Luna sat on the throne, overseeing the proceedings of the Night Court. It was a calm session with few petitioners. Feeling a bit bored, she reached out with her mind to find her sister’s magic. ‘Odd, she feels at peace. When we parted, she was visibly worked up. Perhaps she has retired for the night.’ Luna then reached into the dreamworld for a moment. ‘Yes, she is sleeping. It is good to see her resting peacefully.’

Court rambled on for a few more hours, with Luna paying little attention to the petty squabbles that were presented. Though she presented herself with dignity and grace, internally, Luna’s patience was wearing thin due to the stress she had experienced over the last few days.

Finally, court adjourned, and Luna could look forward to spending some time with David and relaxing as soon as possible.

Leaving the throne room, her responsibilities over for the evening, her thoughts immediately turned to her new beau. As she walked the halls of the castle, she searched her dreamscape for his consciousness and found him easily.

He still seemed a bit stressed as she watched his restless mind tried to process many thoughts and ideas as he slept.

Still meandering on, Luna had a mischievous idea pop into her mind. ‘Hmm, knowing that he slumbers maybe I should make a nocturnal visit!’

She shook her head as she walked, dislodging the idea from her mind. “Well, maybe not in the traditional sense. I just want to see how he is doing. Though, perhaps I should let him sleep instead. “I wonder if sister gave him a hard time after I left. She seemed to have something on her mind during dinner.”

Before Luna had realized it, she had traversed the castle’s halls and was now standing before the last turn that led to David’s chambers.

“Oh, well since I am already here, I will just take a peek!” she said to herself.

Luna walked down the hall towards David’s room with a warm smile on her face, humming a gentle tune. Though as she passed the last guard station and neared her destination, something about the scene unfolding before her felt a bit off. The door to David’s room was open!

Broken from her happy mood, she moved into a trot, only to stop quickly at the doorway and glance inside. The room was empty, and the lamps were lit. Walking in, she called out, “David, are you here? Please come out!”

There was no response.

She inspected the room more closely. The bed was made, not a crease in the sheets. The lamp burned brightly, and the fireplace had not been used. It was quiet, and the room itself had become cold. Growing increasingly confused, she frantically called out in the Royal Canterlot Voice, “WHAT HAS HAPPENED HERE!?”

Hearing her call, a pair of guards from the main hall scrambled over to the room to see what was wrong.

“Princess Luna, what is the matter?” one of the guards asked.

“That is precisely what we need to know. Where is our guest? Where is Sir David!?”

“I am sorry, Princess, we don’t know. He hasn’t been down the main corridor since he returned with you and Princess Celestia. We’ve heard nothing, not a peep since you left for the Night Court,” the guard answered.

“Then, what of my sister? Did she not say anything?”

The guards looked at each other and the second one spoke up, “Actually, Princess, we never saw her return.”

“WHAT!?” Luna yelled, then bolted for the door, nearly knocking the guards over as she passed.

Luna cantered down the hall, her platinum shoes clopping loudly as she went. Reaching the main intersection, she extended her wings and made a sharp left with their aid as she slid into the turn, her hooves skidding along the floor.

Finally reaching her destination, she looked at the massive doors of her sister’s bedroom. The guards stationed there looked to the younger ruler and addressed the princess. “Welcome, Princess Luna is there something—”

“CELESTIA, ARE YOU THERE!? CAN YOU HEAR ME!?” Luna bellowed, ignoring the guards.

Luna was quiet for a moment, sensing for her sister’s magic. She was there, on the other side of the ornate doors, seemingly quiet and peaceful.

While looking for her sister’s magic, she also noticed the standard enchantment on the door, canceling the transmission of sound from outside and within.

‘I am sorry sister, it seems you do not wish to be disturbed in your slumber, but I must intrude!’

“Guards, leave us. I must consult with my sister.”

Hearing the commands, the guards looked quizzically at each other, then slowly proceeded down the hall as commanded. As they reached the main hall, they encountered the guards Luna had left behind, still struggling to catch up to their ruler.

“Is everything alright?” one of the hall guards asked, somewhat out of breath.

“Yes. Princess Luna seems upset, but she said she just wishes to talk with Princess Celestia. Why do you ask?”

