Luna shakes what her momma gave her!

Chapters

Of Dancing and Crowds.
Celestial Musings.
Trixie did NOT sign up for this!
Mistakes were made....
A friend in need is a friend in deed....
Of Dancing and Crowds, Redux part 1.
Aftermath: Coming down.
Dressing for the Part.
Three Nights Later.
Of Dancing and Crowds, Redux part 2.
The Final Act part one.
The Final Act part two.
The Final Act part three.
Epilogue: Four weeks later. Or a Ponyville Party!!

Of Dancing and Crowds.

Princess Luna, the Bringer of the Night and Mare of the Moon had a problem. Well, two if she was being honest. First, in the thousand or so years she had been trapped on the moon, her knowledge of dancing and what was currently in vogue had completely deteriorated. Second, she had no idea how to be entertaining to crowds of her little ponies. Celestia was able to bring out cheers and joyous applause and laughter from the ponies, without any effort it seemed, and Luna wanted to be as well loved and welcomed as Celestia. She knew that that same desire is what caused her to be banished to the moon in the first place, but this wasn't born out of jealousy, but from a want to fit in and belong. She felt that if she could be on par with Celestia than she could make more friends, and thus, not be as lonely as she has been.

Her friendship with Twilight Sparkle and her friends had been a point of hope and personal pride for Luna, but she didn't see them as often as she would like. The duties of the Crown, and those of the Element Bearers seldom allowed for them to meet up as much as the younger diarch felt she needed. Failing a lucky break where she would have a chance to meet up with her Ponyville friends, she had to look for other resources to find the help she needed.

"Who do I know that is versed in working with, or perhaps for is a better word, a large group of ponies?" Luna mused to herself. Then it came to her. She smiled as this would allow the Princess to get the help she needed and also clear the debt that the pony in question owed to Luna. It was a perfect solution!

"Dear Trixie Lulamoon, the Great and powerfull.." Luna smiled as she wrote the letter. The showmare would be the perfect pony to help her with making a crowd laugh and cheer, especially if the mare's stories about her act being good before her reputation had been tarnished due to an incident or two in Ponyville were true. As she wrote, Luna wondered what she could add into the letter to make Trixie more receptive to her problem, other than the usual platitudes and compliments that ponies such as herself yearned for.

"I could always send a few bits. She's almost a money hungry as a Griffon... though.." Luna trailed off as an alternative came to her mind, "She may have had a turn of good luck and no longer is in as dire of straights financially speaking. Though, in that case she'd probably be willing to help without any form of payment aside from removing the debt she owes me." Luna concluded as the possibilities stretched out before her in an unlimited fasion. This would be fun, and since it would be fun, Luna would make it doubled! She couldn't wait!

Celestial Musings.

The day after Luna had her near miss with Blueblood, Celestia was reviewing the reports from the various Guard shifts throughout the Castle and the city at large. What troubled her, was a report that for most of this week, Luna had somehow slipped her Guard detail and left the Castle. While Luna was more than capable of defending herself and taking care of herself, the Guards were there just as much for her protection as they were for the citizens of their kingdom.

Celestia could either increase security and lock the Castle down, or forbid Luna from leaving. But that seemed heavy handed to her. Luna hadn't shirked her duties, and seemed to be in better spirits as of late the few times they had had breakfast together. Celestia wasn't exactly worried, she just wanted her sister to talk to her, without Celestia having to make Luna talk. Fortunately, the day time Diarch had a different solution. Twilight Sparkle and her friends were in Canterlot for a while, and she felt that Twilight would be the best pony to talk to Luna, as they had become instant friends and Luna would be far more likely to talk with Twilight openly.

Having decided that, all would work out as things always did. Celestia beamed with satisfaction at how she could not only find out what was going on, but also reconnect good friends.

Of course, she would have a few contingency plans in place, just in case. This was Canterlot after all, and anything could happen. Celestia shook her head. She was almost running late with he weekly meeting with Blueblood. They never talked about anything important as far as ruling a nation was concerned. Celestia, feeling that she hadn't spent as much time with her nephew as she should have after she brought him to live wit her when his parents died, felt that these talks at least kept the lines of communication open. She smiled as Blueblood walked in. He seemed to have an extra spring to his step that she hadn't seen him with in a long time. Even better, he was genuinely smiling.

"Blueblood, so good to see you. You seem very happy, and overall much improved since last we spoke!" Celestia said her joy at his good fortune evident in her voice and face. She truly was happy that her nephew seemed to be getting better.

"Aunt Celly, I have seen a wonderful mare, and though I haven't met her yet, I'm working on it. She's beautiful and graceful. In many ways, she reminds me of the qualities of yours that I look for in a mare. This mare... she makes me want to be a better pony, a real stallion, noble and able to stand tall." Blueblood practically gushed.

"Really? And what is this beautiful mare's name, and what was she doing to capture my nephews eye so fully?" Celestia inquired, truly curious.

"Well, her name is Moonlight Starbright, and.." Blueblood began to explain.

Trixie did NOT sign up for this!

Trixie was many things to many ponies. Sadly, most of the time that was the butt of a joke or a source of aggression these days. Trixie wasn't fooling herself about it. It was Trixie's own fault, between the Ursa Major incident at Ponyville and then much later the Alicorn Amulet debacle where she foalishly tried to be better than Twilight Sparkle, Trixie had been trying her hardest to move past those incidents. That's how she actually ended up meeting Princess Luna. Trixie had been having nightmares about the Alicorn Amulet incident, to the point where Princess Luna had to go into Trixies dreams more than one a week. Eventually, the two met, and after the Princess of the Night helped Trixie to move past the worst of the internal issues, she encouraged the showmare to try to go back on the road with her act. Trixie vowed to do just that, and told the Princess that if she ever needed anything, that Trixie would be willing and would do her best to help.

Trixie now regretted making that offer. She never thought, not once in a thousand years, that Princess Luna would ever seriously need Trixie's help.

"Dear Trixie Lulamoon, the Great and Powerful,

I have need of your services and aid. If you should find it agreeable to lend me your aid in the matter I find myself trapped in, I will consider your offer of help to be a debt paid and a service to Equestria. If you are willing, please come see me at Canterlot Castle the next time you are in Canterlot. I will tell the Guards and staff to grant you entry and escort you to my chambers, and this invitation shall stand until I hear from you, or you arrive. I believe that you, and only you can aid me in my time of need.

With much thanks,
Your Princess of the Night, Luna.

P.S. Please accept these bits as a sign of friendship between us and a gift to help speed you on your way.
-- Luna.

Trixie had read and reread that letter seemingly a few hundred times. The few hundred bits helped, as Trixie hadn't eaten in a few days, and had been looking for a tree to peel some bark off of to turn into a very meager meal. The bits allowed Trixie to make a repair to Trixie's wagon and get some food. Now that Trixie's home, belly and larder were properly taken care of, she even had some of the money left over. Trixie had to admit that she had some doubts. Part of Trixie wanted to take the bits and run, not going anywhere near Canterlot or Ponyville for the rest of her life, but Trixie actually felt wrong about that. Trixie wasn't sure why at first, but as she reread the letter one night by candle light it struck her.

""..Please accept these bits as a sign of friendship between us."" Friendship. Trixie, as much as she was loath to admit it in her waking moments, but more willing to in the depths of her mind and when she was alone, but Twilight was on to something with her talk of the Magic of Friendship. Trixie had been without any friends for so long she wondered if she had ever had any. And Princess Luna was offering her such a relationship. Trixie felt something inside her break and she felt a few tears well up in her eyes. Trixie desperately wanted friends. Even one would be enough. And Trixie had to admit, that she could do much worse for a friend than Princess Luna. So Trixie made up her mind and started to make her way towards Canterlot.

That was a few weeks ago, and she had been out in Saddle Arabia when the letter had arrived. Trixie had never learned the spell to send a letter through her magic, and she had always heard that it required a great deal of magical power, needing more and more dependent on distance. Trixie was out of the Badlands now, and coming up near Appleloosa, and decided to stop there for the night. Trixie could take a shortcut she knew that would cut her time to get to Ponyville in half, and from there it was about another day to Canterlot. Trixie wasn't entirely sure what she would find when she got there, but she wanted to help Princess Luna. If Trixie was lucky this would help set her on the road to earn Trixie's forgiveness and redemption so she could fully move on from her mistakes. Trixie was tired of ponies treating her like dirt. One town almost lynched Trixie because the stories had grown out of proportion. It was now common for townsponies in a lot of the outlying areas to throw things at Trixie and to assault her. So far, it had just been physical, but Trixie didn't believe her luck would holdout on that indefinitely, and it would be a mater of time before some young stallion decided merely beating her up or trying to kill her wasn't enough.

Trixie shuddered at that thought. Fortunately for her, Appleloosa was a fairly forgiving town. Trixie wasn't a beloved visitor, but as long as she didn't cause any trouble and traded fairly, no one went out of their way to be mean or hurt her. The Buffalo, while not what many would consider to be a top notch crowd, at least enjoyed Trixies show and would pay her in food and goods, if not bits or gems. It was better than nothing, and Trixie rather liked the the thick and heavy blanket they had given her one time as it was extremely warm in the winter.

