Royal Welcome
Chapter 18: Royal Welcome
It was fairly early in the morning when the train pulled into the Canterlot station. Even though it was so early, the station was already bustling with ponies who had either recently arrived or ponies who were waiting to leave. Through the light crowd moved a pair of ponies who drew countless eyes, even as their presence and the presence of their entourage cleared a swath through the crowds between them and the train just pulling in from Ponyville.
On the train several ponies were in the process of gathering their belongings before disembarking. Sweetie Belle let out a groan as she tried to rub the sleep from her eyes. "Darn it Scootaloo, you aren't supposed to be a morning pony. That's Apple Bloom's thing."
Scootaloo exchanged a look with Dawn, both of them looking completely bright-eyed and bushy-tailed in spite of the early hour. Then again, it was around the same time that they usually rose for their morning training. Looking back at Sweetie, Scootaloo could only shrug. "Sorry," she said, "You just kinda get used to it after a while."
"Speak for yourself," grumbled a cerulean pile with rainbow lining as it oozed down from its bunk onto the floor. After a few moments, the ooze finally stood up on four legs and began to bear some resemblance to Rainbow Dash. Her eyelids moved slowly as she blinked to try and clear her vision. "I never get used to train travel," she said grumpily.
Blinking, Scootaloo stared in surprise up at her idol. "Huh? But we've gone by train before," she said, "I've never seen you like this."
"It's because it's an early morning," said Fluttershy as she trotted up next to Rainbow, letting out a faint yawn after she spoke, "She doesn't sleep well on the train, so she always takes a little longer to wake up than usual."
"That and the morning is evil," grumbled Rainbow, giving Fluttershy a sleepy glare, which only served to coax a giggle from her.
"Well, I for one can sympathize," said Rarity as she ran a brush through her mane, "There is no exaggerating the importance of one getting one's beauty sleep. It's positively dreadful to have to wake up so early, to say nothing of the fact that the train's vibrations play absolute havoc with my mane."
Rainbow glanced dully at Rarity and snorted. "Your mane looks fine to me."
"And it would to you dear," said Rarity, "But that is because you haven't cultivated the fine eye for detail that I have. Why I daresay that anypony in Canterlot would look at my mane as it is now and see a veritable rat's nest."
"I'm from Canterlot and, in my opinion, your mane is absolutely flawless," commented Arkenstone as he and Twilight Sparkle trotted up to join the larger group with their own luggage.
"Why thank you dar-" Rarity froze for a second before giving the beige stallion a half-lidded glare, "Very funny."
Twilight couldn't quite hide her snigger of amusement behind her hoof. She was quickly joined by several other ponies in her quiet chortling.
"Come on now," said Twilight, levitating her own bags and heading for the door, "It's time to get off. We've got a special welcoming party after all."
They stepped off the train and gathered on the platform, waiting patiently as the porters worked frantically to unload Rarity's small mountain of luggage. In the meantime, Twilight's head turned sharply as she heard her name being shouted across the platform.
"Twily!"
Spinning to face the source of the voice, Twilight grinned and let out a shout of her own. "Shiny!" The two of them rushed towards each other and met with an enthusiastic embrace.
"Welcome back sis," said Shining as the two of them stepped away from each other.
"It's good to be back," said Twilight before turning to address the pink alicorn walking up next to Shining Armor. "Hi Cadance."
Leaning down Cadance nuzzled Twilight fondly. After stepping back, they grinned playfully at each other before going into their regular greeting. "Sunshine! Sunshine! Ladybugs awake! Clap your hooves and do a little shake!"
Fluttershy and the others couldn't help but giggle at Twilight and Cadance's Sunshine Dance. However, she noted a lack of noise from her son. Glancing down, Fluttershy saw Dawn staring, wide-eyed at Twilight and Cadance. "What's the matter?" she asked.
"It's...so..." Dawn blinked and seemed to be struggling for the right words. "...cute."
Fluttershy couldn't help but titter at Dawn's statement. Scootaloo, on the other hoof, rolled over laughing.
"It is your first time seeing their Sunshine Dance, isn't it?" commented Fluttershy.
"Mine too," said Caramel, almost seeming spellbound by the sight until Fluttershy smacked him across the back of the head with her wing.
Rubbing the back of his head, Caramel grinned sheepishly at Fluttershy as she gave him a deadpan look. "I wonder what Twilight's coltfriend thinks about you looking at her flank like that."
Gulping, Caramel broke into a nervous sweat as he turned his head to look at Arkenstone, who was standing completely impassively. One ear swiveled in Caramel's direction before swiveling back. "At least one of us should get to appreciate the sight."
Fluttershy sighed in frustration before rolling her eyes. "Stallions," she muttered.
"Well it is kinda Twilight and Cadance's fault," Rainbow Dash pointed out bluntly, "shaking their flanks in the middle of a public station. For a show like that, Shining Armor should be charging stallions for admission."
"Some mares as well," observed Rarity, casting her own gaze about the platform, noticing several ponies watching Twilight and Cadance with varying degrees of fascination.
Twilight and Cadance, suddenly very aware of their audience, pulled away from each other blushing sheepishly.
"A-anyway," said Cadance sharply, "We've come to escort you to the Royal Palace." As she spoke, a small group of six Royal Guards stepped up from either side. "Princess Celestia and Princess Luna have invited you and your friends to join them for brunch."
"We gladly accept," said Twilight, the excitement of being able to see her mentor again wiping away the last vestiges of embarrassment.