“It seems the royal guest is missing, and it’s really upset her.”

“Oh. Well, let’s stand-by in case we are needed.”

The guards all nodded in response and took up their stations along the walls of the hall.

Luna stood in front of the massive doors and took in a deep breath to calm herself. She powered her horn, unsealing entryway, but choosing to leave the sound-cancelling spell in place. Then, using her magic, she gently pushed open the doors and entered.

The room was cast in shadows from the dim light of the gas lamps, complemented by a fire in the hearth. Luna glanced over to her sister’s bed, and, seeing her sleeping form, she let out a sigh of relief.

There was Celestia, lying on her bed, her body somewhat askew but sleeping peacefully and safe. Luna surmised that she must have exhausted herself as she was still wearing her crown and regalia. Then she noticed an odd noise coming from the corner of the room. Something was… snoring?

Luna turned toward the far corner, her eyes squinted to what lay in wait. There she spied a form laying on one of Celestia’s favorite chaise lounges. “It could not be…” she said, her mouth hanging open.

She approached the sleeping creature, a wrinkle on her brow, studying the person before her. Her mouth curled into a frown, and she snorted a breath she didn’t realize she was holding.

Turning away from the sleeping figure, she walked back to the door with her mind swimming in thoughts. She turned and looked back to the two sleeping forms before her. Her sister and the human she cared for. Alone. Asleep. Together?

She slowly stepped out from the doors, closed them, and approached the guards.

“Forgive our agitation. We have spoken with my sister, and she has informed us of what has occurred. She has apparently moved our new guest to the East tower quarters where it is more comfortable. We shall go and make sure all is as it should be, then retire to our quarters for the night. Return to your posts; all is well.”

Lying was never Luna’s strong suit, but this time, she managed to adequately convince the guards. They saluted her and responded in unison, “Yes, Princess!”

Luna disappeared in a flash and the guards meandered back to their posts.

While walking back to the main hall, the two guards Luna first encountered shared a conversation.

“Is it just me, or did Princess Luna still seem upset to you?”

“Yeah, but things around here are a little weirder than usual. I mean it’s pretty normal for one of the princesses to forget to update us, but for them to forget to tell each other? That’s gonna ruffle some manes. Let’s just get back to our post; it’s almost time to be relieved.”

“Yeah, okay. Besides, Princess Luna said it was all-good, so I’m sure everything is fine.”

“Yup. I guess so.”

Luna burst back into existence inside the bedchambers of Princess Celestia.

“Now that I’ve covered our tails, you both owe me explanations when you wake,” she mumbled under her breath.

Luna levitated a chaise to the door and climbed up on it, then turned the gas lamps down low before settling in to watch over the sleeping figures of her beloved sister and her new lover.

Laying there, her mind was restless. She could not help but feel the frustration from earlier grow in her mind and eat away at her patience. As she stood watch there in the dark room, her eyes shone brightly as the last embers from the fireplace slowly died off in the night. If someone were to see them there, glinting in the darkness, they would be convinced a predator was stalking their prey, and hoping they weren’t the intended target.

Hours passed, and Princess Celestia and David were still sound asleep, but Luna was more awake than she had ever been. There was no sleep or peace for the Princess of the Night. Not a chance. Her heart beat loudly in her chest, fueling her body while the others slumbered. Her eyes constantly evaluated the scene before her as her mind attempted to find reason, but gave her none. Anger, frustration, and jealousy—those feelings were present. The night may have been calm, but Luna struggled to find her own. Some may have thought it was a miracle that she stayed in that one place the whole night. ‘Miracle’ would have been a mistake, as Luna had imprisoned herself through conflicting thoughts and emotions. She could not move.

Slowly, Celestia started to stir with the early morning approaching. She tilted to her side, slowly righting herself before attempting to lift her head from the pillow.

Luna noticed her sister’s movements and was suddenly freed from her self-imposed restraints. She slipped her body off the lounge and stood tall, a stone-like mask on her face.

Hearing the younger alicorn’s movement, Celestia turned her head to face the noise.

“Sister, is that you?” Celestia asked drowsily, her eyes still closed and a yawn threatening to escape her lips.

“Yes, it is I,” Luna said quietly, but with a stern tone that shocked Celestia awake.

