Chapter 39: Summer Solstice
The morning star rose upon the planet Equis. It was a special day as today was the festival for the summer solstice for the inhabitants of this place. Everyone was ecstatic about all the festivities that would start one hour before noon. The castle staff had been hard at work the days leading up to this event as the workload had been minimal up to this point. With the start of the event in a few hours, they were putting in double time to make sure that everything went off without a hitch. The big event for tonight was where the King and Queen would gather all the citizens of the kingdom and the town in the courtyard where they would launch floating lanterns that would light up the night sky.
All of this, one person was looking forward to the most. For that person had left so long ago, that she had forgotten how much fun the festival was. Twilight had awoken to an early start as she quickly put herself in her casual clothes and then raced out of her room while almost knocking over the list that Moondancer had in her hand.
"Princess!" called out Moondancer.
"Sorry, Moondancer. I'm just excited!" said Twilight as she ran down the hall.
The lavender girl was laughing and smiling as she approached the stairs and got on the railing as she slid down. The stairs spiraled as she zoomed by the other servants who almost dropped the stuff they were carrying. The girl landed as she continued to run along the castle floor. She passed by the maid who was mopping the marble floor as she flipped over the women using her Jedi acrobatics. She then slid under two butlers carrying a mirror as she got up and did another flip over Gustave who had a plate of food in his hand. The girl managed to grab an apple pie from the stack as she continued to run while eating the sweet treat.
"Delicious, Gustave!" shouted Twilight with her mouth full as she opened the door as the wind and sun entered the room.
The princess took in the breeze and warmth of the sun as she smiled. She then stepped out and entered the courtyard. All around, banners and tapestries with her family and their different crests were being hung as the girl spun around. She was taking it all in as she was reminded of being a little kid.
"For the first time in forever, I finally get a chance to experience it," said Twilight.
The Jedi then noticed someone climbing a pillar as it was her partner. Storm had awoken at the crack of dawn to do his morning Jedi exercises. He arrived at the courtyard before any of the decorations were hung as he meditated and then did some lightsaber swings. As he went on, the servants of the castle started their job. While he was training, all around him, the entire courtyard was being decorated. The Jedi Knight had finished his training and decided to call it a day. As he was preparing to return to the castle, one of the butlers asked if he could hang some lanterns.
The Jedi Knight nodded as he climbed the columns and then tied the string of lanterns around them. He had just finished the last of them when Twilight noticed him.
"Well, that's the last one."
"I didn't know you were helping with the decorations," said Twilight as she appeared below her partner and smiled with her hands behind her back.
"Morning, Sparky!" said the boy as he let go and jumped down. "You're up early. But then again, I probably should expect that from a nerd like you."
"Even you calling me a nerd, isn't gonna make me mad," said Twilight as she so looking forward to the festival that not even the word she hated being called could make her upset.
"So, that means I say can it as much as I want."
"You get a free pass today, only!" threatened Twilight while putting her finger to the boy's hoodie while staring him down.
She then went back to her happy expression as she grabbed a nearby leaf from one of the trees. The princess then brought the leaf to her mouth as she began to play a song on it that was taught to her. Safe to say, Storm was impressed by what he was seeing his partner do. The song Twilight was playing was harmonious as the nearby servants in the gardens stopped what they were doing as they moved their heads side to side.
Once the girl finished her song, she removed the leaf from her mouth. The servants clapped lightly at the princess' wonderful performance before going back to work.
"Wow, Sparky. I... didn't know you could do that."
"There's a lot of things you don't know about me."
"No shit!"
"But... today, I might show you," smiled Twilight.
"Speaking of today, I know it's the festival and all for your planet. But why are there a ton of flowers being brought in? I noticed some of the servants hauling some big baskets through the castle gates." stated Storm.
"Let me explain. See the festival isn't just celebrating our summer solstice. It's also to prepare for the rainy season that's to come. When the warm winds blow from the sea to the south of Equis, residents of Canterlot know that the rainy season is upon them. Before the heavy rains take their toll, young women hurry to pick the last of the white roses. The ivory buds are woven into garlands and given as gifts to close friends or potential lovers." explained Twilight.
"I see," stated Storm.
"Anyways, what I'm most looking forward to is seeing the paper lanterns. Tonight, my parents along with everyone else who made one will gather in the courtyard, and together we'll levitate them into the air as we watch them. They shine the night sky like stars." said Twilight with a smile on her face.
"You seem pretty excited for something that's not much," said Storm as he didn't think the event was a big deal.
"You need to see it to understand what I mean."
"Yeah, sure. Besides a festival isn't a bad way to end our time here. Cause come tomorrow, we return to Courscant," stated the boy.
"As much as I would like to stay a bit longer for my home, we still have a war we're fighting. So our little getaway has to come to an end. Vacation is over, and we're back to work the next day." said Twilight. "Also, there's something I've been meaning to ask?"
"Fire away."
"What did Cadance talk with you when you two went out to eat?" asked the princess.
The boy immediately thought back to what the girl was stating.
(Flashback)
"Exactly. You're a Jedi, so you're not allowed to love. It's forbidden." said Cadance.
"Okay, first of all, attachment is forbidden. Possession is forbidden. Compassion, on the other hand, well, that to me is defined as unconditional love. That's central to a Jedi's life. So in a way, you could say we're encouraged to love."
"That's your answer, huh," said Cadance still keeping the smile. She then let out a sigh as she continued this little game they were playing. "Tell me, if you were ever attracted to someone in a romantic way, would you take that chance?"
"Okay, why are you so fixated on love?" asked Storm.
"Let's just say it's a special talent of mine," smirked Cadance. "My question, say you met someone. You saw them, and over time, the more you bonded, the more time you spent with them, you started to develop feelings. Then say you wanted to act on those feelings, but your duty as a Jedi forbids it. So what do you do? Do you choose to break it off and continue being a Jedi? Or do you choose to leave, to be with that someone?"
