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- Act I - A Memory Returns
- > “So then, I gave the ruffian a right painful shock! The colt could barely stand afterward!”
- > A chorus of polite laughs lights up the table, and you shuffle uncomfortably in your seat.
- > You are Princess Luna.
- > Tonight is the Winter Solstice, the third celebration of it since your return.
- > “Positively brutish, Lord Pence. The lower classes simply can’t help themselves!”
- > At first, you had been really excited about these celebrations, but it quickly became apparent that they were little more than networking opportunities for most ponies.
- > Now you just felt uncomfortable, sitting at a table full of elites who paid to sit with you.
- > “Well, Princess Luna? Any thoughts?”
- > The big, fake smile on the pony’s face makes you want to curl up into a ball.
- > He had spent the entire night trying to get you to talk, but every time you did you felt bad afterwards.
- > Your grip on modern Equine wasn’t perfect yet, and the table collectively cringed when you got the words wrong earlier.
- > Plus, you knew they wished they were getting access to Celestia instead.
- “I am certain it was a brilliant display, my little pony.”
- > That sounded Celestia-like, right?
- > He nods, clearly disappointed that he didn’t draw out more of a reply, and he goes back to chatting with another pony.
- > And you go back to slowly munching on your salad.
- > With the wrong fork, you think.
- > You didn’t have anypony you would feel comfortable asking for advice on table manner with you.
- > In fact, none of the few ponies you would count among your friends were even at the party.
- > Other engagements, of course.
- > “Princess, your dress looks stunning tonight. I don’t think I’ve ever seen anything like it…?”
- > A unicorn mare, to your right this time.
- > This was her first shot at getting you to be sociable tonight.
- > You knew it was probably a bad idea to wear something so eye-catching tonight, but-
- > “Princess Luna?”
- > You’re never going to catch a break.
- > A Thestral guard behind you draws your attention away from the mare, seemingly oblivious to her existence.
- > Well, at least you appreciate the distraction.
- > Nopony could fault you for prioritizing the guards, and you felt more comfortable talking to them.
- > His armour looks wrong, for some reason, but you can’t spot why.
- “Yes, Silver Breeze?”
- > His name comes instantly to your mind.
- > The stallion motions with his head towards the door to the gardens adjoining the banquet hall.
- > “There’s somepony looking for you in the gardens, towards the reflection pond. I haven’t seen a creature like him before.”
- > You furrow your brow at that.
- > Nopony mentioned any exotic guests tonight.
- > Your guard wouldn’t have brought it to your attention if it wasn’t important, though.
- “Thank you, I’ll head out there immediately.”
- > And with a crisp salute, the guard departs.
- > You turn back to your guest and try to put up your best sympathetic smile.
- > You’re sure it looks as fake as everypony else’s smiles.
- “Apologies, my little ponies. I have something to attend to.”
- > The table all seem relieved at the proposition, though they try to disguise it.
- > Maybe it’ll give them the chance to network with one another a little more unimpeded.
- > Pushing your chair back, you get out and stretch a little bit before walking towards the garden doors.
- > You try to keep up your neutral, regal face, despite your insecurities.
- > You wish you weren’t so awkward all the time.
- > Hopefully the conversation with whoever this is would go a bit better.
- > There’s ponies dancing in the main portion of the hall, and a ton of them lined up along the walls conversing.
- > Yet you feel everypony’s eyes on you.
- > If ‘Tia were here, she’d probably have everypony’s eyes on her for totally different reasons.
- > But… she keeps telling you that you’ll get the swing of it with time.
- > ‘It can’t hurt to try, right?’
- > It’s snowing outside, rather heavily.
- > The gardens are magically heated, so the snow melts on contact, but it does give a certain ambiance.
- > The garden is more like a little forest, a maze-like network of rare flowerbeds amidst dense woods.
- > The whole area is lit up by Hearth’s Warming lights.
- > There’s a ton of ponies milling about, conversing casually, watching the night sky.
- > You can feel their eyes lock on to you the second you step outside.
- > Fortunately, few ponies went anywhere near the reflection pond, so you head that way as quick as you can.
- > It’s fairly deep into the forest, and off the cobblestone pathways the guests usually restrained themselves to.
- > It’s a beautiful area, though the foliage gets so thick you can barely see your sky.
- > The only light was provided by a series of glowing red and yellow roses, which dotted the periphery of the dirt path.
- > If the flowers weren’t so beautiful, it would feel almost dangerous, with how dark and isolated it was.
- > Sometimes, you would come out here and just lounge when you had downtime, so that-
- > You hear a stick snap, and immediately you feel yourself jump into defensive posture.
- > You're not at the pond yet.
- “Who’s there!?”
- > You turn around slowly, suddenly on edge, keeping an eye out in all directions.
- > Your guard said this creature was exotic.
- > Who knows what it could do.
- > Stupid. You should’ve asked for somepony to accompany you, but you were too caught up in your head.
- > You prepare a teleportation spell, determined to return with guards, and that’s when you feel claws slip-
- > Wait, those aren’t claws, they’re something else-
- > Something you were intimately familiar with.
- > Fingers.
- > Fingers slip around your jaw, and they roughly pull your head to the side.
- > Time almost seems to slow down as your head turns, the dim light of the gardens illuminating the features of your assailant.
- > As you’re caught up in the moment, you meet eyes with a memory.
- > You can’t believe what you’re seeing.
- > You can’t believe any of your senses, for that matter.
- > Standing before you, still half-submerged in your signature turn-to-mist spell, is the only student you ever took.
- > And, before your banishment, the only creature you would really count amongst your friends.
- > Anonymous.
- > Time seems to grind fully to a halt as he pulls you in and captures your lips.
- > His hands shift from your muzzle to the back of your head, and pulls you firmly against him.
- > It’s all you can do to stand there, your body frozen with shock.
- > You feel helpless as his body presses hard against you, and you shift back on the ground until you’re pushed up against an oak tree.
- > With each step, more of his body manifests, emerging from the spell.
- > Your eyes slowly drink in every detail they can, the seconds it takes feeling like hours.
- > He’s exactly like you remember.
- > Even the little details.
- > Eventually, you manage to get control of yourself, your lungs screaming out for oxygen.
- > But you deny them, and instead take the opportunity to push back against him.
- > Your wings flare out and wrap around him, pulling his body flush against your own.
- > His tongue flicks at your lips, asking for access, and you don’t for a second deny him.
- > You can feel, dimly, an old magic bond the two of you shared flaring up in your horn.
- > And for a while, the two of you are content to sit there in a relatively chaste embrace.
- > Chaste for the way you two had usually embraced, anyway.
- > Unfortunately, eventually biology demands you separate, and you can barely prevent yourself from collapsing to the floor.
- > Both of you can’t help but wheeze, trying to catch your breath.
- > You have no idea how long you were kissing, but it felt like forever.
