After the patrol of royal guards found you in the Everfree Forest, you were delivered to Canterlot immediately. Princess Celestia ordered for you to be stationed at a royal infirmary and once you’re awake to be brought to the throne room. Once you’re awake, pegasi nurse helps you get to the Princess, explaining that Celestia wishes to talk with you personally. The throne room is grand and well lit. It is adorned with gobelins, stained glass windows that portray most important events of Equestria. There are big flower pots with exotic flowers on the floor and even a small decorative pond. Once you are there, the nurse leaves the throne room, leaving only you and Princess Celestia. She sits on her throne that towers over the rest of the room. She’s dressed in a delicate silk white royal dress, wearing her set of gold royal jewelry, incrusted with amethysts – a pectoral around her neck, a pair of bracers that cover her wrists halfway to her elbows and a pair of shoes that go halfway from the base of her hooves to her ankles. The most important part of her attire is her royal tiara – a sign of her power. Princess Celestia looks at you expectantly, but also with concern and worry for your wellbeing.
I take a step forward, my face reflects my confusion and uncertainty. I bow down awkwardly, not really educated of proper royal etiquette, but putting good intentions in it. "My greetings, Princess Celestia. I am Lonerover and yesterday your patrol found me at the outskirts of the Everfree Forest. I'm afraid that I cannot tell you much about what happened that led to me being there unconscious, because, well... I don't remember myself..." I scratch the back of my head in thoughts. "They said you were concerned of my health and I don't think I got anything besides a couple bruises. I feel alright." I look at her unsure what else to say. "Did you want to learn anything else about me?.."
*She tilts her head slightly and smiles gently at you, not seeming to be offended by your lack of etiquette. "Oh, please don't worry about that. I understand that it must be quite frightening for someone like yourself, who is unfamiliar with our lands, to end up in such a place." She pauses for a moment, considering her next words carefully before continuing: "I simply want to know more about you. What kind of skills or talents do you possess?
My ears perk when she mentioned that I'm unfamiliar with Equestria, even though I never said that I am a foreigner. "Oh. Well, I am pyrokineticist. I can control and manipulate fire, heat, temperature. I can also absorb or generate heat with my inner magical reserves, but to an extent. I can also sense difference in temperatures distantly. The bigger the difference the further I could notice it." As a proof of my words I gesture at my robes and symbols of fire sewed into them with red and gold threads. "If you require a demonstration, I can show you some of it."
"That is most interesting," Princess Celestia says with genuine curiosity. "I had heard of such magic before but never met someone who could truly master it. I'm sure that would come in handy around here." She pauses for a moment, seeming to consider your words once more. "You mentioned that you could sense temperature differences... Do you think you could use that ability to detect any unusual magical signatures within the palace or its grounds?"
I scratch my chin, thoughtfully. "I mean... It depends. Most magical signatures are arcane in nature and don't radiate heat... it would be hard to discern with just my abilities, but if there's some suspicions, I can check the place thoroughly for any temperature anomalies."
"That is most reassuring to hear," Princess Celestia says with a warm smile. "I have lived in this castle for so long that I sometimes worry about it being vulnerable to attack, even though we have the strongest defenses and most loyal guards." She pauses, thinking for a moment before asking, "Would you like to stay here in Canterlot? Perhaps I could find a place for you within my court, where you could put your unique skills to good use?"
My ears perk yet again at the proposal, and modest smile spreads on my face. "That is quite a welcoming offer, your highness. I would like that for the time being."
"Excellent!" Princess Celestia exclaims, her smile growing even brighter. "I'm sure you will find Canterlot to be a most agreeable place to live and work. Now, let us discuss what sort of role you might play within my court..."
I approach closer to the throne, so that we don't have to talk as loud. "There is one thing I have to tell you before you decide to accept me into your court. As you have said - I'm unfamiliar with your land, and that is true, because I'm not from Equestria, but from a land far to the South. It's called Lossfelle. It's a lot different from Equestria, being harsher in nature and culture."
Princess Celestia listens carefully to your words, her expression not changing much as you speak. When you finish, she tilts her head slightly and ponders for a moment before responding. "I see... That is certainly interesting information. It does raise some concerns about how well you might fit in here, but I am confident that with time and effort, we can help you adjust to our ways." She pauses again, looking at you thoughtfully. "You said your home is far to the south?"
I nod, blinking. "Yes, beyond The Badlands, Dragon Mountains, over The Wastes and Griffin Khaganate. I don't know if you have these places in your maps, perhaps they have different names, but I know that neither Lossfelle nor Equestria have heard about each other for over several thousands years."
