Holy shit I’m done! Woot the next chapter is finished!
So everyone whose still stuck with the story up to this point I wanna say thank you so much for your patience. I recently started a university degree, yikes, and finding time to write outside my studies has been difficult. Though it’s been a good way to unwind as still love writing this story.
I’m not good at the speeches so I’ll just say I really hope you like this and please feel free to make some comments. Whether good or bad I just wanna hear what you think.
Seriously though I practically start drooling when I see I’ve had feedback from you guys. It’s like crack to me lol.
Now on to warnings and disclaimers YAY! MLP FIM obviously doesn’t belong to me, probably for the best considering lol.
WARNING: this chapter finally has the good stuff. You can probably guess where I’ve been heading to if you’ve read the rest of the story but yeah this chapter has some scenes of HIGHLY suggestive nature between two consenting adult females.
And that’s it. Now on to the story ‘squeal!’

Would all players like to show their hands?

“You know you're in love when you can't fall asleep because reality is finally better than your dreams.”
― Dr. Seuss

“Four o’clock and all is well!”

“Not that anypony cares” a guardpony muttered cynically as he patrolled the streets of Canterlot. He’d been on shift a few hours, the only light being his own horn and flickering lamps and had been busy at first dealing with the odd drunk and disorderly, though Canterlot was pretty well behaved for such a large city. But now the city was asleep and he was bored senseless.

For the last few months since the attack the royal guard had been on increased patrol duties to reassure the citizens that all was well and to watch out for more danger. At first the guard had been zealous and devoted to their duty, they all felt the same rage and fear after Nightmares attack. Yet as time went by and no new threat reared its head they began to grow bored and a little frustrated with the late patrol shifts.

“I hoped after Shining Armour took charge he’d tone it back. Fat chance” the guard mumbled.

He turned a corner, sighing at the sight of another dark and empty street. The dim glow of street lamps doing little to add any life or colour to the world.

Five more hours of this. By Celestia why did nothing exciting happen anymore?

His thoughts were derailed as a scream cut through the darkness. He shot up, almost on tip-hooves as he tried to pinpoint the sound. It had sounded close by.

Without a second thought he galloped after the scream. His eyes narrowed with concentration as he headed down the street hesitating as he came to the mouth of a dark alley. He could hear sobbing inside.

He darted inside, horn lit anxiously as adrenaline ignited within his body. He quickly drew close to the sobbing, seeing a dark shape huddled on the floor.

“Who’s there!” he shouted. The figure on the floor squeaked in fright and scrambled back from him.

He squinted at the figure, his eyes adjusting to the darkness. He could see a pair of frightened eyes staring back at him and a mares shape shaking fiercely.

“Miss? Are you alright? Did somepony attack you?” he asked trying to sound as gentle as he could. The mare seemed to calm as she saw his armour and recognised what he was.

“I-I’m fine. I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to scream I-I I’m really sorry-“

She babbled on still sobbing and the guardspony stepped forward shushing her sympathetically. “It’s ok it’s ok miss. Just tell me what happened”

“It’s silly. You’ll laugh”

“I promise I won’t” he said comfortingly.

“... I saw a rat”

He stared at her.

“It-it was really big” she said when she noted his stare.

“Right”

“You said you wouldn’t laugh!”

“I’m not am I” he said with a big smirk. The mare hissed at him and looked away sullenly.

He quickly sobered.“Miss what are you doing out here anyway? It’s really late”

She rubbed her hooves together nervously, “I got lost. I don’t know how to get back home”

Well that was simple to solve, “Where do you live?”

“Twelve Sunset lane? I’m staying with a friend but I don’t know Canterlot very well and we got separated”

He smiled brightly at her, “You’re in luck miss. I know the place. I can escort you there right now”

The guard was unprepared when the mare squealed happily and hugged him tight. Despite himself he blushed as she wrapped her body tightly against his. Soft curves against hard metal.

“Oh thank you! I didn’t know what to do and nopony else was about”

“It’s ok miss”

She pulled back but her hooves still rested against his sides, “Trixie” she said with a smile.

“Huh?”

She giggled and lidded her eyes at him. “My name is Trixie” she whispered.

The poor guard was struck dumb as the mare, a few years younger than he perhaps smiled coyly at him. Skies above she was actually beautiful. Her eyes like sapphires, a cute smile and an elegant white mane. He was completely captivated as her hooves rubbed circles against his shoulder guards and he quickly gulped.

“I-I’m Greenlight. Nice to meet you miss Trixie”

“Greenlight. It’s a pleasure to meet you too”

Her smile had softened as her lips opened slightly. She continued to watch him with hazy eyes before she ducked her gaze suddenly all coy again.

“I’m really glad you showed up Greenlight. I was really scared and alone” she whispered.

He smiled falteringly, “It’s alright miss”

He considered gently pushing her away but as if sensing his intention she leaned closer, her hooves drawing behind his neck bringing them worryngly close. He opened his mouth to saw something but froze instantly when Trixie pressed her lips against his shyly.

He gasped as her hoof trailed lower and she took the chance to gain entrance to his mouth. For a moment he felt his head swim with the sensations this strange mare was causing in him but the need to breath snapped his mind back into coherence.

He tried to pull away, “Miss Trixe what are you doing!?” he whispered harshly.

“Hush” Trixies smile was predatory as her eyes bore into his. Her horn started to glow and his training screamed at him to break free but he couldn’t escape her altered gaze.

His mind felt sluggish under her stare and gentle ministrations. “I need you” she whispered.

“Please won’t you help me?” she pressed as she kissed him again.

It was a force of effort for him to nod. She looked so needy and he was a member of the guard after all. It was his duty to help ponies however he could right?

Her hoofs slowly removed his armour her actions sensual and teasing as she moved against him. In a few moments she had compelled him to lie down before she climbed on top of him.

Instinct took over as his body moved against hers. His thoughts taken over by primal need as he found himself in the welcoming heat of a female. Through it all her eyes never left his as her motions grew ever more frantic.

A small part of him screamed that this was wrong. That a ponies eyes weren’t supposed to be like that. But as his body began to ride the heights of ecstasy he found it impossible to care. His own cry of release echoed by her loud keen above him.

He fell back panting heavily. He felt strangely weak. He’d never been this exhausted after sex. Even when it had been that good.
Trixies hoof caressed his cheek and he tiredly met her gaze. Her eyes still screamed danger at him and the way she stared at him was actually starting to break him out of his stupor.

“Thank you that. I’ve needed that for a long time. A very long time”

He tried to get up but her hoof pressed down on his chest and refused to move. His struggles quickened as her strength terrified him.

“But now I think it’s time to say goodbye dear Greenlight” she whispered. Her head dipped towards him and he gasped in terror as she bared a fang filled maw.

He blinked as her lips closed around his horn rather than tear out his throat. She lightly licked it and for a moment he dared hope everything would be alright.

But then pain burned through his entire body and he could only scream and scream as agony overcame him. Until at last death became a blessing.

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Celestias eyes shot open. For a moment she looked around frantically worried by what was causing a sense of alarm within her before the cause quickly became apparent. She groaned painfully and slowly sat up.

“I’m coming I’m coming” she mumbled as the sun yelled at her to wake up. She waved a hoof at it in annoyance as she crawled out of bed. Her legs refused to work as intended and tipped her onto the floor where she squirmed pathetically for a while.

Skies above how much did she drink last night? The alicorns head was threatening to split in two with the double hammer falls of a truly spectacular hangover and the suns loud insistence that she get up and let it rise for the day.

Celestia glanced at her bedside clock. She’d never needed to use a timepiece but right now her headache was interfering with her internal clock. It said it was coming up to ten o’clock. She actually managed a few steps as she shot to her hooves in panic before tripping again.

“Starswirls stinking breathe! That’s the time!?”

She wiggled out onto her balcony to look over the city. The sky was still dark with night but the moon had sunk below the earth. Celestia could feel its confusion and mirth as the sun raged below the horizon.

“Ok ok!” she lit her horn and focused her magic. The pain was not pleasant but she’d been doing this for a thousand years and it was easy as breathing to open the lock on the sun and let it fly gratefully into the sky.

The sudden bright luminescence of a summer’s morning brought a scream of agony from Celestia. Oh tartarus why didn’t she close her eyes first!?

She writhed and whimpered on her balcony floor for a moment before giving up the action and just sprawling across the cool stone.

“Damn alcohol to all the realms of the underworld. I’m never touching the stuff again” she muttered bitterly. Her ears twitched as she heard hoofsteps and she weakly opened her eyes to see Lunas head above her own.

Lunas upside-down grin was wide and impish although her eyes seemed strangely tense, “Do you feel unwell sister?” she said with forced lightness.

Celestia glowered at her, “I feel like a dragon is trying to break out of my skull Luna. So no not really”

“Aw. You poor thing” Luna said sweetly. Celestia tried glaring at her but her heart wasn’t in it. Instead she closed her eyes and groaned miserably. Her head felt so bad.

She felt Lunas hoof gently stroke her mane and the comfort brought a smile to her face. Still she couldn’t resist a small jibe at her sisters amused expression.

“I see you are feeling bright and healthy today. I do wonder why you were not able to wake me when you lowered the moon?”

Lunas playful eyes narrowed, “I would have. But I decided you needed punishment for your behaviour last night dearest sister” she said sharply.

Celestia tried to recoil but it was hard as she was still on her back, “Oh skies Luna did I make a fool of myself last night?”

Luna stared at her for a moment before slowly shaking her head, “No... No you didn’t. Not really. Though I’m upset about what you did to me”

The elder scrambled to her hoofs, “Oh Luna what did I do! Did I try a stupid prank? Did I make a scene somewhere? Oh skies I threw up on you didn’t I!? Oh I’m so sorry!”

The dark alicorn was watching her with an inscrutable expression, “Celly. What do you remember of last night?”

Celestia racked her brain, “We were dancing together”

“Hmm”

“It was nice...”

“Only nice?” Luna said flatly. Celestia shook her head sheepishly.

“No. No it was... it was perfect. It was just us Lulu”

Luna expression softened a little, “What else?”

Celestia knew she was hanging over the edge of a deep pit but try as she might she couldn’t remember anything else. Luna must have guessed from her agonised expression.

“That’s just great” Luna muttered as she turned away from her sister. Celestia was distressed by the bitterness in the other alicorns tone.
“Lulu what happened? I’m sorry I don’t remember please tell me”

Luna didn’t look at her merely glared at the horizon for a moment. When she did speak her words were cold. “You are rather dishevelled right now sister. The nobles of court will notice your ill state and it will reflect badly on us. Rest for the morning and I will take first court. I’m sure there is a great deal of paperwork that needs attention”

“Luna I am perfectly fit for the court”

“But I am not?” Luna asked sharply.

