> Over the Moon > by Silver Wit > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- > Chapter 1: Pierce the Veil > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- It was dark. Very dark. But Luna was used to it by now. Even before being trapped in this inky black void she was used to the dark. She had the job or ruling the night, protecting the dreams of her subjects and ruling alongside of… well, more like “in the shadow of” her sister, Celestia. Luna was jealous of her sister, she raised the sun, was beloved by all who knew her and could do no wrong. How she detested Celestia. That seething envy and burning hatred from the long shadow casted by her radiant sister is what made Luna transform into a monster of eternal night. How Luna wished she could take it all back, be given a second chance. Make up for the pain she inflicted onto her sister and do whatever it takes to earn her forgiveness. But that was not meant to be. This was her punishment for her sins, thrown into the abyss with no hope of returning to the land that she knew and the sister she loved. “Please…” Luna pleaded. “Please let me go… I’ll be a better pony, I swear it. Please, let me see my sister once more…” But like the countless times before, nopony answered her pleas. “PLEASE! SOMEPONY! ANYPONY! HELP ME!” Luna cried. All of a sudden, she saw something she hadn’t seen in over 1,000 years. Light. It started as a small hole puncturing the endless space around her and soon more holes opened up, shattering the veil of darkness that enveloped Luna for so many centuries. Six ponies were enveloped in a wondrous glow before her, two pegasi, two earth ponies and two unicorns, they were wielding the Elements or Harmony. Luna’s breath caught in her throat when she locked her eyes onto one particular pony. She was a unicorn with a purple mane and coat, her cutie mark looked like vibrant red and white stars in the evening sky and her eyes, sweet Celestia her sparkling eyes conveyed a wisdom beyond her years. Luna felt flush and her heart started pounding like a drum. Did this pony hear Luna’s cry for help? This pony was her savior, her hero and to top it all off, this pony was- “Beautiful…” Luna whispered. In the darkened halls of Canterlot Castle a lone figure trotted on hoof tip, making sure not to make a sound. Eventually this pony ducked into a room and closed the door as quietly as she could behind her. Breathing a sigh of relief, the figure’s horn glowed and suddenly the room was filled with light. Princess Luna’s eyes darted around her chambers, making sure everything was as she left it and that she really was the only pony in the room. Eventually she deemed herself from prying eyes and threw herself onto her bed. Her horn glowed again and the drawer of her nightstand opened. She pulled out a small notebook with her cutie mark on the cover, a larger book and a heart shaped golden picture frame. She set the frame in front of her and opened the larger book. The book in question had a heavily worn spine and certain pages had folded corners or were marked by paper tabs, of course Luna has read this tome so many times that she could recite her most favorite chapters from memory and flip to those pages with her eyes closed. She opened the book and began reading one of her marked pages. One way of learning isn’t better than another. Having a different technique certainly doesn’t make you dumb. After all, everypony is unique and individual. Luna’s heart swelled with joy and her cheeks pinked, as they did when she read one of Twilight’s passages. She hugged the book to her chest and sighed dreamily, “Such wisdom beyond her years.” Luna then turned to the notebook by her side and flipped to a blank page. She levitated a quill and inkpot to her and began writing. Dear diary: It’s that wonderful time of year again. Soon the anniversary of my return to Equestria will be upon me. It’s a day I always look forward to, but of course you know that, I tell you this every year. Not only is this a day of celebration of being reunited with my dear sister, but it’s also the day I fell in love with the most incredible pony I’ve ever met Luna gazed at the picture in the golden frame and felt the heat rise in her face and chest. “Oh Twilight Sparkle… I’m such a coward.. You’re in my thoughts every waking moment and have been in my very soul since that fateful, wonderful day. And here I am, unable to tell you how I really feel about you, that I love you with all my heart.” Luna thought back to her first Nightmare Night, she had meant to tell Twilight how she felt that very evening, but of course her subjects reacting to her in fear pretty much killed the mood. Since then Luna has been trying to work up the courage to speak with Twilight on a more personal level. Luna was never really great when it came to things like intimacy, so most of her time was spent fawning from afar in vain hopes that Twilight would make the first move. Which has been, if it were not obvious by now, a fruitless venture. Luna sighed and laid her head on her pillow, gazing lovingly at the framed picture of her hearts desire. “Oh Twilight, how I wish I had the courage to tell you how I really feel about you…” “Um, sorry I appear to be interrupting something.” Luna was so surprised by the new voice that she leapt straight into the air. “Ce-Celestia!” Luna cried out before landing on her bed with an audible thump and hiding her picture of Twilight under her pillow, placing her elbows on top and resting her head on her hooves with a smile that was practically begging the daytime diarch to just forget everything she heard and never bring it up again. “Haven’t you heard of knocking!? I mean, uh, what brings you here at this hour sister?” “I was just coming to say goodnight, but then I heard you swooning over-“ “Swooning!? Pff, I wasn’t swooning, I was just, uh, rehearsing lines! Good night Celestia!” Luna’s picture frame leapt out from under her pillow surrounded by a golden magical haze as Celestia levitated the heart shaped object before her. She raised an elegant brow in confusion. “Wait? Luna, do you have feelings for Twilight?” Luna’s blush was so red it practically dyed her fur crimson. “W-well, the thing is sister, I-I um…” A mischievous grin spread across Celestia’s muzzle. “Aww my little sister is growing up so fast! She has her first love!” Luna held a hoof to her lips. “Shhh! Celestia keep it down! I’d rather not let the whole castle know about this if that’s all the same to you!” Celestia gasped, “Oh you’re right! We certainly wouldn’t want- ALL OF CANTERLOT TO KNOW THAT YOU’RE IN LOVE WITH-!” Luna tackled her sister to the floor, using her hooves to keep Celestia’s lips sealed shut. “Art thou mad sister!? Thine Canterlot voice will surely expose mine secret! What will our subjects say when they hear their Princess has no desire to be with a stallion?” Celestia waved a hoof and rolled her eyes. “Oh please Lulu, nopony cares about that stuff anymore.” “They? Don’t?” “Noooo! Sure, they might have cared a thousand or so years ago, but times have changed. In fact I know of an adorable earth pony and unicorn couple in Ponyville that are down right precious and they’re so in love. It’s rather heart warming really.” Luna bowed her head slightly and tried to hide behind her mane. “So… you don’t care about me… liking mares? And wanting to court Twilight Sparkle?” She asked with a squeak. “Well I’ll admit I wasn’t expecting you to want to date my former student, but I have no qualms with your choice or the fact you like mares. You’re my sister and I love you all the same.” Luna's dread seemed to evaporate before her. How could she ever doubt her sister? Luna wiped a small tear from her eye. “I love you too, Celestia.” The two sisters shared a hug, Luna squeezing Celestia tight as all of her fears and anxieties melted away in the Princess of the Sun’s warm and loving embrace. “Besides,” Celestia said with an impish grin. “I would love to share stories with Twilight about when you were a foal.” Luna’s pupils contracted to the size of buttons. “You wouldn’t dare…” “Oh come on Luna! Where’s the fun in you dating somepony if I can’t embarrass you a little? I would show baby pictures, but we didn’t have cameras back then. OOH, maybe that portrait of you from your first birthday is somewhere in the cellar?” Luna’s magic enveloped Celestia’s body as she levitated her sister out the door. “Good night sister, we wouldn’t want you to be tired for your royal duties tomorrow!” Luna slammed the door and slid to the plush carpet in a huff. “Ugh, great. Now Celestia knows about my feelings for Twilight. How long will it take before she sticks her nose in this again I wonder?” Luna levitated the heart shaped frame over to her and gazed in adoration at the mare behind the glass. What should I do? You’d know, wouldn’t you Twilight? You’re good at coming up with plans. Luna placed her treasured frame back in her drawer and trotted to her balcony to begin her nightly duties. “What am I going to do?” Luna said as she anxiously trotted back and forth on the path of a more secluded part of