The group was silent as their friend furiously re-read the letter over and over, shocked at the abruptness of it, their picnic momentarily forgotten.
Twilight lowered the letter and looked at her friends. “This has to be some kind of joke right?” She asked in a wavering voice. “Princess Celestia likes a good joke every now and then… right?”
Rarity leaned over and placed a hoof on her shoulder. “I don’t think this is a joke Twilight.”
Twilight’s bottom lip trembled. “But-but she left without saying good bye.”
Rarity levitated the letter up to her face whilst the rest of their friends came closer to give their friend a hug. Twilight took a couple of deep breaths as her friends hugged her tightly she looked over at Rarity who was reading the letter for herself.
“What do you suppose it means when she said it would be rude of her to ask you to leave?” Rarity looked at Twilight as the rest of their friends released her.
Twilight wiped her eyes with the back of her hoof, blinking away forming tears. “She was probably wanting me to move back to Canterlot so that I could be closer to Princess Luna I guess.”
The others gasped and Pinkie tackled Twilight in a bear hug. “You can’t move away Twilight, you’re one of my extra super special ultra-mega bestestest friends in the whole wide world.” Rainbow and Applejack quickly rushed forward and set to work prying Pinkie off their friend in a valiant effort to save her from Pinkie induced strangulation.
Spike opened his mouth to chip in but was cut off as a tell-tale burp of an incoming letter forced its way out followed by a trail of green smoke that condensed into a scroll bearing the Lunar crest. His scales turned a tinge of green as he failed to suppress the urge to gag. He picked up the scroll just as Pinkie, Rainbow and Applejack sprung backwards in a heap leaving a gasping Twilight lying on her back.
Twilight waited for her breath to come back to her before picking up the scroll. She quietly prayed that Luna would be able to shed some light on what was going on as she quickly unwrapped the scroll and read the contents out loud to her friends.
Twilight Sparkle, it appears that Celestia has finally taken a well-deserved vacation. Because of this We are to be the sole ruler of Equestria until she returns and as such We will require sound and respectable counsel in coming days to help Our subjects adapt to the change. Celestia has highly recommended you for this role and We could think of no pony better suited. We are sending a carriage to collect you this noon to discuss your future position.
And now I must go remember how to lower the sun.
Your friend,
Princess Luna.
P.S You are welcome to bring the other element bearers, they will be undoubtedly important to your decision.
Twilight took a deep breath to steady her nerves as she rolled up the scroll; looked at her friends as she sat down. She opened her mouth to speak but couldn't think of anything to say. The others sat down next to her, enveloping her in a group hug. They stayed that way, just letting their mutual closeness reassure each other that everything was going to be fine.
Eventually it was Applejack who broke away from the group hug first and she walked over to the pair of saddle bags she had brought with her, she reached down into one of them and pulled out an apple pie.
She placed it on the mat and began dividing the pie up. “My Pappy always used to say that pie was good for thinking things over. ‘Trust the pie Jackie’ he would say.” She pushed a slice over to Twilight with a smile. “I guess right now, we could all use a slice.”
Twilight accepted the slice with a smile, and as she began to eat surrounded by loving friends with the comforting warmth of the midday sun gently brushing her coat, she couldn't help but think that maybe everything would be all right.
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As Twilight watched the girls pack up the remains of the picnic she couldn't help but ponder Celestia's message to her. She always had a plan for everything, a scheme in the background or a plot in the wings, just up and leaving, thrusting responsibility onto her student wasn't like her..
She was brought back to reality when Spike tapped his claw on her nose; she shook her head and blinked a couple of times. “Sorry, lost in thought.”
Spike rolled his eyes. “As Rainbow was saying; where do you want to meet later for the carriage?”
Twilight pursed her lips momentarily in thought. “Princess Luna will be sending the carriage to collect me, which means that it will be going to the library…so the library is where we should meet up.”
The rest of the group nodded and said their good-byes for time being, each promising to be there when the carriage arrived. Waving good-bye, Twilight set off towards home, Spike clutching the scrolls as he sat on her back.
As they strolled through the peaceful township Twilight couldn't help but admire how the ponies around her went on with their daily lives, blissfully unaware of the political shit storm that was brewing in Canterlot.
She strongly suspected that even her friends didn’t know how bad things were going to get in the capital. They couldn’t be blamed for not knowing; after all they were rural ponies, peasants, at heart, even Rarity and her dreams of aristocracy. They didn’t know how complicated and fragile the games of politics that nobles engaged in were.
Twilight's blood ran cold as a thought reared its self in her mind.
With their only limiting factor removed, the nobles were going to go berserk. They had only followed Celestia because she held the power to cancel their little schemes and because of a deeply ingrained sense of tradition. With Celestia gone and Luna occupying the throne the game had changed and Nobles did not like change.