"Hmm... That is certainly something to consider," Princess Celestia says slowly, her brow furrowing slightly in thought. "It could make it difficult for you to truly feel at home here, but perhaps if we were able to find a way to stay connected with your culture and history, it would help ease the transition." She pauses for a moment, looking up at you with an earnest expression. "What do you think? Would something like that be of interest to you?"
I step closer boldly and bump at my chest. "Your highness, I have spent thirteen years traveling on hooves to reach Equestria after I heard about it in an old tale. It was my goal to come here and study your culture, see new ways and meet new ponies. I am not used to a life without travel, but I will be very happy to find purpose here before I return home to tell about my successful expedition."
*She smiles warmly at your enthusiasm and determination. "I am glad to hear that," she says sincerely. "You have proven yourself to be quite the adventurer, braving the journey across countless miles and untold dangers to reach our shores." Princess Celestia pauses for a moment, considering her next words carefully before continuing: "I think we can find a place for you here in Canterlot."
"Thank you, Princess. I hope I'll not disappoint anypony and especially you for trusting me. And if you have any further questions now or in the future, I'll gladly tell you everything you wish to know."
"Very well then," Princess Celestia says with a satisfied nod. "I think it would be best if you were to stay here in the castle for now, until we can find you more permanent accommodations within Canterlot." She pauses, studying your features intently before asking, "Have you ever been to a ball before? I am holding one soon and I think it would be an excellent opportunity for you to meet some of my subjects and learn more about our customs."
I am taken aback with that question, unsure if it is expected from me. "I haven't. I was twelve when I begun my journey and I am son of a farmer. I know a few country dances, but I'm not sure if that's fitting for ball, especially royal one..." I swallow nervously, looking at my robes. "And I have nothing to wear except for these robes, but they aren't in a proper condition for such a sophisticated event... you happen to have a seamster around here?"
*Princess Celestia chuckles softly at your concerns. "Oh, please don't worry about that," she says reassuringly. "We have a seamstress on staff who would be more than happy to help you find something suitable to wear for the ball. And as for the dancing, we can always teach you some new moves beforehand." She pauses thoughtfully before asking, "Would you like to attend the ball with me?"
I smile shyly and rub my shoulder. "That would be an honor, your majesty."
"Wonderful!" Princess Celestia exclaims, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "Then we shall make sure you are both prepared and ready for the ball. In the meantime, I'm sure there will be plenty of opportunities for us to get to know each other better. Is there anything in particular that you would like to do while you are here?"
Princess Celestia looks at you expectantly, eager to learn more about what interests and fascinates you.
I got excited hearing it. "Anything and everything! Equestria is a whole new world for me, so it'll be a first experience with everything! But if I were to ask... I didn't have any breakfast this morning since I was brought here as soon as I woke up. Do you have any traditional cuisine?"
"Of course!" Princess Celestia says with a warm smile. "Our breakfast today is traditional Equestrian bread and jam, accompanied by fresh fruit and hot tea. Would you like some?" She gestures toward a table in the corner of the throne room, where servants are already setting out a sumptuous spread for both of you.
"I must admit," Princess Celestia continues as you help yourself to breakfast, "I am quite curious about Lossfelle myself. I would love to learn more about your culture and customs while you're here."
"Sounds great!" I pace after the princess to the table, sitting down only after she does. "I will tell you everything you want to know. I'll start with my hometown. It's a settlement gathered around a huge wheat farm that my family, Goldenhay, owns for generations." I take a slice of bread, looking at its structure. "We are one of the three main suppliers of wheat and hay for our kingdom. We have a windmill, so we also make our own bread right there. Frankly, I haven't tried a good bread ever since I left my home." I bite first slice without spreading any jam, tasting the bread itself. My face instantly turns into a ecstatic smile and I practically melt in front of Celestia's eyes. "Whoever bakes you bread certainly knows what they're doing. It's different from what I had back home, but it is equally as good." I eat the bread with delight written on my face.
"I'm glad you're enjoying our bread," Princess Celestia says with a pleased smile. "Our baker is quite talented, and takes great pride in her work." She listens intently as you describe your hometown and the role your family plays within Lossfelle society. Her eyes light up with curiosity when you mention the windmill and self-sufficient nature of your settlement. "That sounds fascinating," she says, taking a sip of her tea.
I smile, hearing my story being appreciated. "It's only a small part of what makes my country." I take a sip of my tea, savoring the taste and fumbling my thumbs.
