As a princess I should not have been so easily distracted by that grey mare with the yellow mane, but what can I say? Curiosity is my one weakness. A girl can take a day off, can't she?
Somepony is distracting Celestia. Somepony is making her day harder than it has to be. Somepony is going to make her do something stupid. Somepony is going to do all three.
This is my submission for the Random Romance March Deathmatch.
The cover art for this story comes from potessMLP's video: For a Muffin (A Derpy Short). GO WATCH IT!
A cool breeze stirred my mane, waking me from my slumber. The soft light of pre-dawn probed my still-closed eyes with it's tender touch, calling me to open them up. I answered readily, rising to a full sitting position before my eyes eased open. Millennia of getting up never made it easier to get up early, but a strict regiment and a well trained mind had quieted my mind's complaints as long as I kept myself in line.
Before I had even wiped the sleep from my eyes two of my handmaidens had flipped open the doors, and slipped in next to me. Honey Glider floated my bracers and regalia over in her magic, and slipped them on. Meanwhile Ivory offered me a warm, wet towel to wipe my face, which I gladly accepted. After I handed it back to her she slipped it under her wing, and they both stepped back to let me rise.
“Princess Luna has delayed her dinner once again so that she may join you at breakfast milady,” Ivory said, bowing her head in deference as I walked past.
For the third time in as many weeks I wished she would let up on the bowing, at least a little bit. I thought I had grown used to her 'professional distance' but in the past month I found a wish for her to dispense with the extensive formality she put upon herself. But that was just how she liked things to be. So I let it slide.
“Then we had better not keep my sister waiting,” I said as they followed me out into the hall.
“We told Edelweiss to bring her down to the hall in twenty minutes,” Honey Glider said, trotting to keep alongside me, “You should have plenty of time to stop by the baths first.”
“Are you insinuating something about my hygene?” I inquired, casting down an incredulous gaze.
“No not at all!” she said, stumbling back upon her own words until I allowed a smile to creep across my face, “Oof. You got me good there, Princess.”
The three of us walked along, Ivory catching me up on the night's previous events, with Honey cutting in every once in a while with her own little commentary. I raised the sun as we walked, unwilling to slow down. As tempting as a bath sounded, I decided to go with a quick cleaning spell I had invented ages ago instead, just to see how Honey would react. It was worth it.
As the kitchens came into sight a mouse carrying an entire wheel of cheese ran out of the swinging doors on the right side of the hall, and into a hall on the left.
Not a second later the doors swung open, and a grey coated mare jumped into the hall. Her yellow mane jostled around as she frantically searched both ways down the hall.
When she saw us she stopped a moment to wave, her eyes closed and grin wide as could be.
Then she sprung back into motion, honing in towards the doorway the mouse had disappeared into, and running through it. As soon as she had appeared she was gone.
"Well that was interesting." Ivory said, breaking me from the daze that had set upon me.
I'm certain I've sen that mare's picture before, but where was it. I thought to myself as we started towards the dining hall again. It was something important, that happened recently, but I can't seem to place it. I think it was in one of the documents that passed over my desk, but for the life of me I can't remember which one it was. Oh well, it will come back to me in time I'm sure.
We continued along, arriving in the Great Hall before my sister as I had hoped to. I walked down the scantily filled rows, taking my regular seat at the center of the high table. A lovely yellow stallion took my order to the kitchens, leaving me to quietly survey the going on's of the room.
Ivory was sitting at the servant's table at the far end of the hall, where Honey Glider had clearly roped her into a boisterous conversation with one of the chef's apprentices. A few seats down sat a pair of guards who had gotten off duty early, silently enjoying each other's company while they ate.
Beyond them, crammed together, was a mismatch group of gardeners, serving boys, maids, and all the other young folk working in the castle. A half dozen separate conversations seemed to be going on, with all the rowdiness of a litter of pups. A veteran cook who I had a hand in hiring many years ago named Copper Bright was seated at the end of them. He had clearly drawn a handful of the youngsters in with an old story, his arms fully animated.
Away from the servant's table there was a spattering of nobles and civil servants across the room. Four stallions I knew to be ex-guards, turned politicians had settled at the end of the hall; probably reminiscing about the days where it had been them at the nearby servant's table.
Throughout the hall a few, early rising nobles had spread out. Quite a few had centered themselves around Sir FancyPants, who seemed to be getting more than a few laughs out of the serious bunch.
I knew it was a good idea to knight him. He has been doing such a good job using his influence to clean up Trottingham, along with the young nobility over there.
I had managed to keep the political affairs in Canterlot clean easily enough, but with these past few years of preparing both for Luna's return, and getting Twilight ready for her departure from under my wing I had found it increasingly necessary to rely on other ponies to carry out my will.
However, I now found myself with a gap in my workspace. The ponies I have maneuvered into power readily championing my causes for me.
I picked my aides especially well this generation. I thought to myself, pleased with my work, It will be years before I have to go through any serious maneuvering again, at least not until after Twilight ascends.
The hall door opening pulled me from my thoughts. I saw Luna's handmaiden Edelweiss come in first, holding the door open. Luna walked into the hall, straight and proud.
Her mane had regained its ethereal form only a week ago, but the faintest of stars were beginning to shine through. Her coat had regained its navy tone, but her growth in height was more subtle. It seemed it would be several years before she rises to my height again.
All bowed as she walked past, ranging from full and formal, to mere head nods. Her eyes radiated delight as she took her place next to me. As she did the yellow stallion returned with my breakfast.
“I take it that night court went well?” I said, watching her settle down.
“Twas marvelous, Tia. Thou hast done wonders with the political system since We've been gone.” Luna replied, filching half a bagel from my plate and dipping her knife into my cream cheese.
“You know, there is an entire kitchen stocked to the brim with food that is not currently on my plate?” I jabbed at her playfully.
“We are initiating royal prerogative to commandeer thy food stores for the good of the kingdom,” she said, teasing me back.
“You don't want to set a precedent for that, dear sister” I retorted as she finished my bagel, and turned to order from the waiter, “Else I may use the same to claim your midnight pie as it is brought to your room someday.”
“Thou wouldst not!” she said eyes widening, “And how dost thou even know about Our midnight snack!? We commanded Moon Dancer to keep it a secret!”
“Oh sister, it is far too soon after your return to keep secrets from me. I have many eyes in many places, and it will take you a great while to find them all.” I told her, reveling in her surprise.
“Thou wouldst do well to avoid playing a game of spies with the Queen of Shadows,” she came back in a hushed, taunting tone.
That was the stone that broke the glass window of my facade. The laughter heaved at my chest till it was too much to contain.
“Oh Luna,” I chuckled as tears of laughter ran to my eyes, “I nearly forgot about the ponies who used to call you that.”
“Tis not that amusing,” she replied, a slim pout working on her lips.
“Yes, it is. They were so... so strange!”
“Say what thou will, We enjoyed their company much more than thou ever did the early nobles.”
“Well, that's not really a fair comparison.”
“Tis not.” Luna said, smiling thoughtfully for a few seconds
“Tia. What fate befell Silver Tip's grandson?”
“Firelight?” I questioned, trying to remember what I could, “He ended up together with Rose Gold after things settled down.”
“We knew she felt for him!” She said triumphantly, but the buzz of victory soon wore off, “At the very least We are glad he found some happiness after all that transpired.”
After that Luna fell silent. I left her to her own contemplation rather than try to help. Her wounds were still too fresh, and needed a little more time. Something I was glad we had plenty of. I had seen too many ponies spend their entire lives, never having enough time to truly heal.
But all these thoughts are far too sombre for breakfast! I dipped my spoon in cream cheese and hung it from my sister's nose.
She turned to me stunned. “Sister.”
“Yesss?”
“Thine spoon appears to have found its way onto Our muzzle.”
“Has it really?” I said, giving her my most astonished look.
“Indeed. It has caused quite a bit of mischief hasn't it.” Luna said, breaking out in a smile.
“Well you know what they say, when parents are unhappy, children tend to act out.” I said grinning right back.
Looking at me she raised a brow, “Since when have We become a mother?”
