing in pain with each brush stroke, but I eventually got used to it as I continued combing through my tangled mess of a mane. After my hair was brushed to perfection, I turned my attention to my matted tail and skimmed it through, making sure to run the brush through until my tail was smooth as silk.

I then went about and took a pair of hoof clippers and started to trim my hooves. They were already well-manicured, but I noticed a few parts of the hooves where the keratin was a bit overgrown. After going over the clipping, I went about grinding my hooves with a hoof file, making the roof edges smooth, and I then finished the job by taking a rag soaked in oil and polishing them until they were smooth as silk and gleamed in the light of my fireplace. After that, I went about my routine, brushing my teeth slowly, which was somewhat awkward, seeing that my mouth was much larger than what I was used to. But I eventually got through it as I scrubbed my teeth with minty toothpaste and rinsed my mouth with mouthwash. I then looked up into the mirror, looking over my body, being much freshened and rather good-looking. I then gave one long sigh before trotting through the bathroom door. As I opened the door, I was surprised to see a much older-looking unicorn mare with a tan coat and a dark black and mixed blue mane. She sported a tiny white collar with a pair of slick glasses on her nose. The mare slanted her gaze right at me and shouted, "There you are! Do you have any idea what time it is!?"

I stood there looking somewhat confused and started to stammer and stutter, unable to make words sound like unintelligible noises pouring out of my mouth.

"Ugh, never mind! Just come on before we have a full-on riot on our hooves!" the mare shouted as she stomped off while cursing under her breath.

I felt somewhat embarrassed being lectured by a mare half my size, but seeing I was already messing up as the princess, I didn't see the point of trying to fight her. As we trotted through the relatively empty halls of the castle, I was trying to think about the mare's name. I felt rather stupid, but seeing that I would probably be working with her for the entire year, it was somewhat necessary. I stammered over my words, but I eventually asked, "Um…your name is Quill Feather, right?"

"Yes, what is it?" the mare asked.

"Oh, never mind," I snickered as she was escorted outside into the palace gardens, where a group of ponies had been waiting for me. This was the first time I'd be out in public, so I held my head high and flexed my wings abit as I trotted over towards my subjects with all their eyes on me. The experience was quite nerve-racking, and I was somewhat nervous as I crossed the garden, my nerves slowly dissipating until I was right in front of them. My heart was still thumping in my chest, but I was starting to feel more in my element. I cleared my throat and bowed and said, "I apologize for the wait. I stayed up much later than I initially anticipated and overslept."

I got a lot of groans and mumbles of "finally," seeing most ponies have waited here for some time. I then stood up on all fours, spread my wings, and looked up into the sky. I flew into the air with my horn glowing. I felt a surge of magic flow over me as the sun's heat came up from behind me, and I could see the night slowly dissipate as the sun shined down among the ponies below. They were amazed at their luminous eyes as the morning sun shone over the crowd below. It was all rather magical as I flew back down from the sky and landed among my subjects, who were now much happier seeing the sun had finally risen. Despite the magical nature of the event, seeing all of these ponies standing around looking rather pleased. I still felt rather terrible for raising the sun late and bowed my head. "I do apologize for raising the sun late. I swear it won't happen again."

Luckily for me, my subjects were all relatively happy as they clopped their hooves on the ground they then began to trot off to do their business. After everypony left to go about their business, I strode back to the castle and started to trot through the kitchen, and I had this urge to start making breakfast for my sister, Princess Luna. I then went and started to make food, going about making pancakes. I had never made them before, but the muscle memory seemed to kick in as I cracked eggs, flour, and butter together and whisked the batter until it was frothy. I plopped some berries and pieces of chocolate into the mix and stirred them in. After that, I went and started to fry up the pancakes and it wasn't long until the sweet scent of pancakes wafted from the food and into my nostrils. It wasn't long until I felt some drool come down my chin as I imagined myself gorging on the stack of pancakes growing before my eyes. But then I heard hoofsteps and I turned to see my sister, Princess Luna, trotting toward her with a smile on her face. She placed a hoof over her mouth and said, "Hello, sister, how are you this morning?"

"I'm doing well, thank you," I squeaked in surprise as my cheeks flushed red I didn't know if Princess Luna knew I was a royal guard and not her sister, and I had no idea what to do. Does she know that her sister is on vacation? Whatever the case, there were many palace staff trotting around, so the last thing I needed to do was blow my cover. I served her some pancakes, hoping she would enjoy herself and eat some. But my sister simply rolled her eyes and pushed them away, "I'm sorry, but I'm just not feeling it today."

I saw that my desire to make her food and to have her be more comfortable would go unappreciated. It made me feel rather annoyed with her, but seeing that these must be Princess Celestia's feelings, I didn't want to start a fight. So I took the high road and said, "Well, you don't have to eat, and besides, I know you're going to sleep soon, so I made you some lavender tea."

I then levitated a cup of sweet-smelling tea over to her, and she sipped it while making a loud "ahhh" sound as she looked up and said, "Wow, that is good; thank you, sister."

"It's my pleasure," I replied with a smile, seeing a bit happier she was enjoying my tea. I then sat down and began to chow down on the pancakes (seeing that my sister wasn't eating any). All the while, I listened to Princess Luna as she talked about the night, all the dreams she had visited, and all the ponies she'd helped. I couldn't help but smile while listening to her and thinking about how interesting it was to know that so much went into the dream realm. As Princess Luna finished talking, she looked at me with a smirk and asked, "So, how was raising the sun for the first time?"

I froze as I was not expecting the question, and I just stood there looking somewhat confused. The fact that Princess Luna knew I wasn't her sister came as quite a shock. But I didn't know what to say. I just stood there while stammering like an idiot. "I..I…w..well…."

"Oh, come now, I know that you're not my sister, not that you're giving anything away. You're doing a rather good job as her so far, minus raising the sun late."

"I'm sorry it was an accident I ju-"

Princess Luna held up a hoof with a smile and said, "Please don't fret; my sister has been late to raising the sun numerous times before."

I gave a few nervous chuckles, seeing that was true, and being late one time wasn't going to expose me as a stand-in for the true princess of the sun. My sister then took another sip of her tea as she continued, "In fact, she told me yesterday what she was planning to do with turning one of her guards into a clone of her."

I just put a hoof over my face, feeling rather silly. I should've guessed what Princess Celestia told her. I then looked up from my hooves and answered Princess Luna's original question. "Yes, raising the sun was quite the experience, and I very much enjoyed it."

Luna laughed as she wrapped her giant fluffy dark blue wings around me and whispered, "That's good to hear; just go on and do your duties. Just let my sister's instinct guide you," I wasn't really sure what else to say, but I stayed within my sister's warm embrace and nuzzled my face into her mane. Being hugged by two giant feathery wings was such a loving experience. The most interesting part was the overwhelming feeling of love I felt for Princess Luna and how much I wanted to remain held by her. However, the princess of the night gave a loud yawn, stretched her hooves, and said, "I should be getting some sleep; good day, sister," before trotting off. I stood there once more as I whispered, "Goodnight, dear sister."

I stood there while watching her trot off, feeling rather stupid for not thinking that the true Princess Celestia wouldn't tell her what was happening. I yawned and decided to make myself a cup of coffee, and as I sipped the bitter drink from my mug, I mumbled to myself, "Well, it's time for another day of sitting around while ponies complain about their problems."

I then slowly trotted over to my throne and sat down on a little satin pillow to keep my tush warm and comfortable. I then raised my head and looked over at the royal guards, all standing at attention, awaiting my orders. I took a moment to clear my throat and said, "Let's get started, shall we?"

Chapter three: Princess R&R

Author's Note

I know I haven't updated this story in over a year. So if your reading this just wanted to say. Thank you for reading!

Chapter three: Princess R&R

*nudge*

I felt something playing with my mane, and I slowly groaned as I looked up to see that I had fallen asleep on my writing desk. I saw Philomena pecking at my mane. I groaned as something sticky dried up on my face, and I wiped it with a hoof as I saw there was some black ink on my hoof; I just looked down at it, feeling annoyed seeing I split an ink pot all over a scroll I was writing on.

"Oh dear, not again," I mumbled, wiping ink from my face and flicking the black liquid. I laid back, thinking about a month since I'd been turned into Princess Celestia, and I was exhausted. It's been a long, hard road trying to be the princess and going through all her duties. I slowly woke up after an entire night of dealing with filing tax forms and trying to negotiate a trade deal.

I then got up and slowly went through the motions of getting ready for the day, first getting Princess Celestia's pet phoenix her breakfast consisting of a bunch of nuts and seeds and afterward went to take a shower, putting on light makeup, brushing out the tangles in my mane and tail and setting magic as they wavered on their own. I then went out, raised the sun, and went about performing morning court as I drank down half a dozen cups of coffee to keep myself from collapsing. Who was hoofed to me by my loyal assistant Quill Feather? Then noon came, and I met with some nobles over my tax reforms. I was coming out of the meeting hall looking happy but rather tired and slowly trotted to a nearby bathroom to relieve myself. As I was washing my hooves, I looked up at my reflection. Then I saw my reflection for the first time: bags under my eyes and my mane looking a bit frazzled and somewhat jittery from the caffeine rushing through my system. I wonder how I haven't collapsed from all the stress running through my body, and then that was when I heard a knock and a mare asked, "Princess, are you doing alright?"

I scrambled a little upon hearing somepony calling out to me and turned around and squeaked out in surprise. "yes, I am! I apologize. I'm finishing up."

I quickly dried my hooves and rose up, trying to look as regal as I possibly could. Then I trotted out of the restroom, and there standing before me was Quill Feather, who was smiling, "Well, Princess Celestia, it seems we finally got those tax reforms passed."

I let out an annoyed sigh, having spent hours working on those tax reforms, and with a sigh of relief, replied, "Yes, indeed, I am so relieved that it is finally over."

"However, there is one thing you neglected."

I started to sweat, wondering what I could not have thought of. Did I date the forms wrong? Was there ink stains? Did I act out of character? I then started to stammer, "What is it? Did I do something wrong!?"

Quill Feather blinked, then shook her head and sighed, "Princess, you clearly neglected your own needs, both your mental and physical health."

"M…my mental and physical health!?"

The stout little pegasus trotted over and took my muzzle by the hoof, looking me over as she said, "Yes, your health, those bags under your eyes, you clearly haven't been getting any sleep, your frazzled mane, you require some serious R&R, so I took the opportunity to have a spa treatment plan set up for you."

I blinked, being abit confused and blindsided by the offer. "Spa…treatment?"

"Yes, spa treatment," she then took one of my wings and looked it over, picking out a few loose feathers, making me wince, "You are definitely in need of a royal preening."

"Wait, preening?"

She then took one of the hooves, and saw how rough it looked, cracked and stained with black ink. "A pedicure for your horn and hooves."

"Wait!"

"Yes?"

I just blinked with a confused expression on my face as I stammered, "I…um…" I brushed my frazzled mane, then cleared my throat, calming down for a second.

Quill Feather looked up with an odd look and asked, "Any objections? Is there something missing?"

I paused once again. This must be something the real Princess Celestia did after her victories in the debate hall. Still, it was intrusive and not something I was fully prepared for. "No…just um… am I going to be alone for this spa trip?"

"Of course not; your sister Princess Luna was the one who insisted on this and will be there with you."

I felt relieved having Celestia's sister with me. Still, I was also concerned about her losing sleep for my sake and asked, "Shouldn't she be sleeping during the day? She's normally in bed by around nine?"

"She already addressed that and said she will sacrifice a few hours of sleep to accompany you to your spa trip."

"That's…Wonderful, but I must l should still protest sh-"

Quill Feather interrupted me. "Luna already informed me you would protest, but she insists on being your escort. Now that's settled, you should get something to eat and rest."

I couldn't help but nod and agree with my assistant on that at this point; I was too exhausted to really fight it and ate a rather fancy salad and drank some tea, then lumbered to my room, took off Celestia's regalia, and flopped onto her bed. All I could do was lay there looking up at the ceiling, wondering if the real Celestia would be proud of me or furious with how I was treating her body or mine!? I slowly closed my eyes, unable to hold back sleep, and gradually fell into a deep slumber.

The next morning, I came to pecking at my mane again and knowing it was Phiolemia trying to wake me up to feed her. Peking at my head and being quite pestering.

"Philomena, please give me five more minutes."

