//------------------------------// // Bonus - Admiration // Story: Renaissance of The Moon // by Habanc //------------------------------// Luna wrapped her forehooves tighter around Fluttershy as she awoke. She let herself enjoy cuddling her mate for a moment longer. Burying her nose in the pegasus' mane, she inhaled deeply before opening her eyes. Fluttershy was still asleep, her chest rising and falling peacefully as sunlight dappled across the bed. It was early in the afternoon, on a gorgeous, sunny February day. The two had left early that morning from Ponyville, the moon still hanging in the sky. Even though Fluttershy fell asleep on Luna's shoulder on the chariot ride over, both were exhausted after arriving in Canterlot. So, after enjoying a late breakfast with Celestia, the two went up to the lunar mare's room and took a nap. This week, the two ponies had decided to take a vacation in Canterlot for a nice way to relax from the daily bustle at the cottage. Writing treatises and legislature was especially stressful when you had forest creatures running around everywhere. Luna had come around to love each and every one of them, but that still didn't make it any easier. Therefore, the alicorn decided to take her companion out for a breather and show the mare around her favorite spots in Canterlot. It took some convincing, but a promise to save one of the days for a quiet night in sealed the deal. “Fluttershy,” Luna whispered in her ear, before nuzzling her cheek softly. “Come on, it's time to wake up.” The yellow mare opened her eyes slowly. “Hmm? What time is it?” she asked. Luna smiled. “Time to out of bed and into your best dress.” “Why?” “Because tonight we have reservations at Le Chantehoof, remember?” Fluttershy got up with a start. “Oh my gosh! You're right!” She looked around frantically. “What time is it?! Are we late? Do you think we cou-” Luna reached in calmly and kissed her. Fluttershy's eyes widened for a second, before closing them as she kissed the princess back. Seconds later, they broke apart. Luna opened her eyes and smiled, announcing casually, “The reservation is hours away. You're fine.” Fluttershy sighed. “Oh, good, I was really getting worried for a second there.” Blushing slightly, she added, “Thanks for being so sweet, it's not everyday I get woken up with a nuzzle and a kiss.” Luna put a hoof to her chest, pretending to be hurt. “What?! I give you a peck on the cheek every morning!” “Yes, but also I'm the one who wakes you up and the only thing you can do is peck me on the cheek until you've had your tea.” Fluttershy giggled. “I meant a more romantic kiss like what you did back there... I liked that.” The alicorn grinned. “Maybe I should make a habit of it.” She reached in and quickly kissed Fluttershy again before hopping off the bed. “C'mon Flutters, we don't have all night to get ready!” -~- Fluttershy rubbed up closely to Luna as they walked side by side down a sidewalk in downtown Canterlot. The night was windy and chilly, but also as clear as could be. Ponies walked to and fro along the street, the busy lifestyle of the city not slowing down as the moon began to rise. Luna looked over at the pegasus, admiring her new outfit. A dazzling, crimson dress reached from her neck down to past her cutie marks and it sparkled in the moonlight brilliantly. She also wore a set of boots and a woven scarf of the same color to compliment it. Luna herself wore a sleek, luminous white dress, with ruffled edges that blew in the wind. But that was far from her mind as they neared closer to the restaurant. “Whew, it's chilly in only this dress.” Fluttershy shivered, pressing even closer against her. “Don't worry, we're just about there,” Luna reassured her. “Besides, have I told you that you look gorgeous in it?” The mare laughed. “Oh yes, numerous times.” She looked up at Luna, “So, what's this place like?” The alicorn shrugged, as they came up to a door being attended by a very official-looking pony. “Why don't we go in and see for ourselves?” The pony outside opened the door for them, bowing slightly. Luna thanked him as they entered. Fluttershy, meanwhile, was much more preoccupied with looking around the high-quality restaurant. An adorned chandelier hung from a high ceiling, presiding over a room filled with tables of the highest echelons of Canterlot. Serving ponies dressed in tuxedos scurried across the room, refilling refreshments and serving meals. Exquisite artwork adorned the walls, and a huge, luxurious carpet covered the floor. Luna came back over to her and smiled. “Do you like it?” “Well, yes... But don't you think that this is a bit too upscale?” Fluttershy glanced around nervously. “You know how I feel about being around so many upper class ponies.” A month ago, the two had to stay for a day in Canterlot so Luna could give an address to the nobility of Equestria on the new tax laws. Fluttershy tried to sit-in and watch her beloved mare in action, but she couldn't handle the scrutinizing eyes of all the dukes, duchesses, barons and counts as she entered to room. “I know,” Luna said as she nuzzled her comfortingly. “That's why I made reservations for a private room.” An usher promptly came up to the pair and bid them to follow her up a set of stairs that ended in an open hallway overlooking the main dining room. The usherpony led on, and quickly arrived at a door at the