Chapter 7: Celebrating the King's Return.
Alex and the others returned to the castle and took their places in the great hall. Rarity was a little late because she had to deposit her shopping bags in her room, but everything was still on time. The heralds blew their trumpets and the guards opened the gates. Then, all the citizens entered. From the highest noble to the lowliest peasant, all had been invited and all had come. King Greg rose from his throne and a hush fell over the crowd.
"My people, as you know, Prince Ryan Shadowrider, my youngest cousin, usurped the throne and threw me in prison. Also, did he banish my cousin and his half-sister, Princess Alex Castaway. But rejoice! For this is a time of gladness! For Princess Alex did not give up hope, but persevered and by forging new friendships in a strange land, was able to defeat Prince Ryan and thus free him of the dark power of the Black Rune Staff, which shall never again claim a victim. It is now my great pleasure to reinstate my cousin Alex as Princess of Humania and restore unto her, her crown." King Greg took a simple sliver band set with a single ruby and placed it upon Alex's head as she knelt before him. "Rise, Alex, Princess of Humania."
Alex rose and bowed to the people as they cheered.
King Greg raised his hands and all were silent. "However, Princes Alex did not vanquish the evil alone. It was through the support of the friends she had made in Equestria that she was able to free Ryan and restore peace. Let us welcome our friends and allies from that land. Welcome the ponies of Equestria!"
The crowd cheered and clapped and a great cry went up of, "Long live the Princesses Celestia and Luna! Long live the heroes of Equestria!"
Soon enough the cheers died down and King Greg announced, "Now let the festivities begin in earnest!" and everyone went his or her own way to enjoy the celebration.
Pinkie Pie was at once caught up in the dancing, while Applejack mingled with the country folk. Rainbow Dash found a group of athletic girls and was soon showing off. Fluttershy slipped out into the garden and Rarity was soon talking with some of the noble ladies about the finer points of fashion. Twilight and Alex stood in an obscure corner of the room and watched as Cadance and Celestia mingled. They chuckled as Shining Armor tried rather unsuccessfully to make small talk. They were joined by Princess Luna.
"Good evening, Luna. I presume you stepped out to raise the moon?" Alex asked.
"Yes. I may be a guest of honor, but I still have my royal duties," said the Princess of the Night.
"Very true. The responsibilities of leadership are never far away until the position is filled by another," said Alex.
"Yes, but come. Let us enjoy the celebration," said Luna as she joined her sister.
Alex and Twilight joined the crowd.
The celebration lasted well into the night, but soon it drew to its close and everyone left for home. The ponies all retired for the night, except Luna.