Early one morning, Twilight Sparkle gets up to make some tea.

Sometimes, a cup of tea is just a cup of tea. This is not one of those times.

The business of government never stops, and paperwork never rests, even on Hearthwarming. But this particular Hearthwarming, Cabinet Secretary and tea enthusiast Dotted Line plans to do his level best to see it, at least, take a break. His ponies need to go home to their families, and he, well, he has plans this Hearthwarming.

What secret wish lay in the dreams of eternity?

(Thanks to Dreampaw for the cover!)

Misunderstandings abound as a simple letter from Princess Celestia to Twilight Sparkle creates chaos.

This story has a prequel.

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Original "Sad Celestia" draft

Princess Cadence tries to legally change her name to "Princess Cadance." Footnotes ensue. Part of the "Cadance of Cloudsdale" cycle, and a crossover with Ghost of Heraclitus's Civil Service stories. Familiarity with neither is required.

Filly Cadence turns her first heart. Part of the "Cadance of Cloudsdale" cycle; familiarity with the previous work is not required. Thanks to G.M. Berrow for the inspiration.

Twilight has something she needs to tell Princess Celestia--something that means a chance at getting everything she's ever wanted, or of losing everything she's ever had.

Something so terrifying that the only way she could say it was in a letter...and so wonderful that she had the courage to send it.

(Thanks to Cenit V for the cover!)

"Hi everypony! Sorry I missed you. I'm away in Canterlot for a few days. If you need help finding a book, Spike will be happy to assist. Library hours are 9 -5. Thanks! See you all then!
- Twilight Sparkle"

On a trip to Canterlot to attend to some royal business, Twilight Sparkle learns more about kindness and forgiveness than she expected. Contemplation, melancholy, and a richly detailed world. An oldie-but-goodie from the early days of the community; please note that this has not been updated to reflect subsequent character development from Season 2.

Princess Celestia has forgotten something. Something important.

But what the hell is it?

Comments contain spoilers.

Princess Twilight Sparkle is expecting her friends to arrive in Canterlot. But when the train doesn't arrive on time she, naturally, starts to fear the worst.

Although Spike tries to reassure her that all is well with her friends, the nervous Princess can't help but think of a few reasons which could be to blame for the sudden and inexplicable delay.

When the train finally does arrive she learns the real reason for the delay — though it's not exactly what she was expecting it to be.

AUTHOR'S NOTES

This story was written to celebrate me finally reaching 300 followers (what a journey that was).

Enjoy!

Cover art by SonicRainboomGirl.