Celestia blanched, “Of course not!”

“Then there will be no issue with me taking charge of this one. It is important for me to begin to oversee more of the nations rule as second sovereign remember?”

The elder sister knew she was trapped. Luna had manoeuvred the conversation excellently. Still her heart ached at the shift in tone between the two of them. What had she done last night?

“Luna... please tell me what I did. I don’t like there being tension between us” She hung her head for a moment in misery, “We worked so hard to get where we are now. I give anything for us to not be mad at each other ever again”

Her hitched speech made Luna flinch and she moved to hold her sister before retreating with a hiss. She ran a hoof across her face and looked away again. “I’m not mad with you sister. I’m just confused... and a little disappointed too”

“Luna”

“I’ll tell you later. Just please I need a little time to think about it”

Celestia nodded. It was all she could think to do.

One memory did recover though, “Luna there’s a gryphon ambassador named Shrike in Canterlot right now. I delayed our meeting and he’ll probably be at the morning court in a huff. He has a bit of a temperament”

Luna cocked her head curiously, “Not like you sister to ignore matters of the state. Why did you ignore him?”

“Because I had something more important to do”

“What?”

“Being with you” Celestia said softly.

Lunas eyes softened and she swallowed thickly, “Damnation sister”

“Luna?”

“It’s really hard not to love you. You know that right?”

Celestia heart swelled. It always made her feel giddy whenever Luna shared her feelings with her.

“I’ll be careful with the gryphon. I promise I won’t cause a war between our nations”

“I wasn’t worried-“

Luna swiftly drew Celestia into a hug cutting off the larger alicorn. Without thinking she melted into the embrace. Her sisters’ scent and warm body smothering her headache and worries in an instant.

“Rest sister. I will see you again soon” Luna whispered into her ear. Celestia nodded before gasping as Luna placed a kiss against her cheek.

Her body felt on fire and she was sure her cheeks were bright red as she felt the wet heat of Lunas lips against her flesh. The kiss lingered though and her heart beat faster in confusion and exhilaration.

She feared to move. Though whether through nerves or not wanting to break contact she wasn’t sure. “Luna?” she whispered as the younger alicorn slowly broke the kiss with a wet smack of noise.

Lunas eyes were shimmering with emotion and Celestia was lost in their depths as they looked at each other. Before the moment could go any further Luna broke away.

“I’ll see you in a few hours Celly” she said swiftly as she raced from Celestias bedroom leaving the elder standing dumbstruck and confused.
Hesitantly Celestia touched her cheek closing her eyes and feeling her whole body shiver as she felt the slight damp of Lunas saliva.

“What’s happening to me?” she whispered to herself.

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Dawns very delayed light brought with a landslide of activity. Birds of all kinds, large and small sung, squawked and yelled as the sudden light kicked in their morning instincts. For most this wasn’t a problem as they had already woken up and begun their day albeit in confusing darkness.

For Trixie on the other hoof it brought her to shocking wakefulness and the floor beside her bed.

“What is that racket!? Trixie was sleeping!”

The birdsong continued and Trixie grumbled and cursed as she got to her hoofs and stretched. Rubbing at her eyes she began to collect her meagre belongings. A life of travelling accustoming her to quick packing.

The cheap room she had hired for the night had an attached bathroom and it was with some trepidation that Trixie moved to brush her mane and clean her teeth. The last time she had looked in a mirror the starved mare looking back at her had brought her to tears.

She drew up sharp as she saw her reflection. Rather than the heavy eyes, dull mane and even duller colour of her coat she looked halfway respectable.

“Trixie is very confused” she muttered as she poked at her nose and examined her ribs. She had flirted with starvation for the last few months and had spent the last of her bits on this hotel room rather than food. A warm bed beating her stomach last night. Now though her sides looked rounded and, if not healthy, then at last not malnourished.

Her questing hoof glanced over the smooth surface of the black orb she wore around her neck and her eyes widened in astonishment. “Did you do this for Trixie?” she whispered. She half expected the orb to reply but it merely remained warm to the touch.

Tears pricked her eyes and she closed them, hating the expression for the weakness it was. She had found the strange orb a few weeks ago and had felt compelled to put it on. At first she hadn’t noticed any change but over time her magic had grown drastically in power.

And now it seemed to be feeding her or providing strength for her tired body somehow. Truly she was blessed to have found this miraculous artefact.

She had passed out last night after crawling into bed and had been dreading the new day. Though she had power now the very real possibility of dying of hunger was constantly on her mind. Now by some miracle it seemed she was in the clear.

Her stomachs loud rumble made her jump. She shot a suspicious look at her reflection, “Is this just an illusion of Trixie?” she demanded. She poked and prodded herself some more but her body remained the same.

She considered this. Perhaps the orb had recovered her bodies strength and put some meat back on her frame but it couldn’t substitute real food. She still had to eat.

But that was fine. She didn’t look like a half-starved begger now and with her new strength it should be easy to make some bits.
Trixie looked back to the mirror and this time was pleased by the wide smirk across her face.

“Time to show everypony how great and powerful Trixie truly is!”

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“I’ll have a pepper wrap please” Twilight Sparkle said with a smile. The vendor of the small food wagon returned her smile and placed a hot bread wrap on her hoof.

“Enjoy your day miss” he said with a smile.

“Thank you!” she replied brightly. All around her ponies were going about their day without a care in the world. The strangely extended night had worried some but to Twilights delight princess Lunas newfound adoration from the public had caused most of them to give her the benefit of the doubt. When the sun had finally risen the few ponies still whispering Nightmare Moon had quickly shut up.

‘Oh goddesses this is good’ Twilight thought as she happily tucking into the steaming wrap. After last nights fun she had a terrible headache, (though not as bad as the others) and some junk food was really helping to ease her. She’d have to remember to thank Rainbow Dash for her suggestion of the spicy pepper wrap. It was actually really good.

Terrence market square was an old part of Canterlot bustling with activity. It was the largest collection of stalls and vendors in the city and regularly packed with shoppers investigating the bazaar. Twilight hummed happily as she wandered the stalls, wiping her lips with a handkerchief as she finished off her food.

She wanted to buy something and her thoughts turned to her friends. That stall had some dark silks Rarity might like. Over there was some brightly coloured marbles and ribbons Pinkie might enjoy. She stopped and rubbed her chin thoughtfully as she spied some coloured pictographs of small birds. Fluttershy would love that.

Twilight giggled. Shopping for others was a newfound novelty she was coming to treasure. She’d never had ponies so important in her life that she’d consider buying gifts simply to please them. Other then family of course.

She truly was blessed with her wonderful friends and not for the first time she thanking the elements of harmony for bringing them together.

“I think I’ll get the silk for sure” she said brightly. She made to return to the stall but stopped as she felt a flare of magic nearby.
Uncomfortable as the memories were the last few months had brought wary paranoia to Twilights mind and sensing another unicorn weaving spells beyond basic telekinesis made her suspicious.

“Mommy look! Look! It’s a pretty birdy!” a filly squealed nearby.

Interest peaked now Twilight followed the magical signature and found a crowd of ponies gathering around a large fountain. Perched on the rim of the water feature a unicorn mare was slowly dancing, standing on her back hooves and waving her forelegs in wide sweeps as her horn softly glowed with blue light.

Drifting across the sky was a flock of small birds made of coloured light. The crowd cooed as the flock flew overhead like wisps of smoke, swooping and diving around the crowd and especially the giggling children.

The mare stamped her hoof and pivoted fiercely. To the crowds delight golden pegasus joined the birds in the sky, flying just as serenely and showing off too.

More lights burst in existence. Earth ponies made of viridian light running with small animals and butterflys, noble unicorns standing on towers of ruby smoke weaving spells around themselves as multicoloured orbs of colour. The display was energetic and ever growing in scope and scale as the three tribes were all displayed in their respective elements. Twilight was impressed. To have the power to create such an illusion and maintain it, as well as the mental agility and imagination to have it all animated so well was commendable.

Twilight took a closer look at the magician. She had to admit the mare was rather beautiful. Tall and beautifully defined, not as immaculate as Rarity but with a definite nobility to her features. Her fur was a radiant cerulean and her mane an elegant ivory though it was mostly hidden behind a star covered hat. Her movements were almost sensual as she incorporated her spellcraft with her dancing and twilight was lost for a moment as her hips swayed and her tail lashed the air.

She swiftly shook herself of such thoughts. By Celestia she’d been listening to too much of Rainbows drunken leering last night. It seemed to be infectious. Taking another look though she was surprised to see the mysterious mare had her eyes closed and a smile on her face.

Twilight realised that she wasn’t even paying attention to the cheering crowd. She was completely focused on her spellcraft and clearly she was loving what she was doing. It kind of reminded Twilight how excited she herself got when casting a new spell.

The mare suddenly frowned and struck a hoof at the fountain behind her. The crowd drew back as dark shadows grew above them and slithering tendrils of water were drawn from the fountain into the sky. Many ponies drew back as the water was twisted and molded into snarling beasts that roared at the illustionary ponies and flew around them.

Twilight watched critically as sheets of ice coated the water beasts hide and small snowflakes fell to the ground. Understanding struck her. Wendigos! The mare was doing an enactment of the reconciliation of the three tribes and the defeat of the wendigos.

To prove Twilight right the ponies of light drew together and to the crowds delight began to pair off with each other. Unicorn and pegasus, earth pony and unicorn and pegasus and earth pony. They each started to dance with their partners and as they did the light that generated them grew ever brighter.

The wendigos roared in outrage but were no match for the love and friendship generated by the dancing ponies. With a thunderclap and bright bursts of light the wendigos exploded showering the crowd with a sudden downpour of rain. The ponies squealed in shock but soon laughed and clapped as the ponies of light cuddled and kissed each other after their victory before slowly fading into small motes of light.
And then to nothing. For a moment all was quiet as the mysterious mare opened her eyes, seemingly surprised by the size of the crowd watching her and meekly bowed to them all.

The crowd yelled and cheered for the mare and she blushed prettily at their adoration. Bits were passed out to her and she took them and many ponies thanks graciously though rather shyly.

Twilight watched the crowd filter away when the mare apologised and said she needed to rest before another show. Very soon the mare was left alone quietly counting her bits as the ponies returned to whatever they were doing.

A sudden impulse struck Twilight and she licked her lips nervously. The mare was fastening a cloak of stars around her shoulders and looked about to leave.

Twilight had to talk to her. Even if just to ask her about where she was trained. Feeling very nervous the purple unicorn hesitantly walked over to the other mare who glanced up at Twilights approach.

Gosh she was even prettier up close. “Hi” Twilight said. Inwardly she slapped herself for such a lame introduction.

The mare eyed Twilight warily, “Hello?”