Trixie would stay a day, maybe two, and then head out. With that, Trixie blew out the candle and went to bed.

:pinkiehappy:

Trixie had gotten to the outskirts of Ponyville and then by passed the town completely. All it would take is one of Sparkle's friends seeing her and her trip through the area and to Canterlot would be made that much more difficult.

"HI TRIXIE!!" came from to her left and it almost caused Trixie to jump out of the wagons seat. Trixie was pretty sure her heart had jumped out of her chest and straight to the Elysian Fields in the afterlife. Trixie looked around and saw the source of the loud voice. There, standing by the road was one of the only other ponies in Ponyville that Trixie knew by name aside from Twilight Sparkle.

"Pinkie Pie.... What can the Great and Powerful and Apologetic Trixie do for you?" Trixie said as she recognized Equestria's premier party planner. Trixie only remembered the pink pony's name because in the entertainment business, you never knew who you might be sharing, or be in competition for, a venue with.

"Oh, nothing really. I was just wondering what you're doing and why you're not stopping in Ponyville. It's almost like you don't want to see us, which can't be right because you haven't been here in a really loooooong time, not since you were here with the Alicorn Amulet and tried to take over the town, but you've learned your lesson, so you could stop by and see your friends here, and have a Turning over a new Leaf party! It would be one of the greatest parties in Ponyville's history!!! And the best party YOU'VE ever had!!!!" Pinkie Pie went on after that, but Trixie couldn't follow, seeing as the pink mare was going on and on and on at probably close to seventy five words a minute.

"Pinkie!" Trixie finally said getting the pink Earth Pony to stop.

"Yeeeeeeesss, Trixie?" Pinkie asked.

"Look, I'm not really sure that everypony else feels the same way you do about me coming back here. I did some pretty horrible things the last time I was here, and I don't want to cause any trouble. I just want to go to Canterlot. I have a business meeting there, and I don't want to be late. As for the party... It's nice?... that you want to throw one for Trixie.... but Trixie hasn't earned one. Trixie is still trying to seek her forgiveness and redemption and while you might be willing to forgive me, most of your friends probably won't be, or they would be viewing Trixie with a great deal of suspicion." Trixie said sadly, a look of forlorn regret on her face.

"Silly filly! Sure, you've made a mistake or two, and some of them were pretty big. BUT! But, they aren't the kind that can't be forgiven. No one was seriously hurt and you have learned from them. I can tell! I know that Rainbow Dash might not give you the benefit of the doubt, but Flutter Shy, Apple Jack and Twilight would at least be willing to hear you out before they pass judgement. And besides, you have me, Pinkie Pie, in your corner! It might take time, but as long as you keep moving forward on being a better pony, you'll win them over! Once you have Twilight and Apple Jack, Rarity is as good as in your pocket and then it's only a matter of time before Rainbow is your friend. I'll keep everything for that party of yours ready. I know that someday you'll be ready for it, and I'll be ready." Pinkie Pie said encouragingly to the showmare. All Trixie needed, from Pinkie's position, was a friend or two to show her that she could be forgiven and that she could be a better pony. Pinkie always thought the best about other ponies, with a very limited number of exceptions, though only one was an actual pony, and he was closer to being a creature of ice and shadow, but details.

"Um.... Thank you? I think? Look, at any rate, could you please not tell your friends that Trixie was here? I just want to get to Canterlot without any issues." Trixie said, a little thrown off by Pinkie's words.

"Okay, I can do that, on one condition! That being that when you're business in Canterlot is done, you come back and let me prove to you that you can be forgiven, okay?" Pinkie asked, offering a deal that Trixie was slightly annoyed by. If she said no, it'd be a moment or two before she had to dodge the other friends of the pink party planner. If Trixie agreed, then she could move on to Canterlot without issue, but the pink party menace would probably insist on it being a Pinke Promise, which even Trixie wasn't dumb enough to willingly break. The stories of the lengths Pinkie would go to to ensure that such a promise was upheld were legendary, only met with Trixie's own legendary acts, albeit, those acts didn't have the best reception.

"Ughh, fine. I'll come back after I'm done in Canterlot." Trixie said.

"Do you Pinkie Promise????"

"Yes, I Pinkie Promise to come back. Cross my heart, hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye." Trixie swore, regretting it. Trixie was positive that the experience would be extremely uncomfortable and a nightmare, even with Pinkie's best efforts.

"Okay! See you later Trixie!" Pinkie Pie said as she bounced away, humming some kind of silly song.

:trixieshiftright:

Trixie arrived at Canterlot as the sun was just starting to set, and made it to the Castle in relatively short order. The Guards at the gate were confused at first, but after checking the list, they saw that, yes, Trixie did indeed have an open invitation to visit the Castle and to meet with Princess Luna. An escort was formed and Trixie's wagon placed in the visiting dignitaries stable and she was brought inside. After a brief stop at guest reception to double check that Trixie did indeed have an invitation, she was issued a security pass and then brought into the Residence wing of the Castle where the Princesses had their private chambers.

By the time Trixie had gotten there, Princess Luna had just finished raising the moon.

"Miss Lulamoon! Thank you so much for coming! We have much to discuss!" Luna said as she all but dragged the hapless Unicorn into her private chambers. Once the doors shut, Luna offered Trixie a place to sit on a rather comfortable couch and sat in a chair opposite her.

"I suppose you want to know why I asked you to come." Luna said, a bit of shyness to her demeanor as she spoke.

"The thought had crossed Trixie's mind, but when one gets a summons to the Castle, a wise pony goes. With the way Trixie's luck has been as of late, you'd send your Guards to arrest Trixie and imprison her." Trixie said, the last with light sarcasm.

"No, never! You have made mistakes, but no one was seriously hurt and no pony died. You have learned from the incident, and as far as I know, have done nothing worthy of being imprisoned. But to the matter at hand. I want you to teach me how to make a crowd love me. To make them feel the same joy that they express when they see my sister. I was also hoping that you could teach me the current dances that are in style at the moment. Seeing as you are a showmare and well versed in the entertainment industry, I could think of no pony better suited for such a task." Luna said with a smile.

Trixie all but died right there. This most assuredly was NOT what Trixie had expected when she got that letter.

"Um, Princess Luna.." Trixie started.

"Luna, please. We are friends and alone. You need not use my title." Luna interrupted.

"Okay, Luna... Trixie might be able to teach you to read a crowd and possibly entertain them, but to earn their respect and love and adoration, that's going to take effort on your part and them accepting that effort in that way. Your sister had a thousand years and more if the history books are right to earn that kind of response from ponies. It'll take time and some monumental work on your part. As for the dancing... Trixie herself doesn't really dance, per se, but Trixie knows a couple of ponies here in Canterlot that could help you with that."

"Marvelous! I would be most pleased to meet your friends!" Luna said joyfully, glad to see that Trixie had managed to make some friends.

"Trixie wouldn't say that they are friends, more like business associates. Trixie from time to time will sell her skills with fireworks to other events and venues. While I haven't made friends as most would call it, I do have a wide network of ponies in various parts of the entertainment industry, and Trixie is sure that one or two of them somewhere in Equestria would be able to help you with what you need." Trixie said truthfully.

Luna's expression fell slightly at Trixie's admission of not having friends yet, but soon recovered, not only because of her willingness to still help, but because it gave Luna an opportunity to help Trixie make more friends.

"Excellent! Thank you, Trixie. Your Princess is most pleased!" Luna said, imagining the adventures and fun to come.

Mistakes were made....

After a few days, it became quite apparent that both Luna and Trixie had made a mistake or two in this endeavor. Luna had meant dancing as in the kinds of dancing one might find at a party. Trixie thought dancing was all just one thing, and that the specifics were sorted out during the learning how to dance part of it. Trixie further compounded her mistake by setting up an appointment for Luna with a Thestral dancer Trixie knew by the name of Midnight Moonrise.

Midnight, like most Thestrals was floored by being able to spend any time with Princess Luna, but in this case, it became somewhat embarrassing rather quickly. It turned out that Midnight was an "Exotic Dancer", or in laypony terms, a stripper.

"Princess.... Trixie is sooo sooo very sorry! Please don't send Trixie to the moon!!" Trixie said in an embarrassed apology, trying to sooth the Princess of the Night so that Trixie could at least avoid being banished.

"Oh, calm down Trix. I doubt very much that Princess Luna is going to send you to the moon. If anything, you're going to either have to refund the bits she paid you for this, or she'll put you in prison for a while, worst case scenarios. To be honest though, Princess, you have a beauty that few dancers can match, be it more traditional dancing, or what I practice. You're tall enough that you could make use of some of the more exotic routines from Saddle Arabia and Griffonstone. And I can speak from personal experience that the art of it builds confidence, helps with strength, manual dexterity, helps to lose and manage weight and can be a lot of fun." Midnight stated.

