One year later…
A year in Ponyville could go by so fast - and Luster Dawn was delighted by how fun and challenging and rewarding this past year had been. Some minor new threats to the land of Equestria had arisen, and Luster Dawn had handled some of them successfully (as part of not overwhelming Luster by treating her like a princess-in-training, Twilight had decided on a more gradual approach to having her student confront the forces of disharmony). And outside of heroics, Luster Dawn had made some good friends at the School of Friendship: like spunky Brunhilde the yak, and smart Rex the griffin, and chatty Labellum the changeling, and shy Torch the dragon, and brave Marina the hippogriff. They didn’t all go on adventures together all the time like a certain purple pony and her friends had done in years past, but sometimes a few or all of them would get together, and lessons in friendship would eventually happen.
Luster Dawn spent a lot of her time with her best friend Breezy - Fluttershy’s niece. Their relationship and experiences together reminded Luster Dawn a lot of the royal pony sisters back in their early days learning about friendship and magic. Especially since Luster Dawn herself was so energetic and adventurous - like the former sun princess - and Breezy was quiet and intelligent - like the former moon princess. Speaking of which, Breezy and Luna really did get along quite well as teacher and pupil. Breezy often spent evenings at the Everfree Forest castle to learn from Luna about lunar magic and constellations and astronomical forces. But Breezy always returned to the treehouse she shared with Luster Dawn at the edge of the Everfree Forest overlooking Fluttershy’s animal sanctuary. Together they had fixed the place up quite nicely. And they both frequently helped Fluttershy with her animals too.
Actually, a year was quite a bit longer than the amount of time Breezy had originally been supposed to stay. She had put off a date to return to Cloudsdale over and over… but finally she had reluctantly agreed to go back. Luster Dawn could see her hesitation so clearly, and she didn’t want her friend to go, but she didn’t want to make her stay. She knew Breezy had to make her own choice. And whatever that choice was, she would support her friend.
Before Breezy left though, Luster Dawn insisted that the pegasus attend the big reunion party at the Everfree Castle. For the first time since their parting, Tirek, Chrysalis, and Cozy Glow were going to see each other in person along with a lot of other friends, like Princess Cadance and the newly coronated Princess Flurry Heart. And there would be a sleepover too. Breezy didn’t like big parties, but Luna would the hosting the sleepover, so Luster Dawn was sure Breezy would enjoy the event.
And if afterwards Breezy decided to stay around Ponyville for even longer, all the better.
Right now the two friends were set to have a nice afternoon tea party with Fluttershy. Luster Dawn happily trotted over to the cottage after her classes and up to Fluttershy’s door. She patted a troop of bunnies on the head as she entered then closed the door behind her. “Fluttershy? Breezy?”
“Luster, hi!” Breezy popped her head out of the kitchen and flew over to her friend with a happy smile. “How was school today?”
Luster smiled. “Great! We got a lot of fun history lessons about Princess Twilight and her friends. And we got to bake cakes as a craft project. Oh, and everyone says hi!” Breezy made appearances sometimes with Luster Dawn to hang out with the other students.
Breezy smiled a little more and pushed up her glasses. “Please tell them hi back.” Her eyes went down a little. “And, um…goodbye if I don’t see them before I go.”
Luster Dawn frowned a little too. But then she smiled again and tried to move the conversation along. “And how were lessons with Luna last night?”
“Wonderful!” Breezy’s eyes lit up a little. “I never had a teacher who was so gentle and understanding and also passionate. I learned more about tracking the movements of distant stars and all the purifying powers of moonlight. It’s a very unusual school of magic. I hope one day I can find a student of my own to teach it to.”
“I think anyone would be lucky to have you as a teacher," Luster added.
Breezy smiled more and blushed.
Fluttershy entered from the kitchen, a tea tray on her back. “Hello, Luster! Are you girls ready for our tea time? Breezy helped me make a lot of snacks - especially someone’s favorite: lemon squares. And using Discord’s recipe.” She winked at Luster Dawn.
Luster Dawn’s smile brightened. “hat sounds amazing! Thank you both!” She gave Breezy a quick hug and Fluttershy too then used her magic to set the tray down on the table and pull out their chairs.
All three mares took their seats.
Fluttershy began to pour for them.
“Auntie Fluttershy?” Breezy asked. “Are you sure you don’t want to come to the castle party with us? Discord said you’re always invited if you change your mind.”
Fluttershy’s smile grew. “Oh, I’m afraid that party will go too late for me. You know I like to go to bed at sundown these days, Breezy. And besides, I’m better at being around mythical historical figures one at a time than all at once.” She served each girl a lemon square. “But I’m sure you’ll have a nice time.”
“Okay.” Breezy’s smile wavered for a moment.
“And remember, Luna will be there - and me too.” Luster added. “And I promise, Luna’s slumber party will be fun. But if you really want some quiet time, you and I can spend the night in her room instead of in the library with the others. I already asked.”
Breezy smiled more and nodded in appreciation. “Thank you, Luster. I…think it’ll be nicer to be with everyone though.”
“I got a letter from your dad earlier, Breezy,” Fluttershy started. “He's going to come here to escort you home. He said to let him know if you want him to rent a chariot to carry all of your things back to Cloudsdale… but I hope you’ll leave a few things here too. You’re always welcome to visit whenever you want, you know.”
“I know. Thank you, Auntie Fluttershy.” Breezy put a foreleg around her aunt and hugged her. Fluttershy hugged her back.
Luster Dawn looked on and hoped very much again that Breezy would decide to stay.
In a large chariot soaring high over Equestria flew the royal family of the Crystal Empire and a little familiar pony who wasn’t quite so little anymore. Cozy Glow wasn’t a full grown mare yet but she had gained a few inches in height, and her wingspan had increased. She still kept curls in her mane, but now she pinned them back with crystal barrettes instead of ribbons. And she wore a small yoke with the symbol of the Crystal Empire royal guard. She stood at attention in the carriage with a stern expression, a large crystal chest beside her.
Flurry Heart - wearing a crystal tiara these days as Crowned Princess - sat across from her and kept making goofy faces.
In the opposite seat, Cadance and Shining Armor looked on, trying not to laugh. Cadance sighed. “Flurry, come on, quit trying to distract her from her job. She’s the official guard of the dragon egg we’re bringing to Twilight while we’re in flight, and she’s taking it seriously.”
“But she shouldn’t take it TOO seriously!” Flurry Heart assured. “That’s what you two would always tell me about my guard duties, right? I don’t just want her to stand silently staring at us the whole time - she deserves to relax and have fun.” Her eyes went back to Cozy Glow. “After all, you’re not just a junior member of the guard - you’re also my friend. And basically my little sister at this point.”
Cadance and Shining Armor shared a small, special smile.
