The Conjuration Wizard

The intricate patterns of the tall stained-glass windows remained unbroken, though soot still clung stubbornly to the upper arches. Rays of the setting sun painted kaleidoscope colors over the elaborately adorned table, casting a surreal glow over the room. It had been some time since I last sat down at a real table for a meal. For weeks now I’ve spent every meal on Luna’s bed… our bed.

Not that I’m complaining. It is nice to eat at an actual table once in a while.

The damage wasn’t obvious. There wasn't any shattered windows or crumbled walls, but the signs were there for anyone who cared to really look. A scorch mark near the archway. A subtle dent in one of the golden candelabras. The faint scent of something burned that not even the castle’s thorough cleaning efforts could entirely erase.

I adjusted my seating. The chair was plush, but with only my left arm, I had to position myself carefully to keep from looking and feeling too awkward. Celestia had taken the head of the table, regal as ever, her flowing mane blending seamlessly into the warm hues of the sunset behind her. Luna sat to her left, her presence soothing and steady, a stark contrast to the day’s light waning outside. To her left was me, and I felt some comfort at being at her side. Across from us sat Cadance and Shining Armor, both of whom looked far more at ease than I did.

"Sebastian, are you sure you’ve been eating properly?" Cadance asked, her voice warm but probing. "You look... thinner than usual."

"I eat," I replied, not entirely truthful but not entirely a lie either. "Hard to keep up with three meals a day when you're spending your time un-stoning changelings."

The word, ‘changelings,’ hung in the air longer than I would have liked. Luna had insisted that we could spare the time for this dinner. She insisted that it was important to take time to catch up with the others and attain some reprieve from the endless repetition of activating the Platform of Disenchantment while bracing myself against the immediate animosity — or panic — of whatever changeling was freed. I knew she was right. I just wanted it to be over and done with, so that I may never see another changeling again.

It was a fool’s wish. The Geas ensured that wish would never come to fruition.

“I imagine it must be grueling,” Celestia said, her tone measured but sincere. “You’ve made remarkable progress in only a week.”

“Remarkable doesn’t quite cover it,” Shining added. “From what I hear, most ponies wouldn’t be able to stomach it.”

I could only grunt in acknowledgment. Stomach it. That was one way to put it. Each thought of the changelings brought forth the image of the false-Luna’s lifeless form — its neck twisted and severed oozing green ichor — flashed in my mind. My lips pressed into a thin line as I reached for the glass of water in front of me, the stump of my right arm resting uselessly on the table’s edge.

“Sebastian, are you feeling alright?” Luna’s voice was soft but firm, cutting through the murmur of conversation like a blade.

“I’m fine,” I said, setting the glass down carefully. Her eyes lingered on me for a moment longer than necessary, and I felt the faintest touch of reassurance in that look. She knew better than to push, especially here, but the unspoken promise of a later conversation hung in the air.

“Is it Thorax?” Cadance asked, her voice so gentle it was hard to resent the question. “He seems... cooperative.”

“For now,” I muttered. “He just wants to free his fellow changelings and leave. Don’t mistake that for loyalty.”

“Still, working with one changeling peacefully is a start,” she said, her optimism almost irritating in its persistence. “You’re helping them.”

“I’m helping them because I must,” I snapped, then immediately regretted the sharpness of my tone. Cadance didn’t flinch, though. She simply nodded, as if she understood exactly what I meant.

Celestia cleared her throat, a subtle reminder to keep the conversation civil. “Thorax’s role is vital, whether he serves out of loyalty or necessity. His cooperation ensures the Geas remains intact, and that is what matters.”

“Agreed,” Luna said, her gaze sweeping the table. “But let us not dwell on the particulars of our burdens. Tonight is meant for respite.”

Shining chuckled, shaking his head. “Leave it to Luna to make rest sound like a duty.”

A faint smile ghosted across her face. “It is a duty, Captain Shining Armor. One I suggest you take seriously, given the impending nuptials.”

His expression softened as he glanced at Cadance. “We’re just happy to get another chance to do it right.”