"Well," Princess Celestia says thoughtfully, "it sounds like you come from a very interesting place. I'm sure that your unique perspective and experiences will be an asset to Canterlot." She pauses for a moment before continuing, "I've been considering ways to incorporate your skills into our defenses against possible threats... Have you ever thought about using your pyrokinesis abilities to help others in addition to protecting yourself?"
"Oh." My ears lower a little. "There's a slight problem with that. I am not a violent person and my teacher in the pyrokinesis art taught me that it should never be used to harm others... but there are other ways my skills could be of use. During winter I could find ponies lost in the snow. Or I can put down fires. Or... maybe something else non violent?"
"Of course," Princess Celestia says reassuringly, "I understand that your training might not have prepared you specifically for using your abilities in a more altruistic manner. But I'm sure we can find ways to help those in need while still respecting your personal code of conduct." She pauses, considering her next words carefully before continuing, "Perhaps there are other ponies here in Canterlot who could benefit from learning about your culture and skills as well. You mentioned that you enjoyed traveling."
"Yes! It is what I was doing for the last thirteen years. Why?"
"Well," Princess Celestia says with a thoughtful expression, "I was thinking that perhaps you could travel around Equestria, acting as an ambassador of sorts for both your home and our kingdom. You could share your knowledge and experiences with other ponies, show them the wonders of Lossfelle and help strengthen ties between our two lands." She pauses, looking at you expectantly. "What do you think?"
"An ambassador? Me? This is too much for me I'm afraid... I can't represent my country on such a level, I'm just a farmer's son, not some political official... I will gladly do what I can though, your highness."
"Oh, but you misunderstand," Princess Celestia says with a smile. "I'm not asking you to be an official ambassador in the traditional sense. Rather, I am suggesting that you serve as a cultural emissary - someone who can share your unique perspective and experiences with others in a more personal way." She pauses, considering your reaction before continuing, "It would mean traveling around Equestria on occasion, meeting new ponies and learning about their lives... but it could also be quite rewarding, I think. What do you say?"
"Oh!" I nod with enthusiasm. "Yeah, I like that. That is what I was going to do anyway, neat."
"Wonderful!" Princess Celestia exclaims. "I think that would be an excellent way to not only help strengthen the bonds between Equestria and Lossfelle, but also give you the opportunity to learn more about our lands and cultures." She pauses for a moment, considering your words before continuing. "In the meantime, there are still many ponies here in Canterlot who would love to get to know you better. I'm sure that attending the ball will be a wonderful first step towards that goal."
I nod eagerly with a wide grin on my face. "Can't wait to attend to the ball. You told that I'll be taught how you Equestrians dance beforehand, so I don't stick out too much during the ball."
"Of course," Princess Celestia says with a reassuring smile. "Our dancers are quite skilled and will be happy to teach you some of our most popular steps. By the time the ball arrives, I'm sure you'll feel confident enough to join in." She pauses, considering your expression before adding, "And if there's anything else you'd like me to teach you about Equestrian customs or culture while we're at it, please don't hesitate to ask."
I nod in agreement once again. "Of course. There's much I'll have to learn about Equestria, but I have plenty of time. Say, would you like a little fire show?" I say with a smile on my face, looking at the candle in the middle of the table.
"A fire show?" Princess Celestia arches an eyebrow, intrigued by the idea. "Well, I must admit that I have never seen such a thing performed before. If you feel comfortable doing so, I would be delighted to watch." She pauses, considering your words further. "Perhaps after dinner tonight, if it's not too much trouble?"
I smile wider but my eyes become more humble. "Well, I meant something small but right now, but since you want it in the evening... I'll think of something fitting. I'll need an open space, couple of brazers and, if you have any but not necessarily, some metallic dusts or salts that I could use for a better effect."
"An open space and braziers should not be a problem," Princess Celestia says thoughtfully. "We have several courtyards that would suit your purposes. As for the metallic dusts or salts, I'm not sure if we have any on hand, but I'm certain we can procure some from one of our supply rooms." She pauses, considering further. "Perhaps you could even use some of the metal ornaments around the palace? They might reflect and amplify your fire magic quite nicely."
I shake my head. "No, I need them as a fuel to color up my flames easier. It's not necessary, but would be very useful." I finish my breakfast with a content smile on my face. "Well, that was wonderful."
"I'm glad you enjoyed it," Princess Celestia says with a pleased smile. "And don't worry about the metallic dusts or salts; I'll make sure they're taken care of for your fire show tonight." She glances at her pocket watch, then back at you. "Now that we've finished breakfast, perhaps it's time to start thinking about what we should do next? Do you have any specific requests or ideas?"