I groaned, wanting to sleep in after my victory yesterday. But then I slowly got up from the bed to see a clock overhead and saw that it was a little past six and cried out in shock, seeing I overslept a little. I quickly got up and fed Philomenia her breakfast, fixed my regalia, skipped a shower, and went about brushing my mane and rinsing my mouth with mouthwash. I ran past my guards, shouting a quick "morning!" as I did so. I then went outside and saw most ponies were looking a bit annoyed, but I wasn't too late and made some quick apologies. I then quickly raised the sun, and then, as soon as I came down, I went to the royal dining hall and had a lovely breakfast of pancakes and coffee. As I savored breakfast, seeing I had the day off, I didn't rush this part of my morning and wanted to just take my time for once instead of scarfing it down. That was when Princess Luna, my "sister," trotted over with a smirk on her face. "Good morning."

"Good morning to you as well, dear sister. Seems like you have a day off."

"Yes indeed, mostly due to your insistence, of course. I can perform my royal duties without you having to babysit me."

"Of course, you can, and you're doing a marvelous job. I am simply here to assist you with your R&R. It's obvious you're overworked."

I gulped down my breakfast and whispered, "Yes, but does your sister normally have a spa date? I mean, just making sure it's something that's not out of her normal routine."

"Of course she does; you think she's spent a thousand years just working nonstop? Yes, she works a lot, but you need time for yourself, or you'll turn into Daybreaker."

"Whose that?"

Luna said, "That's another time for now; why don't we get going."

I was then escorted from the table to the chariot outside, where two pegasus guards bowed as I passed. I blushed and waved a hoof, telling them to stop, as I was still really uncomfortable when ponies did that. I then settled myself into my seat alongside Celestia's sister, and then we were off to a spa.

I was nervous looking around, seeing the beautiful spa parlor and ornate marble statues spurting water with an ornate desk with "my sister" talking to a lovely pegasus mare. I just stood by with a worried look on my face and wondered what they were whispering about. The pegasus then waved me over, and I slowly trotted towards her as she looked me over. "My goodness, princess, are you alright?"

I was abit stunned at first, not knowing what to say precisely, and quickly said, "I'm doing well."

She rolled her eyes, "Oh, don't be modest; you look like you haven't slept in months."

"Just one month, but with these tax negotiations over with, things will be much less stressful for me."

The spa mare nodded and added, "I'm sure they will be princess; now Princess Luna insists that you get the full princess pamper package."

"Well…I…um?" I started to get abit worried, wondering what the princess would say in this situation. "What do I normally get?"

The pegasus blinked, looking somewhat confused, and asked, "Well, that is quite an odd thing to say?"

"Sorry, just uh, you know me being tired and all…Please excuse my behavior."

"Of course, princess. Well, you normally get the princess pamper package. You're the one who nicknamed it, by the way."

I blushed as I stopped mid-sentence and then adjusted myself and spoke. "Yes, well, the princess pamper package was the full treatment, hornicure, hoof care, preening a full facial, mane, and tail work, and of course, a soak in one of our hot tubs."

"Right, all that…"

"Good! Now let's get started!"

But I couldn't help but feel naked, which is odd…being a pony, most are comfortable walking around with no clothes, and yet without the regal, it felt weird not having it on me and letting my hair down with it falling over me. I was then escorted to a bench, where I was laid down. The mares then went to each of her legs, taking one at a time and grinding out of my hooves, and I kicked and squeaked, feeling the sensitive bone being removed. It hurt, but the tingling sensation subsided over time. It didn't take long for them to start on my horn as well, which made me squeak out in pain from the sensitive bone. I was a unicorn and had accidentally stubbed my horn into walls, but this made me realize how sensitive the long protruding object from my forehead really felt. I was then preened and moaned as they went through her feathers individually. I shivered, and squeaked, never having feathers, and removed dirt and bent feathers from my new wings.

But soon, it started to feel nice as the mares used soft brushes to groom my wings, and I shivered, feeling much cleaner and less pain from them. Afterward, the mares went to work on my mane and tail, which were steamed and then brushed; seeing the long rainbow strands flowing around my head at first, I was wincing from them, brushing out the tangles, but like with my wings and hooves, it started to feel relaxing after a while. And then the spa mares went and applied a thick, heavy green mud mask over my face. I was then escorted to a hot bath and was laid down. I then let out a sigh of relaxation as she settled into the steaming bubbly water and squeaked, feeling herself settling into the nice steamy bath water. Within half an hour, I could feel the hours of stress I had melting away from my shoulders. I just laid there relaxing for the first time in what felt like forever. Then I turned to see Luna sitting across from me, smiling, "Are you enjoying yourself?"

"Yes, this is so relaxing! I don't understand why it's taboo for other stallions to go to a spa."

Luna yawned and stretched out her wings, then said, "Guess masculinity is something that is still held onto, but I bet when you turn back to stallion, you'll come back."

"Oh, most definitely, this is such a relaxing and enjoyable experience," I admitted, never having felt this relaxed in my entire life.

"Now, I know you've been working hard to be my sister, but you must remember to relax and connect as well; Twilight has been worried about you."

I groaned, feeling rather stupid for forgetting about Princess Celestia's prized pupil, and grumbled, "I understand she is no longer my- I mean, Princess Celestia's student anymore?"

Luna nudged me, then whispered, "It doesn't mean she doesn't miss your correspondence. You should try to talk to her once in a while."

I groaned and rubbed a hoof over my face, feeling abit awkward about the whole situation, seeing Twilight and not knowing she was talking to some nobody guard who barely even knew her brother. But I had a role to play, so I responded as courtly as possible. "Of course, I will try to do so when I return to my normal duties. But I shouldn't get too close; I'm sure she'll learn I'm not really Princess Celestia."

"Fair enough. Also…I know this might sound weird, but you should try to have fun. There are things to do here, and as a princess, you're going to enjoy yourself. There are a lot of perks for being royalty, you know?

"I understand…but I cannot allow anypony to know that anything's changed."

"Yes, that's true, but lucky for you, you can have fun and still fit the narrative."

"Like what?"

"How about I surprise you?"

"Ok then…as long they are activities the real Princess Celestia would do," I added. Despite not liking being a stick in the mud, I was worried Princess Luna was too lax with how I was perceived. I really had no intention of ruining Celestia's good name.

I then laid myself back in the hot tub and wondered what Luna had in store. But the soothing hot tub made it hard to think, so I settled my mane back, looked up at the marble ceiling above me, and just let out another sigh and closed my eyes, letting myself take another short nap. With my last thoughts on how I should approach being around Twilight,

Chapter four: Princess Celestia's Story Hour

Something has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.

Chapter Five: The Flight for a Phoenix

"Come on, flap harder!"

I was getting quite annoyed with Rainbow Dash's commands as she flapped about and tried to maintain her speed but seemed unable to catch up with the daredevil, who was a heck of a lot faster than her and seemed to be able to catch up despite having a more enormous wingspan and Celestia's prior knowledge on flying in truth I was still like a pegasus foal learning to fly as for the past few months never really needed to. So she tried her best to keep up with Rainbow Dash, who soared above her and just rolled her eyes, "Seriously!? I thought the princess of Equestria was better at flying than this?"

I eyed her as if even though I technically wasn't the princess of Equestria, I was still a princess and asked, "Well, you do understand who you're talking to, right?"

Rainbow Dash blinked and then got a bit sheepish, "Uh yeah, sorry about that. I just thought you would be better at flying than this. Like you've been around for over a thousand years?"

As I was now soaring above the clouds, I took a moment to look down at the ground below. I couldn't help but admire Canterlot looking like a toy city with many miniature ponies going about their business. Seeing it was awe-inspiring, and I couldn't help but feel the need to keep this world safe and protected.

"Hey, Princess? Princess?"

I looked up and then saw the pegasus flying over with an annoyed look on her face. I squeaked, seeing I must've drifted off without realizing it, and then replied, "Apologizes."

"It's fine, princess, just making sure your head is still in the game," Rainbow Dash flew over, looked me over, and sighed, "You look terrible; why don't we call it a day? I don't want to wear you out."

I was breathing heavily and felt lightheaded. "It's fine, we can continue."

"No, we should get you back; why don't we do one last race to your castle?"

"Oh, you're so on!"

The two then flew off together as fast as they could, the wind and air bursting through my face as we flew through the air at speeds I hadn't flown before. We eventually landed near the castle. I was breathing heavily, trying to catch my breath as the pegasus turned towards me with a playful smirk. "Hey, you did good."

I rolled my eyes, seeing she was just trying to be nice, "I lost."

"So? You still were able to keep up even as tired as you were; just remember to use the air currents to your advantage."

"Right, I will remember that; thank you, Rainbow Dash."

"It's no problem, princess, and sorry for being abit too harsh…I think Spitfire's coaching may have rubbed off on me."

"Understandably, I should be better at flying and practice more often. So, same time tomorrow?"

"Yeah! I think we should try doing some long-distance flying! We'll start here and go to here and Cloudesdale and back!"

I feigned a smile, not looking forward to flying hundreds of miles, but Rainbow Dash was my coach, and I promised to do whatever she said. "yes, of course." I then slowly trotted up to my room and took a long shower; after taking a few minutes to adjust my makeup and regalia, I trotted into my room to find Phillomenia; she looked down. Her head was bent, and it looked like the color of her body was gone. From Princess Celestia's memories, she always looked horrible before rebirthing itself, but she just recently did so; it would be at least a hundred years before going through the process again. This is something else, and it was making me worry. The last thing I wanted was for the princess to return from her vacation to find her pet phoenix dead. She needed to get her to a vet, but who would specialize in Phoenix care!? I looked around, scouring the room for anything in her journal, but couldn't find anything. Why didn't she leave a contact or some medicine!?

I then remembered one recent memory of Celestia's, where Fluttershy and Twilight took Philomenia to help cure her when she was rebirthing. Fluttershy was shooting in the dark, but she helped her pet phoenix. That pegasus might be the only one who could know what's wrong or, at the very least help find out whats wrong. I then took Philomenia and flew out of her window, heading towards Ponyville.

I remembered Rainbow Dash's advice to take the air currents, which gave me more speed and eased my own wings so I didn't have to flap as hard to keep in the air. I eventually found the flight more manageable and less annoying than I had previously and was heading straight for Ponyville every second Philomenia shaking made me flap harder and faster than finding Flutetrshy's cottage; I slammed into the dirt rather forcefully with clods of mud and grass going up everywhere I didn't mean to have such a harsh landing but my anxiety over Phillomenia's health and flew right to Fluttershy's door and knocked as hard as she could shouting, "Fluttershy! Fluttershy!"

The pegasus slowly opened the door, looking somewhat scared, "Princess Celestia, are you ok?

"I'm fine, but my phoenix…" I levitated Philomena towards her, hoping I was not too late, and Fluttershy gasped. "Is that!?"

"Phillomenia."

"Bring her in quick!"

I rushed in after her, and then we came to the living room and laid the bird on a table. Then, Fluttershy looked over her and tried talking to her. After a minute, she said, "Princess Celestia, she's sick for real this time."

"I understand. Do you have any way to help her?"

"I think we can start with a warm bath, but we should get Zecora. She might know about what is ailing her."

"Right! Who is that again?"

"Uh, Zecora the zebra; she lives in the Everfree Forest."

I had to think for a second and remember the various friendship lessons sent to me from Twilight involving her to remember. Without a word, I unfurled my already aching wings but pushed past the pain and flew towards the Everfree Forest.

I soared through the trees, flapping my tired and aching wings as I trailed through the Everfree Forest and ended up going through landed deep into the Everfree Forest, wheezing and groaning. I crashed into the forest floor, primarily due to exhaustion. As I got up, I could feel I was in a lot of pain, but I hobbled to the zebra's hut and knocked, and the zebra opened wide-eyed, "Princess Celestia!? This cannot be why would you be out here with me?"

"I need help with my pet phoenix; she's sick."

"I see, and that's why you came all this way to see me?"

I nod, catching my breath then asked, "I can carry you. We need to help Phillomenia, please."

"I understand your phoenix needs a helping hand, but can you fly? You look quite exhausted look as if your about to die."

I flap my wings and nod, "Yeah, I can fly. Let's get going!" Despite the pain, I thought about what Rainbow Dash taught me, went past my limits, took the air with the zebra onto her back, flew back into the air, and then headed back to Fluttershy's cottage.

After returning, I was dead tired and could barely flap my wings as I looked over Zecora and Fluttershy, caring for her pet phoenix Zecora, making a potion, and then giving it to Phillomenia and letting her rest. I was in tears as I asked, "w…what is going on with her?"

The pegasus then turned to me and said, "She caught a bad virus, but she's better now. She should stay here so Zecora can continue with her treatment."

