Princess Celestia is mysteriously taken to earth without knowledge of how it happened. Meeting a human, Alex, he takes care of her until a fore mentioned portal opens once more to bring her back.
When Princess Celestia is taken from her world to a planet of humans, she is immediately housed by a human named Alex. Promising to take care of her until a certain portal would open, he only asks her to stay in the house until then. Celestia however doesn't completely trust this alien creature and his sudden hospitality. She wants more than words before she'll listen to him.
Celestia awoke in a room that was not hers. She finds it not at all familiar at all, as she does not recall traveling outside the castle. She hold her head and grunts from the headache before wondering how she got here. Like a curious filly, she decides to wander about. She doesn't know what it will lead her to, but the house must have an owner, and the owner might know something.
As she looked out the room, she walks down the stairs and finds the living room. A coffee table, a couch, a recliner, and a book shelf, with for some reason a big black picture frame in it. She also sees some kind of creature sitting on the recliner reading a book. It looks up and takes off its glasses.
"Oh, you're awake." the creature says calmly with its boyish voice.
"Who are you?" Celestia questions. "Where am I? And why am I in this house?"
"I'll be happy to answer your questions." He insisted. "But please ask one at a time."
Celestia raises an eyebrow of suspicion. She suspects this man knows something. She complies however and asks, "What are you?"
"I'm a human male. I've just turned 20." He answers.
"Do you have a name?"
"My legal name is Anonymous, but I changed it to Alex."
"Okay… now where am I?"
"This is my house." Alex says with a hint of pride. "It used to be a tad run down, but it's gotten better over the years."
"Now why am I here?"
Alex frowns and holds his chin. Celestia becomes even more wary of his next choice of words.
"I'm not too sure really." He states. "Let me explain. First off, you're now in my world. Not in Equestria. Second, you were just in my front yard, so I brought you in and treated your wing. In fact, the medicine I used healed the bruise you had pretty fast."
Celestia squints her eyes at this creature. She doesn't know what to think. She of course appreciates the favor, but he knew too much, and seemed too calm about it. Looking at her wing, she raises it and sees that the bandage was wrapped around it. Perhaps the treatment she was given made it barely noticeable. "Alright then… How do you know about Equestria?"
"You're not the first pony to come here mysteriously." He says as he gets up and puts away his book upon the shelf. "And you're neither the second or third. Many ponies kept appearing here, and I always took care of them."
"Where are they now?" Celestia questions.
"They went home." He says with a smile.
"How do you get back to Equestria then?" She inquires. "I must get back, I need to check on my kingdom."
"I'm afraid I have no control of the time period you're here." He states as he places his hand up. "When a pony comes here, they stay for about a week minimum. The longest was a month."
"I cannot stay here for a month!" Celestia then yells a bit. "My apologies if I seem a bit rude to your hospitality, but as the princess, I must tend to my royal duties. Are you sure you have no idea how to get back home?"
"Ponies come and go. I just happen to be in the middle of all of it." Alex claimed. "A portal would appear in my backyard over the rock."
Celestia quickly passes by Alex, shoving him to the ground without noticing along the way. As she rushes to see the large stone, she inspected it and its surroundings. Using her magic, she scans for any strange energies. Sadly, no avail. Alex walks to the scene and tilts his head.
"The last five unicorns did that when they came here for the first time. They didn't find anything." He remarks.
Celestia glares at him before stepping down from the rock. As she walks inside, he adds something to that note.
"I'd also appreciate it if you don't just step on that rock all freely like you did back there."
"Tell me, do you know who I am?" Celestia asks. If he does know that I'm a princess, it may explain why I'm here. He could possibly have some sort of ability that can teleports between worlds. And he may be holding me hostage in order to do something.
"No, I don't actually." He chuckles a bit. "I always tend to bring ponies in regardless. I was actually going to ask what was your name."
"My name is… Celestia."
"Celestia?" He mutters. "That… actually sounds a bit more normal than what I usually get."
"Now Alex… I thank you for your time in aiding me. I best be on my way."
"Where do you think you're going?" He asks.
Celestia looks back and says, "I'm going to find my way back on my own. Don't try and stop me."
"There's only one way back." He reminds her. "The rock in the backyard."
"I checked and sensed no energy there. You must be mistaken."
"I'm not. I saw the ponies I take care of leave through there. All you have to do is wait at my house for the time being."
Giving a cold stare, she says what she thought so far. "As much as how kind you are, I simply do not trust you very well. Here I wake up outside of my castle, in your house, being tended by you? An alien creature I have never heard of? What do you plan to get out of this? Why do you do it? And I swear, if this is some dream made by Luna, I am going to take away all of her desserts!"
Alex places his hands in his pockets and simply agrees. "Yeah, I know it's frightening too. To place your life under the care of someone you never met nor have no connections to? I'd be scared as well. But I can tell you this. I will take care of you. I will see it that you are taken home safely. That I can promise you."
"You're going to have to do a lot more than speak words of righteousness" Celestia states.
"Alright, then how about bribery?" He walks to the other room and no later brings back a plate of pancakes to Celestia. "I can cook, do medicine, and other skills to help you have a good time until you go back home. This is an example."
"The catch is…?" She asks before she uses her levitation to lift a fork and pluck a piece of the pancake off. As she eats it, her eyes shrink to pinpricks.
"You stay here. My world would kinda go into a panic if they saw a pony like you. Unlike me, they won’t let you off easy. I might need some help with other things as well, but in the meantime, just keep my human race sane, okay?"
"W-Well…" Celestia stammers as she recovers from pure joy. In an attempt to maintain her authority in the conversation, she accepts with dignity. "I would absolutely love to… As long as you keep making food like that."
Alex grins as he shakes Celestia's hoof.
Late at night, Celestia is upon the queen sized bed still in deep thought. She wasn't comfortable with the current situation. Though it wasn't the worst case scenario, she had many equines to look over, her sister Luna, and her faithful student as well. She didn't want to make them worry, and she didn't want to be guaranteed with a maybe on going back home. She was still of course very suspicious of her new companion. She didn't trust him quite yet. All this to offer to some alien creature? He did say she wasn't the first, but what if that was just a ploy? Or maybe to ease her guard down? She was told this is an alien world. Yet it looks so similar to her world. Everything he says so far seems like a white lie. Perhaps he is like a sly thief. All she wanted to know were the answers in her mind.
"There has to be a way back." She says to herself. "I know I can find it."
As the morning sun rises, Celestia wakes up in a state of panic. She runs straight into a wall and hits it hard, awaking her housemate, Alex. He gets up and runs to Celestia's room and checks on her.
"Celestia!?" He shouts. "What's wrong!?"
"Oh…" She groans before getting up. "I overslept! I'm supposed to raise the sun!"
He stares at her for a moment before saying, "… What…?"
Celestia looks out the window and saw the sun had come up on its own. Surprised and slightly embarrassed, she gets up calmly and brushes off the dust. "N-Never mind."
"Bad dream or something?" He snickers as he walks out of the room. "I'll have breakfast ready. Just get some more rest and let your muzzle off a bit. I think you made a hole in the wall."
Celestia's face reddens in embarrassment. She looks over to the wall and becomes silent. As Alex leaves, Celestia ponders at what has happened so far.
I'm stuck in a world that is not mine. I am housed by a human that I do not know. He is treating me like a clumsy filly. So far so good. She grumbles at the last part.
Taking the chance, Celestia looks outside the window to see a wide grassy field, vast among the eyes can muster. Farther away seemed to be an area with buildings, similar to Manehattan or even Canterlot. They were somewhat tall, but they were not skyscrapers. Celestia continued to question if this is her world or not.
"Celestia!" Alex called. "You want to use the shower?"
She tilts her head with a thought. Who in the world would suggest something like that so casually?
"Why not?" She accepts.
"It's in the room to your right. That's the bathroom."
Following his directions, She leaves her room and goes to the bathroom. Entering the quite spacious room. The towels are neatly placed on the rack, and the soaps are placed neatly inside, and the controls for on and off seemed as simple as they can be. There were two knobs. One red, one blue. Turning them on, she allows the water to splash onto her body. It rinses off the dirt she had received so far in her stay. The wing that was said to be injured tingles a bit more than the other, but remains relaxed on the rest of the shower. She levitates the bar of soap and lets it soak her fur. As she finishes up after about half an hour, she exits the tub and levitates a towel. Alex comes in abruptly and says, "Celestia, I was wondering if…"
Alex pauses as Celestia throws the towel at his face, blinding his vision. She then screams at him.
"What is wrong with you!? Don't you know how to knock!?"
"You ponies don't usually wear clothes." Alex remarked as he took off the towel from his face. "I was just going to ask if you needed to know how to use the hair dryer."
"Hair dryer?" She repeated.
Alex nodded and pulled it out of the drawer. He revealed Celestia the device and turns it on. He points it to her hair to let her feel the warm air coming out of it.
"What… is this magic?" She wondered.
"Not magic. This is an electrical device." He explains. "There are all kinds of electronic devices we have here on earth. They all however have a weakness of shorting out in water as well as can be a hazard since it can electrocute you. So please handle with care, but don't stop yourself from using it if needed."
"Electrical device?" She said with surprise. "We may have harnessed magic, but not the power of a cloud without the pegasus's help. How were you able to achieve this?"
"I'm not the guy who invented it." He chuckled. "I'm just one of the many who happen to use it."
"Quite limited, are you?"
Merely shrugging, he left the bathroom. "After you finish up, I'll let you try some French toast."
"I am familiar with toast." Celestia remarked.
"I'm sure you are." He replied.
Letting her alone in peace, Celestia uses the hair dryer to let the wet mane continue its natural, flowing motion. Yes, that's natural apparently. She walks downstairs and sees the toast sliced up, next to a small plate of syrup. Alex is waiting for her to sit down. As she did, Alex gave an example of how it was eaten. He took a piece and dipped it in the syrup before eating. Simple enough, right? Of course it is! Celestia was getting annoyed by how Alex kept treating her like some kind of filly who didn't know anything. To call him on his example, She levitates the syrup into a ball of sweet liquid. The toast is lifted and slowly going through the syrup, allowing it to be fully soaked in the wonderful dip. Celestia then levitates it to her mouth to eat. Though in hopes to impress Alex enough not to treat her like a young pony, she loses her grip as the toast she placed upon her tongue. She jumps at the sweet, delicious, sensational taste quivering her jaw. The loss of magic ends up splashing the ball of syrup onto the table, on Alex's shirt and face as well as Celestia's clean fur. She looks down in embarrassment of how this was going.
"So uh… You like it?" Alex asked, ignoring the syrup on his body.
"You cannot say you don't have magic." She inquires. "This is magical. No logic can explain it without the use of an enchantment."
"Oh, it's perfectly logical." He claims.
"Please enlighten me."
He leans in close and grins. "Some nice…"
He leans even closer to Celestia's face. "Sweet…"
Even more, he pressures Celestia to withdraw. "Wonderful."
He sticks his tongue out and finishes the sentence. "love."
He is currently licking his arm from the syrup Celestia had spilled earlier with a smile. "Yep! Some love and some cinnamon. All it takes!"
After breakfast, Celestia bows her head a bit and apologizes. "I'm sorry for my earlier behavior. I didn't mean to get you dirty."
"I don't mind." He states. "I'll just rinse off the syrup from the skin, and get a new shirt. Problem solved."
The clock places its needle closer to 8:00. Alex widens his eyes a bit before realizing what it meant. "Whoa! Almost late for work!"
"Work?" Celestia repeats.
"This house don't pay for itself." He says with a smile. "I gotta go change, hold on."
As he left upstairs, Celestia took the chance to check the house. Scouting about, she finds the living room from before. She looks outside once more to see the backyard with the rock from before. Among the walls outside of the house, she sees a garden of fresh vegetables in the backyard. The front yard had a flower bed, and nice pavement road. Leading out of the driveway was a massive door. Celestia can only wonder what lies behind it. Heading back inside, she inspects the kitchen once more to view two fridges, a large island of counters, and the dining table nearby. It was a fairly small house, but of course, she had yet to venture into what was beyond the hallway with the gray door. She also hasn't seen Alex's room yet. As she planned out her next move, Alex came downstairs with a new white shirt. He heads down the hall way and opens the gray door. Before he leaves, he looks out to Celestia.
"One more thing. If you need anything to eat, open the fridge on the left. The one on the right is mine. If you want to read, I have some books on the shelf there. Other than that, make yourself at home."
As he shuts the door, Celestia now has the house to herself. Not expecting to on the next day of her stay, she once again delves deeper into the house of Alex. She was still thinking, there must be something he's hiding. Now that she has the chance, she heads upstairs and enters Alex's room. His bedroom was not too different from hers. Only difference was that it had a desk with papers and a lamp. The closet had clothes neatly racked up on hangers and head boxes placed underneath them. As she inspects the room further, she finds herself pondering the drawers of his desk. When it opens, the contents revealed were folders. Folder after folder, and there was a lot. A hundred, maybe more? Opening the first one, she finds a picture of a aqua green unicorn. They were files, or recorded history.
This must be the ponies that came here before me. Celestia thought.
Reading the documents of the first folder, she finds out the date goes back as far as three years ago. It was a well kept folder, and it even seems like she was reading the first pony that came here.
Name: Lyra Heartstrings
Type: Unicorn
Talent: Harp Music.
I currently have found a brand new species of the horse! It's a sentient, colorful pony! It has a horn and I recently learned that it can use it to utilize magic! It's beyond fascinating. It's simply, dazzling. She was outside of my house, cold and hungry, with no idea how she got here. I along with Rochelle have decided to take her in. She has nowhere to go at the moment, so why not?
Down towards the bottom of the paragraph, it was only a week. The document is at the time wrinkled for some reason.
Lyra left today. When the portal to her world opened in our backyard, I was surprised. I didn't expect her to leave so soon. We have gotten used to her by now. She felt the same too, and even said she'll miss me dearly. We hoped to see each other again, but I know this is for the best. Funny, makes me think of Rochelle.
"Who is this Rochelle?" Celestia wondered.
She took a look at the picture and saw a picture of a younger Alex, the fore mentioned unicorn Lyra, and another human, possibly Rochelle. She had a younger appearance than Alex even though she had white hair. Her red eyes are shinier as well, and she wore that of a tomboy. Jeans and a red jacket. As Celestia analyzed the picture, she rummaged further to the other folders. Each had a document similar to the last. The name, the type, and the talent. The bios was heartwarming and lovely, until she reached the 13th folder. Opening the folder, there was nothing there. Confused, she looked around if she had possibly dropped it or misplaced it. However, it's just not there. Celestia raised an eyebrow at this.
"Why is it empty?" She inquired. "This Alex must be disorganized in some ways I presume."
Her stomach rumbles, and she begins to feel the urge to stuff the delicacies from earlier into her mouth. She puts away the folders neatly and exits while making sure it looks like no one was there. Going downstairs, she enters the kitchen and looks to her left to find the two fridges. She opened the one on the left just as she was told. She then finds a plentiful amount of cakes, cupcakes, yogurts, salads, and other desserts of a equine. Thrilled to see all of this, she levitates them and heads to the living room to pig out. As she without hesitation, stuffed her face with cake, she lays on the couch feeling like a real ruler of the domain.
"Maybe this won't be so bad as I thought." She admitted. "I'll stay here for a while, then it's back to Equestria for sure!"
Alex came back driving in his garage. He exits the car and opens the door for another companion. Charles was a man who looked to be Alex's age. He was at the time wearing a casual business suit, with the blue jacket open. He was scratching the back of his short brown hair, looking nervous if anything.
"So another one?" Charles asked. "It's been a couple weeks since the last one."
"I still miss every one of them." Alex claims. "But I'm just gonna have to look forward."
"So what type is she?" Charles questions.
"Hmm… I forgot the name of it." Alex replied. "But you can see for yourself."
Alex opens the door and the two enter the living room, seeing the sleeping horse on the couch. Around her were empty bowls, some food scraps, and books lying around. Charles was staring at Celestia with much surprise as he muttered a single word.
"Alicorn."
"Pardon?" Alex spoke.
"This is an… Alicorn, isn't it?"
"Oh yeah… she is." Alex replied. "A messy one at that."
Charles leaned in for a closer look before accidently waking her up. "Oh, sorry about waking you! Hi! I'm Charles. Alex's friend."
Celestia sits back up immediately and uses her magic to teleport her mess to the trashcan. Though it was too small to hold it all, she stuffed it pretty nicely. She blushed and said, "Oh! Alex didn't say he was having friends over…!"
"She's pretty embarrassed about the mess that was here." Charles quoted.
"And why are you looking at me like that?" Alex questioned. "Don't tell me you think I make messes when I leave the house."
"Well, anyways, how are you… uh… Her name was what again?"
"Celestia."
"Right!" Charles nodded before turning back. "Hello Celestia!"
Pulling his hand out to her, Celestia raises her hoof and places it on his greeting. "A pleasure to meet you."
"So Celestia, Alex says that he thinks you're a princess."
Celestia widens her eyes as she looks over to Alex. He scratches the back of his head and explains. "You mentioned about having to go back for your kingdom or something, didn't you?"
"Why, yes…" she admits. "A small kingdom…"
"How small? Is it just a town?" Charles asked.
Celestia hides her face behind her mane. Alex puts his hand on Charles and nods. "Let's stop badgering her. We should treat her the same with every other pony. Let them choose to tell us or not."
"Right, right, sorry about that." Charles apologized. "It's just… um…"
"What?" Alex asked.
"Eh… never mind." Charles puts his hands in his pockets and looks away. Celestia raised an eyebrow at his behavior, which was far more out of character than Alex's. She chose not to mind it however.
"So, how was it having the place to yourself?" Alex asked.
"It wasn't so bad." Celestia admitted. "It'd be nicer if I had known you were bringing a guest over."
"I'll call you to warn you next time." Alex assured her.
"And how would you do that?"
"You use a phone." Charles answered. He showed Celestia his phone and looked over to Alex. "Alex get out your phone."
"Right." Alex pulled out his cell phone from his pocket and dials a number. Celestia watches closely before seeing the other phone on Charles hand vibrate and play a tune. He opens it and places it to Celestia's ear.
"Um… Is this some sort of sea shell?" she wondered.
"Not really." Alex said from the phone.
Celestia jumps back, amazed of what she just heard. She ponders at Charles phone and said, "Alex? How did your voice get in here!?"
"It's not." Alex chuckled. "This is a device that allows us to talk to each other from afar."
"What sort of magic is this?" Celestia questioned.
