A New Nightmare Awakensby Pat_Hoof_5000ChaptersPrologueWhat a Wake Up CallClothing : ProblemClothing : SolutionClothing : ResolutionNightmare's NightmareThat Awkward MorningA Day At WorkPeace Of MindMeet The Friend.The Price Of AngerFriendship Is Indeed Magic (Part One)Friendship Is Indeed Magic (Part Two)The Sadness Of Days Past (Part One)PrologueNightmare Moon's plan was brilliant, abduct Celestia, imprison her, then neutralize those damn blasted Elements of Harmony. Everything was going according to the plan she and Luna made, while imprisoned on the moon for the last thousand years. But it all came crashing down on her because of Celestia's personnel student. Her name is Twilight Sparkle and she outwitted her, and in the end overpowered her with her friends who had bounded with their Elements of Harmony. She could hardly believe it, justice was at hand. She, and Luna, was about to get revenge on Celestia for all those years she, with Luna, was neglected by Celestia and her little ponies. Hated and feared for no other reason then being linked to the night itself, it was just not fair from her point of view. But even with all the pain she suffered, one thing which she realized, at the last moment was happening. She was being separated from Luna, her other self, her good self who always wanted to see the good in others was now being separated from her, and by those same blasted Element of Harmony that banished her, and Luna to the moon one thousand years. The separation was far from painless, in fact it was the most painful thing she ever felt in all her existence. It was like being ripped apart, and then being stitched back together. Now completely alone and hurting all over, because of the separation, with no hope left for her, was driving her to the brink of despair and insanity. But what was really terrifying to her, was not knowing what was happening to Luna, her big sister. It was madness, never in her years of life as she ever been separated from Luna. Even when Luna gave her control before her banishment she was always there, supporting her, and they comforted each other in there time of need, but now only silence answered her. As time went on she realized that her body was changing, but it was painless, at least she was thankful for that. But it was nonetheless terrifying not being able to see, or feel exactly what was happening to her body, since the same light that blinded her was still present, blinding everything around her, even herself. What she believed was one hour later, since it was to tell how much time had passed, something else happened. She was slowing even though she couldn't see it, she could feel it. What truly surprised her though, was the landing, it was smooth, not the landing someone would expect if she, or he, was sent hurling through space at unimaginable speed. She felt grass underneath her skin, she could also feel her armor, which has been reshaped to accommodate her new form, as well. Tentatively she began opening her eyes, afraid to see what was beyond her eyelid, she nonetheless opened them to face what new terror awaited her, only to be pleasantly surprised to be greeted by the night sky. Growing more curious, she looked to her left seeing some small dirt path going through an unknown forest. Doing the same to her right, she saw a couple of trees, and beyond those trees was, what could only be explained as some tall stone spire with light coming out of the windows. Deciding that that would be a question for later she looked at the night sky again in hope to find some kind of relief, just like each time she looked at the night sky. What relief came with the sight of the night sky, was soon replaced with dread at imagining what kind of horror her new body held for her, now that it had been reshaped by the elements of harmony. Tentatively, once again, she looked down at herself, only to be greeted with a body so unlike any other she previously looked upon. Raising her front legs, only to realized that her legs became arms with fully functional hands, they were hairless. Her once beautiful black coat was replaced with a light toned white skin, and she had nails. Looking down even more prove to be almost too much for the poor exhausted, and confused Nightmare Moon. Her body definitely became bipedal like one of those savage minotaur, she wasn't as bulky though, or muscular for that matter, in fact looking more carefully at herself she realized that her new body maintained some of her old body feature. Her slender form, her ethereal mane was gone though, only to be replaced with a physical one, has proof of her black hair resting on her shoulders, her back legs changed as well, but what truly caught her attention on that particular area of her body, where her hooves which changed to become some new kind of appendage entirely, not like that of a pony, or a minotaur. Exhaling loudly she let her head hit the grass while massaging her temple with her hands in an attempt to sooth the oncoming headache, not believing her own bad luck. She immediately froze in horror at not sensing her horn, she looked up with dread, only to realize that indeed she had lost her beautiful slender black horn. She could not even scream at the true horror of her situation, without her horn she was also magicless, which meant she was powerless at helping Luna get her revenge on the sun tyrant Celestia. With panic she cast a glance at the side of her body, she paled at the realization that she not only lost her precious slender horn, but also her majestic black alicorn wings. The lost of all those thing just became too much for her in her exhausted state, and just like that she let the sweet darkness of unconsciousness engulf her. __o0o__ Meanwhile in the same park where Nightmare Moon landed. A human name Ryan is returning home after a full night of partying with his work colleagues, and friends. Today was the day of the twentieth anniversary of their little cafe he, and his colleague and friends work at. They decided to celebrate it by closing early, with the approval of Sophie their boss, to party all night and having a free day as thanks for their years of loyal services. Still chuckling at all the silliness his friends and colleagues did at the party, the area he was in was soon illuminated by a bright flash of light that descended nearby into the woods. Unsure of what to do he decided to run at the location where the flash of light disappeared to, to investigate what it was since it's not everyday you see something like that land in the local park. He soon arrived at the location only to abruptly stop at the sight before him, a woman, because it was definitely a woman in a shining blue suit of plate armor that laid before him on the ground, visibly unconscious he noted, since she was not moving. How did Ryan knew it was a woman, well the answer is simple, no man have breast, and the fact that the hourglass figure was definitely a dead give away, even though she was taller than him by at least four inches. What surprised him even more was the state of the clearing she had landed in, it was intact to say the least, no crash mark of a heavy object of any kind, even the woman seem fine from this distance, even if she is unconscious, In fact it would seem the clearing is even more full of life than normal, from what he could recall from his previous trek through this same park. What is happening right now sobered him up better than any wake up cocktail he could have made himself to fight the alcohol in his system. Cautiously walking towards the unconscious woman, but at least she was still breathing, shown by the regular rise and fall of her chest. Finally reaching her, he grabbed her shoulder and decided to lightly shake her to see if she respond to his silent demand to wake up. Not seeing signs of her waking up, he starts walking back and forth wondering what to do. On one hand he could just leave her there and forget about her, but that was out of the question for he considered this immoral to leave a defenseless woman like that. On the other hand he could just call the police and tell them what happened, but then what would they do, and that was what he didn't know and like about that solution. With a heavy sigh he reached the only conclusion that satisfied him, he grab her by the arms and place her over his shoulder, while trying to maintain his balance, because lets be honest she weight a ton with her armor on. He start to slowly make his way home, wondering what he will do with her once morning come, he guess he will find out when that happen. Until then he will provide her with a shelter for tonight. That's when the unpleasant thought of someone else with less noble intention would have found her first came to mind. Now that he think about it, he is surprise not to have found more people at the area, considering the flash of light the woman seemed to have generated for some reason when she landed. He would have to ask her that tomorrow when she wake up, if she wake up that is, and that troubled him a little, because he was not sure. Finally after trekking trough the rest of the way left he finally reach the apartment complex where he live without too much trouble, even though he had to explain to a few police officers on duty why he was carrying a woman on his back like that. Already exhausted from just walking home he had another obstacle before him, the stairs, which almost proved too much for him, but with a little more effort, and a lot of willpower to not just dump the woman at the first step, he finally made his way inside his apartment. Thoroughly exhausted, he let the woman fall on the nearby couch of his little restroom, with a dull thud of metal hitting soft fabric. Panting and dragging his feet on the ground, he ever so slowly made his to his bedroom and crash landed for the night on his bed, not even taking time to change his clothes. His last conscious thought before falling asleep was, 'man I never thought I would bring a girl home tonight.' He chuckled at the bad pun he just made, and with that he fell asleep. What a Wake Up CallIn Canterlot castle, where a bloody battle was fought mere moments ago, at the feet of the stairs leading up to the throne of the ruler of Equestria, a white figure was laying there motionless with a growing pool of blood around it. Celestia lay there, motionless on the ground, in a puddle of her own blood, coming out of various wounds, inflicted upon her throughout her long battle across the new Equestrian capital. She fought valiantly against Nightmare Moon, but in the end, just like in the past, Nightmare Moon prove to be the better, only this time Celestia had no elements of harmony to help her. Nightmare Moon stood on the throne, looking down at Celestia with contempt, and with a flash of her horn incinerated Celestia's body to a pile of ash that swept up by a wind conjured by Nightmare moon, to make sure to defile Celestia to the end. Now she, along with Luna, will finally be able to show their little ponies the true beauty of the night, and that is by making the eternal night a possibility, now that the sun tyrant Celestia is no more. She was about to speak with Luna via their mind link, but a scream of pure terror halted her talk with her sister. Looking to her right, what she saw truly confused her, because before her stood Luna in all her glory, but she wasn't looking at her, she was looking at the place where that damn Celestia used to be not long ago. Confused by Luna's outburst, and her presence outside of her body, she was about to ask what was the matter, but was interrupted by a blast of pure magic coming out of Luna's horn. Dodging to her left she regain her footing and ask Luna. ''What are you doing Luna? Why did you attacked me just now?'' She asked, utterly confused and horrified by Luna's reaction, and her attempt at hurting her via magic. Luna glared at Nightmare Moon with hate filled eyes, if look's could kill that would be it. ''Monster! You dare hurt my dear sister and ask me what we are doing!?'' She spat, unable to keep her hatred of Nightmare Moon, her little sister, from showing. ''What we are doing is getting rid of thee, for what thou did to our sister, and our little ponies, for good.'' She leveled her horn at Nightmare Moon once again in another attempt at blasting her via magic. Nightmare Moon readied her stance, waiting for Luna's attack but before she could attempt anything she felt herself freeze, unable to move a single muscle, unable to even attempt to speak to calm the irate Luna, and before she new it darkness engulfed her. Nightmare Moon regain consciousness, the nearby voice waking her up in the process. Slowly opening her eyes, she saw metal bars, probably the bars of the cell door, where she is now in. Looking around, she confirmed that indeed to her increasing horror she was in a jail cell, three stone wall, a stone floor and ceiling, and no window, only the magical lamp providing enough light to see something in this oppressive darkness. ''So thou are finally awake!'' A voice on the other side cell door called. Looking through the bars she wasn't entirely surprised to see Luna, since she alone speak in the old royal way of old Equestrian.''Good thou will need to be fully awake for what await thee, monster.'' And without further word she turn towards the exit and was leaving. ''Luna wait!'' Nightmare Moon called out. In an attempt to understand what was happening she deduce that her best chance would be to ask Luna.'' What am I doing here Luna, in this jail cell?'' She asked. ''Thou are here to await thy punishment for thy crimes against Equestria, and my sister.'' Without further word she promptly exited the dungeon, locking the door of the dungeon behind her. Nightmare Moon couldn't believe it, her crime against Equestria, against Celestia. Did Luna forgot, somehow, why she did what she did, she did it for the both them, she did it so that their precious night could be accepted, not shun and hated like before. But now it seems all she did was in vain because if she heard Luna correctly, Luna hates her now instead of loving her, like she had hoped. She was abruptly broke from her contemplation by her cell door opening, and before she could react, she was slam to the floor by a pair of royal guard while another was approaching her, with what she could only deduce to be a magic inhibitor ring. She start fighting back against her captor, but it prove to be useless, since all strength seems to be just gone, she attempted to use her magic next but it too seems to be depleted. She could only deduce that her jail cell must be magically enchanted to drain his occupants of strength and magic the longer they stay in here. The guard holding the ring didn't wait for her to try and escape, and promptly jam the ring on her horn, the guard then took a pair off hoof cuff and cuffed her front hooves together. The pain she felt when the inhibition ring was placed on her horn was palpable to having her brain pricked with red hot metal needle. She writhed on the floor in absolute pain behind her eyes, normally if this would have happened to a unicorn he or she would have felt nothing more than a tickling sensation. But alicorns are being so closely tied to magic, that if they were to be cut from it, it would be the same as if someone was about to kill them. The guard then proceed to get her to stand up, totally ignoring the pain she was currently in, only making it worst by kicking her in the stomach until she was indeed standing up, though only barely. Taking long pained breaths to try and stabilize herself on her legs, they started walking in the direction of the exit. Nightmare Moon quickly thought that once outside she could quickly make a mad dash for the exit, but that thought was quickly erased from her thought once she saw what was outside the dungeon. The area outside of the dungeon was crawling with guards, unicorns, earth ponies, and pegasus, all watching her every movement, waiting for to do a single movement out of place to spear her, blast her with magic or maybe even punch her to death. ''Sister!'' The call of that familiar voice would have once brought joy to Nightmare Moon, but now it only brought pain and sadness. Looking to her right she saw Luna glaring at her from the entrance of the throne room of Canterlot and was about to reply. But she was abruptly interrupted by a bright flash of light emitting from behind Luna cutting off all future reply Luna would have said to her. __o0o__ Suddenly waking up from the sound of something heavy and metallic hitting the floor. Ryan quickly sat up and began rubbing his eyes, in an attempt to clear the last vestige of his sleep away. He looked around his room finding noting out of place. Pondering what would cause such a ruckus, his unvoiced question was soon answered by the sound of a woman screaming, his eyes lit up in realization at what caused the the big thud. It was the woman waking up, and from the sound of it she was panicking. Not wasting another second he quickly got up, and run toward his restroom. He had to calm the woman down, after all he didn't want the neighbor next door thinking he just kidnapped someone. Reaching his restroom he came upon the same woman, he met in the park last night, only this time quite conscious and visibly pissed at something, something he wasn't quite sure of. Walking toward her quickly brought her attention to him, he froze for what he saw truly crept him out, the woman's eyes where slit just like the ones reptilian would have. Before he could voice his thought the woman spoke to him, well snarling would be more appropriate in this case. ''Who are you? What are you? And what am I even doing here?'' She demanded. ''Hum!?'' a little thrown off by those question, and by the tone of voice the woman used on him, he looked at her funnily not sure how to answer that. ''Well my name is Ryan, and what I am, well that's easy I'm a human just like...'' but was abruptly cut off by Nightmare Moon. ''And what pray tell is a human, mister Ryan?'' She ask with confusion, quite evident by the expression shown on her face. Ryan not believing what he just heard, looked at her as if she had grown a second head in the last second. ''You're kidding, you're kidding right, you are human just like me, isn't that evident?'' He said that as if he was talking to child. Apparently this wasn't the answer she was looking for, because has soon as he said that the temperature in the room became chilly. ''Do not, I repeat do not treat me like a foal mortal, I am a princess and I expect to be treated me as such, is that understood peasant!?'' She said with the utmost contempt at this Ryan character, while trying to stand up just like this Ryan do. Which failed miserably since she was not used to these new legs of hers, and kept falling over. ''If only these damn legs would work properly,'' she muttered to herself. Ryan kept looking at Nightmare Moon with his mouth agape not believing what he just heard, on one hand he was a little upset to be called a peasant by this uppity woman, and on the other hand he was even more confused by her overall behavior. 'A princess, seriously what is she? And what did I just get myself into,' he thought, not believing his luck, or lack of it. ''Okay so let me get this straight, if what I'm hearing is right, and I better hope it is,'' he muttered this last part to himself. ''You're some kind of princess, but what is your name, and you're the princess of what exactly?'' Nightmare Moon looked at him with frustration but nonetheless decided to entertain him, after all if she were to get back to Equestria, and Luna, she will need help, and maybe this Ryan would be indeed able to help in her quest. ''Very well mister Ryan, if you must know my name is Nightmare Moon, and I with my sister rule over Equestria,'' she proclaimed with pride, not seeing Ryan flabbergasted expression. 'Houston we have a problem, an alien crash landed on earth and she is lost!' He thought, before this whole situation got the better of him, he sat on the floor looking at her with a blank expression clearly displaying his current state of mind. Great now what was she supposed to do, Ryan was visibly the only one who had answers to her immediate questions and the idiot just decide to sit and stare into nothingness, leaving her to figure things out on her own, beginning with how these damn legs works. After several other attempts at trying to get up, she finally succeeded, but now came the other difficult part walking. Surprisingly it was not too difficult, after falling on her knees a couple of times, and banging her armored head on a table, she was finally able to walk without too much problems. Now she will have to learn how to use those new appendage that seemed to have replaced her hooves, but for that she will have to wait for Ryan to wake up,because those thing were truly confusing to her. Losing her patience she walked up to him and swiftly kicked him in the ribs. That seemed to work since he instantly jump up with a small grunt of pain, while holding the side Nightmare Moon just kicked with his arm. ''Ow was that truly necessary, do you know how hard you just kicked me?'' he said while still holding his side, and glaring at Nightmare Moon. ''Quiet peasant. It has come to my attention that for the time being I will need housing, which you will provide, and secondly I will need you to teach me how this new body of mine work, is that understood.'' She said while looking down on Ryan with the air of someone who is used to give orders to others. ''Okay first of, no I'm not you lackey if you need housing ask nicely, and maybe I'll say yes, and not kick you out of My house for kicking me like you just did bitch.'' He said not believing this person/alien treating him like, maybe others are treated like that on her world, but here it's Earth and he will not stand by as she boss him around like a puppet. ''And secondly what do you mean by new body what you're saying doesn't make any sense?'' He said, while getting to his feet, with frustration at being treated like a slave by this princess Nightmare-whatever, and also confused by what she said about new body, because from his point of view she speak about her body as if she wasn't... human... before. 'Oh crap, if she wasn't human before then what was she?' Nightmare Moon not believing what she just heard the human call her was about to raise her arm, but quickly second guess herself. 'He is right, he holds power over as seeing I am new here and all, I will to be careful to stay on Ryan's good side, maybe an attempt at starting over would be best?' With her plan set she walked up to him, with an apologetic look on her face. ''You are right mister Ryan,'' with a soft voice containing masking her fury at being called a bitch, ''I acted poorly and for that I am sorry mister Ryan, but look at it from my point of view. I just woke up here in an unknown location with no previous memory of how I actually got, and now you tell me I am not on my world, the whole situation got the better of me and I let my anger control me.'' She said while bowing in forgiveness, while making a note to herself for making him pay for his earlier comment, she may be lost and will need his help but she is a princess and she will gain respect here, be it the easy way or the hard way. Ryan thought about Nightmare Moon's apology and could not see any deception, and decided that a fresh start would be better for both of them. Sticking out his hand to Nightmare he said, '' I accept your apology, if you promise to not kick me in the ribs, and to not treat me like a slave, deal ?'' Looking at her own hand, then looking at his hand she grasp his with hers and lightly shake it in acknowledgment. Breaking contact she looked at him waiting his next decision, the silence extended for a minute, neither of them unsure what to do, but that question was quickly answered with the growling of Nightmare Moon's stomach. ''It would seem I am hungry, I demand that you prepare breakfast, so that we may sate our hunger.'' Nodding in acknowledgment since he himself was growing hungry as well, he started walking towards the kitchen,but stopped when Nightmare called back to him. ''Oh and next time Ryan don't make me repeat myself or you will understand why no one makes fool of me.'' She said in a tone that broke no argument and quickly delivered the promise of pain should he try to make her seem like an idiot. ''I'll make sure to remember it, if you remember you side of the deal as well.' Turning back he quickly made his way to the kitchen to prepare breakfast, while thinking on to deal with this whole alien royalty situation. Clothing : ProblemWhile Ryan was off preparing breakfast, Nightmare Moon was left alone with her thoughts in the restroom. 'I should not have threatened him like that, after all he has a point he can kick me out and then I will be left alone, vulnerable.' She thought while her face displayed a worried frown. 'True but you are royalty you deserve respect even from someone who saved you from an unknown, and probably worst fate than right now.' She was about to continue her mental discussion with herself, but Ryan's voice broke her train of thoughts. ''Nightmare, the breakfast is ready!'' He said looking at her through the door frame. ''Come and eat before it get's cold!'' He said as he moved out of sight, probably to the kitchen table. Without replying she moved to the kitchen. Once in she saw a little table barely able to hold three person with plates full of breakfast food, which she assumed was waffles, placed across from each other. 'If Luna was here her face would be stuffed to the brim with waffles already.' Sadly, this train of thoughts also made her realized that, once again she was now separated from Luna, which meant that she was truly alone now. Ryan seeing Nightmare's expression shift from happy to sad wondered what made that change, but didn't act on it. Instead he just presented her with the plate of waffles in front of her and said, ''I didn't know what you would like to eat for breakfast, so I made waffles, hope they're at your liking?'' He finished, while picking his knife and fork, and waiting for Nightmare to take her seat and do the same. ''Now from what you told earlier, you don't know how to use your new body, right?'' He said, while waiting for her confirmation, at her nodding in affirmation he continued. ''Well there is nothing magical to it really, just do what I do and if you got question about how things work well, just ask and I will answer, is that okay with you?'' As she nodded in affirmation, again, they started eating. But before she could start Ryan spoke again, this time in confusion. ''Aren't you gonna, you know take of your armor, now that I think about it, before eating?'' He said while eyeing her blue gauntlet. ''In fact if you were not human before how come your armor is so... well human like?'' Nightmare looked at him wearily, as if waiting for him to do something improper that would annoy, and anger, her. But seeing as his look of confusion, and the honesty present in his voice, and eyes, were true. She concluded that, indeed, she could remove her armor in safety to get more comfortable, but not before warning him for good measure. ''I shall remove my armor, but try anything , and I mean anything, that seems out of place or hostile, and you shall face my wrath.'' She said before starting to remove her armor, for it was easy, since her armor enchantment seemed to have followed through her teleportation, and transformation through the world of Earth and Equestria. ''And to answer your question, I am unsure as to what caused the transformation of myself and the armor.'' Ryan's look amazement at seeing Nightmare peel her armor off as if there was no restraint at all, quickly turned to embarrassment and shock, seeing as she had no cloth underneath. Raising a hand in front of his eyes for modesty, quickly interrupted Nightmare's action in removing her armor. ''Wowow stop, stop!'' Feeling her exasperation at being interrupted, he quickly elaborated. ''Nightmare don't you have any cloth underneath your armor?'' He asked still not looking at her, in fear of seeing her naked, not because she was ugly but because she was beautiful. ''No I do not, why? Is there a problem?'' She asked exasperated but slightly confused as well at Ryan's reaction at seeing her remove her armor. ''Actually yes!'' He replied, and she was about ask why but he continued in his answer. ''You see, humans here on Earth always wear clothes, be it in public or alone, do you get what I'm saying?'' He asked hopeful that she did get it, after all she was quick witted enough to realize is thought just by looking at his face earlier. Her cheeks flares red with a mixture of embarrassment at her seemingly improper action, and anger at being implied that she is dim witted by Ryan. Taking a long breath to calm her frazzled nerves, so she does not explode on Ryan, and make the situation worse for her. She look up at him with a calm expression. ''I understand perfectly mister Ryan,'' she said while putting her armor back on. ''I am sorry if my earlier action has brought you discomfort, for you see, we Equestrian do not normally wear clothes, and I simply assumed the same was for Earth and its inhabitants.'' She finished, but she decided to only remove her gauntlet as it would greatly makes the eating of her breakfast more difficult. Ryan lowered his hand, as he realized that she had put her armor back on. But his thoughts drifted to the fact that he will likely have to buy cloths for her, if she were to pass as a normal woman of six feet and eight inches. Okay as normal as she can be, which will be difficult, considering her size since tall woman are kind of rare from his point of view. Ryan looking up from his thoughts, realized that Nightmare was waiting for him to show her how to use her hands, and without further ado they started eating. The breakfast went without trouble, apart from Nightmare's first few clumsy attempts to use her hands. Ryan was looking at her most of the time thinking how beautiful she is when embarrassed li... His thought came to a crashing halt, did he just thought of her as cute? That woman has one of the worst temper ever, she is so volatile and violent. His bruised side where she kicked him is a proof to that, and decided to return to eating his breakfast. After they both finished eating Ryan got up, took the two plates and went to the sink. Dropping them in the sink, he made his way back to Nightmare Moon, who was still seated at her chair waiting for Ryan. He was about to talk to her about getting clothes fitting for her, but Nightmare was already speaking. ''You know mister Ryan you never gave me the honor of knowing you full name, and so I formally request that you give your full name?'' She spoke with all the grace and fluidity of royalty. A little thrown off by the question, but thinking over their previous talks he did realize that he never fully presented himself to her, even though she did. ''Oh, hum, sorry I never realized eh eh!'' He chuckled while rubbing the back of his head in slight embarrassment. ''Well my full name is Ryan drowskie and, well there is nothing more to add so that would be it.'' He was about leave the kitchen but quickly turned around to face Nightmare who got up as well and was following him ''Oh and before I forget, I will bring you a spare set of clothe before I shower, and I would like you to change into that before going out to buy you a new set of clothes!'' Let's just say that Nightmare's reaction wasn't the one he expected, and that things were about to get really loud, really soon. Clothing : SolutionNightmare Moon looked at Ryan, with narrowed eyes full of fury. 