They wouldn’t respect Luna enough to listen to her advice or her verdicts, nor would Luna be subtle or patient enough to play them at their own game. The only way Luna would be able to enforce her rule would be through force and shows of power.
It could only end in disaster, for both Luna and the country.
Unless, unless somepony could play both the Princess and the nobles whilst keeping the balance between them. Somepony that had been trained in the methods of the royal court but was unbiased in her opinions, willing to serve the country without abusing their power, a pony that was respected by all and held vast amounts of influence but was modest and humble at the same time…a pony like her.
Twilight let out a squeal of joy at figuring out the reasoning behind her mentor’s request. She hurried the rest of the distance home in a mad rush, energized with a sense of purpose. She had been entrusted with a pivotal role in maintaining the well-being of the nation, any questions she had could be answered later with the Princess.
Twilight was so deeply engrossed in thought that she only realized she had reached her destination when she received a face full of door.
“Told you to watch out.” Her assistant quipped from behind her as he dismounted. Twilight simply rubbed her nose as she pushed the door open with her magic. Twilight checked the clock as she walked into the room, just over three hours till Luna’s carriage arrived.
“Twilight, why don't you go relax.” Spike said as he jumped from her back.
“Spike, don’t be silly, I’m fine.” She replied with a wave of her hoof.
Spike place a hand on her leg and Twilight looked down at him. “Twilight….” He didn’t need to finish the sentence. Nodding slightly Twilight gave a slight sigh.
"You know me to well don't you?"
"Like a book." He replied.
Smiling, Twilight wrapped her other foreleg around her de-facto little brother and squeezed lightly before releasing, Spike following suit.
Spike walked away to go send a couple of letters as Twilight walked up to her balcony and looked out over the bustling township as it went about it’s business under the midday sun. From her vantage point she could take in the sounds and smells of the market, the sound of laughter as fillies ran through the streets and off in the distance visible on a clear day the rainbow mists of the Winsome falls.
She inhaled and held the air in her lungs before releasing, taking in the warmth of the sun on her coat.
Dear Princess Celestia, she thought, I miss you already.
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Twilight and her friends (plus Spike) watched as the large carriage descended from the sky, pulled by six of the unmistakable Night Guard. As they touched down one of them detached himself from the harness and opened the door for them to enter, giving them a bow as they boarded.
As they rose up into the sky and the carriage began to move towards Canterlot, everypony aboard looked back to Ponyville to catch a last glimpse of their home before it disappeared into the distance. Everypony except Twilight Sparkle, who was deep in concentration as her mind shifted gears into a set long unused.
The carriage ride was long; the conversation between the passengers was mostly centered around what the Princess was going to do, what she was going to say and whether or not Twilight would accept. The unicorn in question kept strangely quiet whenever the conversation turned to the subject of her choice, staying quiet no matter how her friends tried to persuade her to talk.
Eventually the carriage arrived over Canterlot as night began to descend; the sparkling lights of the city illuminated the magnificent white and gold walls of the palace as they swooped down to the large courtyard. An area clearly marked as the landing zone by the large number of attendees in white and gold livery had been prepared for them. As the carriage touched down the servants rushed forward and formed a row on either side of the door, bowing as it was opened and the passengers disembarked.
Applejack whistled as she took in the sight. "Woh never had this kind of a welcome before."
The group waited as a servant wearing black and purple livery walked down the impromptu aisle to greet the new arrivals. He bowed as he approached; focusing only on Twilight as he spoke.
“Madam it is a relief to see you home where you belong once more. Under more…calm…situations I would be honored to escort you to your estate that you might rest after such an arduous journey. However I must please ask you to proceed this way proceed this way, the Princess is expecting you in the Gold Hall.” With another bow that was obviously meant for Twilight he turned and began to walk away into the palace.
Twilight seemed un-phased by the servant’s behavior; however her friends were stunned by his indifference to their presence. As they began to walk after the servant, flanked by the other attendees, Rainbow flew up beside Twilight.
“Hey Twi what’s with the escort and the cold shoulder from fancy smanshcy pants?”
Twilight looked to her friend with a sheepish expression. “The servants are assigned to me to keep the…uh…commoners away from us. As for the cold shoulder; he’s a royal page, they don’t address anyone not a part of the noblesse.”
“Well that’s just….wait you’re a noble?”
Rarity appeared beside Twilight in a flash, shunting Rainbow aside. “Twilight, you’re of the nobility and you didn't tell me! For shame, just think on all the functions we've missed out on, all the connections I…I mean we could have made.”
Twilight sighed. “That’s just it Rarity, I didn't tell you because I don't like to get involved with all” She gestured to their escort. “this. The peace and quiet of Ponyville was much more preferable. I didn't have to think so much.”
Rarity gave a pout and looked at her friend skeptically. “Come now Twilight, things can’t be that bad.”
Twilight just shook her head. “Trust me Rarity; you don’t know anything about the nobility.”