- “Anon…?”
- > You can barely get the words out, all the air still gone from your lungs.
- > He doesn’t give you the chance to properly recover as he assaults your lips again.
- > But this time you give back as good as you get, and you manage to shove him back.
- > Just like old times, the two of you start fighting for control, each trying to dominate the other.
- > You can feel his magic pressuring your legs, and fight back with some of your own, sending the two of you toppling over one another.
- > You deftly recovered and clashed again.
- > It doesn’t take long for you careen off the dirt path, into the denser forested parts of the garden.
- > Dozens of priceless, irreplaceable flowers are crushed as the two of you fight one another for control.
- > An ancient oak tree was unfortunately felled.
- > A path of utter destruction follows the two of you until you are well and truly lost.
- > You’re not sure how long it is before you wear one another out, but eventually you get the best of Anonymous.
- > Right by another small pond, though it’s not the one you had intended to find.
- > You’re on top of him now, both of you desperately trying to calm down as you stare into one another’s eyes.
- > Your whole body felt hot, and your wings were stiffly extended out at your sides.
- > You clench your hindlegs together, intent on not soiling your dress any more than it already is.
- > Usually, after a fight like that, the two of you would be... doing something else.
- “I… win…”
- > You start coughing, your lungs screaming at you for being so rough with them.
- > Anonymous seems barely winded, and a finger moves up to your face.
- > He boops your nose, causing you to scrunch it up.
- > You used to hate it when he did that, but you’ll let it slide this time.
- > “I still managed to scare you, Master Luna. I’d say we’re even.”
- > His voice is exactly like you remember it.
- > That gruff, young baritone which you could feel reverberate through your whole body.
- “I can’t believe it’s you. I… I thought you were dead.”
- > You feel your heart flutter as his hand moves to the back of your neck, scratching in little circles there.
- > Little zaps of magic coming from his fingers, sending shivers down your spine.
- > Just like he used to do.
- > Exactly as you taught him to, that late night more than a thousand years ago.
- > It really is him…
- > “I did promise that I’d see you again, didn’t I?”
- > You shudder as you try to control your breathing, which is becoming an increasingly difficult task.
- > You can feel tears welling up in your eyes, and you collapse down on top of him, your hooves wrapped tightly around his neck.
- > The pony body wasn’t meant to go through this many emotions this quickly.
- > Especially after such an intense workout.
- “When you di-didn’t come back at the same time I did, and Celestia told me what happened…”
- > The words come out in a half-choked sob.
- > Your chest feels like it’s going to explode with how fast your heart is beating.
- > Anon shushes you, and you feel his strong arms wrap around you and rub between your wings.
- > And… he nibbles a bit at your neck.
- > You can almost instantly feel a weird sense of relief flow through you.
- > Like a blanket of nostalgia which soothes your aches.
- > He still remembers all the things that calmed you down.
- > He still remembers you.
- “I don’t know what to say, I just… I missed you so much.”
- > You can feel his arms tighten around you, shifting from a scratch to a hug.
- > Your wings are pressed hard to your sides in his embrace.
- > “I missed you too, Lunie.”
- > The two of you stayed there for a while, just laying together, until you had calmed down.
- > You felt like you were crushing him, but the one time you tried to move off he tightened his grip on you.
- > So, you stayed on top of him.
- > He made you feel so safe, and comfortable, and… Wanted.
- > Everything you hadn’t felt since you came back.
- “I’ve got so much to show you. Everything’s changed!”
- > You can't help your voice cracking slightly at the exclamation.
- > A rumble comes from his chest as he lets out a little chuckle.
- > “I’m sure it has, I had the opportunity to see some of it on my way here.”
- > You can’t help but keep rubbing yourself against him.
- > Every inch of contact makes you feel as though you were on fire.
- > The bond you felt with him seemed to grow stronger with each second you spent together.
- > You could almost taste his emotions again.
- > “Not much, though. I had somepony to find as soon as I could. Didn’t expect ol’ Sunny to move things to Canterlot.”
- > You growl in approval at that.
- > Your human had better have come looking for you first.
- > You had gone looking for him first thing upon your return, after all. It’s only fair.
- > But, that does bring a question to your mind.
- > If Celestia was wrong about what happened to Anon, then...
- “Where were you-“
- > “Princess? Princess Luna, are you okay!? Are you out here?”
- > You immediately shoot up, focusing your attention on the voice.
- > Several ponies’ shouts echo out through the woods, clearly searching for you.
- > No doubt some ponies having heard your little fight earlier, and the destruction would leave them worried.
- > You look back to Anonymous, who pulls himself up into a sitting position, his hands extended out behind him to keep him level.
- > “Seems we have company coming.”
- > You gaze out into the forest, trying to gauge how far out they are with your ears.
- > You wanted to spend as much time with Anonymous as possible.
- > But you knew if you and him just ran away right now, you would cause a panic.
- “I… I need to go back, ponies will start to panic if I’m gone too long.”
- > He gives you a knowing smile, and nods.
- > You still can’t believe what you’re looking at.
- > “I’ll wait for you. I’ve waited this long, a little while longer won’t kill me. I just couldn’t resist pulling you away for a few minutes.”
- > And suddenly, you know where you remember Silver Breeze from.
- > An illusion, one which you taught him to use to call you away from the castle.
- > You try to pull yourself away from his side, but you hesitate.
- > It feels almost like if you get up and leave, he’ll disappear as quickly as he appeared.
- > But the calming feeling of his hand on your neck soothes you.
- > “I’ll still be here, I promi-.”
- “You could come with me. I could make a spot for you.”
- > You blush a little at the way you just blurt it out.
- > That’s probably a terrible idea, it would offend the heck out of the nobles that some foreigner gets their seat.
- > But you can’t be bothered to plan right now, you’re much too excited for that!
- > You can barely keep yourself from hopping in place as it stands.
- > Anonymous just chuckles, running his hand down your back again.
- > “I’d hate to steal the spotlight on your night. I can wait, just don’t make me wait too long.”
- > You give him a glare, but his serene smile is unwavering.
- > You can see he means it, but you don’t want to go.
- > But... he's right.
- > It’s a struggle, but eventually you tear yourself away from him, heading in the direction the two of you came from.
- > You stop briefly at the exit of the clearing, looking back at him.
- “I will come back as soon as I can. I might even be able to close up the evening early, if we are lucky.“
- > "I eagerly await your return."
- > You made your way back as quickly as possible, your chest thudding uncontrollably.
- > Eventually, you came across a troupe of guards and two nobleponies, and they all fussed over your torn dress.
- > It was news to you that it was torn, in fact.
- > You assured them it was nothing important, and that you had dealt with the “threat.”
- > If anything, that only seemed to make them more interested in pressing you for details.
- > Details which you were unable to give, as you moved back to the party in a dazed state.