the Canterlot gardens. “Should I confess to Twilight my undying adoration and love? Or do I stay quiet? But Celestia already knows and who knows how long she’ll wait before spilling the beans. Still, I suppose I should count myself lucky that only Celestia knows of this.” “Wait, was I not supposed to hear this princess?” came a male voice. Luna nearly jumped out of her fur and felt a chill run through her body. Over at a nearby bench sat a lone bespectacled unicorn stallion with a cool grey coat, darker grey at the hooves with a short ,curly, royal blue mane. He was wearing a black beret with a sun pattern on top and a blue vest. An issue of ‘Astro Colt’ was suspended in his magical grasp. Luna tensed up. “How long have you been here?!” The stallion fished out a pocket watch. “Um, about twenty minutes give or take, fifteen of which was spent listening to your monologue. Honestly I wasn’t sure if you were talking to me or if you were rehearsing lines for a play. But then you started talking about Princess Twilight and – GAH!” The stallion was wrapped in Luna’s magic and was shaken violently. “You- you weren’t supposed to hear that!” Luna cried in desperation. “Please! You can’t tell another living soul about this! Please, please, please I beg of you!” The stallion raised his hooves defensively. “Calm down your majesty, I would never consider saying anything to anypony. Matters of the heart are private.” Luna took a deep breath and released her magical grip. Her muscles released the tension building up in her body and sighed. “I apologize for how I reacted sir. It’s just… this is very sensitive and I don’t want too many ponies to know about it.” The stallion dusted off his lapels and adjusted his glasses and beret. “Oh, no need to apologies prin-“ “I mean, I haven’t even the slightest idea what I should do and it’s completely driving me mad!” “I understand, it can be really scary to admit your feelings for somepony.” “She’s so wonderful!” “I’m sure.” “And so nice!” “I’ll bet.” “A brilliantly shining star. She saved my life you know? Oh, listen to be prattling on like a school filly.” “Sounds like your heart is quite set on her.” “Yes… but what’s the point? I don’t think I could ever compare to her, I don’t even have the courage to share my heart with her,” Luna buried her face in her hooves and gave a low groan. The stallion looked at the moping princess and rubbed the back of his neck, his eyes conveying the message ‘should I really?’. He placed his comic in his saddlebag and sighed, “Um, Princess Luna. Would you… like some advice?” Luna’s ears perked up. “Advice?” “Yeah. I mean, I already know your, um, secret. And this really does seem to be bothering you. So If you want, I can give you some advice that I hope will help.” “I’d… I’d like that very much my good stallion. Thank you, mister…?” “Oh, you can just call me Wit your majesty.” “And what’s your advice Mr. Wit?” Wit patted the space next to him on the bench and Luna trotted over, after getting comfortable in her seat, Wit took a moment to articulate his thoughts and said, “Well for starters, you’re not giving yourself enough credit.” “Really?” “Of course you’re not, you’re magnificent! You’re the princess of the moon and one of the rulers of Equestria! Any stallion- er, mare in your case, sorry, would fight tooth and hoof for your affection. I think the fact that you chose her makes Princess Twilight one of the luckiest ponies in the world.” Luna smiled. “Thank you Mr. Wit. You are most wise in this matter.” Wit scratched the back of his head sheepishly. “Think nothing of it Princess. I just try my best to be of help.” “If I may ask a favor of you?” “Sure thing, what do you need?” “I would like your help in… wooing Twilight.” “W-wooing?” Wit stammered. “Yes. I’m still too scared to tell Twilight my feelings, so I want you to help me win her affections.” “Um, are you sure I’m the right pony for the job? Isn’t there literally a princess of love you can talk to?” “You mean Twilight’s sister in-law?” Luna said flatly. “Ok, strike that idea.” “Please Mr. Wit, I don’t have anypony to turn to. I know I’m asking for a lot, but I can really, truly use your help. Please say yes.” Wit looked at Princess Luna and after a few moments of contemplation and ‘sad puppy dog eyes’ Wit shrugged his shoulders. “Well, it’s not like I can turn you away princess.” Luna gasped, “You mean?” Wit nodded, “Yep, count me in.” Luna wrapped Wit in a bone-crunching hug. “Oh, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you! Let’s get started right away!” > Chapter 2: A Helping Hoof > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Luna Felt like she was going to burst with excitement. Finally, somepony to help her in her endeavors in winning Twilight’s heart. Oh, how Luna longed for the day where she could turn her feelings into actions and finally take steps forward in sharing her affections with the mare she loves so deeply. And it’s all thanks to this stallion, this very puzzled stallion; to whom goes by the name of Wit, is the “lucky” pony who will assist Princess Luna in her venture. “Ok, so, what’s the plan Wit?” Luna asked giddily. “A sonnet? A song? Perhaps I could name a wing in the Canterlot library after her?” “All good and, uh, flattering ideas,-“ Wit took out a small blue notebook and pen. “-but why don’t we start with something easier. Like, for example, just telling Twilight your feelings outright.” Luna gave Wit a pinched expression. “Oh, right, let’s put that on the back burner for now. Next idea, find some common ground.” “Common ground? Like what?” Wit twirled his pen. “Um, I’m not sure. What do Princesses normally do in their spare time?” “Well, I enjoy arranging lavender around the castle. But I don’t think Twilight does that in her castle.” “Do you know any of Twilight’s interests?” “I know she thoroughly enjoys reading, studying, teaching and her friends. Ooh, maybe if I read books on the history of magic, we can discuss them together!” “Good idea, but maybe save that for later. Next idea, spend time with her.” Luna gasped, “Spend time with her? I-I-I’m not sure if I’m ready for that step quite yet. Isn’t that a-a… a date?” Wit stifled a chuckle, “Princess, you have to get to know Twilight if you want to, uh, ‘woo’ her and the best way to get to know her is to spend time together, not so much a date, per sé, as much as just hanging out casually as friends. You are friends with Twilight, aren’t you?” “Of course, we are. Twilight said so herself.” “Then this shouldn’t be too much of a problem. I mean, look at us. We just met and we’re spending time together and you’ve known Princess Twilight far longer than you’ve known me. All relationships have to start somewhere and the best way to make a strong connection, is to deepen your bonds as friends first.” “Well, when you say it like that, it makes sense. So, spending time with Twilight is the plan. Where should we, um, meet?” Wit rested his cheek on his hoof. “Hmmm… that’s a good question.” Wit than looked up with sparkling eyes as if a bolt came out of the blue. “Aha! I know! Why don’t you ask Twilight if she needs any help at her school?” Luna sprang from her seat. “That’s a superb idea Mr. Wit!“- Luna’s ears flattened and her eyes became fixated on the ground as she kicked a pebble. -“But, help her how? I don’t think I’d make a good teacher, that’s more Celestia’s specialty.” “Uhp, uhp, uhp!” Wit scolded wagging his hoof. “What did I say about not giving yourself enough credit? I know there’s something you can do to be a great help and more importantly, I’m sure Twilight would appreciate anything you’d do for her.” “Luna perked up and nodded. “You’re right, I’ll go see Twilight and I’ll spend time with her and be as much of a help as I can.” Wit pumped a hoof into the air. “That’s the spirit!” And with that, Luna teleported away leaving Wit alone on his bench. He took his comic book out and continued reading from where he left off. “Glad that’s settled.” With a pop and flash, Luna appeared before the steps of the Castle of Friendship in scenic Ponyville. Luna took a deep breath as she gazed upon the crystalline walls of Twilight’s home that glistened like stained glass in the afternoon sun. “Ok, Luna. You can do this!” she said aloud. “All you have to do is find Twilight, strike up a conversation and ask if she needs a helping hoof. Nothing to be nervous about, so what if you might be… alone with her, it’s not a big deal! Even if the idea of being near her fills you with swarms of butterflies, you’re going to spend time with her and nothing will deter you!” “Uh, Princess Luna?” Luna jumped and let out a small ‘eep’ as she spun around and came nose to snout with a purple drake about the same height as her. Luna coughed awkwardly, “Spike! How, um, nice to see you! What brings you to the castle?” Spike tilted his head. “I live here.” “Oh, right! Right, you do live here! I-I-I was just, um, wondering if Twilight was around?” Spike narrowed his eyes on the Princess of the Night. “Hmmm…” Luna puled back from the dragon. “Um, is there something on my face?” “OH MY GOSH!” Spike said as a smile spread across his face. “You’re crushing on Twilight!” Luna broke out in a nervous sweat as she avoided his gaze. “W-what? Don’t be silly! I-i-it’s not like that at all! I merely want to- hey have you been working out? You’ve got some great muscle tone!” Spike’s smile turned smug. “Uh-huh. Nervous sweat, avoiding eye contact, stuttering, trying to change the subject? You’re crushing and you’re crushing hard, I’d know, cause that’s how I get around Rar-“ Spike clamped a claw over his mouth before he said too much. “-I mean, around the mare I have feelings for. Also, I kinda heard your little speech before.” Luna waved a hoof dismissively. “Oh, no, no, no! You misunderstand! I merely need to see Twilight because… because-“ Luna teleported away and a few seconds later teleported back with a bespectacled unicorn suspended in the air who landed on his rump with an audible thud and an ‘oof.’ “-Because my dear friend Wit wants to meet her! Yes, he’s been a big fan of Twilight’s for years and he really wants her autograph!” “I do?” Wit questioned while rubbing his backside. Luna nudged him. “Yes, you do.” “Yes, I do. Oh, nice to meet you mister…” “Spike and nice to meet you too Mr. Wit. Twilight’s at the school, Princess. I’m sure she’ll be thrilled to see you,” Spike said jerking a thumb towards the school. “Perfect! Come along Wit, let’s get you that autograph!” Spike sighed and rolled his eyes as he strolled into the castle. “Uh, Princess?” Wit said as he dusted himself off. “Quick question, why exactly am I here?” “Moral support!” Luna said quickly. “Spike found out my feelings for Twilight and I was a complete wreck!” “You wouldn’t happened to have been monologuing again, were you?” “Point is,” Luna huffed. “I need you around so I don’t panic and stay level headed. Now let’s go, I have a certain pony to see.” Wit sighed and sagged his shoulders. “I have a feeling this is foreshadowing…” “Princess will you please relax?” Wit said as his eyes glanced around the halls of the School of Friendship as the students watched in awe as the Princess Luna strolled past them with an unknown stallion in tow, whispers and gasps were heard in the crowds and this was gearing up to be the most interesting day in the entire school year. “How can I relax?” Luna said through clenched teeth as she continued her jerky march similar to that of a wind-up toy. “I’m about to see Twilight, I’ve been a bundle of nerves since we passed the front door.” “You’re over thinking this Princess. You’re not asking Twilight to marry you, you’re just asking to spend time with her, it’s not a big deal. After all, the worst thing that can happen is-“ “She’ll deem me unworthy and scorn my love and be overall disgusted that I would even have a shot in Tartarus with her?” Luna said in one quick, anxiety laced breath. “I was going to say ‘she says no,’ but your way is far more creative. But let me ask you, do you really think the Princess of Friendship would say such awful things?” For the first time since arriving in Ponyville, Luna took a deep breath and calmed herself down. “No. No she would not.” “Exactly,” Wit said cheerily. “Now c’mon, if the directions we got are right, that should be Twilight’s office right there. Remember, stay calm, cool and collected. You’re just going to ask her if she needs any help, got it?” “Right. Ok, I can do this.” Luna and Wit came to the large wooden doors leading to the Headmare’s office. Luna stood tall and puffed out her chest, raised her hoof and gave the door a firm knock with a stalwart look of confidence. “Come in!” a voice called out. Luna froze and her mind went blank. “Go on,” Wit said with a nudge. “She said ‘come in.’ Don’t keep her waiting.” Luna raised her hoof and pushed the door open. Twilight was sitting at her desk, nose deep in papers and scrolls, her quill jotting quick notes with precise surgical precision. Twilight peeked out from behind her stacks. “Oh, Princess Luna!” she said happily as she stood and trotted to her guests. “How nice to see you. What brings you here?” “Uh, um…” Luna stammered. Wit coughed and that seemed to snap Luna out of her nerves. “Good afternoon Twilight, I’m here to ask if you’d…” Twilight raised a brow. “If I’d what?” Oh bother, not again! Luna’s magic shoved Wit forward. “This is my very good friend, Wit. He’s a very big fan of yours and he was hoping that you’d be so kind as to give him an autograph.” “Yeah!” Wit exclaimed with the best enthusiasm he could muster. “After all the times you’ve saved Equestria, how can anypony not be your fan?” Twilight blushed as she rubbed the back of her head. “You’re too kind Mr. Wit. But I can’t take all the credit, my friends saved Equestria just as much as I have. Now, do you have anything for me to sign?” Wit pulled out his small blue notebook from his breast pocket and flipped to a blank page. “Right here, Princess.” Twilight took a quill from her desk and with a quick, steady motion, signed the blank page of Wit’s notebook. “There you go Mr. Wit; I hope you enjoy it.” “Oh, I will princess. I’ll cherish it forever.” “Is there anything else I can help you with?” “As a matter of fact, there is one other thing,”- Wit’s horn lit up and pushed Luna forward. –“I believe Princess Luna wanted to ask you something.” “Really? Well what can I do for you Princess?” Twilight asked eagerly. Luna felt the butterflies begin their mad fluttering. “Y-yes, well, um, you see…” “Go on…” Wit whispered. “Ask her.” Luna twiddled her hooves. “I-I was wondering if you needed any help. Around the school. Yes! I would like to help you around the school. So! Do you need any help? Around the school?” Wit rolled his eyes and groaned, “As smooth as shark skin.” Twilight tilted her head. “Uh, well… if you’d like, you can be a guest speaker at my next lecture.” “That sounds like a splendid idea!” Luna said enthusiastically. “Sharing my wisdom with the next generation of passionate students is something I’d like very much!” “Ok, reel it in a bit Princess,” Wit whispered. “Great!” Twilight trotted to the door with Luna and Wit following close behind her. “Thank you, Princess. I really appreciate the help and I’m sure the class will love whatever you can contribute.” Luna blushed. “No thanks are needed, Twilight. I’m just happy to help.” “And that class,” Twilight announced from her podium as her yard stick tapped the large chalkboard. “is a textbook example of camaraderie and the mutual benefits it gives. Now, I’d like to introduce our very special guest speaker, Princess Luna!” The crowed of students began cheering. To think that they’d get to see the Princess Luna and that she’d be taking time out of her day to talk to them. It was officially the best class ever! “You sure you can do this, Princess?” Wit asked. “Of course, this part’s easy. I’ve given speeches before, how is this any different?” “Now that’s the kind of confidence I like to hear, go get ‘em!” Luna strode to the center stage of the lecture hall and turned to the class, cleared her throat and said, “My dear students, I’m honored and thrilled to have been given this opportunity to speak by your… wonderful Headmare. Now, I’d like to start by saying-“ As Luna began her speech in her experiences in friendship, some of the students began to whisper amongst themselves. “Hey,” said an earth pony colt. “Who do you think that guy is?” “What guy?” asked his unicorn friend. “You know, that guy. The one Princess Luna was hanging around before.” “Oh right, duh.” The unicorn smacked her forehead with her hoof. “Hmm… do you think that, maybe he’s Princess Luna’s coltfriend?” “Her coltfriend? No way. That guy? Dating a princess?” “Why not? He seems nice.” “Oh. My. GOSH.” Said a nearby, eavesdropping griffon. “I just heard that guy off to the side is Princess Luna’s coltfriend.” “Are you serious? The Princess is dating somepony?” asked a changeling. “Unicorn lucky,” said a yak. “To date Princess is great honor.” Needless to say, the words of wisdom and experience being given by Luna were unheard as gossip quickly and quietly spread throughout the room like wildfire. The bell rang and the students filed out quickly eager to have some free time to themselves. A few seconds later, two alicorns and a unicorn stepped out. “That was quite the speech Princess Luna,” commended Twilight. “I could tell it really gave my students something to talk about. Thanks again for offering to help.” Luna’s heart was a flutter. “You’re very much welcome Twilight. I’m always willing to be of assistance if the situation arises.” “Great, I’ll be sure to keep you in mind is anything else comes up. But if you’ll excuse me, I have some numbers to crunch for next month’s budget.” Luna nodded. “Of course, Twilight, good luck in your work.” It was nice to meet you Mr. Wit.” Wit bowed. “The feeling’s mutual Princess Twilight.” Twilight smiled and waved as she trotted off towards her office. “See, Luna?” Wit said with a hint of smugness. “That wasn’t so hard was it? You stayed calm, didn’t trip over yourself and to top it all off, you were great during-ACK!” Wit was silenced by a bone crunching hug from