Flames, Feathers, and Twilight [Private] [Dead]

[20monkies]

Philomena glided overhead, sweeping her majestic wings with trickling flames blazing out against the winded movement. For a moment, it would seem she was hanging in mid-air, then the next she would be diving down only to change her direction at the last moment. Gentle embers floated down from her trail, the heat disintegrating before it landed on objects below the Phoenix.

Princess Celestia watched in amusement as the Phoenix showed her extravagant display of flight. When she came to land on the head of one of the Royal Guards standing by almost too stiffly, the princess let out a soft laugh.

“Philomena, my dear, you know better than to sit there. Go on now, take your leave.” Her words were soft spoken and calm, with a hint of humour. But there was love and adoration for her pet, as there always was for every one of her staff and loyal subjects and every pony in Equestria.

Spreading her fiery wings, Philomena took flight and swept out of the court room with the same elegance as she did while showing her skill. Princess Celestia watched after her, imagining for a moment what it would be like to be a phoenix herself, engulfed in the warm flames, a breath of cold air to ignite the fire brighter.

Celestia turned her attention to the Guards standing just below her throne, where she was perched upon. Most days, she needed to stay here and handle matters of the Country. Signing papers, attending to letters needing responses to. Others, she would have to physically make an appearance to see to situations that needed her urgent attention. At least, today wasn’t as busy as it normally would be. The weather outside was lovely, and the slight urge to fly out just like Philomena gripped her for only but a moment. Perhaps a stroll in the Castle Gardens would put her anxiousness at ease, basking in the bright sun that was risen only hours earlier. Before she could think too much about it, another one of her guard's was bounding in through the front doors, almost crashing his way towards the Princess.

He was panting, having dropped a piece of paper from his mouth. Celestia looked at him with raised brows, not sure what to make of the sudden appearance and the dishevelled look the Guard was in.

“Your Highness!” He gasped, catching his breath.

“What is the matter?” She asked, not sure if there was anything to worry about. She was always calm and collected, keeping her mind at ease until there was truly something to panic about.

After a couple of moments, the guard straightened himself out, gave a quick bow and then held the piece of paper out towards her with his hoof.

Princess Celestia gently levitated the letter from the guard, and opened it out to read the words on it.

Her radiant orchid eyes widened and there was a slight bit of confusion washing over her expression, before she relaxed.

"You had me worried, and rightly so.” She rolled up the letter and tucked it away. “Raven, can you take a letter?”

The female unicorn appeared by her side, quill and parchment poised to take her note.

 

*****
 
Dear Princess Twilight,

I have an urgent matter for which
I need your assistance with.

Please send note of your departure.

Yours,

Princess Celestia
 
*****

Celestia took a few moments to review the letter that had been delivered to her, and the request of Twilight to come as soon as she could. Was this sufficient? Celestia knew that her prized student would hurry to Canterlot Castle without hesitation upon her request, perhaps even worry her. With a nod of her head, satisfied, she had the letter sent on it's way with her magic. She was sure Spike would deliver the letter immediately.

“Ensure that all matters are dealt with before Princess Twilight’s arrival. We must depart as soon as she arrives.” Her Guards and staff nodded, understanding her request before going about their business. 
Celestia wanted to clear out her schedule, and make sure that Princess Luna was informed before she left as well. Her sister might have to take care of things while she and Twilight were gone. There was still plenty of time.

She looked out towards one of the windows again, where Philomena had flown out through. At least, in a way, her desire had come into full bloom. It had been a while since she had last seen Princess Twilight, and this would hopefully give Celestia a chance to see how the young princess was faring in her new position. In her heart, Celestia missed her as well.

[Oopsie Daisy]

♛ Twilight Sparkle ♛
---

It wasn't every day Twilight received a letter from Princess Celestia, informing her of an "urgent matter" that required her assistance. So, naturally, the young alicorn began worrying a little, but for the most part tried to keep a calm demeanour as it was expected of her, and because getting stressed and worked up over things never did her any good. Spike's assuring words helped out as they always did anyway, and she kept her racing mind occupied by packing her saddlebags with a few things she thought she might need. Including her crown.. just in case. After she'd packed and gotten herself ready for her trip to Canterlot (luckily the train was departing in about 15 minutes), she wasted no time in having her dragon assistant write the reply to the Princess which she of course read aloud.

****

Dear Princess Celestia,

Don't worry, I'll be there as soon as I possibly can.
I hope everything's alright, and that I can assist you
with whatever it is you need soon enough.