“I just wanted to say that was an amazing performance”

The mare visibly perked up under the praise, “Of course. Trixie is very amazing” she winced as Twilight seemed taken aback by the boasting, “T-Trixie means thank you. Thank you for your words”

“That’s alright. To be honest I’ve never seen such a display from any unicorn. Are you from the university or perhaps the royal court?”

Twilights question brought a sour look from the blue mare, “No. Trixie has never had such... lofty education”

“You’re not professionally trained?”

“No” Trixie said warningly.

“That’s amazing!”

Trixe blinked in surprise, “What?”

“You’ve really never been to Canterlot High and you’re performing such advanced spells? That’s extraordinary!”

Trixie didn’t seem to know what to say. Twilight quickly filled the startled silence. “Er I’m sorry I didn’t introduce myself. I’m Twilight Sparkle”

“Trixie Lulamoon”

“Pleased to meet you Trixie. So if you don’t mind me asking what brings you to Canterlot then?”

“How do you know Trixie isn’t from Canterlot?”

“Just a guess. Your accent sounds different to the locals. So where have you come from?”

Trixie stared at Twilight for an uncomfortable moment before looking away, “Trixie would rather not say” she said quietly.

‘Ok that’s clearly a sore subject. Quick change topic!’ “Why did you decide to learn illusion magic?”

The mare shrugged, “Trixie likes to impress ponies” she said nervously. Twilight was oddly reminded of how Fluttershy acted around strangers.

“It impressed me” Twilight said gently. That got a smile from Trixie.

“What made you decide to make a show about the three tribes Trixie?”

“Well Trixie has always liked history-“

“Me too!”

“- and she has always been fascinated by stories about the wendigos and dark magic”

“Me too! Er wait no, not me too”

Trixie frowned, “Forgive me Twilight Sparkle but why are you asking so many questions of Trixie?”

Twilight blushed as she realised she’d been practically interrogating the poor mare. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to be so nosy. It’s just so rare to meet another unicorn who practices magic”

“Trixie has seen magic all day”

“Simple telekinesis doesn’t count. Hardly any unicorn even bothers to learn more than basic spells. It’s kinda frustrating really”

She waved a hoof at the crowd, “Other than the guards hardly anypony can do what you just did Trixie”

The show mare blushed at the praise, “T-thank you Twilight. Trixie has not received such praise for a long time”

“It’s no problem”

The two mares smiled at each other before quickly breaking eye contact. Trixie pawing the ground while Twilight coughed.

“A-are you performing anymore shows Trixie?”

Trixie wavered, “Trixie had hoped to get a show at one of the theatres down broadhoof. Many are advertising for performers”

“That’s great! I’d go see you”

“Really?”

“Of course! I want to see what else you can do”

Trixie seemed startled by Twilights eagerness. She was getting the feeling Trixie really wasn’t use to much praise from her fans. The thought didn’t make much sense to the young lavender mare as the other unicorns talent was clear to see.

Her thoughts were derailed as a loud rumbling groan broke the silence. Twilight blinked in surprise as Trixie blushed beet red with embarrassment.

“Was that your stomach?”

“Trixie is sorry! Please don’t be mad!”

“Why would I be mad?” Twilight asked in confusion.

“I... Trixie does not know”

Twilight chuckled and pointed towards the food courts, “Maybe you should get something to eat Trixie”

A broken expression briefly crossed Trixies face before she hid it. “Yes. Trixie probably should” Twilight watched as the mare counted the bits she had and appeared to look resigned about something.

Twilight sneaked a peek. Twenty three bits. That was more than enough for a dandelion sandwich or some salad. What was the issue?

“Trixie has to go now Twilight Sparkle. She thanks you for the kind words” Trixie said. She graced Twilight with a small smile before turning to go.

A brief bolt of panic shot through Twilight. “Trixie wait a second!” she called before she knew what she was doing.

Trixie looked back quizzically. “Let me get you some lunch Trixie. We could maybe compare ideas about spells... and... stuff”

The showmare drew back, “Twilight... Trixie would not want to impose...”

“It’s ok! It’ll be my treat”

“Um...”

“You could pay me back by letting me come to one of your shows perhaps?” Twilight suggested. Her smile was becoming pretty strained. By Celestia why was she so nervous?

Trixie gnawed her lip before nodded hesitatingly. “Ok Twilight. Trixie could tell you about some spells as compensation?”

“Fantastic! Follow me I’ve got a perfect place in mind” Twilight beamed happily.

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As it turned out Trixie liked spicy wraps too judging by how quickly she wolfed hers down. The showmare was on her third wrap and Twilight was watching with awe at how ravenous the other mare was. Trixie had been happy with one but seeing how hungry she seemed Twilight had been gracious and bought her another two. Mostly she’d been surprised that the café they found even did the same style of food.

“You must really like them” Twilight said hesitantly.

Trixie shook her head, “Not really. Trixie is just hungry”

“Oh”

“… Would Twilight like to hear more about light constructs?”

“Yes please”

The two mares continued their discussion about Trixies illusion magic. The showmares knowledge of magic was incredible rudimentary but had an underlying genius. Everything she knew she’d learnt herself just by experimenting with what her magic could do.

“Trixie found that water vapour is an excellent medium for her illusions. It creates a… a base for light to shine through and reflect making it appear larger then it is. That and small crystal particles to add a greater effect to them”

“How’d you learn how to control so many at once?”

“Trixie just did. She practiced over and over seeing how many spells she could maintain and trying to beat her previous record”

Twilight nodded as Trixie told her inwardly still impressed. Most unicorns, Twilight herself, used runes and glyphs to maintain multiple spells without the conscious direction of the caster. It was something all unicorns learned if they studied more advanced magic.

Yet Trixie had done it all on her own by scratch without the props. Her own advice Twilight found she didn’t really need. She already knew everything Trixie did and more but it was still fascinating to hear about another unicorns ideas on magic.

The young mare found herself quickly falling into her usual role of teaching as she explained some basic glyphs and magical equations to help Trixie with her acts and control. To her delight rather than zoning out like her friends Trixie paid rapt attention.

Two hours had passed since they sat down, both mares talking animatedly and exchanging quiet chuckles and shy smiles.

Before she knew it Twilight started to talk about her friends, “And then she said ‘Oatmeal are you serious!?’”

Trixie hid her laugher behind a hoof, “Your friends sound wonderful”

“They really are”

“You’re very lucky” Trixie said wistfully. She looked away forlornly and even Twilight noted the other mares gloominess.

“I’m sure you have many friends Trixie” Twilight blurted out. She winced as Trixie grimaced, ‘stupid Twilight!’

“No Trixie does not have… many friends”

Trixie looked so sad. Twilight acted without thinking.

A purple hoof reached out and gingerly pressed against Trixies the mare jumping in surprise as Twilight smiled at her, “I’ll be your friend”

Trixie was speechless, “What?”

“I’ll be your friend. We could be pen pals! And I’ll visit your concerts, it’ll be great!”

“Trixie… would like that”

Twilight beamed while inwardly her heart was beating a mile a minute and her mind was close to panic. What in tartarus was she doing!? She’d never been this familiar with a strange mare and asking to be a friend so quickly? What was wrong with her?

There should be checklists. There should be reviews and hours of contemplation before she accepted somepony as her friend. When had her old ways changed on her?

As if in answer five faces surfaced in her thoughts and Twilight sighed in defeat. Oh yes she’d forgot about them. Her friends had blown her old methods sky-high with how quickly they’d become irreplaceable in her life.

‘This is all Pinkie and Fluttershys fault. They’ve rubbed off on me’

She had to admit that Trixies shy smile was worth the uncertainty. She’d really enjoyed spending time with the unicorn and the thought of getting to know more about her was appealing.

A loud chime broke their eye contact. A nearby clock tower calling attention to the new hour. Trixie gasped and snatched her hoof back from Twilights, the other mare blushing as she realised she’d been holding Trixies hoof this whole time.

“Trixie needs to go!”

Twilight drew back in surprise, “Oh. Really?”

“Yes. Trixie must hurry or she will be late for an audition!”

Twilight nodded and left her seat leaving a tip on the table, “Ok well… it was great meeting you Trixie”

“Trixie is sorry she must go”

“No it’s ok! I wanna thank you for letting me take up so much of your time. Most ponies don’t have such patient” Twilight laughed nervously.

Trixie ducked her head, “Trixie liked talking to you Twilight”

“Trixie if it’s ok to ask could I get your address? For mail! Sending mail yes”

“Trixie is… between homes right now and does not have a fixed address”

“Oh”

“Perhaps I could I get your address Twilight?” Trixie suggested.

“Of course!” Twilight quickly scribbled down the address of her hotel and the library at Ponyville explaining she’d be in Canterlot for another day before moving back. Though she did visit often.

She didn’t let on that it was to visit the princesses though. She didn’t want to scare her new friend away cause of her close friendship with the monarchy.

“Trixie will write you Twilight. She will let you know when she next performs”

“I look forward to it”

The two mares beamed at each other before Trixie coughed and hesitantly backed away, “Trixie must go now”, “Ok ill see you later then” Twilight answered as she took a half step away. The unicorns sharing a nervous smile before quickly turning and going their separate ways.

Twilight stepped out onto the street and couldn’t help but glance at Trixies departing form. The mare raced through the crowd and Twilight felt a pang of guilt for taking up so much of her time. She hoped she wouldn’t be late for her audition.

She also found herself hoping she heard from the other mare soon but that was probably wistful thinking. Trixie would probably be a big star any day now and forget all about the stranger she met for lunch.

Still she felt in a pretty good mood all things considered and made her way back to the hotel to see how the girls were doing.

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“A-a-and t-that’s why I, we! Think the tax should b-be lessened your majesty”

Luna hummed and mulled over the latest ponies request. Her appearance in the sun court had caused quite a stir amongst the nobles. Doubtless they remembered what happened the last time she showed up here. Fortunately Blueblood was in absence so Luna hadn’t felt the need to lose her temper.

Though the mix of fawning, bootlicking nobles and terrified petitioners was wearing a little thin on her nerves.

“Princess”

Luna turned to regard the stallion sitting closest to the throne dais. Dr Greymane at least brought a smile to her face. He’d been passing through the castle to visit a friend and had invitied himself to court when he crossed paths with her. She was grateful to have one friendly pony in the room with her.

“Yes doctor”

“Those taxes are used to fund Canterlot general your majesty. As a practitioner there I feel I must remind the court that those bits are used for an important public healthcare building”

She nodded at him. She was glad he intercepted there. While she was absorbing information at a fast pace the inner workings of the governing system was still new territory to her. Having to openly ask questions about the operation of the state wouldn’t promote confidence in her.

