//------------------------------// // Chapter 3 // Story: Long Live the Queen // by Balancer //------------------------------// The lights in the foyer burned dimly as Twilight gave her mother one last hug before Velvet retired upstairs with her husband. “Are you sure you don’t want to meet the girls, Mother?” Velvet shook her head. “I’m sure I will have plenty of opportunities in the future. Besides you should take this night to celebrate your new position. Go have fun out in town; celebrate with your friends, your father and I will cover the expenses.” “Mada-Velvet…That is indeed generous of you but surely it wouldn’t be polite of us to use your money for such as trivial thing as a night out?” “Rarity darling, one of these days you will have to learn to not look the gift horse in the mouth.” Before Rarity could respond, mother and daughter hugged and said goodnight, Velvet then trotted up the stairs, giving Twilight one last smile before she disappeared. Shaking her head slightly, Rarity followed Twilight as one of the families servants opened a set of large wooden doors and walked into what she figured to be some form of stateroom. Inside were the forms of their friends all nestled comfortably into the large seats placed around the room, except Pinkie who was roasting a marshmallow in the large fireplace in the far left wall. They looked towards the door to see who had entered and smiled seeing the faces of their friends, Twilight and Rarity smiled back as they took a seat in the room. “Where’s Spike?” Twilight asked as she looked around the room. “Oh that butler of yours, Sebastian I think his name was, put him to bed.” Fluttershy said as she blushed slightly. “Oh that was nice of him I’ll have to be sure to thank him later, how did you girls enjoy Canterlot?” Twilight asked. “Oh it was nice, got to take a look at some nightclubs before that Sebastian found us.” Applejack said, blushing slightly as well before continuing. “After that we were led back here, and boy howdy do those servants of yours know how to make a mare feel comfortable Twilight.” “So how did things go with the princess?” Fluttershy asked as she turned around in her seat to face Twilight. Twilight and Rarity shared a look before Twilight turned back to their friends who looked to her with eager faces and spoke. “Girls I have something to tell you.” She shifted nervously in her seat. “Princess Luna as you know asked me to be her royal advisor and, well, I’ve accepted.” The room was silent as the news settled in, the eager faces slowly turned to looks of confusion. “Without asking us what we thought about it first?” Applejack asked hurtfully. “Is that why you were acting so weird on the chariot ride?” “Yeah, I guess I had already made up mind then.” Twilight rubbed her foreleg. “On the way home from the picnic I had, I don’t know, a revelation I suppose? The princess has asked me to do this, trusts me to do this, I can’t let her down.” “Soooo what does that mean? Are you going to be living in Canterlot now?” Rainbow asked as she scratched her head absently. “Well…yeah it does.” Twilight answered, the room went quite the only sound being the soft crackle of the flames. “But what about us?” Pinkie said in a quiet voice. Rainbow reached across and draped a hoof over her friend. “You have a good reason for this right Twi?” Twilight looked around the room. “Yeah, I do.” “Go on then darling.” Rarity said as she placed an encouraging hoof on her friends shoulder. Twilight took a deep breath. “This position, it’s not just about me, about us, it’s about everypony. Princess Celestia has gone away for a long time girls and as much as things are okay for the time being, believe me it is not going stay this way."Twilight was quiet for a bit, trying to find the right words. "Celestia has ruled Equestria for a thousand years girls; a lot of our habits, beliefs, and even way of life all stem from her. And now she has gone away and left Princess Luna in charge and for all her virtues, Princess Luna is still very much a temporal fish out of water.” “The Nobles…everything they are has been built on the backs of tradition, tradition mostly upheld by Princess Celestia, sadly the reason why many grudgingly support her. With Princess Luna thing are...different, not only do many of them view her as some sort of barbarian because of her archaic methods and mannerisms, but she herself does not particularly like them. Trust me girls, there are more than few Nobles that would make both the Princess’ and our lives very stressful. Simply because they can.” Twilight paused to let the impact of her words sink in. Applejack scowled. "So just cause the princess decides to leave they think they do what ever the want to us? I don't know Twilight, hard to believe anypony could be so petty." "You would be amazed at how petty some of us can be AJ." Twilight said in small voice before taking a deep breath to steady herself. “Girls, I love all of you I really do. Each and every one of you has helped me to grow and I would sooner die than imagine a life without you, but Princess Celestia has asked me to do this for her, this is what she has been grooming me for. She taught me that self-sacrifice is one of the best traits a leader can hope to achieve and even though it hurts me to do this, I couldn’t live with myself if I put my own happiness above everypony else’s.” Twilight looked deep into each of her friends’ eyes. "Believe me you girls are the most important ponies in my life and I would not trade you for the world. But I would willing trade myself for it.” Her piece said Twilight bowed her head awaiting her friends’ judgement. Silence descended once more upon the room, heavy with possibility, exerting a pressure on the listeners to say something, anything. Thoughts tumbled around and around in their heads, questions and accusations seethed, writhed seeking release. “Is it worth it?” Applejack asked in a quiet stern voice. Twilight raised her head and nodded once. “Yes.” They held a gaze, sharing an unspoken communication that accumulated in a slight nod from the orange mare. “Alright, I trust that you know what you’re doing.” The tension drained out of the room as Applejack reached over to Twilight and gave her a hug. “Make us proud sugar cube.” Twilight released a sigh before smiling to the group. “Well I guess there’s only one thing left to do.” They all looked at her quizzically. “Going away party!” Shrieked Pinkie