- > It only got worse back at the dinner table, with everypony seeming upset by your lightly dishevelled state.
- > You tried to engage, but your brain wouldn’t let you focus on the conversation with them.
- > When they eventually realized they couldn’t pull details from you, and you were fine, the concern faded.
- > It was impossible to keep the goofy smile off your face, either way.
- > You were now done your third plate of food.
- > Despite being only peckish earlier, you suddenly felt starving.
- > Like you had a thirst for life again.
- “Miss Glacier, I think we were interrupted, were we not?”
- > She seems surprised that you addressed her, this time with your mouth full.
- > You’re so high you can't feel your insecurities.
- “It is an old dress, from before my departure. It carries a certain feeling of nostalgia for me.”
- > Anonymous had a hand in its design, but you don’t share that detail.
- > She doesn’t seem to know how to reply for a moment, thrown for a loop by your changed manner.
- > Eventually she does compose herself, and make out a diplomatic response.
- > “Oh, but it’s damaged now! I’m sure I could find somepony to patch it up for you!”
- > Earlier tonight, you would have been devastated about the state of the dress.
- > Even f she could fix it, it still wouldn’t return it to the state it was in before, after all.
- > But right now, you had a far superior source of comfort waiting for you.
- “I shall consider it, my little pony.”
- > You were mostly on autopilot for the rest of dinner.
- > At some point, you noticed that you were throwing back wine like you were alone in your room on an average day.
- > It’s not like you could focus if you wanted to, though.
- > ‘Tia would probably give you a lecture if she saw how careless you were being.
- > But you had more important concerns than a lecture from her.
- > You just wanted to finish and get back out into the gardens, before Anonymous disappeared again.
- > “I see you’re wearing that dress again, Lulu.”
- > You flinch at Celestia’s voice over your shoulder, as she whispers to you.
- > Speak of the devil, and she shall appear.
- > And instantly, whispers about her spread through the room.
- > You try not to look too guilty as you look up at Celestia, and she levitates a napkin to your muzzle.
- > You may have spilled a little wine.
- > Your cheeks light up in red as she treats you like a foal, wiping your cheek.
- “It’s a nice dress.”
- > She smiles, but it’s an oddly sad looking smile.
- > Like she wants to say something, but is biting her tongue.
- > “It is very nice. I see you are wearing the ring as well.”
- > You look up at your horn, crossing your eyes a bit, looking at the little black ring wrapped around it.
- > It’s a part of the dress.
- “Well, the outfit does not work without the ring.”
- > She nods, humming for a moment.
- > She seems to be contemplating something, looking out over the assembly.
- > Things were getting more active, as ponies were trying to burn themselves out before the end of the party.
- > A few of them were also heading your way, having spotted Celestia.
- > “If you would like, I could handle the close for you. I’m proud of you for handling the opening speech.”
- > You almost drop your wine glass from your magic at that.
- > You look up at her in awe, stunned she’s willing to let you off the hook.
- “Really?”
- > She nods.
- > “Yes, Luna. I can see you’re a little out of it, go have fun.”
- > You couldn’t get out of that hall fast enough.
- > You had leaped up to give 'Tia a hug, and then promptly ran right past her.
- > This time you weren’t particularly concerned about keeping up regal appearances as you bolted for the gardens.
- > You’re sure ‘Tia would understand, once she knew what happened!
- > Maybe she already knew, given her offer to excuse you from the Solstice celebrations.
- > Whatever her reasons, you owed her a present of some kind.
- > Quickly, you found your way to the path of destruction you had woven into the forest.
- > The beauty was entirely lost on you, this trip.
- > In no time, you find your way back to the small clearing the two of you had stopped in.
- > And you slowed your approach as you got closer, and slipped into mist yourself as he came into view.
- > Moving your ethereal form into a bush, deciding to just watch him for a moment while you calmed down.
- > Now that he was at least in sight, you felt much more comfortable. He couldn’t just disappear on you.
- > He’s lying beside the water, a small projection of the galaxy spinning in his hand.
- > You smile as you watch him from the bushes.
- > You taught him that spell.
- > You taught him it when you were trying to teach him how to paint the sky with you.
- > When he learned how to move the stars in his own little universe, he had learned how to move your stars as well.
- > Excitement spreads throughout you at the sight, seeing another thing he remembers from your lessons.
- > After all this time.
- > Momentarily, your eyes shift from him to his surroundings, assessing the little clearing the two of you found.
- > He’s right beside the pond, inattentive.
- > It wouldn’t take much of a nudge to send him toppling in…
- > He wouldn’t mind, would he?
- > No. You knew Anonymous better than anypony.
- > He loved tricks, even at his own expense.
- > Plus, turnabout is fair play for his ambush on you earlier.
- > The mareish screech he lets out before he’s dunked under the pond has you immediately in stitches.
- > The water splashes up to the tree-tops with the force you throw him into the pond with.
- > The water crashes down all throughout the clearing, the drops distorting the soft light from the glowing flowers.
- > Even when the initial splash settles, the water continues to wildly fly around as he tries to get his feet on the ground.
- > “Stars, that is cold!”
- > Floating out from your bush, you moved over to the shoreline and let yourself materialize.
- > You used to do this to him all the time.
- > There was a little lake out by the old retreat you had with him, up North.
- > The two of you would dive from the cliffs adjoining it into the cold waters.
- > But it was always funnier when you shoved him off those cliffs...
- > It's tough not to grin as he finally manages to get himself right, and glares up at you from beneath his dripping bangs.
- > You can’t help cracking up from the shore as your human stands up, his clothing soaked through.
- "Gotcha."
- > He blows the hair out of his face, and crosses his arms.
- > He's pretending to be mad, but you know it's an act.
- > “That was horribly immature, Lunie.”
- > He should’ve known better than to have let his guard down!
- > You always get vengeance!
- “T’was fair play, Anonymous! You used my spell to surprise me, and now you have suffered the price.”
- > For a second, a flash of anxiety hits you at your archaic pronunciation.
- > But it immediately fades as you see him smile.
- > He's like a drug you can't get enough of, like the salve for your problems.
- > You're so caught up looking at his little angry eyes that you don't notice the water glowing blue.
- > You also don't notice when the entire contents of the pond is floating over your head.
- > “Well, all's fair in love and war.”
- > Eventually, Anonymous conceded you the victory, yet again.
- > This time he seemed genuinely exhausted, unlike last time you won.
- > And thoroughly soaked.
- > He couldn’t quite match his teacher in magic, just yet.
- > So now the two of you were laying in the hole which used to be a pond, laying on your backs looking up at the stars.
- > A small circle was cleared in the forest right above you, just enough to give you a good view.
- > You had even gone the extra mile of clearing out the clouds above the clearing.
- > “And that one? I don’t recognize the pattern.”
- > You try to follow his finger, and see a few stars that are part of a pattern you set up last year.
