> Night Mares
>  by Stormbringer
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> CHAPTER ONE: A Dark Night
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	The Princess of the Night soared across the night sky of Equestria.  She so enjoyed her ‘Night Patrols’.  Celestia had to trudge through the paperwork and the audiences needed to run the kingdom.  But for the junior princess and the Princess of the Night, there weren’t such boring chores.  
So she took it on herself to patrol the skies of Equestria, on the lookout for creatures from the Everfree Forest, escapees of Tartarus and other things that go bump in the night (other than Berry Punch on one of her benders).
But really, she just enjoyed being out in the cool night air.  To be far above the earth as if she herself was a fixture of her night sky.  

The most beautiful star in the heavens.

As she flew, the quiet and solitude the night brought always started her thinking of how she missed having some pony to talk to, to share with, just to be with.  The main drawback to immortality all Alicorns are blessed/cursed with is the impermanence of companions and lovers.  
After too many heartbreaks of losing ponies close to her, she, as had her sister, had vowed not to open their selves to mortal lovers again.
Luna also still harbored a very small resentment that ponies chose this marvelous time to sleep.  In her glorious night there wasn’t Celestia’s harsh sun to beat down, and the colors of the night were easier on the eyes.  
And the stars, the stars!  
They were like the jewels of the earth but were free to all.
Princess Luna streaked across the night sky; looping, barrel rolling and power diving to climb back to the heights.  If the Wonderbolts were awake, they’d be standing slack jawed, mouth open at her flight prowess.  Even her sassy friend Rainbow Dash, would have to admit, despite Luna being a princess, she’d have to be named the Queen of the Sky.  She smiled to think even her older sister was no match at flight.
As she soared above her favorite town, Ponyville, she observed a glint and movement on a hill outside of the town proper.
‘Somepony who enjoys the night,’ thought the princess.
Luna banked hard and flew to the secluded spot.  It was no surprise the pony there was her favorite pony, a pony whom actually not a day went by she didn’t think of, a pony she owed much to:

Twilight Sparkle.

Luna landed close with a flourish of wings.  It amused her a little when it surprised her sister’s favorite student.  Twilight’s new wings shot out in surprise.
Seeing the Princess of the Night, Twilight bowed and properly addressed the co-ruler of Equestria.
“Princess Luna, Your Highness!” said Twilight.
Luna smirked, from this pony the title and curtsy felt out of place.  Especially on a hilltop, in the dead of night with no other pony around.
“Rise Twilight Sparkle,” said the princess, fighting not to drop back into the ancient formal speech patterns, “answer me this; do you see any other ponies around?”
“No, Your Highness,” answered Twilight.
“And have thou and thy… you and your friends not aided me in the past?  And was it you and they who freed me from my self-made Tartarus of Nightmare Moon?”
“Yes, Princess.”
“And correct me if I’m mistaken, but do you now hold the rank of princess?”
“Yes again, Your Highness.”
“Then knock off the ‘Princess’ and ‘Your Highness’ horse-apples!” said Luna. 
Luna smiled at Twilight’s reaction. 
“I thought we were friends.  I’m Luna, and I expect you to call me that.  At least when we aren’t in formal situations, if we called each other ‘princess’ all the time it would just get old fast.  I can’t think how many centuries it’s been since I called Celestia ‘princess’.”
Twilight snickered, Luna looked at her stern which made Twilight nervous, but Luna broke out in laughter.  
Twilight had heard Luna laugh on many occasions.  And once again Twilight noticed just how pleasant and charming Luna’s laugh was, also the way her face appeared when happy was quite lovely.  Twilight didn’t understand the feeling she was having again, being in the presence of Luna.
“So you like to observe the stars, Twilight?” asked Luna.
“Yes Your High…,”
Luna shot her a raised eyebrow.
“Y… Yes Luna,” stammered Twilight.
“Have you ever used the large telescope at Canterlot Castle?”
“No!” exclaimed Twilight excitedly, “I’ve always seen it from the outside, and I always wished I could get my hooves on it, at least for one night.  But it was always off limits, when I asked about it while I was at the School for Gifted Unicorns.  It was in a secure part of the castle.  I found out later it was your section, you were still in the moon.”
Twilight, then blushed;
“Sorry, I didn’t mean to bring that up Luna.”
“Don’t be,” said Luna, “if not for you, I might’ve been sent back there.  Nasty dusty place, you can only play chess with yourself so many times in a thousand years.”
Luna looked at the ground, the smile had faded as she remembered those long lonely centuries.  Even as Nightmare Moon, she yearned for a pony companion.  A lover in more than just a physical way.  One who’d be there just to give a touch to comfort her.  
As if on cue, Luna felt a hoof on her shoulder, Twilight was looking at her with a genuine look of concern on her comely face, Luna’s smile returned.
‘She truly is a cute mare,’ thought Luna.
“Come, fly with me and I’ll show you wonders your little spyglass can’t see,” said Luna with a smile.
“I can’t fly very well,” said Twilight sheepishly.
“Nonsense.” said Luna, “you just don’t have confidence.  Come with me.”
There was a dark blue aura around Twilight as Luna leapt into the sky.  Twilight couldn’t help but follow.  In no time at all they achieved an altitude Twilight had never been, even in the hot air balloon.  Then Luna looked at Twilight and with a wicked grin said;
“It’s sink or swim time Twilight!  I’d spread my wings if I were you.”  
The aura around Twilight disappeared.  Twilight was no longer being supported, nothing below her hooves but empty space.  It was both thrilling and sickening. 
Twilight started to plummet.  The air was whistling by her, she was starting to panic when she saw Luna in a dive by her.
“Position yourself like me!” shouted Luna, “Spread your wings out.”
Twilight positioned herself with fore hooves out in front, muzzle down and wings spread.  She could feel herself in some control.  
“Now pull back and beat your wings,” Luna called out.
Twilight curved her back and put her muzzle up.  She beat her wings, at first flailing but then she felt when they actually bit the air and she could feel lift.  She repeated those strokes, it became easier and more powerful.  Suddenly she felt confidence and she shot up out of her dive.  As she climbed, Luna flew alongside of her.  Without the wind rushing by in the dive it was easier to talk and listen.
“Not bad Twilight,” said Luna with a smile, “you had a good three hundred feet left.”
“Three hundred feet!” said Twilight almost fainting. 
“Focus Twilight,” said Luna laughing. “follow me.”
Luna took off like a shot.  Twilight soon could feel how she was able to accelerate and was soon alongside Luna.
“Very good,” said Luna, “now to the castle.”
As Twilight flew alongside Luna, she started to feel confident enough to look around her.  The land passing beneath, the woods, small settlements and even her library as they flew over Ponyville.  Then she looked up.  She knew it only an illusion but the stars and moon felt so much closer, like she could reach out a hoof and touch them.  But her gaze would always come back to the incredibly beautiful mare she was flying alongside.  Twilight would also notice Luna looking intently at her.
Before she knew it, Canterlot Castle was in sight.  They headed in the direction of Luna’s tower, then touched down softly outside.  Twilight was so excited, she forgot herself and threw a hug around Luna, who reciprocated. 
“That was so fun!” said Twilight.
“Yes it is,” said Luna.
Then Luna thought she’d take the chance and gave Twilight a kiss.  It wasn’t a peck on the lips, but no tongue, and it was held for several moments.   Twilight didn’t fight it, but she was a tad taken aback.  They broke the kiss, Twilight blushed brightly (even in the dark).  Luna didn’t want to rush things and scare off Twilight, so she changed the subject.
“Follow me and we’ll go to my observatory,” said Luna.
The elegant Alicorn led Twilight through a door into halls she’d never been.  The thought of the kiss she’d just shared with Luna kept creeping into her head.  And for the first time in her life, Twilight was actually checking out another mare’s flanks.  The way they were swaying was almost hypnotic, the large black patch on which her cutie mark is located and the smaller splotches around it was now quite visible.  She suddenly got the odd idea in her mind wondering if there were patches continuing on to the other side or was there a gap under her tail.  As her imagination worked she found herself thinking of Luna’s marehood, if surrounded by a blue or black coat.  Twilight’s own marehood was starting to feel warm and wet.
‘What’s with me?’ thought Twilight. ‘I’ve never thought about anything like this before.  Then I’ve never been kissed like that before either.  Does it matter Luna is a mare?  The kiss was quite pleasant.  Perhaps the fact she’s a mare really doesn’t matter…’
Suddenly Twilight’s face impacted between Luna’s flanks.  And for ‘some reason’, Luna’s tail had been moved aside.  Luckily, Twilight’s  horn wasn’t in any position to do any injury, but there was a damp, warm, slightly musky smell on the front of her muzzle.  Luna had stopped and now was looking at Twilight amused.
“If you want a closer look, just ask.” said Luna, with a teasing relaxing of her marehood.  
The coat was blue.
“I’m sorry Luna,” said Twilight, trying not to stare at Luna’s love organ she’d just impacted. “I was distracted.”
Twilight was relieved and disappointed as Luna tightened the muscled that normally kept the marehood hidden and lowered her tail.
“I hope so,” said Luna with a quirky smile, “I was trying my best.”
Twilight stood there shocked, Luna was really ‘coming on’ to her.  And the sight of Luna’s marehood was stuck in her mind.  Twilight didn’t understand why the memory of the sight was making her heart race.
‘Am I really turned on by the sight and smell of another mare’s marehood?’ thought Twilight.  Then she stuck out her tongue and tasted the wet spot on her muzzle, ‘and the taste!’

A door before them opened, there was a tight spiral stair that led to the upper platform of the tower.  
The sight which greeted Twilight was dizzying, it was perhaps the highest point of the castle and on the side which overlooked the shear drop to the valley below.  There weren’t any walls, battlements or safety rails.  The look on Twilight’s face didn’t go un-noticed.  
“What’s the matter Twilight?” asked Luna.
“It’s…  It’s so high!” said Twilight, slightly panicked, “and nothing to keep a pony from going over the side.” 
Luna laughed hard;
“You mean like this?”
She ran to the side and continued over the edge, Twilight gasped.  
“AHHhhhhhhhhh!”
Twilight could hear Luna scream as the sound was getting dimmer.  Twilight panicked and ran to the side to look over.  But just below the level of the flooring, Luna just hung there in the air, flapping her wings, grinning like the cat who ate the parasprite.  
She flew back to Twilight.
“We can fly, remember?”
Twilight looked sheepish again.
“I guess I’m still not used to the wings yet.”
Luna laughed again and gave Twilight a small kiss.
“You can be so silly, Twilight,” said Luna.
Twilight smiled, it was nice to hear Luna talk to her so comfortably.  And she found she was really liking the kisses.