For just a moment Cozy Glow’s stern gaze wavered and she blushed slightly.
Flurry Heart sighed. “Okay, I’m sorry, I won’t try to distract you. But once we land at the Everfree Forest castle and give that mysterious dragon egg from the frozen north that Tempest and Ember found to Twilight, I really want you to take some time off duty and relax. Just have a good time…see your friends. Okay?”
Cozy Glow hesitated. “Yes, Princess.” Then she spoke, ‘casually’. “I-I mean, whatever, Flurry Heart. It’s not like it’s a big deal. Tirek and Chrysalis and I have been writing to each other this whole year, after all. What’s so different about seeing each other?”
Flurry Heart smiled more. “Well…I guess you’ll all have to see when you get there. I’m sure Tirek and Chrysalis are both wondering how it’ll be too. But I’ll be there with you the whole time, and so will Luster Dawn.”
A small smile came to Cozy Glow’s face. “Yeah, well…you're not terrible to hang out with. And I really want to see Luster again.” She held up her head. “I mean, so she can be impressed with me. If I’m a guard and your fake sister or whatever, then I’m practically royalty now.”
“You definitely have enough confidence to be a princess,” Shining Armor offered. “I’m sure Luster and the others will be really impressed.”
“They’ll love getting to reconnect with you,” Cadance added.
Cozy Glow nodded and resumed a professional stance beside the chest. She brought a hoof to her forehead in a salute. “Once we disembark the carriage and hand over the egg I’ll be off duty like you asked, Crowned Princess. But I think I’ll stay on call just in case. This little egg came a long way and has been frozen for a long time, and I won’t let anything happen to it.”
Flurry Heart nodded. “Thank you, Junior Private Cozy Glow.”
Cozy Glow lowered her hoof and stared ahead, unflinching.
Flurry Heart looked out of the window and her eyes brightened. The Everfree Forest was officially below them - they were almost there.
Chrysalis and Queen Novo were traveling by chariot — but through water instead of air. Chrysalis preferred this mode of travel greatly. The water was cool, there were no bumps from hitting clouds, and she enjoyed the dimness of the water more than the brightness of a clear sky. And of course, she knew Novo liked to be in seapony form as often as possible. Chrysalis had grown accustomed to remaining a seapony as well.
Though sometimes the two of them spent time in a private lagoon with Novo in her seapony form and Chrysalis in her changeling form. Novo was fond of seeing all of Chrysalis’s potential forms and Chrysalis was fond of showing them to Novo. They found it very easy to spend a great deal of time together talking and doing other things.
But for most of this trip, even though they were traveling alone with just a few dolphins pulling them, they hadn’t talked much at all. Chrysalis had kept very busy looking at the scenery in fact, biting her lip.
Novo sighed finally. “Chrissy…which thing are you anxious about exactly? Or is it all of them?”
Chrysalis blushed then pouted at her. “I told you, do not call me that name while we are on this trip. If the others hear—“ She blushed more.
Novo smirked a little. “The others aren’t here, and we’re not technically on our trip until we reach land. And I was just curious…”
Chrysalis swallowed. “Of course I’m nervous about seeing Tirek and Cozy Glow again, and about them seeing me like this. They don’t know that I look different since the last time they saw me.” She glanced down at herself and recalled her new changeling form. Indeed, the effects of Luster’s love had lingered, and over the last year combined with Novo’s love, Chrysalis’s wings were bit larger and shimmered slightly, her mane and tail were longer and curled at the ends, and her dark coat was a bit shinier. “And I’m nervous about seeing all the others and having a sappy fuss made over me. And…yes, I’m nervous about the ‘other thing’ as well…” she added very softly.
Novo looked down. “If the answer to ‘the other thing’ is no, it’s okay. You can tell me. I understand - it’s not for everyone.”
Chrysalis sighed. “It’s not…I… I’m sorry, I just wasn’t expecting ‘the other thing’. I want to give you an answer. I promise I will soon.”
Novo touched Chrysalis’s foreleg on the seat. “I just want you to be happy.”
Chrysalis smiled then spoke very softly. “I know. I wish the same for you as well.” She didn’t move her foreleg away.
Novo smiled more. “They’re all going to think you’re gorgeous - you know that, right?”
Chrysalis snorted. “Well, I should hope so.” She held up her head, blushing. “I am royalty and the consort of royalty after all.” She glanced at Novo. “And you’re sure you’re comfortable being in your hippogriff form at the party? If you’d rather spend time in the lake…”
“I’d rather spend time wherever you are.” Novo winked and laughed.
Chrysalis blushed and resisted an embarrassing yet delightful urge to giggle.
They stayed touching as the shore came into sight and the chariot broke the surface.
Tirek had chosen to take a small caravan over land to get to their destination in Equestria. Flying was faster of course, but he preferred to have some extra time traveling on this trip to think about some things. And also a new develop regarding a very special creature to him made him want to choose the safety of staying on the ground.
Rain Shine was lying on the seat across from him, dozing. He watched her as the caravan moved into the forested wilds of Equestria, light and shadow playing over her face and form. He blushed and swallowed and sighed. She hadn’t needed to come so far - he had encouraged her to stay either at Scorpan’s palace or with the other kirin and rest. But she had assured him she didn’t want to be away from him during this time. And besides, she wanted to meet his friends. And she was not so frail - males always worried too much, she had said.
Tirek smiled. He enjoyed her strength, her conversation, the calm way she expressed herself until something truly riled her and she became all flames and ash. Then he would help calm her down the way he used to calm down Chrysalis and Cozy Glow, or the way they had helped him calm down whenever he’d gotten a little overloaded with power. Rain Shine was a grounding creature to be around. And he was thankful to have her as a partner - and soon more.
The caravan went over a few bumps along the forest floor. Rain Shine stirred then blinked open her eyes. “Tirek?” She stretched and raised her head. “Are we there yet?”
“Close,” he assured. “Do you want us to stop and rest or anything? I could make you something to eat or drink. Or are there too many bumps in the road? We could go around the forest - it would take a little longer but the ride is smoother. Or do you want some more pillows? I can get more from the back and you can rest again.”
She smiled a little. “Everything is fine, Tirek. I’d rather continue so we can get to the castle soon. I’m eager to stretch my legs. Kirin dislike being confined for too long.” She looked out the window. “Though it’s comforting to see forest again.” She inhaled deeply through her nose. “The air smells like earth and rain.”
Tirek tilted his head. “How do you notice things like that?”
“Noticing makes me feel more at peace with the world around me.” She turned her gaze to him. “I might like to rest again though now that you mention it. Would you sit beside me?” She patted her seat.
Tirek hesitated. “Are you sure you don’t want your space, so you can stay comfortable?”
“I’m comfortable beside you. You’re always warm, but not too warm. Like a subtle version of a kirin flame.”