- > That one didn’t exist back in his time…
- > Your time, you suppose.
- “Sagittarius is the constellation. It’s new, but you can’t really see the full pattern from here…”
- > You almost want to burn down a section of the forest so he can see it, but you control yourself.
- > No need to bring more attention.
- > He hums, his fingers shifting slightly to another batch of stars.
- > “It looks a bit like you’ve changed Leo.”
- > You narrow your eyes, and look up at the sky.
- > He’s right, Leo does look different, but you’re not sure why…
- > That’s not-
- > And suddenly, it dawns on you.
- “You changed it!”
- > He can’t even hide his guilt, a cheeky smile breaking out on his face.
- > You kick him in the ribs with a hoof, before igniting your horn to fix the constellation.
- > You huff and cross your hooves over your barrel, feigning some outrage of your own.
- > You always loved when he played with your stars.
- > But… that does bring a thought to your mind.
- > You couldn’t get a good view of the stars from here, but…
- > You did have somewhere that would work. Somewhere he would probably love to see after so long.
- “Hey Anon?”
- > He looks over at you, and peaks an eyebrow.
- > “Yes Luna?”
- > You grin.
- “Hold your breath.”
- Act II – A Memory Experienced
- > The smell of chlorine, typical of teleportation, fills your nostrils as you complete the spell.
- > It’s accompanied by the minty scent of a drying spell, wringing the moisture from your fur and Anon’s clothes.
- > Couldn’t have either of you get sick.
- > The refined, elegant, and warm gardens of Canterlot are gone.
- > Now, the two of you stand in relatively deep snow atop a cliff on the Western Equestrian shoreline.
- > It was a very, very far away from anypony who would come looking for you.
- > The snowstorm has long since passed here, and the skies were clear.
- > It’s freezing out, but you can barely feel it over the warmth you feel flooding your system.
- > Well, you can feel it a little in your hooves, but that’s alright.
- > “Oh Stars, my head… You should warn me before you do that!”
- > You look back to Anonymous, who is shaking the dizziness from his head.
- > You sheepishly smile back at him, bringing up a wing tip to cover your mouth to cover your amused smile.
- > You forgot how bad he was at teleportation.
- > Made him feel all off-balance, given his center of gravity.
- “I did warn you! Now come on, we need to get out of the wind!”
- > You have to shout it to him over the whipping sound of the gales surrounding you.
- > He starts trudging forwards, trying to follow you as you practically skip over the snow.
- > If it wasn’t so windy, you would consider just flying up the little hill to your destination.
- > You could just drag him with you in your magic.
- > “Where the hell are we going?”
- > You look back, and notice that he’s still not paying attention to his surroundings, his eyes focused solely on you.
- > With a gesture of your wing, you point towards the end of the outcropping you were on.
- > Towards a large, looming tower atop a cliff by the ocean.
- > The terrain was treacherous, but you loved the walk to the tower all the same.
- > When you were a filly, you used to make this trek all the time, because nopony else was willing to risk the trip.
- > It gave you the isolation you had always craved.
- > It’s almost vertical at some points as you move up the jagged terrain.
- > But eventually, the two of you make it up to the flat area the tower was built upon, both of you winded from the trip.
- > The sight is breathtaking.
- > Up here, there was nothing but sea and sky for miles in each direction.
- > Even the snow couldn’t hold to the ground in these conditions, lush green grass covering the plateau and adding to the surreal look of the area.
- > And the tower itself...
- > From this vantage point, it looks as imposing as the day you built it.
- > More-so, even, with all the little parts of the tower where stones had fallen loose.
- > A silent monument to your ability to bend the world, back when you had something to prove to everypony.
- “Remember?”
- > You finally chance a look back to Anonymous now that you’re clear of the dangerous part of the trip, and you can see him staring open-mouthed at it.
- > You can see the nostalgia in his eyes as he stares at the cold stone structure.
- > You try not to look as elated as you see recognition flash cross his face.
- > “Oh, I remember it.”
- > You make a very undignified noise of excitement.
- > “It looks... different, though. I doubt I’d risk breaking into it in this condition.”
- > You tug at his shoulder with your magic, breaking his concentration, and practically break into a gallop for the door to the tower.
- > Ancient, well-worn cloth banners bearing your Cutie Mark billow by the entrance.
- > Enchanted to last a long time, but not forever against the harsh conditions.
- > Your old home.
- > The place the two of you first met.
- > Fortunately, the inside of the building didn’t match the deteriorated look of its exterior.
- > It wasn't nearly as intimidating, either.
- > The room immediately fills you with a certain sense of comfort.
- > The cold cobblestone outside yields to a dark-but-cozy wooden interior, the walls lined with filled bookshelves.
- > The wood was old and graying, but it only added to the charm of the room.
- > The books were a recent addition by Twilight Sparkle, when she was visiting last Summer.
- > She had used this place to stargaze during the summer months, with your permission.
- > “I don’t remember all this wood. It’s much too cozy for a tyrant’s evil lair.”
- > You blush at the comment, thinking back to all your immature architectural decisions as a filly.
- > You used to think the place looked nice when it looked like a torture chamber.
- > Somehuman talked you out of that, though.
- “Well, before the banishment, I did some renovations… I had to keep my prince locked away somewhere, after all.”
- > With a snap of Anonymous’ fingers, a fire erupts in the fireplace, and you can suddenly see the room much better.
- > Its warmth starts to fill the room, and the flickering light makes your shadows dance on the walls.
- “After all, I’m sure if I left you alone with the tower, I’d come back to find the whole thing pink.”
- > He grins, and you can see the temptation in his eyes.
- > Fortunately for the mood, he restrains himself, instead peering wistfully out a little window by the door at the ocean.
- > “Seems like we were here for years, and then just… abandoned it.”
- > You sigh, and cast your gaze through the room.
- “Maybe we should’ve just stayed here forever…”
- > If you hadn’t tried to rally ponies against your sister, then maybe you could have.
- > The two of you could’ve just stayed away from the rest of the world, unravelling the mysteries of magic together.
- > Maybe...
- > Maybe it wasn't too late for things to turn out that way.
- > “I think this was exactly where I was standing when you called me a knave for the first time.”
- > His words sound wistful, like he wishes he were back in that moment all over again.
- > He seems a little awed by the whole thing, and that fact causes you to radiate pride.
- > You made a good choice of sights to show.
- > You hadn’t actually brought him to this little retreat since that first night.
- “A little left, actually. I always kept the chest right by that table.”
- > He looks over at the table, and chews on the inside of his cheek.
- “I believe it was also the first time I called you a slew of other things.”
- > He nods, caught up in his memories.
- > “First time you tied me up, too.”
- > The thought sends little flutters through you, and you wish the room looked like it did back then.
- > You could catch him stealing from you all over again.
- > And punish him, again.
