> Dessert Eaters Support Group
>  by stupidhand14
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> Chapter 1: You Need Help
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

        Canterlot, the jewel of Equestria, was bathed in glorious sunlight. It was close to evening, yet the sun was still shining bright enough for ponies to bask in its light. The birds sung in the trees, and the nobles weren’t as stuck up as normal. The fineries and trends were discarded by the heat, only to make way for a more free attitude in everypony. 
        Princess Luna was taking her weekly tour of one of the barracks. She examined their weapons and armor, the beds, and the general cleanliness of the room. She found that everything was satisfactory.
        “Well done, Captain,” Luna said, turning to the guardspony behind her. “You have my sincerest appreciation for keeping your stallions in line.”
        “Of course, Princess Luna,” the captain replied, saluting. “It is as you ordered.”
        “Unfortunately, I must leave now if I am to look at any other barracks.” Luna exited the building, walking through the small courtyard full of soldiers. Many of the soldiers were lounging around on their time off, though Luna did notice some of them reading.
        It was at that point that Luna noticed one of them was reading a newspaper, with a picture of her sister on the front. I think I have enough time for a slight diversion, Luna thought with a smile while walking over to the guardspony with the newspaper.
        When she got close, the guard practically threw his newspaper down and saluted, which Luna promptly returned.
        “Good afternoon, Sergeant, I was curious what you were reading there,” Luna informed him, picking up the newspaper in her magic. On the cover page was a picture of Celestia with a piece of cake in hoof. Luna’s eyes widened her pupils shrinking slightly. 
        “It’s a newspaper from Ponyville,” the guard informed her. “A friend sent it to me, thought it might be interesting.”
        “Sergeant, do you mind if I take this newspaper for the day?” Luna requested.
        “O-of course, Princess.” Luna gave a nod, placing the paper in her saddlebag as she turned away. As soon as she was a safe distance from anypony else, she hurled herself into the sky, her wings spread out. Tia needs to answer this, now.
        Princess Luna flew to Canterlot’s highest tower, her sister’s. At the top was a balcony where they usually switched off controlling the sky.. It was just about to be sunset, so Celestia would be ready to give control of the sky over to the night. However, Luna needed an answer to the question of the cake.
        Celestia exited her room, moving to the balcony in a graceful slide. She had over a millennia to master her motions, and she spent the time well. Upon seeing her sister, she paused.
        “Hello, sister,” Celestia greeted, a smile on her face. “Do you wish to spend the final moments of the day with me?”
        “Not quite,” Luna answered. Her horn lit up as she levitated a newspaper up to her. Turning the paper, she showed Celestia an article by Gabby Gums, with Celestia eating a large slice of cake on the cover. Celestia’s eyes widened while her pupils dilated
        “I can assure you, that picture is taken out of context,” Celestia quickly said, trying to cover it up. Her cheeks flushed. It could have been the heat, but Luna doubted that. Celestia turned to look out over the balcony, but Luna flew over to block the view, suspicions growing.
        “Tia, you promised you would give up cake for this month.” Luna glared into her sister’s eyes. “Has your word lost its value in my absence?” Celestia was temporarily taken aback. 
        “I assure you, that photo is taken out of context,” Celestia tried again. “I didn’t actually eat any cake, and what does it matter if I did?” Honestly, she wasn’t unfit or out of shape. She was an immortal alicorn, she could enjoy a cake every once and awhile. She turned to walk back inside, only for her sister to block the door.
        “Tia, you promised me you would stop eating cake,” Luna repeated. She crossed her hooves, anger clear on her face. “You know what ponies are saying how you have… grown in the last few years. You need to stay healthy, sister. You have a problem. Why can’t you just admit that?”
        “I do not have a problem!” Celestia claimed. “I can stop eating cake whenever I want.” Celestia teleported herself past her sister and into her room. Scanning the room, she noticed her servants had already delivered dinner, with a plate of dessert to one side. Rushing over to the plates she stood in front of them as her sister burst through the doors.
        “Tia, you need to stop eating cake, it’s not good for you!” Luna marched to her sister, her chin set.
        “I told you, I don’t eat cake, nor do I need help to stop. Now, can you please take over the sky?” Celestia rushed the sun’s lowering, trying to force her sister to exert some focus on the sky rather than examining her.
        “Did you lower the sun faster?” Luna asked, her eyes narrowing. Celestia wouldn’t purposely lower the sun faster, would she? No, Celestia’s word was golden. She wouldn’t lie to me, right? 
In the end, she accepted her sister’s trick and took the mantle of the sky, raising the moon up. As soon as she was done, she saw a slight glint of silver from behind her sister. While her sister was distracted, Luna teleported behind her and opened the smaller of the two platters. Inside was a salad.
        “Really, Luna? Do you truly trust me so little?” Celestia feigned an injury to her heart. Come on, take the bait. No need to look under that other one, nothing suspicious or cake related here. Taking a step away, trying to muster an air of nonchalance, Celestia moved to her bed. An itch was quickly developing on her head. Must not scratch. Luna knows that’s my tell!
        “My apologies, sister,” Luna finally said, replacing the cover over the salad. Her head was lowered, her lip formed a frown. “I should have trusted you more. I will try do it more in the future.” Luna looked over at the dinner platters and smiled. “Perhaps we can share dinner, for once. I confess, I am quite hungry.” Luna began to levitate open the platter containing the main dish before Celestia saw what was happening.
        “Wait, Luna, don’t!” Celestia shouted, forcing the lid back down with her own magic. The two locked eyes for a moment, Celestia’s fearful and Luna’s confused.
        “Tia, is something wrong with this food?” Luna finally asked, trying to force it open again.
        “No, Luna, it’s fine. Would you please, please just leave it be?” Celestia pleaded. “We can go somewhere out for dinner, have a nice public dinner.”
        “Tia, I want a private dinner with my sister. Now, please, let me open the main dish. I am hungry.” Luna pulled harder with her magic, now also incorporating hooves to force it open. The two fought over for a few seconds longer until Luna won out. Forcing the lid up, Luna’s eyes beheld a three layer cake, completely sliced. Luna was silent for a few moments before looking at her sister.
        “Luna, I know what you’re thinking, but I assure you it is not the case.”
        “Tia, did you lie to me, again?” Luna asked with incredulity. “After all we’ve been through, and you lied to me? After all that we’ve been through, you’re trying to hide a cake from me? You said you weren’t eating cake! You made a promise to us!”
        “It was just one cake, Luna,” Celestia tried to explain. “I craved cake and sweets so badly, I just had to eat it.”
        At that moment, a small cloud of purple and green flew in through the window, coming straight to Celestia. The two alicorns watched as the smoke turned into a scroll. Celestia tentatively opened it. Scanning the contents, her eyes widened again and she quickly tried to cover it up.
        “Tia, what’s in the scroll?” Luna asked, trying to regain some composure.
        “It’s something from Twilight,” Celestia said. “It’s nothing important.” She tried to put the letter away, but Luna quickly teleported it to her side, opening it. The contents were from Twilight, but it wasn’t a letter; it was a cake recipe, with a photo of said cake attached.
        “Why is Twilight sending you cake recipe?!” Luna demanded, now taking flight once more. “That is it, Tia, we will accept no more lies. Tell us the truth, or we will punish you.” Celestia, finally beaten, sighed.
        “I have been eating cake, but only once a week,” Celestia finally admitted. “I asked for Twilight to give me a new recipe, some exotic cake, for my chefs to try out.”
        “Tia…”
        “Yes, Luna?”
        “Why are you eating cake?! You promised us on your word, on our mother and father, that you would not eat anymore cake! How can you turn around and abandon your word? Has it truly been so long since you respected us, since you valued what worth your honor has? You would throw away everything, even your honor, over a pastry? Do you have no love for us or the ponies under your charge? By the stars, I don’t understand…”
        Luna continued for hours, scolding her sister, before she finally ran out of breath. She was about to start off again before Celestia interrupted.
“Luna, if I promise you on all my power to stop eating cake, and to join a group to help me, will you let me go to bed?” Luna looked at her sister for a few seconds, before answering.
“No, I’m doing this because I love you.” Luna took another deep breath and continued to talk until the next morning, where she promptly fell asleep.



