by Knight of Lycaeus
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It was early in the day, the Sun had made its way over the horizon only a few hours ago. A pink Alicorn was waiting outside near the castle gates when the pony she had been waiting for appeared.
The lavender Unicorn came with full bags and a purple Dragon trailed behind carrying another bag. The Alicorn could read the Unicorn's feeling even though it was plain to see that the Unicorn bore an expression of reluctance and pride. The Alicorn smiled, knowing what the Princess had asked the Unicorn to do and hoped things would go well and maybe help the Unicorn open up more.
The Alicorn walked over to give a firm hug first to the grumbling Dragon then to the Unicorn. The Unicorn smiled lightly leaning into the embrace.
They both knew this was likely the last time they would see each for a long time. While the Unicorn's assignment was brief, the Alicorn's assignment would be longer and much further from home.
The friends separated and shared a bittersweet smile, both had been enjoying their rare time together. A time of peace in their busy lives.
The Alicorn whispered an old Earth Pony blessing, the Unicorn smiled at its recitation and repeated it back to the Alicorn. A fond reminder of their earlier days when their time together seemed infinite. They had found it when sharing a story late one night.
It became more than a fond reminder, it was also a wish that each gave the other when they were about to leave, when commitment and duty drew them apart. The blessing was a wish for safety and good fortune until they met again.
One final nuzzle and hug and that was all they needed. How long it would be to their next time to spend together was unknown. Both knew not what lay ahead but hoped for more times when farewells and long partings such as these were not needed.