"It's kinda like our hair dryer, except this is used for communicating from afar, and much quicker as well as more convenient than letters."
"Electronic… Devices?"
"Yeah, exactly that." Charles nodded.
"You'll be using the house phone. I'll teach you how to use it to call me and Charles. For now, I think I should get dinner ready."
"Oh, I love your cooking Alex." Charles said warmheartedly. "But I have to go check up with the others. You coming to Pony Plaza on Wednesday?"
"Yeah, see you later." Alex waved.
"Alright then, bye!" Charles said as he left through the door.
Alex scratches the back of his head and sighs. "Why did he want me to drive him to my house if he was gonna walk home so soon? That guy…"
"Again, tell me when you're having guests over." Celestia said shamefully. "It was very embarrassing being caught doing… that…"
"Well feel free to act however you want. I'm not gonna try and boss you around. I can clean and cook so long as you don't go waltzing outside freaking out the world."
Celestia smiled a bit and nodded. "Alright then. I'll stop complaining."
"Good. Now go wash up. You somehow got your coat dirty again."
"I thought you said you weren't going to boss me around." Celestia whimpered.
"It was a recommendation, and-" Alex paused as he took a glimpse at Celestia's pouty face. "Seriously?"
She kept doing it as if she didn't want to go upstairs to freshen up for dinner. Alex kept staring at her, feeling the usual strange sensation when the other ponies from before did that. Insecurity. He did not falter however, it had been years since it started, and years he had been going through it. He simply grunted and said, "Alright, how about you at least give me some time to actually cook. By the time I'm done, you'll be clean."
"But I already took a shower!" She whined as she rolled on the floor flailing.
"Are you serious…?" He said in surprise. "I thought you were an adult."
She pressed her face upon Alex's and said, "This isn't even that dirty. This is a simple stain on my coat. I just need a napkin, and it will wipe off."
"Prove it." Alex said while crossing his arms.
Celestia held her head up high and levitated the foretold napkin. She places it on the frosting stain upon her coat and said, "Watch as I just wipe it off without effort."
The napkin smears the frosting and makes an even bigger stain. Celestia widens her eyes as she continues to wipe the spot. It just gets bigger and bigger until her chest was a pink sticky mess. Alex closes his eyes and nods.
"Just… Just wash up…" Alex chuckles. "I swear, you are just so silly Celestia."
Celestia gave a glare. She still felt she had little respect from Alex. This was not a matter of royalty, but a matter of mutual acknowledgement. She just wants to yell at him by now. However, this was not her proud moment to shine to stand her ground. Right now, she just made her chest a pink frosty mess only Pinkie would do on purpose.
Alex had finished cooking spaghetti. It has been seasoned with numerous spices, but not so much to make ones throat choke and sneeze out the nose. It had meatballs, special marinara sauce, and a little secret extra, just for a better pinch. There were two pots of them. One of them however was completely relieved of meat, the way Equestrians like it. As he gets a plate full for Celestia, who happens to come downstairs at that moment. She takes a long sniff before saying, "Spaghetti?"
"Yep." He grins. "You're not gonna make another mess are you?"
"I can assure you that I do not make messes." Celestia claimed.
"Well, today doesn't really suggest that." Alex joked.
"I'd appreciate it if you stop teasing me so freely." Celestia stated. "While I can tolerate such behavior, I do hope that you'll make sure to check yourself for how far you're going."
"Now I find that a bit strange." Alex says as he takes a bite of his meal.
"Whatever do you mean by that?" Celestia questions.
"I know it's only been a day, but you've been switching from a mature mare to a childish filly." He stated. "You haven't noticed?"
"Please explain." She says sternly, taking half of this as an insult.
"Today, you've been showing some assertive and adult like behavior like when I came in the shower this morning. When you've been telling me to warn you about guests. It's like you're trying to keep up some image." he says before taking a meatball into his mouth. "Then, the other side of you is childish. You literally rolled on the floor just because you didn't want to waste time taking another shower. You pigged out of the fridge and in the living room while I was gone. Heck, you even been snooping around the house when I was changing."
"How did you know-?"
"I saw you outside the window." He wipes his mouth before continuing. "What I'm trying to ask is, are you okay? You did say you were a princess after all. Ruling a whole country, you must keep a clean slate to show the masses how capable you are. But when you finally have time alone, you can enjoy yourself, can't you?"
Celestia was silent. She looks down and ponders into the past. Going through one big change after another. A thousand years of ruling, and she has yet to have as much freedom to express her casual side. It was always work most of the time. Day court, Luna's rehabilitation, Twilight and Ponyville, Cloudsdale and weather control, taxes, citizen response, it was a long list of troubles she had to go through daily before finally having the time to be with her student, or sister, and not to work. To be herself and not some princess no different than a horse behind a desk in a cubicle. She sighs and admits it.
"You… have a point…"
"How about we spend some time together?" He offers. "I don't have work tomorrow. We can hang out in the house or have a picnic outside."
"We can?" She smiles a bit. "I'd like to spend some time outside."
"Sure." He replies. "We can have a picnic in the backyard. The scenery isn't too bad."
"Alright then." Celestia agrees. Going back to the spaghetti, she takes a bite and her eyes pop again. "Once more, you've outdone yourself."
Alex and Celestia laugh. It was the first step to a friendship. Celestia, though older than Alex, has not felt this much warmth of bonding compared to Alex.
Once more, the sun raises itself. Celestia wakens with worry and rushes to the window, only to remember that it raises itself. She sighs and walks to the bathroom to wash her face. Looking at the mirror, she sees her mane still waving, but in a lightning like pattern. She combs it as she says to herself, I hate it when I get a bed head.
Alex knocks on the door, alerting Celestia of his presence. She peeks out the door and playfully says, "Who is it~?"
"Your care taker." Alex jokes. "Anyways, I'm gonna prepare for the picnic. Do you want anything specific?"
Celestia puts her hoof upon her head and thinks. She then replies, "I'd like some chocolate cake, a dozen cupcakes, cheesecake, pancakes, and a smoothie."
Alex has his eyes widened at the request. He rushes back into his room and brings back a notepad.
"Okay, I heard, cake, cake, cake, cake, and smoothie." He says. "Is that right?"
"Close enough." Celestia replied. "Just be sure to add lots of sweets to the picnic."
"Alright then." Alex complies. "I'm gonna need a lot more flour."
He goes downstairs to proceed with the cooking. Celestia looks at the mirror and thought to herself. It feels like looking at a different pony without the crown on my head.
Rubbing the mane where the crown used to lie, she sighs as she wonders how long will it take to get home. She then realized, this was the perfect time to ask Alex more about the other ponies. There must have been some pattern that allowed them to go back at different paces. A week versus a month. Surely, there must be a reason why.
Trotting downstairs, Alex is still baking many of the cakes. Pancakes are still cooking on the pan, and the recipe book is bookmarked to dessert after dessert. Celestia looks at it and nods. "Perfect."
"This is very unhealthy." Alex states.
"Oh silly you~! Alicorns have the strongest immune system than most species in Equestria."
"Whatever you say." He chuckles to himself. "While I'm cooking the rest of your requests, can you set the blanket outside? Some cups and plates too."
"Certainly." She heads over to the cupboards and uses her levitation to get out everything they required. Alex gazed at the mastered technique of her magic before she left the house. He was a bit stunned.
After setting up, Celestia gazes at her work. Setting plates in place, forks and spoons next to them, pillows on the perfect spot to lie under the sun, and next to the rock made it nice scenery. The backyard was truly a wonder. The flowers were swinging back and forth to the rhythm of the wind. Branches of leaves sprinkled small bits of its greens over. It felt quite peaceful.
Alex then came out with four picnic baskets. None of them were small, they were the size of colts. As he puts them on the floor, he sits on the pillow and sighs.
"You're meal… is done."
"Why, thank you." She says as she levitates all the food out. Placing cakes and cakes on different plates, Alex had a hard time choosing which one to start with. More importantly, which one to end it. There was a lot of unhealthy foods. Way too much. But regardless, he grabs a plate of pancakes and eats with Celestia, currently starting with the cake.
"You sure like cake, don't you?" He remarks.
"I have a sweet tooth." she admits.
"Then I'll never take you to a candy shop." He jokes.
Celestia giggles before looking up to the sky. The sun shines brightly as its rays glow upon their very skin. "It's quite nice to see an independent sun."
"You had a dream where you move the sun or something?" Alex questioned.
"Something like that."
As they ate, Alex sees cake literally floating to Celestia. They line up, ready to be eaten by the hungry ruler. With an evil thought, Alex grabs a plate and holds it up between the food and Celestia's mouth. The cakes had all splattered onto the plate, making a sandwich of baked goodness. Celestia was wide eyed about what she has before her, as well as Alex. It was probably the sweetest kidney killing treat in their picnic. And it was all on Alex's plate.
"That looks good." Celestia pointed out.
"Yeah, it does." He says as he pulls out a fork. "Well! Bottoms up!"
"Wait…" She says quickly. "I wouldn't want you to have a stomach ache."
"But milady." He snickered. "It would be awful of me as your friend to have such sugary poison go down your stomach!"
"I told you before that my immune system is much-"
Alex's fork had already dug into the cake, making Celestia wary of the time she was wasting.
"Alex! Please let me have it! I was going to eat all of that before you held a plate in front of them!"
Alex frowns as Celestia attempts to pout again. The stare off was not long as he simply says, "That's not going to work on me."
With a quick bite, he squeals in delight. Celestia becomes offensive as she levitates a cake and splatters it to Alex's face. He glares at her as she giggles at her actions. To get back at her, he grabs some of the cake and splatters it on Celestia's muzzle. She widens her eyes in surprise as Alex laughs at her.
"There! You have some now!"
A quick stern look from Celestia changes as she licks the frosting off of her face. She smiles in delight of the smashed cake and nods. "Yes, it was quite satisfying."
"Then have some more!" Alex says as he throws it at Celestia's face once more. Celestia glares at him and levitates several meals and aimed it towards Alex. His eyes shrink as he slowly said, "Er… Sorry?"
"Nope." She replies as the food makes a mess over Alex. He wipes the frosting off of his eyes and laughs. Celestia giggles as well as he attempted to clean himself with napkins.
"Okay, okay, let's not waste anymore food now." Alex suggested as he wiped himself from the desserts. "It wouldn't be very nice to let that happen now."
"Let me help you then." Celestia offers. She pounces onto Alex and holds him down as she licks off the food. Alex was practically tickled to submission.
"S-S-Stop! That's not okay- Wah ha!!"
As things take time to relax, Alex and Celestia use the moment of peace to view their surroundings once more. Nature has made this a wonderful scenery, and the weather does well to compliment their activities.
"I'm glad we have such a nice day right now." Alex sighs. "Perfect for this picnic."
"Yes, it's truly nice."
Once more, Celestia looks at the rock. This was said to be the gateway back to Equestria. If there's anything those documents have in common, it was that they left through a portal over the rock in this very area. But there's something more. Rochelle. Who is that? Now may be the time to ask, but it just might go…wrong. Alex has been good to Celestia, so how would it feel to him if his trust was so easily betrayed? Celestia has been suspicious of him from the start, and even snooped around his room. If he found out that Celestia was in his room, would he think less of her?
"You okay Celestia?" Alex asked, snapping Celestia out of her trance. "You look a bit down."
Might as well tell him the truth. If I don't get it off my chest, it'll hurt even more if he found out later. She realized. "Alex, I… When you were gone, I was looking in your desk in your room. I found some files to check up on your claims of what you've said so far… I'm sorry to doubt you…"
"Is that so?" He replied as he finished up his pancakes. "Well, did you find what you were looking for?"
"Huh?" Celestia spoke with surprise in his calm reaction. "U-Um… Yes, I found out that you were taking care of the ponies."
"That's good." He responded. "Don't fret too much about the spying thing. You weren't the first, and you definitely aren't the last."
"You really aren't angry for mistrusting you?"
"You have every right to check on me. I brought you into my house without regards of knowing who you are or you knowing me. We may not know anything about each other from the start and may be suddenly housed together under the circumstances, but I still think we can be friends."
Celestia was still. Even as someone as wise as her, she has never met someone so young to be so open minded. Grinning, she nods and accepts his gesture.
"Yes, that's true."
"Is there anything else you wanted to ask me?" Alex wondered before taking a chocolate cake.
"Yes. I was wondering about this person I read in the files." She stated. "It was another human girl in the picture. Her name was Rochelle I think. Who is she?"
Alex paused with eyes shrunk to pinpricks. He looks down with his hair shadowing his eyes. A deep sigh releases the tension, even Celestia could tell wasn't something good.
"Rochelle? She's… my little sister." He smiles a bit with his dull eyes.
"Little sister!?" Celestia exclaims. Rochelle's appearance didn't look similar to Alex's casual black hair, or his gray eyes. His skin tone was even darker than hers. She didn't say anything though and lets him continue.
"She was with me when we found Lyra, the first pony that came to our house. From then on, we took care of ponies that kept appearing. We did that for thirteen ponies. Just thirteen though…"
"But… I thought a lot of ponies came here." Celestia stated. "Why did she stop taking care of them after the thirteenth?"
Alex looked up slowly and tried to hide the grim emotion with a fake smile. "That's because… she died when the thirteenth came."
Silence was the only thing that took place. Celestia was processing so many thoughts. She could barely hold together the mixed feelings clobbering her mind.
How did she die? Did… did one of my ponies actually…? No, I'm sure there must be another reason. But… Who was the thirteenth pony to do it? Or be there when it happened? What… did happen?
"Alex, I'm… so sorry for your loss." Celestia says with remorse.
Alex looks to the rock and maintains the dull faux smile. His blank stare went to the stone among them. "This rock… the same one where the portal that takes you back to Equestria. This is her gravestone."
"A-Are you saying?" Celestia stutters.
"She loved to say goodbye to ponies and wish them good tidings. She wanted to keep doing that forever. Before she died, she asked me to be buried under the rock. So that way she can say goodbye to them when the time comes."
Celestia was still with everything Alex is sharing with her. Alex sighed as he looked up to the sky and said, "I haven't talked about her for three years… It certainly has been a while."
"I-I see…" She replies.
"Celestia?" He says with a question. "Do you have a little sister?"
"I… Yes… I do…"
"Do what you can to have a great time with her." Alex says immediately. "If I learned anything on that day, it's to enjoy others company as much as you can. You never know when they might go."
Celestia nods slowly in agreement. He grins as he lies down on the blanket. Celestia feels a sensation of burdens being carried by Alex. She finds herself scooting over to him and nuzzling his cheek.
"I think I can still understand how you feel." She inquires.
"I guess you can." He replies. "You must have made so many companions and had to lose so many as well. The pain I carry is nothing compared to you. If I know anything about alicorns, it's that they can live for even thousands of years. A thousand years of close ones lost… I think I feel sorrier for you than me."
He snickers at that last part before Celestia wraps her wing around Alex. She brings him close to her chest as he finds himself lying his torso upon Celestia's chest. His head is placed carefully below her head as he lies along Celestia's neck. She looks down in a caring matter, making Alex blush slowly. He then starts to have a troubling time looking at her normally. Something was different.
Out of all the ponies he had taken care of, he never has a hard time looking at them eye to eye. Celestia however seemed to have managed to peer into his soul. It's almost as if she was attempting to mend the sadness from losing his sister. Something no other pony has ever done. After all, she was the only one who learned of Rochelle.
Snapping out of his trance, he taps Celestia lightly and says, "W-We better finish up with our picnic." He quickly suggests. "It'd be a waste if we let the food go bad just because of some bad moods."
"Alex…"
"Listen… I appreciate… No, I really want to say, thank you for bringing it up actually. Knowing that you care about me means a lot. But this picnic was for you. Taking a day from you would be rude of me."
"But it's my turn to return the favor." Celestia stated. "I cannot let a friend of mine have such memories hurt him. Especially you."
He smiles widely and chuckles. "If you say so." Grabbing a slice of cake, he gives it to the wondrous alicorn in front of him and offers it kindly. "Cake?"
"Don't mind if I do." She says as she teasingly licks Alex's nose. His eyes shrink before realizing that some of the frosting somehow got on his nose. He blushes a bold red as Celestia giggles at his expense.
In Alex's room, the man reviews his book of photos. Mainly, the ones that had Rochelle in them. He smirks at the many photos where they had the time of their life with the ponies that came. Even the photos without ponies were a blessing to look at. As he was about to turn the page to the thirteenth pony, his phone rings. Answering the phone, Charles voice was heard.
"Hey Alex, I was just checking up on you."
"Oh, hi Charles." He greeted back. "I'm fine, why the late call?"
"Anything happen? With uh… You and Celestia?"
"Um… We had a picnic? Why?"
"And… nothing weird happened, right?"
"No… Charles, you okay?"
"S-Sorry, I was just worried for nothing I guess."
"Uh huh…" Alex slurs at the last part. He closes his album and puts it in his shelf. "Anything else you wanted to ask?"
"Hm… Are you and Celestia coming to Pony Plaza tomorrow?"
"I was planning to, I guess."
"Okay, I got it." He says back with a moment of silence. Getting back on the phone with the lightly laughing Alex at his friends cluelessness, Charles says, "Well, just wanted to make sure you two were alright. Just… well, because."
"Yeah, yeah, thanks Charles."
"Right… good night."
"Night…"
After Alex hangs up the phone, Charles jumps and lands on his bed. He looks at his ceiling with one thought in mind.
The emerging sun shines its solar rays across the land. Alex's house is one of its many targets on earth, and a certain mare is to the most part surprisingly annoyed. She looks up with tired eyes opening slowly before using her magic to close the blinds. The light still finds a way to penetrate the barriers and glimmer it's gift onto Celestia. She wraps herself in her blanket with a thought in her mind. I already miss controlling the sun…
Out of the usual, a loud thumping noise was heard from downstairs. A couple of loud noises as well as an annoyed bickering towards something. Celestia quickly rises out of bed with immediate haste to see what was going on. She was worried of what was going on. An intruder? A thief? What's going on?
Hoofing it to the door to the room she has never been in, she opens it and sees Alex placing a wheel of rubber to another wheel that was attached to the massive contraption. He at the time had a bit of oil and sweat on his hands and on his face. He seemed to be frustrated with the machine before him.
"Ah! Changing tires is nothing but a tire." He groaned. As he finished placing the wheel into its place, he turns to see Celestia with her bed head in lightning waves. He raises an eyebrow and says "… Celestia? What's with your hair?"
Celestia's eyes shrink and realizes she didn't go and brush it. She blushes in embarrassment and answers, "Bed Head."