'Did he just seriously consider what I think he just said, that I Nightmare Moon, princess of Equestria and ruler of the night, with my sister Luna. Lower myself by wearing male clothes, we are indeed in need of help but we are not desperate!' She was about to make him regret his words, but something held her back, something she did not understand, and it infuriated her. But it nonetheless made her realized that she was about to make a mistake that will damage her pride. She started taking long breath in order calm herself, and after a few seconds she was visibly less tense and prompt to lash out at Ryan. Ryan seeing Nightmare relax did the same, and that surprised him. After all he expected a lot of shouting coming from Nightmare, but seeing her relax made him relax as well. ''Okay so I'm gonna take my shower, but before that I will pass you some of my clothes to...!'' He could not finish his sentence since Nightmare Moon promptly cut him by raising her hand. ''You want me to wear your clothes Ryan, but why should I wear the clothes of a male? Is my armor not good enough for your society? Is your society sexist to the point where females do not have the right to wear their own clothes? Or, do you intend to have me take my armor off, to make me more vulnerable?'' She finished, glaring at Ryan with narrowed eyes, full of suspicions, ready to use his body as her future training dummy. After all no one becomes a ruler by blindly trusting others, and seeing as she is in a new world he could very well try to abuse her. Even if his previous actions shows nothing but good will, all of this could be a ruse now that she thinks about it. Ryan not phase by her interruption, after all he did expect her to voice her complaints, seeing as she acts all high and mighty, answer her questions while ignoring those creepy eyes of her. ''Well if you want to pass as a normal woman here on Earth you will have to wear normal clothes, and seeing as I live alone I only have my clothes to pass to you so they will have to do for now, until we get you a proper set of clothes. Well more than one but we will see once we get there. Yes your armor is not good enough, not because it doesn't cover enough, but because no one wear armor anymore, and also because of the fact that you'll be seen as a freak. And no, I do not have any intention to do any bad things to you, because if I did I would have done it already when you were unconscious in the clearing where I found you. Is my answer satisfactory your highness?'' That last part may have been unnecessary but he had to make it clear, not that he tried several times already, that he was only trying to help, and was getting tired of her acting like she owned everything. Nightmare Moon look's to the side biting her lower lip, swallowing back a harsh reply, she would regret seconds later after uttering it. ''I understand Ryan in fact I may have gone too far in addressing you in the way I just did, and for that I am sorry for my harsh words.'' She said and bowed to Ryan, trying to hide her shame. She wondered how much more her pride is going to suffer. Looking at Nightmare, he could feel that what she said wasn't complete bollocks. After all she is lost in every sense of the word and decide to let it slide since he would probably act like her if he was in her shoes. ''I accept your apology, just remember that I'm only trying to help you get back home, so no hard feelings?'' He said with hope that this time the hatchet his truly buried. Ryan look's to the clock and realize that they had lost a good amount of time by just arguing with each other, since it is nine thirty. He dash to his room picking clothes for himself, and Nightmare. He return and give's Nightmare her set of clothes, and go to the bathroom for a quick shower. A few minutes later Ryan is out feeling refresh and clean with a new set of clothes on himself. He look's at Nightmare expecting her to have changed but to his annoyance see that she is still in her heavy suit of blue armor. ''Why didn't you changed yourself already, we don't have much time if we don't want ourselves caught in the middle of the rush hour?'' He said while rubbing the bridge of his nose in annoyance. Nightmare look's shock at him as if not believing what she just heard, ''Mister Ryan did you honestly think that I would wear your clothes with the filth of the previous days still clinging to me? Seriously you jest!'' She reply, with what he can only guess is mock disbelief. Now that he look's at her more carefully. He indeed see the filth that clings to her body and face and sidestep out of the way, as Nightmare Moon pass by him with her head up in the air like one of those noble in history book, while sporting a sly smirk. A few more minutes later Nightmare comes out of the shower clean, and has changed into Ryan's clothes. The clothes he gave her were hugging her form in all the right place and exposing her stomach for the world to see, her breast where bouncing at every steps she took making it very hard to focus on her face instead of her chest. Her face showed discomfort by the fact that her breast kept bouncing. ''I don't understand why the female of your kind have their mammary situated here instead of lower like we ponies do, and it is certainly annoying, seeing as how they don't stop moving when I walk?'' She said while looking at her own breast in annoyance. ''It sure isn't from my point of view.'' He quietly mutter to himself, his voice a whisper, as he bit on his fist in an attempt to control the male inside him with pain. He knew that she had the body of a top model when he was carrying her on his back before, and it was further proved earlier today during their heated argument and their breakfast. But damn without her armor on she was irresistible, body wise, but attitude wise, she was a complete stuck up noble bitch. ''Well seeing as I'm not a woman I do not need a bra, but you on the other hand definitely do, in fact all women does.'' He said unable to tear his eyes away from her breast any longer. ''What is a bra Ryan?'' She ask not knowing what a bra was, after all ponies do need bra. She did not miss him eyeing her breast though, and would ask him later why he was doing so. ''Well a bra is an undergarment, meant to keep your breast from bouncing around as they do.'' He said while still eyeing her breast. ''Okay seeing as we are both ready to go, I suggest we start making our way to the Walmart, before it gets too crowded, what do you say Nightmare?'' He says with calmest expression he could muster right now. ''I agree it shall be best if I were to get proper female clothing, don't you agree?'' She said while looking at him expectantly. ''Then follow me if you please,'' he said while walking to the exit and motioning for her to follow him. She follows him without complaints, for once. They quickly arrive to the apartment complex parking lot. He motion for her so stop, '' stay here please, I'll be right back,'' he said while walking further in the parking lot, but not before she ask him, ''where are you going?'' She ask curiously with a little bit of fear, even with all her bravado she is still alone in this new world that she is now stuck in. ''I'm just going to go search for my car, as I say I'll be right back don't worry Nightmare, I'm not leaving you alone for long.'' he shout back while moving further into the parking lot. A minute pass by in complete silence, the only sound her breathing. Then a loud rumbling noise approach from her left, she look in the direction the noise is coming from only to sense her jaw drop at the sight of the mechanical beast approaching her, only to relax when she see's that Ryan is at the command of this beast. He stop in front of her, and lower his side window. ''Hop in we're going shopping,'' he said with a bright smile happy at the sight of awe on Nightmare's face. Clothing : ResolutionNightmare Moon look's at Ryan with amazement that such a poor man can afford such an extraordinary magical construct. 'These humans are truly fascinating,' she thought. An idea pop in her head, what if she could convince him to help her in defeating Celestia and reclaim Equestria with Luna and him by her side, that is if he doesn't betray her. Her reverie is broken when she notice that Ryan is looking at her in frustration. 'Before she was angry, now she just plain ignore me, seriously why do I even bother with her?' He thought, truly frustrated at being ignore, or so he thought. Still he opens the door on Nightmare's side while still inside the car, he motions for to sit inside, and instruct her how to clip the security belt over her body to protect in case of a crash, not that he intend to crash, but still accidents do happen. He press slightly on the accelerator to exit the parking lot, and turns right in the direction of the shopping mall. The silence is broken by Nightmare, ''how does this machine you call a car works, we have trains on Equestria but nothing sophisticated like this?'' She says, her eyes alight in wonder and curiosity, completely forgetting how royalty is supposed to act at all times, instead act like a filly at Hearth's Warming at the sight of such difference in technology between Equestria and Earth. Ryan not taking his eyes off the road calmly answer Nightmare's question, completely missing her looking at him in childlike curiosity. ''Well to be honest I don't know the finest details but of what I know, it works with the help of the motor which is fueled by, well fuel, which create small explosion, which in turn moves all the pistons up and down at really high speed which then create energy that powers the car, the radio, and other things.'' He said taking pride in his little knowledge of cars and their inner workings, then taking a huge breath for compensating all the air he just used to explain this to Nightmare how car works. Nightmare shake her head in sheer confusion, not having understood at least half of what he just said. Instead she decides to return to her planning for the future, and before she knew it they had arrived to the shopping mall. They unfasten their security belt, exit the car, and locks the doors. It is then that she finally lay eyes on the Walmart, and she is astonished by the sight of such a huge building, it rival Canterlot palace on term of size. But before she can marvel more at the sight of the mall, Ryan call's out to her and say, ''catch,'' and throw a pair of black sunglasses at Nightmare, who fumble with them in an attempt to catch them, not yet used to her hands after all. She finally secure them on, resting comfortably on her nose, per Ryan's instruction and ask, '' why do you want me to wear these Ryan?'' Still unsure as to why she should wear them. Ryan's look her way and nod in approval, at how she wears them and say, ''well we could do without them but then your eyes would be exposed.'' He catch Nightmare wince at the mention of her eyes being unnatural, not that she doesn't know about it, and quickly rectify, ''it's not because their ugly, because honestly they are quite mesmerizing if a tad bit creepy, but not ugly. Sadly not everyone would be as understanding as me and would probably freak out, that is why passed you my sunglasses so that you can hide them and pass as a normal human.'' He say with a sheepish chuckle, while rubbing the back of his neck. Nightmare's cheek burn with, something that is so foreign to her that no words can describe how she feels. Instead her gaze return to the store and she motion to it and say, ''well then I suppose you know the way to where we must go, so lead the way noble Ryan.'' She doesn't why she said it but in the end she believes it is the best word that can be used to describe Ryan. Meanwhile Ryan is looking at Nightmare not really what he heard was right or just a product of his mind, but decide to just go with the flow and thank Nightmare for the compliment. ''Well thank you Nightmare for your kind words!'' He say and start to walk towards the mall. Nightmare promptly follow him and reply, ''for what, calling you a knight. I only stated the truth, nothing more nothing less.'' She say with obvious pride, you may call Nightmare Moon many things, but a liar never, death is preferable from her point of view than lying. ''Hum, okay.'' He say a little bit unsure how to react to that. They soon enter the mall, only for Nightmare's amazement to reflect in her eyes and gaping mouth at the sight of so many things located into one place. To her left she can see rows upon rows of clothes both for women and men, to her right she can, once again, rows upon rows of foods of all kinds. Without hesitation Ryan start walking towards the clothing section, taking along the way a cart for transporting all the things they will soon buy. __o0o__ Choosing Nightmare's everyday clothes was easy, she liked dark colored clothes, like a pair of purple jeans or a pair of black shirt with the moon effigy on it or other dark colored clothes that all had a night theme to them. All this clothes shopping made Nightmare really happy, and seeing her this happy made Ryan happy as well, her happiness was infectious to say the least. But when it was time to chose Nightmare's undergarment, to say that Ryan was uncomfortable in all this women lingerie would be an understatement, he was beat red from embarrassment because every women, except Nightmare, was looking at him with a look that said, why was he here. In return he gave a sheepish smile and returned in helping Nightmare choose her undergarment. Nightmare meanwhile was as giddy as a filly, both on the inside and on the outside, she never knew that shopping for simple clothes could be this much fun. Add to this all the compliment Ryan make's on her figure every time she ask what she would look like in on of the clothes she chooses, and you get one of the happiest day in Nightmare's life. Of course she was fairly happy with Luna since they were sister in the same body, but no one else ever complimented her on something even less about her dragon eyes, until Ryan that is. It was at this point that they came upon the changing cabin to try the clothes and undergarment she choose, to see if they fit her and all. The moment was already awkward with all the stares Ryan received from the other various women and men customer who were staring at him and at Nightmare, who was relishing in all the attention the men, and some women gave her. But the moment truly became intolerable for Ryan, when Nightmare grabbed him by the collar, and swiftly brought in the cabin with her. Nightmare understood how to wear most of these clothes, even her panties, even though it's her first time putting these on, but the bra she had no clue whatsoever. That is why she is now bare chested with Ryan in a very small changing cabin asking him, ''Ryan would you be so kind as to help me put these on,'' she said while holding one of her dark bra in her hand. ''You explained to me what purpose these serve but I cannot seem to figure out how to put these on!'' Ryan incredibly red from embarrassment and all the blood flowing to his head cover his eyes with his right hand, and reply. ''Okay first of, can't you ask some one else, second of, please for the love of god please cover your boobs it's incredibly distracting!'' Normally every other men in his place would be in heaven, but he is in public and it takes every ounce of willpower he possess not to do something he would instantly come to regret. Nightmare look's at Ryan with narrowed eyes, not sure why her 'boobs', as he puts it, seems to distract him so and ask, ''why Ryan is my royal body not good enough for you, or is it because because you have never laid eyes on such a great body as mine?'' She said with a hint of anger at the thought of her body not good enough for Ryan, but all of this is overshadowed with pride for she knows her body is perfect, for alicorns are perfect by nature. ''Nightmare for t-the love of g-god, you a-asking me if your b-body is not g-good enough is like sacrilege,'' he say unable to believe that Nightmare just seriously asked if her body was not good enough. ''You have t-the b-body of a super model and t-that is why I a-ask t-that you cover yourself, you see being half n-naked or fully n-naked in public or in front of someone is, as you would put it, incredibly indecent.'' He stuttered unable to say a full sentence clearly without his embarrassment showing in his voice. It was Nightmare's turn this time to be embarrassed, although she was also flattered about Ryan comment about her body, which was proved by the blossoming of her cheeks, she quickly hid her breast with her arms and hands, and turned around facing one of the wall. ''If that is t-the case t-then help me with my b-bra, Q-QUICK.'' She finished, unable to control her voice at the end from her embarrassment. He does as he is told without arguing and soon both of them leave the cabin, Ryan looking in every direction before exiting himself. __o0o__ They continue their shopping, Ryan looking for things to eat for both him and Nightmare, Nightmare wander off alone looking for things related to the night that might suit her fancy taste. She does spot a couple of bracelet that do have night related theme, one has full moon on the center and false star like jewelry that make it look like a night sky, the other one has just a half moon and decide to discard while keeping the former for herself. Ryan continue shopping for food, unaware that Nightmare has wandered off to the female jewelry section of the Walmart. He look's back to ask what Nightmare would like to eat but did not ask his question seeing as Nightmare is nowhere to be found. He decide to trace back his step to the female section and easily find her, seeing as she is a giant amazon, he doesn't take long to reach her only to see Nightmare being cornered by three other girl, who all seems to try and pick a fight with her. 'Does girl do not know what they are in for she will eat them like fresh waffle at breakfast,' he thought how remembering she devoured her waffle this morning, in the end he decide to barge in and save the girls from themselves, and Nightmare. He does it just in nick of time, seeing as Nightmare was clenching her fist and was about to raise it, he calls out to her stopping her. ''Honey there you are, I was worried sick don't just up and disappear like that,'' he says as loudly as he can breaking the three girls concentration on Nightmare, and making Nightmare jump in the process. She was about to protest about being Ryan girlfriend, but Ryan quickly grab her arm and quietly and discreetly mutter into her ear, 'play the game if you don't want to attract attention to yourself.' She nods in understanding seeing as attracting attention right now would be bad, especially for her. ''Yes dear I was here checking for little trinket that would go well with my new outfit, but then these charming girls,'' she said while motioning for the three girls in question, ''where pointing me out to where I could find the little trinket in question.'' They all nod in unison not wanting to pick a fight with Nightmare anymore, seeing as the other patron in the alley where looking at them now, and quickly walk away. ''Phew that was a close one.'' Ryan say while brushing his air backward in visible relief that the storm had pass without doing damage. ''Why did you stop me Ryan, I was about to teach them a lesson in respect for calling me a hag?'' She said with confusion and a slight hint of anger at not being able to show these little pest who is the strongest. ''Maybe but then you would have been arrested for physical violence against a minor and probably thrown to jail!'' He say clearly disappointed in Nightmare behavior, after all he thought she was mature enough not to get goad into a fight so easily. Clearly he was wrong and he will have to check her more closely in the future. In the end they both decide to continue shopping, with Nightmare close by his side so that Ryan can keep an eye on her at all time. After that returning home would be a good idea now that they had everything they pay for the numerous thing they bought, including all of Nightmare's trinket, which are the bracelet a little necklace with a half moon symbol on it, and a couple of other stuff. They pack everything into Ryan's car and return to his apartment, Nightmare happy with all the stuff she all possess and at Ryan's chivalrous save by the three teenage girl at the Walmart. Ryan meanwhile is also happy, happy to have saved Nightmare from herself, and happy to have seen her smile, and happy that his kitchen is now back at full capacity, storage wise. The rest of the day goes without too much trouble, apart from Nightmare always ranting about things not being clean enough or majestic enough, which he agree with the former but disagree with the later, seeing as he didn't had that much time to clean the place since Nightmare came here. In the end they call it a day at eight thirty p.m and they promptly both go to sleep, Nightmare get the couch just so he can enjoy ticking Nightmare off by showing her he own the place, not her. Nightmare's Nightmare''Sister!'' That brought Nightmare's head up, what she saw was Luna looking at her with extreme loathing and hatred. ''Why?'' She ask, ''Why did thou kill our big sister, Celestia?'' Her eyes were misty by that point, quickly overcome by her sadness of losing Celestia, who was killed by her own little sister. ''Luna I killed her so that we too can be love by our subject, which is now made possible with Celestia gone.'' She said a little distraught by Luna's reaction, after all they both hate Celestia and her damn sun one thousand years ago, 'is that not the case anymore?' She thought with dread, unable to believe that Luna of all ponies has forgiven Celestia for scheming against the both of them. ''No sister of mine, you killed Celestia because you were afraid of her, afraid that I would love her more than thee, guess what your suspicion was right I love her more than thee and now she is gone, forever.'' Now her tears were running freely unable to stop themselves. 'Could it be it, that I was the one who was jealous of Celestia and not Luna?'' Now her eyes were getting wet as well, from the realization that she caused Luna, her beloved big sister, the greatest amount of pain imaginable. She wanted to run, run and hide and never be seen again for what she did to Luna, but the guards that were surrounding her made sure that she could not escape with all the magical tethers they casted, that was attached to her body. Instead she just let herself fall to the floor, hiding her face with her fore hooves, unable to look Luna in the face and see the face of the one pony that mattered to her hurt, hurt by herself no less. After a long moment of silence where neither of them said anything, only silently weeping for the loss they both suffered. Luna's loss was Celestia while Nightmare's loss was Luna, one was dead the other still alive but hated the other for what she did and never wanted to see her again. In the end Luna regained her senses and called out, ''guard bring the criminal to the throne room where she will be judged accordingly to Equestrian law.'' And without further needless words she turn around and passed the still open door and close it for a full second, before opening it again to let the guard pass. When they pass the door it closed behind them in a loud bang, and with a audible that signified that the lock was in place. The room had changed in the full second the doors where closed from the cheerful white associated to Celestia's sun with the sun emblem engraved in the ground before the throne and behind it. To a gloom dark associated to Luna's night with a crescent moon engraved on the floor before the throne and behind it, to signify the change that recently occurred. Siting upon the throne was no one else than Luna herself, watching the proceedings as judge and executioner, while the jury where sited on both side of Luna. On Luna's right was the Element bearer, the six mare who represented harmony, kindness honesty generosity loyalty laughter and magic. Even with the realization that she did hurt Luna by killing Celestia, she still hated those mares. On Luna's left where sitting, at least what she thought from the way they carry themselves and their attire, the six most influential ponies of Canterlot. All thirteen of them were looking at her with pure unaltered hatred with their red glowing eyes... wait red? Then abruptly everything fades to black until a bright flash of light signify the end of her Nightmare. __o0o__ Nightmare Moon woke up in cold sweat, screaming Luna's name like her life depends on it. Looking around she realized that she was not back in Equestria but that she was still in Ryan's apartment. The sound of something heavy hitting the floor came from Ryan's bedroom and out he come, looking around worried that something horrible had happened while he was asleep. Ryan's look of fear was soon replace by one of confusion, seeing Nightmare holding her legs close to her chest sobbing and muttering Luna's name over and over again and something else like, sorry. 'Whatever happened to her in the past must have been painful, and truly horrible for her to react like that!?' He thought, since seeing Nightmare looking like a frightened child who just saw her parents murdered in front of her made him realize, that Nightmare haughty attitude is probably more like a way for her to cope with what is happening to her right now. 'Being thrown out of her own world must have been more a shock to her then I realized at first yesterday?' With that thought in mind he made his way to Nightmare silently so has not to disturb her too much. He took Nightmare's shoulder in his hand, sat behind her and started rubbing them in a comforting manner, while murmuring in her ears soothing words. ''It's okay Nightmare you're safe, no one from Equestria can get you here,'' he said as reassuringly as he could, ''I mean after all you're here and they are back on Equestria, and unless they can do multidimensional travel they are stuck there!'' He finish with a little joke, which seems to work seeing as Nightmare sobbing, and shiver, seems to have stop. She looks behind her with tears still flowing from her eyes, right into Ryan soft green eyes. ''Hold me please, I do not want to be alone again!'' He wraps his arms around her chest and do exactly as he is, told not letting her shivering form go while still murmuring soothing words in her ears. After a few minutes of Ryan comforting Nightmare distressed form, she finally calms down enough for Ryan to let her go without worry of her panicking again. ''Thank you Ryan, I needed that.'' Ryan look into Nightmare's eyes and for the first time sees them as beautiful not even in the slightest bit creepy, okay maybe a little bit creepy. Nightmare look's back at him with true happiness, and something else she does not identify. ''If you don't mind me asking, why is your past seems so horrible, and who is this Luna you kept muttering?'' He say with genuine care, only trying to understand Nightmare's fear of whoever this Luna is, after all it's not the first time he heard her say that name. She tense up, only slightly and say, ''maybe one day I will tell you, but not now, now I only want to leave this in the past, for now.'' She say as she get up and start walking toward the bathroom, for a quick and refreshing shower. Ryan look up at Nightmare departing figure with a little smirk of confidence and say, ''I'll hold to it, and no chickening out!''Nightmare swiftly, and gently, close the door behind her with a little laugh. ''Damn what a strange morning that was, but then again I should have expected something like this to happen, at least I'm glad I was here to comfort Nightmare!'' Ryan said to himself, unaware that Nightmare was listening to him through the door with a smile plastered on her face, and with that he goes to the kitchen to prepare today's breakfast. That Awkward MorningNightmare was undressing herself in the bathroom, about to take her shower. She was admiring her new body through the mirror in the bathroom, after all Ryan did say she had the body of a super model, and she so wanted to test out the effect of her new body on someone. Then Ryan's warning came forth in her mind, reminding her of how it was considered indecent to show yourself naked to someone. An idea then form itself into her head, she could not show herself naked but she could bent the meaning of Ryan's warning. She started looking around for something that which she could use to 'cover' herself with, she spotted a bathrobe but deemed it too modest for her intention, then she saw the towel she use to dry herself with. What if she were to wrap herself with the towel and exit the bathroom completely wet in front of Ryan. 