The group set off for the Palace, four of the six Guards falling in on either side, while the remaining two, unicorns both, divided Rarity's pile of luggage in two and hauled it into the air with their magic. As they made their way out of the station, Dawn swept his gaze across the platform. Not so long ago, he had been here before, under much different circumstances. It was odd that the territory felt so familiar to him. As he looked, he spotted several ponies whispering to one another. The vast majority of them were unicorns and more than a few were dressed in expensive clothes and jewelry. These then, must have been some of the Canterlot upper-class he had heard Twilight and the others talking and worrying about.
Closing his eyes, Dawn relaxed and allowed his awareness to spread out through the air around him. This time, instead of merely focusing upon the shapes and movements of ponies, he instead focused on the vibrations of sound in the air around him, allowing him to listen in on a few of the conversations within his range.
"Can you believe her? Such unsightly behavior, and in front of a Princess of all things..."
"But Princess Cadance actually joined her in that unbecoming behavior. It's disgraceful."
"Is this what the royal family has come to? Princess Celestia must be so ashamed."
"Look! Over there! That's him?"
"Who?"
"The colt from the news article, Dawn Light-something or other."
"You mean that black colt there?"
"Yes him."
Dawn frowned and resisted the urge to look towards the course of the conversation to see just who was talking about him. Instead, he continued to eavesdrop quietly.
"Can you see his eyes? They're unnatural."
"Dame Fluttershy must truly be kindness incarnate if she is able to care for such a monstrosity."
"Didn't the article say something about his parents abandoning him?"
"I can see why. Who in their right mind would want a deformed freak like that for a child?"
"Indeed, it would be a disgrace to even admit that one had birthed such a foal."
"It would have been much more merciful to smother the creature at birth."
Dawn abandoned listening to the conversation. He had heard enough.
"Dawn?" The colt looked over to see Scootaloo watching him concernedly. "Are you okay."
"I'm fine," said Dawn, "It's nothing important."
From his other side, he sensed Arkenstone leaning down to whisper into his ear. "Pay them no mind. There is nothing worthwhile in listening to the words of those who take such pride in their own pettiness."
Dawn subtly nodded back to Arekenstone as the group left the station and made their way towards the Royal Palace.
Shining and Cadance led the group towards the the royal dining room, while the Palace servants took custody of everypony's bags and belongings. Celestia and Luna were already waiting for them in the dining room, presiding over a table that had been set with a variety of breakfast dishes, even a few that had clearly been made to cater to Dawn's personal tastes. There was a selection of fruit and vegetables, bubbling pots of porridge, fresh baked oatcakes, complete with butter and jam for sides. Then, there were waiters to take orders for pancakes, crepes, and waffles to be made fresh at anypony's request.
Everyone took their seats as Celestia smiled happily at them. "Good morning. It's wonderful to have you all here again.” Celestia looked around, her eyes resting on Melon Cream, Mayweather, and Caramel specifically. “I am also pleased to see some new ponies that I have not yet met.” Caramel and Melon bowed politely to Celestia and Luna. Mayweather bowed as well, but kept her gaze averted, a mild expression of shame on her face that only faded as Pinkie Pie leaned over and gently nuzzled her cheek. Either Celestia didn’t notice it, or chose not to mention it as she turned her attention back to everypony else. “I look forward to seeing another wonderful performance at this year's pageant."
"We're looking forward to it as well," said Twilight as she pulled up a sheaf of notes, "I've made some modifications to the script to try and make it more informative."
"Wait a second!" Rainbow Dash whipped a hoof out and stole the papers from Twilight, zipping back across the table before Twilight could even make a noise of protest. "Twilight, your modification is having Clover the Clever give a half-hour lecture on thaum-thaumatic reso..."
"Inter-tribal thaumatic resonance as evidenced by the fire of friendship," said Twilight in a surly tone, "Give it back."
Rainbow looked up from Twilight's copy of the rewritten script and glowered at her friend. "Twilight, you're gonna put the audience to sleep if you try to make them sit through this. Hay! They might even chase you off the stage."
"May I?" At Celestia's request, Rainbow nodded and held up the papers, which were picked up by Celestia's magic and levitated over the table to the elder Princess, who began to review Twilight's notes. After taking a short time to peruse the notes, Celestia looked up at Twilight. "While I understand your desire to make sure ponies learn their history, I'm afraid that I have to agree with Rainbow that this is a little much for a Hearth's Warming pageant."
Twilight let out a sigh of defeat. "I'm sorry. It's just, given all the trouble we've had with tribalists this year, I thought this would be an ideal time to reinforce the critical lessons of love and harmony that led to Equestria's founding in the first place."
Celestia sighed. "I can understand your sentiments Twilight. I would also like to reinforce those ideals. However, your modifications to the script might even prove counterproductive."
"How so?" asked Twilight.
"Well," said Shining Armor, piping up from next to his younger sister, "You are suggesting having Clover the Clever, the unicorn, explain everything to all the non-unicorns. To a tribalist audience, that could easily be construed as the well-educated unicorn having to explain everything to the 'lesser tribes' because they're too thick to understand otherwise."
Twilight gaped at Shining. "How could they possibly take things that way."
This time it was Cadance who answered. "Because they're tribalists. They will always twist things to suit their viewpoint if they can. If you look at from a certain perspective, the Canterlot pageant is already fairly unicorn-centric."
Cadance's remark drew gasps from the rest of her audience, save for Celestia and Luna, who had clearly thought about this before.