“It would only be a small cut in funding your majesty. And the merchants guild feels it is necessary to pour more bits into trade due to the… hesitation our neighbours have shown towards Equestria in recent months. Growth is just as vital for the nation as its health” the spokes stallion pressed his point.

“You both make compelling arguments gentlecolts” Luna said serenely while inwardly wincing. She knew as well as they that her return was the root of this problem. As her yet unseen gryphon ambassador proved other nations were wary of Equestria right now.

At least the merchant was being tactful then outright blaming her.

“I must apologise but I cannot in good conscience lessen funds towards Canterlots or the nation’s healthcare system right now sir. While you are correct that Equestria enjoys a robust wholeness of being right now that can change alarmingly quick and I for one would like ponies to feel confidence in their healers. A slash of funding would undermine that confidence”

The stallion bowed his head in defeat. Fortunately Luna wasn’t finished.

“However you raise an excellent point. Trade and jobs are just as important. Funds for hospitals mean nothing if the prosperity of the nation declines. Therefor I will convene with my sister and find some way to increase funding towards your guilds. Either through a review of tax or even a grant from the treasury itself. You have my word”

“T-thank you. Thank you your majesty!” The stallion bowed deeply and returned to his fellows. Luna allowed herself a small smile as the court muttered approval at the alicorns ability to satisfy all parties.

A clock chimed and a guardspony stepped forward from Lunas side and rapped his spear against the floor, “The court will recess for fifteen minutes” he called. Luna shot him a grateful look as she lounged in her throne.

How in tartarus did Celestia sit in these thing for hours on end? Luna had to talk to the decorators about installing a new chair for the two of them.

“With lots of pillows” she muttered aloud.

“Back problems?”

Luna looked up with a smile as Greymane approached her. “Doctor”

He tutted, “Oh please no need to be so formal kid. Makes me feel old”

“Dye your hair and feel younger then”

“My, my. Was that a joke? You really have come out of your shell”

Lunas smile softened, “Yes I believe I have”

Greymane returned her smile with a gentle look of his own. “So how have you been doing child. I am sorry I haven’t been around as much recently”

“It’s fine. I know you have a great many responsibility’s Greymane” and it was true. After he had proclaimed Luna was well on the road to recovery he’d had to return to the hospital. A mountain of work had accumulated in his absence and as its chief practitioner he had more patients to care for then one mare. Even if she was a princess.

“Hah. Yes indeed. Your recovery was so fast Luna it came as a surprise to me when I returned to my regular patients. It truly is a shame we can’t all heal as fast as you can my dear”

She noted his slightly morose tone, “Did something happen doctor?”

He gave her a tired look and shook his head, “No more than the usual Luna. While peace and calm has taken hold of the city at a hospital there is no shortage of tears and tragedy”

“I’m sorry”

“Not your fault my dear. Sorry I shouldn’t be making you feel sad. In truth I wanted to tell you how proud I am. You’ve come along way from the scared mare you were a few months ago”

Luna smiled though a cough at her side strained her expression. Her friends lounged around her throne in states of tiredness and boredom. To Lunas eyes they seemed more shadow then flesh and blood lately. She wasn’t sure how she felt about that.

“I know how we feel Luna” Anger spat bitterly. The others shrugged half-heartedly. Only Desire still held a full form and she sneered at the other mares.

“Ignore them Luna. Focus on what you want” she whispered sweetly. Luna shook her head as Greymane said something to her.

“Are you alright Princess?”

“I’m fine doctor. Just trying not to doze off. I had a long night”

“Yes. I heard things are going well between your sister and you”

Luna froze, “What do you mean?” she asked softly.

He waved a hoof, “Well everypony won’t stop talking about how well the two are together. Apparently Celestia won’t stop smiling or humming tunes when she’s alone thanks to you”

That little bit of news perked Luna up considerably, “Really?”

“Oh yes. I for one am happy to see a smile on your sisters face. She’s always been a lovely mare but between us I felt she was very lonely until you came along Luna”

His words made Luna feel light with happiness. The thought of her sister being so much happier with her around was definitely pleasant. Yet unease still tugged at her.

The kiss from last night and the conversation with Celestia this morning. Her anger had cooled and she no longer blamed her sister for forgetting the events of last night. Though she consoled herself that it was Celly who initiated the kiss so she must have some strong feelings for her.

But what to do about them? Luna was intrigued. She had always admired her sisters beauty and felt jealous of her many suitors. Now that she could become one warmed her considerably.

The thought of them being sisters didn’t faze her in the slightest. In the past she was certain it would have but after the many… horrible… things that Nightmare did to her the thought of taboos no longer had any hold on her. Celly felt good to hold and better to kiss. She enjoyed it. Celly clearly enjoyed it so she’d pursue it. It seemed logical to her.

“Not that simple” Filly whispered from her hooves and Luna shivered fearfully.

The problem was the only mare who’d touched her had been Nightmare and she feared the intimacy involved in a physical act between her and Celestia. While she desired the older alicorn she couldn’t be sure what would happen when Celly actually tried to become intimate with her. What if she freaked out and hurt her sister? That would be unacceptable.

She never wanted to harm her Celestia ever again.

For distraction Luna asked the good doctor how things were at the hospital and if he needed any help. The old stallion happy to share his tales of day to day life at general. He rarely had somepony as attentive as Luna and said as much to the pleased alicorn.

The clock chimed again and the doctor chuckled dryly. “No rest for us Luna. Carry on with the court my dear, perhaps I could treat you to lunch afterwards. It’s not everyday I can indulge a beautiful young mare such as yourself”

Luna snorted in amusement, “I don’t remember you being this charming when we first met Greymane”

“You haven’t spoken to the staff at Canterlot general princess. You’d be surprised the roguish tales they’d tell you” he winked and returned to his seat leaving Luna feeling cheerful about the rest of the court session.

Even as the latest droning official began to recite a long list of harvest quotas she still maintained her smile.

A resounding crash startled the speaker and jolted Luna from her peaceful mood. The grand entrance doors had been thrown open and a prime example of a full grown male gryphon stormed into the courtroom.

“Princess Luna I presume?” he hissed as he crossed the floor ignoring the bristling guards and shocked nobles. Luna immediately narrowed her eyes at him as he haughtily glaring at her.

“Ambassador Shrike”

He dipped his head marginally, “It has been some time since I last visited Equestria. A few years I believe. But I had not expected your nation’s vaunted civility to be so lacking since I last was here”

“I expected an audience with princess Celestia yesterday. An audience she refuted at the last moment. And now today I eagerly await summons as promised but I hear nothing. No message from your sister or yourself. This silence could be viewed as insulting towards the empire”

Luna frowned. She had sent a messenger this morning to invite him to court and dinner afterwards to share talks between their two nations. However judging by his incensed expression she didn’t think he was lying about being ignored.

The gryphon himself was a prime example of his species. Large and bulky with muscle and bearing large wings with perfectly preened feathers he was dressed in a purposely plain yet simple military dress uniform. Small buckles and pads of metal providing limited armour and a longsword was strapped to his side.

His bearing was what got her attention. No fear was held in his eyes instead his aura radiated authority and he glared at the surrounding ponies daring them to meet his eyes. This gryphon may be an ambassador but he had seen battle for sure.

Distractedly Luna scanned the audience of nobles and officials. Most looked nervous or shocked, some had nothing but cool calculation on their faces. One or two looked amused by the events. Anyone of them could have interfered with Lunas orders.

‘I’ll get to the bottom of this later’

She stood up from her throne. To his credit Shrike did not flinch at all.

“Ambassador Shrike I apologise if there has been confusion today between us both. I had no intention in causing any slight to you or your nation. If you would be so inclined our meeting could begin now if you like?”

He huffed, “Well after my entrance I should hope so. The empire has a great many questions for you and your sister Princess Luna. Assurances need to be made”

“Then let us address those concerns ambassador. Please speak your mind” Luna offered.

The gryphon smiled grimly. His eyes swept the nobles, “I wish to start by saying you do not fool me little ponies. Your wailing and moaning about your new monarch has not fooled my emperor or his court. We know it has been nothing but a feint to distract other nations”

Looks of confusion swept the court. One stallion squared up to the ambassador, “What do you mean by that sir?” he demanded.

Shrike jabbed a claw towards Luna. “Your nation has gained a powerful asset and you’re complaining and tabloids about the ‘Nightmare threat’ has not fooled us. You would have us believe that you creatures all live in terror of your new monarch but we and the rest of the world see the great threat that Equestria has become. And we will ignored no longer”

The court shared looks of amazement. Many uncomprehending of Shrikes words while a few were examining Luna under a new light. Luna had remained silent for now but inwardly she couldn’t help but chuckle that this foreign dignitary had seen what her countries own citizens hadn’t.

Shrike noted her stare and she nodded for him to continue. He grinned ruefully and coughed for effect.

“Princess Luna. Your nation has enjoyed a thousand years of peace since your… absence. As you know that peace was bought in the blood of many gryphons during the war of retaliation. Ever since then Equestria has enjoyed peace through the threat of your sister”

Lunas expression darkened, “I have studied the history I missed in my exile. That war was named differently by ponykind Shrike”

“I have no doubt. History is written by the victors after all and your sister was unrelenting in her persecution of us. Afterwards there was a long period of cold war before concessions were made and peace finally came between our two peoples”

“What’s your point?” Greymane snapped. His interruption brought a snarl of anger from Shrike but he held his tongue.

His eyes bored into Lunas instead.

“Equestria possesses a goddess. The only goddess capable of controlling the heavens. The ancient pantheons of the other races are long dead and only ponykind still has immortals. For most of my empires history we have had to suffer this and we long fought back against this… unfairness with force of arms”

“However Celestia convinced us that she wanted nothing but peace with all races of the world and her actions have led us to believe her. So we accepted that our world was under the control of a single mare. After all princess Luna if you have read your history you know that others tried to find solutions to the problem of the immortals?”

Luna nodded silently. She knew other races were resentful of her and Celly but had been shocked when she learned what the zebras had tried to do.

In Lunas age the zebras homelands were grassy savannahs with rolling plains and beautiful rivers. Now they survived in a harsh desert. The result of their mistake in trying to create their own alicorn. The devastation had ruined their homeland and it was only now several centuries later the land was recovering.

‘We don’t know how we came to be. Only father knew and he never told us before he died. He was adamant that the knowledge shouldn’t become widespread. The wars it would create alone…’

Shrike continued to speak, “Then you know we didn’t follow such rash examples because Celestia promised that she would never again go to war unless provoked”

“But now there are two goddesses in Equestria. Both capable of controlling our skies. How do we address this princess Luna? How can you put to the ease the fears of my people and many others?”

“What do you want Shrike” Luna said softly.