"Ah… I see…" He nods in understanding. "Well, you better get ready to go."
"Go?" She repeats. The thought then came to, "Back to Equestria?!"
"What? No." He says, deflating Celestia's moment of excitement. "We're about to go to this place called Pony Plaza."
"Pony Plaza? What's that?"
"It's a special park inspired by some of my old friends." Alex says while reminiscing the time with her. "My human friend, Cole, built the park with all kinds of places inspired by the ponies. They have a nice bar, cool trinkets and souvenirs, all of my pony friends go there at least once. They often have a good time."
"Sounds delightful." Celestia says with a smile. "It could be nice to have some good memories while I'm here"
"That's the spirit!" Alex said cheerfully. "Go get ready. I still have something to do before we leave."
"Alright then." She agreed.
Leaving the garage with Alex tending to the contraption, Celestia trots upstairs to the bathroom. She enters the tub and lies lazily inside. She turns the knobs and lets the water run to fill the tub. She had skipped the chance to use the tub like a spa bath earlier due to her suspicion towards Alex, but now she can easily place her trust into him. That being said, she lets herself relax and unwind. The tub was quite spacious now that Celestia had a second look at it. Looking to the side, she sees a shelf of certain soaps. levitating the products closer to her, she reads them aloud.
"Relaxing Roses and Harmonizing Herbs. Don't mind if I do~!"
Pouring the contents into the bath, she relaxed as she lets herself soak in the peaceful tub. Every time Celestia finds a new way to relax herself, she becomes even happier knowing the next day, she can do it all over again.
Then there comes the question. What if she wasn't here the next day? She'd go back to Equestria, maintaining her duties of caring for her citizens. Speaking of which, how are they even doing? Celestia ponders at these questions before letting her head sink into the water. She rises out and strokes her mane.
I still have to go back someday… but when I do, I'll miss this place…
She exits the tub and uses her levitation. Everything she needed was then lifted into the air and brought to her. Towel to dry her coat, hair dryer to dry her mane, brush to comb her hair and some of her fur. Finishing her morning bath, she leaves and goes to Alex, who was waiting in the garage. He wipes his hands before looking at her and smiling.
"Beautiful as always." He compliments her. It was enough to make Celestia blush.
"Casually teasing me won't appeal me that easily." She stated.
"I was just saying the truth." He chuckled, only to make Celestia turn away with a giggle. He opens the door to the contraption and looks back at Celestia. Before she even tried to get in, they both noticed how small and crowded it would probably be for her. Alex's expression is a simple huff as he says, "Maybe you should get in the back."
Celestia nods and goes to the back of the contraption. Little did she know, it was a truck, and she was about to go for a ride. "So Alex, what is this thing we are riding?"
"It's a car." Alex answered.
"Pray tell, how will it move without anypony pulling it?" She questioned.
"Simply put, technology and innovation." Alex replied. He starts it up, and the engine roars, scaring the mare in the back a lot. He laughs as he says, "Hold on tight! And watch your head!"
Celestia complies as she grips to the back tightly. The garage door opens and the car moves outside. Celestia is astounded! It's moving, but Alex doesn't seem to need to push or pull the entire thing! She had so many questions, but her mind was absorbing every fleeting moment. Is this how the world of humans work? How far have they gotten in such advanced technology? This is so… exciting!
It only got better as Celestia lets the windy breeze brush against her fur. Even though she had to hold on tight just in case, she felt a different tune in nature. Something similar to flying, only she doesn't have to do much. To humans, it may be freedom they feel, but to Celestia, it was simply magical.
Charles waited outside in the parking lot. He looks out as he taps his foot on the concrete. He looks behind him as the place was silent. Pony Plaza was closed to the public for the day except for the people who work there and another special somepony. Charles was waiting for that special somepony, and hopes it was soon. He was eerily impatient as he looks around and ends up shaking his foot. He was getting stressed.
Before he even took out his phone to call Alex, he sees them. Celestia was riding in the back of Alex's pickup truck. He sighs as he watches Alex park the car and open the back for Celestia to exit. As they went towards Pony Plaza, Celestia saw something different. It was like Ponyville! The houses and buildings had the same design to that of the town Twilight resides in. This probably isn't a coincidence. It was inspired by ponies after all.
"This is amazing!" Celestia exclaimed.
"We haven't been inside yet." Alex remarks.
"But the resemblance is that of Ponyville! Is it not?"
"Why, yes it is. Lyra told me about that place, so we based off the design from her and the others who came here."
"It's good to see some familiarity."
"Hey guys!" Charles called over. The two spots him and walks over.
"Hey Charles! Nice to see you again."
"Nice to see you too!" Charles laughed. He coughs as he turns his direction towards the alicorn. "Um, anyways, what do you want to do first?"
"Well, I want to know if we have it on private today." Alex asked.
"Ah, don't worry. We closed it to the public for us to have the place to ourselves."
"Okay, that's good." Alex sighs as he faces Celestia. "You hear that? We have it closed to the public, so feel free to roam inside the park. Everyone in here should know about you and the ponies."
"That's quite assuring." Celestia responded in glee.
"Yeah, and not only that, but you can feel free to ask for any service you desire. My friends work here, so they'll know who you are once they get a glimpse of you."
"Enough explanation!" Charles says quickly. "Come on! Don't you want to do something today?"
"Hmm…" Alex held his chin in thought before grinning towards Celestia. "How about you lead Celestia? We've been here forever, but this is your first day! You choose something that looks fun to you."
"Oh, um… alright then…" Celestia said with a hint of hesitation. Together, they wandered in the Pony Plaza, there, many attractions and stores were seen with colors just popping out. Such decoration couldn't just be ignored that quickly as they were pretty much begging for the white mare to go in. What really caught her eye was the sweets shop. If the food Alex made was so good, maybe the ones here might be as well. Celestia points to her target, and the two complied to follow.
Opening the door had rung some bells in the process. They alerted the people inside, and brought them to the front desk. A woman wearing a apron with pink vertical lines greeted the three.
"Alex! Charles! It's good to see you!" The brunette said before noticing the mare with them. "And you must be Celestia, right? Charles told me about you."
"Oh? He did?" Celestia said in a bit of surprise.
"Yes, he told me how much you love cakes."
Celestia blushed in embarrassment, and cursed herself at the time when Charles had seen her in that mess. Alex chuckled a bit and added something to that quote.
"Yeah, yesterday, we had a picnic with nothing but cakes!"
"Oh my! Celestia! Don't tell me you aren't scared of cavities!" she questioned.
"As an alicorn, our defenses against such problems are phenomenal. You best not to worry about me." Celestia assured the girl.
"Even so, you could set a bad example for kids everywhere." Charles remarked.
"Best why we should keep these secrets to ourselves." Celestia winced as she nervously smiled at him.
"No more talking about your cake problem? Sure, but I already told a lot of people, so..." Charles said as he poked his fingers together and said, "Sorry?"
"This is going to be a fun day." Alex chuckled once more.
"But enough about that. Though I would want to limit your eating habits, let's make your first day here pleasant. What would you want?"
Celestia viewed what the store had to offer. There were cakes made with fruit, cakes made with candy, cakes made with other bakery goods like donuts, but what had caught her eyes easily. This one had cherries stacked by four, frosting circling the slice, layers by ice cream, and how much chocolate was on it! It would make Pinkie want to gallop in joy.
"I'd like this one." Celestia quickly pointed to.
"Oh? Are you planning to share it with someone?" She asked.
"Hm? I... Well, didn't think about it." Celestia replied.
"I see... It's just that this one here is our special, Couple's Cake. A pony named Bonbon showed us how to make it and what it was for. I thought you'd find it familiar."
"No... I didn't know one of my ponies made this..." Celestia said with a bit of surprise.
"Your ponies?" Charles repeated. "How big is your kingdom princess?"
"I, um..." Celestia realizes her wording mistake, and makes up for it quickly. "I just thought it might be. Maybe it could be another kingdoms pony."
"Oh... Okay then..."
"I'll just wrap you up two slices in case you do find someone to share it with." She offered.
"Or you could eat both of them yourself." Alex suggested.
"Are you saying that I have a problem?" Celestia questioned.
"No, I'm not implying that you have a cake addiction problem that will inspire other children of humans, fillies, and colts to do the same. I have no idea what you're talking about." He said sarcastically.
She rolled her eyes before turning to the girl at the counter. "By the way, I still don't know your name."
"Brinnet, but you can call me Brin."
"Brin happens to be my cousin who came here back then looking for a job. After she met Bonbon, she decided to take a career in baking stuff." Alex mentioned.
"Well, it was nice meeting you"
"You too Celestia! Have a nice day!"
As the three walked down the streets of Pony Plaza, Alex stopped with a small urgency.
"Uh... Hey, would you guys give me a sec? I gotta use the bathroom." He informs them in embarressment.
"Oh, sure." Charles replied. "Just make it quick."
Going to the bathroom stall, Alex enters alone while Celestia and Charles await from outside. The two awkwardly acknowledges the others presence, but does nothing to make contact. Quick stares from time to time from Charles were made. Celestia easily notices this, and sees how stressed he was. Something was off. Ever since they met, there was an aura of mystery around him. Something that made him tense whenever she saw him. Was it possibly her? What could Charles possibly want with Celestia? Or know for that matter?
But this is Alex's friend. She best not to challenge a friend of her friend, especially when nothing bad has yet to happen. She still attempts to scavenge what info she can gather from him.
"So Charles." She begins.
"Huh? Uh... yes?" He stuttered.
"You seem to have something on your mind."
"Oh, it's nothing to worry you about." He responded. "So, um... How's Alex?"
"He's been a dear to me. I appreciate everything he's done for me so far."
Charles lowers his head and sighs. "I see..."
It was strange. He seemed as if he was disappointed. "Why so glum? Are you displeased about my treatment?"
"Oh, no!" He quickly answered. "It's... complicated... I'm a bit weird is all, so don't mind me."
Charle tries to laugh it off, but Celestia begins to feel suspicious again. Before anything else could happen, Alex returns.
"Alright! Sorry about that! Let's get going!"
"Yeah, good idea." Charles agreed.
Celestia nods, but stares at Charles in curiosity of what was in his mind.
They arrive at what was a part of Pony Plaza's small carnival area. Celestia was a bit interested in trying out some rides. Surprisingly, royal duties deny you the favor of trying out new time passing activities. One of them was the ferris wheel. It simply took too much time for her to ride one and then attending what meetings of great importance. Now that she was here with Alex, she didn't have anything holding her back.
"This seems fun." Celestia commented.
Alex smiles before asking, "What do you want to try?"
"The ferris wheel." she insisted
"Really?" Charles says in surprise.
"I never had the chance to ride one back then. Now would be a great time to see how it's like."
"Usually, ponies like to try out the games before they try the ferris wheel." Charles claims. "If you want the Ferris wheel, okay then. I'll control the ride while you two enjoy yourselves."
As they made their way to the ride, Celestia notices someone. What seemed to be a child glaring at her from the corner. She seemed to be wary of Celestia for some reason. The expression on her face was almost as if it was a mix of pure hatred and fear. Before anything could be said, she ran away. Celestia turned to Alex and said, "Did you see her?"
"Huh? Who?"
"I think it was a little girl. Over there to be precise."
"I didn't see anyone." Alex states.
"It might have been Julie. She comes here with us as well. She's my little sister." Charles informs her.
"She was giving me quite a stare. It was almost as if she disliked me." She told them.
"That's silly. Why would anyone hate you?" Alex questioned.
Charles gulped and continued forward. Celestia was becoming more and more suspicious overtime. That wasn't enough to make her not want to take the Ferris wheel however. When they arrived, Celestia took in the view from what was before her. This wheel had lots of lights turned on once Charles took the control. After the carts got in place, one opened to allow Celestia and Alex to enter. She trotted happily inside and looked to Alex.
"Well? What are you waiting for?"
"Huh? Oh! Right then." He said smiling.
After getting in, Charles closed the door and continued the ride. Celestia looks out and takes in the view of Pony Plaza. It was like a town she had seen before. Nostalgia was running down her body, making her feel quite pleasant. She levitates the cake out and decides that this was the best time to eat. She brings one over to Alex to enjoy as well.
"Hmm? For me?" Alex says with surprise.
"Well, Brin said it was unnatural to be eaten alone, so let's share."
Alex chuckles as he opens the cake box with Celestia. Together, they take a bite and the flavor reminds them the majesty of a good baker. As the two had their meal in a beautiful view, Celestia feel content. The sun sets without her need of power. This was the first time in her life since she's seen a sunset without her working. It was so relaxing. It was grand. The moment was perfect for her, especially with someone she cares truly for. Looking to Alex, he smiles as he looks out to the sunset and to Celestia. A wide grin develops and out comes words.
"Celestia, I haven't felt this happy for a long time." Alex told her. "Just having you here makes me feel warm. Why do you think that is?"
Celestia blushes before turning to her cutie mark. "M-Maybe that's my special talent?"
"Ah. That makes sense, seeing your cutie mark is the sun." Alex nodded. "You must have a close connection to it."
"Eh heh! Yes, that must be it."
A while passes, and Charles from down below sighs. He cleans his glasses with his shirt before saying to himself, "It's happening all over again..."
Time passes, and the three decide to make the day last by going for a drink. At the Tavern, Celestia, Alex, and Charles enters seeing Brin talking to the bartender. The two turn to the visitors and smile.
"Why, hello you three!" Brin greets them.
"Nice to see you again Brin!" Celestia replied. "And who is this fellow?"
"Harold." He answered.
"Hello Harold. I'm Celestia."
"I know." He stated. "Brin told me about you."
"I couldn't resist talking about the cakes." She giggled.
"Is my addiction for cakes really the talk around here?" the white mare groans. "That's not very nice or fair."
"Well, you should admit. Cake again and again? It's worth mentioning." Alex points out.
Celestia tilts her head in disappointment before sitting down with her new friends.
"It's nothing to be embarrassed about." Harold assures her. "I for one like to drink all the wine I want. However, they've always been reminding me how much of a drunk I am."
Celestia covers her mouth to suppress the laughter, even though everyone around her chuckled without hesitation.
"Yeah, you know it!" Brin adds to that fact.
"So Celestia, what would you like?" Harold offered. "On the house for your first visit."
"Hmm... Let's see..."
Celestia looks at the countless bottles on the shelves. Some were from Ponyville, some were not. There was cider, rum, vodka, tequila, wines, beer, both from her world and from this world. Too many to choose from, but uncertainty arises. Especially that Celestia isn't a drinker of much except wine. And even that, she only drank one kind of it.
"Do you have Mare's Vanity?"
Suddenly, the room became quiet. Everyone had a surprised look except for Alex. Celestia felt pressured. Almost as if she had said something wrong. All was silent until...
"Hey, Harold? You okay?" Alex asked.
Harold snaps out of his trance and nods. "Yes, we do. I just didn't expect you to know of that drink."
"Why is that?" Celestia questions.
"That is the same wine that is consumed in the Royal Castle, Canterlot in Equestria, is it not?"
Celestia widens her eyes and realizes her mistake. She looks away for a moment before replying to that statement.
"I have heard of it a lot, but I don't get the chance to drink it."
"Oh, so you want to try some real royal tastes?" Harold snickered as he got out the bottle. "Alright then, but be warned! It's got a strong kick to it."
Pouring the contents into the glass, Celestia levitates it and takes a sip. Alex then orders a scotch on the rocks, Charles gets some Vodka, and Brin takes the same wine as Celestia. The night doses off, and Alex stops drinking to remain sober enough to drive Celestia home. The other continued their get together.
About three bottles per consumer later, Alex and Harold watch three drunk companions lose their minds. They are openly talking about everything. Especially Celestia's interference in Alex's house.
"What~!? You broke into Alex's filing cabinet~!?" Brin hiccupped. "That's not very nice~!"
"I know, and I still feel horribly guilty about it~..." Celestia said solemnly.
"I already forgave you." Alex assures her.
Charles sighs as he looks over Celestia. This time, with his drunk behavior, he becomes vulnerable to questioning. Soon, Celestia, within curiosity asked, "Hey Charlie."
"Charles."
"Why do you hate me~?"
"What?" He responded with surprise.
"You keep giving me mean dirty looks as if I did something wrong."
"I have?"
"Is it because I'm a freeloader?" Celestia questioned.
"No, no, no, not because of that." Charles hiccupped.
"Then why?"
"Well, it was about two or three years ago? Yeah, you remind me of this other girl." Charles states as he tipped his glass back and forth.
Celestia raised a brow and continued. "Your... mare friend?"
"Nooo~!" He retorted. "You remind me of this pony that I really hate. I really, really hate."
The white mare was surprised. She didn't expect this at all. What kind of resemblance could she bring to a pony that came here previously?
"We all hate her." Charles stated. "Because she killed her...!"
Celestia's eyes shrunk. Even in her slandered state, she could connect the pieces together. The pony who killed Alex's sister was a pony. The thirteenth pony to be exact. She remains quiet to listen. But the answer she received was something that made her regret her life even more.
"She was an alicorn like you. That's why I'm scared, because... you might kill Alex..."
"An... An alicorn...?"
"Yeah! She called herself... Nightmare Moon!"
Celestia was beyond belief. She knew the state her sister was in for a thousand years. but she never thought Luna had done it. Her little sister killed another. A sickening realization mixed with dizziness and alcohal, this wasn't the best time for her to find out. Because after Celestia heard the answer....
It was still the night when Celestia had drink and lost her drink as well. Alex quickly ended the night and brought her home. The others were fine with cleaning the mess. Alex was worried at the moment. Not about the trouble he caused to his friends, because things like this can happen, but the fact that Celestia had done that in front of them. She was complex when with others. Showing a mask of pride while at the same time showing a little childish view had made her who she was. Or at least how she wanted to be seen. Now embarrassing herself after hearing such a dreadful story, Alex is currently letting her rest on the couch while readying water to aid in her hangover.
She soon awoke, and sees Alex approaching her with a cup of water. She is in tears, still remembering what she had learned about Alex and Nightmare Moon. She slowly opens her mouth in an attempt to think of something to say.
"A-Alex, I'm… So very sorry…" She quivered, still in doubt of herself who failed to not know the pain her sister has caused. But before she can speak, Alex gave her the cup.
"Drink up. You're dehydrated from that strong drink." Alex noted. "I shouldn't have brought you out there just to hear something like that. Must've made your stomach turn."
Celestia complied and drank. Alex made sure she was alright, checking on her health. As drunk and hurt as ponies can get, this alicorn didn't need to worry since she only lost her lunch. Alex sighed in relief as he confirmed that she was alright.
