Chapter 21:
Wedding Bells
It was a delicate balance to maintain. Though Rogue Storm and Luna were planning their perfect wedding, Celestia was remaining vigilant. The memories of what happened at Princess Cadence's wedding were still fresh in her mind. The queen went as far as to recall Shining Armor and Princess Cadence from the Crystal Empire to aid in security. But through all the constant security reports and sweeps, Celestia would steal glances at the happy couple. Seeing the joy on Luna's face as she discussed plans with Rogue Storm made it all worthwhile.
While Celestia, Cadence, and Shining Armor were ensuring the security of the wedding, Luna and Rogue continued to meet with their friends to aid in their wedding. Applejack and Pinkie Pie were asked to make the food and cake. Both were happy as can be with their jobs, but Pinkie was a little disappointed that Rogue would plan the reception. But she understood that he and Luna both wanted it to be more formal and traditional. Rarity jumped on the chance to add a second royal wedding dress to her resume and spent a lot of time with Luna. Rogue made sure to make himself scarce when the two mares were planning the dress. They also decided to use a live band for the wedding. Fluttershy was sad that her bird choir wasn't needed. But Rogue cheered her up when he asked for her help with a special surprise for Luna when the vows were finished. Rainbow Dash came to both of them and said she would miss the wedding but be at the reception. She had her own gift for the happy couple. And Twilight Sparkle helped plan the whole affair. Luna was overjoyed that her friends were going to make her wedding perfect.
The date of the wedding was set for three weeks after Rogue proposed. Luna instantly understood when Celestia explained it was as a precaution. Rogue didn't press the issue; he just saw it as only three weeks left until he and Luna were married. Celestia retained control of Luna's duties to allow her and Rogue to focus on uniting their lives. When the couple weren't planning the wedding or finding a quiet moment together, they were moving Rogue into Luna's room. His books, music collection, photographs, a few antiques and personal items were mixing in with the dark blue bedroom. Luna found particular joy in Rogue's X-Box and Original Gameboy.
As for the gold that Celestia "taxed," it was returned to Rogue and he used it to set up scholarship funds and education grants. Now that he was a prince, money had even less importance to him. The plane that brought Rogue Storm to Equestria was sent the warehouse beneath the palace for restoration and study. Several other items Rogue had collected in his human life also went down there. The new items to study sent everypony into a tizzy. Rogue didn't bother to mention what they were for. He said it would take the fun out of discovery.
The hours turned to days and the days to weeks. Rogue and Luna continued to plan their wedding. Whenever he could, Rogue would surprise Luna with something nice. Be it a picnic in the garden, reading together in bed, or just sneaking up behind her to steal a kiss. Whatever he did reaffirmed Luna that he was perfect for her. Soon the day of the wedding came and Equestria was celebrating. Invitations were more valuable than platinum but only a few went out. Most went to dignitaries and political allies. King Amus and his court were personally invited to the wedding by Rogue and Luna. As per tradition, Rogue Storm and Luna did not see each other prior to the wedding. Luna was in her bedroom with her friends getting ready for her special day. She was behind a screen with Rarity putting the finishing touches on her dress. Applejack, her Mare of Honor, was sitting with Apple Bloom. The little flower girl was still clutching Dr. Bearington. Twilight, Fluttershy, and Pinkie were all dressed in their gowns and sipping tea. All their dresses were a different shade of blue to represent the different times of night.
"Please make haste, Rarity," Luna said with urgency. "I wish to see how I look in my wedding gown."
"Princess, as your designer, I must make you wait," the unicorn said. "And as your friend, I want this to be my finest work." Rarity's needle was moving painfully slow to put the final stitch on the hem.
"I understand but the wait is excruciating," the princess said.
"Relax, Princess," Applejack said. "Y'all know Rarity is just trying to do her best for you."
"Yes," Fluttershy added gently. "We all worked hard for you."
"I thank thee, my friends," Luna said. But she was still trying to hurry the dress maker.
"Almost done," Rarity chimed. Pinkie Pie was so excited she was making her chair shake.