The zebra nodded and added, "What Fluttershy says is true from what I can observe Phillomenia has some avian flu. I'm afraid this is the best thing for her is to stay here to recover."

I nodded, then said, "That's fine; just do whatever is necessary to make her well.."

Zecora came over and looked me over then said, "You look quite tired and need rest. I will care for your phoenix and ensure her safety, I'll do my best."

I didn't want to sleep I was still so worried about Philomena but I couldn't help but nod along feeling to exhausted and worn out to argue. Then she took me upstairs to her bed and laid me down, and then I went to sleep almost instantly.

As I woke up, I felt some sharp pain in my backside, but it was calming and soothing, and I recognized the feeling of a preening. Then I turned to see Fluttershy behind me and doing the preening, taking out bent feathers, and then she smiled, "Good morning, princess."

I slowly got up rubbing the sleep from my eyes and yawned then asked, "Morning, Fluttershy; how is Philomena doing?"

"She is doing well; she's been sleeping for a while….sorry, I saw the state of your wings and…"

"It's alright."

I sat down, spread my wings out again as I needed that preening, and said, "If you don't mind could you continue?"

Fluttershy then went to work, and I did my best to stay still, but I still squirmed with how sensitive the individual feathers were. After the preening, I felt relieved and came over and hugged her, "Thank you so much."

"It's no problem, princess."

I then got up and then followed her to see my phoenix was indeed looking livelier with color returning, and she was looking better in general. But was still fast asleep. I then turned to Zecora, who was passed out. Seeing that the danger has passed I realized how me leaving my palace the way I did may have caused unnecessary chaos. I hesitantly trotted over to Fluttershy and whispered, "So…um…seeing that I'm here, I need to ask a favor?"

"Yes, princess?"

"I, um, left my castle in quite a hurry and didn't have time to leave anypony in charge, so they're probably freaking out at the castle on where I've been…"

Fluttershy blushed as she explained, "Um, actually, I informed Twilight, and she then informed Princess Luna they got you covered, so you have the day off…"

"That's good to hear…she then trotted up to her bed, laid back down, and groaned, "what do I do now?"

"Well, not to be rude, Princess, but you aren't looking too good."

I then looked at my reflection in the mirror and saw how unkempt my mane was and how my usually pristine white coat was covered in leaves and dirt. I smelt myself reeking of body odor and admitted. "Well, a bath would be great…but I doubt you have one that can fit me."

"Could I suggest we go to the Day Spa in Ponyville? It's not far."

I honestly would jump at the chance. "Well, I wouldn't mind going with you, but what about Philomena?"

Zecora slowly got up and with a yawn assured me, "Go, please, and take some time for yourself. I will take good care of Philomena and make sure she's in good health."

"Come on doctor's orders," Fluttershy chroped as she took me by the hoof and escorted me through her house and towards the Ponyville Day Spa.

The trip to the Ponyville day spa was anything but ordinary. As ponies gawked and bowed, I waved my hoof, often trying to discourage any unwanted attention as I went through the front doors of the spa. Upon entering, the mares who run the place Lotus and Aloe bowed, "Princess Celestia!"

I stood straight, waved my hoof again, and said, "It is alright. You do not need to bow before me. I had an emergency to attend to and was required to freshen myself up before I returned to my duties."

Aloe trotted around me, then reared back at the stench and said, "Of course, princess, you definitely need a bath."

"And why don't we also do your mane and tail as well?" Lotus suggested.

I couldn't help but feel abit exposed, having these mares inspect me over. "Please, just a bath will do."

"Oh, don't you fret, we'll spruce you up! Just leave it to us!" Aloe chirped.

Aloe and Lotus led me through the bathhouse filled with ponies relaxing in massive hot tubs or awaiting their turn in the sauna. It was relaxing, and everything smelt so nice. Despite the spa in Canterlot being fancier, this one seemed to be more appealing as it wasn't trying to appeal to rich snobs.

I was then laid down in a hot spa and did my mane and tail, scrubbing it down with soft lotions and scrubbing her coat until it shined. I was then given a face mask, and her mane was done up in a towel, and cucumber slices were placed onto my eyes. Which I threw off and just laid back and just sat there soaking. Fluttershy then turned to me and slowly came over and asked, "How are you doing?"

I gave a loud sigh, turned to her with a smile, and said, "I'm fine, Fluttershy. I'm just relieved we got Philomenia here in time. I don't know what I would do if anything happened to her."

"That's completely understandable, and I'm so glad you flew all the way from Canterlot to get her here. It shows you love her a lot."

I was surprised at how worried I was about being a copy of Celestia. I knew some of these emotions were not my own. "I do; she's been with me for so long."

The pegasus bowed her head and then whispered, "Do um... I've been meaning to ask you a question but never knew how to go about it."

Curious and seeing how indebted I was to Fluttershy's help in saving my pet phoenix, I asked, "Go on, ask away."

"Tell me, how did you and Philomenia meet?"

I paused and pondered the question as, of course, I didn't know right off the top of my head and had to dig through Celestia's memories, and then I started to fall into another flashback.

It's been a few years after sealing Luna away, and I was alone, angry, and disappointed in myself. The worst part was that I felt so alone and miserable I did my best to save face to the ponies, trying to assure them everything was fine and even trying to reassure herself of the same. After raising the moon late one evening, she decided to fly out and get some fresh air! She flew through the sky as fast as she could, having half a mind just to fly off and forget about being a princess. She wasn't going to abandon the ponies, especially not after the Pillars of Equestria disappeared. But I really needed to get away from the castle, even for a little bit. I then flew through the canopy of the Everfree forest and lay down looking up at the stars, thinking about the one friend she had, Discord turning evil, losing the love of my life, Sombra, and now my sister Princess Luna was gone.

Why was I still here? What did I really want from being a princess? Was it to help the ponies and keep them safe? But at what cost of my own freedom and my own desires? If anything, I can make friends with the ponies, but the scary thing is seeing my friends grow old, and some even die of old age as I continue to live. The pain of losing them has made me somewhat detached, even now more than before with my sister gone…I could feel the pull and depression taking hold, and I just laid there crying, bawling my eyes out, and then I heard a squawk. It was sharp and sounded like a bird in pain. I flew through the forest intrigued and saw a phoenix chick with a broken wing. Then, I came down to see it and picked it up, looking around to find its parents. I then looked around the forest and couldn't seem to be able to find them and then I continued to scour the forest, looking desperately for a nest or its parents. I realized that there was no sign and that this creature needed someone to care for her injury. I then flew to Canterlot as soon as possible through the air and ended up at a veterinarian's office and knocking on the door. "Please tell me somepony knows how to save a phoenix."

The door opened, and a tried old yellow-coated pegasus mare looked up and gasped, "Princess Celestia!?"

"Apologies, but I need to speak to you about this bird. She has a broken wing and needs help."

“Yes of…of course…”

I spent some time at the veterinarian pacing back and forth, heart thumping in my chest, and then the pegasus mare. She was hoping for something in regards to an update on the Phoenix's condition.

The mare came out and said, "Well, there is some good news. The poor thing just needed her wing bandaged up."

"Thank Faust." she took the little thing and tucked it under her wing, and then she asked, "But phoenixs are known for tight-knit family units. If you found this chick abandoned, she won't survive long without one."

I pause and look down at the young phoenix now nestled under my wing. My heart melted at the sight as I whispered, "Then that leaves only one option she needs to be adopted."

"If I may propose…maybe you should? I think she would make for a wonderful pet for a princess like yourself."

In the memory I scoured my knowledge on magicak creatures and remembered some lessons on the Phoenix unable to die. I turned to the vet and asked, "right, they're immortal, if I'm not mistaken?"

"Well, yes, mostly, they can die from conventional means, but they cannot die of old age; they will come to a point where their previous life will extinguish and be reborn every hundred years or so."

"So as long as I take care of her…"

"She'll always be with you yes."

The little chick peered up at me with its beady black eyes chirping. For once, I wasn't thinking about my problems and seeing how this little chick somehow managed to survive being abandoned and thrown out of its nest. She showed incredible strength, which I need now and in the future.

"Philomena that'll be her name."

"Philomena that has a nice ring to it..."

As the memory faded I blinked and found myself back at the hot tub, I blanked out for a second and then turned my attention back to Fluttershy and blushed as I adjusted myself, "Yes, the story of how Philomena and I met, well, it started one night when I was flying through the Everfree Forest…"

Chapter Six: The Summer Sun Celebration Cake Eating Contest

Another month has gone by, and after the shock from Philomenia being sick, things calmed down quite abit as life slowed to a daily crawl. Princess Luna told me I should try having more "fun," but being stuck in Canterlot dealing with snobbish nobles all day made me reflect on Ponyville and how much more fun it was to be around Twilight and her friends. It made me even more excited as I went through my morning routine and wanted to go to Ponyville. After fixing my mane and positioning my regalia onto my body, I grabbed Philomena. I gently placed her into a cage as we headed off to a chariot with two royal guards, and then we soared off toward Ponyville. We went straight to Fluttershy's cottage, where I knocked on her door gently and asked, "Fluttershy, are you there?"

"Coming, princess!"

The yellow-coated pegasus then opened the door slowly as she peered up with a smile on her face. "Oh, princess! I didn't expect to see you so soon!?"

"Yes, well, we wrapped up court early today, and I thought it was best to give you Philomenia to care for." I opened the cage, Philomenia flew off and straight towards the pegasus, and Fluttershy hugged the phoenix. "Oh, Philomena, I'm so happy to see you again!"

The phoenix cooed as he nuzzled into Fluttershy's chest. As I came through the doorway, my heart skipped a beat seeing the heartfelt scene, and then commented, "Well, it's so great to see you together!"

"Of course! We had so much fun despite her being sick. She's looking much healthier now."

"All thanks to you and Zecora; I'm making you two the royal phoenix caretakers from henceforth!"

I then trotted through the doorway, and we settled next to each other as I unfurled my wings. I blushed as I turned my head toward her and asked, "Do you mind?"

"Of course not, princess, come here," Fluttershy whispered. She then went to work preparing them. I relaxed as she slowly dug through my feathers. I was much more accustomed and less squeamish than when we first did this. After she finished, the pegasus looked up and asked, "Princess…would you mind if you preened my wings as well?"

I paused as I was taken by surprise by the request and asked, "Are you sure? I, um...haven't preened another pony for a while."

"Well, yes…I thought it would be nice if you tried it as well. I need a good preening."

She then turned around and unfurled her wings. I couldn't help but feel abit embarrassed as I bent towards the yellow feathers. Memories of me preening my sister came into mind, and I started to gently take out the bent feathers and clean them with my mouth. I did this for a few hours as Philomena napped in Fluttershy's lap. It was so relaxing.

I yawned as I got up and stretched my wings, "Well, I have a few hours before I have to give a speech and raise the sun. Would you mind watching Phiolmenia until then?"

Fluttershy peered up with excitement in her eyes and chirped, "Of course, I would love to!"

I then bent down and whispered, "Thanks for the preening…and watching Philomenia after she got that flu. I just don't feel comfortable leaving her by herself." I threw some sheets over the two, slowly trotted out the door, and flew off into the night sky.

I went to the town Hall where Mayor Mare and Twilight hosted the big party for the summer sun celebration. Then I saw Princess Luna waiting for me as she eyed me. I gently flapped as I settled before her as she asked, "sister, why are you late? I thought we planned to be here by midnight?"

"I apologize; I had to visit Fluttershy and give her Philomena."

"Right…so do you have a speech prepared?"

"Of course I do!" I then rambled on about my speech about unity, love, and, most importantly, forgiveness.

"So what do you think?"

Luna paused and gave a nod. "I think it's fine; reinforcing that we should forgive and love each other is always good."

"I, um...have to say I still feel uncomfortable celebrating this day."

Princess Luna rolled her eyes, "Please, sister, I'm way over my Nightmare Moon Phase; I'll take this as an opportunity to see this as a time to learn and grow, then focus on the past."

I nodded in agreement, as that was what I wanted to focus on in my speech, and said, "I know it's fine. I asked my advisors, and they said It's good, but it feels so formal…I just think I should try something different."

"I understand, but I mean… it's just a speech."

"Yes, it's just that as you told me a few months ago that I should try having fun, and yet I find myself dealing with the monotony of the day in and day out of being a princess."

Princess Luna tapped a hoof to her chin, "Well if you want things to be more interesting, why don't you have Pinkie Pie help set something up for tomorrow?"

I became rather excited as she chirped, "That sounds like a great idea! I have the speech and to prepare for some other things. Can you talk to her for me?"

