An Ancient Reunion

The following morning, Celestia's sun rose again. Messis rose from his slumber and left his bed. While trotting to the bathroom to freshen up for the day, he caught a glimpse of himself in the mirror and discovered that his body had changed. His legs, body, and neck lengthened, making him taller than when he was first freed. His mane and tail changed from stationary and were now moving and sparkling. Overcome by surprise that he grew in strength and height. He all but galloped to his brother’s room. Messis desperately knocking at the door.

“Solstitio, Solstitio! Open up!” Messis called out. After a huff, he pulled back, unleashing something akin to Luna’s old royal voice. “Solstitio! Wake your lazy flank up!”

“What’s going on, brother, everything alright?” Solstitio asked after he opened his door, rubbing the sleep from his eyes. "What happened to–” He paused, surprised by Messis’s new appearance.

“I could ask the same about you, brother, and you have a beard.” Messis commented, chuckling to himself. “I believe our bodies are catching up to us.”

“What do you mean, brother?” Solstitio asked as he went to the nearest mirror and peered at his reflection. “Wow, you don’t say. I have a beard.”

He felt its texture, the beard had grown halfway down his neck. He had also grown in height to almost his brother’s current height. Solstitio also had a moving mane and tail. The royal sisters meet the two brothers in the dining room to have breakfast. Messis looked at his brother, shocked and amazed at what had happened to the two of them. It was like time had finally caught up to them. And while Messis was calm, or at least as calm as he could be, Solstitio was practically laughing.

“Look at this! We’ve changed!” Solstitio cheered, practically skipping. “I can’t wait to see the look on Celestia and Luna’s faces.”

“Well, before that, we should see how we can comb and brush this new mane.” Messis suggested joining his brother as they looked in the mirror. Running his hoof through his mane, he hummed a little. “It still feels like hair, but like a warm breeze as well.”

“Your’s is warm? Mine feels like a slight chill.” Solstitio replied, rubbing his mane and beard. “Not that I don’t mind. I like the cold.”

“Maybe something about our seasons?” Messis commented, pondering aloud. “Well, we should still try to make ourselves look presentable to the mares.” Solstitio couldn’t help but nod as she magically grabbed at a nearby brush.

Brushing at their manes and beards, the brothers tried their best to work this new ethereal type of hair. It was strange. It behaved like regular hair, but was somewhat lighter, and flowed even without any wind or breeze. Curious, Solstitio magically grabbed at a pair of scissors, and when trying to clip at the hair, the scissors passed through. Clipping and snipping again and again, the scissors cut nothing. Messis only looked, trying his own hoof at this. Getting a hold of his own warm hair, he cut at it, but the scissors cut nothing.

“Okay, maybe that explains why the two have such long manes.” Messis commented, putting down the scissors. “But there has to be something we can do about this.”

“Yeah.” Solstitio commented, stroking his beard with his hoof. “I mean, I don’t want a beard so long that I trip over it.”

“Maybe by that point, we’ll just float instead of walking.” Messis commented, contemplating what they could do. “For now, let’s just try to treat these manes and beards. We can ask them about how to cut and style them later.”

Sitting at the breakfast table, Celestia and Luna were already sitting and enjoying themselves. Though both of them couldn’t take their eyes off the brothers. Messis and Solstitio were able to somewhat get their ethereal looking mane and beards to be more regal looking. The sisters couldn’t help themselves, the way both the stallions looked were just so handsome. Luna’s eyes were taking in the warmth of Messis mature looking splendor, while Celestia wasn’t sure which part of the cheerful Solstitio she enjoyed seeing more of, his shimmering eyes or noble beard.

As well as this, the two brothers were taller, so much taller than before. Their heights were nearly a head taller than Celestia and Luna. It was quite the odd feeling. While Luna was still shorter than her sister, she was at least a little taller than even the most gifted stallions. But Celestia’s great height made her tower over so many that her size was measured more by the height of the bigger races. But to have two stallions even taller than them, they just couldn’t take their eyes off them.