"Oh, oh, oh, I can't wait to see this dress," she squealed. "Ibetit'sgoingtobethemostfabulous,fantastic,amazin g,andbeautifulthingI'veeverseen…" Pinkie's rant was cut off as Rarity pulled back the screen. The entire bridal party was in awe of what they saw. Luna dress was made of blue silk and lace with peacock feathers stitched into the bustle. The top of it was a delicate corset that let hints of her coat color through. All of the hems were silver with diamond accents. A paper thin blue veil was attached to Luna's crown and came down to the back of her neck. Though Rarity had protested, Luna wanted her mane to flow naturally. But the princess did agree to let Rarity put a crystal crescent moon burette. She looked amazing. Despite wanting to talk, Rarity had already instructed the girls not to say anything.
"C'est magnifique," Rarity said. She finished off the princess's look with mascara, eyeliner, and lip gloss to compliment her natural beauty. When she was finished, the fashionista moved a covered mirror in front of the princess. Luna readied herself and let out a deep gasp as the cover was removed. The image looking back at the princess was something out of her dreams. The blue alicorn raised a hoof to her mouth and her eyes glossed over. "Go on, darling. The makeup is waterproof."
"Oh, Rarity," Luna said letting a tear go. "T'is perfect." Luna twirled around and took in every inch of how she looked. Fluttershy passed tissues around to everypony to dry their tears. For a few moments there were silent sobs as the princess took in her wedding dress. It was Pinkie Pie who broke the silence.
"It's better than perfect," she said calmly.
"Oh thank thee, Rarity," Luna said embracing her friend. "Thank thee dearly."
"My pleasure, Princess," Rarity said letting her own tear go. "Anything for a friend."
"Wedding dress," Twilight Sparkle said levitating a scroll. "Check." A knock at the door caused the ladies to quickly gather themselves. Rarity excused herself and went into the bathroom to get ready. Twilight went over to the door and opened it up. She found a little pinto colt in a cute little tux. Cuter was the fact that he was covering his eyes with his hoof.
"Hi, Pipsqueak," the purple unicorn said.
"Hello, Miss Twilight," the colt said. "Is it safe to come in?"
"Of course it is," she said. "We're all dressed."
"Again, we don't normally wear clothes," Applejack mused as she brushed off her Stetson. "What in tarnation is so hard to remember about that?" Pip set his hoof down and picked up a bag he had set aside.
"Begging your pardon, ladies," he began and entered the room. "But Prince Rogue Storm asked if I would bring this…" Pipsqueak trailed off as he saw how Princess Luna looked in her gown. "Oh, blimey. Princess you look brilliant! Like an angel."
"Oh thank thee, Pip," the princess said. "But what brings you here my young friend? Shouldn't our ring bearer be preparing with the groom's party." The beauty Luna radiated caused Pip to lose his train of thought. Luna giggled proudly at that notion. After a moment, Pip regained himself.
"Oh, the prince asked me to bring you this," Pip said sliding the bag to the princess. Luna took the bag in her magic and levitated the card out first. It was a simple white card with a pink heart.
"A little something to finish off your perfect look," she read aloud. "A pair of 'sweet nothings' to always whisper my love to you." Pinkie Pie started sniffling very loudly.
"Aww, that's so romantic," Apple Bloom said. Luna pulled a box out of the bag and used her magic to open it up. Inside she saw two beautiful platinum crescent moon earrings.
"Oh my," she said and removed the jewelry. Twilight ran right over and helped Luna to help Luna put them on. The princess watched in the mirror as Twilight put the moons on her ears. They did indeed suit her.
"What I miss?" Rarity said as she stormed out of the bathroom still teasing her hair.
"Look at the earrings Rogue Storm gave Princess Luna," Fluttershy said. Rarity took one look and fell in love with them herself.
"Oh my stars," she said. "Oh why doesn't he have a brother?"
"They look mighty fine on you, Princess," Applejack said. Pinkie Pie could no longer contain how happy she was and began to cry fountains. Twilight levitated the pink pony to the window.
"He's…just…so…thoughtful," Pinkie cried in between sobs.
"They are quite fetched," Luna said as she looked at them in the mirror. "But his thought of always having sweet nothings in my ears is more appealing." Luna loved the gift but saw something in the reflection that turned her smile into a frown. The princess could see a great sadness on Pip's face. "Pipsqueak, what is the matter?" Luna asked as she turned and trotted over the colt. He looked up with glossy eyes and rubbed his hoof on his foreleg.
