Full (frontal) Moon Over Equestria

by Charlie_K

(Guest chapter by Artie Downer) And now for something completely different

Author's Note:

So fun fact. I really didn't have much in the way of plans for continuing this story. But Artie Downer liked it so much, he wanted to see it continue in one form or another. So I agreed to host his work as a guest chapter. Hope you like it.

The main ballroom of Canterlot Castle was the premiere setting for all events of social and regal significance in the capital city. From welcoming foreign dignitaries to being the staging ground of the wedding of Princess Cadence, many would consider it the heart of the royal palace. To Celestia, it was probably the most cherished place in her home. Whilst many would assume a ruler would yearn to stay in the throne room for as long as possible, it was the ballroom where she felt most in touch with her pony subjects. For it was here that the invitees of the Grand Galloping Gala would come and meet with her personally, and even be able to shake her hand. It was a gesture the Royal took in great stride, as it gave her a chance to truly connect with the common folks of her land, even if it was only for a moment or two. Though the Gala was meant to be a more of a sophisticated affair, Celestia always made sure to send out invitations to randomly selected ponies from all walks of life in Equestria. She would not miss any chance to speak with and acknowledge all who came to bask in the wonderful promenade she had in store for them. And in all honesty, she very much enjoyed it more than spending endless hours making various toasts with the high-class socialites and nobility, who would drone on and on about whatever new politic was on the up-and-up in the court.

But on this night, there were no festivities to be had. Rather, it was a standard evening for the Royal Ballroom, in that it was occupied by the attendants and housekeepers of the Lunar Court. Every night, once the moon had been raised, maids, cooks, butlers, and guards would convene to schedule and assign what had to be done for the rest of the night. What had to be cleaned, what supplies needed to be restocked, what parts of the castle required upkeep; all to serve the Princess of the Night at her every beck and call and keep her living quarters in proper form. She was never one to demand her staff perform petty and tedious assignments, like some spoiled and insecure monarch. Far from it, Luna treated the help with her utmost respect and appreciation. The feeling was mutual, as they all were all willing and able to make their Princess' life as easy and worry-free as possible. To Luna, it was almost like they were a second family to her, that there could be no ill will between them.

It was this troop that had assembled in the ballroom, waiting for their call. At the top of the grand staircase were a pair of large, sealed doors, and it was here Celestia and Luna found themselves on the other side of. True to her word, the Sun Princess had walked the entire way from the Royal Residence to the ballroom, without a stitch of clothing on her. They had run into some more guards along the way, making Celestia jump in her skin every time, before her sister concisely explained what was going on. In the end, the two princesses would continue on their trek, with the younger always leading ahead, holding her elder sister's hand. Celestia couldn't help but admit that the experience had definitely been interesting; she was surprised she'd never even considered walking through the palace in the nude before, in all the thousands of years she had lived there. But now she had done it, and was still taking it all in. However, she wondered if what lied ahead of her may prove to be too much.

"Sister, please wait here. When the time is right, I'll beckon you. Okay?" Luna asked, as she approached the doors.

"Y-yes, of course," Celestia replied. Now that the time was drawing ever more near it all finally began to hit Celestia. She, the supreme authority in the Land of Equestria, the one who raised and set the Heavens themselves with her powers, was about to step in front of a large group of ponies, naked as the day she was born. They would see her in a certainly less than regal state, and this would perhaps tarnish her image forever. As Luna reached for the doors, a number of thoughts started to swirl in her head. "There will most certainly be rumors... Tartarus, forget simple gossip, it'll be the paper's front page tomorrow!! The nobility will surely throw a fit, they'll call me an incapable! They’ll never stand for their princess prancing about totally bare!! And once the populace finds out, they might even-!!"

Before Celestia's worries could arrive at their worst possible outcome, the lights from the flatly-lit ballroom shined onto her bare fur, through the slit of the opening doors. The eldest sibling witnessed her equally nude sister pry the studded gates with relative ease and then take a simple step inside. There was not an ounce of fear or shame within her. Luna strode out to greet her assembly with all the confidence of a reigning monarch, as she stopped at the top of the ballroom staircase. From where Celestia was standing, she could not see who her sister was addressing, but she heard what sounded to be a number of ponies standing at attention.

"My dearest staff," Luna began, her voice both projecting yet soft at the same time. "Tonight, the full moon once again shines its pale luminescence onto all of Equestria, a truly mesmerizing display from our celestial friend. And on nights like this, some may say our nocturnal friends are given a 'chance in the spotlight', if you will." Some ponies chuckle at this quip. "Whilst our cherished subjects rest comfortably this fine evening, you have taken on the responsibilities and obligations of a job quite significant; to provide comfort and acquaintance to your Princess of the Night. I'm sure many, if not all of you, have made some personal sacrifices in order to serve me to your fullest capabilities. For this, you will always have my deepest gratitude." With this, she gives a light bow.

