Long Live the Queen

by Balancer

Rating: teen
Tags: Dark, Adventure, Prince Blueblood, Twilight Sparkle, Princess Luna, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
Length: 20146

VIVA LA REVOLUTION, with Twilight

Celestia was away for a few years and came back to a world in ruins. Death, destruction, chaos, the endless fighting—it was like Harmony had never existed. Things were worse than ever. So I stopped it. And I did it my way this time. No more negotiating. No more promises. No more second chances. And I did it alone. Because I had to.

And it worked.

Thanks to Foxinshadow for the title image, had to crop it to fit the site's 1mb max file size so check out the whole image here: What the future has brought

Published 2012-11-03 06:50:01 UTC
Last updated 2014-01-13 02:18:22 UTC

Prologue

Prologue

Long Live the Queen

Rose Bud walked into lecture hall A of Celestia’s University for Gifted Unicorns, full of trepidation. Today she would be starting a history paper and had one Professor ‘Dusty’ Tomb as course coordinator, the subject being the civil war and Her Majesty the Queen’s rise to power. She had always enjoyed that portion of history at school (she even played some period authentic ARLARP in her free time) but she held no doubts that Ol ‘Dusty’ would somehow make her favorite time period seem duller than the complete scholars guide to rock farming.

She had just finished setting up her recorder and opened a link to the infoweb, when an icon appeared in her peripheral vision indicating she had a message.

Looking forward to the lecture. So fun -.-

The ID tag indicated it came from Ice, a cute unicorn that usually sat three rows back from her; she turned round to face him and waved. As she opened a tab to reply the doors to the lecture room opened and the familiar wrinkled shape of ‘Dusty’ par walked part shuffled into the room to the desk set up the front. He smiled as he gazed around the room with half focused eyes, licking his lips in an absent minded way. 'Dusty' was something of particularity in the modern age, having decided many years ago that he wouldn't undergo any additional cosmetic rejuve treatments, opting to age and eventually die via old age.

He touched a screen built into the desk, as it lit up the crest of the university appeared in the air, hovering just above the center. At the same time the wall behind him lit up as welcome sign appeared with the date of the history period they would be studying underneath it, data scrolled along the students peripheral vision as their VPA's registered the influx of new data.

The professor cleared his throat, checked that the mike woven into his coat collar was synced to the podium and started to speak. “Students today we will cover a period of history that everyone in this room should know. This particular period is undoubtedly one of the most fundamental times in Equestrian history, it being of course pivotal to the course of our modern lives.”

He stopped to take a breath. “The period of 1004 to 1028 is often quoted by many historians to be incredibly critical to the rise of our Queen and the empire. She herself has said on many occasions that without those unique conditions she would have never taken control of the Equestrian throne and we would still be under the rule of a Diarchy.”

The old pony looked up from his desk where he had pulled up a list of quick notes he was using for his lecture. Some of the students were tapping onto screens projected from their tables taking a couple of notes, most were just watching the wall behind the Professor, letting there VPA's recorded every word for later analysis.

“Today we the periods we will be covering will include the Celestia riots, the invasions and the event commonly referred to as the Ascension of Nightmares. After that we will look at the Noble civil wars, called so because of the large number of Noble houses who rebelled not because it was in any way noble, with exception to Prince Shinning Armor of course.” The Professor chuckled at his little joke. “The farmer’s movement, also know as the White Apple front, lead by the then former Elements of Harmony and lastly the Retribution, all of course in later lectures.”

“Before we begin I would like to take the time to make a couple of announcements. Firstly for the duration of this paper it is advised that you use the recommended data-texts in your revision, you will find a list of texts in your inbox after the lecture. Secondly I will not be taking you for the duration of this paper.”

Rose Bud blinked in shock, the Professor turning down a lecture was unheard of.

“Instead you will have a special guest speaker; one who I am happy to admit has far higher qualifications than myself to talk about history.”

Rose Bud was beginning to freak out, it was one thing for the Professor to turn down a lecture but another entirely for him to actually admit inferiority to any living pony.

“Without further ado it is my delight to welcome your new speaker, Ladies and Gentlestallions I introduce…on second thought I would rather that she introduce herself. You may come in whenever you wish.” He called out the door.

Rose Bud didn’t recall seeing anybody on the way in and no AR avatar was materializing so he hadn't outsourced the lecture somewhere else, maybe the old coot had finally lost his marbles. A quick glance around the room confirmed that most of the other students had come to the same conclusion and were discussing it among themselves.

Then the discussion dropped faster than a unicorn as the speaker entered the room.

She must have been using a cloaking spell in the hall way, Rose Bud thought.

The speaker shuffled a stack of paper notes, something nobody used now days. Well almost no pony.

A deep feminine voice addressed the room. “Greetings everypony I hope you will not find my taking of this class too disturbing, we have much to cover.”

With eyes of darkest purple Queen Sparkle surveyed the room and smiled.

Chapter 1

Celestia was in yet another meeting with the noble houses, each one clamoring for her attention. As usual they all had some kind of project or scheme they wanted her to endorse, some law they wanted to her to approve and others they wanted her to veto. Each and every single one of benefit to themselves or harmful to others, and no thought given to the ‘lesser’ ponies they hurt, with the very very rare exception of course.

She couldn’t get a word in edgewise anymore, let alone hear herself think, among the rabble shouting at her and at each other. Not a single one of them had any respect for her, that was the problem, she could recall days when they would be bowing at her hooves and treating her as a goddess. Heck they would have sooner thrown themselves off a cliff than dare to demand anything from her. It was her fault, she mused, she had been the one to encourage that they be proactive in their management, that they be able to openly voice their opinions without fear of defenestration. When they got their brains around that it had been all downhill from there.

She hadn't noticed it until it was too late, and when she did there was nothing she could do about it. Of course at first she had been happy that her little ponies were now independent, it was just that she wished they would show her a bit more respect. With Luna’s return she had hoped to split the court in half as soon as her sister had gotten her head around the fact that it wasn't acceptable to defenestrate annoying nobles and as soon as the nobles had stopped bitching about the new princess.

Which-with the way both parties were acting-was not going to happen any time soon.

Releasing a sigh she rubbed her temple with her hoof, none of the nobles gathered paid much attention given that they had broken out into another shouting match.

‘Oh well not much longer too go.’ She thought as she called upon the mighty, unfathomable, mystical connection she had to the sun to check the time. ‘Only……..e-ei-eight hours and forty minutes….’ Each meeting was nine hours long….she had been here for twenty minutes. Twenty minutes. Tweeennntttyyy minutes. She blinked, blinked again and stood up.

The room hushed, mostly, as Celestia began to address them.

“My little ponies, I call this meeting to a close.” With a flash of her horn the nobles found themselves picked up off the ground, many started shouting and struggle some simply watched.

Celestia stamped her hoof on the ground, a shockwave rippled from it silencing the court. “The court will be closed tomorrow, it will be closed the day after that and the day after that. It is high time I did something I should have done years ago and with the return of my sister it is something I can now do.”

Many or the nobles gulped as the solar Princess narrowed her eyes and smiled. “ Lords and Ladies I am taking a vacation, Luna is in charge.”

One of the suspended noble raised his voice. “But what about the country, you can’t just abandon us to your barbarian of a sister.”

Another noble raised his voice as well. “I agree it would be most unseemly of you, if you wish a vacation we can arrange a couple of weeks at a nice tropical island retreat.”

Seeing a chance to get in the princess’s good books many of the nobles started shouting out offers for the weary princess to stay at their own vistas and estates.

The princess chuckled. “I don’t think you quite grasp what I meant by vacation. For you two weeks might be sufficient, but as an immortal with a thousand years of stress to dispose of. I would say that ohh...ten maybe even twenty years would be sufficient.” She surveyed the shocked expressions on the nobles’ faces, with a burst of magic she sent them flying out the doors and maybe one or two of the more annoying ones through a window.

She turned to her shocked personal secretary. “Tell Luna I’m taking a sabbatical, I going to go off the grid for a few years. Tell her to give my love Philomena.”

She waved her hoof in front of the pony for a few seconds, no response. Sighing, she conjured a scroll quickly wrote down a missive saying she would be taking a few years for herself and to give her love to Philomena. Impaling the note on her secretary’s horn she smiled and with a flash of light disappeared.

She reappeared in her room and sat down at her desk to write the last two letters she would ever write for a few good years at least. One to Luna and one to Twilight, she spent a few minutes sitting deciding in what to write before she began, not wanting to screw it up. Not so much with Luna, the intervening years for her would seem short and they had discussed this before so this would not come to much of a shock for her sister, what she was worried about was Twilight. For her twenty years was a long time and this would be the last thing she would ever be able to say to her favorite student for some time. She sat at her desk and judged her words carefully and slowly began to write.

When they were done and sent off on their way, she closed her eyes, summoned her magic...and opened them to a new horizon.

Twilight was enjoying the fresh air as she helped set up her friends weekly picnic, the girls (and Spike) were placing various foods on the mat beneath them when a Scroll popped into existence above her horn.

The girls stopped what they were doing as Twilight picked it up. “It’s a letter from the Princess.”

Applejack placed the basket of apple treats she had brought on the ground to speak. “Last time this happened we found out you had a brother and that he was getting married, wonder what it’s going to be this time.”

Rainbow grinned. “Ten bits says it’s a sister.”

Applejack spat on her hoof and held it out Rainbow quickly copied the gesture. “Deal.” The two ponies said in unison.
Twilight rolled her eyes at her friends and began to read the scroll out loud as she unwound it.

My most faithful student Twilight

“Hehe pay up sugar cube.”

I am writing to inform you that I am taking a vacation, and as such will be gone for at the least twenty years. My sister Luna will be taking my place as ruler and I have no doubts that she will do fine however she can be a bit stubborn at times and will need a friend to talk to in coming days. I know this may come as a shock, but please know that I am in dire need of this. I have spent a thousand years reshaping and running a country, Twilight and I need a brake otherwise I fear may come to start resenting the ponies I love. I take this vacation now partly because previously with my sister gone there would have been no clear figure head for ponies to take leadership from, and so I kept my burdens to myself and painted a pretty mask for my subjects to see. You are one of the few ponies I have truly called friend, and one of the few who have seen beneath that mask to the tired mare warily trudging on. But with Luna returned to me and to Equestria she can take the throne, and I can finally truly rest for the first time in a thousand years. I had hoped that I would be able to have gotten her more acquainted to modern life and to spend more time with you before I decided to leave but I need this too much. To say that she has had trouble adjusting completely would be an understatement, but at least she has adjusted to modern linguistics and has succeed in talking in -relatively- modern Equestrian (she still insists on using that blasted royal We).

My leaving is not just about relieving myself from built up stress though, if it were things would be infinitely more simple. No my leaving is also about you, my most wonderful student. I have guided and shaped you into becoming the wonderful mare you are today, of that I have no regrets, the time I have spent at your side has been worth every second. But I can only teach you so much Twilight and my continued presence is only stiffing you. You may argue that I am doing no such thing, after all you don't need me to learn from a book, but only knowledge comes from books Twilight. Wisdom comes from life, as you know by now, and it is wisdom that I wish to teach you. You have to live and experience life, make mistakes and pick your self up again Twilight, if it's one thing you posses it is an indomitable spirit. Your life up to this point has been spent under my watchful gaze my dearest one, and up to this point you needed it. But you have grown so much, you are so much more than who you used to be, and trust me when I say that you are less than what you will be. I know that inside you is the seed for somepony magnificent and it has been my most honored privilege to tend to you and watch you blossom, but in order for you to continue growing you must leave my shadow. Your friends have begun to help you there but so long as I am around you will never truly let go. And this is the other half of my reason to leave, with myself gone both you will be forced to adapt and grow as pony. This may sound cruel to you now, but in time you will understand why and thank me for this, there may very well be times when it doesn't seem like it but trust me you will.