“The lands west of Baltimare lie at the border of my nation. My emperor and his court feel that if those lands were ‘gifted’ to us it would convince us of your sincerity in being non-hostile towards others. Your sister made such concessions before I’m sure you could do so again”

The court immediately erupted into uproar, nobles and politicians alike cursing the gryphon and calling for his removal of the court.

Through it all the gryphon maintained his eye contact with Luna.

Luna raised a hoof and the court silenced immediately.

“No”

“No your majesty?”

“I refuse your request”

Shrike shrugged nonchalantly, “Then it is clear to me what this new Equestria will be like towards his neighbours”

“No you don’t know that either”

Luna stood and everypony drew back at her cold expression. Shrike shifted slightly.

“You are right Shrike. Equestria has changed and I can see why many nations are worried about their future. Celestia would make concessions perhaps or find other solutions. She is a gentle soul who has no desire for violence that I am certain of”

“I on the other hoof have no such qualms and my only concern is the wellbeing of the nation and ponykind. Taking away slices of our country like an apple pie will not aid my dear subjects”

“Without concessions we and others would be suspicious of Equestria princess”

“Tell me Lord Shrike your city of Ruskan on the viridian planes who did it belong to a thousand years ago?”

The gryphon gave her a level look, “Equestria. It was given to us as-“

“And the port city of Lestai?” Luna interrupted fiercely.

“…Equestria”

“The town of Maidenstar, the village of Redstone, the farmlands of Quik?”

Shrike said nothing.

“I remember history like it was yesterday… oftentimes it is hard to tell the difference. In my era your empire was a fledging nation that held mighty warriors but had little land. That has changed drastically it appears to me. Thanks to my sisters benevolence and trade between our nations your empire has grown to double the size of Equestria and enjoys a quality of living rare beyond our lands”

“All of this given freely by my mourning sister. In her need to end the violence she made many hard decisions and yet still found the strength to defend our nation for a thousand years without me. And now you demand even more of her?”

She stepped towards him and the gryphon quailed but held his ground. Lunas smile was predatory as she sized him up.

“Things have indeed changed. I am back. I will be there to help defend this nation and no longer will Celestia have to cut off pieces of herself for others. I will not allow it”

“You have my word that Equestria is not looking for war. We are happy to maintain the peace hard-fought for us all. But bear this in mind Lord Shrike. I will show no mercy to those who threaten my subjects. Tell your emperor that I am not a mare to be crossed”

Luna spread her wings slowly, the feathers rustling like silk and gasps filled the room as the light flickered and failed. The sun hidden as unnatural darkness filled the court.

“Eternal night will never suffer my ponies again Shrike. But it will happen to anything that threatens them. I don’t even have to leave my palace to bring ruin to your country. Can your empire survive even a few weeks without any sunlight to warm it?”

Shrike clicked his beak and kneaded his claws, “This threatening will not be tolerated princess”

Luna laughed and the darkness slide away under the musical sound. “Lord Shrike that was not a threat. I was merely stating a fact that applies to ALL races”

“Besides. You cannot say that you didn’t expect this. You met with a new ruler, one you know has a… troubled history… and demanded she give up a chunk of her nation. You are very foolish indeed”

“But this was just a test. You were examining me and gauging my reactions. Surely that was what this foolish demand was all about lord Shrike?” Luna said with clear confusion. On the outside at least.

Shrike realised this and bowed his head angrily. “Perhaps” he hissed.

Luna smiled serenely while her eyes were sharp as diamonds. Oh this foolish bird will learn to be more careful in the future.

‘Yes Luna. They all will’

The grand doors to the court opened and the herald standing beside them quickly dropped his slack-jawed look and cleared his throat. “Presenting her majesty, the solar goddess, Princess Celestia”

All eyes shot towards the white alicorn as she entered the room. Her expression gently neutral as she surveyed the room. Her eyes quickly found Lunas and the question in them was apparent.

Before she could speak Shrike had quickly approached and bowed before her. He ignored the hiss that Luna sent his way as he fawned over the older alicorn.

“Lord Shrike. A pleasure as always”

“My dear Celestia please I must beseech you with a matter most urgent”

Celestia noted how Luna was glaring viciously at the gryphon. “Oh? And what is that?”

“Your newest princess threatened my nation with eternal night your majesty! I must protest at such violent actions towards me and my people. This is completely unacceptable for my nation to be insulted this way!”

Luna was on the verge of shouting but held her tongue at Celestias look. The white alicorn examined her closely and Lunas eyes widened in fear at her sisters cool expression.

‘Celly don’t pick him. Please don’t pick him over me’

Celestia stepped around the kneeling gryphon and stood beside her sister. Luna watching in wonder as the princess drew herself to her full height.

“I am sorry if there has been offence Lord Shrike but I know that it was not unwarranted. I trust my sister and believe she would not have made such threats without due course”

“Besides. She gave her sister a smile. Luna is co-ruler of Equestria. Her word and decisions have just as much authority as my own”

The court watched in awe at the moment between the rulers before Shrike snorted and turned away.

“I will return your reply to my emperor”

“I am sure he will be hearing from us soon ambassador” Celestia said firmly.

“Wait!”

The gryphon turned and shot Luna a scathing look, “Yes your majesty?”

“Did you come here just to try and make a grab for land Shrike? Or are your people really that scared of me?”

Shrike stared at her for a moment longer before wetting his beak, “The whole word is scared of you Luna. Both of you”

With that parting remark he walked out with head held high and thunder in his eyes.

Luna wavered slightly. It had been so easy to make her threat but now she wondered if it had been ok. She’d acted rashly before after all.
Celestia called for the court to continue. She gently nudged Luna and motioned for her to take a seat which Luna gratefully sank into.

The two sisters sat in silence as two ponies discussed the latest weather plans with the court. Luna jumped as she felt a hoof gently touch her own.

“Are you ok?” Celestia whispered.

Luna nodded quickly. “I’m fine”

Silence again until Luna squirmed and leaned towards Celestia. “I’m sorry if I acted out of turn. He was making ridiculous demands and I… I got carried away. I didn’t really threaten him just implied things”

Celestia chuckled. “Oh the amount of times I’ve wanted to threaten foreign visitors is beyond counting Luna. Don’t think too badly about it”
Luna smiled and settled back against her throne. Celly was right. She shouldn’t worry too much.

Creatures could bluster and threaten all they wanted but really who could stand against her and Celestia together.

“Well Discord did and Sombra for awhile” Apathy drawled. Luna shot her wavering form a quick frown.

“They did threaten us and look where they are now. Beaten and sealed for all eternity”

“Sister?”

Luna blushed and quickly patted her sisters hoof. “It’s nothing Celly”

Her words calmed the white alicorn and both returned their attention to the court. Though Luna didn’t remove her hoof from her sisters own. The slight squeeze back from Celly letting her know her other ruler appreciated it.

Greymane was watching them closely and Luna gave him a shy smile. He returned it, obviously pleased to see the two of them getting along so well.

‘Oh he has no idea. Speaking of which…’

“Celly?”

“Hmm?”

“I would like to speak to you. Tonight if possible”

Her sisters attention was immediately caught. “Is this about last night?” she asked nervously.

“Yes… yes it is. And more too”

“Luna I… I still can’t remember… did I upset you? Did I do something wrong? If I did I’m sorry-“

“You haven’t upset me Celestia. But we… discussed some things that we need to talk about more and it’s not for public ears to hear”

Celestia nodded though her expression was still fearful. Luna relented her serious look and rubbed her sisters hoof. “It’s ok. There’s nothing to be afraid of sister” she softly promised.

A spokesmare nervously called for their attention and the Celestia coughed and motioned for her to continue.

“Ok Luna. I trust you” she whispered hurriedly.

Lunas gaze was loving as she watched her sister get involved with the talks. Yes they needed to talk and now that she had had time to think on it she was looking forward to it.

After all if it went well she might get another kiss from her beautiful sibling. And that would certainly make the night much more interesting.

“Princess Luna?”

Luna turned a serene smile to the expectant minister. “Go ahead sir. I’m listening”

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“We look forward to seeing you tomorrow night miss Trixie”

“Thank you sir. Trixie looks forward to performing for a new audience”

The stallion smiled bemusedly as ponies often do at Trixies odd manner of self-address but still smiled kindly before returning to the theatre. Trixie watched him go silently until he was out of sight.

“YES! TRIXIE HAS A SHOW!”

The young mare laughed and giddily danced uncaring of the looks she got. She’d done it. She’d marched into broadmare found a theatre hiring performers and got a show on her first try.

Rose and Leaf the theatre was called and though smaller than the more prestigious showhalls of Canterlot it had a good reputation and had recently wanted to spice its performances with some magical acts as well as its normal drama plays.

Trixie had asked for a chance to audition and by luck the day had been quiet and the local director had asked her to show him what she could do on the spot. Her illusions and magical coordination had impressed him and he’d asked her to come back tomorrow and perform for a mixed show they were putting on.

It wouldn’t be too busy. A hundred curious ponies or so, mostly familys and older ponies but it would be her first decent pay for a while and a stepping stone to becoming recognised in the city.

There had been only one slight snag.

“Mr Whisper sir. Trixie asked if she would be able to have an advance of her pay for tomorrows show. She only asks this because she is in financial difficulties right now”

The director Whisper Play, a kindly stallion in his middle age did look genuinely sorry. “Miss Trixie while I’m incredible impressed by your act I’m sorry but I can’t approve that. The theatre has had problems in the past with performers taking advantage of advances and though I don’t imply you’d be like that, you seem a lovely young mare after all. I can’t approve that”

Trixie hung her head, “Trixie understands” she sighed.

“Miss I assure you if you do tomorrow what you did here today then you’ll receive a generous sum for your efforts. I hope we will see you again Trixie”

“Thank you sir. Trixie will be hear as requested”

Though the loss of an advance of bits was a blow Trixie still felt giddy about her show tomorrow. All she had to do was do one great show and she’d be set up for life.

‘Trixie can do this. One more show to prove yourself. It can be done!’

A bell tolled and Trixie looked up with surprise as a local clock tower called out the new hour. The showmare sighing in resignation as she saw it was very late. She hadn’t even noticed the darkness of night around her.

‘Trixie has no more bits…’

Panic and despair didn’t grip Trixie. She’d been through this enough times that weary acceptance was her only response. With downcast eyes she started to wander the streets for a suitable place to sleep.

‘It’s just for one more night’ she told herself.

Giggling laughter made her ears twitch but she ignored it.

“Pinkie that’s just silly!”

Trixie gaze shot up with surprise as she heard a familiar voice. To her horror Twilight and two other mares, a white unicorn and brightly pink earth pony were walking her way.

They hadn’t spotted her. Trixie couldn’t let Twilight see her like this! She threw herself against a shadowed alcove of a house and weaved a spell of darkness to hide her from sight.