Tirek stood and rolled his eyes, blushing. “Okay, you cannot talk about me like that when we arrive, please - it’s beautiful, and Cozy Glow and Chrysalis will never let me live it down.”
She laughed as he sat beside her. “Always so skittish, Tirek. Here…” She wrapped her tail around his back. “You rest too. And think of all the good things to come.”
Tirek sighed, reclining against the seat - he did feel very relaxed now that they were near each other. His hand drifted to her side and rested there. “Are you sure you’re okay with telling them?”
“As long as you’re ready, then yes, very okay,” Rain Shine assured. “Just say when.”
Tirek smiled more, his eyes hazed. “I love you.” He laughed. “I finally get what Discord and Celestia were always going on about.”
Rain Shine snuggled up beside him. “I’m glad. I love you as well, after all.”
They settled in together and both dozed off in peace for the rest of their trip.
In the Ponyville Castle, Twilight paced the throne room while Luna watched her with a gentle smile and Argos stood beside her, eating from his dish.
“Twilight, it’s really not such an unreasonable request for you to make.”
Twilight bit her lip. “But…it’s already so much that you and Celestia and Discord are hosting this reunion at your castle. And you’re also letting Sombra come even after what happened last time. But asking you three to look after a mysterious dragon egg from the frozen north because I can’t give it the attention it needs with all of my duties here and because Spike is teaching full time at the School of Friendship now…” Twilight frowned again. “You’re retired, you shouldn’t have to help that much.”
“Trust me, Celestia and Discord will enjoy the diversion.” Luna assured, her eyes hazed as she petted Argos. “You know they both love children. I’m sure they’ll be inclined to let the little egg stay on for quite a while. And since Argos is especially attached to me, they have the time and need for some more companionship.”
Twilight sighed and finally sat down. “I know you’re probably right.” She bit her lip, and with her head slumped she could look up into Luna's eyes. “You’ll ask them with me though, right?”
Luna laughed and walked over. “Indeed.” Then she lightly kissed Twilight on the mouth. She pulled back to find Twilight smiling and blushing very much.
Then Argos jumped between them, panting and kissing them both.
The two mares laughed and separated.
Twilight sighed and looked to the sky. “I hope Cadance is having a safe trip with the egg. Tempest and Ember went through a lot to excavate it safely after Tempest found it on patrol. Ember’s sure it could still hatch even if it is over a thousand years old.”
“Northern dragon tribes haven’t existed in ages - even their legends are scarce. I think it is noble of you to care so deeply for the egg’s well-being, Twilight.” Luna assured.
“Well…my best friend did come from one, after all.” She glanced to one of the stained glass windows that featured Spike. “That egg and the dragon inside of it are going to need a lot of special magical care.”
“And who better to provide such care than an alicorn and a draconequus?” Luna winked.
Twilight laughed and nodded. They shared a smile.
Then they both grimaced at the sound of bold laughter coming down the hall. A moment later a pompous and grinning Sombra trotted into the throne room followed by a weary Spike.
“Ladies, I'm ready to depart!” Sombra straightened his cape then eyed the princesses. “You’re not dressing up, even a little? There’s going to be other royalty at this little soiree, right?”
“Twilight,” Spike asked with a pleading look, “is it time for Sombra to get going with you guys yet? I’ve got a meeting with the Mayor soon, and someone’s kept me busy styling his hair for the last two hours.” Spike pouted at Sombra.
“Oh please.” Sombra rolled his eyes. “It was your honor, I’m sure. And it’s not my fault you took forever to get it right. I know you grew up with mares, but a stallion’s mane shouldn’t be that hard to adapt to.”
Spike’s look went dry as he turned back to Twilight. “If you’d rather leave him in the dungeon, I’ll get Gallus to guard him.”
Twilight smiled gratefully. “It’s okay, Spike. We’re ready to head out. You can go.”
“Thanks, Twilight.” Spike smiled at her then nodded to Luna. “Have a fun slumber party, Luna.” He glanced at Sombra. “Sombra, try to…get along with creatures.” Then he flew away.
Sombra shrugged and turned back to the mares. “We’ll be taking the royal chariot, right? This is the first time you’ve let me out of these castle grounds in a year, and I want to make a statement. King Sombra is back!”
Luna sighed. “A more accurate statement would be that King Sombra is on a very limited parole that shall be tested tonight with his behavior at our castle.”
Twilight stepped forward. “Sombra, over the last year you've been learning to focus less on evil and more on other things. Most of ‘other things’ has been yourself, but… it’s a start. And self care is a good thing - to a point. And you’ve been ‘getting along ‘with Luna and myself and Spike and even Discord and Celestia when they visit. And Luster Dawn too during your weekly friendship lessons. So we think you’re ready to try and make some more friends and maybe to find a new place for yourself in the world.”
“Indeed.” Luna stood beside Twilight and put a supportive hoof on her shoulder as she continued to Sombra. “Do you have any thoughts on the matter yet?”
Sombra just shrugged. “There’s really no place in the world that fits me except a castle. But I guess if all the standing ones and their kingdoms are taken - and if you’re all going to make a big fuss if I try to steal one of those for myself - I’ll just have to work out creating my own castle and finding my own place to rule. I’m sure I’ll figure it out.”
“And no dark magic,” Luna added dryly.
Sombra rolled his eyes. “Not using it is boring, but I suppose, again, if you’re all going to severely overreact then I’ll just stick to the usual magic instead.”
“Thank you, Sombra.” Twilight nodded with a smile. “And yes, we are going to take the royal chariot to the Everfree Forest. Luna and I thought we could sit in back while you sit up front.”
Luna’s eyes brightened. “Yes, you have fun feeling royal behind the reigns. Consider it a favor for your first day out.”
Sombra smirked. “You two just want to sit together in back because of your tender little relationship - far be it from me to stop two ladies from having a date.” He ran his hoof through his mane while Luna glared at him and Twilight smiled sheepishly and both mares blushed. “By the way, these other gents I’m having this ‘guys night’ with while you have your slumber party - you really couldn’t find ANY single ones to invite for me?”
Luna sighed. “Tonight is a friendly reception, not a pick-up scene.”
Twilight swallowed. “Heh, yes, let’s just…take your socializing one step at a time.”
“Whatever.” He rolled his eyes and turned to the doors with his head held high and his smile confident. “I’ll be out front waiting for the chariot and putting the stallion guards in a severe state of distress by pretending to maniacally flirt with them. See you soon! Argos, my good dog, join me!” Argo happily bounded after him, and with a laugh Sombra departed.
Luna took a deep breath. “Though I am grateful he will not be attending our ladies slumber party, I feel a deep pity for the gentle creatures who will entertain him at Discord’s ‘guys night’. Yet, I can’t deny that Argo’s willingness to play with Sombra reassures me that he is truly a changed pony.”
