Celestia’s will held strong as she maintained her promise and endured the grueling first test under Aurelian’s tutelage. The first week truly pushed her limits, as each day she felt she barely managed to last until sundown when Aurelian would arrive and allow her to lower the iron ball. However, as he promised, the second week seemed much easier. The end of the day no longer saw her all but lifeless on the cold, stone floor but standing and clear headed. She had energy left to do more than simply eat and pass out once her task was completed, and while ever stoic, she could tell that Aurelian was pleased with her progress. The first day of the routine’s final week came; and once more Aurelian stepped into the training hall to relieve Celestia of her day’s labor.
“You may lower the ball.” Aurelian said as he entered. He smiled a bit as she gently lowered it to floor and turned to him bright-eyed. “Still lively I see.”
“So it would seem,” Celestia smiled. “I am worn, but I do feel good; you were right about it becoming simpler.”
Aurelian nodded. “Even so, you have six more days; you will still develop further. He turned and headed back out into the shadows.
Celestia, as usual, prepared her evening meal but this time she carried it through the sanctum in search of Aurelian. After some wandering, she found him seated at a large desk with several books open before him. His eyes rolled upward at the sound of her entry. “Ah, I wondered where you always disappeared to at night.”
“Eager for more to do?” He asked, his eyes returning to his books.
Celestia laughed and shook her head. “Actually, since I don’t feel the need to hurry a meal and jump into bed, I was wondering if you’d be willing to speak more about this place.” She set her plate down and sat across from him. “I did also hope we would have the opportunity to talk.” She watched as he slowly looked up again, his eyes seeming to drink in the room around them. "You must... have mixed emotions about this sanctum."
Aurelian moved his eyes to her. "As an Alicorn, you know what it means to be special from birth."
Celestia slowly nodded. "Yes, it is a bit much at such a young age. You mentioned something similar about your own birth."
"My birth was treated as something far more than special," He began. "It was decided I would change the world before I even opened my eyes. I was treated like a god before I took my first steps. My life was planned out for me before I spoke my first word." A deeply sullen look filled his eyes. "I was taken from my parents and brought to this place before I ever truly knew them; scholars and instructors were my family and friends."
Celestia felt her heart sadden at his words. "That... is awful, no matter what their intentions, taking a child from their parents and keeping them from a childhood never ends well."
"As you already know." He nodded, his own past proof of her words. "Still, there was a sense of pride in it all; as I learned and developed within these walls, I felt happy and eager to use what I was taught to change the world as everyone had decreed. I wanted to be that special creature; I became idealistic... unrealistically so." He sighed at the unusual amount of thought of his past. "Still, this was my home, the only home I knew. For all my mind and body were put through, fair or harsh, I was proud of it; proud to be an Alicorn, proud to represent them in what was to be a new age."
Celestia was pleased to hear such positive notions from Aurelian. "So much was laid on you, an unfair amount I feel safe in saying; but in those formative years you bore it well."
Aurelian laughed. "You say that, knowing what was to come in my life?"
"Yes," Celestia nodded surely. "You couldn't have known at the time where your life would lead you, none of us can ever know that for sure. Hindsight is twenty/twenty, but you did grow up to be a strong and noble stallion."
Aurelian was quietly taken by her assessment. "It was all so long ago, all the worst parts of my life are far more present in my mind; I often forget I can also remember... better times.
"Ten thousand years is so unbelievably long." Celestia noted. "I often get lost in my own memories, I can hardly imagine how long and vast the corridors of your mind must seem."
"Long indeed," Aurelian slowly looked down at her barely touched plate. "You should finish your meal before it grows cold." He stood and began leaving the room.
Celestia smiled, looking down at her almost forgotton plate as he stepped past her. "Thank you, Aurelian; for sharing that." She heard his steps pause at her words, but shortly continue on. Finishing her dinner, Celestia set sights on her bed to lay down for the evening; as had become tradition since her time here began, she heard the voice of her sister once she had drifted into slumber.
“Sister.” Luna hailed as she materialized before Celestia.
“Luna.” Celestia smiled.
“You seem more relaxed than usual.” Luna noted.
“Yes, the training is paying off quite well.” Celestia informed, scooting over on her dream bed as Luna sat beside her. “I am feeling much better.”
“Excellent news, hearing that makes me worry less.”
“I was able to speak a bit with Aurelian as well,” Celestia continued. “He actually told me a small story of his past here.”
“Perhaps an even more monumental achievement.” Luna chuckled.
“He already seems so different from the Aurelian I met in Tartarus for the first time, still; I do not wish to press my luck.” Celestia laughed. “So, how did the day fare? Has the matter of the aid packages to Griffonstone been settled?
“Indeed,” Luna nodded. “Twilight delegated the matter to Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie; they should be there as we speak with the supplies and equipment that were requested.”
“I look forward to seeing Girffonstone once I return, to imagine it being rebuilt after all this time.”
“They are truly of a different nature now, the return of their Idol will seem to bring about a new age for them.” Luna said surely.
“Well, I certainly worry less knowing that things are being tended to so well.” Celestia acknowledged. “It seems Twilight is coming along fine as a ruler.”
Luna laughed. “Her biggest challenge as of late has been keeping Faye occupied.”
“Faye?” Celestia repeated.
“Without Aurelian to hold her attention, she has been all about Canterlot and Ponyville looking to be a part of things.”