Luna pauses for a moment before continuing. "Since my return as your Princess, you have all been there for me, as those I can depend upon. Which is why, almost half a year ago, I announced to you all my wish to perform my royal functions in a more... humbled manner. And when I feared rejection and shame, when I expected to be thrown in the proverbial manticore's den, you instead offered me your kind and welcoming words. Once I was taken in by your encouragements, I felt a fool for ever considering such negative outcomes. I couldn't have been happier in that moment. Whilst I admit it was... perplexing at the start, we all soon managed to move far past that stage. Now, whatever state of dress either of us might be in is no longer a concern or bother to anyone. For your acceptance and open-mindedness of my nudism, from the bottom of my heart, thank you.

"Which brings us to my announcement for tonight. Sister?" Celestia was almost caught off guard when Luna turned her head towards her and beckoned her over with her hand. She was so enraptured by the sincerity of her speech that she almost lost herself. But her sudden thrust back into reality only elicited a gulp from the Sun Princess. Celestia stood there for a while, completely still, before Luna subtly waved her over again.

"Well, in for a bit...," After taking a deep breath, Celestia took her first step.

There were long pauses between the plantings of her hooves onto the marble floor, but nonetheless, they brought Celestia closer and closer each time. From where the lunar staff were stationed below, more and more of the Sun Princess came into view. With one last step, she finally made it to where Luna was, standing next to her. There, she met the faces of hundreds of servants at the bottom of the stairs, all looking up at her.

Immediately, the ballroom erupted with whispered gasps of surprise and shock. Celestia was quick to feel all of their eyes staring at her naked body. Maids and butlers and gardeners and cooks and royal guards and carpenters all took in the sight before them, gazing over every inch of her pure white form. Despite wishing not to appear embarrassed, Celestia couldn't help but shift her hands to cover her marehood, all the while she felt a tingle going up her spine.

A harsh blush began to grow on her cheeks, as she said to herself. "I... I shouldn't be-"

But before she could finish her sentence, a hand gently placed itself on her shoulder. She looked to see Luna, meeting her calm eyes and warm smile. Everything Luna wanted to say to her sister was said in that expression. "It's alright."

Princess Luna turned back to the crowd, raising a single hand next to her face, and whatever chatter was still lingering hushed itself instantly. "As you can see, my sister, Princess Celestia, is standing stark naked before you, just as I am. A fortnight ago, she discovered my newly acquired habit, what I had been doing these past couple of months after raising the moon and starting our beautiful nights. I explained to her my feelings and intentions, and like a good family member, she accepted my endeavor. Just like all of you, it was definitely awkward for her at first, but she was quick to come around. In fact, so curious was she about my nudist lifestyle that she volunteered to try it out for herself. Which leads us to this current moment, and why she has presented herself to you as such. Since the end of today's sun, neither Celestia nor I have worn a single article of clothing.

"Princess Celestia decided to join me today to greet you all, as I have done nothing but heap your praises ever since I revealed to her what I have been up to. I insisted she come and experience for herself what it was like to be a nudist that had been so thoroughly accepted by those around you. So here we are. So on this night, I expect you, my faithful staff, to treat this audience with my sister with nothing but the same respect and appreciation in her current state of dress as you have all done for me."

A single moment of silence passed following Luna's declaration. In that time, Celestia shifted in place, her knees starting to rub together. But the silent second was soon dispersed, to be replaced by a raucous applause from all of the night staff. It was quite the sight, as Celestia looked over the crowd in astonishment. They were cheering, not just for one, but two of their rulers presenting themselves in their birthday suits. Yet in their eyes, as she scanned the ballroom, the Sun Princess doesn't find one expression of distaste or disgust or lasciviousness. Soon enough, a nervous smile formed on her face, as she brought one hand up to wave at the crowd. Luna smiled proudly at her sister, arms behind her back.

"Now then, shall we commence?"

With that, Princess Luna took hold of her sister's waving hand and began leading her down the stairs, in order to properly meet with her staff and servants. Even with having been bestowed a warm reception, a discomfort still lingered inside Celestia, as she was ushered towards the main ballroom area, drawing nearer to the gaze of her subordinates. Each step closer to them gave the help an evermore clear of the Sun Princess' exposed body, and knowing this all too well, she opts to cup her groin with her free hand, as snuggly and discreetly as she could manage. She at least wanted one part of her private anatomy kept out of sight.

Upon reaching the bottom of the grand staircase, Princess Luna let go of Celestia's hand and dove right into the matters of business. Standing before her, at the front of the assembly, were a group of ponies each wearing distinct uniforms and outfits from one another. Though their clothes were similar to ones worn by numerous other staff members in the ballroom, theirs was more decorated and distinguished in comparison. These were the department heads and chiefs of staff for the Lunar Royal Court. All operations and manners of commitments in service of the Princess of the Night were handled and led by these esteemed ponies. At the arrival of their liege, they stood at attention. "How may we be of use tonight, Your Majesty?" the head guard queried.

"At ease," Luna directed with a calming smile and a wave, the chiefs allaying themselves slightly. "No major directives or amendments tonight, mares and gentlecolts. We'll just follow the standard procedure and review today's developments. I just wanted to show my sister how it's done around here."