Twilight smiled. “I think they’ll all have fun tonight. Discord’s knows how to have a lot of patience. And you said they’re playing cards, right? You know games work off a lot of Sombra’s…”
“Pushy arrogance?”
“Energetic enthusiasm?” Twilight offered.
“You have a legendary patience, Twilight.” Luna kissed her on the cheek. “Come, let us join Sombra and begin our ‘date’ as it were.” She rolled her eyes and giggled.
Twilight blushed and smiled more then trotted forward to walk alongside her as they headed out of the throne room together.
While Luna was visiting Twilight to prepare for bringing to the castle, Discord and Celestia had been preparing the castle for their many guests. Everything was set now though, and they are taking a little break. The happy couple was in their room under Discord’s thinking tree, sipping tea while Celestia rested against Discord.
Discord sighed. “Well, we have only a few more hours of peace before we invite sheer bedlam into our happy home.”
Celestia smirked. “As though you aren’t absolutely craving it.”
“It’s going to be a cornucopia of randomness and possibility - frankly I can barely stand the wait.” He gripped his hands giddily.
She giggled. “I think our evening together will be fun too.” She gazed up at the blue leaves overhead. “Twilight and Luna are getting quite serious, you know. I wonder if they’ll share that development with all of the others.”
“Oh you know how shy discreet they are,” Discord gazed up too. “Not like us, flamboyantly proclaiming our fiery love all over the place.” He grinned more. “Of course…they might not be the only new couples at the party…”
Celestia raised an eyebrow and glanced at him.
He went on with some smugness. “I don’t have details but something about those letters Chrysalis and Tirek sent us confirming they were coming…the ‘plus ones’ they asked for. I think Queen Novo and Queen Rain Shine mean a little more to our former villains than they let on. I can just tell from how the letters were written. Absolutely smitten.”
“Oh dear,” Celestia sighed, “Cadance is going to be on full alert in that case.”
“Me too. Tirek was always teasing me about you and I getting so lovey-dovey. It’s about time he had a girlfriend I could give him the business about.”
“Don’t tease too much, Discord. You know how delicate and sensitive new couples can be.” She rested her hoof against his chest. “Remember when we were a new couple?”
“How could I forget? We became a new couple right here, after all.” He placed his paw on her hoof. “Well, actually it happened in your parlor, I guess, during our first date. But we became in love right here…the first night we spent together when you told me you loved me too.” He kissed her hoof.
She nuzzled him. “Exactly - and we were skittish as foals for so much of it. Let’s let any new couples reveal themselves when they’re ready.”
He sighed but nodded. “Oh all right. Besides we’ll already have our hands and hooves full with Sombra. I’m sure he won’t try anything evil, but he’s such a drama king. I can’t believe he still insists on wearing that cape of his.”
“I’m sure you and the other boys will take excellent care of him,” Celestia assured. “Of course, that probably means no sneaking off and trying to crash our slumber party…”
“Hmm…don’t rule out anything, princess. I really do have serious trouble resisting you. Unless of course you’re the one who can’t resist me and you crash our little guys night instead.” He winked.
She giggled. “We’ll see. It'll depend on how easily I let Luna trick me into playing Truth or Dare.” She stretched. “It’ll be so nice to have so many friendly faces here.”
Discord nodded and twirled some of her mane through his fingers. “Do you really think Breezy is going to go home so soon?”
Celestia nuzzled him. “If she does, we will visit very very often.”
“I know.” He smiled. “I’ve just gotten used to seeing her. She reminds me so much of Fluttershy. And having her here makes Fluttershy happy and Luster too.” He sighed. “Even the ‘grandchildren’ are growing up and leaving us now.”
Celestia blushed. “We still have Argos.”
Discord brought a hand to his head dramatically. “Until he runs of with some canine special friend to start his own family of multiple headed dogs and we never hear from him again except for postcards at the holidays!”
They laughed. Celestia played with his beard. “Well, then we’ll still have Luna. And Twilight too soon enough. See - at least one of the children will come back to us.”
“Very true.” He kissed her on the forehead. “That’s why I like you so much. You always bring me back to the bright side of things, Sunshine.”
Her smile grew and her eyes hazed. “I try.” She kissed him on the cheek. “Speaking of Twilight, Luna sent me a note at lunch that Twilight is coming with a small surprise - something princess related.”
“Oh good!” Discord grinned. “Who wants a simple dinner? We need some princess complications to spice it up! I mean, more than my five alarm salsa does.” He laughed.
“I’m excited too.” Celestia nodded, laughing as well. “Luna said Twilight wanted to give us the details herself in person - it all sounds very intriguing. And I haven’t known Twilight to be nervous about asking for help in years. This must be something exceptional.”
“It really is nice that the kids still need us sometimes.”
Celestia nodded then sighed. “We should start setting the table for them. It's the last thing we have to do.”
“Or… I could take care of that in a snap and we could spend the time up here instead necking for a little while in the first place we ever kissed?” Discord pumped up his eyebrows and gestured to the tree shading them.
Celestia snorted through her nose in laughter. “Well, I suppose a little recreational time wouldn’t hurt.” His snap went off to set the table, and she brought her mouth to his as Discord put his arms around her. They closed their eyes and kissed deeply - Discord’s hands caressed her wings and back, and Celestia pressed her chest to his and grazed the top of his wings with her hooves, making them flutter.
Discord pulled back after a moment, giddy, and held up his fingers again. “Branches open or closed this time?”
“Closed,” Celestia whispered back, eyes hazed. “I like the privacy. And it reminds me so much of the first time we kissed under here…” There was a glint in her eye. “Plus you get more daring in the dark.”
Discord chuckled and snapped and then dipped her back for a fresh kiss that made Celestia giggle as the willow branches came together to seal them in a little world of dim blue light and flowers like stars for the brief time they had left until company would come.
A little while later, Luster and Breezy arrived at the Everfree Forest castle. When they entered, Discord and Celestia were putting some final touches on the decorating. Breezy’s shy countenance lit up at the sight of her Uncle Discord and she ran over to give him a hug. Luster watched and bit her lip - seeing Discord would be a good push for Breezy to stick around. The pegasus had known him since she was a filly, after all
“Ah, there’s my little Breezy!” Discord laughed as he caught her in his arms to hug her back then set her down. “We’re so happy you could make it, you know.”
She smiled and nodded, adjusting her glasses. “I’m very happy to be here, Uncle Discord.” She glanced to Celestia and a bit of her shyness returned, though her smile remained bright. “I’m looking forward to the sleepover, Aunt Celestia.”
“And Luna is too.” Celestia assured with a wink. “She loves throwing them. I promise you’ll have an unforgettable time.”