Lastly I wish you to know that you are under no obligation to become a permanent part of Luna's retinue, I know that you have your own life and it would be rude of me to order you to leave it behind. But you have been raised in the royal courts since you were a foal; you have intimate knowledge of how politics work even if you never involved yourself. But most importantly you have the most optimistic view of the world I have ever known, you are modest and polite even when you could have exploit your status and achievements at court to gain power. I know deep in my soul that you only have Equestria’s best wishes at heart. And it is because of this that I ask you this as your friend to please advise Luna whenever she needs it. She may have the power, but she needs a helping hoof to correct her course every now and then. You are my most faithful, my most talented student and there is no other pony I trust more with this task.

I want you to know that I have always been so proud of you and have always held a special place in my heart for you ever since you were a filly. I look forward to meet you again, I am sure the mare you will become will be fantastic.

Your eternally proud mentor,
With love,
Celestia.
P.S I expect to see some foals by the time I get back

Twilight reread the letter, shocked at what she had just read. She looked up from the letter, one thing on her mind as the full implications began to dawn on her.
What?

Chapter 2

The group was silent as their friend furiously re-read the letter over and over, shocked at the abruptness of it, their picnic momentarily forgotten.

Twilight lowered the letter and looked at her friends. “This has to be some kind of joke right?” She asked in a wavering voice. “Princess Celestia likes a good joke every now and then… right?”

Rarity leaned over and placed a hoof on her shoulder. “I don’t think this is a joke Twilight.”

Twilight’s bottom lip trembled. “But-but she left without saying good bye.”

Rarity levitated the letter up to her face whilst the rest of their friends came closer to give their friend a hug. Twilight took a couple of deep breaths as her friends hugged her tightly she looked over at Rarity who was reading the letter for herself.
“What do you suppose it means when she said it would be rude of her to ask you to leave?” Rarity looked at Twilight as the rest of their friends released her.

Twilight wiped her eyes with the back of her hoof, blinking away forming tears. “She was probably wanting me to move back to Canterlot so that I could be closer to Princess Luna I guess.”

The others gasped and Pinkie tackled Twilight in a bear hug. “You can’t move away Twilight, you’re one of my extra super special ultra-mega bestestest friends in the whole wide world.” Rainbow and Applejack quickly rushed forward and set to work prying Pinkie off their friend in a valiant effort to save her from Pinkie induced strangulation.

Spike opened his mouth to chip in but was cut off as a tell-tale burp of an incoming letter forced its way out followed by a trail of green smoke that condensed into a scroll bearing the Lunar crest. His scales turned a tinge of green as he failed to suppress the urge to gag. He picked up the scroll just as Pinkie, Rainbow and Applejack sprung backwards in a heap leaving a gasping Twilight lying on her back.

Twilight waited for her breath to come back to her before picking up the scroll. She quietly prayed that Luna would be able to shed some light on what was going on as she quickly unwrapped the scroll and read the contents out loud to her friends.

Twilight Sparkle, it appears that Celestia has finally taken a well-deserved vacation. Because of this We are to be the sole ruler of Equestria until she returns and as such We will require sound and respectable counsel in coming days to help Our subjects adapt to the change. Celestia has highly recommended you for this role and We could think of no pony better suited. We are sending a carriage to collect you this noon to discuss your future position.
And now I must go remember how to lower the sun.

Your friend,
Princess Luna.

P.S You are welcome to bring the other element bearers, they will be undoubtedly important to your decision.

Twilight took a deep breath to steady her nerves as she rolled up the scroll; looked at her friends as she sat down. She opened her mouth to speak but couldn't think of anything to say. The others sat down next to her, enveloping her in a group hug. They stayed that way, just letting their mutual closeness reassure each other that everything was going to be fine.
Eventually it was Applejack who broke away from the group hug first and she walked over to the pair of saddle bags she had brought with her, she reached down into one of them and pulled out an apple pie.

She placed it on the mat and began dividing the pie up. “My Pappy always used to say that pie was good for thinking things over. ‘Trust the pie Jackie’ he would say.” She pushed a slice over to Twilight with a smile. “I guess right now, we could all use a slice.”

Twilight accepted the slice with a smile, and as she began to eat surrounded by loving friends with the comforting warmth of the midday sun gently brushing her coat, she couldn't help but think that maybe everything would be all right.

As Twilight watched the girls pack up the remains of the picnic she couldn't help but ponder Celestia's message to her. She always had a plan for everything, a scheme in the background or a plot in the wings, just up and leaving, thrusting responsibility onto her student wasn't like her..

She was brought back to reality when Spike tapped his claw on her nose; she shook her head and blinked a couple of times. “Sorry, lost in thought.”

Spike rolled his eyes. “As Rainbow was saying; where do you want to meet later for the carriage?”

Twilight pursed her lips momentarily in thought. “Princess Luna will be sending the carriage to collect me, which means that it will be going to the library…so the library is where we should meet up.”

The rest of the group nodded and said their good-byes for time being, each promising to be there when the carriage arrived. Waving good-bye, Twilight set off towards home, Spike clutching the scrolls as he sat on her back.

As they strolled through the peaceful township Twilight couldn't help but admire how the ponies around her went on with their daily lives, blissfully unaware of the political shit storm that was brewing in Canterlot.

She strongly suspected that even her friends didn’t know how bad things were going to get in the capital. They couldn’t be blamed for not knowing; after all they were rural ponies, peasants, at heart, even Rarity and her dreams of aristocracy. They didn’t know how complicated and fragile the games of politics that nobles engaged in were.

Twilight's blood ran cold as a thought reared its self in her mind.

With their only limiting factor removed, the nobles were going to go berserk. They had only followed Celestia because she held the power to cancel their little schemes and because of a deeply ingrained sense of tradition. With Celestia gone and Luna occupying the throne the game had changed and Nobles did not like change.

They wouldn’t respect Luna enough to listen to her advice or her verdicts, nor would Luna be subtle or patient enough to play them at their own game. The only way Luna would be able to enforce her rule would be through force and shows of power.

It could only end in disaster, for both Luna and the country.

Unless, unless somepony could play both the Princess and the nobles whilst keeping the balance between them. Somepony that had been trained in the methods of the royal court but was unbiased in her opinions, willing to serve the country without abusing their power, a pony that was respected by all and held vast amounts of influence but was modest and humble at the same time…a pony like her.

Twilight let out a squeal of joy at figuring out the reasoning behind her mentor’s request. She hurried the rest of the distance home in a mad rush, energized with a sense of purpose. She had been entrusted with a pivotal role in maintaining the well-being of the nation, any questions she had could be answered later with the Princess.

Twilight was so deeply engrossed in thought that she only realized she had reached her destination when she received a face full of door.

“Told you to watch out.” Her assistant quipped from behind her as he dismounted. Twilight simply rubbed her nose as she pushed the door open with her magic. Twilight checked the clock as she walked into the room, just over three hours till Luna’s carriage arrived.

“Twilight, why don't you go relax.” Spike said as he jumped from her back.

“Spike, don’t be silly, I’m fine.” She replied with a wave of her hoof.

Spike place a hand on her leg and Twilight looked down at him. “Twilight….” He didn’t need to finish the sentence. Nodding slightly Twilight gave a slight sigh.

"You know me to well don't you?"

"Like a book." He replied.

Smiling, Twilight wrapped her other foreleg around her de-facto little brother and squeezed lightly before releasing, Spike following suit.

Spike walked away to go send a couple of letters as Twilight walked up to her balcony and looked out over the bustling township as it went about it’s business under the midday sun. From her vantage point she could take in the sounds and smells of the market, the sound of laughter as fillies ran through the streets and off in the distance visible on a clear day the rainbow mists of the Winsome falls.

She inhaled and held the air in her lungs before releasing, taking in the warmth of the sun on her coat.

Dear Princess Celestia, she thought, I miss you already.

Twilight and her friends (plus Spike) watched as the large carriage descended from the sky, pulled by six of the unmistakable Night Guard. As they touched down one of them detached himself from the harness and opened the door for them to enter, giving them a bow as they boarded.

As they rose up into the sky and the carriage began to move towards Canterlot, everypony aboard looked back to Ponyville to catch a last glimpse of their home before it disappeared into the distance. Everypony except Twilight Sparkle, who was deep in concentration as her mind shifted gears into a set long unused.

The carriage ride was long; the conversation between the passengers was mostly centered around what the Princess was going to do, what she was going to say and whether or not Twilight would accept. The unicorn in question kept strangely quiet whenever the conversation turned to the subject of her choice, staying quiet no matter how her friends tried to persuade her to talk.

Eventually the carriage arrived over Canterlot as night began to descend; the sparkling lights of the city illuminated the magnificent white and gold walls of the palace as they swooped down to the large courtyard. An area clearly marked as the landing zone by the large number of attendees in white and gold livery had been prepared for them. As the carriage touched down the servants rushed forward and formed a row on either side of the door, bowing as it was opened and the passengers disembarked.

Applejack whistled as she took in the sight. "Woh never had this kind of a welcome before."

The group waited as a servant wearing black and purple livery walked down the impromptu aisle to greet the new arrivals. He bowed as he approached; focusing only on Twilight as he spoke.

“Madam it is a relief to see you home where you belong once more. Under more…calm…situations I would be honored to escort you to your estate that you might rest after such an arduous journey. However I must please ask you to proceed this way proceed this way, the Princess is expecting you in the Gold Hall.” With another bow that was obviously meant for Twilight he turned and began to walk away into the palace.

Twilight seemed un-phased by the servant’s behavior; however her friends were stunned by his indifference to their presence. As they began to walk after the servant, flanked by the other attendees, Rainbow flew up beside Twilight.
“Hey Twi what’s with the escort and the cold shoulder from fancy smanshcy pants?”

Twilight looked to her friend with a sheepish expression. “The servants are assigned to me to keep the…uh…commoners away from us. As for the cold shoulder; he’s a royal page, they don’t address anyone not a part of the noblesse.”

“Well that’s just….wait you’re a noble?”

Rarity appeared beside Twilight in a flash, shunting Rainbow aside. “Twilight, you’re of the nobility and you didn't tell me! For shame, just think on all the functions we've missed out on, all the connections I…I mean we could have made.”

Twilight sighed. “That’s just it Rarity, I didn't tell you because I don't like to get involved with all” She gestured to their escort. “this. The peace and quiet of Ponyville was much more preferable. I didn't have to think so much.”

Rarity gave a pout and looked at her friend skeptically. “Come now Twilight, things can’t be that bad.”

Twilight just shook her head. “Trust me Rarity; you don’t know anything about the nobility.”

Rarity scoffed. “Oh Twilight please, I think I know just a teensy bit more about being a lady than you. No offence intended, but you are neither the most social nor cultured of ponies.”

Twilight raised an eyebrow in annoyance. “Oh really? Rarity I think you are in need of a demonstration.”

Twilight nodded her head and coughed slightly, one of the escorts looked at her.

“Is there something you require madam?”

Twilight gave a smile and spoke, however her voice and mannerisms were more cultured and refined than what they normally were. “Why yes my companion and I are so terribly parched, and well if isn’t too much of an inconvenience could we trouble you for a glass of water?” She bit her bottom lip slightly and looked away shyly from the servant who, despite turning an impressive shade of red, managed to keep a somewhat level voice.

“Yes certainly madam, it is on its way.” He then broke away from the formation, the others reforming to compensate for his departure.

Twilight then turned to Rarity and giggled at the shocked expression she wore. “Oh Rarity, darling whatever is the matter?”
The group began laughing as Rarity made spluttering noises before fainting, one of the servants swooping in and catching her on his back. As the laughing died down the servant that had left to get the water returned balancing two cups on a dish on his back, Twilight thanked him and levitated the glasses towards her.

Grinning mischievously she moved the glasses over her unconscious friend and inverted them, spilling the ice-cold water over her and the servant supporting her. Rarity gasped and threw herself from the servant’s back; the servant himself simply blinked and re-joined his position in the formation.

After the group had stopped laughing and Twilight had apologized to the servant, who gave a curt nod, they set off once more. Twilight looked at the décor around her, the warm orange and pristine white bringing back fond memories of talks with the Princess.

I won’t let you down Princess I promise Twilight thought to herself.