Rarity scoffed. “Oh Twilight please, I think I know just a teensy bit more about being a lady than you. No offence intended, but you are neither the most social nor cultured of ponies.”
Twilight raised an eyebrow in annoyance. “Oh really? Rarity I think you are in need of a demonstration.”
Twilight nodded her head and coughed slightly, one of the escorts looked at her.
“Is there something you require madam?”
Twilight gave a smile and spoke, however her voice and mannerisms were more cultured and refined than what they normally were. “Why yes my companion and I are so terribly parched, and well if isn’t too much of an inconvenience could we trouble you for a glass of water?” She bit her bottom lip slightly and looked away shyly from the servant who, despite turning an impressive shade of red, managed to keep a somewhat level voice.
“Yes certainly madam, it is on its way.” He then broke away from the formation, the others reforming to compensate for his departure.
Twilight then turned to Rarity and giggled at the shocked expression she wore. “Oh Rarity, darling whatever is the matter?”
The group began laughing as Rarity made spluttering noises before fainting, one of the servants swooping in and catching her on his back. As the laughing died down the servant that had left to get the water returned balancing two cups on a dish on his back, Twilight thanked him and levitated the glasses towards her.
Grinning mischievously she moved the glasses over her unconscious friend and inverted them, spilling the ice-cold water over her and the servant supporting her. Rarity gasped and threw herself from the servant’s back; the servant himself simply blinked and re-joined his position in the formation.
After the group had stopped laughing and Twilight had apologized to the servant, who gave a curt nod, they set off once more. Twilight looked at the décor around her, the warm orange and pristine white bringing back fond memories of talks with the Princess.
I won’t let you down Princess I promise Twilight thought to herself.
Eventually the group came to hall way guarded by two gold-plated pegasai, the décor beyond them was a rich gold and purple. The group came to a stop and the escort left, leaving only the black and purple dressed servant, the guard on the left approached them called out to the servant. “You who approach the Golden Halls announce yourself.”
The servant bowed. “Sirs I humbly introduce Lady Twilight Sparkle of the house Illumine.”
The Royal Guard nodded in confirmation. “Welcome milady.”
Twilight gave an uncomfortable smile to the Guard and quickly trotted past him, the rest of the girls went to follow her only for the Guards to bar them.
“What the hay?” Applejack called out, causing Twilight to turn around.
“Sirs, it’s okay they’re with me.”
The guard that hadn’t spoken before shook his head. “I’m sorry milady but I cannot allow commoners past this point, tis law.”
"What the buck guys! If had noticed we're like national hero's!" Rainbow shouted as tried to push past the guards.
Twilight’s eyes widened in recognition and she slapped a hoof to her forehead.
“Oh how could I have forgotten, these parts of the Palace are barred to the commoners and non-ponies.”
Come on Twilight you can't afford to be making stupid mistakes.
“You are allowed a personal servant into the halls madam.” The guard offered upon seeing the look on Twilight's face. ”But regrettably, you are only allowed one.”
Twilight looked at her friends and groaned. “Uhhhhh, it’s just like the gala ticket all over again.” Except Princess Celestia isn’t here to solve it. “I guess I can only take one of you girls in.”
Applejack shrugged. “Ah don’t mind being left behind, give me a chance to do some late night sightseeing, maybe visit some of those famous clubs the brochures keep yapping on about. Sides I wouldn’t feel mighty comfortable with those froufrou ponies anyhow.”
“Yeah, don’t think those stuffy powder faces could take my awesomeness. I’ll join AJ.” Rainbow added.
“If you don’t mind Twilight I would love to go see the Canterlot nocturnal petting zoo, so umm I would like to go with Applejack…if that’s okay.” Fluttershy squeaked from behind Applejack.
Pinkie tapped her chin. “Hmmmmmm, I’ll have the banana Sunday with extra Sunday.” Having made up her mind the pink pony reached behind her and pulled out a banana split which she devoured in a single bite, bowl and all, the room looked at her in disbelief.
Twilight raised a hoof. “Where did you-“
“Inventory quick select.”
“But that makes…”Twilight was about to complete her sentence when she remembered who she was taking to. “Never mind, what do you want to do?”
Pinkie giggled. “You’re so silly sometimes Twilight, its night time and you know what that means… dungeon crawling!”
“……Okay, have fun I guess? What about you Rarity?”
“Oh I would love to take this occasion to visit some of the fashion hot spots if you don’t mind, after all fashion never sleeps. Besides why not take Spikey wikey?”
Spike shook his head. “Won’t work, the nobles will allow a commoner in if she is attached to another noble, but under no circumstance is a non-pony allowed into their private section. Unless they happen to be ambassadors or other high ranking creatures, then they fall head over hooves to make them comfortable.”
Rarity stepped forward. “Then I’ll join you Twilight, Princess knows you’ll need a pony with some style and fashion sense in there with you.”