Celestia’s eyes found a glaring Luna, wings unfurled and head held tall. “What is—” Then she heard it, the noise from the opposite corner. Celestia’s head flipped around and looked at the still-sleeping human in her room. “Oh, Luna, I can explain. Please, be calm.”

“CALM!? I AM BEING CALM. I HAVE BEEN CALM THIS WHOLE NIGHT AS I WATCHED YOU BOTH SLEEP HERE. I AM STILL CALM!”

There was no sarcasm in her voice, only the restrained fury of a frustrated princess.

“AHH!” Came a yell from the man as he was shocked awake and fell off of his makeshift bed onto the floor. “What’s wrong?” David asked, finally regaining some composure.

“BE QUIET, WE WILL NOT HEAR FROM YOU!” Luna commanded.

“Luna, please,” Celestia said, attempting to diffuse her anger. “I can explain. I understand if you are confused and maybe even angry, but I hope that will pass if you listen to me.”

“We wish to hear nothing! Thy words cause harm to my soul and your reputation, sister!”

David could not stand by any longer. “Luna, I don’t understand. What’s wrong? Princess Celestia and I were talking late into the night and must have fallen asleep. I didn’t think you would be angry with us.”

“We wish not to hear of it. I have watched over thy sleeping forms… Protected the night! We are departing this, this scene and do not wish to be disturbed during our slumber!

“Oh. And, sister…I received your message that you have relocated him to new quarters in the East tower guest room and have relayed the information to our guards. Be sure to return him to the correct room!” Luna bellowed.

“I beg your pardon, I do not remember issuing such orders,” Celestia replied.

“Correct. You did not. But it was done to make sure that others did not discover what I have seen in this room! Goodnight!”

With that, Luna teleported out of the room with a quick flash of blue magic, leaving Celestia and David alone again.

Celestia recomposed herself. “I am sorry. It seems as though I have acted improperly and caused this situation. I fear it has caused some unintended strife between you two.”

“Uh, that’s okay. Though, I never expected the Royal Canterlot Voice to be so loud.”

“Oh, so you have heard of it before. Again, my apologies.”

“That’s okay, Princess. I think Luna and I have been under a bit more stress than we may want to admit. Actually, I feel somewhat calm about the whole thing. I suppose that’s more unnerving than anything.”

“You are most likely suffering a bit from shock. It will pass. Unfortunately, you may not be so calm after it does. I, however, am used to my sister’s outbursts. I think she will recover to her normal self as well if we give her some space and rest. After she does, it would be good for you to spend some quality time with her. It seems that she has been here most of the night, observing us.”

“Yes, that seems to be what happened. I’m sorry, Princess Celestia, I didn’t know what to do! I saw you sleeping and tried to wake you up, but I gave up and just willed myself to sleep instead.”

“That was actually quite wise, I think. I am not exactly pleasant if awoken early.”

“Well, it was still quite improper for me to stay here. I should’ve noticed if you were tired or bored and asked to leave.”

“Nonsense! I take responsibility for this mistake. Had I sent a message to Lulu, none of this would have happened. I owe you both an apology.”

“No, I can’t blame you. It was just a bad set of circumstances. I’ll talk with Luna later, and I’m sure it will all blow over.”

“Thank you, Sir David. Now, how about we get things sorted with your new quarters, hmm?”

“Okay, Princess. Please lead the way.”

Princess Celestia rose from her bed and shook out her multicolored mane. Stepping off the side, she approached David slowly.

“Ready?” she asked.

“Yes,” he replied, shutting his eyes tightly.

With a flash of her horn, they disappeared from her room and appeared in his old one.

“Well, as it seems you are moving, would you be so kind as to gather your possessions and place them on the bed, please?”

“Of course.”

David moved around the room and gathered his few belongings from the dresser and bathroom and placed them neatly on the bed.

“Is that all?” Celestia asked.

“Yes.”

With another bright flash, they teleported from their current location to his new room in the East wing, bed and all.

“Here we are. Are you feeling okay, Sir David?”

“Yes, I think I’m getting used to teleporting. It helps me a lot if I close my eyes as well.”

“Good. I will let you know a little secret: I prefer to close my eyes as well.” Celestia giggled a bit.