"Midnight it quite correct, Trixie. I would never banish you to the moon. This was simply a misunderstanding. Midnight, would you be willing to teach me this dancing?" Luna asked hopefully.

"I can, but are you sure? Once you start performing it'll be difficult to keep your anonymity." Midnight cautioned.

"Why would I need to worry about that?" Luna asked confused.

"Princess, do you know what a stripper is?" Trixie asked with concern.

"Yes, they are dancers. Trixie, you are starting to worry me about your mental faculties if you forget that." Luna said with a small bit of concern for her friend.

"Luna, strippers dance and in the process remove their clothes..." Midnight explained carefully.

"Oh. OH! Oh... well. Perhaps just teach me how and we'll go from there?" Luna hedged.

"We certainly can." Midnight said soothingly.

🌕

Trixie and Luna met with Midnight two to three times a week for the next few months. By the halfway point, Luna had become very skilled with working a pole for poledancing.

"Again, as I said Luna, you have a rare beauty and would rake in a lot of bits at my club if you so desired. I even have a way you could preserve your anonymity." Midnight said one day after practice one night.

"Thank you, Midnight, but I'm pleased to just be able to learn the skills. It has improved my confidence as you said it would." Luna said with a friendly smile.

"Well, if you ever change your mind let me know." The Thestral said kindly.

"Do you really think that's likely? Princess Luna is more likely to go find a normal dance instructor and learn the dancing she originally wanted. Trixie is sure of it." Trixie said as she looked up from an ordering catalog for the various things one would find in a traveling show like hers.

"And what makes you so sure? I'd bet that if she really wanted to, or had a good reason, she'd make out to be one of the best dancers in the history of poledancing!" Midnight said adamantly.

"You are both correct of course. I would prefer to find a more polite company dancing instructor than pursue this endeavor beyond learning how. However, if I felt a need or desire I would take it up instantly." Luna said trying to keep her friends from having an argument.

A few days later, Trixe received a letter by mailmare from Midnight, which didn't bode well. As Trixie read the letter, she felt her face go pale as winters snow and her blood run cold as ice. She reread the letter a number of times, to make sure she had not misunderstood the letter.

"Oh, no! Why can't things ever go well for Trixie??" She groaned as she made her way to the castle. Luna had to know about this development right away.

A friend in need is a friend in deed....

"You are certain that Midnight's club is being threatened?" Luna asked Trixie.

"Trixie is, as far as anything goes. Trixie hasn't seen it for herself, but Trixie trusts Midnight to not play games when her business and employees are in danger, especially from The Iron Wing Gang. They are so terrible, they were thrown out of the Griffon kingdom because they didn't care who got in the way as long as they got what they were after. Trixie has heard that they are ruthless. Why Midnight went into business with them in the first place, Trixie will never understand. What are you going to do?" Trixie asked the Alicorn.

"I cannot publicly or officially intervene, as it would damage the integrity of the Crown. Nor can I give you the bits to give to Midnight to pay them off as they would rightly assume that Midnight has a wealthy benefactor that they could potentially blackmail for more money. Trixie, did Midnight explain to you how she planned to help me keep my anonymity were I to take her up on her offer?" Luna asked as she thought out her possible options.

"She'd mentioned to Trixie something about a lace fabric mask that would be enchanted to hide your cutie mark. Trixie thinks that Midnight might have also had the mask commissioned, but Trixie isn't sure if it was or if it's been completed yet." Trixie said anxiously.

Luna nods, and paces for a moment as she considers her options. While she could bring Celestia into this, she feared that her sister wouldn't be able to help, or if she did, it could make matters worse. Creating such a mask herself would be foalsplay, and she could work the enchantment herself to allow for more variety of disguising who she really was.

"Trixie, I need you to talk to Midnight and arrange for me to dance at her club for a number of nights until her debt is paid. Once that is done, I will contact Captain Shining Armor and Canterlot Guard to arrest the Iron Wing Gang." Luna said with confidence.

"Okay, but Trixie isn't sure if that will work. The gang probably knows all of Midnight's dancers by now. I suppose I could try to sell it that I'm your manager and agent and you're a new independent dancer... " Trixie suggests unsure of how else to help Mindinght.

"That may work as well as any other idea. Discuss it with Midnight and return to me here once you and she have come to a decision." Luna commanded as she began gathering materials to make her mask with. Luna chose a dark green lace that would help stand out against her coat. Attaching it over the top of an eye mask was easy enough, and she added a few diamonds and emeralds to give the mask another point of attention gathering, as light would catch on the gems and reflect in ways that would draw attention to her. She wove into the mask and the gems a spell that would make her appear as a large, but still very shapely Pegasus. The enchantment would cover her cutie mark over with a full moon in a golden color, which would keep onlookers attention on her as she was keeping her original coat color. Her mane would keep its base color and sheen as well as volume, but it would lose the sparkling and ever flowing features. She could use various vanity products to put rhinestones in her hair, and that would be easy to apply and remove. Her horn would also be covered up by the enchantment.

"Now... what should I call myself for this...." Luna pondered as she selected her outfit for the evening. She felt the name would have to reflect her new cutie mark, and felt that Moonlight Starbright would be a good name. Pleased with her new stage name, she looked over her available clothes. She was sorely lacking in appropriate lingerie for this first endeavor, but a Nightmare Night costume would work well with a few changes.

After a few moments work she stood back and looked over her handy work. The Prench Maid costume allowed for a certain amount of sexiness as it stood normally. She was easily able to apply a white satin corselet with black lace trimmings, which would not only show off her large breasts, but also make them far more impressive. The corselet would also shape her hips a bit more. She kept the ruffled maid skirt, as it would prove to be enticing in her mind. She had a black satin string bikini bottom she would use for under the skirt. She topped it off with a garter set and a set of white fishnet thigh high stockings. She would forgo the maid costumes hat, as her enchanted mask would work better for her needs as it was. Over the top of all of it, she would wear a soft forest green dressing gown, and a heavy trench coat over the whole ensemble. Luna also took time to take care of certain grooming and hygienic needs for the purposes of what she was going to be doing.

By the time Trixie returned, Luna, or, rather, Moonlight Starbright, was ready for her debut on the exotic dancers stage.

Of Dancing and Crowds, Redux part 1.

Trixie had returned and after explaining to Luna the overall plan, Luna sent a message to Midnight with the details. They would arrive just after moonrise. Trixie would provide some hype for Moonlight and then Luna would take the stage and pole dance and provide a sensual strip tease. The first night would probably not net much results, but would at least bring in some bits because of a new dancer. The rest of the week, as long as Luna could maintain the disguise, would bring in more bits than most involved in this endeavor, save for Luna herself, had ever seen. If Midnight was correct in her assessment of Luna's beauty, then even with the small amount of the bits that an independent dancer would receive, Midnight should still have more than enough from Luna's dancing to pay off the gangsters.

Luna planned to do between three and six sets a night, if time allowed before leaving to sleep the day away and lower the moon. Luna also made plans for Trixie to do some shopping for her, knowing that she wouldn't make many bits if she just kept using the same outfit.

Finally after a few more hours, it was time. Trixie lead Luna to the back entrance to Midnight's club, "The Night Diamond Club", and brought her inside and to a private dressing room. Luna spent the next few minuets fixing anything that had gotten mussed by the gown and trench coat, and was glad that when she had showered as she dried off that she had applied a light body glitter. She applied some perfume and listened as Trixie began her hype mare duties.

"Greetings, Mares and Gentlestallions!! For your entertainment tonight, for the first time anywhere in Equestria, I present to you, a mare of such exotic beauty, she puts models such as Fleur Di Lis to shame and could capture the imagination of the the great novelist, Earnest Hemingneigh! I present to you all, Moonlight Starbright, a gift from Galaxia herself!!" Trixie said as Luna walked out with a slight cover of smoke and sparklers to grant some mystique.

The music Luna had selected was an easy number for her to move to in sync to the beat of the song. Luna started by strutting out to the furthest forward part of the stage and did a few twirls on the heels she was wearing, then cocked her hips to the side, causing the skirt to flash the onlookers her underwear. There were claps and cheers at that.

Luna strutted her way to the pole, and place her right hand around it, slowly walked around it. She made one full trip around, then sprung forward and up, using her wings to give her a burst of speed and power, which she used to twirl around the pole. As she went around, she pivoted, and with her right leg wrapped around the pole, made her hair catch the lights and the rhinestones sparkled in a way that dazzled the crowd. She came off the pole and stuck the landing, using her momentum to slide on her knees along the part of the stage that went forward from the pole. When she came to a stop, her hands ran over her body, cupping her breasts and going up the sides of her neck and into her mane.

She moved up and down on her knees while doing that, as she gyrated her hips forwards and backwards, as her hands came slowly back to her hips, then moved to the small of her back where she unzipped the skirt. As she did that, she looked out into the club. All eyes, Griffon, Pony and others besides, they were all locked on her. She could see in the faces of the ponies at least, a longing, a desire, for her. For her to be close to them, to be intimate. Some of the looks were even of a more carnal nature. All of it sent a thrill and shiver through the younger Diarchs body. She liked how that felt, even though it was all a deception.

