The Memories of Star Light: The Untold Origin of Nightmare Moon

by NeonGlow

Rating: teen
Tags: Twilight Sparkle, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Sad, Other, Nightmare Moon, Princess Luna, Tragedy, Princess Celestia
Length: 11006

Luna's sprial down was not so simple as petty jealously.

What really triggered Luna's transformation into the creature known as Nightmare Moon? Few know the true story that will now be revealed. Luna's fall and Nightmare's rise began with an issue that weighs heavily on an alicorn's heart; friendship. The name forgotten by time is Estella Dusk. Who would have guessed the magic of friendship could be so black?

Published 2013-06-26 16:50:02 UTC
Last updated 2013-06-26 16:50:02 UTC

Forgotten

The sun set illuminated the horizon in magnificent shaded of red that brightened to pink and cast a violet shroud across the sky. It was beautiful to look at, but it had lasted for several minutes now. Unable to see the moon Celestia could not bring her sun any lower. Sighing she left it to hold its place in the twilight limbo to attend to a problem that had be growing over the past few weeks. Celestia fluttered up to her sister’s tower and shooed the guards from the door. The pegusi obeyed and flew off allowing her entrance. As the alicorn push open the door with a hoof a pillow flew across the room at her. She ducked just in time to avoid it.

“We said we did not wish to be disturbed!” The mare shouted angrily.

Luna’s frown deepened upon seeing that it was her sister. She stood up on her bed and turned to face the wall before lying back down.

“If we had known it was you we would have thrown something harder.” She hissed turning up her nose.

“Luna, why will you not raise the moon this night?” Celestia asked already knowing what her answer would be.
“We do not desire that it be so.”

Celestia resisted the great urge she had to roll her eyes. This silly fit of her was unbecoming of princess and frankly she was growing tired of it. Despite her feeling Celestia took a moment to regain her composure before speaking. She used a kind voice as she attempted to reason with Luna.

“Dear sister, it is our duty to bring the night and day. It is our cycle that keep Equestria in balance.”

“Then you may bring the night!” Luna hissed glaring at her sister.

Luna dropped her head to the bed as she was overwhelmed with hatred the fizzled out to sadness. Shame quickly followed and she buried her head in her hooves.

“No one cares for our night.” Luna whimpered.

Celestia crossed the room and climbed on to the edge of the bed before placing a gentle wing over her sister. She could not blame her sister for being so stubborn. Every night she did her best to make the stars shine their brightest, but all the ponies did was sleep. Many ponies praised her for her days, but Luna was often forgotten. It was a very difficult burden to bare for a filly of only three hundred years, in alicorn time she was barely old enough to be considered independent. These facts often reminded the princess that her younger sister require much more patience than she would give to any pony else with her abilities.

“They do care Luna.” Celestia reasoned. “Remember the grand festival for your meteor shower?”

“Many Months have since past.” Luna mumbled.

“Well, perhaps you’re trying too hard.”

Luna gave her sister a curious look. How could she ever try too hard? She was creating the most wonderful thing in the world. Or it would be the most wonderful thing in the world if any pony actually paid any attention to her masterpieces.

“What do you mean of this?”

“When we do not desire it to be sunny it is not so. We send out the weather teams with gray clouds and let it be dull. Think, our days would not be as beautiful without those cloudy days.”

“So we should shroud our night with clouds…” Luna said still disappointed with the answer.

“Bring up the moon and put out a few stars. Take a time your rest your mind. When you feel better use all the ideas you have stored away from the cloudy nights and create something really amazing.”

“Fine.” The dark alicorn huffed.

Luna flung of his sister’s wing and jumped off the bed. Moving to the window she bowed her head awaiting Celestia to finish her work. Celestia looked out the window on the opposite side of the room. Her horn began to glow with a piercing white light as she closed her eye. Gracefully she lowered her head and the light faded. The sun was pushed down over the hills and darkness began to cover the world. Sighing Luna raised her head as Celestia lowered her. Her own horn emitted a darker blue light and over the hills the moon rose up. With her head held high her thoughts began to pour out on to the black canvas. Several constellations appeared, but they were barely visible and the moon waned to only a thin sliver of silver light. When Luna was finished she lowered her head in disappointment. Before Celestia could offer any more advice Luna gave a statement of her own.

“We are going out for a spell. If we feel need we will send out the weather team.”

With that Luna jumped out the window and fluttered off into the night. Celestia looked out at the sky as the dark purple mare disappeared into the night. She felt as if she had once again pulled Luna back from the ledge, but still not far enough. She laid awake into the late hours of the night worrying about her sister. She kept the weather team up as long as she could before sending them out with clouds. Sooner or later her sister would have to understand the importance of rest and the true value of her nights. Until then Celestia could only continue to worry for her.

*

Luna flew past the edge of castle walls into the surround forest. All she wanted was solitude, something she wouldn’t receive with her sister hovering over her shoulders. As she flew out she looked down upon the city. Doors and windows had been shut tightly, the lamps were lit to push back the dark, left to glow in the windows until they fell asleep, not a soul was to be seen. Even the few guards that were always on watch had fallen asleep at their posts and had to be woken up. Strongly Luna held back her tears and flew on. When she came to a pond Luna swooped down, the gush of wind cleared away the leaves resting on the water’s surface. Luna touched down on the other side of the pond and laid down in the grass. The image of the sky reflected on the still water with the blurred majesty of an oil painting.

Disappointed in the image a few of the stars brightened and a slight smile came across Luna’s face. Looking up at the stars she made one shoot across the sky, just so she could wish upon it. Part of her knew that it had no real significance because she controlled the stars and yet another part want to cling to the idea that she could make her own wish come true. Oddly enough, a few minutes after her star faded another one shot in the exact opposite direction. Luna followed it until it was gone, unsure of how she could have done such a thing without thinking about it. Before it was gone the sound of fluttering pages distracted her.

