As the sun set over Equestria, the center of life in Canterlot moved from the streets to into the castle’s walls. Princess Luna emerged from her bed chamber with purpose, knowing that tonight she would once again become a true leader of Equestria when, as she had done once before with admittedly mixed results, she would speak for the nation as a leader. Luna began her night with a good-night letter to her sister, unwilling to give up the meager connection she had forged since her return. The letters she received from her sister in Ponyville were always short and typically troubling, revealing details of the sun goddess’ worry for her only student. She had suffered a great mental strife at the hands of the foreigners, which Luna was able to forgive. However, it seemed that the young Twilight had actually learned nothing from the experience. Luna knew from her own time on Earth, and elsewhere, that Twilight had actually learned the importance of her young companion, Spike, and what she would occasionally have to do to protect him. From the brief letters it was clear both that Twilight was unaware of this lesson and that Celestia would not return until she was.
Luna stood on a balcony over the city, watching the last vestiges of the sun’s light disappear from the sky, her sky, and watching closely for the strange metal bird that would mark the beginning of the day’s events. A number of guards and politicians passed by, seeking her orders or advice as she waited. With the ruler of the day gone, many of the mundane tasks about the castle were falling on Luna’s shoulders. She did not mind. Between the common runnings of the kingdom, Luna had time to contemplate her near future.
This ambassador, Covenant Truth, what should I expect of him? Covenant, a pact or treaty… fitting for one who would speak for his nation. Truth however… are not all treaties based in truth? What need is there for the repeated title unless to reinforce a false promise?
Celestia had taught Luna early in her life that a pony’s name is important. In her youth Luna dismissed the argument, believing instead that names were more the whim of the parent then the fate of the child. However, Luna had more recently embraced the idea thanks to her sister and the bridge between them – Twilight.
Luna’s attention snapped back over the city. A new star had appeared in the sky without her permission. The night’s sky had never defied her before, and as she felt out toward the new star she realized it had not defied her yet.
“Guard! Inform any others whom seek my presence that I am not to be disturbed. Matters of the kingdom are at hoof.” With that, Luna removed herself from her perch, gliding effortlessly toward the runway that had been constructed according to the visiting dignitary’s wishes. Within moments of her arrival bright lights ran two lines along the longest street in Canterlot, ushering away the ponies that still milled about at the late hour, and welcoming in the strange flying machine that approached not unlike a shooting star. Luna’s mind calmed as the plane grew closer. At first it seemed to be a star, flying against her wishes. As it grew closer and larger it became clear that it was under somepony’s control.
We cannot allow the stars to manage themselves, after all. The results in the past have been less than impressive. Luna watched the plane approach, growing in sight and in form as it sprouted wheels and reared back in preparation for leaving the sky. The landing was graceful, but long. Luna awaited the craft at the end of the runway, standing fast against the imposingly large shape slowing towards her.
As the plane stopped a seam along the side split open, revealing the contents of the tin box. A single unicorn colt stepped from the craft, revealing heavy saddle bags and a flaming scroll mark burdening lime green coat. The colt approached the goddess of the night, reaching a hoof out in greeting.
“For a moment I was hoping Sonority was joking about the wings. You however are exactly as described.” The colt appeared frightened, but acted secure. His tail was low and his ears were held tightly down against his head, but the air of a diplomat required he be confident. Many ponies had gathered about the strange craft to see what goings on had required the personal appearance of the night goddess. Every pegasus that Covenant Truth saw made him less and less easy.
“Allow me to see you inside, Covenant Truth. The night’s air does not seem to be kind to you.” Covenant began to agree, then perked up, visibly showing his shock at having been found out. “I have been handling diplomacy for longer than you have been alive, young one. You have every right to be nervous. I think no less of you.”
“Thank you, your highness. I admit the existence of another nation, especially one filled with ponies of such… apparently utterly typical ability… is a bit much to handle all at once.”
“Our ability to fly should be no shock to you. Here only the pegasus may fly, yet every pony I have seen from your land has lived in the sky. Did you bring any others with you?” Luna asked, unsure as to the contents of the metal bird that had brought her guest.
“No, I flew myself. I suppose that does make us more alike than different as a populous.” The colt smiled warmly, beginning toward the castle.
“I shall set you to a bed, ambassador. We may meet with the Equestrian dignitaries in the morning.” Before following him, Luna gave a meaningful nod toward a waiting guard. Immediately after the two disappeared into the building, a swarm of guards and scientists began to explore the strange craft.