Luna walked over to the device which dominated the platform.  It was the largest telescope Twilight had ever seen.  Luna’s flanks ‘just happened’ to be pointed in Twilight’s direction.  Twilight’s gaze switched back and forth between them and the telescope.  Luna looked over her shoulder;
“So what was it you were observing tonight?”
“Your gorgeous flanks…  
Wait! I meant your beautiful marehood… 
NO!  I mean I was looking at the Horsehead Nebula.” Said Twilight, not believing what just came out of her mouth. 
Luna grinned. 
‘Good,’ thought Luna, ‘perhaps there is a chance.’
“I’ve always been fascinated by the way the dust lanes show against the red emission nebula behind.”  Said Twilight trying to act if she hadn’t admitted to Luna that she had been checking out Luna’s ‘goodies’.
Luna just smiled and turned her attention to the telescope.  
“Right ascension 05h 40m 59.0s.  Declination -02° 27’ 30.0”.  Distance, 1,500 light years,” said Luna.
Twilight was spellbound by the depth of Luna’s knowledge.  She’d heard Rainbow talk of being aroused by a pony ‘talking dirty’ to her.  Twilight found the same with Luna ‘talking science’ to her.
There was a dark blue aura around the device and it started to move.  Luna looked into it then waved Twilight to come over.  Twilight approached and Luna backed away from the eyepiece.  Twilight looked in and adjusted the fine focus with her magic.  
The image jumped out at her, it was the most magnificent thing she’d ever seen.  She stood there in mesmerized fascination.  She didn’t even notice the late night temperature was making her shiver slightly.  Not until a warm wing draped over her and a warm body was pressed against her and a soft muzzle was nuzzling her ear.
Twilight looked away from the glorious vision in the telescope to another glorious vision standing next to her.  The band of stars of the Milky Way across the sky made a stunning backdrop to the absolutely beautiful, almost god-like mare who was looking at her in a way she’d never seen anypony look at her before.

“Twilight?” said Luna.
“Yes?” replied Twilight, not knowing why it was becoming hard to breathe.
“Do you trust me?”
“Yes, I trust you Luna.”
“No Twilight, do you trust me?”
Twilight could sense what the Princess of the Night was asking.  
Twilight always wondered how she’d react if and when this moment ever came with anypony.  Now it was without any thinking or analyzing.
“Yes Luna, I trust you.” Said Twilight thinking she couldn’t believe that this was happening and with whom.
Luna leaned over to kiss Twilight as Twilight did the same.  This time it was so much deeper.  In the past, she’d thought another pony’s tongue in her mouth would be disgusting, but now.

Oh but now Twilight wanted more.  

Luna’s wing pulled Twilight closer.  Twilight’s foreleg reached up around Luna’s neck and pulled her closer as well. 
Parts of Twilight’s body, she had never given any thought to were now screaming at her.  She was becoming so wet, she’d never had such a reaction before.  Luna broke the kiss, a line of saliva was still connecting the two mare’s tongues.  Once again, Luna asked;
“Twilight, do you trust me?”
“Yes Luna, I trust you.”

There was a familiar glow around the two, then in a flash they were in a room reminiscent of the bed/living area she’d seen of Princess Celestia's.  It was decorated differently, a bit more dark but comfortable.  There was a low fire burning in the hearth to ward off the chill from the grand open and glassless windows.  In the middle of the room was a large cushion/bed, not unlike the one Celestia favored.
Luna walked over to it and climbed on and lowered herself down to her belly with her folded legs under her. 
“Please join me,” said Luna.  It wasn’t a command, it was an honest request.
Twilight climbed on and didn’t have to be told to put herself next to Luna, and as close as possible, they both draped a wing over the other.  The warmth of Luna’s body was arousing.  Twilight had never been so aroused before.
“Do you realize you’re a Princess of the Night, just like me?  I’m the moon, you’re the stars,” said Luna.
“I’d never thought of it that way,” said Twilight, snuggling a little closer.  “It’s as if we’re made for each other.”
Luna nodded her head;
“Perhaps we are.”
Luna and Twilight kissed again.  When they broke the kiss, Twilight’s head was spinning.
“Have you ever been with another pony?” whispered Luna, her big blue-green eyes locked in Twilight’s purple eyes.
Twilight was about to answer that she’d always been with lots of other ponies.  But it struck her what Luna was asking.  Luna wasn’t asking if she’d been around family and friends, she was wanting to know if Twilight was a virgin.
“No, Luna,” whispered Twilight, slightly embarrassed, “I never have.”
“Purity is nothing to be ashamed of Darling,” whispered Luna advancing her muzzle to Twilight’s.
Luna kissed her again.  It was deeper yet, Luna started to stroke Twilight’s mane, then down her back to her dock.  Twilight instinctively raised her tail, but Luna stopped there.

“Twilight, Star of my sky, do you trust me?”
“Yes Luna, my exalted Moon, I trust you.”

Luna continued her hoof down, under Twilight’s tail.  The sensation was about to drive her wild.  Nopony had ever touched her there.

“Star of my sky, do you trust me?”
“Yes my Moon,” said Twilight with a tremble,  she’d never wanted anything or anypony like she was wanting Luna now.  
“I trust you... 
I want you.  
Please make love to me.” Twilight said with innocence and desire in her eyes.
“I have every intention,” replied Luna with a tender smile, to Twilight’s delight.

Luna smiled and gently rolled Twilight onto her back.  As Luna started to kiss Twilight’s neck, the world disappeared, the only thing left was the magnificent pony who was tenderly leading Twilight to levels of passion and ecstasy she didn’t know existed.
	
> CHAPTER TWO: A Bright Day
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Twilight stretched as the morning light shown on her face.  She’d never felt so good waking up ever.  
‘I can’t believe such a dream,’ thought Twilight smiling.  ‘Making love with Luna, I’ve never dreamt anything like that before.’  
Then Twilight could feel what she was sleeping on wasn’t her own bed.  And she felt a sensation ‘down there’ she’d never felt before.
Twilight opened her eyes and it confirm it wasn’t a dream.  She was on a very large cushion, in Princess Luna’s bedchamber.  
She and Luna had really made love almost all night.  The thought of Luna was starting to do odd things to her.   Twilight started to think of all the times she’d interacted with Luna.  She had always assumed the little flutter she’d feel in the presence of the Princess of the Night was due to some respect or prospect of friendship for her teacher’s sister.  Now she was sure it wasn’t  wanting to be friends, but a longing to become close to this magnificent pony.  A pony at the deepest level, Twilight was sure, Luna was feeling the same.
Twilight sat up and looked around.  There was no other pony in the room with her.
“Moon?” said Twilight.
But there was no response.  Then she noticed a note on the cushion and levitated it so she could read it:

My Darling Star,
I didn’t wish to disturb your esteemed repose.  Please feel free to come to the castle dining room and break your fast at your leisure.
Your Moon

The ‘Moon and Star’ names made Twilight smile.  Nopony had ever had a ‘pet name’ for her before.
Twilight knew there was a large bathroom off Celestia’s suite so she looked and found that Luna’s suite was laid out the same.  She took a quick shower and then started to leave the room when she realized she’d never been in this part of the castle before.  She wasn’t quite sure the way to go.  Twilight went out on Luna’s balcony and looked to get her bearings and saw the balcony of the castle dining room below.  
‘What the heck?’ thought Twilight.
She spread her wings and with newfound confidence, leaped over the side and flew down to the lower balcony.  With her magic, she opened the door and entered before she had even landed, it was a bit flashy, Rainbow would be proud.  At a long table sat Celestia and Luna at opposite ends.
“Twilight,” said Celestia, looking up and seeing Twilight enter, “Luna told me you were here and she was expecting you to join us.  How did you sleep?”
Twilight froze, she wasn’t sure what to say.  How much did Luna tell her sister.  Would Celestia be upset at her if she knew she and Luna were ‘doing it’ all night, right under her muzzle.
The two saw the look on Twilight’s face.  Luna giggled and Celestia smiled.
“Twilight,” said Celestia, “you’re an adult and a princess.  You’re free to have intimacies with anypony that consents, even my sister.  So don’t be embarrassed.  Luna is an honorable pony and has a heart as large as all Equestria, and she doesn’t give that heart to just anypony.  If it means anything, I’m very happy for the two of you.”
“Come sit by me, my sweet Star,” said Luna motioning to an open cushion beside her. 
Twilight sat by Luna who reached out, took Twilight’s hoof and kissed her quite passionately.  
When the kiss broke, Twilight saw Celestia smiling quite warmly, she really didn’t mind Twilight being involved with her sister.
There were plates of pancakes, muffins and fruit.  There was also a pot of coffee and pot of tea along with milk and water.  It’d been years since she’d eaten at the castle and the food was as good as she remembered.

As they ate the delicious breakfast, the talk was light.  Luna would often glance at Twilight and smile.  Twilight would return the smile.  When Luna would talk to Twilight, she’d reach out a hoof and hold Twilight’s or stroke Twilight’s shoulder.
It was beyond what Twilight ever expected, to have a pony, especially a pony as important as Luna fawning on her.  Twilight returned the affection as best she could.  At first it felt odd, she’d never been affectionate, at least as lover to lover with anypony before.  And under the watchful eyes of her mentor there was still the slightest bit of apprehension.  
But with Luna calling Twilight ‘Star’ and Twilight calling Luna ‘Moon’.  The fact was sinking in, this might just be the beginning of a relationship which could go deeper and farther than Twilight ever expect to go with anypony.  Love and relationships was never a subject Twilight had ever given any thought to.  
And now, it was all Twilight could do not to keep staring at Luna, thinking of her touch, her kiss, her…
“Twilight,” said Celestia, interrupting Twilight’s thoughts. 
“…marehood,  Argh!” Twilight gave voice to her final thought.  Twilight was wondering if her subconscious was having fun by purposely embarrass her conscious self.  She face hoofed.
“Little hussy,” whispered Luna kiddingly to Twilight.  Twilight continued to blush.
“It’s fortuitous you’re here,” said Celestia smiling, Luna giggled and Twilight blushed brightly.  “I was going to contact you for a meeting.  Now that you’re past the shock of your coronation, it’s time we talk about what will be expected of you.  Worry not, it’ll be nothing you can’t handle and nothing too demanding.  Will you be staying with us for today?”
Luna took Twilight’s hoof, letting her know that she was hoping Twilight would stay.
“I think Luna and I have things to talk about,” said Twilight, smiling at Luna who had the same look on her face.
“Good, maybe by then you’ll have ‘gotten enough’ that your thoughts will be about more than just Luna’s privates,” said Celestia joking, she was having trouble keeping from laughing out loud.  “Luna’s duties are done until tonight and I have things to be attended to, so we can meet later this afternoon, if that’s okay with you and my sister.”
“That will be good, my sister,” said Luna.
“With me as well,” said Twilight.
“Then if you’ll excuse me,” said Celestia, getting up and heading to the door.
Luna and Twilight stood and Celestia left the room.