Pie. "Aaaannnnddd scene change!" --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Twilight winced as the morning light jerkily stumbled its way into position, a migraine flaring across her senses, she slowly opened her eyes the light reveling that she was in her bedroom. She rose from the bed to look around, stopping when she registered a weight around her barrel and the warm breath of another pony on the nape of her neck. She gently rotated in her sheet to come face to face with a stallion she had never seen before. Certainly one way to great the morning. Twilight thought as she registered a slight poking in her side. Twilight sat there for a moment as the facts seeped into her hungover morning fogged brain. She took the time to examine the strange pony. He was a pleasantly attractive unicorn with a light blue coat and light brown mane that was tousled in a variety of curls that framed his face giving him an almost boyish look. Seconds past before everything clicked causing Twilight to roll on her back. How much did I drink last night? The movement startled the stallion awake, who took a few bleary looks around before looking over to Twilight. A couple of peaceful moments passed (allowing Twilight to look get look at his eyes, she noted that they were a lovely shade of teal) before he sprang from the bed with a startled cry. “Twi-Twilight Sparkle?” He asked somewhat fearfully. “Oh um...good morning?” Twilight replied with a yelp of her own. “Who are you? Oh gods above did I, we?” The stallion nodded sheepishly. “From what I can recall…yes.” Twilight groaned. “What was I thinking last night? I thought I stopped bring home strange stallions years ago!” The stallion in question raised an eyebrow. “I take it you don’t recall much of last night then.” “Uggh sorry, just this isn’t the most optimal way to start the day.” “Waking up to beautiful mare is always a good one in my books.” The stallion said with a grin. Cute and charming. Twilight pleasantly thought to herself. “Bet you say that to all the mares.” She replied with a grin as she slipped into sexy Twilight mode. The stallion blushed and rubbed the back of his head. “Well only the pretty ones.” A pregnant silence descended over the room as the two unicorns eyed each other up. Twilight rolled out of bed and blew her mane out of her eyes. “So who are you?” Wonder if I should be concerned I said that so casually? She thought to herself. “Scribblemind of House Volumen Custodes.” He reiterated in a rehearsed manner before wincing slightly. “Wow that’s deeply ingrained.” Twilight giggled and sat on the end of her bed, Scribblemind followed suit. “Yeah, I know how it is. So what do you do Scribblemind?” “Well I dabble a bit in writing, mostly until the Guards accept my enrollment.” “You want to join the Guard?” “Key word being want; my parents would rather I practice my word play rather than sword play.” “Oh I’m sorry to hear that, so what have you written?” “Nothing big, I mostly write under a pen name but I doubt you’ve heard of me.” “You’d be surprised at who I’ve read; I am…was a librarian.” Twilight grimaced as she corrected herself. “Something wrong?” “No, just remembering something, but no changing the subject. Book titles, now.” Scribblemind chuckled slightly. “Well if I had to list my favourite three novels I’ve written I suppose I would go with Stalliongrad: 2033, Consider Nocturne and the Phoenix of Roan.” Twilight froze momentarily. “But that would mean…oh very clever smart flank there is no way your Songbird.” Scribblemind grinned and lit his horn, the parchment and quill from the study desk floated over. After a brief flourish of the pen he handed the paper over to Twilight who scanned the page her eyes going wide. A book appeared next to her in a flash, the cover revealing it to be a limited edition of Consider Nocturne. She flicked over the title page revealing that it had been signed by the author, a signature that was perfectly copied on the page she was now holding. “You’re Songbird, THE Songbird! The way you paint the world your characters inhabit, its breathtakingly beautiful,” She was looking at the stallion opposite her with a look that bordered on worship. “Oh my gods I love your works, I have every book in the Star Glass series to date at the library….well I used to anyway.” “You’ve heard of me?” He asked with a huge grin. “Heard of you? Heard of you! You’re one of the most elusive and widely celebrated authors of the modern literary world!” The stallion chuckled to himself before rising from the bed. “Wow, I never thought I would see the day when the great Twilight Sparkle herself would confess to being a fan of my works.” Scribblemind eyed the clock on the wall. “Listen I would love to stay here but I probably should head home before my family starts a forming a search party, prized author and goldmine that I am. But if you’re going to be staying in Canterlot long before you go back to Ponyville look me up, I would love to grab a coffee sometime.” Twilight smiled. “I’ll be sure to hole you to that some time.” “Looking forward to it.” The pair shook hooves and Scribblemind headed for the door. And that ladies and gentlestallions is how the upper class do things. As her new friend left the room Twilight opened the doors to her bathroom and turned on the shower. Something tells me I need this. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Applejack and Rainbow Dash sat at the large dining room table, the Pegasus had her forelegs crossed over her eyes whilst the earth pony dug into the large breakfast splayed out in front of her. Rainbow groaned. “Do you have to chew so loudly AJ?” The earth pony chuckled. “Serves you right, drinking so much last night.” “You drank three times as much as me and I’m the one with the hangover? There are no gods.” Rainbow groaned. “Earth pony constitution Dashie, should have learned that by now….” The conversation trailed off as Scribblemind walked through one of the doors, prompting the two ponies to look up from their respective positions. “Oh ah sorry, kind of lost.” He said with a sheepish smile. “Door at the end of the hallway sir, turn left and you will find the exit.” The stallion spun around to find the tall grey form of the head butler standing behind him, a tray hold a pot of coffee and a pot of tea as well as some cups balanced on his back. “How di…Thank you.” Sebastian stepped aside to allow the other stallion past. Applejack turned to her friend “Twilight must be awake.” She said with a smile. Rainbow rubbed her face and smiled as well. “Didn’t take Twilight for that kind of mare, good to see her having some fun for once.” Sebastian walked over to the table placing the tray down as he went. “Oh contraire, Madam has been known to bring home stallions before. Though not without taste, or in abundance, but certainly she never has had to go without company when she wishes it.” He poured a coffee and slid the cup and saucer over to Rainbow Dash. Applejack raised an eyebrow as she chewed a mouthful of eggs. “Really? I’ve always thought that our Twilight was…you know…” “A virgin.” Rainbow Dash stated bluntly before sipping her coffee, Applejack glared at her. “What it’s true, heheh Rarity owes me ten bits now.” Sebastian finished placing the last of the cups and set about collecting Applejack’s empty plates. “Not at all, daughter of a high house prodigy of Celestia, mistress has never been without suitors. How much do you know of the mistress’ life before she left Canterlot? If you do not mind me asking.” Applejack pushed away one plate as she reached for another. “To be honest Twi has always been kind of quiet ‘bout her life back here. We didn’t even know she was nobility until a few days ago.” “Really? Surely mistress must have told you something.” The mares at the table shared a look. “Actually we don’t know much about Twilight pre Ponyville at all, we only found out she had a brother when we received the invite to his wedding and we all know how important he is to her.” Rainbow stated as she nursed her coffee. “Actually now that you mention it, there’s a lot about Twilight’s history we don’t know.” Sebastian raised an eyebrow before shrugging. “I suppose Madam has her reasons for secrecy.” “You mean you’re not going to fill us in?” “Madam has her reasons.” The stallion repeated as he walked out of the room. Applejack and Rainbow looked at each other for a moment before they grinned. “Twenty bits says she’s had a threesome.” ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Twilight stepped out of the shower, a few drips of water pattered on the floor as she lit her horn ,the water on her evaporating in cloud of steam. Humming to herself she brushed her teeth she reviewed the events of the previous night. Let’s see, after getting dressed up we left the house, went to a new club….danced had some drinks, more drinks danced more drink, meet Scribblemind danced and that’s it. Well at least it ended in a happy ending. She grinned to herself as she put away her toothbrush and picked up the floss. So what have got scheduled for today, Lunch with Blueblood at one, hopefully I can show Rar that he’s not that bad he could be a big help….have to make arrangements with Luna send some letters to mayor mare and the postal service. Postal service….oh shit Spike doesn’t know. Twilight put the floss in the waste bin and looked in the mirror. How am I going to break it to him, he’s made so many new friends in Ponyville and it’s been good for him to interact with other kids (well he is seventeen but mentally they’re on the same level) it wouldn’t be fair to make him move with me. I suppose the sooner I talk to him the sooner I...we can decide what to do. ….Isn’t Spike’s bed next to mine at home…. She rushed form the bathroom and looked over to where Spikes bed usually sat, after a few frantic moments of searching she found it underneath the bed presumably where it had been kicked. Spike was fast asleep curled up in ball. She breathed a sigh of relief as she patted him on the head. “At least dragons are deep sleepers’ aye buddy.” Spike simply carried on sleeping. “Oh Rarity, I’ll save you from the strawberry snow cone monster.” He mumbled. Twilight sighed “I suppose I can let you sleep a bit longer, no sense in doing this right now.” She gave him peck on his forehead before walking out of the room. She was walking down the hallway when one of the doors opened and Fluttershy walked out. “Good morning Shy.” Fluttershy mumbled a reply and fell in step alongside her. “How’s your head Twilight?’ “Sore a bit fuzzy but nothing a good breakfast and magic can’t solve. Yourself?” “Oh a little I um didn’t get much sleep last night.” “Sorry to hear that, was the bed uncomfortable?” “Yeah something like that…uncomfortable.” Fluttershy looked at Twilight sheepishly. “I’ll be sure to have the staff take a look at your bed last night, who knows could be a pea under your mattress aye princess.” She said jokingly. Fluttershy chuckled quietly. “I would invest in thicker walls personally.” Twilight mirrored Fluttershy’s chuckle uneasily. “So you heard that.” The Pegasus simply gave Twilight a small smile. “Let’s just say I may have heard something.” “You’re not embarrassed?” “Should I be?” “Well I would have thought that you would have been a little more…you know…being you and all.” “Well it’s not like you’re stranger, and besides a healthy and active sex life is a perfectly natural thing. I’m just happy you finally got to enjoy yourself, you hardly ever have fun back home.” Twilight grinned. “Well Ponyville doesn’t exactly tailor to my tastes.” “Oh? You have tastes?” “Obviously, a high born noble like I could never be seen consorting with the common folk now could she.” Twilight said in her fancy voice, taking a moment to strike a pose as Fluttershy giggled. Aaaand question successfully deflected, huzzah! Giggling to themselves Twilight and Fluttershy continued walking, soon coming to the dining room. As they entered Twilight poured herself a cup of tea with her magic and with a good morning to Applejack and Rainbow, they sat down. Over the course of the next half hour Rarity wandered into the room, taking a seat as she did, joining in the aimless chatter. Occasionally servants would wander in taking orders and collecting empty plates and cutlery with efficiency. “So what has everypony got planned for today?” Twilight asked. “Well we were going to take a look around Canterlot in the daytime, maybe get some souvenirs for the farm. After that me and RD were going to head back to Ponyville, she could only get coverage for a couple of days and I need to get back.” “Yeah sorry to bail on ya Twi.” “Don’t worry about it girls, I understand. What about the rest of you?” “Well...if you don’t mind I’d like to join Applejack and Rainbow Dash when they go home. All my animal friends must be so worried without me.” “Oh, sure thing Fluttershy you don’t