"Um...what do you mean?" asked Fluttershy, "I never really though the pageant was all too unicorn-centered."
"Well, in the script, Clover the Clever seems to have a lot of the answers," explained Cadance, "She's the one who knows what the windigos are and she's ultimately the one who produces the Fire of Friendship that drives them off. In the whole scheme of things, it comes down as pretty minor, but it's enough for the tribalists."
"I know what you mean," said Rainbow Dash, looking up from the melon salad she had been working her way through, "I remember how we were forced to sit through the pageant every year in Cloudsdale. It's way different from the Canterlot pageant."
"How so?" asked Rarity. Oddly enough, it was the first time that Rainbow had spoken so openly about the cultural differences of Cloudsdale, particularly her old Flight School.
"Well, to begin with, it really comes down heavily in the favor of the pegasi," explained Rainbow, "For starters, Private Pansy was always renamed Private Panzer."
"Historically speaking, that may have been her actual name," observed Twilight, "For a militaristic society, like pre-unification pegasi, it's highly unlikely that they would have picked out a name like Pansy for one of their own."
Rainbow shrugged. "I dunno," she admitted, "But it's always been Pansy everywhere else I've been."
"Me too," added Fluttershy.
"Anyway," continued Rainbow, "They made a bunch of changes to the script in order to make the pegasi look more heroic. During the first act, the pegasi are actively fighting the blizzard while the earth ponies are cowering and the unicorns are complaining. Then, in the second act, it's Commander Hurricane and Private Panzer who lead the rest of the group up to the cave and try to keep fighting off the windigos. The other two leaders are frozen and Hurricane is the one who basically convinces the advisors from the other two tribes to lend their strength to the pegasi to drive the windigos off."
"That is certainly a different take on things," mused Melon Cream from where she sat with Scootaloo. She'd heard Rainbow talk about this before, but was surprised at the details.
"I wonder if the earth pony tribalists have a similar view," mused Twilight as she looked over at Pinkie Pie.
"I couldn't tell you." added Pinkie with a shrug.
"Such renditions do exist," said Arkenstone, "But earth pony tribalists tend to dwell in outlying rural communities that have yet to see much development. Since they are in a poor position to put on an organized front, it's extremely rare for their pageants to draw an audience from anypony, save their own neighbors.
Everypony fell into a pensive silence as they thought over the conversation.
Somepony knocked at the door to the dining room. Celestia sat up sharply, breaking out into a smile. "Oh, I almost forgot, we have somepony else joining us."
The doors opened and Twilight was not surprised in the slightest to see Arcana and Trixie walk through. "I figured you two were already here," said Twilight, "I thought you'd be at the dining room before us."
"Well, we're staying at the townhouse," replied Arcana, "I keep misjudging how much time that commute takes."
"You know, I would be only too happy to put the two of you up here in the Palace," Celestia offered, "That way you don't have to walk up here every day."
"I am afraid we must decline," said Arcana as he and Trixie took their own seats at the table, "We are here for the Winter Gala. We will also join in the audience for the pageant, but we won't be able to contribute anything to the pageant itself."
"But I am sure that Trixie's magic would be of great use in aiding the presentation," said Luna, "If I recall, her specialty is illusions and glamours. Surely this is an appropriate venue for them."
"I'm sorry Your Highness, but I can't," said Trixie in an uncharacteristically quiet voice, "Because I have become a student of the Still Way, I have forgone my magic for the time being. I do not know when I might have use of it again."
Luna's eyelid twitched. "Ah yes, that art. Why anypony would still aspire to master it is beyond me."
"Luna!" admonished Celestia, throwing a reproving glance at her sister.
"Is something wrong with the Still Way?" asked Twilight, looking between Trixie and Luna.
"Turning your back on everything you have accomplished since you first learned how to light your horn; what isn't wrong with it?" scoffed Luna in an irritable tone.
"That's enough Luna," said Celestia firmly, earning an angry huff from her younger sister as Luna turned to scowl to one side. Celestia turned her attention back to a shaken Trixie, who looked about ready to cry. "Forgive my sister's outburst. This is something of a sore subject for her."
"I...I see..." said Trixie in a nervous tone, "I'm sorry. I meant no offense."
"There is none, save for what Luna manufactured for herself," said Celestia, throwing another stern glance in Luna's direction.
Trixie nodded and fumbled with her hooves to serve herself an oatcake and then spread some jam on top of it. Beside her, Arcana helped himself to all manner of dainty bites, but offered not one ounce of help to his younger sister, nor did Trixie ask for any. Twilight and the others watched the siblings carefully. Twilight wanted to offer her own help to Trixie, but got the distinct impression that her help would be viewed more as interference than assistance.
"So," said Rainbow, deciding to shift the subject away from Trixie, "What's the plan?"
"Well," said Celestia, "It's not too difficult. The plan is mostly the same as last time. After breakfast, you'll be shown to your rooms so that you can get settled. You'll have the rest of the morning to do as you wish. After lunch will be the first rehearsals. Tomorrow, the tailor we commissioned will arrive to take the final measurements for your costumes. After that will be the dress rehearsals."
"If I might ask, just who is this year's costume designer?" asked Rarity.
"It's Lockstitch," replied Celestia, "She was recommended by Fancy Pants. From what I hear, she has been using this project to help educate her current apprentice."
"Oh my," said Rarity, "I've heard of Miss Lockstitch. She has an excellent reputation."
