Still, you decide to voice your concerns about your purpose as an alicorn. Being born an Earth Pony to uncertain parents, and having become an alicorn after wishing for it upon a star, you feel as though your horn and wings may not have truly been earned.

Luna: "Do you believe horns and wings should be earned?"

You tell the princess that you figured becoming an alicorn was not unlike earning a cutie mark; that it would come with an epiphany, and provide a sense of belonging.

Luna: "And what of those, such as I, who were born alicorns?"

You... admit that you don't have the answer to that.

Luna: "Then allow me to share mine with you: When my sister and I were young, we were crowned Princesses of Equestria. At the time, neither of us had our cutie mark. Yet, we had been chosen to help unite the pony tribes, for as alicorns, we alone could represent all three.

It was only later that we discovered our special talents; thanks to our alicorn magic, we were able to assume the duties of raising the sun and moon, and become their guardians. But up until then, both our alicorn statuses, and our royal crowns, had been gifts.

Alas, I was young and foolish then, and thought otherwise: I was convinced that all I had and more were my birthright. That very thought led me down a dark path of arrogance and jealousy. Can you tell what it was that I failed to understand?"

You take a moment to reflect upon this, and figure that a younger Luna may have taken her gifts for granted. You ponder if, perhaps, you did not become an alicorn because you earned it; rather, you are meant to earn it now by making good use of it. The princess nods in approval.

Luna: "That would be wise. What you are capable of is important, but it is what you choose to do that matters the most."

You thank Princess Luna for her advice, then turn to Moonflower who you realize has not spoken yet. You recall the princess calling the bat pony her pupil, and ask if they know each other well.

Moonflower: "Yuh uh! We meet in the dream realm at night, and she teaches me how to use my powers better. We already talk a lot, so now's your turn! Heehee..."

You nod gratefully, and ask Honourshine if she has any questions for the princess while she has the chance. Your foalhood friend hesitates, then shakes her head.

Honourshine: "... None the College hasn't already asked, I'm sure."

Luna: "The College of Equestrian History, I presume? Much has happened in the past millennia, and I have enjoyed reading about it. Are you a member?"

Honourshine: "Contractor... I'm interested in learning about the history of the world we live in, not about the minute details of a few ponies' lives."

Princess Luna gives an amused smile at that, and nods.

Luna: "History quickly fades into legend or obscurity, depending on whom it pleases. Yours is a noble cause, and I hope to hear of your findings."

You grin at the timid historian, and sensing no forthcoming reply, you decide to fill the coming silence with another question of your own: Seeing as it will be of importance to your quest in the dream realm, you ask the Princess if there is anything she can tell you about alicorn magic.

Luna: "Nothing more than Twilight Sparkle could. You have spoken to her, have you not?"

You recognize that you have, but were simply wondering if she had something to add.

Luna: "What you seek is a spell, and I do not know it. To you and I, alicorn magic is no different from regular unicorn magic. It may be special in its own way — more powerful, perhaps —, but it does not command magic differently. It is still something you must study and learn to control, as I have."

You nod, and say that you will try to be patient.