Moonstone – Finale: “Memories Made.”

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(Seven months later.)

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The gentle brush of lips against her neck sent a shock through Fleur's body. She drew in a deep, slow breath as her eyes fluttered open to greet the new day.

“Good morning,” She whimpered, stretching languorously atop her bed.

“Good morning, Fleur. Sleep well?” Luna purred as her lips continued to venture up Fleur's neck, inching closer and closer to her lips.

“Yes I did… Though that’s probably because you were here. When did you get back?” Fleur rolled over, smiling warmly as she met Luna's gaze.

“Not too long ago… Perhaps a few hours at most. It’s easy to lose track of time when I’m watching you sleep.”

Fleur's eyes wandered over her comparatively small and spartan bedroom. “Not that I'm complaining, but... Don't you need to report to the castle?"

“I already have. I assure you, love, all is well.” Luna’s warm smile disarmed Fleur instantly.

“Oh… Okay then.” Fleur smiled and pulled her fiancé down for a kiss. She groaned softly as their lips met, and for a few moments, Fleur's mind was able to escape from the whirlwind of activity that had filled the past few weeks.

With their wedding mere weeks away, the two of them had agreed to take a short break to handle personal affairs and prepare mentally. Fleur had taken a lengthy trip to Manehattan to tie up some loose ends and catch up with her estranged ex-husband, who had sworn in a recent letter that he’d turned a new leaf and wanted to bury the hatchet between them, at least professionally.

Fleur was highly dubious of his claims of reformation, and only agreed to meet him after some prodding from Luna. Much to her surprise though, their rendezvous in Manehattan went rather well. Fancy was still an incorrigible gossip hound and a tail-chaser, but it was obvious that the pressure that Luna had applied months ago had paid dividends. He had foresaken his habitual lying, and finally owned up to his lounge rat personality. Fleur had to admit that despite his flaws, Fancy wore his new image rather well in the tarnished gleam of Manehattan's streets.

Yet even that paled in comparison to another recent event that was so unprecedented, it literally changed the face of Equestria overnight.

For the second time since the dawn of the Diarchy, Equestria saw the birth of a new Princess...

...And her name was Twilight Sparkle.

Twilight's evolution from a unicorn to an alicorn, and her subsequent ascension to the royalty had shocked Equestria to its very core – and kept both Luna and Fleur busier than they had been in months.

So busy, in fact, Fleur had not yet had a chance to get Luna's take on this new chapter in Equestrian history. But with the morning clear of events or appointments, and her fiance in her hooves, Fleur's mind was ready to begin its questioning. She opened her mouth to speak, only to be cut off by Luna.

“How was your trip to Manehattan?”

“It was good...” Fleur nodded, trying her best not to grumble under her breath at the missed opportunity. She groaned a little as she stretched out once more, sighing half out of exasperation and half out of a barely repressed desire to let Luna continue her slow assault on her coat. “"...It appears that Fancy has turned over a new leaf; a 'new beginning' in his words. He’s already on the Manehattan Charity Board as an advisory member, and has negotiated a very lucrative contract between the Manehattan Residential Committee and the Historic District…”

“That sounds very nice,” Luna teased, kissing Fleur’s neck even more deeply. "But, you’re not telling me everything." Fleur sighed and gave a soft chuckle.

“You don’t miss a beat, do you. Fancy was… Different. He’s definitely changed. For the better or the worse, I can’t say, but he’s not so rambunctious anymore. At least, not around me he wasn’t…”

“And?”

“And nothing, really. We rode the ferry together, went to see a play… I remember there being some fiasco about the dresses, but it was actually a very stirring performance of ‘Hinny of the Hills’.” The whole week in Manehattan was actually rather pleasant. Fleur’s only gripe was that Luna hadn’t been there with her. ’Someday, we’ll go. I want to ride that ferry with Luna, and spend a week in that magnificent master suite… Oh, that Jacuzzi tub was divine…’ She shook her head, getting herself back on-track. “Afterward, we ate dinner at Chez La Hay and just caught up a bit. I must admit, he was rather curious about us.” Fleur continued, rolling a hoof.

“What all did you tell him?” Luna’s voice turned a bit more serious, but her teasing kisses hadn’t stopped. Fleur sighed and rolled her head to the side, her mind still trying to brush past its morning haze to grasp the matter at-hoof.

“He knows we’re to be married.”

“Bet that was a kick in the teeth…” Luna chuckled.

“He took it well, I think.” Fleur shrugged, giving a soft smile as she remembered the initial shock her ex-husband had demonstrated upon being gifted with that little morsel of information. “He won’t tell our secret though. We still have all the books on his dealings with Melody, and he definitely remembers the ‘discussion’ that he had with you… Gosh, that feels like ages ago.”

“Feels like yesterday to me.” Luna teased.

“Yeah, well,” Fleur puffed up a little, shooting Luna a playful glare. “Not all of us get to live for so long.”

“You have many years ahead of you, Fleur, I assure you.” Luna chuckled, leaning in to capture her lips in one more deep, passionate kiss. “But that’s not to say we shouldn’t make the best of the time we have.”

“Agreed.” Fleur groaned, her eyes fluttering closed. Luna rose and stood over her, smiling warmly down at her. ’I haven’t been laid in almost three weeks, and she’s right bucking here. But my haunches are going to have to wait... I need some answers.'

“So maybe we should-“

“Aah.” Fleur lifted a hoof, frowning a little. “About all that…”

“Fleur, we discussed this two weeks ago,” Luna sighed, hanging her head tiredly.

“I just want to make absolutely sure. Did the library have anything?”

“No, Fleur, it did not. Believe me, I checked every book and scroll in that library twice.” Luna returned, looking a little annoyed. “Twilight Sparkle’s transformation was truly unprecedented. With the possible exception of my sister, nopony in modern times has studied Starswirl's works to the levels that Twilight has. Frankly, duplicating even half of that effort would require a more brilliant mind than either of us have. Fleur sighed as she turned her now crestfallen gaze away from Luna.

“Why so dour?”

“I don’t know… Just wishful thinking.”

“Fleur,” Luna cupped her chin, her expression stern yet full of understanding and compassion The next words she spoke were clear and concise, and hurt a little. Not much, but enough. “The changes that Twilight underwent are a mystery to all of us, and we don't yet know what they might entail. The only pony who seems to know anything is Celestia, and she won't share what she might know with anypony – even me.