The department heads all nod in unison and bow. "Yes, Your Majesty." Then, rather quickly, they all turned and bowed towards Celestia. This sudden shift in their position prompted a small jump from her once more. "Thank you for joining us tonight, Princess Celestia. We are honored by your presence."

"A-ah, it's no trouble at all, really..." she responded, rubbing her arm nervously, her forearm positioned right beneath her breasts. ”P-please, don't consider my presence here a big deal. I just... wanted to see how it was really for my sister to be with you all. In this... state, I mean."

"Duly noted, Your Majesty," they all responded promptly. Then, just as suddenly as they turned towards Celestia, the department heads moved back to face Luna.

"Now, has our shipment of strawberries arrived on today's train?" the indigo princess asked.

"No, Your Majesty," answered one chief of staff, who adorned a decorated chef's attire. "There was a delay concerning the route out of Fillydelphia. A boulder fell on top of the tracks, and most of the day was spent removing the large obstruction. Our estimated time of arrival for those strawberries is about tomorrow morning, now."

"Ah, drats! I was really looking forward to having that strawberry milkshake this evening!"

"My apologies, Princess," said the head chef, as he bowed.

Luna only waved her hands and shook her head. "No, please don't concern yourself. 'Tis a mild inconvenience, at worst. Nothing to lose sleep about. Now then," she shifted towards a pony with rulers and pencils sticking out of his shirt pocket. "About the restoration of the East Wing. How goes it, Head Architect?"

Celestia merely stood there, astonished at what she was seeing. Her sister continued to be briefed by her top court officials, as if there were truly nothing out of the ordinary. In the midst of all this, she was having trouble wrapping her head around it. At the start, when Luna first explained how her staff treated her nudism as no big deal, she really didn't believe her. Celestia could not comprehend her sister's servants ever being fully comfortable with their princess trouncing around with no clothes on. She figured somewhere deep down, there would still be a lingering nervousness behind every conversation the help had with her. At the very least, some residual awkwardness or second-hand embarrassment must have stuck around. Yet, before Celestia's very eyes, she couldn't see any of it. Here were the two leaders of Equestria, standing in front of them, completely naked, and there was not a hint of abash or even strain amongst any of the staff members or their superiors. "How far you've come, Luna..." she thought.

But Celestia was quickly snapped out of her bewilderment, as it seemed whatever plans needed to be finalized for the night had been done. With that, the department heads bowed to be excused, before they were deployed to their assignments. "Come," Luna said as she turned to her sister, "it's time to do some greetings!"

"A-ah, right... Let's..." Celestia responded, before she started being led around once more.

"Many of the staff are now rotating into their shifts, so you won't be able to meet everypony tonight. But the ones who are either getting prepared or waiting for their appointed time slot usually amass here in the ballroom. I'm certain they'll want to see you!!"

"Y-yes, of course, Luna. L-let's do so." It wasn't long before the naked Celestia was brought into the very center of the ballroom, where a veritable congregation of the Lunar workforce gathered to greet the princess. Many gasps and awes were heard whilst the crowd gathered, and the Sun Princess couldn't help but tense ever more so, but not to the point where she'd become indisposed. As the more and more of the off-duty staff swarmed around them, all she could do was swallow warily. Luna, on the other hand, was not the bit uneased.

At once, a chorus of praises and questions were hurled at the two princesses, though particularly towards the elder one. Like a pony caught in a typhoon without a life preserver, Celestia tried to speak and answer amongst the flurry.

"Princess Celestia, you look stunning tonight!!"

"Well, thank you, I-"

"I can't believe Princess Celestia is a nudist too!!"

"T-that's not necc-"

"No, it's like Princess Luna said, she's only trying it out!"

"Y-yes, that's all this-"

"Princess Celestia, are you going to stay naked too?" another joined in on the same question. "Oh, would you, please!? Our time with Princess Luna has been even more magical since she started!"

"W-well, that's very-"

"Princess Celestia, what are you doing to do with all your clothes now that you're a nudist?"

"T-that's not-"

"Obviously, she's going to donate them to charity. What are you thinking!?"

"I-I don't think I-"

But before the bustle of queries could continue, the nighttime monarch stepped in between her sister and the heaping crowd. She knew Celestia was feeling quite vulnerable at this moment, especially given her current state of attire, and that it was best she not overwhelmed. Whilst she never threatened to forbid Luna from practicing her nudism, the younger sibling felt her whole lifestyle ridded on how well her sister took this experience. It was tantamount Celestia come away with nothing but the best impressions. With the level-headedness of a seasoned parent, Luna raised her hands slightly up towards her company, and the amassed ponies eased themselves.

“Now, now, my loyal subjects. Your enthusiasm and curiosity are coming in clear as crystal. I appreciate it, truly, how welcoming you all are of the present circumstances. But not an hour has passed since my sister began this preliminary with me. It’s best she be allowed to ease herself into this, wouldn’t you agree?”

The ensemble of servants and attendants had settled their eagerness by this point, now bearing gentle smiles, though they remained crowded around the two regals.

“Whatever questions you may have, I am more than happy to assist my sister in answering them. And whatever compliments you wish to bestow upon her, she’s more than grateful to receive. But let’s not overbear her, OK? Let’s just all take it slow from here on.”