Looking down Luna’s owl-like eyes caught the sight of a leather bound book caught on a branch. If it was not caught in a orb of Luna’s magic it would have fallen off into the water. Examining the pages Luna’s smile grew and she became glad that she had rescued the tatted tome. Inside were maps of the stars, and between ever few pages a sketch of the moon phases or events such as the stars falling. The numbers in the corner of each page could tell her the dates however Luna could recall every night perfectly. It held true up until tonight. The book was date for the next month or so, but tonight was left blank as well as all the pages beyond it. Luna’s smile fell thinking of how much the owner must have missed the book, though as she thought about it her smile returned. The pages turned to the front of the book and Luna read the writing there; If found return to Estella Dusk at 104 West Apple Lane, Canterlot.

Luna had heard of the city, however it wasn’t much. Celestia had big plans for the city, but Luna didn’t care for it. Celestia wanted them to move out of the castle their father had built for them and into the new palace that she had commissioned several years earlier. Luna snubbed the idea almost immediately disregarding the fact the fact she had yet to even see it. The princess supposed she could stop by for a moment though. Celestia would never have to know about. Grinning Luna shut the book and her horn began to glow. The light grew brighter and brighter as Luna imagined a city of night loving ponies. In a burst of magic she was teleported away with the book held tightly against her chest. Hope had entered her heart, though soon it would unknowingly be ripped away.

The Dawn of Dusk

Estella stood at the window looking out at the twilight. It seemed to last an unusually long time today, but perhaps it was her perception of time was flawed. She could stare off into space for hours and only believe a few minutes had pasted. Bearing this in mind she went back to work. When she was a filly Estella imagined she would do something amazing like build an observatory or discover a new star. She never would have guessed that she would end up shelving books for an archive. Like her talent Estella’s cutie mark was a shooting star. Her passion was mapping out stars, but unfortunately Canterlot didn’t have any such position. When she was young some pony told her the princesses planned to build an observatory, but one was never commissioned. With little money to travel Estella had to settle for shelving books until she had enough to find some place she could really shine.

Levitating the books up on to the shelf the bluish-gray unicorn worked tediously to finish her task. When a book on comets caught her eye Estella immediately brought it down to read. Out of nowhere a blue stallion jumped out from behind one of the bookcase causing Estella to jump and the book to fly across the room. The stallion merely laughed at her.

“Watch it Space Case or you are going to break a window.” He chuckled.

“Do you not have anything better to do other than tease me Lex?” Estella snapped rhetorically.

Lexile was a very literate pony, not to mention a good book keeper, however he was nonetheless a bully. Ever since they were little he had found every reason to make Estella feel horrible about herself along with anyone else smaller than him. Rather than a quill his cutie mark should have been a set of boxing gloves with the way he bullied every pony.

“No, now get out.” He returned harshly. “I have to lock up for the night.”

“But I have to finish…” Estella argued.

“Too bad, take it up with Bottom Dollar when he takes it out of your salary.”

Too terrified to fight back Estella hung her head and slunk away defeated. Loading up her saddle bags she wandered out only to have the door slammed on her back side. Estella trotted to the edge of the city and out into the forest. At the very least she could sketch the stars before she had to go home and prepare for another dreary day.

Estella walked for a long time to reach a grove and when she could finally see the sky the sight was very disenchanting. There were very few stars shining and the moon was barely hanging on to the sky. She pondered if it was even worth taking out her journal to draw, but then the stars got a bit brighter. The princess must have not been finished constructing her vision yet. Thus Estella laid in the grass and waited patiently. When she was certain that the sky was at its’ peak Estella would take out her book and map it. Her eyes did not close until a single star streaked across the sky before fading into space. Estella lowered her head and made a wish.

“I wish I had some pony to watch the stars with me.”

Though it was true that Estella enjoyed the solitude she was only pony in Canterlot that liked to sit out and watch the stars. Once the sun went down few ponies stayed up and none of them spent the entire night beneath the stars as she did. For most of the day Estella slept, never being very social as she prepared for her evening job, and there for she didn’t really have anyone who she considered to be her friend. She always assumed she could make friends as easily as she did when she was younger. One day a pony would simply pop out of a bush and they would talk before things fell into motion. Nothing was so easy though.

Before Estella pulled out her journal she heard a rustling that caused her to turn her head. She called out to the bushes, but there was no answer. Standing Estella called out again. The wind died down to silence.

“Please come out.” Estella said trying to peer into the dark. “I will not do you any harm.”

Estella realized she would not have to worry about hurting any pony when a manticore leapt from the woods and roared at her. Estella shrieked and ducked as the creature pounced at her. This did little to help her. The beast picked her up off the ground by the strap of her saddle bag and pulled her up into the air. Looking down Estella became terrified at the trees became smaller and smaller and started to blend together. Covering her eyes she focused as hard as she could her horn glowed as magic coursed through her. In a burst of grey light the unicorn disappeared leaving behind only her saddle bag in the manticore’s grip. Roaring angrily the creature flung the bag scattering the contents to the wind. It then dove back down to search for its’ prey.

Down below Estella ran for her life as she was unsure if she could focus long enough to teleport herself again. The tips of her snow white mane and tail were already singed as magic had never been her strong suit. The manticore lost her along the way, but that didn’t stop Estella from running as if the ground was crumbling. After the sound of the beast was gone Estella turned her head to see if it was still chasing her. The creature was gone, but she should have been more concerned with what was in front of her. A loose root catch the mare’s foot and sent her tumbling to the ground. Estella’s luck sank even lower when she landed in a partially dried mud puddle. Picking herself up from the ground Estella leaned on her left side. Falling had caused immense pain to her right hoof and she could barely stand to put it on the ground. With her day now completely ruined Estella limped home fearing the manticore would return if she went to look for her journal. Estella couldn’t help crying all the way home.

*

Luna flew about Canterlot expecting ponies to look up in awe as they did with her sister. However all she heard was the sound of snoring. Made bitter by the sight Luna swooped down and wandered until she came to Apple Lane. Upon arriving at the door she looked up to see all the windows were dark. Growling hatefully the princess slammed the book down on the mat and turned to leave in a huff. The muffled sound of crying entered her ears and Luna paused listening for it. As the sound came closer Luna jumped up on the roof and watched from the shadows. A dark bluish-grey unicorn came down the street, limping as her leg was clearly causing her pain. Her coat was matted and long white hair was soaked in mud. Leaves and branches from the Ever Free Forest clung to her making it even more difficult to walk, despite the trail that had been cast off behind her. Luna felt bad for her as her golden eyes were stained red with tears. She remained hidden as the mare approached the house. To Luna’s surprise the mare’s eyes lit up when they fell upon the book that had been left on her door mat.