“Ever since you became too serious.”
“Sisters should be serious with each other sometimes.”
“Yes, but when we can't have a single conversation without being serious it's gone too far.” I said, hoping my firmness would help send the point.
She sighed a bit and replied fondly, “Thou art much too intertwined with Optimism.”
“And you need to learn to start saying 'you' rather than 'thou'.” I added.
“We see no reason why not to use thou. Tis a much more elegant and refined word. ”
“I say they're equally elegant, and I'll have you know that I am considered the very epitome of elegance in this day and age. Look up elegance in the dictionary and my picture is right next to it.”
“Oh really?” she came back snidely, “Which one?”
“All the reputable ones.” I replied truthfully, “It's quite a matter of pride for me.”
“Well, now that a more refined princess has come to power We expect they shall change it appropriately.” Luna said, lifting her chin ever so slightly.
“I don't know. Cadence has been around a while. If they were going to change it seems it should have happened already.” I replied, laughing at her pretense of arrogance.
“We shall see who has the last laugh with that one my dear sister.” She said, finishing off my orange juice, and dabbing the excess juice away politely, “ Alas, it appears thine breakfast is finished. It has been a pleasant one. Goodnight dear sister." She quickly got up and trotted off, having consumed more than her fair share of my food.
How does she manage to make stealing half my breakfast each morning fun? I feel like I should be getting her back somehow, but honestly I don't want it to stop. Oh well, I needed to get to court soon anyhow.
Court was trudging along as usual, and for some reason I was having trouble focusing on the issue at hand, which was honestly an uncommon issue for me. I was weighing the option of closing the court early to sort myself out. I definitely wasn't sure I was in the right mindset to make any important decisions.
A navy blue stallion stood at the pedastal in front of me, "With Luna's return, she should be central to this year's gala to help expand her presence among the commoners."
"It's just too much of a risk," A charcoal grey mare replied, "She has too little experience with the modern era, and we want her to make as many important connections as possible. She should keep her interactions limited to the VIP section, with a minimal presence amongst the masses."
"We don't want her to appear self important, or aloof though. Besides there will be critical trade negotiations with the Minotaurs after the gala, and they are anxious to meet her. You know they won't touch the VIP area, they hate showing off like that."
As their argument continued to circle my mind slipped away from the conversation to rest. I glanced out the window overlooking the garden only to see the grey mare from earlier hovering at the base of the window. She noticed me looking at her, and stopped what she was doing to wave. A grin spread wide across her face, and her golden eyes radiated happiness.
Wait a second. Is she crossing her eyes at me?
Before I could get a better look she turned around and fluttered off. Oddly enough I found myself sad to see her go.
What a funny mare. But where have I seen her before?
"What's that your majesty?" The navy stallion asked.
"Oh, nothing," I said, composing myself, "I believe I have enough information on the subject at hand. I shall not limit my sister's movements in any way, no matter the possible benefits of doing so. If we really are to rule this country together then I cannot go around controlling her. I trust her judgment in this issue completely, so if you want to continue this argument then bring it to her court. The court shall recess for the day."
"Thank you for your consideration your majesty," The stallion replied bowing, before packing up his briefcase.
A royal guard stepped forward and formally announced to the court, "The Solar Court is now adjourned."
The nobles and civil servants bustled around for a while, slowly making their way towards the door. I stood, letting my mane flare brilliantly before teleporting to my private chambers. I was sure I would be able to get my head straightened quickly and make a decision if I could just get a little rest.
The problem with ruling alongside Luna is that it isn't a black and white game like it use to be. It's all grey and cloudy, like that golden eyed mare's coat. I wonder if I'll run into her again soon... That's it. I give up. This must be the fifth time I've been sidetracked by the thought of that darn mare. Clearly my curiosity has gotten the best of me, and I doubt it will release control until I track her down and satisfy it. Why does my mind do this to me?
"Honey Glider!" I called through the door.
"Yes Princess?" She said, opening the door up and walking in.
"By any chance do you know anything about the mare who I ran into earlier?"
Glider paused for a moment, as if trying to recall, and then spoke up, "No, I can't say I've heard of her before.
She stopped to think for a second she spoke up again, "I know for sure she's not one of the maids though. Anypony joining the maids this time of year would be big news in our circles. My best bet is that she's working in the kitchens. That is, after all, where we ran into her. Why do you want to know?"
"Oh, I'm just a little curious. It's not often a pony like that works at the castle."
"Her mane and coat were rather lovely," she piped in, "Grey and gold is such a rare combination, but it is ever so dashing."
"She was, wasn't she," I replied, half-dreamily.
"Whats this!" Honey exclaimed, "Are you interested That way?"
"What! No!" I responded immediately.
Oh no, that sure sounded like it though. Am I interested? It's been so long it's hard to tell. Great. It had to be Honey who caught me off guard. Word of this is going to work its way through the staff like a bad flu
"By the moon Honey Glider," I continued, attempting to cover my tracks, "It has been centuries since I've been courted, and far longer since I have pursued anypony."
A wry smile crossed Honey Glider's face, "Far longer since you have pursued anypony, eh? Say, a Thousand Years or so?"
She knew. The devil knew my secret, and she was going to make me pay for it. The worst part was that she figured it out even before I did.
Sighing, I met my fate, "Yes Honey. About a thousand years."
You see, when my sister took her leave of absence I became far too busy to pursue any romantic leads. Over time my singularity as a ruler became the norm. But with my sister's return, and that precedent has been broken. I hadn't thought of it before, but now would be the perfect time to enter a relationship, while we are still molding the new precedent. If Honey Glider put that together she's far to intelligent for her own good. Or at least for mine.
Honey's smirk flew wide at my admission, "Don't worry Princess, your secrets are safe with me."
"Let's hope," I replied sternly, "For all our sakes."
Glider just laughed, and continued, "So do you need me for anything else."
"No, I think I've done enough damage already," I said reluctantly, "I think I'll follow your advise, and go down to the kitchens to ask around."
With that both of us took our leave from the room, her off to who knows where, and me to the kitchens.
The kitchen was fully ablaze, and more bustling than a Manehattan subway stop. A cacophony of orders being yelled, pots ringing, and a thousand other instruments rang out in utter chaos. I found myself cornered and shoved off to the side. Funny how the one place in the entire world where ponies had no qualms pushing me around was my own kitchen.
Finally I caught sight of the red maned stallion I was looking for. I called out to him, but he could not hear me over all the noise. I made my way over to where he stood over a roiling stew, and tapped him on the shoulder.
As he turned around I spoke, "Been a while Mr. Bright."
"Celestia! Where ya been ole girl?" His old green eyes lit up, and his dimpled smile began to show, "And I tol ya a million toimes te call me Copper. Mr. Bright is, I mean was, me father. I ain't that old."
"Oh really, I see a few more lines of white in your mane from the last time we met," I said, pointing out a few strands.
"Well ain't that the pot callin the kettle black!" He said, jigging my ribs, "If yer goin te start callin me Mr. Bright, then maybe I'll start callin ye Princess again."
"Please, let's not go back to that dreadful time," I groaned half-playing, half-serious.
"I'll do it. An I'll start bowin and cowerin erey time we meet too!"
I threw my forelegs up defensively, "I give, I give. Copper it is."
"An ye best be rememberin it," He said, prodding me once more for good measure.
Copper pulled one of the serving boys out of the aisle, and put him in front of the stew he had been tending with a ladle in his hoof.
"Watch the stew, stir it twice a minute, an so help me boy if ye mess it up, I'll have ye out o' the kitchens faster 'n a flick o' a kelpie's tail," With that he pulled me off to a less busy corner of the kitchen.
"Must you be so rough with the new help?" I started.
"Ah, it's fer their own good. Nothin te set a foal straight like the crack o' the whip, at least every once in a while."
After a moment he continued on "So wha brings ye down te the kitchens anyhoo?"
"Nothing important really," I said, trying to sound non-chalant, "I was just trying to find a mare I ran into earlier."
"Oh really," he said, raising a brow, "So it be a lass yer lookin fer?"