Celestia began giggling at the visions in her head. “A rather chaotic force for good, I imagine.”
“She does mean well, without question.” Luna nodded. “Although few are able to handle her… rather extreme personality.”
“To deal with a creature as unique as Faye, is also a proper test of leadership.” Celestia concluded.
“You can tell Twilight that when you return,” Luna rose from the bed with a smirk. “Because I will certainly not.”
“Goodnight, Luna.” Celestia bid as her sister headed for the door.
“Sleep well, as always, sister.” Luna dimmed the room and quietly left.
Celestia final week of her first trial came to an end smoothly, the last day came, and Aurelian had her lower the ball one last time. She did so easily and eyed him with a proud smile.
“And so, your first test is complete.” Aurelian made a short nod to her. “Well done.”
“Thank you,” Celestia nodded in return. “Where does my training go from here?”
Aurelian stood quiet a moment before gently tossing his head towards the door. “Come,” He bid. Celestia followed him as he guided her through the candle lit halls. “Now that your body is more prepared to handle powerful magics, I will begin teaching you spell classes from the ground up as I was taught.”
“I see,” Celestia said as she trailed him into a new chamber on the opposite end of the compound. It, like the previous, was large and filled with unfamiliar tools and instruments. Of note, she observed a massive cauldron of water, an ornate brazier with a bronze Alicorn sprouting from its stand and an iron box filled with pure soil. Celestia let out a composed breath and she took everything in. “Each chamber in this place seems more foreboding than the last.” She remarked.
“We will be starting with fundamental, elemental magics.” Aurelian informed.
“I recall Starswirl mentioning elemental magic when he taught my sister and I,” Celestia began. “He said it was rare, but there were Unicorns that could harness the raw elements of nature. Although, as always, I imagine far less rare in your time.”
“Correct,” Aurelian nodded. “For ponies, magical control of the elements was a key entry point in their ability to hold their own against the other species of the world.” He began. “The Dragons, being descended from the World Dragons who embodied the elements themselves, held dominion for so long due to the fact that they could wield the very forces of nature as a weapon. Few, if any, could contest them; at least until Unicorns and Alicorns learned to wield those very same forces just as effectively. It is unknown how many lost their lives learning to control the elements; setting themselves ablaze in an attempt to harness fire, drowning in the sea in an attempt to control water, or digging their own grave attempting to move the earth beneath them… but their efforts led to the very first magical guild. From those first steps, all magical learning and spell innovation came, leading to this very sanctum which was the pinnacle of magical knowledge and instruction.”
“The true birth of spell-based magic for our kind,” Celestia uttered in wonder. “That is… so humbling to learn. I did not put much thought into where the things we were taught came from, even our oldest books are still just of recorded spells and other instruction; they lacked any true history beyond speculation, tall tale and sparse cultural lore.”
Aurelian seemed to smile at her appreciation of their history; just as Celestia confessed to feeling like a filly again during her first days of learning, so too did Aurelian find himself transported back in time to his own era of far more innocence.
“Once Ponies had these tools of war at their disposal,” He continued. “They were able to claim a foothold at the table of power and founded the first Pony nation.”
“We have our own tales of times where Unicorns, Pegasi and Earth Pony were at odds; it is good to know that even so long ago they were able to unite as they do now.” Celestia sat before him, eager to hear more.
“Most forms of alliance are born from need rather than want,” Aurelian stated plainly. “But this was about survival. At points over my own lifetime, the three branches of ponykind found themselves fighting amongst themselves; but it was always over some petty squabble. While it is irritating, the fact that the ponies had the luxury of bickering over such trivial matters was a sign that times were far better than they were before.”
“What was that first nation like?” Celestia asked.
“From what stories I was told, it was basic,” Aurelian started. “The Pegasi operated as scouts and reconnaissance, the Earth Pony tended to infrastructure and agriculture and the Unicorns and what Alicorns there were acted as the warriors who defended it all from outside threat. Honestly, those roles still held mostly true by my own time, and I am sure beyond it once I was sealed away.” He slowly sat across from her. “Still, as time passed, each class of Pony found ways to hold their own and the military expanded to accept all who stood up to face the threats of the world. Each class soon birthed legends who would be honored in story and song for generations to come. Nevertheless, magic was the ultimate key to victory and once its study began it did not stop. All of the earliest magics were tools of war, countermeasures to the strengths of other creatures. Those same creatures of your modern time are shadows of their old selves in terms of strength and power, meaning that once you know these magics, there should be no creature that would stand against you.”
Celestia internalized that simple but impactful idea. “I… suppose that is a good safety net to have; still, I wish to think that no such situation would ever come to pass.”
“Many before you wished the same,” Aurelian looked into her eyes intensely. “They died.”
Celestia understood the cold but clearly important message in those final two words. “Better to be ready for anything; preparation for something does not mean that it will come to pass.”
“True.” Aurelian responded.
“Still, isn’t the knowledge that you prepare for some creature to be a threat in itself an act of aggression? Would not the bad will created from such knowledge do just as much to ensure the very conflict you’re preparing for?”
Aurelian stood and began to step past her. “Those are questions for you to answer, not I.” With that, he left her for the night to prepare for what would come with the morrow.
Celestia awoke earlier than usual, bathing and mentally preparing herself for whatever Aurelian planned on throwing at her. With as clear a head as she could muster, she returned to the new training area to find Aurelian waiting. The room was warm as the great brazier was now fully lit, its heavy flame bringing the room to near daylight level brightness. She stepped over to her teacher and nodded soundly.
