The Heir (Part 3)

>You are now Anon.
>As you sit there listening to Dawn, you couldn’t help but interrupt.
“Woah, hold up. You’re telling me that a human has shown up here before me and got it on with Celestia?”
>Dawn raises a brow at your choice of words. “If that is how you humans refer to the beautiful act of creating new life, then yes.”
>This was still surreal.
>A half pony half human hybrid is sitting with you on a river bank telling you her life story.
>But there was still much you didn’t know.
“So where’s your father then? Is he still around?”
>Dawn merely shakes her head. “No, he is dead.”
“Sorry to hear that.”
>”It is quite alright, I assure you. According to my mother, he died bravely to defend those he loved dearly.”
“What happened to him?”
>Before she spoke another word, she gets up to her feet and stretches her arms out. “Come.”
“Come where?”
>”We should start walking now if we are to get anywhere. I will continue to tell you everything you need to know.”
>Your ass was getting a tad bit numb from sitting on the hard ground.
>With a heavy groan you push yourself off the river bank.
 “So, what happened to your dad?”
>”About a year after Selena was born, there was an attempt on our lives.”
“What? You mean assassination?”
>She nods with a grim look. “Mother told us that several changelings infiltrated the castle and snuck into our rooms. Father and some guards were the ones that saved us.”
>But there was more to her tale.
>”Mother felt this was an act of war and engaged the changeling army in combat alongside Luna and my father. Although successful, father fell to serious injuries on the battlefield.”
>The air seemingly grows cold for a brief moment.
>You scratch the back of your head, as if to fill that void.
“Oh, I didn’t realize....”
>”It is in the past, Anon. You must hear the rest.” She looks off into the distance.

>You are now Selena.
>You sit in your room watching the sun slowly sink below the horizon. Your eyes sting with tears.
>Duke BlueBlood tattled on you.
>Celestia’s words still buzz through your mind. “What were you thinking using your magic like that?”
>You didn’t hurt anyone.
>It wasn’t fair.
>Nothing is.
>Celestia told you to come to her whenever you needed help, but somehow she would get upset with you.
>You still remember the look in her eyes when you barely responded.
>It was a look of disappointment.
>If it were Dawn, Celestia would dismiss the accusation surely.
>No one can blame your sister.
>She was polite, well behaved and everyone would say nice things about her.
>A servant comes to your room to make sure you were ready for bed.
>As the maid helps you to get ready, you ask her a question.
“Is Celestia seeing Dawn to bed now?”
>The maid uses her magic to pile up a stack of dirty clothes to be taken to the wash. “I believe she is. Do you want me to have her come here to see you off to bed?”
“No, it’s fine.”
>In truth, you really wanted Celestia to tuck you into bed.
>But after what happened with Duke BlueBlood you’re afraid that it will end in another lecture about how she’s disappointed in you.
>After being put to bed, you try to relax and put the day behind you.
>But after that, you know the cycle will continue.
>Then an idea pops into your head.
>You’ll show Celestia something so impressive and astounding that she will have to give you praise for it.
>Her birthday will be coming up soon and her adoration of airships will be the ticket.
>You were almost giddy at the idea.
>And yet....
>Dawn still tickled the back of your mind.
>What if she found out and does something to show off?
>You do care about your sister, but not when others notice her and praise her more so.
>The more you dwelled on the matter, the more you became saddened.
>You didn’t think that you had been crying for too long until you hear a WatchPony yelling how it’s eleven o’clock.
>However, you have reason to believe that a certain pony was still up and about.
>You hear a soft rapping at your door and it slowly swings open. Standing in the doorway was a pony covered in old robes.
>Their only discerning feature was a scraggly beard and a withered old muzzle.
>“Selena, you look rather gloomy.” Mastera remarks.
>That was an understatement.
>Not only did you make yourself feel upset and had to listen to Celestia lecture you, but at lunch you had to listen to her praise Dawn for her excellent test marks in history and arithmetic.
“I don’t think my supper sat well with me.” you lie.
>Mastera grins at this opportunity. “Then come, I know something that will cheer you up.”
>This old pony seemingly had a knack for showing up whenever you felt down.
“I’m feeling pretty tired.”
>”You’ll like it...” Mastera said in a tone that was mostly coaxing, but a little threatening too.
>You look to him apprehensively.
“There isn’t going to be anything creepy this time, will there?”
>Mastera gives a hearty laugh, but it’s the kind that gives you goosebumps. “Not a nightcrawler or flyer in sight! On the contrary, it’s a safe and warm place.”
>He had a way of playing tricks on you.
>The last time he took you through the hidden walls and tunnels of the castle, he led you into a dark room filled with spiders and bats.
>You can still feel their sharp legs and claws in your hair.
>All that just to end up in the tallest tower in Canterlot which you were not allowed to enter.
>The view from the small window was almost worth the trouble. The full moon so close you could almost reach out and touch it.
>But his company was always welcoming whenever you felt down.
“All right, but there better not be anything gross or tricks this time.”