'I do wonder what his reaction could be, after all he does need a little reward for helping me. That's it I am going to do it!' It is with that thought in mind that she took her shower, when she exited the shower she just wrapped herself in the towel. Still wet and dripping she exited the bathroom. Ryan look up from the stove, at the sound of Nightmare exiting the bathroom, where he was making his and Nightmare's breakfast. What he saw made him choke on his spit and made all the blood in his body flow to his head. Because before him stood Nightmare Moon, dressed only in the bath towel, bearing her moon cutie mark, he bought for her yesterday, and she was winking at him in a sly manner that made him realize that she was messing with him. He opened his mouth to say something, but the only thing that came out was incoherent noise born from his flustered state, which only made Nightmare laugh in merriness in return, seems like her plan was working. ''Is something wrong Ryan?'' She asked with false innocence tilting her head to the side while raising her eyebrow in fake confusion. ''Does my outfit distract you? If that is the case I can change?'' As she was starting to unwrap herself Ryan coughed which gathered her attention. Ryan coughed a little more to clear his throat, making sure he regained as much calm as he could in his immediate situation. ''Nightmare please, go back in the bathroom and wear something proper?'' Unable to believe that he said all of this without stuttering even once. ''Why, don't you find me attractive anymore?'' She said while making her lip quiver with false tears in her eyes, in a fake pout. Normally on a little child Ryan would find this cute and unbearable to look at, but since she is a grown women, which is taller than him, it just made it annoying that Nightmare would try something like this. ''Stop it Nightmare it's not gonna work on me, if you had been younger maybe? So just go and change while I finish the breakfast.'' He said as he returned his attention to his stove. Nightmare huff turned around and left to return to the bathroom, disheartened that her little reward/joke did not work fully as intended, but it left her pretty happy to have been able to get that reaction of pure unease out of Ryan. Ryan meanwhile was stuck with Nightmare's alluring figure in his head, those lovely curves, that wasp waist... Enough, but no matter what he tried it will probably haunt him for awhile, in a good kind sort of way. The smell of something burning brought him back from his reverie, he looked down to see his bacon was about to become charred black. He quickly took the pan out from over the stove and deposited it on the counter, at least the bacon wasn't terribly burnt, in fact it just perfect. ''Damn you Nightmare and your perfect body! I almost had to redo the breakfast.'' He thought angrily, half at Nightmare and half at himself, at his lack of attention at what he was doing. Nightmare came out of the bathroom, this fully clothed with black jeans and a purple shirt with effigy of the moon on hit, and could not miss the strange smell that came from the kitchen. Curious she walk to the kitchen and say Ryan setting the breakfast on the table, all ready to be eaten. ''Ryan?'' She ask making Ryan jump,not having heard her coming in, ''what is that strange smell?'' ''Strange smell? Oh you mean the bacon, sorry it's just that when you cam in earlier it almost burnt because of your distraction!'' He said, trying to make Nightmare feel at least a little guilty. Nightmare look at him her dragon like eyes, with her head tilt to the side, not understanding what bacon is. ''And what pray tell is bacon Ryan?'' ''Well bacon is...'' and that's when his thought came to a abrupt halt. 'Wait didn't she say she was a pony before, so it probably means that she is, like her kind, vegetarian.' His skin soon turned pale at the realization that Nightmare might beat him up, the image of her kicking him in the ribs resurfacing, if she were to learn that humans eat meat. Not able to think of any excuses, he decided to go with the truth. ''Well bacon is, oh god this is awkward, bacon his meat to put it simply.'' He close his eyes and brought his arm in front of his face for protection, awaiting for something unpleasant to happen, when nothing happened he opens his eyes and saw Nightmare looking at him with slight amusement. ''Y-you aren't disgusted by what I just said?'' ''Oh please Ryan why would I be,'' she said with an amused expression plastered across her face, being thought as someone weak to the point to shriek in horror at the only mention of meat always infuriated her in a way, but Ryan action are, in some way, amusing to her. ''Back on Equestria I was the only pony with fangs, and trust me when I say this they were not just for show Ryan. I am Luna polar opposite, and not just in the way we think, but in everything, even eating habit, of course I can eat vegetables like any other pony but I largely prefer meat, that is the reason why Luna was always in control while with others.'' ''Oh, hum, okay I didn't expect that honestly but I guess it's fine, I wont judge because you eat meat.'' He said with total surprise and honesty, why would he judge some for what they eat, it would be total hypocrisy. Nightmare for the first time did not know what to say, for the first time someone didn't judge for the way she eat, of course why would he judge for eating meat he is omnivore if she saw him eat through out her stay here is anything to go by. So instead she only say what truly matter, ''thank you for understanding Ryan.'' Ryan nod in understanding, and motion for the breakfast waiting at the table and they both promptly sit and begin eating. Once the breakfast is over and the plates have been rinsed does Ryan speak, ''Okay so today I have to go to work today, which begin at ten o'clock and I'll return somewhere in between sixteen thirty and seventeen o'clock. Until then, well I guess the house is yours just don't destroy, it's the only rule,'' he said while rubbing the back of his in uncertain of what Nightmare will do while he is away. ''Do not worry Ryan I shall take care of your house while you are gone.'' She said with a little smirk. A Day At WorkRyan was in his bedroom preparing his outfit for today, he heard the sound of his door opening and saw Nightmare looking at him. ''Is something wrong Nightmare?'' He ask wondering why she was looking at him, without saying a word. ''I was just wondering how you Humans get used to those itchy clothes all the time!? I mean my armor is the most comfortable thing I wear, and I was wondering why you, humans, don't wear armor?'' She asked with genuine Curiosity. That's when he remembered something that intrigued him since yesterday, ''hey Nightmare I was wondering, what happened to your armor? Because I can't seem to find it anywhere?'' He asked wondering where Nightmare could have hidden her armor. Nightmare looked at him wondering if he asked that question out of pure curiosity or if he had ulterior intention behind asking that, but saw no evil intention in his eyes but saw none, and decided to entertain him by answering his question. ''Well magic would be the quickest answer, but I am probably certain it would not be specific enough for you, seeing as humans do not seem to possess magic.'' She looked back at Ryan and saw he was slightly confused by her words, probably at the magic part. ''The answer is nonetheless simple though, I enchanted my armor to obey to my will, and a couple of other enchantments to keep it in perfect condition at all time, and also to increase it's durability by ten fold.'' She continued on her answer, while ignoring Ryan's look of shock and awe and instead concentrated on answering his question. ''But what the primary enchantment do, which is the one that makes it obey to my will, is make it able to will it out of existence with a simple thought.'' She snap her index and major together, which reveal the armor surrounding her, placed comfortably on her body, she snap her finger again and her armor disappear like it was never even here to begin with. Ryan was amazed beyond words he tried to say something to compliment her skill, but the only that made it out of his mouth was, ''wow.'' Magic, to Ryan, was things from legends something that wasn't real but the fact remained that what he just saw was real and so was magic by the looks of it. Nightmare was looking at Ryan frozen expression of shock, and realize that he was in stuck in deep thought, walking up to him she waved her hand in front of his face, which seems to do the trick by the rapid blinking of his eyes. ''Good you were lost in thought there for a second.'' ''I knew you told me, about you being able to use magic. But still seeing it for myself is way amazing then just being told about it!'' He said still greatly amazed by what he just saw mere seconds ago. Nightmare felt her chest swell in pride, at being complimented by her use of magic, even if it was an enchantment she made long ago, to help her in battle against Celestia. But still she felt something else at being able to amaze Ryan with something she was truly prideful of. She searched inside her maze of emotions to try and comprehend that feeling but once again was left with nothing, and it infuriated her. Ryan looked to the side and saw that if he didn't leave like right now he would be late for the start of his shift, and so made his past Nightmare to the exit. He looked behind one more time and called out. ''Remember no burning down the apartment okay?.'' ''Just leave, before I decide to remind you why no one mess with me!'' She said threateningly while forming a fist and raising it in a threatening manner. Not wanting to make Nightmare anymore angry than she already was, he promptly left for the parking lot to get his car. Once there he started his car,which is a Toyota 2006, it's not the worst but not the best just in the middle. He left his car at the parking's entrance, in case he would have to leave in a hurry because of Nightmare. He then attempted to promptly exit via the normal, well exit, but found his way blocked by a maintenance crew working on the parking entrance. Sighing in exasperation at his bad luck showing it's ugly head again he made his way to the rear entrance of the parking and exited that way. Ten minutes later of uneventful and peaceful, apart from the parking incident back at the place, driving through the city he reach the cafe.He exit his car and lock it like he usually do, not wanting for it to get stole by some asshole that want to make quick money off with his things, and then went inside through the personnel entrance in the back. He entered the cafe, punch in his presence, and went to his little 'office'. His 'office' is located in the basement and is comprised of three very thin wooden walls and a curtain for a door. The inside of his office contains a file cabinet, a computer, a desk with his name plate on the front with bold letters spelling his name 'RYAN DROWSKIE'. His normal day of work is normally comprise of doing the inventory, checking what is left and doing a list of the things they will need to buy in the future. Then checking regularly on the employee making sure they don't do mistakes, and helping them when the situation demands it. But today was different, okay he still did the things he had to do as usual, but throughout the morning he remarked that everyone was looking at him with smiles and smirks that was normally, not absent, but not that... bright. Remarking this he went to speak to the chef that prepares the meals of patrons in the cafe and ask, ''hey James, do you know why everyone is looking at me like that?'' James, the chef, look at him with a calm expression, but like the others he also sported the same smirk as most of the others employee. ''Why you ask, well the answer is simple Ryan!'' He said with a snicker that threatened to blow into full blown laughter. ''A couple of the employees saw you at the Walmart yesterday. Now normally, that wouldn't be the reason why everyone is acting like this, but those that saw you all claimed they saw you being dragged around by a, how did say this, oh yeah. 'By a giant supermodel, and then he got dragged into the women changing cabin.' And that is the reason why everyone is acting like this today.'' He then lean on Ryan shoulders, whispering, ''so did you had a good time with her?'' He said before exploding in laughter at seeing Ryan's shocked expression. He couldn't believe it that people saw him that time, he made sure to be discreet with Nightmare. He then face palm realizing that he may have been subtle, Nightmare wasn't, after all she did make a little scene with the three girls back at the Walmart. Huffing in exasperation, he decided that the best solution would be, to deal with it as it come. He then walked back to his little office in the basement to prepare his report to give to Rosaline, the proprietor, when she will return fro her little vacation. He went to the 'punch in station' as he call it, to enter his lunch break but was interrupted by Erik, his longtime friend back at college, and senior employee of the day crew. ''Hey Ryan I heard you got yourself a girlfriend! Why did you never told me about her?'' He asked slightly hurt that Ryan was in a romantic relationship, and never deemed fit to tell him about it, until he learned it today when he went to work. He huff in exasperation, again, he seemed to do that a lot in the past two days. ''Eric it's not because I never wanted to tell you about it, It's just she's not my 'girlfriend', she is just a friend who needed a place to live! And I offered her one and she accepted, that's all there is to it.'' He turn back and punch in for his lunch break, but asked Eric a question before leaving for his break. ''By the way, who was it that started this stupid rumor?'' He asked so that he could have a good idea who to look out for in the future. Eric was looking at Ryan with an arch eyebrow, wondering if he was hiding something from him. But in the end shrugg it off, after all Ryan wouldn't hide it if he had a girlfriend. He then looked up at the ceiling, seemingly trying to remember who it was that started this rumor about Ryan' supposedly girlfriend. ''If I remember correctly it was Jonsey and Marie that said they saw you at the Walmart! Why do you ask!'' Ryan had the look of someone who was scheming up something. ''Oh simple Eric, I ask so that I can play a little joke on those two lovebirds. Are you in!?'' He ask as he extended his hand toward Eric, while still keeping is sly smirk. Eric clasp Ryan'hand and say, ''just like in college.''They then parted ways Eric to finish his shift hours and Ryan for his lunch break. The rest of the day went without incident, and soon the day crew was washing their respective work area for the night crew that was about to come in. Ryan was leaving Marie in charge of the cafe as per usual, he may say many thing about Marie's tendency to blow things out of proportion, but she was a damn fine worker. He went back into his car and left to return to his apartment. It took him a little bit longer then when he went to work, but hey it's a city who can say precisely when someone will reach his destination. He went up the stairs knock three time on the door to signal to Nightmare he had return, and entered. The apartment was as he left it this morning, nothing destroyed and nothing was burning which he was glad for. He also spotted Nightmare laying on the couch lazily playing with Xbox 360, at what he believed was Halo 3. ''So you are back I was starting to wonder if you would have been there in time for diner?'' She said while looking at him behind her shoulder with her slit pupil eyes, but promptly went back to play ''Well it took more time to return then I thought, it being a city and all!'' He said a little surprised and relieved that she found a way to occupy herself throughout the day. ''I can also see you were able to figure out how the TV works!'' Not even looking up from her game she answered, ''well no thanks to you?'' She said in mock anger, ''you could have at least showed me how it works, before you left like that?'' She said with a little apprehension at being left alone so abruptly like this by Ryan this morning. Once again she could not understand why she was acting like this, her emotions before where always simple, love Luna and the night and hate Celestia and the day. But now it was weird she felt both happy and angry in the presence of Ryan, and it was making her respond in ways she once again did not understand. Ryan ignoring Nightmare inquisitive look, walk to his closet and dumped his coat inside. It was then he smelled something nice, there was this pleasant smell in the air, and realized that it was coming from the kitchen, and judging by the aroma it must been something very good, It smelled like beef stew with freshly cooked rice. He looked back at Nightmare who was leaving her couch and went ahead of him in the kitchen and called back before he could voice his question, ''are you coming? I made diner, I figured I could do something nice for you for a change.'' Astonished by Nightmare most recent behavior, gladly sat at the table and started eating the meal she prepared. His eyes opened in awe and surprise at the good the diner is, after all he expected the stew to be awful, and to be honest completely inedible. He look across at Nightmare and raised his glass and said, ''my compliment to the chef! But i must be honest, I didn't expected to taste something so good and more so considering it is made with meat! But then again you explained to me that your regime is more omnivore like us humans.'' Nightmare's face was one of happiness at being compliment for something she did, but quickly returned to her normal stoic expression. ''Well I thank you for complimenting my cooking skill, after all when I was with Luna I was the one who always cooked. My poor sister as no culinary skill and it as fallen upon me to find a way to feed us, of course that was before we became ruler of Equestria.'' She said with pride at recalling those precious memory, before all the trouble related to the throne and ruling came upon them. The name Luna made Ryan recall one of the things she said this morning when she in her nightmare crisis. ''I remember you saying Luna's name this morning and about how sorry you are, why is that?'' He said intrigued at Nightmare's reaction this morning. Nightmare's happy mood quickly drop at being recalled this morning, and what precisely made her react like that. ''When I feel like it, I will explain but for now at least let's eat. Let's not sour the ambiance by this particular subject.'' She said this even though she knew that her previous happy state will not return anytime soon at being reminded that. ''If you wish Nightmare, just know I'm here to help.'' ''I know that Ryan.'' And without further ado they return to eating their respective meal. Once finished, Ryan did the dish and placed them in the dish washer to be wash, along with the previous plates, spoon, fork, knife, etc. The rest of the after, and the night, was spent introducing Nightmare to the many wonders of the television watching movies, playing games, and Nightmare just did that, have fun, but mostly out of kicking Ryan's ass at playing video games. But soon came the time to go to bed, and offered the bed to Nightmare this time saying that she deserve a good night of rest on the plush bed. Peace Of MindTwo days have passed since Ryan started working again, two more days of Nightmare Moon enduring painful and terrifying nightmares.Those nightmares always woke her up screaming like a banshee and crying her heart out, which also woke Ryan up. Seeing Nightmare Moon crying like that in sheer despair for the past two days tugged at Ryan's heart. He always tried to comfort her, while it does work it is only temporary sadly. Nightmare's nightmare where always the same, she was stuck alone in the jail cell in Canterlot castle back in Equestria, with her sister tormenting her about how evil she was, how much of an idiot she was, and it always went on and on without interruption for the past days. But not tonight, no, tonight her dreaming mind was silent, which was a blessing not seeing the horrifying images of her sister, Luna, looking at her with sheer hatred and loathing. But even though everything was silent, it was still not as peaceful as she would like it to be. The darkness that surrounded her was oppressive, and malevolent. It was not a place for some to go in alone, and Nightmare Moon knew that, but she could still not escape it. An enormous explosion of light appeared, it covered the dark plains of fear and hatred of Nightmare Moon's dreamscape in a warm blanket of light and peace. In the distance she could see a shape taking form, the shape of a human. She wondered who it could be, who would come to the rescue of the terrifying Nightmare Moon. She never wanted to be feared, only to be loved. But even that was too much to ask of others who only, see in her a mare of the Night. It was then that the lone figure started walking towards, and she could tell for it slowly became bigger, and the figure did became clearer as he came closer to Nightmare Moon. What started as a blurry figure gave way to Ryan, with a shock and confused expression on his face, which was mirrored by Nightmare Moon as well. ''Ryan! What are you doing here?'' Nightmare Moon exclaimed, not believing her eyes. 'Was Ryan always a dream walker? Or was it because of all the times we passed together since I arrived here?' She thought confused. Hearing the voice of Nightmare Moon coming of this winged unicorn, confused Ryan a lot, but quickly shook it off to ask her what happened. ''Well I would like to know what here is to begin with, and why you are looking like this?'' He replied seeing as his last memories where him going to bed with Nightmare. __o0o__ (The night before they both went to sleep.) Nightmare was about to go to sleep on the couch, but the memories of her nightmare stopped her from doing so, and she started sobbing uncontrollably. Ryan seeing this sat by Nightmare Moon side and ask, ''Nightmare what's wrong, are you okay?'' He asked, puzzled by Nightmare Moon's attitude in the recent days. He knew that Nightmare Moon was still having her nightmares, but this time, from the looks of it, she will not be able to sleep from just the sheer amount of terror she is experiencing in them. ''No! I am not okay, Ryan.'' She said barely above a whisper, but still loud enough for Ryan to hear it. ''Those nightmares their haunting me, and I do not know why?'' Her sobbing only increased the more she spoke about them. Ryan was saddened that such a strong woman as Nightmare Moon, was brought to such dept of terror because of nightmares. He took her shoulders in his hand, and said the only thing he thought that might help her. ''If you want you can sleep with me tonight?'' The look Ryan received from Nightmare was bone chilling. She got angry by his lewd demand, and was about to slap him, and probably even punch for what he said. But Ryan, seeing that Nightmare misunderstood what he said, quickly explained to her what he truly meant. ''What I mean is, if you do not mind you can sleep with me on the bed, if being alone frightens you? No funny business just me and you sleeping nothing more!'' Nightmare hearing Ryan's explanation relaxed a little, but she was still terrified by the idea of going to sleep. After a couple of seconds of deep thought she gave in, and accepted his offer, only because he assured that no funny business would happen. With this out of the way Ryan helped Nightmare back to her feet, doing so himself in the same moment. They then walked to Ryan's bedroom and promptly went to sleep. Of course sleep would not come for them now that they were comfortable. Exasperated, and still a little afraid of the idea sleeping, Nightmare said the only thing that went through her mind. ''Can you hold me please, at least until I fall asleep?'' Ryan surprised by Nightmare Moon's demand about him holding her, considering her reaction about them sleeping in the same bed, said, ''hum are you sure?'' ''Hold me or I punch, then force you to hold me!'' She snapped back, she did not want to threaten him but she discovered that it was the fastest way to convince Ryan to do something. Ryan not wanting to get punch, did as Nightmare told him, and held her in his arm. ''Gee and here I thought you became less snappy with me.'' He said, slightly hurt by Nightmare Moon's attitude. ''Sorry Ryan,''she said sleepily, and with that she fell asleep. Ryan did the same a couple of minutes later, still holding her in his arm protectively. __o0o__ (Back in the dream world.) ''What do you mean, 'looking like that'?'' Nightmare replied with a little bit of anger, it happened each time someone saw her, and she was getting sick of it. She prepared herself to hear him scream, but was surprised with the only thing he did was reiterate his question, only more clearly this time. ''What I'm saying Nightmare, is that I didn't expect you to look like some kind of winged unicorn.'' He quickly explained, ''in fact what are you anyway? You told me about you being a pony, but I certainly didn't expect that!'' He said still confused, it amazed him he was able to formulate his question so clearly, considering the state his brain was in. Nightmare gritted her teeth in annoyance. Her dreamscape was her only sanctuary and she felt violated by Ryan presence, in fact any presence at all would have left her feeling violated. She took deep and slow breaths to try and remain calm, and after several seconds of her breathing exercise, she dared look up at Ryan, and she could still see him as confused as he was mere moments ago. ''What I am is an alicorn, we are the perfect balance between the tribes of ponies that inhabit the country of Equestria.'' She then took a deep breath because she started explaining to Ryan The three pony tribes of Equestria in questions are, since it would help him understand what she is talking about. ''In the three tribes we have the earth ponies, the pegasi, and the unicorn. The earth ponies, their magic lies in their hooves which enable them the ability to exploit the earth. Then we have the pegasi, their magic lies in their wings, it enables them to control the weather with great efficiency and precision. Then we have the unicorns, their magic lies in their horn, it enables them to use magic directly through the arcane essences presence in the very air itself. Is that clear enough for you to understand Ryan?'' She finished with her chest puffed in pride. Wide eyed at Nightmare explanation of what the pony tribes are, he was still confused about the whole alicorn thing, were they special, were they rare, and so he decided to ask her for elaboration on the alicorns. ''Wow hum, well thanks for the explanation but I still gotta ask, what is so special about alicorns?'' ''What is so special about alicorns!'' She could not believe that Ryan just ask her that question,and so as usual it angered her a little, after all it was simple to understand. ''The alicorns, as I just said, are the harmony of the three pony tribes combined. We stronger than the earth ponies, we are also fast than the pegasi with our wings, and we are also more powerful than any unicorns alive or dead. But more than that we are the only ones who are immortals.'' Now she was just getting tired explaining to Ryan a concept, that was for her, so simple to understand. ''So if you say that alicorns are immortals, it means you're immortal as well, right!'' Ryan said, having difficulty grasping the concept of immortality. ''Exact Ryan!'' Nightmare Moon replied, ''maybe there is hope for you after all eh eh.'' She chuckled at her own little jab at Ryan's intelligence, of course she that Ryan was no idiot by any mean, but making fun of others always seemed to cheer her up a little. ''Yeah yeah laugh it up, but who was the one who is still not understanding what a motor is?'' If she was to mock him in that manner, two could play this game. Ryan's retort quickly shut up Nightmare Moon, she knew that he knew that she still had problem understanding what a motor his, and him reminding her was a little insulting. She pouted at him, but then a devilish idea came to her mind she concentrated, and changed her the landscape of her dreamscape so that a pool of water would appear under Ryan's feet. Of course she could not do this when she was having her nightmare, since apparently her own mind had decided to torment her in someway, thus blocking her ability to shape her own dream. Ryan's expression when he realized what happened was priceless, his face shifted from mockingly playful to sheer surprised and panic at the feeling of falling. When he came back up for air, his face showed just how annoyed he was at Nightmare Moon's antic. But then he thought of something, 'if she could do this somehow then how come she just doesn't her nightmare altogether?' With that he voiced his observation. Nightmare Moon's expression wasn't the one he expected, he expected something like shock, but what he got in return was frustration. Nightmare Moon's frustration was not towards Ryan, but towards herself and what hand fate gave her until now. ''Don't you think I know about that, don't you think I already tried?!'' She all but screamed at him as she started sobbing again. ''I-I can't, I just can't. E-each time I try to change my d-dreams they only get w-worse!'' At that point she could not speak properly as her sobbing grew more intense. Ryan seeing Nightmare Moon sunk that low also made him realize that what Nightmare Moon needed wasn't the promises he kept giving while awake, but a friend who would be there for her in her time of need, and right she really needed a friend. With that in mind he walked up to her, sat beside her, and hug her neck while rubbing her back and neck. ''I'm sorry Nightmare I didn't mean to make you feel miserable, but I'm here and if you want me as a friend then that is what I will be!'' He said as soothingly as he could, to try and make Nightmare feel better with herself. Nightmare Moon was not expecting to get hugged by Ryan of all person, after all she kept treating him like dirt most of the time. But hearing him say that work as she started to relax more and more as he kept muttering soothing words to her. In the end she hug him back. After what felt like hours later they finally separated with the both of them feeling a lot better, and it was shown by the ambient scenery. No longer was it a wasteland anymore with no life in it, but a forest full of life and happiness. 'Nightmares dream must be reflected by her state of mind I think, well at least it showed that what I did was not in vain.' He thought to himself while looking at the forest he and Nightmare Moon found themselves in. ''Thank you Ryan for what you did I really needed that, and if you do not mind. Yes I would like to have you as my friend!'' she with probably what was the brightest smile Ryan ever saw on her face. ''I would be glad to count you as one of my friend lady Nightmare Moon.'' He said and bowed in an innocent mocking gesture. ''Oh please Ryan, just call me Moon, we are friends now.'' But just as she said that the dreamscape of Nightmare Moon exploded in a bright flash of light. It signify that the dream had a=ended and that both of them were about to wake up. __o0o__ Ryan suddenly opened his eyes, and saw that Nightmare Moon was still held firmly in his arm, in the bed. But something was different, and that something was the fact that her hair was just like her hair when she was in her alicorn form in her dream. Tentatively he softly shook Nightmare awake, ''Night-Moon wake up! You've got to see this.'' Nightmare Moon was also awake but she preferred to remain unresponsive until Ryan showed that he was also awake. At his words she opened her eyes, but what greeted her was a face full of hair that was just like when she was still an alicorn and not a human. ''I do not need you to tell me what I need to see Ryan, because I see it right now.'' Shakily she grasped one of her strand of ethereal hair, just so she could confirm that it was not a dream still. When she grasped it something clicked inside Nightmare Moon, and she started searching inside herself for something that was not there before, and just as she had hoped she found it Her pool of magic was back, and already it was replenishing with the help of the ambient arcane essence present in the air. She took a deep breath and did the most 'uncouth' thing a mare of her position ever did, she squealed hard and loud. Meet The Friend.Ryan was looking Nightmare up and about, walking back and forth in his bed chamber while sitting on his bed himself. From what he could tell, Nightmare was happy about the fact that she got her magic back. She kept rambling about how much she could do with all her power now all things she could see on earth now. Honestly that was when he tuned her out because he himself had become deep in his own thoughts. 