- > The chest isn’t there now, but it was a brilliantly decorated one.
- > Solid oak, a gift from the Earth Ponies for defeating Discord.
- > It’s in Canterlot, now.
- > “It would have been such a good heist, but somepony had to ruin it.”
- > You smile, settling in near the fireplace for a moment to warm up.
- > Anonymous comes and joins you, his warm arm sliding over your withers.
- “It is not my fault you were the worst thief in the history of Equestria. Trying to steal from the evil princess in her looming tower of darkness.”
- > The memory still feels vivid.
- > Like a foal caught stealing from the cookie jar, you found him sifting through your things uninvited.
- > You were almost too shy at the time to even challenge him, but something had clicked with you.
- > And so, naturally, you tied him up and roped him into your experiments.
- > It was the beginning of a beautiful friendship.
- > And so much more.
- > He scoffs, his hands doing circles through your ethereal mane.
- > He occasionally interrupts the spell on it to grab a strand, weaving his fingers through it.
- > “As I recall, you were supposed to be at some diplomatic meeting. How could I anticipate a negligent princess?”
- > You lean into his touch.
- > It all turned out fine despite you having overslept by about three days.
- > Still, it didn’t stop you from taking the moral high ground.
- > You tut, like Celestia did whenever you messed up.
- “No excuses, young colt. I should hope you study your targets a bit better, now.”
- > Your wing extends out, around his back, pulling him closer to you again.
- > You feel his other hand start running through your feathers, sending pleasant tingles through the wing.
- > “Of course, I’m sure Celestia will be an easier target.”
- > You poke him in the cheek with your horn, mushing his face up.
- > You used to threaten him like that.
- > A threat to impale him on your horn and parade him around.
- > Initially, it was a serious threat. It later became a sexy threat.
- “No raids on powerful ponies, I will not tolerate you getting abducted by another princess.”
- > You might actually be willing to fight your sister again if she even tried.
- > He gives you an amused smirk, before he nods and his eyes shifting back to the fireplace.
- > “Didn’t plan on it, Lunie.”
- > His hand wanders, and rubs at your chest, his fingers weaving through the fur above your heart.
- > He seems to hesitate for a moment, before he comments.
- > “I only have one mark, these days. Only one thing I want to steal, too.”
- > It takes you a moment to clue in on his meaning, but when you do you slap your hooves to your muzzle.
- > You can’t help but burst into a fit of giggles at that.
- > Anon’s cheeks turn a little red, but he keeps up his smile as you try to get control of your laughter.
- “Anon, that might just be the cheesiest line I’ve heard you use.”
- > “I learned from the best.”
- > It wasn’t long before you decided the tower was warm enough, and that the two of you headed up top.
- > After all, the good show wasn’t just the room where the two of you met.
- > The sights from the top of the tower were second to none.
- > The journey up the tower is one of coy playfulness.
- > Anonymous keeps trying to tickle your wingjoints, and that one spot behind your ear.
- > You keep trying to tickle under his arms with your wings.
- > The two of you would periodically tackle one another, and it would invariably end with a kiss.
- > You had accidentally broken the metal railing on the stone steps repeatedly by this point.
- > Almost fallen off the side once, too.
- > It’s probably not very safe to be roughhousing on stairs, but…
- > ‘Tia isn’t here.
- > No nobleponies or guards are here.
- > There’s no one to judge you, and tell you you’re doing things wrong.
- > Only you and Anonymous, and the two of you were basically the same creature.
- > And so, the two of you would play at every opportunity.
- > When the two of you did make it to the top, it was fairly obvious that Twilight had been the last to use the room.
- > Astronomy equipment was well-organized against the far wall, and the room was extremely well organized.
- > The walls all had large windows through which you could see the outside.
- > A spell cast long ago keeping barriers over the glass to keep it insulated and protective.
- > The external terrace surrounding the room had clearly fallen into substantial disrepair, with large sections missing.
- > But the room itself seemed in good condition.
- > “Damn, that’s beautiful.”
- > You see Anonymous looking out at the ocean, with your moon looming large in the sky above it.
- > He had seen that same view a million times, but it is quite the view.
- > You really should come here to make your nights, on reflection.
- > Maybe you'll be coming here more often generally.
- “Come on, it looks even better outside.”
- > “It’s quite the view. This new sky layout must have taken you ages to plan and craft properly.”
- > Anonymous is sitting with his legs over the edge of the terrace, gazing at the sky through a circle he made with his fingers.
- > A vision amplification spell was active in the circle, letting him see your sky in detail, as though using a telescope.
- "Well, it's fun to make it look nice. Plus, I can hide all sorts of things in it."
- > He nods, shifting forward a little more to get a better view of the sky.
- > You wish he would pull his legs back from over the edge, but he was adamant on sitting like that.
- > While it's a little bit worrying, you don't panic.
- > You would catch him if he fell.
- > Plus, it added a bit of a thrill to the two of you teasing one another.
- “I’ve been working hard on it since my return. ‘Tia never had the same love for painting I did, so it… wilted a bit, in the interim.”
- > You nuzzle at his neck, nibbling here and there at him.
- > You can feel the little spikes of excitement he gets from it.
- > You can feel the shivers down his spine like they’re your own.
- “Plus, I haven’t had a certain somehuman to distract me from my work all the time.”
- > He chuckles, continuing to scan your sky with his little spell.
- > In the back of your mind, you dimly wonder what he might change about it.
- > If he would change anything, that is.
- > Would he have made the same choice with Orion’s Belt that you did?
- > “Well, we’ll have to fix that. Can’t have you becoming a bore like Sunny.”
- > You giggle, and giggle a bit more when he can’t suppress a quiet groan as your tongue flicks at his neck.
- > Right beside that little scar you made on a particularly fun night.
- > His weak point.
- > But when your eyes draw back out to the ocean, your eyes are stuck on the moon, without your silhouette in it.
- > You can’t help suddenly wondering something.
- “What happened to you, Anon?”
- > “Hmm?”
- > Anonymous stiffens next to you, pretending to have not heard your question.
- > You pause, feeling a little unsure about how to rephrase it.
- > It seemed fair enough, didn’t it? Surely he knew what happened to you, after all.
- “Well, I was banished… but Celestia told me that you died from a spell somepony cast. She was clearly wrong, though.”
- > He scoffs, dropping the magic from his hand and shooting you a look of disbelief.
- > He puffs up with a bit of feigned indignation, as well.
- > “What, you honestly thought somepony could out cast me? I’m offended, Luna.”
- > You roll your eyes at that, given you beat him twice tonight alone.
- > And suddenly, you feel a little bubble of concern growing in your chest.
- > Why is he dodging the question?
- “So what did happen?”
- > His smile falters for a moment, and his suddenly eyes aren’t able to meet yours, instead looking back out at the ocean.
- > And for the first time, you feel a little awkwardness seep into the conversation.
