//------------------------------//
// Chapter 2 (Meeting) 
// Story: Incarnation 
// by Freaky Frisbee 
//------------------------------//

The Solar Court opened with the bright sounds of the herald's trumpet. As she had for thousands of years, Princess Celestia Solarum would preside, and she would bear witness to the petitions of her beloved subjects. It was beyond rare that any petitioner should leave unanswered, and all left satisfied with the jurisdiction of their revered Princess. 

Mare after Stallion proceeded before the Solar Throne. Each spoke their worries, their prayers, and their requests. Each left in awe of the infinite wisdom and beauty of their ruler. The day marched on, and after the last filly's request for the return of her lost pet was answered, a final guest was proclaimed to the court. 

“All hail Princess Twilight Sparkle, Bearer of Harmony, Sister to His Royal Highness Prince Shining Armor, Former Student of Her Majesty Prin-“ Court Call, herald of the Solar Court, was brought to silence as a pristine white hoof cut him off. 

“Thank you, Court Call, but formalities have no place here. We are all equals here today. And yes, that even includes you.”  Princess Celestia’s voice rang throughout the throne room with astonishing clarity. “We need no introductions for friends”. 

“As you wish, your Highness”, Court Call said, bowing deeply. 

“Thank you for your service today, but we require privacy with our former student. Take the day off, go to Joe’s Donut Shack. Treat yourself today.” 

“You are most kind, Princess.” Court Call bows again, and leaves the throne room. The titanic golden doors closed with naught but a click, and then it was just the two alicorns. 
The two regal beings said nothing, just taking in each other’s presence. Twilight was the first to break the silence that pervaded the hall.

“Princess, if I may ask, why am I here today?”

“Please, Twilight, call me Celestia. You are a princess as well, you know. When we are alone, there is no need for titles amongst peers.” 

“Y-yes, Prin-I mean Celestia.” Twilight was a bit taken back by Celestia’s declaration. After addressing her by title and station for her entire life, it was a shock to have one of the most powerful beings in existence refer to her as a peer. 

“Twilight, I know about what happened last night.” Celestia said, abandoning any sort of pretext. 

For a second time today, Twilight was shocked at Celestia’s statements. How could she have known, unless…

“Did you hear it from your sister?” Twilight inquired. It would only be logical, her sister ruling over dreams. 

“No, Twilight, although I have no doubt that she knows as well. But that was not a dream, not in the conventional sense. What you experienced was far beyond any sort of dream. That was your first true Vision.” 

“Vision? What do you mean?” Twilight asked, confused. 

“Come, Twilight, Let us, as the foals say nowadays, ‘Walk and Talk’”.