The impromptu assembly all responded eagerly, “Yes, Your Majesty!!”

With a smile and a bow, Luna had brought the situation under control. Celestia breathed a sigh of relief, reeling herself back from the edge she momentarily found herself. The crowd had stepped back a few paces, affording their naked royals some more personal space.

Luna began “Now then, let’s-“, but before she could continue, an officer of her Royal Guard suddenly approached from behind.

“Your Highness,” said the dark-armor studded stallion. He leaned into her ear, whispering something.

“Yes… I see. Very well, then.” Luna promptly turns to Celestia. “Forgive me, sister, but I must go now.”

Celestia’s heart skipped a bit upon hearing this. “W-what!?”

“There is a matter that needs my attending to in the East Wing. I know I promised you’d come to see the experience of nudism with me at your side, but this is urgent business. You have my sincerest apologies in this. But I assure you I won’t be gone for long.”

“Well, if you must…” said Celestia, returning to the shifting of her legs. She looked down at her bare thighs, her hand still squeezed between them in order to cover her lower lips. “But I don’t know how I can-“

Before she could finish, Celestia looked back up to find Luna already half-way across the ballroom, being escorted by her guard. She’s most surprised to find her sister had magicked her regal attire back onto herself, no longer in the buff. “It must be something to do with the nobility,” the Sun Princess thought.

“Don’t worry, sister!” Luna called, waving back at Celestia. “Just act your normal self! They love you for that!” Not long after that final pep talk, the Princess of the Moon walked into a corridor on the side of the ballroom, out of sight of all.

In Princess Celestia’s mind, there was silence. Then, it was followed by a single thought in her head. “Oh no…”

With the departure of Princess Luna, it all came bearing down on her once more. As that moment, Celestia was the only pony in the ballroom without any clothes on. Neither fine cotton linens nor golden regalia were there to mask her flesh. A shiver ran through her entire body, and almost instinctively, her free arm wrapped itself around her breasts, in an attempt to hide her nipples from view. Her knees bent into themselves subtly, as a deep blush started to form onto her cheeks. Feelings of utter shame and embarrassment began to well up inside her chest, begging for some kind of release, whilst the remaining members of the help kept their eyes locked onto her. Celestia could not will herself to do anything but stand there and shut her eyes tightly. She’d never felt more naked in her entire life.

But before it all became too much for her to bear, a single soft voice called out from the darkness. “Princess Celestia, are you alright?”

In that simple sentence, the Sun Princess recognized absolute kindness from the owner of the voice. It was not the least bit patronizing or glib. Peeking an eye open, she finds the worried looks of all of her subjects, looking upon their leader with the utmost concern and regard. Celestia saw it now. There was truly no judgement in these ponies. No disdain, no lechery of any kind.

“Yes… I’m fine.” Her stance loosened a bit.

“Would you like to sit down, Your Royal Highness?” another voice asked.

“Ah… yes, I think I would like that right about now.”

On cue, the gathered staff formed a path, parting themselves to reveal a furnished couch a few feet away, positioned next to a mosaic window. Taking a deep breath, Celestia made her way. On her trek, the arms and hands concealing her most private lady parts soon shifted away, allowing her to walk more naturally. Now unrestrained, the more filled areas of her body jiggled subtly with each step she took. Occasionally, her bare flesh would brush against the clothes of the ponies she went past, eliciting some minor blushes from her, though not enough to lose her composure.

Finally reaching the lavish sofa, Celestia wasted no time planting her posterior onto it, the cutie mark on her hind sinking into the heavenly soft cushions. “Ahhhh…” she sighed, feeling the tension from her body melt away. In an unconscious effort to still keep her marehood hidden, the Princess of the Day crossed her legs as she eased into the couch. All around her, most of Luna’s attendants still stood, looking at her.

“Umm, Your Majesty?” asked one off-duty cook. “Is it alright if we talked to you? Or would you rather we leave you be?”

Normally, Celestia would accept the invitation to exchange words with her subjects without hesitating. But for a brief moment, she did. But it was only for that moment. “We can discuss whatever you wish, as long as it’s conducted orderly. And I ask you refrain from asking about the… nudism topic. Quite frankly, I’m still trying to figure it out myself, so I don’t think I could offer you all any satisfying answers,” she laughed.

With a smile and a nod, the Lunar staff unanimously agreed to it. A chance to speak openly and free with the ruler of their country was a chance not many were afforded in this world. It was not an opportunity they could pass up. And it was one Celestia always took on with stride. How lucky they were to live in Equestria, even more so to serve the Royals directly.

For the next hour, ponies would come and go to chat with Princess Celestia, in all of her naked glory. They would come and she’d ask about their jobs and hobbies, what they did in their free time, what they aspired for in life. And they would all be quite forthright with her, elaborating on whatever dreams and hopes they had for the future. Perhaps seeing their monarch in the nude helped them be open themselves? But who could say.

After a time, many would go off to fulfill their responsibilities, but as they left, a new batch getting off their shift would come to speak with her. Celestia lost herself in these conversations with her subjects, like she always did. It was like music to her ears, hearing them be so candid with her. Her posture became less stiff over the course of the night, and at points, she forgot she was even naked. Though the occasional chill or blow of the wind would quickly remind her.