Luna. “OH, THANK YOU WIT!” This was absolutely splendid! And did you hear her say that if she needs my help again, she’ll keep me in mind? I’ve made more progress in one afternoon than I’ve made in years! And it’s all thanks to you!” “No… problem… princess…” Wit wheezed. Little did Wit and Luna realize that off to the side, from the concealment of a potted plant, a camera was busy snapping away at the scene unfolding before it. “Oh boy,” whispered a young pegasus. “I guess he really is her coltfriend. Wait till the school paper hears about this.” > Chapter 3: Dream On > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- The clip-clop of hooves trotted on the cobbled streets of Canterlot as a very pleased unicorn stallion skipped along his merry way with a large bag in his magic. “Ahh, nothing like a bag of cinnamon nuts on such a glorious day,” Wit said as he downed another hoof full of his candied treat. It was the time of year where Spring was ending and Summer was right around the corner, warm but not uncomfortable. A perfect day to stretch your legs and take a stroll around the capital. It was days like this where Wit wondered if Celestia orders Cloudsdale not to ruin this time of year with rain under any circumstance. “Wit hummed with delight, “Oh yeah. This is the best. I can’t even imagine what could make this day any better.” “OH MY GOSH! THAT’S HIM!” cried a voice, followed by a cacophony of screams and a stampede of ponies that surrounded Wit. The most peculiar thing about this mob was that it was made up entirely of mares. Earth ponies, unicorns, pegasai and kirins (lots of kirins actually). All of them seemed to be gawking in awe and giggling every time Wit looked over them. “O.M.G!” said an earth pony. “It really is him! Mr. Wit I’m a huge fan of your work! Would you please sign my copy of your book?” “Not before he signs my issue of ‘Dragon Warrior’ number one!” cried a pegasus as she shoved the earth pony aside. “Mr Wit!” a unicorn said while pulling out a camera. “Can I get a picture for the Canterlot chapter of your fan club?” “I’m putting a stage play together in your honor Mr. Wit!” said a kirin as she shoved passed the first three mares. “Any chance you can take a look at the script and give me some feedback?” A wave of arguments broke out among the adoring fans, each one one-upping the other as to who gets to interact with the stallion first. Wit stared dumbfounded before he tucked some stray hair behind his ear, adjusted his beret and held his hooves up to the audience. “Ladies, ladies!” Wit said in the most charming, debonair and suave voice had had with a prize-winning smile and alluring gleam in his eyes to boot. “There’s no need to fight, I’m sure I can accommodate with whatever you want.” Wit levitated two pens and quickly signed both the earth pony’s book and the pegasus’ comic in a pair of smooth and quick motions. Next he struck a pose for the unicorn’s photo opt. “May I?” Wit asked before the unicorn relinquished her camera and he held it up for an overhead shot of himself and his fans. “Smile everypony!” Wit called out before snapping the shot. Wit was then given the kirin’s script. The pages of the script flew at a rapid pace and Wit concluded, “Looks pretty darn good so far. Can’t wait to see the show.” Wit winked and the kirin fainted. “Now,” Wit said as he buffed his hoof on his chest. “how about a nice ‘Q&A’ session?” The cries came up from the ocean of mares again. “Mr. Wit!” “Mr. Wit!” “Wit!” “Mr. Wit!” “Uh, yes! You there!” Wit pointed at a unicorn with a quill and a pad of paper at the ready. “Mr. Wit, you’ve just won the award for most outstanding new artist at this year’s comic fan expo, how did that make you feel?” “Like a million bits! I can’t even begin to tell you how honored I was for even being nominated, let alone actually winning. I put a lot of effort into my work and it was nice to know that it resonated with so many creatures. Next question?” “Mr. Wit!” “Wit!” “Mr. Wit!” “Mr. Wit!” “You!” Wit pointed to an earth pony. “Mr. Wit, I’m with the Michicolt Times. Think you can give us a quick rundown of your biggest influences and/or idols in your very successful career?” Wit puffed out his chest. “Well, I have many influences and I strive to be as great as them someday. But if I were to name a few, I’d say they’d be Tezucolt and Leadwing. Both geniuses ahead of their time. I can’t imagine what my life would be like if it hadn’t been for Tezucolt’s riveting stories and characters and Leadwing’s incredible use of ink and shading, pure perfectionism. He’s one of the reasons I worked through my fear of becoming an artist. Those are the big ones, but if I were to have another idol it’d probably be-“ “Wit!” a tall dark unicorn mare pushed her way through the crowd. But she wasn’t a unicorn, she had wings too, in fact she looked awfully similar to… “Princess Luna!?” Wit said in confusion. “What are you doing… wait, if you’re here, than that means-“ Luna grabbed Wit by his shoulders. “I need to talk with you right away!” with a flick of her horn, Luna summoned a door that opened with a soft click. “We haven’t a moment to lose!” “W-wait Princess! Can’t this wait till tomorrow?!” “Nope.” Luna shoved Wit through the doorway and he promptly belly flopped on a red carpeted floor with a loud “thump.” He was in what looked like an ever-growing hallway with an infinite number of doors on either side. Every so often a bubble would pass by with a scene playing out within their veiled surface of ponies in a variety of situations. One had a pony grow to the size of Canterlot castle so she could devour an equally big muffin. Another had a pony at a party and she was surrounded by dancing cakes and pies. “What the hay Princess?!” Wit exclaimed as Luna stepped through the door. “That was my favorite dream! And there were more kirins this time too!” “I’m terribly sorry to interrupt you Wit, but I couldn’t help myself! I’m just so excited from visiting Twilight!” “Still? That was two days ago.” “Technically three,” Luna corrected. “it’s past midnight.” Wit grumbled, “Of course it is. And I suppose you had to come to me in my dreams to brainstorm your next step? Um, where are we?” “This, dear Wit,” Luna dramatically waved a hoof over her head. “is the dream realm. Every door leads to somepony’s dream and it is my duty to safeguard the citizens of Equestria from their nightmares and guarantee a good night’s rest.” Wit looked around in amazement. He squinted his eyes to try and see the end of the hallway, but the red carpet and countless doors disappeared over the horizon of this world. “Wow… there’s no end to the doors. You manage all of these ponies on your own?” Luna nodded. “Indeed. Tis a dauntless task and not for the faint of heart. But I wouldn’t trade it for anything in the world.” Just then a scream echoed throughout the hall. “What the heck was that?!” Wit looked around nervously. “Oh dear, one moment please.” Luna’s horn glowed and the two of them were transported to another section of the hallway. Luna trotted up to one of the doors and poked her head inside. “Rarity’s not your mother Sweetie Belle!” she called out. “She’s your sister!” “Thank you princess!” replied the voice of a filly. “Well that seemed rather easy,” Wit commented with lidded eyes. “She has this dream every once in a while,” Luna said as she shut the door. “I just simply remind her of reality and her mind is put at ease. Some cases are harder than others, but enough small talk, let us get down to brass tacks.” “Ah yes. The reason I was pulled out of my sea of adoring mares- fans!” “Correct.” Luna motioned Wit to follow her as she continued her rounds of the dream realm. “My helping Twilight at the school was a resounding success and I want to capitalize on this progress and move to the next step.” Luna peeked her head through another door before closing it and continuing on. “Alright, how’s this for an idea? Maybe you can just tell Princess Twilight that you have feelings for her.” “Next idea,” Luna said dismissively. Wit facehoofed. “Well, there’s always the tried and true method of ‘hanging out.’ Perhaps you and Twilight can bond over mutual interests. Or maybe learn about one of her interests.” Luna paused her inspection of her next dream. “That’s a great idea! Bonding to not only strengthen our friendship, but to work towards a relationship! This is why I come to you for these issues.” Wit rolled his eyes. “Happy to help princess. Now may I please go back to my dream? I’d like to indulge in it as much as I can, if you don’t mind?” “Yes, yes, of course. Sorry to bother you. We’ll pick this up again tomorrow, please meet me at the palace in the afternoon and we’ll continue our conversation.” Luna’s horn glowed and a door appeared in the middle of the hall, opening it to reveal a gaggle of mares. Wit gazed through the door with a rather mischievous grin. “Ok, I’ll see you tomorrow, bye!” he said quickly before diving back into his dream. The door along with Wit disappeared. “Oh, this is just wonderful!” Luna exclaimed. “With Wit’s help I’ll be one step closer to being with my one true love! Such a reliable stallion, I shall remember to repay his kindness in full when this is over.” Luna trotted off to continue her task as warden of the dream realm. Little did she know that she forgot to close a certain door. Far away from Canterlot, in the frozen north, a pony began to stir in her bed. Princess Cadance, ruler of the Crystal Empire was sleeping soundly in bed with her husband Shining Armor when suddenly, her eyes shot open and she rose up from her bed like her flank caught fire. “OH MY GOSH!” she cried. “WHAAA!” Shining Armor fell to the floor in surprise but quickly rose to his hooves with his horn aglow and at the ready. “What’s wrong Cady!? Are we under attack!?” Cadance grabbed her husband by his shoulders. “No, no Shiny! I heard Princess Luna in my dreams and I heard the most wonderful news! Some of the best news I’ve heard in ages!” “What? What news?” Cadance’s eyes shined like strobe lights as she exclaimed, “Princess Luna’s in love!” Every so often, something comes along that raises your spirits to such a degree, that an earth pony can feel like a pegasus. That you could run from Applewood to the Peaks of Peril and not even break a sweat. That you could type a best-selling novel in an afternoon without even trying. There’s many reasons how somepony could reach this level of euphoria, but one of those reasons, and the main reason at hoof, was love. Princess Luna was filled with so much love, she practically floated down the halls of the castle on a cloud with a dreamy look in her eyes. “Good afternoon my fine stallion!” Luna greeted a guard on duty. “Oh, good afternoon your highness. I hope you’re doing well,” the guard replied. “Well? I’m doing better than ‘well.’ I’m exuberant, elated, ecstatic, euphoric, excited, and so many other words not beginning with ‘e.’ I hope you have a glorious shift and a wonderful rest of the week!” The guard wasn’t entirely sure what to make of the delighted diarch and her dreamy disposition. Which is not to say that the Princess of the Night was dower or dreary, but to see her skipping about and smiling was so rare, he couldn’t help but feel baffled. “Uh, thank you Princess. And I wish the same to you as well.” “Has my guest arrived yet?” Luna inquired. “I did leave you with a description, did I not?” “Yes, you did your majesty and no he hasn’t arrived yet. But we’ll be sure to inform you as soon as he gets here.” “Please do, I have much to discuss with him. Have a pleasant day!” Luna said as she skipped off. “You too princess!” he called back. Luna resumed her stroll through the castle, filled with anticipation for Wit’s arrival. She then came to the hall where the most important moments of Equestria’s history were recorded on stained-glass and she stopped before the window marking the day of Twilight’s ascension to an alicorn princess. “Soon Twilight,” Luna sighed. “I’ll be able to share my heart with you. I hope you will share yours with me as well.” “That’s awfully sweet, Luna.” Luna blushed heavily as her habitual narration drew the attention of her sister. “Ce- Celestia! What are you doing here?” “Well I live here for a start,” Celestia giggled. “and second I wanted to see why my sister was in such a good mood. I’m guessing it has something to do with Twilight?” “Um… well yes. I made a lot of progress with Twilight thanks to a very helpful stallion.” “Ah yes, this ‘Mr. Wit’ I’ve heard about. The guards seem eager to see who this mystery pony is. After all, it’s not every day a civilian gets a personal invitation from either of us.” Luna rolled her eyes. “I’m sure the guards already have the wrong idea about me inviting a stallion to the palace,” she huffed. Celestia waved a dismissive hoof. “Oh, don’t give it a second thought, Lulu. Let them assume all they want; it doesn’t change the fact that your heart already belongs to Twilight.” Celestia gazed up at the window depicting the Princess of Friendship. “I must admit you have impeccable taste. Smart, talented and a famous hero known through-out Equestria. You certainly aim for the brass ring don’t you?” Luna blushed. “Sister! I told you I’d prefer it if you didn’t speak of this out loud!” Celestia chuckled, “I should be telling you that.” She put the back of her hoof to her forehead. “Oh Twilight, you’re in my heart every waking hour of every day!” Celestia said in her best dramatic, mock Luna voice. “You’re beauty knows no bounds and your wisdom has no equal! You’re in my very soul and I want nothing more from life then to confess my love and kiss-“ Luna placed both of her forehooves over Celestia’s mouth. “MUST you be such a blabber-mouth pest!?” The corners of Celestia’s mouth tugged upwards under hoof. “Mmmph, mmph hmmpf hmmmm! Mmm hmm hm hmhm mph!” (I can’t help it! You make it soo easy!) “Celestia, if you breathe a word of this to anypony, so help me-“ “Princess!” a guard pony called out as he trotted briskly towards the royal sisters. “Ah, hello again my good stallion! Has Wit arrived yet?” Luna asked removing her hooves from Celestia’s face. “Uh, no, not to my knowledge. But Princess Cadance has just arrived and she says she needs to see you as soon as possible, Princess Luna.” “Cadance? Very well, inform Princess Cadance that we will join her shortly. You’re dismissed.” The guard saluted and scurried away. “Oh my, what a surprise!” Celestia said as she clapped her hooves together. “I didn’t know you sent for Cadance’s help.” “I-I didn’t,” Luna responded as her mind raced with the reason of Cadance's sudden arrival. Celestia and Luna entered the throne room and were immediately greeted by a wide smiling and eager looking pink alicorn. “Good afternoon, Princess Celestia and Luna. I’m sorry for visiting unannounced.” “Cadance, Canterlot castle is as much your home as it is ours,” Celestia said warmly as she gave Cadance a hug. “there’s no need to apologize. But we are curious as to why you’re here.” "Why, I’m here to see Luna of course, I had to congratulate her on the good news.” “Good news?” Luna cocked her brow. “What good news?” “That you’re in love!” Luna blushed as her jaw hit the floor, her eyes began darting across the room to find a nice hole to crawl into. “I-I-I have no idea what you’re talking about! Love? I’m not in love!” “You don’t have to be embarrassed Luna,” Cadance said with a reassuring smile. “I think it’s great that you finally found that special somepony!” “Why Luna, what an excellent idea to invite Princess Cadance to help you in your love life!” Celestia said mockingly. “No wonder you’ve been all aflutter today.” Luna glared at her sister so hard she was on the brink of setting Celestia ablaze. “Oh, I wasn’t invited!” Cadance giggled. “I heard Luna talking in my dream!” “Y-your dream?” Luna asked. “It’s still kind of fuzzy,” Cadance said rubbing her head. “and I couldn’t make out all the words, but I remember hearing you speaking with somepony about being in love, so I knew I had to see you as soon as I could to offer any and all assistance I can give.” Luna’s eyes were wide with shock as a sudden realization hit her. There was one door she neglected to close during her late-night chat with Wit. And now it came back to bite her in the flank. “So, who’s the lucky guy?” Cadance asked. “Is it somepony I know? I could help you break the ice if it's somepony I know.” “As a matter of fact-“ Celestia’s mouth was sealed shut with a dark purple haze. “It’s nopony you know!” Luna said quickly, horn aglow. “You’ve never met them before! And it’s certainly nopony close to you!” “Ooooh, I love a good secret!” Cadance said as she skipped in place. “So, when can I meet this mystery stallion?” “Hello?” a voice called out. “Princess Luna? Sorry I’m late, I couldn’t find my beret! Had a slight panic attack!” A bespectacled unicorn stallion trotted into the throne room and upon seeing three princesses in one place, Wit bowed low. “Oh, I’m terribly sorry your majesties! I didn’t mean to intrude! You must be busy, I’ll just come back later!” Cadance gasped, “Wait! You!” Wit was wrapped in a sky-blue aura and was pulled before Cadance. He stayed in mid-air, held by the Princess of Love’s magic as she smiled gaily and said, “I know you! I heard you in my dream!” Wit looked over to Luna in desperation. “Uh, Princess! What is she talking about?” “I know this sounds crazy,” Cadance continued. “but I heard your conversation with Princess Luna in my dream, mister?” “Wit. Silver Wit, but you can call me Wit.” “Silver Wit? What a charming name. Well Mr. Wit, let me be the first to congratulate you as well!” “Congratulate me? For what?” “For being Princess Luna’s special somepony of course! I hope the love you share with each other will bring you nothing but happiness for years and years to come!” “WHAT?!” Both Luna and Wit cried out. There comes a time in everypony’s life, where they encounter something so funny, so uproariously hilarious that it threatens to shatter their funny bone into a billion pieces. Princess Celestia was stomping her back hoof and pressing her lips together as hard as she could to suppress the crippling wave of laughter trying to escape after