Using her wings, she lifted herself to her feet, the skirt falling to her ankles. The crowd gasped in awe, as she then flew backwards towards the pole, doing a soft spin along her path of travel. Her momentum brought her just past the pole, and she reached out with her left hand and caught the pole as she was spinning past, and rocketed around it again. She transitioned to a two handed grip on the pole and as she spun around it, she went through her routine of several different poses that would allow one to fluidly move from one to the next, with the final part of this stage on the pole having her upside down as she spun. She allowed herself to slow, and as she stopped, facing the crowd, she crawled off the pole, slowly working her way up to her hands and knees, her tail swishing back and forth.

She eventually made it back to her feet where she slowly began to unfasten the corselet. If everycreature wasn't already mesmurized by her performance and had their eyes locked on her before, they certainly did now. The corselet came off, and Luna stood exposed from the waist up. Her breasts, while not as large as Celestia's were certainly not small and were still larger than the average pony's. She bent over at the waist and ran her hands from her calfs up to her thighs, then up her lower stomach and to her ribs. Her hands glided up her sides and to just under her breasts. Luna ran her hands up and down her sides to just under her breasts several times, then as she cupped them, the music hit a intense moment. Luna would like to claim that she had timed it that way, but she had gotten lost in the performance, so when the music hit that intense moment, as she cupped and hefted her breasts, everything came together and the crowd.....

The crowd ROARED in its fury and its approval and joy! Bits landed by the score on the stage and flooded the intake boxes along the stage and bar. Luna repeated this process twice more, once facing the left side of the stage, the other the right. Each time the roar of approval came, more powerful than the last, but none as strong as that first one, and the bits poured in.

The only way Luna would be able to top this would be removing her underwear, and while she had planned for it, she wasn't sure if what she had planned would be enough. Luna strutted back to the center of the stage a few feet in front of the pole, and gyrated her hips and ran her hands over her body, cupping, hefting and rubbing her breasts. Her hands went down to her hips, as she ran her hands over her ass, which she was now aware was drawing a great deal of attention because of how desirable it was as well as because the change in her cutie mark as well as the jade studded band she was wearing around the base of her tail. She ran her hands over her pubic mound, as the stallions and other males in the audience were going wild, and even a few mares seemed very interested.

Luna hooked her thumbs in the tie strings of the bikini bottom and pulled them away, untying the bottoms as she then took it her right hand. She whipped it around in the air over her head, as the crowd cried out in their support of Luna's dance. As she rand her left hand over her breasts and down her body, she could feel her nipples harden as the sweat dripped down her body. Her hand went over her mound, and she couldn't help but gasp as her hand runs over her most sensitive places a little harder than she meant to. The song comes to its crescendo, as Luna arches her back, thrusting her chest out to the crowd as she thrusted her hips forward, her sweat soaked coat causing her mound to glisten in the light.

Trixie and Midnight come up from behind her and wrap a heavy bath robe over her shoulders and secure it. Midnight escorts her off the stage and Trixie collects her clothes.

Aftermath: Coming down.

Luna couldn't remember the trip back to the private dressing room. She felt the excitement and the feeling of electricity still running through her veins! Everything had a fuzzy feeling and things sounded muffled, as if she were in a deep pool.

"Luna?" A voice called to her. She could hardly hear it.

"Luna??" Another voice called out. This one seemed a bit closer.

"LUNA!"

"Yes?" Luna responded as she looked at Trixie, the euphoria of her recent actions easily visible on her face.

"She's high. High on the emotional charge of endorphins that flooded her system. Trixie, get me a couple of pitchers of ice water from the bar. She needs it to cool off and to replenish what she sweated out." Midnight said as she moved Luna to a more comfortable chair.

"I think I understand how Celestia has been able to keep being so.. so happy for all these years... If this is even half as much as she has felt when our pony's would greet her and heap their joy and pleasure at seeing her upon her, then she would feel like this almost all the time! I don't want this to ever end!" Luna exclaimed in a joyous tone as she clung to Midnight. Trixie returned at that point. She had around six pitchers of ice water in her hands and magic.

"Midnight, could you take two of these? Your bartender was adamant that we'd need more than two. There's another problem...." Trixie said as she nodded appreciatively as Midnight took two of the pitchers. She set them down on a table and had Luna move to a porcelain tub in the corner. She and Trixie poured four of the pitchers over Luna and gave her one of the remaining ones to drink as they slowly and gently ran the cold water and ice over the Alicorn's hot body.

"What's the other problem Trix?" Midnight inquired as they tended to Luna.

"There's a noble out there that wants a lap dance in one of the private rooms... I told him I would speak with Moonlight about it, but I doubt Luna is in any shape to preform such an act, especially since THAT was never brought up." Trixie stated flatly.

"I'll deal with it in a moment. I'm far more concerned with Luna's safety. Luna, keep drinking that water." Midnight said, gently prodding Luna. "I'll get you some hay fries and mozzarella sticks in a little bit."

"Ohh, that would be nice. Could I get some Cider?" Luna asked as her temperature started to come back down, and with it a return to her normal faculties.

"No, no Cider. I want you sober. But I could bring you some ice cream and cake if you want. Maybe a sandwich?" Midnight countered.

"Mmm, that sounds lovely. Yes, a sandwich and some ice cream would be most appetizing. Do I still get the hay fries and mozzarella sticks?" Luna asked that last in an almost child like way.

Midnight chuckled lightly. "Yes, you can still have the fries and mozzarella sticks. I'll even make sure you get a double order of dipping sauces."

"Huzzah!" Luna cheered as she drank more of the water.

Midnight and Trixie went out and talked with the adoring public in Luna's stead, and explained to them that in no uncertain terms that Moonlight wouldn't be preforming any further acts this evening. If they wished to see her again, then they could come back the following evening at the same time.

Meanwhile, Luna made use of a shower and cleaned herself up a bit. She had never been so... so charged by an event. Had never felt such adoration from her pony's before. Truly, if this is what Celestia felt, then Luna had to find a way of getting this feeling, even after she stopped stripping. "Oh, 'Tia... How have you managed to feel this much joy and love for all these years without an outlet to express it?" Luna softly wondered to herself.

🌕

Back in the safety of her bed in the Castle, Luna was fighting desperately for sleep. She could still feel her muscles twitch and shake, and could still hear the roar of the crowd in her mind. It was all so amazing. So exhilarating. And Luna would be doing this for at least a week! The excitement she felt at that prospect was nigh intoxicating. The thought of possibly coming back and doing the occasional return performance put a smile on her face, and soon Luna was asleep, dreaming of the fun to come.

Dressing for the Part.

Trixie had been hitting every clothing place in Canterlot looking for the very best delicates and intimates available. Normally, most of these places would be outside of Trixie's price range, not that Trixie had much need or desire for such things, but bits opened doors, as did a letter from Princess Luna. As Trixie was walking through the clothing district, she noticed a little place that she recognized instantly, due to the colors used and the dresses being displayed. The sign above the door read, "Canterlot Boutique".

"It figures... The only other pony from Ponyville, other than Pinkie Pie and Twilight Sparkle that Trixie would know would obviously have a business here? I mean, why wouldn't she..." Trixie said with no small amount of sarcasm to herself. Though, no pony else would be able to match Rarity's level of craftmares ship, and Luna did deserve the very best out there. Rarity, if she was in, wouldn't need the letter, just the measurements and the money. Trixie had already known what color schemes to use, and after having a long conversation with Luna about it, felt she understood the Moon Princess's style. Trixie had to admit, a small bit of glee entered into her mind as she thought everything out, knowing that if the fashion deva ever found out what then clothes were being used for, she'd probably turn as red as an apple farmers barn.

Trixie walked in, knowing that she also needed a few things if she was going to act as "Moonlight's" agent.

"I'll be right there with you, Darling!" a pony, assumedly, Rarity said from a back storage room. Trixie looked around a little bit and couldn't help but marvel at how pretty everything was. Rarity certainly knew her trade, and was an obvious master of it. Even Trixie could see that.

Rarity walked out from the back room still looking at an inventory ledger.

"Welcome to Canterlot Boutique! Where everything is chic, unique and magnifique, and all very affordable! Now.." Rarity stopped as she looked up. "Trixie? Whatever are you doing here? Much less in my boutique?"

"Ms. Rarity, Trixie finds herself helping a new performer breaking into show business and even potentially modeling and dancing. While I am well versed in keeping a crowds attention and managing a business, I learned long long ago that no one pony can hope to know everything about everything. My new client, a Moonlight Starbright, has expressed her desires to be a multifaceted mare, in the areas of acting, modeling, dancing and working in the public eye. There is no pony better at making a mare or stallion look their best with clothing than you. We have a modeling gig coming up very soon, a very private affair for the agency only and are in need of a wider selection of clothes than we currently have. The invitation was lost in the mail for a bit, so now we have to scramble to get what we need. I have my clients measurements as well as a sample of her coats color and her basic sense of style. She will need a number of simple, yet elegant dresses, gowns and skirts that while making her look great, must also be easy to remove for the sake of effective costume changes. She will also need a full line or two of lingerie, assorted delicates and corsets, corselets, leggings, stockings, nylons in various styles and within a certain color pallet. I'd also like to commission you for a few professional business suits and maybe a power dress or two for my own use in this endeavor."