'I wonder what she is going to do now? Will she stay here, or leave for her own world? Can she even go back to her own world now that she got her magic back? Holy shit now that her hair is like that she is even more beautiful! Wait WHAT!' He didn't just thought that did he, sure Nightmare was always beautiful before, but seeing her happy like that made him realize something. No matter what Nightmare was the most beautiful women on Earth, and nothing will change that. His line of thought was broken once Nightmare started hugging him with all her strength, which he was reminded by how strong she was, by the fact that he his pretty sure that he heard his rib crack, from the sheer force she put behind her hug. ''Can't... breath... can you... let go... please!'' He breathed out with what air he could manage to get inside his lung. As she heard him faintly speak words she did not heard, she also realized that in her happy state of mind she was crushing him with all her strength. She quickly let go of him, and let him catch his breath before apologizing to him in a sheepish manner. ''Sorry it's just, I am so happy my powers are finally back, and I do not know what to do with them now that I have them back?'' Ryan understood that Nightmare was happy, after all who would not be happy to have found one of the most precious thing you had previously lost. Not him that's for sure. ''I understand in your situation i would have probably acted the same so, no harms done,.'' Nightmare exhaled happy not to have hurt her first friend since, well forever. She exited his bed chamber and entered the bathroom to use the shower to refresh herself. Meanwhile Ryan did as he usually do since Nightmare came in his life, and that was doing the breakfast. Some people would have felt cheated in someway if they were in his situation, but not Ryan, why he did the breakfast every morning was simple. Nightmare could cook one of the best lunch and diner, ever, but for the life of her doing, breakfast resulted in the both of them throwing up in toilet mere moments later after taking only one bite of the morning meal. It was then that it was unanimously decided that Ryan would be doing the breakfast from now on. It still surprised him that at some time seeing Nightmare eats meat considering what she is, a pony and an alicorn to be more precise. Ten minutes later the breakfast was ready and Nightmare had exited the shower, and the both of them started eating. They were about to start a little conversation about the experience they shared in nightmare's dreamscape when someone knocked on the door. Intrigued, Ryan got up and signaled to Nightmare that it was okay, and to just continue eating while he answer the door. He wondered who could be at the door this early in the morning, but he would soon find out since he opened the door, only to be greeted by a bone crushing hug. Now normal people would be panicking by the fact that someone just grabbed them and was crushing them like that out of nowhere, but Ryan knew in advance who it was, Eric is long time friend from high school and also co employee back at the cafe. ''Dude seriously apart from the job I don't see you anymore!?'' Eric said while still maintaining his grip on Ryan. Normally being hug by people in a friendly manner such as this didn't bother Ryan. But twice in a row and with such force was annoying and painful, at least Eric wasn't as strong as Nightmare. With a little bit of effort he pry himself out of Eric's hold and hold him at arms length. ''Okay relax Eric, geez you're acting as if you didn't saw me in months, I mean you see me at the job each day?'' ''Sorry Ryan, it's just been a while since we did something together out of the job, and I decided that today we're going to do something, and no is not an option, we're doing something!'' Eric said with a tone that meant no argument will change his mind of idea. With a defeated sigh Ryan could sense that Eric will not accept a no, no matter what. ''Okay Eric, but there is only one problem! You see I'm not alone now, and I was eating breakfast as well. Can you at least wait for a couple of minutes until I'm finished?'' ''Oh that's right, you had your girlfriend stay with you didn't you, lucky bastard.'' He said jokingly, since he knew that it got on Ryan's nerve to speak of the mysterious girl he stayed with as she was his girlfriend. Ryan's knew that arguing with Eric will only end with him annoying him even further. ''I'll be back,'' he said with a sigh, breaking the awkward conversion as fast as he could. He then made his way back to the kitchen, leaving Eric in the restroom to wait for him. He saw Nightmare still sitting at the table waiting for him, seeing her looking at him with a raised eyebrow wondering what was happening, he decided to explain to her what was happening. When Ryan was explaining to Nightmare that one of his friend name Eric was here to do something with him, she got the great idea of accompanying him with Eric. ''Ryan could I accompany you with your friend for the day?'' She said with the best pleading tone she could muster accenting her puppy dog eyes, giving the word cute a whole new level. Ryan brought his hand to his chin deep in thought. 'She can't really come with us, her eyes and most importantly her hair would be too noticeable and way too weird to not get us in trouble in someway or another.' With a sigh he started explaining to her why coming would be an exceptionally bad idea. Nightmare understood Ryan's fear of her being find out as an alien, but there is one thing he did not take into account, magic. ''But you see Ryan you seem to have forgotten who I am and what I can do.'' She said mysteriously, and with a smirk plastered across her face. ''And what is that?'' Ryan replied not understanding what Nightmare was trying to get at. ''Simple my dear friend, the answer is, magic!'' She said as she extended her arms in the air as a flash of light surrounded her for only a second. Off course the did burn Ryan's eyes since it was so spontaneous he didn't had time to blink. When the light dissipated, he opened his eyes and saw nightmare looking like a normal human woman, minus her height. ''HEY, what's going on here?'' Eric said not sure if the flash that emanated from the kitchen was normal or not, and if it was safe for him to come in. Thinking fast Ryan took the light bulb that was in the kitchen and removed it from it's place as quickly as possible, and hid it in one of the cupboard. Just in time in fact, as mere seconds later, Eric came into the kitchen to look at what happened. What he saw left him speechless with mouth hanging open, as what stood before him was probably the tallest, but also the most beautiful woman he has ever seen in his entire life. Ryan not missing a beat, proceeded to introduce them both. ''Eric I suppose I should present to you, hum... Elena. And Elena I present Eric, my oldest and closest friend.'' He said it with the most forced smile plastered across his face, although it did look natural. Meanwhile Nightmare was looking at Ryan with murder in her eyes, for he dared choose her a name that she did not even had time to approve off, but quickly decided to thank him later instead for his quick thinking. She extended her hand towards Eric in an attempt to greet him, but retracted it when she caught the goofy look on his face, realizing that he was mesmerized by her. That gave her an idea, a devilish idea, one she will in fact, do right now. She walked up to him, brought her mouth to his ears, and softly blew on it. The reaction she got out of him was probably one of the best one she got out of doing something like that. But the best reaction she got, was when she teased Ryan the other day, by walking around his apartment half naked and dripping wet with only her bath towel covering her body. Of course Ryan saw what nightmare did to Eric, he wasn't angry, just immensely amused by the red that quickly covered his friend's face, though he didn't let his amusement shown apart from the little smirk that was present on his face. ''So I heard you wanted to do something with Ryan today, and I wondered if i could accompany you two today?'' Nightmare said without hiding her amusement from Eric's reaction earlier. That quickly seem to do the work in bringing Eric back to the waking world. He shook his head a couple of times to bring his brain to the present time, he thought about what Nightmare just said, and didn't saw anything against bringing her with them. (I hope I phrased this right). He nodded his head while saying, ''I don't see any problem miss, unless Ryan as a problem with it?'' The both of them, Eric and Nightmare, shot a glare in Ryan's direction, daring him to refuse Nightmare,s offer to accompany them. Ryan ignored the glare they shot at him since he was more than okay to bring Nightmare with them. ''I don't see a problem, and I could show Elena more of the city since I didn't had that much time since she got here.'' ''It is decided then!'' Nightmare exclaimed. ''Onward my knights to the city we go!'' Eric and Ryan looked at Nightmare in confusion wondering why she did what she did, which made her realize what she did and she blush in embarrassment, hiding her face behind her hair in an attempt to hide her shame. Ryan realizing that Nightmare in her excitement, slipped back into the royal attitude she had when she first arrived, came to the rescue with yet another lie. He didn't like lying to his friends, but to hide and protect her he will do just that, off course it left a bad taste in his mouth to lie like that, even considering it's Eric his best friend. ''Sorry about Elena, Eric she gets like that when she is excited,'' he said sheepishly. ''She is an actress, and sometimes she forget to not speak as if she was back on stage.'' ''Hum? Okay.'' Eric was not sure what just happened, but decided he would believe Ryan, only because he didn't know Elena. But then something else popped in his mind, ''if she is an actress what is she doing here in your apartment?'' He asked, after all if she was an actress she must be rich, so why is she staying with Ryan and not at her home. Ryan sigh, he realized that Eric would ask such question he was not dumb by any mean, he decided that going full way with the lie was the best visible option for him and Nightmare. ''Well she is here for vacation and since we are old friend she decided to live with me, it is only temporary though. Also for escaping the paparazzi I guess she didn't explain why though?'' The only part that wasn't a lie was the temporary bit, for he would try and help Nightmare return to Equestria. Nightmare was slightly angry at seeing the two of them talk about her as if she wasn't here, but in the end decided to let Ryan explain to Eric why she was here. After all it would come in handy for several reason. One, no one would try to attack her if they knew that she was a 'super model'. Second it would help her when it will come to the fact with being with Ryan if she was an old friend on a temporary visit for a vacation. ''Okay so if everyone is ready I say we go on out now while the sun still shine.'' Eric said excitedly trying to bring back why he came to Ryan's apart. Ryan just nodded in agreement and they both left to take Eric's car since it would be easier to stay together like this. The Price Of AngerFrom the point of view of Nightmare, the trip to the mall was fairly simple and quick. Go in Eric's car with Ryan, and let him drive them there. Now they stood inside the mall, which was eight times bigger than the Walmart Nightmare and Ryan went to to buy Nightmare's clothes, so that she had something to wear in her everyday moment. To say that Nightmare was impressed would be an understatement. She could not, for the life of her, stop looking around frantically in awe at every store that was in her immediate sight. It took Ryan's snapping his fingers in front of her face to make her concentrate on what Eric was saying about what, and where, they should do, and go. She hoped that her momentary distraction didn't catch Eric's attention and would bring suspicion on her. After all it would be a shame that all her and Ryan's effort went in flame because of a momentary distraction. Luckily it did not and Eric was still explaining what they were going to do for the day, ''so what are we going to do first!?'' Eric asked. Ryan decided to answer since he was the one who listened to Eric suggestion, ''well we could go shopping to start thing's up.'' He said while rubbing his chin in thought, he had to make sure that what they did would not reveal Nightmare as not being the one she is suppose to be. ''Then eating and going to the cinema to close the day sounds fine to me, what about you all?'' Nightmare meanwhile decided to follow Ryan's lead and appear as normal as she could be, which would depend on what they were going to be, and what they were going to do, but since it is Ryan who deciding what they would do she would be fine, she was sure of it. ''Sure bud no problem, I'm sure Elena would not mind seeing a romance movie with you.'' He said with a smirk and mischief in his eyes, trying to annoy Ryan at every chance he could get while they were all here. Ryan facepalm right there, he knew he should have been cautious with what he was saying, considering Eric tendency to annoy him at every chance he got. But he had to mentally applaud him for this one he didn't saw it coming at all. He sigh and say, ''no Eric, you know very well that Elena is just a friend to me and that is all we're going to be, friends.'' He wasn't sure why what he said made is chest hurt for some reason, but in the end decided to ignore it to return to the task at hand, and that was having fun. Nightmare was not sure how to react to Ryan's words, on one hand she was glad that Ryan consider her a friend,even though he assured her that he would be her friend and stay friend no matter what, she still felt glad to know he acknowledged her. On the other hand though, she felt like they could be more. But why should they be more, she was perfectly fine with Ryan being her friend, right? She decided to investigate on her own feelings later, for now there was some fun to be had and she intended to have the most fun out of the three of them. And with that they started walking around the mall visiting numerous shop, some of them about clothes, both for women and men. Even some about video games and other electronic stuff she did not understood what their use was for, she made a mental note to ask Ryan to comeback later for them so that she could buy a lot of video games, so that she could beat Ryan at them. Everything was going perfectly, until they reached the sports shop area. The look everyone shot at Nightmare made her, and Ryan, uncomfortable, the only one who correct with all the attention was Eric, after all he always crave the attention. 'Such an idiot to like being in the center of all things, but then again he is the only one of my friend to be all social and stuff,' Ryan thought slightly jealous of Eric's ability with talking with others. Ryan's thought was interrupted by a couple of whistling. ''Woo check her out guys, isn't she a beauty!'' One of the five guys, that approached them, said. ''Hey girl! Why don't you come with us? Instead of those two losers you're hanging out with.'' The one guy in the middle said to Nightmare, the others laugh at his comment like he made the greatest joke in the world. That got the attention of Nightmare, Ryan and Eric pretty quickly. Nightmare did not like the way those guys walk, talk, and most of all their eyes, who kept wandering over her body, undressing her as if she was their property. It was then that she actually understood what they called Ryan and Eric, losers. There is many thing Nightmare can tolerate, but having those close to her insulted is not one of them, and even though she just met Eric she is ready to call him a friend as well. 'Oh no, no one insult Ryan, he is the only one, apart from Luna, who has shown me kindness.' It is with that thought in mind, that she made her way towards the five excuse of men who thought themselves superior to other just because they have more muscles. One of the five guys saw Nightmare coming their way, he nudged the closest one in his stomach to get his attention, then pointed at Nightmare who was making her way towards them, with Ryan trying to stop Nightmare from doing something she would regret, and Eric looking in confusion at the two of them, wondering why Ryan was acting like the end of the world was about to occur. ''Please don't do this Moon,'' Ryan said that last part quietly so as not to be heard by Eric, who was trailing behind them, looking at the two of them with a confuse look. ''Nay dear Ryan, they dare insult you, calling you a loser,'' she spat that last word as if it was pure venom. If her eyes could be alight with flames of anger, they would be right now. ''I am going to teach them a lesson about respect, stay here if you wish Ryan, I will not be long.'' And with that started advancing towards the five men once more. Sighing in resignation, realizing that he will not be able to budge Nightmare in her decision to teach those five a lesson, he followed her at least making sure noting bad happens to her, or stopping her if it came to that. The footstep of Eric following made look back at him, with a tired look. He stop at Eric side, explaining in the same time what Nightmare/Elena was about to do, and quickly followed behind her, Eric with the intent on stopping Nightmare, and Ryan on protecting Nightmare, although he wasn't sure who needed protection, the memory of Nightmare kicking him in the stomach, on the first day, reminding him just how strong Nightmare really was. The both of them followed Nightmare to the scene of her calmly speaking with them, and it surprised Ryan to see her that calm, although he had a suspicion that it was all a mask to lure them into something, what exactly he wasn't sure. ''So as I have said, I would greatly appreciate it if you were to leave us alone, and not insult us please?'' Nightmare said calmly and kindly, and from the look of it everything was going well, from what Ryan could see. Until the nearest of the guy, the one who insulted them to begin with, replied, ''And if we say no what will happen then, eh, bitch.'' As he said that the other four started laughing at Nightmare. Ryan could see Nightmare bawl her fist in rage, even though he was getting tired and angry at those five punks as well. Seeing this he was about to grab Nightmare by the arm to stop her, but was stop himself by Nightmare who turn around with a calm look in her face, hiding her rage very well, apart from her clenched fist. ''Ryan stay here I will be right back, okay?'' She said sweetly. Ryan wasn't sure if letting Nightmare do this was a good idea, but decided to let her do what she wanted to do since they kind of deserve it for calling her a bitch. Because just like Nightmare he didn't really mind being insulted if it was by a bunch of kids who wanted to play tough, but they made one mistake, they insulted Nightmare, by calling her a bitch , and for this they lost all mercy he had for them. Warning the following scene might be considered dark by some people. Nightmare motioned with her finger to the five punks to follow her, with a come hither look, hiding her true intention from those five idiots. The five punks followed her unaware of Nightmare's true intention, only thinking that they had scored an easy girl to have 'fun' with. She led them to the men's bathroom, making them enter first with a wave of her hand, and quickly followed suit behind them. She looked around making sure that no one else was there, apart from her and the five others, and then started channeling her magic. The five punks then decided to turn around at this moment, freezing in place upon seeing Nightmare's glowing white eyes. Channeling even more magic, her armor was starting to materialize on her frame starting with her boots following by her armored legging, then her chest plate, then her gauntlets, and finishing with her helmet making her appear like a knight from the middle age. After that her mane lengthened becoming ethereal in the process to the point of showing the night sky at all who looked upon her in all her glory. But her transformation wasn't finished yet as two swirling vortex of magic, making them appear as black holes, appeared on her side. Following by the sprouting of four majestic night wings out of the swirling vortex. To finish it all in a royal way, a halo of power with the emblem of the mare in the moon in the center appeared above her head, showing to all her affiliation to the night itself. Slowly opening her teal draconian eyes, with the impression swimming in her magic, which was hidden from her for too long, she set her gaze on the five men, who disrespected her and Ryan, looking at her in abject terror not comprehending what was happening. It was then after she opened her eyes that the five men ran to the exit, only to slam into a wall of pure magic that Nightmare Moon created while the five of them stood there frozen. ''Leaving so soon, I do not think,'' she said, her word dripping with power, making the bathroom shake at her words alone. ''After all I did not get to teach you a lesson in humility and respect, that you five seems to need very much.'' By now the five men were shaking in fear pressing their back to the wall as hard as they could in an attempt to get away, in anyway shape or form, from the goddess of the night that stood before them in all her mighty glory. ''Do not try to escape little ones, for you see, I made sure that we shall not be interrupted by anyone coming in, for I isolated this place from the outside world completely.'' She said in her reverberating voice, showing in the same time her newly reacquired fangs in the wickedest smile you could see on a person. ''Now how about I start with you,'' she pointed at the leader of the group, and lifted him in the air via magic, using a levitation field on him, ''I have a splendid of idea? How about I make you live you worst nightmare, over and over again until you beg forgiveness?'' Her question was not really, but of an affirmation of what they're fate was going to be. Already she started weaving her spell, but first she had to delve into his mind to see what his greatest fear was. What she made her smile wickedly for this one greatest fear, was blood, and she had the greatest idea of how she would make experience such fear that he would beg for forgiveness. She will make him run away from a tidal wave of blood that would be consuming everything in an unending street, full of houses, cars and passerby that would be all the one he care about, until it would inevitably catch up to him, slamming him into countless walls and cars, and finally drown him. With her spell completed she launched him at the poor man, and already the effect was instantaneous. He slumped in her magical grasp and started screaming, crying, pleading for the nightmare to end. As he experienced all of this Nightmare cast her look on her next victim, but her look quickly drew back to the one experiencing his, magically induced, nightmare, and something happened inside of her for he was pleading his little sister to flee with him as fast as he could and as hard as he could. It was then that she realized what she was doing, his pleading reminded her of her own pleading while she experienced her own nightmare, not so long ago, where her sister was tormenting her about she was the vilest thing alive. She looked him over and asked herself. 'Why, why am I doing this? Already they were deathly afraid of me so why am I continuing this?' And with a light gasp the spell she cast on him evaporated, leaving him a crying, but awake, wreck. he was looking at her as if she was a monster. 'I am a monster no one would do something like this, but I did. Oh dear Celestia why, why did I do all that!?' Her self loathing quickly overwhelming her, she brought her knees close to her chest with her arms wrapped around them, and like that, started sobbing uncontrollably. The other four quickly ran up to their friend, while staying as far away as possible from the crazy goddess, to check up on him. Seeing as he was physically fine they drag him to the corner, farther away from Nightmare, and sat with him as they cast fear filled glance at Nightmare from the corner of their eyes. Mentally exhausted, Nightmare's wings disappeared, just like her armor, which returned to the pocket dimension where she normally keep it, and her symbol of the mare in the moon did. Looking up, with tear streaking eyes, at the four still conscious guys, she used the last amount of her will power to put her sadness aside, for now, and decide to cast a memory erasing spell to erase the last six minute of their life so that they will not remember what happened them, and in the same time plunge them into sleep. The effect was instantaneous the five of them went completely still, even the who was crying from his recent experience , and seconds later went to a peaceful sleep. End of the dark scene. Ten minutes later after Nightmare went inside the bathroom area, Ryan saw Nightmare running out of the bathroom, crying, and not even stopping for them and quickly exited the mall through the nearest door that lead outside. Ryan seeing this looked at Eric who was looking for his part lost, but also angry for, if his suspicion was correct, the five guys inside did something horrible to her. He motioned for Ryan to go after Nightmare/Elena, while he would go look at the five assholes inside the bathroom. Ryan nodded at Eric gesture, saying thanks and promptly left to chase after a crying Nightmare, unsure what to expect but determined to help her like he did with her nightmare. Friendship Is Indeed Magic (Part One)Ryan exited the mall running after Nightmare, unfortunately she was already out of sight and nowhere he looked he could see trace of her. He started wandering the parking lot in hope to find her somewhere, but just like when he exited he could not see her, that is until he decided to look up. Nightmare stood on the roof of the mall quite visibly, by the fact that the illusion she casted on herself earlier this morning seemed to had dissipated with her current state of mind. Her ethereal mane billowed in the air, like he saw when he woke up this morning. The more he approach the form of Nightmare, the more he saw that she was shaking, probably sobbing her heart out at what happened inside the bathroom, even though he did not know what she did in there. He took a deep breath and exhaled, he repeated this little exercise multiple time to regain his breath. He look from side to side making sure that no one was here, and when he saw that no one was in the area, he call out to her to gain her attention. ''Moon what are doing up here?'' He could not see her very well from how high up she was, but he knew she heard him by her little jump she made in surprise. Nightmare did not expect anyone to find her with the 'notice me not' spell she casted on herself to be ignored, and the fact that she was found, by Ryan of all person made her jump in surprise at hearing him call out to her. She looked up in surprise and then down at Ryan who was clearly looking at her. She checked herself making sure that the spell she casted on herself when she exited was still active, and indeed it still was. 