        The next week, after much pestering from Luna, Celestia found herself outside a small room with a sign that read, “Dessert Eaters Support Group”. Celestia, being unable to show her true self in such a vulnerable position, had adopted an alias: Sun Beam. Sun Beam was much like Celestia, minus the horn. Both were white, though Sunbeam’s hair was a lovely golden color. The feathers on her wings were alternating at the tips, going from light orange to faded yellow. Celestia couldn’t help but smile at her sister’s idea of the new supposedly modern fashion sense.
        Entering the room, Celestia found she had arrived a bit early, and only a couple other ponies were there. One she recognized as a Wonderbolt, while the other she didn’t know. The Wonderbolt had a cyan coat and navy blue hair. It took only a moment for Celestia to remember his name, Soarin, her favorite Wonderbolt. The unicorn was mint green, with green and white stripes in her mane.
        She gave her best smile as she entered. The two other ponies smiled back. Sun Beam introduced herself to the two, and discovered that the unicorn’s name was Lyra.
        “So, have you two been a part of this group long?” Celestia asked after initial pleasantries.
        “No,” Lyra answered. “I only joined the group last week because of a... friend.” Lyra’s eyes shifted to Soarin as her grin grew. “Soarin here has been part of the group since its beginnings last year.”
        “Really?” Celestia quirked an eyebrow at the Wonderbolt in question. “Has it helped you?”
        “Yeah, I got over my addiction pretty well, then I missed a meeting… which brought the addiction right back.” Soarin looked away for a moment before turning back with a sad smile. “As long as I don’t miss a meeting, I’m good.” He paused, looking at Celestia for a few moments thoughtfully. “Don’t worry about it, though. This group is really good and accepting of everypony’s addiction.”
        “T-thanks,” Celestia said with a smile. Celestia took a second look at the Wonderbolt, analyzing him now that his flight suit was off. He still has a lean physique, with more muscles on his wings. I wonder what those muscles feel like, probably rock hard… no. No. No looking at stallions, Celestia. You are more than a thousand years older than him, no.
Shaking her head, Celestia waited for the rest of the group to come in. It struck her that she was incredibly early, but soon the group was there. In total, there were 10 ponies, including herself. They all sat in a circle, and began to introduce themselves.
        “Hello,” the mint green unicorn said, “my name is Lyra Heartstrings. I work as a musician, and I’m addicted to candy.” Lyra sat back down.
        “Hey everypony,” Soarin said upon standing up. “My name is Soarin, and I am a Wonderbolt. I am addicted to pie.” He sat down, and looked to Celestia. Celestia stood still for a few seconds while everypony looked at her. It took her a few seconds to realize what they were waiting for. Celestia attempted to stand gracefully.
        “Hello, my name is Ce-un Beam. I work as a servant at the palace and I am addicted to cake.” Celestia sat down, cursing herself for nearly saying her real name and embarrassing herself in front of Soarin. Wait, why am I suddenly concerned about what he thinks of me?
        “Alright,” Soarin said, getting out of his chair. “Now that we’ve all introduced ourselves, I think we should hear about some progress. Lyra, have you made any progress since last week?”
        “Yes, I have,” Lyra announced proudly. “I haven’t had a single piece of candy all week. I haven’t taken any from my friend, I haven’t asked her to make me any, I’ve been candy free for a whole week.” All the ponies began to applaud and stomp their hooves in approval.
        This is nice, having somepony else in charge, Celestia thought. I can actually enjoy the events, with Soarin in charge. I wonder if I can get him in charge of other things.... No! Not going to think about that. Bad Celestia.
        “I have a confession to make,” came an earth pony. Thinking back, Celestia remembered his name was Donut Joe. “I… I couldn’t make it last week. I ate over a dozen donuts in one day.”
        “Why, Joe?” Soarin asked, moving over to the stallion. “What happened?”
        “My marefriend broke up with me, last Tuesday,” the stallion answered, tears forming. “She broke up with me through a letter, not even to my face.” Tears began to fall down his face. “Said she was leaving by boat to Zebrica, that she didn’t want to see me again.” Donut Joe could no longer form words as he cried. 
Everypony gathered around him and gave him one big hug, except for two mares: Lyra and Celestia. The two mares looked at each other awkwardly, not knowing what to do.
“Joe, don’t worry about it,” Soarin said, patting his friend on the back of his neck. “We understand, it was a hard time for you. We can help you get through this.” The stallion began to recover, taking shuddering breaths.
“Th-thanks, everypony. You’re all great friends,” he said with a smile. “I promise, I will do better this week, I won’t be eating a single donut to make up for it.” He took his seat next to Soarin, who was still patting him on the back, tissue in hoof. Ah, Soarin, always loyal, always there for others. 
“Why don’t we hear from our newcomer, next?” Soarin asked, gesturing for Celestia to get up. Celestia got up and stood in front of everypony.
“Well, I have a cake eating problem,” she started. “I made a promise to my sister that I’d stop but… I didn’t. Now she’s really mad, and forced me to come here, to get help. I just… I can’t stop eating cake, it’s too good. I crave it every day, at least once.” Everypony in the room nodded, knowing the pain and need for something.
“How many pieces of cake have you had in the last week?” Lyra asked.
“I’ve had three whole cakes,” Celestia answered to the shock of everypony in the room.
“That is a lot,” one griffon commented. 
“Well, you need a goal to aspire to, Sun Beam,” Soarin said, turning his attention to her. “How about limiting yourself to one cake per week, this week, and then we’ll check in next week with you. How does that sound?”
“That sounds… nice,” Celestia found herself saying. Taking her seat, everypony else provided a progress report, until it came around to Soarin again.
“I have been pie free for a whole month now,” Soarin announced with a smile. “Not a single problem with it, no need to eat it. No wanton need or binge eating of a pie. I’m all good this time.” Everypony applauded his achievement, but he looked troubled.
“Are you okay, Soarin?” Celestia asked upon seeing him looking around.
“Where is she?” he  murmured. “She said she would be here…”
Before anypony could ask what he meant, the doors burst open to reveal a pink pony with a small cannon in tow. Celestia recognized her as Pinkie Pie, and suddenly fear began to build up.
“There you are, Pinkie Pie,” Soarin greeted with a smile. “And here I thought you’d miss a meeting for once.”
“Noperooni,” Pinkie answered. “I was just a smidge late because of the Cakes’ babies. They can be a real hoofuls.”
“Why don’t you introduce yourself to everypony?” Soarin instructed. “We have a new guest.” Pinkie’s eyes locked onto Celestia and a manic grin formed on her lips.
“No problem!” She shouted, hopping into the group. “Hello, my name is Pinkie Pie, and I have a cupcake condition. This week, I only ate 125 cupcakes.” She only ate 125 cupcakes?
“That’s an improvement, Pinkie,” Soarin commented with a smile. “I see you kept to your limit this time. That’s always great to see.”
“I know, right? I can’t believe I was able to do that!” Pinkie stared at him for a few seconds before realizing she forgot to give out something. “I brought some punch, for this meeting.” She passed around bottles of punch, which each pony drank with zeal.
Celestia took a sip of hers, and instantly loved the taste. The burgundy drink smelt faintly of grapes, though with a bit more kick. It almost caused Celestia to forget her question. She made her way over to Soarin, who was chugging down a drink of his own.
“Need something?” he asked while taking another swig.
“I suppose I’m just a bit confused,” Celestia told him with a sweet smile on her lips. “Did Pinkie really eat 125 cupcakes in one week?”
“Ha, yeah, I can see why you’re asking.” Soarin tossed his bottle over his shoulder, landing in a plastic bag. “Yes! Anyways, yeah. Pinkie has a bit of an addiction to sweets, especially cupcakes. We’re doing our best to wean her off slowly, like we’re doing with you.”
“But 125 cupcakes? Surely--”
“Trust me, Sunny,” Soarin interrupted with his award winning smile. Sunny? “She ain’t lying, she’s being completely honest.” Soarin looked confused for a second as he stared at Celestia. “Do I know you? Your voice sounds really familiar.”
“I work at the palace,” Celestia said, waving a hoof as if to brush the issue aside. “You’ve probably seen or heard me there before.” Come on, nothing wrong here. Nothing suspicious, no reason to ask anymore questions about it.
“No, I would remember seeing a mare as beautiful as you hanging around the palace.” Is… is he hitting on me? Soarin looked thoughtful for a few more seconds. “Huh. Maybe I’m just going insane.” Soarin shook his head and trotted over to another pony nearby.
Celestia saw him giving a few words of encouragement, but her mind was distracted. His words still resounded in her ears. Does he really find me beautiful?
Looking over the group of ponies around her, each one having fun, talking, and drinking, Celestia knew one fact for certain.
This was definitely going to be an unusual few weeks.

> Chapter 2: Intriguing
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

        To say Celestia was unamused was an understatement.
        In front of her, across the table, was her sister enjoying a very delicious looking breakfast, with a full array of delicious foods. Dark brown pancakes, topped with whip cream and a tall glass of mineral water on the side. In front of Celestia was a lot of greens and reds. Lettuce, grass, oats, apples, and other supposedly healthy foods were arrayed before her. 
        “Come, Tia, eat up,” Luna told her, motioning a hoof at the healthy food. “You can’t go about your day on an empty stomach.”
        “Then perhaps I can have at least something to spice up the meal?” Celestia inquired. She lifted her fork in her yellow glow, beginning to pick at her salad.
        “Perhaps later,” Luna answered, which naturally meant no. She cast Celestia a sly smile. “Maybe if you are good little filly and eat all your vegetables, I’ll give you a treat.” Her smile only grew as Celestia’s face turned to shock. Her mouth hung open in shocked anger, while Luna began to laugh.
        “You cannot treat me like a child, Lulu!” Celestia glared at her sister, who only continued giggling at her plight. “Stop laughing!” Celestia continued to glare at her sister until, finally, the laughter stopped.
        “My apologies, Tia, but you had to see your face.” Luna’s smile came back in full force, and she nearly broke down into hysterics once again. “It was priceless.” The smile lasted for a time before Celestia’s glare finally wore it down.
        “Is this all you wished to do for this morning; tease me with food?” Though Celestia’s mouth was drawn, Luna could see the hints of delight in the back of her eyes. However, she decided to relent, for the moment.
        “No, not only tease you.” Luna picked up her fork and took another bite before continuing. “I was wondering if you’d return to the support group today.”
        “Of course I will.” An eyebrow rose on Celestia face. “Did you doubt my word, sister?”
        Luna’s only response was to stare directly back at Celestia, her eyes saying everything that needed to be said. How did she get so good at this? 
        Before Celestia could say anything further, the bell rung, signalling it was 10:00 o’clock. Luna looked down at the salad in front of Celestia. It still had its shape, and only a small portion was missing. 
        “Is it Monday?”
        “Yes, it is.” Luna looked at her sister for a second, her head cocked. “Why do you ask?”
“We have to get going,” Celestia informed Luna, getting up from the table. “Monday means I have to host the court, and it won’t wait for me forever, and you need to go to bed.”
        “Don’t forget your salad.” Luna levitated the plate towards her sister. “You have barely touched it, and you need your strength.”
        “I can’t eat this during court.” Celestia put the plate back down on the table, though it didn’t stay there. Instead, Luna sent it right back over to her. “This isn’t funny, Luna.”
        “You can eat during court, we’ve done it all the time.” Luna’s oblivious smile caused an old pain to stir in Celestia’s heart. She schooled her face, forcing it to become blank.
        “Luna, we can’t… That tradition hasn’t been in practice for the last 500 years.” Luna’s smile faded, her lips drawing in a small line.
        “Oh.” The two stood awkwardly, staring at each other.
        “Get some rest, Lulu. I’ll see you when the sun is ready to set.” 
        “Good morning, Tia.”
        Celestia walked out of the room, heading for court. Today, it would be held in the ceremonial throne room. Walking in, she was greeted with the sounds of many ponies. Nobility, dressed in the fineries, guards, dressed in their armor, and workers, dressed in their liveries were all in attendance. Celestia ascended the steps to the throne and took her seat. As soon as she sat, the room turned quiet.
        “Court may now commence!” the guards announced.
        “Who brings in the first proposition to discuss?” Celestia asked to the crowd. The order should have been of importance, but that was so rarely the case. Instead, it was whoever had the most influence when it started, which meant Fancy Pants was the first up.
        “Princess Celestia,” he began, a smile on his face, “I have come to resolve an issue. As you may know, the Equestrian Iron Forge company has recently put itself on the market, and I had worked out a deal with the workers on how to run the company after I had bought it. Unfortunately, those same workers are now violating the agreement they had made with me. I would request the Crown’s aid in keeping these workers honest and make the law of Equestria stand without blemishes.”
        A murmur arose from the crowd. The Equestrian Iron Forge was definitely one of the richest companies. For Fancy Pants to have simply bought it outright would have required a heavy investment.
Why did Fancy Pants buy the Equestrian Iron Forge company?
“Are the other ponies represented here, today?” Celestia asked. It was customary for both parties to be represented, though not always required in some cases.
“I sent them the notice a week ago, and their representative should be here, or will be here later in the day to discuss the topic,” Fancy Pants replied.
“What are they currently doing which would require the Crown’s aid?” was Celestia’s next question. Surely Fancy could just fire these ponies.
“I’m afraid they are not allowing any honest worker into the mines. This is hurting the prosperity of the region, as well as affecting global iron prices.” Celestia looked over the crowd. Many of them were nodding their heads, listening wholeheartedly to Fancy Pants’ proposition. Celestia would need a good reason not to accept this.
“What do you expect us to be able to do?” Fancy Pants smiled at the question, clearly prepared for it.
“I just need a hooful of your guard to either scare them out of the way or drive through their disorganized ranks and allow the honest workers back into the mines.” 
Sounds reasonable enough.
“Does anypony have concerns to express over this proposition?” Nopony raised a hoof. Many of them, in fact, nodded in agreement with the plan. Celestia could practically see the backroom dealings that occured to get Fancy Pants this meeting. Nopony seems to have anything negative to say, so I have to decide.
“The Crown does not give the national troops for private use lightly,” Celestia told the crowd. “However, we will always help agreements be upheld. After an investigation, we shall decide if is an unlawful destruction of trade and commerce, the guard will be deployed to deal with the issue.” I could just ignore the investigation… Fancy Pants has been a loyal aid and honest pony since he became lord of his house.
“Thank you, your highness.” Fancy pants moved off to the side, cleaning his monocle. Everypony in the room congratulated him silently. He had just scored a major victory, and a large amount of profit.
Outside the palace, there was a pony in a miner’s uniform that had clearly seen better days. It had many holes in it, was covered in soot, and still had a pickaxe on his back.
“What do you mean I can’t go in?!” the miner demanded to the guards blocking his path.
“We mean’s exactly what we’s said,” one of the guards answered. “You’s best be movin’ along. The Court’s in session, and you’s not allowed in there.”
“But I have to get in there!” The miner stomped a hoof on the ground. “I need to talk to the Princess, tell her about our problems!”
“Sorry, pal, but you ain’t going in there,” the second guard informed him. “Like my friend here said, you’re not allowed in. We have some… special interests that would rather you not make an appearance. If you don’t leave now, we might have to...” The guard popped a bone in his hoof and arms. “Well, you know.”
The miner quaked. The Princess wouldn’t be able to hear him. He had failed his friends, the ones counting on him. No. I can’t just give up now! He attempted to charge past the guards, but they easily caught him in their hooves.
“Disobeying an Equestrian Peacekeeper. What is the punishment for that?”
“I believe’s its a few days in the joint.” With a sneer, the guards began to pull the miner away. “C’mon, you’s gonna have a fun time.”