“My book!” Estella shouted joyfully.

The unicorn immediately dropped her voice fearing she might wake some pony up. She looked up at the sky and frowned she saw dense clouds slowly covering the sky. The weather team must have pushed them out last minute. Luna felt a bit of pain in her chest when she feared the pony might start to cry again. Estella only sighed and opened the door.

“I will never be able to map all the stars now.” She whimpered. “Every pony was right, I am just a space case. No wonder Princess Luna refuses returns my letters.”

The unicorn went inside and began to draw a hot bath. Luna sat in the shadows for a time thinking about what she had just seen. Some pony was literally hurt because she didn’t bring the night for her. Luna felt an anger swell in her chest. She was crazy for even listening to Celestia much less following her advice. Pointing her horn up at the sky her eyes and horn began to glow. A strong wind came barreling over the hills and pushed away the clouds. The moon grew to a full crescent as she focused her magic and the stars grew in both numbers and brightness. Looking up at it Luna smiled before leaning down to the tap on the window.

Hearing a sound from the bathroom Estella got out of the bath and toweled herself off. She thought it was the door at first, but drying her ears she realized it was the sound of something tapping against the glass. Just before she came to the window the tapping stopped. Curious as to what the sound could have been Estella pushed the windows open wide. Her jaw dropped at sight of the stars and how the sky was finally at its peak. Taking out her journal Estella sat at her balcony sketching out the scene until the sun began to rise over the hills. She had forgotten the sound, the pain in her leg and even the headache that had blossomed. Luna sat on the roof silently watching her from above until Estella disappeared within the house. Nothing made her happier to see the unicorn look at the sunrise and yawn as if it were insignificant. Luna lowered the moon gently before coming to her feet. She had never felt such joy before, Luna’s glory and pride made her radiate with a new strength. She now stood just a little taller and kept her head high as she flew back to her castle. However her smile faded to a puzzled look as a thought entered her mind. The princess whispered to herself silently.

“Letters?”

A Change of Tune

Celestia looked out at the morning feeling the warmth of the sun bath her white coat. There was a sort of up lifting feeling about the day that made her want to make the day shine. She ordered the weather team to push off any clouds to a later date. Today the sky was to remain clear. As a sort of celebration of the day she had her breakfast taken out to the garden and ate it there. It came as no surprise to her when her sister did not join her, but she was somewhat disappointed in her staff when they did not even bother to set a place for her. Celestia waited until the end of her meal before ringing a sliver bell that had been placed upon a tray in front of her. Shortly after a white pony came trotting out with his noise held high up in the air. The butler wore a jacket with coat tails that had been well enough it did not cover the set of shined cutlery that marked his flank. When he reached the table he bowed before turning back up his nose.

“Will you require anything else this morning my lady?” He inquired in a stately tone.

“No, but do tell me Silvers, why has a place not been set for my sister?”

“Princess Luna took a breakfast of muffins to the library earlier this morning. She has asked not to be disturbed as she attends to her work unless asked for by name.”

Celestia was unaccustomed to hearing that word used in such a way. Her sister did not work. When Celestia asked anything of her Luna would delegate it to a servant. The only work she ever preformed was planning out the stars for the coming night. Even when she did that Luna would lock herself away in her room. Celestia wondered what she could have possibly be planning that would require the use of the library. Curious she dismissed Silvers and went to see for herself.

Celestia was caught off guard when she opened the door to the study. To her surprise nothing was hurled at her and she flinched without cause. One of the servants cocked an eye at the strange royal before bowing and shuffling off with a set of contracts in his saddle bags. Looking on she saw Luna setting at one of the tables with several books and papers about her. A strongly built stallion with a hammer cutie mark stood on the other side. He held his hard hat against his chest as he spoke to the princess.

"We can start construction as soon as the supplies are shipped to Canterlot my princess.”

“Very good. I had them sent earlier this morning. Would it be fair to say you could have your team start tomorrow morning?”

The stallion returned his hat to his head and smiled at her.

“We’ll have it started this afternoon.”

“Then see Sterling Column on your way out and return these documents to him. We thank you for your time.”

A set of papers slide across the table and the earth pony picked them up and carried them off. On his way out he bowed his head to Princess Celestia before galloping out of the room. Celestia herself was dumbfounded. Shaking off her amazement she found her composure and spoke to her sister.

“Luna, what are you doing?”

“Oh, hello sister.” Luna said in a friendly tone. “We have just finished the paper work to have an observatory built in Canterlot.”

“An observatory?” Celestia said confused. “We thought you wanted no part in Canterlot?”

“We never said such things. We merely said we did not want to jump into a project right away. The castle is nearly finished and by the time we move in the observatory will also be done. We have commissioned several teams to ensure it is done within the next few months.”

Celestia was stunned. She couldn’t believe what she was hearing. Her sister once shunned the idea of a new capital and now Luna was setting her own plans in motion for it. She simply had to clarify this.

“So you would like to move to the new castle? I recall you wanted separation from me. Is this not true?”

“It can be a summer castle.” Luna said turning her attention to several documents. “We have it all sorted out. The servants are already moving our things. Which reminds me, do you not have a spring celebration you were going to make an appearance at?”

Celestia took a moment to grasped the situation and raise he jaw back into place. She then smiled at her younger sister.

“Yes, yes we do. We will return this evening.”

“Good day to you then.” Luna said signing a piece of paper. “Enjoy your trip.”

“We will. We are so glad to see your feeling batter Luna. We hope your observatory turns out beautifully.”

“So do I.” Luna returned. “Now you better get going, before your late.”

“Alright then goodbye.”