Twilight smiled. “Thanks Rarity, I’d like that.”
The Guards parted to allow the white unicorn through, the pair waved to their friends as the group left to explore the city everypony agreeing to meet at Donut Joe’s.
Twilight walked down the hall way with Rarity beside her, the hall way was richly decorated with heavy purple cloths embroidered in gold thread. Twilight could tell by the way Rarity’s eyes roamed the walls that she was entranced.
“Beautiful isn’t it.” She said as she nudged her friend, Rarity gave a sigh in acknowledgement.
“Yes it is….” She said breathily.
The sounds of talking and light ballroom music could be heard from the end of the hallway. Before they came to the end of the hallway Twilight froze, a sign that she was in intense thought.
Rarity looked to her friend concerned. “What is it?”
“I’m not prepared for this.”
“Twilight you are the most accomplish-“
Twilight interrupted her friend with a hoof wave. “Not that kind of not prepared Rarity, this is my first appearance in the Halls in over eight years. I’m not prepared physically, I can’t believe I am about to ask this but did you bring your make up gear with you?”
Rarity blinked. “Well yes in my bags but not on me no, why ever do you need it?”
“Drat….okay I know a place we can go to get some stuff, hold on.”
“What?” Rarity had barely got the word out of her mouth when Twilight lit her horn and teleported them away.
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Rarity blinked and examined the change of scenery. They had gone from the overt grandeur Halls to what was obviously a bedroom, a very nice bedroom. Set up against the wall furthest from the large double doors was a grand, four poster bed. On the ground next to it was what looked to be a dog bed but twice the size with a pillow and sheets. Against another wall was a wooden study desk piled high with notes and books, all neatly arranged. Not far from the desk was another set of doors much smaller than the pair behind Rarity. On the wall with the windows was a set of curtains drawn back to reveal a balcony, on the balcony was a telescope.
“Twilight, where are we?” Rarity asked as Twilight moved to the pair of smaller doors.
Twilight paused before throwing open the doors with a push of magic, revealing a massive walk in closet complete with vanity and row upon row of dresses, hats and hoofwear. “My room.”
Rarity gasped both from the shock of what her friend had said and the contents of the closet, she resisted the urge to rush forward and try on clothes. “Your room?”
Twilight looked at the stack of paper and books on the desk. “Nice to see things the way I left them.”
“Twilight, how high up in the nobility are your parents?” Rarity asked as she looked around the room.
Twilight simply shrugged. “High enough.”
Rarity gave Twilight a questioning look at her evasive answer and shook her head. “So why are we here Twilight, are we not supposed to be meeting with the Princess?”
Twilight shook her head. “This is the first time I’ve appeared in court since I arrived in Ponyville. I have to make a good impression otherwise the Nobility will think I’ve gone, no offense, native. I can’t help Princess Luna if I can’t talk to the Noblesse.”
Rarity stopped and slowly turned her head to look directly into Twilight’s eyes. “So you have already made up your mind I see.”
Twilight eyes widened in shock as she realized her mistake, she stammered for a bit before looking away. “Yeah…” She slowly scuffed the ground with a fore hoof.
Rarity giggled. “Pinkie won’t like that.”
“You’re not mad?” Twilight asked confused as she looked at her friend with a raised eyebrow.
Rarity gave a flick of her mane putting on a dignified expression. “A little annoyed that you decided to do this without consulting me first, yes, but you are going to be the most important pony next to the Princess by taking this position.”
Twilight raised the other eyebrow in surprise, Rarity smirked back at her. “Come now dear, I may be from a small town but I am not stupid. By becoming the advisor to the Princess your opinion will be the most important one in the entire court the entire Nobility will be clamoring for your attention. But you already knew that didn’t you.”
Twilight sighed. “Yeah, I did.”
“Then let us get you dressed for the occasion, you have an appointment to keep” Rarity shot Twilight a grin. “milady.”
Twilight rolled her eyes and smiled
Rarity looked over the selection of dresses, her eyes widened and she felt her knees go weak as she recognized some of the brands. “A Triple Stich limited Summer Collection, three dresses from the Amour Winter Collection, an original from the Les Jardins Du Paradis! They only made ten….. Twilight dear some of these are worth a fortune, however did you get them?!”
“It seems my father has kept my wardrobe up to date.”
“Up to date…Twilight you could buy a house on the cost of some of these alone!”
“Only the best for my princess.” A deep male voice sounded from behind the pair, they spun around with a gasp, Twilight recognizing the voice instantly.
“Dad!” She cried and ran over hugged the light blue stallion.
He chuckled heartily as he nuzzled Twilight fondly. “The front door too good for you?”
Twilight blushed. “Oh sorry, kind of in a rush I thought you would be over at the Halls.”