“Alright, I am ready to begin.” She said surely.
“Good,” Aurelian stepped over to the brazier. “Given that you are a mature Alicorn with existing training and a deal of expertise, much of this should be relatively simple for you to master quickly. The essence of elemental magic is to understand that you are not forcibly controlling the element itself as many often imagine.” He turned to the brazier. “Any magic user can grab fire, or water and manipulate it in a rudimentary matter. What you must learn to do is infuse the element with your own magical energies; incorporate it into that energy until it becomes an extension of your own natural magical power.” His horn lit and a soft ray of his magic fired into the brazier, Celestia watched in wonder as a long lick of flame snaked from the main fire and came to Aurelian. It wrapped around his waist in a beautiful but dangerous ring and spun in place.
“My word.” Celestia observed the ring of fire.
“Once you are in control of the element, it becomes another limb under your command, limited only by your will and imagination. It can be a form of defense….” The ring divided into three separate rings and he extended them beyond his body, their rotation quickening and forming a barrier of flame . “Or offense.” The lengths of flame separated into over a dozen orbs, he sent them over Celestia’s head and used them to obliterate a standing, stone target across the room. They quickly returned to him and he sent them back into the brazier.
“That was rather intense.” Celestia admitted as she looked to the brazier. “But impressive.”
“That basic principle extends to the other elements,” Aurelian carried on. “And once you master the ability to handle them, you can combine them; fire and water to make explosions of steam that scald or craft a smokescreen, water and earth to impede the mobility of the heartiest creature with mud or quicksand, fire and earth to create a compound similar to molten lava and so on.”
“I see, even with just those three you can create quite the catalogue of techniques.” Celestia nodded in understanding.
“Be cautious, it takes a deal of concentration to control something natural.” He advised. “If that will and concentration is broken, you can easily fall prey to that which you are wielding.”
“Fortunately, I’ve recently had a deal of practice with concentrating.” She offered him a smile.
“Precisely.” He actually offered a small smile in return, moving over to a large stone table supporting a collection of books. “These tomes are the most updated learning on the subject in this sanctum, I would suggest you read them first before beginning full on practice. There are also books on more advanced meditation techniques used by Alicorns to further improve their mental clarity and focus.”
“I’ll begin at once.” Celestia headed over the table and took a spot at its side.
“Very well, I am not holding you to any time constraints from this point on.” Aurelian informed. “Study and practice, when you feel you are prepared, I will administer a more… practical test.”
Celestia tried to imagine what that meant, but set it aside for the moment, merely nodding. “I understand.”
Aurelian nodded in return and left her as she took up the first book. For a week and a half Celestia read and re read the provided books, dipping her hoof into practice by starting with water which seemed the safest. She was overtaken with a great pride once she finally managed to hold and shape a ball of water; as Aurelian had said, once she had it in her sway it felt like a fifth leg at her disposal. During the days, her contact with Aurelian was limited; only seeking him out when she had a pertinent question or need for advice. Every night, she detailed whatever progress she made to her sister who was all to eager to hear every word. For upwards of three months this progressed until Celestia found herself able to confidently utilize water, earth and fire. One morning, she searched out Aurelian who quietly turned his attention to her as she appeared.
“I am ready to be tested.” Celestia announced.
Aurelian looked into her eyes, seeing confidence and preparedness. “Very well, come with me.” He left what he was doing and began leading her towards the central hall. The familiar space changed drastically as he used his magic to open up a hidden stairwell leading even further down into the earth; with a degree of shock, Celestia followed him seeing that at some point he had prepared this space for their eventual arrival. That shock grew when the stair ended, and she found herself faced with a massive arena.
“All this was down here as well?” Celestia looked about. “What is this place?”
“This arena is where practice was put to the test.” Aurelian glanced back at her. “That test, for you, will be to spar with me.”
“You mean, I must battle you?” Celestia asked with a valid hesitation.
“Not fully,” Aurelian assured as they stepped out into the circular, stone battleground; the space surrounded by seats for spectators and illuminated by massive pyres. Equally large and ornate stone pots of water and soil bordered the arena as well, alongside racks of weaponry that no longer existed beyond these walls. Old but still colorful flags hung down from the ceiling, no doubt representing the old nations and clans of the distant past. Celestia could feel the weight of history around her which was a feeling that, given her age, she was not at all used to. Her sightseeing was interrupted as Aurelian continued. “We will engage using only the elements, show me you can defend yourself and properly attack in return. If your performance is satisfactory, then I will consider the test passed.” He left her on one side of the arena and went to the other. Turning to face her, he idled calmly. “Alright Princess, let’s see if you can move the elements as well you move the sun.”