Celestia walked out the door, but before leaving she turned back to look at her sister tediously working. Smiling she pranced out leaving her sister alone. Finally Luna had matured, a day she thought would never come. Celestia left feeling a great weight lifted from her shoulders. Back in the study Luna waited until she was alone before putting down the papers and taking up a another. Celestia had not seen the pile of scrolls Luna had left hidden behind one of the book case and Luna was not going to pay them any more mind. In the last few moments she had left all the letters to her gather dust, but she was now a bit regretful. Luna left the letters she did not care for; reports from the weather team asking to bring in storms during the night, letters from scientists who had theorize the lunar cycle might have had an effect on lake tides, complaints of a small meteorites burning through some pony’s roof. Luna would throw them in the fire where they belong later on. Her attention was only focused on a series of letter’s from a certain unicorn that she had unknowingly ignored for far too long. Luna smile reading her favorite letter one more time.

Dear Princess Luna,

My name is Estella and I have just started a job at the Canterlot archives, but I do not care to work there. My special talent is not sorting books or keeping records like all the other ponies. My talent is mapping your beautiful stars, creating charts and diagrams to preserve their wonder. When I moved to Canterlot I was told there would be an observatory built however according to record plans were never made. I understand you are busy; the night is difficult to bring and requires care and vision only you have, but if I could receive the funds from you I would be happy to take over the project myself. The observatory would be constructed as a monument to your greatness and be open to the public so all the little fillies and colts could learn about the wonders of the night. I remember when I was little I loved sitting out beneath your stars. I want all the ponies to be able to experience this joy, but I fear if this observatory is never built ponies will just ignore the night. I don’t know if you care what we think, but I believe every pony should take an interest in the night.

Sincerely,

Estella Dusk

P.S: Thank you for all the beautiful nights.

Even though Luna had read it seven time she still had to brush away a tear as she read the last line. No pony had ever said such a thing to her before. Luna folded up the letter and slide it between the pages of a book on telescope positioning. Though the alicorn’s affinity was night she was surprisingly ignorant on the subject. She returned it to the shelf before summoning her servants with the ring of a bell. They cleared away what was left on the table for her.
“Silvers,” She said summoning the attention of the lead butler.

“Yes my lady.” He said coming to attention.

“Have a chariot prepared. We wish to travel to Canterlot at once.” Luna commanded.

“Yes my lady. Should I send word so they can prepare for you?”

“No we are only going to visit a friend. We require no procession.”

“Of course my lady.” Silvers replied bowing his head.

Luna had never said those words in her life. For as long as she could remember she wanted to receive just as much attention as Celestia. Just because she was older people gave her all the attention. Luna hated living in Celestia’s shadow and now that she knew she had at least one person that was loyal to her Luna wanted to give a proper reward. Not long after Silvers had left he returned and told her that her chariot was ready. Luna left immediately, she would not keep Estella waiting for the good news any longer.

Up All Day

Estella let her head drop every now and again as she tried to stay awake. Bottom Dollar told her if she came in earlier she would be able to make up the work she didn’t finish the day before without loosing any pay. Despite the fact it was the middle of the Estella was extremely tired from staying up all night. She yawned as she exchanged books on the shelves. Her head dropped for a moment and suddenly Lexile was shouting at her again.

“Space Case!”

Estella jumped and spun around to see Lexile glaring at her again. She tired not to look him in the eye, fearing it would only agitate him.

“What is it Lex?”

“What happened to your leg?” He asked coldly.

“Oh, I sprained it. It is nothing I can still work.” Estella said meekly.

“Well it is sad to have to watch you hop around. Go to the basement and organize the files down there.”

“But it’s not my job to organize those files.”

Lexile loomed over her and glared hatefully. Clearly he was not satisfied with her response.

“I said go to the back and organize the files. When official come in I don’t want them to see a pathetic waste like you wandering around making the rest of us look bad.”

“Trust us, you better with her out front.” A voice boomed.

Two large black pegusi had entered the archive. Even though Lexile was large they stood taller and were far more intimidating. They wore the stunning gold armor that was unique to the royal guards which only made them more fierce looking.

“Estella Dusk, we have been ordered to bring you with us.”

“Did I do something wrong?” She quivered meekly.

“We were only ordered to fetch you.” The other guard said. “Come quickly.”

Estella timidly followed them as they lead her upstairs to the main library where the supervisors worked. When she seemed to have trouble getting up the steps with her sore leg the pegusi lifted her from her feet and flew her up to the top. Clearly they did not want to waste any time. Arriving at the top the two pushed open the doors allowing her to enter. Inside Bottom Dollar was standing in the middle of the room, however Estella was more captivated by the person to whom he was speaking. There, merely a few feet away from her, was a dark purple alicorn with flowing blue mane. She smiled seeing Estella. Quickly the injured mare hobbled in nearly loosing her balance as she crossed the floor. However she felt she had to rush or the princess would vanish.

“Princess Luna, your grace, I am, I am Estella Dusk.” She said limping over. “I have written you so many letters.”
“I know.” Luna said smiling.

The princess’ smile fell when she turned back to the stallion. Luna had only spoken to the man for several minutes and his obsession with the archive’s funding annoyed her. He could send any such business to her sister. Luna sneered at him in a voice that rang with her disgust for him.

“You can go now.”

The stallion dropped his head and slunk out of the room. Luna turned back to the mare and her smile returned. Estella was shocked when the princess even went as far as to hug her.

“Oh it is so good to finally meet.”

The princess released her and turned towards the doors. With a flick of her head she summoned her guards and they fluttered over pulling the doors open for her.

“Come we have work to do.” Luna said formal. She then lessened the statement by adding on another comment. “But we could always go out first, there is not much more progress the could be made until tonight.”

“So you got my letters about the observatory?” Estella asked still confused.

“Yes, they were very well written by the way. I finished reading them and had everything set in motion. Construction begins immediately. Everything is built down the letter you recommended.”

Estella couldn’t believe her ears. This had to be some sort of dream. To test herself Estella tried to put her hoof down and found she was still very much in pain. She winced and pulled back off of it.

“Are you alright?” Luna asked her.

“Just a sprain.” Estella said still sounding dazed. “I should tell Bottom Dollar that I am leaving.”

“No need.” The princess said. “I have just given orders for you to be relieved of your position.”

“What?!”

“I said you quit.” Luna said rephrasing into a simpler sentence.

Estella snapped to attention. She had a house to pay for, food to buy. It didn’t matter if she until she collapsed Bottom Dollar would only pay you if it was the end of the week and even then he’d take out the damage you caused to the floor. Not to mention she had groceries to buy that she had been without the past few days.