"Everything seems to be okay." He said gratefully. "Thank goodness liquor doesn't harm you at all. I know a few ponies I had to take care of bedridden because of that bar. It was a mistake to bring you to such an unhealthy drinking hole of mine."
"No, it's alright Alex, honest." She claimed with her hoof on Alex's shoulder. She gave a solemn look at him, still shocked of the news. She looked down in disgrace as she only had questions in her mind while at the same time, felt that now she owed him for making it so hard for him. From past to present.
Alex gazed into Celestia's eyes and placed his fingers to comb her flowing mane. Calming her slowly, he than smiles brightly. "Celestia, the past has nothing to do with you. Don't worry about it. Come on, let's get you cleaned up missy."
Holding her hoof like a gentlemen, he slowly brought Celestia from her seat. Even though Alex had wiped her mouth from her event, she was still pretty filthy from falling into it. But aside from cleanliness, she bit her mouth because of something that wasn't true. The past DOES have something to do with her. SHE caused it to happen, due to her ignorance. Maybe if she had been aware, Alex would not had to have such a tragedy given to him. But it was too late, and she found out Alex's past too late before treating him so rudely before.
Yet here he was, offering all ponies a place to stay, and taking care of them even though one had murdered his beloved sister. She had so much to ask, but no bravery to speak of it.
"A nice shower will show that coat sparkling anew." Alex grinned, making Celestia smile. As they went into the bathroom, Celestia noticed Alex was inside with her. She smiled with a raised eyebrow while being a bit off from the alcohol.
"What are you doing in the bathroom with me?" She wondered.
"You're still a bit tipsy. I bet you can't levitate quite well as compared to your usual grace." Alex pointed out. He was apparently spot on as she tripped up the shelves of soaps. Chuckling quietly, he turns the water warm and guides Celestia in. She enters the warm water, soothing as always.
But something was different.
Each time Celestia took a bath, there would be a little extra. Some new soaps, some new smells, but tonight was different.
No, it wasn't how much she needed it. Although the stench of cake digested is disgusting and would please everyone that ridding the smell with a shower would feel oh so great.
It wasn't that. There was a new pleasure. Celestia hadn't quite place her hoof on it.
That was until she felt her mane being washed thoroughly and carefully. The mane felt smooth, and her head felt so much better. Her coat was then being rubbed kindly and well done. Her coat was wet, full of bubbles, and someone massaging her. It felt so very nice.
Celestia knew what it was. Alex was taking care of her. She felt so pleased as he was not only polite when it came to letting some places remain untouched, but also how good it felt. Celestia was fond of Alex. She never knew she'd meet any pony, much less a human, like Alex be this caring for her, and made it obvious and clear about it while not showing so much resentment. No matter what she did, Alex didn't seem to mind and always emphasized with her. She couldn't even count the times she truly wanted him gone. She wanted him there.
In fact, she wanted him to always be there. Thinking this, Celestia's face started to redden. Alex took notice and checked her forehead.
"Are you okay?" He asked. "You don't look too well Celestia. You're temperature seems to be going up."
"Uh…" She muttered before brushing off his hand from her head. "It's fine. The bath is just very warm. It's very relaxing and such."
"Ah, I see." Alex nodded. He rubbed her shoulders, making her awe at the feeling. It was tingly. Something that shouldn't happen because she wasn't ticklish there. No, it was a new feeling. Something was starting to bloom.
A bit embarrassing to mention however.
Keeping quiet, she just lets him do his work. But once in a while, she can be heard making noises. Moaning noises. She was very quiet, but it wouldn't be long until one would be just that loud enough for Alex to notice. The man turned to her and said, "Are you okay? You keep groaning. You aren't bothered by this, are you?"
"Huh? Oh! No! Far from it!" Celestia quickly claimed. "Your hands are just divine. I'm enjoying it so very much."
Alex chuckled at that comment. He smiled widely and said, "I see. Thank you. I'm glad you enjoyed it."
He then stands up and brushes her mane once more with his hand. "But it's time to finish up now. Your bath is done."
Alex couldn't tell, but Celestia didn't want it to end. Something had just been made at that moment, and this first time knowing it felt as if it should be embraced and known. But Celestia has yet to confirm her feelings.
"Okay then…" she replied. "I guess we have to end it…"
"Sorry to let it go like that." Alex apologized. "We'll do this again another time. Here, let me wash you off."
Getting the shower head, he sprays water gently on her mane, letting the water wash down from head to hoof. The soap slowly goes, and a towel is now needed. Grabbing one, he rubs Celestia for the head and back. Some of the chest area, but that is all. The rest was to her, for he must be a gentlemen. He has no courage nor desire to dishonor himself by going to that region. He leaves Celestia to finish up. After so, she exits the bathroom a new mare. Alex brings Celestia to her room and lies her upon her bed. When tucked in comfortably, Alex is about to leave. Before he does however, Celestia brings up the questions.
"Alex… Wait…" She speaks.
Alex pauses and turns to her. Celestia stares into his eyes, trying to maintain the equality between the two, but she feels she is at fault.
"About… Nightmare Moon… I'm sorry about what she did to your sister…"
"It's alright Celestia…" He stated. "But you have nothing to do about it. It's fine…"
"But…" She said sternly. "After what she's done to you, what made you continue caring for the ponies?"
"What made me?" He said in wonder. Holding his chin, he looked up with closed eyes. After a moment, he smiles and says, "Rochelle wants to take care of them. I want to take care of them. Most of them are good, and I'll always believe that. Nightmare Moon may have been an exception, but… When Rochelle died, her last wish was to be there for ponies when they come and leave. Her grave out there will always ensure that she is there, watching them go off back to their world."
"The rock is your sister's grave, correct?" Celestia made sure.
"Yeah… I know it looks like an ordinary thing, but what made it special is… simply Rochelle."
"… I understand…" Celestia nodded in agreement.
Alex warmly smiled before slowly closing the door. But before it could shut all the way, Celestia had another request.
"Alex, wait!"
"What is it?" Alex said, opening it wide again.
"Um… I'm still a bit uncomfortable… Especially with what's happened and what's been said… Is it alright… if…"
Slowly backing away from her request, she looks away blushing. "Oh, never mind, it's silly."
"Celestia, I can't sleep well at night now if you don't tell me what was on your mind." Alex stated.
Celestia looked at him before darting her eyes to the corner with a red face. Poking her hooves together, she said, "Um… Well, it'd be nice if… you could keep me company tonight. I'm a bit… paranoid at the moment and such."
Alex walks over to her and sits on the bed with her. "Nothing to be scared of Celestia. But I'll make sure you're okay."
Celestia smiles in glee as Alex leaves for a moment to change. Coming back in shorts and a short sleeve shirt, he lays next to Celestia. The feeling has never been more exciting than this. Celestia feels her heart beat as they are about to go to sleep. Can she definitely confirm it? Or is this just a filly's dream? If Cadence was here, maybe she could tell. One thing's for certain.
The portal before her was open above the stone. It's rectangular shape made it look as if it was a doorway back to Equestria. As Celestia gazed in awe, she turned to Alex who merely smiled with dull eyes. He was both happy to see Celestia able to go home, but sad to see her leave. Smiling widely, she steps closer to the portal. Although the vacation was beyond wonderful, it was time for her to go. There was something wrong however. she turned to Alex with a woeful look, making him wonder what was wrong.
"Celestia? Why so glum? You don't have to worry about your little kingdom now that it's open. You won't miss anything here besides your friends, will you?"
Celestia didn't mind leaving the spa treatment, for she too has one at the castle. She doesn't mind leaving the theme park of ponies. She can just go to Ponyville to remind her of all the good times. And for being a thousand year old being, she has left many friends, and shed countless tears for the final goodbye. She will shed more when she goes home. However, leaving now won't make her just cry. It will break her heart.
Walking up to Alex, she places her hoof onto Alex's hand and gives him her request.
"Alex… I… Was wondering if you could… Please come with me?"
"Huh…?"
"I… It's hard for me to say, but… I don't want this to be the last time we see each other Alex."
"Celestia, it's alright." He assures her. "We've only been together for a while, but I'll never forget you. Same for you, you know?"
"But this time we've spent isn't enough!" She cries out. She began to whimper as Alex stood before her, stunned by what was going on. She turned around and explains. "I'm not sure if this feeling is pure or just a passing. But I can't take the gamble if it is true. I can't bear to leave this world yet."
"Celestia, what are you saying?"
She inhales deeply and breathes out slowly. She took her time before turning back and quickly saying it to him. "I love you!"
Celestia woke up gasping, holding her chest with her hoof as she gazed to the window. Upon her bed was an empty side, where Alex was last night. She gets out of bed and takes a look at the backyard where the rock was. No portal was seen, and no leaving this world yet. For some reason, this was a good sign. Celestia however was focused on her dream.
"It was just a dream." She sighed. "All of it wasn't real… Not that it couldn't happen…"
She groans quietly as she holds her head, taking in all the information. At first, she was using all of her energy to leave this world. Now she wants to stay. The feelings for Alex had began to have a serious effect on her. She knew that she must get her priorities straight. After all, being the princess of Equestria is no easy job. They need her guidance as well as her ability. She felt awful to leave Luna all by herself to handle her job.
Then there was another fact. She had always worried of others. Whether it was the ponies or the sun itself, she had so much work to do. Even with a land of her precious subjects, she has found a being that cares for her the same way she cares about everyone else. This man is something dear to her. To find someone who would take so much time off their own for her felt rare. It was like finding the one thing you've been looking for in all your life.
But the barriers remain. Whether it was the species to block off the romance, or the greater good of caring for others was present, it was just one thing that clung onto her mind. Can Alex love her back? Does he share the same feelings? For the past few days, he has been making Celestia's days on his world pleasant. He has been doing that for every pony he has met when brought to this world.
Then there was Luna. Her sister had done a horrible act. Can Alex look past that? The complicated mess that was made from the past? Or would bringing the news open old wounds? Celestia had so much on her mind, she had no choice but to bunker down on one decision.
"I have to try…" She stated. "I need to at least try to see if it can work. So far, he's been a dear friend. But to see if it could work, I'll have to go on a different approach."
"Alex, I really gotta thank you for doing this." Charles said ever so gratefully. "Julie was incredibly insistent on seeing you again. She still loves coming over here it seems."
Alex sits by the dining table with three plates with Crêpes laying on each one. The crunchy delicacy lays comfortably on two plates while the third was being handpicked by the young girl. Julie gives a big smile as she turns to Alex and commends him.
"These are super tasty! Charlie, can you make these?"
"Now, I'm not as good as a cook as Alex here." Charles declined with a few sweat drops.
Alex chuckles lightly, saying, "Now, how do you two feed yourselves with that attitude? You can't keep going out to eat."
"I work at a very well paid job of inventing products you know." Charles countered. "Why, don't forget who helped invest in the Plaza now."
"Good morning Alex." Celestia greeted as she walked down the stairs.
"Oh, good morning Celest-" Alex paused as he saw Celestia wearing a red dress, brimming with ruby upon her chest. Her smile was more adoring than usual as her wonderful gaze meets Alex's unmoving eyes. He seemed to be impressed, or at least stunned as she walked to the table.
"I see we have guests. Nice to see you both." She said kindly. Celestia then noticed the child and realized who it was. "You must be Julie, Charles little sister. Nice to finally meet you."
Julie simply gave a faux smile without saying a word. Charles looked at her with a calm expression as he said, "Julie, don't be rude. Introduce yourself properly and say hello."
Julie rolled he eyes and dropped the smile for a moment before looking at her juice. Smiling deviously, she raises her hand out. "My name is Julie. Nice to meet you too-"
Suddenly, the hand pushes the glass and the grape juice spills onto Celestia's dress. Alex and Charles drop their jaws as Celestia gasps in horror before the young child.
"Oopsie."
"DAAAAH!" Alex screams, frightening everyone. He examines the dress closely to see the violet liquid mixing in the red. "Oh no! Oh no! This is the dress Fleur De Lis gave to me! Her keepsake is stained! Oh no! What do I do!? Oh shoot! Shoot!"
"Who's Fleur?" Celestia questioned, confused.
"Fleur De Lis was a mare who came here, if I remember correctly." Charles answered. "She left that behind for Alex to remember her by."
"I-I-I had no idea! I'm so sorry!" Celestia apologized frantically.
"EEP! I didn't know either!" Julie shouted with distress written all over her face.
Celestia took off the dress and gave it to Alex. He then brings it to the sink and was about to douse the stain with water. Before he could however, Charles steps in and grabs his hand.
"Let me take care of this." He offered. "I know how to get rid of the stain. Just give me a moment."
The dress was now completely clean, as if the accident had never happened. Alex sighs in relief before hugging Charles tightly.
"Thank you Charles! You have no idea how important this was!"
"I do Alex." He laughed. "You have all kinds of keepsakes. I would never let them break or anything."
"Alex, I'm sorry." Celestia apologized some more. "I didn't know. I saw it in my room and just assumed… I'm so very sorry."
"Me too Alex." Julie sighed. "It was an accident."
"Well, it's alright now." Alex sighed in relief. He smiled widely at Celestia, cheeky as usual as if nothing had happened. "Too bad, it looked good on you Celestia."
The white mare blushed while holding her smile with her hoof. Julie however glared at Celestia as if there was something wrong. Charles checked his watch and jumped as he tugged Alex's shoulder.
"I'm going to be late! I better get going." Charles told him before heading out, all while checking if his clothes were proper. As he left through the door, he looked back to his sister. "Be good Julie, and thanks again Alex. Have a good one."
"You too! See ya!" Alex waved.
"Bye!" Julie yelled.
"Have a good day as well, Charles." Celestia waved.
After he left, Alex turned to the ladies. "Alright then. Now that everything's been said and done, time for you to eat Celestia."
"What are we having today?"
"Crêpe."
"I never tried one before. Well, I might have, but it would probably have been so very long ago. I can't wait to try your-"
When she opened her eyes to see her plate, it was found empty of the food. She looked at Julie who was eating away the rest of Celestia's food. The young girl peeked at the stunned mare before licking her fingers. Celestia was a tad annoyed. Luckily, Alex has offered Celestia his plate.
"Here, I'll just make myself another one later."
"Alex, you don't have to give me yours."
"It's alright. I eat this stuff probably once a month or so. It's fine, trust me."
Celestia smiled warmly before taking a bite, tasting the mix of whip cream and chocolate. The sweet strawberries tingle the tongue, forcing Celestia to smile. Alex grinned as he left her and Julie alone. The little girl still glared at Celestia for the moment.
Upon the table within Alex's room, he wrote on the sheet of paper. His hand moved and jolted as the paper became scribbled in words, making it not much later before he got out another sheet. As Celestia watched closely, Julie stood by watching the white mare.
"What are you writing there?" Celestia asked.
"Hmm? It's a surprise." He replied. "Maybe I'll show you later, okay?"
"Alright then."
After so, Alex left to the bathroom for the moment. Celestia watched Julie as she went to the table and read the paper. Celestia's eyes opened widely, seeing Julie intrude onto Alex's paper.
"Hmm, why would he write that?" She said to herself.
"Julie, it's rude to read it that without permission." Celestia lectured.
"Look what the alicorn has to say~!" She teased, annoying Celestia.
The white mare then used her magic to levitate the paper out of her hand. Julie tugged the paper tightly and attempted to pull the paper away from her magical grasp.
"Hey! Let go!" Julie shouted.
"You let go!" Celestia yelled back.
Alex walked back inside to see the two argue. He tapped his foot onto the floor, with eyes closed in disappointment. The girls took a while before they realize Alex was staring at them in discontent. They drop the paper as it flew across the floor, reaching Alex's feet. He sighed and picked up the paper, putting it inside the drawer of his desk. Turning to the two, kicking the floor with shame upon themselves, he speaks with ease of getting their attention.
"What were you two doing?"
The two answer at the same time, making it hard to understand what they were saying.
"She was looking at your writing without permission, so I was simply trying to take it away from her-"
"She was trying to look at your paper, so I tried to stop her by taking it back-"
"Stop." He says with his fingers pinching his face. The two watch carefully as Alex thinks carefully about what to do. "Julie, you're going to have to behave yourself. You usually treat ponies better than this."
"But Alex-!"
"No buts. You have to give every pony a chance, no matter what. Celestia is our guest in our world, and I expect you to be kind as usual, okay?"
Julie moans in annoyance, rolling her eyes along with her head. She took her time complaining in mumbles before she finally crossed her arms. She clenched her eyes and mouth until she gave her answer.
"… Fine, I'll be nicer."
"Good." Alex grinned, now looking to Celestia. "Now Celestia, as a princess of even a little kingdom, you should know about how to treat children. And no matter how much of a handful they could be, Julie is indeed well behaved and well mannered. I expect you to get along with her, alright?"
"… I'll try…" Celestia replied.
"Alright then! Well, I have to go do something. Why don't you go outside? Being inside all day isn't good for you."
"Alright Alex…" Julie responded calmly. The girls then left the house, still holding sourness towards each other. Alex groaned as he sat on his chair, holding his head.
"I hope they can get along. I wonder why Julie is acting like this?"
Celestia sat outside, levitating a frisbee. She used her magic to toss the toy to Julie, who in return, caught it and threw it back to Celestia. The two glared at each other for a while. Meanwhile nearby, Alex was looking through the kitchen window, watching the two play. He waves to them as Celestia notices his presence. She smiled warmly and waved back.
Julie saw the two interacting, and quickly threw the frisbee to Celestia. She doesn't notice in time, and gets hit in the head. Alex watched awkwardly as the horse got up and shouted at Julie.
"Don't throw it at my head!"
"I've been throwing it to you the same way for the past ten minutes." Julies stated. "Maybe if you didn't make any goo-goo eyes at Alex, you would've caught it."
Celestia became irritated, but withheld any violence. I have never struck a child with intention, and I'm not going to start now. No matter how annoying she may be.
With an idea, Celestia used her magic and launched the frisbee to the sky, and at a far off distance. Julie dropped her jaw as it reach very far. She turned to the grinning Celestia as she mouthed the word…
Fetch
Julie frowned at her before chasing after the plastic toy. As she traveled over the bushes and around the trees to look for it, Celestia went inside. Within the kitchen, she sees Alex holding three glasses of lemonade.
"I thought you two might be thirsty, so I made you something to drink." He offered.
"Why, thank you Alex." She says happily.
The two sit down, drinking the sweet and sour beverage. As they waited for Julie, Alex starts a conversation.