Steeling herself, Celestia’s horn radiated magic and water from one of pots began pouring out and flowing about her body in elegant fashion. Seeing this, Aurelian pulled flame from the pyres and readied a counter; but before he could continue, Celestia summoned a great volume of soil from another pot and molded it into five replicas of her royal guard. She quickly sent them into a charge at Aurelian who responded by summoning water of his own; as he sent streams of water at the earthen ponies to dissolve them, Celesia encased them in a protective shell comprised of her own water source which protected them from the attack. Aurelian realized that attacking them with flame at this point would cause a burst that, given their closing proximity, would harm him just as much as the lifeless golems. He leapt into the air and opted to attack Celestia directly, forming his flames into blade like rings and sending them spiraling at her; in her own response, she recalled two of her creations to intercept. While her attention was occupied, Aurelian summoned soil of his own and began encasing his body in it, using immense pressure to compact it and forming a suit of armor; he met the remaining soldiers head on and quickly dispatched them with sheer physical strength. Celestia soon noticed what he had done and took to the air herself, she called her own flame from her adjacent pyre along with more water; she sent a stream of each at Aurelian in a perfect spiral, with neither element coming into contact with the other. Aurelian braced himself as the spiral made impact, the fire and water instantly mixing and blasting off his armor with an explosion of steam. He smiled to himself as he watched her form spheres of water and fire using the same principal of keeping them separated; she launched them at him, each exploding on impact with the ground as he leapt and maneuvered backwards. The explosions left a large cloud of steam and kicked up dirt which Aurelian quickly blew away with a beat of his wings, as the air cleared, he saw Celestia flying in at full speed with her hoof encased in a large, hardened shell of mud she had crafted into a balled dragon’s fist and rapid dried using flame. With an uncharacteristic shout she punched Aurelian across the face with her creation, it shattered against his jaw, and she twirled in the air over his body, landing hard with a satisfied smile. As she turned back, her smile faded as she saw that her punch did not have the impact she imagined. Her eyes matched with Aurelian's who suddenly smiled in a way she had not seen him smile before.
“Well well, it seems you have some warrior in you after all.” He said approvingly. “Impressive display, Celestia. Well done.”
Celestia stood tall, feeling a great sense of pride in having earned such an earnest compliment. “Thank you, Aurelian. Does that earn me a passing grade?”
“Indeed,” He nodded. “You approached me for this test in half the time I anticipated; and while I expected you to be proficient, you managed to exceed my expectations with your ingenuity. Given your royal upbringing in a world so devoid of warfare, your combat sense is impressive.”
“Using magic like that is… draining.” Celestia admitted. “There is no way I could have done all that without those first weeks of training my body. I feel exhausted.”
“Make no mistake, you have accomplished a great deal in a short span of time.” Aurelian began heading for the stairs. “Rest for the remainder of the day, tomorrow I will detail where we go from here.”
Celestia made her way back to her room, passing out on the bed once the adrenaline had worn off. She woke enough to eat but was quick to return to bed and get back to sleep. At some point in her slumber, she found herself once again in the dream realm as Luna joined her.
“Sister?” Luna observed her. “Your dreams seemed… fragmented and unclear, are you alright?”
“Oh, yes.” Celestia smiled and nodded. “I was just particularly tired today; I’ve passed my second test.”
“Wonderful news, so you have conquered the elements now?” Luna asked.
“Well, I don’t know about conquered,” Celestia laughed as she sat up. “But enough to actually impress Aurelian; he had me face him in mock battle using what I learned.”
“Is that so?” Luna sat beside her. “Even a mock battle against him would seem intimidating.”
“It was, but once it was over I found the amount of compliments he gave me in a row to be even more overwhelming.”
“A worthy badge to bear in the wake of your success.” Luna commended. “So, what is next for you?”
“I do not know, he merely let me have the rest of the day to myself.” Celestia sighed. “At the moment, I wish I could just go back with you for a single day to see everyone. I must admit, I miss you all dearly.”
“Everyone understands, sister,” Luna assured. “Know that I and everyone else miss you just as much.”
“Thank you, Luna.” Celestia laid her hoof atop her sister’s. “Were it not for you coming every night to talk to me and let me know what was happening, I fear I might have gone stir crazy from loneliness. When Aurelian does open up about things, even for a brief story, it is always amazing to hear; but he is not exactly one for conversation that he finds… unnecessary.” She chuckled.
“He is a stallion of few words, no doubt because he came from an age itself of few words. Your actions in your test against him seemed to have spoken at length to him however.”
“I suppose you are right.” Celestia considered the idea. “So, what is the news of the day?”
“Well, things are coming along well in Griffonstone.” Luna paused to laugh lightly. “However, when Pinkie Pie and Rainbow Dash finally returned with the confidence that things were well on their way and no longer required their supervision, Twilight thought it might be a good idea to pair Pinkie Pie up with Faye.”
“Oh… oh my.” Celestia toned.
“She imagined that Pinkie’s boundless energy would exhaust even that lively Phoenix, but it backfired rather spectacularly. They synergized perfectly and soon enough Twilight’s headache was doubled.”
Celestia began laughing heartily at the images in her head. “I fear she is going to want a long vacation when I return.”
“She is determined in, more than anything else, not letting you down.” Luna said as she rose.
“I am very familiar and always humbled by that devotion.” Celestia laid back down. “Let her know I am rooting for her.”
“That will serve her well,” Luna dimmed the room as always and went to the door. “Goodnight sister, and congratulations once again.”
“Thank you, Luna.” Celestia yawned. “Goodnight.”
The following morning, following a heavier than usual breakfast, Celestia returned to the elemental training hall. Finding no one, she walked the sanctum until hearing movement in the main library. Aurelian was inside, maneuvering sets of books with his magic.
“Good morning, Aurelian.” Celestia greeted.
“Has your body recuperated?” Aurelian asked.
“I feel good.” She assured, her eyes trailing the bevy of floating tomes. “Are all these for the next lesson?”