Rarity was taken back, not only by Trixie's whole speech, but also the professional and seemingly lacking of attitude that she had during it.

"Well, yes, Darling. I'm sure I can help you with most of what you're looking for with very few problems. What kind of budget do you have?" Rarity asked the showmare, thinking that Trixie had maybe managed to scrape together a few thousand bits, at the absolute most.

"Our earlier efforts in Saddle Arabia were very profitable. We currently have a budget of fifteen thousand bits for this venture. I've already gone to many of the other tailors and seamstresses in Canterlot and none of them have what we are looking for, or have the level of craftspony ship that you have consistently shown in all of your work." Trixie said, attempting to butter Rarity up a little bit.

"Fif-fifteen? Thousand?! Trixie, how did you get that much money?" Rarity asked, a great deal of suspicion in her voice.

"Relax, Ms. Rarity. I got very lucky at a gaming table out in Los Pegasus during our travels, and while in Saddle Arabia Moonlight entered into a few of the beauty pageants out there. While she didn't win, she was certainly beautiful enough to walk away with a number of second place prizes and a couple of first place runners up prizes. That's how we got the modeling agency invite. I'd go into more detail, but as I'm sure you understand, we've signed a number of NDAs' concerning this. These measurements of Moonlight's are current as of last night. Will that be sufficient?" Trixie said smoothly and calmly. While she was lying, she was doing so for Luna's safety, and that meant more to her than her own reputation.

"Certainly, and I must apologize. I shouldn't have assumed that you got that money through some nefarious way. I'm sure you understand how a reputation grows and influences others in ways you never expected it to." Rarity said by way of saying sorry.

"Yes, it's fine. Trixie is really trying to turn over a new leaf." Trixie said with no small amount of honest remorse for her previous actions in her voice. With that Rarity and Trixie got to work on the what "Moonlight" needed.

Three Nights Later.

Luna had gotten into a good grove with her dancing and overall routine. She was really starting to enjoy it, and aside from the fact that she was exposing herself to any stallion or mare that happened to be in the club during her sets, it was a great deal of fun. Troubling, however, was an increase in the number of off duty Guardsponies, and Guard patrols that happened to come through the club on a nightly basis. She wasn't worried about anypony discovering her through her looks or actions, but her speech patterns might give her away, as might her voice. She made a few alterations to the enchantment that disguised her, and covered both possibilities.

It was bound to happen that one night, she would notice somepony in the crowd that she recognized from Court or in her day to day life. A butler, a maid, or perhaps one of the more base Nobles. She had prepared herself for this, or so she thought. She had always heard rumors of the more depraved and possibly, deprived, actions of embers of Court and the Nobility. But to see it so blatantly displayed from a private viewing booth, especially with one she knew well, was a jarring shock.

There, in one of the luxury private viewing booths was Blueblood. His eyes were transfixed on Luna and her movements. His hands on the other hand... well, Luna had to admit that he would make a mare happy, if he could overcome his more crass activities, if what he had between his hands was anything to go by. Luna shuddered at the thought, and while a very dark and sick part of her would love nothing more than to reveal who she was to her nephew, she didn't want to have to explain to 'Tia why Blueblood needed more psychiatric counseling, nor what she was doing on that stage in the first place.

As she did her set, Luna couldn't help but notice that as transfixed as Blueblood was upon her, she noticed another seemingly transfixed on him. The mare in question was in a back stage area that while secluded in darkness, granted a full view of the stage, and the viewing booth directly in front of the stage, where Blueblood was sitting. While she was in no position to do anything about it at the moment, Luna felt she should give her nephew a little help. She had heard that while she had been on the moon, that Blueblood had been born to a relative to her and Celestia and had grown to be a very lonely stallion. That loneliness, and overall, lack of attention when he was younger, had caused him to become the way he was. Celestia felt trapped, powerless to change the outcome for a young pony that she felt responsible for. Luna did not. While she hadn't been there to give the young stallion the discipline he'd needed alongside the love that 'Tia gave him, she could possibly correct his actions now and produce a fine young stallion that wouldn't be a constant disappointment. Though, Luna had to admit that he had no small talent for negotiating treaties. She would have to talk with Blueblood about that at some point, and possibly to Cadence about getting the young stallion a marefriend. He needed one. Badly.

Luna finished her current set by whipping off her bra in a captivating way, which just like the first night, and the night before this one, had caused the crowd to roar. She caught the stap of the garment on her wing tip and with a flutter of wings, tail and mane,was off stage and into the warm embrace of the silk dressing gown held out for her by Midnight and now, Trixie, who had her other garments in her magic.

"What happened Trixie? I thought we had planned for a burst of pyrotechnics when I removed my bra?" Luna said only a little annoyed.

"Um... Well.. yes.. uhhh..." Trixie stammered, in a very un-Trixie like way.

"I think she was distracted by all the fine stallions in the crowd. While it's frowned upon to just start masturbating out in the general seating areas, I know that we've been pulling in a larger amount of bits than we have in six months out of the private viewing booths, and Blueblood has had the center one booked for the last two nights if you count tonight. And with as good as your performances have been, I think my bouncers have been a bit lax in enforcing the decency policies. We'll get the pyro on the next set, Moonlight." Midnight said as they all made their way back to the dressing room that had been set aside for Luna's private use.

"I'm very sorry.. I was distracted and it won't happen again, I swear." Trixie said sincerely. It wasn't that Trixie was apologizing to Luna that got her. It was that Trixie really meant it. It was a heartfelt apology and Luna could see that Trixie honestly felt bad about letting her down. Luna embraced her in a hug.

"It's alright, my little pony. All is forgiven." Luna said softly in Trixie's ear. The three of them turned a corner to get to the dressing room and standing there was Blueblood. He hadn't seen Luna yet, and Midnight brought Luna in a different direction while Trixie went to try and get him away from Luna's dressing room.

"Prince Blueblood. What may I do for you?" Trixie asked as she looked the noblepony over. She HAD been distracted by him, and though, like every pony else, she had heard the rumors about him, he had very good looks and was of noble lineage, which most mares would be fighting for a chance to have.

"You're Moonlight Starbright's agent and manager?" Blueblood asked, actually giving Trixie his full and undivided attention.

"Yes, I have that privilege and honor. Trixie Lulamoon, at your service, majesty." Trixie stated with some pride.

"I see. Well, then, Ms. Lulamoon. I would like to discuss with you the possibility of a private dance from Moonlight. Her beauty is captivating. My only regret was that I had missed her first performance." Blueblood said as he seemed to stare off into space for a moment.

"Well, we'll have to discuss what kind of budget you have in mind and the services you were looking for out of this private dance. I'd then need to discuss it with Moonlight herself. She's a mare of exquisite beauty, and in high demand. If she says no, majesty, you'll have to accept that." Trixie said smoothly trying to cover all the bases.

"Bits are of no concern to me, Ms. Lulamoon. As for services, a normal set, as well as a lap dance or two perhaps a few other acts would be what I'm looking for..."

🌕

Luna was finally back in her dressing room after Trixie had managed to sidetrack Blueblood. When she heard exactly what her nephew was looking for, she told Trixie in no uncertain terms that Moonlight would NOT be doing any such thing for him. If Trixie wanted to... entertain him, Luna wouldn't object, though she would ask that Trixie be careful with him.

"Luna, in all seriousness you'd bring in a lot of bits that way. But I understand. However, on a more positive note, you've brought in enough that I've been able to pay off the Griffons. You could end out tonight if you want, though I do have you booked until Sunday night." Midnight brought up.

"Fear not, fair Midnight. I shall dance up through Sunday, with that evening being Moonlight's last. At least as far as this is concerned. I may come back once in a while and perform. However, I do plan on still meeting up with you and Trixie on a regular basis. You two have become close friends for me, and I do not want to loose that." Luna said as she finished cleaning up after the set.

"Now, I need your advice for a final performance for Sunday night. All of the remaining days I can keep doing what I've already been doing as that's still keeping the crowds interest. I'm still concerned about all the guards that come though. It is only a matter of time before an officer, or Suns and Moons forbid, Shining Armor comes in to either investigate what his guards are doing or is brought in to see the great Moonlight perform. I'd hate for that part of me to ruin the relationship he's been building with Cadence." Luna expressed.

"Have no fear, Luna. We'll have an epic finale that nopony will ever forget. As for the guards, it's kept incidents down, and if Captain Armor is that easily swayed, then Lady Cadence is better off without him." Midnight said confidently.

Of Dancing and Crowds, Redux part 2.