Eventually the group came to hall way guarded by two gold-plated pegasai, the décor beyond them was a rich gold and purple. The group came to a stop and the escort left, leaving only the black and purple dressed servant, the guard on the left approached them called out to the servant. “You who approach the Golden Halls announce yourself.”

The servant bowed. “Sirs I humbly introduce Lady Twilight Sparkle of the house Illumine.”

The Royal Guard nodded in confirmation. “Welcome milady.”

Twilight gave an uncomfortable smile to the Guard and quickly trotted past him, the rest of the girls went to follow her only for the Guards to bar them.

“What the hay?” Applejack called out, causing Twilight to turn around.

“Sirs, it’s okay they’re with me.”

The guard that hadn’t spoken before shook his head. “I’m sorry milady but I cannot allow commoners past this point, tis law.”

"What the buck guys! If had noticed we're like national hero's!" Rainbow shouted as tried to push past the guards.

Twilight’s eyes widened in recognition and she slapped a hoof to her forehead.
“Oh how could I have forgotten, these parts of the Palace are barred to the commoners and non-ponies.”
Come on Twilight you can't afford to be making stupid mistakes.

“You are allowed a personal servant into the halls madam.” The guard offered upon seeing the look on Twilight's face. ”But regrettably, you are only allowed one.”

Twilight looked at her friends and groaned. “Uhhhhh, it’s just like the gala ticket all over again.” Except Princess Celestia isn’t here to solve it. “I guess I can only take one of you girls in.”

Applejack shrugged. “Ah don’t mind being left behind, give me a chance to do some late night sightseeing, maybe visit some of those famous clubs the brochures keep yapping on about. Sides I wouldn’t feel mighty comfortable with those froufrou ponies anyhow.”

“Yeah, don’t think those stuffy powder faces could take my awesomeness. I’ll join AJ.” Rainbow added.

“If you don’t mind Twilight I would love to go see the Canterlot nocturnal petting zoo, so umm I would like to go with Applejack…if that’s okay.” Fluttershy squeaked from behind Applejack.

Pinkie tapped her chin. “Hmmmmmm, I’ll have the banana Sunday with extra Sunday.” Having made up her mind the pink pony reached behind her and pulled out a banana split which she devoured in a single bite, bowl and all, the room looked at her in disbelief.

Twilight raised a hoof. “Where did you-“

“Inventory quick select.”

“But that makes…”Twilight was about to complete her sentence when she remembered who she was taking to. “Never mind, what do you want to do?”

Pinkie giggled. “You’re so silly sometimes Twilight, its night time and you know what that means… dungeon crawling!”

“……Okay, have fun I guess? What about you Rarity?”

“Oh I would love to take this occasion to visit some of the fashion hot spots if you don’t mind, after all fashion never sleeps. Besides why not take Spikey wikey?”

Spike shook his head. “Won’t work, the nobles will allow a commoner in if she is attached to another noble, but under no circumstance is a non-pony allowed into their private section. Unless they happen to be ambassadors or other high ranking creatures, then they fall head over hooves to make them comfortable.”

Rarity stepped forward. “Then I’ll join you Twilight, Princess knows you’ll need a pony with some style and fashion sense in there with you.”

Twilight smiled. “Thanks Rarity, I’d like that.”

The Guards parted to allow the white unicorn through, the pair waved to their friends as the group left to explore the city everypony agreeing to meet at Donut Joe’s.

Twilight walked down the hall way with Rarity beside her, the hall way was richly decorated with heavy purple cloths embroidered in gold thread. Twilight could tell by the way Rarity’s eyes roamed the walls that she was entranced.

“Beautiful isn’t it.” She said as she nudged her friend, Rarity gave a sigh in acknowledgement.

“Yes it is….” She said breathily.

The sounds of talking and light ballroom music could be heard from the end of the hallway. Before they came to the end of the hallway Twilight froze, a sign that she was in intense thought.

Rarity looked to her friend concerned. “What is it?”

“I’m not prepared for this.”

“Twilight you are the most accomplish-“

Twilight interrupted her friend with a hoof wave. “Not that kind of not prepared Rarity, this is my first appearance in the Halls in over eight years. I’m not prepared physically, I can’t believe I am about to ask this but did you bring your make up gear with you?”

Rarity blinked. “Well yes in my bags but not on me no, why ever do you need it?”

“Drat….okay I know a place we can go to get some stuff, hold on.”

“What?” Rarity had barely got the word out of her mouth when Twilight lit her horn and teleported them away.

Rarity blinked and examined the change of scenery. They had gone from the overt grandeur Halls to what was obviously a bedroom, a very nice bedroom. Set up against the wall furthest from the large double doors was a grand, four poster bed. On the ground next to it was what looked to be a dog bed but twice the size with a pillow and sheets. Against another wall was a wooden study desk piled high with notes and books, all neatly arranged. Not far from the desk was another set of doors much smaller than the pair behind Rarity. On the wall with the windows was a set of curtains drawn back to reveal a balcony, on the balcony was a telescope.

“Twilight, where are we?” Rarity asked as Twilight moved to the pair of smaller doors.

Twilight paused before throwing open the doors with a push of magic, revealing a massive walk in closet complete with vanity and row upon row of dresses, hats and hoofwear. “My room.”

Rarity gasped both from the shock of what her friend had said and the contents of the closet, she resisted the urge to rush forward and try on clothes. “Your room?”

Twilight looked at the stack of paper and books on the desk. “Nice to see things the way I left them.”

“Twilight, how high up in the nobility are your parents?” Rarity asked as she looked around the room.

Twilight simply shrugged. “High enough.”

Rarity gave Twilight a questioning look at her evasive answer and shook her head. “So why are we here Twilight, are we not supposed to be meeting with the Princess?”

Twilight shook her head. “This is the first time I’ve appeared in court since I arrived in Ponyville. I have to make a good impression otherwise the Nobility will think I’ve gone, no offense, native. I can’t help Princess Luna if I can’t talk to the Noblesse.”

Rarity stopped and slowly turned her head to look directly into Twilight’s eyes. “So you have already made up your mind I see.”

Twilight eyes widened in shock as she realized her mistake, she stammered for a bit before looking away. “Yeah…” She slowly scuffed the ground with a fore hoof.

Rarity giggled. “Pinkie won’t like that.”

“You’re not mad?” Twilight asked confused as she looked at her friend with a raised eyebrow.

Rarity gave a flick of her mane putting on a dignified expression. “A little annoyed that you decided to do this without consulting me first, yes, but you are going to be the most important pony next to the Princess by taking this position.”

Twilight raised the other eyebrow in surprise, Rarity smirked back at her. “Come now dear, I may be from a small town but I am not stupid. By becoming the advisor to the Princess your opinion will be the most important one in the entire court the entire Nobility will be clamoring for your attention. But you already knew that didn’t you.”

Twilight sighed. “Yeah, I did.”

“Then let us get you dressed for the occasion, you have an appointment to keep” Rarity shot Twilight a grin. “milady.”
Twilight rolled her eyes and smiled

Rarity looked over the selection of dresses, her eyes widened and she felt her knees go weak as she recognized some of the brands. “A Triple Stich limited Summer Collection, three dresses from the Amour Winter Collection, an original from the Les Jardins Du Paradis! They only made ten….. Twilight dear some of these are worth a fortune, however did you get them?!”

“It seems my father has kept my wardrobe up to date.”

“Up to date…Twilight you could buy a house on the cost of some of these alone!”

“Only the best for my princess.” A deep male voice sounded from behind the pair, they spun around with a gasp, Twilight recognizing the voice instantly.

“Dad!” She cried and ran over hugged the light blue stallion.

He chuckled heartily as he nuzzled Twilight fondly. “The front door too good for you?”

Twilight blushed. “Oh sorry, kind of in a rush I thought you would be over at the Halls.”

Nightlight shook his head. “No that’s more your mother’s scene now, she’s over there at the moment I decided to stay and hold the fort. I assume this is something to do with Princess Celestia’s sudden vacation I presume?”

“Yeah, Princess Luna asked me to be her personal advisor.”

Nightlight's face broke into a huge grin at the news. “And you came here to get dressed for the occasion, wouldn’t do for the others to think you’ve gone native.”

“Exactly.”

Nightlight winked at his daughter whilst still wearing the grin. “And who is this mare you’ve brought into our house at this time of the night, something you want to tell me?”

Rarity turned a shade of red and Twilight started spluttering. “Dad! This is my friend Rarity, were just friends.”

“Really? The way I saw she was sizing your flank up when I came in told another story.”

“She’s a tailor! She was sizing me up for…you’re joking again aren't you.”

He simply grinned at her. “So this is the Rarity you've written so much to us about.” He walked over to the white unicorn and offered a hoof, which she accepted daintily. “It is an honor to finally met you, my dear.”

Rarity curtsied. “It is an honor to meet you as well, Twilight is rather secretive about her past, I had no idea that she was even Nobility till a few minutes ago.”

“Really?” Nightlight gave his daughter a stern look, Twilight looked up the ceiling whistling a tune.

“Not a peep, milord.”

”Nightlight my dear, just Nightlight to my daughter’s friends.”

“Well I am certain the others will be equally as pleased to meet you as well.”

“Others, I assume you mean the other element bearers?”

“Naturally, we’re set to stay at a local hotel.”

Nightlight rang a bell that was on one of the bedside tables. “This won’t do, not at all; I won’t have friends of my daughters staying at some two bit a night hotel.” A tall grey pony with a jet black mane and wearing a neat butler suit walked into the room, nearly causing Rarity to swoon. “Sebastian somewhere in the city are four friends of my daughter and Spike, find them and bring them here for lodging.”

“Certainly sir.” The pony neatly spun on his hooves and walked out of the room.

Rarity looked after him, or more precisely his flank. “But he doesn’t even know what they look like? How will he be able to find them in the whole of Canterlot?”

Twilight shrugged. “He is one hell of a butler.” Nightlight nodded sagely along with her.

“But that doesn't explain anything.”

Both Twilight and Nightlight looked at her intensely. “One hell of a butler.” They said in unison.

Rarity stepped back slightly. “…..Let’s get you that dress shall we?”

Five minutes later….

“Twilight you look gorgeous.” Nightlight beamed at his daughter as she twirled around in front of him. “Rarity my dear you do wonderful work.”

Rarity blushed as she patted the dress she had chosen for herself. “You are to kind sir, all I did was chose an outfit from what was available. If anything I should congratulate you on having such excellent fashion taste.”

“Hahaha then you would have to give thanks to my wife; she was the one who picked the clothing. How do like it Twilly?”
Twilight couldn't take her eyes off her reflection as she spun around. Rarity had chosen a simple purple dress with darker purple embroidery in the shape of flowers along the hem. On her hooves were delicate sliver shoes and an amethyst hung from a sliver chain around her neck along with two small teardrops shaped earrings of the same stone. The overall effect was....marvelous.

“Mother sure does know what looks good.” She said with a grin as she pulled away from the mirror.

Nightlight gave a chuckle. “That she does, she also knows what's expensive. I also doubt she would want you to be standing around here when you have somewhere to be.”

Twilight gave her dad a quick hug and peck on the cheek. “Thank you for everything Dad, see you when we get back.”
Rarity gave Nightlight a small wave before standing beside Twilight, the pair disappearing in a flash of purple light.

Nightlight looked the space his daughter had been and smiled. “Good luck girls.”

Twilight and her ‘personal servant’ walked into the large atrium at the end of the halls. Rarity was awestruck at both the décor and the guests present. The room was a large circle with doorways leading to other parts of the Halls. A raised platform occupied the center of the large room, on the platform was a band playing a classical piece. The walls and the arches that supported the roof looked to be made of solid gold and inscribed high on each wall in flowing silver was the crest of the Equestrian monarchy, two unicorns bowing, their horns crossing, before a sun and moon. The guests appeared to be organized in no particular order, with groups of ponies walking about talking. Sometimes one pony would be surrounded be others who listened to them talk, the group eagerly agreeing with the lead pony.