"I can't just up and leave. I can't voluntarily leave the Jedi Order! That's not how it works. I... I have to remain a Jedi, even if I was to fall in love with someone. I'm needed in this war that we're fighting. Twilight has told you, that I'm on the front lines of every battle that me and my friends are in. If I choose to fall in love, I would lose all that. I would lose my title, my status, my lightsaber, and for what? A chance at love?"
"Is that a bad thing? Or are you just preaching the Jedi values that have been implemented into your brain by the others and your master?" countered Cadance.
"I'm a Jedi, and as powerful as I am, I can't have all the power that comes with it and someone who I care about deeply. It just can't happen or work," stated Storm.
"Are you so certain?"
"What?"
"When you took the oath of being a Jedi, they said don't form attachments. And you would agree to that statement cause in your head, you're thinking, that's not going to happen. But... how hard is that? Especially, when you form it anyways." stated Cadance.
"Huh?"
"Cause forming an attachment, you don't consciously make the decision. It just happens. It's a process, not a decision. I mean, how can you not have a crazy connection with someone who you're protecting as well as they're a similar age to you. It's bad. You both can't be together. Forbidden love. Those are always the most exciting ones."
"Alright, enough of this shit. What are you really asking?" said Storm as he had enough of Cadance's game.
"What do you think of Twilight having to be married before the deadline?"
"Why is Twilight's personal business being brought into this. That's hers, not mine."
"But you're her partner."
"Partner, as in training. As in sparring, as in someone who motivates you, who pushes you to get to that next level! As someone who supports you! As someone who is a..."
"Friend," interrupted Cadance. "A friend. Someone who will stand by you in tough times. Someone you can count on. Someone who you care about. Someone who holds a special place in your heart, whether conditional or unconditional. Someone who you put your trust in."
(End of Flashback)
"Well?" said Twilight as she was still waiting for an answer as Storm hadn't said a word.
"Oh, it's... well..." The boy was rubbing his neck as he didn't know if he should inform his partner about what he talked about with her former babysitter. "She... asked me why I call you Sparky?" lied the boy.
"And?" gestured Twilight rolling her hand.
"That's it. I told the name just came to me."
"You sure that's all?" asked the princess, raising an eyebrow.
"Would I lie to you, Sparky?"
"You really want me to answer that?" replied Twilight.
"Screw you!" said Storm as he began to walk as Twilight couldn't help but giggle.
The pair then entered the castle. They were doing some last-minute preparations for the things that were happening in the castle before they would head to Sweet Apple Acres where they would assist Applejack in bringing the last bit of their signature apple food to be served in the banquet hall.
The princess and her knight were walking in the throne room when the boy stopped in front of a stained glass window. He examined it as on it was a tree filled with different portraits. He followed them along the many branches and then made it to where the lower base of the tree was as the images of the princess' parents were shown. From there, the last three portraits were shown on the roots as it was of Twilight and her siblings.
"Crazy to think. Two long lines of royal lineage and yet... I'm the one who was given Jedi powers. The first and only in my whole bloodline to be a Jedi. Both a blessing and a curse at the same time." said Twilight standing next to her partner looking at the stained glass window.
The pair moved to the next stained glass window as it was an image of Night Light and Velvet getting wed as well as their coronation. The next one to that was blank as Storm had a pretty good idea what that meant.
"So, this is where yours will be?" said the boy looking at the empty glass.
"Yeah, should I inherit the throne before I become a Jedi Master, or do I obtain the rank of master? Either way, one image will be depicted here. And the other... a forgotten memory." spoke Twilight putting her hand on the window. "But the biggest thing... is I fear... that the citizens of Canterlot. What if... I do become ruler? What then? Will they accept me, like my father and mother before me?"
"Hey, I have faith. If you do become ruler and inherit the throne? Then I have no doubt, the people will see you as a wise and powerful queen," said Storm as he put his hand on the princess's shoulder. "And if you do have to get married, who knows. Maybe the boy you're engaged to might not be such a bad guy."
"And how do you know? Besides, why do you care if I marry some boy? Don't tell me, you're gonna get jealous?"
"Me? Jealous? As if? Besides, do you really think I would try to sway you? Your father would have my head chopped off if he found out I was making moves on his daughter. I'd like to live to see the war end before I consider death." stated Storm.
Twilight couldn't help but giggle at her partner's behavior. "To be clear, if my father did see you trying to woo me, you wouldn't have your head chopped off."
"Oh, well, that's a relief," said Storm letting out a breath.
"You'd be hanged instead," smirked Twilight as that got the boy to have his face drop.
"That's even worst!" shouted Storm as he was now all sorts of terrifying.
"I'm just messing with you," laughed Twilight as she couldn't believe the look on the boy's face.
To see her partner be so scared to the point of him doing something terrible and Luna finding out about it; that alone was worth scary him. Storm was seeing how much fun the princess had at his misery as he didn't like being pranked.
"You... I'm gonna get you, Sparky!"
Twilight then ran as Storm chased after her. It had now turned into a game of cat and mouse as the teen boy was trying to get his hands on the princess. They ran and ran as they both used their Jedi flips to their advantage. The pair made it to a column as Twilight was on one side as Storm was on the other waiting for the girl to move.
"Come on, Sparky! Get over here!" smiled the boy.
"Storm! Stop it!" smiled Twilight as she didn't want to get caught by her partner.
"You shouldn't have messed with me! Time to pay the price, princess," laughed the boy, he went to reach for her as Twilight moved out of the way and ran with her partner in hot pursuit.
Once more, their game of cat and mouse continued as the two teens were laughing and enjoying the fun they were having.
"Leave me alone!" giggled Twilight as she was back against a wall.
"Now till I make you pay for saying that shit," giggled Storm.
He dived for the girl as Twilight ran up the wall to flip over her partner as he missed her. She then began to run but was then tackled by Storm as the boy managed to recover from his missed dive quickly. The pair of teens rolled around as they were laughing and giggling like two childhood friends. They came to a stop on the marble floor as they kept on laughing from the game they played as they looked at one another with a smile. Once the laughter died, they were now staring at the face of their partner. It didn't last for long as a shadow loomed over them.