Luna and Midnight had been busy getting ready for Sunday night. Luna had the routine down perfectly, and the way they planned to top in was with Midnight joining her on the stage to make things even more intense for the crowd. They had discussed at length, and had decided to do some very light petting and kissing, with a perfectly set stage kiss, that unless somepony was looking for it, would never know it wasn't a deep and loving kiss. The kiss would be the final part of the finale, and Luna and Midnight had practiced it as much as everything else for the final set that Luna would dance.

Luna had to admit that she was feeling some sadness over her time on stage coming to a close, but all things, even joyous and fun things, come to pass. Luna was taking with her the confidence and insights she had learned while being a stripper with her, and those were things nopony could take away from her. Not to mention the friends she had made. Between Midnight and Trixie, she had two more friends, in addition to the six others she had in Ponyville. Granted, she probably wouldn't see Trixie as often as she would Midnight or her other friends, but she knew she could always contact Trixie at anytime, and that when Trixie could, the showmare would respond, either by letter, or in person as he schedule permitted.

Thinking about Trixie, brought Luna to how marvelous of a job that Trixie did at getting her a full set of lingerie and the three dresses, all to Luna's exact measurements while being easy enough to remove without any issues. Luna had tested just about everything that Trixie had procured and had made her selections for Sunday. Luna, of course, noticed Rarity's mark on everything that Luna had actually chosen for use on Sunday, as well as the Rarity level quality of the stitching, fabrics and gems used in everything. Luna would have to go into her shop in the following weeks and purchase a few.... less specialized dresses. Luna would never get rid of any of the clothes from this adventure, and if she ever found a stallion she would want to have as her special somepony, the lingerie would be useful to reward him for his labors of love.

Trixie was on Luna's mind for another reason, and that was that Luna had noticed that Trixie was spending more time at the Diamond. Part of it was because she was doing her job of keeping her ear to the ground to find out what the clientele was saying about Luna's performances and how they could be improved upon. But Luna wasn't a fool, nor was she a child. She could see that Trixie had an attraction to Blue Blood, and in her own way, was trying to learn more about him and talk with him in a relaxed setting. The fact that Blue Blood didn't pay attention to much inside the palace beyond his own nose aside from the few duties and responsibilities he had been assigned and given was a blessing, both for Luna and Trixie. It prevented any awkward questions for Luna, and it let Trixie explore her attraction to Blue Blood and learn his mind on other, more personal matters.

Midnight and Luna had worked out the routine and had even selected some decent music, but soon scrapped the music that they had chosen when Trixie told them that she had managed to convince DJ Pon-3 to preform live music for Luna's last set. Trixie and Midnight met with her and were able to get a great selection gathered for what Luna would be dancing to. Trixie, having watched the final pre-event practice session, had figured out where and when to add smoke, pyrotechnics and a few illusions as well.

Luna would keep the tail band she wore on her first dance, as well as the signature mask. She would use the artfully sequined jade green bra and thong. The bra, a strapless affair, unclasped in the front and did an amazing job of accentuating her breasts, and the thong had been set up with quick release snaps to allow her to quickly or slowly remove it how ever she desired. She'd wear a set of smoke colored silk thigh high stockings on her legs with garters. She'd make use of the glitter in both her mane and coat, and would apply rhinestones to her flank around her cutie mark to draw attention to it even more than usual and apply them in such a way as to draw more attention to her breasts and pubic area. Over the top of it all, Luna had selected a white dress that ended about halfway down her thigh. The sides were open and connected with straps that made a criss cross diamond pattern. The dress had no shoulder straps, and had a built in corset which gave Luna even more impressive breasts and hips than before. It was almost a more... intimate.. or as Trixie would say, sexy, type of wedding dress, but was most assuredly NOT something one would find an actual bride wearing on her wedding day.

Luna was going to be meeting both Trixie and Midnight at the club, and after taking care of her final bits of grooming and self care as well as final preparations for the final act, she felt ready. As she made her way out of the Palace, she didn't notice a young lavender unicorn mare following her from a distance.

:twilightsmile:

Twilight followed Luna through the streets of Canterlot after moon rise and was surprised to see her making her way to the entertainment district of the city. 'Perhaps she just wanted to see a movie? Or take in a concert?' Twilight thought to herself. It was reasonable to want to see a show or play without having the presence of the Royal Guard. But as Luna walked past several such places, Twilight wasn't as sure. She lost track of Luna for a moment when a small crowd of Ponies walked between her and the Lunar Princess, but Twilight had planned for that by having the foresight of placing a very low powered and minor tracking spell on Luna's overcoat.

Twilight rushed to catch back up with the princess, and was surprised to find that her trail lead into a club.

The Night Diamond Club was what the sign above the door said. Twilight had never heard of such a club before. As she was trying to figure out what her next course of action should be, she noticed a group of off duty Royal Guard walking up to the door, and in their group was her older brother. She saw them walk in, and could hear the music playing as the door opened to let them in, and then was cut off as the door shut.

Twilight took a deep breath and steeled herself. Though, to be honest, what was the worst that could happen? If Shining Armor was in there it couldn't be all that bad.

The Final Act part one.

"MARES AND GENTLE-STALLIONS!! I want to thank you all for your continual support of The Night Diamond Club, and of course the mare of the hour, Moonlight Starbright! While she's not quite ready, I assure you one and all, that this, her last performance in Canterlot will be one that everycreature that saw it here tonight will remember until they are old and grey. Please enjoy your evening and the dance, which will commence momentarily." Trixie said from the stage, as DJ Pon-3 was in the process of doing final adjustments of her booth.

Twilight wasn't exactly sure what she had walked into. Obviously, it was a strip club, and while she had a passing knowledge of them, she'd never been inside one for any reason. Which then caused her to wonder, one why Luna was in here, two what was her brother doing here, and three where both of them had gotten to. She walked around the club, trying to figure out where they had gone. While she was far more concerned about Luna's whereabouts, knowing where Shining Armor was would be useful if anything went sideways. Well, any more sideways than it had already. She was surprised at Trixie being here and seemingly having a job either here, or as what looked like the hype mare or manager of one of the dancers... Though, at least it was honest work, as opposed to how Twilight had first met the showmare.

Shining Armor had been brought into a private viewing booth by a number of his fellow Guards. This was to be part of his bachelors party before he got married to Cadence in a couple of months. All the mares he had seen on the way into the booth were all very attractive, and while he was loyal to Cadence, part of him was finding it exceedingly hard to not just give in and see if any of the ladies who worked here would fancy a roll in the hay. He shook his head slightly, attempting to regain control of his baser instincts, even though his rational mind was trying its hardest to memorize everything he saw.

Blue Blood was already in his reserved booth, and was merely waiting. Not just for the show to start, but also for Ms. Lulamoon to arrive. While he had been smitten with her client, Moonlight, he had to admit to a certain amount of an attraction to Trixie. He was interested to see where this could... possibly would, go. He knew what it was like to be alone. To feel like he was unwanted, and unloved. As a noble he knew how to handle the snide comments and overall disrespect of the other nobles, and had learned a lot from Celestia concerning how to turn their words and actions back onto them, and while he never thought for a moment that Celestia didn't love him, it was only as an aunt would for her nephew. He wanted a deeper, more personal love. At first he thought he might have found that with Moonlight, but after it had been the dancers iron clad choice to not develop any physical attachments to any possible patrons, he was surprised then that Trixie had wanted to spend time with him. Granted it was primarily at the Diamond, but it made sense to him as this was where she and her client were doing much of their work. He had a plan and hoped it would come to fruition tonight.

Luna and Midnight were finishing up her final pre-show concerns.

"Don't worry Luna. I'll be there just as the first base line drops and then we'll give them one Tartarus of a show. You aren't still nervous about us kissing or touching each other are you?" Midnight asked with concern.

"No, I'm comfortable with both. I'm just nervous about this being the last show. Any number of things could go wrong and I would hate to have this end on a bad note." Luna admitted.

"Oh, Luna. Honey, you have nothing to worry about. You could probably land right on your face or have a full on orgasm on the stage and the audience wouldn't notice, at least not the way you're worried about. Take a few deep breaths and take a few moments to center yourself. I'll be back in a few." Midnight said with a reassuring smile and hug before leaving.

Trixie was making her way to Blue Blood's booth after finishing her final checks on not just her equipment, but the lighting and DJ Pon-3. While Trixie had to admit that she actually rather liked working with Luna and Midnight, and even relished the challenge of managing a hot new talent, she'd be happy when she was able to get back on the road. After tonight, she'd request that Luna make a decree that would hopefully make Trixie's life a bit better. Being hated and beaten up for a series of mistakes was getting really old and she wanted to seriously try to rebuild not only her reputation as a talented magician, but also rebuild her act. While she would never do anything like what Luna had over the last week, she had seen how some of what Luna and Midnight did could be incorporated into her act. She'd also learned a bit more about lighting effects and musical accompaniment as well as improved timing of both. As she was walking to Blue Blood's booth, she noticed Twilight Sparkle walking the club. Unexpected, but her presence wouldn't cause any trouble. If anything, Twilight would probably either run out of the club blushing like a tomato, or she would just compartmentalize the whole experience and never talk about it. Trixie knocked on the door to the booth.