The two started to walk back to Luna’s apartments.

“Star, this is very important,” said Luna, it looked as if she was slightly embarrassed, “I want you to know up front I’ve been with other ponies in the past.  But it’s always been the same thing.  Tenderness, passion and then old age and death.  I finally told myself I couldn’t go through it again with a mortal lover.  
Understand this isn’t just because of your ‘elevation’, I’ve been attracted to you from almost the start.  And now I’ve the chance for a love which will last forever…  
We have a chance.”
Twilight looked stunned.  
“Moon, are you telling me that I’m immortal?”
“Yes,” said Luna, “you’re now an Alicorn.  Alicorns are immortal.  Celestia is, I am, Cadence is, and now you my Darling.”
Twilight slumped back down to her haunches.  The world spun, then went gray, then black.

Twilight opened her eyes, she was resting on her back on the cushion/bed in Luna’s room, Luna was sitting with her holding her hoof and stroking the bangs of her forelock.
Luna gave Twilight a small but honest kiss.
“You gave me quite the start my Darling.” said Luna, concern in her eyes, “I thought you already knew.”
“I never thought about it,” said Twilight, “nopony said anything.  I guess if I’d thought about it, the question would’ve come to mind.”
Luna Leaned over and kissed Twilight again, Twilight put her forelegs around Luna’s neck and pulled her close.  Then it struck Twilight;
“Are you saying you love me Moon?”
“I’ve loved you since you helped me that Nightmare Night.” Said Luna, “I was always afraid to say anything because of what I told you of the mortality of past lovers.  But now, fate had dealt us a hand which can make a lasting love possible.”
“On Nightmare Night, I wanted to go to you right away, Spike held me back.  But when I was with you, I felt so comfortable.  I’ve never felt so at ease around your sister.  And when you gave Rainbow Dash a shock, it felt so good just to laugh with you.  I didn’t want the evening to end.  I’d found a pony to relate with, another pony who, like myself had had trouble adjusting to friends and opening up to other ponies.  A pony I had more in common with than I’d first realized.
Thinking back, and how I’ve felt when we’ve interacted since then, I don’t think I can think of anypony who’d be a better pony to love,” said Twilight, “you’re intelligent, witty, and a very beautiful mare.  I’ve never been attracted to mares in the past, but I’ve never been attracted to stallions either.”
“Star, My Love,” said Luna with a smile, “over my many years, I’ve found it doesn’t matter mare or stallion.  To love a pony is to love a pony.”
Twilight looked lovingly into Luna’s eyes.
“I love you, my Moon,” said Twilight.
“And I love you, my Star,” replied Luna.
Each kiss Twilight received was that much better than the last.

Twilight was laying in the embrace of Luna, her head resting on Luna’s chest while Luna was on her back.  They were both in a very light sleep induced from the afterglow of their love making.  Luna was impressed with how quickly Twilight was learning the techniques she was teaching her.  ‘Who said bookworms are poor lovers,’ Luna had thought.

Their slumber was interrupted by a knock at Luna’s chamber door.  The two mares were quickly roused from their slumber.

“Come in,” called out Luna, Twilight raised her head from Luna’s chest. 
“My princesses,” said the guard at the door.  “Princess Celestia sends word she’s ready to meet with the two of you when ready.”
“Very good,” said Luna, “let my sister know we’ll be there directly.”
Luna then leaned over and whispered to Twilight;
“Dismiss him,” she said with a chuckle.
Twilight looked at the guard.
“You’re dismissed,” Twilight called out.
“Yes Your Highness,” said the guard then he bowed and backed out.

Twilight giggled.  Luna joined her then started tickling Twilight’s chest.  Twilight was, unfortunately, very ticklish.  
“Luna!  Moon!” laughed Twilight hardly able to catch her breath, “stop please.”
“Oh!  Somepony is ticklish I see,” laughed Luna, “how very precious!  Let’s see if you’ll wet yourself!”
“No Moon!” laughed Twilight.
“Try and stop me Star,” said Luna with a wicked smile as she tickled more.
The tickling only stopped when Twilight reached out around Luna’s neck and pulled her in for a very passionate kiss.

They broke the kiss, both breathing heavily

“My sister is waiting on us,” said Luna.
“I guess we shouldn’t keep her,” said Twilight.  “Oh, and if you ever make me wet the bed, you have to sleep on that side.”
Again Luna was encouraged; Twilight was hinting as if this was going to be a permanent arrangement, Twilight sharing Luna’s bed.  Luna had no problem with that and was thinking that as well.	
They laughed, kissed again and got up to see what Celestia had to say.

In the throne room, Celestia was already there waiting, Luna ascended to her throne.  Twilight stood before the dais as she had in the past, she noticed Celestia’s throne was now in the center of the dais and Luna’s was now over to Celestia’s right side leaving a large space on the left side of Celestia.  
Twilight bowed and awaited Celestia, Luna giggled.
“No need for that now Princess Twilight,” said Celestia, “I need you to understand how things work.  You’re a princess just like Luna and me.  Yes, I’m senior, first among equals as it were.  But as such, we hold the same rank.  Therefore, only at formal state functions will you bow or address me as formal.  I’m sure my sister feels the same.  I know I’d feel odd if the pony I was ‘bedding’ had to bow to me.”
Celestia winked at Twilight, Twilight blushed.  Twilight was wondering just how much fun Celestia was having at her expense. 
A Unicorn guard came in levitating a throne to the dais and placed it on the left side of Celestia’s, the opposite side of Luna’s now balancing out the placement of the thrones.
“Please take your place, Princess Twilight,” said Celestia.
Twilight was lost. She’d been taught in the past, because of her position with Princess Celestia she was by ‘etiquette’ allowed to be up as far as the last step before the platform of the dais.  This was two steps above where any other pony was allowed to approach.  Never had she ever thought there’d be a throne for her on the dais, beside her teacher and mentor. Twilight flew to the throne designated for herself.  She sat, never had she felt so out of place.  
“Looks good Star,” said Luna.
“Thank you Moon,” said Twilight, “I wish it felt good.  This is almost too much too soon.”
“Moon and Star, eh?” said Celestia with a large smile, “I never thought anypony would ever have a ‘pet name’ for you Luna.  But you know, it fits, both of you.”

Another guard came in bearing a cushion with a small white gold tiara with small six pointed stars on the peaks.
“Your crown you have is to be used at formal situations and when the Elements of Harmony are in use.  But to denote your station you need to wear this.  Don’t feel self-conscious, you’ll get used to it.  And it’s less pretentious than your official crown,” said Celestia.
Celestia levitated it to Twilight’s head.  It was more comfortable than her crown.
“It fits you Star,” said Luna with a twinkle in her eyes.
“Thank you Moon,” said Twilight, trying not to feel out of place.
“You know,” said Celestia, “I think that’s so cute.”
Both Luna and Twilight blushed.

“Down to business,” said Celestia, still smiling, “Twilight, as princess, you’ll have more responsibilities and expectations.  Don’t worry about being given any realm to rule, yet.  You need to learn statecraft, diplomacy and other things you’ll eventually need if you are to become an effective leader and ruler.”
“Ruler?” said Twilight.
“Don’t worry,” said Celestia with a mild chuckle, “you aren’t anywhere near ready.  But what’s going to have to happen is I’m going to have to recall you to Canterlot.
I’m sure you knew that Ponyville was never intended to be a permanent situation.  And that’s why you’ve lived above a library and not in a house.  Plus I’m sure when you were elevated to princess you’d figure being a librarian wouldn’t be your destiny.”
“I’ve thought of that, Princess…”
“Ce-lest-i-a,” corrected the princess. “I know it’ll be hard at first, but it’s easier on all of us.  You already call your sister-in-law Cadence, and you now address you lover as Luna, or I guess Moon.  I’m no different, we’re princesses, and rank has its privileges.  Familiarity with me is one such privilege.”
“Okay, Celestia,” said Twilight uncomfortably, “I’ve thought of that, but I wasn’t sure where it’d go.”
“Let me ask a question,” said Celestia, “and please be honest and frank.  How serious are you with Luna?  It is just sex or is there more?”
Twilight blushed;
“I now realize I love your sister,” said Twilight, “I probably have for some time.”
“And I love Twilight,” said Luna, “we’ve talked about this, and I think that we’ve discovered we both have had feelings but we haven’t ever tried to express them.”
“I’m so glad to hear it, your joy brings me happiness,” said Celestia, “Because of that, I think it’ll make moving back to Canterlot easier.  You’ll have your own suite and castle  personnel assigned.  But I’m sure you’ll probably be more comfortable if you cohabitate with Luna.”
Luna’s face lit up at the suggestion.  Twilight’s was just as joyous.  Both mares were already imagining living with the pony they’d found to be so special.
“I know this’ll be the hard part, but to keep the pain to a minimum, I believe you should return to Ponyville, collect your personal items and move in right away,” said Celestia.
“My friends,” said Twilight, not really to anypony.
“Your friends will always be your friends,” said Celestia, “they’ll be free to visit at any time.  Some may actually be useful for your staff.”
“My staff?”
“Yes, you’ll need a secretary and a captain of your personal guard.  Other attendants such as cooks and cleaning staff are shared but you may want a personal chef/baker.  If you want, you can retain others such as your own dress maker, gardener and such.  I think of some of your friends may be a good fit for some of those roles.”
“What about the Elements of Harmony,” asked Twilight.
“The Elements of Harmony chose all of you,” said Celestia, “that will not change unless they choose new wielders.”
“I’ll need to send a message to Spike to let the others know what’s going on.  I’d like to stay one more night before going back to pack up.” Said Twilight who thought for a moment. 
“I never thought my leaving Ponyville would happen like this.  I’ll miss there, but I so want to be with Luna now.  My heart is hers, I truly love her.”
“As I said, I’m so happy for you two.” Said Celestia, “and as far as the message to Ponyville; I already sent it.”
Luna sprung up and hugged her sister.  Celestia looked at Twilight and held out a foreleg, Twilight understood she was being invited to join the hug.
As Twilight hugged Celestia/Luna, Celestia kissed both ponies on the forehead and said to Twilight;
“Welcome to our family.”