Breezy smiled more and hugged around one of Celestia’s forelegs. Celestia smiled and put a wing around her.
Luster approached. “Hi Discord and Celestia! It’s…wow, it’s really almost time to see everyone again.” She swallowed and glanced around. “Princess Twilight is still going to come early too…right? I just…think I’ll handle things better with her here.” She shuffled on her hooves.
There was a knock on the front doors. Celestia magically opened them and in stepped Twilight and Luna. Luster Dawn breathed a tremendous sigh of relief and trotted up to her mentor. “Princess Twilight! Thank you so much for coming!” She hugged the alicorn.
Twilight hugged her back. “Of course! I’m so excited to see how your friends are doing.”
Breezy approached Luna and gave a graceful bow with a smile as Luna bowed her head in return. “Luna, I’m looking forward to the slumber party. I know you probably have everything all planned out but…I hope we can manage some astronomical observations tonight. The star patterns are shifting now that we're past the equinox.”
Luna’s whole look brightened. “Indeed! I have already incorporated such activities into our plans! And I would enjoy a final night spent observing the skies…since you may leave us soon.”
Breezy’s smile faltered. “Yes, well…It will be a nice memory.”
Luster Dawn cleared her throat and quickly stepped in. “Hey, uh…oh we should get in place for everyone’s arrival! They should be here any second.” She raised an eyebrow and glanced around. “Speaking of which, where’s…”
Twilight sighed with a dry look. “Sombra came with us, but he would prefer to be ‘announced’ before he enters the castle. He says that’s the way royalty does it.”
Luna smirked a little. “I asked him what he was ruler of, and that put him out a little. Anyway…” She cleared her throat. “Announcing Sombra! King of…something!”
“Shadows! Ha! That’s what I’m king of, Luna!” Sombra strolled in, head held high. He glanced around. “Hmm, this place isn’t nearly as gauche as I thought it would be.”
Discord crossed his arms and rolled his eyes with a smirk. “Nice to see you too. Quick note considering what happened the last time you popped in - you lay a hoof or a spell on my wife, my sister-in-law, or anyone else in my extended family, I’ll snap my fingers and make you ride a unicycle of doom dressed as a clown for all eternity.”
Sombra rolled his eyes. “Yes, yes, the big threat for show - now everyone’s impressed and Celestia’s eyeing you like she wants some alone-time with her strong protector.”
Discord blinked and glanced over just in time to see Celestia indeed gazing at him in such a sultry way before she cleared her throat and glanced forward with a blush and a sheepish smile. He had to chuckle and then looked back to Sombra. “Wow, no filter on you - even by my low standards. But seriously, it’s not an empty threat.”
“I know!” Sombra sighed. “But come on, look around - half a dozen alicorns are descending on this place. I wouldn’t stand a chance even if I did try something. I just want an opportunity to stretch my legs and finally be surrounded by other royals and notable figures.” He held his head high. “I got to ride in the front seat of the chariot all the way here you know.”
Luster smiled warmly. “That’s nice, Sombra. Did you think Luna and Twilight for letting you do that?”
Sombra blinked then pouted. He waved them off with his hoof. “They know, they know…”
“Sombra,” Luster leaned in, “we talked about expressing gratitude as part of your friendship lessons, remember.”
“Ugh…” he groaned and looked to the two ladies in question, “Thank you for the privilege of riding the royal chariot in the front by myself, your highnesses.”
Twilight laughed a little but nodded. “You’re welcome, Sombra. Anytime.”
He turned to Luster Dawn with a dry look. “Do I pass, teacher?”
She nodded. “With flying colors.”
He held his head high again then glanced around and his eyes fell to Breezy. “Hmm, I don’t know you. So you must be…”
“Fluttershy’s niece Breezy!” Discord added. “That whole, ‘touch my family, spend life on a unicycle’ thing goes for her too.”
Breezy shuffled on her hooves and gave a shy wave. “Hello. It’s nice to meet you, Mister Sombra.”
“Please, ‘Mister Sombra’ sounds like my father. Either King or just Sombra will do.” He nodded. “It’s nice to meet Luna’s student. She talks about you constantly.”
Breezy’s eyes lit up a little.
He smiled a little at the sight then glanced back at the doors. “So, where are the others? Tirek and Chrysalis and Cozy Glow - this should be interesting…”
“They’ll be here soon,” Celestia assured. “I think you’ll have a fun night. Discord’s in charge of the evening activities for the gentle creatures.”
Discord nodded. “I hear you like games so I’ve taken that preference into consideration.”
“Well, at least it won’t be a boring first night out in forever.”
There was another knock from outside, and Sombra grinned. “And the show is about to start.” He turned to the doors with an eager smirk.
The others got into place together, Luster Dawn in front of them all with Twilight just behind her. Celestia opened the doors.
Outside, all three guests of honor and their companions had arrived at once.
And all three modes of transport had merely sat beside each other in silence for a good few minutes.
Finally Cadance had exited her chariot with Shining Armor. Flurry Heart followed. And very hesitantly Cozy Glow peeked out her head.
Novo was in her hippogriff form and had been pulling a dozing Chrysalis along in their formerly underwater chariot (they had left the dolphins at the shore). She nudged her now. “Chriss—Chrysalis,” she whispered, “we’re here.” Chrysalis blinked open her eyes then sat up straight.
The carriage door of Tirek’s caravan opened and he stepped out, guiding Rain Shine by the hoof carefully.
The three friends made eye contact for the first time in a year. And they couldn’t speak.
Cozy Glow couldn’t stand it after a minute and flew to the front doors. “Comes on, everyone, let’s go in. We can all get settled and then deal with each other.” She knocked and the doors and they opened.
Everyone snapped out of their shock and headed in behind the Crystal Empire royal family.
They came upon Luster Dawn with a big smile and tears in her eyes. “Tirek! Chrysalis! Cozy Glow!” She dashed forward and threw herself in the middle of them, and on instinct all three caught her in a hug. “How were your trips? Is everything going well? I mean, I know how things are going from your letters but still… I missed you!”
Each of them cracked a small smile.
Tirek cleared his throat. “We missed you too.” He glanced to Chrysalis, tilting his head at her new appearance.
She didn’t make eye contact and nodded. “Indeed. It has been al long time.” She glanced to Cozy Glow and gave her a nudge with her wing.
Cozy Glow sighed and swallow. “Yeah, hey. So we all missed each other then.”
Luster laughed and pulled back. “I’m just happy you’re all here now.”
Again the three glanced at each other but hesitated, awkwardly.
More greetings and welcomes went on around them.
Sombra approached, his voice low. “Wow, you three actually look quite refreshed. Maybe there is something to this reform thing.” He looked to Cozy Glow and nodded. “Cozy…” And then he turned away.