"What gives?" said Rainbow, "Why isn't Rarity doing the costumes this year?"
"Rainbow Dash!" snapped Rarity, rounding to glare at her friend, "It is unbecoming to protest the Princess's decisions in such a manner. Besides, regardless of the situation, I wouldn't be chosen this year."
Celestia nodded, apparently having not taken any offense at Rainbow's outburst. "Indeed. Though I would like to make use of Rarity's skills every year, I'm afraid that we can't show too much favoritism to a single artisan. It would serve to stifle others who are trying to make their way in the same business and deny them the chance to showcase their own work and improve upon it. In this case, Lockstitch is using this opportunity to train an apprentice, which only serves as all the more reason we would give this commission to her."
"Indeed," said Rarity, nodding in agreement. She looked back at Celestia. "Will her apprentice be coming? I would very much like to meet her if Miss Lockstitch feels that she is good enough to be given such an important responsibility."
"I believe so," said Celestia, "After all, fitting is just as critical a part of the process as anything else. I have no reason to believe that Lockstitch would leave her apprentice out of it."
"I look forward to meeting them," said Rarity with an eager smile.
The group turned back to finishing their meal before they were taken to their rooms.
Trixie gently scuffed a hoof against the polished marble floor. Before her stood a pair of large doors, emblazoned with the sun symbol of Celestia's cutie mark, the entrance to the Sun Princess's private quarters. It was nerve wracking to stand before these doors by herself. The two Royal Guards on either side stared forward stoically, giving no indication that they knew that Trixie was even there.
Trixie had been stunned to receive a summons to Celestia's chambers. The rest of the group, with the exception of herself and Arcana, were being taken to get settled in their quarters in the Palace. Trixie had been about to follow them when a servant whispered the summons into her ear. It was a summons for her, not for her and Arcana, not for her and anyone else, but for her alone. Trixie had nervously excused herself and followed the servant through the labyrinthine hallways of the Royal Palace all the way to the doors to Celestia's room, where the servant had left her.
Nervously, Trixie glanced between the two Guards, wondering if they wanted her to wait until they announced her. However, they gave no indication that they were going to do so. Mustering her courage, Trixie took two steps forward and raised a hoof to knock at the door.
The doors opened almost automatically, prompting Trixie to take a step back.
"Come in," called Celestia's voice in a kind and gentle tone from within.
Swallowing hard, Trixie stepped forward and made her way into the room. In most ways, it appeared to be a room befitting one with the status of a Princess. However, in other ways, it almost looked too normal. It was, in fact, an entire suite. Trixie could see one doorway leading off to a bedroom, while another one apparently opened into a marble bathroom. One wall was dominated by a massive window that looked out over Canterlot and the realm of Equestria beyond that. Near the window as a desk, its surface occupied by several small, neat stacks of papers, presumably documents that were awaiting Celestia’s attention or that she had already dealt with. Ironically, given the amount of work that must have gone into governing the nation, Trixie was half-expecting to see stacks of paper reaching towards the ceiling.
“One of the wonderful privileges of being royalty is the ability to delegate tasks to others.”
Trixie whirled about to face another section of the room, this one directly across from the doors to the bath and bedroom. The wall of this room was partially occupied by a large fireplace, in which a roaring blaze was crackling merrily, sending waves of warmth rolling across the rest of the room. In front of the fireplace was arrayed a fair-sized pile of cushions, upon one of which, Celestia was reclined, sipping something steaming out of a mug that hovered in front of her. There was a second, unattended mug, also with steam rising out of it, situated in front of a cushion next to Celestia.
With an indulgent smile, Celestia regarded Trixie and then bobbed her head in the direction of the cushion. “Please, make yourself comfortable Trixie. This isn’t anything too serious. I also took the liberty of having some cocoa made for you as well.”
“Th-thank you, Your Highness.” Trixie did as she was bid and laid out on the cushion next to Celestia. She noted that the insulated mug in front of her had a handle large enough for her to curl her fetlock around it and lift it up. It was a pleasant surprise that Celestia had been so considerate of her current inability to use magic. Trixie sipped at the cocoa, taking a moment to wallow in the luxurious taste, the mingled sweetness and bitterness of chocolate and sugar, punctuated by the heat of chili peppers, mixed with faint notes of cinnamon and allspice. “It’s wonderful.”
“Indeed. It’s a blend that my chefs and I have been working to perfect for many years,” said Celestia, “I may enjoy tea and it may practically be our national beverage, but one gets tired of the same thing all the time.”
“It hardly seems the same when Arkenstone makes it,” commented Trixie, thinking back to the blends she had gotten to sample from Arkenstone’s teahouse.
“Indeed,” agreed Celestia, “It’s sad that Twilight got to him first or I would probably have tried to make him switch professions from Knight to Royal Teamaster.” She giggled. “Perhaps that would be selfish of me, but I do believe I have earned the right to at least fantasize about such things.”
Trixie nodded. She took another sip of cocoa and looked past Princess Celestia to the wall, dominated by shelf loaded down with countless books. “Princess, may I ask why you called me here?”
“Of course,” said Celestia, “I want to apologize completely for Luna’s behavior at brunch today.”
“You don’t have to!” protested Trixie, “I mean, I take no offense at what Luna said.”
“Even so, I feel the need to,” said Celestia, her tone becoming more serious as she stared at the fireplace in front of them. Almost unconsciously, Celestia extended a wing and rested it across Trixie’s back, a gesture that made Trixie stiffen at the unexpected and intimate contact. But Trixie relaxed as Celestia smiled down at her. Celestia continued. “I feel that I must apologize because I fully understand that this is a decision that you did not make lightly.”