"Having fun?" said Night Light.
The king was standing in front of the teens as he had been watching the interaction between his daughter and her friend during their little chasing game. Both of them quickly got to their knees as Storm put his head down while Twilight looked at her father.
"Dad, I... can explain."
"No need," said the King putting his hand out. "I expect you to be present for tonight when the lanterns are launched into the sky. It's expected that you observe so that you can be ready when you take over the throne. Am I understood, Twily?"
"Yes, father," said Twilight as the king rubbed her hair.
He then looked at Storm as the Jedi Knight still had his head down.
"Remember, do not distract my daughter from her duty," was all that Night Light said to the teen boy as he began to walk.
Once he was gone, Twilight looked at her partner as Storm kept his head down.
"Sorry," said Storm as he felt like it was his fault for Twilight being in trouble with her dad.
"No, it was my fault. I shouldn't have teased you like that,"
"I mean, I will admit. It was a good joke," smiled Storm as he lifted his head to look at Twilight.
"Come on, there's something I want to show you before we head out to Applejack's place."
The princess got up from her knees and began to walk as Storm followed behind. From afar, another person had been watching the two during their little tag game as she couldn't help but smile. Then she saw her husband and how he looked as well as what he said to Storm as Velvet couldn't help but sympathize with the boy. She felt like her husband was being a bit rough on her daughter's friend as he too did care about Twilight's safety in his own way.
The two teens made it to Twilight's personal study. Inside were some tables, charts, and all the alchemy stuff from before when the girl made her potion that was still hidden away in the cupboard. Since she made it days ago, she had not once taken it out. Probably cause she still didn't know what it did or she was doing secret experiments without anybody seeing it. Either way, he didn't put it past the girl to do either one.
This time, they made it to a different table as on the chart nearby were the schematics of something. From the looks of it, it appeared to be some kind of droid or robot. To Storm's surprise, it was in fact, the plans and designs of a robot that the princess had been secretly putting together. It wasn't anything like any droids that were known throughout the galaxy as this robot was comprised of different parts.
"Another secret project you've been working on?" asked Storm with a raised eyebrow.
"Uh, maybe," said Twilight twirling her hair while blushing.
"Master Celestia's star student and she has so many secrets she's not telling. Looks like I was right."
"Okay, no need to rub it in," stated Twilight as she began to approach the table and the droid.
She flipped the switch on as the robot came to life. It wasn't that big as the size of it was no more than R2's size. It sat on the table as it began to speak, but the words were scrambled.
(Gibberish)
"Whoops, forgot to do this," said Twilight as she appeared behind the droid and opened the back of it as she began to tink. "Then select voice and... there we go!"
"Testing, testing, one, two, three. She sells sea shells by the sea shore. The shells she sells are surely sea shells. So if she sells shells on the sea shore, I'm sure she sells seashore shells." said the robot in a feminine voice.
"Woah!" said Storm.
"There we go. Much better."
"Thanks for the help, Twilight," said the droid as she got off the table and began to walk over to where Storm was as she looked up at the boy. "And who might this be?"
"Right, I haven't introduced you two," said Twilight as she stood next to her project. "Storm, this is TS-01! TS-01, meet my Jedi partner, Storm."
"Hey," said the boy being cautious on extending his hand for a handshake.
"Pleasure to make your acquaintance," said the droid as when she went to go for a handshake, its hand was a blaster. "Oops, give me a moment." The droid now cycled through the many hands it had, a taser, sparkplugs, even a pair of scissors. Until finally, it stopped on the hands that Twilight gave her as she then shook the boy's hand.
"As you can tell, I'm a bit obsessed with research," said Twilight touching her fingers together while tracing her foot in front of her as she blushed.
"No shit," said the boy as began to poke the robot to which it didn't do anything in response. "So, how'd you find her?"
"Actually, I made her myself."
"What?"
"It's true, the princess has spent most of her time drawing up her blueprints and putting the starting touches on me," said the droid as her eyes began to light up as she projected some schematics for the boy to see.
"Let me explain. See, I told you that my planet is well hidden from the rest of the galaxy. And that Master Celestia gave her word that she wouldn't inform the Jedi Council of my home existing to prevent us from being into the war. So that makes you wonder how did I get spare parts to build her? Well, Applejack and her family are merchants. And she often has to run deliveries across the galaxy, so when she had to do some missions, I asked her if I could grab a few parts for myself."
"So, how long have you been working on this pet project?" asked Storm.
"Well, the plans started when I was a kid. I was kinda smart even for a 3-year-old. So, I began to do rough sketches of what I wanted my droid to do. Once that was done, I went to Aj and asked her family if they had any old parts they weren't using. I got them and brought them back here where I began to tinker on my project in secret. However, I only got to the starting phase of building her."
"Why?" responded the boy.
"Cause... that's when Celestia arrived. And you know what happened after that. I discovered I was gifted with Force Powers and then left with her to start my Jedi training. But before I left, I made a promise that when I return home, the first thing I would do is finish TS-01. And so, since we've arrived, I've been in here keeping that promise."
Twilight then bent down to her droid as it looked at its master.
"I'm sorry, it took longer than expected for me to return, old friend. I... got sidetracked with so many things. But... I kept my promise. A few finishing touches and then... you're complete. Cause come tomorrow, I'm taking you with me back to Coruscant."
"You sure that's a good idea?" asked Storm.
"I designed her to have multiple functions that droids have. She can do just about anything else a droid can even fight," said Twilight as the droid pulled out its blaster's hand.
"Huh? How about that? For once, I'll allow you to keep a pet," smiled Storm.
"Shut up," said Twilight as she responded with a smile and punched her partner in the arm.
The teens let out a small chuckle as TS-01 did a quick scan. It was looking at the Jedi Knights as it was absorbing the information it was collecting on the teens. Twilight then stood in front of her droid as it looked up at her.
"Now, let's finish you up. Storm, care to give me a hand?" asked Twilight.