She pulled back a little, shaking her head. "You’re not going to live forever, but we don’t even know if Twilight – or Cadance for that matter – will live forever. For all we know, Celestia and I may pass away before long.”

“Okay.” Fleur sighed, feeling saddened that she had upset Luna. She slumped down a little, only to be quickly and softly embraced by the princess.

“I love you just the way you are, Fleur. I know that Twilight becoming a princess is exciting for everypony, but please… Don’t let it get to your head, okay?”

“Okay.”

“Promise me.”

“I promise.”

“You don’t sound very convincing…”

“I promise! Luna!” Fleur squirmed as Luna’s hooves began running up and down her sides, tickling her in a way she found excruciating, unbearable, and delightful all at once. She writhed atop the bed, pushing helplessly at Luna, who continued to tickle and kiss her with a hearty laugh.

“There’s the Fleur I know and love.” Luna chuckled, kissing Fleur’s neck one last time. “Don’t dwell on the ‘might be’ or the ‘maybe.’ Focus on today. Focus on us.”

“Okay.” Fleur smiled warmly up at Luna, closing her eyes as they kissed warmly. “I promise, I’ll not obsess over it… Though it would be nice.”

“That it would. But you know what else would be nice?” Luna grinned as her horn leapt to life. Fleur gasped as she was pulled off of the bed and into the air. “A long, hot shower. It’s dreadfully cold outside.”

------

After a relaxing – and fun – shower, Luna dried herself off with a spell before stepping towards Fleur’s window. “I have to check in with Celestia. She mentioned something earlier about wanting to speak with us.”

“Really?” Fleur peeked through the folds of her own towel, still dripping onto the tile floor of her steamy bathroom. "That's a bit sudden, don't you think? She's barely spoken to us since we announced our engagement... What could she want?"

“I honestly don’t know. I suspect it’s because she’s going to attempt to ‘reason’ with us once more… I’ll see what I can glean before you arrive. Just make your way to the castle as soon as you can?”

“I will. We need to meet with the planners today anyways, don’t we?”

“That’s right… Quill’s train came in last night.” Luna grinned as she mounted the nearby window sill, her wings stretching out to test the air. “I love you, Fleur.”

“Love you too, Luna. I’ll see you soon.” Fleur watched with a smile as Luna took off into the morning sky, flying fast and low towards the castle. She pulled the windows closed against the mid-January chill, shivering a little as a blast of winter air passed over her still-wet coat. She retreated into the hot bathroom to finish drying off and preparing for the day, though she couldn’t shake the worrying thoughts that were already digging into the back of her mind.

’What does Celestia need to see the two of us for anyway?' Fleur mused as she settled in front of her vanity. 'She’s barely spoken to me, or even looked in my direction, since that night... Brush and spray in her magical hold, Fleur looked into the mirror and immediately felt the familiar sense of strength and courage that were always present when she thought of Luna.

’It doesn’t matter. Whatever she wants, Luna and I can handle it.’ She grinned as she began primping and styling her mane. ’Together, we can handle anything.’

------

“Miss De Lis.” The guards bowed low as she approached the castle. The double doors swung wide as she shuffled in, a blast of cold wind chasing her inside. The guard motioned towards the Western Wing with a smile. “The Princesses are expecting you. Have a nice day.”

“You too, Aegis.” She smiled at the familiar guard as the doors closed behind her, wrapping her in the castle’s delightfully-warm interior. She pulled her scarf and coat off as another guardspony directed her towards the nearby lounge. After stopping to take a calming breath, Fleur slipped inside of the lounge – and was stunned by the sight before her.

“Hello, Fleur De Lis.” Princess Twilight smiled warmly at her, sitting beside Luna, Celestia, and Cadance. “It’s so nice to finally meet you.”

“Pr-princesses.” Fleur flushed brightly, looking between the four ponies nervously. “I… What’s going on? Is something wrong?”

“Everything is fine, Fleur, I assure you." Cadance smiled warmly. "We just want to have a quick talk, that's all. Besides, Twilight and I would like to meet the mare that Luna can’t seem to stop talking about." She gestured to the one open seat at the table. "Please, have a seat.” Twilight and Celestia sat opposite the only other empty chair at the table. Slowly, Fleur took her seat at Luna’s right, feeling remarkably out-of-place and self-conscious.

“Fleur, we’ve asked you here today for two reasons.” Celestia began, lending an air of seriousness to the room. 'Not that she needed to,' Fleur thought. 'I'm outclassed just being in the room.'

“First... Though mine and my sister's positions on your continued relationship are by now very clear to you, neither Twilight nor Cadance have been able to weigh in yet. Second, I understand you have some questions of your own for our newest Princess; I thought that we could handle both of these items in one discussion.”

“We’ll begin with your concerns about my mortality...” Twilight launched right into the heart of the matter, her smiling visage contradicting the seriousness of the situation… Or whether I even have mortality anymore."

Fleur flushed brightly, stammering a little. “I-I-I didn’t know you-“

“Come now, Fleur,” Luna chuckled. “You know I share everything with my sisters, and after recent events, that includes Twilight as well.”

Twilight's warm smile never budged an inch as Luna spoke. Still, Fleur felt like she could melt into the floor at any moment. 'You're just feet away from the four most powerful beings in Equestria... Nothing to worry about here!'

"Before I begin," Twilights voice snapped Fleur back to the present. "Let me say that I'm so very happy for you two."

“R-really?” Fleur perked up, feeling mildly shocked. “Y-you're not uncomfortable with our relationship?”

“Not at all!” Twilight laughed easily, casting a quick glance Celestia’s way. “I don’t really see the benefits of your more… Painful dealings, but the fact that you and Luna love one another is truly a beautiful thing to witness. I’m happy for you two, and I know you’re going to treat one another well in the coming years, just like Shining Armor and Cadance. After all, true love is but the extension of the bonds of friendship to their deepest, most meaningful levels.

“But,” Her expression turned serious, and Fleur could almost feel the air around her grow heavier as well. “I understand you’re concerned about me becoming a Princess. More specifically, you’re interested in how I became a Princess.”