“This must be how Luna feels,” she thought. She was listening to a butler who had just gotten off her shift. Being over a millennia old, it was no difficult feat to listen to what someone was saying while thinking in her own head. During Court, she’d often skip the listening portion altogether! “I must say, after a while, it does feel quite freeing. To pull down the barrier between ruler and subject, especially in this manner.” Then something came to Celestia. “If that’s the case, then…”

“Oh, forgive me for bringing it up, your Highness,” said the butler. “But I think what you’re doing is wonderful, especially for Princess Luna!”

“W-well, I appreciate your thanks… Tell me though, why do you think my being naked is good for Princess Luna?”

“I mean, it’s just more validating for her, wouldn’t you say? That she shouldn’t feel discouraged from her lifestyle!”

“…Do you think she still feels some level of shame?”

“Well…” the butler trailed off. “I don’t think it’s like that. But Princess Luna is only ever naked around us. She’s never once attended Court like that. She’s always quick to robe herself when she has to.”

“Perhaps it’s because I’ve yet to give my permission for her to do so.”

“But even then… I don’t know how to say it, but even if you let her, I don’t think she would. I feel like she’s putting her duty over what she wants to do.”

“Many ponies would say that’s an admirable quality,” Celestia responded.

“But that’s fair! She shouldn’t have to sacrifice that just to placate some prissy nobles!!” Realizing how uninhibited she was being, the butler was quick to bow. “F-forgive me, Princess! I didn’t mean to speak so flippant!”

Celestia merely waved her hand. “It’s no bother. In fact, you’ve given me something to think about…”

---

Eventually, Luna returned from whatever business she was dealing with, just in time, as Celestia had begun to feel weary. With the glow of her horn, her clothes and regalia were whisked away into nothing as she approached her sister, just as bare as her. “I hope they weren’t too hard on you,” she teased.

“It was difficult at the start but… I think I got the hang of it, as they say.”

Luna was taken aback. She saw before her an entirely different presence around her sister. When she had left her, she seemed ready to fall apart, like a leaf in the wind. But now, the same regal charm Celestia was renowned for radiated from her. Placing her hands on her hips, she said. “I must say, ‘Tia. I’m impressed. I never knew you’d come around so quickly to it!”

“It’s like you suggested. I suppose I just had to feel it for myself. Though, don’t expect me to start walking about like this on the daily. I still have at least a modicum of an image to uphold, you know.”

“Of course,” Luna replied with a smile.

“Though it has become quite late now,” Celestia yawned. “I must ask to adjourn for the night.”

“Allow me to escort you, sister.”

“With pleasure, little sister.”

Upon ascending the staircase they had entered from, the two Equestrian princess bid the Lunar staff good night, sans clothes to the end, before making their way to the residence. Just as warmly as they received her, so too did they pay Celestia salutations.

As they took their trek through the long hallway towards Celestia’s quarters, she couldn’t help but feel the journey wasn’t as long as it was earlier in the night. Even the chilly air from before seemed to have all but vanished. “Is this what it would be like?…”

Before she could ponder any further, they reached the doors to Celestia’s private abode. Its resident took her time opening them before entering, and allowed her sister in. Using her magic to put on a thin nightgown, Celestia remained facing Luna. “Well, I hope you’ve had your fun for tonight.”

“Please, ‘Tia, I was hoping you’d be the one to get the most out of this!”

“Well, I’ve certainly have… been given a lot to think about. Nevertheless, in the end, you’re the one who has gained the most from all of this.”

“And why’s that?”

“Because, Luna,” Celestia began. Her shoulders stiffened, hooves together, her chest puffing outward. It was the stance as a proper royal, one she took whilst officiating some royal decree, having mastered it through countless years of practice. Whenever Celestia assumed this posture, she meant business. “ Should you desire, I hereby grant you my blessing to conduct your Court in accordance with your nudist lifestyle. As far as I’m concerned, you can go anywhere in Equestria as naked as you wish. You have my absolute support, as your fellow monarch and as your sister.”

It was Luna’s turn to be taken aback. She couldn’t believe she actually heard those words coming out of her sister’s mouth, only imagining them. But it wasn’t long until they sank in, and a wide smile took shape on her face. “Oh, ‘Tia…”

Still in the royal posture, Celestia found herself the target of her sibling’s sudden and tight hug. “You have no idea how much this means to me,” Luna said muffled, her face buried in her sister’s chest.

“Oh, I think I have some idea,” Celestia responded, a slight blush forming on her cheeks.

Letting go, Luna stood proudly before her elder sister, an earnest look of determination beaming from her eyes. “I promise you won’t regret this, sister. Soon, all of Equestria will come to know and accept this way of life.”

“That is if they don’t overthrow us first.”

The two share a laugh, before Luna asks, “Can I start tonight? May I attend this night’s court as is?”

“Mm, not tonight. Whenever you plan to make your debut, I’d like to be in attendance. Just in case. You know how those nobles can be. Worst comes to worst, I’ll dust up one of Starswirl’s old spells and wipe their memories.”