The two teens then began to put the final touches on the droid. Once it was done, the robot no longer was just an exoskeleton, but it had a body as it didn't feel so naked. Not that it had many feelings considering it was a robot, but still. The droid then hopped off the table as it looked itself in a small mirror by the corner as she found her new appearance to be presentable.
"Perfect, don't you agree, Owlowiscious?" asked the girl to her pet that was perched on a nearby stand.
"Hoo."
"I knew you would," smiled the princess at what her owl said.
"Again, you're damaging his pride by calling him that," said the boy looking at the owl. "So, are we ready to leave to help, Aj?"
With that, the two Jedi Knights, Owlowiscious, and the droid exited the castle. They made it to the stables as the stableboy gave them their horses. Twilight used the Force to lift her droid behind her as they began to trot over to Sweet Apple Acres. For the owl, he had perched itself on Storm's head as it got comfy for the ride.
As they were walking through the town, the citizens were decorating the town for the grand event. Some of the activities had already started as kids were running around having fun with one another. They trotted along the bakery as its owners, Mr. and Mrs. Cake, gave the princess one of the treats they made for the event as a sample. The girl gave one to her partner as they gave a passing thumbs up. They kept on riding as they picked up a bit of speed as TS-01 held on.
After a while, the pair came to the hill that overlooked the farmers' land as they took it in. Twilight's droid began to scan the area as it was taking in information for its databanks. Twilight couldn't help but be a proud mother at seeing her project trying to learn everything. They then made their way down the hill and into the farm. They parked their horses as the Jedi and droid hopped off and began to walk towards the barn. Twilight's owl remained perched on the boy's head.
Approaching the barn, they heard some grunts as the Apple family had been up even earlier than when Storm woke up as they had much to do besides their morning chores. The pair and droid peeked their head in as it looked like they were standing on top of each other as they saw their country friend and family stomping on some apples.
Applejack was focused on the task at hand, or rather her feet, as she ground up the fruit into a mash. She heard someone call her name when she looked at the entrance.
"Hey, Applejack."
"Twilight, Storm, nice of you two to drop by," said the farm girl as the rest of her family waved at the princess.
She got out of the tub as she wiped her forehead, and fanned herself with her Stenson hat. The teen then noticed the small droid near Twilight's leg as she recognized what it was.
"So, finally got to finishin' yer project?" said Applejack as she lowered her head at the robot to which it merely scanned her.
"Yup, meet TS-01."
"Howdy," said Applejack as she extended her hand out to which the droid approached her.
"Hello," spoke the droid.
"Anyways, we're here to help," stated Storm.
"Perfect, once we finish mashin' up the last of these apples, we got some final touches before tonight," said the country girl as she prepared to enter the tub once more.
"I have a better solution. TS-01, if you can?"
"As you wish, Master Twilight," said the droid as it approached the tub.
It extended both its arms and legs so that it could look at the tub. It then opened its chest compartment as there was slightly bigger than normal masher as the droid began to do the work much faster than the humans could. The Apple family was amazed by seeing the droid work and produce some stellar results as 15 minutes later, it finished as it retracted the masher and returned to its regular length and size.
"Hoo."
"Land sakes, that little droid is something. She just saved us a whole hour!" said Applejack with a smile.
"Test field, complete. Results, excellent," said the droid.
"I feel like a proud mother. Someone pinch me," said Twilight as she loved her project. She then felt a pinch on her tushie.
"OW!" said the princess as she rubbed her bottom and looked at Storm who stood there with a smirk.
"You said, pinch you," stated the boy.
"I didn't mean literally," said the girl getting in the face of her partner as he had a smirk.
"They why is your face turning red? You enjoyed when I did that?" said the boy.
"What? No, I didn't," said the girl.
Truth be told, Storm made that up as he wanted to get a reaction from his partner. And it worked, cause as soon as he said that line, Twilight's face immediately started to turn red at the thought of her partner and what action he just did. Twilight was nervously stuttering as her usual geeky self as the boy finally let out the laugh he was holding in. The princess now realized she had been tricked as that red was now turning from embarrassing to fury as steam whistles came out of her ears.
"You... idiot!!" said Twilight.
"That's payback for getting me back at the castle, Sparky," said Storm as he was still laughing until he started to roll around on the floor as the girl walked away.
For the next few hours, the Apple family and the Jedi Knights began to help them with their remaining chores as well as the final food preparations for the town and castle. Though, Applebloom couldn't help but want to play with Storm as the girl managed to convince him to play hide and seek once more. Soon both Applejack and Twilight joined in for a game as the boy had no trouble finding the apple siblings. Yet, for Twilight it proved to be a bit more of a challenge, given that she was a Jedi and they were taught special tricks to conceal their sight when hiding from enemies.
The teen came to a nearby river in the orchard as he bent down to a knee. He was looking to get a drink as at that moment, something rustled from behind him in the bushes. Storm lowered his hands to cusp the water and was starting to bring it up to his mouth. He was just seconds away from it touching his lips as the thing inside the bushes jumped out and headed towards him.
"Gotcha!" said the Jedi Knight thinking it was the princess.
Safe to say, he was right and wrong at the same time. For he did detect something, just not who he thought. It was no more than a small squirrel that stood there sniffing the human. It scratched its ear before taking another sniff and went on its way. The boy shrugged his shoulders as he turned back to get some water. The moment he turned his back he was then shoved forward as he crashed into the river.
The Jedi Knight fell as soon he resurfaced and spat out some water. He saw what caused him to fall as there stood the princess who was laughing.
"You know what they say about karma," chuckled Twilight as she was laughing her ass off while pointing at her partner. She was enjoying herself that she didn't see what Storm did.
"Yeah, it's a bitch. Like you. Get over here!" stated Storm with a smile as he grabbed Twilight's hand and yanked the girl into the water with him as she didn't have time to respond.
The princess now splashed into the water as Storm was still sitting in the stream. The girl then resurfaced, and she spat out some water from her mouth as her hair was all wet and covered her eyes. She pulled it open as now it was Storm who was mocking her.