“You said you didn’t want to work here in your last letter. I can see why this place is a dog den.”

“But I need my job.” Estella said baffled by the idea that she was arguing with a princess.

“And you have a job.” Luna said in an understanding tone. “The royal astronomer and my personal assistant.”

Estella shook her head unable to believe it. This couldn’t have possibly been happening. She was just an ordinary unicorn. Estella swooned at the thought of it all. Luna said something else, but Estella didn’t hear it. The next thing she knew everything was dark.

*

Then next thing Estella was aware of was the sound of a quill scratching out a message. It tapped and clicked almost randomly. The irritating sound drew Estella from her slumber. Blinking her eye a sun set came into focus. It would figure as much, Estella could never sleep the night away. Setting up in bed she looked around to discover that while the view was familiar the room was not. The room was scrubbed to an unnatural white and smelt of cleaning product. Confused Estella turned towards the source of the sound and saw a pony standing there. Like the room she was a sterile white along with her outfit. From the red cross on her side she was clearly some sort of doctor.

“Ah good to see your awake dear.” She said smiling.

“Where am I?” Estella asked tiredly.

“Canterlot Hospital, you fainted due to… well I’m not exactly sure it could either be exhaustion or excitement. I healed up you leg nicely, but I am not sure how you were walking around on it all day.”

Estella moved her leg realizing it was feeling better. However she did still feel a bit of pain, but on the inside. It had all had been just a dream.

“It must have been such a mess.” Estella said feeling ashamed. “When will I be able to go home?”

“I can discharge you in the morning after a good night’s sleep.” The doctor replied cheerfully. “Honestly I wish I could have you stay around longer. As bad as that may seem we don’t have royal council here, well, at all in fact. Private physicians I suppose.”

“Royal council…” Estella said confused.

The memories came rushing back to her and she began to feel dizzy once again. There was a knock on the door and the doctor turned to answer it. When Estella looked up she saw the doctor bowing to the guest who entered the room disregarding the fact that visiting hours had already past. She smiled at her and Estella felt dizzy again, but tried to remain conscious, should she further embarrass herself if she did.

“I’m glad you’re awake I’d thought I’d have to stall the sun set.”

“You would stop the sun set, for me…?” Estella said stunned.

“Yes, I want your opinion on how to arrange the constellations. You are my assistant now.” Luna said smiling. “I thought we could have a celebration, maybe a meteor shower after an induction ceremony. But don’t trouble yourself with it now, we can work out all the detail when you feel better.”

Estella was unsure of what to say. Stammering she turned the white earth pony filling out paper work in the corner. She stammered nervously.

“Doctor, I think I might faint again.”

The doctor checked over excitement as the cause of hospitalization. The nurse smiled to herself before putting away the papers. It was obvious that there was much excitement ahead for all of them.

The Price of Loyalty

There were very few who were considered part of the royal court; the royal captain of the guard, military generals, consultants of various fields. However the ‘Imperial Regent of Astrological Arrangements’ (as Celestia put it), or Luna’s helper (as Luna put it) was a new addition to the court. Estella looked in the mirror at herself trying to brush away nervous thoughts. It didn’t help when Luna walked in twirling a black rose as if this were an ordinary day.

“Luna I’m so glad you’re here.” Estella said hugging the princess. “I’m just so nervous.”

Over the course of the last few day the princess had become very close to her new assistant. At the same time Estella had become more comfortable with the idea that she would be the assistant to her idol, and also friends. If some pony had told her something like this was going to happen she would have never believed them, or fainted again. Estella had gotten over her fainting spell, but there was still so much that surprised her.

“You should not feel so uneasy, you look beautiful in your uniform.” Luna said trying to lift her spirits.

“I look like a guard.” Estella returned.

Both statements were very true. The helmet was a bit much for an advisor, but the metal crest that fell over her chest was beautiful. The crescent moon on the crest shimmered every time Estella turned and her hair flowed beautifully over the helmet making her appear both strong and elegant. It was not something Estella would have personally chosen, but Luna thought it was befitting and it was her opinion that truly mattered.

“You look beautiful.” An sweet voice said.

Celestia walked and Luna tried not to show any malice though she was quickly growing tired of her sister walking in on her conversations. Celestia turned to address her sister.

“Luna, they need you downstairs discuss seating for the extra guests. We had a far larger turn out than expected.”

“Really?” Luna asked excited.

Luna was overjoyed that an event she had prepared could attract such a following. Celestia often brushed off the idea of such glory, but not Luna.

“You’ll be fine Estella. I’ll see you at the ceremony.” Luna said trotting out of the room gleefully.

Celestia shut the door behind her sister and turned back to the unicorn. Estella was now nervously brushing out her ruffled mane straight. Celestia stepped on to the podium next to her and spoke more to the reflection in the mirror so the pony would not be so nervous.

“You really do look beautiful.” Celestia said honestly.

“Oh thank you.” Estella said continuing to brush out her hair uncomfortably.

“You know if you want to leave no one will blame you.”

Estella was shocked by what she just heard. She took a step back from the princess and looked at her even if Celestia wouldn’t look back.

“What?”

“You do not have to be Luna’s regent. It is a big job and we understand if you do not want it. Luna is so young. She has a habit of pushing things on other ponies. She believes it is an entitlement of being immortal.”

Estella could not even bring herself to say anything to that. Celestia only continued.

“You will be left in charge of the observatory project and have employment there when it is finished, but if you want to walk away we are telling you it is alright. Better now than later. All Luna really wants is the attention.”

Luna forgot her rose in Estella’s dressing room. Rather than pluck another and make all the bouquets off quilter she went to retrieve it.. She froze down the hall as she heard her sister. Rage boiled inside her. Her own sister was trying to embarrass her, in front of her own subjects. The rage seemed to bubble to the surface and present itself. This was a rage she had felt many times before. Before it was cold and dark, but now it was boiling over like a boiling pot. Luna would have been afraid if her rage did not blind her. The black stain that surrounded Luna’s cutie mark began to spread, eating away at her purple coat. However, it subsided when a second voice spoke up.