“Oh, you,” chuckled Luna.

With that, the two eternal siblings bid each other good night. “I love you, ‘Tia,” said the younger sister, reaching up to plant a kiss on her cheek.

“I love you, too,” said Celestia, warmly reciprocating.

Luna gave her one final goodbye wave before making her way back into the corridor, leaving Celestia by herself. In this solitude, a part of her worried if Luna might try and attend court in the buff anyways, but she wouldn’t do such a thing.

“What a night… Just what is it that I’ve done?” Celestia asked herself. She approached her bed, collapsing onto the silk blankets and fluffed pillows. She waited to enter her dreams.

But as she tried to sleep, an odd constriction was felt upon her body. Her own skin felt uncomfortable, even suffocating to some minor extent. After a few minutes of this, Celestia took a chance in how to bring an end to it. With a deep sigh, she got up from her bed and slipped off her nightgown, the thin fabric falling to the floor. After a few moments, finding herself free from any discomfort, she returned to her bed nude. “It’s too hot anyways…”

---

It was only the next day when Luna informed Celestia of her intentions: she would announce her nudism not just to her Lunar Court, but to Equestria as whole, that very night. The princesses were on the way to their daily solar and lunar cycle ritual, the Princess of the Night walking with a veritable spring in her step. “Eager as ever, aren’t you, Lulu?”

“I simply can’t wait another night. This is the moment, I can just feel it!”

“…You realize once it’s done, people will never look at you the same way again.”

“’Tia, I was banished to the moon for 1000 years. I’m sure my clothing-optional lifestyle will not be all that big of a shock.”

“Be that as it may, the sensibilities of ponies vary widely. Whilst you may consider your associates and servants to be like a second family, your average Donut Joe will most certainly feel differently about the whole thing.”

“Regardless, this is what I want to do. You can tell, I take nudism very seriously, sister. It feels like a piece of me has been missing my whole life, and now I’ve finally found it.” Luna stops in her tracks, standing proudly once again. “Let the nobility have their fuss, and any who won’t accept it. I am who I am, and there’s no changing that. And if there are any other ponies who feel restricted by societal norms, whether they be nudist or not, I hope they can look to me to see there is a place for them in this world.”

Celestia chuckled. “When did you become the revolutionary?… Don’t answer that, actually.”

Luna chuckled back. “You need not be concerned, sister. Don’t expect to start seeing a naked pony on every street corner. I wouldn’t go that far.”

“Yes, right…” Celestia said, trailing off.

As it had been done countless times, the sun set into the fields of Equestria, and the moon blanketed the sky in a dark blue sea of stars.

With her duties completed, Luna left straight away to her quarters, in order to prepare for the night’s court. Normally, she would just wear what she usually wore, but it wouldn’t be the case this evening. Having accompanied her sister there, Celestia was surprised when Luna asked her to wait outside. “If you insist,” she obliged.

Celestia did not wait long, however, outside her sister's chambers, as the doors parted open gently. Out stepped Luna, wearing only a long silk blue robe and her crown. No other regalia, no jewelry, no crystal shoes adorning her hooves. By the way the garment flowed onto her body, Celestia could tell she wasn’t wearing anything underneath.

“Shall we commence, sister?”

The older sister took a deep breath. “Yes, let’s.”

With that, she followed Luna into the East Wing, the location of the Lunar Throne. There they would find her Royal Court, and the numerous nobles, commoners, and press of the night, waiting for their princess. Luna had informed her staff the previous night of her intentions, so there was no need for an assembly at the ballroom. For tonight was the night. The night Luna had been waiting for.

Celestia had rarely been to a session of Lunar Court, she was too busy with her own royal responsibilities to ever stop by and sit in. But whenever she was there, she was always surprised by the number of attendees and the babble they made. Tonight was no exception, as while she and Luna approached the wide open doors to the latter’s throne room, Celestia could hear the mumbling and clamor of all who were present.

Upon reaching the side of the doorway, a Lunar Royal Guard turned his attention to the princesses, and nodded. He quickly shifted into the throne room, raised the trumpet that was at his side, and blew into it.

Almost instantly, the talk and whispers which mixed together into an incoherent jabber quieted. In a booming voice, the guard announced:

“Presenting the Ruler of the Night, the Raiser of the Moon, and co-Sovereign of Equestria, Princess Luna!!”

At that, she made her entrance. At the moment they saw the blue alicorn, all who were in attendance stood up, not a sound amongst them. They took no note of her current attire.

The assembly did, however, expect Princess Luna to begin her ascent up the stairs to her throne and sit down, but she merely stood there. And the royal guard had not put away his trumpet. Their confusion was answered with the following announcement:

“Presenting the Ruler of the Day, Raiser of the Sun, and co-Sovereign of Equestria, Princess Celestia!!”

At this, the crowd could not help but begin to whisper and mutter to each other, as the white alicorn made her entrance as well, standing side by side with her sister.

With that said and done, Luna gave a slight bow to her equal in rule, who returned the gesture, before making her way to the Lunar throne. There, she turned to her audience and raised a hand, allowing them all to be seated.