As Twilight and Rarity walked through the crowd some ponies would walk up them and comment on Twilight’s dress or try to initiate a conversation only to be ignored. Twilight walked through the crowd with an expression of calm disinterest that dissuaded all but the most arrogant of nobles to approach her, Rarity may have been part of the scenery for all the attention she received, much to her frustration.

Twilight pushed past the throngs of nobles towards a large gathering of ponies in the center of the room, Prince Blueblood standing tall amongst them. The crowd parted to allow Twilight through, Rarity following close behind.

Blueblood was the first to look their way, his eyes widening at the sight of Twilight a small smile played on his features. “Twilight Sparkle as I live and breathe, is that you? It has been a while hasn't it.” His voice was empty of the overflowing arrogance and snobbery Rarity recalled. “You look as marvelous as when we first meet. One wonders if you are still as flexible?” Twilight blushed as Blueblood gave her a grin and picked up one of her hooves in his and kissed it.

Twilight opened her mouth to reply when Rarity’s hoof sailed across her vision and slapped Blueblood across the check. The crowd gasped as Rarity pushed between Blueblood and her friend.

Blueblood’s eyes widened in recognition. “You! The mare from the gala!”

Rarity gritted her teeth. “How dare you talk to Twilight in such a way you ruffian!” Twilight placed a hoof on Rarity’s shoulder to get her to calm down. ”No Twilight I’ll not stand as this scoundrel dares to sully your honour with, with innuendos!”

Twilight gave Blueblood an apologetic smile as she clamped a hoof over Rarity’s mouth. “I am terribly sorry for my servant’s outburst Blueblood, I don’t know what came over her.”

Blueblood waved a hoof. “No no it’s quite all right, I understand, you aren’t to blame for the outburst of jealous servant.” He turned to speak to the crowd. “We danced at the gala some time ago, poor dear must still be infatuated with me.” He turned back top Twilight who was giving a very stern look to a furious Rarity. “But please see that you control your help, we would hate to have another such incident.”

Twilight nodded. “Thank you for your understanding, I would love to have you over for lunch at the family estate tomorrow if you are not too busy.”

Blueblood bowed. “I wouldn’t miss it for the world. Please give my regards to Aunty Luna when you see her, she was asking for you. I believe that she was waiting in the Royal wing.”

Twilight gave him one last smile before dragging Rarity away and down the hallway to the Royal wing.

“What the hell were you thinking?!” She said in hushed tones. “Slapping Blueblood, calling him a scoundrel, accusing him of sullying my honour. Are you trying to sabotage my standing?” Twilight eased pressure off Rarities mouth.

Rarity was confused by her friend’s actions but was still furious with her. “Twilight I don’t know what you are on about or what's gotten into you, but how dare you lecture me when you didn’t even come to my defence. I don’t understand why you would simply sit back and insult you like that?“ She snapped back.

“Rarity, Blueblood wasn’t insulting me. He was complementing me, we……we used to…” Twilight scratched the back of her head in embarrassment.

Rarity gaped. “….you and him…” Twilight nodded slowly. “But…..how? When? He’s a selfish, misogynistic jerk, what could the two of you possibly have in common?”

Twilight relaxed her hold on her friend and let her go with a sigh. “We had a...dalliance a couple of years before I moved to Ponyville. He isn’t anything like how he acted at the gala Rarity, he’s actually quite charming and respectful to ponies he likes.”

Rarity scoffed. “And the way he treated you, treated me out there was respectful. Why didn’t you say anything?”

Twilight rubbed her forehead. “Most of that was for show, if he had apologised to you in public, if I had stuck up for a commoner in front of the others what would that have done for our standings?”

Rarity raised an eyebrow. “So by shifting the blame to me and by inviting him to lunch somehow makes things all better?”

“By inviting him to lunch I was offering him an apology for the incident, and because he accepted it showed the others that there was no hard feelings.”

Rarity scowled. “And shifting the blame to me.”

Twilight looked at the floor in shame. “Well by shifting the blame to you it removed the scandal from myself and Blueblood.”

Rarity huffed in annoyance. “And what about my reputation Twilight? Do you know what this will do to my reputation?”

“It will do absolutely nothing. You don’t have a reputation amongst the elite, those ponies out there don’t even know that you exist.” Twilight said with a wince in her voice.

Rarity was taken back. “What?! I’ll have you know that I am well respected seamstress, I have many important clients from the Canterlot elite requesting my dresses.”

Twilight’s face was a look of guilt. “Rarity….I don’t know how to tell you this but…most of the nobles that purchase your dresses are….well they’re small fry. Some don’t even have enough standing to enter the Halls without an invitation from a more important house.” She looked away from her friend.

Rarity sat on her haunches, a lock of shock on her face. “Is…is that true….all the work….I’ve put in over the last eight years has been…….for nothing….” She looked at Twilight with a look of desperation. “What about Fancy Pants? He liked me, he covered for me at your birthday. That has to count for something right?”

Twilight shook her head slowly. “I’m sorry Rarity but you all ponies should know how trends work.”

Rarity looked away on the verge of tears; Twilight put a comforting hoof around her friends shoulders only to be shocked as Rarity started to chuckle. Rarity wiped the tears from her face as she looked at her friend. “I suppose I shall have to apologies to Blueblood tomorrow.” Rarity said with a fake grimace.

Twilight smiled. “Well as long as you don’t assault him I am sure we can call things even.” Twilight looked at her friend with concern. “Are you okay? I’m sorry I said those things, I should have kept my muzzle shut.”

Rarity shook her head. “No no, I’m the one who should be apologizing. I let my ego get the best of me. Besides I suppose I needed to be reminded that I still have a ways to go before I’m the toast of the town.”

“No Rarity I’m the one who should be apologising, I forgot that even though you act like a lady, you aren’t familiar with the subtleties of court.”

“No Twilight, I insist that you accept my apology. If I hadn’t lost control of my anger then we wouldn’t be having this conversation.”

Twilight chuckled. “Fine, but on one condition.”

“What?”

“That you accept my apology for not being a good friend.”

Rarity flicked her mane. “Oh well I suppose I can live with those conditions, so long as I get access to that glorious wardrobe of yours.”

Twilight laughed. “Deal, I suppose we shouldn’t keep the Princess waiting any longer.”

Rarity laughed with her friend. “No I suppose we shouldn’t.”

Twilight led Rarity down the hallway. “Rarity we are entering the Royal wing, this is a private room for the Princesses.”
Rarity nodded and the pair stepped into the room, the Royal wing was decorated in flowing purple curtains, the room a notable because it was completely empty save for Princess Luna who was pouring some tea, two of her personal guard were standing either side of her.

The night Princess saw the pair and smiled. “Lady Sparkle, Miss Rarity you have come at last.” She gestured for the pair to sit opposite her as she poured them a cup of tea.

Twilight and Rarity bowed as the sat. “Princess Luna.”

Luna laughed. “It is good see you again Lady Sparkle, I apologize for not addressing you by title the last time we meet.”
Twilight waved a hoof dismissively. “No need to apologize Princess.”

Luna took a sip of her drink as she prepared to drink; Twilight and Rarity took the opportunity to make themselves more comfortable. “We apologize for calling you here on such short notice. But We must have an answer sooner rather than later, and it is in Our belief that such an offer as We will make should be delivered in pony rather than through correspondence.”
Luna took a moment to think about what she was going to say next.

“Lady Sparkle, We understand that your friends mean the world to you. To ask that you leave them and take up residence again in Canterlot is not a request that We take lightly.” Luna paused to gather her thoughts.

“But in the coming days and years We will need the guidance of one who is schooled in the ways of the court. We have had no great love of the nobility and there two faced nature. We can say with utmost surety that the feeling is mutual. Because of this Celestia has deemed it wise that for the duration of her vacation that We be advised in our judgment, least the conflict between ourselves and the courts spell calamity for the nation as a whole. She has suggested that you be the one to advise us, and We are a in mind to agree with her.”

Luna looked deep into Twilight’s eyes. “You have proven to be pure of heart and intent; you wield the element of magic, the keystone of harmony. It is undoubted in my mind that you would give sound advice and consul. Because of this I ask you, nay, humbly request that you accept the position here in Canterlot as my personal advisor. I will give you some time to make your decision of course.” Her gaze flashed over to Rarity. “I trust that you will need to discuss this with the other element bearers and your assistant. When you have decided, and if chose to stay here, then we will discuss terms for your employ that we both think are fair. I can only ask that you think long and hard over this, it is a very important decision that should not be taken lightly.”

“Actually I have already made up my mind Princess; I wish to stay here and help.”

Luna blinked. “This is most…unexpected.” She turned to Rarity. “Do you approve of this?”

Rarity nodded. “I trust Twilight completely; I know that this isn’t a choice she would be making on a whim.”

“And what of the others, do they agree as you do?”

Rarity and Twilight shared a look. “Ahh you haven’t told them.”

Rarity shook her head. “No.”

Luna looked back to Twilight. “Are you certain that this is what you want to do? It will mean that you will be separated from your friends, you will only be able to see them sparingly, if at all, for long periods of time. This is not decision to be made lightly or with haste. ”

Twilight nodded. “Yes I know, but even though it means I will be away from Ponyville and separated from the best friends a pony could ever hope for, I know in my heart that this is the right thing to do.”

Luna was surprised. “Why?”

“By keeping the nobles in line and keeping you from making decisions you would regret; I can help Equestria for the better.” A look of determination came over Twilight. “It would be irresponsible of me to leave you to fend for yourself and I could not look at myself in the mirror if I were to endanger the future of Equestria because of a selfish desire to stay with my friends.”

Luna chuckled. “Endanger the future of Equestria? Have you so little confidence in my abilities?”

Twilight blanched. “Oh um not that you wouldn’t do a fine job by yourself, it’s just that ahhhh-“

Luna cut her off with a wave of her hoof and a small laugh. “Relax Lady Sparkle, I jest I jest. I am aware that you meant no ill will by your comment. Well We can see that you are indeed passionate about this, my sister was indeed correct when she said you would be perfect for the position.”

Twilight glowed at the praise from her mentor. “Thank you Princess.”

Princess Luna smiled and stood. “I look forward to working with you in the future Lady Sparkle.”

Twilight rose from the cushion, Rarity standing along with her. “Thank you Princess I promise to do my best. Please excuse us Princess but we must be off, I hope we can arrange terms at a later date.”

“Of course, enjoy the rest of your night.”
Twilight and Rarity walked back through the main room towards a group, Twilight leaned close to her friend. “Rarity, before we go there’s somepony I want you to meet.”

Twilight walked up behind a white and purple mare and tapped her on the shoulder. The mare spun around, her eyes widening when she saw Twilight. “Twilight!” She cried as she pulled her in for a hug.

“Hello Mother, it has been some time has not?” Twilight said as she kissed her mother on the check.

Twilight Velvet led Twilight Sparkle and Rarity away from the crowds towards a private table where she gave her daughter a hug. “Oh Twilight dear it is good see you.” She released Twilight and gave Rarity a hug. “And this would be your friend Rarity.”

Rarity gave a small bow before she sat down. “I most certainly am milady.”

Velvet smiled. “And well cultured too? I am impressed, though from what I have read about her I should not be surprised. My dear, please call me Twilight.” Rarity looked over to Twilight Sparkle, Twilight Velvet followed her gaze and let out a small sigh. “I suppose that could get rather confusing hmmmm? Call me Velvet instead then.”

Twilight raised an eyebrow. “How did you-?”

Velvet smirked. “Know who she was? Your father sent a courier dear, really shame on you for not bringing her here sooner.” Twilight coughed into her hoof and looked at the band as her mother gave her a stern look. Velvet rolled her eyes and sighed as she called a waiter over.

“I’m sure you two must be famished from your trip here, I suppose you would like something to eat?”

Rarity examined a menu that the waiter had passed to her, her eyes nearly popping out of her head as she saw the prices. “By Celestia’s golden beard! Ma'am there is no way I could accept a gift like this.”

Velvet chuckled. “Gift? No my dear this is simply lunch, I can see by your dress that Sparkle has already given you a gift.”

“Sparkle?”