Celestia looked at the windows.  
“It’s time for us to do our duty, sister,” said Celestia.
Luna nodded and then looked at Twilight.
“Come with us, my Star,” said Luna with a gleam in her eyes, “you will learn to raise and lower the moon.”
Twilight became so excited, she was going to be taught such advanced magic.
> CHAPTER THREE: The New Order 
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	It was the second night Twilight spent with Luna.  Her Star was in blissful slumber secure in Luna’s forelegs.  Twilight’s wing was draped across her new found love.  After hours of lovemaking, Twilight was exhausted.  Luna hadn’t yet informed Twilight for Alicorns, sleep was an option.  Their immortal and self-regenerating nature made sleep unnecessary.  But it was the gateway to dreams and as such Alicorns still indulged in this pastime.  
Luna lay there in as much bliss as her sleeping lover.  The knowledge she could love a pony and not have to watch them grow old and die thrilled her to no end.  And with such a wonderful, loving and powerful pony at her side, there was nothing life could throw at her she couldn’t face now.  She was sure if she’d had Twilight one thousand years ago, there wouldn't have been a Nightmare Moon.
Twilight was such a fast learner, not only in love but magic as well.  Other magical ponies had asked in the past about the raising and lowering of the moon and the explanation had went so far over their heads; it was if they weren’t even there.  But Twilight had asked some very relevant questions after she’d watched Luna perform her nightly duties, she knew what was going on.  And when she asked if the stars and the moon were raised and lowered together, it got Luna to thinking and she remembered, part of the moon spell was for the stars and they could be raised and lowered separately.
‘By The Great Maker of Ponies!’ thought Luna, ‘Star’s comment about the two of us being made for each other, was perhaps more insightful than just the wish of a pony who was experiencing love and passion for the first time.’ 
Luna gently leaned over and kissed Twilight on the forehead, Twilight shifted slightly and smiled.  Luna had confessed to Twilight she’d had other lovers in the past.  But it was no exaggeration to say she’d never been so comfortable with any of them as she was with Twilight.  She could feel Twilight’s heart, Twilight didn’t just want sex or power or the prestige of being Luna’s consort.  Twilight only wanted to give Luna her love, how refreshing.  And Luna had a wellspring of love to return.  It was so easy to love this pony who wanted to give and really expected nothing in return.

Luna’s thoughts returned to that Nightmare Night.  Of all the cities, towns and hamlets in Equestria she could’ve joined in the merriment, she’d chosen Ponyville for a reason.  After her sister had told her of the ponies who freed her and they were being led by the greatest student she’d ever taught, it gave her a reason to find out for herself.  
When her attempt failed to join in the festivities, it was Twilight Sparkle who came to her to help her fit in.  Not to gain favor with a princess, but to reach out to a pony who felt out of place.
That’s the first time she really got a good look at Twilight, she was a smallish mare, even for a Unicorn.  Just out of adolescence and into the flower of femininity.  She wasn’t beautiful but she wasn’t plain either.  Cute was a good description.  But there was something else.  Something felt more than seen.  Twilight commanded a power of both magic and intellect beyond her years.  Right then Luna knew this pony had a destiny.  Even the choice of costume, Star Swirl the Bearded, marked her as a pony with depth.  
Luna toyed with the idea if she should now tell Twilight that Star Swirl was one of the past lovers she’d mentioned.  Was it a coincidence, or a sign of what was to come?  After all, she even got those damned annoying bells right!
To test her heart and resolve, Luna played inept at the lessons Twilight and her friends tried to teach her at first.  After all, there was never really a Traditional Royal Canterlot Voice.  But it was fun yelling at everypony.
By the end of the night, Luna was satisfied knowing Twilight Sparkle was a pony to keep an eye on.  Plus Luna hadn’t been with anypony in a long time.  Luna would’ve made advances to her that night but she remembered with sadness, all her former lovers.
‘I can’t let myself go through that again,’ Luna had thought.
But she set her mind to trying to cultivate a friendship with her sister’s favorite student.

Twilight was dreaming of the time when Celestia had called her to Canterlot for a test.  How she, once again, fell apart quicker than one of the Cutie Mark Crusaders’ lame attempts at finding their cutie marks.  When she came before Princess Celestia, Princess Luna was just leaving.  Twilight marked the odd way Luna glanced at her as they passed.  After the briefing, Celestia walked Twilight to the Throne Room doors.  There was Luna waiting, Twilight never understood at that time why her heart jumped at first when she thought Luna might go with her.  
Now in her dream, Luna did accompany her to the Crystal Empire.  There was no need to have anypony else.  The long train trip north was passed in a sleeper car, making wild love.  When they got there, Shining Armor met the two and as they journeyed to the magic enclosure of the empire, they were attacked by King Sombra.  But this time, on seeing the Princess of the Night he fled back to the arctic wastes.  After just twenty minutes at the Crystal Castle, she and Luna found the Crystal Heart.  
There was no need for a Crystal Fair, the Crystal Ponies were gladdened by the return of the heart and the presence of the Princess of the Night and her loving companion.  After Luna and Twilight replaced the heart in its proper place and the Crystal Ponies powered it up, thus guaranteeing the destruction of the evil King Sombra; Luna and Twilight returned to Canterlot by a less than direct route.  Ensuring much more time to make love with the Princess of the Night who was now the Queen of Twilight’s heart.

Luna had started to think of the same visit.  When she’d asked her sister if she shouldn’t go also, it wasn’t because she doubted Twilight’s abilities.  She was looking for an excuse to be with the special pony who every time she had visited Canterlot, it had made her entire day.  Luna was having to fight hard against herself to keep the pledge concerning no more mortal lovers.  She wasn’t even sure if Twilight would reciprocate, but she’d never know if she never tried.  
Then she learned what Celestia had in mind.  She knew Twilight was a powerful Unicorn and if she passed this test, she’d test her with Star Swirl’s unfinished spell.  The implications were great.  Yes, Twilight would fulfill an important destiny, but more than that.  Twilight would transmute to an Alicorn.  An Alicorn! immortal as herself, no more worrying about loving a pony who’d eventually fade and die. 
Luna had no doubts about if Twilight could pass the tests, Celestia was already having a suite of rooms prepared for the future princess.   Her doubts lay in when she passed the tests, would she be open to Luna’s love.  The fear and doubt plagued her until just the previous night.

Suddenly Luna’s thoughts were brought back to the here and now by a hoof at her marehood.  She saw Twilight looking up into her eyes.

“Don’t you ever get enough Star?” asked Luna with a giggle.
“We’re immortal Moon,” said Twilight, kissing Luna, “I’ll never get enough.”
“Okay,” said Luna, “but if we miss lowering the moon and stars, I’m going to tell Celestia what horny little hussy made us late.”
“Shut up Moon and kiss me.”

Later the two were walking to the archive, Twilight was going to get her first look in the most secure part of the most secure part, Alicorns only.

Luna brought them to the most secure section of the most secure section of the most secure section of the archive.  In the little room which was behind the most secure doors Twilight had ever seen in Canterlot Castle, were two ancient parchments under glass.  They were on a stand and there was nothing else in the room, with the exception of a small writing desk.  A glow of a protection spell surrounded the spells, it was the only light in the room.  Twilight reached a hoof forward but Luna stopped her.
“Even through the glass, no pony can ever touch these Star, not even Celestia or me,” said Luna.
To demonstrate, Luna levitated a small scrap of parchment from the desk, directed to the stand with the two spells.  As soon as it touched the protecting aura, it vanished in a puff of vapor.  “It wouldn’t act that fast on a pony, but it would hurt like Tartarus and it would leave a nasty burn.
So I’ll do a quick memory spell on you My Love, that way you’ll never forget these.  I want you to especially concentrate on the star raising and lowering section.  But you’ll need to know all of the two spells.  Celestia and I cover for each other when the other needs some time off.  
I want you to know my niece Cadence has never seen these.”
“I’m honored Moon,” said Twilight in awe.
Luna smiled and kissed Twilight.  There was an intense look in Luna’s eyes.  Twilight could tell her love had something important to say.
“Star, I’m trusting you with this because I want to be able to count on you to be with me for these duties.  
What I’m trying to ask you is; would consent to being my mate, ad infinitum.  
I’m not asking this lightly, and I want you to be sure of your answer.  An Equestrian Princess is bound by her word.  But I do need your answer before we proceed.”
“Are you asking me to marry you,” said Twilight with stars in her eyes.
“Yes My Love, but more than that,” said Luna, looking to Twilight more beautiful and happier than she had ever seen a pony.  “This commitment is much deeper, because we are pledged for all time.”
“My beautiful Moon,” said Twilight, tears of joy in her eyes, “I bind myself to you for all time.  I will marry you.”
“And I pledge myself to you, my most beloved Star,” said Luna kissing Twilight, tears in her own eyes. “We’ll do a formal swearing of this in the presence of two princesses to make it ‘official’.  But as I said, we’re already bound by our word.
Now I’ll touch you with my horn.  When I do, read the two spells in their entirety.  Just nod when you’re done.”
Twilight turned and looked at the spells.  Luna touched Twilight’s head with her horn.  There was a dark blue aura that danced in front of Twilight’s vision as her head was surrounded by Luna’s memory spell.
Twilight read the spells completely, it was hard because some of the wording was archaic, but she’d studied such wording in the past.  When she was done, she nodded, the aura disappeared.  Twilight’s head felt light for a moment as the spells burnt themselves into her memory then everything was normal.
“Come with me My Love,” said Luna, “this morning you lower the stars.”