“So, boys, how is the breakfast I made?” Celestia said as she took a bite of her pancakes. “I hope I didn’t bother you with what I provided you again.”

"They're delicious. What are these called?” Solstitio asked as he did the same. “I never had these things before."

"These are pancakes. I cannot recall the first time I had them, but I know that Celestia is the one that made the best ones so far." Luna said as she took a sip of her tea. “Believe me, I tried, but they didn’t compare to my sister’s.” Her jokes caused Celestia to smile slightly.

“Perhaps I could teach you then, dear sister." Celestia remarked as Luna nodded as if to say she'd like that. “But in any event, let’s keep eating. I’m sure you’ll find more amazing foods in the modern age.” Looking down at the breakfast, Messis noticed a mug of steaming liquid quite alien to him.

"What is this drink called?” Messis asked, gesturing to the beverage. “I had never seen this hot brownish-black drink before."

"That, that is called coffee, made from coffee beans. They were discovered a long time ago.” Celestia said, taking a moment to enjoy her own drink. “You two were frozen during that time, so try it, but the taste is something to be acquired."

“You wouldn’t believe how much this was when it was discovered.” Celestia explained, sounding a little scholarly for a moment. “Because they can help give you energy without magic, it was a stable for the more early rising, hardworking ponies. This eventually led to a massive economic growth.” Taking a sip of her own coffee, she sighed. “Originally, they were quite expensive, but when we learned how to cultivate them, the prices dropped and now it’s enjoyed across all walks of life.”

"Okay." Messis accepted as he drank his first sip of the dark liquid. This beverage tasted like he was drinking medicine, and the bitterness repealed him. He then took a few more sips as his taste buds adapted to the drink's taste and allowed him to drink it at a leisurely pace. "This is good, though a bit bitter. May I have some more?"

“Of course, If you want, the bitterness goes away with some milk, sugar, or a little salt.” Celestia informed as she poured Messis another cup. “They can be flavored in so many ways. Why, some can even have lovely designs traced into the foam.”

“This way is fine, but thank you. Breakfast is good. Sometimes I have a sense of nostalgia regarding food." Messis replied as he took the coffee and ate. "I remembered mom made something for me and Solstitio, a porridge made of hay, milk, and honey. Though I don't know what it was called then, it was certainly comforting."

"Yes, I remember that as well. I miss her.” Solstitio said as memories flooded his thoughts. “I sometimes watched her cook." His lips curled into an almost saddened smile as he thought back to his mother.

“Do you know how to make this porridge?” Celestia said, looking between the two. “If you want, we can put it together for you both.”

“I think so, but it may not be the same as it was." Solstitio replied, wiping his face of any swelling tears. “But nah, it wouldn’t be the same. Mom just always knew how to make it perfect.”

“After breakfast, you two can come with us to the courtyard to see if you remember your magic." Luna remarked as the brothers nodded. “I’m sure after all this time, you both wanna spread your legs.”

“Sounds good to me. A little after breakfast exercise sounds good.” Solstitio chuckled, flexing a little. “But first, I’m going for seconds.” Messis playfully rolled his eyes as Celestia and Luna giggled under their breaths.

After they finished their breakfast, the four trotted through the castle gardens. The size and splendor of many of these hedges, cut into the shapes of various animals. As well as a large number of marble statues carved in such a way, one would expect the statues to come to life at any moment. Continuing to walk, the brothers saw an almost ocean of flowers, gently blowing in the soft day’s breeze as if each colorful petal was waving a greeting to them. It was almost breathtaking and captivating. This was a garden that must’ve taken decades, maybe centuries to craft to such beauty.