"Well, m'lady," he began. Pip was trying to find the words but it was hard for him to do so. "I…I just thought that the day I saw you marry, I'd be your groom." Everypony was taken aback by this sudden confession from the young colt. Even Pinkie Pie stopped crying from the realization.
"Really, Pip?" Luna asked softly. The colt looked up and nodded.
"Ever since we met at Nightmare Night last year, I've loved you, m'lady," he said. "I always told myself that I'd ask for your hoof when I was older. But now I can't." The confession moved everypony in the room. Twilight had to push Pinkie to the window again to keep her from flooding the room when she started crying again. Luna sat down and pulled Pip into a hug.
"Come unto me," she said as kindly as possible. Pip hugged the princess back and he looked into her gentle eyes. "I am very flattered you feel that strongly for me." The Princess of the Night bent down and kissed Pip on the head. "I have long suspected your feelings. If my groom had not come into my life, it's possible you could have been my husband someday."
"R…Really?" Pip asked. Luna nodded and Pipsqueak let out a smile. It did the princess good to see her young subject, and once hopeful suitor, back to his cheerful self.
"Yes," Luna said. "And if it eases your mind, Prince Rogue Storm makes my very happy." Pip could not question that. Though he loved Luna with all his young heart, Pipsqueak wanted her happiness above all. Luna watched as the last traces of sadness disappeared from the colt. "That is much better," Luna said. She went back to the vanity and retrieved a long box and brought it to the colt. "Would you please take my gift to Rogue Storm, Captain Pip?" The colt beamed with delight and gave a salute.
"Pipsqueak the Pirate at your service," he said. Luna slipped the long box into velvet bag and gave it to the colt. Though it was heavy, Pip managed to drag it along the marble floor. Out the door he went and made his way through the halls. After a few minutes, Pip came to a spare bedroom adjacent to the garden entrance. The two guards by the door let him and the conversation washed into the hallway. Spike and Big Macintosh were sipping hard cider while they waited for Rogue to get out of the shower.
"Rarity takes less time getting ready than you, bro," Spike called into the bathroom.
"Dude, it's my wedding day," Rogue Storm called. "I want to make sure I'm perfect for Luna."
"Eeyup," Big Macintosh agreed. Spike sighed at the prince's logic. He wasn't exactly known for being the most patient dragon. Pipsqueak walked back into the room with the bag and set it down.
"What's that?" Spike asked.
"A present for His Majesty from Princess Luna," Pip said returning to his glass of apple juice. The door to the bathroom opened up and steam billowed out. When it cleared, Joseph walked out instead of Rogue Storm.
"Dude, you showered as a human?" Spike asked.
"I don't know my pony body too well yet," Joseph said. "I cleaned up as a human so everything will be perfect when I change back. Well that's the theory."
"Makes sense," Big Macintosh said. Spike nodded and agreed as well as Pip. The pinto colt pointed out the gifted and Joseph raised his hand. A white aura charged and the bag levitated to him. Joseph slipped the box out of the bag and examined it.
"Damn thing is heavy," he said opening it up. "Oh, wow." Out of the box came a beautiful ceremonial sabre. The black scabbard was a stark contrast to the silver tip and handle. The hilt was hoof engraved with a crescent moon and lightning bolt. Joseph gripped it and drew the blade. The steel shimmered in the sunlight bleeding through the window.
"Blimey," Pip awed.
"Nice," Spike added.
"Mighty fine blade," Big Macintosh finished.
"Sure is," Joseph said eyeing the engraved words engraved into the steel. But he couldn't read them. Spike eyed the blade and read the words.
"It's ancient Equestrian," he said. "I'm a little rusty but I think it says 'a true warrior'." Joseph smiled as he thumbed the edge. It was sharp enough the scratch his flesh.
"Thanks, Luna," he whispered and slid the sword back into the scabbard. The sword was placed on the bed next to the red uniform Joseph would wear for the wedding. "Beast mode," he said and transformed back into an alicorn in a flash of light. "And my inner child just had a fan girl moment."
"Say what?" Spike said as he and the other two in the room shrugged at the dragon.