- > It’s… weird. You don’t think you’ve ever had an awkward moment with him.
- > Even the first day you met the two of you were able to speak open and honestly with each other.
- > “Well, I’ll tell you tomorrow. How about that?”
- > You flinch, and immediately you feel regret flush through him.
- > His eyes are immediately back on yours, and you feel his hands go to the sides of your head.
- > You let him turn your head back, so that you're looking at him.
- > A quick peck removes the frown from your face, but you still don’t understand.
- > “I’m not keeping secrets, Luna. I just can’t go giving you all the spoilers out of the gate.”
- > This time it’s your eyes that wander away from his.
- > But he’s not having any of that, and pulls you in tight for a much firmer kiss.
- > His lips feel cold, but it doesn’t stop you from matching his intensity.
- > You want to press him, to make him tell you now, but…
- > Your senses are on fire as the two of you kiss, and you can feel his magic attacking all your weak points.
- > It sends a crazy rush of adrenaline to be doing this while so precariously sitting on an edge.
- > Neither of you were in any real danger, but…
- > Your instincts were screaming at you to run away, and it made everything feel more intense for it.
- > By the time the two of you separate, you were feeling thoroughly flustered.
- > You huff.
- “You’re cheating.”
- > He huffs back, sticking out his tongue.
- > “Do I need to cheat some more, or is that enough?”
- > You growl a little bit at him, trying to make yourself look intimidating.
- > Maybe, if you tried to make him tell-
- > He touches his nose against yours, and instantly foils your attempt.
- > So instead, you settle for a glare.
- > You bite your lip, and then shake your head.
- > I didn’t make any sense to pursue this if it made him uncomfortable tonight.
- “Fine. You can tell me tomorrow, but no getting out of it at that point.”
- > And just like that, all the tension fades between the two of you.
- > Anonymous’ face morphs into a giant grin, and you exhale heavily, letting go of the stress.
- > “Deal.”
- > And once more the two of you connect, with a lot more vigour.
- > Again, you feel the full spectrum of emotions and sensations flush through your system as he forcefully kisses you.
- > You almost feel like he’s going to shove you off the tower, he’s being so passionate.
- > But this time, you’re not going to be satisfied with just kissing and petting.
- > Your magic slowly begins to envelop him, and you get ready to take what you’ve been waiting all night for.
- > You can feel a burning need between your hindlegs.
- > He owes you now.
- > And you're going to collect even if it kills the two of you.
- > The door practically comes off its hinges as you throw him through it, and he crashes into a table.
- > The enormous stack of books on the table flies off, crashing against the wall from the force.
- > You weld the door to the walls with your magic to make sure it stayed closed.
- > Couldn’t have any distractions, after all.
- > Before he could even get up off the table, you were on top of him again.
- > Now, your snarl comes off as a lot more threatening.
- > You lowered, like a predator, until your head was beside his ear.
- “I hope you’re ready, my faithful student. Class is in session.”
- > With a touch of illusion magic, you grazed your new artificial canines over his earlobe, and you felt him shudder.
- > Before you felt his magic suddenly overpower yours, and he threw you back over onto a dresser.
- > The mirror behind it shattered on contact, and the glass rained down over the two of you.
- > You couldn’t even feel it as he roughly pressed up against you, finding a place between your spread legs.
- > He pushed you roughly up against the broken mirror, and roughly grabs your face as he kisses you.
- > And when he pulls away, he moves for your ear, mirroring your earlier move.
- > “I’ve got an admission to make… I’ve been holding back a bit tonight.”
- > You can feel his magic keeping you locked firmly in place.
- > The way he says it, combined with your limited movement, sets you off like crazy.
- > He pushes closer, and you can feel him press up against you down below.
- > Oh, stars…
- “Anon, I’ve got to tell you something…”
- > You can feel your torn dress slowly slide out from under you, his magic finding all the clasps easily.
- > “Hmm?”
- > You grin, and your horn flares.
- “You’re not as strong as you think.”
- > And with that, you fling him heavily against the far side of the room, slamming into a bookshelf.
- > And instantly, his clothing evaporates in your magical hold, exposing his physique to your hungry eyes.
- > This was going to be fun.
- > You can barely breathe as you pull the blankets up over yourself and Anon.
- > The room is, well...
- > Destroyed seems an accurate word.
- > A window was shattered, and you had a spell covering the hole to keep the room warm.
- > The room is now down two chairs, which had been ejected through the window.
- > The bed you were laying on had two of the legs removed and was slanted sideways.
- > The books Twilight had left here were a smouldering heap.
- > Her astronomy equipment has been effectively crushed when you had been thrown off the bed at one point.
- > Twilight would not be happy next time she came here, to find the room in a state of disaster.
- > But it was worth it.
- > You felt unbelievably good right now.
- > You hadn’t felt so alive since your return.
- > It’s just like back when the two of you would ‘play’ back in the day.
- > Each vying to exert their will on the other.
- > It was all a show, of course.
- > The two of you would never really hurt one another in any sort of permanent way.
- > Not anymore, anyhow. You had learned the lesson of safety when you had almost killed him when you were younger.
- > But the two of you knew one another so well you knew exactly how far to push the envelope.
- > Eventually, the two of you called it a draw, both far too drained and satisfied to carry on.
- > You might be covered in bruises and cuts, but the pain mixed perfectly with the pleasant tingles you felt all over.
- > Especially with Anonymous laying behind you, an arm laying loosely over your torso.
- > It was...
- > Perfect.
- > The moon had nearly set, and Celestia’s sun was dawning out East.
- > Ordinarily you would be going to sleep right about now, but your mind was too active to let you go.
- > Your brain was still flush with excitement and energy, despite your physical weariness.
- > You didn’t want to go to bed.
- > And so, to distract yourself, you nudged Anonymous with a hoof, earning yourself a tired little mumble.
- “You know, Anon, I have some friends now.”
- > Again, a groan as he shifts and pulls his way behind you, properly taking on the role of big spoon.
- > You can feel him clawing his way back from the brink of sleep.
- > He hums from behind you, absentmindedly nipping at your ears.
- > “Friends? Luna, the Princess of the Night, has taken the opportunity to make some friends? Maybe I am dead after all.”
- > You hip-check him under the covers, and scowl back at him.
- > With how bad your flank is hurting right now, that probably hurt you more than it hurt him.
- > Fortunately it’s the good kind of hurt.
- > He just keeps up his trademark smirk.
- “I made friends with you, you dolt.”
- > You can already hear his retort before he even says it.
- > The bond feels so strong right now, it’s almost overwhelming.
- > “Did you abduct them as well?”
- > You roll your eyes, but can’t help but smile at his little quips.
- > You knew he wasn’t actually upset about you taking him under your wing.
- > He used to talk at length about how you had given his life meaning.
- > What he didn’t know is he did the same for you.