        It was a little after 5:00 o’clock in the afternoon. Celestia was still in her tower, and had already prepared the illusion stone to create a sleeping illusion while she was gone. Celestia focused her magic and created her illusion around herself, changing her into Sun Beam. In this new disguise, Celestia exited the hallway. 
        It was still light out, so the torches had not yet needed to be lit. Outside her room stood two royal guards, both of whom would have been startled by a new pegasus in the royal bed chambers, but Celestia had warned them earlier. Instead, they studied her as she left. They would likely have her memorized for next time.
        Instead of dwelling on those two stallions, she continued down the hallway. On either side of it were rooms upon rooms. Libraries, studies, dining rooms, painting rooms, and artifact rooms were all around her. Each one had at least one noble or servant in it. Celestia knew the scheming that took place in those rooms, but keeping them out of the court kept it running smoothly.
        Instead, she continued walking out the front gate and out into the city. She was on a time limit, the meeting would start at 6:00. She trotted over to the rented room where the group met every Monday. With a small smile, she opened the door and walked in. It was only 5:45, so she had a few minutes to spare.
        Inside the room, three ponies were waiting. Soarin was, naturally, there and setting everything up. He was slightly moving with the music that Lyra was playing on her harp. The third member of the room was Donut Joe, who was drinking from a small cup.
        Celestia moved over to see what Soarin was working on. It appeared to be some sort of shirt, or rather a lot of shirts. Soarin, with his head swaying to the music, was painting on one of the shirts. 
        “You gonna keep watching over my shoulder or are you gonna say something?” Soarin asked, a small smile on his face as he turned his neck to look at Celestia. 
        “I was considering standing here until you had noticed me.” Celestia moved to stand right next to Soarin, looking over his hoofiwork. On big letters in the front was written, “Dessert Eaters’ Support Group” with a variety of desserts drawn on near the bottom.
        “What are these for?” Celestia asked. They aren’t going to win any awards, but at least they look nice. 
        “These are the Dessert Eaters Support Group shirts I ordered a month ago.” He flipped another shirt over and began to work on the back. “They’re gonna cost about 20 bits, which will cover most of the expenses.” He grabbed another shirt. “I’ll be giving them out at the end of the meeting.”
        “That’s… most noble of you, Soarin.” Before Celestia could get any further, she was shoved aside by Lyra, who rushed over to see the shirts. 
        “I thought you said you would allow me to see one after you were done with them,” Lyra pouted, grabbing one of the shirts in her magic. “Wow, these look nice.” Lyra looked over at Celestia, who was still dazed on the ground. “Oops, sorry about that… Sun Clock?”
        “That’s okay.” Celestia used her wings to get off the ground faster. Not her fault, I am a different size than the illusion implies, after all. Still, she really needs to be more careful.
        “By the by, did you ever pick where you wanted to go, Sunny?” Soarin asked as he continued his work. “You got about a 300 bit budget, so don’t be afraid to choose someplace fancy.”
        “What are you talking about?” Did I forget something over the week?
        “You know, where do you want me to take you for coming back this week?” Soarin smiled at Celestia, only to be met with a confused face. “Didn’t I tell you last week?”
        “Tell me what, exactly?”
        “If you keep up on the goal for a week, the first week, I take you out to a restaurant of your choice.” Soarin turned to Lyra. “Isn’t that right, Lyra?”
        “Yeah, he told me that two weeks ago and last week we went out to Hayburger.” A mischievous twinkle filled her eyes. “You should have seen him squirm when I offered him a Hayburger and drink. He nearly didn’t eat it because of his ‘athletic requirements,’ whatever that means.” 
        “And may I never go there again,” Soarin mumbled under his breath, though Celestia could hear him just fine.
        “I think I shall go to Cafe Soleil levant, tomorrow around 8,” Celestia told Soarin who looked a bit startled. “Is there a problem?”
        “Sunny, if you’re willing to wait a few weeks, I’m sure we could go there but… not even I can get a reservation there that’s less than a few weeks.” Soarin shook his head, returning to his work. “I hate to say it, but nopony except Princess Celestia or Princess Luna would be able to get in there without a reservation. But we can set a reservation for a couple of weeks, if you want.”
        Oh buck, that’s right. It is one of the respectable restaurants in Canterlot.
        “I have an idea,” Celestia said. This is going to be the most ridiculous thing I’ve ever said. “I can talk to Celestia, ask her if  she can help me get in there by tomorrow.”
        “That could work.” Soarin thought about it for a few moments. “It definitely could work, though I doubt Celestia will do that for a servant, no matter how beautiful.” Another compliment? 
        “I’m sure she would,” Celestia defended herself with conviction. “I know Celestia, and she would do anything for the ponies under her care.”
        “If you say so.” Soarin finished up with the last shirt. Turning, Celestia noticed there were significantly more ponies and griffons in the room than last time she checked. “Hey, listen, can we talk about this later? The meeting’s about to start.”





        Prince Blueblood, third of his name, was tired. For the past five hours, he had been negotiating and spying on his competitors, trying to gain the upperhand. He was the last one to leave the Hall of Intrigue, as he liked to call it. At least, he had assumed he was the last, until he saw a small room in use at the far end. Curious, Blueblood approached the door only to find a ward against eavesdropping in place.
        A standard spell. Nothing I can’t handle. Perceiving the spell was foalsplay, but keeping it hidden from the ones talking would require some extra effort. Unfortunately, that meant he had to forsake the ability to distinguish voices, in favor of one monotone.
        “So, can you do that for us?” 
        “Of course I can, but why would I?”
        “We will owe you a few future favors, all you have to do is allow us this small liberty.”
        “You understand that, as the Minister of Coin, I can’t simply allow the few of you that approached me to receive special benefits.”
        “...”
        “...”
        “What if you give this bonus to every Noble in Canterlot?”
        “I’m not sure what a reduction in taxes would do for so many ponies.”
        “Well, what would happen if more ponies like us had bits?”
        “They would be able to hire more and spend more bits…”
        “Which would help Equestria’s economy, yes?”
        “I… suppose that would be the case.”
        “Then how can you say no?”
        “Give us a moment to think.”
        “Of course.”
        “I have decided to grant your request.”
        “You won’t regret this.”
        Blueblood pulled away his magic and took off at a small gallop. This could be important information… and all information has a price. His plans were coming together. If the nobles in that room were who he thought they were, he might be able to finally have an ace up his sleeve. Smiling, Blueblood slowed down to a brisk walk as he approached a populated portion of the castle. 
        While walking, a servant bumped into him. Normally, he’d be mad, but as the mare placed a piece of paper in his pocket, he decided to let the scene pass without incident. Once in his chambers, he opened the letter.
        New Livery has been ordered. The price is small, though it will last for a long time.