Nightlight shook his head. “No that’s more your mother’s scene now, she’s over there at the moment I decided to stay and hold the fort. I assume this is something to do with Princess Celestia’s sudden vacation I presume?”
“Yeah, Princess Luna asked me to be her personal advisor.”
Nightlight's face broke into a huge grin at the news. “And you came here to get dressed for the occasion, wouldn’t do for the others to think you’ve gone native.”
“Exactly.”
Nightlight winked at his daughter whilst still wearing the grin. “And who is this mare you’ve brought into our house at this time of the night, something you want to tell me?”
Rarity turned a shade of red and Twilight started spluttering. “Dad! This is my friend Rarity, were just friends.”
“Really? The way I saw she was sizing your flank up when I came in told another story.”
“She’s a tailor! She was sizing me up for…you’re joking again aren't you.”
He simply grinned at her. “So this is the Rarity you've written so much to us about.” He walked over to the white unicorn and offered a hoof, which she accepted daintily. “It is an honor to finally met you, my dear.”
Rarity curtsied. “It is an honor to meet you as well, Twilight is rather secretive about her past, I had no idea that she was even Nobility till a few minutes ago.”
“Really?” Nightlight gave his daughter a stern look, Twilight looked up the ceiling whistling a tune.
“Not a peep, milord.”
”Nightlight my dear, just Nightlight to my daughter’s friends.”
“Well I am certain the others will be equally as pleased to meet you as well.”
“Others, I assume you mean the other element bearers?”
“Naturally, we’re set to stay at a local hotel.”
Nightlight rang a bell that was on one of the bedside tables. “This won’t do, not at all; I won’t have friends of my daughters staying at some two bit a night hotel.” A tall grey pony with a jet black mane and wearing a neat butler suit walked into the room, nearly causing Rarity to swoon. “Sebastian somewhere in the city are four friends of my daughter and Spike, find them and bring them here for lodging.”
“Certainly sir.” The pony neatly spun on his hooves and walked out of the room.
Rarity looked after him, or more precisely his flank. “But he doesn’t even know what they look like? How will he be able to find them in the whole of Canterlot?”
Twilight shrugged. “He is one hell of a butler.” Nightlight nodded sagely along with her.
“But that doesn't explain anything.”
Both Twilight and Nightlight looked at her intensely. “One hell of a butler.” They said in unison.
Rarity stepped back slightly. “…..Let’s get you that dress shall we?”
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Five minutes later….
“Twilight you look gorgeous.” Nightlight beamed at his daughter as she twirled around in front of him. “Rarity my dear you do wonderful work.”
Rarity blushed as she patted the dress she had chosen for herself. “You are to kind sir, all I did was chose an outfit from what was available. If anything I should congratulate you on having such excellent fashion taste.”
“Hahaha then you would have to give thanks to my wife; she was the one who picked the clothing. How do like it Twilly?”
Twilight couldn't take her eyes off her reflection as she spun around. Rarity had chosen a simple purple dress with darker purple embroidery in the shape of flowers along the hem. On her hooves were delicate sliver shoes and an amethyst hung from a sliver chain around her neck along with two small teardrops shaped earrings of the same stone. The overall effect was....marvelous.
“Mother sure does know what looks good.” She said with a grin as she pulled away from the mirror.
Nightlight gave a chuckle. “That she does, she also knows what's expensive. I also doubt she would want you to be standing around here when you have somewhere to be.”
Twilight gave her dad a quick hug and peck on the cheek. “Thank you for everything Dad, see you when we get back.”
Rarity gave Nightlight a small wave before standing beside Twilight, the pair disappearing in a flash of purple light.
Nightlight looked the space his daughter had been and smiled. “Good luck girls.”
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Twilight and her ‘personal servant’ walked into the large atrium at the end of the halls. Rarity was awestruck at both the décor and the guests present. The room was a large circle with doorways leading to other parts of the Halls. A raised platform occupied the center of the large room, on the platform was a band playing a classical piece. The walls and the arches that supported the roof looked to be made of solid gold and inscribed high on each wall in flowing silver was the crest of the Equestrian monarchy, two unicorns bowing, their horns crossing, before a sun and moon. The guests appeared to be organized in no particular order, with groups of ponies walking about talking. Sometimes one pony would be surrounded be others who listened to them talk, the group eagerly agreeing with the lead pony.
As Twilight and Rarity walked through the crowd some ponies would walk up them and comment on Twilight’s dress or try to initiate a conversation only to be ignored. Twilight walked through the crowd with an expression of calm disinterest that dissuaded all but the most arrogant of nobles to approach her, Rarity may have been part of the scenery for all the attention she received, much to her frustration.
Twilight pushed past the throngs of nobles towards a large gathering of ponies in the center of the room, Prince Blueblood standing tall amongst them. The crowd parted to allow Twilight through, Rarity following close behind.