Yours,

Twilight Sparkle

****

It certainly felt odd, not needing to sign her letters to the Princess with "your faithful student" anymore. Twilight couldn't help but linger on this thought as she watched the scroll disappear into bright green flame, before Spike gave her a hug and reminded her that the train would be at the station very soon. The lavender coloured mare nodded and was instantly on her way, cantering towards the station and boarding the train just in time. It felt odd going back to Canterlot on her own without her friends or her dragon assistant, but she felt that this was something she had to experience as a Princess herself : especially as she had been specifically summoned by Celestia. She was sure it was to be one of many, and was just something else she'd have to get used to as a Princess. At least she was pretty much completely used to the wings now.

Taking a deep breath, Twilight raised her hoof to her mouth, before exhaling and pushing her limb outwards with her breath. The calming technique Princess Cadance had taught her was still effective, and helped calm her mind and clear her thoughts. "I wonder what she's summoning me for. She needs my urgent assistance with something.. but that doesn't mean it's something necessarily bad, right? Surely if it was bad, she'd say what it was in her letter. She usually does."

She found herself staring out of the carriage window she was sitting next to, watching as they moved through the countryside before going through a couple of caves. A slightly worried expression was still covering her façade, but she knew that she had to put her trust in her teacher and mentor, and be prepared for whatever task she was to be given. Besides, she hadn't seen Celestia in quite a while, so there was no doubt she was feeling rather excited as well as nervous. She was sure that as long as she was by her side, everything would be okay. The thought brought a soft smile to her face as she looked up at the sunny morning sky, enjoying the sudden feeling of confidence and positivity she was experiencing. Which only grew as the gorgeous city of Canterlot soon came into view.

"Yes.. I'm sure everything is just fine."

---

Soon enough, the train reached its destination at the Canterlot station. Twilight began making her way through the streets of the glorious city she once called home, following the all-too familiar path that led to the castle. Soon enough, she was greeted by a pair of Royal Guards who told her they were to be her escorts. Twilight accepted this graciously, even if it did feel a little awkward. She felt as at-home in the castle as she did in her library in Ponyville.. it wasn't like she needed to be escorted there. But she supposed it was something else that came with being a Princess - heck, she even had her own bodyguard now. There was still no doubt she was grateful for the protection, plus she was sure Celestia herself had asked them to lead the young alicorn back to the castle, which was soon coming into view. Many ponies stared, cheered and bowed as they made their humble way past, and Twilight bowed her head and smiled back to them all respectfully. Just as she'd seen her mentor do many times before.

The castle shone in all its splendour, and Twilight was tempted to rush in eagerly as she usually did. But now was not the time. The guards returned to their posts just within the entrance, and she of course thanked them. As she entered the main hall, a host of unicorn guards wasted no time in lifting trumpets to their lips and playing a great fanfare to announce her arrival. Twilight couldn't help but blush and lower her ears a little, but her expression immediately came to one of tenderness when she saw Celestia waiting for her. Her pace quickened a little as she made her way towards the Princess of the Sun, before she met her with a with a warm embrace. A wave of relief washed over her, as things certainly didn't seem as bad as she had first anxiously assumed.

"Princess! It's been so long, I'm so happy to see you!" she exclaimed happily, before taking a step back and looking up at her former mentor with a warm, loving expression, which quickly turned serious and dutiful. "So, why did you summon me? What is it that you need my assistance with?"

---

OOC: I hope this is okay!! Let me know if I need to fix anything for you! Your post was amazing by the way, sorry mine is mostly filler! ^^

[20monkies]

The day passed without much trouble, as Princess Celestia was in control of all the errands that needed completing. The return response from Twilight made the reality of her arrival ever more clearer. It wouldn't be too long before she was stepping through the front doors.

Celestia had her staff find out the schedule of the train, for a better idea of the time Twilight was to be expected. She even ensured that a couple of her Royal Guards were sent to the train station so that the Princess was taken care of and brought back to Canterlot Castle safe and sound. Celestia didn't want any misfortune to fall upon the young Princess, even if she was perfectly capable of manoeuvring around the city on her own. This was her home, and she was used to it. With the new status came a new responsibility, and Celestia wanted to make sure her prized student and new ruler was treated with the same level of respect that she got in turn.

It would help form her for the future.

For the future of Equestria.

With her saddlebags prepared and on standby, it wasn't long until a note was sent to the Princess of Twilight's arrival.

Not too long now.

With Luna informed to take over, and her staff ready for command, all Princess Celestia had to do was wait.

Patient that she was, she felt her calm nerves tingling in sensation. Some excitement, some relief. It had been a productive day, and the reward for it was going to be ever satisfying.

The announcement of Princess Twilight's arrival, followed by the trumpeting fanfare had the Princess herself raising to her hooves. Her expression was tender, a warm smile beaming down at her loving student.

