Lunar Apex

The first week of Luna’s return had been spent in isolation, half in dire need of rest after her ordeal, and half in fear of what her subjects would say, or rather not say in her presence. Celestia had agreed to tend to the moon, but on the second week, Luna joined her sister for the first time in a millenium. That first night had left her exhausted, every muscle sore and every ounce of magic drained. Celestia had had to carry her to bed, whispering assurances while Luna sobbed apologies. But every night, Luna returned, and every night came a little easier.

Now, on this night, the longest night, Luna approached the coming dark with a grace she had not known in a thousand years. Tonight was her night, a chance to turn the sky to diamonds for hours upon hours. The magic danced around her horn, hurried by her eagerness, tiny sparks flying faster than the eye could follow. Her whole form began to glow a serene blue as the first rays whispered their way above the horizon.

The moon, her friend, her prison, her charge, her joy, slipped into the sky. She had never resented the moon for her punishment, never feared it upon her freedom. Every night she had struggled to raise it, weeping from the strain, she had felt it working with her to ease the burden. It had never abandoned her, and she knew she would never abandon it. As the crown jewel of the night settled into the beginning of its path, a million stars flashed into existence. The silver light of the night sky turned the clouds into an endless sea of silk, of which the princess was the serene ruler and sole witness.

Luna bathed herself in the moonlight for a few minutes before turning in the direction of Canterlot. Some still feared her, she knew. At times, she feared what she might do herself. Better, this year at least, to celebrate on one’s own. With a contented sigh that was lost to the crisp night wind, the princess of the night fell through the cloud. Icy moisture clung to her as she unfurled her wings, catching the sky and easing into a calm glide. It was not far to Canterlot, but far enough to enjoy the trip.

What Luna did not know, idling through her starry sky, is that when she arrives at home, she would find no guards or handmaids on the grounds. Her sister would not be waiting for her on the balcony. But when she checks in the main hall, assuming another late night snack before bed, Luna will find the entirety of the castle waiting to surprise her with the first Winter Moon Social. All Celestia’s idea, of course. The most prominent star gazers, astronomers, and tolerable dignitaries will be in attendance. Luna will leave the room and come back to make sure it’s not an illusion before running in and embracing her sister.

A thousand years ago, a mare turned to hate because the nights she loved so much, she loved alone. Luna would know, after that night, that she will never be so alone again.