"Not like that," I replied deadpan, before going on "The mare I'm looking for has a grey coat, with a yellow mane and golden eyes. She was in here earlier, trying to catch a mouse who was stealing a wheel of cheese. Have you seen her?"
"Oh her?" He said, catching on, "Lass made a wee bit of a commotion round here in the morn, chasing the critter all over and making a mess o' the place. Ran out just as quick. Nopony could put a name to 'er, so she mus be new, but with an act like that I can nae imagine she'll remain nameless fer long."
I chuckled at that, "No, I don't imagine she will."
"So what business does a princess really have with a nameless servin girl?" He asked, "An do nae start by tellin me that it be 'jus fer fun' lass."
"Fine, you caught me," I said giving up, "Something about the way she acted managed to pique my curiosity, and I'm trying to figure her out now."
"Did what."
"That would be my business, and hers."
He looked at me for a moment trying to pry me open, but I wouldn't budge. Finally he let up, and shook his head.
"Its always the oddballs with you, lass."
"What do you mean always?" I replied, a little confused.
"Sounds a bit like a similar case with a purple filly. Don't it."
"Copper!" I exclaimed, "How could you say something like that about Twilight!"
"Do nae ge me wrong!" He said defensively, "The lass is a charm. She was as sweet as wild clover when she came lookin fer cookin lessons: though teaching her te diverge from the written recipe were a bit like trying te teach a stone to swim. But ye got to admit: she be no regular unicorn."
No denying that. Twilight always was a bit different, albeit in her own charming way. I decided to drop the issue there (but Twilight would be hearing about this.)
Before I could chime in Copper went on, "Anyhoo, there be nothin else I can tell ye about the yellow maned lass. I ken ask around an see if anythin turns up fer ye."
"No, I'd rather you not."
"Why nae?"
"My sister, heavens help her, is a bit of a romantic. If she catches wind that I'm asking around about somepony she'll assume that I'm attempting to court her."
"An are ye?" Copper said with a wink and a smile.
"No." I asserted firmly.
"Well it's nae like i'm goin te go around sayin it's you who's lookin fer her."
"No," I replied, "It's too suspicious. If you go asking around about her right after we met she'll put two and two together, and figure us out."
"How will yer sister even know we met?"
"Oh trust me, she already knows this meeting is taking place," I said, sighing, "She already has her little gossip network back in up and running."
"Much like yers I imagine."
"Yes, and it's far too good for the little time she's been back. I don't know how she managed to set it back up, when she still is having trouble relating to modern society."
"It jes goes te show," he said, taking a grave tone,"Ponies change, stallions change, but gossip, gossip never changes."
With that he broke out in a fit of laughter.
"Sure sure, laugh it up," I said, "But remember, speak of nothing that we talked about here."
"Aye, nothing more to be said," He said shaking my hoof, "I'll still keep an ear te the ground fer ya lass, in case I overhear a name or sommat."
"Thank you Copper."
"Tis nothin," he replied.
With that he headed back to his stew, and I took off to take a look around to see if I could find the elusive grey mare.
I sank into the patio chair completely vanquished, as a red sunset began to wash across the sky. I had been searching the castle all day for that mare to no avail. I believe I saw her several times in the distance, but she was always slipping into a doorway, or dashing into the maze, and then she was gone. My personal Cinderella.
Did I really just think that? I think I really am developing a crush on her. Won't the nobles think this is a barrel of fun. I swear, if Blueblood offers himself as a more 'suitable' option I'm going to banish him, and lock him in a dungeon in the place I banish him too. I don't care if he IS the best cartographer Equestria has ever seen. He can map out his cell floor for all I care. I was startled from my thought out from behind me came a voice.
"Can I help you miss?"
Gasping, I jerked my head around to find an elderly brown earth pony, with a tall crumpled hat the color of mashed peas, and a stalk of wheat hanging from his mouth.
"Oh my!" I said, " I didn't hear you sneak up on me there."
"Sorry about that maam," He replied, " The name is Hayseed Turpentine Greenhooves, but most folk just call me Hayseed."
"That's a lovely name you have, Mr. Greenhooves."
"Aww shucks, it's nothing special," He said rubbing his foreleg bashfully, "So is there anything I can do to get rid of that frown you were wearing?"
"Have you seen a grey coated mare with a yellow mane and golden eyes?" I asked, already resigned to the fact that I could not find her.
"Oh! You're looking for Miss Doo are you? She was just packing things up for the day. You wait right here, and I'll have her right over," He said happily, before turning over to a more somber tone, "If she's messed up somehow please forgive her. She's brand new, and been having a rough time lately."
"Oh, nothing of the sort. No official business, I just would like to meet her."
With that he trotted off through the garden. It wasn't all that long before I heard hoofsteps coming my way. Finally the golden-eyed mare appeared from around one of the hedges her eyes once again crossed. She trotted along smiling like a puppy, that is until she saw me. She stopped mid-trot as her smile turned to a look of confusion and awe, a look I am thoroughly familiar with. However she managed to shake it off on her own and trotted on up to the table.
"Good evening your Majesty," she said, bowing deeply before sitting across from me.
"Umm," I began, unsure of what was going on, "Why are you looking at me like that?"
"Oh! That?" she said, cheerfully pointing her hoof to one of her eyes, "They're always like that."
"I'm so sorry!" I said quickly, being caught off guard, "I didn't mean to be insulting or anything of the sort."
"No problem at all, Your Majesty!" She said, her cheerful look never wavering, "It happens to everyone the first time I meet them."
"That doesn't make it ok for them to do so," I said, just a little upset with myself.
"It's nopony's fault, and I don't mind. Trust me princess, everything is ok," she said, managing to calm me down.
"Sorry about that. It's just that I'm not use to making mistakes like that, and it's really annoying when I do," I replied ashamedly, sending her off in a flurry of giggles.
"What is so funny?" I said.
"It's just that," she said, breaking to chuckle once more, "You remind me so much of how my daughter acts when she does something wrong, and having our ruler act like my little filly is just too funny."
"Well, maybe I am acting just a bit foolish," I replied, happy to hear she was already settled down happily, with a family of her own. I could already feel my crush slipping away as it understood the futility of pursuing her.
"Or maybe she just acts very mature for her age," She said, a motherly serenity taking over her tone and features.
"Actually," she said perking up, "Although I would love to stay and chat, I really must be going to pick my little girl up, so I can start dinner."
"Oh." I said, feeling a little dampened by being shut down so easily. Even if she was a married mare, I would have loved the chance to get to know her.
She must have been quick on the catch, because without a slip she said, "Me and my little girl would love to have you over for dinner. That is, if you would like to come."
"Oh, no," I replied backpedalling, "I couldn't impose myself on you like that."
"Oh nonsense," she said entirely at ease, "There's nothing we'd like better than having a wonderful mare like you at our table."
"Really," I said, trying to conceal my feelings, "I understand completely. There's no need to make room on my part."
She pressed forward saying, "There's plenty of room, and it would be delightful to have you eat with us."
I felt my defenses falling away quickly, "And you're absolutely sure I would not be imposing in any way?"
She sighed in relief at my softening up, "Yes, I'm sure."
"If you insist."
"Yes," she said assuredly, "Yes I do."
I stood there, unsure of myself for a moment before affirming my answer.
"Then I guess I'm coming with you." I said, shrugging my shoulders, "Lead the way."
As we trotted towards the gates of the palace I realized that I had never gotten the name of the mare guiding me to her house. I quickly remedied that problem.
"By the way, I never got your name," I said as she trotted ahead of me.
"Oh. I guess I never did tell you. My name is Ditzy Doo," She said over her shoulder as we walked along.
"Well it's a pleasure to meet you Ditzy Doo," I said, "My name is Celestia."
She turned her head to me just so I could see her roll her eyes, "A pleasure to meet you too, Celestia."
I'm amazed I got her to drop the princess title already. That's the fastest since Honey Glider.
As we neared the gates I decided a little discretion would be nice on my part.
"Ditzy," I said to get her attention, "Do you mind if I change into something a little less, eye catching?"
