"So Twilight, you gotta be super careful when you're flying in icing conditions. Feathers are pretty amazing but ice still messes with them," Rainbow Dash cautioned, "your primary feathers will shake rime off, but you gotta pay attention to those secondary and tertiary ones or you start losing lift. You don't wanna end up on the Ponyiac."
Just as they were deep in their discussion, the tranquillity of their luxurious suite at Canterlot Castle was shattered when Rarity burst through the door, her eyes gleaming with excitement. She immediately started taking Rainbow Dash's measurements for a dress, her magic moving the tape measure with precision. It seemed that a whirlwind of excitement and fashion had descended upon their otherwise tranquil day in Canterlot.
"Oh, Rainbow Dash, dear, you simply must let me craft the coronation dress I have in mind for you! You'll look positively stunning in it!" Rarity exclaimed, her creative energy practically palpable.
Rainbow Dash reared up as a tape measure snaked around her barrel. "Hay, what gives Rarity! You kinda need to warn a pony before invading their space like that."
Rarity, still engrossed in her work, replied without missing a beat, "Oh, darling, I had a brilliant idea for a dress for you, and I couldn't wait another second to get started!"
Following closely behind Rarity, Applejack and Pinkie Pie entered the room, looking somewhat amused by the sudden flurry of activity. Applejack headed over to give Rainbow a hug, whilst Twilight attempted to catch Pinkie's eye with a warm smile.
Applejack couldn't help but tease Rarity about her unbridled enthusiasm for the coronation dresses. With a sly grin, she quipped, "Rarity, y'all been talking nonstop about dresses all the way to Canterlot. You're more excited than a filly at a candy store!"
Rarity laughed, her passion for fashion undiminished. "Oh, Applejack, it's not every day we all get to attend a royal coronation! A little enthusiasm is only natural."
Applejack playfully raised an eyebrow, her tone lighthearted. "Well, Rarity, if it were up to me, I'd just want something plain and simple for the coronation. Nothing too fancy or overly decorative, now."
Rarity gasped in horror, her hoof to her chest. "Darling, plain and simple? At a royal coronation? You cut me with your simplicity!"
The friends shared a laugh, knowing that Rarity's penchant for drama was part of what made her so endearing, even if she was surreptitiously looking around for a couch to swoon on. While Applejack may prefer a more down-to-earth approach, Rarity's passion for fashion and attention to detail always added a touch of glamour to their group's adventures in Canterlot.
Applejack raised an eyebrow and asked, "What's all the fuss about? Ain't like it's going to change anything with Twilight here."
Rainbow Dash exchanged a glance with Twilight, who winced and looked at Pinkie. The earth pony seemed unphased by Applejack's careless turn of phrase. Twilight truly hoped that her friend was past her traumatic reaction to seeing Twilight's ascension.
Rarity continued to take measurements, nearly hyperventilating with the thought of creating coronation dresses for all her friends. She expressed her determination for them to look their absolute best on such a momentous occasion, her voice tinged with a hint of urgency.
"Oh, my dear friends, I simply must design your coronation outfits! I want each of you to look absolutely stunning, and you must let me take care of the style."
Twilight Sparkle, recalling the fashion disasters that nearly unfolded at the Grand Galloping Gala, nodded in agreement. "Rarity, we've learned our lesson from past experiences. We trust you, and we know you'll make us all look fantastic."
The rest of their friends voiced their agreement, acknowledging Rarity's talent and design expertise. Rainbow Dash, added, "As long as I can still fly comfortably in it and look totally cool, I'm all for it."
Rarity's eyes sparkled with appreciation, her artistic spirit reinvigorated. "Oh, you have my word, darlings. You'll all be the talk of Equestria with the dresses I'll create for you!"
With their trust in Rarity's creative talents, they knew that their coronation attire would be nothing short of magnificent once she'd worked her creative magic. For the time being that meant Rainbow Dash rolling her eyes and putting up with Rarity fussing around her whilst Applejack tried to hide her giggles behind her hat. Twilight took the opportunity to sidle up to Pinkie Pie and gently usher out onto the balcony whilst her other friends were distracted. With a caring expression, she asked, "Pinkie, how are you feeling? Are things any better?"
Pinkie Pie sighed, looking out at the view of Canterlot before responding, "things are a bit better, but I'm still feeling all mixed up. Part of my mind keeps replaying those paranoid thoughts about you being replaced by an impostor. It's like I know it's not true, but it's hard to shake off. And then there's another part of me that feels so humiliated by my breakdown."