Twilight leaned over to her friend. “We use the second half of our names to distinguish between us.”

“Ahh, well that should be easy enough to get used to.”

Velvet chuckled. “I hope you do, now please order something, you aren’t the only ones who haven’t eaten all night.”

Twilight ordered and Rarity (though reluctantly) followed suit, the waiter placed a bottle of wine before he left. Velvet poured the three of them a glass and raised hers to make a toast. “To good health.” Twilight and Rarity raised their glasses to acknowledge the toast before taking a drink.

The trio made small talk as the waiter brought the food, Rarity couldn’t help but be amazed as she tried the food. The tastes seemed to dance around on her tongue, a symphony of flavors that continued to echo along her taste buds long after she had swallowed her mouthful. “By the Sun and Moon this is good.” Velvet simply grinned as she watched Rarity devour the meal with gusto.

Twilight nudged Rarity with an elbow, Rarity as looked up from her meal Twilight gave a small shake of her head and proceeded to eat daintily. Rarity blushed as realized her excessive enjoyment of the meal had resulted in a lowering of her table manners. The rest of the meal proceeded without incident and as the waiter cleared the last of the plates away Rarity slumped into her chair, a content look on her face matching the one on Twilight’s face.

Velvet smiled. “I take it that the two of you enjoyed your meal.”

“I forgot how good the royal chefs were, I think I’m going to enjoy being home.” Twilight took a sip from her glass as she smiled vapidly.

Velvet raised an eyebrow. “Being home?”

“Mmmmm yeah, Princess Luna asked me to be her advisor while Celestia is on vacation, I said yes.”

Velvet’s other eyebrow shot up as her faced turned into a look of surprise, she jumped up from the table and with a cry of joy started jumping around in a circle. “Yesyesyesyesyesyesyesyesyesyesyesyesyesyesyesyes.”

Twilight looked at the crowd of nobles staring at them. “Ummmm mum.”

Velvet stopped bouncing and looked around at the crowd, her checks turning red in embarrassment. “Errrr come on dears lets go.” She said as she quickly trotted for the door.

Rarity looked quizzically at Twilight who shrugged her shoulders and went after her mother. As the trio walked out of the main room and into the hallway Velvet lit her horn and teleported the three of them. They reappeared outside a large mansion surrounded by a tall fence, built onto the mansion was a tall tower made of stone, peeking out from the balcony was telescope. Rarity was astounded by the magnificence of the mansion and its surrounding grounds. “Twilight, are we where I think we are?”

Velvet gave Twilight a hug. “Welcome home Twilly, it’s good to have you back.” Twilight returned the hug.

“It’s good to be home mother.”

Mother and daughter broke away and started walking towards the front doors, Rarity stared at the building for a few more moments before rushing to catch up.

Chapter 3

The lights in the foyer burned dimly as Twilight gave her mother one last hug before Velvet retired upstairs with her husband.

“Are you sure you don’t want to meet the girls, Mother?”

Velvet shook her head. “I’m sure I will have plenty of opportunities in the future. Besides you should take this night to celebrate your new position. Go have fun out in town; celebrate with your friends, your father and I will
cover the expenses.”

“Mada-Velvet…That is indeed generous of you but surely it wouldn’t be polite of us to use your money for such as trivial
thing as a night out?”

“Rarity darling, one of these days you will have to learn to not look the gift horse in the mouth.”

Before Rarity could respond, mother and daughter hugged and said goodnight, Velvet then trotted up the stairs, giving Twilight one last smile before she disappeared.

Shaking her head slightly, Rarity followed Twilight as one of the families servants opened a set of large wooden doors and walked into what she figured to be some form of stateroom. Inside were the forms of their friends all nestled comfortably into the large seats placed around the room, except Pinkie who was roasting a marshmallow in the large fireplace in the far left wall. They looked towards the door to see who had entered and smiled seeing the faces of their friends, Twilight and Rarity smiled back as they took a seat in the room.

“Where’s Spike?” Twilight asked as she looked around the room.

“Oh that butler of yours, Sebastian I think his name was, put him to bed.” Fluttershy said as she blushed slightly.

“Oh that was nice of him I’ll have to be sure to thank him later, how did you girls enjoy Canterlot?” Twilight asked.

“Oh it was nice, got to take a look at some nightclubs before that Sebastian found us.” Applejack said, blushing slightly as
well before continuing. “After that we were led back here, and boy howdy do those servants of yours know how to make a mare feel comfortable Twilight.”

“So how did things go with the princess?” Fluttershy asked as she turned around in her seat to face Twilight.

Twilight and Rarity shared a look before Twilight turned back to their friends who looked to her with eager faces and spoke.

“Girls I have something to tell you.” She shifted nervously in her seat. “Princess Luna as you know asked me to be her royal advisor and, well, I’ve accepted.”

The room was silent as the news settled in, the eager faces slowly turned to looks of confusion. “Without asking us what we thought about it first?” Applejack asked hurtfully. “Is that why you were acting so weird on the chariot ride?”

“Yeah, I guess I had already made up mind then.” Twilight rubbed her foreleg. “On the way home from the picnic I had, I don’t know, a revelation I suppose? The princess has asked me to do this, trusts me to do this, I can’t let her down.”

“Soooo what does that mean? Are you going to be living in Canterlot now?” Rainbow asked as she scratched her head absently.

“Well…yeah it does.” Twilight answered, the room went quite the only sound being the soft crackle of the flames.

“But what about us?” Pinkie said in a quiet voice.

Rainbow reached across and draped a hoof over her friend. “You have a good reason for this right Twi?”

Twilight looked around the room. “Yeah, I do.”

“Go on then darling.” Rarity said as she placed an encouraging hoof on her friends shoulder.

Twilight took a deep breath. “This position, it’s not just about me, about us, it’s about everypony. Princess Celestia has gone away for a long time girls and as much as things are okay for the time being, believe me it is not going stay this way."Twilight was quiet for a bit, trying to find the right words.

"Celestia has ruled Equestria for a thousand years girls; a lot of our habits, beliefs, and even way of life all stem from her. And now she has gone away and left Princess Luna in charge and for all her virtues, Princess Luna is still very much a temporal fish out of water.”

“The Nobles…everything they are has been built on the backs of tradition, tradition mostly upheld by Princess Celestia, sadly the reason why many grudgingly support her. With Princess Luna thing are...different, not only do many of them view her as some sort of barbarian because of her archaic methods and mannerisms, but she herself does not particularly like them. Trust me girls, there are more than few Nobles that would make both the Princess’ and our lives very stressful. Simply because they can.” Twilight paused to let the impact of her words sink in.

Applejack scowled. "So just cause the princess decides to leave they think they do what ever the want to us? I don't know Twilight, hard to believe anypony could be so petty."

"You would be amazed at how petty some of us can be AJ." Twilight said in small voice before taking a deep breath to steady herself.

“Girls, I love all of you I really do. Each and every one of you has helped me to grow and I would sooner die than imagine a life without you, but Princess Celestia has asked me to do this for her, this is what she has been grooming me for. She taught me that self-sacrifice is one of the best traits a leader can hope to achieve and even though it hurts me to do this, I couldn’t live with myself if I put my own happiness above everypony else’s.”

Twilight looked deep into each of her friends’ eyes. "Believe me you girls are the most important ponies in my life and I would not trade you for the world. But I would willing trade myself for it.” Her piece said Twilight bowed her head awaiting her friends’ judgement.

Silence descended once more upon the room, heavy with possibility, exerting a pressure on the listeners to say something, anything. Thoughts tumbled around and around in their heads, questions and accusations seethed, writhed seeking release.

“Is it worth it?” Applejack asked in a quiet stern voice.

Twilight raised her head and nodded once. “Yes.” They held a gaze, sharing an unspoken communication that accumulated in a slight nod from the orange mare.

“Alright, I trust that you know what you’re doing.” The tension drained out of the room as Applejack reached over to Twilight and gave her a hug. “Make us proud sugar cube.”

Twilight released a sigh before smiling to the group. “Well I guess there’s only one thing left to do.” They all looked at her quizzically.

“Going away party!” Shrieked Pinkie Pie. "Aaaannnnddd scene change!"

Twilight winced as the morning light jerkily stumbled its way into position, a migraine flaring across her senses, she slowly opened her eyes the light reveling that she was in her bedroom. She rose from the bed to look around, stopping when she registered a weight around her barrel and the warm breath of another pony on the nape of her neck. She gently rotated in her sheet to come face to face with a stallion she had never seen before.

Certainly one way to great the morning. Twilight thought as she registered a slight poking in her side.

Twilight sat there for a moment as the facts seeped into her hungover morning fogged brain. She took the time to examine the strange pony. He was a pleasantly attractive unicorn with a light blue coat and light brown mane that was tousled in a variety of curls that framed his face giving him an almost boyish look.

Seconds past before everything clicked causing Twilight to roll on her back. How much did I drink last night? The movement startled the stallion awake, who took a few bleary looks around before looking over to Twilight.

A couple of peaceful moments passed (allowing Twilight to look get look at his eyes, she noted that they were a lovely shade of teal) before he sprang from the bed with a startled cry.

“Twi-Twilight Sparkle?” He asked somewhat fearfully. “Oh um...good morning?”

Twilight replied with a yelp of her own. “Who are you? Oh gods above did I, we?”

The stallion nodded sheepishly. “From what I can recall…yes.”

Twilight groaned. “What was I thinking last night? I thought I stopped bring home strange stallions years ago!”

The stallion in question raised an eyebrow. “I take it you don’t recall much of last night then.”

“Uggh sorry, just this isn’t the most optimal way to start the day.”

“Waking up to beautiful mare is always a good one in my books.” The stallion said with a grin.

Cute and charming. Twilight pleasantly thought to herself. “Bet you say that to all the mares.” She replied with a grin as she slipped into sexy Twilight mode.

The stallion blushed and rubbed the back of his head. “Well only the pretty ones.”

A pregnant silence descended over the room as the two unicorns eyed each other up. Twilight rolled out of bed and blew her mane out of her eyes. “So who are you?”

Wonder if I should be concerned I said that so casually? She thought to herself.

“Scribblemind of House Volumen Custodes.” He reiterated in a rehearsed manner before wincing slightly. “Wow that’s deeply ingrained.”

Twilight giggled and sat on the end of her bed, Scribblemind followed suit. “Yeah, I know how it is. So what do you do Scribblemind?”

“Well I dabble a bit in writing, mostly until the Guards accept my enrollment.”

“You want to join the Guard?”

“Key word being want; my parents would rather I practice my word play rather than sword play.”

“Oh I’m sorry to hear that, so what have you written?”

“Nothing big, I mostly write under a pen name but I doubt you’ve heard of me.”

“You’d be surprised at who I’ve read; I am…was a librarian.” Twilight grimaced as she corrected herself.

“Something wrong?”

“No, just remembering something, but no changing the subject. Book titles, now.”

Scribblemind chuckled slightly. “Well if I had to list my favourite three novels I’ve written I suppose I would go with Stalliongrad: 2033, Consider Nocturne and the Phoenix of Roan.”

Twilight froze momentarily. “But that would mean…oh very clever smart flank there is no way your Songbird.”

Scribblemind grinned and lit his horn, the parchment and quill from the study desk floated over. After a brief flourish of the pen he handed the paper over to Twilight who scanned the page her eyes going wide. A book appeared next to her in a flash, the cover revealing it to be a limited edition of Consider Nocturne. She flicked over the title page revealing that it had been signed by the author, a signature that was perfectly copied on the page she was now holding.

“You’re Songbird, THE Songbird! The way you paint the world your characters inhabit, its breathtakingly beautiful,” She was looking at the stallion opposite her with a look that bordered on worship. “Oh my gods I love your works, I have every book in the Star Glass series to date at the library….well I used to anyway.”

“You’ve heard of me?” He asked with a huge grin.

“Heard of you? Heard of you! You’re one of the most elusive and widely celebrated authors of the modern literary world!”

The stallion chuckled to himself before rising from the bed. “Wow, I never thought I would see the day when the great Twilight Sparkle herself would confess to being a fan of my works.”