'So why is he seeing me? Is it because of all the time we spent together? Or is it because of the fact he bonded with me via the dreamscape?' She shook her head and decided to let the subject drop. Instead she began focusing her power via her horn that now adorn her head since she returned to her 'true' human form, and cast a teleport spell to bring Ryan beside her and ask him herself. Ryan upon feeling that weird tingling sensation, and seeing Nightmare's horn glowing with power, thought she was about to run away again, was about call out to her again. Only to fall face first on the roof of the mall, with a heavy sense of nausea. His vision was swimming, and he felt like puking, and he probably did by the smell that came to his nose. Nightmare knelled down near Ryan to make sure that he was alright, but did not touch him otherwise. ''Are you alright Ryan?'' She asked unsure. She was not use to teleporting others, and so easily forgot the sense of nausea that overcame those that get teleported for the first time like Ryan. ''I'm okay,''Ryan said after taking a few long breath to make the sense of nausea disappear. He sat down to look into Nightmare's eyes and saw relief wash over her at seeing him not puking his stomach out like did moments ago. ''But what did you do? How come I'm on the rooftop of the mall!?'' ''I teleported you using magic so that we could talk without you yelling all the time.'' She said without directly looking at him feeling a little guilty for him feeling bad, and worrying him by exiting like she did at bathroom. ''Well why didn't you just flown down, instead of teleporting me?'' he said looking at her a little bit irritated by her, but overall relieved to have found in the end. ''It was the first thing that came to mind... I'm sorry leave alone if you want.'' And with that said she turn around, completely forgetting why she brought him up in the first place, and sat down near the edge of the building with her legs hanging out. She looked to the side when she heard Ryan sitting down beside her as well. ''What are you doing?'' She asked. ''Well originally I came to find and find out what happened in there that got you so upset, and I can't get down alone form here!'' He said that last part teasingly, as he poked her shoulder in a friendly gesture. He quickly sobered up though since he was worried about her and ask. ''So what happened in there Moon?'' Seeing her turn her head to the side only meant that she was ashamed by what happened. ''You can tell me anything Moon, I won't get angry I promise, I'm your friend and friend should trust each other.'' He said softly in an attempt to reassure her, to make her open up so that she could speak without fear. ''I-I-I do not want to talk about it, not right now at least.'' She had trouble speaking and telling him what happened, even though he reassured her that he would not be angry. She could not get the image of Ryan shouting at her about how disappointed he was in her, and how he never wanted to see her again, this is why she did not want to tell him right now. Comfortingly, Ryan rubbed Nightmare's back to calm since she started panicking again. ''I understand I'll wait till we're back at the apartment, but you will have to tell me what happened.'' He said with authority, not to scare her, but to make a point. ''You know it's not good to keep things inside or they will accumulate and blow up in the end.'' He explained his point to her and made the gesture of something blowing up. ''Ok,'' Nightmare said unconvincingly, but knew that in the end Ryan was right, it was not good to keep things inside, she and Luna were the prime example of it. ''But i have to ask though before we return to Eric, how can you see me? I mean I casted a 'notice me not' spell on myself so as to not be disturb!'' She said intrigue by what his answer is going to be. ''Yet you can, why?'' Ryan was surprised by what Nightmare just told him, yet it made sense since no one saw Nightmare on the rooftop earlier, before he found her. ''I don't know, but I would think it is the connection we have as friends. But then again I don't know how magics works so it can be something else!'' Ryan said with his chin on his hand, deep in thought. Sighing in defeat as she thought the same thing but had no way to prove, it she started channeling another teleport spell, but remembered at the last second to warn Ryan. ''Brace yourself Ryan we are teleporting again'' With a flash of light they reappeared on the asphalt of the parking lot, with Ryan falling on his ass, but Nightmare standing on her feet as she was used to the spell. Apologising to Ryan she extended her hand towards to help get up, he grasp her hands and she lift him back up on his feet, with him with a surprise expression on his face, which shifted to embarrassed at having forgotten Nightmare's strength. Channeling her magic once again Nightmare changed back to her normal human, without the horn and dragon eyes. ''I just actually remarked that you had a horn now, when did this happened?'' He asked Nightmare confused. Nightmare looked back at him, to answer him.'' Probably during the bathroom incident, which I will not talk about until we reach you apartment!'' ''Okay so shall we head inside?'' He said as he made the motion to enter the mall. ''I am right behind you Ryan.'' Nightmare replied grateful for Ryan to not press her more on the bathroom incident, although she was pretty sure that Eric will have plenty of question about what happened. __o0o__ They were inside the mall once again, only to come face to face with Eric, who was looking at Ryan with relief. But his look of relief was gone and replaced by one of fear and confusion the moment he saw Nightmare by Ryan's side. ''Seriously girl what the fuck did you do to those guys in there!?'' He said and pointed to the bathroom where the same thug that Nightmare assaulted still lay unconscious. ''I mean they are both unconscious, which would not be a problem with me since they kind of deserve it for their behavior earlier. But_'' He was interrupted by Ryan, who held a hand in front of his face in a silencing manner. ''Eric yelling at her will not make it easy for her, and i promise that she will explain everything to both of us. You will won't you!'' He said as a question, but Nightmare knew that that was no question and more of a fact instead, and so she did not try to argue. ''I will I promise Ryan.'' She said apologetically with out looking at Eric directly with her still puffy red eyes from all the crying she did earlier. That answer did calm Eric as his demeanor softened, and it was then that he took a good look at Nightmare for the first time since she got back. He could see that her eyes were red, probably from all the crying she did, even he did not knew why she cried. ''All right but I'm holding on to that promise, both of you, to explain to me what happened.'' ''I did not expect any less from you dude.'' Said Ryan with a little relieved smile that Eric took it that good thus far, he just hoped that it will remain the same when Nightmare will start explaining things. Nightmare looked relieve as well, but she realize also that the previous good mood was now thoroughly gone, and said the only thing to alleviate things a little. ''So what about that movie that we are suppose to see?'' She asked, trying to change the subject to a more happy one. ''Well we can go see it now since it took me a good half an hour to find you in the parking lot!'' Ryan said agreeing with what Nightmare just said and started walking towards the cinema. They both followed him, Nightmare because she did not remembered where it was, and Eric to stay at Nightmare's level to keep an eye on her. They could say whatever they want about his friendship with Ryan, but he cares a lot about Ryan, to the point of considering him as a brother. They arrive at the cinema, they were slightly annoyed that they will have to wait to buy their ticket since a file was present now, but decided to wait nonetheless. Ten minutes later with their ticket in hands they made their way to room number five to watch the movie Red with Bruce Willis. Two hours later they exited the mall, happy as anyone can be after watching a damn good movie. They found Eric's car park in the middle of the parking lot, where they left it before entering the mall, and made their way back to Ryan's apartment, where Nightmare will start explaining her special situation to Eric, and what happened exactly to him and Ryan what happened inside the bath room. To say she was looking forward to it would be a bold lie as she was sweating with fear of what will happen once everything was said. Friendship Is Indeed Magic (Part Two)They were all sitting in the kitchen in Ryan's apartment, with Nightmare and Ryan side by side facing Eric, with the former in all her glory with her full armor, without the helmet on, and horn standing on full display for the world to see. Eric was now who was looking at them with surprise and awe, with his mouth hanging open after hearing Ryan and Nightmare's tale of what happened during the last week. Eric could not believe it the 'woman' sitting by his friend's side was in fact not a woman at all, but some kind of pony deity of the night or some shit. To say that today was full of surprise would be considered the understatement of the century, after all who can say they encountered an alien deity with the appearance of a woman only to discover that she was some kind of talking horse. Of course he did not believe the both of them when they started telling him all of this, that is until Nightmare returned to her normal form using magic. Nightmare, meanwhile, was looking to the side with shame plastered across her face, for what she was about to tell the both of them was not something she was proud of. She would have preferred to tell only Ryan, but he assured her that Eric would not react badly, 'I just hoped that he is right about his friend or I will have to do_.' She violently shook her head to get that idea out of her head, 'no Ryan trust me not to do something like this and I will let him handle it if the situation degrade!' She thought as she gaze at Ryan, who sense her looking at him and smiled at her reassuringly. ''So Ryan told me that you had something to tell us, Nightmare right?'' He asked with a raise eyebrow for confirmation. At her nodding he continued, ''so is it about the thing that happened today at the mall or is it something else?'' He finished with crossing his arm on his chest, and letting himself fall on the chair he was sitting on to relax himself better. ''Yes, it is about what happened earlier.'' She said let out a sigh to calm her frantic nerves, unsure of what will happen from here, but determined to see it through. ''I will be honest with the both you, what I did in there is not something I am proud of, but it seemed like a good idea at the time to teach them respect.'' Taking another breath she started relating to them from her point of view what happened. ''I started by scanning their mind via the use of magic, do not worry it is painless and you feel nothing about the intrusion.'' She said once she saw the expression from Eric, Ryan him pretty much understood that if she could go inside others dreams she could read minds, and so was not as shocked as Eric. ''I discovered then the fear of each and everyone of them, on of them was the fear of blood. With that knowledge in mind I sent that one ,specifically, to sleep and created a nightmare where he was running away from a wave of blood that was destroying everything in its path. But the longer he was running away, the more horrid the destruction get, to the point where he was beginning to see people close to him... die... swallowed by the wave... and it was then... that I... that I.'' At that point Nightmare stopped trying to talk, as she was crying too much for anything coherent to be heard. Ryan was prepared to hear something horrible, but he was nonetheless shocked by what Nightmare as just told them. He looked over at Eric, to see him shivering on his chair with a look of pure fear on his face after hearing what she said. 'No matter, yes she did something horrible, but from the look of it she is already paying from what she did, and I will not betray her trust by lashing out to her.' Ryan thought. He then did the only thing that came to mind he hugged Nightmare from the side, as he whispered soothing words to try and calm her down as best he can. All the while looking at Eric who was now looking at him as if he was insane, maybe he was but he did not really care he promised to Nightmare he would help her, and he will, by comforting her, as this is what she needs the most right now. Eric was flabbergasted here he was watching his best friend comforting that monster, who just hours ago raped the mind of someone, by making him live his worst nightmare over and over again. He was not sure how to react, but staying still as a statue seems as a valid option for him right now. ''So what happened after that?'' He said with a shaking voice, showing how scared he is right now. 'Great as if I need more gruesome details, good job brain.' Composing herself so as to stop crying, and thanking Ryan once more for his support and understanding, she resumed from where she left. ''When I realized what I was doing, I released him and the others from all the spell that I put in place, and I reverted back to normal. But even then the damage was already done, so I did the only thing to repair what I did, I erased their mind of me and of the moment since they entered the bathroom.'' She was still full of shame for what happened, but at least now she calm once again, and if only a little bit proud that no lasting damage as been done during this whole ordeal, at least she hope so. Looking at Ryan, she was glad to see understand and support. But once her gaze settle on Eric she knew that the battle was not over, for she had to convince him now that she was not a monster, which she was not sure she was. ''So let me recap!'' Eric exclaimed with anger. ''Not only do you rape somebody's mind, but after you're done with them, you erase everything you did! Who do you think you are god? And after doing that you expect us to believe that everything is sunshineand rainbows!'' His anger grew until it became unbridled fury. ''Nuh huh, I'm done, you can go and **** yourself, you, you. ARGH!'' He finished with a shout and grip is hair as if he was trying to rip them off. Ryan was surprised, for it happened very seldom, like only one other time, that he recalled seeing Eric this angry and prompt to punch someone. He decided to intervene, as Eric outburst sent Nightmare into another bout of depression, which is shown by her head hanging lower and lower at each word Eric said. ''Eric calm down, you don't need to shout at Nightmare, she is already paying the price of her action enough as it is, without you adding more weight to her conscience!'' Ryan's words seemed to work as merely a few seconds later, Eric was calm once again although still angry at Nightmare. ''Sorry it's just that hearing her explain herself made me remember bad memory.'' He said as he pointed to Nightmare. Of course Ryan knew what memory Eric was talking about, as he was there when it happened. What happened next was Nightmare calming herself with breathing exercise she learned to use when she was still one with Luna. After being calm enough she look up at Eric, ''I know what I did cannot be undone so easily, I just hope that i limited the damage enough so that they don't remember it, and to answer your questions. No I do not believe myself as a god, nor do I expect it to be all sunshine and rainbows. The only thing I ask is for your forgiveness?'' She finished as she bowed towards Eric in an act of plea for forgiveness. ''Well I forgive her,'' Ryan said as he envelope Nightmare in his arms as if he was trying to protect her. His own action surprised him a little, for he rarely acts like that, no that was more Eric acting like that. Eric was surprised to see Ryan embrace Nightmare like that, and so did Nightmare, if her expression was not enough, but in the end decided to follow Ryan's lead and trust Nightmare, for now, only so that he could place this awkward moment behind him. Rubbing the back of his head he sigh and say, ''alright I forgive you as well, but mess up once, or hurt Ryan, and will come and mess you up so badly you will wish you were never born.'' He said as he pointed his finger at her, as a warning that he was dead serious. Ryan knew that the discussion was over, and to be frank with himself, he was that this was the case. The whole conversation was nerve wracking and infuriating in someway, and so he decided to change the subject. ''So what do we do now?'' Eric at those words got up and look at the both of them, ''me? I'm going home and sleep on everything that's happened today.'' And with that started making his way over the door, but was stopped as Nightmare was addressing him. ''You promise to keep this a secret Eric? If not for me, for Ryan at least.'' She said with steel in her voice that was previously lacking throughout the whole conversation. ''I promise.'' And with that he open the door and left, closing the door behind him. ''I suggest that we do like Eric, we eat and go to bed after.'' Ryan said as he move to start the diner, which was Mexican food for today. Nightmare looked back at Ryan and nod at him as she move to set the table. After the diner the wash the dish, even though there was not much to be done. They then proceeds to use the shower to wash the filth of the day off their bodies. After their respective shower they went to bed, with Nightmare using Ryan's bed as he offered it to her, and Ryan using the couch. But was stopped by Nightmare who dragged him to his bed by using levitation to facilitate her job at forcing Ryan, since he would have disagreed to use the bed if she was using it. Once the both of them were in bed they fell asleep rather quickly, tired by the day activities, and events. The Sadness Of Days Past (Part One)Ryan open his eyes to see that just like last night, he was once again inside Nightmare's dreamscape, evident by the white plain of the place he was now in, and by the lone dark, with pale blue armor, alicorn sitting in front of him, studying him with her intelligent teal draconian eyes. ''You are here again! Is it because my ability to dream walk is bleeding off on you, or is it because we are friends, I wonder?'' She said as she looked over Ryan with a fang filled smile adorning her face. ''My thought exactly Moon, though I don't mind spending my sleeping time with a friend, and considering you're the only friend that can do that.'' Ryan said as he looked at Nightmare's alicorn figure with wonder, no matter how many times he will see it, she will always remain impressive, both in human or alicorn form. Nightmare's cheek started to grow red at Ryan's word, shaking her head to return to her previous thought process, she continue where she left of. ''No matter, it is good that you are here Ryan. After what happened today, I decided to show you what my past is about.'' She said as she turned towards the white expense and then started rubbing her chin with a blue plated hoof, seconds later hoof return to the ground and, she turned back towards Ryan. ''I remember you asking me to tell you what my nightmares was about, instead I will show you what my nightmares are through my memories of them.'' Ryan walk up to Nightmare and put a hand on her neck, when he saw the fear in her eyes at the mention of her nightmares. ''You know, if you don't have to show me your nightmares if you don't want to I'm not forcing you!'' He said in an attempt to sooth Nightmare's fear, which seems to work by how relax her body got after he said those words. ''Thank you Ryan, but I have to show you for you deserve it, I am just afraid you will hate me after I show you my past?'' She said with sadness creeping back into her body. ''Nightmare! I won't hate you, I promised to you that I will be your friend and that I will help you return home, and that is what I'm gonna do!'' With that he let go of Nightmare, and sat beside her. ''So show me, and I promise we'll still be friends.'' She nodded, and with that her eyes started glowing, just like the previous time she used magic. The landscape quickly started change, it was not white anymore but a lone hill in the middle of a forest. It was night time by the looks of it, which was proven right since the moon shone in the sky, illuminating the place with it's soothing light, and fighting the darkness of the night away. The both of them stood at the base of the hill, with Nightmare looking at the top of it. Ryan followed her eyes to look at the hill, more precisely at the top. It was then that he saw a lone small midnight blue alicorn with a soft baby blue mane, standing at the top of the hill looking at the moon, with her horn glowing the same baby blue light as her coat, as if she was trying to reach the moon itself, which was apparently the case. The moon was starting to glow, and the little alicorn voice was being carried to us by the strong wind that was starting to pick up, because of the amount magical energy that she was currently using. Ryan could make words that seems to be out of the bible for how religious they sound, things about venerable moon and rightful place, it was then that it click. 'This is Luna, Nightmare's big sister, when is this taking place?' He turned his head to look at Nightmare, only to see the most happy expression he ever saw, plastered on her face with the tears of joy flowing down her eyes even. ''When is this taking place Moon? If this is the past as you've said then she was really young, since she is only half your size?'' This is snap Nightmare back to reality, with a shake of her head she turned her head to look into Ryan's eyes, and with the same smile she had when she was looking at Luna she said.''What!? Oh yes, yes it is, you are right Ryan this is indeed the past, my and Luna's past. This memory in particular, was the place of my birth, when Luna connected herself with her heavenly body, the moon, it was a glorious moment for her, for she found herself a little sister to take care of, me. But now watch and after you may ask me any question you want, I owe you that.'' And with that she fell back into silence and return her attention back to the memory that was playing before her, with Ryan doing the same and following her advice to wait until the memory is over before asking another question. The moon by now was glowing even brighter, but apart from that nothing else was happening. That is until Luna started to glow as well, and not a soft light but a light so strong that Ryan had to advert his eyes in fear of going blind, unlike Nightmare who kept her unfazed by Luna sudden glow. All of this happened in a mere three seconds, for the next the glow had faded away. Ryan looked back at the top of the hill, only to see Luna with a now ethereal mane that billowed as if the wind was blowing, even though there was no wind. ''This is how I was born Ryan! By Luna connecting herself with the very moon itself.'' Nightmare said, which brought Ryan's gaze back to Nightmare. ''And by doing so the moon birthed me, in someway? Don't ask neither me nor Luna understand how or why it happened, it just did.'' She said when she caught Ryan's dumbfounded look he cast her way. ''I still remember the first word I said that time, they were 'hello? Are you my sister?' And from that day forth we became sister, best friend, and moral supporter to each other.'' She didn't say, or do anything afterword, apart from staring longingly at Luna, as she was too caught up in her own happy memories to realize that the memory they where in question in had faded to white, since Nightmare was not supporting it in the end anymore. ''So what are you Moon? The spirit of the moon given form or is it something else?'' Ryan asked unsure what Nightmare really was. ''Good question. One which Luna and I came to the conclusion that if Luna is the light side of the moon, always present, always seen. Then I am the darker side, always present, but never seen. At least that is what is making the most sense to the both of us!'' She said and quickly chuckled at the memory of the both of them, brainstorming for ideas on what Nightmare was when they were still young. But Nightmare became serious once again and went back to what they originally were here for. ''But enough about, that I believe I have some more memories to show to you before this night is over.'' Nightmare eyes started to glow once again, and this time the scenery change, but unlike the previous one this was far more dark in the sense that they were literally on a snowy battlefield, overlooking a dark crystal spire with some kind of dark crystal city surrounding the spire. ''This is, or was the crystal empire!'' Nightmare said with sadness present in her voice, at the memory of the once glorious city state. ''But it was corrupted by the vile usurper who claim the throne, by killing the previous royal family, and enslaving their citizen. King Sombra!'' The venom present was so thick that you could literally kill a whole village with it. ''Wow!'' Ryan stated, shocked by Nightmare's revelation. ''And here I thought your world was more sunshine and rainbows! Guess I was wrong'' ''Really Ryan, sunshine and rainbows!'' She chuckled a little at the thought of it but quickly sobered up. After Nightmare last word, something caught Ryan's attention on the corner of his eyes. There on their right, on a hill similar to theirs overlooking the crystal empire was two shape. One was pristine white alicorn, with a billowing mane reflecting the day sky and it's many color, adorning a gold armor armed with an halberd, and the other one was midnight blue smaller alicorn, with the same billowing mane, only this one was the night sky itself, adorning a black suit of armor that seemed to be made out of obsidian, armed with a long sword. ''Is that Luna and Celestia'' Ryan said and pointed at the figure on the hill. Nightmare following his to see what he was pointing at, nodded in agreement. ''Yes it is, and this specific battle was the last of a long bloody war.'' She said with a neutral expression, acting as if the mood she set the last minute did not occur. Squinting his eyes to better look at them, Ryan saw that Luna was much older in this memory than in the previous memory. ''When as this taken place?'' he said trying to know more about this took place. ''What do you mean 'when' Ryan?'' Nightmare asked, although she probably knew what he was asking. ''What I mean is, when did this took place compared to the previous memory?'' Ryan elaborated. Bringing a hoof to her chin, and looking up in thought , Nightmare thought started to remember when exactly. ''I would say... Two hundred and fifty years, give or take a few years.'' She brought her hoof back down, and set her gaze back on the dark crystal spire. Before Ryan could reply Nightmare started beating her wings, and quickly she started hovering above the ground. Turning back to face Ryan she said, ''I will carry with my magic seeing as Luna and Celestia are about to attack Sombra last hold.'' Her horn started to glow, and Ryan could feel himself being levitated above the ground. The feeling of him being levitated like that felt weird to him, it was like being stuck in zero gravity, but without having any control over the direction, because all of this was being taken care of by Nightmare. Nightmare was starting to beat her wings faster, to catch up to the two figure ahead of them. Moments later the four of them burst through a stain glass window, depicting Sombra ruling over the crystal empire. Quickly the two sisters activated the elements of harmony and blasted Sombra with it, but it was all for nothing, as mere seconds later Sombra came back on top of a giant dark crystal, which slammed directly into Celestia, making her crash into the wall, surprising Luna in the process. Sombra looked back at Luna with a confident smirk, he then used his scythe against Luna by doing a vertical with such force that Luna slammed painfully to the ground. The battle continued like this for almost a half an hour, but after the first half of the battle Celestia was rendered useless since Sombra used an illusion spell on her, showing her her worst fear, which was of Luna falling to the dark side. But now, after another fifteen minutes, it looked like Sombra had defeated Luna as well by using the same illusion spell he used earlier on Celestia, sending her fighting her worst Nightmare. Suddenly Luna started laughing, but it was a dark ominous laugh, and this laugh was strange for it was like someone else was laughing in sink with Luna. Ryan knew what that second laugh was for he heard it before, it was Nightmare laughing, somehow when Luna was rendered unable to continue the fight Nightmare took over to Finish what the two sister started. ''At that moment, I had no choice but to reveal myself, if I had not Sombra would have won and he would have covered the world in absolute darkness.'' Ryan look at Nightmare, and he saw that expression was one fury, which was directed at Sombra. ''Know this Ryan I do not like seeing others suffer, but if have to be seen as evil to protect others and bring peace to our little ponies, so be it.'' And with that Ryan's attention was brought to the battle just when Sombra was slammed to the wall by a furiously looking Nightmare Moon wielding Sombra's scythe which had been reforged by Nightmare's magic to resemble a weapon made by the night itself. She drew back and with an ominous dark chuckle said, ''I am a Nightmare,'' and with a fang filled snarl slashed Sombra across his chest. The following moment, the scene ended sending them back to the white dreamscape Ryan and Nightmare grew used to. ''Wow hum okay, that was interesting, but why did skip such a huge time frame to show me that particular memory?'' Ryan asked once the shock of the place changing rapidly ended. ''Because I do not believe the moments earlier to this event to be of much importance, and because I do not have enough time to show my, and Luna full story.'' Nightmare replied emotionless, even if it was not the case, she had to appear strong, that is what the memory of her birth reminded her, to always be strong no matter what, although it grew difficult to do so because of her relationship with Ryan. ''Well I would still like to know what happened then still.'' ''Maybe another time, but for now we must continue, and I know exactly when to start next!'' Just as she said that her eyes and horn were glowing once again, and this time the scenery change to something that Ryan had no word to describe what it was he was looking at. Before him was a place that a man high on mushrooms would see, just like on the movie, pick of destiny with black jack. A little further ahead stood the two sisters once again, this time facing something out of a horror house, it was a mismatched being made out of multiple things, things he could not describe. ''What is that thing!'' Ryan exclaimed as he pointed to the being, that was sitting on throne made out of wood, that was well fitting for a creature as mismatched as that. Nightmare chuckled at seeing Ryan's reaction at seeing Discord for the first time, 'and only if we are lucky.' ''That Ryan is Discord, master of chaos and disharmony.'' ''Well the name is fitting, I mean look at that is body scream chaos!'' ''I know Ryan, but no matter how goofy Discord is looking like his power are great, and he is invulnerable to the strongest of magic. The only thing that could affect him are the elements of harmony. And if you want to know when that took place it was fifty years before the fall of Sombra.'' Nightmare said when she caught Ryan's questioning gaze. ''Okay, But why didn't you show me that memory first?'' Ryan asked puzzled as to why Nightmare did not show that first. ''Because I do not remember that event. What you see is the extent of what I remember of this day, or week.'' Nightmare said disgruntled at the fact that no matter what she did she could not remember anything further than this. ''Wait, wait. You said 'day or week' why? what do you mean by that?'' Usually, from Ryan's point of view, when you fight a big villain like that, the does not last a whole, 'or does it?' Nightmare looked back at Discord's cheeky grin and sigh in exasperation, she wanted this memory to be dealt with as soon as possible, but with Ryan asking question all the time, it would prove to take a lot more time than she thought. '' During his reign Discord had total control over everything.'' She emphasized the last word to mean truly mean everything. ''A day could last a single second to a full hour with him, and the same could said for the night. That said though Luna informed, although partially that because of Discord being arrogant the fight did not last more than a mere two minutes. That buffoon actually let himself be hit by the elements of harmony, thus ending him being trapped in stone for the rest of eternity.'' Ryan was looking at Nightmare with wide eyes, he then whistled in amazement. ''Damn that's impressive, those elements sure don't joke around when they something!'' ''True, remember me and Luna were for a thousand years by them, remember.'' She said and the scenery shifted to the white dreamscape once again. ''Do you have any question before we continue?'' ''Actually, only one.'' Ryan said, and quickly elaborated. 'When will you show me the memory of your banishment?'' Ryan asked. ''Soon but first I will show you how Luna and I became jealous of Celestia, and hateful of the ponies.'' She said and once more her eyes and horn glowed once again to show Ryan another part of her past, one that she would prefer to remain lost and forgotten, but she promised Ryan that she will show him her past, and she never go back on a promise once made.