need to ask me for permission. Rarity?” “Well the boutique will be fine for a few days and Sweetie is with our parents for the week so I can afford to stay a couple more days…that’s if your parents will be willing to have me that is.” “Rarity they would be honoured I’m sure. Just wondering has anypony seen Pinkie this morning?” The mares shook their heads, Applejack scratched her head, puzzled. “Can’t say that I have.” “Hmmm.” Twilight turned her head slightly as the head butler walked through the doors. “Perfect timing, Sebastian did Pinkie return home with us.” “Yes madam, however she shortly left after Miss Dash was put to bed. You had retired to your room with Master Scribblemind and Miss Rarity, Miss Fluttershy and Miss Applejack had procured use of the winery.” “Did she leave a message or something?” “Other than an offhand remark she left a small note.” Sebastian reached into a pocket on his coat and pulled out a tiny piece of paper that he handed to Twilight. Twilight accepted the note and opened it in the same motion before reading it aloud. "Hey girls don't worry bout your aunty Pinks, just got word of some old party cats in town, will probably be late coming back. See you in the morning, Pinky. Huh, what was the remark she said as she left Sebastian?” Twilight said as she took a sip of tea. “See you later tater, got an itch I’ve been dying to scratch. She was rather cheerful as she left. Do you wish for me to locate her?” “Immediately.” Sebastian tilted his head slightly and walked out of the room. Fluttershy leaned over the table. “Twi do you think something happened to Pinkie? Leaving in that late at night isn’t like her.” “Darling this is Pinkie Pie we’re talking about nothing bad could possible happen to her.” “Yeah but you’ve got to admit this is strange even for her Rar, girl may be a few apples short of full basket but she ain’t empty.” Applejack leaned back in her chair with a worried expression on her face. “I don’t know AJ, I know Pinks and while this is a bit strange I’m sure she’s fine.” “Well I’m sure we can ask her when Sebastian finds her…and speak of the devil.” “And he shall appear mistress.” Twilight smiled as Sebastian walked into the room with Pinkie in tow. “I know you’re good but this just might be a new record.” “As much as I would like to take credit I must confess Miss Pie was already on the premises when I found her.” “Hey girls.” Pinkie said as she bounced her way over to the table. “Pinkie where were you? Darn it girl we were beginning to get worried over here.” “Oh you know visiting some old friends, boy can those ponies party!” “Ah didn’t know you had friends in Canterlot.” Applejack leaned back in her seat. “Come on AJ, this is Pinkie we’re talking about. I would be surprised if she didn’t.” Rainbow draped a fore leg over Pinkie and pulled her close, giving her a noogie. "But if you were at a party why did you not come get us? That’s not like you dear?” Rarity said as she dipped a cup of tea. “Trust me Rarity, this was a whole new level of party.” Pinkie said with a grin. “I don’t think you could have handled it.” Pinkie gasped and rushed over to her unicorn friend, wrapping her in a constricting hug. “Ohmygosh you would have exploded…twice! Rarity you have to Pinkie promise me you’ll practise proper party procedure and party responsible with a certified personal party professional.” Rarity gasped for air and breathily promised she would as the rest of the table laughed at their antics and settled down for some quiet chatter among friends while they finished breakfast. Once everypony had stopped eating and the final set of dishes had been cleared from the table Twilight checked the clock. Ten to nine, leaves me just under three hours before Blueblood arrives at one. Plenty of time to mail Mayor Mare and make arrangements with the post office, then I should begin preliminary arrangements with Luna. Will finalize those tomorrow, have to remember to ask Blue for a run down on who to look out for, who’s up and coming and on their way out. Should also take the time to speak to Fancy Pants. “Hey egghead!” Twilight flinched and shook her head. “Sorry Rainbow, caught up in my thinking.” “Tell me something I don’t know.” The speedster said with a raised eyebrow. Twilight raised an eyebrow in return. “Bubble wrap was originally designed to be used as a wall paper.” Rainbow looked slightly confused before she shrugged her shoulders. “Me, AJ and Shy were about to head into town so we will probably see you before we leave.” The other two ponies had already gotten up and were saying their good byes. “Oh okay girls, I’ll see you later.” Twilight waved them goodbye as they walked out of the room. Once their friends had left Pinkie leaned forward with a coy smile on her face. “Soooo Twilight…” “Yes Pinkie?” Pinkie just continued grinning. “How’d it go last night?” Twilight blushed a little. “Oh it was umm good.” A smaller version of Pinkie’s grin played itself over Rarity’s features. “Oh, come now Twilight, the way you and he acting last night…I would say you had a bit more than a good time.” “Rarity!” Twilight yelped, a mortified look on her face. “What? We’re all friends here, come on spill I want all the details.” “We can’t Rarity, we only have a teen rating.” Pinkie said as she looked off into space before snapping back to Twilight. “Teen? Pinkie were all adults here.” Rarity gave Pinkie a questioning look as the pink mare smiled inanely back at her. Twilight looked at both of her friends before shaking her head. “Sorry Rarity, all I’m going to say is it was good.” Probably would help if I could remember most of it. She though inwardly as Rarity pouted momentarily. “So Pinkie who were these friends of yours, they sound like a lot of fun.” “Oh just a few ponies from way back in my wilder days that really know how to party hardy.” Pinkie looked around the room in a comical fashion and leans over the table. “We usually stay up past bedtime and listen to loud music.” She whispers, somewhat, quietly. “Way back?” Rarity asks as she raises an eyebrow. “Since when did you have wild years?” “Don’t be silly Rarity, it’s not like I went straight from my dusty old rock farm to Ponyville. I did spend a couple of years bouncing around meeting new friends and having lots and lots and lots and lots and lots of super-duper fun parties. They were soooo spectacularific especially that one time involving Princess Celestia, Vinyl Scratch and a whooole