“Well, I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t…” Fleur admitted, casting a self-conscious glance Luna’s way. “I mean… Forever? With the mare I love? Who wouldn’t want that?”

“I understand.” Twilight smiled warmly. “I wouldn't want to let go of somepony that I loved either. But none of us really know how or why I became a Princess. Starswirl’s studies were far from succinct, and even I had difficulty following them sometimes. In fact, my transformation may never have occurred, were it not for a very large fiasco back in Ponyville.” She gave a nervous chuckle. “I do hope those ponies don’t hold it against Rarity for giving them sunburns…”

“Focus, Twilight.” Celestia muttered quietly, her soft but stern tone silencing the room in an instant.

“Right… Ahem.” Twilight straightened up, smiling at Fleur again. “Luna told me how interested you were, and I wanted to let you know something, Fleur.” She laid a hoof on her breast, meeting Fleur’s eyes. “I’m just as interested in this change as you are. And if the day comes when I figure out a way to make this change in somepony else and you really, honestly, truly want to join Luna, Cadance, Celestia and myself..." Twilight's gaze seemed to drill straight into Fleur at that moment.

"I'll gladly grant you a place by our sides."

“W… Wait, you will?!” Fleur felt hope surge forth, filling her front to back.

“You will?!” Luna echoed Fleur’s disbelief.

“Of course! Why wouldn’t I enable you two to be together forever, if I have the ability to do so?” Twilight smiled warmly. “It’s a beautiful thing, the love you share. I could hardly call myself a friend if I didn’t do everything I could to keep you together.”

Hope flooded Fleur’s veins. She imagined herself with wings, standing at Luna’s side… No longer a meek little unicorn who could hardly summon a fraction of the power that Luna could. ’I could be her equal…

‘A princess.’

“Mind you,” Twilight interjected. “I’m studying a very old and obscure branch of magic that hasn't been in use in centuries. I have to be honest – There stands a very real chance that I’ll never discover what it is I did to bring this change about in myself, let alone another pony.” She shook her head, meeting Fleur’s gaze seriously one more time. “I’m not promising results, Fleur. But should I find something, you'll be one of the first to know.”

“Th– Thank you!” Fleur shook her head, tears welling in her eyes. “Th-that’s more than I ever could have asked for! I… I’m honored…”

“Keep in mind, Fleur,” Celestia cut in, sobering everyone once again. “Your life among us wouldn’t be a playful bedroom romp for time immemorial. We Princesses have constituencies. You’ll have a kingdom to run and subjects to lead. Ponies of all stripes will pledge their loyalty to you, and many will follow you where ever you choose to take them.

“Speaking of which...” Fleur frowned at Twilight, a thought crossing her mind (despite Celestia’s dire tone.) “What’s your constituency, Twilight?”

“We… Have yet to figure that out.” Twilight admitted with a soft sigh. “Considering I’m the first Princess since Cadance, and I don't have a newly rediscovered kingdom waiting for its leader, I’m currently…” She paused for a moment before letting her smile slip into a pronounced grimace. “Backup.”

“Oh Twilight, don’t be so dramatic.” Cadance rolled her eyes with a playful grin. “Your time will come, I assure you.”

“We’re getting distracted.” Celestia brought them back on-track, laying her hoof on the table. “Fleur, don’t take Twilight’s offer lightly. Remember my story with Ribbon, and how profoundly it’s affected me over the years.” The mere mention of Ribbon sent a nervous shiver down Fleur's spine, and she could feel her heart nearly freeze for a moment. “Twilight's ascension will likely change the face of Equestria as a whole. We’re hoping that with the Equestria Games approaching, we can take some time to find Twilight a home among our ranks. Finding a place for yourself, or any number of other Princesses, may prove difficult – even impossible.”

“I understand.” Fleur hung her head as she chuckled. “A kingdom only has room for so many Princesses, right?”

“Not right now, no.” Twilight shook her head. “But I’m sure we could figure something out. If I’m successful in finding a place of my own, that is…”

“I have no doubt you will, Twilight.” Celestia concreted the argument with a final sentence, and silence hung between them for a few long, tense moments before she cleared her throat. “That said, bringing you here to dangle the hope of immortality before you isn’t what we had intended…” She shot a quick glare to Twilight, who responded with a deep blush and a sheepish grin. “We wanted to discuss your upcoming wedding, and your part in our… Extended family.”

“I’m excited to have a new sister-in-law.” Cadance added with a warm smile – one that Fleur eagerly returned.

"As I said earlier," Celestia continued. “Twilight and Cadance have yet to speak their minds on this matter. But, I think you’ll like what they have to say.” Celestia gestured to Twilight, who smiled at Fleur again.

“Like I said before, I’m perfectly okay with your marriage, and indeed I think it’s a beautiful thing. Just don’t expect me to… Sit in or whatever you’re supposed to call it.”

“Well, you’re no fun.” Luna stuck her tongue out at Twilight, who blushed deeply and rubbed her foreleg with the opposite hoof.

“I mean, I’ve probably got a long time ahead of me to… Ahem… ‘Branch out.’ But I’m still pretty young, and I have a lot left to learn. Not just about… L-life, but… You know… Love, too.” A slight shift in Twilight's gaze caught Fleur's eye, and she had to nearly bite her tongue to stay silent. 'Did she look right at Celestia when she said that?'

“What Twilight’s trying to say is,” Cadance laid a hoof on Fleur’s leg as she affectionately nuzzled her mane. “Even though you won't be going public with it, we're happy to see you and Luna joined in marriage. Luna and I have been close for a long while, and I’m glad she’s found somepony to share her passion with. For as long as you two are alive, I’m in full support of your partnership." Cadance leaned back and cupped Fleur's chin in her hoof. "Be good to her, Fleur.”

“I wouldn’t dream of anything less.” Fleur felt happiness well up within her. Twilight and Cadance both were okay with the marriage. That only left one pony who was openly opposed to them, and as Fleur looked to Celestia, a slight blush crossed the eldest princess' face.

“It seems I remain the sole voice of reason here—”

“And you’re gonna stay that way, you old fuddy-duddy.” Cadance teased, sticking her tongue out at Celestia. She got a patronizing glare in return, but Celestia let it drop with a soft sigh.