"Julie know proper manners you know."
"I've been told, but to be honest…" Celestia says while implying something. Alex chuckles lightly and nods.
"Yeah, I noticed how rude she is instead. I don't know why, she usually gets along with all the ponies. Like Rochelle."
Celestia's ears lower a bit hearing the name. She felt a shrill of guilt as it simply being mentioned was enough to bother her. Celestia turned to the window, showing a tired Julie walking tirelessly to the stone. She lied on it, and positioned her head to wear it seemed as if she was listening to the rock. Alex looked down, saddened with a thought.
"I hope it doesn't have anything to do with the others." He told Celestia.
"What do you mean?"
"Do you remember that night at the bar in Pony Plaza? Charles, and probably along with the others, still hold a bit of hatred to alicorns." He explained.
"Alicorns? Specifically alicorns? Why is that? Is it because of… Nightmare Moon?"
"Perhaps. That's the only reason I can think of. But they tend to fear and avoid it rather than take the hatred head on. Like what Julie was doing."
"I didn't know Julie would feel the same way… Nightmare Moon has put a heavy toll on you all…"
"… Other than me, Julie was the most hurt of all."
Celestia turned to Alex, surprised of this. "Why is that?"
"Rochelle was her best friend." Alex answered. "Rochelle was the one who showed her Lyra. From then on, she came over very often to meet and see the ponies, and tried to be there when they left. Ever since Rochelle died, Julie has been visiting less and less. She misses her so much…"
Celestia stared into space as she didn't know this at all. Once again, she had treated someone else coldly without getting to know their situation. She had felt as if she learned nothing from what she has already done to Alex. Ashamed of herself, Celestia turns to the girl on the rock. She sleeps peacefully while Celestia thinks about what to do with this heartbroken child.
Rochelle was running up the hill until she reached the very top. She panted loudly like a dog before turning around to see her friend Julie trying to catch up with her. Julie had only made it to the edge before being pulled the rest of the way by Rochelle. As they finally got to the top of the hill, they sat down and looked out to the view.
"It's really nice out today." Rochelle told Julie. "There's barely a cloud in the sky!"
"It's really hot too! Perfect for a jog!" Julie added sarcastically.
"You kinda get used to it since you have to catch up to ponies sometimes."
Rochelle and Julie laughed before turning back to the sky. They watched as the clouds strolled along the air passed by with strange formations of shapes and creatures. It was a while before Julie brought up something.
"Oh, by the way! You know how a lot of the ponies keep talking about Ponyville?" Julie asked Rochelle.
Rochelle confirmed. "Yeah, why?"
"My brother said he's going to design a park about it! It's going to be a hit he says! And it'll give everyone the money we need to not just take care of ourselves, but also to help you and Alex take care of even more ponies!"
"That's great!" Rochelle said cheerfully. She got up from the grass and clenched her fists together. "I can't wait to tell Alex! Oh! And Night too!"
Julie's smile lowered a little from the name. She sat up straight and placed her hands together, looking away from Rochelle. "Oh… You're talking about Nightmare Moon, right?"
Rochelle gave a confused look at her reaction, and tilted her head as she asked, "Why? What's wrong?"
"It's nothing except… She's a bit scary." Julie explained. "She also doesn't look very nice."
"Just because her name sounds bad, doesn't mean she IS bad Julie! That's not nice to think of others by how they look or what they're name is!"
"I know, but… Doesn't Nightmare have some weird things to talk about? Like how she couldn't wait to take back Equestria? Isn't that an entire country or something? She sounds like a bad pony sometimes."
"Nightmare Moon is a good pony! You'll regret saying those things after she leaves you know." Rochelle warned her. "When she leaves, we'll probably never see her again. I want to make our times together the best."
Julie nodded, understanding her devotion. She smiled and said, "Maybe you're right. You and Nightmare Moon have gotten close. Maybe I shouldn't worry so much."
"There you go!" Rochelle smiled gleefully, pulling Julie up from the ground. "Come on! Aura is coming over soon! We should be there so she could finally meet Night!"
"Rochelle!" Julie shouted as she woke up from the rock. She rubbed her eyes before looking around. She soon saw Celestia before her, levitating a glass of lemonade. Julie simply glared at her, even though Celestia gave a motherly smile. She brought the beverage close to Julie for her to drink, but she declines.
"I don't want any."
"You're tired. Drink up, it'll make you feel better." Celestia offered.
"I bet you peed in it or something." Julie claimed.
"Why in the world would I do that!?" Celestia questioned in disgust. "Trust me, it's fine. Alex made it for you."
Julie raised an eyebrow at Celestia. She placed her hands on the drink, and was putting it near her lips. Celestia watched carefully as Julie closed her eyes, bringing the cup so close. Suddenly, she opens one eye before splashing the lemonade onto the white mare. Celestia was now soaked in the yellow drink that had been rudely declined by Julie. Alex, who saw what happened inside the house, pinched his face.
"Hey now…" He sighed.
Julie crossed her arms as she said, "That's for throwing the frisbee too far."
"I guess… I somewhat deserve that." she replied calmly before using her magic to carry Julie and place her on her back. "Come now, we should go inside."
Julie rode onto Celestia, still a bit tired. She allowed Celestia to carry her in, but still had no desire to thank her for the ride.
Celestia entered the living room, carefully placing Julie onto the couch. She placed her in a lying position along the couch. Celestia then brought a pillow, fluffing it before placing it behind Julie's head. She looked away, trying to deny any gratitude from her. As Celestia tucked a blanket around her, she went towards the television with a video in her magical hold.
"Alex told me what this contraption does and what it's for." She said to Julie. "I found it hard to believe, but how could I deny it when I've already witnessed all these devices abilities?"
She placed the video into the VCR slot. As it went in, Celestia smiled proudly as she was able to use it perfectly. That was until it ejected itself, and dropped to the floor. Celestia raised an eyebrow with Julie.
"…Um…" Julie spoke. "Did you put it in the right way?"
"Just give me a second…" Celestia responded as she shoved it back in the VCR. Again and again, it failed to stay in. Julie rolled her eyes as she got out of her comfort and took the video, placing it in the VCR. This time, it stayed.
"Didn't Alex tell you how to use it?" Julie asked.
"Um… He just told me to put it in…" Celestia shrugged.
Julie sighed before looking at the TV. She turned it on, showing the movie that they were going to watch. Julie's eyes shrunk as she realized what it was.
"Heart Plus!? Oh my gosh! I love this movie!"
"I thought so." Celestia smiled warmly. "I asked Alex what you'd like to watch. He said you loved watching this with… friends…"
Julie smiled with a speck of embarrassment, looking to the floor and replying, "Y-Yeah… with friends…"
Celestia grinned before bringing Julie to the couch once more. She laid down, allowing Julie to lay down on her soft belly. The microwave beeped, alerting Celestia to open it, and take out the popcorn. The snacks were placed on the table for the two to watch the movie together. Alex, who was on the stairs, smiled at the two before heading upstairs. Celestia watched the opening, still amazed to see the thin frame show such a performance. To think that they could make something like this was like being at a theatre. She felt like she was dipping into a whole new world.
"So…" Celestia began. "What's the movie about?"
"Oh, well, in the beginning, Kasin is just trying to fit in, right?" Julie explained. "Then a bunch of bad guys try to beat him up, but he manages to get away! See? Just watch!"
Celestia did as told, watching the slender boy in white and green jump around the three hooligans. She was astounded and highly entertained. As the movie went on, it had reach from scene to scene. She was surprised, shocked, and excited. The effects had made her energetic, and the mood of the story easily changed her as well. She kept jumping from happiness to sadness, anger to fear, and even desire to hope. Julie laughed as Celestia's behavior shifted from one to the next.
In one scene, there was a fight with a massive monster. Kasin was weakened by his fights from earlier. In one blast of lightning, he was thrown out. Julie screamed and held onto Celestia. She was stunned to see Kasin lie on the floor not moving. She looks to Julie, hugging onto her coat so tightly. She uses her magic to turn off the TV monitor before tending to Julie.
"Are you alright Julie? Was that too frightening?"
"I-I'm sorry…" She whimpered. "It's been a while since I seen this movie."
"I guess you were surprised to see that." Celestia nodded. "I was too…"
"No, it's not that…" Julie softly told her. "It just… reminded me of Rochelle…"
Every time Celestia hears the name, she loses her will to respond. Her ears lower and her expression drops to the saddest she could manage. Julie looks to her, and sees the empathy in her eyes. The sadness she shares with her. Julie wipes her eyes and sighs.
"I haven't seen this movie since Rochelle died… I used to watch it with other ponies whenever I come over… but when… she died, I didn't feel like watching it anymore. It reminded me of her too much."
Celestia remained quiet, holding back her grief. She tried to stop herself from dropping all her regret before the little girl, hoping that she is not as hurt as she thinks. The words on Julies tongue will however make her bow to the solemn demon she had within.
"That scene… reminded me of how she died… When I came over that one time, Nightmare killed her just like that…"
Julie looked down, still shaking of the memories. But what bothered her wasn't was on her mind. It was the tears dropping onto her head and shoulders. She looked up to Celestia, rubbing her eyes from the endless crying. Julie was surprised to see the sadness of the white mare going on par with her own. She then happened to ask…
"Was… one of my ponies… Did my ponies really do that…?" She whimpered.
Julie nodded, making her heart ache enough to make her yelp. Celestia continued to question her sister, who was at the time, Nightmare Moon. "Did… Nightmare… Kill Alex's sister… in front of you…?"
Julie remained silent. The look in her eyes were an answer enough. Celestia then pulled Julie close and embraced her as tight as she could. She then began to apologize over and over again.
"I'm so sorry for what has happened to you, I'm sorry I let this happen, I cannot apologize enough for what Nightmare Moon has done to you." She cried.
Julie pushed her back, giving their chest some space. She then said, "How's it your fault?"
"It's my responsibility as a princess." She answered, still having a raspy voice. "If she as behaved that way, then it's because of me… It's my fault she turned out that way… I'm sorry for what she has done…"
"But you didn't do anything!" Julie exclaimed, clenching her fist down to her legs. The two sat in silence, returning to their cooling point of the talk. The little girl looked to the side and says, "It's not your fault… How could it be? You two are two different ponies… The only common thing is that you're both…"
"Alicorns…" Celestia finished for her. Celestia looked away as well, still feeling ashamed. "I have a feeling you don't even want to look at me anymore…"
Julie turned to Celestia, feeling a new kind of grief. She felt guilty for what pain she has been pushing to a pony that had nothing to do with the mare she hated. The only reason why was because of the fact that she was a reminder of the shape and form that killed her friend, but not the mind. She pulled Celestia close, and brought her face into the soft coat. Within the time passing, Julie says while her voice was muffled in the fur. "I'm sorry… I forgot that… You're some pony else…"
Celestia wipes her eyes before looking back to Julie. The little girl brings her head up to see the mare face to face. She continues.
"You weren't the one who killed Rochelle. You had nothing to do with it. And… You're different. You aren't like Nightmare Moon, not how I remembered her… You… You're much nicer… I should've seen that… But I was always pushing anything away that reminded me of Rochelle… what she liked… How she died… and… I just wanted to forget all about it… but I didn't want to forget Rochelle…"
Celestia wraps her wing around Julie, and with a warm embrace she says, "That's how friends are. Even after years of not seeing each other, we can never let them go. While we cannot see them again, it's better to remember the bittersweet memories while moving on. That's what I learned over the years."
Julie's eyes shined at her words. She felt her lips curl into a smile. As the night passes, the two eventually slept on the couch together. Alex happened to see it once more before heading back upstairs.
In the room of Alex, he opens the floorboard, revealing a rectangular slot. In the hole, he pulls out a shoe box. The contents were papers. Papers labeled, No.13. He brought them to his bed, and reviewed them. He took a close look at the photos of the past. He sees the smiling trio, of him, Rochelle, and Nightmare Moon. He reads the moments of back then with a smile. Reaching to the last page, He looks up to the ceiling and sighs.
"Where did it all go so wrong…?" He asked himself. "Why… Why did this have to happen…?"
As morning came, Alex, Julie, and Celestia all happily gathered at the table. Another delicious breakfast was served, but not can witness what it was once the duo began to gobble it down. Julie and Celestia laughed as they talked about the movie from last night. It was especially funny how Celestia kept talking about every little detail, like how fast the scenes changed, and how they fit such a big environment into such a tiny picture frame. Alex grinned as the two got along.
A while later, a knock comes to the door. Alex lets the two talk while he goes ahead to answer the call. He opens the door to see Charles ready to pick up his sister.
"Hey! Nice to see you again!" Alex greeted.
"Nice to see you too." Charles said while scratching the back of his head. "She wasn't too much trouble, was she?"
"At first, she and Celestia had a falling out."
"Ah… Well, I had a feeling-"
"But they're fine now."
Charles looked at Alex in surprise. He looked to see Celestia and Julie happily discussing matters to each other. He wasn't expecting this at all. Alex placed his hand onto Charles shoulder and said, "She's not the one who killed Rochelle you know. She may be the same type of pony as her, but she has a brighter heart. You should give her a chance."
Charles looked down in shame. Kicking the floor, he admits it all. "Yeah… You got me… I didn't trust her at all. She… reminded me of her… And I got scared… Scared of who she might be, what she can do, and… all that…" He sighed with a heavy heart. Looking at the smiling Julie, he too begins to have a small one written above his chin. "But… I should give her a chance… she's done something for Julie… I haven't seen her smile like that for a long time…"
"So, why don't you strike up something interesting?" Alex suggested. "I'm sure someone like you would have something to really get something going!"
"Um… well, uh…"
Alex playfully pushes Charles to Celestia. He steps over to meet her across the table. The two look at each other before Julie realizes something.
"Oh! You're here! Hold on, I need to pack up my stuff."
Julie leaves the two alone. Celestia and Charles looked away awkwardly, unsure of what to say.
Celestia looked at Charles, still remembering everything he had said. About how he is scared of her, and how he doesn't trust her. But the look on his face shows that he is a bit more willing than usual. Charles plays with his fingers rather than making eye contact with Celestia. His body language made it obvious how he wanted to say something, but had nothing across his mind. A minute passes, and something slips out of the white mare's mouth.
"Sorry for… vomiting onto you that other night…"
"Ah… Don't mention it… Seriously, like… ever…" Charles replied.
Charles felt tempted to say something more important than apologies over spilt drinks. It was then he thought about how to make her happy in return for bringing the smile back onto Julie's life. He turns to her with an old idea that he had always wanted to do.
"Hey listen, I'd like to thank you for what you've done for Julie." He starts off.
"Oh? Um, my pleasure." Celestia smiles nervously.
"To see her that happy shows me that you're not a bad mare. So sorry for accusing you of being such a thing."
"It's quite alright."
"No, it isn't." He says. "So as an apology and a repayment for what you've done, how about… you bring something with you back to Equestria?"
Celestia's eyebrow raises some, unsure of where this was going. Charles continues with a smile of a man with a crazy idea.
"Simply, if you bring this special type of rope with you, we can link our two world together!" He says quickly. "I… Uh… have tried my best to uh… Well, make the product. I finished it, and uh… Well…"
He groans and slaps his face before sliding down from the chair. His face hits the table as he says, "I'm sorry… I… Have a troubling time talking to new people… and ponies… so I usually have a hard time asking them to do it for me… You're actually the first pony I told about this idea after actually finishing making the darn thing."
"Really?!" Celestia said with astonishment. "This device… Will make our worlds crossable?"
Charles looks up and nods quickly. "Yes! If this works, we can meet anytime we want! It's… a prototype, but if this works, then… well, you get the idea."
"Well, I'm honored to be the first volunteer for such an event!"
"Great! It'll all be on the day you go back home. That's when we'll never have to say goodbye for good!"
Celestia smiles brightly. She has never been so excited in her life! She looks to Alex and thinks about everything.
She might not have to say farewell after all…
In the city, a long, black limo is driving down the long highway. In the back, a woman in black with her blue hair tied in a ponytail, looks out to see the country side rolling in. She watches it grow closer each passing second before she hears her driver informing her of something.
"Miss Aurabelle, we'll be there soon. Just relax for now."
"I can't…" She says with much disgust within her throat. She brings her head closer to the opened window, now questioning everything of what's going on. "Why did he bring that one in to his life? Why did he trust her? How could you trust her? She is full of lies…"
"Miss Aurabelle, is everything alright?"
"And I'll be there. I can tell who you are. There's no use in hiding it from me…"
At Pony Plaza, the gang got together for merriment and joy at the tavern on this rainy day. Casual conversations took place, but most of all was the renewal of trust to their alicorn companions. Celestia discusses with Charles on business far more captivating than the usual slice of life the others had to offer. The bridge between worlds can be built by his theory. He reveals the blueprints of his design, and the crowd gathers to eye at his work. His shyness however makes him retreat a bit from the sights of the reviewers. Celestia however blocked him from retreating any further and said, “I need you to explain this to me.”
Charles nodded and gave a deep breath. Regaining his confidence, he goes to the paper. “See… over the years, I learned a lot about magic. I can’t say I harness a spec of it even myself, but I do know that magic is involved in the crossing between worlds. The portal way contains tons and tons of magic flowing, enough energy to ensure the infinite travel between worlds.”
“The Doorway to Equestria.” Harold titled.
“Precisely.” Charles agreed. “The rope are actually wires. Attached to these tough and resilient wires is a collection of devices that harness the energy of the portal. They also are the same device that keep the portal open using magnetic pulse to, in reverse, prevent the closing of the portal. Therefore, as long as the ropeway passes through the portal, you’ll have yourself a portal way back and forth.”
“Amazing!” Celestia exclaimed. “Your work is remarkable Charles! I cannot think of a single pony that can best this invention!”
Charles grinned slightly in embarrassment, scratching his head as he takes in the unforeseen compliments. “D-Don’t say all that Celestia! You’re making me blush!”
Julie turned to Alex with a wide smile asking, “Does that mean we can see every pony again!?”
“Sure looks like it.” Alex answered. “This will bring a lot of happy faces.”
“I can see Bonbon again.” Brin said in pure bliss.
“Wonder how Braeburn is doing?” Harold thought.
“I wonder how every pony is doing…” Celestia said to herself. Alex held her shoulder and comforted her. “I know that they’ll be thrilled to see you again, alive and healthy.”