“Is it really that upsetting?” asked Trixie.
“In a sense,” said Celestia, “But mostly it comes down to jealousy. With the centuries that we’ve had at our disposal, both Luna and I have dabbled in many of the pony martial arts. I would not consider myself a master of any of them, Luna neither. Our duties have precluded any serious attempts at studying them, even with the lifespans of alicorns at our disposal. However, the Still Way is the one martial art that is truly beyond our capacity to learn…at least, if we want to remain who and where we are.”
“I’m afraid I don’t follow,” said Trixie.
“Think about it,” said Celestia, “In order to learn the Still Way, you must turn your back on all the magic that you have learned since the beginning. For me and my sister, that is impossible.”
“Because of the sun and moon!” gasped Trixie, making the connection, “If you gave up your magic as it is now, you wouldn’t be able to fulfill your duties to raise and lower the celestial bodies.
Celestia nodded. “Exactly. When we first took over control of the sun and moon, we could not afford to turn away from that and place their control back in the horns of the unicorn aristocracy. Those fools would have been entirely too quick to use their renewed control as a play for power. In this day and age, organizing a sufficiently powerful group of unicorns to take over for us would be a difficult task and not one we can simply do because we want to take some time off to learn a new skill…even if acquiring the Still Way was so easy. But the Still Way is all or nothing. Either you learn it and master it, or you don’t. There is no dabbling in that art. I’m not entirely certain that Luna and I would be able to resume our old positions if we mastered the Still Way. Our magic might no longer be compatible with moving the heavens.”
“But isn’t that what your magic is all about?” asked Trixie, twisting her head to sneak a look at Celestia’s sun cutie mark…before realizing that she was contorting herself to stare at the Princess’s flank and returning to facing forward while blushing fiercely, something Celestia did not miss.
Celestia chortled and tightened the hold of her wing over Trixie. “Oh, I’m afraid not. My sister and I are able to move the sun and moon on our own with our power, but that is not what lies at the center of our magic.
“When I first started, my magic was barely more than an average unicorn’s. In fact, I struggled with several basic spells that you probably mastered with ease. When I was born, taking control of the sun was the furthest thing from my mind, even when my cutie mark appeared.”
“How could that be?” asked Trixie.
“Because my cutie mark doesn’t actually represent my control over the sun,” said Celestia.
Trixie gasped and her jaw hit the floor. “Wh-what?”
Celestia couldn't help but laugh at Trixie's bamboozlement. "I don't think even Twilight realizes this. When you've spent millennia raising the sun and your cutie mark is the sun, ponies seem to simply put the two together."
"Then, what does your cutie mark mean?" asked Trixie.
Celestia sighed wistfully, as though recalling a fond memory. "In my youth, what I truly loved to do was bring light and laughter into the lives of other ponies. My passion was cheering others up when they were feeling down and bringing smiles to their faces."
"Hmm..." mused Trixie, "That actually sounds familiar."
"It should," said Celestia, "Of all Twilight's friends, I've always felt the strongest kinship with Pinkie Pie." She grinned at Trixie. "In actuality, things don't seem to have changed all that much by me taking over the sun, as I now bring light into ponies' lives literally, as well as figuratively."
"What does Princess Luna's mark represent then?" asked Trixie, fascinated by this side of royalty that she'd never known before.
"Luna was an artist," said Celestia, "She loved painting. For her, it might have been even easier to adjust to her new duties, as now she has the entire sky for her canvas every night. That our cutie marks ended up so closely matching what we literally do now is probably what ponies would call destiny. It truly is remarkable.
"In any case, we put a great deal of time and effort into mastering the spells necessary to raise, move, and lower the sun and moon. Luna spent even more time learning how to place the stars in the sky and an even greater time working out the best placements for them so that ponies could use the stars to find their way. That is why Luna has been especially attached to the magic she has learned. For her, the idea of giving all that up is anathema."
"I see," said Trixie.
Celestia smiled and gently nuzzled the top of Trixie's head. "It is hard for Luna to identify with that kind of commitment and sacrifice. We have lost countless precious things to the ravages of time, thanks to our extended lifespans. That is why we cling to the things that time can't claim from us all the harder. However, you have even less time, but you show tremendous commitment by willingly giving up your magic. May I see it?"
Trixie nodded and raised a hoof to her head, brushing away the mane around the base of her horn, showing a thin black stripe right where the alicorn met her skull.
"As I thought," said Celestia, "I pray for your success Trixie and look forward to seeing your growth when you do succeed."
"Thank you very much, Your Highness."
"Geez, this place is huge!" exclaimed Scootaloo as she bounded ahead of the others, her eyes and head swiveling back and forth to take in the entire hallway. The corridor seemed to stretch on forever. It was just one of the many passageways that led throughout the massive complex. Where this particular hallway led was anypony's guess.
Behind Scootaloo, Dawn, Melon Cream, Fluttershy, and Caramel followed at a more sedate pace, pausing to take in the sight of the various pieces of artwork that hung on the walls or rested on pedestals between the columns. The Royal Palace was home to a veritable treasure trove of art that rivaled that of any art museum in Equestria. In fact, sections of the Royal Palace were, in essence, treated like an art museum, home to galleries containing all kinds of exhibits of various ponies' creative works, which were switched out from time to time and shared with other such facilities all across the country.