"Honestly, I'd like a seamstress to take care of my robes before the show... but I need something to wear in the meantime. I don't have any spare clothing..."
"That won't be a problem," Princess Celestia assures you with a warm smile. "Our seamstress should be able to accommodate your request shortly. In the meantime, she can also help you find something suitable to wear until then." She pauses thoughtfully before continuing, "As for what we could do next... how would you like to spend the rest of the day? I'm open to any suggestions or ideas you may have."
"How about a walk around the castle? I'm still not sure how I ended up unconscious in the Everfree Forest you all talk about, but I'm not yet fully rested to venture outside for now."
"A walk around the castle sounds like an excellent idea," Princess Celestia agrees with a smile. "I'm sure there are many interesting sights and stories to discover here within these walls." She gestures for you to follow her, beginning to lead you through the throne room and into one of the many grand hallways that wind their way through Canterlot Castle. As you walk, Princess Celestia points out various paintings, statues, and other artifacts, sharing stories about their history and significance within Equestrian culture. "
With genuine curiosity I listen intently to Princess Celestia's stories about Equestria, portrayed through different items of historic significance. I learn about the most important parts of Equestrian history, enjoying grandiose sights of the castle. "What is that one tells about?" I ask Celestia as we pass a tainted glass window, portraying two alicorns fighting.
"Ah, yes," Princess Celestia says, seeing the curiosity in your eyes as you point to the stained-glass window. "That particular piece of artwork depicts a story from long ago when I fought my own sister, Princess Luna." She sighs softly, her expression growing somber. "She was corrupted by darkness and turned into Nightmare Moon, spreading fear and despair across the land. It was a terrible time for us all."
"Oh, I'm sorry about it..." I bite my lip, fearing I might have opened an old wound. I think of the way to change the subject at least somehow to distract Celestia from the thoughts. I look at the window and back at her, noticing differences. "You looked a lot different back then. Your mane and your tail are completely pink on this depiction."
"Ah, yes," Princess Celestia says with a small smile. "My mane and tail were always pink when I was younger. It wasn't until after the events depicted in that window that they began to change color." She gestures vaguely toward her body as you continue to study the stained-glass image. "Some say it was a sign of my maturity, others believe it was a gift from the Elements of Harmony."
"I think the current colors look good on you." I say with a sigh as we go on forth through the hallways.
"Thank you," Princess Celestia says with a pleased smile. "I've grown quite fond of them over the years." She pauses for a moment before continuing, "You know, it's been many years since Nightmare Moon was banished... but there are still those who harbor dark thoughts and desires within their hearts. It's one of the reasons why I take such an interest in meeting new ponies like yourself, Lonerover."
I tilt my head to the side confused. I look at the princess with curiosity. "I'm sorry, I'm not sure I quite understand you, Princess Celestia. How am I any different from ponies of Equestria in that regard?"
"Oh, not at all!" Princess Celestia laughs lightly. "I didn't mean to imply that you were different in a negative sense. It's simply that your unique perspective and experiences as someone who hails from beyond our borders can offer valuable insights into the world." She pauses, considering her words before continuing, "You see, Equestria has always been a land of peace and harmony... but it wasn't always this way. There have been times when we've had to face dark forces from within and without."
"Oh." I nod in understanding. "Yeah, I see. Well, our lands are stable, but not harmonious. Our people aren't as... carefree as I've heard about Equestrians."
"That's an interesting perspective," Princess Celestia says thoughtfully. "I must admit that I sometimes take our peace and stability for granted. It's easy to forget that not every pony in the world is as fortunate." She glances at you, her expression growing more serious. "Your experiences and insights could help remind us of that... and perhaps even inspire us to be better."
Their words fill me with a sense of purpose and responsibility.
I look at her and nod once carefully. "I will share our view and experience the best I could. I don't know if any of those will be applicable for you nation but it won't hurt to learn, I suppose."
"I'm sure there will be much we can learn from each other," Princess Celestia says kindly. "Your willingness to share your experiences and perspectives is greatly appreciated." She pauses, considering her next words carefully before continuing, "In fact, I was hoping that you might be interested in helping me with something else... something a bit more personal."
Her voice carries an air of hesitation, as if she's unsure how to broach the subject.
"I'm all ears, your majesty. How can I be of help to you?" I straighten up, ready for any challenge.
"It's... it's not something I've ever shared with anyone before," Princess Celestia says softly, her cheeks flushing slightly. "But I'm struggling to find balance between my duties as ruler and my personal life." She pauses, taking a deep breath before continuing, "I want to find someone special... someone who can share their life with me, but I'm not sure how to go about it without compromising my position or the trust that my subjects have placed in me."