Celestia smiled warmly and embraced Alex. Everyone started to make love teases at the two, laughing about. The two stopped their hugging and looked at each other’s eyes. The world became silent for the few seconds, as the most precious thing was before them. Celestia’s heart began to beat, feeling the perfect moment was now. Alex suddenly felt more than a simple connection to Celestia. For the second he looked at her, he instead felt a life line to her. Before anything more could happen, a door slams open, gathering the attention of everyone inside.
“Didn’t you see the sign at the entrance?” Harold groaned. “We’re closed.”
“Not the time Harold.” She hissed.
The voice threw everybody off. The shocked expressions left and the joyful times come to an end. A return of an old wound had entered the gates of the present, and the sorrowful reminder had come to relive the images to their heads once more. Alex remained smiling however, seeing his old friend once more.
“Aurabelle!” He said aloud in a gleeful greet. “Why didn’t you tell me you were coming over? We could’ve made a better welcoming party than this!”
“…Aurabelle…?” Celestia repeated. She looked at Aurabelle’s eyes and saw hate and anger welling inside. The girl had an aura to her as well. It was strange, not like the humans she met before. However, at the same time it was… familiar.
“Why are you friends with her Alex?” She asked.
Alex stopped his smile to the strange question. His eyebrow is raised in confusion and he asks, “What are you talking about?”
“Why are you friends with HER?!” She shouted, scaring everyone a bit. She expresses her question further by pointing at the white mare with the moving mane. Alex turns to take a look and turn back to Aurabelle still confused.
“The usual thing. You know? Pony comes out of nowhere, take care of them, and see them happy before they go back home.”
“Are you that dense Alex?” She questioned angrily. “Do you not see the wings? The horn? The moving mane!? Are you that blind!?”
“Aurabelle…” Alex said sternly for the first time. His voice of playful banter and fun loving personality turned bitter. His eyes now were threatened and is now is pushed too far. Celestia watches the darker side of Alex take over. “This isn’t right. Just because she’s an alicorn doesn’t mean a thing. She’s different. Different from… what happened last time.”
“That history doesn’t matter Alex!” Aurabelle shouted. “She’s still what she is! A liar, a traitor, and none other than the sister of Nightmare Moon!”
The room became silent, and Celestia finds herself cornered. As if the labels didn’t hurt enough, she found herself stripped of her disguise. Her friends turn to her with the look of betrayal and sorrow. Julie was in deep conflict as well, but not as much as Alex. She soon finds her beloved now stepping back.
“You’re… you’re wrong!” He stuttered. “She’s a ruler… of a… small kingdom… That’s what she said…!”
“OH!” She sung in sarcasm to Celestia, walking to her with much threat. “So you played them that far, did you? The lie had to twist them up to thinking Equestria is made up of smaller kingdoms? Wow! And to think so MANY ponies loved their dear ruler for her benevolence!”
Celestia stepped back as she finds Aurabelle lifting her hand to her. Alex widened his eyes and pulled Aurabelle back by the shoulder. “Stop! You’re going too far!”
“It’s just a simple spell. She will do in her power to block it, and we’ll have our answer.” Aurabelle told Alex.
Turning back to Celestia, her hand glowed. Finding herself cornered, Celestia uses her magic to create a barrier. The spark goes off from Aurabelle’s hand and makes its way to Celestia. When the blast and the shield connects, nothing happens. Celestia slowly opens her eyes, and finds Aurabelle satisfied. Confused of this event, she turns to see her friends, now having their mouths agape from the sight. She turns to see them going away from her. Most of all however, Alex has that look of despair. Celestia turns and is bewildered by what was going on, so she pleads for an explanation.
“W-Why are you looking at me as if I did something wrong?”
“That spell is a special one.” Aurabelle explained. “It’s actually quite harmless. It cannot be blocked however.”
“I… I still don’t quite understand.” Celestia replied. “If it cannot be defended against, how was I able to?”
“Because the only one who can stop it is the sister of Nightmare Moon!” She announces. Celestia steps back and realizes what had happened. She had provided the proof Aurabelle needed to conclude on her theory. And now, they all know.
“You… lied to us…” Charles spoke.
“Celestia… How could you…?” Brin whimpered in near tears.
“Celestia…?” Julie called out.
Harold remained silent. He walked over to his bar and took out a bottle. He chugged it down and never batted an eye to the mare afterwards. She turns and see the world crumbling. Everything built falls before her. Her friends are close to fleeing, but the worst of it is the change in Alex. His face never changes from that despair. Still stunned by everything, but he was the most hurt. Suddenly, he runs out of the bar. Celestia quickly runs after him, leaving the others behind.
“Alex! Wait!” Celestia called out.
Alex kept running and running. He was holding his chest tightly as he wandered the stormy day. Looking back in the days of getting to know Celestia had rushed back to him faster than light. His memories of Celestia of her being her, now seemed nothing but a lie. The dishonesty didn’t hurt when she spied on him or had her suspicions of him. It didn’t matter that she was an alicorn, the species that killed his sister. What did matter was who she really is.
The sister of Nightmare Moon was his enemy.
He ran to his truck, and started up the engine. Turning on immediately, he drives away. Celestia just makes it in time and was about to stop him. Just as she attempts to, a wall appears. She turns to see Aurabelle aiming her hand to Celestia. The rain drizzles down and the two, and the conflict continues further. Celestia grits her teeth as Aurabelle now puts on a face of an emotionless soldier.
“You’ve hurt him enough Celestia. It’s time to leave him alone.”
“Why… Why are you doing this to me!?” She questioned, nearing rage.
“Why did YOU have to send your own sister to the moon!? You monster!!” She yelled.
A pause took place as Celestia’s eyes shrunk at what Aurabelle just said. Her eyes were gleem of hate, but sorrow. Her fists shakes in furious rage, but her legs shivered in sadness. Tears begin to shed as she says, “If… You’re here… Nightmare Moon is dead, isn’t she…!?”
“Why… would you want her to be… Alive…?” Celestia wondered, believing everyone wanted her dead.
“So you did kill her!!” Aurabelle yelled as she launched a fist of stone to her stomach. Celestia groaned as she was slammed to the stone wall that was made earlier. Celestia had easily given up the fight, and stayed on the ground. Being deep in distrust, hatred, and heartache had left her unable to continue the struggle. Aurabelle walked up to her, looming at the body saying, “Nightmare Moon told me she was destined to fight you. The fact that it was over a kingdom was pitiful, but Rochelle and Alex loved her regardless. They shared many things, and even in death of Rochelle, Alex still wanted her to succeed. Though he couldn’t bear to face Nightmare for the reminder of his sister’s death, he still wanted her to live. I wanted the same for Alex’s sake.”
Walking away, she begins to cry. “Finding you alive is the worst thing that could happen Celestia. Finding the sister of Nightmare Moon is the worst thing to find out! You’re alive… and she’s dead… As much as I want to end you here… I’m not going to stoop to your level…”
Celestia looks up a bit and tries her best to inform Aurabelle of the massive misunderstanding, but her weak voice could not reach her.
“She’s… not dead… I wouldn’t dare do such a thing… Luna’s alive…! You have to believe me…!”
Although Aurabelle couldn’t hear her, Julie did. She pulls out her phone and calls her brother. A tone of ringing echoes, and the line picks up.
“Stop him.” Julie spoke.
Alex drives down the wet road, still shedding tears. Wiping them off every now and then, he focuses on going home, locking the doors, and keeping himself holed up. His plan to be alone took over his mind. The others may not understand, and he’d rather have it that way. He doesn’t want to think about it ever again.
Just as he drives further down, another car gets in his way. The car swishes in the wet ground and blocks the way. Alex widens his eyes and steps on the brakes. The slipping of the car shows how useless his efforts are as his truck hits the side of the other. He steps out and sees Charles standing there, waiting for him. Alex holds his head and looks to see Charles cutting across the grass to act as a road block to Alex. He grinds his teeth as he walks over to Charles, preparing a long lecture.
“What are you doing Charles!?” He complained. “You could have gotten yourself killed! You could be thrown in jail right now too!”
Charles interrupted Alex by holding him by the collar of the shirt and throwing a punch to Alex’s face. He shoves him to the ground and yells, “What are you doing!? You stupid idiot!”
“What are you doing!?” Alex yells back, only to receive another punch.
“What was that face you made back there Alex!?” Charles questioned.
“What!? I was the same as all of you! Shocked and confused!”
Another punch strikes across his cheek.
“Don’t lie! You’re just as bad as Celestia!” He lectured back. “That face… I remember it when Rochelle died! You never made anything like that until today! What do you know about Nightmare Moon and her sister!?”
“That her sister and Nightmare were gonna fight!” Alex shouted. “Nightmare said… only one of them will rule the kingdom… and that the loser was gonna…”
“How long…” Charles asked. “Did you hide this from us…?”
Silence was all Alex could give back. Charles saw the clues though, and began to piece it together.
“Is that why Nightmare Moon’s documents are always missing? Is that why you never talk about Nightmare? You’ve been hiding your friendship with her, even after what she did to Rochelle? Why would you want anything good to happen to that mare!?”
“Because all she wanted to do was protect me!” He shouted. “Rochelle… didn’t die because Nightmare attacked her. Nightmare protected me from Rochelle…”
“…What…?” Charles stuttered.
“Rochelle and Nightmare didn’t get attention… they didn’t receive the love they desired… They understood each other, and became the best of friends. But when Nightmare… fell in love with me, Rochelle got jealous of how I stole the attention. The ponies, the people… it wasn’t long before the curse of Nightmare brushed off on Rochelle. She became corrupted, and tried to kill me. She pulled a knife from the kitchen and tried to end me. I couldn’t do anything because I loved her too much. Nightmare’s love for me stood out more than her friendship with Rochelle, and she took the shot. But Nightmare wasn’t thinking straight when she was defending me, so she overdid it and got Rochelle to the point where she couldn’t recover.”
“So what we saw when we came over to see you and Nightmare…”
“You came at a bad time… and assumed Nightmare killed Rochelle out of nowhere…”
Charles, not only lied to by one, but by two people. His best friend kept the truth hidden for such a long time. He threw another punch and yelled, “Why didn’t you tell us!? Why’d you let us think that way of Nightmare!? You’re just as bad as Celestia! How could you!?!”
“Because you’d think bad of Rochelle… wouldn’t you…?”
Charles stopped and finally understood. Alex laid in silence as Charles finally stopped his rampage. He sat against his car and sighed. The two stayed in the rain for a while, letting things sink in.
“You are worse than Celestia.” Charles corrected himself. “You lied to your closest friends for years… You two belong together.”
“I don’t love her.” Alex stated.
“Shut up liar.” He demanded. “Lying to yourself is getting everyone in a worse of a mess than last time. I tired of your dumb excuses. Now go to her. Aurabelle beat her in pretty bad.”
Alex still laid in the road, not moving an inch. Charles sighs and gets up, going to his car. He turns on the engine, and before leaving, he says to Alex, “I guess you don’t want to hear how Luna is doing.”
Alex gets up and looks to Charles. “Luna!? What about Luna!?”
Charles wheels screech on the road and drives off. Alex is left alone on the road, only seeing himself and his car. He looks up and thinks long and hard about what he should do. The rain washes some of the blood from his bruises and cleans his face a bit. He looks at the mirror of his car and finds the bumps not too bad. Charles his really bad at punching apparently, no matter how far he pulled that fist. Going back into his car, he sits down and gets ready to go.
The rain pours down around the fallen mare. She stays in place, letting the end sink in. To never see Alex’s smile again pained her. What did she do that makes it so awful? The secrets are still being kept from her, but she herself has been holding back on the truth as well. If she was honest from the start, maybe things wouldn’t turn out this way. All Celestia could think about was what she could have done. The injury she received was minor compared to how much her heart hurts. She simply laid on the ground, waiting for something to happen. Perhaps she could go back and forget about everything…
But she still wanted to be with him.
She chuckles at herself, crying at her greatest defeat. “I truly am a hopeless mare… I can’t seem to do anything right…”
Just as she said that, she looks up and sees Alex. He comes to her level and picks her up. The two make their way to the truck and head back home. The two find their other beaten and bruised in punishment for something. The heavy weights they had just let go of showed a new person. It was time to tell the truth, and nothing but the truth. The lies end here, and the heartache must be healed.
The next day after treating wounds and having a long rest, the two stay in their rooms a bit longer. Celestia is still in her room thinking about what she should do. How she should confront Alex and explain herself. Alex is no different, and he too is wondering what he should say. Stuck in a paradox of concern and insecurity, it is broken by the ringing of the doorbell. Alex gets himself out of his room, and Celestia follows behind by ten steps. Alex opens the door to see Charles and Julie over.
“Hello Alex.” Charles greeted.
“Hi Charles.” Alex replied as he rubbed his cheek. “You should work on that hook.”
His intelligent friend had on an annoyed grin, trying to calm himself in order to ask the more important question. “So you recovered enough to make fun of my physique. Nice. Now did you and Celestia talk yet?”
Alex looked away for the moment. “I was about to…”
“Can we come in?” Julie asked.
“Sure. This will help clear things faster.” Alex stated.
After letting the two enter, Julie sees Celestia and her somber expression. She looked as if she was ashamed of herself for lying so much ever since she arrived. Julie however goes to her and gives her an ensuring embrace. Celestia was surprised by this, and quickly returned the warm gesture. Alex went in the kitchen and prepared some hot chocolate. With the weather being strangely chilly lately, a warm drink was in order. He passes it around, and everyone gets a sip of the sweet drink in their system.
The time has come, and Alex gives a long sigh before telling everyone the story he had hidden for so long. Celestia pays close attention as it begins.
“So… Let me explain everything Celestia.” Alex spoke.
“What is there to explain?” Celestia wondered.
“I… Have been keeping a secret…” He told her, shocking the white mare. “Not just you either. Everyone, from my friends to my family.”
“I got the brief summary of it.” Charles stated. “I told everyone else too. They were shocked to find out, but it calmed them down a little from the whole… incident.”
“This time, I’ll put in the details.” Alex declared. “For the sister of Nightmare Moon.”
Celestia gulped, wondering what she was about to hear. Alex looked down and started his tale.
“About three years ago, another pony came down. It was a normal situation for me and Rochelle. Of course, what surprised us was she composed of the wings of a pegasus and the horn of a unicorn. She was majestic, letting her mane flow as if the wind was always with her.”
He looks to Celestia and says, “Maybe your mane should have tipped me off, but I met so many ponies with different capabilities, I was never able to jump to conclusions like my other friends.”
“Hey.” Julie and Charles grumbled.
Getting back to the story, Alex continues. “When we met her, she was… somewhat aggressive. She casted magic at an alarming rate, and totally shielded herself. Well, that’s what she tried to do, but apparently, she was having a headache at the time. So she kinda messed up and dropped to the floor. I have a feeling that however the way she came here, she took more energy to leave her moon prison in order to reach to our world.”
“That should be impossible…” Celestia thought.
“It was definitely possible, because I met her on one of the days of her imprisonment.” Alex pointed out. “But the magic conflict of bringing her here and the magic keeping her in the moon drained her. So I took her in and treated her. Rochelle of course did the same. From that point on, we took the time to know each other. She learned of who we are, what we do, and why we do it. We learned of her time in Equestria, and her adventures with her sister, whom she never told me the name of.”
“I never heard of these adventures from Nightmare.” Charles said.
“That’s because none of you really enjoyed her company.” Alex sighed. “I could tell you all feared her. She felt saddened because it reminded her of her ponies and how they ignored her. The corruption was able to grow because of that, but Rochelle and I stood by her. We listened, we talked, and we bonded. Eventually, Nightmare Moon changed a bit more. She was happier around the house, and she even started to have feelings for… well, me.”
Celestia’s face scrunched up upon hearing this. She was taken back by this fact, hearing of her sister and her crush being together. Julie noticed the change in expression but said nothing.
“Nightmare was starting to grow on all of us. One day though, it was so obvious how Nightmare loved me. She loved me so much, she at times, ignored Rochelle. Passing the sadness of being left out, Nightmare Moon’s corruption spread onto Rochelle, and she became hostile.”
Celestia raised an eyebrow as she asked, “What do you mean by… hostile?”
“She attacked me.” Alex answered. “And aimed for my death. It wasn’t her fault though, and I knew she wouldn’t do this. I kept hesitating to defend myself, and found myself running until I hit a corner. If it wasn’t for Nightmare Moon stopping Rochelle, I’d be dead.”
“Nightmare… saved you…?” Celestia muttered.
“She saved me, but she couldn’t take hold of the situation. She didn’t realize what she did until she saw Rochelle dying before us. She was so caught up in protecting me that she let her feelings take over and… well, go off like that.”
“After that, we came at the worst of times and assumed the worst.” Charles continued off.
“We came to say our farewells, because we knew Nightmare was going to leave soon.” Julie added. “But after seeing that, we didn’t even say goodbye.”
“What happened?” Celestia questioned.
“Aurabelle happened to be there.” Alex replied. “She went in and attacked Nightmare. Nightmare being caught off guard, quickly used her magic on Aurabelle. It was too much for me at the moment, and I managed to get everyone to leave except for Aurabelle and Nightmare.”
“Who is this Aurabelle that we met anyways?” Celestia wondered. “She was more than willing to protect you as much as Nightmare even.”
“My other sister.” Alex said as he slouched on the couch.
Celestia’s mouth dropped as Charles pinches his face for a bit. “Aurabelle is… Well, a very important person in the business. She’s connected to so many things, we get free cable, electricity, and water. She also happens to be very scary, especially after confronting Nightmare with a fighting fist.”
“How was Aurabelle able to receive magic?” Celestia asked, getting even more interested in this girl.
“After Aurabelle was shot by Nightmare Moon, some of her magic rubbed off into Aurabelle. What Aurabelle is using was a magic that belonged to Nightmare.” Charles informed her.
“That explains why it felt so familiar…” Celestia thought.
“And that’s my story.” Alex sighed, exhausted from telling this dreadful story once more. “Aurabelle of course knew all this after she gained her new magic.”
“This is…” Celestia mumbles, unsure of what to say. She falls to her couch some more as she holds her forehead. “I need to take a moment.”
“Take your time.” Charles replied. “Don’t forget, it’s your turn to tell your story about your sister, and what happened after she returned to Equestria from her imprisonment from the moon.”
“Very well.” Celestia nods. “Like you Alex, I have spent my many years with my sister, I call Luna. When the fateful day came when she was corrupted by her feelings, the dark side of her took over and she became Nightmare Moon. I couldn’t bring myself to hurt Luna, but I couldn’t let her roam as she was. With much difficulty, I did what I had to do. To seal her in the moon for a thousand years.”