end of the hall. Opening it for them, she let Luna and Fluttershy in first. The room was furnished with similar adornments as in the main dining room, except the seating was a wide booth that faced a large window. From there, they could see all over Canterlot, including the many spires jutting out above normal-sized buildings. It all glimmered like a thousand candles, with the moon rising still above the horizon. “Wow...” Fluttershy managed to utter as she entered the room. “So, now do you like it?” Luna asked. She wrapped a foreleg around her shoulder. “Come on, let's go sit down.” Fluttershy smiled as she scooted into the booth. “This is simply amazing, Luna. How did you do it?” The princess waved a hoof dismissively as she slid next to Fluttershy. “Oh, it was nothing. I just wanted to make sure you could enjoy a great night out without feeling anxious.” Doubt flashed in the pegasus' eyes for a moment. “Thanks... But are you sure I look okay? Everypony in the main hall looked so proper and well-dressed.” Luna rolled her eyes. “This is our own room, so nopony out in the other room can see you.” She gently took the scarf off from around Fluttershy's neck. “Besides, you look absolutely stunning, so you don't have anything to worry about.” Fluttershy looked into her eyes, and planted a kiss on Luna's cheek. “Thanks.” She giggled a second afterwards. “And don't think I haven't been looking at you either.” “Ah- um... Thanks.” Luna opened up her menu and held it close to her face to hide her growing blush. -~- A waiter rolled a cart into the room, stopping just around the corner of the booth. “Your meals, Princess Luna and Miss Fluttershy,” he announced. Using his own magic, he placed two plates on the table, a serving of vegetable casserole for Fluttershy and truffles over pasta for Luna. “Mmm, this looks good,” Fluttershy muttered aloud as the waiter left. “Yes, well... I wish we were served a little more than this,” Luna replied, looking down disappointedly at her meal. “It's maybe only a little bigger than my hoof,” she pouted. “Oh, stop it.” Fluttershy giggled. “I have plenty here if you finish yours.” “But I don't like vegetable casserole...” Luna said, still pouting. She crossed her forelegs stubbornly. The pegasus rolled her eyes, and took a bite out of her meal. “The city looks beautiful tonight,” she said, changing the subject. “Winter nights in Canterlot usually are,” Luna responded, forgetting entirely about her portion dilemma. She stared out the large window in front of them. “I've kinda missed this place. It's not as clean or friendly as Ponyville, but it still has its charm.” “Yeah, I guess it does.” Fluttershy agreed, taking a sip from her glass of wine. She grimaced as she swallowed, and quickly took a large swig from a glass of water. “Ugh! Th-that tasted horrible!” Fluttershy remarked. “How do you drink that?” “What, you've never had wine before?” Luna raised an eyebrow. “Why did you order a glass then?” “I- I thought it would make the dinner feel more fancy...” Fluttershy admitted. The dark blue mare giggled, leaning over and hugging the other pony. “You don't have to order a certain way to impress me or make this date feel any more special. Besides,” she continued, “it took me two centuries of feasts and ceremonies to get used to the taste.” “Oh.” Luna took a bite of her own dish. “Wow, these truffles are great! I haven't had any in months!” Fluttershy gave her a quizzical look. “What's a truffle?” “Oh, it's just a rare, tasty mushroom that grows under the ground. Want to try a bit?” Luna asked. “Umm... Oh sure, why not,” the pegasus replied as she shrugged. Luna stabbed a small piece with her fork, and fed it carefully to Fluttershy. The pink-maned equine chewed it slowly, examining it's flavor. She swallowed, and tapped her chin with a hoof for a few seconds. “Hmm, it's actually not that bad. It's a little too rich and hearty for me, but I can tell why you'd love it.” Luna took a sip of her wine and winked at Fluttershy. “You know me too well.” “And I love every bit I know.” Fluttershy replied, leaning in and kissing her. -~- Princess Luna helped her marefriend up into a hoofdrawn carriage, before getting onboard herself. Going to the front of the cabin, she tossed a few bits to the driver, then turned back around. She sat down and wrapped a foreleg around Fluttershy, who was grinning at her. “What?” Luna asked promptly. “Is there something on my face?” Fluttershy shook her head, “Oh no, I was just admiring something about you.” Luna grinned back. “It's my good looks, right?” “Oh, something like that.” She giggled, before changing the subject, “Tonight was really nice.” “Thanks, I had fun too.” Fluttershy leaned against her shoulder, exhaling deeply. “So, what do you think about a foal?” Luna coughed and choked abruptly, “Ahh- um what?” She looked completely caught off-guard. Fluttershy laughed. “Oh, calm down! I'm kidding!” Then she added quietly, “...for now...” “Ha ha, very funny,” Luna said. “You've been quite the joker tonight.” The pegasus nuzzled her affectionately. “I'd be honored, if I were you. I'm only this open when I'm really comfortable with the other pony.” She settled back in the crook of Luna's shoulder. Luna kissed the top of her head. “I know.” The carriage rolled quietly down the streets of Canterlot, slowly heading for the royal castle as the moon reached its