Again she quietly thanked her lucky orb for the help. She was tired and starved yet she cast the spell with the barest effort. Truly it was a miracle she found the stone.

“Girls you need to stop this I barely know the mare”

“But my dear pardon me for saying it’s not often you approach a stranger and strike up such a rapport with them. Exchanging contacts and everything”

“Yeah Twilight! If it was a stallion we’d be even more ohmygoshTwilightlikessomepony! Right now It’s still like that but more aww shes so cute!”

“Pinkie, Rarity I don’t know anything about her. All I really know is her name”

“Yes Twilight and for the last few hours you haven’t stopped talking about this ‘Trixie’ character. You must admit darling it makes us smile a little”

“It’s cute!”

Trixie watched the mares pass. Twilights two friends were smiling brightly and had their attention riveted to the blushing unicorn. Trixie couldn’t help but be interested by this. Twilight really had been talking about her to her friends?

“It was nice to meet another mare who knows magic. And she seemed… I don’t know sad somehow. Something about her just made me worry and… be intrigued I guess”

“Maybe you’ll see her again Twilight?” the white unicorn said with a gentle smile. Twilight blushed but mumbled “I hope so” as they kept walking.

Trixie didn’t know what to say. A crazy impulse to drop her spell and introduce herself briefly lived and died as soon as her caution reasserted herself.

She told herself that of course it was expected to have her fans wonder about her, (though honest fans were something she hadn’t had for a while) but trying to label Twilight as a simple fan just didn’t seem to fit in her mind.

“Girls wait”

Trixie drew back in surprise as Twilight stopped and turned to look at her. The young mare was staring right at the spot she was hiding with a frown of confusion.

“Whats wrong Twilight? You look like Rainbow when I asked her to look through sugercube corners tax ledgers”

“You should have asked me Pinkie” Twilight muttered distractedly. Her eyes now searching the area where Trixie hide more intensely.

“I would have silly but you were on fire at the time so I didn’t wanna distract you”

“Darling what are you looking at?”

“There’s something…” Twilights horn glowed and she closed her eyes in concentration. Trixies heart raced in fright as she felt the other mages magic start to search for her own spell.

Trixie gritted her teeth and poured more energy into the spell. Twilights magical aura was amazingly strong and very perceptive as it started to peek at the edges of her illusion.

Sweat started to drench her fur as Trixie fought to stay hidden. Worryingly she sensed Twilight wasn’t even trying too hard to find her. If the unicorn knew there was a spell shield here Trixie suspected she couldn’t stop Twilights attempt to dispel it.

A few heart racing seconds later Twilight stopped searching and opened her eyes. She still looked confused but allowed herself to be lead away by her friends.

“I thought I felt something Rarity but I couldn’t find anything when I searched”

“This is Canterlot Twilight. With so many unicorns and the princesses it’s hard not to get overwhelmed by all the magic around us”

“Maybe…”

Twilight didn’t seem convinced but with a final backwards glance at Trixie she finally left.

The white maned unicorn let out the sigh of relief she had been holding and sank to her haunches. That had been gruelling. Spots danced in front of her eyes and now it was a battle to stay awake.

She didn’t even know why she had hid from Twilight. She wasted valuable energy in a magical tug of war for no reason. Twilight wasn’t going to hurt her… probably.

No that wasn’t the issue. If she was revealed there was always the chance Twilight would want to know what she was doing. Where she was staying.

She couldn’t let Twilight know she was homeless and poor. The first pony to show her kindness in months. It would hurt worse than the scorn of a hundred strangers.

She started to wander. Into darker streets and alleys of absolute blackness. She’d never been bothered too much by darkness but since gaining the orb she’d found a much greater affinity to it. Shadows welcomed her and she didn’t mind being swallowed up by them.

A young mare along in an alley could be in great danger. She could acknowledge without being arrogant that she was very beautiful, it had got her into trouble a great deal in her life… more then she had wanted…

“Stop thinking about it Trixie” she snarled to herself.

Anypony who threatened her would suffer for it. Trixie wasn’t getting pushed around anymore and she knew instinctively that in darkness she had the advantage over any overly friendly stallion or his many friends.

She spent an hour scavenging supplies. Some old blankets from outside businesses that weren’t too dirty and a dozen dry cardboard boxes. She found a secluded spot between two rows of houses, dark and empty of life. It was a simple matter to use her magic to construct a simple shelter with her materials and crawl inside.

It would do for tonight. Just one more night. After tomorrow she’d have bits and fame and everything would be right with the world.
For once things would go right for Trixie Lulamoon.

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“Sleep well my subjects. I will be guarding you in the night. Now and forever after”

Luna smiled as she looked down at the city of Canterlot. Despite the many lights filling the city she knew the majority of its population was sleeping peacefully. She’d ensured it after all.

She closed her eyes and skimmed the dreams of a few dozen ponies. A foal cried in its sleep and Luna frowned, chasing the shadows of fear away from its dreams. She found memories of its mother and father cradling it and gently nudged those to its consciousness. The babe slept peacefully again as Luna pecked its cheek, nothing but a whisper of wind in the real world but felt by its resting mind.

“Sleep well child. Your mother will return with the dawn”

She opened her eyes and proudly surveyed her work. It was a constant effort but her ability to stretch her powers forth and touch more minds was growing every day. In just a few months she could now shelter the entire of Canterlot. Another year and hopefully she’d be able to reach the borders of Equestria.

And then beyond. And the dreams of foreign powers would be hers to plunder. No one would plot against her little ponies and be able to escape her attention.

The moon sang in the night sky above and Luna gave it a gentle smile. She never thought it would be possible but she’d managed to reconnect to her celestial body very quickly once taking over the night again.

She’d resented and feared the moon. It was the prison and memory of the Nightmare after all. But once she braved touching it with her mind she’d been swept up by a deluge of regret, sorrow and pain.

The moon had wanted her back for so long. It had hated the Nightmare and wanted to free her from its surface but never could. It had respected Celestia and obeyed her but in its heart had always wanted its true guardian back.

Tears had been shed and apologies made. Now the two were once again connected and Luna had promised she’d never be parted from it again. The resultant increase in her power had been very welcome too and to prove her new change she’d used her growing strength to protect as many ponies as she could.

She sneered cruelly. One stallion had been happily making bits by slave labour in the frontiers. Impossible to trace back to him by conventional means one look into his mind was all it took for Luna to condemn him.

His arguments that ‘they were just diamond dogs not ponies’ hadn’t made her any more lenient in her sentence.

Life was good and the future promised much more. Luna was in control of her destiny now and by the skies did it feel good.

“You’re not a little filly anymore now Luna. You’re a queen now”

“A princess Desire. One of two remember. But still… I am a powerful princess”

She smiled coldly, triumph in her eyes. She felt like visiting a club and dancing some more. She wondered if any of the elements would be awake at this late hour?

“Luna?”

But first…

“Celestia”

Her sister approached her. Celestia had a bemused expression on her face as she stood beside Luna and watched her view the city.

“Is this going to be a common occurrence sister?”

“What is?”

Celestia playfully nudged her, “Coming to my bedchambers and finding you on my balcony”

Luna smiled slyly, “Your balcony has the best view of the city. And there are more… sweet things here than in my bedroom”

“More sweet?” Luna motioned at the bedside desk and Celestia gasped, “You’ve been eating my chocolates! I knew it! I knew someone was taking them night by night”

“I was going to wait and see how long it took you to realise or go mad with paranoia”

“You understand this means I’ll have to prank you back Lulu”

Luna laughed and gave her sister a playful shove, “Take your best shot Celly”

The two alicorns shared a smile and went back to watching the city. The comfortable silence lasted for a while as they enjoyed each other company but it had to end. They needed to speak.

“Sister…”

Celly swallowed and turned to face Luna. Her face pensive as Luna seemed to struggle for words.

“Something happened last night. Something that… I don’t know how to discuss with you or what it means. But I can’t ignore it”

Celestia nodded shakily, “Just take your time Lulu”

“Celly… you know that you are the most important thing in the world to me”

“As are you for me sister”

“And you know that the Nightmare knew this too. And often used this against me”

“I… I could imagine”

Luna laughed bitterly, “No you probably can’t imagine. I’d be shocked if you could”

Celestia watched Luna trail off and stare into the distance. She could see memories playing behind her sapphire eyes and the pain they caused by the tightening of her jaw. “Luna” she gently laid a hoof on her shoulder.

The dark alicorns eyes flicked towards Celestia and she smiled gratefully, she took a steadying breath, “I always believed you’d come to save me. At first Nightmare weaved illusions that she’d killed you, or was torturing you. It always lead to a fight between us, one I’d lose of course and it amused her greatly”

“But I wouldn’t be broken. I knew it wasn’t real. I still believed you’d come and I laughed that she thought she could beat you. That angered her”

“So she tried a new illusion. Something that I didn’t expect and one I had no defence for”

Luna closed her eyes and shivered slightly. Celestias hoof rubbing circles against her back as the alicorn gently encouraged her to keep going if she could.

“One day... you rescued me”

Celestia drew back in shock as Luna looked at her with weeping eyes. “You showed up on the moon. Killed Nightmare and took me back to Equestria. You promised we’d never be apart and that I’d never be hurt ever again”

Luna gazed into the distance and her breath quickened, “It was wonderous. Just me and you. Sisters again. I was happy but then things… changed”

“One day you approached me in my bath chambers and confessed that you loved me. More than a sister should. That you’d been trying to keep your urges under control but you couldn’t hold back anymore. You pulled me into your hooves and kissed me”

Celestia stayed stock still uncertain how to respond. Rage and anger filled her certainly, how she wished she could kill the Nightmare over and over again for what she did to Luna. How could she!?

But on the other hoof her face burned with a hot blush as, of course, her mind imagined the scene Luna painted. The way Luna breathing had quickened and the lidded way she was watching her didn’t help either. Celestia wasn’t sure how to respond as Luna drew closer until they were inches apart.

“Maybe Nightmare expected me to fight. I expected me to fight. But after all the pain I’d suffered I was curious to be with somepony who loved me and… you were my sister. Who else could I trust but you? So when you kissed me I responded in kind and we made love right there in the warm waters for the first time. I believe Nightmare was in a curious mood as it was the best I’d had really”

“Luna I…”

“Shhh. Please let me finish Celly. For a little while things were great... really great”, Luna gave Celly a sultry appraisal that caused the elder to blush pink. “But it didn’t last and soon Nightmare revealed herself. Tortured me and for the rest of our imprisonment liked to remind me how much she’d ruined my mind with that elaborate trick”

“Bitch” Luna spat viciously. Celestia started in surprise, she’d never heard Luna use swear words before. Her little sister noted her reaction and smiled apologetically.

Celestia had to get back on track. She was struggling to process this revelations. “Luna what happened last night?”