        In the barracks, a group of guardsponies were gathered around a speaker. He was standing tall, and his confidence made the words he said seem like facts.
        “My equine brothers, I have something to say. You are being trained to fail.” The stallion, who had his face masked, held up a small pamphlet. “You’ve seen what has happened to the military already. You are underfunded. You don’t have the money to buy weapons, hire new soldiers, nor are you even allowed to protect anypony.”
        A murmur arose from the crowd at this. Most of them had already experienced the feeling of helplessness that came whenever a disaster came. Only a few looked uncomfortable, uneasy at what he was saying, yet they dare not interrupt him.
        “You are guardsponies, warriors… guardians. You were meant to be able to fight, yet the Princesses don’t provide you a single chance to prove yourselves or even to get actual experience. They do all the work, allowing the Royal Guard to become a mockery of what it once was. It used to be the pride of Equestria: The Iron Army. Back then, no lands were out of our view, our ambitions. No other nation rose against us and succeeded, and we can have that again. Not anymore.”
        Many ponies were hesitantly nodding their heads now. What this pony said was making sense. They all knew the stories of the old warriors of Equestria, where one guardspony was equal to three griffons and even a hydra. However, the Princesses weren’t destroying the honor of the Royal Guard. They would never do that, right? 
        Three guards, a new recruit and two veterans, immediately got up and left. They didn’t care what this crazy pony was saying. Causing dissent through the ranks would only prove problematic, and they didn’t want trouble with their superiors by not reporting it.
        “It appears I don’t have much time. I know that most of you still believe in your nation and the Princesses. Here, take these.” The hooded figure passed around pamphlets. They were roughly 40 pages thick, and had all the information inside. “Read this if you want more information, or burn them. Just remember, iron rusts when not in use. The sword that faces enemies never rusts.”
> Chapter 3: First Date
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

        The golden light of an early morning sun shone through the windows of Cafe Soleil Levante. Celestia, wearing her royal attire, walked up to the building, flanked by some royal guards. Keeping up her smile, she opened the door with her magic and entered.
        “Hello,” the waitress said, writing something on a piece of paper. “How many are…..” Her voice trialed off as she looked up and saw Princesses Celestia standing in front of her. Coughing, she attempted to regain some semblance of dignity. “Where would you like to sit?”
        “Anywhere will be nice,” Celestia answered. At least she didn’t faint like some ponies do. 
        “Right this way,” the waitress commanded, before realizing what she did. “I mean, if its alright with you. To walk this way.” Awkwardly, the waitress led the princess over to a balcony table, where nopony else was. “Would you like something to drink?”
        “Yes, that would be lovely. Do you have Moonlight Jasmine Blossom tea? It’s my favorite.” The waitress’ face scrunched up as she thought.
        “I believe we do.” The waitress wrote down the order before stiffly looking back up. “Do you need anything?”
        “Could you ask the manager to come to my table? I would like to speak with him.” With a single nod, the waitress left to the back, probably to get the manager before the tea. 
        Within a few minutes, the manager was walking towards Celestia’s table, trying to straighten his suit and remove any wrinkles. He wore a toothy grin, and walked with a spring in his step.
        “Welcome, your highness.” He bowed as soon as he was close enough for normal conversation. “How may I help you this morning?”
        “I was curious. Do you have a table free tonight?” Celestia asked in her best royal voice.
        “Sure we do!” the manager answered, his smile still in place. He motioned around the cafe. “As I’m sure you’re aware, the layout will change by tonight, but I believe the seat of honor is available tonight on the highest tier.”
        The Cafe was laid out in three different patterns. In the morning, the windows were open and fresh air poured throughout the dining area. Many of the tables were set outside or on the balcony, with a more natural and relaxed theme. Often, the chairs and the tables lacked cloth, instead having diamond patterns that looked similar to a stem or flower that was made of fine rock. Breakfast was served with tea or coffee, usually with a croissant. 
        During the late morning and early afternoon, the cafe changed to lunch mode. This was the least busy time of the day for the Cafe, if what the manager said was true. The garden style tables were changed to efficient ones. Smooth wooden tables were sprayed across the room, though still lacking any ornaments. Most windows were closed, and, near the end, a faint aroma of rose could be smelt through the room. However, night is when the cafe came to life.
        Once the sun came closer to setting, the entire layout of the restaurant changed. The old tables were switched out for smooth quicksilver ones, with fine silk cloths placed over top. The floor elevated, using a complex holding mechanism, with different tiers based on the customer’s station. The bottom tier would be where most ponies sat, and would be the largest area. 
In the back of the room were three more elevated tiers. A central staircase ran up the three tiers, going all the way up to the top. The first was for businessponies, which was below the elevated section for nobility. These two sections had far more privacy, but at the peak of the mountain was a single table: the pony everypony should know. Normally, this was only for the most powerful noble or very important celebrity, though some nights it has been without anypony to sit there.
Celestia stood marvelling at the way the restaurant had come together. Though nopony knew it, she had helped get it funded, as both a donation and a test of equine ingenuity. She was still lost in thoughts for a minute, before being shaken from her thoughts by a cough.
“Yes, that would be lovely,” Celestia finally said to the worried stallion standing in front of her.
“Fantastic... Great!” He was smiling once again, recovering from a mini heart attack. “I’m sure you’ll love it.” It was at this point that a small alteration clicked in Celestia’s mind.
“Didn’t I mention that this isn’t for me, but for somepony else?” she inquired. The manager’s face fell, his eyes widening slightly. 
“I must have forgotten,” he answered. “That still won’t be a problem, I assure you. A friend of yours is always welcome here.” Celestia was forced to stifle a sigh. I didn’t say anything. I wish ponies didn’t believe I was always right.
“I’m afraid I must be going now, but perhaps next week I can make time to come and visit this establishment.” At these words, the manager perked up tremendously. 
“Of course, Princess Celestia. If you give us a forewarning, we can make it into quite the event.” She could practically see the bit bags in his eyes. Before she could tell him not to, the waitress arrived with the tea.
“Here you are, your highness,” the waitress said with eyes downcast. She placed the cup on the table, with a small pitcher to the side. “Would you like to order now?”
“My apologies, I have yet to look at the menu.” The waitress stiffened. Probably thinks she’s done something wrong. “Though I believe a small slice of baumkuchen cake would do nicely.” Take that, Luna! Can’t stop me now.
“Yes, of course.” The waitress visibly relaxed, looking up with a bit more confidence. “It will be ready within a few minutes.” A silence developed between the two. “Do you need anything else?” the waitress finally asked, trying to get herself dismissed.
“No, that will be all.” Celestia watched as the waitress left. She looked around for the manager, who seemed to have disappeared. Oh no… I hope he doesn’t go too overboard with my visit.
Celestia waited for a few moments, admiring the city she had built up over the centuries. The castle’s design was based, roughly, upon that of the Castle of the Two Sisters, though the changes made it negligible at best. Unlike the Castle of the Two Sisters, it was not designed with spellcraft in mind. Instead of having each tunnel, tower, and secret passageway support the architectural spell infrastructure, Canterlot was designed to have no such uses. It could not empower a spell, which was now a lost art. Not an accident, that.
Celestia saw the waitress approaching, cake levitating in her magic. However, she paused when she saw a small salad along with the cake. Unease filled her stomach, as she questioned the addition to her order. When the waitress approached, she put the cake on the far side of the table and the salad in front of Celestia.
Celestia was going to question why the waitress had made a mistake that bordered on the utmost ignorance, until she heard a delicate, yet forceful hoof clops coming towards her table. With a look of pure dread, she saw Luna, a cruel smile on her face and laughter in her eyes, walking towards Celestia.
“Thank you for fixing that order,” Luna said to the waitress who simply smiled and nodded before walking away very quickly. Luna turned to Celestia, who she was not yet done tormenting. “Well, come on, eat your salad. You don’t want to go hungry, do you?” Luna, a wicked smile on her face, took a bite of the cake. 