“Thank you for joining me on this fine evening,” she started. “Normally, we would waste no time delving into the matters of state, as well as motions of consideration or requests from the crown. But these proceedings will have to be delayed temporarily, for I have an announcement to make. It is a declaration not just for this gathered assembly here, but to all of my Equestrian subjects.”

Celestia’s heart started to pound ever so slightly, watching her sister on from below.

Then, with an unexpectedly casual demeanor, Luna held onto the opening of her robe, before shrugging her shoulders and pulling the fabric down slightly. It merely took a few subtle motions before the gown slipped off completely, now standing stark naked before all in attendance. In the immediate seconds proceeding this, the eyes of the nobility go wide in aghast and shock, the brows of some furrowing in umbrage. Many of the common folk, there to plead their stays directly to the monarchy, stare on in equal bewilderment, covering their gaping mouths. A scattered chorus of gasps and hushed acclamations rung throughout the court. She paid no mind to any of it.

“I, Princess Luna of Equestria, am a nudist. To put it simply, I don’t like wearing clothes. I prefer to go about my nightly activities and royal duties without any clothing at all, as I feel more comfortable doing so. I have been practicing this lifestyle in secret for the past 5 months. From the start, the only ones who were aware of my choice of dress were my own staff, as well as my royal guard, and not a soul more. Not even my own sister was privy to it.” She paused for a moment. “When I revealed what I wanted to do with my personnel, they were rather quick to accept me and welcome it. They encouraged me to do so, and let their hearts open to my unique ways. In them, I sensed no rejection or unbecoming traits. It was they who stirred me not to keep myself hidden, to live two-faced, a life ill-suited for a Princess. Which is why I am here before all of you as such.”

The royal court stayed dead silent, staring on at their nude monarch. Celestia couldn’t help but be impressed at how well her sister was composing herself.

“I have chosen to reveal this facet of my life, because I believe it is right for a sovereign like myself to be as transparent as I can with the subjects who so rely upon my sister and I to keep them safe. It is the duty of government to not deceive their citizens in the slightest, lest the populace become disillusioned and grow resentful of their lawmakers. Not only that, but to conceal this aspect of my life, one that I cherish and take wholeheartedly, I would not only be lying to the people, but to myself. I have no desire to deny what I’ve discovered to be a foundational tenet of my life. I refuse to live some obscured double life, to keep it out of the spotlight, all for the sake of those who cannot accept me. My life and my body belong to nobody else but my own, and this is what I seek to do with it.

“Which brings me to my final point; it is by my wish, and with the blessing of my sister, Princess Celestia, that I conduct my royal court as I am right now, naked. From here on out, I shall live my life as a dedicated nudist, wearing as little as I can for as long as possible. This is my declaration to all of you, the people of Equestria. As your monarch and Raiser of the Moon, I hope you will come to accept me and trust in my judgement. This is not a proclamation regarding the laws and statutes of nudism or anything like that. This is merely your Princess laying herself bare before you, wishing for you continued love, support, and acceptance. The ponies of Equestria were quick to welcome me back after my exile, and I pray that it will be the case once more for this. From the bottom of my heart, thank you.” With that, Luna gave a deep bow to the congregation.

A still silence hung over the throne room of the Night Princess, a quiet it had never known even when its occupant had been banished to her respective celestial body. It dragged on for what felt like an eternity, none daring to make a sound, even the smallest octave of noise, for the longest time. Eventually, somepony finally spoke out.

“Have you gone mad!?” cried out a noble from the barracks. He rose in a furor, his ornate jewels and sash bustling from his sudden movement. “This is completely ridiculous!! What is wrong with you, woman!?”

Despite the degrading question, Luna did not falter in the least.

Another noblepony quick stood up. “What you’ve done here is make a complete mockery of the royal court!!”

“This cannot stand!!!” yelled another.

“It’s so unbecoming of royalty!!”

“Have you no shame, Princess!?!”

“How could our rulers degrade themselves like this!?!”

The first noble hollered once again, reinstating his point. “It’s madness, I tell you!! Complete and utter madness!!”

Noblepony upon noblepony hurled their outrage and indignation at the Princess of the Moon. Celestia herself started to feel uncomfortable, despite not being the target of the tirades. But she watched on as Luna stood there and took it all, her eyes resolute, her stance without waver.

Finally, after a solid minute or so of constant degradation, she had enough, and raised her hand once more. Whether out of some morbid curiosity or out of obligation for what remained of their respect for the monarchy, the nobility ceased and sat back down.

“I completely understand your concerns and displeasure. I am more than aware that my lifestyle is not one meant for the mainstream, and that many would feel uncomfortable by it. It is totally within your right to not like something. But it is within my right to my life to live as I see fit, short of an immoral reprehension.”

A female noble spoke out this time, “You wish to lecture us about morality!?! Look at you!! You’re NAKED!!!”

“I know that. Is there something wrong with being naked?”

“Of course there is!! It’s inappropriate, unbecoming!! Especially for a Princess!!”

“Why is it inappropriate to be naked? Are there children currently present in this court?”