“You kissed me Celestia”

Celestias eyes widened and she stopped breathing. Lunas blunt answer flooring her. “It wasn’t a friendly kiss between sisters either” Luna added flatly as she calmly watched Celestias reaction.

“I… I…”

“For most of the day I’ve been checking everything around me to ensure this is still reality. I don’t want a repeat of Nightmares cruel trick to happen again. And as much as ‘I’ can be certain everything is real”

Lunas eyes held Celestias own and the older alicorn couldn’t look away from that powerful gaze.

“So tell me my dear sister. Why did you kiss me like that?”

The sun goddess struggled for a reason, any reason. She cursed alcohol and her apparent weakness to it. Skies above why couldn’t she remember!

“Luna I don’t know. I’m sorry. I don’t have any memory past the early hours of our time together”

Luna hummed in response and stepped away from the balcony. She headed into the chambers proper and perched herself on the edge of Celestias bed, her sister following her and hovering anxiously.

Luna leaned back and regarded the larger alicorn with a blank expression. “Then tell me Celestia if you had to guess why would you kiss me?”

Celestia opened her mouth before closing it. She didn’t know. The whole situation was so alien to her she didn’t know what to do.

Luna was tracing patterns in the bed with a hoof and Celestias gaze was riveted on the action. The midnight alicorn leaned back, stretching her wings out and lowering her head slightly so she was watching the other alicorn through her lashes.

‘Is she… trying to seduce me?’ Celestia had been on the receiving end of such smouldering looks for many times in her life but to receive one from her little sister was… was…

“Luna” she said in a strangled voice.

“Do you love me Celly?”

Of course she did. Celestia would have said it in an instant but that would have been a kneejerk reaction. Of course she loved her sister but Luna wasn’t asking that question.

“I’m not… not sure I should answer” Celestia whispered. She inwardly smacked herself for such a poor answer.

Luna raised an eyebrow but didn’t reply. Instead she leaned forward invitingly.

“Do you want to kiss me again?” she asked whisper soft.

Celestias mind blanked then. Completely shorted out. Kiss her sister. Kiss Luna?

Instantly her mind threw a rebuttal on the table but it was quickly countered by a more insidious proposition. ‘Yes. Yes I do’ a more primal part of her snarled. Celestia was shaking as she was caught between reason and desire.

She reviewed her memories, perfect clarity being a benefit of being an immortal, and knew that the last few months had been the best of her life. All because of Luna and their growing bond.

She remembered needed Lunas presence. Feeling complete when they held hoofs or hugged each other.

She remembered how her body burned from a simple peck on the cheek from Luna. How she’d been in a daze for hours from the feel of her sisters lips.

Luna watched Celestia take a hesitant step forward and her smile grew more predatory. She held her sisters’ gaze as Celestia nervously stood over her. Celestia gulped and Luna sent a challenge with her lustful stare.

“I’m waiting Celly”

Lunas eyes widened as Celestia closed the gap between then in a fraction of a second. The other alicorns lips slamming against her own and hungrily devouring them. Luna quickly throwing her hooves around Celestias neck as she pressed back just as ferociously, meeting her sisters burning desire with her own desperate need.

Gasps and the wet sound of lips melting against lips tentatively filled the room as the two mares embraced each other. The initial brute collision over and now the two were feverishly exploring the other.

Celestia was leaning over Luna, hooves planted either side of her and whole body shaking as she desperately kept herself under control. Lunas hooves and wings were all over her as the smaller alicorn wrapped her body against her own, pressing against her taunt flesh and whimpering as she licked and kissed the larger mare. Celestia fighting to just respond to Luna with kisses and do nothing else though her sister was not making it easy.

“I love you. Need you. More Celly. Please” Luna whispered as a mantra. She gasped as Celestia took an opening to nip at her neck and whimpered as the other goddess growled low in her throat.

Warning bells screamed in her mind as Celestia felt her control slipping. She was finding it hard not to see her sister and instead see a beautiful mare pleading for more. Pleading to be ravished. Luna didn’t know about her sisters… nature in the bedroom and she had no desire to frighten her.

“More Celly”

‘Oh skies Luna!’ Celestia forced herself to pull back. She panted heavily, looked down at the mare beneath her and nearly lost all control right there.

Luna was looking up at her with breathless gasps. Her body flushed and pretty pink with a deep blush. Her mane wild and matted with sweat and her eyes almost black with how aroused they were.

Celestia threw herself away from the bed with a shout of dismay and paced the room. “Luna I shouldn’t be doing this!”

Her sister quickly gathered herself, “Why not? It’s clear you want me and I want you just as much”

“It-it’s wrong”

Luna gave her a flat look, “Do you really believe that?”

Of course not but Celestia couldn’t say that. “Our subjects would not approve”

“I don’t care”

"We have a standard to uphold to Luna”

The younger alicorn shot from the bed and aggressively squared up to her sister, “No sister that is what you believe. I don’t. And nor should you”

“The mortals cannot control us. Any dissenters will be dead or ignored in a short half century for us. Why should their opinions matter to creatures who will never die?”

“Luna it’s not that simple”

“Then what is it! You are making excuses Celestia! Tell me the truth what are you afraid of!”

“ME! I’M AFRAID OF ME!” Celestia roared.

Luna drew back in shock as Celestia tore at her mane and paced again.

“What if I do something wrong? What if I hurt you? This is so unlike anything I’ve experienced. I wasn’t supposed to fall in love with you this way. A thousand years ago you were my little sister but you come back and you’re a beautiful grown mare and I’m all confused and aroused and don’t know what to do!”

Luna watched awestruck as Celestia sniffled and held herself. Hesitantly she reached out to touch her sister and though Celestia flinched at first she didn’t resist as Luna turned her to face her.

“I’m sorry. I didn’t think what effect this would have on you. It was much simpler last time between us” Luna murmured.

Celestia shook her head angrily, “That wasn’t real”

“I know. But this is. I know it because you’re scared. And that’s good. I’d rather have real then a dream”

The younger alicorn gently took Celestias face in her hoofs and urged her to look at her. Celestia sniffed wetly.

“I love you Celly”

Celestia gave a short chuckle, “I love you too”

“I want you. But if that’s too much that’s fine. I can wait. We have eternity to figure this out Celly”

The solar goddess rested her hooves over Lunas own, “It’s not that Lulu”

“Then what?” Luna asked gently.

“I do want you. A lot. Kissing you just now made me realise how much. I… I’m a volcano ready to erupt”

“I’m glad I have such an effect on you”

“Luna!” Celestia blushed hotly. Luna laughed and pecked Celestias lips. Drawing back quickly least they get entwined again.

Celestia looked away and mumbled under her breath. Luna cocked her head, “Sorry I didn’t hear that?” she teased.

“I haven’t… I haven’t been… with somepony… in a long time Luna”

“So? From what I remember everypony has dry spells. Well that’s what Rainbow says”

“Need to stop taking advice from her Lulu”

“She’s wiser then ponies think sister. Now why are you being so vague?”

“I haven’t… had sex… for a long time”

“How long?”

“… Millennia”

Luna drew back in surprise while Celestia blushed beet red. “Really? I remember you had a very active social life Celly. When I saw no marefriend after the first month of being back I assumed you just weren’t seeing anyone this year”

Celestia shook her head. “After what happened to you I never wanted to get that close to another pony again. Or use them like I had in the past. I distanced myself from everything for centuries and once I felt comfortable enough to perhaps try again all my subjects saw me as this perfect goddess and not a mare with needs so I… gave up”

“Oh… well that’s ok. It’s fine if you’re nervous or out of practice. I don’t exactly have a great understanding of the act myself considered who my first partner was” Celestia growled at the mention of Nightmare. “But I’m sure we can figure things out”

“It’s not that”

“Then what is it?”

Celestia gulped and cautiously met Lunas concerned eyes. She took a deep breath. Best to just get it all out now.

“I’ve got a thousand years repression in me Luna. You are an INCREDIBLY beautiful mare who I want to do all kind of things to. The fact that as you’re an immortal I don’t have to hold back and be careful about hurting you then that makes me want to make you scream all the louder”

She watched Lunas blush brighten the more she talked with hungry eyes. Luna licked her lips, pink tongue catching Celestias attention, “Well I-“

Celestia grabbed her and silenced her with a hungry kiss. Luna yelped in surprise as she found herself in her sisters’ warm lap but quickly surrendered as Celestia kissed her into a daze. It ended quickly but left her burning for more and uncomfortable hot inside as Celestias rested her brow against Lunas own.

The younger alicorn darted her tongue out to lick Celestias cheek. She groaned and Luna grinned in triumph. She could get very used to making Celestia make such noises.

“What happened to you being scared?”

“I still am but you’re also so sexy I can’t help but want to kiss you”

Luna laughed giddily, “I like this new side of you sister”

“It’s only because I’m still in a state of shock”

“Indeed. I could find more ways to shock you”

“Ah! Luna don’t do that!”

“Why not? Do not like being touched… here?”

Celestia whimpered.

“Or kissed here?”

“Luna…”

“I feel your resistance crumbling big sister”

The elder quickly grabbed Lunas wandering hoofs with her own and held them in place. She was panting heavily and her eyes were black with desire. Luna grinned impishly and the sight further inflamed her lust.

“We. Should. Take it. Slow”

The words were an effort but she got them out. This was for the best. Luna didn’t realise what her big sister would do to her if allowed to carry on. Skies above Luna would probably be comatose for a whole day if she had her way with her now.

‘Shouldn’t have thought that’ Celestia cursed herself as, of course, images of her sister sleeping peacefully after a hard bout of lovemaking made her insides clench in excitement.

Luna pouted and looked away, “Very well sister. If that’s what you truly want then I will abide by that”

Celestia breathed a sigh of relief, “Thank you Luna-“

Her words were cut off as Luna took her surprise with a deep kiss, surging forward and pushing Celestia to the floor. She quickly drew back, hovering over her sister as the alicorn beneath her gasped and blinked back the dizziness from her eyes.

Lunas grin was still in place but her eyes were quite serious. “I will tell you how I feel first dear sister before you make any decisions about our pace. I don’t care that you’re worried about scaring me. I don’t care that you will lose control and do very… nasty… things to me”

She gently laid her hoof on Celestias chest tracing patterns on the shaking flesh.

“Have you considered that perhaps I want you just as much Celly? That perhaps I want to do things to you as well? That maybe I want you to lose control and show me how much you love me through your passion and actions?”

She leaned down and tenderly kissed the tip of Celestias nose. Her sisters breath rattled like a death croak as she went eerily still. Lunas grin softened into a loving smile as she watched her sister lose her internal battle.

“Did you consider that maybe I WANT to scream Celestia?”