        In her private chambers, Celestia was preparing herself for her outing with Soarin. Not a date, just a friendly get together. While she was debating mentally how much makeup was too much on an illusion, she heard a knock at her door. 
Dispelling her illusion, she announced, “Come in.”
Without any hesitation, the Wonderbolt Captain and Representative burst through the doors, the self confident grin of a pro on her lips. Flying rapidly over to one of the chairs for guests, she sat, her legs sprawling in front of her.
“Hello, Spitfire.” Celestia took the seat opposite of her. “Will you come in?”
“Hey.” Spitfire entered the room, her wings tucked in. “How are you today, Celest?”
“It’s been a normal day. A few felonies committed, a monster attack, a couple of dark magicians trying to destroy the world. The usual.” Spitfire smirked, getting more comfortable. “But enough about my day, what about your’s?”
“Pretty good, just thought I should tell you, I’m retiring.”
Celestia blinked once in surprise. What...? Spitfire’s retiring? Spitfire watched as Celestia’s normally smiling face turned smooth and expressionless.
“Retiring?” Celestia inquired. “If I may ask, why? You still have many years of professional flying left.” Spitfire’s face turned into a wild grin, as if it were all part of some joke. Given that it is Spitfire, I don’t think that option is entirely ruled out.
“Not retiring from the Wonderbolts,” Spitfire explained. “I’m retiring as the Wonderbolt Representative.” She shifted in her chair slightly, trying to get comfortable. “Just thought I’d give you a bit of a heads up before I just quit on you.”
“Well then…” Celestia used her magic to open her special tea cabinet and selected. “Perhaps a final drink, as a farewell.”
“That’d be nice.” Spitfire watched as Celestia instantly made the tea, funneling magic into it as a way to give it a bit of extra heat. The tea and the water became a perfect homogenous mixture, which only the princess was capable of doing. It took centuries of practice, but she had perfected the art of tea making… and putting other seasonings in without anypony noticing.
Spitfire accepted the tea with absolute trust that it was safe to drink. The first sip proved the tea to be quite delicious, and not too hot. Spitfire, in true to nature fashion, chugged a third of the cup in one gulp, a lazy grin on her face. As soon as she brought down the cup, she began to feel something.
“This tea is very strong, just the way I know you like it,” Celestia said with a playful grin on her face.
It felt like a rising in Spitfire’s chest. It didn’t particularly hurt, but definitely unpleasant. Then her throat began to itch and burn, causing her to cough uncontrollably. A few second later, it finally reached her tongue, where it caught fire. She was burning alive from the inside, or so she thought. She flew around the room, looking for anything to help. Fortunately, her instincts kept her from drinking more of the tea, which would have only worsened her condition.
“I believe there is some water somewhere around here,” Celestia informed her. Spitfire dashed around, looking for any of the promised water. However, the only water she found was in Celestia’s fish tank, and, despite the pain, she would not give Celestia the satisfaction of seeing her drink disgusting water.
Instead, Spitfire found herself breaking out of the balcony doors and flying to the nearest raincloud and creating a short sprinkling to get enough water to drown out the fire that had erupted from within. The entire time, Celestia watched with amusement and silent laughter. Dragon Sneeze flowers make excellent tea, as long as one can handle the heat. Celestia took another sip, wondering if she had, perhaps, made it a bit weaker than her usual preference.
Spitfire flew back down into the room, her mouth still heaving and sweat plastering her coat. She gave Celestia her best face, but it only came out as something horrific. Her eyes were cold and hard, yet her smile was full of life.
“I will get you back for this,” she said simply.
“We shall see.” Celestia looked up at the clock. She would need to set the sun in 30 minutes, which would give her an hour to met Soarin for their friendly dinner. 
“You got something to do?” Spitfire asked, noticing Celestia looking at the clock. 
“I’m afraid I do.” Celestia sighed in annoyance. “I would love to talk to you more, but I have somewhere to be in an hour.”
“What, got a hot date?” Soarin asked, a devilish grin on her face. Celestia stiffened slightly, but otherwise remained still. How does she know?! And it’s not a date!
“Spitfire, I am over two millennia old…” Celestia started before being cut off.
“Some Stallions are into older ladies,” Spitfire mocked, her grin only growing wider. “Some mares too, though that’s none of my business.”
“I suppose you speak from experience, Spitfire?” Celestia quipped. Spitfire’s face froze, as she fell into Celestia’s trap. Her shock didn’t last long.
“Not me, personally,” Spitfire explained before rebounding the conversation. “But I still remember your old student’s schoolfilly crush on you.” Celestia’s mask finally broke as she remembered Twilight asking if she would be her special somepony.
“Hang on, how do you know about that?” Celestia hadn’t told anypony, and had requested both Cadence and Twilight’s parents to keep it a secret. That could only mean…
“Hey, look at the time.” Spitfire sprinted to the door. “I gotta get out of your mane. See ya later, Princess!” Spitfire took off out the door, not turning back.
“Spitfire!” Celestia called out, but it was too late. Spitfire was already down the hall, and was not inclined to turning back. She… Really?! She was the one that suggested that idea?!
Celestia required some deep breathing before finally calming down again. When she was calm and cool, she began to plan her revenge. She was halfway through her perfect plan of revenge when she realized 30 minutes had passed. Oh buck me! 30 minutes?!
Celestia went into a flurry of activity, grabbing one of her finest dresses and using magic to put it on. She didn’t require makeup, one of the many perks of being a fully realized alicorn. Without missing a beat, she set the sun and donned her disguise. It took her 25 minutes to make it across the town to Cafe Soleil Levante. Outside, wearing a very fetching jacket, was Soarin.
“Hey, Sunny!” he called out as she approached. “You sure you got a reservation?”
“Of course,” Celestia answered. “I made sure of it this morning.” Soarin, like a proper gentlecolt, held the door open for his companion. As Celestia walked into the restaurant, she was immediately bombarded with noise. It may have been a respectable restaurant, but ponies in large groups rarely made little noise. However, over the noise was a small orchestra, consisting of around six ponies. 
“Hey, I just saw someone I gotta talk to,” Soarin informed her as they walked in. “Excuse me.” Soarin, without breaking his elegant stride, moved to a nearby table and began to talk to somepony there.
Smiling, Celestia walked straight to the front desk.
“Good evening,” the waitress greeted. “How may I be of service?”
“Can we speak to the the manager?” Celestia asked. The waitress simply sighed and put down her pen.
“If you wish to ask for a donation or discuss a business venture, the manager is willing to speak to ponies in the morning.” The waitress began to write a small note on a paper in front of her. “These are the times he has available in the next week. Drop by then…”
“I assure you, this isn’t for business nor for a donation,” Celestia cut in, putting in some of her natural authority. “I simply wished to speak with him to confirm my reservation, as it was made on my behalf. Now will you kindly go get him for me?” 
The waitress visibly shrunk. Taking a breath, she looked like she was about to argue, before Soarin came back, a smile on his face.
“Hey, Sun, you got our reservation sorted out?” he asked as he approached.  Celestia simply looked at the waitress with a single eyebrow raised.
“If you will excuse me, I will go get the manager,” the waitress said, trying to maintain her decorum and composure. She trotted away while Soarin turned to Celestia with a wink and a grin.
“So, having a bit of trouble there, Sunny?” He shifted the wait on his hooves, leaning more on the desk.
“Yes,” Sun Beam answered with a sigh. Seeing her face fall, slightly, Soarin used his hoof to bring it back up.
“Hey, don’t worry about it. This is supposed to be a fun night, my treat. Even if we get a terrible table near the bathrooms, I’m sure it’ll be fine.” Celestia looked into his eyes, and time began to slow. She saw nothing but honesty; only sincerity and truth were in those beautiful, emerald green eyes. I could stay in his eyes for a long time… I can just dive into them, and stay floating in them for eternity… With a force of willpower, Celestia forced herself from looking deep into his eyes. Before she could ask any more questions, the waitress returned with the manager.
“Hello, how may I help you two?” the manager asked as soon as he could without raising his voice.
“I believe Celestia talked to you about a reservation for me?” A few awkward seconds passed as the manager stared at the couple.
“You were who she was referring to?” The manager looked a bit awkward, but otherwise unfazed by the fact.
“Yes,” Celestia answered, a hint of annoyance entering her voice. “Were you expecting somepony else?”
“Well, I’ll be honest, I was expecting a higher noble or…” the manager said before drifting off while looking at Soarin. “Oh, I see. Well, if you’ll follow me?” The manager led them past most of the tables in the main area. 
“We’re going straight for the bathroom tables,” Soarin whispered into Sun Beam’s ear, who had to stifle a laugh. However, the manager did not take them to the bathroom seats. Instead, he went up into the first level, where rich ponies sat. Soarin was mildly surprised, but not shocked.
Some business ponies looked to see the newcomers, as they could make potential business partners. However, some turned away as they saw that one of them was a Wonderbolt. Probably just a celebrity here to cause a scene, they thought. But for those still watching, surprise rang through them as the two moved on to the next tier, for the nobility. Soarin was certainly not a noblestallion, so then who was the newcomer?
All but a few nobles turned to see the new ponies coming in, and each one was filled with curiosity at the couple. Most of them recognized Soarin from the derbies, but the newcomer none had seen before. They watched with interest, wondering who they would sit near or next to. However, each one was shocked as they didn’t sit with anyone, instead walking up the remaining steps to the very peak of the area.
Gossip spread like wildfire throughout the crowd. For many of the regular ponies in the main area, they watched as somepony new and exciting went straight to the top of the pyramid, and nopony knew who it was. In the business sector, ponies were feeling out the competition, seeing who knew what and about whom. Many tried to fake knowledge, some of which was believed.
The nobility, on the other hoof, were having the most stir within their ranks. Rumors flew about the new ponies that came in. Was this a move by the Wonderbolt in a grab for power? Was he to become knighted as one princess’ champion, the first in a century? But what about the mare with him, the one he seemed to be following? She seemed to have a presence about her, so maybe a secret heiress, coming to power? As the rumor mill turned, Sun Beam and Soarin sat at their table, unaware of the ripples they had on the upper society ponies.
“What type of wine can I get for you two?” the manager asked, taking out a pen and paper. Celestia looked at Soarin, who simply quirked an eyebrow at her.
“I believe the lady should pick the wine this evening,” Soarin said, gesturing with his hoof. Celestia turned in thought, thinking of the perfect wine to order. Cold or hot, dry or wet? That is the question. After a few moments of deliberation, she looked up.
“I would like a 1002 Greyfields, preferably from Las Pegasus,” Celestia ordered. “But could you make it ice cold, rather than room temperature?” 
“We most certainly can.” The manager wrote down the order on the paper. “Will that be all for drinks?” Soarin and Sun Beam shared a look, questions in their eyes.
“No, I think we’re good,” Soarin answered for the two of them. With a single small bow, the manager went down the steps, thoughts of what he had just done going through his mind. He had, without any trouble, created fresh fodder for the rumor mill, with only him knowing the truth. He would be able to milk this for all it was worth.
Back on the highest table, Soarin was looking around.
“Wow, I gotta be honest, I didn’t think your boss would give us this great of seats, all on a whim,” Soarin confessed. “It’s pretty generous of her. Can’t say I expected from her.” 
I was the bearer of the element of generosity for several centuries. Coughing politely, Celestia changed the topic. “So, do you have any family in Canterlot?”
“Nah, my family lives in Cloudsdale. Roaming is in their winds, you know?” He smiled, pride showing in his eyes. “They’ve lived in Cloudsdale their whole lives.” His smile faded slightly as he continued. “Unfortunately, I won’t be able to continue that legacy.”
“Why not?” Celestia asked. Soarin’s smile returned, as if it had never really gone.
“I’m being reassigned to Canterlot, all expenses paid.” He looked thoughtful for a moment. “I guess you could call it a mini promotion, though really it’s because of my boss.” A few awkward moments passed as the two sat, digesting the information. “So, do you have any family in the city?”
“O-oh, no, I’m afraid I don’t,” Celestia answered awkwardly. “They live… elsewhere.” Soarin’s smile turned to a frown as he looked into her eyes. “Is something the matter?”
“Huh?” He looked around for a second, catching his bearings. “Uh, no. No, just, thought about something.” The two sat in silence again, neither one knowing what to say. Celestia was forced to open her menu to find something, anything to occupy herself with.
Come on, Celestia, you may have been out of the dating scene for while, but you can still do this… even though this isn’t a date. Totally not a date. Just have to use the same skills. Putting down the menu, she found the wine had arrived, as well as the waitress, no longer the manager.
“Do you two know what you’d like to eat?” the waitress asked respectfully. She was especially stiff and formal in posture, clearly not wanting to mess up again.
“I would like a Grentilouil Salad,” Celestia said.
“I will have a…” Soarin squinted at his menu. “Oh, woops. Um, just surprise me.” The waitress nodded and walked away, orders levitating in front of her.
“What’s wrong, Soarin?” Celestia asked. He looked a bit greener than usual, and slightly sickened.
“I nearly ordered something called ‘sushi’.” He shook his head, trying to rid himself of certain thoughts. “It seems griffons like that stuff, and it’s a part of their diet.”
Celestia simply nodded. She, of course, knew what sushi was, and had even tried some of it once, long ago. It didn’t sit well with her, and brought back memories of a darker time. 
Before the two could talk any further, they heard hoofsteps coming up the stairs. Looking over, Celestia saw Fancy Pants walking up, reading a book. When he got to the top he brought the book down, only to be faced with the two current occupants of his usual table.
“Oh, my apologies,” he said with a bow. “I had not known that this table was in use tonight.”
“You’re good,” Soarin replied with a small smile. “Don’t worry, it’ll be back for you tomorrow, Fancy. We’re just borrowing it for tonight.”
“Have no fear, it’s no trouble, really.” Fancy turned to Sun Beam, a smile on his face. “I’m afraid you have me at a disadvantage, my lady.” He bowed before her and took her hoof, kissing it. Soarin’s smile faded completely and his face became blank. Is he… jealous? “I am Duke Fancy Pants. What might your name be?”
“Sun Beam… your lordship,” Celestia said trying to sound humble. That probably wasn’t humble enough. 
“A pleasure to make your acquaintance.” Fancy looked around, at the tables below in the regular lords area. “I believe I see an open table over there. Have a good evening.” Without further adieu, Fancy Pants departed to sit near the end of the lord’s area.
“He seems nice,” Celestia teased Soarin. His face remained smooth as he watched Fancy Pants leave. After he was gone, Soarin’s smile returned.
“I swear, Fancy Pants is the only tolerable member of the nobility.” Celestia eyed Soarin, who was simply staring after the stallion in question. “At least he isn’t condescending as he plans on how to use other ponies for his own gain.”
“What do you mean?” Celestia asked. Celestia couldn’t help but think back into Fancy Pant’s past. He had been an advocate to the rights of everypony, even those who weren’t born of noble blood. He never used the same underhoofed tricks of the other nobles, and still came out ahead. He was a learned stallion, and refused to, in ignorance, form an opinion. He would never use other ponies for his own gain.
Soarin shook his head.
“Forget I said anything. Just talking to talk I guess.” He tried laughing, but only coughs came out. Adjusting his jacket, he got up from the table. “Be right back, nature’s calling.” Celestia’s hoof came to her face. 
“You can’t talk like that here,” Celestia demanded, only to have Soarin’s grin return in full force.
“Sure I can.” He took a few steps down the stairs before turning back to face her. “You’d just prefer me not to, but you can’t cage this pegasi.” In the next few moments, he made it all the way down the steps and was quickly walking towards the bathroom.