“But as recent events have demonstrated, even reason can be turned away by passion and determination.” Celestia carefully reached underneath the table and produced a plain folder, sliding it across to Fleur. “Please review these documents, and let me know if they are to your liking."

“I… Uuh, okay…” Fleur hesitantly opened the folder, her eyes scanning the familiar papers quickly. She recognized it immediately as a standard contract.

But what it contained nearly made her heart stop mid-beat.

“Director of Charitable Affairs?”

“A new position.” Celestia answered with a faint smirk. “And one we’re… How would you say, ‘trying out.’ Charitable projects keep this castle very busy, and well... I couldn't think of anypony better suited to run them."

“I… ‘In charge of charitable works in and around the city of Canterlot, including but not limited to planning, organizing, scheduling, and attending charity dinners, silent auctions, or any manner of social gathering intended to accumulate money or favor for any one of Canterlot’s certified Charity Boards.’” She quoted the contract directly, her eyes gone wide. “C-Celestia, this is–“

“Official employment with the crown.” Celestia nodded. “You would work for me, or more specifically, my aide. Heavens know I’m too busy with other matters to worry about the seating plan for the upcoming Silent Auction for Underprivileged Foals in Trottingham…”

“I… Wow.”

“That’s a rather generous offer.” Twilight gave a low whistle of appreciation.

“This is the first I’ve heard of it,” Luna frowned at her elder sister. “Is this what you’ve been working on the past few weeks?”

“It is indeed.” Celestia affirmed, gesturing towards the folder. “After reviewing the crown’s budget for charitable work in and around the city, I’ve discovered a rather healthy surplus; enough, in fact, to facilitate a full-time position working for the crown. Furthermore, this will bridge the gap between the crown itself,” She waved a hoof towards each of the other alicorns in the room. “And the Canterlot Elite.” She pointed to Fleur, a ghost of a smile on her lips.

“Celestia…” Fleur's eyes devoured the rest of the contract in a blur as her heart thundered inside of her chest. Charity work had always been her passion, and over the years, she had developed a strong reputation as a mare that could sweet talk with the best of them, and bring in more bits than charities could even fathom.

’But to finally have full-time, formal employment doing just that…’

“I accept.” Fleur laid the folder down, searching for a quill and ink. Twilight supplied both with a quick glimmer of magic, and Fleur began signing the documents as quickly as she could. Once finished, she closed the folder and slid it back over to Celestia.

“I’m glad,” Celestia smiled warmly. “You’ve made a lot of ponies happy today, Fleur… Myself included.”

“I… I doubt that.” Fleur whimpered thinly, her blush intensifying.

“No, I mean that.” Celestia smiled at her. “The position’s going to take a lot of stress off of Luna and myself. We will feel much better, and be more productive, knowing that the always-important charitable projects are firmly in the hooves of a pony that can pay them the attention that they deserve. Knowing I have more time to devote to my subjects makes me happy, Fleur. It truly does.” Celestia stood, the folder at her side. “In fact, I have some of those matters to tend to right now. If you’ll excuse me…” She turned to leave, but stopped mid-turn. Glancing back at Fleur, her horn glowed brightly and a small set of keys hovered into view.

“Almost forgot…”

“What?” Fleur caught the key set as it was tossed to her, holding the small ring up curiously.

“Your new quarters. Crown employees at the Director level and above are offered residence within the castle, along with their salary… Why, unless I’m mistaken…” With a flick of her tail, she turned towards the door as she spoke. “There’s a vacant apartment just beneath Luna’s own quarters. I'm sure a mare of your skills can convince one of the castle's masonry workers to extend the existing elevator shaft...”

Fleur gasped as a hoof shot to cover her mouth. 'My heavens, this is just too much...'

Celestia paused at the door, her tone turning serious once again. “Luna’s been happier these past seven months than I’ve ever seen her before,” She spoke quietly, just loud enough to be heard. “I know exposing your relationship poses a great risk to the both of you, both personally, and professionally. But if it means keeping Luna this happy, I'll do everything I can to keep your secret hidden from the public.” She turned to face Fleur once more, tears watering in her eyes.

“And maybe, just maybe… If Luna can be happy with another mare…”

Fleur watched as a tear trickled down Celestia's cheek. She gave no reaction, but she could tell that Celestia's gaze was not entirely on her, but rather on the purple alicorn that sat just over her left shoulder.

“Maybe I can too.”

The door closed behind her, leaving Fleur, Luna, Cadance, and Twilight in stunned silence.

-----

“You’re shitting me.” Quill wiped his chin, having spit his tea all over himself. “She offered you quarters? And an official position with the crown?”

“I know!” Fleur laid a hoof on her breast, in a futile attempt to calm her racing heart. She was practically giddy with excitement. “I was so shocked, I didn’t have anything left to say… I just… Wow.” She sighed happily, closing her eyes. “I’ve never been more thankful for anything in my life…”

“-Hey!”

“You get my point, love.” She stuck her tongue out at Luna.

“Hrm.” Luna growled playfully, draping a wing over Fleur’s back.

“That’s amazing, Fleur…” Aurora leaned in as a warm smile broke her normally-aloof demeanor. “I’m very happy for you.”

“Thanks, Aurora.” Fleur returned the gesture, feeling a blush creep onto her cheeks. “I just pray I can keep up with the workload.”

“Well, you’re not alone in that endeavor.” Quill muttered into his teacup. “I plan on moving back to Canterlot soon.”

“Oh? That’s news.” Luna mused, winking at him. “Gotten over your shame, have you?”

“Oh I won’t be in journalism anymore, I assure you.” Quill chuckled. “But, it seems I’ve got a knack for organizing events and whatnot… Remember, Fleur, you were at your best when you worked with Fancy.” He set his teacup down, smiling deviously. “Feel like tag-teaming this little quest?”

“I… Quill, are you offering your services?” Fleur blinked in shock.

“Two heads are better than one. Besides, if I'm correct,” Quill rolled his hoof with a teasing grin. “You’re going to need someone to live in that big, empty house of yours.”

“He makes a good point.” Luna muttered into Fleur’s ear. “He’s very skilled and knowledgeable… And you and Fancy were quite the duo back in the day. Together, the two of you could handle this position magnificently.”

“Hmm.” Fleur tapped her hoof on the table, staring Quill down intently. “It’ll be hard work.”