"Of course I can! You just focus on the formalities. I'll get something interesting set up!"

We hugged, and then I headed off to my entourage of guards as they escorted me to the balcony above the ponies. As it hit five AM, I came forward and threw my wings as everyone clapped and cheered as I started my speech…

After raising the sun again, I was coming back down. I celebrated that morning by sending my sister to the moon, which has been a sore subject, reflecting on Princess Celestia's other memories. I stood above my subjects as I did the usual boring speeches and tried to inspire the ponies of Ponyville. But it seemed so hollow I felt as if I still had this nagging feeling to try something different. I was about to fly off but then turned my attention to a pink-coated earth pony bounding towards me with this energetic smile. Pinkie Pie jumped at me and exclaimed, "Hey, Princess Celestia! Your sister Princess Luna told me you wanted to do something together!"

I smiled at her, seeing Pinkie brightening my day, and then asked, "Yes, that is correct. I was thinking of doing something together to make this celebration more interesting."

"Yes?"

"So I remember reading you love cake! And I thought we could do a cake-eating contest?"

I was somewhat surprised by what Pinkie Pie just said and squeaked, "Cupcake eating contest!?"

"Yeah! A Cupcake eating contest! You vs. Me!"

I couldn't help but agree. I smiled at her and asked, "Yes, that sounds fine; how about I help baking?"

Pinkie was rather shocked, then exclaimed, "woah, you bake!?"

I scoffed at the notion and said, "Of course I bake! I baked Luna a birthday cake every year when we were little!"

"Then there's no time to waste!" Pinkie then took me by the hoof, led me through the streets, and headed to Sugarcube Corner. I blinked and was now wearing a cute pink and white apron tied around my waist and a chef's hat on my head.

Pinkie stepped back and, with a blush, smirked as she said, "You look really good in that."

I couldn't help but blush and said, "Thank you."

They then went to work together, and they went about pouring the ingredients: flour, sugar, butter, milk, and eggs. I hummed a tune as we whisked and baked together, sharing jokes and discussing how things would be formed and decorated for hours. Time seemed to flow so fast, and I was surprised to look up at the clock and see it was noon.

I yawned and then went and brewed some coffee, and then as my back was turned, I squeaked as a bunch of flour was dumped on my head. I coughed as flour bellowed around me and turned to see Pinkie Pie squeaking, "Sorry princess, that bag of flour had a hole in it.

I smirked, taking a sack of flour and tossing it at Pinkie, squeaking as she ducked then I blasted the bag with magic, and then it exploded, covering the entire kitchen in flour.

Pinkie bounced up, smirking, "So you want to do this?"

"Oh, you're so on!"

We then both started tossing bags of flour at each other as we ducked and ran around the kitchen. I then hid behind a counter full of pots and pans and looked over, wondering where she could have gone. Then I heard.

"Hey, Princess Celestia!"

I turned around and saw Pinkie behind me with her party cannon and the whisk with a fire ignited on the end of the wick sizzling. Then, without warning, there was an explosion, and I was suddenly hit by a sack of flour bursting into a massive cloud.

"Another point for pinkie is three to zero!"

"No fair!"

I flew up, picked up five of the bags, and had them circle around me as I started firing them, and then Pinkie Pie continued to dodge them seamlessly. It was clear she was much more agile and clever than I. She could even grab one and toss it right back, exploding me in the face. At this point, I was no match for the pink party pony, and she flew down and bowed. "Pinkie, I concede you are now the princess of cake and flour!"

Pinkie Pie started to laugh mianically and cried, "Yes, now let the party will last forever!"

Celestia then took the opportunity to slam a cake into her face. "Ha, got you!"

Pinkie wiped the cake off her face, then, with a smirk, snapped, "Oh, now you so on!"

I didn't realize how long our cake fight went. Still, when Mr. and Mrs. Cake came into the kitchen, I became self-aware and saw that their mouth had gone agape as the entire place was a complete mess with flour and cake all over, and we both liked two toddlers who had gotten ourselves into a giant mess. For the first time, I felt that I might have screwed up being the princess being caught in such an embarrassing manner.

I immediately came to the ground, then bowed and said, "I apologize for the mess things have gotten out of control."

Mrs. Cake, still looking confused, slowly nodded and mumbled to herself, "I see…"

Pinkie Pie bounced over and chirped, "Don't worry, the princess. I and I were just blowing off some steam; we'll clean up!"

Mr Cake nodded and said, "um, ok...just uh, just let us know if you need anything."

The Cakes then slowly left the room, and then I blushed and whispered, "We better get this place cleaned up."

"Way ahead of ya!"

The two mares then got to work cleaning up the kitchen, and after it was cleaned, Pinkie Pie and I took two massive platters filled with cupcakes. We then set off into the middle of Ponyville, where an enormous crowd formed. They all started whispering, and some giggled. I realized they must enjoy seeing me in the baker's outfit and apron. Princess Luna soared above them as she shouted, "Now fillies and gentle ponies, here come contestants in the summer sun cupcake eating contest!"

I was so overwhelmed by how many ponies showed up as we sat across from each other.

"Now the rules are simple: you each have a platter of twenty cupcakes each, and the first to eat them all wins, but if you collapse or puke, you're out! Understood!"

"Yes, Princess Luna," Pinkie chirped.

"Of course, sister seems fair," I chimed.

"So on your marks…"

At that, I settled in on my seat and glared at my platter of cupcakes, preparing to give it my all.

"Get Set!"

I took the first cupcake within my magic, levitating it towards my face, and watched Pinkie Pie stack three together like a cupcake sandwich. Clearly, I was going to have to give it my all to keep up with her.

"Go!"

At "Go!" I started chowing down on the first cupcake and moaning at the flavor. It was so good! Being a vanilla-flavored cupcake with strawberry icing, it was delicious! I continued to chomp at the cakes individually, maybe savoring them too long. As I got to the sixth cupcake, I started to feel a bit sick, and that was when I looked across the table and saw that Pinkie Pie was smirking, chowing away on her fifteenth cupcake. It was clear she was way faster than me, and at this rate, I would most definitely lose. I tried to chow down on my platter of cupcakes even faster as I shoved them into my face and swallowed them whole. But as I got through about nineteen cupcakes, I groaned, unable to hold down everything in my stomach. It took a lot of willpower to keep myself from hurling.

Then I looked up to see Pinkie was her second platter and going for forty! I honestly couldn't believe she could tackle chowing down so many cupcakes and not even look phased. The worst part was that everyone who was at first cheering me on was cheering Pinkie Pie's name, as it was clear I was going to lose. I then tried to finish the last cupcake on my platter at least, but as I took a bite, I groaned, feeling myself collapse, and raised a white flag in defeat before completely blacking out.

Chapter Seven: Princess Luna's Birthday

After the summer sun celebration, I thought a lot about Princess Luna. Even though she wasn't my sister, seeing how they had an entire celebration for Princess Celestia, sealing her away in the moon for the past thousand years, it felt wrong. The best way to describe how it made me think was offputting. It made me feel awkward, even more so when her birthday was approaching, and as I went about my duties, it felt like no pony cared; in fact, it dawned on me that no pony even knew she existed for centuries!? Princess Luna has been here for quite some time now, and there was more than enough time to remedy that. So that morning, I went to the balcony to address the citizens of Canterlot's recent events and various other matters. I decided to drop something. "Next week is my sister Princess Luna's birthday, and I plan on hosting a celebration here at the castle!"

Everypony was surprised by what I said, and they all talked amongst each other. I took a minute for the noise to die down then continued, "I know many of you still have reservations about her being Nightmare Moon. Let me reassure you she understood fully well she was in the wrong, but the blame doesn't fully lie on her shoulders. I realized deep down that I failed as a sister all those years ago, and I have been trying to make up for my mistakes since her banishment. My sister's life deserves to be celebrated, so we're throwing a birthday party for her here in the castle! That is all!"

The crowd started to murmur amongst each other about the celebration, being spur of the moment and somewhat confused. Still, I continued, "I understand that this is sudden, but I will make sure things run smoothly. I will need assistance making preparations."

I left the balcony and went to perform many of my other duties, but I was surprised to see Luna walk over towards me with a worried, downtrodden look on her face. She slowly raised her head and whispered, "You didn't have to do that."

I bent my head towards her and whispered, "Of course I did; Celestia has been making plans for a birthday party for you for a while, and in the past few years since your return, you denied it. Well, this year, things will be different."

"But why I…" she came closer then whispered, "I'm not really your sister; this isn't your responsibility."

"I believe it is while I am in your sister's horseshoes."

"You don't have to; it's not your fault."

"But it's too much. I don't want a big party."

"It doesn't have to be; we can invite a few friends."

"Like?"

"Um, you know Twilight and her friends, we can get Pinkie Pie to help decorate and set up something nice, you know?"

Princess Luna's expression on her face seemed to soften as she replied, "It sounds better the more you talk about it."

"I hope it does. I hope I'm not stepping on your hooves, but I feel that this is necessary."

The princess of the night whispered, "Well, that's all right. Let me know if you need help."

"Of course."

I felt abit worried maybe I was overstepping some boundaries. But deep down I knew that this was what Princess Celestia would have wanted. I then trotted down to the throne room, sat, settled myself above, and continued to hold court.

The next day, I flew off into the air and headed straight towards Sugarcube Corner. Upon landing in Ponyville, many of the ponies started to bow respectfully. I tried to remain inconspicuous, throwing a hoof to get them to rise back up as I briskly trotted to the cafe. Upon entering the door, I saw many patrons, all instantly stopped chatting and turned towards me. I raised my head and whispered, "I apologize for intruding. I came to see Pinkie Pie."

Then I heard somepony shout, "The princess wishes to see me!?"

She hopped over and came right up to me as she hugged her hooves around me. Despite the uncouth behavior, I smiled down at her, wrapped my wings around the mare, and laughed, "It's good to see you, too!"

The pink earth pony looked up at me and chirped, "What is it!?"

I then looked around, seeing other ponies slowly eating and eyeing me, and I started to realize I was making a scene. I then bent down towards Pinkie Pie and whispered. "Why don't we talk in private?"

"Sure! Why not come to my room!?"

"Of course, we shall discuss this matter in your chambers."

I then trotted up the cafe's stairs and entered Pinki Pie's beautiful bedroom. It had a lovely bed with a blue comforter, bright yellow walls covered in balloon stickers, and chests filled with various party supplies. As I looked around admiring the decor, the pink party pony turned towards me and chirped, "So what do you come to see me for!?"

I straightened myself, trying to be as regal as possible, raised my head, and said, "I have come seeking your aid of the utmost importance."

"Oh, let me guess!? Discord returned and flooded Canterlot with cotton candy, and you need somepony to gobble it all up!?"

I blinked, then snapped, "What? No."

"Oh, you need me to host a super fun party for another lost relative!?"

"Well, close, but…"

"Oh darn, wait…" she wiggled as her mane exploded, and she gasped, "Oh, you need me to throw a birthday party for your sister!?"

I was rather surprised by her ability to guess the right answer, so I asked, "Did you hear the news?"

"Nope! It was my Pinkie Sense. I'm sorry I would've gotten the right answer; I was frazzled when you asked me to host a birthday party for a princess!"

"Well, it is a lot of responsibility. You can turn it down if you cannot handle the stress."

"What and lose out hosting the biggest birthday party of the year!?"

She bounced over and started taking out a large notepad, then said, "So tell me everything I need to know about her, likes, dislikes, what she wants for a birthday party."

I took a pause because I wasn't fully aware of what I wanted, but I replied, "Alright, I'll do my best."

I took a seat on Pinkie's bed, pulled my mane back, and started to go over everything I could about Princess Luna and how to make this party as good as possible.

Over the next week, I took a lot of time to work on the palace itself. It started to look like a massive birthday celebration, and I couldn't be more proud or accomplished. Then the party started with dozens of ponies coming over from all sorts of life. The castle was buzzing with nobles with drinks, snacks, games, and a massive birthday cake decorated in a dark blue frosting and with a thousand candles placed on it. I looked among the guests, thanking many as they approached me, and then the room became quiet. I looked across the grand hall and spotted Princess Luna strolling into the room. She wore a beautiful dark blue dress covered with silvery stars and moons. Her mane was done in corkscrew curls around her head, and her eyes were aglow with wonder as she looked around the place, seeing how beautiful the decorations were and how stunning everything was. Princess Luna slowly came over and faced me, tears in her eyes, "this is so beautiful, thank you. You seriously didn't have to do this for me?"

"You would do the same for me, so I'm returning the favor."