“In a sense,” Aurelian reorganized and stacked the books. “From this point forward, I will need to personally instruct you; simple reading alone will not suffice.”
“Oh, I see.” Celestia nodded.
“I will teach you the various types of magic I know in an order than will make the most sense to you; each thing I teach you will in turn aid in your learning of the next. I will also require that you commit to routines to further develop your physical and mental fortitude; nothing so severe as what you first did, but as your magical ability grows you must ensure you condition the rest of your being to match. The type of exhaustion you felt after our battle yesterday will only worsen if you do not.”
“Of course, I understand.” Celestia again nodded.
“Very well, then let us begin.” Aurelian moved a book onto the table near her.
Hence Aurelian’s full tutelage of Celestia began; from dawn till dusk, he meticulously instructed her and for a few hours a night she performed physical, mental and magical exercises to ensure she continued to grow stronger. Day after day, week after week and month after month. Celestia worked hard but found herself captivated as thousands of years of lost magical knowledge was imparted to her. She could feel the difference in her own body, she began to feel even more energized, robust and alert than in her youthful years. This steady growth carried on without hiccup, until one night when Celestia found herself restless. Despite her nightly visit from her sister, she suddenly woke feeling very unsettled; a kind of sadness sank in, and feelings of loneliness and isolation washed over her. Heading for the washroom, she splashed water onto her face and let out a deep sigh.
“What is wrong?” She muttered to herself. “I have felt fine all this time… I should feel better than ever. Everyone has been so positive, I feel stronger than I ever have in my life… so why…” She wiped her eyes with her hooves, looking to the mirror; as her gaze met the glass she screamed. Shooting upright, Celestia found herself in bed once again; her heart was racing as she looked about in panic. “A… a dream…” She panted, reaching up and touching her face. Celestia could tell it was still early in the morning, but she found herself unable to lay back down; in that moment all she wished for was that Luna could come back. The rest of night was sleepless and eventually she just headed out to eat and hope a bath would make her feel better. She attempted to carry on as she had been, but a sleepless night and the feelings gnawing at the back of her mind impacted her greatly. Aurelian became keen to this and slowly closed the book she had in front of her as his lecture came to a stop.
“What is wrong?” Aurelian asked evenly.
“Ah… I am sorry, Aurelian.” Celestia apologized. “I… did not sleep well last night.”
“Hmm,” He hummed. “You have made rapid and impressive progress without any signs of slowing; still, a clouded mind serves no purpose for learning.” He turned. “If you need rest, then take it; I have no intention of reprimanding you for being mindful of your own well-being. We are Alicorns after all, we have all the time in the world.”
Celestia saw him begin to walk away and flustered. “Aurelian, please wait.” She called. He stopped and glanced back at her. “I did not sleep well due to a brief but upsetting dream; it came out of nowhere frankly.” She quickly stood and headed over to him. “May I tell you a story for a change?”
Aurelian was intrigued by the sudden change in her demeanor and the odd request. “Very well.” He turned back to her.
“Some time ago, Starlight Glimmer was sent to Luna and I to help with some friendship problem that Twilight’s magical map reported.” She sighed a bit. “That… is a story all its own, but not the point of this one. To summarize, Luna and I had become a bit distant and were overlooking things we should have been talking about but merely let stew for far longer than they had any right to. Starlight actually cast a spell on us to swap our cutie marks and exchange magic for twenty-four hours so we could experience each other’s troubles for ourselves.” She paused as she thought even farther back in her life. “A bit over a thousand years ago now, I was forced to banish my sister to the moon. Her bitterness and jealously of me caused her to become corrupted, becoming a creature called Nightmare Moon. Even though she has returned and is once again the sister I know and love, many tread lightly when it comes to her and I; fearing another schism between us would lead to a similar outcome. Starlight, fearing she had overstepped her bounds, was consumed by this fear and during my time in the dream realm I tried to aid her. Her mind had conjured a scenario not only with Nightmare Moon… but my own altered state, Daybreaker.” Celestia’s eyes harried. “I… I saw Daybreaker in my dream, when I looked to the mirror.” She let out a hard breath. “I admit, I had very real fears about what taking on your type of power would mean for me. However, I had so much support from my friends and things have been going so well, I imagined those fears quelled. But apparently, some of that fear and hesitation still lingers; I think some part of me fears becoming that monster for real.” She lowered her head as her story ended.
Aurelian eyed her for a moment before heading back over to the table. “You fear motus magia transmutation.” He stated.
“What?” Celestia turned back to him. “That horrible process has a name?”
“Yes, it wasn’t entirely uncommon.” He continued. “Magic is tied to our emotional and mental state; the more powerful our magic, the more steeled our minds and hearts must become in turn. When a powerful Alicorn’s emotional or mental state grows too weak, they are overpowered by their own magic and lose control. In essence, they no longer control their magic; it controls them instead. Whatever form they take is a reflection of not only their magic, but whatever emotions have consumed them. If your sister was jealous and spiteful towards you, then her form would be that jealousy and spite personified; a creature of night driven to destroy the object of its hate, you.”
“I thought what happened to her was something unique, to learn it is an actual condition with history behind it… is unsettling.” She sat. “So, you have seen it yourself then?”