        Down in the lord’s area of Cafe Soleil Levante, Prince Blueblood was meeting with five other lords. Each of them had a wine glass in hoof, even Blueblood. They all gave a toast to the health of the princesses, and for the harmony to continue. Each of the lords pulled out books of philosophy, each of them ready to discuss the finer points of the nobility.
        However, Blueblood was distracted. He did not participate with as much enthusiasm as he usually did. His mind was, instead, focused on a meeting that he would need for later in the week. While his friends discussed and debated, he just took a long drink of his wine. 
While he was drawing in his sip, a pony tapped him on his shoulder. He turned to see one of the waitresses there, one he knew quite well.
“There are some ponies that would like to talk with you in the back room,” the waitress informed him.
“And they sent you, instead of somepony worthy of fetching me?” Blueblood turned to his friends, who had quieted down. “I’m afraid I must be pulled away momentarily.”
“Alright,” Earl Ink Quill said, “but if you’re not back by the time the dessert arrives, we’re taking your share.”
With a nod, Blueblood turned and followed the waitress, feigning reluctance. She was a teal pony with her a nice shade of dark green hair trapped in a braid. The two went into the back rooms, where private dining was allowed only for the most important of meetings. It was here that the mare’s disguise dropped. She bowed before Blueblood.
“What news?” he demanded.





        “And I’m back,” Soarin announced as he bounded up the steps, a smile gracing his face once again. “Miss me?”
        “I assume that’s a rhetoric?” Celestia quipped, her own smile growing. Sitting alone at the table had been dreadfully boring. “What took you so long?”
        “What do you mean?” Soarin’s eyes squinted slightly. “Are you under the impression that stallions don’t take long?”
        “In my experience, they take far less time than any mare.” Soarin had to bite his tongue to stop himself from laughing. Seeing this, Celestia eyed him suspiciously. “What’s so funny?”
        “I was just thinking, I have no idea what stamina you’re talking about.” Celestia moved to take a sip of her wine, stifling a sigh. “The bathroom or the bedroom .”
        It took a few moments to register what he’d suggested. After it clicked, Celestia spit out the wine she had in her mouth, some of it going up to her nostrils. Sputtering, she didn’t notice that Soarin had moved around the table and was politely tapping her back.
        “Woah, sorry about that.” He gave her an apologetic smile. “Did not mean to have you choke on me.”
        Celestia simply glared at him. Both for the crude joke and the timing of it.
        “Sorry, bad place and time?” Soarin asked.
        “Most certainly,” Celestia answered haughtily. Before she could reprimand him, a waiter arrived with their food.
        While Celestia was eating, her thoughts continued drifting to Soarin. Despite all of his… rougher edges, there was a certain humble quality to him. That joke was a little funny, Celestia admitted to herself. Not that I’d ever let him know that.





“The Council of Claimants are meeting again tonight,” the spy informed him as she rose to her hooves. “We have two ponies in place, listening in. They’re meeting in one of the lord’s estates.”
“Which lord is it tonight?”
“They are meeting at Duke Iron Vision’s manor, tonight.” 
Blueblood thought for a few moments. He could go straight to the meeting, but doing so would jeopardize his chances. He would need to handle this with tact and charisma. 
“I want a full report starting tomorrow, before 5:00 in the afternoon,” Blueblood commanded. He had a plan, but it would require all the information possible.
“Of course, my lord,” the mare replied with a bow. “What scenario are we going to use to cover up your momentary absence?”
“How about… scenario seduction?” Blueblood strode over to the waitress. He began to mess up her hair and outfit, while she did the same to his. Without warning, the spy locked lips with her superior and kept them there until Blueblood could feel his pulse pounding.  Five minutes later, they were both done. 
“Why?” Blueblood panted.
“To add realism,” the mare answered. “You can’t fake… flushed cheeks and skin… nor that smell.”
His clothes were wrinkled, and his hair was in disarray. He was flushed and breathing heavily, though he was able to keep some composure. “I hope it doesn’t cause too much of a problem with your superiors.”
“Of… of course not.” the mare took a deep breath, rearranging her uniform slightly.
“Keep me informed.”
“As you command, my lord.”
Blueblood finally said walking out into the restaurant. Without deviating, he returned to his friends who were still debating, despite the dessert being out before them.
“We saved you a slice,” one of his friends winked. Blueblood grabbed it and practically inhaled it, cooling his blood. For the next several hours, Blueblood debated heatedly with his friends, matching them point for point. Nopony brought attention to his wrinkled clothes or flushed face, or that of the waitress that he left with.





        “Thank you for the dinner, Soarin,” Celestia said as the two were walking out of the restaurant. “It was lovely.”
        “Hey, it’s not everyday I get to treat a mare to a fancy place like that.” Soarin stretched his wings. “I suppose a proper gentlecolt would offer to escort his companion home?” He reached out his hoof in a mockery of a grand gesture, expecting her to leap at the opportunity.
        “It’s a good thing you’re not a gentlecolt.” Celestia gave Soarin a wink, though he was still taken aback. 
        “So, that’s a no?”
        “I can walk myself home, though I thank you for the offer.” Celestia stood there a moment longer before beginning her walk home. Making her way through the dwindling crowds, she finally arrived to the palace and made her way back to her room, where she began getting ready for bed.
        Standing on a building outside the palace was Soarin, having followed Celestia home, despite her misgivings.
        “She stays at the palace?” he asked the wind. “What type of servant stays at the palace?”
        Shaking his head, he turned and begun the flight home.
        “And where does a servant get a dress like that?”

> Chapter 4: Meetings
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

        Order Report, the manager for Cafe Soleil Levante, was walking towards the aforementioned cafe when he noticed several ponies milling outside. Each of them had a notebook and camera, and, after seeing him, they all rushed over to him.
        “May I help you gentlecolts?” Order asked, feeling a touch nervous at the mob of ponies around him. All at once, each of them began to ask questions.
        “Who was the mare at the top table last night?”
        “Was she Soarin’s date?”
        “Who ordered the table, Soarin or the mare?”
        “Can you spare five minutes? That’s all I need.”
        Order just crashed through them, ignoring their words. Instead, he walked straight to the doors without saying a word. After opening it, he turned to look at the crowd.
        “I will be more than happy to answer any question I can at 9:15,” he told the crowd. Immediately, a few of them left. However, many of the reporters stayed, breaking off into their groups to talk. Shaking his head, Order entered his restaurant.
        It was clean and set up for the morning rush, and he even saw a few ponies preparing everything else. Walking into the kitchen, he managed to casually take one of the pastries the chefs were making without them noticing. Smiling, he turned and walked into his office. 
        Inside the office was his favorite chair, pure cotton seating, with a synthetic fiber cover. The only problem was a mare was sitting in it, a unicorn to be precise. It was one of his waitresses, Soft Step. 
        “Good morning, boss,” the mare said playfully, a smile dancing on her face.
        “Good morning.” Order moved to the other side of the desk. “What are you doing in my seat?”
        “I was waiting for you and got tired. Sue me.” Soft leapt out of his chair, relinquishing it to the rightful owner. Order sat heavily into it, sighing in comfort. 
        “So, why were you waiting for me?” Order asked. Soft Step sat in the chair opposite of his, which she should have been sitting in anyways.
        “I was wondering, who was that mare with Soarin last night?” 
        Order had to stifle a sigh. Not another pony wanting to know.
        “I, frankly, have no idea.” The answer didn’t seem to satisfy Soft, who just kept staring at him. “I don’t know who she is or what she does.”
        “What do you know about her?” Soft inquired. She was being more forceful than usual.
        “Why is this so important to you?” Order deflected. “I swear, every journalist and their pet wants to know who she was, but why do you want to know?”
        Soft sighed once before leaving momentarily, returning with a small bag. “I was paid to find out by a curious young lord.” She put the bag on the table. “I was paid in advance, and I don’t want to disappoint this noble.”
        “Why didn’t you say so, Soft?” Without hesitation, he ripped open the bag and poured it out. Yet, contrary to his prior actions, he seemed be count the bits without emotion. After he was done counting, he looked back up, a hint of emotion coming back. “Though, if I may ask, is this the same lord that you have been trying to impress for a while now?” Soft Step’s face redenned slightly. When he saw this, Order sighed. “Ah, nevermind. It’s not important.”
        “So, what do you know?” Soft asked with a slight cough to regain composure.
        “Celestia herself made the request, on behalf of her ‘servant’.” He slid over a tenth of the bits. “She nearly arrived late and was in a bit of a hurry, and I haven’t seen her around before.” He slid over another tenth. “She had authority in her voice, and knew her wines perfectly.” Another tenth disappeared into his side of the table. “Also, she asked for the wine in a Prench accent, though I don’t know whether or not it was real.” This time, he took a fifth of the coins. “I’m afraid that’s all I know.”
        “Thank you, Order,” Soft said with a smile. “I’ll see you tonight.” Soft got up and began to walk out the door.
        “Listen, Soft…” The manager looked at her awkwardly as she turned back to meet his gaze. “No noble would marry a pony that isn’t a blueblood, it’s not allowed. This noble of yours that you keep trying to impress… don’t be hurt when it doesn’t work out. Even if he does accept you… you’ll just end up as another Lady Rose.” 
        Without a further word, Soft Step strode out the door, her face completely blank. She continued walking, lost in her own thoughts, until she reached her apartment. Opening it, she found three letters shoved under the door. Reading over them, she began to compose her report for Blueblood. 