Chrysalis raised an eyebrow. “What was that about?”
“I’ve been writing to him.”
“What?” Tirek exclaimed.
Cozy Glow rolled her eyes. “Oh calm down, it’s not like when I used to write to you. Sheesh, give me a little credit.” She took a breath and flew forward to join the royal family.
Tirek glanced at Chrysalis. “She’s…certainly gotten more independent. And you look…”
Chrysalis hissed. “Let’s call it ‘different’ and leave it at that.”
“Is that…I mean, is that a transformation or…”
“No this is how I look now. Thankfully sharing love spared me from neon colors and glittery wings.” She pouted looking down and then glanced at him. “You helped Rain Shine out of the carriage. Is she okay?”
Tirek blushed a little and shrugged. “Oh she’s fine - just a long, bumpy ride heh. I-I should go introduce her to the others. Excuse me.” He headed off.
Chrysalis turned her curious gaze to Rain Shine who was talking with Cadance and Shining Armor. She inhaled deeply, her changeling scent for love always available. And then her eyes popped open wide. Her mouth trembled like a smile being fought back. “Oh Tirek…” she whispered, “you have indeed been busy.” And then, feeling out of place being the only one alone, she headed to Novo’s side as the queen spoke with Luna and Twilight.
Discord and Celestia watched the groups mingling and smiled. Discord glanced at Celestia out of the corner of his eye, his voice low. “Ogling me like a first class stud in front of our guests - really, Celestia.”
She blushed and nudged him. “Shh…To be fair I didn’t know I was doing it. It’s just nice when you protect creatures. Very nurturing.”
He chuckled. “Hey, you know…I was just kidding earlier about crashing each other’s parties. But…maybe there’s a compromise. Especially since we had so little time upstairs before. Want to sneak away after everyone’s passed out, meet somewhere, and neck like reckless teenagers breaking curfew?”
She snorted through her nose in laughter then winked. “Maybe…”
Discord swirled his tail with hers for a moment, and Celestia’s heart fluttered. Then she saw Cadance approaching and glanced to her.
“Auntie Celestia, we have the egg with us. Is there a safe place here we can store it? It prefers the cold according to Ember.”
Celestia blinked. “But I thought the egg was going to Twilight.”
Hearing her name, Twilight glanced to the two ponies and with an encouraging nudge from Luna and spoke up. “Oh, well…I actually wanted to discuss some things about the egg with you and with Discord too, so I asked Cadance to bring it here. I was going to set up a snow spell in my room for it.”
“Oh no sense in getting the furniture and the rugs all cold and damp,” Discord assured. “I’ll put the little thing in our amusement park in the catacombs - always cool in there. And I’ll surround it with ice cream.” He chuckled. “Is it outside?”
“It’s with Cozy who has done an excellent job guarding it.” Cadance nodded to the doorway. And in flew Cozy Glow with the chest bearing the dragon egg.
Discord flew over. “Leave it to me - I’m going to put this someplace safe.”
Before he could reach out, Cozy Glow got in front of him. “Fine. But you’re going to tell me where that place is and how to get there because I’m its official guard.”
He smirked but nodded. “Lower level catacombs. I’ll fill the bounce house with ice cream. You get there by jumping through the portrait on the wall behind the tapestry on that wall behind you and sliding through the tunnels straight down.”
Cozy Glow nodded. “Okay. I officially relinquish the egg to you, our host.” She moved to the side.
Discord grabbed the chest. “You’re good at this guard thing. Most of the full grown guards I run into panic at the mere sight of me.”
“I can’t help being one of the best.” Cozy Glow smirked.
He sighed. “Ah, I’ve missed that pomp from all three of you.” She shook his head and then teleported away with the egg chest and came back a few moments later. “All right,” he clapped his hand together, “time for our get togethers to get started, everyone!”
“Yes!” Celestia announced. “It’s almost sundown.” She shared a smile with her sister. “Let’s settle in and begin!”
The groups put aside the few belongings they had, and gradually the ladies went off with Celestia to the library and the guys went off with Discord to the dining room.
“So what’s the drama about a Dragon Egg?” Sombra asked as he took a seat around the table and the others did the same.
Shining Armor pouted. “The egg has no power, it’s just an egg.”
Sombra pouted too now. “Oh relax, I wasn’t going to do anything to it. Is this attitude because I made you throw your wife that one time to beat me?”
“This ‘attitude’ is because I don’t know you well enough yet to trust you very much.”
Sombra smiled. “You’re going to like me one day, I know it.”
Shining Armor sighed and shook his head but did crack a small smile. “One of our Generals, Tempest, discovered a dragon egg frozen in the tundra while on patrol. The Dragon Lord Ember says it must have been from the Great Dragons of the Frozen North that lived in the territory thousands of moons ago. She thinks it could still hatch but it needs special care.”
Tirek swallowed and wiped at his brow, looking down. “That’s a big responsibility.”
“Oh but a fun one!” Discord beamed. “I’m glad Twilight had the egg brought here - maybe I can play with it tomorrow before everyone goes.”
“How do you play with an egg?” Sombra raised an eyebrow.
Discord shrugged. “Well, you mostly play ‘around’ the egg. Bring it toys and take walks with it and talk to it. Fluttershy does those things all the time for eggs in her animal sanctuary.”
“He’s right,” Shining Armor nodded. “I used to do that near Cadance’s stomach when she was pregnant with Flurry Heart.”
“How domestic.” Sombra’s look went dry and he glanced to Tirek. “At least you haven’t become an absolute homebody.”
“Oh, who, me? No of course not!” Tirek smiled way too much and glanced around nervously.
The others watched him.
Discord sighed. “Okay, well, Tirek clearly has something to share with the group but he’s clearly not ready.”
“I do not have—“
He gave Tirek a pat on the shoulder. “Just relax and let it out when the time’s right.”
Tirek sighed deeply but finally nodded. “Can we just please move on to whatever we’re doing? Please?”
Discord clapped his hands together. “Yes! I promised games!” He snapped his fingers. “Poker!” The table filled with cards and gambling chips, and Discord was wearing a green dealers visor. He shuffled the cards back and forth in his hands. “Or any other card game you can think of, but poker is especially fun in my opinions! Plus I put in some chaos magic so sometimes the cards change suites or become wild cards or just turn into candy. And speaking of food…” He snapped. Barrels of fizzy cider appeared along with boxes of pizza and bowls of chips and popcorn. “Oh and finally…” He snapped again and Argos appeared in the room. “Argos is a guy so he gets to hang out with us tonight - aren’t you a good boy, Argos!” The dog jumped into his lap and licked his face happily.
“Cards…” Sombra considered, “Twilight and Luna never want to play cards.” He smirked. “Intriguing.”