“Yes, it often impacted Alicorn warriors whose minds broke under the bloodshed, pain and horrors of war. It also happened to the young and arrogant, whose ego exceeded their magical ability. It claimed those who were consumed by fear, doubt and paranoia; and, as you yourself have seen, jealously is a powerful source of corruption.”
Celestia’s loving heart hurt at the idea of so many of her own kind suffering what Luna had endured. “Was there some form of magic or treatment to help them?”
“The most common and successful treatment was death.” Aurelian answered plainly. “There were those who sought some form of cure, but the truth was that the corrupted were too dangerous to not be put down as quickly as possible. I have no doubt you think that creul…”
“It was a time much different from this one.” She finished for him. “I’ve learned a great deal from the stories you have shared about your own time, that answer does not surprise me.”
Aurelian made a understanding hum in response. “Your sister is returned, clearly you found some cure of your own.”
“Not I,” Celestia shook her head. “I used artifacts called the Elements of Harmony to banish her; those same elements then found their way to Twilight and her friends who seemed to embody their very nature. They were able to access their magic when they faced Nightmare Moon and revert her back to my dear sister.”
“I know nothing of these elements you speak of,” Aurelian confessed. “However, it seems that a powerful magical force influenced by positive emotion was enough to counteract the negativity that consumed your sister. Forcing it back as it were, healing her mind and heart.”
Celestia considered the idea. “What about you?” She looked to him curiously. “You told me what happened when you learned the fate of the other male Alicorns, and surely over your long life there must have been other points where you have struggled with maintaining your emotions.”
“True,” Aurelian nodded. “But there was difference with me, I may have regret for many of my actions now, but at the time I made those decisions I had no doubt or fear in my mind. I believed that the world needed better leadership when I conquered it the first time. I believed that the same world needed to suffer for what they did to our kind. And after all the battles, the good and bad, the won and lost… I believed that remaining in Tartarus was the only fate I deserved. I never let my emotions fully get the better of me; for no matter how angry or hurt or superior or empty I’ve ever felt, I was always certain that what I did was the right thing.” He looked to Celestia with some degree of empathy. “Your fears are not unwarranted; but the simple truth is, if you do not wish to become this Daybreaker creature, then you must always ensure that your mind and heart are ever stronger than your magic.”
Celestia nodded. “I feel stronger than I ever have before.”
“And you will become so much stronger when we are done.” Aurelian added.
“I must remain confident then,” She said surely. “I have been getting stronger, but I’ve felt good and proud of it so far. As long as that remains at the forefront of my mind, whatever fears may be buried within me will not make me falter.”
“Indeed.” Aurelian replied.
“Thank you, Aurelian.” Celestia smiled. “Knowing about the history makes it more reasonable to understand and deal with; I won’t let it slow me down again.”
“Then take that newfound ease and rest for the day.” Aurelian headed for the door. “We will continue tomorrow.”
“Alright.” Celestia agreed. While still a bit shaken, she felt a great deal better having heard Aurelian’s perspective and information on the matter. That night, she spoke with her sister about her dream and what was imparted to her about the condition that had so altered the course of both their lives. Luna too was shocked at the truth of what had happened to her, but shared Aurelian’s sentiment about her sister’s ability to always be greater than her fear before sending her off to a much more peaceful night.
Time soldiered on; until Equestria had gone without its ruler for almost two and half years. It had well become a new normal for everyone, especially Twilight who was now much more seasoned in her role on the throne. As had become ritual, she and Spike were going over the day’s schedule of events and meetings.
“So, when do we squeeze in lunch in all this?” Spike asked as he looked things over.
“You ask that every morning.” Twilight eyed him as she shuffled some scrolls.
“Becuase you always forget.” Spike countered. “Lunch is the most important meal of the day.”
“That’s breakfast.” Twilight corrected.
“Hey, they’re all the most important as far as I'm concerned.” Spike shrugged.
“We’ll eat after I meet with the…” She stopped as the room was suddenly illuminated with golden light, her jaw dropped as Celestia and Aurelian appeared before her.
“Oh… being able to teleport from such a distance now is a true convenience.” Celestia chuckled. "No more trains for me, I suppose."
“Princess!” Twilight exclaimed excitedly.
“Twilight, it is so good to see you again.” Celestia smiled brightly. “I…” Before she could finish, Twilight was latched onto her.
“I’ve missed you so much!” Twilight ground her cheek against Celestia’s shoulder. “Everyone has!”
“I have missed you all too.” Celestia hooked her leg around her and lowered her head to Twilight’s.
Twilight took a step back and wiped her eyes. “It’s good to see you too, Aurelian.” She smiled as he nodded back to her. “So… how are you. You look the same.” She raised her hoof worriedly. “Not that that’s a bad thing.” She quickly amended.
“I… am different.” Celestia answered. “But, still the same; if that makes any sense.”
“Everyone is going to be thrilled you’re finally home.” Twilight assured. “You’ve missed…” She paused, not knowing how Celestia would take the idea. “A lot, since you’ve been gone.” She finished with less excitement than she began. “Sorry, I…”
“It is alright, Twilight.” Celestia laid her hoof to her shoulder. “I know I have; Luna has kept me up to date as best she can but I know that so much has happened since I’ve been away. But seeing things so normal, knowing things have gone so smoothly in my absence, I am very proud of you.” She smiled. “All of you.”
Twilight grinned from ear to ear. “Thank you, Princess.”
“I’ve been helping keep things in line.” Spike chimed in smugly.