“Please enjoy your new accommodations. You will find that you are now much closer to our royal apartments. As you travel down the hall, the first intersection you arrive at will lead you to my sister’s quarters. If you proceed further, you will reach the main hall. Take a right and you will find the corridor that leads to my room where we just came from, a left, and you will head back towards your old room, the dining room, and the main part of the castle. As these are royal halls, there will be fewer guards, but there are also no doors to the outside world, so it is much safer. If you get lost, you can find a guard post at every intersection. Ask them, and they will direct you. Do you understand?”

“Yes. Thank you, Princess.”

“Good. Now I must leave to start the day. Would you be interested in joining me for breakfast in an hour?”

“I think that would be nice. Do you think Luna will come?”

“No, I doubt she will make an appearance. She has probably headed to sleep. I imagine you will have a chance to speak when she awakens. Do not worry.”

“Okay, Princess. I trust you. I’ll get cleaned up and then meet you for breakfast.”

“Okay. Till then,” Celestia said, then disappeared in a flash of golden light.

David found himself instinctively closing his eyes as she teleported, even though he knew he was going nowhere. After opening his eyes, he decided to take a look around his new quarters.

The room’s layout was much the same as his old one but was easily twice as large. Filling in the new space were luxurious amenities, a large closet, a dresser, a vanity and chair with an oversized mirror, and the best addition of all… windows!

Finally able to see out into the world that he was trapped in, he rushed over to the windows. The sky was still dark, but as he looked out, he saw the morning dawning on a new day in Equestria for the first time. As he stood there, the sun rose slowly over the horizon, just as it would in his own world. He watched the definition of the landscape appear across the horizon as the light of the sun reached out to illuminate the world.

David sat there, staring out across the land, trying his best to take in the view and identify whatever he could. Unfortunately, it seemed as though he was on the north-eastern side, and the only landmark he could’ve hoped to identify was Ponyville, which sat to the south.

Pulling himself away from the view, he looked at the clock. It was still about thirty minutes before breakfast, but he decided it would be a good idea to hurry up and get ready. Heading into his bathroom, he started the water in his new, oversized shower and began to prepare for the day.

David walked toward the doors of the royal dining room, feeling somewhat surprised at his ability to find his way around. As he traveled the halls, guards paid little attention to the human, some nodding in recognition, the others standing perfectly still with stalwart expressions. He was glad that he was accepted, being friends (or more) with princesses sure had its benefits.

Reaching the large doors, he noticed that there were no guards there. ‘Hmm, I guess last night’s dinner was a bit formal after all.’

He gently pushed against the door and made his way into the hall. Celestia was already present and sat on her chair as she did before.

Turning her head towards the doors, she spoke, “Good morning to you, Sir David. Did you find your new room satisfactory?”

“Good morning to you as well, Princess. Yes, it’s amazing, but the best part was being able to see my first sunrise in Equestria.”

“I am glad you enjoyed it. Please, come sit down at the table. As Luna will not be joining us, feel free to sit in her seat.”

“Oh, I couldn’t.”

“Do not be modest; she will not mind. This way we may talk face to face.”

David thought for a few seconds before replying. “Okay…”

He walked over to the table and, tentatively looking back to Celestia, sat down on the royal seat. It was opulent and plush, and it even smelled a bit like Luna.

Celestia allowed him to get comfortable, then spoke up, drawing his attention. “We had planned to offer the new room today, now that your restrictions have been lifted, but those plans changed a little due to our little incident.”

“Oh. I’m glad that you two thought highly enough of me to be considered for such wonderful arrangements.”

“Though I have been quite wary of you, and somewhat disagreeable as well, you have proven to be quite royal in your actions and response. I think you deserve quite a bit of recognition.”

Not knowing what to say, David just smiled in thanks to the princess seated across from him.

“Well, what do you say we get breakfast started? Would you like to do the honors?” she said, levitating a small silver bell over to his location. “Just give it a little ring.”

David took the small bell from her magical grasp and, holding in his hands, he gave it a little jingle.

Before he could even put down the bell, the door to the kitchen burst open and following it was the ever-present column of chef-mares ready to serve.

David sat back against the back of the chair to watch the spectacle unfold. He thought to himself, ‘I wonder how long they’ve been standing behind the door, just waiting to march out to serve their princess.’