Blueblood was the first to look their way, his eyes widening at the sight of Twilight a small smile played on his features. “Twilight Sparkle as I live and breathe, is that you? It has been a while hasn't it.” His voice was empty of the overflowing arrogance and snobbery Rarity recalled. “You look as marvelous as when we first meet. One wonders if you are still as flexible?” Twilight blushed as Blueblood gave her a grin and picked up one of her hooves in his and kissed it.
Twilight opened her mouth to reply when Rarity’s hoof sailed across her vision and slapped Blueblood across the check. The crowd gasped as Rarity pushed between Blueblood and her friend.
Blueblood’s eyes widened in recognition. “You! The mare from the gala!”
Rarity gritted her teeth. “How dare you talk to Twilight in such a way you ruffian!” Twilight placed a hoof on Rarity’s shoulder to get her to calm down. ”No Twilight I’ll not stand as this scoundrel dares to sully your honour with, with innuendos!”
Twilight gave Blueblood an apologetic smile as she clamped a hoof over Rarity’s mouth. “I am terribly sorry for my servant’s outburst Blueblood, I don’t know what came over her.”
Blueblood waved a hoof. “No no it’s quite all right, I understand, you aren’t to blame for the outburst of jealous servant.” He turned to speak to the crowd. “We danced at the gala some time ago, poor dear must still be infatuated with me.” He turned back top Twilight who was giving a very stern look to a furious Rarity. “But please see that you control your help, we would hate to have another such incident.”
Twilight nodded. “Thank you for your understanding, I would love to have you over for lunch at the family estate tomorrow if you are not too busy.”
Blueblood bowed. “I wouldn’t miss it for the world. Please give my regards to Aunty Luna when you see her, she was asking for you. I believe that she was waiting in the Royal wing.”
Twilight gave him one last smile before dragging Rarity away and down the hallway to the Royal wing.
“What the hell were you thinking?!” She said in hushed tones. “Slapping Blueblood, calling him a scoundrel, accusing him of sullying my honour. Are you trying to sabotage my standing?” Twilight eased pressure off Rarities mouth.
Rarity was confused by her friend’s actions but was still furious with her. “Twilight I don’t know what you are on about or what's gotten into you, but how dare you lecture me when you didn’t even come to my defence. I don’t understand why you would simply sit back and insult you like that?“ She snapped back.
“Rarity, Blueblood wasn’t insulting me. He was complementing me, we……we used to…” Twilight scratched the back of her head in embarrassment.
Rarity gaped. “….you and him…” Twilight nodded slowly. “But…..how? When? He’s a selfish, misogynistic jerk, what could the two of you possibly have in common?”
Twilight relaxed her hold on her friend and let her go with a sigh. “We had a...dalliance a couple of years before I moved to Ponyville. He isn’t anything like how he acted at the gala Rarity, he’s actually quite charming and respectful to ponies he likes.”
Rarity scoffed. “And the way he treated you, treated me out there was respectful. Why didn’t you say anything?”
Twilight rubbed her forehead. “Most of that was for show, if he had apologised to you in public, if I had stuck up for a commoner in front of the others what would that have done for our standings?”
Rarity raised an eyebrow. “So by shifting the blame to me and by inviting him to lunch somehow makes things all better?”
“By inviting him to lunch I was offering him an apology for the incident, and because he accepted it showed the others that there was no hard feelings.”
Rarity scowled. “And shifting the blame to me.”
Twilight looked at the floor in shame. “Well by shifting the blame to you it removed the scandal from myself and Blueblood.”
Rarity huffed in annoyance. “And what about my reputation Twilight? Do you know what this will do to my reputation?”
“It will do absolutely nothing. You don’t have a reputation amongst the elite, those ponies out there don’t even know that you exist.” Twilight said with a wince in her voice.
Rarity was taken back. “What?! I’ll have you know that I am well respected seamstress, I have many important clients from the Canterlot elite requesting my dresses.”
Twilight’s face was a look of guilt. “Rarity….I don’t know how to tell you this but…most of the nobles that purchase your dresses are….well they’re small fry. Some don’t even have enough standing to enter the Halls without an invitation from a more important house.” She looked away from her friend.
Rarity sat on her haunches, a lock of shock on her face. “Is…is that true….all the work….I’ve put in over the last eight years has been…….for nothing….” She looked at Twilight with a look of desperation. “What about Fancy Pants? He liked me, he covered for me at your birthday. That has to count for something right?”
Twilight shook her head slowly. “I’m sorry Rarity but you all ponies should know how trends work.”
Rarity looked away on the verge of tears; Twilight put a comforting hoof around her friends shoulders only to be shocked as Rarity started to chuckle. Rarity wiped the tears from her face as she looked at her friend. “I suppose I shall have to apologies to Blueblood tomorrow.” Rarity said with a fake grimace.