“Poker…” Tirek grinned and shook his head. “Chrysalis and I used to play late at night in that cavern when Cozy was asleep…and when we thought Grogar was asleep.” He rolled his eyes.
Discord waved him off. “No, ‘Grogar’ was busy taking breaks to woo Celestia with friendship.”
“I like cards!” Shining Armor smiled brightly. “I taught Flurry to play when she was little. I still play with some of the guards a few nights each moon. Cadance too - but she’s hard to beat, her poker face is crazy.”
Discord dealt out the cards and tossed Argos a slice of pizza. “This’ll be fun! And whoever has the most chips at the end of the night gets to make a special request for breakfast - whatever it is, I’ll snap it up.”
“Now you’re talking!” Shining Armor sighed. “Crystal Berry Cinnamon Buns with peanut butter filling. That is the best combo you ever made up when you used to visit us when Flurry was a baby.”
They shared a laugh. Then they noticed Tirek glancing at the dining room entrance. Discord raised an eyebrow. Tirek noticed and cleared his throat. “I might…leave to check in on Rain Shine from time to time.”
Discord smirked. “I’m afraid that won’t be possible. Luna has a strict ‘no boys allowed’ policy at her sleepovers. She locks her rooms down like they were holding a national treasure.”
Sombra rolled his eyes. “I know! No offense to you three, but I at least wanted to spend part of the evening at the infamous slumber party, and Luna turned me down flat. Honestly!”
Tirek smiled. “So then they’re all very safe and secure, yes?”
Discord tilted his head and grinned more. “I’m gonna get out of you whatever it is you’re hiding.”
Sombra scoffed. “If it’s that Rain Shine is his girlfriend, it’s painfully obvious.”
“Luster hasn’t gone over the rudeness of speaking out of turn, I see,” Tirek replied dryly.
Sombra smirked. “Just saving us all a lot of time.”
Tirek crossed his arms, pouting. “Yes, we are ‘involved’ but that is not the matter on my mind. Moving on…”
Shining Armor spoke up as he grabbed some cider. “I think Rain Shine seems great, Tirek. And I promise that she’s in the safest place she could be right now. My own baby is in that room and I feel fully confident about her. And Cozy’s in there too - she’ll fight anything and win, period.”
Tirek’s smile softened and he nodded. “All right. Let’s enjoy our socializing, I suppose.”
Shining Armor grinned. “And hey, maybe later the girls will play truth or dare, and some of them will visit and we can really have some fun. Remember, Discord - chaotic popcorn and being satisfied?”
Tirek and Sombra smirked, and Discord just blushed and waved off Shining armor. “We all know Luna’s parties get a little intense - anything’s possible.” He glanced at Tirek and Sombra. “And yes, I will tell the story about what Shining is talking about. It was back when Celestia and I were mercilessly flirting but pretending it was just part of our friendship.”
“Oh boy, more Discord and Celestia tales…” Tirek remarked, and yet he was smiling a little.
“Truth or dare.” Sombra grinned. “Whatever Luna has in store, she can bring it on. I’m ready.”
Shining Armor had lured Argos over with some pizza and was now petting him and smooshing his face. “Who’s a good boy? Aw…maybe we should get a dog too.”
“Definitely!” Discord chimed in. “The more the merrier when it comes to family!”
Shining Armor smiled a little more. “Exactly.” He gave Argos another hug and turned to his hand of cards as everyone else did the same. The poker game began.
Twilight and Luna had teleported ahead of the other ladies to the library - laughing and whispering and assuring everyone that a grand night was ahead of them. Celestia lead the rest of their party through the halls on hoof. Cozy Glow stayed close to Flurry Heart, and Chrysalis stayed close to Novo and Luster stayed close to Breezy. Cadance found herself trailing behind, observing Rain Shine. She was sensing…something about the kirin. She took a breath and let her horn lightly glow as her love magic reached out to the other creature.
Instantly Cadance’s eyes widened and a smile appeared on her face. She moved beside Rain Shine and spoke to her quietly. “Er, Queen Rain Shine? It’s very nice to meet you. I’m Princess Cadance.”
Rain Shine smiled and nodded. “A pleasure to meet you as well. And the rest of your family.”
“Thank you.” Cadance swallowed. “So…I thought I should mention that Luna’s sleepovers tend to begin with surprises that can sometimes be a shock to the system. So you may want to brace yourself or hang back behind the others.”
Rain Shine tilted her head slightly. “Are you concerned I’ll become a Nirik?”
Cadance shook her head. “No…” Her eyes met Rain Shine’s.
Rain Shine’s smile picked up a little on one side. “You are very observant. Thank you for the warning. I’ll still go in but I shall ‘brace myself’ as you say.”
Cadance smiled and nodded.
The group rounded a corner and reached the library doors.
Celestia turned to them, her eyes bright. “Welcome to an official moon princess Slumber Party!” She opened the doors.
There was darkness at first…Then blue and purple smoke rolled out along the floor, woven with flashes of magic that looked like lightning.
Cozy Glow raised an eyebrow. “Okay, this is kind of cool…”
“I know, it’s the best!” Flurry Heart beamed and pranced in place.
Novo grinned. “Oh this is fun…”
“Please.” Chrysalis rolled her eyes. “I could be far more terrifying than this without even trying.”
Novo nudged her. “I already know that.” She winked.
Chrysalis blushed, eyes wide.
“ENTER AT YOUR OWN PERIL!” boomed Luna’s royal Canterlot voice in the deep tones of Nightmare Moon.
Celestia’s eyes brightened. “Me first!” She dashed to the entrance, stepped one hoof inside… “Oh!” And she was immediately pounced and pulled out of sight by a shadowy figure. She laughed as she was dragged into darkness.
“Hmm…” Chrysalis smirked, “Interactive terror - better.”
“Ready, Breezy?” Luster held out her hoof to her friend. Breezy nodded in excitement and took her hoof and the two mares ran into the room together and were quickly scooped up by shadows.
“Me next!” Flurry Heart called out.
As she dashed forward, Cozy Glow stuck beside her. “I’m coming with you - just to be extra cautious!”
They were barely in the doorway when they were tackled and pulled into the darkness.
Chrysalis sighed deeply and glanced at Novo with a sheepish grin. “We…could really just skip the more colorful festivities, maybe hang out by the lake. You don’t have to—“
“Oh no!” Novo grinned and narrowed her eyes. “I’m in for this. But let’s not make it easy for them, hmm?”
Chrysalis considered then nodded, smiling again. “Oh fine - we’re already here, might as well get on with it.” The two ladies headed forward into the dark. Shadows reached out to grab them but Novo pounced hers to the ground and so did Chrysalis. Sounds of laughter and determined fighting came from them as they went further into the room.