Dawn examined everything with a quiet fascination. Though he had been to the Royal Palace once before, the circumstances of that visit had not left him with much opportunity to play tourist. So, now that he had the opportunity, he decided to take in as much as he could.
In fact, Dawn was so enthralled with looking around that he almost failed to notice that Scootaloo had come to an abrupt halt in front of him and, consequently, nearly ran face-first into her rump.
"Scootaloo?" Dawn pulled back to try and see why the filly had stopped, peering around to look at her face.
Scootaloo was frozen, her jaw open slightly and eyes wide in an expression of astonishment. Following the path of her eyes led Dawn's own gaze straight down the hallway, where he saw exactly why she had frozen in place.
Partway down the hall stood a very familiar, monotoned gray mare, staring at them with an expression that almost perfectly mirrored Scootaloo's, albeit with a bit more fear and nervousness. Dawn felt that the tension of Shade Steel's presence was abated somewhat by the maid's uniform she wore. Around her neck was some sort of collar, fastened with a clasp decorated by the sun symbol of Princess Celestia's cutie mark.
"You!" snarled Scootaloo, her expression hardening into one of anger, "What the hay are you doing here? Why aren't you rotting in the dungeon?"
Shade Steel didn't respond. In fact, her expression hadn't changed in the slightest. Dawn could tell that she was torn between staying and running, edging towards running. It was clear that Shade didn't want any kind of confrontation.
Scootaloo growled and bared her teeth at Shade's lack of response, pawing the floor aggressively, as though she was going to throw herself at the former Guardsmare.
"Scootaloo!" Melon Cream's voice cracked like a whip, stopping Scootaloo cold as she turned to look in confusion at her mother. Melon stared sternly down at her daughter. "That's quite enough," she said, "If she is out and about, then it is undoubtedly at the Princesses' discretion. If you feel that you have to know, then you can ask them. I will not allow you to harass this mare."
"But she..." Scootaloo whirled to glare at Shade, who was slowly edging away. "Dawn! You're with me right? She almost killed you!"
Dawn didn't respond, he was watching Shade carefully, studying her like an interesting puzzle. He too was curious about why she was here. However, he somehow doubted that this was the time or place for a confrontation. Shade had made no aggressive moves and had made no attempt to attack. At this point, all it seemed that she cared about was getting away from them. Given the fact that she hadn't simply bolted, Dawn assumed she hadn't escaped confinement to wander about in disguise. Through the air around him, he could also feel a faint, almost imperceptible buzz as his awareness brushed against the collar around her neck. It's probably some sort of magical restraint, he thought.
"Dawn?" asked Scootaloo, staring in confusion at the colt. He'd almost bled out, thanks to the wounds Shade had given him, but he didn't seem to bear her any ill will. At most, he seemed ambivalent to her presence.
Finally, Dawn closed his eyes and opened them again, turning to meet Scootaloo's gaze. "I think we should leave her be for now," he said, making Scootaloo's jaw drop again, "I too am curious, but we should pose the question to the Princesses."
With a sigh, Scootaloo relaxed. "Okay...fine..."
Dawn gave Shade the smallest of nods, which appeared to be all the prompting that she needed, as she rushed down the hallway, clearly eager to be away from them. She vanished around a corner, leaving the echoing sound of her receding hoofsteps behind.
"Well," said Dawn after a moment, "That was unexpected."
"What do we do now?" asked Scootaloo.
"Um...we can ask the Princesses about it," suggested Fluttershy softly, "Since we're meeting them for lunch, why don't we ask then."
"Fine," groaned Scootaloo, "I guess we should keep exploring then."
"That sounds like a plan," said Caramel, "We still have a little bit until lunch."
The group continued on, but Scootaloo's noticeable lack of enthusiasm seemed to suck much of the enjoyment out of the activity. It was clear that Shade's presence was weighing heavily on her mind.
Shade rushed in the direction of her next job as quickly as her hooves would carry her. Part of her was appalled by the gratitude she felt towards Dawn for dismissing her without any contest, even though his fillyfriend looked about ready to tear her limb from limb. She couldn't believe that she was feeling even the slightest bit thankful towards Dawn Lightwing, even though her rational mind continued to tell her that this whole affair was her fault. She was the one who had opted to kidnap Dinky Doo. She was the one who had nearly killed Dinky when Dawn had cut her free. She was the one who had nearly killed Dawn.
Even now, the slight parting of his mane, right at his forehead, remained as evidence of the wound she'd dealt him there. She was certain that there was probably still a faint mark on his foreleg where her throwing knife had pierced right through it. She was amazed at his complete lack of animosity, though he had regarded her carefully, clearly uncertain as to whether or not she would attack him again.
In the end, Princess Celestia's punishment for Shade Steel was brilliant as it was ruthless. Shade had been assigned to the Palace staff as a servant, a maid attached directly to Princess Luna. She was responsible for cleaning Luna's quarters, seeing to her needs, drawing her baths, fetching her items, anything that Luna wanted, Shade would have to do for her.
But that was the extent of it. Shade would work the same hours as the rest of the staff, carry out the same duties, and even dwell in the servants' quarters with the rest of them. She even had her own room, which was comfortably, if sparsely furnished. Even when Celestia had explained Shade's punishment, Shade had been half-expecting to be forced to return to the dungeon at the end of each day. That she had been given so much freedom was a shock. The only indicator that she was still on any kind of probation was the collar around her neck, which would shock her unconscious if she tried to leave the Palace grounds or if she aggressively attacked somepony. It also blocked her pegasus magic, meaning she couldn't even fly. In exchange...