Twilight placed a comforting hoof on Pinkie's shoulder and spoke gently, "Pinkie, you have nothing to be ashamed of. Your emotional volatility is something that deserves sympathy and understanding, not stigmatisation. We all go through tough times, and you should never feel ashamed that you struggle more acutely than most ponies."
Pinkie Pie took a deep breath and looked at Twilight, her expression a mix of vulnerability and sincerity. "You know, Twilight, I think I have been dealing with something chaotic for some time now. It's like the world is always on the edge of lifting a veil away if I could just focus on my peripheral vision. Sometimes I just can't control my thoughts and feelings. It's a rollercoaster, and it's been happening more as I get older."
Twilight listened attentively, her concern growing as she absorbed Pinkie's words. "Pinkie, I'm really sorry to hear that you're going through this. It must be so difficult."
Pinkie Pie nodded, her voice a little shaky. "It can be Twilight, but it's a part of me, and I've learned to live with it. I just hope it won't get much worse. Sometimes my mind goes to some pretty dark places, and I'm worried about what I might do to stop it."
Twilight was shocked and didn't know how to respond to such a revelation. She simply wrapped her hooves tightly around Pinkie, offering the comfort of her presence. Tears welled up in Twilight's eyes, and she began to cry at the thought of this pony, so we'll known for spreading joy, having such a hard battle with her own thoughts.
Just then, Applejack wandered out onto the balcony and saw the two friends embracing. Assuming that Twilight had been overcome by the emotions surrounding her coronation, Applejack quietly approached them, her expression one of concern. "Twilight, are you alright? I know this is a big occasion an' all but we're here to support you, sugarcube."
Pinkie and Twilight exchanged a brief glance, both choosing to play along, not wanting to reveal the true reason for their emotional state. "I'll be okay, Applejack," Twilight assured, giving Pinkie a supportive squeeze.
Pinkie Pie nodded, her eyes also glistening with tears but a small smile playing on her lips. "Yeah, we've got each other's backs, just like always."
With the secret of Pinkie's true struggles kept between them they shared one last embrace, finding mutual solace before returning to join their friends. They were just in time for Rarity to begin advancing on Applejack with her magically animated tape measure, and soon the suite was filled with the sounds of laughter at the farmer's discomfort.
The day of the coronation had finally arrived, and Canterlot Castle buzzed with activity. The magnificent grand hall was adorned with elegant decorations and tapestries, as ponies from across Equestria gathered to witness the ascension of Princess Twilight Sparkle. The anticipation and excitement in the air were palpable, as this was a less than once in a lifetime event. No pony in attendance would ever see another coronation of a brand new alicorn.
Rainbow Dash knew that Rarity had made her a chic dress and hat for the occasion, but she couldn't help but feel somewhat self-conscious. She tugged at her dress and adjusted her hat, her wings twitching nervously. She had always been a pony of action and adventure, and the world of formal ceremonies and regal appearances was a far cry from her usual comfort zone. Nevertheless, she was there to support Twilight and celebrate this momentous occasion, no matter how conspicuous she felt in her elegant attire.
In these regal surroundings, despite wearing the finest clothes she'd ever had, she couldn't help but still feel rather modest in comparison to the grandeur of Princess Celestia's towering formal crown or Princess Cadance's mane, which had been styled in the ornate fashion of the Crystal Empire.
The Sun Princess, her imposing presence radiating power and beauty, approached Rainbow Dash. With a warm smile, she said, "Rainbow Dash, Princess Luna and I would like to speak with you privately. Please follow me."
Rainbow Dash nodded, her curiosity piqued but a touch of anxiety lingering. She followed Princess Celestia to the designated antechamber, wondering what they wanted to discuss in private on this momentous day. Surely there couldn't have been more they needed her to do. She'd expended so much energy getting Twilight to this point, so much of it worried and second guessing herself.
The smaller room provided a quiet space for Princess Celestia and Princess Luna to speak with Rainbow Dash in private. Celestia smiled warmly as she said, "Rainbow Dash, thank you for your dedication in coaching Twilight through these physical changes. How are the flying lessons progressing, this last week at the castle?"
Rainbow Dash returned the smile, her eyes shining with pride. "She's doing great, princess. I think she might be able to make a few circuits around the castle grounds now, and with practice she's not far from flying unescorted."