Eventually, the alicorn sisters brought the brothers to their destination. It was a section of the gardens that was only a series of benches, statues, shrubs, and decently sized rocks put into various arrangements. It was an impressive sight, the work of dozens of skilled gardeners. Celestia and Luna seemed confident in whatever it was they were planning, but Messis and Solstitio were still a little confused and quite curious. While still a well crafted area, it was noticeably less splendid compared to the rest of the gardens.

“So, this should be far enough from anyone to properly see your magic in action.” Celestia commented, gesturing for the brothers to join them. “Since being imprisoned for so long, who knows what can happen. So we might as well play it safe.”

“I was wondering why were were going so far from the main portions of the castle.” Messis nodded, looking around the area. “I think we’re…several hundreds of feet away from anyone who could be hurt.”

“And if anything does happen, Celestia and I are here to make sure it’s contained.” Luna explained, gesturing to the area. “So feel free to relax and let it all out.”

“Alright, Messis, show me what you got." Celestia said as she stood in front of Messis. “Don’t worry about holding back, I’m much stronger than I used to be.”

Messis grunted and focused his energy as his horn took on a blue glow and his wings opened. With his glowing horn aimed at a hedge, he shot a pulse of blue magic at it. When his magic ray hit the hedge, it went from green to red through time. The alicorns stood there for a moment, watching in amazement at the magic. Even Solstitio was amazed with the magic his brother was producing.

“That is impressive.” Celestia asked after she saw the hedge. “I guess nature is your thing, right?”

“Of course, it is, Celestia.” Messis replied, nodding as he was amazed by his own magic. “The flowers describe their emotions with their petals, and so do the trees with their leaves or firs.”

Luna was in front of Solstitio, who did the same as his brother, but his magic glowed amber like his own eyes. His magic ray hit the grass, then a patch of snow appeared over a patch of grass. As well as this, there was a small breeze, like a faint chill in the air as if a snow flurry came for only a fraction of a moment. Solstitio only smirked as he saw the little bit of snow, smuggly grinning as he looked to the others.

“You know how to produce snow, do you, Solstitio?” Luna asked. “Having such cold magic can be pretty helpful on those hot, summer days.” Solstitio only playfully rolled his eyes at her joke.

“Well, that is what I’m known for, but doesn’t snow come naturally from the sky?” Solstitio then asked with curiosity. “Not that I’m complaining, but wouldn't it be a violation of nature?”

“Well, while you were frozen, we mainly had weather pegasi doing this seasonal weather." Luna replied with a smile. “That way, the weather can be a little more ordered and organized.”

“You two don't know how to control the weather, or you don’t want to?” Solstitio asked in a serious tone. “Cause last time we walked these lands, the weather couldn’t be controlled.”

“Well, I don’t know.” Luna replied while being serious. “I was not here in parts of Celestia’s rule."

“But that’s a story for another time; we should focus on you two right now." Celestia said as she motioned for them to leave. “We can talk more about it later.”

“Alright, it’s better to take things in strides rather than rush into it.” Messis commented, placing a hoof on his brother’s shoulder. “Come on, Solstitio.” His brother only nodded, following him as they left the mares alone.

Now alone, Celestia and Luna sat on the nearby benches. They waited until both Messis and Solstitio were out of eye and ear shot before both let out small sighs of relief. It was like they were holding their breath this whole time and were finally able to breathe again. It was a strange feeling. Since seeing them this morning, the two of them looked just so regal, so handsome, both sisters couldn’t help but do everything they could to not think about it.

“So, sister, how were Solstitio and his abilities?” Luna asked, hoping to change any thoughts in her mind. “He’s…he’s gotten very good. Being able to summon snow is no small feat.”

“Solstitio’s powers were abilities I’ve never seen in any unicorn or alicorn today. And to do it so effortlessly too.” Celestia answered. “But it’s a power that he could learn and eventually master.”

“Yes, the same goes for Messis.” Luna nodded, rubbing her chin as she pondered for a moment. “I was shocked by how the leaves change color by his magic.” She then sighed with a small blush. “He is kind of like me, and I feel so…so comfortable and safe around him."