In exchange, she would have to spend her time serving the pony she had once despised, the one she had once believed to be a source of evil and darkness. She would spend each day and night being reminded of just how painfully wrong she had been and just how far she had fallen. It was mortifying.
It was mortifying and Shade couldn't help but feel that she had earned every minute of it.
The polished marble floor must have been mopped recently at one point because, as Shade turned another corner, she completely lost traction, her legs going out from under her. Her wings flapped frantically as she fought to keep from falling. But her restrained magic kept them from being of much use. The wall was fast approaching as Shade slid towards it, having fallen on her side. She closed her eyes and braced for the impact...
Only to feel nothing as a pair of forelegs wrapped around her barrel. The sound of beating wings reached Shade's ears as she was lifted off the floor before she could hit the wall. Opening her eyes, Shade was shocked to see a pair of pink arms encircling her as the other pony carried her across the wet floor and set her back down on a dry section.
"Well now, that was close," commented her rescuer, clearly an older mare as she landed in front of Shade, giving her a clear view of the pink mare and her blue mane. "You need to be more careful about running around the palace, dear. You're lucky you didn't hurt yourself."
"Y-yes!" said Shade, bobbing her head, "Thank you very much for helping me. I'm sorry, but I need to go."
She was already off as the pink mare watched her go. As Shade vanished down another hallway, a glimmer of amusement passed through the other mare's eyes.
For the record, I am in complete agreement with Rainbow Dash. Korra said it best...
Keep in mind that I haven't read the comics, which (I think) present a backstory for the Princesses and their cutie marks. I decided to go with this explanation for their cutie marks because it ties in with my idea of cutie marks representing a pony's passion and what they choose to personally invest themselves in, rather than basic talent. Given the evidence we see in the series, Celestia is very much a fun-loving pony at heart with a love of laughter and a solid, yet subtle, mischievous streak. So it's easy for me to envision her as a slightly older, wiser, and more toned-down Pinkie Pie to a certain extent. Luna's own cutie mark was perhaps a more direct (but still abstract overall) interpretation.
For some people, Shade's punishment may seem kinda light, but I felt it was appropriate, especially if the one being punished genuinely regrets what they did. For them, accepting punishment is kind of an easy way out because the feeling that one has "paid" for their crimes tends to produce a sensation of relief. Rather, it's my opinion that leaving a remorseful person to stew in their own guilt and be forced to constantly confront their bad decisions without affording them some way to "make up" or "compensate" for their crimes is a much harsher form of punishment on an emotional level.
Next chapter: Sweetie Belle gets a special lesson.
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Brilliant. Put Shade Steel in a position that she is extremely close to that which she hated..Put her in a position where she can do NOTHING about it...
And make her LEARN.
honestly both Sister's can be pranksters when they want to in their own ways. but interesting idea for cuitie marks.
Shade's punishment, I like.
Hmn...Perhaps...perhaps we just met Grandma Pie...
Who uploads a story at 3AM... (Moguera) Oh boy 3AM! Couldn't stop laughing to myself when I thought of that and it doesn't bother me when you upload so no worries. So Sweetie gets a special lesson hmmmm could it be the Still Way.
Nice. right as I finish last update you strike again.
And another wonderful chapter. That's an awesome start for the day^^
Trixie will become the unicorn version of Dark Wing
alicorn? Trixie has an immensely powerful pony on her head?
Why isn't she dead? Fuck it, I'm going to do it myself. Someone pass me a rifle.
Hmm... pink fur, blue mane, pegasus... Firefly? Hmm... in most fanon, she's RD's mother. This could be interesting.
Oh Snarkenstone, please don't go away!
I'm wondering what that black line on Trixie's horn means, but I suppose we'll find out eventually.
Huh, never thought of the pageant like that, I wonder what they'll do about it? I agree with you, this is a much better punishment for Shade. Who was that mare?
5208585 alicorn is what a unicorns horn is made of for them to channel magic. the reason celestia and luna are called alicorns is because ancient unicorn scholars saw them and their power the theorized that their entire body is made up of alicorn.
5208585 In this story Alicorn refers to what a Unicorn horn is made of, like how a bone is made of marrow.
th05.deviantart.net/fs71/PRE/f/2013/031/c/d/firefly_by_equestria_prevails-d5td8oz.png
5208595
Well, Luna's major domo also had a horn a differnt colour to his coat and uses magic without appering to. I think that the change in horn colour is indicative of one's mastery of the still way.
So Luna's the Vincent van Gogh of Equestria?
Are you going to explain how the mastering of Still Way works exactly?
Looks like Celestia has a knack for karmic punishments.
I love this chapter.
5208578
No. NO. NO NO NO NO NONONONONO.
Dark Wing was an asshole. A cool, caring asshole, but still an asshole.
I /like/ Trixie!
5209108
I mean like a powerful fighter who isn't a Knight
Not like Dark Wing/Piccolo
5204719 Woo, you were close!
I take the introduced pink pegasus be Swift, rather than Firefly. (edit: i moved back a little and found out that Swift is a he ._.)
The comments make me think that if Luna had made Wight Shade (woo, there could be a Shade family serving Luna... Heh, I almost want Swift Stride was Swift Shade...) a majordomo to research the Still Way, she hasn't progressed much...