Scribblemind eyed the clock on the wall. “Listen I would love to stay here but I probably should head home before my family starts a forming a search party, prized author and goldmine that I am. But if you’re going to be staying in Canterlot long before you go back to Ponyville look me up, I would love to grab a coffee sometime.”

Twilight smiled. “I’ll be sure to hole you to that some time.”

“Looking forward to it.” The pair shook hooves and Scribblemind headed for the door.
And that ladies and gentlestallions is how the upper class do things.

As her new friend left the room Twilight opened the doors to her bathroom and turned on the shower.

Something tells me I need this.

Applejack and Rainbow Dash sat at the large dining room table, the Pegasus had her forelegs crossed over her eyes whilst the earth pony dug into the large breakfast splayed out in front of her. Rainbow groaned. “Do you have to chew so loudly AJ?”

The earth pony chuckled. “Serves you right, drinking so much last night.”

“You drank three times as much as me and I’m the one with the hangover? There are no gods.” Rainbow groaned.

“Earth pony constitution Dashie, should have learned that by now….”

The conversation trailed off as Scribblemind walked through one of the doors, prompting the two ponies to look up from their respective positions. “Oh ah sorry, kind of lost.” He said with a sheepish smile.

“Door at the end of the hallway sir, turn left and you will find the exit.” The stallion spun around to find the tall grey form of the head butler standing behind him, a tray hold a pot of coffee and a pot of tea as well as some cups balanced on his back.

“How di…Thank you.” Sebastian stepped aside to allow the other stallion past.

Applejack turned to her friend “Twilight must be awake.” She said with a smile.

Rainbow rubbed her face and smiled as well. “Didn’t take Twilight for that kind of mare, good to see her having some fun for once.”

Sebastian walked over to the table placing the tray down as he went. “Oh contraire, Madam has been known to bring home stallions before. Though not without taste, or in abundance, but certainly she never has had to go without company when she wishes it.” He poured a coffee and slid the cup and saucer over to Rainbow Dash.

Applejack raised an eyebrow as she chewed a mouthful of eggs. “Really? I’ve always thought that our Twilight was…you know…”

“A virgin.” Rainbow Dash stated bluntly before sipping her coffee, Applejack glared at her. “What it’s true, heheh Rarity owes me ten bits now.”

Sebastian finished placing the last of the cups and set about collecting Applejack’s empty plates. “Not at all, daughter of a high house prodigy of Celestia, mistress has never been without suitors. How much do you know of the mistress’ life before she left Canterlot? If you do not mind me asking.”

Applejack pushed away one plate as she reached for another. “To be honest Twi has always been kind of quiet ‘bout her life back here. We didn’t even know she was nobility until a few days ago.”

“Really? Surely mistress must have told you something.”

The mares at the table shared a look. “Actually we don’t know much about Twilight pre Ponyville at all, we only found out she had a brother when we received the invite to his wedding and we all know how important he is to her.” Rainbow stated as she nursed her coffee. “Actually now that you mention it, there’s a lot about Twilight’s history we don’t know.”

Sebastian raised an eyebrow before shrugging. “I suppose Madam has her reasons for secrecy.”

“You mean you’re not going to fill us in?”

“Madam has her reasons.” The stallion repeated as he walked out of the room.

Applejack and Rainbow looked at each other for a moment before they grinned. “Twenty bits says she’s had a threesome.”

Twilight stepped out of the shower, a few drips of water pattered on the floor as she lit her horn ,the water on her evaporating in cloud of steam. Humming to herself she brushed her teeth she reviewed the events of the previous night.

Let’s see, after getting dressed up we left the house, went to a new club….danced had some drinks, more drinks danced more drink, meet Scribblemind danced and that’s it. Well at least it ended in a happy ending. She grinned to herself as she put away her toothbrush and picked up the floss.

So what have got scheduled for today, Lunch with Blueblood at one, hopefully I can show Rar that he’s not that bad he could be a big help….have to make arrangements with Luna send some letters to mayor mare and the postal service. Postal service….oh shit Spike doesn’t know.

Twilight put the floss in the waste bin and looked in the mirror.

How am I going to break it to him, he’s made so many new friends in Ponyville and it’s been good for him to interact with other kids (well he is seventeen but mentally they’re on the same level) it wouldn’t be fair to make him move with me. I suppose the sooner I talk to him the sooner I...we can decide what to do.
….Isn’t Spike’s bed next to mine at home….

She rushed form the bathroom and looked over to where Spikes bed usually sat, after a few frantic moments of searching she found it underneath the bed presumably where it had been kicked. Spike was fast asleep curled up in ball. She breathed a sigh of relief as she patted him on the head. “At least dragons are deep sleepers’ aye buddy.”

Spike simply carried on sleeping. “Oh Rarity, I’ll save you from the strawberry snow cone monster.” He mumbled.

Twilight sighed “I suppose I can let you sleep a bit longer, no sense in doing this right now.” She gave him peck on his forehead before walking out of the room. She was walking down the hallway when one of the doors opened and Fluttershy walked out.

“Good morning Shy.”

Fluttershy mumbled a reply and fell in step alongside her. “How’s your head Twilight?’

“Sore a bit fuzzy but nothing a good breakfast and magic can’t solve. Yourself?”

“Oh a little I um didn’t get much sleep last night.”

“Sorry to hear that, was the bed uncomfortable?”

“Yeah something like that…uncomfortable.” Fluttershy looked at Twilight sheepishly.

“I’ll be sure to have the staff take a look at your bed last night, who knows could be a pea under your mattress aye princess.” She said jokingly.

Fluttershy chuckled quietly. “I would invest in thicker walls personally.”

Twilight mirrored Fluttershy’s chuckle uneasily. “So you heard that.”

The Pegasus simply gave Twilight a small smile. “Let’s just say I may have heard something.”

“You’re not embarrassed?”

“Should I be?”

“Well I would have thought that you would have been a little more…you know…being you and all.”

“Well it’s not like you’re stranger, and besides a healthy and active sex life is a perfectly natural thing. I’m just happy you
finally got to enjoy yourself, you hardly ever have fun back home.”

Twilight grinned. “Well Ponyville doesn’t exactly tailor to my tastes.”

“Oh? You have tastes?”

“Obviously, a high born noble like I could never be seen consorting with the common folk now could she.” Twilight said in her fancy voice, taking a moment to strike a pose as Fluttershy giggled.

Aaaand question successfully deflected, huzzah!

Giggling to themselves Twilight and Fluttershy continued walking, soon coming to the dining room. As they entered Twilight poured herself a cup of tea with her magic and with a good morning to Applejack and Rainbow, they sat down.

Over the course of the next half hour Rarity wandered into the room, taking a seat as she did, joining in the aimless chatter.

Occasionally servants would wander in taking orders and collecting empty plates and cutlery with efficiency.

“So what has everypony got planned for today?” Twilight asked.

“Well we were going to take a look around Canterlot in the daytime, maybe get some souvenirs for the farm. After that me and RD were going to head back to Ponyville, she could only get coverage for a couple of days and I need to get back.”

“Yeah sorry to bail on ya Twi.”

“Don’t worry about it girls, I understand. What about the rest of you?”

“Well...if you don’t mind I’d like to join Applejack and Rainbow Dash when they go home. All my animal friends must be so worried without me.”

“Oh, sure thing Fluttershy you don’t need to ask me for permission. Rarity?”

“Well the boutique will be fine for a few days and Sweetie is with our parents for the week so I can afford to stay a couple more days…that’s if your parents will be willing to have me that is.”

“Rarity they would be honoured I’m sure. Just wondering has anypony seen Pinkie this morning?”

The mares shook their heads, Applejack scratched her head, puzzled. “Can’t say that I have.”

“Hmmm.” Twilight turned her head slightly as the head butler walked through the doors. “Perfect timing, Sebastian did Pinkie return home with us.”

“Yes madam, however she shortly left after Miss Dash was put to bed. You had retired to your room with Master Scribblemind and Miss Rarity, Miss Fluttershy and Miss Applejack had procured use of the winery.”

“Did she leave a message or something?”

“Other than an offhand remark she left a small note.” Sebastian reached into a pocket on his coat and pulled out a tiny piece of paper that he handed to Twilight.

Twilight accepted the note and opened it in the same motion before reading it aloud. "Hey girls don't worry bout your aunty Pinks, just got word of some old party cats in town, will probably be late coming back. See you in the morning, Pinky. Huh, what was the remark she said as she left Sebastian?” Twilight said as she took a sip of tea.

“See you later tater, got an itch I’ve been dying to scratch. She was rather cheerful as she left. Do you wish for me to locate her?”

“Immediately.”

Sebastian tilted his head slightly and walked out of the room.

Fluttershy leaned over the table. “Twi do you think something happened to Pinkie? Leaving in that late at night isn’t like her.”

“Darling this is Pinkie Pie we’re talking about nothing bad could possible happen to her.”

“Yeah but you’ve got to admit this is strange even for her Rar, girl may be a few apples short of full basket but she ain’t empty.” Applejack leaned back in her chair with a worried expression on her face.

“I don’t know AJ, I know Pinks and while this is a bit strange I’m sure she’s fine.”

“Well I’m sure we can ask her when Sebastian finds her…and speak of the devil.”

“And he shall appear mistress.”

Twilight smiled as Sebastian walked into the room with Pinkie in tow. “I know you’re good but this just might be a new record.”

“As much as I would like to take credit I must confess Miss Pie was already on the premises when I found her.”

“Hey girls.” Pinkie said as she bounced her way over to the table.

“Pinkie where were you? Darn it girl we were beginning to get worried over here.”

“Oh you know visiting some old friends, boy can those ponies party!”

“Ah didn’t know you had friends in Canterlot.” Applejack leaned back in her seat.

“Come on AJ, this is Pinkie we’re talking about. I would be surprised if she didn’t.” Rainbow draped a fore leg over Pinkie and pulled her close, giving her a noogie.

"But if you were at a party why did you not come get us? That’s not like you dear?” Rarity said as she dipped a cup of tea.

“Trust me Rarity, this was a whole new level of party.” Pinkie said with a grin. “I don’t think you could have handled it.” Pinkie gasped and rushed over to her unicorn friend, wrapping her in a constricting hug. “Ohmygosh you would have exploded…twice! Rarity you have to Pinkie promise me you’ll practise proper party procedure and party responsible with a certified personal party professional.”

Rarity gasped for air and breathily promised she would as the rest of the table laughed at their antics and settled down for some quiet chatter among friends while they finished breakfast. Once everypony had stopped eating and the final set of dishes had been cleared from the table Twilight checked the clock.

Ten to nine, leaves me just under three hours before Blueblood arrives at one. Plenty of time to mail Mayor Mare and make arrangements with the post office, then I should begin preliminary arrangements with Luna. Will finalize those tomorrow, have to remember to ask Blue for a run down on who to look out for, who’s up and coming and on their way out. Should also take the time to speak to Fancy Pants.

“Hey egghead!”

Twilight flinched and shook her head. “Sorry Rainbow, caught up in my thinking.”

“Tell me something I don’t know.” The speedster said with a raised eyebrow.

Twilight raised an eyebrow in return. “Bubble wrap was originally designed to be used as a wall paper.”

Rainbow looked slightly confused before she shrugged her shoulders. “Me, AJ and Shy were about to head into town so we will probably see you before we leave.” The other two ponies had already gotten up and were saying their good byes.

“Oh okay girls, I’ll see you later.” Twilight waved them goodbye as they walked out of the room.

Once their friends had left Pinkie leaned forward with a coy smile on her face. “Soooo Twilight…”

“Yes Pinkie?”

Pinkie just continued grinning. “How’d it go last night?”

Twilight blushed a little. “Oh it was umm good.”

A smaller version of Pinkie’s grin played itself over Rarity’s features. “Oh, come now Twilight, the way you and he acting last night…I would say you had a bit more than a good time.”

“Rarity!” Twilight yelped, a mortified look on her face.

“What? We’re all friends here, come on spill I want all the details.”