Twilight stood with Celestia and Luna in the castle courtyard.  They faced each other in a small circle.
“Just do as we do,” said Celestia to Twilight.
Twilight nodded her head.  Celestia and Luna reared up on hind legs and spread their wings, Luna’s forelegs reaching to the sky.  Twilight did the same, she remembered this from the spell.  She started to concentrate, the words of the star lowering spell came easy to her mind.    
The courtyard was bathed with the light from a golden, dark blue and purple aura.  All three Alicorns rose up in the air as the spell worked.  Twilight’s forelegs came down as if the very movement of her forelegs were physically moving the stars.  She could feel her power reaching to the stars themselves.  She willed them to lower to give way to Celestia’s day.  Then all three settled back to earth.  The sky lightened as the sun peeked over the horizon.
“Well done Twilight,” said Celestia with a smile.  She was so proud her teaching had led to this display of such advanced magic.  “Now, Luna’s cart is waiting as will be your friends.  I’ll be happy to give any help through this transition.  But I think that Luna will be available as well.”
“Before we go sister,” said Luna, “when is Cadence to be in Canterlot again?”
“She’ll be here for a status meeting in two weeks,” said Celestia. “Why?  Is there something which needs the attention of two princesses?”
Celestia knew exactly why the request.
“Yes my sister, Twilight and I have pledged our troth and have sworn ourselves to each other forever.” Said Luna, the smile on her face was as large as Twilight’s, “we just want to make it official.”
“I can’t tell you how happy I am for you, my sister!  And Twilight, my joy knows no ends!”  Said Celestia with tears in her eyes, “when I took you on as a protégé, I always suspected you’d advance this far.  And I’ve always thought of you like a daughter.  But never in my fondest dreams did I ever think you’d become a sister to me.”
The three Alicorns joined in a tearful and joyous group hug.
	
> CHAPTER FOUR: A New Life
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	“What do you mean you don’t know what Twilight wants,” said Rainbow Dash, not really trying to intimidate Spike, but she was doing a good job of it anyway.
“She’s been gone a day and two nights, her telescope was left on her favorite hill for starwatching.” Said the baby dragon, “I got a message from Princess Celestia saying Twilight has some news and she wanted to meet with all of us when she comes home this morning.”
The gathered friends started to talk among themselves, they were standing around outside of the library.  Twilight had never just disappeared for a couple of nights before without at least letting Spike know where she was going.
The group was trying to figure what would cause their friend to do this.  They were also trying to assure Fluttershy they were sure all was okay.  Fluttershy always worried about everything. 
It wasn’t long before something caught Rainbow’s eye.  It was Princess Luna’s cart being pulled by four of her dragon-winged Pegasi and it was empty.  
She then noticed two winged ponies chasing after each other among the clouds in a playful airborne game of tag.  But what really shocked Rainbow was when they came into better view, the two playful ponies were Princess Luna and Twilight Sparkle.  Rainbow didn’t think Twilight could fly that well yet.
The cart landed and waited for the princesses, they didn’t have to wait long as the two Alicorns landed in front of them laughing.  
Then the real shocker happened which nearly made several of the gathered friends faint.  The two grabbed each other in a hug while laughing and then kissed passionately and unashamed. 
They also noticed the tiara on Twilight’s head.
“Twilight?” said Rarity.
The two broke the kiss and continued to hug for a moment longer and then Twilight and Luna looked at the ponies assembled.
“I‘m guessin’ this has somethin’ to do with why you asked us here,” said Applejack.
Twilight looked at her friends and smiled.
“I guess I have bad and good news,” said Twilight, “the bad news is I’ve been recalled to Canterlot effective immediately.” 
Exclamations and groans from the ponies gathered.
“The good news is Luna and I have admitted we’ve been in love with each other for some time and we’re going to be married!”

All the ponies gathered stood in shock.  Some had tears in their eyes.

“Don’t you love us anymore?” asked Pinkie Pie.
“Yes, Twilight still loves all of you,” said Luna, “you girls were the first thing Twilight asked about when my sister told her all this.  You’re all still bound together by the Elements of Harmony.  And as such are the protectors of Equestria.  But most of all, you are bound by your friendship.
But Twilight has a destiny to fulfill.  That destiny is to one day be a ruler of her own realm.  But until that day she has to study what it is to rule, and how to rule.
Plus there’s another thing to consider.  Twilight and I have found a love for the ages.  We’re sworn to each other for all time.  I’ve never loved a pony like I love my Star!”
“Star?” asked Rarity with a knowing grin.
“For all time?” asked Fluttershy.
“Yes, Star,” said Twilight blushing, “it’s what My Love calls me, and she’s my Moon.”
Twilight turned and kissed Luna.
“But what do you mean?” asked Applejack, “a love for all time.”
Twilight looked a little sad when she realized what her immortality would mean.  The slow loss of friends over the years, given to decay and death.  While she herself would remain evergreen. 
“When I became an Alicorn,” said Twilight, “I also became immortal.”
“Whoa! Whoa! Whoa!  A princess, immortal and Princess Luna as a wife,” said Rainbow Dash, “some ponies have all the luck.” 
Despite the situation, the ponies laughed at the remark.
“So what does that mean for us?” asked Pinkie Pie.
“Come inside girls,” said Twilight, “we need to talk,”

Twilight had instructed the guard exactly what belonged to her and what needed to be taken back to Canterlot.  They, as carefully as they could, loaded everything on the wagon and flew it back to Canterlot.

After the guard had left, the ponies sat around in a circle in the main part of the library.  Twilight was a little misty eyed as she looked around the place and remembered all the fun and adventures she’d had here.  She finally took a large breath and addressed her friends.  Luna sat close and held Twilight’s hoof. 
“First, this isn’t good-bye.” Said Twilight, “we’ll always be friends.  Plus Celestia told me I’ll be needing help at the castle.  

I’ll need a secretary, Fluttershy.  You’re almost as organized as myself and I can’t think of anypony I would trust such an important position to.  You’d have plenty of time available to visit and tend the animals in the royal gardens, and you’ll be free to bring as many of your animal friends with you as you want, even Harry.

I’ll need a captain of my personal guard, Rainbow.  You’d organize and oversee not only my protection, but your corps will assist in the defense of the castle, of all the royal ponies and of Equestria itself.

I could have other staff as needed.  Such as somepony to tend my private garden and grounds; Applejack I know you have a lot of responsibilities at Sweet Apple Acres, but I wanted to make sure the best gardener in all Equestria had the best garden in all Equestria to tend.

There are cooks on staff, but I could also have my own personal chef and baker.  Pinkie Pie; I’d be lost if I couldn’t have access to your cakes, cookies and pies.  You’ll have a chance to teach those other bakers what a real baker is.”  

Pinkie looked around and then zipped out the door.
All looked at the door as it closed, then after a pause;

“Anyway… 
I think one of the most fun positions available would be my personal dress maker, Rarity.  Celestia and Moon haven’t had one on staff for a very long time.  And Moon has told me that it might be fun to have one again.  And you’d be free to run a shop in Canterlot as well.  
I think the social elite will be fighting over a chance to have clothing made by the Official Royal Dressmaker (Rarity looked faint).  

I’d like you girls to consider these positions.  I don’t need an answer now, but I do need to know soon.  I know it’s a major change in all of our lives.  But we could still be together.  And I promise none of you will be treated as anything other than a close friend.”
The ponies looked at each other.  There were mixed looks on their faces.  

Rainbow Dash stood up and saluted Twilight and said with a big smile:
“Captain Rainbow Dash reporting for duty, Your Highness!”
“I knew I could count on you Rainbow,” said Twilight.
“I think you’ll find being a Captain of a Royal Guard will be more exciting than the Wonderbolts,” said Luna with a smile. “And by the way, in case you didn’t know, the Wonderbolts are answerable to the Royal Guard.”

“Princess,” started Rarity.
“Twilight!” said Twilight, “only under formal circumstances should you have to call me anything else.”
“Twilight,” said Rarity with a smile, “I can close up my shop and move it as soon as I can get transportation.”
“I think we can get you help there.” Said Twilight, “but we do have a request for a rush order.  Moon and I are going to do an official affirming of our pledge to each other in about two  weeks.  We talked and decided we’d like to have some nice outfits.  It’s more than a wedding and we want it to be nice.  And by the way, all of you ponies are invited.”
There were smiles all around.

“Twilight,” said Applejack, “my first reaction would be to decline because of work needed at the farm.  But things have changed, so I think I can get one of my cousins to cover for me.”
Twilight looked at Applejack, not understanding where Applejack was going with this line of reasoning.  Rarity looked at Applejack and gave the slightest nod.
“We knew we’d have to let you ponies know at some time, it might as well be now.  Rarity and I’ve been seeing each other in secret for a couple years now.” Said Applejack, “I know it’s her dream to make dresses for royalty in Canterlot and I’ll not stand in the way of her dreams.  But I don’t think I’d be happy if’n she was there and I was here and we could only see each other when the other could take the time off to travel.  So I’ll be happy to help any way I can Twilight.  
As long as I can be with Rarity.”
Rarity walked over to Applejack and kissed her for the first time in front of their friends.
Luna and Twilight smiled at each other understanding fully what Applejack was talking about.

“Twilight,” said Fluttershy meekly, “I’m not sure what to say.  I’d really miss my cottage and Ponyville.  And I’m not sure if I could handle such an important job.”
“I won’t pressure you,” said Twilight, “but anypony who can keep up with dozens of woodland creatures, feed them on schedule and yet always be there for her friends, I’m sure could handle anything.  And I think despite your demeanor, anypony who can stare down a cockatrice and browbeat Discord into changing his nature, can handle courtiers and the affairs of one princess.  
It’d be a piece of cake.”
“Okay Twilight,” said Fluttershy, blushing at the praise.  “I’ll give it a try.”

“Speaking of cake,” said Rainbow, “where’d Pinkie Pie go?”
“She ran out the door as soon as Twilight asked about us going.” Said Rarity.
Just then Pinkie came storming in the door with four suitcases and a pile of pots and pans.
“Ready to leave Twilight,” said Pinkie out of breath.
Everypony broke out in laughter.

“Well, before I get things packed away,” said Rarity “can I get you two princesses to come to my shop for a measuring and talk about the design of your dresses.  It won’t take long and I should be able to have something for you, even with the move.”

“You haven’t said anything about me,” said Spike.
“Spike,” said Twilight, “I hatched you, you’re my ward, I’m responsible for you until you’re old enough to be on your own.  I’m not your mother, but I hope I’ve been a big sister or best friend.  You’ll not be able to sleep in the same room as Moon and me, obviously.  But I think you’ll enjoy the suite.  And I know you’ve been missing Canterlot.  You can go and hang out at Pony Joe’s Donuts again.”
“I think Spiky-Wiky could always help Applejack and me from time to time.  He’s always been ready to lend a claw,” said Rarity, Spike perked right up.  The thought of being around Rarity gave him hope, even with Applejack and Rarity declaring themselves a couple.


The next couple of days went by in a haze.  Ponies pulling up stakes from a lifetime of living in Ponyville, for a couple of the friends it was a what they hoped would be the beginning of a thrilling adventure.  Twilight and Luna were everywhere trying to get everypony comfortable in time for the ceremony.

