//------------------------------//
// Epilogue - Love is an Open Door 
// Story: Reflections - Quiververse Edition 
// by EchoWing 
//------------------------------//



Many years had passed for Celestia since she’d last traveled through Star Swirl’s first mirror, but not a day went by that she didn’t think of the world left behind and wonder how things were progressing there, or how things were for the stallion she loved. On this particular night, she looked up into the stars, the moon a waxing crescent just as it had been then. So much had changed in this world, in one way or another, and she suspected it was much the same there. Perhaps Sombra had moved on since then. And perhaps it was time she…

“Do you know why it is called a ‘waxing’ crescent?” Shock was clear on her face as she turned to see her addressor, a familiar pair of green eyes matching the familiar voice as he continued, “Because for a long time, the word ‘waxing’ was more associated with fullness than with removal, particularly in regards to food preservation.” 

The princess stared in shock, the words barely reaching her mouth as she asked, “Sombra?”

The gray unicorn smiled, lifted up a card in a golden aura of magic and spoke the one word emblazoned upon it. “Always.” 

She rushed forward and embraced him, the stallion acting in turn. The two laughed happily as Celestia cried, “It’s been so long. You found them.”

“Your protégé’s copy of Star Swirl’s notes was very clear. Had my world’s Star Swirl ever seen them, he would have been most impressed.” The two loosened their embrace as the king continued, “We did take our time, however, and I do apologize. It’s only now that I felt safe in coming, we had so much to do. And no doubt you’ve been just as busy here.” 

“Yes, actually.” She smiled. “How long can you stay?”

“Three days at most. We didn’t want to chance taking out any of the safeguards Star Swirl put into the later portals. It’s slight, but…” At Celestia’s laugh, he asked, “Don’t tell me…?”

“We’ve safely worked around that issue as well.” She smiled. “We have a lot of catching up to do, and I have a gift for you before you go.” 

“Oh?”

“Yes, but first, show me where you came in.” 

The king smiled and led her towards the castle grounds. As they went on their way, Seventh Moon observed them, the faintest of smiles upon his face as he turned away and left them in peace.