"Well, it was thoughtful, and I'm glad you did it."

"So what shall we do first!?"

"How about we party!" Pinkie cheered. She threw her hooves up as silver and blue confetti blasted over them. DJPony3 rose on a platform and started blasting beats from massive subwoofers, and the entire castle boomed as it shook with each beat. I started to dance to the music, shaking my flank and throwing my mane back as I danced alongside my sister. We shook to the beat hoof to hoof and started to dance through the night. It was wonderous and made me feel so happy and enjoying myself letting go of being regal for a night.

After a few hours of dancing, we turned to a massive birthday cake pushed out towards Celestia's sister, who stood before it and started to blow on them. As she did, she shoved my face into the cake, and I squeaked, feeling the frosting hitting my muzzle and making my wings fling out in surprise. I then took a handful of cake and shoved some into Luna's face, making everypony gasp. We laughed, faces covered in pastry as we chowed down and nuzzled each other. After cleaning up, we opened the presents, and she revealed many boring ones, such as dresses and jewelry. When she got to my gift, she unfurled, revealing a journal. It was the journal she and Celestia had when they were foals, and she looked over, flipping it, and tears filled her eyes. She threw her hooves around me and hugged me close as I held her back, and then she whispered, "sister I wish you to come upstairs."

I was abit surprised by the request as she rose up and exclaimed, "I apologize but I wish to retire with my sister for the evening please feel free to continue enjoying the festivities."

With that, we got away from all the noise and trotted up to my sister's bedroom. As we strolled through the doors, she closed them tightly. Then she turned her attention towards me and gave me a nervous look as she whispered, "Now we can talk alone."

Seeing her this way, I was a bit concerned as I asked, "Yes, anything on your mind?"

"First of all, I appreciate everything you did for me throwing that party, the gift…all of it…"

"Thank you, but most of these ideas stem from what your sister wanted. I'm only doing as she would wish."

Luna turned towards me and said, "I understand. In truth, I do not know why my sister has you as her proxy…I talked about it with her, and she was vague about what she was going to do or why. But everything you've done, everything you've been doing…you have been going above and beyond the call of duty, and I appreciate the efforts to not only be a princess but also my sister."

"I…I am glad to see your appreciation of my efforts to maintain the royal status in her absence."

"Now, since it is my birthday, I do wish for one more gift, and it may seem abit uncouth."

I eyed her and asked, "Yes?"

Princess Luna looked up with a fearful look in her eyes as she asked, "Would you cuddle with me?"

I took a step back, astonished by the request, "Cuddle?"

She started to rub her front hooves together as she explained, "Yes, I…I have had issues with intimacy with my sister still since my banishment, and I wish to feel her warmth…but I've been too nervous to ask her. I feel asking you in her form would help ease me in asking her one day for this request."

I could feel my cheeks burn from embarrassment, and I started to feel fidgety, with my tail whisking back and forth. I wondered if I should deny the request because of how awkward it was. But deep down, I felt that Celestia would want me to grant her this desire. So I gulped, sucked down my instinct to deny it, and stammered, "Well, um…if that is all, I don't see why not?"

Celestia's sister then undressed herself and threw herane back as it unraveled into the long streaming mass of dark blue starry mane. She then lay underneath the blankets and snuggled deep into the sheets. I then slowly placed myself next to her, digging under the sheets. As she turned her back towards me, I wrapped my wings around her tightly. We lay there close. I could feel the heat of her body press against mine as she nuzzled my neck, and we lay together as we lay in her bed as I pressed my muzzle into Luna's mane. I slowly closed my eyes, embracing the feeling and being in this moment. It was awkward, feeling abit too interment, but there was nothing sexual about it, just the desire to feel close to somepony Luna had lost touch with. I sniffed her mane, smelling of lavender and rain; those were my last thoughts before drifting off to sleep.

I could hear the pitter-patter of rain outside my window, thunder crashing, and lightning creating a flash of light outside. I slowly raised my head, my mane falling over me as I awoke. I looked around the room and saw it was relatively small, with a few chests filled with clothes, my other loose belongings, and pictures of the child drawing of herself with her sister. She then heard a shout, "Tia!"

The filly turned towards the bedroom door as it flung open, and a young blue-coated alicorn filly ran into my room, her dark purple mane waving over her with her teal eyes with tears filling her eyes. I looked over at her, groaning as I rubbed my eyes, then said, "Luna, what's wrong?"

The little filly started to tear up as she rubbed a hoof over her eyes and cried, "Tia, I can't stay awake alone; the thunder and lightning, all of this is so scary."

Celestia held a hoof, waved it, and said, "Sister, it's alright, come here."

My sister quickly trotted over and crawled into my bed. She snuggled beside me, slowly edging towards me, and I let my wings drift over her. She whispered, "Why is Starswirl insistent I stay up all night? I hate it."

"I know; I'm sorry; it's a part of the training to become the princess of the night."

"It's not fair! It's so lonely and horrible; I'm always tired. Starswirl is making us study and practice magic, and we barely get to play with each other anymore."

I thought about all my magic training yesterday and whispered, "Starswirl cares, but I agree with you—he's being too hard on us."

The thunder crashed, echoing and reverberating across the castle, making Luna cry as she hugged me and I held her. I could feel my sister shiver beneath my touch as she whimpered and cried. I brushed her mane and hushed her, whispering, "It's okay; I'm here."

"Tia, promise me you'll never leave me. You'll be there for me if I get scared or alone."

I could feel my sister close and being so vulnerable I didn't honestly know if I could keep that promise but bent close and whispered, "I…I promise…"

The shaking subsided as my sister nuzzled beside me and whispered, "Thank you."

I brushed her mane and lay with her in my bed with the gentle pitter-pat of the rain hitting my window. I laid my head back on my pillow and felt my eyelids grow heavy as I fell asleep.

I woke up with the light of the moon shining through my window and feeling Luna stir next to me. I realized my dream was another memory, a flashback to when Celestia was a filly helping her sister during a rough night. It was so vivid once again, and it felt like I was really her in her horseshoes. I looked to see Luna was gone, and I was lying in her bed alone. I got up, went to my room, showered, got my mane done, and fed Philomena. I went out through the Grand Hall, seeing many ponies fast asleep strewn about from last night's partying. I gently flapped my wings and flew over them as I raised the sun outside. Afterward, I trotted back to Luna's room to see her with a tired smile. "Morning."

"Morning."

She trotted over and then gave me a nuzzle as she whispered, "I saw your dream."

I sighed as I went to her bed, plopped my flank down, and said, "I don't think it's a dream, I think it's a flashback… I'm starting to believe that whatever this spell makes me have these vivid memories of your sister…first it was when Philomena was sick a month ago, then last night when we were lying together."

Luna looked concerned as she said, "I believe that these memories are a side effect of my sister's spell upon you. I wouldn't worry about them."

"Yes, I don't mind them, but I feel like I'm prying into private memories."

Luna shrugged, "my sister lost her right to some privacy when she turned you into her proxy."

I couldn't help but laugh and nod in agreement. I then laid my head back and let out a sigh, "I guess, but still, it feels off as I know deep down I'm still just plain old North Star, but at the same time, I could feel myself truly believing I'm Princess Celestia."

"And that's perfectly fine," the princess of the night whispered as she snuggled up next to me. This time, she wrapped her wings around me and hugged me close, her thick, feathery wings folding around me. She then pressed her face into my mane, rubbing her face into it. As she whispered, "Don't take this wrong, but you can be my sister any day."

I nuzzled back, and then, seeing I was firmly in Luna's embrace, I sighed, "Don't I have some royal duties to attend to?"

"Oh hush, it's still my birthday; just lay here with me and wait until I'm asleep, okay?"

"Alright….goodnight Luna."

"Goodnight, North Star."

Chapter Eight: The Grand Galloping Gala

It was the big event, the one that I dreaded throughout the year; it was time for the Grand Galloping Gala. I tried ignoring it for the past few months, but as the date drew near, I became more nervous about showing myself at such a massive event; it started to bug me in ways I didn’t fully understand, and I became more self-conscious about my looks, I cut back on fatty foods, I went out. I exercised more, going out and flying with Rainbow Dash more often. But as the day arrived, I wasn’t feeling any better about myself standing in front of a mirror seriously in a fix as I tried on the dress I should be wearing to the gala and felt unimpressed, to say the least. It was fine being an autumn orange with little suns accenting the fabric, and I had to admit it was a lovely design. I could see why the Princess wore it so often, but I needed a new outfit that spoke to her more. One that even the actual Princess Celestia would love. That’s when I knew there was one pony who could help: Rarity. I removed the dress and then went straight to my assistant, who was neck deep with ponies going about the planning for the Gala this evening.

“Quill Feather.”

“Yes, princess.”

“Is everything going well?”

The brown-coated pegasus was gulping down a cup of coffee as she was signing documents and said, “Oh yes, just last-minute decorations and last-minute changes.”

“Well, I have a favor to ask: Could you continue leading the planning? I realize my wardrobe has gone quite stale, and I am looking for a new dress.”

“New dress!? We can easily fetch the finest seamstress in Canterlot though getting a rush order this late might prove difficult. Faust knows so many other ponies are doing the same.”

“No, that won’t be necessary. I know only one pony who can help me, and she lives in Ponyville.”

“You’re talking about Rarity?”

I started to get excited and exclaimed, “Of course! Who else is better at making a perfect dress!”

I then fluttered up and looked around to see a bunch of ponies staring, and I quickly went back down, blushing a little.

“Well, I never thought to see you so excited for a new dress before?”

“I apologize. Rarity is well known for being creative in her work, so if I’m being honest, I do not know how this will turn out but am looking forward to being surprised."

Quill Feather then started pushing my flank out the door as she cried, “Well, go on! The Gala is tonight, and if you want a new dress, you must go now!”

“Of course!”

I then took off, not even waiting for my guards to escort me as I flew off from Canterlot and headed towards Ponyville. I spent an hour flying until I arrived at Carousel Boutique. I held my head high, trying to look as regal as possible, then strolled to her door and knocked. Then, a little white-coated mare with a beautiful corkscrew purple mane popped her head out and turned her gaze up at me. The mare was somewhat astounded. I was there and then cried, “Princess Celestia!? What are you doing here!?”

“I apologize, Rarity; I know this is last minute, but may I come in for a moment?”

“Of course! There’s no need to ask darling!"

I then slowly trotted into her boutique and feeling abit sheepish and said, “I apologize. I was just trying to be polite.”

I then slowly trotted through the boutique, a bit embarrassed as I was used to being in a mare’s body. However, being surrounded by so many outfits made for mares made me feel comfortable, and it was odd. I, however, sucked down whatever masculine pride I had and said, “Rarity, I need a favor; I need a new dress for the gala as I feel my wardrobe is getting rather stale.”

The mare’s eyes widened as she squealed, “Oh my Faust, are you seriously asking me for a new dress!?”

I nodded politely and said, “I need something bold, something different.”

Rarity tapped a hoof to her chin. “I see; then we shall get to work immediately!”

The fashionista then started taking my measurements, taking a measuring tape and having it go over my body, from my sides to measuring my wingspan, circling it, and composing my rear, making my cheeks flush pink. It felt so awkward having that measuring tape wrap around parts of my body. I was still feeling self-conscious about my body and my weight. I was somewhat worried my weird tall frame would prove to difficult for even Rarity. But the fashionista said, “Well, now I have your measurements. Let's try some samples.”

"You have some in my size?"

"Of course darling! I've been planning to make dresses for you and your sister for sometime!" She then led me by the hoof to a podium and there I tried on several premade dresses, some too frilly or poofy and others too fancy or dull. We spent several hours going through them, but nothing really caught my eye or felt me. I did enjoy trying on so many different outfits. As time passed, I began to worry that maybe I was the problem and I was here wasting Rarity’s time. At that moment I was standing in front of a mirror and looking at this adorable sun-yellow dress on me. I liked it a lot as it wasn't too fun-fru and was relatively straightforward, being a bright, colorful yellow with poofy sleeves on my shoulders and some white fabric sewn around the edges, making them pop out. It was basic something that needed to be worked on, but I could tell it was a start to something beautiful.

Rarity came over, eyeing me and having me do poses at different angles. She tapped a hoof to her chin and said, “Hmmm, it looks good, but maybe we should try something else.”

“Like what? Haven’t we tried everything you have?”

“Well, maybe we could add something more unique to your gown.”

I was curious to hear what she said next, and I asked, “Please go on?”

Rarity trotted over and asked, “What if we tried some bows in your mane? I'm sure it would go well with your dress.”