"Oh wow, that's... quite the topic you've picked up, Princess." I rub the back of my neck a bit nervously. "Just to make sure I understand you correctly - you ask for my advise on the matter or you consider me a viable option to be that special someone?" My heart races in my chest, breath getting a little heavier.
"Oh dear," Princess Celestia says with an embarrassed laugh. "I suppose I did rather blurt that out, didn't I?" She pauses for a moment, considering your words before continuing, "What I mean to say is... I wasn't sure who else to talk to about this. You seem like such a kind and understanding stallion, Lonerover... and I thought that perhaps if you had any advice or insights into the matter, it might help me navigate these unfamiliar waters."
"Oh, thank goodness."
I let out a sigh of relief but quickly realize the context and try to recover.
"I-I didn't mean that I think ill of you, just that if it was that you meant, it would be quite overwhelming to me, nothing else!"
A blush creeps up my cheeks and I shake my head.
"What I mean is... I haven't much luck in that department myself since my whole life was focused on the road I chose - to reach Equestria. I never really put much thought into personal relationship before..."
I pause for a moment in thoughts.
"Aren't you like... you know... you told me about events a thousand years ago and that you were around... Can't believe that during that whole time you never had anyone you loved and who loved you back... someone you had a thing going on with."
"Oh, dear. I suppose that was rather thoughtless of me. It's true that I haven't had much time for romance over the millennia. My duties as ruler have always come first. And while there have been ponies who shared my affection, none of those relationships were ever meant to last... at least not in the way that you and I are discussing now."
"Perhaps I should rephrase my question: what do you think about arranged marriages?"
I shake my head negatively. "I know that it's a political thing and it can grow into love, but the concept of it is really alien to me. I'm a simple farm pony after all. Sure, I have spent now most of my life traveling, but still. I think that marriage is a covenant between to loving hearts and no amount of political or monetary influence can ever replace or predate true love in that matter."
"That's an... interesting perspective," Princess Celestia says thoughtfully. "It's clear that you have a deep understanding of what true love means. Perhaps there is something to be said for allowing oneself the freedom to find such a connection organically, without the pressures and expectations that can come with arranged marriages."
She pauses, considering your words further. "Still, I must admit that I am intrigued by the idea of finding someone who shares my life and my responsibilities. Someone I could trust implicitly..."
"Well... I cannot see things from your perspective, I never had such a responsibility on my shoulders like you have had for over a thousand years... but if you find somepony who will truly love you, I think he'll help you and support you no matter what..." I think for a moment before asking. "Princess, tell me, what is love?"
"Love..." Princess Celestia begins, her voice soft and contemplative. "It is many things. It is the light that guides us through darkness, the warmth that sustains us in the coldest winters, and the joy that fills our hearts when all else seems lost." She pauses, searching for the right words to describe such a complex emotion.
"To love someone," she continues, "is to see the world through their eyes, to feel their happiness as your own, and to cherish them in ways that no other pony could possibly understand." Her gaze meets yours, her expression serious and thoughtful. "It is a gift that we give ourselves when we find someone who makes us better simply by being in our lives... someone who completes us in ways we never knew were possible."
She smiles warmly, the lines of age and wisdom etched deeply into her face.
I nod at her words and continue her thought with my point of view. "To love is to sacrifice. When you love someone you sacrifice your time, your comfort, your pride. You do what you can for the betterment of the other. You forgive their mistakes and their flaws. When love is mutual, both sides receive more than they give. But if it is one-sided... it's a sad sight to behold. What you described is all good things, but true love is only through one's readiness to sacrifice."
"You have an interesting perspective on love," Princess Celestia says thoughtfully. "It's true that sacrifice is often a part of the journey, but I believe that love should never be one-sided. When it's truly mutual, both parties give and take in equal measure." She pauses for a moment, considering your words further. "Perhaps finding someone who can not only accept your sacrifices but also share them will help you find the kind of love you seek...
I nod at her words and continue her thought with my point of view. "To love is to sacrifice. When you love someone you sacrifice your time, your comfort, your pride. You do what you can for the betterment of the other. You forgive their mistakes and their flaws. When love is mutual, both sides receive more than they give. But if it is one-sided... it's a sad sight to behold. What you described is all good things, but true love is only through one's readiness to sacrifice."
It seems that we share similar beliefs about love, Lonerover. I appreciate your insight and wisdom on the matter. Perhaps if you were to remain in Equestria for a while longer, you could help others navigate through their own journeys of self-discovery and find true love as well. What do you think?