PrologueNightmare Moon's plan was brilliant, abduct Celestia, imprison her, then neutralize those damn blasted Elements of Harmony. Everything was going according to the plan she and Luna made, while imprisoned on the moon for the last thousand years. But it all came crashing down on her because of Celestia's personnel student. Her name is Twilight Sparkle and she outwitted her, and in the end overpowered her with her friends who had bounded with their Elements of Harmony. She could hardly believe it, justice was at hand. She, and Luna, was about to get revenge on Celestia for all those years she, with Luna, was neglected by Celestia and her little ponies. Hated and feared for no other reason then being linked to the night itself, it was just not fair from her point of view. But even with all the pain she suffered, one thing which she realized, at the last moment was happening. She was being separated from Luna, her other self, her good self who always wanted to see the good in others was now being separated from her, and by those same blasted Element of Harmony that banished her, and Luna to the moon one thousand years. The separation was far from painless, in fact it was the most painful thing she ever felt in all her existence. It was like being ripped apart, and then being stitched back together. Now completely alone and hurting all over, because of the separation, with no hope left for her, was driving her to the brink of despair and insanity. But what was really terrifying to her, was not knowing what was happening to Luna, her big sister. It was madness, never in her years of life as she ever been separated from Luna. Even when Luna gave her control before her banishment she was always there, supporting her, and they comforted each other in there time of need, but now only silence answered her. As time went on she realized that her body was changing, but it was painless, at least she was thankful for that. But it was nonetheless terrifying not being able to see, or feel exactly what was happening to her body, since the same light that blinded her was still present, blinding everything around her, even herself. What she believed was one hour later, since it was to tell how much time had passed, something else happened. She was slowing even though she couldn't see it, she could feel it. What truly surprised her though, was the landing, it was smooth, not the landing someone would expect if she, or he, was sent hurling through space at unimaginable speed. She felt grass underneath her skin, she could also feel her armor, which has been reshaped to accommodate her new form, as well. Tentatively she began opening her eyes, afraid to see what was beyond her eyelid, she nonetheless opened them to face what new terror awaited her, only to be pleasantly surprised to be greeted by the night sky. Growing more curious, she looked to her left seeing some small dirt path going through an unknown forest. Doing the same to her right, she saw a couple of trees, and beyond those trees was, what could only be explained as some tall stone spire with light coming out of the windows. Deciding that that would be a question for later she looked at the night sky again in hope to find some kind of relief, just like each time she looked at the night sky. What relief came with the sight of the night sky, was soon replaced with dread at imagining what kind of horror her new body held for her, now that it had been reshaped by the elements of harmony. Tentatively, once again, she looked down at herself, only to be greeted with a body so unlike any other she previously looked upon. Raising her front legs, only to realized that her legs became arms with fully functional hands, they were hairless. Her once beautiful black coat was replaced with a light toned white skin, and she had nails. Looking down even more prove to be almost too much for the poor exhausted, and confused Nightmare Moon. Her body definitely became bipedal like one of those savage minotaur, she wasn't as bulky though, or muscular for that matter, in fact looking more carefully at herself she realized that her new body maintained some of her old body feature. Her slender form, her ethereal mane was gone though, only to be replaced with a physical one, has proof of her black hair resting on her shoulders, her back legs changed as well, but what truly caught her attention on that particular area of her body, where her hooves which changed to become some new kind of appendage entirely, not like that of a pony, or a minotaur. Exhaling loudly she let her head hit the grass while massaging her temple with her hands in an attempt to sooth the oncoming headache, not believing her own bad luck. She immediately froze in horror at not sensing her horn, she looked up with dread, only to realize that indeed she had lost her beautiful slender black horn. She could not even scream at the true horror of her situation, without her horn she was also magicless, which meant she was powerless at helping Luna get her revenge on the sun tyrant Celestia. With panic she cast a glance at the side of her body, she paled at the realization that she not only lost her precious slender horn, but also her majestic black alicorn wings. The lost of all those thing just became too much for her in her exhausted state, and just like that she let the sweet darkness of unconsciousness engulf her. __o0o__ Meanwhile in the same park where Nightmare Moon landed. A human name Ryan is returning home after a full night of partying with his work colleagues, and friends. Today was the day of the twentieth anniversary of their little cafe he, and his colleague and friends work at. They decided to celebrate it by closing early, with the approval of Sophie their boss, to party all night and having a free day as thanks for their years of loyal services. Still chuckling at all the silliness his friends and colleagues did at the party, the area he was in was soon illuminated by a bright flash of light that descended nearby into the woods. Unsure of what to do he decided to run at the location where the flash of light disappeared to, to investigate what it was since it's not everyday you see something like that land in the local park. He soon arrived at the location only to abruptly stop at the sight before him, a woman, because it was definitely a woman in a shining blue suit of plate armor that laid before him on the ground, visibly unconscious he noted, since she was not moving. How did Ryan knew it was a woman, well the answer is simple, no man have breast, and the fact that the hourglass figure was definitely a dead give away, even though she was taller than him by at least four inches. What surprised him even more was the state of the clearing she had landed in, it was intact to say the least, no crash mark of a heavy object of any kind, even the woman seem fine from this distance, even if she is unconscious, In fact it would seem the clearing is even more full of life than normal, from what he could recall from his previous trek through this same park. What is happening right now sobered him up better than any wake up cocktail he could have made himself to fight the alcohol in his system. Cautiously walking towards the unconscious woman, but at least she was still breathing, shown by the regular rise and fall of her chest. Finally reaching her, he grabbed her shoulder and decided to lightly shake her to see if she respond to his silent demand to wake up. Not seeing signs of her waking up, he starts walking back and forth wondering what to do. On one hand he could just leave her there and forget about her, but that was out of the question for he considered this immoral to leave a defenseless woman like that. On the other hand he could just call the police and tell them what happened, but then what would they do, and that was what he didn't know and like about that solution. With a heavy sigh he reached the only conclusion that satisfied him, he grab her by the arms and place her over his shoulder, while trying to maintain his balance, because lets be honest she weight a ton with her armor on. He start to slowly make his way home, wondering what he will do with her once morning come, he guess he will find out when that happen. Until then he will provide her with a shelter for tonight. That's when the unpleasant thought of someone else with less noble intention would have found her first came to mind. Now that he think about it, he is surprise not to have found more people at the area, considering the flash of light the woman seemed to have generated for some reason when she landed. He would have to ask her that tomorrow when she wake up, if she wake up that is, and that troubled him a little, because he was not sure. Finally after trekking trough the rest of the way left he finally reach the apartment complex where he live without too much trouble, even though he had to explain to a few police officers on duty why he was carrying a woman on his back like that. Already exhausted from just walking home he had another obstacle before him, the stairs, which almost proved too much for him, but with a little more effort, and a lot of willpower to not just dump the woman at the first step, he finally made his way inside his apartment. Thoroughly exhausted, he let the woman fall on the nearby couch of his little restroom, with a dull thud of metal hitting soft fabric. Panting and dragging his feet on the ground, he ever so slowly made his to his bedroom and crash landed for the night on his bed, not even taking time to change his clothes. His last conscious thought before falling asleep was, 'man I never thought I would bring a girl home tonight.' He chuckled at the bad pun he just made, and with that he fell asleep.
What a Wake Up CallIn Canterlot castle, where a bloody battle was fought mere moments ago, at the feet of the stairs leading up to the throne of the ruler of Equestria, a white figure was laying there motionless with a growing pool of blood around it. Celestia lay there, motionless on the ground, in a puddle of her own blood, coming out of various wounds, inflicted upon her throughout her long battle across the new Equestrian capital. She fought valiantly against Nightmare Moon, but in the end, just like in the past, Nightmare Moon prove to be the better, only this time Celestia had no elements of harmony to help her. Nightmare Moon stood on the throne, looking down at Celestia with contempt, and with a flash of her horn incinerated Celestia's body to a pile of ash that swept up by a wind conjured by Nightmare moon, to make sure to defile Celestia to the end. Now she, along with Luna, will finally be able to show their little ponies the true beauty of the night, and that is by making the eternal night a possibility, now that the sun tyrant Celestia is no more. She was about to speak with Luna via their mind link, but a scream of pure terror halted her talk with her sister. Looking to her right, what she saw truly confused her, because before her stood Luna in all her glory, but she wasn't looking at her, she was looking at the place where that damn Celestia used to be not long ago. Confused by Luna's outburst, and her presence outside of her body, she was about to ask what was the matter, but was interrupted by a blast of pure magic coming out of Luna's horn. Dodging to her left she regain her footing and ask Luna. ''What are you doing Luna? Why did you attacked me just now?'' She asked, utterly confused and horrified by Luna's reaction, and her attempt at hurting her via magic. Luna glared at Nightmare Moon with hate filled eyes, if look's could kill that would be it. ''Monster! You dare hurt my dear sister and ask me what we are doing!?'' She spat, unable to keep her hatred of Nightmare Moon, her little sister, from showing. ''What we are doing is getting rid of thee, for what thou did to our sister, and our little ponies, for good.'' She leveled her horn at Nightmare Moon once again in another attempt at blasting her via magic. Nightmare Moon readied her stance, waiting for Luna's attack but before she could attempt anything she felt herself freeze, unable to move a single muscle, unable to even attempt to speak to calm the irate Luna, and before she new it darkness engulfed her. Nightmare Moon regain consciousness, the nearby voice waking her up in the process. Slowly opening her eyes, she saw metal bars, probably the bars of the cell door, where she is now in. Looking around, she confirmed that indeed to her increasing horror she was in a jail cell, three stone wall, a stone floor and ceiling, and no window, only the magical lamp providing enough light to see something in this oppressive darkness. ''So thou are finally awake!'' A voice on the other side cell door called. Looking through the bars she wasn't entirely surprised to see Luna, since she alone speak in the old royal way of old Equestrian.''Good thou will need to be fully awake for what await thee, monster.'' And without further word she turn towards the exit and was leaving. ''Luna wait!'' Nightmare Moon called out. In an attempt to understand what was happening she deduce that her best chance would be to ask Luna.'' What am I doing here Luna, in this jail cell?'' She asked. ''Thou are here to await thy punishment for thy crimes against Equestria, and my sister.'' Without further word she promptly exited the dungeon, locking the door of the dungeon behind her. Nightmare Moon couldn't believe it, her crime against Equestria, against Celestia. Did Luna forgot, somehow, why she did what she did, she did it for the both them, she did it so that their precious night could be accepted, not shun and hated like before. But now it seems all she did was in vain because if she heard Luna correctly, Luna hates her now instead of loving her, like she had hoped. She was abruptly broke from her contemplation by her cell door opening, and before she could react, she was slam to the floor by a pair of royal guard while another was approaching her, with what she could only deduce to be a magic inhibitor ring. She start fighting back against her captor, but it prove to be useless, since all strength seems to be just gone, she attempted to use her magic next but it too seems to be depleted. She could only deduce that her jail cell must be magically enchanted to drain his occupants of strength and magic the longer they stay in here. The guard holding the ring didn't wait for her to try and escape, and promptly jam the ring on her horn, the guard then took a pair off hoof cuff and cuffed her front hooves together. The pain she felt when the inhibition ring was placed on her horn was palpable to having her brain pricked with red hot metal needle. She writhed on the floor in absolute pain behind her eyes, normally if this would have happened to a unicorn he or she would have felt nothing more than a tickling sensation. But alicorns are being so closely tied to magic, that if they were to be cut from it, it would be the same as if someone was about to kill them. The guard then proceed to get her to stand up, totally ignoring the pain she was currently in, only making it worst by kicking her in the stomach until she was indeed standing up, though only barely. Taking long pained breaths to try and stabilize herself on her legs, they started walking in the direction of the exit. Nightmare Moon quickly thought that once outside she could quickly make a mad dash for the exit, but that thought was quickly erased from her thought once she saw what was outside the dungeon. The area outside of the dungeon was crawling with guards, unicorns, earth ponies, and pegasus, all watching her every movement, waiting for to do a single movement out of place to spear her, blast her with magic or maybe even punch her to death. ''Sister!'' The call of that familiar voice would have once brought joy to Nightmare Moon, but now it only brought pain and sadness. Looking to her right she saw Luna glaring at her from the entrance of the throne room of Canterlot and was about to reply. But she was abruptly interrupted by a bright flash of light emitting from behind Luna cutting off all future reply Luna would have said to her. __o0o__ Suddenly waking up from the sound of something heavy and metallic hitting the floor. Ryan quickly sat up and began rubbing his eyes, in an attempt to clear the last vestige of his sleep away. He looked around his room finding noting out of place. Pondering what would cause such a ruckus, his unvoiced question was soon answered by the sound of a woman screaming, his eyes lit up in realization at what caused the the big thud. It was the woman waking up, and from the sound of it she was panicking. Not wasting another second he quickly got up, and run toward his restroom. He had to calm the woman down, after all he didn't want the neighbor next door thinking he just kidnapped someone. Reaching his restroom he came upon the same woman, he met in the park last night, only this time quite conscious and visibly pissed at something, something he wasn't quite sure of. Walking toward her quickly brought her attention to him, he froze for what he saw truly crept him out, the woman's eyes where slit just like the ones reptilian would have. Before he could voice his thought the woman spoke to him, well snarling would be more appropriate in this case. ''Who are you? What are you? And what am I even doing here?'' She demanded. ''Hum!?'' a little thrown off by those question, and by the tone of voice the woman used on him, he looked at her funnily not sure how to answer that. ''Well my name is Ryan, and what I am, well that's easy I'm a human just like...'' but was abruptly cut off by Nightmare Moon. ''And what pray tell is a human, mister Ryan?'' She ask with confusion, quite evident by the expression shown on her face. Ryan not believing what he just heard, looked at her as if she had grown a second head in the last second. ''You're kidding, you're kidding right, you are human just like me, isn't that evident?'' He said that as if he was talking to child. Apparently this wasn't the answer she was looking for, because has soon as he said that the temperature in the room became chilly. ''Do not, I repeat do not treat me like a foal mortal, I am a princess and I expect to be treated me as such, is that understood peasant!?'' She said with the utmost contempt at this Ryan character, while trying to stand up just like this Ryan do. Which failed miserably since she was not used to these new legs of hers, and kept falling over. ''If only these damn legs would work properly,'' she muttered to herself. Ryan kept looking at Nightmare Moon with his mouth agape not believing what he just heard, on one hand he was a little upset to be called a peasant by this uppity woman, and on the other hand he was even more confused by her overall behavior. 'A princess, seriously what is she? And what did I just get myself into,' he thought, not believing his luck, or lack of it. ''Okay so let me get this straight, if what I'm hearing is right, and I better hope it is,'' he muttered this last part to himself. ''You're some kind of princess, but what is your name, and you're the princess of what exactly?'' Nightmare Moon looked at him with frustration but nonetheless decided to entertain him, after all if she were to get back to Equestria, and Luna, she will need help, and maybe this Ryan would be indeed able to help in her quest. ''Very well mister Ryan, if you must know my name is Nightmare Moon, and I with my sister rule over Equestria,'' she proclaimed with pride, not seeing Ryan flabbergasted expression. 'Houston we have a problem, an alien crash landed on earth and she is lost!' He thought, before this whole situation got the better of him, he sat on the floor looking at her with a blank expression clearly displaying his current state of mind. Great now what was she supposed to do, Ryan was visibly the only one who had answers to her immediate questions and the idiot just decide to sit and stare into nothingness, leaving her to figure things out on her own, beginning with how these damn legs works. After several other attempts at trying to get up, she finally succeeded, but now came the other difficult part walking. Surprisingly it was not too difficult, after falling on her knees a couple of times, and banging her armored head on a table, she was finally able to walk without too much problems. Now she will have to learn how to use those new appendage that seemed to have replaced her hooves, but for that she will have to wait for Ryan to wake up,because those thing were truly confusing to her. Losing her patience she walked up to him and swiftly kicked him in the ribs. That seemed to work since he instantly jump up with a small grunt of pain, while holding the side Nightmare Moon just kicked with his arm. ''Ow was that truly necessary, do you know how hard you just kicked me?'' he said while still holding his side, and glaring at Nightmare Moon. ''Quiet peasant. It has come to my attention that for the time being I will need housing, which you will provide, and secondly I will need you to teach me how this new body of mine work, is that understood.'' She said while looking down on Ryan with the air of someone who is used to give orders to others. ''Okay first of, no I'm not you lackey if you need housing ask nicely, and maybe I'll say yes, and not kick you out of My house for kicking me like you just did bitch.'' He said not believing this person/alien treating him like, maybe others are treated like that on her world, but here it's Earth and he will not stand by as she boss him around like a puppet. ''And secondly what do you mean by new body what you're saying doesn't make any sense?'' He said, while getting to his feet, with frustration at being treated like a slave by this princess Nightmare-whatever, and also confused by what she said about new body, because from his point of view she speak about her body as if she wasn't... human... before. 'Oh crap, if she wasn't human before then what was she?' Nightmare Moon not believing what she just heard the human call her was about to raise her arm, but quickly second guess herself. 'He is right, he holds power over as seeing I am new here and all, I will to be careful to stay on Ryan's good side, maybe an attempt at starting over would be best?' With her plan set she walked up to him, with an apologetic look on her face. ''You are right mister Ryan,'' with a soft voice containing masking her fury at being called a bitch, ''I acted poorly and for that I am sorry mister Ryan, but look at it from my point of view. I just woke up here in an unknown location with no previous memory of how I actually got, and now you tell me I am not on my world, the whole situation got the better of me and I let my anger control me.'' She said while bowing in forgiveness, while making a note to herself for making him pay for his earlier comment, she may be lost and will need his help but she is a princess and she will gain respect here, be it the easy way or the hard way. Ryan thought about Nightmare Moon's apology and could not see any deception, and decided that a fresh start would be better for both of them. Sticking out his hand to Nightmare he said, '' I accept your apology, if you promise to not kick me in the ribs, and to not treat me like a slave, deal ?'' Looking at her own hand, then looking at his hand she grasp his with hers and lightly shake it in acknowledgment. Breaking contact she looked at him waiting his next decision, the silence extended for a minute, neither of them unsure what to do, but that question was quickly answered with the growling of Nightmare Moon's stomach. ''It would seem I am hungry, I demand that you prepare breakfast, so that we may sate our hunger.'' Nodding in acknowledgment since he himself was growing hungry as well, he started walking towards the kitchen,but stopped when Nightmare called back to him. ''Oh and next time Ryan don't make me repeat myself or you will understand why no one makes fool of me.'' She said in a tone that broke no argument and quickly delivered the promise of pain should he try to make her seem like an idiot. ''I'll make sure to remember it, if you remember you side of the deal as well.' Turning back he quickly made his way to the kitchen to prepare breakfast, while thinking on to deal with this whole alien royalty situation.
Clothing : ProblemWhile Ryan was off preparing breakfast, Nightmare Moon was left alone with her thoughts in the restroom. 'I should not have threatened him like that, after all he has a point he can kick me out and then I will be left alone, vulnerable.' She thought while her face displayed a worried frown. 'True but you are royalty you deserve respect even from someone who saved you from an unknown, and probably worst fate than right now.' She was about to continue her mental discussion with herself, but Ryan's voice broke her train of thoughts. ''Nightmare, the breakfast is ready!'' He said looking at her through the door frame. ''Come and eat before it get's cold!'' He said as he moved out of sight, probably to the kitchen table. Without replying she moved to the kitchen. Once in she saw a little table barely able to hold three person with plates full of breakfast food, which she assumed was waffles, placed across from each other. 'If Luna was here her face would be stuffed to the brim with waffles already.' Sadly, this train of thoughts also made her realized that, once again she was now separated from Luna, which meant that she was truly alone now. Ryan seeing Nightmare's expression shift from happy to sad wondered what made that change, but didn't act on it. Instead he just presented her with the plate of waffles in front of her and said, ''I didn't know what you would like to eat for breakfast, so I made waffles, hope they're at your liking?'' He finished, while picking his knife and fork, and waiting for Nightmare to take her seat and do the same. ''Now from what you told earlier, you don't know how to use your new body, right?'' He said, while waiting for her confirmation, at her nodding in affirmation he continued. ''Well there is nothing magical to it really, just do what I do and if you got question about how things work well, just ask and I will answer, is that okay with you?'' As she nodded in affirmation, again, they started eating. But before she could start Ryan spoke again, this time in confusion. ''Aren't you gonna, you know take of your armor, now that I think about it, before eating?'' He said while eyeing her blue gauntlet. ''In fact if you were not human before how come your armor is so... well human like?'' Nightmare looked at him wearily, as if waiting for him to do something improper that would annoy, and anger, her. But seeing as his look of confusion, and the honesty present in his voice, and eyes, were true. She concluded that, indeed, she could remove her armor in safety to get more comfortable, but not before warning him for good measure. ''I shall remove my armor, but try anything , and I mean anything, that seems out of place or hostile, and you shall face my wrath.'' She said before starting to remove her armor, for it was easy, since her armor enchantment seemed to have followed through her teleportation, and transformation through the world of Earth and Equestria. ''And to answer your question, I am unsure as to what caused the transformation of myself and the armor.'' Ryan's look amazement at seeing Nightmare peel her armor off as if there was no restraint at all, quickly turned to embarrassment and shock, seeing as she had no cloth underneath. Raising a hand in front of his eyes for modesty, quickly interrupted Nightmare's action in removing her armor. ''Wowow stop, stop!'' Feeling her exasperation at being interrupted, he quickly elaborated. ''Nightmare don't you have any cloth underneath your armor?'' He asked still not looking at her, in fear of seeing her naked, not because she was ugly but because she was beautiful. ''No I do not, why? Is there a problem?'' She asked exasperated but slightly confused as well at Ryan's reaction at seeing her remove her armor. ''Actually yes!'' He replied, and she was about ask why but he continued in his answer. ''You see, humans here on Earth always wear clothes, be it in public or alone, do you get what I'm saying?'' He asked hopeful that she did get it, after all she was quick witted enough to realize is thought just by looking at his face earlier. Her cheeks flares red with a mixture of embarrassment at her seemingly improper action, and anger at being implied that she is dim witted by Ryan. Taking a long breath to calm her frazzled nerves, so she does not explode on Ryan, and make the situation worse for her. She look up at him with a calm expression. ''I understand perfectly mister Ryan,'' she said while putting her armor back on. ''I am sorry if my earlier action has brought you discomfort, for you see, we Equestrian do not normally wear clothes, and I simply assumed the same was for Earth and its inhabitants.'' She finished, but she decided to only remove her gauntlet as it would greatly makes the eating of her breakfast more difficult. Ryan lowered his hand, as he realized that she had put her armor back on. But his thoughts drifted to the fact that he will likely have to buy cloths for her, if she were to pass as a normal woman of six feet and eight inches. Okay as normal as she can be, which will be difficult, considering her size since tall woman are kind of rare from his point of view. Ryan looking up from his thoughts, realized that Nightmare was waiting for him to show her how to use her hands, and without further ado they started eating. The breakfast went without trouble, apart from Nightmare's first few clumsy attempts to use her hands. Ryan was looking at her most of the time thinking how beautiful she is when embarrassed li... His thought came to a crashing halt, did he just thought of her as cute? That woman has one of the worst temper ever, she is so volatile and violent. His bruised side where she kicked him is a proof to that, and decided to return to eating his breakfast. After they both finished eating Ryan got up, took the two plates and went to the sink. Dropping them in the sink, he made his way back to Nightmare Moon, who was still seated at her chair waiting for Ryan. He was about to talk to her about getting clothes fitting for her, but Nightmare was already speaking. ''You know mister Ryan you never gave me the honor of knowing you full name, and so I formally request that you give your full name?'' She spoke with all the grace and fluidity of royalty. A little thrown off by the question, but thinking over their previous talks he did realize that he never fully presented himself to her, even though she did. ''Oh, hum, sorry I never realized eh eh!'' He chuckled while rubbing the back of his head in slight embarrassment. ''Well my full name is Ryan drowskie and, well there is nothing more to add so that would be it.'' He was about leave the kitchen but quickly turned around to face Nightmare who got up as well and was following him ''Oh and before I forget, I will bring you a spare set of clothe before I shower, and I would like you to change into that before going out to buy you a new set of clothes!'' Let's just say that Nightmare's reaction wasn't the one he expected, and that things were about to get really loud, really soon.