The procession marched toward the table and deposited their wares. At the end, again, was the head chef, whom David recognised from dinner the night before. The mare approached the table, turned and bowed to her princess, then turned to David.

“Good morning, I don’t believe we’ve been introduced yet. My name is Cherry Topping,” she said, raising a hoof towards David.

He looked at the young, light chestnut-coated earth mare with a bright red mane and tail that perfectly complimented her name. She had a slim build and wore a white chef’s coat that covered the front of her body. On her hindquarters, she had a cutie mark with a slice of cake that seemed to have red glaze and a cherry on top.

‘Aha! It matches her exactly!’

David could tell she kept up her appearance as her proffered hoof was well manicured and also by the way she had both her mane and her long, red tail styled in tight buns to keep them neat. Looking back to her face, she wore a warm smile on her lips as she stared at the human before her with bright green eyes.

A moment passed while David examined her and thought of what to do, and in return, she cocked her head slightly as she waited. The small motion caught David’s eye, and he felt pulled back from his thoughts.

Instinctively, he reached down with his hand, grasped her hoof lightly, then leaned over and gave it a small kiss at the coronet. “Pleased to meet you, Ms. Cherry, my name is David Marshall,” he said as she slowly retrieved her limb from his hand.

“Oh, uh. Pleased to meet you too, Sir David,” Cherry said with a slight blush on her muzzle. “Is there anything more I can get for you today?”

David looked to Celestia, and as he did so, Cherry turned to face the ruler as well, her head held a bit lower in embarrassment.

“No, Cherry, I believe we have all we need for now. Thank you for a wonderful breakfast,” Celestia answered.

“Oh, okay, Princess.” Then, without fully turning to face David, she glanced in his direction. “Please ring if you require anything,” she said and then gave a polite bow.

“Thank you,” he said.

Cherry then turned around and broke into a quick trot back into the kitchen, the door closing swiftly behind her.

“Well, that was probably not the best method of introduction…” Celestia started.

“Pardon?” David asked.

“Your gesture… Kissing the hoof or coronet band is a very forward thing to do. For a normal stallion, it would be tantamount to professing their love and romantic intentions. It is also usually reserved for a couple in private, as the pheromones released in that area are actually very arousing for males as well.”

“Oh. I suppose I wasn’t thinking. In my culture, it used to be popular, if not a bit grandiose, to kiss the offered hand of a lady. I suppose I owe Ms. Topping a prompt apology.”

“That may be best, though I believe she knows you did not mean it to be a romantic gesture. She will most likely not hold it against you; I suppose you are also lucky that she is not married.”

“Yes, I would not have liked that, I think.”

“Well, let us leave it at that for now. Please enjoy the meal before it grows cold, but would you mind if I ask a few questions while we eat?”

“No, not at all.”

“Thank you, after all you taught me last night, I now have even more thoughts I would like to explore. You have said several times now that the human race is the most intelligent race on your planet, and the only one with civilization, correct?”

“Yes, that is true.”

“That is quite different from life here; there are so many intelligent races, and they have all built civilizations, some to rival our own. What of the others in your world?”

“That is a complex topic, Princess, one I may not be fully qualified to teach you about.”

“Please try, I am very curious.”

“Ok. But to talk about others, I have to start with the human race.

“From what we understand, human beings evolved from the ape family over millions of years. The current species of human, the homo sapiens has only existed for the last two hundred fifty thousand years, a very small time in the life of our planet. Over this time, subtle evolutionary, cultural, and societal changes occurred that made us into the form you see today. As a race, we became more intelligent, and our communities and languages grew. And we’ve only been able to accept this as the history of our people after a lot of scientific research over the last three-hundred years or so. Before that, the thoughts of evolution were rare and unfounded but did exist at least a millennium or so ago in human history.

“Now, throughout all of our scientific studies of the past, we have not seen any evidence of the growth of a civilization outside that of humans. That being said, there are intelligent creatures from the animal kingdom, but they have not evolved to possess the complexities that humans have.”

“Do they lack intelligence?”