Twilight smiled. “Well as long as you don’t assault him I am sure we can call things even.” Twilight looked at her friend with concern. “Are you okay? I’m sorry I said those things, I should have kept my muzzle shut.”
Rarity shook her head. “No no, I’m the one who should be apologizing. I let my ego get the best of me. Besides I suppose I needed to be reminded that I still have a ways to go before I’m the toast of the town.”
“No Rarity I’m the one who should be apologising, I forgot that even though you act like a lady, you aren’t familiar with the subtleties of court.”
“No Twilight, I insist that you accept my apology. If I hadn’t lost control of my anger then we wouldn’t be having this conversation.”
Twilight chuckled. “Fine, but on one condition.”
“What?”
“That you accept my apology for not being a good friend.”
Rarity flicked her mane. “Oh well I suppose I can live with those conditions, so long as I get access to that glorious wardrobe of yours.”
Twilight laughed. “Deal, I suppose we shouldn’t keep the Princess waiting any longer.”
Rarity laughed with her friend. “No I suppose we shouldn’t.”
Twilight led Rarity down the hallway. “Rarity we are entering the Royal wing, this is a private room for the Princesses.”
Rarity nodded and the pair stepped into the room, the Royal wing was decorated in flowing purple curtains, the room a notable because it was completely empty save for Princess Luna who was pouring some tea, two of her personal guard were standing either side of her.
The night Princess saw the pair and smiled. “Lady Sparkle, Miss Rarity you have come at last.” She gestured for the pair to sit opposite her as she poured them a cup of tea.
Twilight and Rarity bowed as the sat. “Princess Luna.”
Luna laughed. “It is good see you again Lady Sparkle, I apologize for not addressing you by title the last time we meet.”
Twilight waved a hoof dismissively. “No need to apologize Princess.”
Luna took a sip of her drink as she prepared to drink; Twilight and Rarity took the opportunity to make themselves more comfortable. “We apologize for calling you here on such short notice. But We must have an answer sooner rather than later, and it is in Our belief that such an offer as We will make should be delivered in pony rather than through correspondence.”
Luna took a moment to think about what she was going to say next.
“Lady Sparkle, We understand that your friends mean the world to you. To ask that you leave them and take up residence again in Canterlot is not a request that We take lightly.” Luna paused to gather her thoughts.
“But in the coming days and years We will need the guidance of one who is schooled in the ways of the court. We have had no great love of the nobility and there two faced nature. We can say with utmost surety that the feeling is mutual. Because of this Celestia has deemed it wise that for the duration of her vacation that We be advised in our judgment, least the conflict between ourselves and the courts spell calamity for the nation as a whole. She has suggested that you be the one to advise us, and We are a in mind to agree with her.”
Luna looked deep into Twilight’s eyes. “You have proven to be pure of heart and intent; you wield the element of magic, the keystone of harmony. It is undoubted in my mind that you would give sound advice and consul. Because of this I ask you, nay, humbly request that you accept the position here in Canterlot as my personal advisor. I will give you some time to make your decision of course.” Her gaze flashed over to Rarity. “I trust that you will need to discuss this with the other element bearers and your assistant. When you have decided, and if chose to stay here, then we will discuss terms for your employ that we both think are fair. I can only ask that you think long and hard over this, it is a very important decision that should not be taken lightly.”
“Actually I have already made up my mind Princess; I wish to stay here and help.”
Luna blinked. “This is most…unexpected.” She turned to Rarity. “Do you approve of this?”
Rarity nodded. “I trust Twilight completely; I know that this isn’t a choice she would be making on a whim.”
“And what of the others, do they agree as you do?”
Rarity and Twilight shared a look. “Ahh you haven’t told them.”
Rarity shook her head. “No.”
Luna looked back to Twilight. “Are you certain that this is what you want to do? It will mean that you will be separated from your friends, you will only be able to see them sparingly, if at all, for long periods of time. This is not decision to be made lightly or with haste. ”
Twilight nodded. “Yes I know, but even though it means I will be away from Ponyville and separated from the best friends a pony could ever hope for, I know in my heart that this is the right thing to do.”
Luna was surprised. “Why?”
“By keeping the nobles in line and keeping you from making decisions you would regret; I can help Equestria for the better.” A look of determination came over Twilight. “It would be irresponsible of me to leave you to fend for yourself and I could not look at myself in the mirror if I were to endanger the future of Equestria because of a selfish desire to stay with my friends.”
Luna chuckled. “Endanger the future of Equestria? Have you so little confidence in my abilities?”
Twilight blanched. “Oh um not that you wouldn’t do a fine job by yourself, it’s just that ahhhh-“
Luna cut her off with a wave of her hoof and a small laugh. “Relax Lady Sparkle, I jest I jest. I am aware that you meant no ill will by your comment. Well We can see that you are indeed passionate about this, my sister was indeed correct when she said you would be perfect for the position.”