Cadance sighed and looked to Rain Shine. “This is kind of what I was talking about.”
Rain Shine tilted her head. “Hmm…well, I’m certain it’s safe even if it is intense. I’ll give it a try.” She changed into her Nirik form and charged in, getting past the shadows before they could get a hold of her. Cadance laughed and followed. She was swept up by a shadow too.
In the darkness, Nightmare Moon’s voice boomed around them. “We have you now, puny creatures - I shall gobble you up! And with my new partner in crime, there is no escape!”
New laughter came from the shadows. “Yes! I Midnight Sparkle will feed off of your emotions of friendship and doom you to the wrath of Nightmare Moon and myself! Your only chance is to work together to end our reign of terror!”
“Yay!” Breezy and Luster yelled at the same time and clapped their hooves together.
“Boo!” Cozy Glow called out. “This was cooler before it turned into a team building exercise!”
“I propose another solution that will take less time and be more fun!” Chrysalis called out. “Rain Shine, can you brighten your glow to shed a little more light on the subject?”
The Nirik’s flame grew until everyone was illuminated among the shadows.
Chrysalis smirked. “Perfect!” She transformed into giant squid. One tentacle swatted away the shadows that had captured the others, another tentacle swept protectively in front of her fellow creatures, and her remaining tentacles went to capture the two shadowy figures flying above the room - Nightmare Moon who was indeed in the appearance of her former villainous self, and Twilight who was in an impressive villain transformation of her own.
“Yay Chrysalis - you go, lady!” Novo clapped.
Chrysalis blushed and lost her concentration which allowed Twilight and Luna to share a glance and then combine their magic to create a giant manifestation of the Tantabus.
Everyone gasped. “What in the world?!” Shocked, Chrysalis reverted to her usual form and huddled back with Novo.
“Yay and verily, we have terrified even the mighty Chrysalis herself as well as others!” Luna announced. The two alicorns hoof bumped and landed.
Luna spoke in her normal voice as she explained to Chrysalis, “And this is a an illusion of the Tantabus - a being of negative energy that formerly tormented my dreams as penance for my past villainous crimes.”
Chrysalis’s jaw fell. “There is…so much I do not know about you princesses.”
Twilight smiled and spoke in her normal voice, “I suppose we can send away the Tantabus illusion though. We promised a relaxing night overall.”
“Indeed - but fear not, everyone! More excitement is still to come.” Luna winked.
With a flash of magic from each of their horns, Luna and Twilight returned to normal and the Tantabus disappeared and the lights came back on, and the shadows transformed into throw pillows of various colors.
Breezy raced up to her mentor. “That was scary…but also amazing, Luna. You’re so strong.”
“Princess Twilight, that was SO COOL!” Luster Dawn beamed. “You need to come dressed like that to the next Nightmare Night dance at the school.”
“Heh, thanks.” Twilight smiled sheepishly.
Breezy glanced around. “Um…but where is Celestia?”
“Celestia?” Luster Dawn glanced around too - indeed the sun princess was absent.
“Boo!”
“Ahh!!!” The entire room jumped and yelled when Celestia suddenly dropped from the ceiling transfigured to look like Day Breaker, fangs bared.
As soon as she landed she returned to her usual self, and she, Twilight, and Luna burst into laughter. “I’m sorry,” Celestia wiped a tear from her eye, “Twilight and Luna and I were planning that final surprise for months.”
“Not bad,” Novo observed. “I knew this would be a fun night.” She got close alongside Chrysalis. “Thank you for trying to protect everyone. I like squids.”
Chrysalis’s eyes hazed as she gazed back at Novo. But when the changeling noticed Cadance observing her from across the room, she quickly pouted.
Cadance just smiled and shook her head then went over to her daughter and Cozy Glow. “Why don’t we all get settled in, have some snacks, and enjoy ourselves.” With a twinkle in her eye, she turned to Luna. “Maybe we’ll play some games too - like truth or dare?”
Luna smirked back at her and both of them looked to Celestia.
Celestia sighed and rolled her eyes. “What will you do - dare me to pop in on my husband of twenty five years and flirt? How risqué.”
Cadance laughed. “Oh there have to be better things. We’ll think of something.”
“Why don’t we start with introductions?” Celestia settled into a location on the floor surrounded by pillows. “Some of us haven’t seen each other in a while or ever, after all.”
“Indeed.” Luna settled in near her sister. “Queen Rain Shine in particular is new to our happy home as is Queen Novo. We would love to hear how you were both persuaded to come? It is quite impressive that your bonds of friendship with Tirek and Chrysalis have become so strong. We are happy to see them thriving.”
Luster Dawn nodded, looking sheepish. “I’m happy too. But, er…we don’t need details if anyone is uncomfortable.”
Rain Shine shrugged. “There is no issue for me - Tirek and I discussed what we were comfortable sharing on the way here.” She smiled a little more and gently settled herself among many pillow. “We have been courting for some time now. He is a rather gallant prince once you get to know him.”
There were some giggles and squeals of congratulations.
Chrysalis swallowed and cleared her throat. “And, er…I…well… I have escorted Queen Novo here because she…I…we…”
Novo smiled gently. “Take your time. If it helps, I’m pretty sure they already know.”
Chrysalis blushed very much but when her gaze met Novo’s she rolled her eyes and grinned. “We are seeing each other quite exclusively and have been for some time.”
Cadance beamed and instantly teleported herself over to Chrysalis and gave her a big hug. “Oh Chrysalis! I’m so happy for you!”
“Get off me! This is totally uncalled for!”
“I’m just happy to see you so happy!” The love princess pulled back, beaming.
“Aw…” Novo chuckled. “You’re right, dear, Cadance really is like the perky version of you - all that passion.”
Cadance giggled and Chrysalis sighed. She caught Cozy Glow’s eye.
Cozy Glow flew over and observed Chrysalis then Novo. “Hmm…You’re good at teasing Chrysalis but in a way that helps her. I like it. I definitely approve.” She looked to Rain Shine. “And you seem like you’d be great at making Tirek chill out. You’re okay with me too. It’s nice to meet both of you.” She gave each of them a salute. Rain Shine nodded her head and Novo gave a dramatic bow.
Twilight smiled. “And I know you’re probably familiar with the Equestrian princesses, and I’m sure both of you have heard of Luster Dawn from Tirek and Chrysalis. And this is her friend, Luna’s student and Fluttershy’s niece, Breezy.”
The two little ponies waved.
“Huzzah!” Luna clapped her hooves together. “Now that we are all acquainted let us begin! Her horn glowed and then gallons of cider and platters of cake and cookies and pudding appeared along with take-out boxes from various Canterlot restaurants. “I thought we could start with dinner and spooky stories.”
The group was in agreement, the food was quickly shared, and happy conversations and laughter soon filled the room.