witnessing the “funniest thing” she’s ever seen. > Chapter 4: The One True Paring? > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Starry Sky Studios, a quaint little art store nestled in one of the quieter corners of Canterlot. It had what most art studios have, paint, easels, brushes, canvas’s, but what it has which made it stand out in the community was the proprietor, Pastel Pallet. An earth pony mare with a cream-colored coat with patches of white, her mane was tied in a tri-tone braid of pink, yellow, and cyan with a cutie mark of a paint brush and pallet; who after years of discipline and struggle had finally set up a sanctuary where she can practice her trade in peace. “Hmm, needs more blue-no! Periwinkle! But will it clash with the vermillion? Better not then,” Pastel mumbled to herself as her whole world and focus was devoted to her canvas and brushes. The muses have ushered her away to the upper echelons of creativity and thought as she mixed her paints and made the necessary alterations. This new piece would be her latest and greatest work. Or would it be not as great as her last piece? Pastel wasn’t entirely sure, but what mattered now was finding the right balance of colors. Pastel loaded up her brush with paint and made very steady and controlled strokes. When her task was done, she took the brush out of her mouth and cleaned it in a murky water glass. “Huh. The periwinkle was wrong. Good thing I went with the aquamarine instead.” Pastel dipped her brush in more paint and was poised to begin the process all over again when the bell to her shop rang out. Pastel leapt from her seat and hurried down the stairs. “Pastel!” Wit called out as he looked around the empty store. “You here? I really need to talk to you!” The sound of thundering hooves echoed down the stairs as Pastel came bounding into the shop, with her paint brush still in her mouth. “Oh geez…” Wit muttered as he instinctively pulled a blank canvas over with his magic. Pastel came to a screeching halt but the paint on her brush (as well as bits from her smock and mane) continued to fly towards the unicorn stallion. Wit quickly moved the canvas about, blocking any and all paint that came his way. After spinning the canvas, the resulting art had a very interesting and intricate spiral pattern. “Hellooo Wit!” Pastel greeted. “Hiya Pastel. I take it you were ‘zoned out’ when I got here?” Wit presented the piece of “spontaneous” art to Pastel who brushed some paint on her hoof and stamped the canvas. Wit then levitated it over to a wall with canvases of similar designs. “Yep. One of these days I’ll remember to put my brush down before I greet ponies. So what brings you here? Just a friendly visit?” Wit twiddled his hooves. “Uh, kinda.” “Wiiiit?” Pastel pressed. “Is something on your mind?” “Yeah. I really need somepony to talk to.” Pastel wrapped her unpainted hoof around Wit. “Well what are besties for? Come up to the studio, we can talk more there.” Pastel’s studio was the same as it’s always been. One side was relatively neat and organized, while the other was messy and paint stained. Pastel took her seat at her stool before the large canvas and started rearranging her paints. “Hmm, I need to remember to pick up more magenta. So, what’s wrong Wit? You seem a bit… nervous and glum. Did you have an unsuccessful comic hunt?” Wit took a seat at one of Pastel’s spare chairs and groaned, “Ugghh, if only it was that. There’s… quite a lot of things to unpack.-“ his eyes quickly scanned the room and he closed Pastel’s windows and blinds. “-but you have to promise not to tell anypony.” Pastel held up her painted hoof. “I promise. Now, what’s going on?” “Well…” Wit gulped. “I seemed to have… unknowingly been mistaken for… Princess Luna’s fiancé.” Pastel nearly fell off her stool. “Wait. Seriously!? When did you start dating Princess Luna!?” “I’m not dating Princess Luna!” Wit cried. “But it seems Princess Cadence thinks that Luna and I are dating because of a conversation Luna and I had in my dream.” “You sure you’re not dating her?” “We’re not dating! Luna’s not even interested in me; she loves-!” Wit clasped his hooves over his mouth for fear of what Luna would do to him if he let her secret slip. Wit coughed, “Uh, she loves somepony else!” “Oooh, she does?” Pastel’s eyes glittered at the chance of hearing some juicy royal gossip. “Who is it? Who is it?” “Sorry, can’t tell you that. I made a strict promise and I am a stallion of my word.” “And because Luna threatened you with, I don’t know, banishing you to the moon or Tartarus or something?” “Also that.” “Go on.” “Anyway, I’ve been spending the last few weeks trying to help Luna work up the courage to finally confess to her special somepony, but she’s still too scared and one night she pulled me out of my favorite dream.” “The one with the fan girls?” “Yep.” “Were there Kirin this time?” “Oh yeah,” Wit said with a dopey grin. “Wait, what was I talking about? Oh right, so she pulled me out of my dream and said she wanted to speak to me about that particular pony and invited me to the palace. When I got there, I learned that Princess Cadence somehow overheard us and mistook me for Luna’s actual true love.” “And how did that go?” Wit’s eyes glazed over as he found a very fascinating spot on the wall. “Uhhhh…” “So how did you two meet?” Cadence asked fanatically. “Was it romantic or by chance? What’s your favorite color? Blood type? Star sign? What was your first thoughts when your eyes met? Did you get lost in them and never wanted to find your way out? How do you feel when you’re not together? Does it pain you like nothing else has in your entire life? Do you count the hours, nay the minutes you've been apart from one another?” The only thing Wit wanted more than anything right now was the ability to phase through the floor as he was bombarded with the Princess of Love’s compatibility questions. “Um, we met in the park? But I’m not-“ “Oooh? A chance encounter?” Cadence wrote down some notes on a small pad. “Then what? Small talk? Dinner?” “Small talk, but we’re not-“ “And when was your first date?” “Date!?” “Cadence, please!” Luna said coming to the poor stallion’s aid. “Wit’s just a friend!” A smirk rose up from Cadence’s lips. “Oho? Not ready to make it official to the public yet? Well don’t you worry, that’s where I come in and I’ve got plenty of ideas!” Off to the side, Celestia teleported a nice canvas chair and a bucket of popcorn and made herself comfortable before kicking back and watching the show. She tossed a hoofull of the buttery, salty treat in her mouth and sighed, “It’s good to be a princess.” Luna was somehow able to pry the love pony away from her panicky friend. “Cadence! I’m honored that you want to help, but I can assure you that it’s all really unnecessary, so there’s no need to trouble yourself!” Cadence waved a hoof. “Auntie Luna, it’s no trouble at all, I’m thrilled to help you! I was starting to wonder if you were ever going to find a special somepony; you and auntie Celestia for that matter.” Celestia started coughing as an un-popped kernel hit the back of her throat. “So not only am I more than happy to help, I’ll stop at nothing until you and Mr. Wit are the only thing Equestria’s talking about! From Applewood to Manehattan, you two will be the hottest topic.” “Luna,” Wit whispered. “I think she’s serious. Maybe now would be a good time to just tell her that-“ Luna shoved her hoof in Wit’s mouth. “Oh no, Wit! You have to leave already? What a shame, well thanks for stopping by, I’ll show you out!” Luna’s horn flared and with a pop of Magic, Wit was gone. “Next thing I know,” Wit continued as he massaged his temples. “I’m diving headfirst into a bush. The least she could’ve done was teleport me someplace softer, or my house.” “She knows where you live?” Pastel asked as she dipped her brush into a paint mixture. “To be honest, I wouldn’t be surprised at this point. She seems to always know where I am and where I’ll be. It’s kinda creepy.” Pastel tapped her brush to her chin, accidentally painting it lavender. “So, what you’re telling me, is that you keep getting dragged into random shenanigans because Princess Luna can’t seem to work up the nerve to tell the pony she actually loves and since you’re with her most of the time, that makes you her coltfriend?” Wit nodded. “Yep, that about sums up the story of my life right now.” “Well, if you ask me, I think that the easiest solution is to get the two of them together and hopefully the problem will solve itself.” Wit perked up. “You know, that’s not a bad idea. I can get the two of them together in, I don’t know, a pottery class or maybe a dance festival or something. Thanks Pastel, I owe you one!” Wit gave Pastel a hug and ran out the room. “Good luck!” Pastel called out before all her focus was devoted to her canvas. Wit trotted through the Canterlot park and planted his flank down on a familiar bench. Taking a moment to breath in the aroma of the fresh cut grass, the gentle buzz of bumble bees, the soft tune played by the ice cream vendor and the morose princess of midnight currently