“Never,”

The darkness began to sink back at the sound of the soft voice. Luna crept into the dark and listened from beyond the door. At first she had to lean in to hear clearly, but then it got louder.

“Luna is my friend.” Estella said proudly.

She stepped between Celestia and the mirror forcing the solar deity to look her in the eyes and see the true reflected in the gold. Peering in the crack Luna could see that her sister step back, almost afraid.

“No matter how scared I am I am not going to make a fool of her by walking out on something she worked so hard on. Whether it was for herself or not I do not care because it makes her happy. I may not have the sisterly bond you have but I know when something is going to hurt her.”

“You do not,” Celestia began.

“And another thing,” Estella interrupted. “I have always considered you lucky. Not just for having Luna as a sister, but the simple fact she allows you to exist.”

Luna covered her mouth so they couldn’t hear her gasp. No one had ever talked that way to her sister before. Or stood up for her. A less pony would have cried, but Luna feared her discovery and held back her emotions with all her strength. It did not help that Estella went on.

“Everyone thinks you are so much stronger just because you are the older sister, but the truth is the sun is just another star. Sure, it is a lot closer, but a star all the same. Luna could easily replace you and yet she does not, Maybe it is because she loves you or she just does care. You should be grateful to her and here you are trying to spite her. As far as I am concerned you can take your jealousy and go burry it somewhere. I am her friend and after today I‘ll be her regent too.”
“You do not understand the forces your tampering with.” Celestia said frowning. “If you truly care you will walk away.”

“Celestia, today I am to swear my utmost loyalty to Princess Luna and I intend to. And thing that threatens her I will protect her from it. That makes you just as much my enemy as any pony else. The saddest part is I find you the most vile.”

Celestia could have ended the foolish little unicorn at that moment. She could have banished her, tortured her, killed her. Luna covered her eyes afraid of what would happen. Rather than do any harm to her Celestia merely turned away and shook her head.

“You have made your choice then.”

Luna used her magic to conceal herself in the shadows as the door swung open and Celestia marched out into the hall. To her dismay a bluish gray magic grabbed the door and slammed it shut behind her. Celestia kept on walking as if she was unscathed by the event. Luna could tell deep beneath the surface her sister was badly wounded. Once she was gone Luna stepped out of the shadows . Leaning around the corner to see if her sister was really gone Luna entered the room. Estella was now laying down on the platform in front of the semicircle of mirrors. She was breathing deeply, a technique the doctor had taught Estella to keep her from passing out. She continued to brush her hair anxiously, most likely not thinking about it any more.

“Are you alright?” Luna asked.

“How much of that did you hear?” Estella returned.

“Enough,”

“Then you know I am probably going to be executed.”

“No you will not, if anything Celestia respects your loyalty. If not I am at your defense.” Luna said taking the brush in her own magic. She put it on the far table across the room. “Stop that before you go bald.”

Luna stepped up on to the platform and helped Estella to her feet. When she was standing the two smiled at each other. Without a word Luna hugged Estella tightly. A single tear streamed down her face.

“Thank you.”

“Think nothing of it.” Estella flicked her head at the window. “Now come, your adoring public is waiting on you to raise the moon.”

Luna smiled and dried her eyes the best she could. As the trumpets sounded the two walked out together. With their bond stronger they were brought together as both friends and sister.

Celestia did not stay for the procession following. After such a conversation she could not bare to stay. The unicorn was too loyal to see the storm brewing as the stars fell, all the ponies were blind to see the danger. In her lust for her subjects love Luna was also blind. She was flying so high and she could not see that her companion lacked a pair of wings.

The Fall of A Star

Though many thought that Estella’s greatest day was when she became the regent to Princess Luna, Estella found it contested the day with two others; Her wedding day and the birth of her first child. Estella had met her one love while finishing the Princess’ observatory. The construction had drawn many star gazers to site, but none was as handsome as a gray pegasus name Stratosphere. She couldn’t wait to regale their child with the story of how her husband had crashed into her the first time they met and had the nerve to ask her to dinner on her way to the hospital. Estella wanted to tell him of how his father took nearly three years to purpose because every time he worked up the nerve he feared her rejection and backed down. Estella want to tell him of how she and her aunt Luna spent seven hours searching the cosmos for a name. There was so much to tell and Estella wanted to share every moment with the baby. At the moment however Estella had tucked the stories away as she attempted the rock the baby unicorn the sleep with her magic. The little stallion took after his father with his purple eyes and black hair, but he had his mother’s coat as well as her sleep schedule. All day the baby would sleep peacefully, but at sunset there was simply no peace. Comet cried and cried as Estella tried to sooth him with anything she could think of.

“Hush, oh please hush.” Estella cooed rocking the crib.

A bottle floated upstairs from the kitchen. Setting the baby up Estella feed the child. With the bottle in his mouth Comet was calm for the moment. If Estella did not find a way to keep him from crying so much her neighbors were bound to start complaining whether she was a royal advisor or not. Full and now grumpy once more Baby Comet returned to wailing. Estella set him down on the floor and tried to appease the child with offering of toys. He was not satisfied with the gifts and continued to cry.

“Oh please stop.” Estella said crumpling on the floor.

Magically the baby stopped crying. Cautiously Estella peeked to see what had pacified the child. She was somewhat relieved to see the purple Alicorn standing in the doorway. Luna leaned over her and smiled.

“What would you do with out Aunty Luna?” She giggled.

“I do not want to even think about it.” Estella replied getting up.

Comet sat at the Alicorn’s feet giggling joyfully as he played with his reflection that shined in the shimmering metal boots Luna wore over at her hooves. Her son was so easily entertained around Luna that Estella couldn’t understand why he was so loud when she was gone.

“Where is Stratosphere?” Luna inquired.

“Asleep, he could sleep through a hurricane.” Estella replied. “I have tried to get him to take work off and get Comet to stay up with his every now and again, but he cannot seem to catch a break. If this keeps up Comet is bound to be a night owl like his mother.”

“Is that so bad?”

“Only if he keeps crying.” Estella returned with a laugh. “Did you finish your work?”

“My finest if I do say so myself.” Luna said proudly. “Are you going to map it?”