“After what Chrysalis did,” Cadance said, her voice somehow losing none of its warmth, “a celebration feels even more important. For all of us.”

I wanted to believe her, to let her optimism ease the weight pressing against my chest, but the thought of Chrysalis still made my skin crawl. Her laughter echoed in my ears whenever I closed my eye for too long.

The door creaked open, and a line of servers entered, trays balanced expertly on their backs. The warm scent of roasted vegetables and spiced bread filled the room, briefly chasing away the darker corners of my thoughts. Conversation paused as the first dishes were placed before us, the polished silver covers catching the last rays of sunlight.

Dinner had arrived.

The clinking of silverware and soft rustle of napkins filled the air as the servers uncovered our plates. The spread was as extravagant as I expected: roasted vegetables drizzled with herb-infused oil, a loaf of bread spiced with something fragrant and foreign to me, a creamy soup that swirled in a way that screamed ‘magically prepared,’ and a selection of cheeses and fruits that looked like they belonged in a painting rather than on a table.

I glanced at Luna, who caught my eye and gave a subtle nod, as if to remind me that I was supposed to relax and enjoy this. Across the table, Cadance was already cutting into her food with the kind of enthusiasm that made her seem less like a princess and more like an eager dinner guest. Shining Armor took one look at Cadance, and lowered his enthusiasm in a way that seemed to spur her. But the way his eyes lingered on the bread suggested he was ready to dive in just as enthusiastically as his fiancé.

“This bread smells amazing,” Shining finally said, breaking the silence. “I think I might have missed it more than anything else in the castle.”

“More than me?” Cadance asked, raising an eyebrow but smiling as she speared a roasted carrot with her fork.

“Okay, maybe not more than you,” he conceded, chuckling. “But it’s a close second.”

Luna leaned slightly toward me, her voice just loud enough for me to hear. “Do you suppose they quarrel about such things often, or is this a rare occasion?”

“Every couple has their priorities,” I replied, smirking as I broke a piece of bread with my left hand. “Apparently, his is food.”

Cadance caught the tail end of our exchange and grinned. “Oh, don’t let him fool you. He’s been dreaming about this bread for days. When we were in Vanhoover, he swore he could smell it baking.”

“Betrayed by my own fiancée,” Shining muttered, though his grin didn’t falter. “If you’re going to tell them that, at least let me enjoy my bread first.”

Cadance laughed, the sound light and infectious, and I felt some of the tension ease from my shoulders. It was hard to brood when she was so determined to keep the mood lively.

As the meal went on, Cadance steered the conversation into safer, more entertaining territory. She asked Shining about the most ridiculous training exercise he’d ever run with his Solar Guards, a question that led to an elaborate tale about a sparring session that had somehow turned into a pie-throwing contest. I tried to imagine the Lunar Guard and Noctra throwing pies, and a smirk snuck onto my face — they would never. Celestia added her own story about a particularly chaotic diplomatic dinner, and for a moment, I could almost forget the shadows that loomed over recent events.

“You must have stories of your own, Sebastian,” Cadance said, her eyes alight with curiosity. “I know Luna keeps you busy, but surely something funny has happened during your missions.”

I blinked, the question caught me off guard. “Funny isn’t exactly the word I would use to describe most of them, but there was this one time…”

I hesitated, but the way Cadance leaned forward, practically vibrating with anticipation, made it impossible to leave her hanging. “Aldin and I were fighting a nine-headed hydra in a bog — this was months ago, before the last Gala. We were about to close out the fight with a bit of magical flight and some other various ranged spells. From a safe distance, of course. But then these three fillies appeared. Let’s just say one thing led to another and I got a little banged up protecting those three. I asked them why they were there, and do you know what they said? They said that they saw a sign about a hydra, and thought they could get their cutie marks by looking at dangerous creatures.”

Cadance burst out laughing, nearly spilling her drink. “Oh, that’s perfect. Can you imagine the look on your face?”

“I’m sure Aldin found it hilarious,” Luna said, her tone dry but her eyes sparkling with amusement. “Though I imagine you were less than pleased.”

