Changes

“I wanted to talk to you about Twilight.”

“What about her?”

“I’m going to need you to look after her,” Celestia answered as she stared into the depths of her teacup.

“Uh,” was all Spike had a chance to get out before the alicorn continued.

“She’s progressed faster than I’d ever thought possible, but she’s still so young.”

Spike was getting more and more confused. “So you want me to help her because she’s too young?”

Celestia gave a small smile at the dragon’s grasp of logic. “Of course not, but I won’t always be there when she needs that help. Being a member of royalty isn’t about being able to have whatever you want. There are responsibilities; responsibilities that I’m not sure she’s ready for. Her life is changing in ways that are beyond her control, and I’m worried that these changes are going to be too great a burden on her. If she is ever doubting herself, or if you find her falling into the trap of depression, I need you to let me know. Can you do that?”

It took a moment for the young dragon to soak it all in, but finally he looked Celestia in the eyes with a resolute expression. “Yes.”