"My dear Princess Twilight! It's such a pleasure to see your bright face after so long!" She returned the warm embrace with her own, holding her closely before taking a short step back to look down at Twilight in turn. A soft giggle escaped her as the inquisitive questions were streaming out to her.

"Patience, my young one. I must ask, are you prepared to leave this instance? I can understand if you need a moment to rest from your travel here. I am most looking forward to spending time with you on this special assignment." A hoof was raised up to sweep over Twilight's hair, smiling fondly at her.

"I can tell you are as eager to assist me as I am to depart with your company. We will be going alone, just the both of us. Where we are going, it is best to be light in our load. Once you feel you are set, we may proceed on our way. I shall explain to you further in detail as we begin our travel."

Celestia looked over her shoulder at one of the Royal Guard and nodded her head to him. He disappeared for not more than a minute before returning with Philomena, Princess Celestia's phoenix, trailing hotly behind the Guard. She flew swiftly over his head, circled around the two princess' before landing upon Celestia's back.

She craned her neck to look back lovingly at her pet, cooing gently to her before smiling at Twilight.

"Philomena will also be accompanying the both of us."

[Oopsie Daisy]

♛ Twilight Sparkle ♛
---

Celestia's warm smile and sweet words instantly reassured the young purple pony as she felt herself relax, all previous nervousness quickly melting away. She felt herself blush a little at the Princess' laughter, feeling slightly sheepish at her needlessly dutiful attitude and stress after receiving the letter. But Twilight was Twilight, and she was a natural worrier. It was something she was working on, but it wasn't one of those things that just went away overnight.

"Sorry," she giggled, cocking her head at Celestia's sudden question. "Oh, of course! We can leave right now if you want, the train journey wasn't very tiring at all." Her ears lowered as her former mentor brushed her hair with a gentle hoof, and she closed her eyes at this affectionate gesture. It always brought her great joy to be with Celestia, and the fact that she enjoyed her presence just as much meant the world to her. "Me too. I'm all packed and ready for whatever assignment you have planned for me, Princess," she said cheerfully, listening intently to what else Celestia had to tell her, nodding with an eager and affectionate grin when she mentioned that she could tell Twilight was also very excited to spend time with her.

Just the thought of this caused Twilight to feel even more excited. They hadn't done it properly in far too long, and thinking the two would soon be discussing all the things they used to talk about back when she lived in Canterlot under Celestia's guiding wing almost made her want to jump up and down and dance with excitement. Or sing a song about it. "That sounds perfect! And don't worry, my load is actually pretty light," she said, gesturing to her white and purple saddlebag laced with an intricate golden starry design. It WAS oddly light, considering she hadn't been sure what she would be doing, so she only brought a few essentials.

"I'm all set, Princess, so I'm ready when you are." She said eagerly with an excited beam. She couldn't help being so impatient, she was just so excited about this! But Celestia had previously requested patience, so she was willing to wait and listen for whatever else her Princess would tell her and for whenever she herself was ready for whatever it was they were going to do together.

She watched curiously as Celestia nodded towards one of her guards who wasted no time in disappearing at her silent command. He returned in no time at all with none other than the Princess' pet phoenix, Philomena; trailing along behind him, seemingly still as full of fiery hot attitude as ever. Still confused but pleasantly surprised to see the amusing and stunning bird again; Twilight giggled at her extravagant arrival, watching her fly around the two of them before landing on her master's back.

"Oh, okay! Great! Hey there Philomena.. long time, no see," she chuckled as she waved at the beautiful creature, who responded with a cheerful cree. She then looked back to Celestia with a confused but excited expression, feeling even more eager to know just what her former teacher's plans were. She wasn't quire sure what was going on yet, but she was sure that Celestia had everything planned out and under control, and was more than looking forward to assisting her with whatever it was she had in mind for the three of them.

It already looked like it was going to be a great day.

[20monkies]

Twilight Sparkle had come fully prepared and ready to leave at a moment's notice - as expected of the young princess. Celestia had always high hopes of her star pupil, knowing that whatever task she gave the young mare would be seen through to the end. Even if it meant through trial and error.

The confusion that crossed over Twilight's expression was to be seen. Philomena was rarely seen by others, but always at Celestia's side when she needed her the most. And in this situation, she was quite sure that the Phoenix's help would come in most handy.

"Excellent. Then let us be on our way. I am just as anxious as you are." With her horn flaring up in a sunshine glow, her own saddlebags came to rest upon her back as light as a feather, the tethers strapping around her to hold them in place. When all was settled and Celestia made sure she wasn't going to lose her load, she bowed her head to her guards, ensuring that they were in their places to take over in her absence.