"That's a good look for you, princess!" laughed Storm at Twilight's wet hair.
"Let's see if you're laughing after I drown you!" said Twilight as she started to splash some water in the boy's face.
The two then began to have a water fight as they splashed each other with more water as they laughed and chuckled once more. After a while, the pair exited the stream as their clothes were soaked. Twilight was able to grab some towels from Applejack before they began playing hide and seek as she had a feeling this would happen when she lured her partner to the river. The pair dried off as they began to walk back to the orchard. They arrived as they helped Applejack load up the wagon. With that done, the Apple family got onboard their wagon as Twilight and Storm rode on their horses.
They all departed towards the town as the sun was starting to go down. They arrived in town as some music was already playing. Stands selling different types of food, kids running around having fun. The group made it to the castle walls, and they began to unload everything in the wagon with the help of servants.
"Well, that's the last one," said Storm as he wiped his forehead.
"Hoo."
"Great, now we can go into town and..."
"Twilight!" called out Night Light as Velvet was with him.
"Dad!"
"Where are you going?"
"I was going to go with Applejack and Storm into town. There's a small par..."
"But you're needed here!" stated the King. "If you're to be the future ruler, you must understand the customs that you have to do on this day. One of those is standing at the castle gates and shaking everybody's hand when they walk through that door. Now come along."
"But..."
"Twily!" said the king with a bit more volume in her voice.
Twilight looked at her friends with her droid and then back at her parents. She wanted to spend some time with her friends as there was only one thing that she wanted to see more than ever. And that was the floating lanterns. The princess let out a heavy sigh as she nodded.
"Yes, father," said Twilight as the King and Queen began to walk. "I'll... see you guys later... maybe... keep an eye on TS-01 for me."
The princess then began to follow her parents as they were heading for the castle doors. The Jedi Knight and farm girl saw their friend leaving with her head down.
"Poor thing. Can't blame her though, if she's gonna be the next person to sit on the throne. She needs to know how to act properly." stated Applejack.
"Hoo."
"Well, like she said. Let's go into town and have fun. And take care of her project." said Storm as he and Applejack began to walk side by side with the droid on the boy's left and the owl on his head.
Twilight looked back to see her friends as they were walking. Every step could be heard by the girl as everything moved in slow motion. She saw her friends leaving, and here she was being left behind. But because of her duty and responsibility, she had to uphold. Night Light was explaining some things to his daughter as the girl was tuning it out a bit. She was still looking behind her when she got a tap on her shoulder.
The princess looked and saw it was her mother who got her attention. Her expression was different as it had a big smile as the Queen knew what her daughter was thinking.
"Go on," whispered Velvet. "Go join your friends and have fun."
"But, dad..."
"Don't worry about him. You'll be leaving tomorrow, so why not enjoy the festival not as a princess, but as a regular girl. Besides, I can keep your father's attention in more ways than one." said Velvet as she had a hidden meaning behind that statement. "Now, go, sweetie."
"Thanks, mom," said Twilight as she hugged her mother and then ran.
Night Light noticed out of the corner of his eye as he saw Twilight running.
"Twilight!"
"Let her be, honey," said Velvet holding her husband back with a strong grip. "She's leaving soon, so why not give her a better send-off than the first time. She was scared, alone, and sad when she left to be a Jedi. But now look at her, she's happy, full of wonder and joy, she's even opening up and making friends. Isn't that important to see on our daughter when she leaves home?" narrated the Queen as the scene shifted to Twilight catching up with her friends as she grabbed Storm by his hand and ran with Applejack and her droid in tow.
"If she becomes Queen, then she'll be fine. So long as she has people who support her, everything will work out. Isn't that what you said to me when you proposed and asked me to be your Queen, more importantly, your wife?"
"I... I understand, honey. It's just... I don't want her to throw away so many years of royalty."
"And she won't. But she also wanted to have some fun and adventures before the deadline. Cause once she reaches that age, she'll be an adult and with that sudden change. So do your responsibilities in life. So she's trying to enjoy to last bit of being a kid before it's all taken away. So, why force her to grow up so quickly?" said Velvet as she leaned on her husband's arm.
"Now, I know why I fell in love with you," smiled Night Light as he looked at his wife and kissed her on the lips.
"That, and well... I have certain features that caught your attention," said Velvet wiggling her eyebrows as the King knew what his wife meant.
They entered the castle as they continued their duties, as the teen trio and droid had passed through the castle gates and entered into town. They arrived at the village square as the music kept on going. For the next few hours, the teenagers, owl, and robot began to have fun. Twilight's droid merely kept scanning everything the townspeople and trio did as it was saving a lot of information in its databanks.
The girls were able to get Storm to play some festival games as he appeared to be a pro at what was called horseshoe ring toss. Eventually, the boy tried some other games that tested his Jedi hand-eye coordination as he couldn't help but smile. While he was currently doing one of the games, the girls had sat on some stools as they were having some flowers braided into their hair. Once the Jedi Knight finished his game, he went to find the girls as he saw them. Safe to say, he was stunned by how they looked, especially the princess as he couldn't help but smile. The droid appeared next to him as it was scanning the sudden body temperature change that the boy was emitting. Even Owlowiscious made a hooting sound.
"Get away from me!" said the boy as he shoved the droid lightly to the side to avoid it coming up with any conclusions.
With that, they continued to have more fun as the sun was slowly going down. They tried some unique food that even the boy was amazed existed in the galaxy. At that moment, the music picked up as it served as the signal as most of the townspeople began to gather around the village square. A few kids began to start bouncing around as they spun. Twilight then started to grab a few other people as soon the whole village began to dance in time with the music.
Storm had bought some things from a local vendor, and he put them in the satchel that Twilight brought with her. He turned to notice the princess smiling and dancing with all of the people gathered by the square. Soon some clapping began to be added to the beat of the music as Applejack and Storm stood there with their arms crossed and smiled at seeing their friend have fun. The princess then saw the Jedi Knight as she encouraged him to join in. The boy merely waved his hand to decline as he wasn't a big fan of dancing. That didn't stop Aj from shoving the boy into the circle as she grabbed the satchel that he was holding.