lot of special punch.” Rarity turned to Twilight who just shrugged. “Pinkie darling, that’s…interesting, I didn’t know the Princess went to those kinds of…parties.” Rarity cringed slightly as she got the gist of the kinds of parties Pinkie was describing, usually the kind with flashing lights, unbearably tacky music at incomprehensible volumes where everypony was either drunk, high or engaged in bedroom activities…usually all three at once. “I didn’t know they had them in Canterlot." “There’s always a party Rarity you just have to know where to look.” Pinkie said sagely. “Well I’m sure the Princess knew what she was doing…though you could never catch a proper lady at such an uncouth convention.” Rarity pulled a dignified pose. Twilight looked over at Pinkie who was smiling right back at her, a knowing grin on her face. Twilight returned the grin. “Well…” Rarity blinked in shock. “Twilight, you-“She was cut off as Pinkie interrupted. “You’d be surprised at what the rich get up to behind closed doors.” Pinkie said as Twilight blushed. “Well I can’t say for sure what they do now, but Blueblood used to through some really…crazy parties.” Tilting her head slightly, Rarity looked at her friend in shock. “I wouldn’t have thought that sort of thing was your scene…you being you know...back then an you being...well you know...you.” “You mean a socially isolated bookworm?” “Well, yes I suppose. Not that I’m arguing with you darling, it’s just I’m having a hard time imagining you and Blueblood…” Rarity pulled a face like she had bitten into something sour. Both Twilight and Pinkie giggled at their friend. “Well I can honestly say that Blueblood while he isn’t exactly the most chivalrous pony can be quite the gentlestallion when he wants to be.” Rarity sat back in her chair a smile on her face. “I’ll believe it when I see it Twilight, after the abysmal way he treated me at the gala he’s got a lot of work to do before he’s in my good books. And what about those rumours I hear about him, apparently he can be a bit eager with the ladies?” Twilight giggled. “Rarity I know what rumours you’re talking about and I want you to trust me on this. Blueblood may take your kiss and anything else your willing to give but he would never, and let me repeat, never hurt you. If anything he abhors it’s that kind of behaviour, those kind of rumours are usually started by jealous mares and angry coltfriends.” Rarity waved a hoof. “It’s okay darling I never put much stock in them, I just wanted to get your opinion on them.” As Twilight and Rarity continued with their conversation, Pinkie took a glance at the clock, staring vacantly with the hand ticking away. “Hmmm.” She reached into her mane and pulled out a small glass orb, as she cradled it in her hooves it filled with a red mist. “Now what did I forget this time?” She mumbled as she put the orb back in her mane tapping her chin in thought. “Oh I know!” She shouted, stunning the other two mares as she pulled a roll of parchment from seemingly nowhere. “Um Pinkie what are you-“Twilight began to aske before she was cut off. “Shhh, I’m checking my journal.” Pinkie scrunched up her face, holding the parchment up close to her face. “Let’s see, yes, uh huh, yes, brought the acid yesterday and the laser sharks should be delivered on Monday hmmm, oh here it is!” Pinkie exclaimed before she ate the parchment. “Well girls I’ve got to go and tie up a few lose ends before the pigs catch me.” “Uhhhhh.” Both Twilight and Rarity droned. Twilight was the first to snap out of it. “So you’re going?” She asked her brain finished piecing the important pieces of information from Pinkie’s antics. “You’ll be leaving as well darling?” Rarity asked a step behind Twilight. “Don’t worry, I won’t be long I just have to pick up a few tine tiny ingredients for your super-secret going away present.” Pinkie gave a big smile, obvious to the fact she had just told Twilight about her ‘secret’ present, hugged Twilight tightly. “Besides, I’m sure you’ve got a whole lot of super-duper important thingies to take care of yourself Twilight.” “Okay Pinkie, hope you have fun.” Pinkie snorted in laughter. “Oh silly Twilight I always have fun.” She continued laughing as she walked out of the room. “Silly Twilight.” “I suppose it’s just you and me Rarity. Unless you have something to do at the last minute as well.” “No nothing that I can think of.” Rarity said as she inspected her hoof. “What are we going to do now?” “Well I have to get a few things written up then make a visit to Princess Luna to discuss terms. I doubt you would be interested in either chore. We do have lunch here with Prince Blueblood at one, I assume you’ll be joining us?” “Of course, I suppose I could find a way to entertain myself till then. Your closet seems to be the first place to start.” Rarity said with a grin. “Say Twilight, where is Spikey? I would have thought he would be up with you?” “Oh, him…” “Something wrong?” “No…well it’s just I don’t know how to tell him…” “Have you spoken at all since yesterday?” “No, he was still asleep this morning.” “Twilight dear you will have to tell him soon.” “Yes yes I know that, it’s just I’ve never seen him so happy. He’s finally made real friends in Ponyville and I don’t want to rip him away from that.” Twilight rubbed her forehead as the begging of a migraine stirred up. “I see.” “It’s just this was my choice to make, but he didn’t have a say in it and it’s his life too I’m affecting.” Twilight rubbed her forelegs like she was ashamed. “I guess I kind of forgot that, it’s just that for so long I’ve been making decisions and expecting him to just go along with it…” “And you’re wondering if maybe you’re stretching his trust a bit far with this.” Rarity leaned back into her seat, hooves crossed in front of her. “Yeah.” “So what are you going to do?” Twilight exhaled loudly. “I don’t know.” ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- “Lady Sparkle whilst We are most pleased that you have decided to accept our proposal We think We a have reached the limit of paperwork for today. We will resume this tomorrow.” The Princess of the Night said as Twilight packed up the piles of notes and work contracts she had drafted. “We will be happy to provide all the conditions you have applied for and look forward to a prosperous reign with you at our side.” Luna extended a hoof that Twilight shook. “I can’t wait to start Princess.” Twilight said with a smile. At least the workload will stop me thinking about Princess Celestia and keep me busy. “Pleased to hear it.” Luna replied as she walked Twilight to the door. Twilight quickly bowed and left, walking out of the royal section back into the Gold Halls. As she wandered through the mob, taking time to smile and share a few greetings Twilight looked at one of the ornate clocks hanging from the walls. Ten to one, good, plenty of time to get prepared, hope Rarity hasn’t been too bored. Excusing herself from a crowd of lesser nobles that had built up around her, not unlike some fish schools are wont to do, Twilight teleported back to her room. As she reappeared with a pop the first thing she noticed was Rarity passed out on her bed, dresses everywhere and Spike fanning her with a large hat. “Do I want to know?” Twilight said as she walked past and inspected a couple of dresses as she put her notes away. Spike kept up his fanning. “Not particularly.” Hmm maybe green one, no no I want something with flair, hmmm possibly... “What do you think Spike?” Twilight asked as she held a dress up. Spike looked up. “Umm yeah, I guess it looks good? What’s the occasion?” “Blueblood’s coming around for lunch at one.” Twilight said as she discards the dress and picks another from a pile Rarity had made. “How was your nap?” “Good, it was nice of you to let me have a proper sleep in for once and it was great to have the guys making me breakfast again. Can’t say I won’t be missing Sebastian we go home though.” Spike shudders. “Guy’s plain creepy.” “Well if you think so low of me Master Spike perhaps I will refrain from letting you treat yourself to the Mistress’s jewellery box.” Sebastian said from the door way. Spike jumped up from the bed, the sudden movement triggering Rarity to wake up. “Gahhh?!” Both pony and dragon said as Spike tumbled onto the ground. “See Twilight, he just sneaks up on you.” Ignoring the dragonling Sebastian walked forward, gave Twilight a small bow before selecting a dress. “Miss Rarity and I chose this for your evening attire madam. Will you be requiring anything before Prince Blueblood arrives?” “Thank you Sebastian, no I will not just see that the tables are set.” “Outside patio, or indoors ma’am?” Twilight glanced out the window to check the weather. “It’s a nice day so I think outside would be delightful.” Sebastian gave her a small bow, “Ma’am.” and walked away. Rarity rose from the bed, somewhat shaky. “Sorry Twilight dear, I don’t know what came over me.” She said with a blush as she watched the head butler leave. Twilight smiled. “It’s okay, he tends to have that effect on ponies.” Rarity coughed. “I don’t know what you’re on about Twilight.” Giving a small giggle in response she walked to her bathroom to get changed Twilight couldn’t help but feel a little bit of dread. If Sebastian hadn’t entered when he did she would have had to lie to Spike about going home. Sighing she leaned against the mirror, letting the cool glass leach the heat from her face as she thought about what she was going to do with Spike. Curse me and my stupid idealism, why didn’t I think about him before!!! She berated the selfishness of her actions. How dare she make life altering choices without considering Spike, guy never even had a say in the matter! But at the same time she knew why she had acted like she did. She hardly ever considered Spike, her birthday party, her Gala plans even her choice in rutting spots were all evidence to the fact. Okay she may have been stone dead drunk last night, and boy had she felt it in the morning, but that didn’t excuse the fact she had done…it… practically on top of him. Twilight shuddered to think what would have happened had he woken up. Probably scar him for life poor guy. It was like what she had said to Rarity that morning, she had been making choices for so long and expecting him to follow, trusting that his dog like devotion to her would keep her at his side. But the game had changed, the circumstances had changed, she wasn’t the only one who had found friends. Isn’t this a fine mess you’ve got yourself into this time Twilight. A knocking sound came from the door jarring her from her thought. “Hey Twilight It doesn’t take that long to get changed you okay in there?” Spike’s voice called out to her. “I’m fine, don’t worry about me.” She called out as she hurriedly changed clothes and opened the door, causing Spike to tumble in as he had been leaning against it. “Could’ve given me a bit of warning.” He grumbled as he picked himself up. Yeah, suppose I could have... Rolling her eyes as she stepped over him Twilight noticed Rarity had gotten changed into a dress of her own. “Hope you weren’t too bored on your own Rarity.” “Oh I managed to find a way to pass the time.” Rarity responded in an airy tone. “Do you like the dress Sebastian and myself picked out for you?” Twilight preformed a little twirl. “You did fantastically.” “So,” Rarity said as she examined herself in the mirror “you said he was a gentle colt, mind explaining why he acts so boorishly all the time then.” “Mostly because it drives away gold digging mares.” Twilight responded with a shrug. “Spike,” she called out, “could you go tell Sebastian to put out a bottle of Dom. Romane Conti 997.” “Do I have too?” Spike said as Twilight sighed and magically reached into box next to her bed, pulling out a sapphire shard. Spike narrowed his eyes and Twilight grinned. “Oh that’s underhooved, hitting a dragon where it hurts.” Twilight tossed him the shard which he caught as he walked out the door. “Whaaat?” She said as Rarity gave her a flat stare. “When are you going to sit down with him Twilight?” “I’m going to do it soon.” Twilight said as she took a half step backwards. “….Stop it stop it; fine I’ll talk to him tonight, you’ve been taking lessons from Fluttershy haven’t you.” Rarity simply flicked her mane over her shoulder and walked out the door. “Let’s go great our guest, he should be arriving soon I take it.” --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Blueblood knocked on the door of the Sparkle family estate, thinking back to the last time he had seen Twilight. It was only a week before the summer sun celebration, he smiled fondly at the memory. Blueblood lay in the bed watching as Twilight fixed herself up. “You okay? You seem distracted...well more so than usual.” Twilight looked over her shoulder and raised an eyebrow. “It’s nothing just some research I’m doing in my spare time.” “The