She stopped for a moment, giving me a strange look before saying, "Sure, but I don't think taking off your regalia will make you any less attention grabbing."
"Oh don't you worry," I said, "What I have in mind will be more that adequate for our needs."
With that I let forth a stream of magic, flowing from my core, through my eyes, and into my horn. It vibrated the air around me as it hummed over my body. When my body fully resonated with the sound of magic I poured forth the power of the spell, and with a pop the world around me disappeared.
In a flash I was back and the world appeared to have grown larger around me, although I knew from experience that it was I who had shrunk. I ran my hoof through my pink mane. Real hair was my favorite part of the transformation. It had been weeks since I'd had a non-ethereal mane, and as always the sensation was strange but pleasant. Ditzy just looked at me, left speechless for the second time this day.
"Ditzy, meet my alter ego, Sunny Skies."
"Your horn's gone! How are you going to turn back!?" She shouted in worry as she broke from her stupor
"Don't worry. I've done this plenty of times before. The transformation isn't permanent," I said quickly getting her to calm down.
Her worries gone, she reverted back to awe as she looked over me.
"Wow! That was amazing," She said, as I turned in place to give her a better view.
"Well, you don't become princess without learning a few tricks first,"I said twirling my hair.
We continued on our way out. As we came up to the palace gates the guards there motioned for us to stop.
“Work passes,” The older one of them said in a no-nonsense tone.
Ditsy slipped a piece of parchment out from the crevasse under her left wing, and gave it to the nearest guard with no further prompts.
I on the other hoof decided to hand my regalia over to the second guard. He looked at the regalia, then me, then the regalia, before his eyes widened at the realization of what he was holding. Jumping back he pulled into a fighting crouch.
“What is the meaning of this,” he said in a low and serious tone.
“I would like you to go put those in The Solarium, and inform Princess Luna that she will need to lower the sun,” I said, brushing him off and continuing to walk out.
He pushed his way in front of me, “Stop. I don't know what's going on, but you are under arrest for theft of the royal regalia.”
“Sure, I reached up and swiped Celestia’s shiny tiara and shoes right off her hooves while she wasn’t paying attention,” I said sarcastically. His partner overheard this and came to his side, but I continued speaking.
“I didn’t steal them, I’m supposed to have them.”
The guard was about to say something, but his partner cut him off by shoving a hoof in his mouth, and spoke for him.
“I’m sorry, I’m still showing this rookie the ropes,” the older guard said before bowing deeply, “You’re free to go, Your Majesty.”
"Thank you," I said.
The younger guard's face fell into a gape, as his mouth fumbled to grasp what had just been revealed to him.
"Hunh, buh, Celestia?"
"Present," I said sliding him a smile and a wink as I trotted past him.
When I caught up to Ditzy, who was waiting for me just outside the gates, she gave me a condescending look, "Was that really necessary?"
"Yes, yes it was," I replied neatly, "Life is far too long to go without messing around, and if I don't remind them that I like to have fun every once in a while ponies become afraid when I do."
"You're the expert I guess," she said, apparently amused by my answer. We turned and and started walking down the street quietly, at least for a while.
"So where are we headed?" I asked in hopes of striking up some light conversation.
"First we need to stop by my friend's house to pick up my daughter, Dinky," she said.
"How old is she?" I asked curiously.
"My daughter?"
"Yes, that one,"
"She just turned six last month," she said as a lazy smile floated across her face.
"They grow up so fast," I commented in a like minded fashion.
"Nothing we can do about that, can we?" She said as she settled back in from her dreamy gaze.
"Would we want to?"
"Not for all the muffins in the world," She said, her eyes shining just a bit more brightly than before.
I chuckled softly at her rather strange answer, and we continued along the way to her friend's house.
It wasn't long before we had made it to south-western district of Canterlot. Oak trees had spread their branches wide over the old brick streets in the shade of the mountain, creating an ancient and natural feel opposite that of the artifice and polish of the high-eastern district. Ditzy lead me down a side street, and up to a tan, stone apartment building.
When we reached the second floor I was surprised to find that I recognized the name on the doorplate. Ditzy knocked on the door, and a few seconds later a white colored mare with a red and lavender mane opened the door.
"Hi Moondancer," Derpy said as she opened the door, "I hope we didn't wake you up."
"Not at all," Moondancer responded, "I could never sleep when I could be having fun with a sweet little filly like Dinky."
"And who is this lovely young mare?" Moondancer said as she noticed me.
Ditzy bit her lip at me as if she were unsure what to say, so I answered for her. After all, I couldn't miss the chance to tease Moonie a little could I?
"You really don't recognize me Moondancer?" I said with a small pout, "And I thought we were becoming just the best of friends as of late."
"Oh, please don't be upset," Moondancer pleaded, stumbling back over her words, "It's all my fault. I don't know how I could forget a mare who seems half as wonderful as you do."
"It's ok Moondancer, I was just kidding around. It's me, Celestia," I said, after quickly realizing that Moondancer may have been too sensitive a choice of pony to mess with. She looked at me for a moment, like she was trying to peer through my transformation.
"Celestia?" she said as if trying to talk to somepony trapped inside, "Is that really you?
"Yes," I said, letting my mane regain it's ethereal form for a moment to prove it, "It's really me. I didn't mean to work you up like that."
"No way! It's really Celestia!" A childish voice shouted from behind Moondancer. Looking through the doorway I caught sight of a little unicorn filly with a purple coat, and a yellow mane that was very similar to Ditzy's. Leaning over I brought my hoof to my lips.
"Shh," I whispered, "It's top secret stuff, all hush-hush."
"Then why did you tell Moondancer?" she said, tilting her head quizzically.
"My, aren't you a quick little filly," I said amusedly off-guard, "You see, it's not that nopony can know about it, as much as it is that I don't want too much attention on us."
"Ok. I guess I get it," the little filly said, clearly still a little fuzzy on the issue.
"I knew you could Dinky," I said.
"You know my name?" She asked in awe.
"I know many thing." I said mysteriously as possible.
"If you don't mind me asking," Moondancer said, cutting in and seeming a mite worried, "Are you expecting me to keep this whole, meeting thing, a secret from Luna, because I don't think I can."
"No, feel free to tell her whatever you wish. She'll hear about this sooner or later."
As I said that the tension she was carrying eased away, "Good, I don't like keeping secrets from ponies I care about."
"I'm sure she'll be glad to hear you care about her that much." I said, bringing a soft smile to her face.
"Oh! I forgot!" Dinky said, galloping over and hugging Ditzy, "Hi Mom."
"Hey there little Muffin," Ditzy said, pulling her tight, "How was your day?"
"Great!" she said, pulling away, "Watch this!"
She ran back inside for a moment, and then came back with a small rock that she placed on the ground. With that the little filly grounded her hooves, and her horn started sending sparks forth. Slowly a trickle of magic came out of the tip, eventually enveloping the entire horn. A wave of magic washed over the rock, and slowly it began to raise into the air. She gritted her teeth, and held it steady for a few seconds before setting it back down.
"Wow!" Ditzy said slightly shocked, "Did Moondancer teach that to you?"
"She sure did," Dinky replied.
"Well be sure to thank her then," Ditzy said, ruffling her mane.
"I did, I have, I will, Thank you Miss Moondancer."
"You're welcome Dinky," Moondancer replied, filled with pride.
"You did an impressive job teaching a filly that young," I added.
"Oh it was nothing much," she said, turning to me, "She should really be thanking you, after all I would barely know any magic at all if it weren't for your school for gifted unicorns."
"An education you earned Moondancer," I said assuredly, "That reminds me, you were in Twilight's class at the academy weren't you?"
Ditzy froze stock still as Moondancer replied.
"Yes I was. Though unfortunately I hardly knew her by more than her reputation. Why?"
"Well you just happened to remind me of something she wrote a while back. One of her friendship reports she told me that she was sorry that she missed your birthday party. She said she never should have put her studies above the importance of making another pony feel special, especially on their birthday."