Clothing : SolutionNightmare Moon looked at Ryan, with narrowed eyes full of fury. 'Did he just seriously consider what I think he just said, that I Nightmare Moon, princess of Equestria and ruler of the night, with my sister Luna. Lower myself by wearing male clothes, we are indeed in need of help but we are not desperate!' She was about to make him regret his words, but something held her back, something she did not understand, and it infuriated her. But it nonetheless made her realized that she was about to make a mistake that will damage her pride. She started taking long breath in order calm herself, and after a few seconds she was visibly less tense and prompt to lash out at Ryan. Ryan seeing Nightmare relax did the same, and that surprised him. After all he expected a lot of shouting coming from Nightmare, but seeing her relax made him relax as well. ''Okay so I'm gonna take my shower, but before that I will pass you some of my clothes to...!'' He could not finish his sentence since Nightmare Moon promptly cut him by raising her hand. ''You want me to wear your clothes Ryan, but why should I wear the clothes of a male? Is my armor not good enough for your society? Is your society sexist to the point where females do not have the right to wear their own clothes? Or, do you intend to have me take my armor off, to make me more vulnerable?'' She finished, glaring at Ryan with narrowed eyes, full of suspicions, ready to use his body as her future training dummy. After all no one becomes a ruler by blindly trusting others, and seeing as she is in a new world he could very well try to abuse her. Even if his previous actions shows nothing but good will, all of this could be a ruse now that she thinks about it. Ryan not phase by her interruption, after all he did expect her to voice her complaints, seeing as she acts all high and mighty, answer her questions while ignoring those creepy eyes of her. ''Well if you want to pass as a normal woman here on Earth you will have to wear normal clothes, and seeing as I live alone I only have my clothes to pass to you so they will have to do for now, until we get you a proper set of clothes. Well more than one but we will see once we get there. Yes your armor is not good enough, not because it doesn't cover enough, but because no one wear armor anymore, and also because of the fact that you'll be seen as a freak. And no, I do not have any intention to do any bad things to you, because if I did I would have done it already when you were unconscious in the clearing where I found you. Is my answer satisfactory your highness?'' That last part may have been unnecessary but he had to make it clear, not that he tried several times already, that he was only trying to help, and was getting tired of her acting like she owned everything. Nightmare Moon look's to the side biting her lower lip, swallowing back a harsh reply, she would regret seconds later after uttering it. ''I understand Ryan in fact I may have gone too far in addressing you in the way I just did, and for that I am sorry for my harsh words.'' She said and bowed to Ryan, trying to hide her shame. She wondered how much more her pride is going to suffer. Looking at Nightmare, he could feel that what she said wasn't complete bollocks. After all she is lost in every sense of the word and decide to let it slide since he would probably act like her if he was in her shoes. ''I accept your apology, just remember that I'm only trying to help you get back home, so no hard feelings?'' He said with hope that this time the hatchet his truly buried. Ryan look's to the clock and realize that they had lost a good amount of time by just arguing with each other, since it is nine thirty. He dash to his room picking clothes for himself, and Nightmare. He return and give's Nightmare her set of clothes, and go to the bathroom for a quick shower. A few minutes later Ryan is out feeling refresh and clean with a new set of clothes on himself. He look's at Nightmare expecting her to have changed but to his annoyance see that she is still in her heavy suit of blue armor. ''Why didn't you changed yourself already, we don't have much time if we don't want ourselves caught in the middle of the rush hour?'' He said while rubbing the bridge of his nose in annoyance. Nightmare look's shock at him as if not believing what she just heard, ''Mister Ryan did you honestly think that I would wear your clothes with the filth of the previous days still clinging to me? Seriously you jest!'' She reply, with what he can only guess is mock disbelief. Now that he look's at her more carefully. He indeed see the filth that clings to her body and face and sidestep out of the way, as Nightmare Moon pass by him with her head up in the air like one of those noble in history book, while sporting a sly smirk. A few more minutes later Nightmare comes out of the shower clean, and has changed into Ryan's clothes. The clothes he gave her were hugging her form in all the right place and exposing her stomach for the world to see, her breast where bouncing at every steps she took making it very hard to focus on her face instead of her chest. Her face showed discomfort by the fact that her breast kept bouncing. ''I don't understand why the female of your kind have their mammary situated here instead of lower like we ponies do, and it is certainly annoying, seeing as how they don't stop moving when I walk?'' She said while looking at her own breast in annoyance. ''It sure isn't from my point of view.'' He quietly mutter to himself, his voice a whisper, as he bit on his fist in an attempt to control the male inside him with pain. He knew that she had the body of a top model when he was carrying her on his back before, and it was further proved earlier today during their heated argument and their breakfast. But damn without her armor on she was irresistible, body wise, but attitude wise, she was a complete stuck up noble bitch. ''Well seeing as I'm not a woman I do not need a bra, but you on the other hand definitely do, in fact all women does.'' He said unable to tear his eyes away from her breast any longer. ''What is a bra Ryan?'' She ask not knowing what a bra was, after all ponies do need bra. She did not miss him eyeing her breast though, and would ask him later why he was doing so. ''Well a bra is an undergarment, meant to keep your breast from bouncing around as they do.'' He said while still eyeing her breast. ''Okay seeing as we are both ready to go, I suggest we start making our way to the Walmart, before it gets too crowded, what do you say Nightmare?'' He says with calmest expression he could muster right now. ''I agree it shall be best if I were to get proper female clothing, don't you agree?'' She said while looking at him expectantly. ''Then follow me if you please,'' he said while walking to the exit and motioning for her to follow him. She follows him without complaints, for once. They quickly arrive to the apartment complex parking lot. He motion for her so stop, '' stay here please, I'll be right back,'' he said while walking further in the parking lot, but not before she ask him, ''where are you going?'' She ask curiously with a little bit of fear, even with all her bravado she is still alone in this new world that she is now stuck in. ''I'm just going to go search for my car, as I say I'll be right back don't worry Nightmare, I'm not leaving you alone for long.'' he shout back while moving further into the parking lot. A minute pass by in complete silence, the only sound her breathing. Then a loud rumbling noise approach from her left, she look in the direction the noise is coming from only to sense her jaw drop at the sight of the mechanical beast approaching her, only to relax when she see's that Ryan is at the command of this beast. He stop in front of her, and lower his side window. ''Hop in we're going shopping,'' he said with a bright smile happy at the sight of awe on Nightmare's face.
Clothing : ResolutionNightmare Moon look's at Ryan with amazement that such a poor man can afford such an extraordinary magical construct. 'These humans are truly fascinating,' she thought. An idea pop in her head, what if she could convince him to help her in defeating Celestia and reclaim Equestria with Luna and him by her side, that is if he doesn't betray her. Her reverie is broken when she notice that Ryan is looking at her in frustration. 'Before she was angry, now she just plain ignore me, seriously why do I even bother with her?' He thought, truly frustrated at being ignore, or so he thought. Still he opens the door on Nightmare's side while still inside the car, he motions for to sit inside, and instruct her how to clip the security belt over her body to protect in case of a crash, not that he intend to crash, but still accidents do happen. He press slightly on the accelerator to exit the parking lot, and turns right in the direction of the shopping mall. The silence is broken by Nightmare, ''how does this machine you call a car works, we have trains on Equestria but nothing sophisticated like this?'' She says, her eyes alight in wonder and curiosity, completely forgetting how royalty is supposed to act at all times, instead act like a filly at Hearth's Warming at the sight of such difference in technology between Equestria and Earth. Ryan not taking his eyes off the road calmly answer Nightmare's question, completely missing her looking at him in childlike curiosity. ''Well to be honest I don't know the finest details but of what I know, it works with the help of the motor which is fueled by, well fuel, which create small explosion, which in turn moves all the pistons up and down at really high speed which then create energy that powers the car, the radio, and other things.'' He said taking pride in his little knowledge of cars and their inner workings, then taking a huge breath for compensating all the air he just used to explain this to Nightmare how car works. Nightmare shake her head in sheer confusion, not having understood at least half of what he just said. Instead she decides to return to her planning for the future, and before she knew it they had arrived to the shopping mall. They unfasten their security belt, exit the car, and locks the doors. It is then that she finally lay eyes on the Walmart, and she is astonished by the sight of such a huge building, it rival Canterlot palace on term of size. But before she can marvel more at the sight of the mall, Ryan call's out to her and say, ''catch,'' and throw a pair of black sunglasses at Nightmare, who fumble with them in an attempt to catch them, not yet used to her hands after all. She finally secure them on, resting comfortably on her nose, per Ryan's instruction and ask, '' why do you want me to wear these Ryan?'' Still unsure as to why she should wear them. Ryan's look her way and nod in approval, at how she wears them and say, ''well we could do without them but then your eyes would be exposed.'' He catch Nightmare wince at the mention of her eyes being unnatural, not that she doesn't know about it, and quickly rectify, ''it's not because their ugly, because honestly they are quite mesmerizing if a tad bit creepy, but not ugly. Sadly not everyone would be as understanding as me and would probably freak out, that is why passed you my sunglasses so that you can hide them and pass as a normal human.'' He say with a sheepish chuckle, while rubbing the back of his neck. Nightmare's cheek burn with, something that is so foreign to her that no words can describe how she feels. Instead her gaze return to the store and she motion to it and say, ''well then I suppose you know the way to where we must go, so lead the way noble Ryan.'' She doesn't why she said it but in the end she believes it is the best word that can be used to describe Ryan. Meanwhile Ryan is looking at Nightmare not really what he heard was right or just a product of his mind, but decide to just go with the flow and thank Nightmare for the compliment. ''Well thank you Nightmare for your kind words!'' He say and start to walk towards the mall. Nightmare promptly follow him and reply, ''for what, calling you a knight. I only stated the truth, nothing more nothing less.'' She say with obvious pride, you may call Nightmare Moon many things, but a liar never, death is preferable from her point of view than lying. ''Hum, okay.'' He say a little bit unsure how to react to that. They soon enter the mall, only for Nightmare's amazement to reflect in her eyes and gaping mouth at the sight of so many things located into one place. To her left she can see rows upon rows of clothes both for women and men, to her right she can, once again, rows upon rows of foods of all kinds. Without hesitation Ryan start walking towards the clothing section, taking along the way a cart for transporting all the things they will soon buy. __o0o__ Choosing Nightmare's everyday clothes was easy, she liked dark colored clothes, like a pair of purple jeans or a pair of black shirt with the moon effigy on it or other dark colored clothes that all had a night theme to them. All this clothes shopping made Nightmare really happy, and seeing her this happy made Ryan happy as well, her happiness was infectious to say the least. But when it was time to chose Nightmare's undergarment, to say that Ryan was uncomfortable in all this women lingerie would be an understatement, he was beat red from embarrassment because every women, except Nightmare, was looking at him with a look that said, why was he here. In return he gave a sheepish smile and returned in helping Nightmare choose her undergarment. Nightmare meanwhile was as giddy as a filly, both on the inside and on the outside, she never knew that shopping for simple clothes could be this much fun. Add to this all the compliment Ryan make's on her figure every time she ask what she would look like in on of the clothes she chooses, and you get one of the happiest day in Nightmare's life. Of course she was fairly happy with Luna since they were sister in the same body, but no one else ever complimented her on something even less about her dragon eyes, until Ryan that is. It was at this point that they came upon the changing cabin to try the clothes and undergarment she choose, to see if they fit her and all. The moment was already awkward with all the stares Ryan received from the other various women and men customer who were staring at him and at Nightmare, who was relishing in all the attention the men, and some women gave her. But the moment truly became intolerable for Ryan, when Nightmare grabbed him by the collar, and swiftly brought in the cabin with her. Nightmare understood how to wear most of these clothes, even her panties, even though it's her first time putting these on, but the bra she had no clue whatsoever. That is why she is now bare chested with Ryan in a very small changing cabin asking him, ''Ryan would you be so kind as to help me put these on,'' she said while holding one of her dark bra in her hand. ''You explained to me what purpose these serve but I cannot seem to figure out how to put these on!'' Ryan incredibly red from embarrassment and all the blood flowing to his head cover his eyes with his right hand, and reply. ''Okay first of, can't you ask some one else, second of, please for the love of god please cover your boobs it's incredibly distracting!'' Normally every other men in his place would be in heaven, but he is in public and it takes every ounce of willpower he possess not to do something he would instantly come to regret. Nightmare look's at Ryan with narrowed eyes, not sure why her 'boobs', as he puts it, seems to distract him so and ask, ''why Ryan is my royal body not good enough for you, or is it because because you have never laid eyes on such a great body as mine?'' She said with a hint of anger at the thought of her body not good enough for Ryan, but all of this is overshadowed with pride for she knows her body is perfect, for alicorns are perfect by nature. ''Nightmare for t-the love of g-god, you a-asking me if your b-body is not g-good enough is like sacrilege,'' he say unable to believe that Nightmare just seriously asked if her body was not good enough. ''You have t-the b-body of a super model and t-that is why I a-ask t-that you cover yourself, you see being half n-naked or fully n-naked in public or in front of someone is, as you would put it, incredibly indecent.'' He stuttered unable to say a full sentence clearly without his embarrassment showing in his voice. It was Nightmare's turn this time to be embarrassed, although she was also flattered about Ryan comment about her body, which was proved by the blossoming of her cheeks, she quickly hid her breast with her arms and hands, and turned around facing one of the wall. ''If that is t-the case t-then help me with my b-bra, Q-QUICK.'' She finished, unable to control her voice at the end from her embarrassment. He does as he is told without arguing and soon both of them leave the cabin, Ryan looking in every direction before exiting himself. __o0o__ They continue their shopping, Ryan looking for things to eat for both him and Nightmare, Nightmare wander off alone looking for things related to the night that might suit her fancy taste. She does spot a couple of bracelet that do have night related theme, one has full moon on the center and false star like jewelry that make it look like a night sky, the other one has just a half moon and decide to discard while keeping the former for herself. Ryan continue shopping for food, unaware that Nightmare has wandered off to the female jewelry section of the Walmart. He look's back to ask what Nightmare would like to eat but did not ask his question seeing as Nightmare is nowhere to be found. He decide to trace back his step to the female section and easily find her, seeing as she is a giant amazon, he doesn't take long to reach her only to see Nightmare being cornered by three other girl, who all seems to try and pick a fight with her. 'Does girl do not know what they are in for she will eat them like fresh waffle at breakfast,' he thought how remembering she devoured her waffle this morning, in the end he decide to barge in and save the girls from themselves, and Nightmare. He does it just in nick of time, seeing as Nightmare was clenching her fist and was about to raise it, he calls out to her stopping her. ''Honey there you are, I was worried sick don't just up and disappear like that,'' he says as loudly as he can breaking the three girls concentration on Nightmare, and making Nightmare jump in the process. She was about to protest about being Ryan girlfriend, but Ryan quickly grab her arm and quietly and discreetly mutter into her ear, 'play the game if you don't want to attract attention to yourself.' She nods in understanding seeing as attracting attention right now would be bad, especially for her. ''Yes dear I was here checking for little trinket that would go well with my new outfit, but then these charming girls,'' she said while motioning for the three girls in question, ''where pointing me out to where I could find the little trinket in question.'' They all nod in unison not wanting to pick a fight with Nightmare anymore, seeing as the other patron in the alley where looking at them now, and quickly walk away. ''Phew that was a close one.'' Ryan say while brushing his air backward in visible relief that the storm had pass without doing damage. ''Why did you stop me Ryan, I was about to teach them a lesson in respect for calling me a hag?'' She said with confusion and a slight hint of anger at not being able to show these little pest who is the strongest. ''Maybe but then you would have been arrested for physical violence against a minor and probably thrown to jail!'' He say clearly disappointed in Nightmare behavior, after all he thought she was mature enough not to get goad into a fight so easily. Clearly he was wrong and he will have to check her more closely in the future. In the end they both decide to continue shopping, with Nightmare close by his side so that Ryan can keep an eye on her at all time. After that returning home would be a good idea now that they had everything they pay for the numerous thing they bought, including all of Nightmare's trinket, which are the bracelet a little necklace with a half moon symbol on it, and a couple of other stuff. They pack everything into Ryan's car and return to his apartment, Nightmare happy with all the stuff she all possess and at Ryan's chivalrous save by the three teenage girl at the Walmart. Ryan meanwhile is also happy, happy to have saved Nightmare from herself, and happy to have seen her smile, and happy that his kitchen is now back at full capacity, storage wise. The rest of the day goes without too much trouble, apart from Nightmare always ranting about things not being clean enough or majestic enough, which he agree with the former but disagree with the later, seeing as he didn't had that much time to clean the place since Nightmare came here. In the end they call it a day at eight thirty p.m and they promptly both go to sleep, Nightmare get the couch just so he can enjoy ticking Nightmare off by showing her he own the place, not her.
Nightmare's Nightmare''Sister!'' That brought Nightmare's head up, what she saw was Luna looking at her with extreme loathing and hatred. ''Why?'' She ask, ''Why did thou kill our big sister, Celestia?'' Her eyes were misty by that point, quickly overcome by her sadness of losing Celestia, who was killed by her own little sister. ''Luna I killed her so that we too can be love by our subject, which is now made possible with Celestia gone.'' She said a little distraught by Luna's reaction, after all they both hate Celestia and her damn sun one thousand years ago, 'is that not the case anymore?' She thought with dread, unable to believe that Luna of all ponies has forgiven Celestia for scheming against the both of them. ''No sister of mine, you killed Celestia because you were afraid of her, afraid that I would love her more than thee, guess what your suspicion was right I love her more than thee and now she is gone, forever.'' Now her tears were running freely unable to stop themselves. 'Could it be it, that I was the one who was jealous of Celestia and not Luna?'' Now her eyes were getting wet as well, from the realization that she caused Luna, her beloved big sister, the greatest amount of pain imaginable. She wanted to run, run and hide and never be seen again for what she did to Luna, but the guards that were surrounding her made sure that she could not escape with all the magical tethers they casted, that was attached to her body. Instead she just let herself fall to the floor, hiding her face with her fore hooves, unable to look Luna in the face and see the face of the one pony that mattered to her hurt, hurt by herself no less. After a long moment of silence where neither of them said anything, only silently weeping for the loss they both suffered. Luna's loss was Celestia while Nightmare's loss was Luna, one was dead the other still alive but hated the other for what she did and never wanted to see her again. In the end Luna regained her senses and called out, ''guard bring the criminal to the throne room where she will be judged accordingly to Equestrian law.'' And without further needless words she turn around and passed the still open door and close it for a full second, before opening it again to let the guard pass. When they pass the door it closed behind them in a loud bang, and with a audible that signified that the lock was in place. The room had changed in the full second the doors where closed from the cheerful white associated to Celestia's sun with the sun emblem engraved in the ground before the throne and behind it. To a gloom dark associated to Luna's night with a crescent moon engraved on the floor before the throne and behind it, to signify the change that recently occurred. Siting upon the throne was no one else than Luna herself, watching the proceedings as judge and executioner, while the jury where sited on both side of Luna. On Luna's right was the Element bearer, the six mare who represented harmony, kindness honesty generosity loyalty laughter and magic. Even with the realization that she did hurt Luna by killing Celestia, she still hated those mares. On Luna's left where sitting, at least what she thought from the way they carry themselves and their attire, the six most influential ponies of Canterlot. All thirteen of them were looking at her with pure unaltered hatred with their red glowing eyes... wait red? Then abruptly everything fades to black until a bright flash of light signify the end of her Nightmare. __o0o__ Nightmare Moon woke up in cold sweat, screaming Luna's name like her life depends on it. Looking around she realized that she was not back in Equestria but that she was still in Ryan's apartment. The sound of something heavy hitting the floor came from Ryan's bedroom and out he come, looking around worried that something horrible had happened while he was asleep. Ryan's look of fear was soon replace by one of confusion, seeing Nightmare holding her legs close to her chest sobbing and muttering Luna's name over and over again and something else like, sorry. 'Whatever happened to her in the past must have been painful, and truly horrible for her to react like that!?' He thought, since seeing Nightmare looking like a frightened child who just saw her parents murdered in front of her made him realize, that Nightmare haughty attitude is probably more like a way for her to cope with what is happening to her right now. 'Being thrown out of her own world must have been more a shock to her then I realized at first yesterday?' With that thought in mind he made his way to Nightmare silently so has not to disturb her too much. He took Nightmare's shoulder in his hand, sat behind her and started rubbing them in a comforting manner, while murmuring in her ears soothing words. ''It's okay Nightmare you're safe, no one from Equestria can get you here,'' he said as reassuringly as he could, ''I mean after all you're here and they are back on Equestria, and unless they can do multidimensional travel they are stuck there!'' He finish with a little joke, which seems to work seeing as Nightmare sobbing, and shiver, seems to have stop. She looks behind her with tears still flowing from her eyes, right into Ryan soft green eyes. ''Hold me please, I do not want to be alone again!'' He wraps his arms around her chest and do exactly as he is, told not letting her shivering form go while still murmuring soothing words in her ears. After a few minutes of Ryan comforting Nightmare distressed form, she finally calms down enough for Ryan to let her go without worry of her panicking again. ''Thank you Ryan, I needed that.'' Ryan look into Nightmare's eyes and for the first time sees them as beautiful not even in the slightest bit creepy, okay maybe a little bit creepy. Nightmare look's back at him with true happiness, and something else she does not identify. ''If you don't mind me asking, why is your past seems so horrible, and who is this Luna you kept muttering?'' He say with genuine care, only trying to understand Nightmare's fear of whoever this Luna is, after all it's not the first time he heard her say that name. She tense up, only slightly and say, ''maybe one day I will tell you, but not now, now I only want to leave this in the past, for now.'' She say as she get up and start walking toward the bathroom, for a quick and refreshing shower. Ryan look up at Nightmare departing figure with a little smirk of confidence and say, ''I'll hold to it, and no chickening out!''Nightmare swiftly, and gently, close the door behind her with a little laugh. ''Damn what a strange morning that was, but then again I should have expected something like this to happen, at least I'm glad I was here to comfort Nightmare!'' Ryan said to himself, unaware that Nightmare was listening to him through the door with a smile plastered on her face, and with that he goes to the kitchen to prepare today's breakfast.
