Cosmos and Galaxia: The Birth of a Kingdom (MLP AU)

Chapter 76: Sisters of the Kingdom

                     With the kingdom settling into a new era of peace, Celestia and Luna stood side by side, ready to embark on their first royal tour across Canterlot's provinces. Their chariot gleamed in the early morning sun, adorned with the royal insignia, while a crowd of citizens gathered to see their beloved princesses off. For Celestia, this tour was an opportunity to reconnect with her people and bolster her reputation after the difficulties she faced in Parliament. For Luna, it was a chance to further solidify her bond with the citizens, having become a symbol of hope and protection after her many heroic deeds.

As the chariot took off, pulled by a pair of regal pegasi, Celestia found herself deep in thought. While the tour was meant to be a joyous occasion, she couldn't shake the worries still swirling in her mind. Parliament had been a struggle for her—no matter how hard she worked, her approval seemed stagnant compared to Luna's rising popularity.

"Are you alright, sister?" Luna's voice broke through her thoughts. She was sitting across from Celestia, her expression curious yet filled with concern.

Celestia sighed, forcing a smile. "I'm fine, Luna. Just thinking about all the places we're going to visit and the people we'll meet."

Luna wasn't convinced, her keen eye picking up on the tension in her sister's voice. "You're thinking about Parliament again, aren't you?"

There was no point in hiding it. Celestia nodded. "It's hard not to. No matter what I do, it feels like I can't make progress. The nobles, the ministers—they question everything I propose. And then there's you..." She glanced at Luna, her voice softening. "You've become so popular with the people. They love you. Sometimes I wonder if they prefer you to me."

Luna's eyes widened. "Celestia, that's not true. The people love both of us. You've worked so hard for this kingdom, and they know that."

Celestia looked away. "Maybe. But it's hard not to feel like I'm falling behind. You've always been able to connect with them in ways that I can't."

Luna reached out, placing a comforting hoof on Celestia's. "We're different, that's true. But that's why we balance each other out. You're the one who's keeping the kingdom stable in Parliament. Without your wisdom and guidance, we wouldn't be moving toward this new era of peace. The people might not always see it, but your work is just as important."

Celestia's expression softened at her sister's words. "Thank you, Luna. I needed to hear that."

As the chariot descended into the first province on their tour, the princesses were greeted with overwhelming cheers and celebrations. Citizens had lined the streets, waving banners and flags, eager to catch a glimpse of their royal leaders. The air was filled with excitement, as musicians played lively tunes, and foals scampered about, their eyes wide with admiration for the princesses.

Celestia smiled warmly, her worries momentarily forgotten as she waved to the crowd. The cheers lifted her spirits, reminding her of the love and loyalty the people had for their royal family. Luna, of course, reveled in the attention, stepping down from the chariot with her usual flair. She exchanged playful winks with the children, even pausing to personally greet a few of the citizens who had gathered near the royal procession.

"Princess Luna!" a small colt called out, his voice full of awe. "You saved my uncle during the forest fire! He's told us all about how brave you were!"

Luna's eyes sparkled as she knelt to the colt's level. "Did he now? Well, I'm glad to hear that your uncle is doing well. It was a team effort, and I'm just happy I could help."

The colt beamed, his admiration for Luna clearly visible as his family looked on proudly. Celestia watched the exchange from a short distance, her heart swelling with pride for her sister. Luna's natural charm and ability to connect with the citizens was undeniable, and in moments like this, Celestia could see how much Luna meant to the people of Canterlot.

Later that evening, after a long day of ceremonies and speeches, Celestia and Luna retired to a grand estate where they would be staying overnight. The tour had only just begun, but already it was clear that the people's love for the royal family ran deep. As they settled in, enjoying a rare moment of quiet together, the sisters reflected on the day.

Luna sprawled out on a plush couch, stretching her wings as she looked at Celestia. "See? The people adore you, Celestia. You have nothing to worry about."

Celestia smiled softly, sitting beside her. "It was a good day. I just hope we can keep up the momentum. There's so much more to do, and this tour is only the beginning."

Luna nodded, her eyes thoughtful. "We'll do it together. And when the time comes, we'll face any challenges that arise."

The bond between the sisters had never been stronger, and as they looked out the window at the peaceful night sky, they knew that this tour was not just about their roles as leaders—it was about their connection to the kingdom and to each other. Together, they would lead Canterlot into the future, side by side, as they had always done.