>Mastera holds out a hoof for you to take a hold of as you slip out from under the bed sheets. “Nothing of the sort, but I do have something to hold you over in your mind, Selena. We will explore an old passage and peek on your mother.”
>Your interest reaches an all time high.
>“What do you mean?”
>A satisfied smile creeps over Mastera’s face. “Come and see for yourself.”
>And that was all he said.
>The old magician leads you down the hallway and many corridors, avoiding guards as they came by staying out of sight.
>This was like playing a game of cat and mouse, and it gives you a thrill each time.
>As you approach Celestia’s living apartment, Mastera takes you down one of the darkest hallways where the stonewall shows just how old the castle itself is.
>He stops so suddenly you almost bump into him. He turns his head quickly to see if the coast is clear.
>”Quickly now, press the third stone brink up from the floor, the one with a small chunk missing from the corner.”
>Without missing a beat, you count up the bricks from the bottom and found one of them with a chipped spot.
>With a push, it sinks deep into the wall.
>At first nothing happens, but the grinding sound of brick on brick grows as a portion of the wall itself swings inwards.
>Inside was a darkness as black as the abyss.
>Of course it did not scare you, but the thought of creepy crawlies made you hesitant.
>”Quickly you fool, inside.” He whispers harshly at you.
>You look at him, but the expression on his face did not make it seem this was the best time to argue.
>You scramble inside towards the darkness with Mastera behind.
>There was surprisingly enough room for you to stand up in. The grating sound of brick seals the two of you inside the castle walls.
>The tip of Master’s horn flares up into a ghostly blue flame, dimly outlining the interior of the dark passageway.
>Seeing in the dark isn’t a problem for you necessarily, but Mastera being as old as he is, probably cannot see so well.
>You feel your skin crawl as you cross your arms, bringing your hands onto your shoulders to guard yourself.
>Mastera laughs, but you wouldn’t call it warm or inviting. “Not a bug or anything unpleasant. But rather warm and dry, don’t you think?”
>It was unusually warm for an old tunnel.
“You’re right. Just where are we anyways?”
>”Tut tut, little one. Come and keep your voice down.”
>You turn to look down the dim hall. It couldn’t be any longer than thirty feet.
>Mastera takes the lead, but not before scolding you. “And when I said quickly, I meant it.” His old pale eyes strike you like daggers.
>You take a step back, his hooded figure casting a shadow upon the stone wall almost becoming bat like.
>”You know where the tunnel is. Use it to your discretion. But I must warn you, if anypony else discovers you using it, you must tell them that you found it by accident.”
>His shadow seems to loom even closer, and you take another step back.
>”Tell anypony of this, and you’ll be very, very sorry. Do you understand?” His voice growing more hostile.
“I-I promise...”
>His expression relaxes once more and he continues to lead the way. “Good. Better if you’re not caught at all. Spying is a very serious matter, royalty or not.”
>At the end there is a flat wall covered in wooden panels. Mastera turns off the light in his horn.
>”Never open this with a light on. She might see you.” He whispers. “And no talking either.”
>Your eyes quickly adjust in the dark, and you catch the faint outline of him walking towards the wall.
>Placing his hoof against a wooden panel, he slides it off to the side. A thin beam of light shines through.
>Mastera places his face against the small opening and peers through.
>He backs away and motions you to get in for a peek. “Have a look.” He whispers.
>You press one eye to the hole and see a brightly lit room glazed in a dark blue hue.
>The room has a large fireplace at one end; the other walls were adorned by weapons and artifacts of value.
>Many of them you remember seeing on the odd occasion you would come to this room.
>Then it hits you.
>This is Celestia’s sitting room.
>Above the fireplace you see the Trident of Solaris, the weapon Celestia used in the Changeling War.
>On the adjacent wall across from you, a long sword adorned in jewels hung on the wall alongside a large portrait of your father, Anon.
>Down in front of the hearth you saw Celestia lying down on a small heap of pillows sorting through paperwork.
>There she was, not too far away and blissfully unaware of your presence.
>You stifle a giggle.
>This wasn’t just spying on anyone; this was Celestia, the princess of Equestria.
>”Selena, do you realize where you are right now?” Mastera interjects.
>You knew what the room was, but where you were exactly is about—
>Then you come to a sudden understanding.
>The blue glaze in which you see the room is because of a jewel.
>On this wall there are several large blue gems called Moon Tears. They adorn a plaque that holds your mothers weapon; Crescent’s Wane.
>It’s a large and spectacular bow made from the sacred branch of a Lunar Ivory tree.
>The panel slides closed, and you can see that Mastera was smiling in a cruel fashion.
”No, I want to see.”
>You immediately protest.
>”That’s enough for tonight. You’ve seen where the door is and you can come anytime you please.”
>He lights his horn and traces back to the other end of the hall with you in pursuit. “Come too often and you’ll surely be caught. Now come along, we’re going back.”
>At the end of the hall he shows you a sliding panel.
>Putting out the light, he slides it over to reveal another peephole. “Be sure to remember where this is, you’ll need to look before you exit or else one day, you’ll be surprised.”
>You take a look out the small hole and see how the glass window pane nearby gave a ghostly reflection of the hallway outside.