Mare in the Moon legend again?” Twilight scowled at his remark. “Come on Twilight, it’s a dusty old mare’s tale…” “And why then does it mention Celestia’s sister-“ “Who was proclaimed dead a thousand years ago when the cutie pox killed three fifths of the population-“ “That doesn’t make any sense!” Twilight shouted. “Gah I’m sorry Blue I don’t mean to snap but I know there is something more to this and I need to find out.” Blueblood shrugged. “And the filly scouts are behind the crop circles along with Slendermare and Old mare who’s missing her rusty horseshoe. Wooooo~” Blueblood got up close to Twilight waving his hooves above his head as Twilight stared blankly at him before sighing and cracking a small grin. “I’ll see you next week for our next meeting.” Twilight said as she gave him a wink before walking out the door. Blueblood smiled as she left, the good things in life were always worth the wait. She had never come back, Blueblood sighed as the memory played it’s self in his mind. It wasn’t until she had left that Blueblood realized how much he missed her, in the weeks that followed he had toyed with moving to Ponyville damn the dirt and the uncouth commoners. But he had duties to attend to and he had stayed put, sometimes she would write him a letter every now and again. And while he never really got over her he managed to function without her. “Sir, the madams' are waiting for you, will you becoming in?” A voice broke through his revere, he turned to see one of the family’s butlers. “Ah yes, lead on.” He said, embarrassed to have been caught absent minded by the help. As he was led through the hallways he couldn’t help but recall the moments he had spent a foal running around here playing solider with Shining Armor. He usually played the villain while Shining played the hero, thinking back on it even as colt Shining always had that sentimental streak in him that made him so good at his job. He had always counted himself lucky to have Shining as one of his few friends. Blueblood smiled, if anypony out there deserved his blessings it was that one. Well aren't we felling nostalgic today. He was still smiling when he arrived at his destination where Rarity and Twilight were chatting amiably; even though both mares were beautiful, his eyes were only for Twilight. As he approached he gave a small cough to get their attention. “Greetings to you both, I hope I am not intruding on anything.” “Blueblood, glad you could join us.” Twilight said as the stallion took a seat. “Twilight I wouldn’t miss this for the world. Miss Rarity I hope you can forgive me for that little show last night.” Rarity gave her mane a slight flick. “Well I didn’t enjoy it but Twilight has been telling me about you and I am willing to put the past behind me.” “Yes, the past. Miss Rarity I would like to offer my most humble apologies for that night at the Gala, I acted most unbecoming of a Gentlestallon.” Rarity snorted. “Most unbecoming; you used me as meat shield to stop your coat getting dirty, Prince I think you were far more than unbecoming, you were down right beastly.” Blueblood winced. “Yes and for that I do apologise most sincerely, had I known you were close friends with Twilight I would have shown a much more gracious night.” “Whether I was friends with Twilight or not should have never been an issue, you should have never of treated me like that in the first place!” Rarity took a deep breath to calm herself. “I am sorry for that outburst Prince, I will endeavour to control myself in the future.” “No no you have a point; I should have never been so cruel to you that night, truth be told I was hoping you would take the rather strong hints that I wasn’t interested but you proved to be most persistent.” “If you didn’t want my company all you had to do was say so.” Rarity massaged her temples. “As Twilight told me rather strongly in her letters.” Blueblood grimaced. “I believe the exact words you used were ‘I don’t know what drove you to act in such a manner but the way you have treated one of my closest friends makes me sick to my core, it is clear that this time apart has changed you for the worse and If I never see you again it would be too soon.’ It was definitely one of your more emotional letters.” Twilight gives Blueblood a shrug. “You acted like jerk to one of my best friends, you should have been glad I didn’t tell Princess Celestia about it.” “Oh she found out on her own, had some very strong words for me.” Blueblood pours himself a glass of wine as Twilight winces. “Twilight; if you were so mad with him then why are you acting so friendly together now?” Rarity asked, slightly confused. Twilight poured herself a small glass of wine. “Well to be honest it was a few of years ago now and even through letters he does have away with words.” Blueblood took a sip of his wine a smirk on his face. “You could say I have a silver tongue.” “Well that’s all fine and dandy,” Rarity said “but why did you act so horrendously at the Gala in the first place.” Blueblood’s face lost it’s smirk. “I was hoping you would go away.” “But why?” Rarity asked. “It’s not important Miss Rarity, just know that I feel ashamed for the way I treated you and hope you accept my sincere apologies. “As I said I am willing to put the past behind us Prince, so long as you refrain from using me a shield and treat Twilight here with utmost respect we will be the best of friends.” “I am glad to hear that Miss Rarity, so Twilight how did the meeting with Aunty Luna go? I trust you sorted everything you need for when you move back?” Blueblood asked. “Mostly, everything has been drafted up just need to present her with a final copy tomorrow for her to sigh and I’ll officially be her primary advisor.” Twilight said with a smile. “Who’s primary what now?” A voice from the door way asked. The occupants at the table all turned around to see Spike and one of the house staff walking towards them. The maid gave a curtsey. “Forgive me madam, I tried to keep him away from the lunch as you requested but he wanted to talk to you about taking some gems from the Lord and Lady’s collection for…personal use.” “Yeah, but what’s this about advisors Twilight?” Spike asked confused. Twilight sighed and got up from the table, dismissing the maid with a gesture. “Sorry to cut into our lunch Blueblood but I have something to do.” Walking over to Spike she looked at the dragonling. “Would you mind coming for a walk Spike, I need to talk