"How is Twilight adjusting to the pegasus additions to her anatomy?" Enquired the princess.
Rainbow Dash, always candid and straightforward, responded, "At first, she was a bit freaked out, to be honest. I mean, who wouldn't be, right? But she's been doing great lately. She's getting the hang of caring for her wings, and I think she actually enjoys preening."
Celestia nodded her approval, appreciating Rainbow Dash's support and guidance for Twilight. "Thank you, Rainbow. Your help has been invaluable to her. I'm glad she has such good friends to lean on during this transition."
"I'm not sure she's enjoyed all of it," countered Rainbow Dash, bashfully , "I had to tell Twilight to stay off the coffee for a while. It's been a bit tough on her since she's not used to the new fast heartbeat and metabolism that comes with her alicorn transformation, and we didn't need her getting even more hyped up."
Princess Celestia raised an eyebrow in mild surprise, her expression curious. "No more coffee for Twilight? I'm sure that's been quite the adjustment for her."
Rainbow Dash chuckled, nodding. "Oh yeah, she's been quite grumpy without her usual caffeine fix. But she's determined to adapt to her new body and get used to her higher energy levels. I've said she can start back on her morning brew in a few months."
Celestia smiled mischievously. "I have no doubt she'll manage it in time. She's always loved coffee, almost as much as books."
Rainbow Dash nodded, confidence in her voice. "That's our Twilight, always eager to rise to the occasion."
Next Luna stepped forward, her expression kind and appreciative. "And thank thee, Rainbow Dash, for ensuring that Twilight did not slide into madness at the changes that have befallen her."
Rainbow Dash accepted their thanks with a nod, but then her gaze turned thoughtful. "Actually, Princess Luna, I think something happened between Pinkie and Twilight that really helped her find perspective."
Luna raised an eyebrow in surprise. "Pinkie? What doth thou mean?"
Rainbow Dash recalled the heartfelt conversations between Pinkie Pie and Twilight, where both ponies had revealed her own struggles and feelings. "Well, it was hard for Pinkie to accept the changes at first, and I know that Twilight was also feeling… sorta wrong in herself. They've had some pretty intense talks. I don't know all of it, but Pinkie's words seemed to really resonate with Twilight, and I think it made her feel less alone in all this. It was like a turning point for her."
Celestia and Luna exchanged a knowing glance, recognizing the profound impact of friendship and shared experiences. Luna said, "It seems that even in her darkest moments, Twilight can find solace in the bonds of friendship. Thank you, Rainbow Dash, for helping our dear Twilight through this time of transition."
Rainbow Dash nodded, humbled by their words. "It's what friends are for, Princess. We're always there for each other."
Celestia spoke again, "Indeed you are, my little pony. My sister and I are in your debt, for the dedication you've shown. We believe that Twilight will be okay without constant monitoring now, you may return to your life when not directly tutoring her."
Rainbow Dash bowed, "thank you, your highnesses."
"Now canter along," replied Princess Celestia, "stand with your friends, for the ceremony is about to start."
Rainbow Dash rejoined her friends in the grand hall, a sense of excitement and camaraderie filling her heart. As she took in the grandeur of the hall, her eyes landed on Twilight Velvet and Night Light in the audience, Twilight's proud parents. Their expressions were a mix of joy and love, their presence a testament to the support and encouragement Twilight had received from her family.
Surveying her friends, Rainbow Dash couldn't help but admire how stunning they all looked in their elegant coronation gowns. Rarity's impeccable sense of fashion had ensured that each of them shone in their own unique way, reflecting their individual styles and personalities.
However, as her gaze settled on Applejack, a pleasant surprise took her aback. Rainbow noticed a subtle yet lovely addition to Applejack's appearance - a touch of mascara, a detail that Rarity must have convinced her to wear. Rainbow couldn't help but sigh, utterly captivated by how beautiful her secret crush looked, the newfound elegance adding a soft femininity to Applejack's natural charm. She kept her admiration to herself though, not wanting to draw attention during this important moment, but her heart raced as she stole glances at the earth pony.
Just then, the regal sounds of the honour guard playing their trumpets echoed through the hall. The group turned their attention toward the massive doors at the other end of the hall, which began to open, heralding the arrival of Princess Twilight Sparkle and the beginning of the coronation ceremony. A chorus of heavenly voices filled the air, and their hearts swelled with pride for their dear friend.