>”Is it clear?” He asks urgently.
>You nod your head. His magic gently grips your hand and guides it onto an interior spring mechanism so you know where it is.
>The stone door slides inward. “Quickly, go now.” He urges you.
>The both of you make it out quickly and the trapdoor closes behind you in a jiffy.
>After a few minutes you’re both back in your bedroom. “That’s enough excitement for one night, I believe.” Mastera sighs.
>”Remember, if anyone sees you using it, you found it by accident.” His eyes grimly glitter.
>You quickly respond in a timid fashion.
“I will.”
>Whenever he looks at you like that, you could feel your heart fluttering about inside your chest.
>Like a bird dying to escape its imprisonment.
>And in some small way, you felt like that most of the time.

>You are now Dawn.
>It has been many moons since you first started to practice your incantations.
>Yet mother has insisted all these years to never tell anyone else.
>Selena was the only other that knew, for she had been practicing her own incantations.
>Being a young lady required you to have some control over your desire to be carefree. But it was hard to not feel excited over mastering a new form of spell casting.
>As you’re finishing up for the evening, your mother comes around and nuzzles you affectionately.
>”You are doing well, Dawn. Your father would be so proud.”
“Thank you. I trust that Selena is doing better at her spells and incantations?”
>Celestia nods and you feel much relief. “Much better than when she was younger. But you know she prefers to practice with her bow more so.”
>That’s true, but at least she found something to put her time and energy into.
>You glance at your mother’s ethereal hair which has begun to grow dull in recent years. A lot of things have been going on recently and this was just another thing to worry about.
>”What will you do now?” Mother asks.
“I feel like some tea and quiet music would be a pleasant way to finish off this evening.”
>”Want me to fetch a servant?”
>You stand up from your chair and stretch your arms out.
“No need. I will go myself and see how the kitchen staff is doing today.”
>Your mother goes on her way to conduct royal business while you head out through the royal hall.
>You greet each guard on your way with a warm smile and a hello.
>However, you didn’t notice a servant heading your way.
>One of the guards tries to warn you, but you bump into a pony carrying a silver tray and end up crashing into the ground.
>A sharp burn tears through your hand as you quickly sit up.
>A unicorn with a yellow tan coat sits on the floor with a large pot of stew on top of her head.
>Her mane is completely drenched in the savory smelling stew as you look down at your wrist and notice a cut.
>A stream of red liquid pours down the length of your arm.
>The servant pulls the pot off her head and you recognize her as Sunrise Shimmer, your friend.
>Several guards quickly come to your aid and Sunrise begins to panic. “Your Highness, I am so sorry!”
>Her magical horn shimmers as she tries to clean up the mess, but several guards step between the two of you.
>”Your Highness, did she hurt you?” One of them asks.
“I am quite alright. The fault is mine. I was clumsy.”
>Sunrise takes one look at your arm and she grows pale almost instantly. It was as if she was ready to be thrown in the dungeon and banished for spilling the blood of royalty.
>Two of the sentries cross their spears, cutting her off from you.
>”She has caused harm to Dawn,” one of them growls.
>A guard helps you to your feet and you quickly make your way to Sunrise who was already in tears.
“There is no need to overreact, it is just a scratch.”
>You gently move a wet piece of Sunrise’s mane away from her face.
>She looks to you as if her life hangs in the balance.
“I thank you guards for being diligent, but an accident is an accident. No need to threaten a chambermaid.”
>You hold your hand out to her. She looks up to you less fearfully now.
>Placing her hoof into your hand, you gently ease her up. You look to one of the guards and smile.
“Can you please find Sparkle and ask her to clean this mess? We will go and clean ourselves up.”
>”A-at once, your Highness,” a guard replies.
>Several of them scramble to go and do as you ask, as if to garner favor with you.
>You felt fortunate to not get soup on yourself, but seeing that look of dread on Sunrise’s face was unsettling.
“Sunrise, I wish you would not get upset. It was not your fault.”
>She has fully calmed down and is able to get her thoughts in order. “But I do apologize, Dawn. I looked away for one second and before I realized it, I bumped into you.”
>You couldn’t help but giggle. “Well, I have always been somewhat gauche.”
>Perhaps an understatement.
>You overheard one of the maids comment on your awkwardness a while back.
>”Dawn has two left hooves, I tell you.” She said to another. “Bless her soul she’s gracious in every sense but she is a klutz.”
>If anyone else such as Duke BlueBlood heard such gossip being made against him, he would try to have them imprisoned.
>In any case, Sunrise wasn’t at fault. And as your chambermaid, she’s also been a close friend of yours for many years.
>There was a charming robust quality about her, something much more genuine than the other members of the royal court.
>Although she didn’t live in the castle and was considered common pony folk, you two have been seen together almost every day. Some say it’s not right for royalty to associate with commoners too much.
>”I really am sorry, Dawn.” Sunrise keeps insisting.
“I know you mean well, but you cannot stop apologizing profusely; especially when you did not willfully mean to cause me harm. We both got distracted, and it is not the end of the world.”