zenith. “Wait,” Luna began with a start, minutes later. Fluttershy looked up at her curiously. “So, what were you admiring about me earlier? Was it my mane or my eyes?” “Uhh, no.” Fluttershy replied, looking away. “Well, what was it?” Luna asked. “I know you always make that grin when you see something you like.” Fluttershy chuckled anxiously. “It's nothing, honestly. I just expected a pony as old as you would know.” She smiled. “But it's perfectly fine that you don't understand.” “Hmph,” Luna pouted, just as the carriage rolled to a stop outside the castle doors. The two ponies got out, and walked side-by-side into the castle. Inside, Celestia was waiting for them. She was sitting near the base of the stairs, looking over a stack of papers. Her eyes lit up as she noticed the two enter. “Celly!” Luna exclaimed, “What are you doing up so late?” “Oh, I just couldn't miss the opportunity to ask you two how it went.” She replied. “So?” “It was a lot of fun,” Fluttershy answered. “Your sister here was very considerate, courteous and funny.” “Wow, are you sure you're talking about my sister?” Celestia joked lightly. “I'm proud of you, Luna. Who knew you'd be like this six months ago?” Princess Luna blushed slightly. “Oh, I just did my best to have a great time. It was nothing, really.” “Nothing?” Celestia echoed her. “Luna, this is the first time I've seen you in a dress so...” She fought to find the right word. “So...” “Slimming?” Fluttershy offered. “Ahh, yes,” Celestia agreed. “Quite slimming.” She turned to the yellow pegasus. “You like it, don't you?” Fluttershy nodded, “Why yes, I do. I definitely wouldn't mind if she wore more like it more often.” The white alicorn nodded with understanding, a smile gracing her lips. “I can see why you would.” Luna yawned, not understanding the conversation completely. “Alright, well can we go to bed? I'm tired.” Celestia shook her head. “Fluttershy may, but I'd like you to stay down her for a second so I can tell you something in private.” Luna looked up in curiosity. Meanwhile, Fluttershy came over and kissed her on the cheek. “Don't worry, I'll keep the bed warm until you come up.” As the pegasus ascended the stairs, Celestia stepped in closer to her sister. “So, how was it? No offense to Fluttershy, but I wanted to hear from you about how it went.” Luna smiled. “It was really, really nice. We walked out to the restaurant, had a beautiful room to ourselves, and enjoyed an excellent dinner.” “Good, good,” Celestia said. “Did you do anything afterwards?” Luna shrugged. “Not really. We shared a small dessert and then we got a carriage to take us back here. It was a little weird in there, but overall it was a great night.” “Weird?” Her sister asked. “How?” “Oh,” Luna waved her hoof dismissively. “I went up the front of the cabin to pay the driver, and when I turned back around to go sit with her, Fluttershy had this weird grin on her face. I don't understand why and she wouldn't tell me.” Celestia had to hold a hoof up to her mouth to stop her from chuckling too loudly. “Alright, let's pretend I am you, and you are Fluttershy. Okay?” She took a few steps away from her. Luna gave her a confused look. “Okay, sure, but I have no clue where you're going with this.” Celestia was facing away from her. “So, you were like this when you paid the driver?” She asked without looking back at Luna. Luna scratched the back of her neck. “Yeah, just like that.” Celestia turned her head around to look back at her sister. “You don't notice anything?” Luna shook her head. The taller alicorn smirked, and walked back over to her. “Well, it appears she was admiring you.” “Yeah, she said that, but I still don't understand.” The lunar princess looked perplexed. “Well, take some time to think about it, dear sister. There's only so much one pony can see when another has their back to them.” When Luna still looked lost, she winked. “Just think about it.” Then, the solar princess walked out of the room towards her study. Luna tapped her chin with a hoof. ”Fluttershy was admiring me from behind... Hmm-” Suddenly, she blushed. But unlike before, she didn't feel self-conscious or too embarrassed. Rather, she felt more confident and esteemed. She pumped a hoof quietly, before bounding up the stairs with some newly-acquired energy. -~- Author's Note I hardly ever do these kind of notes at the end, but I'd just like to say thanks for all the support I've gotten for this fic. It was the first one I've ever written on the My Little Pony universe more than a year ago, and the awesome response I got from everyone on FIMFiction encouraged me to finish this story and go on to write many more (There are a ton of WIPs that aren't published here either). I've written these bonus chapters for you guys and gals here because you're all awesome and incredibly supportive. I could have easily put these up on EqD, but I feel it's better here for all of you to enjoy. Sorry if the editing is off, but I can't find enough time to edit it at the moment. Once I find an hour or two this week I'll look through it and give it a proper look-over. Until then, enjoy it as much as you can! It's been awhile since I've written such an innocent (although I may have just taken that down a few notches, sorry!), heartwarming, up-close, emotionally-lifting and heavy shipping, but I tried my best to recreate what I was putting out a year ago!