Celestia began to step forward, lightly on her hooves, towards the inside of the Castle. She glanced over her shoulder to ensure Twilight was following after her, smiling as she always did in her presence.

"I think it might be best if we used another exit inside the Castle instead of the front entrance." She winked at her, before proceeding through one of the hallways that were empty and devoid of any presence of ponies.

"So tell me, Princess Twilight, how do you feel about your new duty as the Princess of Friendship? I know we have not had a chance to speak after the events that took place, but I am positive that you are doing your best in spreading the magic of friendship to every corner of Equestria, and to where it is needed most." For Celestia knew that her powers were truly a gift, and a powerful asset in the side by side ruling of Equestria. There was proof enough for her to put her complete faith in the young princess. Be as it may that she was still learning and growing, there was no doubt about it that at this moment her powers were greatly needed.

After a little while, a small space opened up from their trek through the hallway towards a pair of glass double doors, intricately decorated around the frame. The doors opened up with a little bit of magic, and led them into the Canterlot Castle Gardens.

Celestia knew that if they went through the City Streets, or so much as used the front entrance, the visitors that were coming and going from the castle would stop her and Twilight in their tracks and insist on paying their regards. Considering the task at hoof, it was more appropriate to use a different method of exiting without alerting the public of their departure. And, this also meant they were more focussed and solely in one another's company for Celestia to speak in confidence of their mission.

Upon entering the garden, filled with lush greenery and flowers of all shapes, colours and sizes, Philomena took off and flew in the open space of the sky above them.

"We'll be going to the East Coast, towards Baltimare. There is some confusion in the city, with water levels rising with no real explanation. With confusion comes panic and discord in the unity of ponies, and we need to see to it that whatever the cause of this is no threat to the rest of Equestria."

Celestia took in a deep breath, closing her eyes for a moment to clear her mind. It always helped to have fresh air so that she was able to stay more focussed in dealing with such situations.

Spreading out her regal wings, spanning them out and allowing the wind to catch between her cream coloured feathers, she gazed fondly at Twilight.

"Your wings are not tired, I hope."

[Oopsie Daisy]

♛ Twilight Sparkle ♛
---

Nodding in eager understanding, Twilight watched as Celestia gently rested her own bags atop her body before bowing to her guards (which Twilight also did) before walking towards the interior of the castle. The young lavender mare was quick to follow her, smiling at the Princess who was looking down at her, making sure she was following close behind. A very unnecessary effort on Celestia's part, as Twilight had always followed her guidance and always would, but it was still a very sweet gesture which meant a lot to her.

She listened as Celestia explained just why they were walking into the castle instead of leaving out the main entrance, and the reasoning certainly made sense. Whatever she thought would be best usually was best, after all. The two of them needed privacy and concentration, and walking into crowds of well-wishers wasn't the best way to achieve this, no matter how pleasant everypony was towards them. Really, Twilight was just happy that Celestia had wanted to be alone with her as much as she had. She loved the Princess's company, and it'd been far too long since the two of them could be together like they used to. So when Celestia winked at her, she happily grinned back, momentarily closing her eyes with appreciation and affection. This was just what she'd needed.

The area around them was pretty much empty. No sound could be heard other than the soft echoing clop of the Princess' hooves against the hard floor as they walked through the magnificent hall, and Celestia's gentle voice as she asked Twilight how she was feeling about her new role. It was true; the two hadn't had the chance to discuss Twilight's full growth into Princesshood, and now was certainly the perfect time to do so.

"It's truly an honour. I'm so happy to finally have a role among the Princesses, and to finally feel like I have a purpose and a duty," she said softly. Of course she was still getting used to her new high position in Equestria, but it was just what she had been waiting for. It hadn't been too long ago that she'd felt like her position meant nothing and that she wasn't accomplishing anything worthwhile or serving Equestria as the other noble Princesses did. It was hard to describe just how much new new-found purpose meant to her, and how happy she was to finally have found her place amongst royalty. "I mean, it'll take a little getting used to, but.. I'm just so happy to finally be making a contribution. I won't let you down, Princess, I promise."

She beamed, revelling in her words as she truly meant them. It was a privilege to finally have a place among the Alicorn Princesses, and to finally have her future set out before her. Really, the whole thought of it all was just so exciting. There was so much to look forward to, and a greater purpose to seek out and capture. It was also amazing that her skills and abilities meant so much more now, and she was looking forward to the learning process and all the discoveries that awaited her.