>You smile warmly at your companion as you both head to the kitchen. There was a large basin there where Sunrise could wash up while you tend to your scrape.
>Inside the food prep area, the head chef is off to the side talking to some of the other cooks. This chef is a gryphon. His old gray plumage would say much about his age and wisdom, considering he makes some of the best dishes you’ve ever tasted.
>He immediately turns to look and his yellow eyes widen with life and vigor. “Ah ma chérie! Come come, I want you to try zis new dish—“
>The chef stops short and looks at the mess Sunrise was covered in and the red stain on your arm. “What has happened pauvre chose?! Did zis clumsy maid cause you harm?”
“No, we just need to wash up. But if it is not too much trouble to ask, I would like a cup of your finest tea for later.”
>He gives Sunrise an incredulous look, as if he knew she was up to no good. He looks back to you with much admiration and sincerity. “But of course mon petit chou-fleur, only the finest for her royal Highness.” He bows his head.
>”The basin is in the back, please help yourself.” He adds.
>You glance down at Sunrise who looks as though the whole world is against her.
“Actually, can you please make that two cups?”
>The chef simply smiles. “As you wish, and I will also bring you two servings of my newest dessert.”
“That sounds just delightful.”
>As you pass you give him a reassuring pat on his back. He looks as though his heart would explode.
>The both of you make your way to the back where you and Sunrise begin to clean yourselves up.
>”You didn’t have to get tea for me, Dawn.” Sunrise looks down on the ground in shame.
“I wish you were not so harsh on yourself.”
>Sunrise walks into a small basin underneath a giant water spout. Her horn glows to grab onto the contraption to start working the pump.
>Soon a gush of cold water spews forth and drenches her from head to hoof.
>”You know it’s more than just the accident. I didn’t exactly come from a respectable family line.”
“What do you mean? The Shimmer family has been the most honest and hard working line of butlers and maids the royal family could ask for.”
>Sunrise shakes her mane to loosen any bit of food that still may be stuck. “You know what I mean, Dawn.”
>Unfortunately, you did.
>Her ancestor went by the name of Sunset Shimmer. A former student of your mother’s that went rogue and tried to use the Elements of Harmony in another world to take over Equestria.
>Twilight Sparkle and her friends were successful in stopping Sunset and changed her ways.
>Your mother had forgiven Sunset and her transgression, other ponies are not so willing to exonerate.
>”How could they accuse me of doing something like my ancestor did? Do they really believe that I am inclined to act the same as she has?”
>You look at the cut on your wrist which has stopped bleeding by now. Sifting through some cupboards, you find a box with medicine and some gauze to use.
“You and your mother are honest and very kind. Those who do not know you are foolish in assuming things about you. Just continue to be nice to those around you and I promise they will begin to treat you right”
>By concentrating with your mind, the medical supplies float out of the cupboard and begin to patch up your wound under your command.
>”No offense, but you’re royalty and everypony has to respect you because you’ll be a Princess one day.” Sunrise retorts.
>You couldn’t help but chuckle.
>As soon as the gauze was wrapped around your wrist, you put the supplies away and walk over to Sunrise who was still rinsing out her coat and mane.
>Kneeling at her side, you run your hands through her hair to help her wash. “Maybe some do, but I do not feel that is the case. Do you respect me because I will be your Princess one day?”
>She manages to look you in the eyes. Sunrise looks as though she committed a terrible sin. “Heavens no. You’re just like your mother, so thoughtful and kind for us downtrodden pony folk. I know how I feel, but the others I can’t say for sure.”
>You find a bottle of mild detergent and gently rub it through her mane and coat.
“I think you worry too much what others think of me.”
>Using your magic, you redirect the stream of water to wash off the soap from her body.
“That should be thorough enough. Please join me in my chambers after you dry off. I have something I wish to discuss with you.”
>You take your leave from the kitchen.
>After a short while of retreating to your room, another maid comes to your door with two cups of tea and two servings of dessert.
>Just like the head chef promised.
“Thank you very much. Have yourself a wonderful evening.”
>You take the tray from her at the door. “Are you sure you don’t want me to bring it in for you?”
“It is quite alright, I assure you.”
>Without another word of protest, the maid makes her way down the hall.
>And right on cue, you spot Sunrise walking down the hall towards you.
“Glad you can make it, friend.”
>You smile warmly to her as you invite her in.
>You set the tray down at the table and motion for her to sit in a chair.
>This song and dance has been done many times before, but for her it’s as if she’s been invited by royalty for the first time.
>The poor thing was so worried about messing up or acting foolish in your presence that she was hardly able to have fun.
>You pull off the cover to reveal two hot cups of tea and two plates of dessert waiting for you.
>Grabbing a plate and cup, you serve Sunrise first.
>”O-oh, you shouldn’t have to serve me, Dawn. If anything you deserve the first taste.”
“Sunrise, you are a guest in my room. Remember when we use to have tea parties with Selena when we were much younger?”
>A small grin creeps across her face. “Oh yeah, we did a few times, didn’t we?”
>Despite Selena being sad sometimes, there were moments when you two got along.
>”Your sister has been into archery for a while now, yes?”