“Good, I need to lose some weight.”

“Long nights,”

“You’ve no idea.”

“Fancy parties,”

“Hah! My waltz is unparalleled. Just ask Luna.”

“Lots of posturing and elitism…”

“Again, no stranger.”

“I know you aren’t, Quill.” Fleur smiled warmly. She stretched a hoof out, offering it to him. “I’d be honored to work with you.”

“It’s settled, then.” Quill took her hoof and shook it firmly. “I’ll be back in Canterlot in a month’s time.”

“Considering it took you seven to get out here for a simple wedding, I’m shocked.” Luna quipped. Quill rolled his eyes and sighed patronizingly.

“I told you, Luna, I was liaising with the Trottingham Guard for their bi-annual training, and then I had the Archaeologists Expo–”

“Just saying,” Luna shrugged. “You seem to have your hooves in a lot of platters, as it were.”

“Yes, well, I’m looking to downsize.” Quill sipped at his tea again. “I’m not as spry as I used to be…”

“You’re hardly thirty years old.”

“And only getting older. I think it’s about time I set my sights on something I actually care for.” Quill nodded to Fleur. “Seeing the wonderful things she does, and looking at the numbers Fancy and Melody pulled in, I've become convinced that charity work is where I really want to spend my time in the future. Only I plan on making my bits legitimately, not like that two-timing piece of sh—“

“Easy now.” Fleur raised a hoof. “Fancy may have been a scumbag, but he’s turned around lately.”

“Perhaps, but old habits die hard, trust me.” Quill resigned himself to silence with a grumble. Luna just rolled her eyes and looked to Aurora with a smile.

“It’s good to see you again, Aurora. How well did the move go?”

“Surprisingly well, actually.” Aurora beamed at them; a rare sight from the usually-stoic dominatrix. “Business has already picked up, and I have it on good faith from my assistant that the store in Horseshoe Bay handled the transition well.”

“So you’re enjoying life in Canterlot, then?”

“Oh darling,” Aurora chuckled. “There are so many ponies here who are into my line of work… I’m enjoying myself more than ever! Moving here was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. That, and I’m sure Luna enjoys having me close by when she gets the sudden impulse to buy more… Gear.”

“I’d be lying if I said I didn’t squeal with delight the moment I learned you were moving to Canterlot.” Luna muttered as she tried to hide a sly grin behind her tea cup. Fleur leaned across the table, winking at Aurora.

“She really did. I was there.”

“I’m just glad I got to be here for this.” Aurora smiled between Fleur and Luna. “It’s going to be one helluva weekend.”

“Speaking of, that weekend’s slipping by us already.” Quill looked between them with a slight frown. “Have you two decided when we’re going to do this thing?”

“Tomorrow, if at all possible.” Luna answered immediately. “I know you need to get back to Trottingham, and I thank you for braving the cold to make it all the way out here.”

“Yeah, well, you didn’t have to skid down sixteen miles of mountain passes on icy rails.” Quill frowned faintly. “I hate living in the mountains… It sucks going anywhere.”

“Well, I know you two are busy, and we’d rather keep this whole ordeal private anyways.” Luna smiled down at Fleur. “We’ll do it tomorrow morning, if that works for you two?”

“Perfectly.” Quill nodded, and Aurora mirrored him.

“Excellent! Now, if you’ll excuse us,” Luna tugged on Fleur’s ear playfully. “We have a ‘honeymoon’ to conduct.”

“What? Oh no you don’t...” Quill stood and shouldered his way between them.

“Quill! What are you doi—“

“Come with me.” Aurora wrangled Fleur aside, keeping her and Luna separated. “Don’t you know that it’s bad luck to sleep with your partner on the eve of your wedding?”

“She speaks the truth, Princess. You’re spending the night with me.” Quill herded Luna towards the door, while Aurora continued to block Fleur's path.

Luna glared over her shoulder at Quill. "You do realize that I could blast you to bits with a single thought, right?"

"Oh, I'm well aware of that." Quill said with a grin. "But then you'd be shorting your wife a valuable assistant. And you wouldn't want to make your wife angry on the eve of your wedding, would you?" Quill pushed Luna through the door without waiting for a response, calling out over his shoulder as he pulled the door closed behind him.

“Have fun, girls. Don't do anything I wouldn't do!”

“Good luck.” Aurora waved at them as Luna was unceremoniously herded down the hall. Fleur was a bit sad to see her love go, but a sense of nostalgia began to creep into her mind at the same time. She remembered back to the eve of her own wedding, when Gemstone had spent the night with her, while Hoity Toity had sequestered Fancy in his uptown condo. At the time, it was one of the few nights they had spent apart in quite a while, but it made their meeting the next day mean that much more.

“So,” Fleur sighed, looking to Aurora. “Got anything planned?”

“Sleep.” Aurora stoically quipped, standing between Fleur and the door. “Tomorrow's a big day and you need your rest. Besides, we just twat-swatted a Princess, so she’s going to need to 'de-stress' after the ceremony, if you know what I mean."

“Twat-swatted?” Fleur scrunched her nose. “Really?”

“Well, she doesn’t have a penis, so cock-blocked wasn’t appropriate.” Aurora shrugged. She held a hoof up to Fleur, keeping her in place while she checked the hall. “Alright, they’re gone. Looks like it's just you and me now.”

“Very well.” Fleur sighed, following Aurora towards the door. “I hate to ask, but you don’t snore, do you?”

“Not unless I’m coming off a session.” Aurora grinned over her withers at Fleur. “And trust me; you don’t want a session with me.”

A grin tugged at the corner of Fleur's mouth as she followed Aurora towards the castle's main exit. 'Hmm, sounds like a challenge to me.' Fleur thought. 'If her skills as a dom are half as hot as her looks...' Fleur got her mind back on track before it could venture much further into the gutter. "So, do you have your own place yet? I know you just moved here recently."

“Oh you won’t be staying at my place, I assure you.” Aurora chuckled as she stopped at a small closet just off the castle's main lobby, retrieving coats and scarves for the both of them. “I wouldn't want to sully your virtue the night before your wedding." She gave Fleur a cheeky grin. "But, if Luna does decide to trust me with her sub in the future, I may just have to invite you over for a play date."

"Sounds like my kind of evening." Fleur chuckled as she led Aurora down the castle's main drive. "So, my home it is then?"