Soon, the two ponies came to the pair of glass doors that led out into the castle garden. This excited Twilight as she'd always enjoyed the gardens, especially when they were abundant in blooming flowers. Celestia opened the doors with her magic, and the two walked outside into the fresh warm air, instantly being hit by the wonderful scent of the lush foliage. Suddenly, Philomena took to the skies and flew ahead of the pair, causing Twilight's eyes to widen in confusion. She then looked back at Celestia who had began explaining their task to the younger Princess. She listened carefully, taking in her words with anxiousness and excitement. It seemed they had a long journey ahead of them, and Twilight was more than prepared to help those who needed it and find the source of the problem.

"Understood," she said confidently, watching as Celestia inhaled the clean air, clearly preparing herself. Twilight did the same thing, feeling her body relax and prepare for what was ahead of them. When Celestia's magnificent wings suddenly spread outwards from her lean body, it almost took Twilight by surprise. It made perfect sense that they would fly there, as it'd be private and they'd be going over the sea. It was just that she hadn't flown long-distance with Celestia before, and the thought was mind-blowing. She was now more excited than ever.

Twilight grinned, unfolding her own wings and opening them out in preparation. She was now more than used to her extra limbs, and a long flight was just what she'd needed to give them a proper run-through. Flying wasn't something she did all the time after all, but there was no doubt she certainly enjoyed it. "Not one bit," she said eagerly, flapping her wings and lifting herself off of the ground as Celestia did so, pushing off the ground with her hooves, closing her eyes for a moment as she embraced the sweet rush of adrenaline and freedom that always came with taking flight.

And with that, the two Princesses effortlessly climbed up into the clear skies, soaring through the open air that awaited them. Their great journey had now begun, and Twilight was more than ready for it.

[20monkies]

Celestia knew that Twilight was more than capable of handling any situation that was thrown her way. She had seen as such over the time the young princess grew, especially when she was under her wing. There was no way that Twilight could let her down, unless she strayed from her path. With the friends she had made, and kept, the importance of her role had become more evident and her duty bound her. Celestia would make sure to always be there for her whenever she was needed, and she would make sure to continue mentoring Twilight Sparkle, assisting her in learning more about being a princess. There was no doubt that she would always be Twilight's first point of contact should she ever need a shed of light on her true path.

A smile spread across Celestia's face, her eyes bright and understanding. Her hair and tail flowed, as freely as it always did in a multitude of colours that resembled the spectacle of a sunrise. As the young mare unfolded her wings, Celestia returned her gaze back to the sky and watched as Philomena continued to sweep through the air with as much ease as a Wonderbolt performed aerial stunts.

"Then let us make haste and be on our way."

And with that, the two princesses pushed away from the lush green earth and into the open blue skies above them.

It had been a while since Celestia had flown out in the open unguarded like this, and to be side by side with her favourite pony made it all the more thrilling. The wind rushed up to greet her face, whipping her hair and tail against the steady breeze that carried the two alicorn princesses towards the East.

A soft laugh escaped Celestia as the sweet sensation of freedom washed over her. Cooped up inside of the Castle was sometimes a necessity with her duties, but it was not good for the mind to be under such due stress constantly. Now this was what Celestia had been wanting, craving even, for quite some time. She was glad for this break – spending some time with Twilight Sparkle that was needed, and taking care of business together that would help them bond closer and make Twilight Sparkle stronger.

Anything to help her out.

"I have been waiting all day for this. No doubt we will reach Baltimare in record time together, do you not think so?" She asked, smiling contently, her eyes eventually drifting to a close to enjoy the cool breeze that wrapped around her. Philomena kept pace beside the two, sweeping ahead every now and then as the pair glided over Canterlot at a reasonable and safe height. From a distance, no pony could tell that it was the two princesses. Just a pair of pegasi enjoying the weather, travelling from one city to the next.

With a sigh, Celestia gazed forward and let out another soft laugh. "I had thought today was calling for clear skies." She pointed a hoof towards a small tuft of cloud that was hovering idly on it's own. Philomena let out a squawk before diving down, only to change direction at the last minute and burst upwards through the center of the cloud, bursting it into a puff of smoke as it dissipated into thin air.

"Philomena, you are quite the show off today." She tsked at her phoenix, her attention now fully upon Twilight Sparkle at her side.

"I hope you are enjoying this just as much as I am. I am aware that we may have a dire situation to deal with upon arrival, but for the time being there is no risk in having a little fun, is there?" Celestia wasn't sure just how bad the situation was, and the two should have had their minds solely focused upon the task at hoof, but at least they were making headway towards Baltimare. And really, enjoying one another's company as they headed into the mouth of a possibly dangerous situation was just as important as well. "In truth, I do not know myself what to expect but I hope that we will find a solution even with the aid of others if need be."