Twilight awoke the next morning.

"Spike! Spike! I just had the weirdest dream..."

"What's wrong, Princess?" Spike cried, running from his bed over to Twilight.

Twilight shook her head and gazed into the mirror. So, not a dream then...

"I was going to say that the events of this past week were all a dream, but evidently not." She replied quietly.

Spike placed a clawed hand on her shoulder reassuringly. "I'm sorry Twi," Spike whispered back.

"Not to worry. I have duties to do." Twilight sighed. "Boy how weird it feels to say that!"

She made for the bathroom to clean up before heading down for breakfast, where her friends greeted her.

"May I say how wonderful it is to finally live in a castle. I always dreamed of this day!" Rarity squealed excitedly, then she saw Twilight.

"Your Highness." She smiled, lowering her head gracefully.

"Oh stop. You guys can still call me Twilight." Twilight blushed.

The ponies made their way to the buffet table and chose their breakfasts.

At that moment, the fireplace in the dining room roared, and spat out a scroll.

Spike ran over to retrieve and read it. "Guess I'm not the messenger service anymore. That will make my throat less sore." He winked, before reading:

"Dear Princess Twilight,

I cannot believe we are writing that now; We are so proud of you! Shining Armour and Cadence told us everything.

We cannot tell you just how proud and pleased we are that both of our children have come so far in life. We are sorry for the loss of your new friend, also. And am so proud that you once again saved Equestria!

You will make a fine Princess and we will visit during the week.

All of our love,

Mom and Dad xxxx"

Twilight's eyes welled up and she smiled to herself.

All of her friends looked at her.

"You alright there, sugar cube?" Applejack asked.

"I'm better than alright," Twilight nodded, "Even after everything that happened recently, I finally feel at peace. After Grogar's death and how he sacrificed himself for us, I feel like friendship could one day save the Universe, and I'll do anything in my power to ensure that happens."

"And we'll be here right by your side!" Pinkie Pie said, giving Princess Twilight a hug.

"That's right, we aren't going anywhere Your Highness." Fluttershy smiled.

"And for the record Twilight dear," Rarity began, "You really DO make a fine Princess."

***** THE END *****