“Please tell me you have gin.”

“And scotch, if you’re interested.”

“… You and I are gonna be good friends, Fleur.”

------

The next day dawned surprisingly bright and clear, for being the middle of January. The air was still chilly, but Fleur could feel the warmth of the sun breaking through the air ever so slightly. 'The first day of the rest of my life.'

“Sleep well?” Aurora stepped up beside Fleur and joined her in looking out the window as the early-morning sun enveloped Canterlot.

“Like a foal.” Fleur nodded, smiling up at Aurora. “Last night was fun.”

“You know,” Aurora mused. “I've never been one for girlish sentiments like gossip and idle chatter. But I really had a good time with you last night.”

“Well, if you ever feel like a girl’s night out or a sleepover, you know where to find me.” Fleur bumped Aurora’s flank with her own, smiling faintly. “Help me shower?”

“That’s tradition.” Aurora followed Fleur into the bathroom, the two of them picking right back up from where they had left off last night, chatting endlessly about the mannerisms of high-brow socialites. Between Fleur’s personal experiences with charity galas and Aurora’s tales of strange product orders from ponies who’d rather remain anonymous, they had enough stories to fill a small book. 'And if I ever handle the charity accounts in Horseshoe Bay, I have inside line on the local gossip too.' Fleur thought.

The talking and grooming served to distract Fleur from the more pressing matter at-hoof, though.

’Holy crap, I’m getting married today.’ The thought hit her as Aurora was weaving an intricate braid into her tail. She fell silent, and Aurora immediately picked up the change in her behavior.

“Nervous?”

“All of a sudden, yes.”

“I knew you would be.” Aurora chuckled faintly. “It is Luna, after all. You probably find yourself stopping every now and then and telling yourself: ‘By the stars, this isn’t just a fellow dom-’”

“’It’s a princess.’ I know.” Fleur sighed. “I’m marrying a Princess.”

“You and Shining Armor should start a club.”

“Ha ha.” Fleur deadpanned. "If we did have a club, it'd be pretty boring. Shining's not the 'cut loose and have fun' type, trust me. Still,” She sighed, feeling anxiety well up in the pit of her stomach. "I know what you mean. She’s not just my Luna, or a friend, or an acquaintance… She’s my mistress, and a Princess all at once.”

“Makes for a lot more stress than it ought to, huh?” Aurora quipped.

“How do you deal with it?” Fleur asked, glancing back at Aurora. The other unicorn paused mid-braid, sighing faintly.

“Hard as it may seem to do, I… Well, I kind of take some of the piss out of her title.”

“What? How do you mean?”

“What I mean is, I try to forget that fact she’s a Princess.” Aurora returned to her braiding, speaking easier now. “I find it easier to focus on the reason for our interaction before the fact she’s a Princess… To me, she’s a friend first, a fellow dom second, a BDSM connoisseur third, and a princess fourth. So for you, I guess it’d be–“

“A wife first...”

“Mmhmm...”

“...My dom second, my friend third…”

“You’re on the right track, though those two seem interchangeable to me.” Aurora finished with the braid and walked around to Fleur’s front, smiling warmly.

“And a princess fourth.”

“There you go. Don’t get hung up on the wings and her horn.” Aurora began brushing her mane tenderly, speaking quietly. “Focus on the reason you love her. You’re marrying her today, not because she’s your princess, but because you love her.”

“Yeah…” Fleur smiled at Aurora’s wise words, a faint blush rising to her cheeks. “And the sex is incredible.”

“That’s a poor reason to marry, but to be perfectly honest, I can’t blame you.”

They both laughed simultaneously.

------

Refreshed and primped, they arrived at the castle shortly after ten in the morning. The air was warmer than before, but there was still enough chill in the air to give Fleur a slight shiver. The guard furrowed his brow as they walked up to the gate.

"Good morning, ladies. State your business, please?" The guard furrowed his brow at them.

“We’re just going to see Princess Luna for lunch.” Fleur explained. “I know we’re not scheduled or anything.”

The guard paused for a moment before his eyes widened in a bit of shock. "Oh, what am I doing. You're the Princess's friends! I'm sorry, I didn't recognize you with the new mane style," he added with a slight blush.

"Oh, this?" Fleur replied. "Just thought I'd try out something new today. My friend here is quite talented with a braider."

"With all due respect, Miss De Lis, it looks great." the guard replied with a nod as he opened the main entrance to the castle. "Now, I really should talk to my captain about getting you a standing spot on the entry list."

“Well, with any luck, you won’t have to.” Fleur winked at the guard. “I may be moving here soon.”

“Oh? Did you join the castle staff?"

“As a matter of fact, I did.” Fleur nodded warmly as she and Aurora slipped inside the warm castle foyer. “Good day, guard.”

“And a good day to you as well, Miss De Lis.” The guard waved at them as they slipped inside of a nearby service entrance. They met only a few servants and staff members as they made their way through the maze of normally unseen passages. A few of the staff members even waved to Fleur and Aurora as they passed. 'Guess I'm here often enough.' she thought. 'Though I should probably get to know their names going forward...'

Fleur's mind snapped back to the present as they emerged from the service corridors mere feet away from Luna's quarters. She was practically giddy with excitement already.

“Hold up.” Aurora placed a hoof on Fleur's shoulders just as she was reaching for the door. “Let me check and see that everything has been prepared for us.”

“Right.” Fleur nodded, urging Aurora on. “Go ahead.”

The slender unicorn slipped into Luna’s quarters, leaving Fleur alone in the hallway. Fleur was just beginning to fidget in place when Aurora emerged from the room and beckoned Fleur to join her inside.

“By the stars, you look beautiful.” Quill smiled warmly at Fleur, sparing her a quick kiss on the cheek. Fleur returned the gesture with a warm smile, and a faint blush.

“Thanks, Quill… I know it means a lot to Luna to have you here, and it means just as much to me, I want to let you know.”

“Bah, flattery only gets you so far.” Quill chuckled and nodded towards the lift. “Luna’s preparing downstairs, and your dress is ready as well. Shall we?”