"Private joke," Rogue Storm said. He flung the towel off and stretched out before he started to get dressed. The royal uniform had been made by the royal tailor, but Rarity made some changes to it. Instead of a gold collar and cuffs, she changed it to midnight blue with silver buttons. Once he was dressed, Rogue attached his sword to his belt and went over to the mirror. He looked pretty damn good. As he predicted, the shave in his human form have his face a clean look in pony form. The final thing Rogue did was run a comb through his black ethereal mane and tail. "I'm a fucking idiot for not getting to a barber."
"What?" Spike quipped. "Bro, your mane was pretty popular with the girls at…"
"Hush!" Big Macintosh snapped. "What happens at the stag party stays at the stag party."
"What's a stag party?" Pip asked looking up at the red stallion.
"Not until you're older, Pip," Rogue said. "But that was an epic party, Spike." The teenage dragon smiled a very proud smile. He may have dropped the ball with Shining Armor's party, but made it up and then some. Rogue took one final look in the mirror as he levitated his silver crown from the dresser and placed it on his head. The alicorn splayed out his wings and liked what he saw. "Perfect," he said and turned to the ring bearer and groomsmen. "Well?"
"Yup," Big Macintosh said. Spike and Pipsqueak agreed and a knock came at the door. In walked a Lunar Guard.
"Sire, they are ready," he said. Rogue Storm nodded and cracked his neck.
"Well boys," he began. "Let's go surrender my b-card." The three ponies and dragon all raised their glasses and chugged down the remains of their drinks. Out the door they went for the next chapter in Rogue's life.
The garden was packed with ponies, Grundles, griffons, and other creatures. Granny Smith, Amus, Ker, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo were in the front row. Most of the others present were dignitaries and members of the press. But quite a few from Ponyville had also received invitations. Rose, Daisy, and Lily had provided Luna's bouquet and were invited. The Cakes also sat in the front row. They had helped a great deal with the food and cake. Both Pumpkin and Pound Cake were very well behaved today. Lastly were Pip's parents. They still couldn't believe that their son had been asked to be the ring bearer. In front of all the guests was a trellis decorated with white and blue roses. Once all were seated, the music began. The press readied themselves and the flash of light bulbs soon began.
First out was Queen Celestia. She was wearing her formal robes of red and gold trim. Her father's crown gleamed in the sunlight as she walked the aisle and took her place under the trellis. There she stood as the waited for the groom's party to arrive.
Next to come out were Pip, Spike, and Big Macintosh. Pip balanced the pillow with the rings on his flank. Spike was right behind him. And bringing up the rear was Big Macintosh. Rogue had asked him to be the "best man" as he put it. Never one to rustle the cornfield, the mighty Apple agreed.
The music switched to another song and Prince Rogue storm appeared at the door. He was flanked by officers of the Lunar Guard. They escorted their new ruler to the aisle and stopped before they entered it. Rogue smiled his best smile as he kept his eyes locked on Queen Celestia. Once at the trellis, Rogue bowed to the queen and she returned one in kind. The grey alicorn then turned to the groomsmen and nodded to them. They all answered with a respectful bow.
The music changed again and the bridal party appeared in the doorway. Twilight Sparkle and Rarity were the first out. Next were Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie. For reasons nopony but Rogue knew, Fluttershy had a large basket balanced on her flank. He looked at her and gave a wink and the pegasus returned it. The last pony out was the Mare of Honor, Applejack. Both Luna and Rogue had agreed that the Apple Family should be involved in the wedding. It was only fitting considering they had opened their home and hearts to the two. The bridal party bowed to Celestia and Rogue. The two alicorns acknowledged them and all eyes turned to the door.
All the guests stood and the band began to play the wedding march. Apple Bloom came out first with her basket of flower and skipped as she came down the aisle. Close behind her was the Princess of the Night. While all the guests awed at how beautiful she looked, Rogue Storm was rendered completely speechless. Luna smiled as she saw Rogue's mouth open in shock of what he saw. Slowly she walked as the music played. When Luna came to the trellis and joined her groom, Rogue mouthed "wow" at her and Luna mouthed "thank you" in return. Luna passed her bouquet to Applejack and the happy couple turned to each other. Rarity was the first to bring out a tissue.