“Oh yes, and she is quite good at it. In fact, much better than me when I was her age.”
>”Do you still practice, Dawn?” Sunrise asks curiously.
“Oh no, I am afraid I cannot put much effort into archery with so many other things going on. That is why I brought you here.”
>You take a sip of your tea and savor the taste for a brief moment.
“Mother says I should not talk about it to anyone else, but I feel so excited that I simply must tell you.”
>Sunrise has barely taken a sip of her own tea and already you have her on edge. “Well it must be, I never heard you this excited before. What is it?”
>You quickly get up from your seat and skip over to the door.
>Peeking outside you make sure no one else was near, you softly close the door and take your seat across from Sunrise.
>Leaning in closer, you begin to whisper.
“Mother says Selena is one step closer to learning how to raise the moon and sun on her own!”
>There is a brief pause, but Sunrise leans back into her chair with a stunned look on her face. “Oh, well that’s... certainly something.”
>She takes another sip of her tea.
>You didn’t anticipate her reacting like that.
“Is something wrong? I thought you would be as happy as I am.”
>”No, don’t get me wrong. Raising the moon and sun is no easy feat I’m sure, but I thought this was news concerning you.”
>You didn’t think that anything good happening to you should be all that important.
“Whatever bit of good fortune comes my sister’s way is my concern. I mastered that ability only a year ago and here Selena is almost able to do it on her own. I know this is something to be happy about.”
>Sunrise begins to shrink back in her seat.
>The realization of your biting words comes back to you.
>The truth is, there was a lot to be excited about.
>But you can’t even tell your best friend what that is.
>At least by telling her about Selena’s accomplishments, you feel some of the pressure being relieved.
“My sincerest apologies. I did not mean to get upset, but please try to understand where I come from on this.”
>You take another sip of your drink as you wait for Sunrise to respond.
>”No, you’re right. It’s just that I thought this was about you. But if Selena is coming along with her magic, then I’m happy for her.”
>Sunrise lifts a fork with her magic and begins to prod the slice of cake before her. “Is this a new menu item?”
“Yes, please try some.”
>Sunrise licks her lips. “Not every day we have sweets like this in our house.”
>The fork skewers a piece of the spongy dessert with plenty of sweet cream and fruit filling.
>You take a bite from your slice gingerly and almost begin to beam with joy from the delightful flavors.
>Sunrise on the other hand, looks as though her brain couldn’t handle the taste.
>”This is so good!” She almost yells out.
>She quickly gobbles down another bite of cake and moans in ecstasy. “You get to eat stuff like this all the time? I’m jealous.”
>Giggling at her comment, it’s true you did have some of the best food to eat.
“I could not possibly do that. Lest you want a round plump princess for a ruler.”
>Sunrise begins to laugh while trying to keep her mouth closed. Her effort to try and stifle her laughing causes you to laugh as well.
>She is a good friend indeed.
>After the merriment has settled down, Sunrise asks if she could take another slice of cake to bring home to her family.
“Of course, I will send for a maid to bring it in a small package for you to take home.”
>”You will make a fine Princess one day, Dawn. But as your friend, I think I should let you know something.”
>You cock a brow at her.
“Oh?”
>”Well, I mean it’s your business, but some of the new servants here wonder why you refer to Selena as your sister. I‘m not sure if they need to know or not, but I was curious what you think.” She looks as though she was going to sink down into her chair.
>You lean back in your chair and look out the window as the evening sun continues to set.
“Think nothing of it, Sunrise. It is no big secret to those who have worked in this castle for so long to know the circumstance of the relationship Selena and I share.”
>You get up from your seat and walk over to the window peering into the bright distance.
“Selena is all alone. You know this, right?”
>”Y-yes, I know her mother died giving birth to her.”
“Then you can understand why she is... the way she is.”
>You pause briefly, reflecting on some of the unfavorable moments.
>Times when her outbursts scared you.
“Lately I feel she has come to terms with this, but at the same time distancing herself to preserve what emotional well-being she has left.”
>Already your voice begins to crack.
>”Dawn?” Sunrise asks timidly.
“We tried... so hard. We were there for her, and yet she keeps rejecting us. She has been in pain all her life, my mother has tried to reach out and nothing seems to work.”
>You dare not look back at Sunrise. It wouldn’t be proper for her to see the tears forming in your eyes.
>A nervous chuckle escapes your throat.
“I believe that by calling her my sister, and not my cousin, that she will in turn come to feel the love I have for her in my heart.”
>You sniffle a bit, trying to keep your composure as best you can.
>”I didn’t mean to upset you, Dawn.”
>Taking in a deep breath, you continue to look out towards the sunset.
“You can tell them it is said with endearment. Nothing more.”
>Sunrise sits there in stunned silence.
>You can hardly blame her.
>She knows the circumstances surrounding Selena, but not how you feel.
>This is the first time you opened up to her on this matter.
“It is getting late, Sunrise.”
>You keep your focus straight out the window.
>”Are you alright, Dawn?”
>You sigh and finally turn to look at your dear friend with a small smile.
“I will be fine. Go home and be with your family.”