For Fluttershy, there was apprehension she experienced anytime she had to do some major change in her life.  But the rooms for her had an opening right into the palace gardens where the animals could be seen frolicking out her windows.  That helped her to feel comfortable.

Applejack had Carmel move in with the family to cover for her.  The Apples said they’d miss her, but were beside themselves with joy when they found out Applejack was moving because she had a pony to love.  Applejack now wished she’d told ponies sooner.  
Rarity found the old seamstress workshop and discovered it had everything she’d ever dreamed of as far as the production of fashions.  Also there was an adjoining apartment which was quite cozy for she and Applejack.

Pinkie had the least adjustment issues.  She was always happy wherever she was.  The rooms for her were larger than the Cake’s shop.  And the kitchen staff fell in love with the manic mare right away, especially after she produced a cake which made the head pastry chef cry. 

Rainbow Dash had went right away to Canterlot to get fitted for new uniforms and armor with the livery of the personal guard of the Princess of the Stars, as the official name was given. 
She was also to meet with other members of the various guards to help recruit for the new corps.  To the surprise of many, Rainbow was recruiting a corps of females.  There were several of the female dragon-winged Pegasi who were part of Luna’s reserve who were eager to be in an active role.  Along with some of the female Unicorns from Celestia’s guard, who’d been serving in clerical and support roles and heard of the powerful Princess Twilight Sparkle and were eager as well to be connected with such a powerful Alicorn.  

Rainbow was setting up her office which adjoined her quarters in her company’s official guard barracks.  She was hanging the certificate from the Best Young Flyer competition and the diploma from the Wonderbolt Academy.  
As she was finishing up, she was surprised by a voice over her shoulder, a voice she recognized:
“Looking good, Newbie!  But the Wonderbolt Academy diploma should be above the Best Young Flyer certificate.  Wonderbolts being military and the BYF is a civilian award.  You are, after all, in the EUP Protective Pony Platoons now.
Rainbow spun around, there was a pony in uniform;
“Spitfire?”
The two hugged.
“How’ve you been Rainbow?”
“Doing good,” said Rainbow, “I got a good offer and now I’m trying to get settled in, and you?”
“Well truthfully,” said the Wonderbolt, “I heard the new princess was needing a personal guard.  The scuttlebutt was there was the crazy idea of recruiting an all female company.  The good news was there was going to be a good C.O. but a little green and might need a seasoned officer for X.O. to help whip new troops into shape.”
“You’d leave the Wonderbolts for this?” asked Rainbow.
“No,” said Spitfire, Rainbow started to feel dejected until Spitfire continued. “I’d leave the Wonderbolts for a pony with heart, drive and true leadership potential.  Also a pony that, if I remember correctly, I owed my life to.  Do you think you can put a good word in for me with the princess?”
“Twilight is my best friend, I think I can get her to approve you.  And you don’t owe me anything Spitfire, but I’d love to have you with me.” Said Rainbow, not believing her luck, “are you sure you wouldn’t have any problem working for me.  I mean they gave me the rank of Major, but as you said, I’m new at this.”
“I’ve no problem with that ma’am!” said Spitfire, with a salute, then winking, “and I promise to be totally professional; at least in front of the troops.  But I hope you don’t hold so much of the Academy against me we can’t be friends.”
“Count on it,” said Rainbow with a smile.
“You’ll need to meet with Princess Twilight so she can get the proper orders for my transfer.  I’ll go let Commander Thunder Wind, the Wonderbolts C.O. know of my transfer.  Then I’ll get my things and we can talk about quarters,” said Spitfire, “see you soon, ma’am!”
They hugged again, but to Rainbow’s surprise, Spitfire goosed Rainbow’s flanks and walked out of the room with an obvious swaying of her own flanks.
Rainbow was dumbfounded.  She was trying not to let her imagination run away with her.  She’d always ‘had a thing’ for Spitfire.  She was doing her best not to distort this into anything more than it really was.  And to tell the truth, there were so many times Rainbow had wanted to grab Spitfire’s flanks as well.

About an hour after meeting with Twilight, a courier brought Rainbow’s copy of the official paperwork showing Spitfire’s promotion from 1st Lieutenant to Captain.  And her reassignment to the Personal Guard of the Princess of the Stars as the Executive Officer. 
Rainbow was surprised when she found out Captain of the Wonderbolts was a position and not an actual rank.
Later that afternoon, Rainbow came into her quarters to find Spitfire hanging some new uniforms in Rainbow’s closet.  She noticed some photos on one of the nightstands by the bed, mostly Spitfire and a stallion.
Rainbow motioned to the pictures.
“Your coltfriend?” asked Rainbow, afraid to hear the answer.
“Gross, no!” said Spitfire with a smirk, “ponies have accused me of having a sick sense of humor, and being slightly twisted.  I guess it comes with being a Wonderbolt.  But to have my own brother as a coltfriend.  
I’ve never been that desperate.
Oh, and by the way, thank you for the advancement in rank.  I only thought it was a transfer, I didn’t expect the promotion.  Please thank the princess for me.”
“No problem Spitfire,” said Rainbow.  “And I’m sure you’ll be around when Twilight stops by and can thank her yourself.  She may be a princess, but she’s still my best friend.”
Spitfire smiled and continued to unpack.
“By the way, I hope you don’t mind,” said Spitfire, “but I’ve always preferred the right side of the bed.” Said Spitfire, flicking her tail to give Rainbow a peek. 
“You’d want to share the bed with me?” asked Rainbow again not believing her luck.
“You’d have a problem with that?” asked Spitfire with a gleam in her eyes.
“Let me show you something,” Rainbow said and retrieved a box and dumped the contents on the bed.  “This is all my Wonderbolt stuff.”
It was a great array of Wonderbolt paraphernalia, but it was all Spitfire.
Spitfire looked and there was a large collection of publicity posters.  But of all the posters available, these were the ones featuring herself.  There were also candid photographs of herself at air shows and even when she was in Ponyville for the water transfer, including several pictures Rainbow had had some pony take while she and Rainbow were talking together.  
Spitfire actually blushed when she saw Rainbow had two copies of the “Pin Up” calendar where she’d posed erotically, for charity.  Spitfire could tell one had been handled and viewed a lot.  Spitfire smiled as she imagined what Rainbow was doing while handling these pictures.
Spitfire picked up the well-used used one and sniffed it.  Shure enough, there was a certain musky aroma to it.  She looked at Rainbow who was blushing knowing why Spitfire was doing this.
“You know Rainbow,” said Spitfire with a wink and a smile, “you’ll go blind if you keep checking yourself for vaginal polyps too often.”
“I’ll just do it until I need glasses,” said Rainbow with an equal smirk.
Spitfire got the message, Rainbow was admitting to using these to arouse herself.  Truthfully, Spitfire was starting to get aroused because Rainbow was being so honest about her feelings toward herself, feelings Spitfire shared.
“Rainbow, I’ll admit to the fact I’ve, on many occasions, have done a thorough check of myself.  And you were the pony on my mind when I did.
I want you to know I’ve been attracted to you since the Best Young Flyer competition.  Not just because you saved my life, but I discovered just how special a pony you are.  From that time, anytime you’d show up at an air show, I’d try to make sure I’d speak to you.  With the strict practice and performance schedule, there was never any time to see if there could be something between us.  
But the evening when I was there to oversee the transfer of water to Cloudsdale, when we had dinner afterward, just know if I’d had one or two more drinks, I think I’d have told you how I felt about you.  
Because of those feelings, I had to make sure I didn’t give you any preferential treatment at the Academy, despite the debt I owe you,” said Spitfire, looking more sheepish than Rainbow had ever seen her.
“Spitfire, as I said, you owe me nothing, nor have I ever expected any special treatment,” said Rainbow, reaching her hoof and gently caressing Spitfire’s shoulder.
Spitfire looked at Rainbow’s hoof and then into Rainbow’s eyes.
“Yes I do owe you and it can never be fully paid,” said Spitfire tenderly brushing aside Rainbow’s forelock, “in fact, if you don’t mind, I’d like to make the first payment on that debt.”
With that, Spitfire swept all the Wonderbolt items off the bed.  Then she pulled Rainbow close and kissed her deeply.  Then as if on cue, both Rainbow and Spitfire started unfastening the other’s uniform while at the same time pulling themselves onto the bed.
‘If I’m dreaming,’ Rainbow thought to herself, as she felt Spitfire’s tongue in her mouth and hoof at her marehood, ‘don’t let me wake up yet.’ 
After some kissing, Rainbow found herself and Spitfire in the classic ‘69’ position.  It was a dream come true (for both mares).


About two weeks later...

Celestia, Luna and Twilight were meeting with Cadence and Shining Armor.  Cadence and her brother could tell how out of place Twilight was feeling.
“...and that’s the status of the Empire, I think the Crystal Ponies have totally adjusted to being here in the present and have welcomed us and the rule of Celestia.”  
“I truly think after Sombra, they’d welcome the rule of Pony Joe the donut maker,” said Shining Armor.

All the ponies laughed.

“Thank you both,” said Celestia, “I think that takes care of all the business, except I think Luna has a request for you Cadence.”
“What can I do for you Aunt Luna?”
“Cadence,” said Luna, “I, or I should say Twilight and I need you to stand with Celestia as Twilight and I wed and officially pledge ourselves to each other.”
Cadence started to squeal with glee, she grabbed and hugged Shining Armor and then she grabbed and hugged Twilight and then she grabbed and hugged Luna.
“Twilight! Aunt Luna! I’d be glad to stand with Aunt Celestia to witness your pledge!  I can’t believe it!  The pony I loved to foal sit the most is now a princess and not only that, she’ll now be more than my sister-in-law, she’ll be my aunt!”
“Twily, I can’t tell you how happy I am.” Said Shining, “I bet mom and dad are beside themselves.”
“They’re quite happy.” Said Twilight. “But truthfully, I don’t think anypony is as happy as Moon and I.  Sorry, Luna and I.”
“I still think that’s so cute,” said Celestia.
“Can we do this tomorrow?” asked Luna, “I think the captain of Twilight’s guard has been having her troops polishing every metal surface of their armor to make a good showing.  We need to give them a break.”
“That’ll be good with me.  We can do it just before dinner so that we can have a party after,” said Cadence.
“Pinkie Pie is already planning it,” said Twilight.  “We’ve rehearsed it over and over, so all is in place.  We only need to do it now.  By the way, Rarity has a gown she’d like you to see.  She needs to see if any adjustments need to be made.  She used your measurements from your wedding.”
“I can’t wait to try it,” said Cadence, “Rarity is so talented.”
“Then it’s decided,” said Celestia, “now let’s go to the dining room.  Nopony likes to miss a meal since Twilight’s personal baker started cooking the best treats ever.  
Afterward, we can talk about the final rehearsal for the morning.”