"Wait, Twilight wrote that?" She asked, completely stunned, "Twilight, the pony who never attended a picnic, or hoofball game, or teatime, said that?"
"You'd be surprised by how much she's grown in these past three months," I said slyly, "She's been doing quite well for herself."
"Maybe I should get in touch with her," Moondancer replied thoughtfully, "At the very least it should be interesting to see how much she's been doing now that she's out of school."
"Well if you are interested Luna and I would be glad to teleport any letters you write, and the pegasi guards are always looking for an excuse to stretch their wings if you ever want a ride there. You just have to ask."
"I think I just may," She said, "But look at the time! I'd best be off to the castle, or I'm going to be late for my shift. I'll see you both later. Have a good evening!"
With that she passed between us, and headed out the door. Dinky ran back inside, and quickly packing up the books on the coffee table into her saddle bags ran back out the door, locking it behind her.
"Ready to go?" Ditzy asked.
"Yeppers," Dinky replied, and with that we headed out.
"So how old are you?" Dinky asked as we walked along, continuing the stream of questions that had been flowing from her mouth for the past few blocks.
"Dinky!" Ditzy exclaimed in embarrassment, "That is not a polite question to ask a lady."
"It's quite alright," I said, smirking at Ditzy, "While it is impolite for most instances I believe I am somewhat of a special case, and it's nothing too personal for me. After all I've talked about it in quite a few of the history books."
Turning back to Dinky I answered best I could, "Before the incident with the windigos that you've heard about at Hearths Warming eve there was no Winter, no seasons, no years. Ponies got old, and passed with time, but we didn't really keep track of time passing. There was just one day, then the next one, all mixing into a blur of memories. So the simple answer is that I have no idea how old I am, but it is sufficient to say at the very least it has been several millennia."
"No way!" She said, soaking in the knowledge like a sponge.
"Yes way," I said sarcastically.
As she opened up her mouth, doubtlessly to ask another question, her mother cut her off, "That is enough questions for now Dinky."
"But mom! She knows everything! It's so cool!"
"Yes it is," Ditzy said, "But that doesn't give you the right to go asking her for her entire life story."
A laugh escaped my lips at that, "She wouldn't be the first to ask. Fair warning though, nopony's ever made it to Starswirl's birth, and that's including the abridged versions."
"I think we'll be skipping along your life story back to the present. We're entering the market Celestia, what do you want for dinner?" Ditzy said, bringing me back to reality.
"Don't call me that when I'm like this," I whispered conspiritively, "I would like to keep this disguise of mine secret."
"Fine," She said somehow managing to roll her eyes, "Sunny, what do you want for dinner."
"I'm fine with anything," I replied shrugging my shoulders.
"House rules say guest picks the dish," Dinky said piping in.
"She's right you know," Ditzy said, nudging me lightly, "I asked you what you wanted, and you're going to have to make a decision."
"How about donuts and ice cream," I replied playfully, watching Dinky start to bounce with excitement when I did.
"She said we should have donuts and ice cream Mom!" she shrieked, "Can we? Can we?"
Ditzy stopped us both dead with a motherly stare, I had no idea she had that in her. "No. She was just joking. Wasn't she."
"Your mother is quite right," I said falling in line, "I shouldn't kid like that. How about a nice tomato soup?" I said, still hoping to pander to the filly's more childish tastes.
"With grilled cheese?" Dinky asked, her eyes lighting up.
"Of course," I replied.
"Yaaaaay!" Dinky yelled, cantering away towards the market.
"Don't run so fast honey!" Ditzy shouted, causing the foal to slow down to a trot. "Wait for us."
"You're going to be very popular in our house with a choice like that," Ditzy said, nodding towards the purple filly prancing in excitement by the cheese vendor's stall.
"Well I'm already imposing on your hospitality, so it's not as if I was going to order anything too grandiose anyhow."
"I guess I should thank you for that."
"Think nothing of it," I said as we caught up with Dinky. Who was happily chewing a slice of cheese she must have wheedled out of the vendor, who was smiling at the spunky little filly.
"Hello there Miss Doo," the yellow mare running the cheese stall said.
"Hello Mrs. Swiss. Do you have anything good for tomato soup and grilled cheese."
"Why, in fact I do. A fresh order of Amareican just came in around noon," the mare replied, pulling out a block of orange cheese.
"I'll take half a pound, sliced please."
"Okie doke. Just wait one second," Swiss said as she put the block down, and sliced away.
"Here you are," Swiss said wrapping up the finished product in brown paper, tying it together with a piece of twine.
"Thank you," Ditzy said, hoofing over a few bits.
"Just doin my job Ditzy," she said, waving her off, "it's always a pleasure when you bring Dinky by."
"That reminds me," Ditzy said turning to Dinky, "did you remember to thank Mrs. Swiss?"
By the time we made it to their house the sun was already setting, and Luna was busy placing the stars. When we finally came up to it I was pleasantly surprised. It was just a tiny little place on the outskirts of the city, but it was bright and full of life.
Bright vegetation spilled over the garden in front: daisies, sunflowers, and all other sorts of warm colored flowers. The house itself was painted white but glowed orange in the dimming light with large windows to let in plenty of sunlight. It was as if someone had ripped the colors of the sunset straight from the sky and brought them down to earth.
Ditzy pulled her key out of the saddlebags on her back, and let us inside. I was surprised to find the house covered in boxes, half open and empty and half still taped shut.
"Sorry about the mess," Ditzy said closing the door behind her as she came in, "We're still in the middle of unpacking."
"You're new to Canterlot?"
"Yes, we just moved here," she said as she emptied her bags out on the table, "Dinner will be ready in about thirty minutes, feel free to make yourself comfortable in the living room until then."
"May I help you with dinner instead?"
"I don't see any reason why not," she said as she pulled out a cutting board, "But don't feel obligated. I like to cook, and having somepony sit down and talk to me while I do is more than enough."
"Nope. I just like cooking is all," I said as I trotted into the kitchen.
"Well then, go ahead and mince these up," she said, handing me a knife and a bag of tomatoes.
We quickly went to work cutting and dicing, and putting things together. She softly hummed a nonsensical melody as she worked away, adding a dash of this, and a pinch of that. It was nice to be cooking in a normal house again. In fact, I couldn't remember the last time it had happened. The palace kitchens were top of the line, beautiful even, but there was something special about cooking in a home, especially with somepony else.
It was like we had a little dance going on. She scooches over to let me by, I duck to let her at a cabinet over my head. Every once in a while our bodies brush against each other, but neither of us mind. We just go about our work humming, and talking, and laughing, as we work our magic. All too soon it's over, and dinner is on the table.
"There, all done," Ditzy said, laying out the last bowl of soup.
"Wait a second," I said, noticing that only three places were set, "Is your husband not eating with us?"
"My husband," she started, "He died several years ago."
I really didn't know what to say, so I just smiled at her in hopes that my feelings would reach her. It took a second, but slowly she began to smile again. I dropped the conversation there, at least for now. After all, I barely knew her.
"So, Dinner?" I asked, moving on from the delicate subject.
"Soup's on!" Ditzy called out, bringing Dinky running out of her room.
We all sat down at the table, our mouths watering at the simple, yet delicious, spread Ditzy and I had created. As Dinky sat down she asked, "Do we still say grace if Celestia is eating with us?"
"You know, I have no idea," she said turning to me for an answer.
"You mean like thanking me for your food?" I asked, honestly hoping she would say no.
"Yeees?" Ditzy replied quizzically.
"Oh no," I groaned, "I thought I had snuffed out that tradition centuries ago!"
"What?" They both chirped together.
Sighing, I tried to explain to the clearly confused pair.
"I put daily grace in as part of the reforms after Luna's betrayal to help solidify trust in my rule," I told them, managing to keep my calm, "It stuck far beyond my wildest dreams, and I spent almost a century trying to return my status from goddess back to princess. Ponies always seem to overestimate my importance in their lives, and it feels demeaning to them. So please, no thanking me for the food you have earned. Please."
"Well you have done more than your fair share of good leading Equestria," Ditzy reminded me, "I'd say you've lead us more than well, so it's not as if you aren't deserving at least some thanks."