eating a ripple fudges cone, with another two on the sidelines awaiting their fate. “Ah Luna,” Wit remarked feigning surprise. “What are the chances of seeing you here?” Luna devoured her cone and moved on to the second one. “This is terrible Wit!” she said dramatically. “This is downright mortifying! I just can’t believe Cadence! Jumping to conclusions, asking us all those questions! You know she’s trying to come up with a nickname for us as we speak?” “Nicknames?” “Yes, like, ‘LuWit’ and “Witna’! Don’t you know that a catchy nickname for couples is what solidifies them in society and pop culture? Next thing we know, they’ll start writing stories about us, or making art of us together!” “Tasteful I hope,” Wit muttered. Luna sighed as she turned to her last ice cream cone and gave it a few sad licks. “She won’t stop until she’s micromanaging our nuptials. Ugh! This is all so frustrating! And all because I can’t admit to Twilight that I love her!” “Oh, ho?” came a flighty voice. “What juicy gossip did I just stumble into?” in a puff of smoke, a lanky and mismatched creature appeared before the princess and her unicorn friend. “Discord!” Luna gasped. “Y-you didn’t hear anything! I was just rehearsing a play!” “Geez, a little louder princess,” Wit commented. “Maybe Twilight will hear you all the way in Ponyville and we can put this whole thing behind us.” “Well this is truly a surprise,” Discord said as he poofed between the ponies on the bench. “Princess Luna bitten by the love bug? And our poor, hapless Silver Wit. Nice to see you working on this again by the way.” Wit tilted his head. “Huh?” “Choose thine words very carefully trickster! Why art thou here?” Luna barked. Discord snapped his talon as a strange device fell in his paw and he was now sporting a lab coat and glasses. “My C.K.E meter was going positively bananas,-“ he emphasized this by showing the arms of the strange device going up and down on the sides as it emitted beeping sounds and a picture of a banana showing on the screen. “-and I wanted to know where all this potent chaos was coming from. And who do I find at the source? A love sick princess unable to say what her heart truly desires and a stallion in a rather difficult position.” “Discord,” Luna snarled. “if thou wish not to return to stone, thou wilt not breath a single word of this to anypony!” “And ruin all the fun?” Discord asked, totally unfazed by Luna’s threat. “Why in the world would I want to do that?” “Plus, you’ve been having no trouble telling other ponies yourself princess.” Wit snarked. “Just not the one that matters.” “I-I do not, um, do that!” Luna huffed. “There’s just a lot of nosy ponies is all.” Wit rolled his eyes. “I keep telling you about your ‘inside voice’, but you just can’t seem to grasp the nuance.” “Well be that as it may,” Discord said as he squeezed Luna and Wit to his sides. “I’m just so thrilled to have such a great wellspring of chaos from somepony other than myself. Keep up the good work you two, I’ll be keeping a close watch on your progress!” and with that, Discord vanished. “Huh. That was… something…” Wit remarked. “Ugh, this is getting more and more out of hoof with each passing moment!” Luna leaned forward and placed her head in her hooves. “Which is why I wanted to give you another idea on how you can get Twilight to notice you.” Luna perked up. “Really? How?” “Why don’t we go to Ponyville and see if there are any special events going on? I mean, from what I’ve heard, Ponyville has parties and festivals almost every other day. I can be your mediator and possibly arrange some alone time with Twilight.” “That’s a brilliant idea!” Luna cheered. “Very well, I leave it to you my love advisor. Let us be off to Ponyville!” and with a glow and a flash, Luna and Wit teleported away to a very familiar town. > Chapter 5: Coming up Roses? > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Soft mumblings and clinks of a paint brush swirling in a water glass were heard in the art studio of Pastel Pallet. The mare was focused on the canvas before her, dabbing her brush in her paint mixture and steadily drew it across her canvas. “Perfect. Just need to remember to add more midnight blue to this part before continuing. Gotta make sure everything is just right, biggest commission of the year after all.” Just then the ringing of her shop door’s bell sounded and Pastel, as if on instinct jumped up from her stool and ran for the lobby. “Hello?” Called out Princess Luna as she trotted further into the store. “Is a Ms. Pastel Pallet here?” Luna heard the thundering of hooves descending the stairs and saw the earth pony barreling towards her. “Ah, you must be Pastel Pallet! I’ve heard so much about you from Wit, and-“ Pastel came to a screeching halt, unfortunately, the same could not be said for the paint on her brush, mane, and smock and in an instant the lunar diarch was splattered with a multitude of colors. “Oh my gosh!” Pastel gasped as she scrambled for a rag. “I’m so sorry princess! I-I didn’t mean to-!” “It’s alright!” Luna said quickly as her magic grabbed Pastel’s rag. “No harm done. I just thought when Wit said to ‘grab a canvas’ when I met you, he meant to be a patron, not use it as a shield.” “Yeah,” Pastel said meekly. “One of these days I’ll remember to put my brush down before I greet ponies. Um, you’re not mad are you your highness?” Luna had finished wiping off the rest of the paint from her face, revealing a large grin. “Mad? Perish the thought! I’m happier than I’ve been in ages!” “Because I covered you in paint?” “No, no, no! Because I’ve made such strides in my goal of capturing my special somepony’s heart! Wit told me that it was thanks to your advice and I was hoping you could help me again?” Pastel relaxed, despite her artistic assault, the princess was in high spirits. “Of course I can! Why don’t we go up to my studio and- my studio! Um, one moment please.” Pastel ran back up the stairs, threw a drop cloth over her painting and practically threw it into a nearby closet. She then returned to Luna and said with a cheery smile, “Please come this way princess. Make yourself comfortable.” Luna sat herself down on Pastel’s couch. “My what a cozy little abode you have Ms. Pastel. I can tell this is a space where the muses practically sing to you.” Pastel cocked a brow. “Um, if you say so princess. So, what is it you wanted to talk about?” Luna stretched out and giggled, “We can get to that, right now I just have to tell you what happened yesterday.” One flash of light and a pop later, Wit and Luna were standing in Ponyville, both of their ears perked up as something jaunty was carried on the wind and passed them by. Wit Looked around and noticed a bulletin board. Wit took a gander at what was posted and laughed, “Aha! I knew there’d be something today! Look princess, Ponyville is hosting a dance festival.” Luna giggled, “A dance festival? How fun! It has been quite some time since last I danced. So what’s the plan?” Wit held his head high and confidently strode off in the direction of the jaunty music. “Simple. We find Twilight, you ask her to dance and then you two will dance together.” “B-but what if something goes wrong?” “What could possibly go wrong? You’re just asking Twilight for a dance. You don’t have to make a grand gesture, just ask.” Luna took a deep breath and copied Wit’s gait. You’re right! I can do this! It’s just a dance, nothing suspicious about asking Twilight for a dance!” Pastel gasped, “Wait? Twilight? As in Princess Twilight Sparkle!?” Luna began to sweat as she realized her loose lip slip. “Um… D-don’t tell anypony…” Pastel drew her hoof over her lips. “G-good… um, anyways…” Wit and Luna trotted along, following the music till they came to a large plaza. Ponies were dancing, snacking, chatting, and working up the nerve to talk to that certain somepony in the crowd. Every so often overhearing the murmurs of the nervous festival goers. “All right! Just go over there and ask her… hoo boy…” “I’m a terrible dancer! How am I supposed to win his heart if I can’t dance?” “Rarity, if you don’t ask Spike for a dance, somepony else will.” “Hope I make a big splash; I’ve been practicing for moons.” “Do you really think Twilight will be here?” Luna whispered to Wit with a slight edge of worry. “I’m sure she’s here,” Wit assured. “Heck, it looks like all of Ponyville is enjoying the event. Just keep your eyes peeled and-“ At that moment, Wit’s voice trailed off as his eyes locked onto a mare. She had an ivory coat and a rust-colored mane, with a similar tuft of rust fluff on her chest and a bit more on the end of her elegantly long tail. She had vibrant verdant scales on her back and matching cloven hooves. A red horn that resembled a pruned tree branch and eyes of gold. Wit adjusted his beret, dusted off his shoulders, cupped his hoof to his mouth, breathed and sniffed. He then trotted closer to the lone Kirin, seemingly forgetting about his royal mission. “Pardon me miss,” Wit caught the mare’s attention. “but I couldn’t help but notice that you seem to be lacking a partner and that’s a shame. Would you care to