“You could not stop me, but do you think you could distract Comet for a few hours so I could find a quill?”
“Of course. Comet…”

The little colt hopped up and down hearing his name. Luna bent down on to the floor and touched it with her horn. The floor was swallowed in darkness, but it was merely an illusion. One by one stars appeared and Luna explained the constellations the formed. Even though the infant could not comprehend her word he enjoyed the soothing sound of her voice. The baby hopped from star to star trying to grabbed them. Luna laughed as she enjoyed the illusion just as much as Comet did. Estella smiled as she worked.

“Would it not be wonderful if night could last forever?” She mused.

“It would… Estella?” Luna asked her eyes falling upon her friend.

Estella’s quill fell to the floor as the unicorn simply stood there, gazing up at the stars. Her mouth hung open and she breathed heavily.

“Estella?” Luna asked again.

The illusion disappeared and Comet turned his attention back to the Princess’ shiny boots. Luna pushed the child out of her way and rushed over to her friend who was still standing there. Luna touched her side and felt that the Unicorn had grown cold. Gasping for breath Estella leaned on the window sill for support.

“Estella tell me what is wrong?” Luna demanded.

“My…my ch, ch, chest hurts…”

Estella collapsed the to floor. Luna cried out in shock and began to scream. She called for Stratosphere, guards, any pony who could help her. Comet began to blubber and nuzzled against his mother. He spoke his first words in those moments. Estella had always hoped it would be something like comet, star or even constellation if he was a smart as she boasted, but sadly it was only ‘mama’. Estella, despite the pain and weaknesses, felt extremely proud even though it was so simple. She forced out a few words.

“I… L…l… love… you…" Her gazed drifted upas her eyes closed. "all… of… you…”

Late in the night Estella was rushed to a private hospital wing with her husband and child who was now once again screaming. Luna was the most terrified of all of them as she paced about the waiting room. The stars grew so dim that night. Celestia took notice from her tower. She did not need the guard to tell her what she already knew; Estella Dusk was dying.

Past and Present

No one would have guessed that some pony that was so young would have heart problems. The doctor’s blamed themselves. If they had preformed more tests they would have discovered that a narrow artery was the actual cause of the fainting spells that she had. Her husband blamed himself for never noticing how tired she was, how she could barely walk some days. Luna blamed herself for not knowing. The fact she never saw such a thing humbled her. It was her job to protect her subjects and now she had failed. Long after the funeral ended Luna remained behind. Stratosphere muttered his goodbyes to his wife and turned to Luna who stood there with her head down.

“It was a pleasure knowing you Princess.” He said somberly.

“Of course,” She said sadly. “I guess I’ll see you around.”

The princess tried to force a smile as she looked at looked at little Comet riding on his father’s back. He had slept peacefully through the entire ceremony despite the trumpets and hours of songs. She wondered if he was dreaming of his mother from the peaceful look on his face. Could he even understand that she was gone.

“You should bring him by sometime.”

“I’ll try…” Stratosphere returned looking away. “If I have the time I will, but I‘m just... I not sure there is anything left for us here. Goodbye Princess.”

Stratosphere did not wait for her to reply with an argument or even with a goodbye of her own. Unable to stare at the grave any longer he flew away taking Comet with him. Part of her knew at that moment there was no chance of them remaining in the house Estella built and she would never see either of them again. But it didn’t matter; it was not their love she had prided so. The love that came from true loyalty now lay in the ground, six feet below mounds of cold hard dirt and gold slab marked with her name, dates and her cutie mark. She always loved the observatory, Luna tried to take comfort in knowing that she would be happy to be beneath the monument to her loyalty. Unfortunately the princess could feel nothing. Her sister entered the cold hall, her hooves clapped against the marvel floor as she crossed the floor to join her sister. Celestia stood staring for a time before she spoke.

“We have to raise the sun now.”

“Just a little longer. She will always be my best friend.” She said a tear falling from her eyes. “She gave me all her time, made us laugh when we were sad, showed us the truth in the lies, and she the always so kind… This least I can do is keep the sun away, so she can see the stars wherever she is.”

“Seven years… We were not expecting her to go so soon.” Celestia said in a somber voice. “But we did expect it.”

Luna couldn’t bring herself to look at Celestia. She was too busy drowning in sorrow and holding back the tears that burned her eyes. Celestia continued with her speech.

“She was not like us Luna. We tried to warn her when she became your regent.”

“You told her to run away.” Luna hissed.

“We told her this would hurt you. Our magic allows us to live centuries longer than any pony could ever dream. This ending was inevitable.”

“Just be quiet.” Luna said turning away.

“You know it is true, Luna.” Celestia pushed on. “You must make the night beautiful for all ponies. Focusing on one, it will only break your heart over and over again. We cannot watch you do this to yourself.”

“Stop.” Luna growled only turning further away.

“A new day must rise Luna, and you must move on.” Celestia urged.

“No!” Luna snapped.

Luna turned around. Her coat boiled turning a midnight black. Her mane floated and became a shapeless mass filled with stars. Celestia backed away as Luna stomped her foot down. Her eyes glowed white as magic channeled into them.

“No pony ever understood my night! None of them cared like she did!”

“Luna please… be reasonable.” Celestia said fearfully.

“Be quiet! All you have ever done is talked down to us! You wanted us to feel weak so you could control everything! No more! We are the only one true power and now you will have to live in my shadows!”

Luna took another step towards her sister. The armor that Estella once wore shattered their glass container as they flew across the room. They magically attached themselves to the alicorn and Luna became taller to fit them. Her magic began to radiate off her in a black cloud of pure rage. Luna’s voice became twisted and demonic.

“Luna!”

“No, Princess Luna is gone just like your day! We are your worst nightmare Celestia! Yes… Nightmare Moon! The queen of the night eternal!”

A strong blast of magic blew Celestia across the room into a column. Gasping for breath Celestia stood.

“Luna please, do not do this…”

“This is your last chance Princess. You have been over thrown. Leave Equestria and we will spare your pathetic life.”

“I have no choice then…”

With the last of her strength Celestia jumped from the balcony and flew away. Nightmare Moon watched her retreat, but then turned back to the gave. She put her hoof down on the cold stone.

“Now it can last forever.” Nightmare said softly. “Just like you wanted.”