Alex grips his hands hearing this, but lets her continue.
“I know, it was cruel to do such a thing.” Celestia admitted. “I didn’t want to, but I had no idea what to do in the heat of the moment. The Elements, powerful artifacts of harmony, were in my grasp. They had the ability to destroy darkness. I feared however… That the darkness that Luna held would counter the elements if it came from me. If that were to happen, then she too might have ended up like Rochelle…”
His eyes widen and he releases his tightened hands. He goes closer and awaits to hear more.
“The Elements were powerful. So much in fact, controlling them alone was difficult. It wasn’t as if I could freely select what I could do with them. Usually, I wielded them with my sister, and we would be able to select however way we used their power. In this situation, I knew the only power that could stop Nightmare without killing her was to simply imprison her. The Elements would take it too far though, and thus, she was taken to the moon for a thousand years. If I had a choice, I would have simply cured her of her conflict, or perhaps even agree and let her rule for the century. Each and every day I wonder what I could have done. Years pass, and I knew I could only do one thing. I prepared for her return, to help the community of my lands to be harmonious and giving. So that the day Nightmare Moon returns, I’ll be ready to cure her of her corruption and show Luna the lands I built for her as my apology.”
Celestia turns to Alex and sees his eyes still staring off into space. His hands go together and he asks the next question. “S-So… What happened to Nightmare?”
“In the end, my student and her friends saved her. She was no longer Nightmare Moon, and she returned as who she once was. Luna, my beloved sister.”
Alex’s eyes started to tear up. He rubbed his face as he smiled in great joy. “She’s alive! Nightmare… no… Luna’s alive!”
“She is…” Celestia assured him. “I’d never be able to harm my sister.”
Alex looked to her and apologized. “I’m sorry for doubting you Celestia… You must be pretty angry at me too.”
Celestia brings her hoof to his shoulder and says, “Nonsense. You cared for me even when I doubted you back then. And I still care for you even if you hide the truth from me.”
Alex brings his head close to Celestia’s chest. The calmed Alex says to the white mare, “Let’s not hide the truth anymore Celestia… In the end, it just creates more problems… And I had enough dealing with them…”
Celestia wraps her hoof around him and holds him tight. “Agreed.” She responded.
“So, this is the device?” Celestia inquired.
“It’s… A lot of wires banded together.” Alex remarked.
“It was very difficult to build with a low budget.” Charles sneered back.
“But it looks like it’ll totally work!” Julie thought cheerfully.
The device before them was revealed. Just as in the blueprints, it had all of the equipment that was fore told from the tavern. While it was clunky and big, it was everything they needed. The four smile widely at the future for its new possibilities.
“It looks like we have everything we need.” Alex says with sureness.
“Seems that way.” Charles nods in agreement as he walks to the door. “Well, it’s time for me and Julie to head out.”
“Is it late already?” Celestia spoke in surprise.
“Apparently so.” Julie groaned. “I wanted to stay over a bit longer.”
“We can’t bother them Julie.” Charles told her. “They need to have some time to relax after what’s happened so far.”
“I guess so.”
“Well, bye then.” Alex said with a wave. “And thanks for everything.”
“No problem.” Charles waved back as well.
Celestia took another look at the machine in the room. She is now filled with anticipation for what’s to happen next. Her wings fly up at the thought to never be separated from this world. To never be separated from her friends. To always be with Alex as she wishes. Closing her eyes, she envisions herself with Alex as they were. Her dreams may just come true.
“A-Aurabelle… What did you do…?” Charles questioned her.
“You can’t have this anymore.” She hissed. “After today, we are done with these horses.”
She drops the shreds of paper on the ground, and burns them with her magic. Charles reaches out for them, but is pulled back by Julie to prevent foolish actions.
“NO! The blueprints!” He shouted.
“Starting today, the only we even speak of ponies is in Pony Plaza. As for the real deal, they’re gone for good.” She tells him as she walks away.
Charles grits his teeth and stands up tall. He then yells, “What’s wrong with you!? You can’t just break into my house and destroy my work!”
“You don’t scare me.” She says with dark eyes. “I have the power of many things Charles. Money, law, magic. If I want something gone, then it’s gone.”
Julie stepped back, spine tingling in fear from the presence of Aurabelle and her ambition. “What’s happened to you…?”
“Don’t fret you two.” She tells them. “I will only rid of the ponies. They will no longer be tended once I’m done. That is my only intention.”
The room around Charles and Julie starts to go colder and colder. The floors crack as ice fills in, and the cold winds flush inside. Snow piles up high, and icicles start to hang above them. Aurabelle’s eyes turn to an icy white trance as she raises her hand up high.
As the day starts up, the return of the jovial morning ritual commences. Alex is up early to see that outside is still the cloudy mess as it were before. The mysterious weather takes the land with its stubborn chill. Celestia too takes notice as she walks downstairs to see Alex cooking.
“Bit of a cold morning, isn’t it?” Celestia quoted.
Alex nodded in agreement. “Sure is. Looks like we’ll be staying in for today.”
Alex brings out some spinach ravioli. Inside this delicacy are several cheeses, melted together to perfection. It includes a sprinkling of spices to dazzle the top like snow. Celestia is once again impressed by his culinary arts as she is about to stick her fork into the food. One chew later, she finds the next bite into a mouthful, not having enough the first time. Alex chuckles some at the sight.
“Celestia, there’s plenty more, so please don’t choke yourself like this.”
“But it’s so good.” Celestia spat with some spinach sprayed onto his face. He rubs the green off and smirks.
“And don’t talk with your mouthful!”
Celestia blushes in embarrassment, still having a good time like before. This ends however as a loud knock comes to the door. The heavy hitting makes Alex rush to the door as quickly as possible. Opening it, he finds Brin and Harold waiting outside with expressions of worry.
“What’s wrong?” Alex asked.
“We tried calling Charles and Julie today.” Brin explained. “But no one picked up.”
“We were hoping if you knew what happened.” Harold added.
“No, I don’t.” Alex answered, making the situation worsen.
“We should keep heading over to their house then.” Harold told Brin.
“I don’t want to go too far…” Brin stated slowly. “I have a bad feeling about this. The weather isn’t normal, and everything’s starting to freeze. Even your house is getting cold Alex.”
Alex stopped to check the temperature. He finds his fingers becoming colder by the moment. “I see what you mean Brinnet. Something’s off.”
“Sorry if I’m a bit too scared to go out any further, but I just want to make sure Pony Plaza is alright too. Charles lives kinda far if you recall.” She reasoned.
“I’ll head out alone I guess.” Harold sighed, only to be denied by Alex’s hand to his shoulder.
“I’ll come with you.” Alex offered. “I’m kinda worried if they don’t pick up the phone.”
“Let’s hurry then.” Harold tells him. “The sooner, the better.”
Celestia trots over to see the three discussing about something important. “What’s the matter?”
“Charles and Julie aren’t picking up their phone.” Alex informed her. “Me and Harold are going to check it out.”
“In this weather!?” Celestia questioned. “It’s far too dangerous to head out in this cold.”
“Which is why you should stick around here.” Alex mentions. “I can’t risk you getting a flu.”
“I don’t want you to get one either.” She lectures.
“I’ll be back. I promise.” Alex vowed.
The two left for the car, and drove off to see their friend. Celestia lets Brin inside and shuts the door, unaware of the person watching from afar.
“It’s time to leave the hospitality of my family, Celestia.”
Hours pass in the car. Harold and Alex converse a bit as the chilly wind attempts to leech inside the warm car. Brushing on through the snow free road, the two hope that their companions are alright.
“So, I heard everything.” Harold tells Alex.
“Everything huh?” Alex responded, raising an eyebrow.
“That you lied to us.”
“Mmm…”
“And Celestia lied to us.”
“Yep.”
“And that you two are big liars.”
“That about sums it up.” Alex admits.
The cars stops at the house of Charles and Julie. What was once a nice, quaint home, was now a frozen wasteland. The roof was covered in ice and snow with icicles hanging from the edges. Snow piles everywhere, covering their car, their windows, and their door. The second story seems to be the only way in, seeing how the snow towered over the place made the usual entrance impossible to access without digging through. Climbing up the snow and to the windows, the two attempted to reach for the windows.
Alex jumped up, but can only touch the ledge just barely. “It’s still too high up.”
“Here, I’ll give you a boost.” Harold suggested.
Doing so, Alex manages to go in and find the room covered in frost. The unnatural chill slithers from room to room. Alex rubs his arms to keep warm as he searches for Charles and Julie.
“Guys!? You here!?” He shouts. “Come on out!”
“Alex?” a voice mutters. “Alex, is that you?”
“Charles!?” Alex calls out. “Where are you!?”
The door near Alex shakes, but doesn’t budge. Checking the door, Charles explains the situation.
“Julie and I are stuck in here!” The voice calls from the door. “It’s frozen shut!”
“Stand back!” Alex warns them. “I’ll kick it down!”
Getting ready to kick it, Alex takes a few steps back. He waits for a moment before jumping at the door, kicking it down with all his might. The hinges break, and the two are holding each other, looking as if they were getting the cold end of the winter.
“What happened here!?” Alex questioned.
“Aurabelle… she…” Julie mutters.
“She locked us in here.” Charles answered, shocking Alex. “She broke in, destroyed my blueprints, and kept us trapped so we couldn’t tell you.”
“W-Why would she do that…!?” Alex wondered.
“Celestia.” Charles said, sternly. “She’s out to get her.”
“Celestia…?”
“She’s in danger!” Charles yelled. “We have to go! NOW!”
Brin and Celestia sit down for tea, doing their best to keep calm of this bizarre event. The room’s temp has been in a standstill, even with the thermostat being set high up. Once in a while, a breath could be seen from the small mist it creates. Celestia and Brin discussed matters to take their mind off of the cold.
“So, Celestia…” Brin spoke. “About… the other day…”
“You have heard of the truth, I’m guessing?” Celestia responded.
Brin nods, looking down to her hands. “It was shocking. Rochelle was the one trying to kill Alex… I don’t even know what to say to all of that…”
“It’s frightening…” Celestia says with a sigh, recalling of her past. “When your beloved sister goes too far, it complicates everything…”
Brin turns away, watching the snow fall. Holding her shoulders, she apologizes. “I’m sorry… for how we all reacted. I guess no matter how much we’re used to ponies, we’re still a bit edgy from them.”
Suddenly, the ground shook, knocking the books off the shelves and plates out the cupboards. Brin and Celestia held on to whatever they can to stay safe from what wreckage may come upon them. The ceiling starts to crack and crumble. Celestia quickly brought Brin close to her and created a magic bubble to barricade themselves in. When the shaking stops, Celestia lowers the barrier and checks on her friend.
“Are you alright?” She asked in concern.
“I’m fine.” Brin assured her.
The two checked around to see a mess of broken plates and fallen books. The two looked around and soon saw Aurabelle. In such shock and confusion, they stood silent, unsure of what to make of this.
“What… Aurabelle, what is this?” Brin questioned.
The icy stare of the woman before them caused chills to their spines. She smiled and replied, “Just taking care of some business.”
In a snap, she destroys the machine next to her, causing Celestia’s eyes to shrink as she shouted in terror.
“NO!”
The machine was turned to crumbled metal, strings of wire, and bits of bolts. The machine to ensure the bridge between worlds was gone. Celestia slowly turned to Aurabelle as she raised her hand to her.
“You will no longer bother my family.” She told her. “We don’t need another pony to ruin our lives. My sister is dead because of yours, and Alex is in pain because of what you had brought with you from your world. Your sins… your past… Yourself…”
“Aurabelle… Please…” Brin begged. “Just listen to Celestia…”
“I will not hear another word from this liar…” Aurabelle stated. “It’s time for you to leave this house.”
“I can’t leave…” Celestia told her.
“And why is that?” Aurabelle questioned.
Looking back to the first day when she was brought in, the memory of her meeting Alex begins with his calm smile. The two talked as strangers and equals, making a deal that would continue until the way back came.
"You're going to have to do a lot more than speak words of righteousness" Celestia states.
"Alright, then how about bribery? I can cook, do medicine, and other skills to help you have a good time until you go back home. This is an example." Alex offered a plate of pancakes to the white mare.
She takes the plate and takes a bite of it as she asked, "The catch is…?"
"You stay here. My world would kinda go into a panic if they saw a pony like you. Unlike me, they won’t let you off easy. I might need some help with other things as well, but in the meantime, just keep my human race sane, okay?"
The simple promise she made was enough to keep her here. Just being with him until the portal opens, she decides to hold on to her vow.
“I promised Alex I would stay here until the portal opens.” She tells Aurabelle. “I’m afraid this is the only place I can go for the time being.”
Aurabelle’s hand shines and the ground turns to ice. Her eyes glow, and a tower of glaciers was made right beneath them, taking the two to the skies. Aurabelle and Celestia were no alone in the clouds as the snow hummed a suspenseful tune. “Allow me to make you reconsider.”
Alex and the others are in the car, driving as fast as they could. Harold tried his best, but with the roads now too slippery, he drove at a safer pace. Alex didn’t like this however, and complained.
“We need to get there faster!” Alex reminded him.
“I’m not gonna risk our lives in this weather Alex!” Harold shouted. “I’m sorry, but we’re just gonna have to hope that they’re okay.”
“We’re almost there Alex.” Charles informed him. “Try and take it easy.”
“Aurabelle is about to hurt Celestia…” He stated. “How am I supposed to take it easy?”
“We’re all worried.” Julie stated.
“Yeah Alex, you’re not the only one.” Harold lectured.
Alex crossed his arms and groaned. “It’s different for me.”
“How come?” Charles asked.
“Aurabelle is acting like Rochelle…”
The silence struck the others, now seeing Alex’s feelings in a true light. The past is repeating, and he is taking another front row seat to see the horror. Alex is scared to see what is to come next. Understanding how he feels, Harold goes faster to reach the house.
When they arrive, they see the roof of his house in shambles, as an icy tower looms from the building. Everyone else was horrified, confused, and still. The coldness of the snow can’t even get them to shiver at what they saw. Running inside, they find Brinnet on the floor, breathing slowly. Harold brought her up and asked, “What happened here?”
“A-Aurabelle came…” She muttered. “And broke the thing Celestia was going to use for the portal. Then she took Celestia with this ice. They’re all the way up there.”
Everyone looked up and saw the structure stand tall above them all. In their greatest despair and obvious defeat, Alex’s friends sit down.
“We’re too late…” Charles sighed. “She took Celestia… broke the device…”
“It’s a bad day…” Julie whimpered.
“… Perhaps we should have a final drink for Celestia…” Herold said in great solemn.
Alex’s hands were shaking. He watched as his friends trembled before Aurabelle and her might. Knowing Celestia’s life was at stake, he rushed to what remains of his room. Opening the closet, he extracts the tools he needs. As much as he wants to keep them intact, they were worth giving up if it meant Celestia could be saved. Grabbing Maud’s Pickaxe, Applejack’s rope, Daring Do’s survival bag, and Spitfire’s goggles; he heads out to the icy tower and starts his climb. Using the pickaxe to hold onto the slippery surface, he does his best to make it up there as quickly as possible. His friends watch as Alex fights the deadly odds for Celestia. The snow shoves him, the winds push him, but he brushes on. His friends cheer for him as he makes it up the mountain with his newfound strength.
Did it take him hours? Apparently, it took him just one before he almost reached the top. The pickaxes begins to crack, but Alex knew what to do. Reaching into his survival kit, he throws a grappling hook, just making it reach the edge barely. It wasn’t long before it finally broke, and Alex sheds a small tear as his memory of Maud shatters away. He climbs the rope and makes it to the top. Packing up the grappling hook, he looks forward, and sees Celestia standing still. Her hooves were frozen in place, and Aurabelle continued to throw her demands.
“What will it take you to leave?!” She shouted.
“My promise is to remain here until the portal opens.” She states once more. “And I shall continue to do so until then.”
“Your arrogance… your persistence… is annoying.” Aurabelle growled. “It will be the death of you.”
“I won’t fight…” Celestia stated. “I’m not going to repeat the mistake I did with Luna… I rather brave against what you have at me than to make it all happen again…”
“Very well then.” Aurabelle sneered.
Aurabelle shoots a freezing beam towards Celestia. But before the beam could hit, Alex uses the survival bag to block the beam, but in turn, the bag was frozen solid. It then slipped from his hands and shattered onto the frozen floor, and the memoir of Daring Do now too disappears forever. As saddening as it may be, Alex kept focus on his mission. He stood between Aurabelle and Celestia, shocking them both.
“Alex…!” Celestia called out.
“Stop it! Stop it right now!” Alex cried out.
Aurabelle stepped back a bit in shock, but kept her composure and said, “Alex… Step aside. This doesn’t concern you.”
“That’s a lie!” He retaliated. “Why are you trying to keep ponies away from me? Why Aurabelle?!”
“They waste your time with such drivel.” She pointed out. “They take up space, badgering you for things, taking what belongs to you away! Especially our sister!”
“Don’t do this Aurabelle!” Celestia begged.
“Don’t bring Rochelle into this.” Alex plead, yet still standing his ground.
“Do I have to remind you again? About how ponies took away one of our own?” Aurabelle questioned. “That pony, or even the next one will do it. They will take without remorse. And they will do it until you have nothing left. You’ll go through losing somebody like Rochelle over and over again.”
“… You’re right…” Alex admitted. “I will lose someone again and again… like Rochelle…”
Aurabelle grinned as Celestia lowered her head. Alex stomps the floor and continues. “Only this time… You’re the one taking them away from me!”
Aurabelle stepped back in shock as Alex shouted, “You’re taking away the ponies just because of Nightmare! But you forget what I want! What Rochelle wanted! You’re… You’re the one hurting me Aurabelle… And I don’t like it one bit.”
The mastermind stood still as Alex began to cry in front of her. Celestia watched as the feud has struck her beloved’s heart in deep. She doesn’t know what to do. She’s too afraid to harm anyone, so she waits. Aurabelle was in conflict and began to ponder at her options. But all she finds are ways to hurt Alex. Feeling trapped, she closes her eyes and strikes, not knowing what she is doing. A spear of ice sparks left and right until it reaches for Celestia. Alex attempts to block the spear, but is luckily saved by Celestia and her magic. Making a shield, she deflects it and lets it hit the floor, causing a crack to form.
Aurabelle placed her hands onto her mouth, shocked at her actions.
“I… I… almost killed…!”