After the meal, talk and wine.  Celestia, Luna and Twilight went to do the evening duties of sun, moon and stars.  Cadence and Shining were so impressed as they watched Twilight take her place with the other two princesses to raise the stars.
	
> CHAPTER FIVE: Dreams Of The Gods
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	Twilight and Luna lay on the large cushion in Luna’s suite which they now considered their suite.  Twilight had her own suite where Spike had his own room, but he liked to hang out with Applejack and Rarity.  They let him stay over for now because of Twilight and Luna were still in their ‘pre-honeymoon phase’.  
But Twilight and Luna preferred this one as being secluded and at the top of a tower away from the other ponies.  A good thing too, Twilight had found if done right, Luna could be a screamer.  And Twilight loved to make Luna scream.

The two lover princesses were just laying on their sides, holding the other.

“My Darling Moon,” said Twilight, “are you sure you want to go through with today?  I’m excited beyond belief.  I know we’ve already pledged to each other, but this will be public.  
I want to be mare enough for you, but you’ve been alive for so long I’m like a newborn foal.   I know as the centuries go by, the difference won’t be as important.  I just want to make sure you truly want me.”
“Star,” said Luna, “I’d like to think my years have taught me to be able to judge what’s best for me.  And I think I could never find another pony as perfect as you My Love.  
I want the world to know the Princess of the Night is now the Princesses of the Night.  No matter what realm you’ll be given in time, we’ll always be together, I promise.  In this little time we’ve been together, I’ve never been happier.  I wouldn’t now want to live without the Star of my sky.”

The two kissed long and then just held each other close.

“I’m so happy, Moon,” said Twilight, “as a filly, I never had the dreams of other fillies.  I never dreamed about being swept off my hooves and taken away to a castle to be some special pony’s princess.  I was always thinking of practical and scientific futures, books and research.  
Now I understand all those other filly’s dreams, but it’s so much better because I’m living it.
“Star,” said Luna, “princesses have dreams as well.  Dreams of a love which will give them strength through the hard times which can come with so much responsibility.  
It’s a part of the burden of leadership the masses never know.  They just see the magnificent castle, the impressive guard and the rich trappings of state.  They don’t realize we live in a castle because it’s a defendable fortress.  We have guards not just for show, but to protect our lives.  The trappings of state is an attempt to show what pony is leading when the masses are at a loss, the royalty of Canterlot has always ‘led from the front’.  
You my Darling are the answer to my dreams, with you at my side, the world could throw itself at us but we’ll stand without fear.”
There were tears in Twilight’s eyes, never had anypony praised her so highly or lovingly.  
“Moon, I’ve not yet felt worthy of being a princess.  And now, I don’t feel worthy to be your wife.  You’ve always been so far above me, almost like a goddess.  Now to know that I’ll be bound to you as your equal, there’re no words to describe the joy I feel.”    
“We aren’t gods,” said Luna, “yes we’re powerful and immortal.  That doesn’t mean we’re deathless.  Illness is normally not a threat, we’re self-regenerating.  But we can be killed by accident or violence.  So our lives are just as precious as any other pony.  As such, we love life just as much, and desire love as much as well.
So if we live forever then our love is forever.  The price we pay for all this, however, is Alicorns have to accept the fact that lovers will be temporary.  Because Alicorns are rare and special, they are either an extremely rare birth or are elevated due to some special magical event.  So with so few immortals, we either have to be very lucky like you and me, or learn to live with temporary lovers.  
Or sadly, learn to live without.
And the few of us that do have foals, it’s not guaranteed that they’ll be Alicorns.  Maybe one day Celestia will tell you about Cassiopeia, but please don’t ask her.”
“Celestia had a foal?” asked Twilight.
Luna’s horn glowed and a mirror on the wall turned around.  There was a portrait of a beautiful teal Unicorn mare.  She had a cutie mark of a constellation of stars.  Twilight could see the resemblance to Celestia and Luna.  Luna let the portrait turn back around. 
“Yes,” said Luna, “a beautiful little Unicorn filly who grew up to be a special leader of ponies.  My sister and I grieved for centuries, we still do.”
“How did she die?” asked Twilight.
There were the start of tears in Luna’s eyes.
“She grew old,” said Luna, her voice cracking, “time took her.”
“I didn’t know,” said Twilight.
Twilight embraced Luna, she could feel Luna’s tears.
Twilight remembered a simple monument on a secluded part of the Castle Garden grounds.  It was dedicated to Cassiopeia.  Twilight could never get any answers about it from anypony, she now understood.
“I’m so sorry my love,” said Twilight.
Luna kissed Twilight.
“I know,” said Luna, “it’ll be okay.”

Twilight loved to hear histories and other things Luna could tell her.  Her love for this pony soared like the night flights she and Luna would take, they’d find a secluded place to make love among the clouds.  
But Twilight felt the pain in Luna’s heart and determined to make sure that Luna’s grief would be shared and her lover supported.
Suddenly Twilight felt something deep inside her.  She was told to start to expect it, now she felt it and understood.
“I can see from your face, My Love,” said Luna, “you feel the stars ready to be lowered.”
“Yes Moon,” said Twilight, “it isn’t what I was expecting, it’s such a tender feeling.”
“Yes, it’s your children the stars,” said Luna, “they call to you to look after them.  It’s the same with me and the moon or Celestia and the sun.  They’re all our children.”
Twilight smiled at the sentiment.
“Then let’s not keep our children waiting,” said Twilight, “it’s the day of our union.  Let’s go into it with all the joy and love I feel for you.”
“And I, you,” said Luna kissing Twilight deeply.


“Major Rainbow Dash!” said a stern voice, “are you fraternizing with the troops again?”
Rainbow woke up quickly and sat up shocked in bed.  She looked around and then it came to her.  She looked down at the other pillow and saw Spitfire grinning at her and giggling.  
Before they ‘got together’, Rainbow never considered that Spitfire would be giggly.  But it turned out her private face was so much more girly and affectionate than her public persona.  
And it was odd even after the last two weeks of sharing a bed and themselves, Rainbow still wasn’t used to seeing Spitfire without a uniform or flight suit.  
She was a knock-out without clothing.  
“You think that’s so funny don’t you?” said Rainbow. 
“I love to see you jump!” said Spitfire, “I can’t push you around like at the Academy, now that you outrank me.  So I have to do what I can.”
“Maybe I should put you on K.P. duty or something military like that.”  
“Okay,” said Spitfire, “I’ll report to the kitchen, but then there wouldn’t be time for…”
Rainbow felt Spitfire’s hoof on her marehood.
“Perhaps you’d prefer I do some ‘close order drill’ instead,” purred Spitfire with ‘that look’ in her eyes. 
Rainbow lay back down and kissed Spitfire.  
“I think it’s best I was never a Wonderbolt,” said Rainbow, “I would‘ve never shown up for practice.”
“Yes you would,” said Spitfire with a smirk, “I’d never date a Wonderbolt, there’re all a big bunch of showoff’s!  Especially their ex-captain.”
“Yes, I realize you’ve always had to maintain the highest of military conduct.  
So tell me, where does ‘doing’ your Commanding Officer fit into that?” asked Rainbow laughing.
“Hey!  How else can I guarantee a promotion?”
Rainbow looked hurt, was Spitfire just using her?
“Rainbow! Knock that off!” said Spitfire, “I’m kidding! I’ve never got promotions ‘on my knees’.  You’re a very special pony, and I’d never had time to approach you to see if anything would come about.  
Even at the Academy, it would’ve been a court-martial offence if I was to have relations with a cadet.  
Realistically, we aren’t supposed to fool around with fellow troops, but R.H.I.P. Rank Has Its Privileges.  We aren’t in a training environment.  Besides, if we’re the only troops sharing a bed I’ll eat your horseshoes.”  
“You know something, Fire?” said Rainbow with a smirk, “you talk too much.”
“I’d like to see you shut me up,” said Spitfire with a grin, she was liking the name Rainbow had been calling her.  Rainbow said it was because Spitfire was so hot.  Spitfire reached out and pulled Rainbow closer.
She was immediately silenced with Rainbow’s tongue halfway down her throat. 

After they broke the kiss, Rainbow looked into Spitfire’s eyes.
“Tell me Fire,” said Rainbow, caressing her lover’s cheek, “is this love or just lust?”
The question put an odd look on Spitfire’s face.  It was perhaps the most serious she’d seen on Spitfire’s face since the Academy.
“You know Rainbow,” said Spitfire, “I don’t know.  But I think we’ll have fun figuring it out.
Now show me that trick you do with your tongue again.”
Spitfire spread her hind legs as Rainbow smiled and stuck her head under the covers.  Spitfire directed Rainbow’s hips above her own muzzle and proceeded to show Rainbow her own trick.