- “I want you to meet them.”
- > He hums in the affirmative, and you wince slightly as his hands graze over your chest fluff.
- > You can feel the tell-tale feeling of magic from his hands, and a chestnut smell hits your nose.
- > A sleep spell.
- > “I would love to, Luna. But first I think we both need to sleep.”
- > You give him a look as your eyelids start getting heavier, and you let out a sleepy yawn.
- “Cheater.”
- > “You know it.”
- > You can feel the warmth of unconsciousness circling its way around you.
- > Maybe your friends would like him... He's basically you, after all.
- > You try to reach out to snuff out the candle with your magic, but you feel far too tired.
- > Your horn simply fizzles out when you try.
- > “Good night, Luna.”
- “Good night, Anon.”
- Act 3 – A Memory Fades
- > “It’s time to wake up, Lunie.”
- > You fought waking up for as long as you could, but eventually the conditions in the room became overwhelming.
- > The cold drip of water on your back, soaking into the blankets.
- > The wind flying through the room, chilling you to your core.
- > The struggle breathing.
- > When you eventually do muster up the courage to wake up properly, you still can’t open your eyes.
- > The brief second that you do, white hot pain lances through your skull, and you quickly close them again.
- > Instead, you lay there in those miserable conditions, trying to focus on your breathing.
- > Through your mouth, given your nose is plugged.
- > It's worse than usual.
- > You felt hungover.
- > You’re shivering, but you can’t adjust yourself to get warmer.
- > Your whole body is sore, almost to the point of being unable to move it.
- > And so, while you collect yourself, you just lay there in the bed.
- > “You need to get ready, you can’t sleep in all day. I’ll help you.”
- > After a while, you force your eyes open, enduring the pain of the dim afternoon sunlight.
- > Your pillow is thoroughly saturated in blood, your nose still steadily dripping blood.
- > You’re essentially laying in a puddle of it.
- > Magical exhaustion tended to cause that.
- > With a little stretch, you yawn.
- > Ignoring the enormous pain flaring throughout your body, you try to pull yourself up into a sitting position.
- > You manage it on your third try, though you fall off the bed promptly afterward.
- > The cold stone which felt so soothing last night just feels miserable now.
- > You almost want to just keep laying there for the rest of the night, ignore your duties.
- > But you had things you needed to get back to, or Celestia would be upset.
- > And so, you force yourself up once again.
- > You can’t bring yourself to look back at the bed.
- > You never could look back after one of your nights with Anonymous.
- > As you finally manage to pull yourself up, you try to ignite your horn to fix the window, but it doesn’t even manage to fizzle.
- > Crossing your eyes and looking up, you spot the problem.
- > The little onyx ring locked around your horn.
- > Stupid, stupid stupid. Reckless.
- > “That was horribly immature, Lunie. You could have hurt yourself.”
- > You scoff at that, more concerned that you could have accidentally damaged the ring in your sleep.
- > That would be unforgivable.
- > Gently, and almost losing your balance in the process, you reach up and pull the shimmering black band off of your horn.
- > Pain lances through you as you do, your magic completely over-taxed.
- > You stare at it for a moment, before resting it gently on the table.
- > It’s probably why you feel so cold inside, as well.
- > Sitting there for a moment, you try to get a hold of yourself.
- > You try desperately to cling to your memories of last night, drawing some comfort from them.
- > The dull throb of your wounds the only real reminder that it actually happened.
- > Well, that and the total absence of access to your magic.
- > You couldn’t feel your magic at all, it was so thoroughly exhausted from last night.
- > Looking out the broken window, you feel guilt bubbling up.
- > The sun is almost setting, it’s already about to be night time.
- > It was the time of year when the night was longer, after all.
- > You were being irresponsible again.
- > 'Tia was going to have to handle the moon tonight.
- > ‘Tia would also be expecting you to show up for Night Court.
- > You needed to get back to Canterlot, ponies needed you.
- > You look down at yourself, and you grimace.
- > You couldn’t go back to Canterlot like this, you needed to fix yourself…
- > But first, you needed to better assess what your state was.
- > And so, you shamble over to the half-shattered mirror by the dresser.
- > You look terrible.
- > Your fur is saturated in blood from your muzzle down to your barrel.
- > Your fur elsewhere is matted, sticky in some places and damp in others.
- > Your eyes have deep bags under them, and are bloodshot.
- > Your feathers are stuck out at awkward angles, the quills in dire need of a preening.
- > And your body is covered in little cuts and bruises from your activities the night before.
- > “Luna, you need to stop doing this to yourself.”
- > You can feel his voice echoing in your mind from a long time ago.
- > You shake your head a little bit, trying to break yourself out of your stupor.
- > Trying to shake his voice out of your mind.
- > Besides, your appearance isn’t what cuts you the deepest.
- > That was all superficial, and would fade given rest.
- > If you had your magic, you could have fixed it all easily within seconds.
- > No, the real damage was to something far more precious.
- > Your dress was in a ruined pile at the foot of the dresser, casually discarded.
- > You almost have a breakdown when you notice that.
- > One of the clips was broken, and the fabric was torn in several spots.
- > The little pieces of jewelry which connected it to the ring were snapped.
- > You hadn’t meant to go so overboard last night, but when you were under the spell, sometimes…
- > It was difficult to fully think things through.
- > It was impossible to think much at all while you were under its influence.
- > Especially when you altered your memories to eliminate the set-up for a night like that.
- > Gently, you lifted up the remnants of the dress, and tucked them under your wing.
- > And you got the ring off the table, doing the same.
- > And you left the room.
- > You never looked back at the cold, empty bed.
- > It took you a while, but eventually you managed to make your way back down the tower.
- > The fire had long since died out in the hearth on the main floor.
- > There was a wash basin here, fed from the water of the ocean.
- > You quickly dip into it, trying to scrub away some of the blood from your muzzle.
- > It’s freezing cold, but you feel numb anyway.
- > The cold wouldn’t kill you. The cold was your domain.
- > Besides, if you did make it back to Canterlot in time, you didn’t want ponies to panic about your state.
- > Especially given they thought you were in a fight last night.
- > Once you felt suitably clean, you pulled yourself back out of the wash basin, shaking yourself as dry as you could.
- > Pulling on a set of saddlebags, you placed the ring and the remnants of your dress in them.
- > When you push open the wooden door to the tower, you feel your hooves lock up.
- > You don’t want to go.
- > “I’ll still be here, I promise.”
- > You flinch at the voice in your head.
- > He lied.
- > This was always the worst part, when you couldn’t see or feel him anymore.
- > Just the thoughts pounding away in your head.
- > Even when you manage to get outside, into the whipping ocean winds, you can’t help but look back at the tower.
- > The tower where you kept your prince.
- > You’ll need to fix it up. He wouldn’t be happy with the state it was getting into.
- > If you can find the time.