"Fine," I said, giving up the issue, "But no more grace. At least not when I'm around."
"If that's what you want we'll gladly oblige," Ditzy said, "Ok then. Let's eat."
With that I dug in, dipping my grilled cheese in the soup before taking a bite. It was a heavenly taste that reminded me of home and comfort. I'll never understand how such a simple combination could taste so good.
"So Dinky, how was your day?" I asked as the little filly slurped down the soup.
"Pretty good," she said, wiping her mouth with her foreleg, "We talked about the weather bicycle in class today... Wait! I mean weather cycle. Yeah, that."
Managing to keep a straight face I asked, "And can you tell us about it?"
"Well water starts off in oceans and pond, then weather pegasi make tornados to funnel the water up into the sky, where it is smashed together into clouds. The weather pegasi then use the clouds to make storms and rain. After that all the water just collects back up in oceans and lakes, and they do the same thing all over again.
"Sounds like your new teacher is doing a pretty good job." Ditzy said hopefully.
"Yeah, but she's not as nice as Miss Cherilee was." Dinky replied, a little sullen.
"I'm sorry about that." Ditzy replied softly, clearly hurt by Dinky's reaction.
"Hey Dinky," I said, trying my hardest to help, "I can see you're not too happy with how things have turned out, but can you do something for me?"
The filly nodded her head quietly, and I went on.
"It might be hard, but I'd like for you to really give your new school a chance. Your mom is trying really hard to give you a good life, and she may look to you like she can take the world on her own, but sometimes she can't have everything her way. Trust me if she could, she would never let you down. Because when she does, it hurts her a lot more more than it hurts you."
"Building a life in a new town can be hard, but it's not impossible as it seems. I should know, I've done it more times than I can remember. So I want you to go out there, make some new friends, try something new, and build something for yourself. In return, I can promise you that things will get better."
Dinky studied me for a moment, trying to feel me out. Eventually she stuck out her hoof.
"Ok. I'll do it."
I shook her hoof, smiling a bit at how serious she could be for a filly.
"Well then," Ditzy said piping in, "Who wants a little ice cream before bed."
Soon the ice cream had been defeated, and the world was once again safe from the frozen terror. I carried the bowls into the kitchen, where Ditzy was busy finishing up the dishes. Dinky was in the living room tossed upon the couch, groaning from a monsterous tummy ache. After an especially bad groan came forth from the little filly Ditzy spoke up.
"You really should have just told us that Moondancer had given you all those donuts, Muffin."
"Definitely worth it," a weakened voice said back.
Ditzy just looked to me with a smirk and shook her head, causing both of us to chuckle softly.
"I heard that," a much stronger, and more indignant voice yelled from the living room.
Of course this had the opposite effect of what was desired, causing Ditzy and I to devolve into laughter. I could nearly hear the pouting going on in the other room. Unfortunately for Dinky, Ditzy and I managed to finish the dishes as we let up.
"Ok Dinky, time for bed." Ditzy said, drying off her hooves.
"Aww. But mom, we have a Princess over! A real live Princess!" She whined piteously as we entered the living room, "That will probably never happen again, in like... forever!"
"Wrong there bucko," I said, "You can't get rid of me that easily."
"So you're gonna come over again?" She asked, her eyes blooming in happiness.
"As long as your mom doesn't mind having me around," I said, receiving a smile from Ditzy that I hoped meant she didn't. I really did have a lot of fun today.
"Well, ok then, but you at least have to tell me a bedtime story then!" She said stoutly.
"My, aren't we the hard bargainer today," Ditzy said, a little surprised.
"Celestia started it. Blame her," the little foal replied matter-of-factly, causing me to laugh for the thousandth time today.
"You've got me there," I said, giving in to her demands, "Run along and get ready for bed, and I'll read you a story."
"Yes!" She shouted, pumping her hoof in the air once before taking off to the bathroom.
"Thanks for doing all this," Ditzy said as we took a seat on the couch, "It means so much to her, especially with how things have been going for us lately."
"It's my pleasure really, it's nice see what it's like to be part of a real family again. Ever since my sister's return I've been reminded of how important it is to have those sort of a connections."
"I can see how that could be something hard to come by, especially being a princess," she admitted gracefully.
"Oh, you don't know the half of it. There's a whole set of hoops I have hop through every time I want to make a new friend."
"Really?" She replied incredulously, "I didn't see you jumping through any hoops when you approached me."
"Well, I admit. I sort of threw all the hoops out in your case."
"So you don't need all those hoops really do you?" She said, attempting to catch me with my own words.
"Well, not all the time, but I run more of a risk when I don't."
"What sort of risk?"
"Well, lets just say that the house of nobles is a thorny place, and when things get rustled up in there ponies get a lot of hurt feelings. Especially brash young nobles, who think that just because they are nobility, they have more of a right to my friendship than those who do not," I said hoping she would drop the issue. Unfortunately she did not.
"Sounds like they need to be set straight," she said, taking on her parenting tone again.
"Maybe so," I said, hoping to diffuse her, "but it is not wise to startle them too much, even for me. That's why invented the system, to keep everything smooth and subtle. If I ease them into it then it is much easier on them. They are slaves to their own status quo after all."
"But, why do you do it that way?" She asked, seemingly unable to accept such a system.
"Because it makes them feel safe. If I act too unpredictably then I appear risky, and I would rather not have that. The more they believe in me the less the system fights against me. A little fight in the system isn't too bad most of the time, but if there are too many kinks in the system it becomes harder react to situations, and ponies get hurt while the paperwork keeps us from coming to their aid."
"That. That sounds like a complicated situation," she said, a little caught off guard.
"It's not quite as difficult as I make it sound, but I think you understand now why I can't just up and do whatever I want."
"It's sure not what I expected the job description for being the princess to be," She said nodding her head.
"Once you get used to it it's not all that bad," I replied, shrugging my shoulders.
We sat quietly for a minute or two while she contemplated all that I had said. When finally Dinky came trotting out of the bathroom.
"I'm ready for bed."
"Did you remember to brush your teeth," Ditzy said, looking over her.
Dinky replied by exhaling heavily.
"Ok then. Off to bed with you."
I followed Dinky into her room. She ran over and hopped up onto her tiny bed, pulling the covers up to her chin.
"So what sort of story would you like to hear?" I asked.
"Tell me a story about princess Luna," she replied excitedly.
"My sister?" I asked curious as to why.
"Yeah! Everypony at school talks about her all the time. She's so mysterious and cool."
"Hmm. How about the time my sister united the Minotaur tribes?"
"When did she do that?"
"Oh, centuries ago." I said, putting on my best storytelling voice, "It all started in the city of Minos, where the minotaur King Still Hands reigned."
Long ago there were three tribes of minotaur, the Iron Backs, the Tender Hands, and the Fleet Hooves. Each lauded themselves as the greatest, and vied with each other for noteriety throughout the land.
Now the good king Still Hands of the Tender Hands was a talented brewer of mystical herbs and potions. One day he created a most curious tincture with his knowledge. He called forth the great leaders of all the races to his great hall so that all may taste it and know his skill.
From the north came the Griffin Emperor, from the far east the Rajput of Saddle Arabia made his way, from the south the Zebrican desert Abayomi The Elder came sailing, and from the west Luna and I flew in.
The night we arrived a feast was set with all the minotaurs in Minos gathered in a great hall where a band was playing . There was drinking and feasting, and soon all of us were in a good mood.
At midnight Still Hands brought fourth the tincture to cheers of delight.
"Now I still have not decided upon a name for this new brew I have created," He said, as he poured a glass for each of us, "I was hoping that between us we would be able to think of something suiting its temperment."
When we all had our cups filled we cheered, and drank up.
The Griffin Emperor finished first, drinking it all in one long draught. As soon as he had he fell out of his chair and yelled, "Dang brew nearly knocked me senseless. It needs a strong name like Thunderhead, or Dragons Tooth."
The Rajput finished second, drinking at a slightly less heavy rate.