"Fillies and Gentlecolts," Celestia began as the music stopped. "We gather here in the most joyful of occasions to join my sister, Princess Luna, and Prince Rogue Storm in marriage. These two stand as a shining example of how love truly knows no bounds. Their devotion to one another broke through barrier after barrier to bloom. Even the finality of the grave could not keep these two from each other." Rogue barley heard Celestia. He was too enamored with his bride. Luna was also deeply enchanted by how dashing Rogue looked. "The bride and groom have chosen to recite their own vows to each other." Rogue sat down and took Luna's hoof in his own.
"Luna," he started. "From the moment we met, our lives changed forever. You became my friend, guardian, and confidant. Then, as if by magic, you became the love of my life. A girl I would do anything for. And here we stand on our wedding day and I look forward to every minute of the rest of my life with you." Several of the ladies present began to cry at the grey alicorn's words. "I love you, Luna," Rogue finished. "Thank you for everything we have done and all we are going to do together." Luna beamed at the words she heard. Pinkie Pie and Fluttershy started to cry as well. Princess Luna took a deep breath and began to speak.
"My darling Rogue Storm," she said. "I thank fate for bringing you to me. Until you entered my life, I was wondering where the other half of my heart was. But now I know." Luna's eyes began to gloss over as she spoke. "Even though I didn't know it, you completed me. But then you paid the ultimate price to ensure the safety of our subjects as well as my own. It was then we knew thou were the only one for us." The princess lost her modern tongue as she spoke from her heart. "Father blessed us with another chance to love thee for all time. And we shall not waste this gift. Min heart belongs to thee Rogue Storm. From now until the end of time, we are yours." There wasn't a single creature present that wasn't moved by the time the vows were finished.
"May we have the rings, please?" Celestia asked. Pipsqueak stepped up and offered the pillow to Spike. The dragon held it while Big Macintosh took the rings to Celestia. Both were white gold with sapphires. Celestia took the rings in her magic and placed them on the horns. "I know pronounce you mare and colt." All the guests erupted in symphony of cheers. "You may kiss the bride," Celestia said. The veil over Luna's face was lifted to reveal a perfect smile. Rogue hesitated and looked over to Fluttershy. She nodded and opened the basket. Luna looked back to see why Rogue hadn't kissed her yet and was met with a flock of blue butterflies erupting from the basket. The princess and all the guests were elated by the sight.
"Surprise," Rogue whispered to his new wife and Luna pulled him in for a deep, passionate kiss. The guests cheered again and Queen Celestia walked over to the balcony just off the garden. The new husband and wife walked over as well and were greeted by a sea of their subjects. A great cheer came over the crowd as Rogue and Luna waved to the gathered masses. Another roar came from the sky and drew all the eyes up. The Shadowbolts and Wonderbolts flew overhead and popped flares. The precision fliers and covert operatives flew until they had created a giant heart in the sky. Many were impressed with the display but a screech came from high above the heart. Rainbow Dash had begun a dive bomb and broke the sound barrier just as she was in the middle of the heart. Her sonic rainboom sounded and the color wave spread out and washed away the smoke leaving a rainbow heart in the sky. Luna and Rogue were amazed by what they saw and shared another kiss on the balcony. The sea of ponies cheered again as they saw their rulers kiss each other.
Soon the party had moved into the Grand Hall for the reception. The entire wedding dined on several Equestrian delicacies and some dishes Rogue had requested from his world. Friends, family, and dignitaries lined up to congratulate the happy couple. Big Macintosh delivered his toast to two alicorns and the dancing began. Rogue set down his champagne flute and offered his hoof to Luna.
"This is everything I always dreamed of," Rogue said as he led his new wife to floor for their dance.
"It is, my love," she answered. "Is it possible we are in a dream? Or is there some enchantment involved?"
"If it isn't enchantment or a dream," Rogue began as they came to the floor. "Then why does it feel like it?" All the other couples cleared the floor and a single violin began to play. Luna's smile grew when she realized that Rogue would sing their song for her:
Do I love you because you're beautiful?
Or are you beautiful because I love you?
Am I making believe I see in you a girl to lovely to be really true?
Do I want you because you're wonderful?
Or are you wonderful because I want you?