“Actually, Princess, I don’t know. What we do know is that some of the animals around us can do amazing things: communicate with their own species, use rudimentary objects as tools, do basic deductive reasoning, live in communal groups with definite hierarchies and rules, and have extensive memories, emotions, and thoughts. But humans are a prideful race, and we sometimes consider anything that is unable to openly converse with us to be lacking. We also have taken many animal species and domesticated them to some level through selective breeding and training. Some of these are classified as pets, some as livestock but most of the animal world remains wild.

“I know that explanation might not be enough to satisfy your curiosity, but please bear with me, it’s all I can think of.”

“That is quite alright; I can tell it is a difficult question to answer.”

“Forgive me, Princess, but now I have a question I hope you can answer.”

“Of course, what is on your mind?”

“Well, in the stories of Equestria, there are several things that are mentioned that… don’t make sense.”

“Go on…”

“I have seen a few instances of ponies eating, well… eggs. Is that real as well?”

“We are basically herbivores, but yes, there are some ponies that do eat them. Eggs are also used as ingredients in cakes, custards, some breads, and several other dishes as well, but as they are not fertilized, most ponies do not consider eggs to be meat. They are not a staple of the normal pony diet, though.”

“Oh, okay. How do you feel about the more omnivorous races in your world?”

“Well, the Griffons are the main omnivorous race in our world. Over the last thousand years, though, they have reduced their consumption of meat quite a bit and now focus on seafood for their main source of animal protein.

“The rest of the omnivores and carnivores are uncivilized monsters. They rarely prey on the intelligent races, but the danger still exists.

“Sir David, what about the human diet? I know you said you cannot digest hay, and by the look of your teeth, I would venture to say that you are at least partly carnivorous. Am I close?”

“Yes, Princess,” David blushed and turned away, “humans are an omnivorous race, where the large part of the modern world does eat quite a bit of meat. In truth, humans will eat just about anything except animals that have pet status, and in some more exotic cultures, those too. A long time ago in extremely primitive human cultures, some were cannibalistic as well.”

“Oh my,” Celestia said, looking a bit disturbed. “If I may be so bold, what do… you eat?”

“Well, I eat various cuisines from across my world. My home’s cuisine focuses on beef, pork, and fowl. That is, the meat of cows, pigs and for fowl—mostly chickens. You see, humans started as hunter-gatherers. Our digestive system isn’t efficient enough to digest plant matter like yours, so when we can, we supplement our diets with meat, which is much higher in energy than plants. Coming from a people that used to hunt, we’ve also grown a culture that raises animals for food. It may seem barbaric, but most of us honestly don’t know how to live a life any differently. I’m sorry, Princess, I hope that doesn’t upset you.”

“I… I do not know what to say. Are we, starving you?”

“Oh, no. No, Princess. The meals you have provided are probably much healthier than what I would receive at home. As a people, we have suffered for our diet—as humans have moved away from manual labor and physical locomotion, the calorie-rich foods we eat have actually become a health hazard to us.

“And while I can’t digest plant matter, it is actually quite good for me to eat. If anything, I may need to supplement my meals here with a bit more legumes, nuts, and some eggs now and again, but I do not require any meat.”

“I am sure that can be arranged. Meat, though, is strictly prohibited. While it has been educating, I would refrain from mentioning your world’s dietary habits to others. It would most likely cause some shock and distrust. Just for clarification, though, humans do not eat equines, correct?”

David was stuck. Inside he had just died a little. He stared into Princess Celestia’s eyes, not knowing what to do or say. Internally, his mind was racing, fighting a war between honesty and congeniality.

‘Crap. I wasn’t expecting this. Do I lie? I mean, I don’t eat it and never will, but there are countries out there that do. Heck, Mexico is one of the top exporters of horse meat. She has been understanding until now, but maybe I should just sidestep the question.’

He coughed. “Ahh, well, my culture does not… but there are some that do.”

‘So much for side-stepping.’

“Oh no!” Celestia turned away, shaking her head in disbelief.

“Please understand Princess, humans stand at the top of the food chain, and while some are trying to stop the now mostly needless feeding on other creatures, it is a long history and practice that takes time to change. Even yourself said that the griffons have spent the better part of the last millennium changing their diet. And in my culture, equines formed a very important role in the growth of our people and society.”

At this, Celestia raised her head and began to tentatively face David once again.