>She takes her dessert and leaves with little more than a goodbye.
>Your gaze turns back to the window.
>Down and below from where you stood, you could see Selena in the archery range.
>One arrow after another, she hits the bull’s-eye with little margin of error.
>You might be fine.
>But it’s her you’re still worried about.

>You are now Mastera.
>As the late hours of the night toll away, you pace nervously back and forth in your lab.
>Glass bottles and beakers of various sizes and shapes fill the shelves and tables in the room. Inside each a different coloured brew bubbles within.
>For many years you have done this; walking back and forth in deep contemplation.
>But tonight you were deeply troubled. For many years in fact.
>Finally you stop and stare out the lone small window which looks out towards the black night sky and the quiet streets of Canterlot.
>You hear a shrill squawking of your two-headed parrot sitting in its cage.
“I suppose there is no alternative. Dawn has to be dealt with.”
>The parrots shriek again. “Death!” One of the heads shouts.
>You’ve overstayed your welcome here in Equestria long enough. You feel as though your wits have dulled and now you have little control left.
>The dismemberment of an established royal hierarchy was not going to be easy.
>But you had to see this through.
>Why?
>Because nothing could please you more.
>To see alicorn and royal blood flowing through the streets at the hands of the downtrodden and everything burning to the ground gave you the most wonderful feeling of all.
>Just by your advice to certain members of the council alone, you’ve managed a slight raise in taxation.
>Though seemingly not much at first, it’s enough to start squeezing the air out of the less fortunate.
>The royal kingdom has even begun night raids on farmers for unreported food crops and such.
“So easy for royalty to sit comfortably while the coals slowly heat up underneath them.”
>You pull out a large book from a shelf with your magic and quickly skim through it.
>This discontent must continue.
>If left unattended for too much longer, Dawn will ascend to the throne.
>She was the real threat to your plan, next to Celestia herself.
>Celestia is far from perfect and she is growing old, her magic fading.
>In your heart you knew that Dawn had become increasingly aware of your... abruptness.
>One time you suggested that a group of thieves be banished for life.
>However, Dawn would not have that.
>She was in the streets of Canterlot at the time and saw that the group were in fact street urchins.
“Surely if you let them get away with it, then what’s to say more won’t try?”
>Dawn looked at you with her stern look. “You should learn to have some compassion, Mastera.”
>Although the food they stole was not all that fit to be eaten, they sold it to farmers who would pay them for it.
>In turn, the money was used to buy medicine for their sick mother.
>Celestia was informed of the situation.
>They were pardoned.
>All you could do was smile and say:
“Your will is Equestria’s will, your Highness.”
>But not for all the gold and jewels across the land would you have allowed Dawn or Celestia to see the wicked fury that rose in your heart when your way was challenged.
>Other crimes that go unnoticed by Celestia often ended up the way you desired them to.
>Banishment and, in some delightful instances, death.
>You still remember the night after those thieves were pardoned.
>Returning to your gloomy laboratory, you pulled out a cage that held a large Red Weaver spider.
>For several years you’ve fed the grotesque creature baby mice to make it grow big.
>Each of them poisoned and dying.
>This was to increase the potency of the spider’s venom which is already powerful beyond belief.
>It’s large. bloated body quivered with venom.
>With your magic, you levitate it out of the cage and over a crystal goblet.
“Now then, die and kill precious, little Dawn.”
>You whisper harshly as you begin to constrict the life out of the arachnid.
>The gooey poison oozed from its body and into the cup.
>Quickly, you added some strawberry brandy and stirred it together.
>Dawn would take one sip and instantly fall to the floor.
>You can already imagine the look on her face. Her death would be quick, but excruciatingly painful.
>With a sick grin on your face, you call for a servant to have it taken to her.
>And yet...
>Before the servant could even knock at your door, you pour the concoction down the drain in the middle of your work floor and listened as it bubbled and fizzed.
>You remember feeling how your face contorted with hatred that night.
>No sooner did you pour the poison than you took the same goblet and threw it into the corner with all your strength.
>It shattered into many pieces.
>The servant knocked at the door and you permitted him entrance.
>Pointing to the corner where the broken shards of glass remain you glare at the servant.
“I’ve broken a goblet. Clean it up with a broom at once. And don’t touch the pieces or you’ll regret it...”
>So what stopped you from committing that deed?
>In the back of your mind, you felt as though you would’ve been caught.
>Had Celestia loved Dawn a little less, you would have taken the risk.
>But you felt that in her grief and fury, she would not rest until the murderer of her daughter was either banished or possibly...
>A ghastly image of your head on a pike flashed through your mind.
>For now, Dawn is safe because of your fear and Celestia's love.
>A maddening thought comes to mind.
>What if by some wild chance, Dawn was to get seriously injured and die?
>Would Celestia come to blame you?
>Of course she would.
>Deep down you knew she did not trust you.
>So what better way to get rid of a problem than to look at you before anypony else and accuse you of murder, even it was an accident?
>At this point, it feels as though you would have to take measures to make sure nothing happened to Dawn.
>The notion of such a thing infuriated you to no end.
