//------------------------------// // Ch. 1 High And Dry // Story: Wandering Star // by Closer-To-The-Sun //------------------------------// Chapter 1: High And Dry It was a pleasantly warm day in Ponyville. In the town's library, the purple unicorn known as Twilight Sparkle was dealing with a different type of houseguest. While she was honored to have such a guest, she was a bit bothered with the fact that a princess was taking up residence in her home. "Not to be nosy or anything, Princess Luna, but why is it that you are here in Ponyville again?" the purple mare asked as she was helping the royal alicorn arrange her new quarters in the basement treehouse. "My sister insisted I should take a break from the royal and formal atmosphere of Canterlot. She claims that I should get to know the common pony again and get back in touch with them," Princess Luna explained as she used her magic to fixed the blankets on her bed so that they were neat and orderly. "Princess Celestia does have a point, I mean, after the Night Mare Night incident," the purple unicorn thought aloud. "Indeed, so I plan to stay here for some time and get to know the 'common pony'," the dark blue pony turned to Twilight and stared at her. Twilight was nervous as the princess stared at her. After a short period of silence, Twilight finally spoke out in a panicky tone, "What is it, your majesty?" Luna was slow to reply, "Well, it is just that, I am not sure how to relate to the citizens of Equestria and the 'common pony'. Therefore, I would like it very much if you could help me with such a task." The unicorn tilted her head, "Come again?" "You know," Luna tried her best to describe what she meant, "help me adjust and mingle amongst the townsfolk." Twilight placed a hoof on the back of her neck and slightly rubbed as she spoke, "Huh, um….I guess I could show you around Ponyville or something. Is there any place in particular you are interested in visiting?" Luna placed a hoof over mouth as she thought, "Well, is there some sort of merchant exchange we could venture to?" "Um….we have some small stores throughout the town…." Twilight tried her best to answer. "What about an eatery where we may sample delicacies from across Equestria?" "Uh….we got Sugarcube Corner…." "Perhaps we take a trip to the city of the pegasi?" "I can't fly," Twilight was a bit sore with the last idea by the princess. "Hmm….well, do you have to have an idea Twilight Sparkle?" Luna asked to the purple pony. Twilight seemed at a loss, "I'm not sure myself. I can go ask Applejack. She knows this town better than any other pony I know. She's probably out on her farm." The unicorn led the princess up the stairs to the first floor and then out of the library. "A farm, you say? How intriguing," the princess commented as the exited the library. "You are a fan of farms, princess?" Twilight asked as they walked towards Sweet Apple Acres. "I am quite fascinated by the charm of a farm, Twilight. It's something simple, but extremely vital to a nation's health," Luna mused as they drew closer to the farm, "A nation is founded not by a pony with ideals but on the workers who aid in the running of the land itself. There was a wise commander who once stated that an army trots on its stomach." "I do agree with that, they are crucial and all. I remember learning about those political views in one of the books you wrote, no need to preach to me," Twilight giggled at slightly, "Anyway, maybe you can find something of interest while were here." The two mares stopped in front of the barn. It seemed like the farm was deserted with nopony around. "Huh, this is odd. I'll go check around back. I'll be right back, your highness," Twilight spoke as she began to trot away. "Very well," Luna replied as she sat her flank down. The princess's eyes wandered to observe the strange and captivating surroundings around her. The peaceful sounds of the gentle wind and the singing birds created more of an ambiance for the area. It felt absolutely wonderful for the princess to be out of the stuffy atmosphere of Canterlot and down to Equestria in Ponyville. She felt relaxed and as if Celestia was right, that Luna needed to just relax. However, Luna's daydream was interrupted by a low voice. "Good afternoon, ma'am. Can ah help ya in some way?" a red stallion asked with a gentle smile. Luna's heart paused as she laid her eyes on the colt.