“I am sure you have, Spike.” Celestia laughed.
“Where is Faye?” Aurelian asked.
“Faye?” Twilight turned her attention to him. “She should be in Ponyville right now; she’s been… a hoof full.” She admitted.
Aurelian seemed amused at that. “I have little doubt.”
“She’s been great though,” Twilight continued. “She’s been on call at the School of Friendship, she made winter wrap up a breeze… practically melted all the snow by herself. Genuinely has been having a great time just being a part of things.” Twilight bobbed her head in thought. “She can be… a lot. Especially when she’s with Pinkie, sheesh.” She sighed. “But her positivity and love of fun are pretty infectious.”
“Faye is a creature that craves experience,” Aurelian explained. “No matter how grand or mundane, if it is something new, she will involve herself. This entire time is new to her, she often becomes… overstimulated.”
“So what now?” Twilight looked to Celestia. “Everyone is going to want to see you, so many stories and news you need to hear; and I absolutely want to know what all you can do now.”
“I know, Twilight.” Celestia nodded. “But things will have to come in order, I am certain you have a full schedule as it is. We will plan a time and place to get together with everyone; but right now, I would very much like to see my sister.”
“Of course,” Twilight took a calming breath. “Let me get started on the day, and we can talk about it later.”
“Aurelian,” Celestia looked back to her new mentor. “What do you intend to do now?”
“I will seek out Faye,” He informed. “I wish to see her.”
Celestia smiled at the affection in his tone. “Thank you, for everything. Not just for all the magical knowledge you’ve given me, but for all the history and philosophy you have shared. It has been ages since I’ve had… well, a mentor; and I am grateful to have you as one.”
Aurelian, having spent so much time with Celestia, felt a deep sense of appreciation for her words. “I admit, being in that place after so long, brought back so much that had been abandoned in the farthest corners of my mind. It was a welcome feeling to be able to pass so much to another of my own kind.” He stepped up to her. “You may consider me a mentor, but make no mistake, you are a rare equal now.” He extended his hoof to her.
Taken aback, Celestia slowly raised her hoof and shook his. “I am honored to be considered as such; in turn, know that you will always be a friend.” Aurelian smiled lightly and nodded; with that, he stepped back and teleported from the room.
“Wow,” Twilight muttered. “You two really became close.”
“Aurelian has many, many walls.” Celestia turned back to her. “He let many down during my training. Sharing magic and knowledge with another Alicorn is something he has not experienced in so many thousands of years; I imagine that wound up meaning more to him than even he himself anticipated.” She laughed lightly. “He is difficult to read, but now I feel completely safe in saying that the world no longer needs to fear him. He has no ill intentions for the world, all he wishes to do is be with Faye and his friends.”
“No complaints here,” Twilight beckoned Spike to her back. “Well, welcome home. We should be back this afternoon.”
“I will be here.” Celestia said with great pleasure as Twilight flew from the room. She quickly headed up to the top levels of the castle, slowing approaching and opening Luna’s bedroom door. As expected, she lay sound asleep; Celestia went to her bedside, closing her eyes and focusing as her horn filled the room with golden light. She found herself in a beautiful meadow bathed in blue hued moonlight; the gentlest of winds rustled the grass and greenery which created the only sounds to be heard. Walking about, she saw Luna resting in a circle of fragrant lilacs. Luna’s head rose at the sound of foreign steps on the grasses, eyes broadening at the sight of her sister.
“Sister?” Luna stood unsurely.
“Hello, Luna.” Celestia went to her side.
“I have never had a dream of you before, what could this mean?” Luna asked herself.
“Well, that is a little hurtful.” Celestia eyed her.
“Wait,” Luna stepped closer and laid her hoof to her. “You are not a dream.”
“No, I am not.” Celestia laughed.
“You… you have access to the dream realm?” Luna asked in shock.
“In a sense,” Celestia began. “It is by no means in the same way you do; for one, I must be in close proximity to a creature to do this.”
“I see,” Luna nodded, the reality of her sister’s statement hitting her a few moments later. “You are here? In the castle?”
Celestia giggled. “I am.” In an instant, she found herself back in the bedroom.
“Sister!” Luna uncharacteristically launched herself from the bed and hugged Celestia fiercely.
“Luna,” She hugged her back just as tightly. “Seeing you in my dreams was such a comfort, but no replacement for just being in the same room as you.”
“This castle has not felt the same without you,” Luna sniffled. “It is so good to have you back.” As she released her hold she was suddenly overtaken with curiosity. “You accessed my dream, what manner of spell was that if not dream magic like my own?”
“Well,” Celestia began with a lopsided smile. “To be honest, Aurelian said it was a technique used for information gathering and interrogation. He said prisoners would not often speak, so the spell was designed to allow infiltration of a sleeping mind to probe the subconscious.”
“That… that is rather…” Luna trailed off, lacking words to describe the very idea.
“I know,” Celestia nodded. “But, as I learned, I found that much of what Aurelian taught me could have more positive uses as opposed to the original intentions.” She assured. “It has limitations aside from proximity, I cannot directly impact a dream, nor can I craft shared dreams as you do; so, you will always remain the true Princess of the night.”
“Amazing none the less,” Luna praised. “Does Twilight know you’ve returned?”
“Yes, she left to tend to the day’s duties,” Celestia nodded. “I told her we can begin spreading news of my return later; I wanted to see you.”