“That’s the same look…” Alex muttered. “As Rochelle when she realized what she did… It still hurts to remember too…”
“I… I’m so sorry… this… I didn’t mean to…”
Suddenly, the tower starts to shatter as Aurabelle’s spell starts to falter. Celestia, being trapped with her hooves stuck in the ice, falls down. Alex quickly tries to grab hold, but found that he couldn’t hold onto her. Deciding to tie the rope to her, he does it as quickly as possible, managing multiple loops to hold her. He starts pulling, but she falls. Celestia hangs onto the rope while ice is still stuck on her hooves. Alex grits his teeth as he tried to keep her from falling.
“Celestia! Try to fly! Or use your magic!” He told her.
“I’m sorry… the cold… and her spells… I can only manage shields and some levitation… but I’m afraid that I don’t have enough to teleport… As for my wings, she has frozen them as well.”
“Just try anything! You can make it!” Alex cried out.
“You can let go Alex.” Celestia assured him. “I’m sure I’ll survive… and if I don’t… please tell Aurabelle, I hold no grudges…”
The ice beneath Alex’s feet start to crack, but he holds on. He finds a formation of ice that would keep him from slipping off the surface while giving him the strength to keep holding Celestia. The ice continues to break, but he holds on.
“Alex, let go.” Celestia demanded. “You are going to fall!”
“Then you have to be safe!” Alex snapped back. “Either you go to safety, or we die together!”
“Alex!” She scolded. “LET… GO…”
Alex’s tears shed as he declines once more. “I’m not gonna… I’m not gonna… I’m not going to lose you too Celestia… If I lost you… then I think I’d give up on everything after this…”
Silence takes place, and the two find impending doom now definite. They are ready to accept their fate. Celestia closes her eyes and tries to use her magic. Sadly, it is drained. The most she can do is cut the rope, but that will lead to consequences she cannot allow. Alex will give up to an extent, where he will never smile again. She can’t have sadness take over his life. There has to be a way, but it is not in her hooves to decide fate.
It is up to Aurabelle, who stands behind Alex. Even though he knows Aurabelle is there, he ignores her. She continues to watch the two struggle, still feeling insecure about everything. Once she moves her hand up, something happens.
Celestia is now lighter. Almost as if she was being carried. Alex was too, carried by the force conducted by Aurabelle. The ice tower begins to melt, and the snowing stops. The clouds begin to disappear, and they all land safely to what remains of the house. The group watches as the tired Alex rests on the sleeping Celestia. Everyone quickly does what they can to nurse the two back to health, all while Aurabelle sat on the couch, holding her head in regret and remorse.
The most uncomfortable morning begins. Celestia awakens from the recently defrosted house of Charles and Julie. She stretches and feels the aches from her wings and head, as they too were given freedom from the wintery embrace. She sluggishly rises from her bed, nearly hitting the dresser if it weren’t for her boggled vision. Going through the door, she is greeted by a tired Julie, rubbing her eye as she waits for the bathroom.
“Who’s in there?” She grumbles.
“My brother wakes up really early, so he usually gets first dibs.” Julie yawned.
“Do you not have any other restrooms?” Celestia asked.
“The pipes to the one downstairs are still kinda frozen.” Julie replied.
The two groan at this one moment, waiting by the bathroom. Meanwhile, Alex was downstairs cooking breakfast. The good old scrambled eggs felt like this was enough to bring everyone back to their spirits. Finished with frying the eggs and preparing the toast, he waits patiently for the others. This gave him enough time to answer a knock to the door.
He walks over and answers the door. Opening it, he finds his sister, Aurabelle. Her head was lowered, never making eye contact, too ashamed for what she had recently done. Alex doesn’t sound lively either, but still invites her inside. She refuses sadly.
“Are you sure?” Alex questioned. “I made breakfast. Sunny side up.”
“Alex… I know you have the power to forgive others… Much better than anyone else.” Aurabelle stated. “You can pretty much be friends with anyone if you try hard enough… but as for me… I’m not feeling too well to even be called your sister…”
“Aurabelle.”
“I went crazy back there Alex. I don’t even know why I did all of that.” She stated. “But that’s not an excuse. What grew into anger and frustration… My jealousy of how much you spend time taking care of others, but never spending time with me. I’ve been working in the corporate businesses for most of my time. The things I do… The pain I carried… And perhaps even this magic… I went insane. The worst part is no one in this world can help me. If I were to be thrown in the asylum, I’ll destroy the building. I’m a variable of chaos and destruction, and I’m too scared what I’ll become…”
“Aurabelle, snap out of it.” Alex told her with a stern voice. “You’re not gonna go crazy like that. You’ll be fine as long as you take time to listen to others instead of bottling up your feelings.”
“I’m too afraid Alex… And knowing you’re here, I might kill you too…” She stated grimly. “Which is why… I was wondering if you could do me one last favor.”
Alex starts to sweat a bit and asks, “What exactly?”
“Please go to Equestria with Celestia.” She begged. “If you’re not in this world, you’ll be safe from me. I won’t have to worry about what happens to you to say the least. And… And… you can be happy! All of your friends are there… And Celestia… I know Celestia will take care of you…”
“I’ll… I’ll think about it.”
“Please decide quickly.” Aurabelle warns him. “I was at your house, and felt the energy… The portal is opening today…”
Silence between the two flood in, and Alex simply stares into space. Not sure how to react, now finally saying goodbye to Celestia. Knowing this information, he should resume to the same old ritual of saying goodbye. But for some reason, the thought of it curled his stomach as if it would be too painful to do so. Why was this hurting him? Why does saying goodbye to Celestia hurt more than saying goodbye to the others? The other pony, while painful to say farewell, still felt good knowing they’re going home. But for Celestia? It was different. He felt extremely insecure, and didn’t know what to say.
“You should get ready to take her back to… what remains of your house.” She tells him.
After she left, Alex turns around to see Charles seeing everything that happened. A quiet moment takes place before a chuckle from Charles.
“Heh… well, you were more of a pony person anyways.” He joked with half a smile.
“Charles… When I think of doing the same thing with Celestia… saying goodbye…” Alex informs him. “I… It hurts… why?”
“Are you really that dense?” He scoffs. “You’re starting to fall for her, Alex.”
“Huh…” Alex muttered. “I guess that could be it…”
“So, are you going to go with her?” Charles asked. “It might be for the best seeing how your house is destroyed, and uh… you’re sort of homeless.”
“Wait, so me staying here is temporary?” Alex said, raising an eyebrow. “Like, what, two days?”
“U-Until you either fixed your house or moved out.” He claimed. “I can’t afford for three people in one house.”
“You forsaken cheapskate.” Alex sneers.
Celestia and Julie came down sometime and got to the table. Alex and Charles joined them and together, they ate their breakfast. As delighted as Celestia was, she was still unaware that this is the last breakfast she will have on earth. Still, the bliss of ignorance allowed her to continue her jovial expression with the childish Julie. The two made faces at Charles with eggs still in their mouths, disturbing the poor man. Alex laughed at his fate, still enjoying this finale.
The four drove back to Alex’s house. Originally, the reason to go there was to pick out from the wreckage of the incident. But Charles and Alex found a new reason, and now are feeling the pressure of it all.
This is it. The last moments. Every time a pony leaves, it’d be a farewell of smiles and tears. This time, everyone might as well be crying. Alex doesn’t even know if he has the chance to tell Brinnet or Harold. He doesn’t want to just disappear without a trace.
As they arrive, Harold was outside, wearing what seemed to be… a suit. His face is scrunched up as if he was extremely annoyed. A smile plasters his face the best he could muster as he walks to the car.
“Alex, Celestia. Please come with me.”
Alex stared at Harold, with mouth agape and widened eyes. Unsure what was going on, he complies along with Celestia. She too is unsure what is going on. Harold guides the two to the backyard of the house, leaving Charles and Julie to park the car.
When upon the backyard, the two gasp at the sight. Flowers bloom everywhere around the yard. A small stream of water courses around the stone, and the table is placed near. Harold seats the two at their table and hands out a menu.
“What… would you like?” He chokes out.
“Uh… Some reality?” Alex asked.
“I’m afraid we are FRESH OUT.” He grumbles. “Might I suggest… pasta?”
“That sounds nice.” Celestia nods.
“I guess…. Two orders?” Alex replied. “And… maybe some wine?”
“Right away then.” Harold sighs. As he walks to the house, he grumbles, “I’m gonna kill Brinnet after this, I swear.”
The two look at each other and held in their laughter the best they could. Their snickering can be seen from what remains of Alex’s kitchen, where Brinnet, Julie, Charles, Aurabelle, and Harold are watching.
“They seem to be having a good time.” Brin spoke.
“Yeah, laughing at ME!” Harold complained. “Why do I have to be the dang waiter?”
“You fit the part.” Brin replied.
Charles crossed his arms and watched his friend spend time with the mare. As sad as it may be, it was time to accept and say farewell to the both of them. He smiles as they enjoyed each other’s company, knowing that they’ll make each other happy.
“So… you planned all of this?” Julie asked.
Aurabelle nods slowly, looking to the couple. “It’s… the best apology I can manage with my magic and in such short time.”
“Are you really okay with this?” Brin asked.
“His happiness is important. And his safety can be ensured if Celestia is with him.” Aurabelle stated. “Celestia will do what she can to make him happy.”
Brin places the plates of spaghetti and glasses of wine on the platter, handing it to Harold.
“Here. Go and give this to them.” She orders.
“Brin, I will see to it that you pay me back by being a waitress at my bar!” He threatens.
“That… doesn’t really scare me.” She scoffs.
Harold grumbles and regains his etiquette as a waiter, going outside to serve the two once more. He places the food and drink on their table and bows before leaving. Celestia and Alex giggles a bit before resuming their meal.
“This is quite a surprise.” Celestia says, blushing. “It’s almost as if they were planning a date for us!”
“Heh, looks like it.” Alex chuckles some.
“And did you see the flowers? And the river stream?” Celestia asked. “It’s all so wonderful. Aurabelle can really use her magic quite well.”
Alex pauses and looks up to Celestia. “Aurabelle?”
“I can sense her magic residue all over this place. She recently placed the table using levitation, and she grew the flowers using a spell. Same for the water too.”
“She planned all of this?” Alex says in surprise. “Wow… Who’d a think it?”
“It is very surprising!” Celestia stated. “But why would she do all of this today and so suddenly? Why would she-”
Celestia stops and turns to the stone. She stares at it for a moment, and senses a powerful force within. It is not present at the moment, but it is about to emerge. She then understands everything, and what is happening. Piecing everything together, she gives a small smile to Alex, who seems to have some trouble coping with this as well.
“Oh… I… I see…” She mumbles. “This is quite awkward… It seems we are all now aware of… what is going to happen.”
“It would seem like it.” He sighs.
Celestia turns to the people inside the house and says, “Please come out… If this is going to be the last time I’ll see you, I’d like to say farewell properly.”
Moments pass and the quiet crickets pass by. The door creaks open, and Julie runs out hugging Celestia in tears. Charles, Brin, Harold, and Aurabelle walk out as well. Julie still holds Celestia close a bit longer before letting go.
“I’m gonna miss you…” She told her.
“We’re all gonna miss you.” Charles said with watery eyes almost streaming.
The white mare slowly turns to Alex, unsure of what to say. She has the moment to seize it, but she trembles as she gets the words to leave her mouth. Alex waits patiently for her, as she continues to try her best.
“Alex… I… was wondering…”
“… Yes…?” Alex spoke.
“If… we’ll meet again someday?”
Harold and Brin started hitting the wall with their fists, cursing about something. Aurabelle shakes her head at the display while Charles pinches his face from this dilemma. Alex gives a smile and said, “I really, really hope so.”
“Oh man, these two are hopeless.” Julie whispered.
Aurabelle walked up and said, “You will be spending your times together from this point forward.”
Celestia jumps hearing this. Aurabelle’s serious expression takes over as she crosses her arms. Even though she looks mildly threatening, she has a glimmer of care in her eyes. Celestia is still confused about all of this.
“What do you mean?” Celestia questioned.
“I can no longer guarantee safety or happiness for Alex.” She grimaces. “I seem to cause only pain… It’d be best if he leaves with you, and finds joy there.”
“Aurabelle…” Celestia mutters.
Just as that was said, the portal finally opens. The view of it shows the throne of Canterlot, and the seat awaits Celestia to claim it. Celestia turns to her friends and then to Alex as they are all frozen in the climax.
She walks to Alex and finally asks the question.
“Alex… Can you come with me to Equestria?”
A heart beats, and everyone turns to Alex. Another beats, and Alex lowers his head to decide. The final beat, he looks up with a smile.
“Celestia… I’d love to…”
Everyone smiles widely, and tears start to drop. But another part continues.
“But I can’t…”
And the heart breaks. He quickly embraces Celestia and continues to speak.
“While I can escape to another world, and probably have an even better life, I can’t imagine the pain I will leave on everyone. Especially Aurabelle. She’s too tied to the world to come with me, but she doesn’t have the strength to go on her own without me.”
Alex keeps holding her close and continues. “You and I have failed our sisters once before. This is my chance of redemption, of healing, and of helping her. If I go with you, Aurabelle will be lost. It’d be as bad as you losing Luna…”
Celestia stays still, and nods in understanding. She lays her head onto him and the two give their final embrace. Aurabelle clenches her hand and says, “Alex… I always try to take care of you, but in the end, you’re always the one who… who…”
“I’m a natural Care Taker.” He replied. “So, I can’t leave someone who needs me. Especially if it’s my family.”
Aurabelle bites her lip and yells, “Just go with her! Just leave… I don’t want to take away your happiness anymore… Please…!”
She trembles to the ground as the others watch this heart breaking moment. Alex and Celestia walk to the portal. She turns to him and smiles.
“Oh… and one more thing before we say goodbye.” Alex said, leaning in for a kiss. Celestia’s eyes widens, but she takes it all in. The warmth of his lips, and the passion within is shared. Once it ended, Celestia struggle a bit more to leave, but manages. Alex too struggles to watch her leave, but accepts it.
At the dead of night, the throne room is quiet. The guards are still a bit tired of watching the place, but still stand tall with might like a shield. As they stand guard, a sudden noise shakes the place, awakening and alerting all. The guards rush in to the source of the noise. The throne room to be exact. Luna teleported to the scene of the crime, and they all ready themselves.
“Show yourself!” Luna shouted.
Fumes go on and about, but the mist clears quickly and reveal a white mare with celestial hair flowing freely. The three were in shock of who it was.
“Princess!” The guards yelled before bowing.
“Sister!” Luna cried, quickly hugging her. “Where in Equestria were you!? You just disappeared without a trace!”
“Yes, my apologies Luna.” She tells her. “I was… under a stressful situation. Someone had to take care of me.”
“I see. You must tell me all about what happened and…” Luna paused and turned to ask, “Did you say… someone?”
“Yes?”
“That’s an odd way to speak.” Luna thought. “I rarely hear you say that.”
“Oh… It must have rubbed off on me.” Celestia claimed. “No matter, I will tell you all about it.”
“Very well. Better get some rest. Every pony is asleep at the moment.”
“Ah, yes.” Celestia nodded. Just as she was going to her room, she stopped and turned to her sister. “Oh, and Luna?”
“Yes sister?” She asks.
A sudden embrace between the two came together. Luna had no idea what was going on, but felt the love Celestia was trying to share. She returns the hug and says, “Truly, you must tell me all about your adventure.”
“I will… just, let me tell you that I love you, and I don’t ever want to lose you ever again…”
Luna was really not sure where this was coming from, but nods. “I’m not going anywhere. I promise.”
At Canterlot, the usual goes on as Celestia rules the kingdom once more. With everything fine and dandy, it seems that all is well and normal. Two guards standing near Luna’s quarters say otherwise.
“So, that was a crazy couple of days, huh?” The bat pony remarks.
“You mean how when Princess Celestia totally disappeared out of thin air, Princess Luna had to move the sun and moon by herself?”
“Yep. Man, she was having a hard time not seeing her sister for a while.” He recalled. “She would be in here crying half the night, wondering if this was her turn to be Princess Celestia for a while.”
“Oh, so she thought this was some cruel joke or something?” The second one thought.
“Maybe. I do know she kept questioning Discord for the past few days. She even asked for his help.”
“Really?” The guard chuckled. “Did he actually lend a hoof?”
“Several.” He says sarcastically. “But yeah, even with his help, Discord had no idea what was going on. Princess Luna kept thinking it was some bad dream. Handling Equestria alone didn’t help either.”
“Wow. That sounds like Princess Luna was having her very own Tartarus.”
“Yep. Now that Princess Celestia is back, things have changed… a lot.”
“Really?” The stallion spoke in wonder, raising an eyebrow. “How so?”
“Princess Celestia keeps talking to her sister… like, more than usual. Princess Luna is glad to see her back, but she tends to get tuckered out by the end of the day.”
“What… happened to Princess Celestia those past couple of days?”
“She keeps talking about how this alien world of wonder kept her from going back to Eqeustria. Then she was taken in by this alien and together they spent subtle days together in harmony.”
“Wow… Sounds casual.” He thought.
“Yeah, well, there’s more to it, but I didn’t stick around to listen.” He sighed. “Freaking almost got late for work.”
“I wonder if she misses that world.” He thought.
“She probably does, seeing how she keeps talking about it.” The bat pony claimed. “But other than that, Princess Celestia is like, super close to Princess Luna. Like, buddy, buddy close. It’s quite frightening.”
“Really?”
“Yeah. I see her go to her room tired, but when I listen close, Princess Luna really appreciates her sister now.”
“Isn’t spying wrong?” He questioned.
“I was just worried! You know? Because now that things are different, I just needed to make sure every pony was okay!”
He rolled his eyes and said, “If you say so.”
Just as they finished talking, Princess Celestia came forth. They made sure to look extra masculine to ensure the princess that they could be counted on. When Princess Celestia knocks on the door, Princess Luna answers.
“What is it, dear sister?” Princess Luna asked.
“Are you ready for that picnic we planned?” Princess Celestia asked.
“Of course.” She nods. “Please calm yourself a bit more this time.”
“Sorry.” She apologized. “But ever since my trip to the human world, I now have a new appreciation for everything. Especially you, Luna.”
The alicorn smiles and replies. “Well, I’m glad you had the experience.”
As the two left, Princess Luna and Princess Celestia flew to the destination in mind. During the flight, Princess Luna had something in her mind.
“Celestia…” She speaks. “About this… human world… It sounds vaguely familiar the more you mention it. Especially of this… Alex character.”
“You two would get along so well.” She simply tells her.
“I… believe that too.” She agreed.
Someday, I hope the three of us can see each other again…