Twilight glowed at the praise from her mentor. “Thank you Princess.”
Princess Luna smiled and stood. “I look forward to working with you in the future Lady Sparkle.”
Twilight rose from the cushion, Rarity standing along with her. “Thank you Princess I promise to do my best. Please excuse us Princess but we must be off, I hope we can arrange terms at a later date.”
“Of course, enjoy the rest of your night.”
Twilight and Rarity walked back through the main room towards a group, Twilight leaned close to her friend. “Rarity, before we go there’s somepony I want you to meet.”
Twilight walked up behind a white and purple mare and tapped her on the shoulder. The mare spun around, her eyes widening when she saw Twilight. “Twilight!” She cried as she pulled her in for a hug.
“Hello Mother, it has been some time has not?” Twilight said as she kissed her mother on the check.
Twilight Velvet led Twilight Sparkle and Rarity away from the crowds towards a private table where she gave her daughter a hug. “Oh Twilight dear it is good see you.” She released Twilight and gave Rarity a hug. “And this would be your friend Rarity.”
Rarity gave a small bow before she sat down. “I most certainly am milady.”
Velvet smiled. “And well cultured too? I am impressed, though from what I have read about her I should not be surprised. My dear, please call me Twilight.” Rarity looked over to Twilight Sparkle, Twilight Velvet followed her gaze and let out a small sigh. “I suppose that could get rather confusing hmmmm? Call me Velvet instead then.”
Twilight raised an eyebrow. “How did you-?”
Velvet smirked. “Know who she was? Your father sent a courier dear, really shame on you for not bringing her here sooner.” Twilight coughed into her hoof and looked at the band as her mother gave her a stern look. Velvet rolled her eyes and sighed as she called a waiter over.
“I’m sure you two must be famished from your trip here, I suppose you would like something to eat?”
Rarity examined a menu that the waiter had passed to her, her eyes nearly popping out of her head as she saw the prices. “By Celestia’s golden beard! Ma'am there is no way I could accept a gift like this.”
Velvet chuckled. “Gift? No my dear this is simply lunch, I can see by your dress that Sparkle has already given you a gift.”
“Sparkle?”
Twilight leaned over to her friend. “We use the second half of our names to distinguish between us.”
“Ahh, well that should be easy enough to get used to.”
Velvet chuckled. “I hope you do, now please order something, you aren’t the only ones who haven’t eaten all night.”
Twilight ordered and Rarity (though reluctantly) followed suit, the waiter placed a bottle of wine before he left. Velvet poured the three of them a glass and raised hers to make a toast. “To good health.” Twilight and Rarity raised their glasses to acknowledge the toast before taking a drink.
The trio made small talk as the waiter brought the food, Rarity couldn’t help but be amazed as she tried the food. The tastes seemed to dance around on her tongue, a symphony of flavors that continued to echo along her taste buds long after she had swallowed her mouthful. “By the Sun and Moon this is good.” Velvet simply grinned as she watched Rarity devour the meal with gusto.
Twilight nudged Rarity with an elbow, Rarity as looked up from her meal Twilight gave a small shake of her head and proceeded to eat daintily. Rarity blushed as realized her excessive enjoyment of the meal had resulted in a lowering of her table manners. The rest of the meal proceeded without incident and as the waiter cleared the last of the plates away Rarity slumped into her chair, a content look on her face matching the one on Twilight’s face.
Velvet smiled. “I take it that the two of you enjoyed your meal.”
“I forgot how good the royal chefs were, I think I’m going to enjoy being home.” Twilight took a sip from her glass as she smiled vapidly.
Velvet raised an eyebrow. “Being home?”
“Mmmmm yeah, Princess Luna asked me to be her advisor while Celestia is on vacation, I said yes.”
Velvet’s other eyebrow shot up as her faced turned into a look of surprise, she jumped up from the table and with a cry of joy started jumping around in a circle. “Yesyesyesyesyesyesyesyesyesyesyesyesyesyesyesyes.”
Twilight looked at the crowd of nobles staring at them. “Ummmm mum.”
Velvet stopped bouncing and looked around at the crowd, her checks turning red in embarrassment. “Errrr come on dears lets go.” She said as she quickly trotted for the door.
Rarity looked quizzically at Twilight who shrugged her shoulders and went after her mother. As the trio walked out of the main room and into the hallway Velvet lit her horn and teleported the three of them. They reappeared outside a large mansion surrounded by a tall fence, built onto the mansion was a tall tower made of stone, peeking out from the balcony was telescope. Rarity was astounded by the magnificence of the mansion and its surrounding grounds. “Twilight, are we where I think we are?”
Velvet gave Twilight a hug. “Welcome home Twilly, it’s good to have you back.” Twilight returned the hug.
“It’s good to be home mother.”
Mother and daughter broke away and started walking towards the front doors, Rarity stared at the building for a few more moments before rushing to catch up.