with you about something.” Spike looked up at Twilight with an uneasy feeling. “What’s going on Twilight?” He asked as the pair walked off into the garden. Rarity and Blueblood watched them go. “I take it she hasn’t told him.” Blueblood said in a quiet voice. “No, poor Spike he’s going to be crushed.” Blueblood was quiet for a moment. “So my sources say you’re a tailor, and not a half bad one at that.” “Not half bad? I’ll have you know I design only the most fashionable dresses and evening wear in Ponyville.” Rarity said, pride in her voice. “Ah and how is that going for you?” “Very well thank you very much.” Rarity said snippily before pausing. “However...” Blueblood raised an eyebrow, he knew that tone. He usually heard it when ponies wanted something from him. “Have you had an idea?” “Well my business could use a sponsor, somepony to bring some attention to my brand if you get my drift.” “I thought you said you were doing well.” “Oh but one can always use all the endorsement one can get her hooves on, and I believe you owe me this at least.” Blueblood chuckled. “Yes I do, very well what have you got in mind. From what I understand you specialize in dresses and last time I checked I do not look good in one, well I look good in anything but let’s keep that to ourselves shall we.” He winked at Rarity. Rarity just ignored it and continued on. “That may be the case but I’m sure your many marefriends would look better in one of mine.” “Ahh I see, I endorse your dress line to my female following and they in turn spread your name amongst their friends which in turn is spread further and further,” Blueblood smiled, “clever Miss Rarity very clever maybe you might have a future in this business after all.” He raised his glass in a toast. Rarity raised hers as well. “It is the least you can do for me after all.” She said with a smile. Blueblood tilted his head in acknowledgement before drinking his wine. As he poured himself another glass Rarity asked him a question. “So what is it with you and Twilight?” “What do you mean?” “Don’t play coy with me Prince, I want to know everything.” “We are just friends Miss Rarity that is all.” Rarity gave Blueblood a flat look that made the hairs on the back of his neck rise. “Last time I checked Twilight didn’t have friends before she came to us.” Blueblood paused , thinking for a moment. “Correct she didn’t have friends, not in the conventional sense at least. If anything I was more like an acquaintance who's company she enjoyed." “Who happened to slept with her on occasion.” Rarity said in a flat voice. Blueblood narrowed his eyes. “Just what are you implying Miss Rarity?” “Nothing Prince I am merely trying to understand how a socially isolated bookworm like Twilight could ever call a social butterfly such as yourself something as intimate as lover, something I still struggle to believe as she has never mentioned you at all for the past three years.” Blueblood sighed and swirled his wine around in his cup, watching it. "No, she wouldn't would she." He said more to himself than anything else. Rarity was confused by the effect of her words on the prince. “Prince Blueblood, are you okay?” Blueblood didn’t reply for time, he just sat looking out at the garden. “We used to say we were seeing each other out of convenience, mutually physical and intellectual attraction she used to call it. I would see other mares of course, and I have no doubt that Twilight was doing the same, she always was rather sought after." Rarity said nothing as she let the prince talk at his own pace. "She was always so...formal, not in a rude way mind you very professional like. She had this rule you see about mixing her personal life, had everything filed away; personal, pleasure, scholarly pursuits all of in nice and separated no mess no fuss." Blueblood pauses before smirking, "I of course was given a little bit of leeway given my already close association with her brother." "You are friends with Shining Armor?" Rarity asks incredulously. "Yes, is there something wrong with that?" Blueblood asks in an annoyed tone. "No I wouldn't have thought a pony like yourself would have gotten along well with someone like Shining Armor, that's all." Rarity says as she lifts her glass. "You're not alone in that, more than one has expressed similar opinions." Blueblood pauses momentarily lost in thought. "He always was head strong even as a colt." Reclining in her chair Rarity gives a him a flat look. "Now why don't I find that surprising." "I know shocking," Blueblood deadpans, "besides I suppose it was having Sir Killjoy around that took me so long to make a move on Twilight." "Indeed I can see how that would complicate matters. If you don't mind my inquiring," Blueblood shakes his hoof in a dismissive gesture, "but what exactly do you see in Twilight?" "Why do you ask?" "Well you can have any mare you wish," Blueblood raises an eyebrow "nearly any mare you wish." Rarity corrects with mild annoyance. "And I don't mean to sound cruel but Twilight isn't anything special to look at." Blueblood smiles. "Ah Miss Rarity if you believe that then perhaps you should rethink your choice in career." Rarity raised an eyebrow but Blueblood simply chuckled. "I think I'll leave that topic for later, such things are best discussed after many drinks in the company of good friends after all." "Oh well don't let me make you feel uncomfortable my Prince." She says with a flick of her mane. "Relax Miss Rarity, another bottle of wine and I shall be able to find even your company acceptable." Blueblood responds a smirk on his face. Rarity narrows her eyebrows as she gives a small smile. "I think I share your sentiments." Blueblood grins as he takes a drink and looks out over the garden. "I wonder how Twilight is going with Spike." "I don't know, Twilight moving back is a really big thing for all of us." Rarity follows his gaze. "I just hope she knows what she's doing here." "I hope so too." Blueblood says as he nurses his glass if wine. "But this is Twilight Sparkle we are talking about, if any mare knows what she's doing it's that one." "Indeed, I just hope Spike won't be too upset. Celestia knows he's made his own fair share of friends in Ponyville." "Not surprising, he always was a friendly chap. In fact I remember when-" Blueblood pauses, rising from his chair. Walking towards the pair of unicorns was Twilight, Spike riding on her back as he held onto her neck tightly, a smile on her face.