"Aj!" shouted Storm. Before he could tell the girl off, his hand was grabbed by Twilight's as she led her friend to be a part of the dancing.
The pair were now do-si-doing with each person as they did a small square dance that the country girl was instructing for the villagers to follow. Eventually, Storm started to get the hang of the simple steps as well as the passes and turns as he couldn't help but form a smile. Twilight and Storm were about to do a pass as they looked to grab the other's hand when two other villages grabbed theirs respective as the pair were led away from each other as Storm couldn't help but smirk.
Soon the song was coming to an end as the big finale reached as the villagers spun really fast and jumped in the air. Twilight was doing it as she soon came to a stop as she was in the arms of Storm as the pair held the other hands and looked at each other when the music stopped. The villages cheered as they applauded everybody.
At that moment, a voice was heard.
"Time to lit the lanterns!" shouted the town crier.
That got the attention of everybody, including the Jedi Knights as they broke off contact and followed the crowd. While most people were heading to the castle courtyard for the actual event of sending the floating lanterns in the air and the banquet hall. The teen trio and droid instead went to the nearby docks. Seems Applejack had suggested that they watch the lanterns from the water as it would offer the best view. What she didn't say let on was that there was a reason.
Twilight entered the boat as she was giddy and looking forward. Her owl perched itself on one end. Storm then entered as he looked at the droid next to the country girl.
"I'm guessing you don't like water, huh," said the Jedi Knight to the droid.
"Don't worry, I'll look after her for you two."
"Thanks for... wait, what do you mean?" said Storm.
Before he could get out, Applejack untied the boat and sent it adrift as they were heading out.
"Applejack!!!" shouted the boy as Twilight wasn't paying attention.
"You two have fun. And don't worry, I'll make sure nothing happens to Twilight's droid. Also, you're gonna need these." The country girl then tossed some oars and the satchel that the boy had as he caught them.
The Jedi Knight had an angry look on his face as Applejack just simply waved and started to walk with the droid following her as they were to go find her family. The boy let out a sigh as he couldn't believe his luck. Being tricked by who he called a friend and being stuck in the same rowboat as the princess. The Jedi Knight grumbled to himself as he put down the satchel and began the hard labor of having to row them. Owlowiscious received a petting from Twilight as it gave an affection hoot sound.
It was now fully nighttime as the only lights on besides the stars were the candle streetlights in town. And the massive castle that was flowing with tons of light. As for the Jedi they had made it to the middle of the waterway that entered the kingdom as they could see the castle in the distance. They soon came to a stop as Storm put the oar away and noticed the small satchel. He picked it up as he wanted to remind himself of the contents that were inside.
"Ohh," said the boy as he was now reminded of what they were and what the vendor told him.
For the next moments, the two were looking at the castle as they had their arms leaning on the side of the boat. Even Twilight's owl was looking at the thing as it was now on Storm's side of the boat. Soon the princess began to break the silence.
"You know... this feels different than the last time I left home. I was young, scared, alone. I didn't want to say goodbye to my parents or my home. Sometimes I wonder, why was it that I had to be the chosen one of my family blood? Why did fate choose me to have Force powers and become a Jedi? What is it about me, that drove destiny to select me? These are questions that I often ask myself."
"Well, I don't know. To be honest, that's the most real answer I can give you. You talk about fate, destiny. Well, for me, I didn't have either. If anything, I was probably destined to die as a baby. I was abandoned, alone, had no way to survive. And I cried a lot. So, you could say, that I wasn't worth shit. I wasn't worth the galaxy keeping me alive. But yet... here I am. Luna found me and tried to find my home. But she couldn't. So she had a choice, she could take me in or give me to someone else. So she did what she wanted. She chose to raise me. She took me in when nobody else would. It wasn't destiny or fate telling her what to do. She made her own decisions."
"She made her own choices?" said Twilight.
"What, I'm trying to say, Sparky. The only destiny is the one we make."
"But what if destiny has hand-picked you, you've been marked for greatness. Destiny has chosen you. And no one can hide from their destiny forever." responded Twilight to her part.
"Well, I've got some bad news for you, Twilight. There is no such thing as destiny. There's only what you do and what you don't do. But listen, I understand that life is a long series of chain reactions. If I hadn't been abandoned by my parents, then Luna would never have found me. Then I probably wouldn't be here right now. I probably would never have met some incredible people in my life." Safe to say, Storm had a tear roll down his face as it fell and hit the water creating a ripple effect.
"But I am who I am, I'm not some cosmic chess piece. And as for my friends and all the bad stuff they've had to go through, don't tell me that's fate. Don't tell me everything happened 'cause it was meant to. That's bullshit. It happened because of you and the choices you made. Good things lead to bad things leading to more good things, and that's just life. And at the end of the day-- we all have choices. We aren't 'destined' to make them. People who believe that are just using destiny as an excuse, or who knows-- maybe it was my 'destiny' to say all this. All that really matters is that we listen to ourselves. And that we do what we think is right. Maybe there is destiny. But if that's the case, then I was destined to be alive and stand here and fight for that which I believe. And I'm doing it on my terms, my way. And if fate is going to try to tell me otherwise, then I'll just smash that fate and write my own story on my terms."
Twilight listened to her partner's words as they affected her. She lingered on each one he said as they got to her emotionally and personally. The way Storm spoke and voiced his opinion made the princess feel warm and cuddly. In a way, she was glad to have someone like the boy by her side as he had a weird way of taking away all the pain and worries she had.
"Thanks, I needed to hear that," said Twilight as a small red formed on her cheeks as the boy smiled.
At that moment, it began.
"It's time," said Night Light as he gathered all the servants and townspeople in the huge courtyard.