"Enter." Blue Blood called out, just loud enough for the silencing enchantment to register that the occupants were talking to the door. Trixie took in a deep breath and went inside.

Twilight was wondering around the club, and had figured out where Shining Armor was, along with a number of guards. They were all in a viewing booth, and while Twilight didn't even want to hazard a guess as to what could go on in such, she was relieved to find out where her brother was. Twilight decided to go up to the bar and order a drink. She had completely lost track of Luna, and figured she wouldn't find her in here by walking the club. Picking a place to watch everyone while being out of the way seemed like the best option. Once she saw Luna she could easily teleport to the princesses side and complete her mission from Princess Celestia. Twilight sipped at her cider, and made a note to find out what brand of cider it was, if for no reason more than having a passable cider to drink when not in Ponyville.

The lights dimmed throughout the club and DJ Pon-3 came over the clubs loud speakers.

"Greetings Canterlot and the patrons of The Night Diamond Club!! We hope that you're ready for one Tartarus of a show tonight, and the management reminds you to keep displays private and that private booths and rooms are available upon request, as are plenty of mares and stallions for other entertainment. Without any further ado, we present to you Moonlight Starbright, with musical accompaniment by me, DJ Pon-3." Pon-3 said as the lughts on the stage came up and focused on the curtains just behind the pole. Luna took a deep breath and stepped out onto the stage to the clapping and cheers of the crowd. It was show time, and Luna was as ready as she could be.

The Final Act part two.

Luna stepped out onto the stage, and began to slowly dance to the music, her hands roaming her body as she moved. She could feel herself getting into it and could feel her body reacting to the intimate way she was touching herself through her scant clothing. Her nipples began to pebble then full on harden as she ran her hands over her breasts over the dress and bra she was wearing. She felt a tingle go down her spine, which caused her to visibly shudder and shiver as her hands ran down her ribs, over her hips and across her ass, which caused her to flick her tail. As the tempo increased so did her movements and how much of her body her hands would explore. The desired effect was to inspire the beings present to think of an innocent bride on her wedding night, hence the dress and limited veil she wore, as well as how slow her movements were and how they increased in their intimacy. He eyes took a moment to scan the crowd, and she was very pleased to see how many of the assembled creatures were all transfixed on her and her movements, none of them wanting to miss a thing.

That feeling was only slightly dimmed by her noticing of Shining Armor in a booth with a number of guards, all of which were stallions and of whom all were staring at her like she was the most beautiful thing under Celestia's sun. That dimming was lessened when she saw that Trixie was in Blue Blood's booth and that the showmare was focused on Luna, but for the reasons of making sure she triggered the pyrotechnics of the act on time. Blue Blood however, was staring at Trixie as if she were the only thing of any importance in the world. That filled Luna with a great deal of hope. Hope that her nephew would finally grow up and perhaps settle down. That both he and Trixie could find the things missing in their lives within the other. It filled her soul with a warm fuzzy feeling.

That feeling immediately turned to ice as cold as any Windigo's heart. There, at the bar, looking right at her and mouthing her name was Twilight Sparkle, who for some reason or another was able to see through the illusion enchantment of her lace mask. Twilight blushed and seemed to retract within herself. Luna would have to have a long talk with her after this was done, if for no other reason to make sure that the young Unicorn wasn't permanently scared from this.

Luna pushed those thoughts to the side as she continued her dance. Slowly started to loosen the dresses bindings, letting it get rather loose and far easier to remove. She removed it, and twirled it over her head and tossed it towards the back of the stage. Her hands moved over her body, and over the cups of her bra, but in a couple of limited teases, under her panties. The crowd loved THAT and cheered and clapped as the feeling moved them.

Twilight had retracted within her own mind to try to figure out WHY Luna was stripping. The only two things that made any sense to her was that either A, Luna was being coerced to do it, or B, this was her way of pushing boundaries without hurting anyone or causing another rebellion. Twilight felt that she needed help in confronting Luna about this, so she figured the best pony for that that she had on hand was her brother Shining Armor. As she made her way to his booth, she bumped into a dancer and going the same way and knocked her over into a server carrying drinks.

"Damn newbies! You need to cover for me at booth five until I get there. It's loaded with Royal Guard and an Officer, so do whatever they tell you to until I get there." the dancer ordered twilight as she shoved an employee pass into Twilight's hands and stormed off to change her clothes so they didn't smell like alcohol. The server wasn't any help, glaring at Twilight before stomping off to get replacement drinks for her table. Twilight was left stunned looking at the pass and then in the direction the dancer had gone.

"But... I'm not a dancer. I don't even work here..." Twilight said to no one in particular since no one was paying any attention to her in the first place.

Blue Blood had been talking with Trixie about a lot of topics since she came in, and while the showmare had to keep a good deal of attention on the stage, Blue Blood was surprised at how well she was able to keep up a conversation, as she only had to ask him to repeat things a couple of times. After a few moments, Trixie devoted her full attention to the prince and they talked about more personal topics. Blue Blood learned of her more shady and troubling moments, especially the two times she was in Ponyville. He also learned how rough things had been for her after the most recent misadventure.

"Assuming that you are comfortable with the idea, Trixie, I could speak to my aunts and to Twilight Sparkle on your behalf. A Royal Decree would be posted all across Equestria and would absolve you of your wrong doings, as even I can tell that you have learned from your mistakes and are indeed working on bettering yourself. If you wish, you could come before the Diarchs and plead your case. I know that Celestia at least would be moved by your plea." Blue Blood said at lenght ot Trixie, his eyes full with emotion of several types.

"I appreciate that, Your Highness, but why? Why are you willing to help me that much? I'm a nobody. And extremely common." Trixie responded, perplexed why and how this stallion, that had everything going for him would want to help her. It was as if her prayers were being answered, and if she were lucky she'd get him as well... But she doubted that.

"Please, I think you can call me Blue Blood. It's because you and I are so very similar that if we were any more profoundly alike, I should think that one of us would burst into tears. Trixie, when we first met, I must confess that I only had eyes for your client. But as you and I talked, I began to see more in you than I had first thought possible, and for that I must apologize. Trixie... I would be honored if you would be my marefriend. I find you very attractive, and we are two different facets of the same gem. Please?" Blue Blood said as he went to a knee and offered Trixie a small box, which obviously had a necklace inside.

Trixie was stunned by what Blue Blood had said, and was beside herself. She simply nodded and took the box in one hand and kissed him deeply as her other hand went behind his head and pulled him close.

Twilight had arrived at the booth that Shining Armor was in, and before she could get in, the rest of the stallions inside came pouring out, all of them smiling at her knowingly as they passed. One, a Sergeant Major stopped and spoke to her.

"Go right in, honey. The Stallion of Honor is straight in. If he manages to see any of your coat color, he'll be very pleased. He likes purple and pink on mares, and I've known him for years. You'll knock him dead. It's his party, so give him a good time. We left extra bits on the table, and while he's a little drunk, he should be more than capable of performing. If not, just flash him some of your coat color and call him, 'BBBFF'. It'll get a big reaction out of him. Have fun!" he said as he walked off, giving Twilight a small slap on her ass to get her moving.

Twilight practically jumped out of her skin as she jumped into the room right before the door shut. The room was very dimly lit.

"Shining?" She called out softly. The revelation of a few of his kinks was almost more than she thought she could bear, but he was her brother and first and bestest friend. She would bear most any load if it helped him.

"You here to show me a fun time?" Shining asked, his speech only slightly slurred.

"Yes... I think I am." Twilight said as she thought through what she knew of alcohol. She could potentially use a blood purification spell or a poison removal spell to get it out of his system. She didn't notice him getting to his feet and staggering towards her.

Luna was on the stage and had removed her bra and used her breasts to imitate a boob job on the stripper pole, which was drawing all kinds of cheers and cries of pleasure and joy. She could see into Blue Blood's booth and, while she would never tell anyone else about what she saw in there, she had to admit that what she saw was inspiring her and driving her further. Blue Blood and Trixie were making out and Blue Blood had his hands all over Trixie in a way that expressed desire and longing. Luna removed her panties, and began to move up and down the pole in such a fashion that it was synonymous with her mounting a riding a stallions cock. She had taken precautions to cast spells upon her body to limit the feelings of pleasure due to physical stimulus, but those spells were just barely keeping her pleasure at bay.

Soon, a pair of hands groped Luna's breasts from behind and teased her body gently as Midnight came out onto the stage. The crowd went silent as they watched the two mares play with each other as they both very carefully stripped Midnight naked.

Twilight didn't know anything was amiss until she felt Shining wrap his arms around her, which she at first thought was a normal hug. That changed as he groped her ass. Twilight let out a small, surprised "EEP!!" as she felt a stallion's hands on her ass, under her skirt. She pulled back from the hug and looked him in the eyes.