>It was damnable.
>The very thought that you may even have to intervene to keep her safe was atrocious.
>But time is wasting away fast.
“She has to go. I must find a way to take Dawn out of the picture.”
>You continue to pace back and forth in your laboratory.
>By now your pet parrot has fallen asleep and softly mutters to itself.
>The more you thought about it, the more it infuriates you.
>You curse the name of Celestia under your breath as you pace around the room.
>So many ways to kill that half breed, and yet you’re stuck pondering ‘what ifs’.
>A plan so close to fruition and something stands in your way.
>You glare out of the tiny window from your lab right at the full moon.
“You were only the start, dear Luna. I plan on finishing your dear sister and the rest of the royal family. But the final blow will be from the ponies you watch over.”
>But as Celestia grows older, her magic fading ever more, Dawn grows older and more wise.
>Soon she will have the authority to send you away or imprison you.
>Sweet and caring as she is, you could see that look in her eyes; head strong like her mother and father.
>Celestia...
>So righteous and yet hypocritical. Sitting on her throne eating cake while lowly peasants starve.
“For a bucket of manure I would kill you myself, Celestia. Kill you for all the trouble your sister and daughter have caused me. The joy of killing you would be worth ruining my plans.“
>You pause.
>. . .
>The joy of killing you...
>. . .
>You look into the murky dark corner of your room where your own shadow dances uneasily from the light of a nearby candle.
>An idea blazes through your mind like a torch.
>The lone candle burns a ghostly blue for a brief moment before going out.
>”Murder!” One of the parrot heads screeches in the darkness.
>”Death!” The other head replies.
>Unseen and unheard by anypony, you begin to laugh in the darkness.

>You are now Selena.
>As you promised to Mastera years ago, you would not visit the secret passage to Celestia’s room too often.
>Although the temptation to try so every night was there, you recall his stern gaze and hostile tone if you were caught and squealed.
>In many ways, you were afraid of him. And yet he was the only pony who would ever be there for you.
>Although you did not confide in him too much, Mastera was nice enough to show you interesting things about the castle that not even your mother knew.
>It’s been a long day, and after the evening archery practice, you skip your usual tea and snack and head straight to your room.
>Celestia’s birthday was coming up soon.
>As you walk down the corridor, passing guards on your way, you recall how you and Dawn used to come up with ideas for gifts when you were younger.
>On many occasions, you’d both make something to please her.
>Seeing her smile and having her compliment you was probably the most you’ve ever gotten from her.
>But Dawn....
>Dawn always had to show off.
>She would go on without telling you and make something else by herself for her mother.
>The first time that happened, you had nothing to show for it. Just a measly gift you and Dawn made together.
>Dawn threw her arms around Celestia as you stood there.
>All you could manage to speak was a pathetic ‘Happy Birthday’.
>Although she said thank you, you knew deep down she didn’t mean it.
>She probably thought you were selfish for not getting her something special on your own.
>In the following years that you tried, you always came up with excellent ideas.
>Miniature ships that actually float.
>Paintings.
>Cakes.
>And yet you couldn’t pull any of those to save your life.
>Most you end up throwing away out of shame.
>And it all comes back to Dawn.
>She must fancy herself better than you.
>You can feel your face burn with anger and jealousy.
>And to add insult to injury, for the last couple of years she has decided to bring her mother a glass of wine at night before going to bed.
>”Such a thoughtful daughter.” Everypony was spouting.
>But why was it so special?
>She bought the wine with her own money.
>It wasn’t enough that she was the daughter of Celestia and could have anything she wanted without having to pay a single bit, but Dawn found the perfect way of getting under your skin.
>If you tried to do anything now, it would only look bad.
>Everypony would claim you’re just imitating her to earn praise.
>Who needs their approval?
>Not you.
>You’re content to hate Dawn with a souring surge of jealousy as the days go by.
>And there is one thing she can’t take from you.
>Your archery skills.
>When Dawn was younger, she was quite good.
>But now you’ve surpassed her and even gotten ponies to proclaim your aim and skill was akin to your mother.
>Dawn must’ve been so ashamed when she found out that she must’ve stopped archery altogether knowing it was futile.
>And your magic’s been getting better as well.
>Celestia has taught you how to use incantations properly, but you still prefer to use your magic.
>Soon you may be able to try and raise the moon on your own.
>While it is fitting given your birthright, it’s a bitter reminder of your place in the grand scheme of things.
>Opening the door to your room, you feel the cool evening air rush past your face.
>One of the maids forgot to close the window.
>Closing it, you get yourself ready for sleep.
>But as of late, you find yourself hardly getting any sleep.
>You toss and turn under the bed sheets as the hours roll by.
>A WatchPony yells out the time into the cold, dark night.
>It’s apparently midnight.
>In the silence of your room, you make your mind up.
>It’s been quite a while since you ventured out and spied on Celestia.
>Putting on your normal attire, you quietly sneak out of your room and make your way to the secret passageway.
>You find the switch easily while making sure nopony was nearby.
>Carefully you walk through the darkness, your innate ability to see in the dark better than most without a light source was incredibly useful.