Velvet had Spike in her arms as the small prince had his own lantern ready to take part. The King then lit his as he did for his wife and son as the three began to float into the air. As if on cue, all the people who made one did the same as they floated up to the air. Even Applejack and her family all had ones made with an apple design. Soon the whole sky began to light up as the different designs on some of the lanterns added more effects and aesthetics. For the Jedi Knights, they saw the glow as it filled the sky and got them to look at the lights. Twilight then got up as she made her way to the edge of the boat as it moved due to her getting up so suddenly as they slowly drifted in that direction. Just then, some music began to play as it narrated the scene that happened.
The princess saw the lights as she leaned on the end of the boat while standing. The lights that were launched were even more amazing than Twilight could describe. They looked like stars or fireflies dancing among the air and with each other in the occasional bump. The teen's boat then drifted as soon the lights were on top of them. The girl couldn't help but smile. She then heard some sound as she turned her head as the music broke as the gentle melody played when the two talked.
"Why doesn't this stupid thing fit? It worked before."
"Storm?"
"Sparky," said the Jedi Knight as next to him was a lantern he made and in his hands was the other one he was trying to put together. "Seeing as how you wanted to see them? I got some materials from a vendor, though this one is being a little bit tricker than the previous one."
"Let me help," giggled Twilight as she grabbed the lantern from her partner's hands as they brushed lightly.
The girl then fixed the final piece as the Jedi Knight lit the candle inside of them, and the princess added some quick designs as she decorated it with her crest.
"Ready?" asked Storm.
"Ready," answered Twilight.
The two released their lanterns as the music picked up the next part. They saw their lanterns join the massive field in the sky. They were now circling each other as if they were dancing among the crowd. For the boy, he now knew what the girl told him in the morning. Seeing them in person, he now understood why Twilight was looking forward to this. The Jedi Knight smiled as he looked at them and then directed his attention at the princess. He saw the girl as she was smiling. Twilight was looking all around and in wonder, realizing how much she had missed this in her life, and then looked at Storm partially, while also keeping her smile, not wanting to let go of this moment she was in. The teens looked at one another and sang.
(Storm and Twilight)
And at last, I see the light
(Storm)
And it's like the fog has lifted
(Storm and Twilight)
And at last, I see the light
(Twilight)
And it's like, the sky is new
(Storm and Twilight)
And it's warm and real and bright
And the world has somehow shifted
The two of them looked as Storm placed his hand on the side of the boat. He was unaware of Twilight as she put hers on top of his as only she noticed it. They just stared at their partner as they finished their little song. Even Owlowiscious blinked a few times as the little bird leaned in to see his mistress and her friend.
(Storm and Twilight)
All at once, everything is different
Now that I see you
Now that I
See you
The two ended their little ballad as they kept on staring. Twilight had a strand of her hair fall in front of her as she brushed it to the side with her other hand as she felt herself moving closer. Her body was acting on its own as her brain had shut off. She getting near Storm and was about to close her eyes when...
"We should get back. Your parents are going to be worried," said the boy nonchalantly as he removed his hand from the side, unaware that the princess had hers on top of his.
"Right," said Twilight as the princess deflated a bit as she sat back.
The boy now grabbed the oars as he began to immediately row them back to the docks as the lanterns had all faded. All the while, he didn't notice the situation he found himself in with the princess. Twilight grabbed her owl and held the bird in her lap, keeping her head down as it nuzzled into her.
The two made it back to the castle as it was late. And given they were leaving in the morning after breakfast, they had to get some sleep. The pair were in front of Twilight's room with the princess' owl perched on her head.
"Well, thanks for a fun time, Sparky. I'll admit, I like what your home has to offer."
"Well, you've only seen just the kingdom. There are a lot more places to visit here on Equis. Some towns and a few cities you haven't seen yet."
"I look forward to it, the next time we decide to come here," smiled the boy. "Well, see ya."
"Wait!" said the girl as she got the boy to turn. "I... I have something for you." Twilight then reached into the satchel that had the materials for the lanterns as she pulled out a crown made of flowers.
"Hoo."
"What's that, Sparky?"
"You remember what I told you this morning. The white roses are woven into garlands and given as gifts to close friends or potential lovers. Well, this is my gift to you."
"Uh, Sparky? You know we're Jedi, right?"
"Which one do you think I'm implying?!!!" shouted Twilight.
"Which one do you want me to think you're implying?!!!" countered Storm with a nervous tone.
"Shut up! Just... take it, alright!" said the girl as she thrust the thing into her friend's hands. "There!"
"Yeesh, no need to be dramatic," said the boy as the girl had her back turn and was trying to hide some red on her face for two different reasons. "Here you go then," said the Jedi Knight as he tossed one to Twilight, but it was much smaller as it looked to be a bracelet of sorts.
The princess was shocked to find one, especially from her partner.
"What?"
"Since it's a tradition for your people to give these out. I'd figure I give you one. You're my partner." said the boy before forming a smile.
"Thanks, well... see you in the morning."
"Night, Sparky," said the boy as he left to his room.
"Hoo."
The princess then entered hers as she put the bracelet on as she couldn't help but smile at it.
The morning came as it was an emotional one. The main reason is that Storm and Twilight had to head back to Coruscant. The princess was sad that she had to leave, but the war was still going on. They were needed on the front lines. So with a heavy heart, Applejack along with Cadance and Twilight's family were gathered on the outskirts of town. They had made it back to where the Jedi Knights were dropped off as there was a ship waiting for them.
Not just any ship, but rather a ship that Night Light had made for his daughter by the team of royal engineers. He wanted to give his daughter a parting gift, and what better way than to give her own ship to use in the war. The ship was colored the same design as Twilight's hair as it was a two-seater. One person in the front and a seat behind that. In addition, there was a small port of TS-01 to be in to help the girl during their flight missions and battle. Storm was loading up the luggage in the compartment as they were dressed back in their Jedi robes.
The princess was saying her last goodbye to her family and friends.
"Do you have to go, sis?"
"Sorry, Spike. But I need to. I'm still fighting a war. They need me." said the princess as she hugged her little brother.