A flash of light blinded her and the younger alicorn grunted in surprise as felt herself pressed down against soft fabric. Celestias sudden teleport giving her the chance to pin the other alicorn to her bed.

The monarch was a frighteningly erotic sight. Pinning Luna down, hovering over her with wide eyes and bared teeth, her wings fully extended above them blocking Luna from seeing anything but her sisters radiant form.

“I’m going to make you scream. Over and over until your body can’t take it. Then I’m going to keep going Lulu” Celestia whispered.

Luna leaned back and hummed lightly.

“Don’t keep me waiting then Celly”

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The two guardstallions stationed outside Celestias bedchambers exchanged spooked glances. They’d heard Princess Celestia talking to somepony but couldn’t make out the voices. They’d ignored it till a mare had started screamed and moaning in clear excitement inside the room.

“Should we?”

“Yeah let’s get out of here. I’m sure her majesty wants privacy”

“Pub?”

“Pub”

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“I have todays reports your majesty”

“Thank you Gemlight”

“Oh and thank you for the gift your majesty. My family really loved the gift basket you got them all”

King Nobleheart smiled lightly at the blushing mare. “You’ve been doing excellent work Gemlight. Least I could do is give a little extra for your little fillies birthdays after all”

She bowed and handed him the files. He gave them a quick read as they approached his office. Despite being king he did most of his work in his offices rather than the throne room. A throwback to his days as a minister he supposed.

“Gem would you ask I not be disturbed this evening? I have a lot of work to do tonight and want to try and get a handle on it”

“Would you like me to cancel or postpone your eight o’clock your majesty?”

“Oh yes. Captain Stormcloud. I suppose I could ask him to see me tomorrow but I know he won’t miss the opportunity to tease me for it. Send him to me when he arrives but any other concerns please hold them unless they’re urgent”

“Yes your majesty”

“Goodnight Gemlight”

“Goodnight your majesty”

Nobleheart closed the door to his private study and took a seat at his desk. The report Gemlight gave him was added to an already very tall stack of paperwork but the stallion didn’t seem to mind the workload. Instead he gave it a challenging look and got to work.

Things were progressing well in his new kingdom but a lot still hung in the balance. His reforms in the unicorn families had got more of his kind into magical studies then the last five centuries. Greater incentives and more government sponsored research into magical technology had created whole new avenues of research and jobs that many unicorns were flocking to.

The fact that many of his kind now had enough magical prowess to be reserve battlemages if needed was an extra bonus.

“Finally using the powers the creators gave us” he said with a proud smile.

Of course this had caused problems. The elders of the prominent earth pony and pegasus families were up in arms about his favouritism. Noble shook his head. He’d already dealt with that.

True unicorn magic was the most obvious but thanks to his time at the fight clubs he knew there was untapped potential in the other two species of ponykind. Though the elders argued and called it blasphemy the younger generations were curious about their kings new programs to study their inherent passive magic and find ways to utilise it.

Nobleheart smiled to himself. Let the old buck against the new order. The young already saw the benefit of improving themselves and when they grew up they’d replace the naysayers on his parliament.

Next issue was the rising tension in Hollows Point. Trade between gryphons and ponies had always been strained but under Nobles guidance more and more intense partnerships had been brokered between the gryphons and ponies of that town. The fact that clever tradework on ponykinds behalf meant they owned nearly seventy percent of the town was an added bonus even though the whole place was a border town of the gryphon empire.

The empire was calling it an attack without weapons. Nobleheart laughed at that. Words and paper could be weapons if wielded right and if the empire attacked the town unprovoked and threw innocent ponies out of their homes or heaven forbid kill any of them then Noble would bring the full might of Equestrias new military down on that empire like a hammer from the heavens.

The fact that no other nation would come to aid them as Equestria would merely be retaliating to gryphon violence would work just as Noble intended. Once enough damage was done and the other nations got worried Nobleheart would push for peace talks and show leniency to the poor foolish birds.

He looked around his serene functional office. Sometimes he wondered if he should have a dark lair sometimes.

Nobleheart started leafing through the latest reports from Manehattan, usual stuff really, when he noticed something out of the ordinary in his office. He looked up sharply and to his credit didn’t flinch when he saw a pony wreathed in shadow standing before his desk.

The two stared at each other for a moment, Nobles eyes narrowing as he sized this stranger up. He leaned back in his chair slowly placing his hooves against each other as he waiting for the pony to make a move. His horn sparkled for the briefest second.

“King Nobleheart I presume?”

Noble nodded slowly. The voice while eerie had the harmonics of a mare.

“I’m not here to hurt you”

“I know. But if you don’t explain who you are and what you’re doing in my private quarters very soon you will be hurting my dear”

He couldn’t see her face just strangely slitted eyes but he had the feeling she was smirking. “Your panic button didn’t work Nobleheart. I’ve already disabled it”

His eyes didn’t move. “I see. Then you have some understanding of my office. But the surveillance and other wards I have placed still ensure you will not last long after leaving this office. The captain of my guard WILL hunt you down”

“And you have not seen me in a fight my lady” Noble said with a sharp smile.

The mare threw her head back and laughed loudly, the king frowning in suspicion. “Oh my. Hah. This is not what I was expecting at all”

She motioned at this office. “I expected the usual dictatorship. Maybe a few torture chambers, earth pony slaves, a real despot in power. I’d seen the urge for control and power in your heart Noble and wanted to see your mind for myself but this was not what I expected”

She stepped forward and he tensed. Instead of attacking she merely leaned over to look at his files. “Reforms in the guard. Increased trade between Equestria and the zebra tribes. An actual standing military. My my this is completely unlike what I expected”

“Who are you”

“A friend”

Nobleheart glared at her, “I pick my own friends”

“Then you will want to pick me too”

He stood up from his chair and moved to stand before the strange mare. He was ready for a fight but he was pretty confident this wasn’t an assassination attempt.

“What do you want?”

“To help you with your goals”

He smirked at her. “What would you know of my goals?”

She motioned at his office again. “Well clearly you want to dispose Celestia and Luna and become King. Or is this dream just that, a dream, and you don’t have the stomach for such rebellion?”

I already am king his mind argued but as he started searching his memories he realised the facts were vague and key moments were blurry or non-existent. He looked out his office window to see a midsummer’s day not the late evening night he thought he was in.

“So this is a dream. I thought I was being careful to avoid doing that”

The mare nodded though Noble noted with interest how she carefully stepped back from the rays of the sun so as to stay in shadow. “Your paranoia does you credit. But you forgot to take your dreamless sleep pills last night. That’s good otherwise I would never have found your true intentions”

“You are not Luna clearly so who are you? I know no other mare with the power to walk the dreams of others”

“Such magic is available to all unicorns who wish to study it Noble. You know that I could be anyone”

“True. So Ill ask again why help me with my goals?”

She met his gaze and he was intrigued by the hatred in them. “I want Celestia and Luna brought to ruin. I want them to lose everything they have and you are the only pony in this miserable country who wants the same” she hissed.

“I want mortals to control their destiny again. The immortal sisters are in the way of that so yes I suppose I want them disposed” Noble said carefully.

The mare smiled and again he took sharp note of her fanged smile. “Good. Very good. Well then I want to help you gain power. And in doing so bring the two sisters crushing down”

“And what do you ask in exchange for your help?”

She waved a hoof languidly. “Nothing. Though if our partnership benefits us both I may ask to take a more active, perhaps advisory role in our dealings with the sisters”

Noble hummed thoughtfully and stepped back around his desk. He opened his desk drawer and in a feat only possible in a dream drew a rapier from the small opening.

“You speak of partnership but so far I have no interest in accepting your aid. I don’t make deals with shadowy figures who I have no inkling as to their identity nor when they will probably betray me first chance they get” he said dryly as he twirled the sword and held it at his side. It wasn’t pointed at the mare yet but the threat was clear.

The mare merely smiled at his display. “I don’t expect your acceptance now my lord. I will prove myself to you first. After all you expect results from your underlings and I will do the same. I will provide a boon for you, free of charge, and afterwards I hope you will be more willing to listen to my offers”

The prince frowned, “What boon are you granting. Tell me”

“You will have to wait and see”

“That’s not an answer I like” he retorted sharply.

“Too bad. I want you to know Nobleheart that things will be moving in Equestria soon and I would rather we work together to create an outcome that suits us both then fighting for the same prize. It would be foolish for us to squabble over something we both want and end up losing it all because we can’t play nice”

She retreated into the shadows, her form dissolving before his eyes. “Your gift will be ready sometime this week. Think about my offer to help Noble. You know it is too good a deal to pass up” she suggested before she left his dream.

Noble closed his eyes and carefully stretched his mind around him. He was trained in both body and mind and controlling his own dreams was second nature to him. Satisfied that she had truly left his mind he erected some mental walls around his office and sat back at his desk.
The simple chair had morphed into a long chaise sofa and he laid along it as he considered his visitors cryptic message.

A gift for him could be any number of things but he had the feeling it would be something huge. A grand display of her power to entice him to join her.

She must know she was taking a huge risk revealing herself to him. If he didn’t like her offer he could easily report the meeting to the princesses and have her hunted down. He himself could just go back to life as normal and keep planning his ascension for another day.

Except he’d been planning for years and had no luck so far. Despite his brains, influence and corruption of the highest noble families and the parliament itself he could do nothing about Celestia or her sister. Their power was just too great for any pony to take on without taking serious gambles or using dark magic.

He’d considered it but losing his mind and becoming another Sombra was not something he wanted. His vision of the perfect Equestria did not have another immortal despot terrorising the masses.

That meant that, if her display was intriguing enough, he’d possibly have to consider joining her. After all he’d heard the philosophy, keep your friends close and your enemies closer. Becoming a friend to an enemy was probably a worthy evolution of the idea.

Still he’d have to be careful. He didn’t like the idea of joining forces with something more powerful then himself.

Doubtless she must realise he could guess who she was. Or perhaps she was arrogant enough and thought little of his intelligence that she believed she could keep him in the dark. But really with eyes like that, fanged teeth, an affinity for dream magic and a hatred of the sisters? There was no fooling anypony.

But even knowing that he knew this was an incredible dangerous road he was travelling. Everypony knew what had happened to Luna after all.

So the real question he had to ask himself. Could he make a deal with the Nightmare and emerge victorious on the other side of it?

Or would he be the next pony to spend a thousand years trapped on the moon?

End chapter.
Guess whos back. Back again. Ah its nice writing a proper villain again lol.
Also I went very Greek mythology in this chapter so hope you’ve enjoyed. Seriously Princest is tame compared to real world religions and gods. But still great.
Anyway I hope you’ve enjoyed the chapter, I’ve had fun written it, hope to hear from you guys in the comments and I’ve already started the next chapter so hope to get it out some time in the near future.
Thanks again all, love ya.