“Yes, please.” Fleur followed closely behind Quill and Aurora as they boarded the elevator and began descending to the lower level. Anxiety and excitement flooded her veins as soon as the lift began to move. Luna had spoken of the dress she’d purchased for Fleur, but even that teasing little tidbit of information had her as giddy as a foal on the morning of Hearth's Warming. 'Oh, heavens, I can't wait to see this dress. It's been so long since I've really, truly, dressed up for any engagement... But what event could be bigger than your own wedding?'

Quill and Aurora exited the lift first as it came to a stop on the lower level. Aurora trotted ahead and slipped into a door near the intersection of the two main hallways. 'That must be where Luna's preparing... I wonder what she'll be wear—'

"We can't get you dressed properly if you're standing in the hallway, you know." Quill's voice broke Fleur's wandering train of thought as he quickly ushered her into a door to their left. Fleur stumbled into the dark wardrobe, squinting at the lack of light. As Quill shut the door behind them, though, he flicked the lightswitch…

And revealed perfection.

“Oh wow.” Fleur gasped as the dress came to life before her eyes, glimmering faintly under the room's warm lighting.

“Commissioned from the Element of Generosity herself,” Quill began succinctly, walking around the dress slowly. “The bodice is lace-embroidered with a pure satin base. Extra durability is provided by a series of steel hooks, all of which are hidden inside faux hems and faulty folds.”

He began explaining the dress in detail, but Fleur could hardly be bothered to listen to him; she was too enraptured by the dress that hung in front of her. 'I expected no less from a designer of Rarity's skill and reputation, but this... This is a work of art.' She stared slack-jawed as she tried to take in every inch of the dress. The rich off-white colors glimmered faintly in the light, as if it were carved from one magnificently large pearl. The lace bodice and the skirt's hem line were trimmed in amber, the rich hue off-setting the milky-white fabrics perfectly.

“Beautiful.” Fleur breathed, approaching the dress with near-reverence.

“It is indeed.”

Fleur and Quill whirled around with a gasp, their eyes wide as Celestia slipped through the door.

“Pr-princess!”

“Relax, Fleur, Quill…” Celestia smiled at them, nodding towards the door. “I was hoping to share a few words with the bride before the ceremony.”

“I… Yes, of course. I’ll go check in with Aurora, just in case she needs any help.” Quill shared a quick look of concern with her before slipping past Celestia and out the door, leaving Fleur alone with the elder princess. Fleur met Celestia's eyes immediately, her mind torn between merely worrying or outright panicking. 'Please... Not again. Not today of all days...'

“Let me help you into your dress.”

"Wh– What did you say?"

"I only asked if I could help you with your dress." Celestia replied with a gentle smile. "Besides, while I know you value Quill's company, every bride needs another mare in the room before they walk down the aisle, right?"

“O-okay…” Fleur responded meekly, her heart trying its hardest to claw its way from her chest.

’Why is she suddenly so friendly? Is it a ruse to get closer to me, or is she sincere? This is so strange, especially after the bomb that she dropped on me yesterday. She wouldn’t offer me a position with the Crown only to turn around and break Luna and I up, would she?’ Fleur watched as Celestia tenderly lifted the dress, undoing a myriad of small clasps and concealed zippers until Fleur could step into the dress. Fleur couldn't help but blush furiously as Celestia began carefully securing the dress around her slender frame. While she worked over the buttons, hooks, and zippers, she spoke quietly.

“I wanted to give you my blessing, Fleur.”

“Oh?” Fleur replied, trying not to sound as utterly shocked as she felt in her mind. “Can I assume that this has a lot to do with what you said right before you left the room yesterday?”

“Mostly, yes.” Celestia sighed. “Seeing the way you and Luna interact on a daily basis has… Well, it’s rubbed off on me, for lack of a better term.” Celestia began fluffing the fabric, adjusting the skirt until it draped over her hind legs just right.

“Like I said yesterday, I’ve never seen Luna happier than she’s been the past few months. I dare say that she's happier now than I've ever seen her in all the years we have lived. Sometimes I think my own sun is jealous of the gleam I see in Luna's eyes whenever she looks at you."

Celestia stopped mid-way through tightening a clasp, and Fleur could feel the slight shake in the regal hoof that rested on her back.

“I want that feeling, Fleur.” Celestia whispered. “It’s been far too long since I’ve had another pony in my hooves. Somepony to hold... Somepony to confide in… Somepony who's not afraid to look at me, to understand me, not as a Princess, but as a pony. I wear this crown and title, but beneath it all, I am just a mare, with wants and needs like everypony else."

“Celestia…”

“Twilight has given both of us hope, it seems.” Celestia whispered. “I would very much like you to join us, Fleur. Even if it’s just so you can make Luna smile the way she does every day for the rest of eternity.”

“Princess.” Fleur turned to her, catching Celestia’s teary gaze. “I know you’ve been hurt by your love for Ribbon…”

“And I am so terribly sorry for the things I said.” Celestia bowed her head, the tears sliding down her cheeks. “I was so wrong, and so misguided… I let Ribbon’s memory become a poison to me, and I tried to poison your love for Luna with it. I should have let it become what it truly was – a medicine to heal my loneliness.” Celestia looked up at Fleur once more, her tears still coursing fast and free. “I hope that someday you can forgive me for what I did.”

“Celestia,” Fleur reached out, and wrapped the crying princess in her hooves, gently running a hoof through the prismatic mist that was her mane. “You’re already forgiven, Celestia. I understand why you said the things you did, and I accept your apology fully.” She pulled back, smiling warmly into Celestia’s beautiful, teary face.

“You’re a strong mare, Celestia. Stronger than any of us could ever hope to be. You’ve suffered unimaginable things, the likes of which none of us could ever hope to endure, yet you have continued to lead all of us without fail. I hope that, in time, you will come to love somepony as fiercely as I love Luna.”

“You and I both, Fleur.” Celestia pulled Fleur into another hug, shedding two tears into her mane. “You and I both…”

------

“Ready?” Aurora stood by Fleur’s side, glancing down at her with a worried look.

“I’ve never been more ready for anything in my whole life.” Fleur replied with a grin of determination. “Let’s do this.”

"In that case..." Aurora leaned in and gave Fleur a small hug. "...Your bride awaits you. Go down there and get her." With a glimmer of magic, the door to Luna's private library swung open, and Fleur slowly walked forward. She stopped at the top of the stairs and beamed at the sight before her.