Nightmare turned her head to the window and the stars began to glow brighter. The moon itself became full and illuminated the land bellow. This would be the ponies new sun and the clouds would never touch her flawless sky. It was perfect now, just like it had been on that day that now seemed as if it were only yesterday.

“They will never appreciate the night as much as you…” Nightmare said strongly. “But they will learn.”

*

Princess Luna returned from her memories and sighed. She didn’t need to think about what happened next as it was history. She was trapped in the moon… yaw de yaw de yaw… a thousand years later the elements of harmony destroyed Nightmare Moon and she was back to her old routine; moping about the castle and bringing night in the evening. No one was mad at her. For some reason the ponies of Equestrian were always so understanding, but she could still she this fear in their eyes. The princess wondered if that was better or worse than simply being forgotten.

Luna looked down at the stone remembering those dark days. She had no more tears left to cry over the matter, but one still found its way out of her dry eyes. Being on the moon for a thousand years had given Luna ample time to think about her actions and now she realized the error in it all. All that rage she kept pent up inside, it had darkened her heart. Even while Estella was alive Luna always felt the urge to turn on her sister. For a single night the purple alicorn had the power she always dreamed of, the recognition she demand. For hundreds of years every pony knew the name Nightmare Moon. And yet there was still an emptiness in her soul that Luna could not fill. Though Nightmare was gone the princess could still feel the void within her. As much as her sister would have liked to believe Luna knew that as long as this void was there Nightmare would live on.

“Excuse me.” A familiar voice said, echoing through the empty hall.

Luna looked up to see a familiar purple unicorn standing not that far off. Luna wondered what else she could want from her. Luna thanked her for setting her free and felt no malice towards the pony, but at the same time she was one of Celestia’s subjects.

“You require something Twilight Sparkle?” Princess Luna asked looking away.

“Well no, but I have something for you.”

Luna looked put as the unicorn levitated a yellow sack out from behind her. It jingled as it moved, but Luna could not summon to mind what it possibly could be or why she would want it. Opening the back Pieces of black armor floated out and placed themselves in an empty case that sat above the tomb.

“I used a fix-it spell to put all a pieces back together… Celestia told me how special the armor was to you.” Twilight said shyly rubbing her leg. “I’m sorry about what happened.”

“You should not be.” Luna replied turning away. “Nightmare Moon would have destroyed the world with her greed. We feel much more… humble now.”

“Not that, about your friend. I know how hard it is to be alone and that sometimes it seems better to be strong… so other ponies can‘t hurt you. Thanks to you I realize that now.”

Luna turned and looked at Twilight, but the unicorn’s eyes had drifted away from her. They instead looked up at the constellations that lined the ceiling.

“The alicorn prince was always my favorite.” Twilight said rambling. “I also like the pegusi twins, Celestia could never form them though. I’ve only seen pictures of them in an old book.”

“Celestia never was one for symmetry.” Luna chuckled.

Luna dropped her head and asked the question she had thought she knew the answer to. Where did the unicorn’s loyalty lie?

“Twilight Sparkle… Which do you like more, night or… day?”

“How can I choose?” Twilight said still admiring the constellations on the ceiling. “Day and night are both so beautiful. The sun is warm, but at night I can dream of being anything. I can study during the day and at night I can take it all in as I examine the stars. It’s a cycle that just continues on and on. The best part is you’ll never know what the next day will bring.”

Luna smiled at her answer. It was well thought out and executed flawlessly just as all things Twilight did. It couldn’t help but remind her of an old friend. Luna felt a bit of shame when she compared the two. If Estella could see her, what would she think.

“Estella’s not disappointed in you.” Twilight said almost reading her mind.

“How do you know?” Luna asked.

“I just do, I can’t explain it yet, but I do. I believe that when ever pony finally does… leave, their never really gone. We just can’t seen them any more. They become part of the earth and the trees, the rivers and clouds, even the stars and planets. They become part of Equestria’s magic and they stay with us.” Twilight walked over the balcony where the sun was setting, awaiting the princess to raise the moon. “I never knew her, not they way you did, but I can still feel her presence here. She could never look down on you, only watch over you.”

Luna joined her at the balcony and looked out over the scene. Part of her wanted to believe Twilight, but the other still required a sign. Closing her eyes she sent a star shooting out across the sky. When she looked another crossed the star’s fading trail and disappeared into the many hues of pinks and reds. It brought a smile to her face.

“We… I believe you may be right.” Luna said happily. “Thank you.”

“You’re welcome.” Twilight replied with a smile of her own. “Anything for a friend.”

Luna was somewhat shocked that she used the word with her. After all the things Nightmare Moon had done to her and her friends, to her teacher, Twilight had every reason in the world to hate her. It subsided though as Luna looked into Twilight’s and saw that gleam of truth she was all too familiar with.

“You have her eyes you know.”

“What do you mean? In the paintings Estella’s eyes were gold.”

“Not the color, just the twinkle.”

Before Luna could continue she heard voices whispering from around the corner.

“Eclipse, we’re going to get in trouble.” A girlish voice said.

“Chill out Star Dust. We can’t keep watching stars from your puny telescoped.” A little boy chuckled.

A blue pegasus and white earth pony came trotting around the corner and froze.

“Princess Luna!” They both said in shock.

Luna tilted her head and smiled at them.

“Have you come to watch the stars?” She asked.

“No, well yes, but we’ll leave if you’re busy.” Star Dust quivered.

“Which ones are you going to put out?” Eclipse asked fearlessly.

“Hmm…I am not quite sure.” Luna said pretending to ponder the question. “Why don’t you help me pick them out?”

“We can pick?!” Star Dust said her eyes lighting up. “Can we put out the scorpion? Or the scales?”

“What about the moon? Can it be a quarter?” Eclipse chimed in. “That’s my favorite.”

“I’ll just leave you to it then.” Twilight said with a smile.

Princess Luna watched as the purple unicorn left, carrying with her all the darkness within her heart. She then returned to address the children’s demands and finished the night with a sense of pride in her work that she had not felt in a millennia. At that moment the princess finally came to recognize the world beyond herself and the true beauty of night was returned to Equestria. She needed not fear the return of darkness as she could see the love before her and the friendship that would never leave her heart.