Are you the sweet invention of a lover's dream,
Or are you really as beautiful as you seem?
"Oh dearest Rogue Storm, Joseph," Luna said with a tear in her eye. "Thou truly art the other half of min heart." Luna was on cloud nine from Rogue's words and she took a deep breath to return them:
Am I making believe I see in you a man to perfect to
be really true?
Do I want you because you're wonderful?
Or are you wonderful because I want you?
Rogue felt the same the same way as Luna and joined his love for the final verse:
Are you the sweet invention of a lover's dream,
or are you really as wonderful as you seem?
A flurry of applause came from the guests but the prince and princess didn't hear any of it. They were only focused on each other. The band continued to play and there was more dancing to be had. Rogue and Luna danced with each other many more times. The two watched as Spike danced with Rarity, Applejack with Soarin, Fluttershy danced with Big Macintosh, and even Apple Bloom danced with Pipsqueak. Luna and Rogue thought it was cute that the children were blushing while they did. Celestia declined a few offers from the dignitaries. She wanted her sister and brother-in-law to remain the center of attention.
Eventually, Rainbow Dash joined the party and was thanked by the newlyweds for the gift she gave them. Shining Armor and Princess Cadence joined the party soon after. They were satisfied there was no danger of what happened at their wedding. Rogue was happy to meet his new niece and nephew but soon returned to his bride.
The day went on and soon the reception began to wind down. Luna called all the ladies onto the dance floor and clutched her bouquet in her hoof. Several were pushing and shoving to get position. Luna turned her back and threw the flowers over her head. They flew over many of the gather ladies and landed in the hooves of Fluttershy. Both she and Big Macintosh blushed as a series of wolf whistles were directed at the two. Rogue and Luna laughed and went over to cake to cut it. Celestia watched with joy as he little sister took the cake and fed it to her groom. It did the new queen good to see such joy.
"I've never seen Luna so happy," a voice called from behind the queen. Celestia turned to see a brown earth pony wearing a top hat and tails. "Hello, Celly," the stallion said. Celestia smiled at the stallion and went over to him.
"Hello Time Turner," she said. The stallion cringed when he heard that name.
"No, no, I would much rather be called John Smith again," he said.
"Very well," Celestia said as she hugged her old friend. "It's good to see you again, Doctor." The stallion smiled and returned the hug.
"Look at you Celly, Queen of Equestria," he said. "I always knew something grand would happen with you. And just look at this, good food, beautiful flowers, a breath-taking bride…"
"Doctor," Celestia said trying to get the Time Pony's attention.
"Not so sure about the vegan meatballs with that pasta," he continued.
"Doctor!" Celestia called a little louder. The stallion stopped his trademark train of thought and turned to the new ruler. "I appreciate you coming to wedding and I know Luna will be happy to see you."
"I doubt she can get much happier," the Doctor said. Celestia nodded with her old friend and looked on as Rogue kissed Luna again.
"I do admit in back of my mind I have been expecting you," Celestia said. "Ever since we met you as children, you always appear when the strangest things happen." The Doctor smiled and stared at the queen. Celestia didn't know why but something clicked inside her mind. "The blue object. When I first asked Joseph how he came here, he said all he saw was a flash of colors as he broke through my barrier, and a blue object. Did you have something to do with that?"
"The disappearance of Joseph Rigetti was a fixed point in time," the stallion said. "But unlike the others who ventured too close, it wasn't his time to die. And before you ask, their marriage wasn't a fixed point but it is a pleasant perk."
"Oh good," Celestia said. "I was beginning to think that fate was written in stone."
"Fate is more like sand, Your Majesty," the Doctor said turning serious. "It's there to guide but it can change with the tides, a storm, or even by us. But what I have seen yet to come is something you'd never expect."
"What are you saying, Doctor?" the white alicorn asked.
"I can't interfere, but I can warn you," the Doctor said. "There is a storm coming, Celestia. Luna and Rogue will be at the center of it." Celestia turned and watched as the newlyweds began to say their goodbyes. "My advice to you, don't run." When Celestia turned back, the Doctor was gone. The alicorn looked around for the Time Pony but he was nowhere to be found.