“Honestly? I’m proud of myself for not losing my cool,” I admitted, shaking my head. “I find it funny in hindsight. Aldin found it funny in present sight.”

Shining chuckled. “That’s one for the books. At least no one important got seriously hurt.”

I glanced at Cadance, and saw Cadance roll her eyes and sighed inwardly. Uh-oh, buddy. You just dug your own grave. Setting the stage, I mustered up my best offended look and dramatically patted my scarred left shoulder. “Hey! I got seriously hurt!”

Shining didn’t miss a beat, stroking his chin in mock thought. “True. But I said no one important.”

Cadance didn’t hesitate, her hoof connecting with the back of his head in a playful yet decisive thwap. “Shining!”

The timing was perfect. Laughter bubbled out of me, and when I looked around, I realized I wasn’t alone — everyone else was in stitches, including Cadance, who now shook her head fondly at her fiancé’s antics.

As the laughter subsided and the conversation shifted again, I felt Luna’s hoof brush against my leg under the table. I glanced at her, and the slight quirk of her lips told me she was up to something.

“Hydra aside,” she began, her voice carrying a teasing lilt, “Sebastian has shown himself to be quite… resourceful during his missions. One might say he has a knack for overcoming obstacles with flair.”

I narrowed my eye at her. “Flair, huh?”

“Indeed,” she said, her gaze locking onto mine with a mischievous glint. “I’ve seen him handle challenges that would leave most trembling. And all with only Aldin for backup, no less. Quite impressive, wouldn’t you agree, Cadance?”

“Oh, absolutely,” Cadance said, picking up on the tone immediately. “I’d say you’re lucky to have him by your side, Luna.”

“Luck had nothing to do with it,” Luna said smoothly. “I chose him. And I daresay I chose well.”

Her words carried a flirtatious edge that brought heat to my face. I made a valiant effort to keep my expression neutral. “Are you trying to embarrass me in front of everyone, or is this just how you want relax this evening?”

“Who says I cannot do both?” she replied, her smile widening ever so slightly. "You know this is one of my preferred means of relaxion."

Cadance caught the exchange, her eyes sparkling with interest as she leaned slightly forward, clearly enjoying the interplay. Shining Armor, however, seemed to focus on his plate, perhaps hoping to avoid becoming part of the banter. A fool’s errand, but it was a valiant effort.

“Oh, Luna,” Cadance began, her tone light but pointed, “you’re laying it on thick. Poor Sebastian barely knows where to look.”

“I assure you, Cadance,” Luna said, her voice taking on a mock-seriousness that only deepened the mischief in her eyes, “he is quite adept at handling my attentions. Aren’t you, Sebastian?”

I set down my fork deliberately, meeting her gaze with as much composure as I could muster. “You make it sound like I’m some kind of test subject,” I replied, keeping my tone dry.

“A most exceptional one,” Luna said, her hoof brushing against my leg under the table as if to underscore her point.

Cadance laughed, shaking her head. “Shining, maybe I should take notes. What do you think? Should I start waxing poetic about your heroic deeds and leadership over dinner?”

Shining, already mid-bite, nearly choked. He quickly swallowed and gave her a sidelong look. “I think I prefer my compliments without an audience, thanks.”

“Oh, don’t be modest,” Cadance teased, leaning closer to him. Her voice dropped just slightly, enough to make the shift noticeable. “You did lead a whole battalion of the Solar Guard against an invading force. I’d say that deserves some recognition.”

Shining shifted in his seat, his ears flicking back in mild discomfort. “I was just doing my job,” he muttered.

“And you did it splendidly,” Cadance continued, undeterred. Her hoof brushed against his foreleg, her smile sweet but tinged with a playful challenge. “Isn’t that right, Auntie Celestia?”

Celestia, who had been watching the scene unfold with an amused expression, inclined her head gracefully. “Indeed. Shining Armor’s efforts were instrumental. But I suspect he prefers to let his actions speak for themselves.”

“See?” Shining said, gesturing toward Celestia as though her words proved his point.

