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

Chapter 81: A Proposal in the Stars

                      As the peaceful weekend retreat came to an end, Luna and Orion returned to Canterlot. Life had resumed its usual rhythm, but for Orion, something special was on his mind. He had been thinking about it for some time, and now, he felt it was the right moment to take the next step in his relationship with Luna.

Orion spent days carefully planning, making sure every detail was perfect. He wanted to propose to Luna in a way that reflected her love for the night, her connection to the stars, and the magic she shared with the world. After a lot of thought, he decided to organize a stargazing date in one of their favorite places—just outside the city, where the lights didn't dim the beauty of the night sky.

One evening, as the moon began to rise, Orion approached Luna in the palace gardens. She was admiring the flowers blooming under the night sky when she turned to see him approaching.

"Orion," Luna greeted him with a smile, "you look like you have something on your mind."

He chuckled, feeling a little nervous. "I've been planning a special evening for us, if you're free tonight. A little stargazing, just the two of us."

Luna's eyes lit up. "That sounds wonderful. I could use a quiet evening under the stars."

Orion led Luna to the edge of a small hill outside Canterlot, where the view of the night sky was at its best. He had set up a cozy picnic with blankets and pillows, lanterns softly glowing around them. A telescope stood nearby, ready for them to use.

As they lay side by side on the blankets, gazing up at the stars, they talked about their dreams, their adventures, and the bond that had grown between them. Luna's laughter was like music in the serene night.

"I always find peace under the stars," Luna said softly. "They remind me that no matter what happens, there's always a place of calm and beauty in the world."

Orion smiled and shifted closer to her, his heart racing as he reached into his pocket. "Luna, there's something I've been wanting to ask you for a while now."

Luna turned her head, curiosity in her eyes. "What is it?"

Orion sat up, pulling a small box from his coat. He opened it, revealing a simple yet elegant ring. The gem in the center sparkled like the stars themselves, reflecting the night sky.

"Luna, you've brought so much joy and light into my life," Orion began, his voice steady but filled with emotion. "I've never met anyone like you, and I know I want to spend the rest of my life by your side. Will you marry me?"

Luna's eyes widened in surprise, her heart skipping a beat as she looked from the ring to Orion's hopeful expression. For a moment, she was speechless. Then, a smile spread across her face, and she threw her hooves around him, tears of joy in her eyes.

"Yes!" she exclaimed, her voice filled with happiness. "Yes, Orion, I will marry you!"

They embraced, the stars shining brightly above them, as if the universe itself was celebrating their union. Orion slipped the ring onto Luna's hoof, and they shared a tender kiss under the moonlit sky.

Back at the palace, Celestia had just finished a long day of work and was making her way to her chambers when she saw Luna and Orion return, their faces glowing with happiness. Celestia smiled, knowing instantly that something wonderful had happened.

"Luna," she called out, approaching them. "You look radiant. What's going on?"

Luna grinned and held out her hoof, showing Celestia the ring. "Orion proposed, and I said yes!"

Celestia's eyes widened with joy, and she immediately pulled her sister into a tight hug. "That's amazing! I'm so happy for both of you!"

Orion smiled warmly. "I'm the lucky one, really."

The news of Luna and Orion's engagement spread quickly through the palace. That night, the royal family held an impromptu celebration in the grand hall. The banquet was filled with laughter, music, and joyful conversations as the entire palace rejoiced in the couple's happiness.

Celestia took the opportunity to speak with Orion, offering her heartfelt congratulations and advice. "Orion, I'm truly delighted for you both. You're a wonderful addition to our family, and I know you'll make Luna very happy."

Orion nodded, feeling a sense of belonging he hadn't expected. "Thank you, Celestia. I'll do everything in my power to make Luna's life as joyful as she makes mine."

During the festivities, Luna's parents, King Cosmos and Queen Galaxia, shared their pride and excitement. Cosmos pulled Orion aside, offering a warm handshake. "Welcome to the family, Orion. I'm pleased to see my daughter so happy."

Galaxia, with tears in her eyes, embraced Luna tightly. "I've watched you grow into a remarkable mare, and seeing you find such love fills my heart with joy."

As the celebration drew to a close, Luna and Orion found a quiet corner of the palace gardens. The lanterns cast a soft glow, and the night air was cool and refreshing. They sat together, holding hooves, enjoying the tranquility after the whirlwind of emotions.

"I'm so grateful for tonight," Luna said softly. "I never imagined this moment would be so perfect."

Orion kissed her forehead gently. "It's only the beginning. We have a bright future ahead, filled with adventures and love."

They watched as the stars twinkled above, feeling a deep sense of contentment. The future seemed bright, and with their love and support, they knew they could face whatever came their way.

As Luna and Orion prepared to leave the garden, the bond between them felt stronger than ever. Their love story was just beginning, and they were eager to embrace the new chapter of their lives together.

That night, Celestia retired to her chamber, feeling a mixture of happiness and introspection. She reflected on the day's events, grateful for the joy her sister had found. Yet, she couldn't help but wonder about her own path.

She walked to the window and gazed out at the night sky, the stars shimmering like beacons of hope. "Maybe it's time for me to find my own happiness," she mused, her thoughts drifting to possibilities beyond her current responsibilities.

With a hopeful heart, Celestia closed her eyes and whispered a silent wish for the future. She was ready to embrace the changes ahead, knowing that, just like her sister, she too would find her own path to joy.

As Celestia prepared for bed, she thought about how much had changed in the past months. Their kingdom was stronger, their family closer, and now, her sister was preparing to begin a new chapter in her life with Orion. With a contented sigh, Celestia drifted off to sleep, knowing that brighter days were ahead for everyone.