"Shining..." was all she managed to get out before he kissed her deeply and passionately. Twilight could feel the heat rising between their bodies and could feel a fire ignite in her core as she felt the hard bulge in his pants. Before long, he had her topless as he kept kissing her and groped her breasts and tweaked her nipples gently. Twilight couldn't think. The heat and fire within her veins was unlike anything she had ever felt before and she couldn't help but want MORE. Ever more. Her hands gripped his shoulders tightly as she kissed him back, moaning into the kiss as she played with her breasts and nipples. Before long, Shining Armor had his rather impressive cock out and was trying to get her skirt and panties off. Twilight, who was swept up in the heat of the moment, moved and acted on instinct. There wasn't any thought, just desire and instinct.

Before she knew it, she had mounted Shining, and was letting him rut and buck into her as deeply and an as hard as he wanted to. She never knew that sex could be so... primal. So.. good. After this, she knew she would have to find somepony to help her keep feeling like this.

Trixie and Blue Blood were kissing and tightly holding each other. They eventually had to come up for air.

"Bluey...." Trixie said softly, her eye lids heavy with desire.

"I know. But not here. Later, we will do exactly what we both want and need, but not here. Besides, you still have a show to coordinate." He said as he forcibly pulled himself back. That feat was monumental, and it all but killed him to do it.

Trixie nodded and looked back up to the stage after a longing look at her new stallionfriend. She focused her attention on the stage and was glad to see that it was time for her to trigger the pyrotechnics for the act. The sparklers went off and brought an almost heavenly light to the stage.

That was the cue that Luna and midnight were waiting for. They moved closer to each other and kissed. To anyone looking at the them, which was just about all of the audience, it looked like they were sharing a deep, passionate and loving kiss. The truth of the matter was that they were preforming a well rehearsed and practiced, expertly crafted stage kiss.

The crowed erupted in cheers and shouts and clapping and whistling. By Luna's judgment, it was even louder and more joy filled than the very first performance. She was actually very pleased with how things were going.

And then it all fell apart.

The Final Act part three.

Celestia had kept close tabs on Twilight after explaining to her what she needed her to do in concerns to Luna's activities. It wasn't because she didn't trust the young Unicorn to do the task asked, but to make sure neither she or Luna was in any danger. Once Twilight left the Castle grounds, Celestia had Guards following her. They stopped outside of the Night Diamond Club and reported to Celestia where the trail had lead them. Celestia gathered more Guards and made her way to the business in question. If Twilight was distracted, it would explain why she hadn't reported her progress. If she or Luna were in trouble, it would also explain why Celestia's student hadn't given her an update. In any case, Celestia felt that it was time to get to the bottom of this.

"Commander." She greeted the Guard officer in charge.

"Princess. We have the building under surveillance. Neither Twilight Sparkle or Princess Luna have exited the building. We await your orders." The Pegasus stallion said firmly.

"Very well. Select four of your best and accompany me inside." Celestia ordered. The Commander nodded and did as asked. Soon, he and four other Guards were formed up next to her and as a group, they moved in.

As they got inside, the Guards had to stifle laughing and the Guard Commander blushed. Even Celestia was a bit surprised at it being a strip club. Her eyes scanned the club, and soon her eyes were brought up to the stage. On it was a Thestral dancing with... Luna?! Celestia could see through the enchantment that Luna had woven into her eye mask, as it hadn't been made for the level of scrutiny that an Alicorn can bring to bear.

Luna had been enjoying the way things had been going.

And then everything fell apart.

There at the entrance to the club was Celestia with a number of Guards. Luna and Celestia locked eyes with each other. Luna was pleading with Celestia for understanding in her eyes, and Celestia nodded. Just as she was about to say something, the Guard Commander took in a deep breath and opened his mouth.

"THIS IS A RAID! BY ORDER OF THE ROYAL GUARD YOU ARE TO STAND BY AND BE INTERVIEWED!" The Guard Commander said in a very close approximation of the Royal Canterlot Voice. None of the pony's did any such thing. The entire crowd rushed out of every fire escape and staff entrance they could find. The staff of the club did their best to stay out of the way. Midnight rushed Luna off the stage and into the dressing room. With only four other Guards in the building with him, the Commander was powerless to stop the fleeing crowd from bowling them over and rushing out into the street. Celestia, for her part, stayed out of the way by taking flight and staying above the crowd until they had all exited. By then Midnight had walked up to Celestia to discuss what was going on.

Blue Blood and Trixe walked out as if they owned the place and simply left the club, as Celestia didn't notice him, and with him being a Prince, he was able to get by any Guard security picket he wanted. Trixie, being rather well dressed, looked every part his marefriend, or assistant. Whichever worked to get past the Guards.

Shining Armor came out, dressed, with Twilight. Shining reported that he had been at the club as part of a bachelor party that was thrown for him. Twilight had come into his booth to talk to him about something, and was slightly troubled by the sights of the strip club. He and Twilight were allowed to leave, and Shining walked her back to the castle, the images of their pairing flashing through both siblings minds.

The Guards dispersed after that and Celestia, Luna and Midnight had a long conversation.

"Luna, I can appreciate the situation you found yourself in. I'm not mad. Surprised and maybe a little dissapointed, but not mad." Celestia said kindly.

"Told ya!" Midnight said teasingly.

"Thank you, Tia. But why are you disappointed?" Luna asked.

"Luna, I would have said that there was nothing we could officially do to help Midnight or her club with out bringing unwanted attention to the crown. But I could have pulled some strings quietly to get high end entertainers to the club to help make the bits needed to save it from those gangsters. I'm a little disappointed that you didn't tell me about the situation. I wouldn't have gotten involved and I wouldn't have felt the need to have Twilight try to talk to you about this. I would have left it in your hands to deal with. Though, I must admit, your solution is unique and I don't think I would have thought of it in a thousand years." Celestia explained truthfully.

"You may as well head home, Luna. My staff has the place cleaned up and it's closing time anyways." Midnight said as she pushed herself away from the bar to take care of the deposit into the safe.

As Celestia and Luna walked the streets of Canterlot back to the Castle, Celestia looks at her sister.

"You know, you might be on to something there with that pole dancing. You're a natural at it and, I've always said you are beautiful. You looked like you were having more fun then I have seen you have in a long time."

"Indeed, it was fun. But I shall most likely never perform on that stage again. I don't know. Things are jumbled at the moment. I do have a request though, if I may Tia?"

"What is it Lulu?"

"Can we put a stripper pole in the Castle somewhere? I'd hate for those skills to fall to the wayside, and I could even teach you if you like. Midnight has said it's good fun and great exercise, and I'd have to agree."

"I think that's a wonderful idea." Celestia said with a smile as she and her sister Luna walked back into the Castle, feeling closer to each other than they had in a very long time.

Epilogue: Four weeks later. Or a Ponyville Party!!

Trixie had to admit, things were looking much better for her. She had found some new confidence while in Canterlot, and even better than that, had found somepony she cared about in the form of Blue Blood. She was now at Ponyville, as the Mare of Honor at a party being thrown for her by Pinkie Pie. Trixie had never seen one of Pinkie's parties, nor had she ever been invited to one, but she could see that Pinkie had real talent at parties. There were games, and food and prizes for every mare, stallion and foal, and Trixie even got an opportunity to preform a magic show for the little fillies and colts, all of whom were amazed and wowed by the show. That helped. A lot. Trixie felt like she had finally found the parts of herself she had lost along the way, and was overjoyed to find them.

All of Twilight's friends were at least kind if not actually friendly, but that was okay. They weren't suspicious of her motives, or of her actions. Rarity even pointed out that Trixie had spent a fair bit of money at her Canterlot Boutique and that she had been professional the entire time, even when Rarity had been rude to her. Twilight was even willing to talk with Trixie and they had a long private conversation about that night in the club.

As things turned out, Twilight and Shining Armor had to stop at the Archives on the way to the Castle so that Twilight could find a morning after spell and, for future reference, a contraceptive spell or two, just to be on the safe side. Twilight wouldn't go into it more than that, but in that conversation, she and Trixie had made the first steps and done a fair bit of repair work on their relationship, and it showed. By the time Trixie left late that evening to head back to Canterlot, Twilight's friends and Twilight herself seemed reluctant and sad to see her go. Pinkie even made sure to send Trixie home with most of the left over food and snacks, which Trixie was appreciative of. There was even a care package of things fromthe party for her to share with Blue Blood, Luna and Celestia, which Trixie promised to share with them as soon as they were all in the same room.

Things had finally gotten back on track for her, and she couldn't wait to see what would happen next in her life now that she had found friendship, love, courage and confidence. If she was lucky, she would get more friends, become successful as a performing magician again, and maybe even get... married. She shook her head as the carriage that Blue Blood had sent her in was taking her back to Canterlot. There were so many possibilities and if things continued to improve for her, then she would have the chance to explore them all. The thought of that sent a shiver down her spine. But, as the carriage set down in the Castle landing area, she stepped out to her waiting stallionfriend.

Now, it's her time.