"The strength isn't what defines the drink," he replied, "It quenches thirst like an oasis in the desert, it needs a refreshing name like Fairy's Nectar, or Life Drink."
I finished third and shouted out, "How about something that combines the two like Mountain Mist, or Liquid Pride."
After that Abayomi The Elder called out, "No! No! None of those are a fitting name for a drink so glorious."
When Luna finished we all turned to her, expecting her to speak, but instead she just began to tap her hoof on the floor rhythmically on the floor, and began to hum. The band quickly picked up her tune, and copied it as she began to dance. Her movements were graceful as moonlight, entrancing the entire hall. The crowd began cheering and hollering, and she fed on their energy dancing ever faster. As she did the moon shone brighter and brighter, and time began to slip by.
We were still watching her dance when a great knocking came at the door. The music stopped, and in came a hulking minotaur guard.
"Why have you called a stop to our celebration," Still Hands asked, still showing significant effects from the tincture.
"It's the other tribes, milord," the guard replied, "They have gathered at the gates, to ask why the Moon shines so brightly over your palace tonight."
The crowd moved out of the hall, and lo and behold, hundreds of minotaur had gathered on the plains in front of the city walls, drawn to the curious event taking place.
"It seems a shame that they all came such a long way only for you to turn back home," Luna said, disheartened.
"Nonsense!" Still Hands replied, "If they came to the celebration they may as well join in."
Turning back to the hall he shouted, "Everyone, we're taking this celebration to the fields! Grab all you can carry and bring it with!"
With that a torrent of minotaurs carrying drink, food, and firewood streamed from the hall, out the gates, and into the field, where they were met with cheers of joy. Within minutes the entire crowd had set fires and the celebration started once more.
The three Kings of the minotaur tribes drank with each other the first time that night. Long they drank into the night and all the way unto dawn, growing close in heart and spirit.
The next morn the three of them came up to Luna to talk.
"That was a most excellent night," said Maximum Pain, leader of the Iron Backs slapping Still Hands on the back as they came up.
"Honestly," Rolling Thunder, leader of the Fleethooves, said to Luna "I've been trying to get these boneheads to join the tribes for years. I don't know what sort of magic changed their minds."
"So, you are really joining the tribes?" Luna asked.
"Yes, and we can't thank you enough for bringing us together like this ," Still Hands replied.
"I really didn't do all that much," She replied, blushing through her navy coat.
"You demean your part in all this," Still Hands said, "The Iron Backs and Fleethooves join us in celebration if not for the brilliance of your moon, and I would never have thought to let them do so if you had not wished it. I have decided to name the drink 'Moonshine' in honor of the brilliance of your moon that brought us together last night."
"Yes! Yes! That is a fitting name for a drink so glorious!" Abayomi The Elder shouted out from a nearby table sending a ripple of laughter across the hall
And that is how Luna united the Minotaur Tribes together. Now every year on the day of their joining the Minotaurs join in the city of Minos for the Moonshine Festival in honor of their union, and raise glasses of Moonshine in honor of Princess Luna.
"If you don't believe me you can go ask the minotaurs," I replied, "they never stopped celebrating it, even after Luna's fall. In fact they nearly went to war against me when I banished her. They hold a special place in their hearts for her."
"The kids in class won't believe this."
"I'm sure they'll be thoroughly surprised," I replied as I tucked her in, "Goodnight Dinky."
"Goodniaaaht Princess," she yawned as I turned out the lights.
I walked out with a grin on my face, closing the door behind me. Ditzy wasn't in the living room, I found her in the kitchen though. When she saw me she shimmied a bottle of white wine at me playfully, forcing me to smile. Inspired by my smile she opened the bottle, and handed it over to me. She turned around to grab two wineglasses off the counter with her wings, and guided me out back to her porch.
A cool summer breeze washed the night air over the two of us as we sat at a small table, tussling her mane like a living river. The moon was nearly full, shedding a blue light over Canterlot. She filled both the glasses, handing me one before taking a sip of her own. We sat there a while, just enjoying the night and each other's company. I broke the silence first.
"It's a beautiful wine," I said, "Auslese, no?"
"Yes, my mother is Germane, and I got my taste for wine from her," she replied, staring deeply into her glass with those beautiful, golden eyes, "I never liked any of the wines from Prance. Too dry."
"I prefer Germane wine too," I replied with a smirk, "It goes better with cake."
Her eyes continued to peer through her glass a moment more before turning those beautiful, golden rings over to me. She stared at me really, trying to draw me out.
"What... what are we doing here?" She finally asked.
"We're just drinking wine," I said, taking a larger sip.
"Yes. Today the Princess came to my house, just to split a bottle of wine with me," She came back sarcastically.
"And don't forget dinner," I said raising a hoof.
"Why?" she asked, undeterred, "I'm normally a little more delicate about this type of thing, but it seems like my daughter just got involved back there. I need a straight answer Celestia. What are we doing here?"
"I guess you deserve a better answer than that," I said.
She nodded her head in reply.
"Ok, the truth then," I said, taking a breath, "Today you caught my attention. You seemed like a fun mare, popping up here and there, smiling and waving, looking at me cross eyed. Not that I knew why back then, you just seemed like a happy go lucky kind of mare. I decided I wanted to meet you for real, so I looked around for you. Needless to say, I found a lot more than I expected."
"So, that's it?" She replied, completely thrown off.
"That's it," I said.
"Oh. Phew," she said, letting out a cute little sigh.
"Why, what did you think was going on?"
"Oh, nothing really," she quickly replied, choosing to look over at the trees on the other side of the yard.
"Oh come on," I said, "You can't just leave me with that!"
"I can if I want, and I will," she replied, starting to break.
"I will figure it out eventually," I said, pressing on her.
"Fine, I'll tell you," she said, lowering her face into her hooves hiding the most adorable blush, "But you have to promise you won't be mad."
"Right, no getting mad," I said, thinking how I could never get mad when she was acting this cute.
"And promise you won't fire me, no matter what," she said, still hiding in her hooves.
"I promise," I replied.
"Pinkie Promise."
"Cross my heart, and hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye," I recited. Wait a minute, how does she know about Pinkie Promises?
"Ok then," She said slowly as she removed her head from her hooves revealing a nervous look.
Taking a deep breath she started, "I thought you were going to confront me about dropping the flower pot on Twilight's head."
Pot? What Pot?
"and the cart of hay, and the anvil, and the piano."
"That's where I saw your picture!" I squealed in delight, "I knew I had seen your picture before. Twilight's friendship report, how could I have forgotten?"
"So, you're not mad?" Ditzy asked.
"No, actually I'm thankful," I said, to her great surprise, "If you hadn't accidentally dropped all that on her then we never would have realized that she was casting Acorn's Automatic Aegis incorrectly, and with the amount of adventuring she goes on that isn't the sort of thing she can afford to mess up."
"Oh. Thank goodness," she replied, "I was worried there for a moment."
"SO wait," I said, stopping her, "Is that why you left Ponyville?"
"Well, some of it is," she replied, "I lost my job at the delivery service after that mishap. An old friend of mine, actually, you should know her already, Fluttershy told me that she'd been approached by Mr. Green Hooves's brother, Mr. Greenhooves to help out at the castle. He is getting on in years, even if he loves his job. Anyhow, I've helped care for Fluttershy's animals enough times that she recommended me for the job. It's been about a week since then."
"Huh, Fluttershy? The one who helped save my sister?"
"The one and the same."
"Small world."
"Isn't it."
We stopped there for a moment, allowing each other to catch up. It was a lot to process after all. My eyes naturally gravitated towards her flank. NO. Bad Celestia, distract yourself some other way.
"So, you and Fluttershy are old friends?" I asked, trying to shift the conversation again.
"Ever since we were little," she said nodding her head.
"Was she always so..."I trailed off trying to find the right word.
"Shy?" She offered, I nodded my head yes.
"Well she hasn't always been so bad. She was bullied a lot at flight camp when she was a filly for being a weak flier. I got a lot of flack too for my eyes. I don't know what would have happened to us if Rainbow Dash hadn't been there for us," A reminiscent gaze took over her eyes, "She was our rock. She brought us together and protected us all summer long. That is, until she got kicked out."