        Note to self: Stick to sleep schedule. Why did my stomach have to keep me up last night?
        Celestia hid her tiredness well, keeping her mane flowing and a tiny illusion spell to hide any bags under her eyes.
        Her guards didn’t mention her stumbles, nor did anypony else. Even though it was simply a short walk to her sister’s rooms, she had already nearly collided with two walls and a small end table. Fortunately, a careful sidestep and an elegant turn had made any errors look like they were purposeful.
        Within a few minutes, she found herself in front of Luna’s door. Knocking, Celestia entered the room. Her guards, politely, waited outside. Scanning the room, Celestia found that Luna was nowhere to be found.
        “Luna, you here?” Celestia called out, examining the room. The bed was only slightly wrinkled and the food was already out, meaning that her sister had been there. But where could she have gone?
        It was at that moment that Celestia spied a note on the table with her name on the front. Picking it up, she flipped it over.

        Hello, Sister. If you are reading this, then I have not yet returned from my late night swim. I will be back by 9, but if I’m not back then I’ve probably gotten sidetracked.

Sighing, Celestia looked at the clock. Already, it was 9:30, meaning Luna was overdue. Grabbing a mug from the table, Celestia filled it with a bit of coffee and chugged it where nopony would see her. Feeling a bit more energized, she returned to the hallway, heading downstairs. Wordlessly, her guards followed.
        It took several minutes to make it down to the Canterlot Palace pool. There were two of Luna’s personal guards, which were guarding the door. Celestia’s royal guards opted to wait with them rather than entering. Inside the enclosed area was a 25 meter by 15 meter pool, broken up into 6 lanes of 25 meters by 6.5 meters. Swimming in one of the lanes was Luna.
        “Good morning, sister!” Luna called out while panting heavily. “Care to join?”
        “I’d prefer not to.” Celestia took a seat on one of the patio chairs. “Unfortunately, I still have paperwork to take care of, and being tired won’t help.” Celestia laid out under the sun, relaxing a bit more. “Though I suppose a minute here won’t hurt.”
        Luna kept swimming, though she seemed to only be doing the most common stroke: Free style. Celestia, however, kept quiet, lest she give Luna anymore exercises to do. Soon enough, after several more minutes, the Princess of Exercise got out and began to dry her coat off. 
        “So, how was your date last night?” Luna asked.
        “It wasn’t a date,” Celestia argued, getting a bit more relaxed in her chair.
        “Of course it wasn’t, it was just at a fancy restaurant.” Luna’s smile became more genuine as she took a seat next to her sister. “So, how was it?”
        “It wasn’t a date, Luna!” Come on, think of a way out of this! “I am curious, though. Why aren’t you doing other strokes in your exercise?” Celestia sat up from her chair, getting ready to leave.
        “What do you mean, Tia?” Luna inquired as she continued to dry herself off.
        “Well, there are many other strokes, though I thought you’d at least know Backstroke or Breaststroke as those are the simplest.”
        Luna’s face suddenly flushed, her eyes growing wide. She nearly dropped her towel as she glared at her sister.
        “Tia, I know that such acts are more accepted today, but I do not ‘swing that way’ as is the common phrase!” Luna’s glare intensified as Celestia backed away in confusion.
        “Luna, those are actual strokes, and some of the most common ones---”
        “I don’t care if they are common or not! I do not believe in such ways of pleasure!”
        Outside the pool area, the royal guards were still standing watch. Once they began to hear yelling, one of the newer guards moved to open the gate, only to be blocked by the others.
        “I wouldn’t do that if I was you, Steel Tip,” one of the older guards warned.
        “Why not?” Steel Tip asked. “This is our job, isn’t it? To defend the princesses?”
        “Yes, but not against each other,” another guard said. “Believe me, this is a sisterly dispute, and whoever gets involved will learn their lesson the first time.” 
        Steel backed away, and stood to the side again. As he moved away, the other guards unblocked the door.
        “Five bits says that Luna leaves first,” one of the Lunar guards said.
        “I’ll take that bet,” replied the oldest Solar guard.
        Just then, the door burst open as Celestia walked out of the pool area, her face a stony mask. Without a word, the Solar royal guards began following her. Unseen by the princess, a small bag with five bits inside was thrown to the winner of the bet, who stuffed it into his armor without another word.
        Luna came out a minute later, her face also smoothed over. Turning to her guards, she passed over a small bag of bits.
        “Take this and find me a pony that is knowledgeable in swimming techniques,” she commanded. “I need to speak with one as soon as possible.” 
        “Of course, Princess,” the guard said with a bow. Without another word, Luna returned to the pool and dove into the deep end, beginning another set.





        Several hours later and in the slightly lower area of Canterlot, in the residential area for most ponies, Blueblood was in disguise. His hair, usually over an hour to style and make perfect for a public appearance, was hidden, stuffed under a wide brimmed hat. His clothes, usually made of the finest silk and studded with gems was replaced by a simple alabaster waiter’s uniform that hid his Cutie Mark and a the most distinctive parts of himself. The best part about going incognito was the clothing, which suited his tastes much more.
        Blending with the crowd, he made his way to Apartment 86C. Knocking, Blueblood waited patiently. He couldn’t hear any hoofsteps, but he knew she was there. Giving the door his best smile, he knocked again. After a few seconds, the door opened to show a bedraggled navy blue unicorn.
        “Hello, Soft,” Blueblood greeted. “Mind if I enter?” Not waiting for an answer, he walked in.
        “Sure, come on in,” Soft Step deadpanned. “Do you have any questions about my report?”
        Blueblood moved to take a seat at her couch, tossing aside his hat. Taking a look, he couldn’t help but smile. He always loved seeing Soft when she was tired, without that cold look in her eyes. An added bonus was seeing her liberty blue hair al naturale, sticking up in several places. Unfortunately because of this, her usually dazzling lilac eyes were clouded. Shaking himself, he returned his mind to slightly more important matters.
        “Yes, I was wondering why you included information about some random pony in your report.” Blueblood raised an eyebrow at her. “I know you are better than to simply give me useless information… So what is your reasoning?”
        Soft moved to sit in the chair opposite of him. “I… don’t know.” She levitated a cup over and took a long sip.
        “What do you mean you don’t know?” Blueblood asked, pushing himself up from his chair to sit straighter.
        “I can’t tell you why I was so curious.” Soft looked Blueblood directly in the eyes. “All I can say is that my instincts told me to look into her.” Blueblood gave her a small smile.
        “Oh. One of your gut feelings.” He sat back in the chair, but was just as alert. “Well, we better listen to them. You remember what happened last time we didn’t.”
        “Oh please.” Soft dismissed the matter with a wave of her hoof. “You and I both know that there was no reason to listen to it then. How were we supposed to know my gut feeling about Sunset would turn out right?”
        “It was right nonetheless,” Blueblood countered. “If we had listened to it, we may have been able to save her from… wherever she is now.”
        “You didn’t have the resources then that you have now.” Soft levitated a cup of coffee over to Blueblood, who took a large sip. “Your father was still alive and you hadn’t established your networks yet. You barely had enough ‘allowance’ to pay off two servants, much less the guards.”
        “Now that’s not true.” Blueblood set down his coffee on the glass table separating them. “You’re the one who spent my allowance on trivial expenses.”
        “I am insulted you would even suggest such a thing.” Soft huffed and stuck her nose in the air in mock offense. “I did not waste a single bit of yours. Each one had a purpose.”
        “Including that perfume for a certain mare’s prom?” Blueblood finally asked, his eyes twinkling. Soft’s face froze as she remembered that day. Within moments, the apartment was filled with laughter.
        “Oh, Celestia, I was such an idiot,” Soft said between laughs, a hoof covering her face. “How was I supposed to know parfum d' âne would smell that bad?
        “Maybe if you took Prench, you would know, ma puante fleur,” Blueblood playfully mocked between laughs. After a few more seconds, the laughter died down.
        “For the record, I thought you smelt lovely,” Blueblood told her with a smile. She looked over into his eyes, her own smile growing. Before she could speak further, a bell began to ring. It was 4:00 in the afternoon.
        “Oh buck me,” Soft grumbled under her breath. She got out of her chair and moved towards the hallway before turning back. “Sorry, but I have to get going soon. Can you show yourself out?”
        “Sure,” Blueblood answered reluctantly. “It was a pleasure talking to you, Soft.”
        “You too, Blueblood.” Without another word, she bolted off into the bathroom. 
        A few minutes later, Soft was in the shower. Her head was hung, the water washing over her navy blue coat. Her eyes were closed tightly, holding back tears.
        “Stop it, Soft,” she ordered herself. “You know he can’t make a move. You can’t jeopardize his future and his noble station. For him…” She took a deep breath. “You can’t…” Shaking her head, she tried to banish thoughts of their shared past. “For his sake, you can’t be with him.” Tears began to mix with the water running down her face. “Why did I have to be born a commoner?”
Blueblood could hear the shower running, and had to beat back temptation with an iron will. Shaking his head, Blueblood smacked himself across the face.
        “Why do you continue to do this to yourself, Blueblood?” he whispered to no one. He clenched his teeth, angrily glaring at the floor. “You can’t marry her, so why do you continue to see her?” Mist began to fill his vision, but he worked at repressing them. “Why did I have to carry this tainted noble blood?”
Without another word, he put on his hat and walked out. As soon as he was out of the apartment, his face became smooth again; a mask was in place.