My cheeks flushed pink, and I replied, “Well, that is certainly one way.”

“Maybe we can try emblazing the fabric with big, beautiful suns made of rubies and gemstones embroidered in the fabric. It will make it more pronounced!"

I gave nods, loving the ideas coming from Rarity, and whispered, “That can work? Though not too much, I don’t want to be a walking disco ball.”

Rarity went to a sketchpad and started to draw, “Of course, darling, maybe just enough to grab any pony’s attention; maybe you can accent the end of the skirt with phoenix feathers! What do you think?”

The fashionista had me look at the sketch. It was absolutely captivating, with how the dress seemed to form against my body, the massive sun emblazoned on the chest, and the skirt covered in beautiful fluffy phoenix feathers. I touched a hoof to my chest feeling my heart skip a beat and whispered, “It’s beautiful. Can you please complete this in time for the gala?”

Rarity gave a long-winded sigh and threw a hoof over her mane, then said, “We could, but I would need help. Could you get some phoenix feathers from Philomena?”

“She is molting; I can zip by my room, get them, and be back in an hour.”

"Ok, darling, I'll get started working on the gown while you're out."

I ran outside, threw my wings out, flew off into the air, and flew straight back to my castle, squealing like a school filly as I couldn’t wait to see how this dress turned out.

When I returned, Rarity and I spent hours working on the dress. I couldn’t work a sewing machine to save my life, so I mainly worked on helping her accent the dress as she stitched it up. It was late in the afternoon, but it was finally finished. She helped slip it on me, and it flowed over my body. Wearing it was perfect; the gem-encrusted suns glittered and shined in the sunlight but didn’t overtake the outfit and paired well with the flowing skirt of the light orange and red feathers. My mane and tail were now covered in yellow and orange bows, and my sleeves were more pronounced with light rainbow fabric instead of white.

Rarity even helped me with my makeup, with my eyeliner making my eyes more pronounced, a soft pink lipstick, and a slight blush on my cheeks. I was utterly astounded at how beautiful I looked as I said, “Rarity, you are the best fashion designer in Equestria.”

The mare got rather giddy as she flew up and clopped her hooves in joy. “Oh, thank you! Please do tell everypony about it! Maybe even show it off after the gala!?”

“Of course! Rest assured, I will be purchasing my outfits from you from now on.”

Rarity gave several excited nods and squealed, “Thank you! I will do my best to acquire anything you need, however it’s getting late! We better get to the gala!”

I turned to see the sun setting outside and cried out, “I completely lost track of time! I have to make it back before my sister raises the moon!”

“Well, hold on, let me get my gown!”

Rarity went upstairs and changed into her gala gown, a beautiful light red and yellow fabric adorned with gems and a maroon-colored sash around her neck. Despite it being one she had worn before, I couldn’t help but admire how absolutely unique and beautiful in every way. I levitated the mare onto my back and whispered, “I’ll fly slowly.”

“Yes please Just fly slow, ok? I just got my mane done,” the fashionista cried as I trotted outside, threw out my wings, chuckling to myself, and joked, "Sure thing, one Sonic Rainboom coming up!"

"you wouldn't da-aaare!"

I threw my wings, flew up into the air, and soared into the sky with Rarity clinging to my neck for dear life, but as soon as I started to let a breeze carry us, she stopped cowering and scowled, "Oh!? Rainbow Dash is teaching you bad habits, isn't she!?"

"You are mistaken; I learned about pranks from my sister long before Rainbow Dash."

I then continued to fly above the clouds with the setting sun in the distance. It was quite the sight to behold as I threw my head, letting the wind blow through my mane. I had to admit flying was something I was going to miss, turning back to my old self definitely.

After an hour of travel, we eventually made it right outside the castle. The two of us then trotted towards the white stone walls with guards outside, looking rather panicked. One stallion, a grey-coated one, ran up and saluted as he exclaimed, “Princess! Where have you been? I've been ordering my soldiers to look for you. We thought you were kidnapped again!”

I snorted abit in anger, then snapped, “Of course, I wasn’t kidnapped. Didn’t my assistant tell you I was out getting a new gown for the gala!?”

“Well, we..um, she was busy and…” He slammed a hoof into his face, “apologizes, princess, we should have asked her for assistance.”

“Of course, you should have now. Let’s get a move on! We have a gala to attend!”

We continued towards the Castle entrance and whispered one last “thank you” to Rarity before watching her strut onto the dance floor. I stood outside with my head held up high, trying to look as regal as possible. I greeted ponies as they passed. Many complimented my new gown, making me blush and giddy. This went on for several hours as the moon rose, and the Gala was now in full swing, hearing the classical music wafting over me. I then turned to see Rarity coming back as she asked. “So, how are you feeling?”

I threw out my wings and cried, “I feel amazing! This dress feels rather good, and it looks absolutely amazing!” I exclaimed as I twirled about in my new gown. Rarity was relatively happy as I was going down the aisle with ponies in either direction and just looking at me with surprise as I once again resumed my regality.

Rarity turned over, nudged me, and said, “Well darling since most guests are here now, why don’t you show off your new dress on the dance floor?”

I couldn’t help but agree with the fashionista, so I threw out my wings and said, “You are absolutely right! I think I shall!” I then trotted towards the ballroom, and now I could feel everypony’s gaze on me. I could hear them whisper, making me feel even more self-conscious than I had ever been in the past month. But I kept my calm and continued to present my confidence. I then came upon my sister Luna, who was wearing a gown as beautiful as mine. Her's was this dark blue and black bold mix that swirled around her like the night sky encrusted with tiny crushed silver gems to look like twinkling stars. Her mane swirled around her in a braid with beautiful silver cords; I couldn’t take my gaze off her as the mare’s eyes pierced her chest. My cheeks flushed red as I trotted over and took out a hoof. She took it, and then we danced, swaying to the beat of the music together, twirling about and showing the rest of the pompous fools in the room how it's done. The dance was unlike anything I could describe as magical and beautiful, with the two of us embracing our “sisterly love” despite not genuinely being sisters.

The look on every pony's other faces was perfect, seeing them all just sitting there gawking in complete awe. There was a round of applause as the dance concluded, and the two princesses bowed. We then went to a table for a meal and sat together, enjoying some cake and snacking on the hordervous. After our dance, the Gala started to die, with many taking their leave and only a few ponies staying to continue dancing.

Afterward, the two of us trotted out into the gardens, taking a trot among the dozens of other ponies out and about as we went to the edge of the castle courtyard. We then laid down together to look up at the stars and see them glitter in the night sky with the moon shining bright overhead. I placed my head next to hers, and then we talked for a few hours about our day or night in her case. I looked up, realizing that almost a year had passed since I had taken this position as a princess and that I would be back to an average stallion named North Star in a few weeks. I looked back at Luna and whispered, “Thank you for all the help this year. I wouldn’t have been able to do this without you.”

“I was happy to help, and trust me, you have done an amazing job being a princess.”

“Thank you for that. It means a lot.”

“It won’t be long until you are a stallion again. Will you miss all of this? Being a princess and all?”

I looked down at my new beautiful gown, hugging it with my wigs, and sighed, “I don’t know…I think it’s about time I return to being myself, but maybe…”

My face slowly turned bright red, and I added, “Maybe I should ask if I could stay as a mare.”

Luna blinked, surprised, “are you sure?”

“Well, it’s just…I can’t help but feel it is so natural, and I think deep down the Princess knew I was thinking about changing my gender.”

“If that is what you desire I am sure we can make that happen, and I hope you know that regardless of your decision to stay as a stallion or change into a mare, you will always have a place here.”

“Thank you, Princess Luna.”

The two lay next to each other as the evening continued, with the glowing stars above illuminating the ground. Then, I started to feel drowsy, maybe from all the flying earlier or the general excitement over my new dress. Regardless, lying down next to my sister and feeling her embrace made me feel relatively comfortable. I gave a yawn and nuzzled her as I slowly fell into a deep sleep.

Chapter Nine: Setting of a Sun

"Beautiful night, isn't it?"

A stallion's voice reverberated across the field, and I woke, eyes fluttering as they adjusted to the moonlight outside. I turned to see a handsome gray-coated stallion sitting next to me with his long black mane and dark blue eyes. I was lying with him in his bed in a lavishly decorated room. I squirmed, feeling so hot and sweaty, but I was comforted by him and his gentle touch on my shoulder. His muzzle against mine as he asked, "Celestia, are you alright?"

"Hmmm, yes, I feel amazing," I whispered as I nuzzled his mane with my nose. Feeling his hoof wrap around me was unlike anything I had ever felt before the sensation of him being on me. I know it wasn't my feelings, but I could tell Celestia was deeply in love with him, and I could feel that, and it was overwhelming. I looked up at the moon and then heard Sombra ask.

"So you also have something called the Galloping Gala?

I let out an annoyed sigh, "Yes, I do. It's a stupid formal party for a bunch of rich snobs to pat themselves on the back. The only good thing about it is that I used the funds gained from it to give to charity."

The stallion chuckled, "I see, it's that bad."

"It's annoying; my sister doesn't even show her face. I just stand at the castle entrance and shake my hooves until my hooves are numb. I sometimes talk to some of them late, but I'd rather just stay here with you."

"My goodness, things aren't much different here. It's relatively the same thing as it's just a reason for pompous ponies."

"So tell me, how do you keep yourself from losing your mind?"

Sombra shrugged, then said, "It's not really then of the world for me; I just try to make it more interesting, you know!? I invited clowns before."

"Clowns!?"

The stallion laughed and said, "Yes, you couldn't believe the pompous rich ponies were like when they came."

I couldn't help but imagine all of the rish stuffy nobles freaking out as clowns were throwing pies in their faces and rolling around on unicycles. I laughed and nuzzled him. "Oh, Sombra, you are unlike any pony I know."

"Well, I think having a sense of humor makes you much more interesting and helps keep you from becoming too serious."

"I couldn't agree more."

I then laid under him as he stared at her, and they soon were kissing, his lips pressed against hers, and we stayed like that for some time; it was unlike anything. A euphoria overwhelmed me as he laid into me, and she could feel his embrace and then…

I woke and gasped, waking up once again in my bedroom at the weird dream I had, knowing it was a memory. I was sweating heavily, and in places, I did not think I could sweat. I then slowly went through my daily duties as princess of the sun. Still, my mind continued to dwell on the memory of the "good Sombra" with whom Celestia was in love. It was hard for me not to think about it. Wildly, when they… she shook her head and decided not to overthink it. Was Sombra truly good at one point? If so, how long was this memory? I continued to think about this and could not consider that there was a lot of mystery and, worse, fixation on it. Still, I continued to focus my efforts on my duties. I first attended a long, boring meeting about the Gala's success, and it was not surprising that all the proceeds went to restoration projects and charities. It made me quite happy that all that peacocking last night went to something useful. After that, I went through a press conference to talk about the gala's success and mention the dress that Rarity designed for me. Later that evening, I continued reading the newspaper and seeing the news about my new dress. It got excellent reviews from Hotiy Toity and Photo Finish, saying it was Rarity's design.

After the long day, with the moon rising, I decided to have tea with Princess Luna as we sat together. I looked towards her and said, "Princess, I have to say that I had another one of those weird memories come up."

"Oh, do tell?"

I could feel my cheeks burning as I said, "Well, it was odd. I saw King Sombra, but he wasn't evil-looking like I remember seeing him in the newspapers, and he was quite handsome and seemed kind."

Luna's eyes lit up upon mentioning him and said, "Oh my, what else did you see?"

I flapped my wings abit as I continued, "Nothing really, just that it seemed the two were in love and um, well…they uh had um…" I couldn't finish the sentence, but Luna's face turned red as she waved a hoof, "too many details."

"Regardless, I need to ask did you know of this affair?"

Luna bent her head down and sighed, "Sadly, yes." She took a moment to adjust herself and said, "Not too long ago, my sister, along with Twilight and her friends, went on a secret adventure most aren't aware of; some things came to light that I was unaware of with my sister and what she did after I was sealed away to the moon. From what I learned, she and Starswirl learned of another dimension, a mirror world that reflects ours, and there she made friends with the other version of me." She ended the sentence with a growl.

"Oh, my?"

"Yes, it's quite interesting, to say the least, but she also fell in love with their King Sombra, and it seemed he was Good there in that world. My sister formed a relationship with him and fell in love…but at a price, you see, the longer she stayed in that world, the longer it upset the balance between ours. Whem I came back from being Nightmare Moon my former good version of me teamed up with the evil version of my sister. We, along with Twilight and her friends, were able to stop them and save their world, almost at the cost of my sister's life…we destroyed the way back there to ensure nothing like that could happen again. If your memory is correct, maybe I should have asked where my sister was going on vacation. I feel so stupid."