>The two slats of wood slide easily off to the side and you take a seat to watch Celestia through a blue haze.
>For the few times you’ve watched Celestia it’s been the same.
>And yet, each time you felt more disgusted and repulsed than the last.
>Late into the night, well after Dawn would give her a glass of wine, Celestia would pull out a huge silver platter with a large cake on it.
>She would take large mouthfuls of the sweet dessert, stuffing her face in the most unlady-like manner.
>Crumbs and frosting would stick around her mouth as bits littered her coat and floor.
>Then she would wash it all down with a bottle of wine.
>Not a single glass, but a whole bottle.
>It was amazing that she had not gained weight by doing this, but you continue to watch her perform the same ritual.
>Here was supposed to be the most perfect ruler of Equestria, but behind closed doors she gorges on sweets and drowns in alcohol.
>For the longest time, you feared and loved her.
>But now the feelings were becoming more convoluted.
>After her indulgence of wine, she would even begin to cry.
>You’d never seen her cry until the first night you spied on her. A part of you wanted to come forth to comfort her, but it was much more enticing to watch her weep.
>And to think, if this is what a princess does, what are others capable of doing when they think they’re alone?
>Of course, there was something you surely thought only crazy ponies would do.
>She talked to herself.
>After drinking she would wander around the room looking at the art work that lined the walls.
>But most of the time, she would glance at your father’s portrait and talk as if he was there.
>”I wish you were still here, Anonymous. Your girls need you. I need you...” She takes another gulp of her wine.
>How does she manage to act so proper around everypony else?
>Maybe others really do have another face they just hide.
>And this is not just anypony you’re spying on; this is the princess of all Equestria.
>Celestia mumbles something to herself. You almost stop breathing to try and hear what she has to say.
>”I remember the day.... you said you loved me. You knew what was at stake... I was to outlive you no matter what.”
>You hardly moved at all, instead keeping all your focus on listening to her rambling.
>Suddenly she takes the empty wine bottle with her magic and flings it into the fireplace where it shatters into pieces.
>”Why did you have to be so reckless and throw your life away?!”
>You almost jump back from her sudden hostility.
>Celestia storms to the other side to another stash of wine where she instantly opens it and takes another drink. “You should be here helping me to raise them. They need their father, not... this...” She begins to cry bitter tears once more.
>Her face turns towards you.
>Your heart nearly stops for that brief moment fearing that you’d been caught.
>She slowly makes her way closer to you.
>”Dear sister, you must think me a fool... I fear I have failed you in many ways.”
>Your heart begins to beat harder. You have never seen her this upset before.
>”I’ve tried my best, but now you’re gone from this world! Look at what I’ve been reduced to!” She begins to bellow as her eyes start to glow.
>More and more you begin to think she has discovered you.
>”LOOK AT ME!” Her words shake the wall with tremendous power.
>You couldn’t take it anymore.
>Quickly, you close the two sliding panels and make a mad dash for the exit.
>In your clumsiness, you bump into the stone pillars and walls on your way out.
>You didn’t even bother to check and see if there was anypony in sight before opening the door.
>Like a bad dream, you feel as though Celestia is hot on your trail.
>You scramble to get under the bed sheets as quickly and quietly as possible.
>A cold sweat breaks out on your brow as you lay in the covers waiting.
>Soon your tiny heart begins to settle and soon you begin to fall asleep.
>But the next few weeks would be filled with sleepless nights. Nightmares where Celestia stares you down, her voice booming and eyes glowing white.
>”LOOK AT ME NOW!” She bellows, as if to say her state of affairs is all because of you spying on her. You wake up in a cold sweat and have a hard time falling back asleep.
>You swear to yourself you will never go back and spy on her.
>In fact, you avoid Celestia altogether.
>Then one day as you sat in your room, Dawn comes up to you. “Why do you never want to see mother anymore?” She asks.
>”Mother thinks you are angry with her.”
>You’re astounded by this.
“That I’m mad at her?”
>”That is what she said at tea today.” Dawn informs you.
>She gazes at you more closely. It’s hard to conceal how tired you felt, even with the right makeup it would be impossible.
>”Selena, is something wrong?”
“Probably nothing.”
>You answer her slowly.
>The next day, you sat down with Dawn and Celestia for some tea.
>This took a lot of courage for you to do.
>Sometimes bravery is found, even when you have your back to a wall.
>Celestia gives you a kiss on the forehead and asks if there is anything wrong.
>You could only mutter.
“I just haven’t been feeling well. But I’m fine now.”
>After that was said and done, Celestia went back to congratulating Dawn on her success in education and work with magic.
>For once you welcome this.
>You didn’t want Celestia looking at you more than necessary, at least for the meantime.
>You thought to yourself; never again.
>As you fell asleep the following nights, the nightmares became less frequent.
>Soon they stop altogether.
>But there’s an old saying.
>Some fillies and colts are better at pledging vows then they are at keeping them.
>And soon you found your desire to spy on Celestia welling up within you.
>But you couldn't have known that what you will watch transpire will haunt you for the rest of your days.