- > Walking over to the rocky outcropping, you flare out your wings, feeling the wind catch them fairly well.
- > It wouldn’t be an easy flight, but you should be able to make it back to Canterlot in good time.
- > You weren’t sure how long it would be before you returned, but hopefully it would be soon.
- > “I can wait, just don’t make me wait too long.”
- > The voices stopped half-way back to Canterlot, and you weren’t sure whether you were happy or sad about that.
- > You felt sick each time you heard his voice, but it felt worth it at the same time.
- > You were so caught up in your head you barely realized it when you reached Canterlot.
- > Now, you were just trying to get back to your room before you got discovered.
- > While you were somewhat patched up, your state was still less than perfect.
- > You just had to avoid Cel-
- > “Luna.”
- > You cringe, letting out a curse under your breath.
- > She had a penchant for showing up when you least wanted her to.
- > You must look like a filly caught sneaking back into the house.
- > Looking over your shoulder, you see Celestia approaching with a sad smile on her face.
- > She probably saw you miles before you landed, and had planned to intercept you.
- > You feel embarrassed under her gaze.
- > She motions for you to come into the dining room, and you oblige her, walking with your head down.
- > There’s practically a feast spread out.
- > “You had a good day, I take it?”
- > You nod, feeling almost like you’re under interrogation as the two of you take up seats together.
- > You take off your saddlebag and place it on the table, as carefully as possible.
- > It was often like this after you went out with Anonymous.
- > Gazing across the spread, you feel completely uninterested in all the foods on the table.
- > You ate last night.
- > You didn’t need to eat for a while.
- > You could eat in a few days, maybe.
- > Nevertheless, you keep your eyes locked on the plates of food, using them as a distraction from ‘Tia’s judgmental stare.
- > “Listen, Lulu, I know it’s a tough time of year for you, but… you should be a bit more careful.”
- > You nod, but still don’t look at her.
- > And eventually, as always, she continues.
- > “A lot of ponies were worried about how erratic your behaviour was last night.”
- “I’m sorry, ‘Tia.”
- > An apology, but not a promise you won’t do it again.
- > She knew as well as you did that you couldn’t make a promise like that.
- > “I know you are, Luna.”
- > Not an acceptance, because she was still going to try to convince you to give up on him.
- > Later, you knew. She never tried so soon after you got back.
- > And so that uncomfortable silence settles between the two of you again.
- > The same silence that settles between you and everypony.
- “I need to speak with Lady Glacier. I… damaged my dress.”
- > Celestia nods, still seeming unsure as to whether she should condone your behaviour.
- > Condone you keeping the dress.
- > She knew she shouldn’t. It was self-destructive and reckless to stay trapped in the past.
- > But she also knew how futile it would be for her to challenge you on it right now.
- > She couldn’t take Anonymous away from you.
- > He was yours.
- > You would fight her before she could take your prince away.
- > “I saw that. I’m sure she’ll be happy to get it fixed for you. Maybe she could even become a new friend.”
- > You try not to let your emotions show when she says that.
- > You don’t want it fixed, you want it like it was before. You want it like it was never damaged.
- “Maybe.”
- > You don’t want another new friend.
- > You want your old one back.
- > Tentatively, you lay a hoof on the saddlebag, thinking about what the repair would mean to you.
- > Was an artificial memory better than a damaged one?
- > You’re not so sure, anymore.
- > “I know you need to get ready for Court, so I won’t keep you. I just wanted to make sure you were ok.”
- > These little artificial conversations felt almost routine now.
- > ‘Tia always so hopeful that you would find some way to break out of this.
- “Thank you. I’ll be fine.”
- > Eventually.
- > Your room is the organized-chaos you usually left it in.
- > Your first stop is the bathroom, where you turn on the shower and let the water warm up while you walked up to your bed.
- > You needed to get ready to run Court for the night, but you had something important to do first.
- > Gently, you lay out the destroyed dress on your bed.
- > You would put it away more carefully later, when you could spare the magic to keep it safe.
- > Even if it’s damaged, you wouldn’t let it get damaged any further.
- > More importantly…
- > You reach under your bed, pulling out a small chest made of solid, ancient oak.
- > The wood of the box is slowly decaying, much like your memory of it.
- > You open it carefully, gently, taking every precaution to keep the contents safe.
- > It’s full of little relics, ones you had collected since your return.
- > Mementos from all across the world.
- > Memories.
- > You levitate out an ancient, yellowed envelope, and open it up.
- > Inside is a worn slip of faded paper with barely legible text on it.
- > Stained from tears.
- > You wrap the ring in the little paper letter, and slide it back into the envelope.
- > You probably shouldn’t keep the ring.
- > It’s unhealthy. It keeps you living in the past.
- > But you can’t let go. Not yet.
- > And with that thought, you place the envelope back into the box.
- > Then you close the box back up, and slide it back under your bed.
- > Maybe you could go a while longer before you needed to see him again, this time.
- > Slowly you were learning to depend on it less.
- > The first few weeks after you found it, you had practically spent the entire time in a haze with him.
- > Now, you only visited him a scant few times a year.
- > None of that mattered now, though.
- > Equestria demanded your attention.
- > As it always did.
- > Dear Master Luna,
- > This is Anon.
- > High Magister Anonymous, these days. I figure you’ll get a kick out of that farce.
- > I managed it with only a little bit of cheating, but I promise it's the kind you would approve of.
- > I’m writing to you because I have failed to live up to my end of our bargain.
- > I’m getting old.
- > I couldn’t figure out the immortality spell we were working on. Or the suspended animation one.
- > Or pretty much any of the spells we were working on together.
- > I haven’t been able to figure out much without you, actually.
- > Guess I wasn’t such a good student.
- > Spent too much time flirting with teacher and not enough listening!
- > ...
- > As of writing, I don’t think I have much time left, so I’ve decided to spend it working on something for you.
- > Enclosed is a ring enchanted with my memories.
- > You might recognize the ring, actually, if it isn’t too long before you find this.
- > You gave it to me decades ago to symbolize our promise.
- > Our promise to see one another again.
- > Maybe this can uphold my end of the deal, even if only on a technicality.
- > If I did it right, when you put it on you’ll be able to see me again, whenever you want.
- > It’ll draw upon your magic, but you’ve got more than enough of that to spare.
- > Hopefully you’ll see the me you remember, and not this decrepit thing I’ve become.
- > I can’t test it out myself, and I don’t want someone else to use it, but the math all works out.
- > I don’t know how to get it to you, so I’m leaving it at the place we first met.
- > I can tell you wanted to surprise me with the changes you made to the tower, but I’m afraid I found that present early.
- > Hopefully, when you come home, it'll still be here for you.
- > I’ll always love you, Luna.
- > I hope you find happiness again whenever you get back.
- > Your most faithful student and loyal friend for eternity,
- > Anonymous.
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