"But you said yourself she destroyed the only way back there!?"

"I know, but she and Starswirl must've done a lot of research into these kinds of portals. I thought she might attempt to see her Sombra again, but with the mirror destroyed, I wasn't worried she would be able to return.

"So what do we do?"

Luna stared back at me and said, "We need to unlock these memories and see if they can lead to her?"

"How do we do that?"

Princess Luna threw a hoof and continued, "Simple. Tonight, when you sleep, I'll enter your dreams and see if I can link your dream bubble with my sister's. That way, I'll be able to see where she currently is."

"That's a great idea, thank you."

"Sombra, I'm sorry, my love, but I have to go."

I woke up this time in a bed of flowers surrounded by a beautiful garden, unlike anything I'd seen before. There were fields of grass and flowers that stretched for miles. The sun was high in the sky, but unlike the sun in Equestria, this one was bigger and seemed to have a golden glow that was unlike anything. A river ran along the way, with waterfalls pouring out into massive streams of clouds. The world was beautiful and serene, but I wasn't supposed to be here. But what made the place odd was the animals they ran around and acted as they would in my world. But they glowed and seemed to have an ethereal form surrounding them. It then hit me that maybe the True Celestia's memories and experiences mixed into my dream, and I realized this was the afterlife!? A world known as Elysium, the end for all mortals.

I saw that I was lying on some blankets, looking over to see this "Good Sombra" holding my hoof and whispering, "You should have left a long time ago; I'm fine now."

"I…I know I came here to restore your soul and restore the goodness you had. I just couldn't bear leaving you the way we did…now, after spending so much time with you, I can't leave."

"I know, thankfully, you have, and I'm forever grateful, but you cannot stay here; you need to leave."

He got up, and that was the first time I got a good look at him and saw that my love looked older and sicker than before but seemed well overall and smiled as he said, "Celestia, our love has brought you only pain and suffering. The longer you stay, the harder it will be for you to leave."

"I know."

The stallion grasped my hoof firmly, and I started to cry, tears rolling down my cheeks, "Why…why must we part? I just want to stay with you and be here forever. I don't want to go back."

Sombra nuzzled into me and whispered, "Sometimes the hardest choices are made by those who care the most. We both care for our worlds and the lives of those within. One day, you can return, and we will be together for eternity, but you are needed. Twilight needs your guidance for a bit longer."

"You're right; I'm being selfish again."

"No, you're not; you were placed with a heavy burden, as was I. We are not gods, just ponies; you made mistakes like I have. That doesn't make you selfish, just mortal."

I nuzzled him, felt his moist coat hit my muzzle, and whispered, "Goodbye, my love."

I then got up. As I trotted through the gardens to a mirror, walking through it and passing the world warped around me, I whispered, "Sister, are you there?"

"Yes."

"I'm sorry, this isn't what it looks like, my Sombra; he sent me a message a year ago and told me about meeting in Elysium. When we left, he was turning evil to keep the balance but found a way into the fields of Elysium to save himself. I meant to only stay there for a while, but I couldn't and learned he…" Tears filled my eyes, and I started to cry, feeling myself unable to stop sobbing uncontrollably.

Luna came over, looking saddened as she said, "I know he will probably remain in Elysium forever."

"I couldn't leave him like we did and had to make sure he was ok. He told me this was the only way. It's all my fault!" I thrust myself into Luna as she wrapped her wings around me, patting me on the back with her wings.

"That doesn't change the fact he still loves you and you, and like he said, we need you. Twilight needs you. But I'm so sorry, sister."

She morphed as I watched and saw the two embrace and the memory or dream, whatever it was to warp, and soon I was falling until a bright light enveloped me.

After seeing the memory, I woke up and could feel my heart racing. I turned to see Luna over me, and she seemed abit relieved, "I know where my sister is, and it seems that she has somehow saved their Sombra from a terrible fate. But it seems he will have to remain in the fields of Elysium to remain good and restore his soul."

"I see that, but how will we get to them?"

"There's no need; my sister will return any moment."

She turned towards a mirror in my room and unveiled it. Then we both stood back as the door opened, and the actual princess Celestia trotted forward, her head bowed, eyes bloodshot red from crying. She looked as beautiful as she had ever been, but sadness surrounded her as she cried, "I apologize for taking so long."

She came out and cried, hugging Luna, who held her close. "It's alright. I know why you did what you did, and I'm so proud of you and Sombra. You will be with him again."

"Thank you, sister, I don't deserve you."

They sat in the room, hugging each other's wings and wrapping around each other as their heads laid into each other.

I was astonished and felt out of place, seeing that the sisters were clearly having an emotional bonding moment. I was just some random guard being pulled into all of this. But without warning, Celestia lit her horn and pulled me towards them, my hooves scrapping across the carpet as I was thrust into the hug and put into the middle of the wing hug.

After the dust settled, so to speak, we all slept together in Celestia's room. Before the true Princess Celestia woke up in the morning. I was back in "my office" as I stood before the actual princess of the sun. I stood there at attention as she reviewed a detailed report of everything I had done for her. She smiled and said, "This is wonderful; it's more than I could ask for!? I have to admit you make a better me than well me."

I couldn't believe what I heard; getting praise from the true princess of the sun filled me with elation, but I kept my cool as I waved a hoof in front of my hoof and said, "No, princess, I cannot replace you."

The princess gave me a painful smile and said, "Maybe you can, but I will not force that on you. North Star, you did more than I could ask for and beyond anything I can imagine. Thank you sincerely for all the work you did being a princess."

I bowed and said, "It was my pleasure, princess."

"My goodness, you're like my twin sister. It's hard to even see as you anything but?"

I flapped my wings and said, "Well, I wish I wanted to stay like this."

"If you wanted to stay like this and if it were up to me, I would leave you as you are…but I fear the citizens of Equestria would be a little concerned having two Princess Celestias, running around."

"Now, we must return you back…I heard from my sister that you requested to be a mare?"

"Yes I…I do wish to continue being a mare if that's ok?"

"Of course, I'm just surprised, is all."

She then lit her horn and started to transform me again. I could feel my body shrink a bit, but my body exploded as my mane shortened, and my mane did. It was a warm sensation as my body changed and shifted. Princess Celestia was even surprised. "That wasn't supposed to happen?"

I looked over at a mirror to see my new body, seeing I still had wings, a fine white coat, piercing gold eyes, and a sunny yellow and orange mane. I turned my head to face my rear and saw a long, swirling yellow and orange tail with my new cutie mark, a shining starburst. "I…I think being you for so long changed my destiny. and… I'm an alicorn!?"

"I think it has…North Star, that…that wasn't supposed to happen. Do you want to stay like this?"

I was feeling rather awkward being a newly born alicorn in my smaller form, so I squeaked, "If that's ok?"

"Well, we can devise a good reason for why you're an alicorn to the press."

I waved a hoof and said, "We can, but we don't need to go into personal details. I assume the affair with this "Good Sombra" is something you want to keep secret. But I can explain. I helped you run the kingdom behind the scenes?"

"That a good idea, my little apprentice."

I flapped my wings, gave a little spin in the air, and said, "I think I need a new name for my new body."

"So what will you call yourself?"

"How about Morning Star?"

"That's a wonderful name, well, Morning Star; it's about time to raise the sun; would you do the honors?"

"Of course! I love raising the sun!"

I followed behind Princess Celestia, feeling proud of myself as her apprentice and excited to see this new future and what it has in store for me.

Chapter Ten: Breaking of a New Dawn

I woke up the next morning bright and early, took a shower, brushed my teeth, and did my mane, combing slowly over it, loving how it bounced around me. I was making my way through the room and ran through the castle to the outside into the courtyard. I then threw my wings out and flew upwards as high as I could possibly go as I used my newfound magic to raise the sun. I watched as the massive orange ball soared overhead. I saw Princess Celestia making her way out of the castle and heading towards me with a surprised look as the sun rose overhead. She couldn’t help but snicker seeing me and said, “Well, you beat me again.”

“Early bird catches the worm!” I chirped back. Making everypony in the gardens snicker as I waved a hoof, flew back to my room, and started to pack. I took out a few dresses I got for myself, some tiaras, my books, journals, and a bunch of other little Knick knacks. After everything is packed. I just flew back down through the halls and headed towards the throne room. There, I met the princess of the sun, came up to her, and said, “So you’re all ready to move to Ponyville?”

“Yes, I wish to be with Twilight and her friends. I just want to get to know them better, and I feel that while you're still the princess of the sun, I don’t want to steal your job.”

“Of course, and I admire you for making this decision on your own. I just want to know I will be here if you need me.”

Princess Luna then slowly trotted forward. My heart fluttered seeing her and realizing how much she had as she came over and hugged me, “I’m going to miss you dearly.”

“I will to Princess Luna. Thank you for all your help and please visit me during the night at anytime.”

"I will, take care of yourself."

Princess Celestia then came over and threw us both in the inner embrace of her wings, and we held each other, it made me blush to be a part of these two ancient duos, but they were through my time as Princess Celestia, I had got to know them beyond the godlike visage they project to the populace. At the end of the day, they were both imperfect. They had a ton of flaws dealing with their own insecurities and problems like anypony else. As weird as it sounds, being Princess Celestia’s twin, I feel more like their younger sibling, a fledgling alicorn born into my new role to take over as the princess of the sun one day. It was an honor to be given this responsibility, and I bowed and said, “Thank you both for giving me a chance to be my true self.”

I bowed and slowly trotted down the hall and before I left the palace I turned around and saw tears in the princess' eyes. They were truly going to miss me, and I almost hesitated to leave, but I knew that, like Twilight, I had to live my life and see all it had to offer before I settled into my role as a princess. But I swore a vow I would visit often and try to learn as much as possible before Princess Celestia officially retired. I then slowly descended the palace steps, and there I came upon two royal guards hitched to a charity. The two blushed upon noticing me, and I smirked, waving my tail in their faces and throwing it out a little seductively as I went onto the chariot and asked, “So are we not going or what?”

“Yes, princess,” The two then exclaimed as they set off into the air and then they went to Ponyville and there as they landed into the middle of Ponyville and came upon Golden Oaks Library, Twilight appeared, “so your Twilight’s assistant, correct?”

“Yes, that’s me.”

She looked me over, seeming to be suspicious of me. “Well, luckily, the Golden Oaks Library has an extra room. Though I do use it as a guest bedroom.”

“I apologize; I’ll find a place for myself soon. Princess Celestia insisted on us booking together…though we are princesses, you think we should have a castle.”

“I know, right? I would totally love a castle.”

“Well, It’s not like a castle will appear magically out of nowhere.”

The two giggled as Twilight slowly closed the door, and a magical bubble appeared around us. I got a little nervous, turning to see her just giving me a suspicious look on her face as she said, " So you were Princess Celestia for a year?”

I paused, being a bit stunned, and turned and said, “How did you know?”

“I’m her best pupil, and there are few who could notice the smaller details, but it was pretty clear to me that she wasn’t acting like herself. I thought it might’ve been Queen Chrysalis taken over, and she’s been kidnapped. But if that was the case, we should’ve seen an invasion of some sort by now, so that left me with one conclusion!”

Twilight then threw a hoof in the air and exclaimed, “She used some advanced magic to make a doppelganger, and there would be few ponies she would trust with such a task. Assistants like Quill Feather popped into my mind…but that would be too conspicuous. But a royal guard? A pony who doesn’t stand out but has a clean record? And one that so happened to be on a yearlong secret mission? I figured it was easy to learn who it was…North Star.”

My cheeks turned a deeper shade of red, and I stepped back a bit. I had to admit I was rather impressed and asked, " How did you figure that out?”

“My brother still has his connections in the royal guard.”

“Well, um, ya got me. Now what?”

“Nothing, I just was, well…surprised, is all. I don't know why Princess Celestia would entrust you with all ponies, but I must admit you did a great job as her, and I’m happy to have known you already…but I assume this has to be a secret.”

“Yes, for obvious reasons.”

Twilight’s face was now turning red, and started to sweat, “well um…that’s going to be abit of a problem.”

Before she could elaborate, Pinkie Pie burst through the doors, and I was thrown back into the library, slamming into a couple of bookshelves. I lay there rubbing a hoof over my head as the pink party pony shouted, “Good morning, Morning Star!”