“I kinda get what you mean." Celestia said, then chuckled. “Messis has a lot of wisdom and is a powerful spellcaster. I also love how he talks.” She then sighed as well, matching Luna’s tone. “But there’s something about Solstitio. The cheerful smile on his face, it makes me feel so warm, and yet sends a pleasurable chill down my spine.” Luna couldn’t help but giggle at her sister’s words.

“Are we making the right choice, sister?” Luna asked with doubt. “They have only been free for a few days, so putting so much responsibility on them so soon may be…overwhelming.”

“I understand your concerns, and I agree.” Celestia nodded, sighing a little. “They will have to take on their roles sooner or later, but I do agree that we don’t have to rush into it just yet.”

After leaving Celestia and Luna to their discussion, Messis and Solstitio were cheerfully walking along the halls. Occasionally, they paused to admire the impressive stained glass windows. It was quite the sight to see not only the splendor and beauty of this window, but the history that was displayed within it. They had been away for so long, and yet the more they looked on at these things, the more relaxed they would become. At least, that was how Messis seemed to be. Solstitio was all but giddy with excitement.

“So, what’s going on, Solstitio?” Messis asked as he saw his brother faking his grin. “You are acting a little over excited right now. Are you ok?”

“Nothing much, just trying to process what I’m thinking." Solstitio replied as he stared at Messis. “It’s just been a long day I suppose.” He glanced at his hooves for a moment. “And the magic we pulled off, it was certainly something.”

“It was a bit of a surprise, yes. But is everything alright?” Messis sighed, looking at Solstitio with concern. “You can tell me. I’m your brother.”

“Well, it’s just that there’s a feeling in me that feels weird." Solstitio replied. “I don’t even know how to describe it.” He then glanced over in the direction of where Celestia and Luna were.

“Let me think. Hmm, that is the feeling of love, Solstitio.” Messis asked. “You have an infatuation toward someone?”

“Wait…what?! No, I mean yes, towards Celestia.” Solstitio tried to deny it but couldn’t. “I don’t even know how to tell her the truth.”

“Well, you are not alone.” Messis said as his mood changed from being positive to feeling doubtful. “I also have one."

“Really, with whom?” Solstitio asked as his brother took a gander at the princesses. “Wait…wait…it can’t be…”

“Yes, yes, it’s with Luna.” Messis replied, blushing as he looked at the mares. “There’s just something about her, I just can’t explain it.”

“Maybe it’s the fact that she’s just as calm and composed as you are.” Solstitio chuckled, patting his brother on the back. “I know that reassuring smile on Celestia’s face makes me feel so warm inside.”

“Funny, coming from your more winter affiliations.” Messis snickered playfully as well. “Though I’m not sure how to really approach her.”

“Yeah, same.” Solstitio sighed, rubbing his chin. “Maybe we could ask Twilight for advice? She wouldn’t stop talking about Celestia and Luna when she and her friends freed us. So maybe we can try that?”

“No, no. She’s clearly far too loyal to the Princesses. There’s no doubt she wouldn’t be able to keep it a secret.” Messis shook his head. “Besides, I’m certain even if she doesn’t tell Celestia and Luna, she’s bound to tell her friends. Like that unicorn…what was her name…oh yes, Rarity.”

“Yeah, she seemed to love gossip. I think she asked us "how many questions about our era?” Solstitio chuckled, thinking back to the mare as she was fitting them for their royal regalia. “But we gotta tell them eventually.”

“We do, we do. But…I just need more time to think.” Messis sighed, starting to walk further into the castle, his brother following. “Besides, after so many years imprisoned, I’ve gotten very good at thinking.”

“Was that…was that a joke?” Solstitio gasped playfully, only to pat his brother on the back. “It must be serious if you’re able to crack a joke about it.” There was a brief silence, followed by an eruption of laughter between the two.