Major Rainbow Dash and Captain Spitfire entered the conference room, Princess Luna’s Guard’s Officers were waiting.  
As the two mares entered to meet with their counterparts of Princess Luna’s guard for the last minute instructions, the large dragon-winged Pegasi stallions at the conference table looked at the two smaller mares with a little amusement.  If size was all that mattered, these ponies wouldn’t be worth their time to talk to.  However, size in these cases didn’t matter at all.  Most flying ponies had heard of the flying prowess of Rainbow Dash and her signature Sonic Rainboom.  Plus who didn’t know Spitfire from the Wonderbolts.  These are two formidable flyers, but could they fight?  Hopefully they’d never have to find out.  But the Major was a wielder of one of the Elements of Harmony, and she wore the fiery red lightning bolt like a medal around her neck.  That’s nothing to be scoffed at.  And she did combat the Changeling attack at the Royal Wedding, perhaps there was more to this mare than it looked.
“I must admit Major,” said Lieutenant Colonel Night Wind, “you’ve got your troops in impressive shape in such a short time.  My troops were surprised at the precision of their marching and formations.”
“Thank you Colonel,” said Rainbow, “I have my X.O. to thank for that.  Not many ponies want to look sloppy in front of a Wonderbolt.”
They all laughed.
“So everything is in place and ready,” said Major Moon Chaser, Night Wind’s X.O., “we’re awaiting final instructions from the Commander of all the Palace Guards for the final go ahead.”
“Who’s that?” asked Spitfire.
“That’d be Prince Shining Armor,” said Night Wind.
The smile on Rainbow’s face was very noticeable.
“You know the prince?” asked Night Wind.
“Princess Twilight is my best friend,” said Rainbow, “Shining Armor is her brother.  I was a bride’s maid at his wedding and had a hoof in the freeing of the Crystal Empire.  You can say I know him.”
“Okay troops, watch yourselves,” said Moon Chaser laughing, “we’ve a very well connected officer among us.”
At that moment one of Rainbow’s guards opened the door and called out;
“Attention on deck!”
The four ponies came to attention quickly as a large white Unicorn in uniform entered the room.  All the ponies bowed.
“As you were,” said Shining Armor, then seeing who was there. “Rainbow Dash!  I heard you were watching after Twily now.  You can’t believe how happy I was when I heard that.”
“Thank you sir!” said Rainbow professionally. 
“At ease all of you,” said Shining. “Let’s sit and talk.”
Shining took a seat between the two C.O.’s and looked around;
“So everything is in place, the ceremony has been practiced?”
“Sir,” said Night Wind, “Major Rainbow Dash has been drilling the horse-apples out of her troops, I think she’s wanting to make my troops look bad or something.”
“I know Rainbow Dash,” said Shining, “and I know she wouldn’t push them any harder than she’d push herself.  Unfortunately, that’s pretty hard.  I’m sure her X.O. will admit how jealous the Wonderbolts are of her Sonic Rainboom.” 
Again all laughed.
“Have the new company banners been distributed and everypony knows what to do?” asked Shining.
“We’ve been through it many times and the banners are ready for the switch, at your command, sir,” said Spitfire.
“Good,” said Shining Armor, “this is something which hasn’t been done in centuries.  It’s an honor for you and all your troops to be involved.  In fact some of Princess Celestia’s guards are upset they have to miss it.  Not to mention the medal that goes with it.
Any questions?”
There were none.
“So then, let’s get moving,” said Shining, “We’ve two princesses to make the luckiest princesses on earth.  And I have a sister to make happier than I have ever seen her.”
Shining got up and the other ponies came to attention.  Then they all departed.

Princesses Luna and Twilight were getting ready, Rarity was running back and forth to make sure the stunning outfits were beyond perfect.  Applejack was there to keep her from falling apart.  Fluttershy was going over all the details of the rest of the day’s schedule, as was Luna’s secretary, Lilly Blossom.  
“Princess,” said Fluttershy, “I think that covers everything.  Pinkie Pie has a fabulous dinner arranged for after the ceremony.  The VIP’s have been informed where they all sit.  Unfortunately, there were some who tried to get better seating, they tried to bully me and became quite unpleasant.”
“I’m sorry about them Fluttershy,” said Twilight, “and you don’t have to call me ‘princess’.”
“Yes I do,” said Fluttershy, “at least while I’m working.  And I’m sorry about the unpleasant ponies also.”
“Why…  
What did you do?”
“I’m afraid I used The Stare on them.  I couldn’t help myself,” said Fluttershy looking embarrassed.  
“I’ve never seen anything like it,” said Lilly Blossom giggling. “I want Fluttershy to teach it to me.  Or at least loan me her assistant.”
“What assistant?” asked Twilight.
“Harry,” said Fluttershy blushing even more.
“And you need The Stare with Harry with you?” asked Twilight.
“Who is Harry and what is The Stare?” asked Luna.
“Harry is a large brown bear who’s a close friend of Fluttershy’s.  As to The Stare, I’ve seen Fluttershy make a full grown dragon cry with The Stare,” said Twilight.
“Star, The Stare and a bear?  Remind me to be nice to your secretary,” said Luna laughing.
All the ponies present laughed as well.

There was a knock at the door.  It opened and there stood Shining Armor.

“Your Highnesses,” said Shining bowing, “we await your presence, at your convenience.”
“Let Their Highnesses know we come,” said Luna giving the proper response.
Shining turned and left.
“Girls, thank you for everything,” said Twilight to her friends, then turning to Luna, “shall we go?”
“We go to our new life Star,” said Luna kissing Twilight, “and our love for eternity!”
The two levitated their tiaras off and they levitated the other’s official crown to their lovers head.
The attendants and friends left the room to go to the ceremony, the doors were left open.  
The two princesses kissed then took a deep breath and walked out.  
Rainbow Dash, Night Wind and Shining Armor stood outside the throne room doors.  At the sight of the two princesses they all snapped to attention.
“We await your pleasure, Your Highnesses!” said Shining.
“One moment,” said Twilight looking at Luna.
Twilight went and hugged Rainbow and then Shining, who she gave a kiss on the cheek.
“I’m so proud of you Twily,” said the big brother.
“What of me?” asked Luna with a smile.
“That’s why I’m so proud,” said Shining with a tear in his eye, “my sister is about to have the greatest pony ever for a wife.”
“Thank you Shining,” said Luna, “although I think my niece has a pretty great pony as well.”
“I can’t tell you how excited the troops are, Highness,” said Night Wind.
“Thank you, let them know how much that means to me.  
Then let’s get this done,” said Luna, happier than anypony had ever seen her.

The Captains of the Guards opened the doors, and marched together to their positions on either side of the aisle.  There lining the way, facing the other guard was the personal guard of the two princesses.  There in the middle the Guard Captains joined the waiting X.O.s holding the Crescent Moon Banner of Luna’s Guard and the Six Pointed Star Banner of Twilight’s Guard.
Shining Armor stepped in and announced;
“Princess Celestia, Princess Mi Amore Cadenza, I have the great honor to announce the entry of Her Royal Highness, Luna, Princess of the Moon and Her Royal Highness, Twilight Sparkle, Princess of the Stars.”
Then in a professional voice;
“Guard!”
“Of the Moon!” called Night Wind.
“Of the Stars!” called Rainbow Dash.
“Atten-hut!” called out Shining.
The troops snapped to attention with military precision.  
Regal music filled the air, Luna and Twilight entered the room and proceeded side by side at a dignified rate with Shining Armor leading the way.  The ponies in attendance bowed as the two princesses passed by them.  
At the point the two were even with their captains, the captains called;
“Salute!”
The troops lining the way bowed, the X.O.s dipped the banners in salute and the captains rendered a hoof salute.  The princesses nodded their head to the captains.  Then the captains called out;
“Two!”
The troops snapped back to attention.

Twilight and Luna continued to the dais.  Shining Armor turned and stood to one side.  
There, in their crowns of state and elegant robes, which Rarity had made, were Princesses Celestia and Cadence.  Twilight saw all her other friends to the side at the bottom of the dais, along with Night Light and Twilight Velvet, her and Shining’s father and mother.
As practiced, they stopped at the base of the dais and bowed low, then stood.
“Your Highnesses,” said Twilight, “I come before you so your esteemed selves can witness a pledge between princesses.”
“Your Highnesses,” repeated Luna, “I come before you so your esteemed selves can witness a pledge between princesses.”
“My fellow princesses, and esteemed guests.” said Cadence.  “There are many reasons a princess may make a pledge.  For allegiance, assistance, business and treaties as well as other reasons.  
However, there have been pledges in the distant past which bound princess to princess.  For the first time in over 3000 years, two princesses have come forward to pledge themselves to each other.  Although this is a wedding, it’s a bond which is perhaps deeper due to the length of the obligation.
A pledge between princesses can never be broken.  It is as eternal as your Noble Selves.  To pledge before two princesses makes it doubly so.” 
“Is it still your wish to make a public pledge?” asked Celestia?
“It is, Your Highness,” said Luna and Twilight together.

Celestia smiled and addressed the gathering;
“Mares and Gentlecolts, pay heed to what is said here today.  The pledge of two princesses is as important to the subjects as it is to the rulers.”
Then to Twilight and Luna;
“Speak your pledge!”

Twilight and Luna faced each other and held the other’s right hoof.
“I, Luna, Princess of the Moon, do hereby pledge to you, Twilight, Princess of the Stars, my eternal love.  To you I bind my mind, my body, my heart, my soul and my realm for all time.  
Forsaking all else for you only.  
In front of two of my sister princesses I do hereby swear!”

There were tears in Luna and Twilight’s eyes.  As well as Celestia and Cadence.

“I, Twilight, Princess of the Stars, do hereby pledge to you, Luna, Princess of the Moon, my eternal love.  To you I bind my mind, my body, my heart, my soul and my realm for all time.  
Forsaking all else for you only.  
In front of two of my sister princesses I do hereby swear!”

It was all Twilight and Luna could do not to jump up and down and scream.

“Is it also your wish to be wed?” asked Celestia.
“It is,” replied Luna and Twilight.
Celestia’s smile was as large as the brides.
“Princess Luna, do you take Princess Twilight Sparkle to be your wedded wife?  To have and to hold, in sickness and in health, for richer or for poorer, to love and to cherish, until death do you part?”
“I do," said Luna with tears of joy pouring down her cheek.
“Princess Twilight Sparkle, do you take Luna to be your wedded wife?  To have and to hold, in sickness and in health, for richer or for poorer, to love and to cherish, until death do you part?”
“I do,” said Twilight, her joyful tears pouring as well.

“Hearing your pledge, we your sister princesses do hereby pronounce you wed and we bless your pledge!” said Celestia and Cadence together.
Neither Luna or Twilight was told of this part of the ceremony.
Cadence and Celestia touched their horns together and a beam of combined magic bathed the two sworn princesses.  Both felt an odd sensation.
The aura cleared, Celestia and Cadence smiled at the two.
“You may now seal you pledge,” said Celestia.
Luna and Twilight kissed the other with all the joy that they were feeling in their souls.
“May I present Their Grand Royal Highnesses, Mrs. Luna and Mrs. Twilight Sparkle (with this, Twilight officially became a Co-Ruler in Equestria).”  Called out Celestia over the din.
“Shift Colors!” called Shining.
The banners that the X.O.s were holding were lowered and they were given a new banner.  Both X.O.s were now displaying a banner with both a crescent moon and six pointed star.  
The crowd erupted in a deafening cheer.
“My beloved subjects,’ said Celestia above the din, “please join us in the castle ballroom for a celebration dinner and reception.”
With that the music started and Luna and Twilight turned to leave.  Shining Armor called out;
“Long live the Moon!  Long live the Stars!”
The troops took up the chant;
“Long live the Moon!  Long live the Stars!”
The rest of the ponies gather joined in as well;
“Long live the Moon!  Long live the Stars!”
“Long live the Moon!  Long live the Stars!”
“Long live the Moon!  Long live the Stars!”