Looking forward to Rarity's meeting with Coco, and wondering what could they gossip about Perlin.
I loved Arkenstone in this chapter... I hope we get to see him like this more!
5208378 Grandma Pie is dead in this story. Her death was the first twitch for Pinkie's Pinkie Sense.
I'm betting it is Firefly.
I would say something dirty but I think you get it.
While thats technically correct since the word 'alicorn' originally meant unicorn horn, most people in the fandom dont know that. Might want to make a note or something.
Also Shade was handled perfectly...please dont let her fall again.
Using a tablet to comment. First time using one.
Error in Arkenstone's comment on Earth Pony tribalist Hearth Warming Pageants. Needs end "marks after the audience remark.
I find it odd that in show canon Tia was Generosity, Kindness, and Magic. While canonically Luna was Laughter, Honesty, and Loyalty. But Tia's CM was laughter based. Canon showed in Element Gemstones of Princesses and Mane6. Can't copy and paste yet. But type "mlp fim princess celestia and Luna elements of harmony" and it's like the first image there. Compare with m6.
That is a very Trollestia punishment.
Anyone think the pink pony is the knight called Sunny?
5209246
Ah, I see. Ok, I can understand that. Only issue I can see is, Arcana is ultra-powerful - and who wants to see the entire Lulamoon family being ultra-powerful?
Besides, Arcana is bad enough. I can only imagine a wiser Trixie would be incredibly annoying.
5210911
Well Trixie being a master at Still Way would deserve the title of Great and Powerful... and the house of Lulamoon will be a force to be reckoned with
5210919
But think of how long this story would take to be finished if we allowed enough time for Trixie to actually become a Still Way master! We'd still be waiting for the 12304th update in 2045 if we allowed for that!
I am finding myself more accepting of this idea, however. Badass Trixie is an awesome Trixie.
5210930
Scootaloo took a few months before she became one of the most powerful figures in Ponyville
5210944
But that's in Ponyville. And she may be powerful, but she's nowhere near Master-level - Hell, Dawn isn't even a Master!
5210948
Still Trixie can be powerful too
i for one would love to see scootaloo go all out in a fight with someone whose moderately trained
i love the visualization
yes, yes it is.
Firefly?
The story of Celestia and Luna's cutie marks is actually in the Journal of the Two Sisters book, which details their younger years. They got their marks at the same time, on the day when they first took control of moving the sun and moon. As an interesting side note, it also says that they draw power from their connection to the heavenly bodies, which may be the cause for their ethereal manes and tails. If you remember in the season 4 finale, Twilight's mane and tail also began to shimmer when she was trying to lower the moon and raise the sun.
I know I'm late to the party, but if AppleJack arrives in Canterlot in the next chapter, how is she at the brunch with Celestia in this one?
--Spade
5863697
Um...Applejack is a Time Lord.
...
...
Excuse me while I make like the Doctor and rewrite some history.
God damn! So many ponies to keep track of.
Hold up, hold the F***ing phone. Trix's horn is changing and she can't use magic. Who else has that: that's right, Morning Star. Is he a still way master?
It's funny that Celestia loves laughter / wants to make others happy.
Yet in canon, her Elements were Magic, Kindness and Generosity. While Luna's was Laughter, Loyalty, and Honesty. I wonder why the EoH decided to choose Luna over Tia for Laughter?
5863733 Well....Doctor Whooves does live in Ponyville, so she could've borrowed his blue box, or just hitched a ride.
I don't get it.
I like to Imagine that there would only have been four guards But Celestia knew they'd need two extra to carry Rarity's luggage.
6264749 Because as much as she wants to make others happy, even if that is her special talent that does not make it What she as an individual represents Best, nor does it make her best at that role. In the show Luna is (to me at least) obviously the more laid-back of the pair (though I strongly headcanon Tia as being a Brilliant prankster in secret) tia, at least in public is almost always wearing that mask of royalty.
And finally that punishment. Simultaneously the kindest and most cruel punishment I can think of. She is cared for, living in comfort, Well fed, Essentially free though somewhat restricted in her movements, yet in turn? she must spend every waking moment of every day reminded of her Failings, Of the Cruel petty creature she became all in service to one whom she once despised as a monster.
7260013
Ah! But Pinks is Laughter in cannon, and her ST is the same thing as Tia's in this fic. But using parties instead of whatever this AU's Tia does. That and we see cannonically that Special Talents give massive preternatural boosts to whatever they represent. And from what we see in CommieTown it's truly a massive bonus.
So it would be who she is as an individual. Well, at least it's a huge core part of who she is. Or at least in this AU, the core defining concept of them. Their compass that defines where they start off and go to in their lives.
[Oh, I won't be on for a while. My lappy needed a factory reset, all the text on this site is murdering my eyes. But it's good to know that you've gotten into the series ^_^. Have a good day ^_^.]
It's a fiendishly appropriate punishment. She's got room and board, her chores won't be as physically taxing as Guard training or their daily routines, but she has to directly serve who she thinks is the pony equivalent of Satan.
7207377
Rarity thinks anyone from Canterlot would see her mane and think it's hideous. Arkenstone says he thinks it is flawless even though he is from Canterlot. But he's blind. So he can't actually see her mane. Except Rairty didn't remember right away because she was focused on what he said rather than the fact that he can't possible mean it. That's the joke. Like the Toph jokes TheMyth linked. It's funny when a blind person says a thing a sighted person would say, only for the listener to then remember that they can't actually see after they've reacted to what was said.