“N-no, but that shouldn’t matter!! We can see your-… Your-!!”

“I’m well aware of what you can see. And I ask, what of it? This is how all of us are when we’re born. Shall we shame any newborn foals?”

“Of course not, because they’re babies!! You are a full-grown mare presenting yourself in a lewd way!! Any stallion who looks at you like this is only going to have one thing on his mind!!”

At this, Luna stared back at the noble mare sternly. “Oh, really? And why do you assume that? Simply because of how I’m dressed? I believe that says more about the observer than the observed. Tell me, my lady, when you go to a beach or spend a day at one of your many pools, are you not surrounded by ponies in a lessened state of dress? Every time you see a shirtless stallion, or your husband sees a scantily-clad mare, are your minds suddenly flooded with devious thoughts?”

The noble mare held her tongue, unable to answer right away. She blurted out, “T-that’s a completely different context! It’s not the same as-!!”

“And what of my context?” Luna interjected. By now, she had expanded her wings behind her, their azure feathers swaying majestically in her stance. “What am I trying to accomplish by standing before you all like this? This is all merely in service of my personal comfort, nothing else. I am not acting in any sort of provocative manner, I am not presenting myself in a way that’s meant to be enticing. Is nudity completely synonymous with carnal desires? Have you never undressed yourself in a doctor’s office, my lady? Were you afraid the situation would come across as that of a sexual nature?

“N-no… but-!!”

“Am I showing anything half of our population doesn’t already have? Anypony can look inside a medical textbook and see what’s before you. But those tomes aren’t labelled as pornographic, are they? That is because of the context of the image. The context for my nudity is that I simply enjoy being like this. I do not seek out any lascivious actions, nor do I possess the desire for them at this time.”

Unable to come up with a counter, the noble mare sat back down, trying to wrapping her head around what she just heard. At the same time, the first noblepony from before stood up and spoke.

“It doesn’t matter what you are trying to get across with your… all of this!! Your context is meaningless when it comes to the perceptions of other people, other nations. We will become the laughingstock of the world if you follow through with this!! No country would ever take us seriously again, never view us as a legitimate statement!! It’s all just absurd!!”

Luna smiled softly, yet firm all the same, at this. “Lord Strongarm, you know better than any noble in this court how little the views of other nations means to me.”

“That may be your prerogative, but I will not stand for it. This entire spectacle has been a farce, a circus!! And I want no part in it! I will not degrade myself by participating in this lampoon of a court!!”

“That is completely within your right,” Princess Luna replied.

“Excuse me?…”

Luna turned her gaze towards the assembly as a whole. “I will not force this on anypony. Nudism is certainly not for everypony. What you see fit to do with your business is entirely in your hooves. If my way of life is not to your liking, if you simply cannot accept this, then you may leave this court as soon as you wish. I bear no ill will to any who wish to go, I simply wanted this opportunity to explain to you my feelings and intentions on the matter. If my reasons are not sufficient enough for you, then I apologize. But there is nothing that can shake me from this. Being naked is how I want to be. It is my complete and total conviction. There is nothing on this earth that can sway me otherwise.”

At this, the noblepony sneered at his princess, silently taking his seat once more. Again, the silence took hold of the auditorium.

In Luna’s mind, there was nothing more for her to say. She stated her case, and that was that. All that was left for her was the approval of her cherished subjects. Whether they gave it to her or not was all that was important at that moment.

The deep quiet came to its end with the lonely clapping of a pair of hooves. Below the barracks where the nobles sat, a single mare sat in the center lane of the throne room, before Luna. In her eyes, there was no trace of disgust or judgement. Only that persistent kind look Luna had come to know from her personnel. The applause rang in her soul. She smiled at her subject, folding her wings.

The singular clapping of one pony was soon joined by many others, as stallions and mares alike stand in ovation for their Princess. The humble subjects of Equestria seemed to give their unanimous approval to Luna’s nudism, and many began to straight up cheer for her. Luna’s smile became wider and wider, her heart filled with warmth.

Even some of the nobles started to clap along, though a good amount remained seated in silence. To those that remained but were still disapproving, it would take a while to convince them.

With all that was happening, Celestia could only stand back in amazement. She had never seen a royal court play out quite like this. And for one of the leaders of Equestria to strip herself of her clothing, only to be acclaimed by the crowd before her, it was certainly a moment for the history books.

Celestia was proud of Luna. Probably the most she had been since she overcame Nightmare Moon. And deep down, a part of the Sun Princess couldn’t seem to let go of the experience she had the night before. She couldn’t shake it off, that strangely liberating feeling, unbounded and unrestricted. And even on a conscious level, Celestia knew it. She knew exactly what Luna was talking about. After all, it was no accident that she was dressed light and loose at the moment, should she need to immediately disrobe and come to her sister's assistance like any good older sibling would.

Comments

[FleetlordAvatar]

I lkie this, its a good ending to a great story. I love how Celestia and Luna are in this, how Celestia supports her sister and Luna works to make others understand.

[Jedi Wolf]

This did a excellent job of continuing and tying up the plot from the previous chapters. Well done.