“We can’t Rarity, we only have a teen rating.” Pinkie said as she looked off into space before snapping back to Twilight.

“Teen? Pinkie were all adults here.” Rarity gave Pinkie a questioning look as the pink mare smiled inanely back at her.

Twilight looked at both of her friends before shaking her head. “Sorry Rarity, all I’m going to say is it was good.” Probably would help if I could remember most of it. She though inwardly as Rarity pouted momentarily. “So Pinkie who were these friends of yours, they sound like a lot of fun.”

“Oh just a few ponies from way back in my wilder days that really know how to party hardy.” Pinkie looked around the room in a comical fashion and leans over the table. “We usually stay up past bedtime and listen to loud music.” She whispers, somewhat, quietly.

“Way back?” Rarity asks as she raises an eyebrow. “Since when did you have wild years?”

“Don’t be silly Rarity, it’s not like I went straight from my dusty old rock farm to Ponyville. I did spend a couple of years bouncing around meeting new friends and having lots and lots and lots and lots and lots of super-duper fun parties. They were soooo spectacularific especially that one time involving Princess Celestia, Vinyl Scratch and a whooole lot of special punch.”

Rarity turned to Twilight who just shrugged. “Pinkie darling, that’s…interesting, I didn’t know the Princess went to those kinds of…parties.” Rarity cringed slightly as she got the gist of the kinds of parties Pinkie was describing, usually the kind with flashing lights, unbearably tacky music at incomprehensible volumes where everypony was either drunk, high or engaged in bedroom activities…usually all three at once. “I didn’t know they had them in Canterlot."

“There’s always a party Rarity you just have to know where to look.” Pinkie said sagely.

“Well I’m sure the Princess knew what she was doing…though you could never catch a proper lady at such an uncouth convention.” Rarity pulled a dignified pose.

Twilight looked over at Pinkie who was smiling right back at her, a knowing grin on her face. Twilight returned the grin.

“Well…” Rarity blinked in shock.

“Twilight, you-“She was cut off as Pinkie interrupted.

“You’d be surprised at what the rich get up to behind closed doors.” Pinkie said as Twilight blushed.

“Well I can’t say for sure what they do now, but Blueblood used to through some really…crazy parties.”

Tilting her head slightly, Rarity looked at her friend in shock. “I wouldn’t have thought that sort of thing was your scene…you being you know...back then an you being...well you know...you.”

“You mean a socially isolated bookworm?”

“Well, yes I suppose. Not that I’m arguing with you darling, it’s just I’m having a hard time imagining you and Blueblood…” Rarity pulled a face like she had bitten into something sour.

Both Twilight and Pinkie giggled at their friend. “Well I can honestly say that Blueblood while he isn’t exactly the most chivalrous pony can be quite the gentlestallion when he wants to be.”

Rarity sat back in her chair a smile on her face. “I’ll believe it when I see it Twilight, after the abysmal way he treated me at the gala he’s got a lot of work to do before he’s in my good books. And what about those rumours I hear about him, apparently he can be a bit eager with the ladies?”

Twilight giggled. “Rarity I know what rumours you’re talking about and I want you to trust me on this. Blueblood may take your kiss and anything else your willing to give but he would never, and let me repeat, never hurt you. If anything he abhors it’s that kind of behaviour, those kind of rumours are usually started by jealous mares and angry coltfriends.”

Rarity waved a hoof. “It’s okay darling I never put much stock in them, I just wanted to get your opinion on them.”

As Twilight and Rarity continued with their conversation, Pinkie took a glance at the clock, staring vacantly with the hand ticking away. “Hmmm.” She reached into her mane and pulled out a small glass orb, as she cradled it in her hooves it filled with a red mist.

“Now what did I forget this time?” She mumbled as she put the orb back in her mane tapping her chin in thought. “Oh I know!” She shouted, stunning the other two mares as she pulled a roll of parchment from seemingly nowhere.

“Um Pinkie what are you-“Twilight began to aske before she was cut off.

“Shhh, I’m checking my journal.” Pinkie scrunched up her face, holding the parchment up close to her face. “Let’s see, yes, uh huh, yes, brought the acid yesterday and the laser sharks should be delivered on Monday hmmm, oh here it is!” Pinkie exclaimed before she ate the parchment. “Well girls I’ve got to go and tie up a few lose ends before the pigs catch me.”

“Uhhhhh.” Both Twilight and Rarity droned.

Twilight was the first to snap out of it. “So you’re going?” She asked her brain finished piecing the important pieces of information from Pinkie’s antics.

“You’ll be leaving as well darling?” Rarity asked a step behind Twilight.

“Don’t worry, I won’t be long I just have to pick up a few tine tiny ingredients for your super-secret going away present.” Pinkie gave a big smile, obvious to the fact she had just told Twilight about her ‘secret’ present, hugged Twilight tightly.

“Besides, I’m sure you’ve got a whole lot of super-duper important thingies to take care of yourself Twilight.”

“Okay Pinkie, hope you have fun.”

Pinkie snorted in laughter. “Oh silly Twilight I always have fun.” She continued laughing as she walked out of the room. “Silly Twilight.”

“I suppose it’s just you and me Rarity. Unless you have something to do at the last minute as well.”

“No nothing that I can think of.” Rarity said as she inspected her hoof. “What are we going to do now?”

“Well I have to get a few things written up then make a visit to Princess Luna to discuss terms. I doubt you would be interested in either chore. We do have lunch here with Prince Blueblood at one, I assume you’ll be joining us?”

“Of course, I suppose I could find a way to entertain myself till then. Your closet seems to be the first place to start.” Rarity said with a grin. “Say Twilight, where is Spikey? I would have thought he would be up with you?”

“Oh, him…”

“Something wrong?”

“No…well it’s just I don’t know how to tell him…”

“Have you spoken at all since yesterday?”

“No, he was still asleep this morning.”

“Twilight dear you will have to tell him soon.”

“Yes yes I know that, it’s just I’ve never seen him so happy. He’s finally made real friends in Ponyville and I don’t want to rip him away from that.” Twilight rubbed her forehead as the begging of a migraine stirred up.

“I see.”

“It’s just this was my choice to make, but he didn’t have a say in it and it’s his life too I’m affecting.” Twilight rubbed her forelegs like she was ashamed. “I guess I kind of forgot that, it’s just that for so long I’ve been making decisions and expecting him to just go along with it…”

“And you’re wondering if maybe you’re stretching his trust a bit far with this.” Rarity leaned back into her seat, hooves crossed in front of her.

“Yeah.”

“So what are you going to do?”

Twilight exhaled loudly. “I don’t know.”

“Lady Sparkle whilst We are most pleased that you have decided to accept our proposal We think We a have reached the limit of paperwork for today. We will resume this tomorrow.” The Princess of the Night said as Twilight packed up the piles of notes and work contracts she had drafted. “We will be happy to provide all the conditions you have applied for and look forward to a prosperous reign with you at our side.” Luna extended a hoof that Twilight shook.

“I can’t wait to start Princess.” Twilight said with a smile. At least the workload will stop me thinking about Princess Celestia and keep me busy.

“Pleased to hear it.” Luna replied as she walked Twilight to the door.

Twilight quickly bowed and left, walking out of the royal section back into the Gold Halls. As she wandered through the mob, taking time to smile and share a few greetings Twilight looked at one of the ornate clocks hanging from the walls.

Ten to one, good, plenty of time to get prepared, hope Rarity hasn’t been too bored.

Excusing herself from a crowd of lesser nobles that had built up around her, not unlike some fish schools are wont to do,
Twilight teleported back to her room. As she reappeared with a pop the first thing she noticed was Rarity passed out on her bed, dresses everywhere and Spike fanning her with a large hat.

“Do I want to know?” Twilight said as she walked past and inspected a couple of dresses as she put her notes away.

Spike kept up his fanning. “Not particularly.”

Hmm maybe green one, no no I want something with flair, hmmm possibly...

“What do you think Spike?” Twilight asked as she held a dress up.

Spike looked up. “Umm yeah, I guess it looks good? What’s the occasion?”

“Blueblood’s coming around for lunch at one.” Twilight said as she discards the dress and picks another from a pile Rarity had made. “How was your nap?”

“Good, it was nice of you to let me have a proper sleep in for once and it was great to have the guys making me breakfast again. Can’t say I won’t be missing Sebastian we go home though.” Spike shudders. “Guy’s plain creepy.”

“Well if you think so low of me Master Spike perhaps I will refrain from letting you treat yourself to the Mistress’s jewellery box.” Sebastian said from the door way.

Spike jumped up from the bed, the sudden movement triggering Rarity to wake up. “Gahhh?!” Both pony and dragon said as
Spike tumbled onto the ground. “See Twilight, he just sneaks up on you.”

Ignoring the dragonling Sebastian walked forward, gave Twilight a small bow before selecting a dress. “Miss Rarity and I chose this for your evening attire madam. Will you be requiring anything before Prince Blueblood arrives?”

“Thank you Sebastian, no I will not just see that the tables are set.”

“Outside patio, or indoors ma’am?”

Twilight glanced out the window to check the weather. “It’s a nice day so I think outside would be delightful.”

Sebastian gave her a small bow, “Ma’am.” and walked away.

Rarity rose from the bed, somewhat shaky. “Sorry Twilight dear, I don’t know what came over me.” She said with a blush as
she watched the head butler leave.

Twilight smiled. “It’s okay, he tends to have that effect on ponies.”

Rarity coughed. “I don’t know what you’re on about Twilight.”

Giving a small giggle in response she walked to her bathroom to get changed Twilight couldn’t help but feel a little bit of dread. If Sebastian hadn’t entered when he did she would have had to lie to Spike about going home. Sighing she leaned against the mirror, letting the cool glass leach the heat from her face as she thought about what she was going to do with Spike.

Curse me and my stupid idealism, why didn’t I think about him before!!!

She berated the selfishness of her actions. How dare she make life altering choices without considering Spike, guy never even had a say in the matter! But at the same time she knew why she had acted like she did. She hardly ever considered Spike, her birthday party, her Gala plans even her choice in rutting spots were all evidence to the fact. Okay she may have been stone dead drunk last night, and boy had she felt it in the morning, but that didn’t excuse the fact she had done…it… practically on top of him.

Twilight shuddered to think what would have happened had he woken up. Probably scar him for life poor guy.

It was like what she had said to Rarity that morning, she had been making choices for so long and expecting him to follow, trusting that his dog like devotion to her would keep her at his side. But the game had changed, the circumstances had changed, she wasn’t the only one who had found friends.

Isn’t this a fine mess you’ve got yourself into this time Twilight.

A knocking sound came from the door jarring her from her thought. “Hey Twilight It doesn’t take that long to get changed you okay in there?” Spike’s voice called out to her.

“I’m fine, don’t worry about me.” She called out as she hurriedly changed clothes and opened the door, causing Spike to tumble in as he had been leaning against it.

“Could’ve given me a bit of warning.” He grumbled as he picked himself up.

Yeah, suppose I could have...

Rolling her eyes as she stepped over him Twilight noticed Rarity had gotten changed into a dress of her own. “Hope you weren’t too bored on your own Rarity.”

“Oh I managed to find a way to pass the time.” Rarity responded in an airy tone. “Do you like the dress Sebastian and myself picked out for you?”

Twilight preformed a little twirl. “You did fantastically.”

“So,” Rarity said as she examined herself in the mirror “you said he was a gentle colt, mind explaining why he acts so boorishly all the time then.”

“Mostly because it drives away gold digging mares.” Twilight responded with a shrug. “Spike,” she called out, “could you go tell Sebastian to put out a bottle of Dom. Romane Conti 997.”

“Do I have too?” Spike said as Twilight sighed and magically reached into box next to her bed, pulling out a sapphire shard.
Spike narrowed his eyes and Twilight grinned. “Oh that’s underhooved, hitting a dragon where it hurts.”

Twilight tossed him the shard which he caught as he walked out the door. “Whaaat?” She said as Rarity gave her a flat stare.

“When are you going to sit down with him Twilight?”