        Celestia was on her way towards the palace gardens when she was interrupted by Prince Blueblood, wearing a very fine pale suit. Nodding a hello, she made to walk past him, only for him to stop.
        “Hello, Princess Celestia,” he greeted with a humble bow. 
        “Good afternoon.” Celestia stopped as well, waving him to end his bow. “Do you need something?”
“Yes, might I speak with you in private for a moment?” Blueblood requested as he opened a nearby door. 
“I do have a few minutes to spare.” Celestia entered the room, leaving her guards outside. As soon as the doors closed, Celestia walked closer to Blueblood. “How have you been, Bluey?” she asked as the two shared a hug. “We barely get to talk personally these days.”
“I’ve been well, Aunty,” Blueblood said with a small smile. They broke the hug, and he waved a hoof to one of the cushioned chairs, which he sat across from. His smile fell with his face as he approached the topic he wanted to discuss. “I’m afraid that this talk isn’t just for pleasure, though. I wanted to ask you about somepony. A mare in particular”
“I can’t be sure I can help you until you give me this pony’s name.” Celestia could only smile warmly. Oh Blueblood, are you really so bad with the mares that you need my help? 
“It’s a pony named Sun Beam,” Blueblood informed her, his lips pursing. “Do you know a mare with that name?”
Celestia’s smile became frozen. Her heart began to beat faster and heavier “Yes, what do you want to know about her?” How does he know about Sun Beam?
“I was just curious who she was and if I could speak with her,” Blueblood answered. He began to play with his cuffs as he awaited Celestia’s answer. When none came he looked into Celestia’s eyes. “I heard you helped arrange a table for her at Cafe Soleil Levante, but I don’t know anything about her.”
“I’m afraid that she is a private pony,” Celestia started, trying to assuage any fears and crazy theories. “I can confirm to you that she is my servant, and that I appreciate all she’s done for me, but I can’t tell you anymore than that.”
        Blueblood sat back on his haunches, digesting that info. His mind was working quickly trying to connect the dots.
Celestia took the lull in conversation to truly scan her nephew. He was a powerful noble, there was no doubt of that, but he did have a habit of being horrible with mares. Every one of them that came to him for a date or just to try and get close, he got away from. He needs a nice mare to settle down with, though that would require a great deal of patience.
While she was musing, Blueblood finally wrapped his mind around the issue. Deciding his course of action, he rose from his seat.
        “Thank you, Aunty,” he finally said with a fake smile. “I thought maybe somepony had stolen a seat from one of your servants.”
        “Thank you for your concern, Bluey.” Celestia’s real smile returned. “Now, if you don’t mind, I simply must be going.” Celestia stood and opened the door with her magic. Before she could leave, though, a cyan pegasus, who was waiting by the door, flew in and landed. Celestia’s mind blanked as her face froze at seeing him.
        “Your highness,” Soarin greeted with a bow, “I apologize for being abrupt and barging in, but might I speak with you for a few minutes?” Celestia, still slightly frozen, reacted on pure instinct.
        “Of course.” She motioned for him to rise and took her seat. “Please, come in.” Soarin moved to the chair by Blueblood.
        “I will leave you to your conversation, Princess Celestia,” Blueblood said as he left. Once he was past the guards, he quickly went into the room next door, which was a chess room. Though there were many nobles playing, the wall to Celestia’s room had a vacant couch. Relaxing into the couch, Blueblood closed his eyes and activated an eavesdropping ward he had in the room.
        Back in the room, Celestia was trying to regain her mental footing while keeping up a conversation with Soarin.
        “Sun Beam works for you, right?” Soarin asked, shifting in his chair. Celestia nodded, though didn’t say a word. “I’ve been looking for her all day, but couldn’t find her. Do you know where she is?”
        “Oh, right.” Celestia looked to her side, trying to figure out an excuse. Buck, what do I say? Why wouldn’t I be here…  “She is going to Saddle Arabia right now. To perform a few tasks for me.”
        “Sun told me she was your servant…?” Soarin’s eyes squinted as his head tilted. “Why would she be in Saddle Arabia?”
        Celestia blinked once, her mask slipping ever so slightly.
        “She is my servant,” she emphasised. “But she often helps me by going to other countries to pick up different… recipes and get small things to help me stay connected with other parts of the world.” Celestia looked at the clock. I can leave now without appearing too rude. 
        “Do you know when she’ll be back?” Soarin adjusted himself, trying to get more comfortable.
Celestia’s eyes drifted to the clock again. Then again… this could be my chance to dig for some info.
        “She should be back late Sunday night.” Celestia gave a small smile to her companion. “I am curious, why were you looking for her?”
        “O-oh, it was, uh, *ahem*, nothing,” Soarin assured her. “Nothing important, really.” Looking at the clock, Soarin got out of the chair. “Dang, I have to go meet with Spitfire.” He started for the door before pausing and turning back. “Uh… with your... leave?”
        “Yes, you may go,” Celestia said, stifling a laugh. As soon as he was out the door, she let a small laugh escape her. He is never going to have refined social graces is he? A wide grin on her face, she got up and walked out. Once she was out the door, her face was smooth and expressionless again. She continued her steady gait to her sister’s tower.
        Knocking on the door, she heard a quiet voice bid her to enter. Opening the door, she found Luna trying to smother herself with a pillow.
        “Luna, what are you doing?” Celestia asked as she approached her sister, removing the pillow with a bit of magic. 1,253 years later, and some things don’t change. The thought made Celestia nostalgic, a smile on her lips that she had to hide.
        “I was trying to suffocate myself.” Luna gave her sister a baleful look. “I thought that was obvious, and why did you stop me?”
        “Luna, why were you trying to suffocate yourself with a pillow?” Celestia sat at the end of the bed, her smile breaking through. Luna sat up next to her sister.
        “I hired an aquatics expert to help me learn new ways of exercise… and the first few strokes he suggested were the backstroke and the breaststroke.” Luna’s face flashed red again. “Turns out they are real strokes.” She turned to look at her sister, who was sporting a massive grin. “Stop smiling! It’s not funny.”
        “It is a little funny, Lulu,” Celestia snickered. How could she not know what… Oh. Right. She put her hoof around her sister’s shoulders and pulled her in for a small hug, her smile fading. “I know there is so much that is different, but it’ll be fine.”
        “I know, sister.” Moving her free hoof, Luna rubbed her eyes. Taking a deep breath and expelling it, she continued. “But, let us not dwell on such… unpleasantries. You never did tell me about your date yesterday.” It was Celestia’s turn to glare at her sister.
        “It was not a date, Lulu,” Celestia insisted, removing her supportive hoof. “Come, I’ll tell you about yesterday’s dinner over today’s.” 
The two walked to the small table and opened the lids for their dinners. Celestia’s salad was completely green, with only a few splotches of color where vegetables were left in. On Luna’s plate was a new dish, Manehattan in origin. All it seemed to be was a load of beans and cheese, melted together, rolled up in flat bread. The two dug into their respective meals before talking.
“So, was Soarin a proper gentlecolt?” Luna asked between mouthfuls of her food. Celestia just sighed.
“No, and I still can’t believe him!” She waved her fork and hoof in the air for emphasis. “He was downright… disrespectful to everything around him. His outfit, though making him into quite the figure, was far too simple. And don’t even get me started on his table manners.” Celestia forcibly bit down on more food.
“Do you know who that reminds me of?” Luna asked, putting her food down. She lowered her head and raised her eyebrows a few times. “Come on, can you guess?”
“Just tell me who, Luna.” Celestia simply gave her sister a begging lip, forcing her to concede.
“Fine. He sounds just like that guardspony you had a crush on in your youth.” Luna waited for the impact, only to find Celestia’s face freeze.
“Luna, I never had a crush on any guardspony,” Celestia said softly. Her mind went back to a dashing warrior from her past. “I honestly have no idea where you got that from.”
“Tia, will you truly make me do this?” Luna sighed, getting up from her chair and moving to the bed. She opened a drawer and began to pull out many scraps of paper. She read through each one until finding the one she needed to. When she finally spotted it, her eyes lit up, a devious smirk tugging at her lips. She walked back to the table and gave it to her sister.

Our Gallant Thunder Spear,
        We shall be awaiting your return. You and We simply must have dinner together upon that hour. We pray you safe travels, and return to Our side swiftly.

~Princess Celestia

Celestia tried to hide her reddened face behind the note, but to no avail. Though she couldn’t see Luna, she could still hear her sister’s snickerings.
“Never try to lie, sister.” Luna took the note and levitated it back into the drawer. “We know you, and you can hide nothing from us!”
I need a way to turn the conversation, fast. Hm…
“Luna, I have actually been meaning to ask about this for some time.” Celestia sat back at the table and began to eat again as she talked. “How has being the Minister of Coin been?”
“It is a challenge, learning 1,000 years of economics, but I have a firmer grasp of it now,” Luna answered, taking her seat and grabbing her food. “I have been studying the works of Victor Canter, and put one of his policies into place.”
“That’s great to hear.” Celestia enveloped her sister in a hug. “See, I told you that it would be an easy concept for you. You were always good with numbers.”
“Yes, but I prefered when we used abacuses, not calculators,” Luna muttered, returning the hug. “I hope that it will help out our ponies.”
“It will, I’m sure of it,” Celestia ensured before the two returned to their usual topics.





        Soft Step was working her cover when a very normal pony walked in through the front. They were wearing a royal blue hoofkerchief, Blueblood’s signal for a message. She approached the pony, a menu in hand.
        “Hello, how may I be of service?” she asked in her normal voice. “We have a table for one, or you can sit at the bar.”
        “No, not today,” the pony answered, reaching into one of its pockets. “My friend left their wallet at my place, see? Thought I’d return it. Eh, they work here. ‘Er name’s Blue Violet.”
        “Oh, yes, I can return it immediately.” Soft Step took the wallet and walked to the back. She walked past the chefs, past the other waitresses on break, and into the back storage room. Opening the wallet, she pulled out a single piece of paper.

        Talk to the Trigonas in the sand. Ask about the new Livery you had an interest in. Livery was not delivered to the Embassy in Saddle Arabia. It disappeared.

        Soft stuffed the paper back into the wallet and pulled a pill from her pocket. Gulping it down, she walked back out to the cooking area. Halfway through the kitchen, she darted for the nearest sink, which was blessedly empty, and continued to remove whatever contents her stomach had into it.
        Order Report came storming out and, upon seeing Soft, rushed over and practically carried her to the employee bathrooms.
        “You need to go home and get better,” Order ordered. “I want you gone for at least two days after that. I can’t have a sick waitress handling the food.”
        “Y-yes, sir,” Soft managed weakly. As soon as she was down the street, her weak, stumbling steps slowly turned into more assured and confident ones. By the time she got home, she was fully recovered. Within five minutes, she was sending off orders and requesting reports