“Oh, I see plenty,” Cadance countered, her voice dropping into a velvety tone that sent Shining’s cheeks into a deeper shade of red.

I caught Luna smirking out of the corner of my eye. Clearly, she wasn’t the only one enjoying the unfolding dynamic.

“Careful, Shining,” I said, leaning back in my chair. “Cadance might start telling stories about you next. And I’m sure she has plenty.”

“Oh, you have no idea,” Cadance said, her grin widening.

“Sebastian,” Shining said, his voice dry, “I thought we were on the same side.”

“Sorry, Captain,” I replied with a shrug. “Necessary sacrifices must be made.”

Luna leaned in, her voice a low murmur meant only for me. “And here I thought you preferred to keep a low profile. Yet you provoke so easily.”

I turned to her, arching an eyebrow. “Is that what I’m doing?”

“Without question,” she replied, her tone so smug it was almost daring me to deny it.

The laughter and teasing around the table created a warm atmosphere, the weight of recent events fading into the background, at least for now. Celestia, acting as a quiet observer, watched over it all with a serene smile, as if she were content to let the younger ones have their fun.

“Luna,” Cadance said suddenly, fixing her with an exaggeratedly thoughtful look, “you’ve been quite bold tonight. It’s inspiring, really. Shining, maybe we should take a page out of their book. Don’t you think?”

Shining’s eyes widened slightly as he glanced between Cadance and Luna, clearly realizing he was about to be dragged further into whatever this was. “I think I need more bread,” he said, reaching for the basket as if it were a lifeline that would help him somehow escape.

Luna chuckled softly, her attention returning to me. “Do you see what I mean, Sebastian? Such evasion would never suit you. You face things head-on, as you should.”

I sighed, giving her a wry look. “And yet, here I am, completely outmatched.”

“That,” she said, her voice a low purr that made my stomach do a strange flip, “is precisely why I enjoy it so much.”

The door opened again, and dessert was brought in — a distraction that I was grateful for.

The servers placed an assortment of desserts before us — flaky pastries drizzled with honey, delicate fruit tarts topped with fresh cream, and a towering chocolate cake that looked like it could drown a hydra. The sweet scents filled the air, and for a brief moment, I focused on the rich, comforting aroma.

“You’re quiet, Sebastian,” Luna said, her voice cutting through the momentary reprieve. “Does dessert not entice you?”

“I’m just strategizing,” I replied, reaching for a small tart with my fork. “It’s only fair to plan ahead when you keep changing the rules of this game.”

Her grin deepened, the mischievous glint in her eyes unmistakable. “Oh, best-beloved, I am not changing the rules. Merely… heightening the stakes.”

Cadance, clearly intrigued, tilted her head as she selected a slice of the chocolate cake. “Heightening the stakes, huh? Sounds like something you’d enjoy, Luna.” Her gaze slid over to me. “And something Sebastian doesn’t seem too opposed to.”

I took a bite of the tart, letting the burst of tangy fruit buy me a moment to think. “I wouldn’t say I’m opposed. It’s just a matter of keeping up.”

“Keeping up?” Luna’s voice carried an air of feigned offense. “Is that what you think this is — a matter of endurance? My dearest, it is you who sets the pace.”

Cadance muffled a giggle behind her hoof, her amusement barely contained. “You two are adorable. Shining, do you think we’re this fun to watch?”

Shining Armor, who had been attempting to make himself as unnoticeable as possible behind a cup of coffee, choked slightly. “Uh, sure,” he managed, his tone noncommittal. “Though I think ‘adorable’ might not be the word I’d use.”

“Then what word would you use, Captain?” I asked, smirking as I threw him a metaphorical lifeline.

He hesitated, his ears flicking back as Cadance leaned in closer to him, her smile turning teasing. “Careful how you answer that,” she said sweetly, her hoof brushing his shoulder.

“I’d say…” Shining started, pausing to glance at Luna, whose predatory grin was locked firmly in place. “…‘entertaining.’ Definitely entertaining.”

Nailed it.