“I’m going to do it soon.” Twilight said as she took a half step backwards. “….Stop it stop it; fine I’ll talk to him tonight, you’ve been taking lessons from Fluttershy haven’t you.”

Rarity simply flicked her mane over her shoulder and walked out the door. “Let’s go great our guest, he should be arriving soon I take it.”

Blueblood knocked on the door of the Sparkle family estate, thinking back to the last time he had seen Twilight. It was only a week before the summer sun celebration, he smiled fondly at the memory.

Blueblood lay in the bed watching as Twilight fixed herself up. “You okay? You seem distracted...well more so than usual.”

Twilight looked over her shoulder and raised an eyebrow.

“It’s nothing just some research I’m doing in my spare time.”

“The Mare in the Moon legend again?” Twilight scowled at his remark. “Come on Twilight, it’s a dusty old mare’s tale…”

“And why then does it mention Celestia’s sister-“

“Who was proclaimed dead a thousand years ago when the cutie pox killed three fifths of the population-“

“That doesn’t make any sense!” Twilight shouted. “Gah I’m sorry Blue I don’t mean to snap but I know there is something
more to this and I need to find out.”

Blueblood shrugged. “And the filly scouts are behind the crop circles along with Slendermare and Old mare who’s missing her rusty horseshoe. Wooooo~” Blueblood got up close to Twilight waving his hooves above his head as Twilight stared blankly at him before sighing and cracking a small grin.

“I’ll see you next week for our next meeting.” Twilight said as she gave him a wink before walking out the door.

Blueblood smiled as she left, the good things in life were always worth the wait.

She had never come back, Blueblood sighed as the memory played it’s self in his mind. It wasn’t until she had left that Blueblood realized how much he missed her, in the weeks that followed he had toyed with moving to Ponyville damn the dirt and the uncouth commoners. But he had duties to attend to and he had stayed put, sometimes she would write him a letter every now and again. And while he never really got over her he managed to function without her.

“Sir, the madams' are waiting for you, will you becoming in?” A voice broke through his revere, he turned to see one of the family’s butlers.

“Ah yes, lead on.” He said, embarrassed to have been caught absent minded by the help.

As he was led through the hallways he couldn’t help but recall the moments he had spent a foal running around here playing solider with Shining Armor. He usually played the villain while Shining played the hero, thinking back on it even as colt Shining always had that sentimental streak in him that made him so good at his job. He had always counted himself lucky to have Shining as one of his few friends.

Blueblood smiled, if anypony out there deserved his blessings it was that one.

Well aren't we felling nostalgic today.

He was still smiling when he arrived at his destination where Rarity and Twilight were chatting amiably; even though both mares were beautiful, his eyes were only for Twilight.

As he approached he gave a small cough to get their attention. “Greetings to you both, I hope I am not intruding on anything.”

“Blueblood, glad you could join us.” Twilight said as the stallion took a seat.

“Twilight I wouldn’t miss this for the world. Miss Rarity I hope you can forgive me for that little show last night.”

Rarity gave her mane a slight flick. “Well I didn’t enjoy it but Twilight has been telling me about you and I am willing to put the past behind me.”

“Yes, the past. Miss Rarity I would like to offer my most humble apologies for that night at the Gala, I acted most unbecoming of a Gentlestallon.”

Rarity snorted. “Most unbecoming; you used me as meat shield to stop your coat getting dirty, Prince I think you were far more than unbecoming, you were down right beastly.”

Blueblood winced. “Yes and for that I do apologise most sincerely, had I known you were close friends with Twilight I would have shown a much more gracious night.”

“Whether I was friends with Twilight or not should have never been an issue, you should have never of treated me like that in the first place!” Rarity took a deep breath to calm herself. “I am sorry for that outburst Prince, I will endeavour to control myself in the future.”

“No no you have a point; I should have never been so cruel to you that night, truth be told I was hoping you would take the rather strong hints that I wasn’t interested but you proved to be most persistent.”

“If you didn’t want my company all you had to do was say so.” Rarity massaged her temples.

“As Twilight told me rather strongly in her letters.” Blueblood grimaced. “I believe the exact words you used were ‘I don’t know what drove you to act in such a manner but the way you have treated one of my closest friends makes me sick to my core, it is clear that this time apart has changed you for the worse and If I never see you again it would be too soon.’ It was definitely one of your more emotional letters.”

Twilight gives Blueblood a shrug. “You acted like jerk to one of my best friends, you should have been glad I didn’t tell Princess Celestia about it.”

“Oh she found out on her own, had some very strong words for me.” Blueblood pours himself a glass of wine as Twilight winces.

“Twilight; if you were so mad with him then why are you acting so friendly together now?” Rarity asked, slightly confused.

Twilight poured herself a small glass of wine. “Well to be honest it was a few of years ago now and even through letters he does have away with words.”

Blueblood took a sip of his wine a smirk on his face. “You could say I have a silver tongue.”

“Well that’s all fine and dandy,” Rarity said “but why did you act so horrendously at the Gala in the first place.”

Blueblood’s face lost it’s smirk. “I was hoping you would go away.”

“But why?” Rarity asked.

“It’s not important Miss Rarity, just know that I feel ashamed for the way I treated you and hope you accept my sincere apologies.

“As I said I am willing to put the past behind us Prince, so long as you refrain from using me a shield and treat Twilight here with utmost respect we will be the best of friends.”

“I am glad to hear that Miss Rarity, so Twilight how did the meeting with Aunty Luna go? I trust you sorted everything you need for when you move back?” Blueblood asked.

“Mostly, everything has been drafted up just need to present her with a final copy tomorrow for her to sigh and I’ll officially be her primary advisor.” Twilight said with a smile.

“Who’s primary what now?” A voice from the door way asked. The occupants at the table all turned around to see Spike and one of the house staff walking towards them.

The maid gave a curtsey. “Forgive me madam, I tried to keep him away from the lunch as you requested but he wanted to talk to you about taking some gems from the Lord and Lady’s collection for…personal use.”

“Yeah, but what’s this about advisors Twilight?” Spike asked confused.

Twilight sighed and got up from the table, dismissing the maid with a gesture. “Sorry to cut into our lunch Blueblood but I have something to do.” Walking over to Spike she looked at the dragonling. “Would you mind coming for a walk Spike, I need to talk with you about something.”

Spike looked up at Twilight with an uneasy feeling. “What’s going on Twilight?” He asked as the pair walked off into the garden.

Rarity and Blueblood watched them go. “I take it she hasn’t told him.” Blueblood said in a quiet voice.

“No, poor Spike he’s going to be crushed.”

Blueblood was quiet for a moment. “So my sources say you’re a tailor, and not a half bad one at that.”

“Not half bad? I’ll have you know I design only the most fashionable dresses and evening wear in Ponyville.” Rarity said, pride in her voice.

“Ah and how is that going for you?”

“Very well thank you very much.” Rarity said snippily before pausing. “However...”

Blueblood raised an eyebrow, he knew that tone. He usually heard it when ponies wanted something from him. “Have you had an idea?”

“Well my business could use a sponsor, somepony to bring some attention to my brand if you get my drift.”

“I thought you said you were doing well.”

“Oh but one can always use all the endorsement one can get her hooves on, and I believe you owe me this at least.”

Blueblood chuckled. “Yes I do, very well what have you got in mind. From what I understand you specialize in dresses and last time I checked I do not look good in one, well I look good in anything but let’s keep that to ourselves shall we.” He winked at Rarity.

Rarity just ignored it and continued on. “That may be the case but I’m sure your many marefriends would look better in one of mine.”

“Ahh I see, I endorse your dress line to my female following and they in turn spread your name amongst their friends which in turn is spread further and further,” Blueblood smiled, “clever Miss Rarity very clever maybe you might have a future in this business after all.” He raised his glass in a toast.

Rarity raised hers as well. “It is the least you can do for me after all.” She said with a smile.

Blueblood tilted his head in acknowledgement before drinking his wine. As he poured himself another glass Rarity asked him a question. “So what is it with you and Twilight?”

“What do you mean?”

“Don’t play coy with me Prince, I want to know everything.”

“We are just friends Miss Rarity that is all.” Rarity gave Blueblood a flat look that made the hairs on the back of his neck rise.

“Last time I checked Twilight didn’t have friends before she came to us.”

Blueblood paused , thinking for a moment. “Correct she didn’t have friends, not in the conventional sense at least. If anything I was more like an acquaintance who's company she enjoyed."

“Who happened to slept with her on occasion.” Rarity said in a flat voice.

Blueblood narrowed his eyes. “Just what are you implying Miss Rarity?”

“Nothing Prince I am merely trying to understand how a socially isolated bookworm like Twilight could ever call a social butterfly such as yourself something as intimate as lover, something I still struggle to believe as she has never mentioned you at all for the past three years.”

Blueblood sighed and swirled his wine around in his cup, watching it. "No, she wouldn't would she." He said more to himself than anything else.

Rarity was confused by the effect of her words on the prince. “Prince Blueblood, are you okay?”

Blueblood didn’t reply for time, he just sat looking out at the garden. “We used to say we were seeing each other out of convenience, mutually physical and intellectual attraction she used to call it. I would see other mares of course, and I have no doubt that Twilight was doing the same, she always was rather sought after."

Rarity said nothing as she let the prince talk at his own pace.

"She was always so...formal, not in a rude way mind you very professional like. She had this rule you see about mixing her personal life, had everything filed away; personal, pleasure, scholarly pursuits all of in nice and separated no mess no fuss." Blueblood pauses before smirking, "I of course was given a little bit of leeway given my already close association with her brother."

"You are friends with Shining Armor?" Rarity asks incredulously.

"Yes, is there something wrong with that?" Blueblood asks in an annoyed tone.

"No I wouldn't have thought a pony like yourself would have gotten along well with someone like Shining Armor, that's all." Rarity says as she lifts her glass.

"You're not alone in that, more than one has expressed similar opinions."

Blueblood pauses momentarily lost in thought. "He always was head strong even as a colt."

Reclining in her chair Rarity gives a him a flat look. "Now why don't I find that surprising."

"I know shocking," Blueblood deadpans, "besides I suppose it was having Sir Killjoy around that took me so long to make a move on Twilight."

"Indeed I can see how that would complicate matters. If you don't mind my inquiring," Blueblood shakes his hoof in a dismissive gesture, "but what exactly do you see in Twilight?"

"Why do you ask?"

"Well you can have any mare you wish," Blueblood raises an eyebrow "nearly any mare you wish." Rarity corrects with mild annoyance. "And I don't mean to sound cruel but Twilight isn't anything special to look at."

Blueblood smiles. "Ah Miss Rarity if you believe that then perhaps you should rethink your choice in career."

Rarity raised an eyebrow but Blueblood simply chuckled. "I think I'll leave that topic for later, such things are best discussed after many drinks in the company of good friends after all."

"Oh well don't let me make you feel uncomfortable my Prince." She says with a flick of her mane.

"Relax Miss Rarity, another bottle of wine and I shall be able to find even your company acceptable." Blueblood responds a smirk on his face.

Rarity narrows her eyebrows as she gives a small smile. "I think I share your sentiments."

Blueblood grins as he takes a drink and looks out over the garden. "I wonder how Twilight is going with Spike."

"I don't know, Twilight moving back is a really big thing for all of us." Rarity follows his gaze. "I just hope she knows what she's doing here."

"I hope so too." Blueblood says as he nurses his glass if wine. "But this is Twilight Sparkle we are talking about, if any mare knows what she's doing it's that one."

"Indeed, I just hope Spike won't be too upset. Celestia knows he's made his own fair share of friends in Ponyville."

"Not surprising, he always was a friendly chap. In fact I remember when-" Blueblood pauses, rising from his chair.

Walking towards the pair of unicorns was Twilight, Spike riding on her back as he held onto her neck tightly, a smile on her face.

Author's Note

Oh my good god this took forever!!! I don't even know why it took so long, probably because I didn't write anything for two months, but that's beside the point. The point is that this took far far far to long to write and release and am deeply ashamed and sorry that i let things get this bad.

Chapter 4

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