"What happened," I asked.
"One time, when a group of older foals insulted Fluttershy she just lost her cool. Rainbow ended up with two broken ribs, but she hospitalized two of the older foals. She was kicked out in a flash. Probably the only reason she's not on the Wonderbolts already."
"It's a real shame she was setback like that."
"Rainbow wouldn't like hearing that," Ditzy replied, "I told her nearly the same thing once. I'll never forget how she replied. She just sat me down and got real serious. I've never seen a pony that serious before, and I doubt I ever will again. She says to me 'What happened to me was nothing. I stood by my friend. That means everything'."
"Those weren't just words," She continued, "That's who Rainbow is. She may complain about things, and she may not always be the easiest pony to get along with, but when the cards are down and her friends are on the line I have no doubt in my mind she would cut her own wings off to protect them."
"I can understand why Loyalty chose her," I said sincerely.
"She was definitely the best choice," she replied, "So, yeah. That's pretty much the whole story of how I ended up here."
"Wait a second..." she said catching on, "you've turned the conversation around, we were talking about you weren't we."
"Were we?" I asked innocently as possible, "I thought I told you everything you need to know."
"Don't try to turn this about," she said, "you're hiding something aren't you."
"What would I have to hide?" I said, feigning surprize.
Please work. Please drop it.
"No," she said staring me down, "Something's definitely up here. What was it. There was something I wanted to ask you before Dinky called you off for her bedtime story."
Oh rats. Did I slip up somewhere?
"That's it!" She said in a moment of clarity.
Oh. Look at the time. I really ought to go. Right now.
"You said that there was a procedure you had set up for making friends. If you just wanted to meet me then why didn't you just follow it."
Think quick. Why did I skip it? Why can't I come up with a good reason.
"Oh, you know. I didn't want to bother," I replied quickly.
"And why would that be?" she said, honing in on me with those entrancingly playful eyes.
"..." Oh no, I faltered there. I can't cover that up., "I didn't want to go through the hassle."
"I don't believe you," She told me flat out, "Not after all you told me. You care too much about your little ponies to put them at risk just to avoid a few niceties."
"Oh Gods," I said, hoofpalming, "You're worse than Discord."
"I'm going to assume that means I've got you by the bit?" She claimed triumphantly.
"Yes, fine, I give up," I said, maintaining my hoofpalm, "I'll tell you."
She leaned in expectantly.
"Promise you won't get mad, no matter what," I said, hoping she would say yes. I would probably end up telling her even if she didn't
"Cross my heart, and hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye," she replied readily.
"ok." I replied, hushed by my own nervousness, "But first I need to know something, do you have a special somepony right now?"
Her jaw dropped. I think it was a good drop. I'm pretty sure it was a good one. She definitely didn't look horrified at least, that was good. I'm at least eighty percent sure this won't end in scandal and tears if she isn't horrified. I did this all wrong. Why didn't I think about this before rushing into it. I needed at least a week longer to think this over. Why does love make me so stupid. Why does Cadence get all the love smarts, and I get to raise the sun. I want to be the love princess.
Wait a second, she just blinked, I think she's coming out of it!
"Did you... Is that... Is what I think is happening really happening?" Ditzy asked, still utterly amazed.
I thought about not answering. I really did. But then I thought to myself Why not. Nothing left to lose.
"Yes, yes it is. The thing you are asking about is definitely happening," I replied, biting my lip after I did.
"I don't believe it. Me. Really, no kidding," she said pointing to herself.
"You wanted the truth," I said, blush streaking my face.
"I just didn't expect, That!" She said, waving her hooves.
"To be fair, I didn't either," I admitted bashfully.
"It's not bad," she said, to my great relief, "It's just, sudden!"
"Well I hadn't planned on telling you so soon!" I told her, hoping she would understand.
"No, I guess I did push you into it, didn't I," she admitted.
Gathering up all my remaining composure that I could I asked again, "So, do you have somepony special or not?"
"Not for a couple years," she replied, starting to shake off the amazement.
"Well then, would you like to go out sometime?" I asked, completely unsure of what the answer would be.
"You know what? Sure, sound's great," She said, throwing caution into the air, and raising her glass, "To us!"
"May we figure out what we're doing!" I cheered, clinking our glassed together.
Both of us drained our glasses, and I slipped from nearly sober to tipsy in a snap.
"Whoa, I was not expecting that," I said, blinking my eyes slowly to help them adjust.
"Are you feeling it from just that?" Ditzy asked, looking at me mischievously.
"A bit more than I expected," I told her openly, " I've barely drank anything at all since Twilight became my student."
"Did you not want to set a bad example?" She asked.
"Hmm. I might have subconsciously, but honestly I never thought about it too much," I replied, "I just never felt like it."
"Celestia's a Lightweight. How fitting," she said, giving me a goofy grin.
"Ugh," I groaned audibly, "That hurt. That physically hurt."
"Blame Dinky," she replied with a laugh, "she's the one who went around making puns all last week, I just picked up her bad habit."
"I'm thoroughly convinced parents invented puns because they hate the world," I joked.
"You should learn to watch what you say about parents," she shot back, "You're about to start dating one."
"Whaddya mean?" I asked prodding her, "We're already dating."
"Not yet you're not," she added with a cocky look, "You aren't dating somepony until you actually take them on a date?"
"What do you call what were doing here?" I asked, gesturing across the deck.
"Nuh uh," she said, her mane bouncing from side to side as she shook her head, "This happened before you asked me out. We're not even out! We never left my house!"
"Ok, I give, but only because I want something more memorable than drinking on back deck as our first date."
"It's not that bad, in fact I think it's pretty memorable, "she replied, looking to the sky, "It's pretty beautiful out here after all."
I had to agree, it was the perfect summer night. The moon sat high above, shrouding all of Canterlot in a pale blue glow. The castle looked magnificent, the normally white walls turned a midnight blue matching the purple roofs in a calm tone.
"It seems to have gotten quite late," she said morosely.
"It's not that late," I said, hoping to drag the conversation a little while longer. Even if I knew she was right.
"We really should be getting to bed," she said, "I have to get up early to get Dinky ready, and you have a sun to raise."
"I know, I know. It's just, this night has gone by so fast," I replied, "It's far too soon for it to end."
"Tell you what," she said, "I'll fly you back to the castle."
"You don't have to do that. I was just being silly," I told her, "You should get to bed."
"Nonsense," she replied, grinning ear to ear, "A short night flight always helps put me to sleep."
"Well, it's not my place to fight against logic like that," I said, grinning widely to match hers.
We stood up, and launched into the air, gliding over the houses. Ditzy gently rolled in the air above me, glancing the bottom of a cloud with her hoof as she did. I copied her movements, and came up beside her. We flew alongside one another, weaving in and out of the cloudbanks before rising above them.
We soared towards the mountain, brushing up against each other as we wheeled through the open sky. I was feeling the true freedom that comes with being a Pegasus a we made our way along. All too soon it came to an end, as we settled down in front of the palace gates.
"I guess this is it then," I said, looking from the gates back to her.
She pulled me into a hug, her warmth melting into me as she gave me a quick peck on the cheek. Her lips pressed softly against me, blowing away any thoughts I had. In an instant it was over, and her body slipped away from mine.
"Thank you for a wonderful night," she said, blushing just a little.
I probably should have said something, but honestly I was too darn happy. I sat there, struck dumb, until she began to laugh.
"Well I guess that was a little too much for a filly like you," She said, winking mischievously and knocking me from my stupor, "I be gentler next time."
"Wait," I said, stopping her as she turned to leave, "When can I see you again?"
"I'm free Friday after work," she replied, "I can meet you here around five."
"Sounds perfect," I said, although part of me wished it didn't have to be quite so long.
With that she took off into the air, heading home. I sat there for more than a moment, watching her glide away, before turning back to enter the castle. There was a bit more of a spring in my step then there had been the day before. I felt good, better than I had in a long, long time.