At the bottom of the stairs, in the midst of the millions of books stacked on thousands of shelves, a small entourage waited for her.

Beside Luna was Quill, sporting a very nice-looking suit. Forming two small columns on either side of them, bridging the gap between the base of the stairs and Fleur’s love, were their friends.

Twilight Sparkle, Gemstone, Princess Cadance, and surprisingly enough, Princess Celestia waited for them. Gemstone was already crying, and Cadance wasn’t far behind. Celestia had already shed her tears, but she was smiling brilliantly, with Twilight mirroring her.

But when Luna came into view, Fleur's heart nearly leapt out of chest, and the breath left her lungs completely. Luna wore a shimmering white dress, its design similar to Fleur's dress yet tailored specifically to her every curve. The princess's dark coat and dusky mane offset the white fabrics perfectly, creating a visual contrast that bordered on ethereal. 'She's not just beautiful... She's beauty defined.' Fleur could feel the tears welling up in her eyes with each step that she took. She was mere moments from being joined forever to the love of her life, and already her emotions threatened to overwhelm her.

’Save your tears, filly. You haven't even said your vows yet.’ Fleur bit down on her lip hard to keep from crying as she descended the last of the stairs, Aurora following a few steps behind her. The small aisle that Gemstone, Twilight, Celestia, and Cadance made was all that remained. Quill and Luna stood at the end, watching Fleur approach with warm smiles on their lips.

Luna’s eyes never once wavered from her. From the moment she came into view, Fleur could feel those magnificent cyan irises locked onto her. Luna had a truly star-crossed look in her eyes. Fleur returned her stare in kind, her gaze never leaving Luna for a moment.

Aurora pulled up short, falling in beside Gemstone and Twilight. Fleur took her place opposite Luna, looking up into her lover’s beautiful face.

“You look amazing.” Luna breathed.

“You too.” Fleur managed to choke. She was hoping for something more eloquent, but her voice refused to cooperate at the moment. Luna glanced to her side and gave Quill a small nod; Quill bowed his head slightly and stepped to the front of the group, positioning himself between Fleur and Luna. Quill spoke calmly and evenly, his voice just loud enough to be heard in the still air of the library.

“Princess Luna and Fleur De Lis. You’ve come together today in the presence of your friends and loved ones to profess your love for one another, and to forever bind your lives together. To you who are about to be joined, I say this: Keep the words you speak today in your hearts and minds forever. They will be a reminder of your devotion to one another, and a source of confidence in trying times.” Quill lifted his head to the others gathered around, smiling at all of them as well.

“And to you who have supported and loved Fleur and Luna in your own ways, I ask this: Remember the words these two share today, so that you can remind them of their devotion to one another when challenging times arise. Every relationship, big or small, meets difficulties down the road, and sometimes, the strength of two is not enough to overcome these obstacles. Instead, the strength of three or more is needed.

“Today, you bear witness to the joining of two ponies in love, but never forget that they are also your friends, your family, and above all else, ponies that you care for and love. Remind them of their promise to one another, and help them stay strong.” He finished with a soft smile, looking between Fleur and Luna. He lifted either of their hooves, bringing them together in a simple embrace.

“Princess Luna, do you have any words to share?”

“I do.” Luna sighed, swallowing hard. She met Fleur’s gaze, their eyes locked once more.

The library melted away. The other ponies were gone. Even Quill seemed to have vanished. In that one moment, there was only Fleur and Luna.

“You’ve been a ray of light in my life, Fleur.” Luna spoke quietly, but Fleur listened rapturously, burning each word that Luna spoke into her very soul.

“From moment I found you in the garden maze, I was enraptured by your beauty, your grace, and your passion. You have been a steadfast friend to me, completely unafraid of the dark rumors that haunt me. You looked past the posturing and the haughtiness. You ignored the rumors and the words that have been said about me. You were one of the only ponies that truly and honestly looked at me as a pony, and not as a Princess. You saw me as the pony, as the mare that I truly am, and you revealed a side of me that I thought was lost forever.

“We met barely a year ago, yet I feel like I've known you for ages. Every day is something new and interesting with you, Fleur. I find myself discovering some new facet of your beauty, or a new trait you possess. And I want to continue learning more about you with each new day, with each new adventure. To share my future with you is truly a blessing and a privilege that I can never hope to equal.

“Fleur De Lis, from this day forth, I swear my life to you. Through the good times and the bad, come what may, I will stand by your side.”

Fleur could hear the soft pitter-patter of her tears as they flowed down her cheeks and onto the floor beneath her. It was the only thing she could hear, aside from the thundering of her heart in her chest. Quill leaned in softly, the library and everypony else returning in a rush.

“Fleur, do you have any words to share?”

“I do…” She swallowed once, digging for the strength to speak the words she’d obsessed over for what felt like every day of the past seven months. She held Luna’s gaze as she drew a deep, calming breath.

“Luna, you came to me in such a troubled time, lending tranquility to an ocean of upset emotions and broken feelings. I was on the verge of a breakdown, but thanks to you and your friendship, I persisted, and even thrived. Through that friendship, I discovered the connection we shared, not just as friends… But as lovers. You became my own star, so full of passion and love. You became my constant ray of hope, never dulling under even the darkest of clouds. We have been through so much in such a short time, yet I know that both of us have emerged stronger and happier than either of us could have dreamed.

“I love you, Luna. I love you in every sense of the word. I want to spend every day by your side, and every night dreaming of what the next day will bring for us. I yearn to be with you, Luna, whether we're in the throes of passion, or simply sharing a meal between meetings. I ache for you when we’re apart, and seeing you after an absence makes me feel like my soul has returned to my body. I am thankful for every moment spent in your hooves, because in your hooves, I don't just feel alive... I am alive.

“And so, I swear myself to you, Luna. From this day forth, I will stand by your side as your wife, your lover, your friend, and yes, even your sub. I will share in your triumphs and your downfalls, your glory and your shame. I will be with you morning, noon, and night, until I no longer draw breath. I love you, Luna; with all of my heart, with all of my body, with all of my soul, now and forever.”

In that one perfect moment, the world seemed to stop, and Fleur simply stared at Luna.

And then forever began with a kiss as the cheers of their friends and tears of pure, unbridled joy washed over them.