Luna smiled warmly. “Well, I am certainly awake now. Let us have some time to properly catch up.”
By the end of the day, through various means and word of mouth, news of Celestia’s return had spread. While nothing large scale could be pulled together immediately, Pinkie Pie busted out a Ponyville centered celebration she had planned for Celestia’s return. Everyone in the Ponyville and Ponyville adjacent area was invited for an evening get together with the Princess as the guest of honor. Being surrounded by all her friends that she had been without for so long had Celestia on the verge of tears, their talk and laughter the best welcome home she could have ever asked for. She was beset with questions about her training and about Aurelian, all of which she was happy to answer. Eventually though, Rainbow Dash approached with the million-bit question.
“So Princess,” Dash began with eager eyes. “Just what kind of new, awesome things can you do now? You really as strong as Aurelian?”
“In his eyes, yes.” Celestia confirmed, eyeing the candles on the table. “I learned to use elemental magic.” Under the astounded eyes of the guests, she drew the flames from the candles and brought them to her.
“Luna mentioned that to me,” Twilight watched the flame in amazement. “Even Starswirl couldn’t say much about it when I asked him.”
“Aurelian had me battle him in a test of my elemental control,” Celestia continued. “While it does have so much combat potential, you can also create beauty with it.” She molded the flames into little animals and danced them about.
“How adorable.” Fluttershy stared at them like a moth.
Celestia returned them to the candles which continued to burn as if nothing happened. “I even considered that moving the earth and water would be wonderful for starting a garden. So many little, practical applications for magic that was used exclusively for war in the past.”
“It’s a good thing stuff like that is lost,” Starlight chimed in. “I definitely would have used it if could have learned it back before I met Twilight.”
Celestia nodded. “Aurelian explained the history behind all the magic he taught me; nearly all of it was intended to give ponies an advantage over other species. I learned how to manipulate gravity’s effect on my body to reach speeds faster than the swiftest creatures. How to infuse my own muscular structure with my magic to multiply physical strength, matching the mightiest beasts. Temporal manipulation, spacial manipulation, control over the natural abilities of other creatures like undoing Changeling shape shifting, the magic of order allowing me to undo the work of chaos magic, sealing and releasing spells, alchemical magic… and so much more.” She let out a long sigh.
“That’s a heck of a heap of magic.” Applejack said surely.
“Sounds positively overwhelming.” Rarity added.
“I got lost halfway through that list.” Pinkie noted.
Celestia laughed. “Having so many tools at your disposal is very overwhelming; now it isn’t a matter of what I can and can’t do but what I should and shouldn’t. Which is why I am glad you are all in my life.” She looked over all the faces about her.
“We’ll always be here to help, however we can.” Twilight promised.
“Indeed, sister.” Luna nodded. “You needn’t ever feel alone in this.”
“That’s enough heavy philosophy.” Trixie took up a glass of punch in her magic with a wry grin, looping a foreleg around Maud and Mudbrier. “I thought this was supposed to be a party.”
“That’s the spirit, love!” The bold voice of Faye rang out from above as she and Aurelian descended.
“Aurelian, Faye.” Celestia welcomed. “I am glad you could come.”
“Wouldn’t miss it for the world, love.” Faye hopped closer. “Sorry we’re a bit late, doing a bit a catching up ourselves if you know what I mean.” She laughed, elbowing Celestia with her wing.
“Don’t worry, we’re just getting started.” Pinkie assured.
“There’s me partner in crime.” Faye welcomed Pinkie to her side. “Ready to pull another all nighter, love?”
“You know it!” Pinkie pumped her hoof.
“Not again…” Twilight sighed heavily.
“Let’s get the music going then!” Rainbow Dash ordered.
As everything began to get into full swing; Celestia, Luna and Twilight joined Aurelian. “So, where do you go from here?” Celestia asked.
Aurelian looked out at Faye. “We will go the Dragonlands to see Aestus, I assume Brayok has returned to the sea. After that, wherever Faye’s interest takes us is good enough.” He looked to Twilight. “I imagine you could use some reprieve from her energy.”
“Well… if you’re offering.” Twilight said offhandedly.
“There is still so much for you two to see, I know you will enjoy it all.” Celestia assured.
“Before we do leave, I have only one last thing to give you.” Aurelian noted.
“Oh?” Celestia eyed him curiously.
“My former title.” He continued. “From this point onward, I will recognize you as the strongest creature in this world.”
“Quite the title.” Luna admitted.
“Aurelian, in spite of all the tests you had me endure, I still sense you always pulled your punches.” Celestia confessed. “Even with all you’ve taught me, I hesitate to think I am truly stronger than you.”
Aurelian made a short laugh. “I gave you everything that I know, but you innately have much more that I lack. You have bonds the likes of which I never knew and you’ve a heart the likes of which I could never own; and those truths will allow you to use what I have taught you in ways I could never have considered.” He gave her a resolute smile. “Those are the parts of you that will allow you be stronger than I, and I acknowledge that.”
Celestia smiled humbly. “That means a great deal, Aurelian. Thank you. I will continue to work hard to honor this title.”
“I know you shall.” Aurelian nodded.
Twilight looked up at Celestia. “I guess the question now is, what will you do from here?”
“I will consider that later,” Celestia smiled down at her. “Tonight, I just want to enjoy the party.” The four of them moved out to enjoy the night, prospects of the future a worry for the morrow.