"Tia, we're leaving," Luna called as she came up to the queen. Celestia was still in shock from what the Doctor said but didn't have a chance to bring it up. Luna embraced her sister. She knew it would be a long time before they saw each other again. "Can you believe it? We are splitting our honeymoon in two. Half in Equestria and half traveling the world as Rogue knows it." Celestia couldn't share what she was just told. It would put a damper on Luna's mood.
"It's wonderful, little sister," the white alicorn said. "I'll miss you." Rogue Storm came over the queen and gave his sister-in-law a hug.
"Thanks for everything," he said.
"You're very welcome, my brother," Celestia said. Rogue extended his wing to Luna's and the two began to run from the Grand Hall. Celestia gave chase as the prince and princess were barraged by rice. Celestia stopped at the palace doors as Luna and Rogue continued on to the waiting coach. Rogue helped his wife in before joining her.
"Arrivederci," Rogue called and the two waved goodbye and left the palace. Though Celestia was surrounded by her faithful subjects, none of them picked up on her vibe. The Doctor's words resonated in her mind as she waved at the departing coach. Her stomach was in knots.
"Blast!" Prince Blueblood said to himself as he watched from an adjacent window. The martini in his aura was quickly drained into his mouth. Once empty, he tossed it to the ground and the glass shattered. "First Cadenza and that lowly soldier bump me down the line and take the Crystal Empire. Now, this?" The stuck up unicorn turned away from the window and stormed away to his room. "Now any heirs they produce will send me further from the throne." The unicorn came to his room and barged in. The few servants in the room jumped in surprise. "Get out, all of you!" The ponies quickly obeyed the prince's order, all except one. It was Moondancer. She was staring out the window and watched as the coach carrying Luna and Rogue Storm disappeared over the horizon. "I thought I told you to get out, Moondancer."
"I don't take orders from you," the white pony said menacingly. She turned around and Prince Blueblood was shocked to see Moondancer's eyes flash green. "And by now, my children have turned Moondancer into shriveled husk."
"Chrysalis…" the unicorn said with fear. "I must warn the guards." The door was surrounded in a green aura and slammed shut. Prince Blueblood was trapped. He turned to the changeling to try and defend himself. But she never attacked.
"You misunderstand my being here, Prince Blueblood," the disguised changeling said as she sauntered over to the prince.
"You're here to conquer Equestria," he said harshly.
"Very good, Your Highness," she said. "And they say you're all looks."
"How did you even get here?" the prince with panic. "Shining Armor and Cadence were on the lookout for you."
"Do you want to think about semantics or here my proposal?" Chrysalis asked.
"Proposal?" Prince Blueblood asked. The changeling stopped in front of the prince and looked him eye to eye.
"Yes, one that is mutually beneficial," the Changeling Queen said. Blueblood was many things, but this was low even by his standards.
"I'll hear none of this," the prince said.
"I could enchant you and use you for my own purposes," Chrysalis said. "But that was my flaw last time." She took a small step forward and Blueblood retreated a bit. "I need somepony who is more like me. Somepony hungry for power. Somepony who wants glory. Somepony who wants what he wants."
"What me?" the prince stuttered.
"Do you want the throne?" Chrysalis asked. Prince Blueblood stumbled and fell back as he tripped on his bed. Chrysalis dropped her disguise and straddled the prince to keep him down. "Do you?" Blueblood thought for a second before he smiled at the queen. He put two and two together.
"Yes," he said. "But what do I get in return?" Chrysalis smiled a seductive smile and leaned down to Blueblood's ear.
"Every queen needs a king," she whispered. "And I can be anypony you want." Chrysalis changed her form to Celestia, Twilight Sparkle, Fleur De Lis, and finally Luna. "Join me and you can have everything, my king." Prince Blueblood let a wicked smile cross his face.
"Tell me what to do…"
Fin
A/N: And so ends the first chapter in the story.
Princess Luna and Prince Rogue Storm are now husband and wife.
Their journey has just only begun.
But what did the Doctor mean?
What is Queen Chrysalis's plan?
Has Prince Blueblood truly betrayed Equestria?
Tune in for the next exciting adventure.
"Cross the Line"
/)*(\
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Stay tuned for Bonus Content:
Author Commentary
Character Development
Deleted/Altered Scenes