I got up, flexing my wings as my cheeks flushed a bit. I waved a hoof and replied, “Hello, um…Pinkie Pie.”

“Oh, you know my name!?”

I squeaked and then replied, “Oh no, you're rather popular and well-known.”

“Really? Huh? Anyways, do you like cake! I assume you like cake being Princess Celestia’s apprentice. So I booked us, Sugarcube Corner, for your welcome to Ponyville party!”

“Oh, of course! I should’ve expected that,” I growled through my teeth, a bit annoyed but overall excited as Pinkie Pie pushed me out the door with Twilight casually trotting by.

At Sugarcube Corner there weren’t a lot of ponies there thankfully I was still relatively “new” to the princess scene and not many ponies knew me yet leaving mainly just Twilight and her friends. I tried some games like “pin the tail on the pony” , bobbing for apples, and dancing. But after all that I sat down to eat cake with them. I couldn’t help but gorge a bit, having samples of all kinds and savoring the many flavors and types of cake before me.

That was when I noticed Pinkie Pie looking at me rather suspiciously and replied, “So…how long have you been Princess Celestia’s apprentice?”

“For about a year.”

Most of the ponies were taken aback by what I just said, and Rarity was the one who cried, “A year!? A whole year!?”

I sat there with a smile and said, “Yes, it was quite an experience.”

Rainbow Dash snickered and added, “That’s quite a long time! Say you weren’t at the Summer Sun Festival?”

“Of course I was! It was so much fun!” Then Pinkie cried, “And you and I were having that cake-eating context, and I won!”

“Yeah, I was trying, but that last cake—“ I then paused, and many of Twilight’s friends all started casually looking away. My cheeks flushed, realizing what I was saying.

Pinkie Pie exclaimed, “I knew it! You were Princess Celestia! Rainbow Dash, you owe me fifty bits!”

“Buck! Seriously!?” Rainbow Dash grumbled while hoofing a bag of bits to Pinkie.

“Shhh!” I cried out and looked around, trying to make sure no one else had overheard what I said.

Rarity threw a hoof rather casually. “Oh hush, well know, darling.”

I was still completely flabbergasted by how everypony here knew I was Princess Celestia for the past year. I shouted, “You all knew!”

Everypony just gave each other nervous glances, and others gave awkward coughs.

Rainbow Dash threw her hooves in the air and said, “Of course, Pinkie Pie figured it out first, then she told Twilight, and then Twilight told me.”

Fluttershy nodded and added, “Yes, I figured it out after Rainbow Dash talked to me.”

I felt stupid for letting my big secret out so quickly, so I slumped in my seat and cried, “Oh, my Faust! This is nuts!”

Rarity laughed and said, “Come now! A new upcoming princess and you think I wouldn’t know about it, please, darling. Now, come on, darling, let’s get you all cleaned up! I bet a spa date will make you right as rain, even if you’re not Princess Celestia.”

I was getting over the fact that all of Twilight's friends knew my big secret as I got up and said, “Well, you have the point there. I could go for a preening and a hooficu-"

Before I could finish this time, Rarity was the one shoving me out the door. At this point, I didn’t even try fighting, as I was too overwhelmed with everything that was happening.

It didn’t take long for us to get to the Spa, and there, I got set up with the rest of my friends by Aloe and Lotus Blossom. Once there, I was given the full pamper treatment, from the massages to the preening; my hooves and horn were manicured, and I savored every second of it as the two sisters did such an excellent job, and I felt so relaxed afterward. Then they finished me off by applying a mud mask and setting me down in a massive hot bath with the rest of the mares. We were all just relaxing together, and Fluttershy asked me, “So, you were the one who saved Philomenia?”

“Yes, I did,”

“And the one who helped me make a new beautiful dress?”

“Yes.”

Applejack crossed her hooves, “let me get this straight, you did a story hour for foals with Twilight, had flying lessons with Rainbow Dash, had a cake-eating contest with Pinkie Pie, saved Philomenia, and had a spa date with Fluttershy, and you forgot all about me!? Why didn’t I get a field trip with the fake Princess Celestia?”

I was not expecting that and saw that everypony had turned their attention to me as I threw my hoves across my chest and then said, “Well, it wasn’t intentional; I was busy running an entire kingdom! It’s not like I had to spend time with hundreds of thousands of other ponies in Equestria!”

Applejack seemed less peeved about being left out but she still had a pout on her face as she said, “well, I guess you owe me?”

“Guess I do. What do you want to do together?"

Applejack shrugged, then suggested, “I don’t know, buck apples, make an apple pie I just want to do something with you!"

I was growing intrigued by the prospect of making an apple pie and decided it would make the most sense. “I…I wouldn’t mind making an apple pie? That sounds like fun!”

“I’m surprised you still have an appetite after that cake-eating contest earlier.”

“I didn’t say anything about eating it; I just want to make apple pie.” The mare snickered.

“It’s settled! We’re making a pie with the fake princess!”

“Are you going to keep calling me that!”

This got a laugh from the others, and she sighed, seeing that “fake princess” was going to be her nickname. So I sat back and relaxed in the hot tub, allowing the bath salts and suds to overwhelm me. I just took that moment to forget about my problems and the new stress from becoming a princess slowly ebbing away.

Later that afternoon, I followed Applejack to her family home, and we got to work making the apple pie. We got out all the ingredients and got to work on the pie, making the dough and the filling. It was a lot of fun, especially as we were putting it in the oven.

Apple Bloom burst into the kitchen shouting, “Oh my gosh, it’s Princess Morning Star!”

My cheeks turned a bright red, and I replied, “Please just call me Morning Star.”

“Oh, come on! You’re a princess, and not only that, Princess Celestia’s apprentice, you have to tell me all about her!”

I sighed and then tried to keep up with the filly, who was asking me hundreds of questions about being the new princess of the sun, about Princess Celestia and Princess Luna. Despite it being rather annoying, I had to admit it was engaging, and I admired how inquisitive the little filly was.

Eventually, Applejack saw I was quite overwhelmed and said, “Alright, leave the new princess of the sun alone. How about you go catch up on your chores?”

“Right, well, see ya around the new princess!” She chirped and then jumped off, and then bounced away. Then Granny Smith came over, and she gave me this odd look and said, “So uh, you’re the new princess I’ve been hearin’ about?”

“Yes…”

“Well, if you’re lookin’ for somepony to date, my Big Mac is quite available.”

Applejack got irritated and snapped, “Granny! Don’t be tryin’ to play matchmaker.”

“What!? He’s single and quite strong. I'm sure if ya was looking for a stallion, you couldn’t find a better match, but if you're into mares, Applejack here is quite the catch herself.”

“Ok, that’s enough of the Granny,” Applejack said, then started pushing the old mare out the backdoor. Just then, Big Mac trotted over with a subtle blush on his cheeks. I paused to see him for the first time; he was quite handsome and strong. I then whispered, “So, uh, your Big Mac?”

“Ey’yup.”

“Well, I have to say, um…are you uh…what I’m trying to say is it’s nice to meet you.”

“You as well.”

The stallion then quickly ran off, his pink blush now enveloping his face. As Applejack and I took the pie out of the oven and set it by the windowsill to cool, the orange-coated farm mare came up to me and said, “So were you just hitting on my brother back there?”

I paused and then stuttered, “What!? No, I was just saying hi! I don’t have a crush on him or anything; we just met!”

“Sure, well, don’t take my granny too seriously. She's just worried she’ll kick the bucket before seeing us have grand foals.”

“I'm sure me being a princess didn’t help her pressure me to get with him as well.”

This got a laugh from both of them and then she said, “Well, in any case, thanks for putting up with my family; they can be quite the handful.”

“No, they’re lovely; I must admit it’s something I wish I had growing up when I was an only child.”

“Well, you’re welcome to come over any time.”

“Thanks, and I am sorry for not hanging out with you while I was Princess Celestia. It wasn't my intention at all.”

Applejack laughed and nudged me, “I was just pulling your tail. Don't take everything so seriously.”

“Right, sorry.”

“Anywho, I have some chores to do before the sun goes down. Why not get to know my brother more while I’m out?”

“Wh…wait!? I’m not ready!”

Once again, Applejack was pushing me out the door and towards her brother.

I was shaking all over, coming up to that big red stallion. I mean, I wondered if we would be able to get along. Seeing him now casually taking the last of the apples to the barn to be barreled made me shiver all over. I then casually flapped my wings as I came up to him and asked, “Um hello.”

He turned towards me and got that dopey smile plastered on his face as he said, “Uh, hello, um…”

“Morning Star.”

“Right, Princess Morning Star.”

“Oh, you can just call me Morning Star. I’m not a princess yet, more like a princess in training.”

The stallion shrugged and said, “Alright.” He then went back to hoisting the buckets of apples and dumping them into the barrels, and then I came by and asked, “Do you need help?”

“Ey’nope.”

“But would you mind if I help anyway?”

He paused, shook his head and said, “Ey’nope.”

I then went by him and continued to help dump apples into the various barrels with my magic and helped to secure the tops. We worked in silence until the moon rose. I wiped the sweat from my brow and said, “Well, I think that’s all of them.”

“Ey’yup.”

“So, um, do you want to go inside and eat some pie and cider? I really wouldn’t mind getting to know you more.”

“Ey’yup.”

I then followed him to the kitchen, unable to keep my gaze off of him, loving how, despite him not being very talkative, there was a sense of humility around him that attracted me to him, and it was unlike anything I’d felt before. I wondered if this is what ponies think of that phrase “love at first sight,” and I wondered if he could be my “special somepony,” but I didn’t want to rush anything or scare him off. So maybe I’ll ask him if he’s attracted to me and if he wants to go on a date to play it safe. We then made our way to the kitchen, and Applejack set up plates of apple pie for me and her family. Then we ate and talked for quite a while, with me answering the dozens of questions that Apple Bloom had for me and dodging Granny Smith’s embarrassing and awkward questions about Princess Celestia and Luna. Eventually, Applejack was able to get the rest of her family out of the kitchen, leaving me and Big Mac. He just gave me that cute subtle smile and asked, “So, uh…you’re staying the night?”

“Well, I wasn’t planning to, but it’s getting late.”

“Ey’yup.”

My heart was fluttering in my chest, and I just had to get it off my chest at this point. “And well, before I go, I should tell you…I was a stallion before and am a mare now. Is that OK with you?”

He was a bit surprised but shook his head and said, “Ey’nope.”

I gave a sigh of relief, but there was one more question I had to ask before leaving: “I heard that the Hamburgers here are really good. Would you want to go out for lunch with me?”

Big Mac paused as he gulped down his tankard of Cider and said, “Ey’yup.”

I squealed, bouncing up, “ok, how about we meet up here at noon…I wouldn’t know where to go.”

He let out a chuckle, then gave a nod, “Ey’yup!”

“Great! See you tomorrow!” I chirped and skipped off out of the kitchen and headed to the doors and towards Golden Oaks Library. I just fluttered along with this cheerful smile on my face, being so ecstatic. Not only was Big Mac ok with me being trans, but he was willing to go on a date with me! Also, Applejack’s family was excellent; I just loved hanging out with them! I then came to Golden Oaks, and Twilight turned towards me and said, “So how was Applejack?”

“How was it? It was amazing! Hanging out with her family was so much fun! We first baked an apple pie! Apple Bloom wanted to know everything about being a princess, though a lot of it was boring. I did my best to make it sound fun then. Granny Smith is very, um…blunt, which is the best way to describe her. But Big Mac, oh my gosh, he’s so sweet and kind, and we’re going on a date tomorrow.”

Twilight was rather astounded and then said, “Wow, that’s a lot. I'm glad you liked hanging out with them. I do apologize for Pinkie Pie and Rarity. I should’ve warned you about them.”

“Oh, there’s no need to be sorry. I love all your friends, and today was so much fun! And I did so much! I am so happy to move down to Ponyville and see what this town has to offer.”

“That’s wonderful to hear. I’m happy you're finding yourself being so comfortable,” Twilight replied. She then escorted me to my new bedroom, which was already set up with a fluffy, quaint bed, my vanity table already set up with my makeup kit, and a closet filled with the dresses I had brought with me.

“The royal guards that escorted you here set it up while you were out,”

“Well, I will have to thank them and give them both big tips!” I cried as I flopped onto my bed and pulled up under the covers.

“Goodnight, Morning Star, see ya in the morning!”

“Yeah, you too!” I giggled, and then, with a flick of a horn, Twilight was gone, and the door was closed. I lay there in my bed, staring up at the ceiling, and thought about my new life. I really could not wait to see how things would turn out tomorrow.