//------------------------------// // Luna: My Dearest Genevieve // Story: Celestia XVII: The Broken Princess // by brokenimage321 //------------------------------// My Dearest Genevieve, I hope that this letter finds you well. You will be pleased to hear that I made it home safely after our last visit. I know it was only for a week-end, but nevertheless, I shall remember it fondly for years to come. Please give my well-wishes to your grandchildren: Big Macintosh was, as always, such a help with the luggage, and Applejack played quite the gracious hostess, and, of course, Applebloom’s sunny smile did much to bring some warmth back into these old bones.  Speaking of which: I tried that remedy you recommended. The kitchens were somewhat confused when I passed on the instructions for a reduction of applesauce, garden herbs, and strong liquor, but I prevailed upon them at last. I must admit, it did not help my knees as much as you hoped it would. Perhaps it works better on hardy souls such as yourself? For my part, I have always been partial to Mistress Silk’s poultices, especially her Arthritic Joint Cream. I know you do not generally put much stock in medicines that you cannot manufacture at home, but I would still be more than happy to send you a sample if you think you may want to try it. Our visit was, of course, delightful, but I must admit that I am glad to be home again. My duties are trying, as always, but it is good to get back into the routine. And, though your hoofcrafted rocking chairs are quite charming, these old bones of mine are much more comfortable when they have their accustomed padding underneath them. Not to mention, Oolong Chai is ever so skilled at preparing my tea just the way I like it. But most of all, I am glad to see my grandchildren again.  Oh, Twilight is still back in Ponyville, to be certain, and I do so love to see her in the flesh. But you see, I have assigned her some books to read. Nothing too grueling, I do not think, just some books of history and etiquette, of the sort to prepare her to Succeed me at some point. Oh, of course, she is still studying to be a schoolteacher—admirable, as always—but I do think it prudent that she plan for unpleasant eventualities… eventualities that, if I am honest with myself, may come sooner than either of us would hope.  In any case, I was quite pleased to find that Twilight had kept up with the schedule we had agreed upon even while I was away, and that I had a stack of reports on my desk to read upon my return. That is one of the things I most admire about my Twilight: she is an exceptionally diligent student, and makes room for my little projects even despite the other schoolwork she already has. Perhaps I should find my way towards giving her a break every now and then… I cannot fault her report-writing, of course, but I hear that she finds the whole program rather stressful. I suppose it is the thought of having to take over so many duties at once that intimidates her… though I would like to think that part of her trouble is the thought of missing me when I am gone, as well. At any rate: I thoroughly enjoyed seeing the young gentlecolts again too. Shining Armor remains steadfastly at his post, though that means there is precious little more to say about him than what you have already heard. Though, rumors are swirling that he has his eyes on a young mare of late… one Sunshine Smiles, if I hear correctly.  Prince Blueblood, on the other hoof, is in the midst of planning his wedding. Things are going well by all accounts, though not without the expected pre-wedding chaos. To see him and his fianceé so frantic, one would almost hope they would just elope and be done with it, tradition be damned. But Rarity is, of course, set on a traditional ceremony, and Blueblood is set on pleasing her, so there is nothing more to be said.  I really think it might do you good to see them, Genevieve. It reminds me a little of when I was their age, a blushing bride picking out her china patterns… but I digress.  But the one of my grandchildren that really surprises me is Celestia. Oh, of course, I complain—we do have that right, after all, us old nags—but she really is doing a splendid job, all things considered. She is headstrong and stubborn, and sometimes refuses to listen to reason or good sense, but, more often than not, she does the right thing. You know… she really angers me, from time to time… but I truly am proud of her. Of course, she is not yet the sort of Princess that Equestria needs, but, then again, I am here to help her until she is… and, of course, I admit that she is doing better than I was at her age. I was quite a foolish little filly, if you believe it... Now, my dearest Geniveve, I must end my letter here. I have more to say, of course, but my inkwell runs dry, and I am still fatigued from my trip. I do so wish to hear from you, as soon as you can write, and I hope we can plan another visit soon—perhaps you could come up to the Palace, this time? I know you disdain both locomotives and flying carriages, but I would be more than happy to arrange a Royal escort for your wagon, if you would have it.  Yours, as always,  Princess Luna I of Equestria “Loony”