"Be good, okay?"
"Hoo."
The princess hugged her owl as it snuggled into its master. She then handed the bird to Spike as the small boy held the animal as Twilight turned to her mother.
"Be careful now," said Velvet as she came to her daughter and hugged her tightly. "It was so good to see you again, my little sparkle. You're grown both physically and personally. I'm proud you're studying to be a Jedi."
"Thanks, mom," said Twilight as she couldn't help but cry.
"So long, sugarcube," said Applejack trying hard not to cry.
"See you, Applejack. If I see you on one of your merchant runs, I'll make sure to stop by and talk."
"Look forward to it, Twilight." said the cowgirl to her childhood friend.
Night Light then stepped forward as he looked at his daughter.
"Remember."
"I know, dad."
"Well, that too. But more importantly... be safe," said the King as he brought his daughter in for a loving and tight hug as he picked her off. "The greatest gift to happen was having you for a daughter. I love you, my little Twily."
"I love you, daddy," said Twilight as she released all the waterworks she'd be holding.
"Goodbye, Twilight."
"Goodbye, Cadance."
"Sunshine, sunshine, ladybugs awake! Clap your hands and do a little shake!" said both girls as they did a little dance and let out a giggle.
"All set, Twilight?" asked Storm as he finished loading up.
"Yeah, come on TS-01."
"Right behind you, master," said the droid as it followed Twilight to the ship. It jumped into its port as it felt nice and cozy. The robot then plugged in as connected to the ship.
Storm was about to jump in his seat when he was called to. He turned to see Night Light addressing him.
"Remember, keep her safe. She has her duty to uphold."
"Yes, your majesty."
"Take good care of our daughter, now," said Velvet.
"Of course, your highness."
With that, the Jedi Knight hopped into his seat as Twilight fired up the engines as he prepped the hyperdrive. The princess waved from her window as did the others while the ship caused a small wind to pick up as Aj's hat almost went flying. They waved as the pair and droid were entering the atmosphere and left the planet's orbit. They were now in space as Storm had finished prepping the coordinates. He flipped the switch, and the ship zoomed ahead as it entered hyperdrive.
It was quite a while, but the pair soon approached from space as the planet Coruscant came into view. They soon began to descend towards the planet as they entered the atmosphere. It was morning when they arrived as their ship was making its way to the Jedi temple. They landed outside and waiting for them were Celestia and Luna. Both Jedi Masters had different looks on their faces as the teen popped out with Storm getting the princess' luggage.
"Glad to see you're back, Twilight."
"I've missed you, Master," said the girl as she bowed. Her droid then appeared next to her. "This is my personal droid. I built her."
"You're already taking the next step in your training. I'm proud. Now both of you come along, we have a meeting we need all need to attend." stated Celestia.
"How did you enjoy it?" asked Luna to her student with a stern tone and look on her face.
"It was fine," said Storm holding the luggage in his hands.
"I see," sighed Luna while putting her head down.
The Jedi Master then looked at her apprentice as she brought her hand up. She put it on his hair and ran it through it. She then brought it down to his cheek as the boy just stared at his master and her actions. For a while, the scene changed to match what the Jedi Master was thinking. There she was a bit younger and in front of her was Storm when he was younger as well. The small padawan had a smile on his face as Luna held his cheek with a smile on her face. It changed to present time as Storm stood now as a teen looking at Luna with a straight face to which the Jedi Master had a smile.
"Everything okay, Luna?" asked Storm as her hand was still rubbing his cheek.
"Nothing," said Luna removing her hand from his cheek. She turned around while keeping the smile.
The two Jedi Masters and two Jedi Knights began to enter the temple as Storm had them make a quick stop in Twilight's quarters to put her bags down. The girl told her droid to wait here as she nodded and began to scan her surroundings to implement more data into her memory banks. For the teens, it was nice to have taken a quick break from the war. Storm was glad to have seen a piece of Twilight's world and was already looking forward to the next time they might visit.
But that would have to wait. Cause right now, it was back to action in fighting this war. And no one knew just how quickly they would be back on adventures as in another part of Coruscant. There was a bounty hunter who was planning to steal something from the Jedi Temple at that moment.
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Aw, now that was sweet.
Also, ah, I saw a Tangled Reference. Nice job. And those two nearly had a moment, I imagine that something will happen in the end, but I can wait. I'll enjoy the stories in the meantime.
And Luna, I don't think she was having a master student moment, I think she was having a mother/son moment. I think Luna secretly did form an attachment, but without anyone noticing.
Great job on the story so far. In the meantime, enjoy your break. Will read more soon.
11189998
Well, I don't think Storm noticed what was happening. As for Luna, she just took a step back and was reminded of a memory that she still does see Storm as a son in some kind of light. As does Celestia with Twilight. But also remembering not to get attached to them due to the code they live by.
11190002
True that.
In the meantime, enjoy your break, you deserve it.
It was amazing in seeing Equis there and seeing how things were in Twilight's family.
I do hope Spike gets to join in on the adventures that the girls(and Storm) will have.
I am curious on what other ideas are there.
11190006
Also, don't forget the conversation that Storm had with Twilight. The talk about destiny and making your own choices. What he said doesn't apply to just Twilight's situation, but can apply to everyone, especially near the end of the war. Something for you to keep in your mind as you'll see how true that is going forward.
11190011
Yep, he truly had some words of wisdom there. They can make their own choice in the end. Storm would make a great master, same with Twilight.
Storm you fool you should have gone for a man you have the best opportunity there
11190011
Now that I think about it, I know Storm kept explaining on how he came to the Temple.
But will there be a chance that he'll explain how he met Obi-Wan and Anakin and how their friendships started?
11190040
Yeah. What I'm thinking of is having a few original chapters be flashbacks to when Storm and Twilight were as Padawans and tell some stuff that occurred before they met and show some things of how they'll come to meet in the future. Maybe even give the idea of "What if" they met way before they were suppose to.
11190043
Pretty good insight. Thank you for answering my question.