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// Letter 4 - Luna to Starlight 
// Story: Sincerely, Starlight 
// by Nines 
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Dear Starlight Glimmer,

On the matter of time: let it wash over thee, then trickle away. Let its mark remain in the lines of age it carves, and the salt it leaves... But it can cleanse if thou lets it. I count my salt crystals like my stars. A second at a time. With all due respect to Dr. Hooves, I know nothing of this "wibbly-wobbly" or "timey-wimey" business. I confess ignorance to many things, but I should think time, even in the abstract sense, I should be an expert at! During my banishment, twas all I could do but count its passage in the deep dark craters of the moon.

Still, I think thou should heed thy teacher and follow her excellent instruction. Though, knowing Twilight Sparkle, I think thou art right on calling shenanigans when she claims simplicity!

Prithee, keep that between us. Should my sister discover my scandalous admissions, I shall be host to the longest of lectures on the importance of maintaining a royal aspect. Not that she stands stiffly on tradition, far from it, but she is rather proud of her star pupil, and she knows the power of perception.

Ah... Perception. That timeless foe of mine. Since my return I have struggled still to gain the faith of the ponies of Equestria. Their attitude toward me has softened, but I am seldom received with complete warmth outside of my sister's presence. Perhaps that is why she fusses so particularly about my reputation? And why perhaps Twilight emphasizes simplicity for thee.

The frustration. I heard it like a singing bell in thy latest correspondence. I understand that frustration. Of feeling broken and lesser before these accomplished peers who all seem to have an opinion on how we should conduct ourselves. I suppose the best way of looking at it is that we are cared for, to have such ponies eager to see us on the right path. Still, it is better to choose who to listen to and drown out the rest. Including the nasty voice in thy head.

One last matter I wish to comment on: perhaps thou should inform Sunburst that while he holds an academic interest in thy past exploits, underscore for him that those wounds are still healing. From the brief chats I've had with the fellow, I'm afraid such things are a bit out of his expertise.

Wishing All The Best,
Princess Luna