dance?” The mare giggled, “My, that’s awful nice of you. But sorry to say, my dance card is full.” “Autumn! Hey Autumn!” An orange earth pony with a blond mane dodged through the crowd and trotted up to the Kirin. She tipped her hat and smiled. “Sorry Ah’m late sugar cube. Ye weren’t waiting long were ya?” Autumn nuzzled the earth pony and hummed. “Not at all AJ. C’mon, I wanna dance till I drop.” The pair made their way to the square where they proceeded to invent a more romantic version of square dancing. After taking a moment to wipe the egg from his face, Wit shrugged and sighed, “Ain’t that just the way?” “Oh there you are Wit!” A polished silver hoof reached out and grabbed the stallion. “I’ve been looking everywhere for you!” Luna said. “Have you had any luck?” “Only the bad kind…” “Ah perfect! Princess Luna, I see you’ve found a dance partner!” an authoritative mare with a white mane said as she pulled Luna and Wit onto a platform. “You two will be perfect for our feature dance!” “What?” Wit asked. “Um, Mayor Mare, I think there’s been a bit of a misunderstanding ,” Luna said. “Wit is not my-“ “Alright everypony!” Mayor Mare said into a microphone. We’ve got a real treat for you this time! May I present, for our feature dance, Princess Luna, and her friend!” The crowd clapped and applauded, but above all that, Luna and Wit could swear they heard the guffaws of a smug draconiques, clearly getting more enjoyment out of their plight than the festival itself. “What are we going to do!?” Luna whispered frantically. Wit chewed his lip before saying, “Ah…uh, I guess just play along for now. I don’t like all of their eyes on us.” “Can you dance?” “I know a decent box step.” “Never mind, I’ll lead.” Luna grabbed Wit and the pair began to dance and sway across the platform. Countless eyes watching in awe as a royal sister showed off her skills, even Wit was caught off guard at the level of grace and lightness in each of her steps. “Wow. I never knew this side of you,” Wit remarked. Luna chuckled, “You’re not so bad yourself.” As Luna spun Wit around, he caught sight of a particular pony. Twilight was in the audience! Very near the front, watching the event unfold with a look that Wit couldn’t quite get a grasp on as Luna pulled him back to her. “I see Twilight!” “Really? Oh figs! I can’t believe she’s watching me dance with you. No offense.” “None taken.” “What are we supposed to do now?” Wit smirked as an idea seemed to be forming in his mind. “Don’t worry Luna, I have a plan. Just play along.” No sooner did the words leave his lips, that Wit tumbled onto the stage clutching his back leg. “OW! My leg! My leg, my leg, my leg!” The crowd gasped and Luna was quickly at Wit’s side. “Wit!? What happened!?” Wit gave a subtle wink to Luna and continued to rock in pain. Luna cleared her voice when she caught onto Wit’s hints. “Oh dear! My friend Wit is injured! Somepony help! Is there a doctor here? My poor friend needs medical attention immediately or her might die!” “Too far, reel it in princess,” Wit muttered. In a flash of light, Twilight teleported onto the stage, frantically trotting in place as she seemed to go through her mental file cabinets to find a solution to the stallion’s plight. “Oh, no! Mr. Wit! Are you ok? Oh cheese and crackers, what should we do?” Wit’s smirk turned smug. He gripped Twilight’s hoof and pleaded, “Princess Twilight! Oh thank Celestia you’re here! Please, you have to dance with Luna!” Twilight blushed furiously. “W-w-what!? But what about your leg? S-shouldn’t that-?” “Please princess. Luna was so looking forward to this festival. She wouldn’t stop talking about it, it’d be a shame, no, a travesty if she couldn’t continue! Please… please tell me you’ll dance with her…” Twilight looked between the stallion and Luna, deliberating her options. Eventually, Twilight sighed, “Well… okay. I mean, i-if Luna had her heart set on this, I can’t really turn her down…” “Oh, thank you Princess Twilight! Thank you so much!” Wit exclaimed. A nurse trotted onto the stage and knelt down to Wit. “Alright, let’s get you somewhere to rest up and get that leg a looksie. You can lean on me if the pain is too much.” “Thank you miss, I think I can get up alright…” Wit staggered up onto his hooves and slowly limped away with the nurse, taking a quick moment to whisper to Luna, “This worked out better than I had hoped.” Luna gulped and met Twilight in the dead center of the stage, who was also wearing a blush not unlike Luna’s. “I…I’m not much of a d-dancer princess…” Twilight said sheepishly. “That… that’s quite alright Twilight…” Luna responded as she forced the butterflies in her stomach to cease their flittering. “I’ll lead. Just try your best to follow and you’ll do just fine.” Luna held out a hoof and Twilight shakily held out her own. Luna pulled Twilight close and began to dance. The Princess of Friendship wasn’t kidding, she wasn’t much of a dancer. Matter of fact, she was a down right lousy dancer. But Luna didn’t care. She was sharing a moment with the mare of her dreams and if she got her hoof stepped on every so often, it was worth it just to experience the closeness. Here’s hoping… I can experience this again… “Gosh your highness,” Pastel said as Luna finished her tale. “Sounds like you made one heck of a leap. But, what exactly do you need my advice for? Seems like you got this well in hoof.” Luna sat up from the couch. “Well, truth be told, I’m unsure where to go from here. I… um… haven’t had much experience in the field of love and I was hoping you may give me some wisdom on what I should do next.” Pastel rubbed her chin, smearing some cobalt blue on her fur. “Hmm… If I were you, I’d go an extra step and make some kind of gesture. For example, I love giving out gifts to Wit and my other friends, maybe you could do the same for Twilight.” Luna stood up. “Yes! Brilliant idea! I must strike while the iron is hot, so to speak. Thank you Ms. Pastel, I shall set my plan into motion post haste! Thank you so much for your time!” With a giggle of that of a school filly, Luna teleported out of Pastel’s studio. Pastel breathed a sigh of relief, her eyes darted around the room and when she deemed that the coast was indeed clear, she went back to her closet and pulled out the canvas she was working on and removed the drop cloth covering it. The piece was of Wit and Luna, in a romantic embrace gazing lovingly into each other’s eyes as the soft light of the moon played off their bodies as they were enveloped within the infinite depths of the night sky. “Geez, that was a close call,” Pastel said. “I sure hope Princess Cadence likes it… Hmmm, I’m sure Wit will be annoyed, but I’ll cross that bridge when I come to it.” The smell of ginger was unmistakable as Wit poured his tea from his cast iron teapot, with a small scoop of honey to perfect it. He carried his cup to his desk and set it down by his typewriter. Wit paused as he suddenly remembered one crucial element was missing. He removed a vinyl record from its’ sleeve and set it on his record player, soon the soft sounds of classical music began to play and Wit took his seat at his desk. He sipped his tea and sighed, just the right amount of spicy and sweet. He stretched his forelegs out and began to type. It was dark. I was in my towel when the ninjas attacked! Just then a pop was heard and the small shockwave of Luna’s spell knocked the needle from the record, causing Wit to cringe as the orchestra was thrown from their chairs. “Wit!” Luna called out. “No, please!” Wit said with much chagrin. “Barge into my house uninvited and disturb my writing, I don’t mind at all!” “I went to see Pastel Pallet as you suggested,” Luna continued as if she didn’t hear the annoyance in Wit’s voice. “And I now have the perfect plan to woo Twilight!” “Happy to hear it…” “It was so simple I can’t believe I didn’t see it myself! The next and obvious step was to give Twilight a gift! A token of my affection! Now, the question is, what should I give her? It must be elegant, no, maybe she prefers a simpler gift. But that won’t do, I’m trying to show her my adoration and love; ‘simple’ would never get that point across. Perhaps a book? But I’m sure she has more books than Celestia and I combined.” Wit sipped his tea again; nerves finally began to settle. “Luna, you shouldn’t be thinking about this so hard. Just give her something that you believe would suit her best. If your heart says ‘yes, Twilight will love this,’ then you don’t have to worry, cause I’m sure she’ll be happy with whatever it is.” Luna pondered Wit’s proposal. Tapping her hoof to her chin she hummed, “Hmm, so it’s more so I ‘go with my gut,’ as they say? That’s not a bad idea. A flash of inspiration with an element of surprise! Yes, I think that’ll do nicely. Very well, I’m off to find the perfect gift! Till next time Wit!” And with that the excited mare vanished from Wit’s sight. Wit grumbled as he lit his horn and placed the needle back on the record. Soon the soothing sounds of the symphony played once more and Wit took his seat at his desk. “So much for Pastel buying me an afternoon…”