“From the beginning of human history, equines—horses specifically—were absolutely essential for us, but not as food. They were as highly valued as any object, and as time went on, they achieved a pet-like status to humans. But, in the beginning, getting anywhere in our world meant you had to ride a horse. Communities and individuals alike used them to hunt for food to feed their families. Wars were fought where the mounted cavalry was the strongest and most important unit. Our dependence on equines even eventually lead us to measure our machine’s output in ‘horsepower.’ All of this formed a close bond that makes horses very important to my people.”

“Wait. YOU RIDE THEM!?” Celestia questioned, her eyes wide and mouth open in shock.

“Uh, yes. From the most primitive people up to modern times, humans have ridden on horseback. I said they were essential, and I meant it. So much so that attempting to steal someone’s horse would garner one of the worst punishments available.”

“Have… have you ever ridden?”

“Yes, Princess, I have. When I was much younger, mind you. It was amazing to me. I somewhat still wish it was possible. Why do humans riding horses seem so strange to you? I’ve seen depictions of foals and even Spike riding on the backs of ponies in your world. And what about saddles?”

“Yes, our young do often climb on our backs for transport, but I don’t see what saddles have to do with anything.”

“Oh, I didn’t realize that. In my world, the saddle, bit, and harness are all present as well, but they are all tools used in horseback riding. A person would fit a horse with a saddle, and then they sit on it. They have been used for longer than I know of records existing. I just assumed that saddles and other forms of tack here were used similarly.”

“Saddles are not for riding, they are for fashion. There are some pieces of ‘tack’ as you say that are useful in less modern areas that still use pony power for locomotion, such as yokes or harnesses for pulling wagons and carriages, but ponies are not ridden.”

“Yes, Princess, I understand,” David said somewhat quietly, his head held a bit low.

“I hope so. While this conversation has been very interesting, and I thank you for your honesty, I think it would be best if we stop there. It also seems appropriate, as we have also run out of food. Are you full? Did you find everything to your liking?” Celestia tried to sound chipper, attempting to liven the mood.

“Yes, Princess, thank you,” David said politely, but he still seemed a bit distant.

“You do know I do not despise you for your cultural differences, right, Sir David?”

David looked up and put on a fake smile, then nodded in agreement.

“Sir David, come here.”

Not sure exactly where he went wrong, David raised his head to look at the monarch. She wore a stern expression and was pointing to her side, waiting for him to move.

He took note of this, and stood up from his place, carefully folded his napkin and slowly walked over to Celestia’s side.

When he stopped, he looked into her magenta eyes and spoke, “Yes, Princess?”

As he did so, Celestia turned to face him and then enveloped him in her wing, pulling him close into a hug and pressed her neck against him.

‘Warmth. Soft fur. So soft. The smell of flowers and maple syrup.’

There David was, completely encased in her feathery cocoon, his heart beating fast, unsure of what was happening.

A soft voice came to his ear, “I know all of this has been a lot to take in, and you are afraid of what the future holds, but as I told you before—you are not alone.”

Celestia unwrapped David and allowed him to step back. Somewhat dazed and with small tears in his eyes, David nodded and simply said, “Thanks.”

“You have dealt with much, Sir David. Now, I stand next to you as your friend. I do hope you see me as one as well.”

“Yes, Princess. I do. Thank you.”

“Well, as much as I would like to stay, my duty calls. I have quite the day at court and a few events as well. I hope to see you again at dinner.”

“Of course.”

“Oh, and Princess Twilight will be by in a few hours. Please spare some time for her, as she would like to speak with you as well. You should be sure to thank her for the wonderful clothes she brought. They suit you nicely.”

“Yes, Princess. I will definitely do that.”

Standing from her seat, Celestia made her way toward the main castle door.

“I am off then. Feel free to leave the plates as the staff will clean up after we leave. Till later, Sir David.”

“Good day, Princess.”

Author's Notes:

Note: Starting with Act IX the story will be marked Mature.

Meet Cherry Topping!
Cherry Topping is the head chef in Canterlot Castle, and serves the princesses directly.
Even though she's young, she's a master baker and chef!
Cherry has a spunky attitude and readily shares her mind, even if it gets her in trouble.
Commissioned from C-Puff

Find more art at the DeviantArt page.