Celestia’s soft laugh from the head of the table drew our attention. “I would agree,” she said, her tone warm. “Though I do wonder how long you’ll let them keep you on the defensive, Sebastian.”

“Ah, but that’s the point,” Luna interjected smoothly. “He thrives in the heat of the moment, sister. That is why he intrigues me so.”

I leaned back, folding my left arm across my chest as I gave her a pointed look. “Intrigue, huh? Sounds like a fancy way of saying I’m stubborn.”

“Among other things,” she replied, her voice dropping into a velvet tone that sent a ripple of heat down my spine.

“Auntie Luna,” Cadance said, a sly smile forming as she leaned forward conspiratorially. “Are you trying to get Sebastian to admit something? Because it kind of sounds like you are.”

“Oh, Cadance,” Luna replied, her wings shifting slightly as she leaned closer to me. “It is not a matter of ‘trying.’ I am simply ensuring the truth is undeniable.”

The competitive spark flared in me, and I smirked, determined not to let her win so easily. “The truth? I thought you just enjoyed the chase.”

Her eyes locked onto mine, a challenge simmering in the cool blue depths. “And what if I do? Will you deny me, Sebastian?”

I knew her game, but I couldn’t stop the faint warmth rising to my cheeks. Luna noticed instantly, of course, her expression turning triumphant.

“You see?” she said, her voice a purr. “Even now, you cannot hide it.”

Cadance was practically glowing with amusement as she turned to Shining. “This is better than any book I’ve read. I told you they’d be perfect for each other.”

Shining shook his head, though his faint grin betrayed his agreement. “I’m not getting involved.”

“Smart choice,” I said dryly, though my focus never left Luna. She was inching closer now, her gaze soft yet piercing, and I could feel the room narrowing to just the two of us.

“Sebastian,” she said, her voice low enough that it barely carried beyond us. “Why fight it? Tell me, here and now, what I already know.”

Her breath brushed my cheek, her proximity leaving me nowhere to escape without conceding the game entirely. Her eyes gleamed with victory as she waited, silent and expectant.

For a moment, I let myself get lost in her eyes. Those endless, star-filled depths that seemed to hold entire galaxies in their perfection. The room faded away, the soft clinking of forks and quiet conversation reduced to a distant hum. It was just her — calm, confident, and impossibly beautiful.

I could have stayed in that moment forever, but I wasn’t about to let her win without a fight.

“Luna,” I said, my voice steady, though I could feel the faint heat on my face. “You know I’m not one to back down. But if you’re so certain you know what I’ll say, why ask?”

Her lips curved into a smile, her expression as pleased as it was predatory. “Because hearing it from your lips is far sweeter than knowing. And because I enjoy watching you squirm.”

I couldn’t help but chuckle, shaking my head. “You’re stubborn.”

"So are you," she replied with an arched a brow, leaning just a fraction closer, causing her mane to brush my shoulder. “And you adore it.”

My grin betrayed me, and widened despite myself. “Maybe I do.”

She waited, her proximity daring me to say more. I glanced around the table, catching Cadance watching us with a gleam of excitement in her eyes, like she was witnessing the climax of her favorite romance novel. Shining looked mildly uncomfortable but resigned. Celestia made a token effort to hide her watching from behind her wine glass.

But none of them mattered in that instant. Only Luna did.

I turned back to her, my gaze meeting hers. The usual competitive fire in me cooled, if just for a moment. “Fine,” I said, my tone quieter now but no less certain. “You’re the love of my life, Luna.”

Her reaction was immediate and radiant. Her wings shifted slightly with the faintest motion of a triumphant flare, and her smile transformed into something brimming with satisfaction. Her gaze stayed locked on mine, and for once this evening, she seemed to have no clever retort, no teasing remark. Just joy — pure, unfiltered, and utterly intoxicating in its captivity.

And I couldn’t help but to bask in it. Seeing her like this, so openly delighted, was worth every bit of the teasing and whatever embarrassment that accompanied it. Whatever competitive edge I’d tried to hold onto melted away in the face of her happiness.

It was a victory I did not mind surrendering, and in turn I was awarded the grander prize of her smile.