That Awkward MorningNightmare was undressing herself in the bathroom, about to take her shower. She was admiring her new body through the mirror in the bathroom, after all Ryan did say she had the body of a super model, and she so wanted to test out the effect of her new body on someone. Then Ryan's warning came forth in her mind, reminding her of how it was considered indecent to show yourself naked to someone. An idea then form itself into her head, she could not show herself naked but she could bent the meaning of Ryan's warning. She started looking around for something that which she could use to 'cover' herself with, she spotted a bathrobe but deemed it too modest for her intention, then she saw the towel she use to dry herself with. What if she were to wrap herself with the towel and exit the bathroom completely wet in front of Ryan. 'I do wonder what his reaction could be, after all he does need a little reward for helping me. That's it I am going to do it!' It is with that thought in mind that she took her shower, when she exited the shower she just wrapped herself in the towel. Still wet and dripping she exited the bathroom. Ryan look up from the stove, at the sound of Nightmare exiting the bathroom, where he was making his and Nightmare's breakfast. What he saw made him choke on his spit and made all the blood in his body flow to his head. Because before him stood Nightmare Moon, dressed only in the bath towel, bearing her moon cutie mark, he bought for her yesterday, and she was winking at him in a sly manner that made him realize that she was messing with him. He opened his mouth to say something, but the only thing that came out was incoherent noise born from his flustered state, which only made Nightmare laugh in merriness in return, seems like her plan was working. ''Is something wrong Ryan?'' She asked with false innocence tilting her head to the side while raising her eyebrow in fake confusion. ''Does my outfit distract you? If that is the case I can change?'' As she was starting to unwrap herself Ryan coughed which gathered her attention. Ryan coughed a little more to clear his throat, making sure he regained as much calm as he could in his immediate situation. ''Nightmare please, go back in the bathroom and wear something proper?'' Unable to believe that he said all of this without stuttering even once. ''Why, don't you find me attractive anymore?'' She said while making her lip quiver with false tears in her eyes, in a fake pout. Normally on a little child Ryan would find this cute and unbearable to look at, but since she is a grown women, which is taller than him, it just made it annoying that Nightmare would try something like this. ''Stop it Nightmare it's not gonna work on me, if you had been younger maybe? So just go and change while I finish the breakfast.'' He said as he returned his attention to his stove. Nightmare huff turned around and left to return to the bathroom, disheartened that her little reward/joke did not work fully as intended, but it left her pretty happy to have been able to get that reaction of pure unease out of Ryan. Ryan meanwhile was stuck with Nightmare's alluring figure in his head, those lovely curves, that wasp waist... Enough, but no matter what he tried it will probably haunt him for awhile, in a good kind sort of way. The smell of something burning brought him back from his reverie, he looked down to see his bacon was about to become charred black. He quickly took the pan out from over the stove and deposited it on the counter, at least the bacon wasn't terribly burnt, in fact it just perfect. ''Damn you Nightmare and your perfect body! I almost had to redo the breakfast.'' He thought angrily, half at Nightmare and half at himself, at his lack of attention at what he was doing. Nightmare came out of the bathroom, this fully clothed with black jeans and a purple shirt with effigy of the moon on hit, and could not miss the strange smell that came from the kitchen. Curious she walk to the kitchen and say Ryan setting the breakfast on the table, all ready to be eaten. ''Ryan?'' She ask making Ryan jump,not having heard her coming in, ''what is that strange smell?'' ''Strange smell? Oh you mean the bacon, sorry it's just that when you cam in earlier it almost burnt because of your distraction!'' He said, trying to make Nightmare feel at least a little guilty. Nightmare look at him her dragon like eyes, with her head tilt to the side, not understanding what bacon is. ''And what pray tell is bacon Ryan?'' ''Well bacon is...'' and that's when his thought came to a abrupt halt. 'Wait didn't she say she was a pony before, so it probably means that she is, like her kind, vegetarian.' His skin soon turned pale at the realization that Nightmare might beat him up, the image of her kicking him in the ribs resurfacing, if she were to learn that humans eat meat. Not able to think of any excuses, he decided to go with the truth. ''Well bacon is, oh god this is awkward, bacon his meat to put it simply.'' He close his eyes and brought his arm in front of his face for protection, awaiting for something unpleasant to happen, when nothing happened he opens his eyes and saw Nightmare looking at him with slight amusement. ''Y-you aren't disgusted by what I just said?'' ''Oh please Ryan why would I be,'' she said with an amused expression plastered across her face, being thought as someone weak to the point to shriek in horror at the only mention of meat always infuriated her in a way, but Ryan action are, in some way, amusing to her. ''Back on Equestria I was the only pony with fangs, and trust me when I say this they were not just for show Ryan. I am Luna polar opposite, and not just in the way we think, but in everything, even eating habit, of course I can eat vegetables like any other pony but I largely prefer meat, that is the reason why Luna was always in control while with others.'' ''Oh, hum, okay I didn't expect that honestly but I guess it's fine, I wont judge because you eat meat.'' He said with total surprise and honesty, why would he judge some for what they eat, it would be total hypocrisy. Nightmare for the first time did not know what to say, for the first time someone didn't judge for the way she eat, of course why would he judge for eating meat he is omnivore if she saw him eat through out her stay here is anything to go by. So instead she only say what truly matter, ''thank you for understanding Ryan.'' Ryan nod in understanding, and motion for the breakfast waiting at the table and they both promptly sit and begin eating. Once the breakfast is over and the plates have been rinsed does Ryan speak, ''Okay so today I have to go to work today, which begin at ten o'clock and I'll return somewhere in between sixteen thirty and seventeen o'clock. Until then, well I guess the house is yours just don't destroy, it's the only rule,'' he said while rubbing the back of his in uncertain of what Nightmare will do while he is away. ''Do not worry Ryan I shall take care of your house while you are gone.'' She said with a little smirk.
A Day At WorkRyan was in his bedroom preparing his outfit for today, he heard the sound of his door opening and saw Nightmare looking at him. ''Is something wrong Nightmare?'' He ask wondering why she was looking at him, without saying a word. ''I was just wondering how you Humans get used to those itchy clothes all the time!? I mean my armor is the most comfortable thing I wear, and I was wondering why you, humans, don't wear armor?'' She asked with genuine Curiosity. That's when he remembered something that intrigued him since yesterday, ''hey Nightmare I was wondering, what happened to your armor? Because I can't seem to find it anywhere?'' He asked wondering where Nightmare could have hidden her armor. Nightmare looked at him wondering if he asked that question out of pure curiosity or if he had ulterior intention behind asking that, but saw no evil intention in his eyes but saw none, and decided to entertain him by answering his question. ''Well magic would be the quickest answer, but I am probably certain it would not be specific enough for you, seeing as humans do not seem to possess magic.'' She looked back at Ryan and saw he was slightly confused by her words, probably at the magic part. ''The answer is nonetheless simple though, I enchanted my armor to obey to my will, and a couple of other enchantments to keep it in perfect condition at all time, and also to increase it's durability by ten fold.'' She continued on her answer, while ignoring Ryan's look of shock and awe and instead concentrated on answering his question. ''But what the primary enchantment do, which is the one that makes it obey to my will, is make it able to will it out of existence with a simple thought.'' She snap her index and major together, which reveal the armor surrounding her, placed comfortably on her body, she snap her finger again and her armor disappear like it was never even here to begin with. Ryan was amazed beyond words he tried to say something to compliment her skill, but the only that made it out of his mouth was, ''wow.'' Magic, to Ryan, was things from legends something that wasn't real but the fact remained that what he just saw was real and so was magic by the looks of it. Nightmare was looking at Ryan frozen expression of shock, and realize that he was in stuck in deep thought, walking up to him she waved her hand in front of his face, which seems to do the trick by the rapid blinking of his eyes. ''Good you were lost in thought there for a second.'' ''I knew you told me, about you being able to use magic. But still seeing it for myself is way amazing then just being told about it!'' He said still greatly amazed by what he just saw mere seconds ago. Nightmare felt her chest swell in pride, at being complimented by her use of magic, even if it was an enchantment she made long ago, to help her in battle against Celestia. But still she felt something else at being able to amaze Ryan with something she was truly prideful of. She searched inside her maze of emotions to try and comprehend that feeling but once again was left with nothing, and it infuriated her. Ryan looked to the side and saw that if he didn't leave like right now he would be late for the start of his shift, and so made his past Nightmare to the exit. He looked behind one more time and called out. ''Remember no burning down the apartment okay?.'' ''Just leave, before I decide to remind you why no one mess with me!'' She said threateningly while forming a fist and raising it in a threatening manner. Not wanting to make Nightmare anymore angry than she already was, he promptly left for the parking lot to get his car. Once there he started his car,which is a Toyota 2006, it's not the worst but not the best just in the middle. He left his car at the parking's entrance, in case he would have to leave in a hurry because of Nightmare. He then attempted to promptly exit via the normal, well exit, but found his way blocked by a maintenance crew working on the parking entrance. Sighing in exasperation at his bad luck showing it's ugly head again he made his way to the rear entrance of the parking and exited that way. Ten minutes later of uneventful and peaceful, apart from the parking incident back at the place, driving through the city he reach the cafe.He exit his car and lock it like he usually do, not wanting for it to get stole by some asshole that want to make quick money off with his things, and then went inside through the personnel entrance in the back. He entered the cafe, punch in his presence, and went to his little 'office'. His 'office' is located in the basement and is comprised of three very thin wooden walls and a curtain for a door. The inside of his office contains a file cabinet, a computer, a desk with his name plate on the front with bold letters spelling his name 'RYAN DROWSKIE'. His normal day of work is normally comprise of doing the inventory, checking what is left and doing a list of the things they will need to buy in the future. Then checking regularly on the employee making sure they don't do mistakes, and helping them when the situation demands it. But today was different, okay he still did the things he had to do as usual, but throughout the morning he remarked that everyone was looking at him with smiles and smirks that was normally, not absent, but not that... bright. Remarking this he went to speak to the chef that prepares the meals of patrons in the cafe and ask, ''hey James, do you know why everyone is looking at me like that?'' James, the chef, look at him with a calm expression, but like the others he also sported the same smirk as most of the others employee. ''Why you ask, well the answer is simple Ryan!'' He said with a snicker that threatened to blow into full blown laughter. ''A couple of the employees saw you at the Walmart yesterday. Now normally, that wouldn't be the reason why everyone is acting like this, but those that saw you all claimed they saw you being dragged around by a, how did say this, oh yeah. 'By a giant supermodel, and then he got dragged into the women changing cabin.' And that is the reason why everyone is acting like this today.'' He then lean on Ryan shoulders, whispering, ''so did you had a good time with her?'' He said before exploding in laughter at seeing Ryan's shocked expression. He couldn't believe it that people saw him that time, he made sure to be discreet with Nightmare. He then face palm realizing that he may have been subtle, Nightmare wasn't, after all she did make a little scene with the three girls back at the Walmart. Huffing in exasperation, he decided that the best solution would be, to deal with it as it come. He then walked back to his little office in the basement to prepare his report to give to Rosaline, the proprietor, when she will return fro her little vacation. He went to the 'punch in station' as he call it, to enter his lunch break but was interrupted by Erik, his longtime friend back at college, and senior employee of the day crew. ''Hey Ryan I heard you got yourself a girlfriend! Why did you never told me about her?'' He asked slightly hurt that Ryan was in a romantic relationship, and never deemed fit to tell him about it, until he learned it today when he went to work. He huff in exasperation, again, he seemed to do that a lot in the past two days. ''Eric it's not because I never wanted to tell you about it, It's just she's not my 'girlfriend', she is just a friend who needed a place to live! And I offered her one and she accepted, that's all there is to it.'' He turn back and punch in for his lunch break, but asked Eric a question before leaving for his break. ''By the way, who was it that started this stupid rumor?'' He asked so that he could have a good idea who to look out for in the future. Eric was looking at Ryan with an arch eyebrow, wondering if he was hiding something from him. But in the end shrugg it off, after all Ryan wouldn't hide it if he had a girlfriend. He then looked up at the ceiling, seemingly trying to remember who it was that started this rumor about Ryan' supposedly girlfriend. ''If I remember correctly it was Jonsey and Marie that said they saw you at the Walmart! Why do you ask!'' Ryan had the look of someone who was scheming up something. ''Oh simple Eric, I ask so that I can play a little joke on those two lovebirds. Are you in!?'' He ask as he extended his hand toward Eric, while still keeping is sly smirk. Eric clasp Ryan'hand and say, ''just like in college.''They then parted ways Eric to finish his shift hours and Ryan for his lunch break. The rest of the day went without incident, and soon the day crew was washing their respective work area for the night crew that was about to come in. Ryan was leaving Marie in charge of the cafe as per usual, he may say many thing about Marie's tendency to blow things out of proportion, but she was a damn fine worker. He went back into his car and left to return to his apartment. It took him a little bit longer then when he went to work, but hey it's a city who can say precisely when someone will reach his destination. He went up the stairs knock three time on the door to signal to Nightmare he had return, and entered. The apartment was as he left it this morning, nothing destroyed and nothing was burning which he was glad for. He also spotted Nightmare laying on the couch lazily playing with Xbox 360, at what he believed was Halo 3. ''So you are back I was starting to wonder if you would have been there in time for diner?'' She said while looking at him behind her shoulder with her slit pupil eyes, but promptly went back to play ''Well it took more time to return then I thought, it being a city and all!'' He said a little surprised and relieved that she found a way to occupy herself throughout the day. ''I can also see you were able to figure out how the TV works!'' Not even looking up from her game she answered, ''well no thanks to you?'' She said in mock anger, ''you could have at least showed me how it works, before you left like that?'' She said with a little apprehension at being left alone so abruptly like this by Ryan this morning. Once again she could not understand why she was acting like this, her emotions before where always simple, love Luna and the night and hate Celestia and the day. But now it was weird she felt both happy and angry in the presence of Ryan, and it was making her respond in ways she once again did not understand. Ryan ignoring Nightmare inquisitive look, walk to his closet and dumped his coat inside. It was then he smelled something nice, there was this pleasant smell in the air, and realized that it was coming from the kitchen, and judging by the aroma it must been something very good, It smelled like beef stew with freshly cooked rice. He looked back at Nightmare who was leaving her couch and went ahead of him in the kitchen and called back before he could voice his question, ''are you coming? I made diner, I figured I could do something nice for you for a change.'' Astonished by Nightmare most recent behavior, gladly sat at the table and started eating the meal she prepared. His eyes opened in awe and surprise at the good the diner is, after all he expected the stew to be awful, and to be honest completely inedible. He look across at Nightmare and raised his glass and said, ''my compliment to the chef! But i must be honest, I didn't expected to taste something so good and more so considering it is made with meat! But then again you explained to me that your regime is more omnivore like us humans.'' Nightmare's face was one of happiness at being compliment for something she did, but quickly returned to her normal stoic expression. ''Well I thank you for complimenting my cooking skill, after all when I was with Luna I was the one who always cooked. My poor sister as no culinary skill and it as fallen upon me to find a way to feed us, of course that was before we became ruler of Equestria.'' She said with pride at recalling those precious memory, before all the trouble related to the throne and ruling came upon them. The name Luna made Ryan recall one of the things she said this morning when she in her nightmare crisis. ''I remember you saying Luna's name this morning and about how sorry you are, why is that?'' He said intrigued at Nightmare's reaction this morning. Nightmare's happy mood quickly drop at being recalled this morning, and what precisely made her react like that. ''When I feel like it, I will explain but for now at least let's eat. Let's not sour the ambiance by this particular subject.'' She said this even though she knew that her previous happy state will not return anytime soon at being reminded that. ''If you wish Nightmare, just know I'm here to help.'' ''I know that Ryan.'' And without further ado they return to eating their respective meal. Once finished, Ryan did the dish and placed them in the dish washer to be wash, along with the previous plates, spoon, fork, knife, etc. The rest of the after, and the night, was spent introducing Nightmare to the many wonders of the television watching movies, playing games, and Nightmare just did that, have fun, but mostly out of kicking Ryan's ass at playing video games. But soon came the time to go to bed, and offered the bed to Nightmare this time saying that she deserve a good night of rest on the plush bed.
Peace Of MindTwo days have passed since Ryan started working again, two more days of Nightmare Moon enduring painful and terrifying nightmares.Those nightmares always woke her up screaming like a banshee and crying her heart out, which also woke Ryan up. Seeing Nightmare Moon crying like that in sheer despair for the past two days tugged at Ryan's heart. He always tried to comfort her, while it does work it is only temporary sadly. Nightmare's nightmare where always the same, she was stuck alone in the jail cell in Canterlot castle back in Equestria, with her sister tormenting her about how evil she was, how much of an idiot she was, and it always went on and on without interruption for the past days. But not tonight, no, tonight her dreaming mind was silent, which was a blessing not seeing the horrifying images of her sister, Luna, looking at her with sheer hatred and loathing. But even though everything was silent, it was still not as peaceful as she would like it to be. The darkness that surrounded her was oppressive, and malevolent. It was not a place for some to go in alone, and Nightmare Moon knew that, but she could still not escape it. An enormous explosion of light appeared, it covered the dark plains of fear and hatred of Nightmare Moon's dreamscape in a warm blanket of light and peace. In the distance she could see a shape taking form, the shape of a human. She wondered who it could be, who would come to the rescue of the terrifying Nightmare Moon. She never wanted to be feared, only to be loved. But even that was too much to ask of others who only, see in her a mare of the Night. It was then that the lone figure started walking towards, and she could tell for it slowly became bigger, and the figure did became clearer as he came closer to Nightmare Moon. What started as a blurry figure gave way to Ryan, with a shock and confused expression on his face, which was mirrored by Nightmare Moon as well. ''Ryan! What are you doing here?'' Nightmare Moon exclaimed, not believing her eyes. 'Was Ryan always a dream walker? Or was it because of all the times we passed together since I arrived here?' She thought confused. Hearing the voice of Nightmare Moon coming of this winged unicorn, confused Ryan a lot, but quickly shook it off to ask her what happened. ''Well I would like to know what here is to begin with, and why you are looking like this?'' He replied seeing as his last memories where him going to bed with Nightmare. __o0o__ (The night before they both went to sleep.) Nightmare was about to go to sleep on the couch, but the memories of her nightmare stopped her from doing so, and she started sobbing uncontrollably. Ryan seeing this sat by Nightmare Moon side and ask, ''Nightmare what's wrong, are you okay?'' He asked, puzzled by Nightmare Moon's attitude in the recent days. He knew that Nightmare Moon was still having her nightmares, but this time, from the looks of it, she will not be able to sleep from just the sheer amount of terror she is experiencing in them. ''No! I am not okay, Ryan.'' She said barely above a whisper, but still loud enough for Ryan to hear it. ''Those nightmares their haunting me, and I do not know why?'' Her sobbing only increased the more she spoke about them. Ryan was saddened that such a strong woman as Nightmare Moon, was brought to such dept of terror because of nightmares. He took her shoulders in his hand, and said the only thing he thought that might help her. ''If you want you can sleep with me tonight?'' The look Ryan received from Nightmare was bone chilling. She got angry by his lewd demand, and was about to slap him, and probably even punch for what he said. But Ryan, seeing that Nightmare misunderstood what he said, quickly explained to her what he truly meant. ''What I mean is, if you do not mind you can sleep with me on the bed, if being alone frightens you? No funny business just me and you sleeping nothing more!'' Nightmare hearing Ryan's explanation relaxed a little, but she was still terrified by the idea of going to sleep. After a couple of seconds of deep thought she gave in, and accepted his offer, only because he assured that no funny business would happen. With this out of the way Ryan helped Nightmare back to her feet, doing so himself in the same moment. They then walked to Ryan's bedroom and promptly went to sleep. Of course sleep would not come for them now that they were comfortable. Exasperated, and still a little afraid of the idea sleeping, Nightmare said the only thing that went through her mind. ''Can you hold me please, at least until I fall asleep?'' Ryan surprised by Nightmare Moon's demand about him holding her, considering her reaction about them sleeping in the same bed, said, ''hum are you sure?'' ''Hold me or I punch, then force you to hold me!'' She snapped back, she did not want to threaten him but she discovered that it was the fastest way to convince Ryan to do something. Ryan not wanting to get punch, did as Nightmare told him, and held her in his arm. ''Gee and here I thought you became less snappy with me.'' He said, slightly hurt by Nightmare Moon's attitude. ''Sorry Ryan,''she said sleepily, and with that she fell asleep. Ryan did the same a couple of minutes later, still holding her in his arm protectively. __o0o__ (Back in the dream world.) ''What do you mean, 'looking like that'?'' Nightmare replied with a little bit of anger, it happened each time someone saw her, and she was getting sick of it. She prepared herself to hear him scream, but was surprised with the only thing he did was reiterate his question, only more clearly this time. ''What I'm saying Nightmare, is that I didn't expect you to look like some kind of winged unicorn.'' He quickly explained, ''in fact what are you anyway? You told me about you being a pony, but I certainly didn't expect that!'' He said still confused, it amazed him he was able to formulate his question so clearly, considering the state his brain was in. Nightmare gritted her teeth in annoyance. Her dreamscape was her only sanctuary and she felt violated by Ryan presence, in fact any presence at all would have left her feeling violated. She took deep and slow breaths to try and remain calm, and after several seconds of her breathing exercise, she dared look up at Ryan, and she could still see him as confused as he was mere moments ago. ''What I am is an alicorn, we are the perfect balance between the tribes of ponies that inhabit the country of Equestria.'' She then took a deep breath because she started explaining to Ryan The three pony tribes of Equestria in questions are, since it would help him understand what she is talking about. ''In the three tribes we have the earth ponies, the pegasi, and the unicorn. The earth ponies, their magic lies in their hooves which enable them the ability to exploit the earth. Then we have the pegasi, their magic lies in their wings, it enables them to control the weather with great efficiency and precision. Then we have the unicorns, their magic lies in their horn, it enables them to use magic directly through the arcane essences presence in the very air itself. Is that clear enough for you to understand Ryan?'' She finished with her chest puffed in pride. Wide eyed at Nightmare explanation of what the pony tribes are, he was still confused about the whole alicorn thing, were they special, were they rare, and so he decided to ask her for elaboration on the alicorns. ''Wow hum, well thanks for the explanation but I still gotta ask, what is so special about alicorns?'' ''What is so special about alicorns!'' She could not believe that Ryan just ask her that question,and so as usual it angered her a little, after all it was simple to understand. ''The alicorns, as I just said, are the harmony of the three pony tribes combined. We stronger than the earth ponies, we are also fast than the pegasi with our wings, and we are also more powerful than any unicorns alive or dead. But more than that we are the only ones who are immortals.'' Now she was just getting tired explaining to Ryan a concept, that was for her, so simple to understand. ''So if you say that alicorns are immortals, it means you're immortal as well, right!'' Ryan said, having difficulty grasping the concept of immortality. ''Exact Ryan!'' Nightmare Moon replied, ''maybe there is hope for you after all eh eh.'' She chuckled at her own little jab at Ryan's intelligence, of course she that Ryan was no idiot by any mean, but making fun of others always seemed to cheer her up a little. ''Yeah yeah laugh it up, but who was the one who is still not understanding what a motor is?'' If she was to mock him in that manner, two could play this game. Ryan's retort quickly shut up Nightmare Moon, she knew that he knew that she still had problem understanding what a motor his, and him reminding her was a little insulting. She pouted at him, but then a devilish idea came to her mind she concentrated, and changed her the landscape of her dreamscape so that a pool of water would appear under Ryan's feet. Of course she could not do this when she was having her nightmare, since apparently her own mind had decided to torment her in someway, thus blocking her ability to shape her own dream. Ryan's expression when he realized what happened was priceless, his face shifted from mockingly playful to sheer surprised and panic at the feeling of falling. When he came back up for air, his face showed just how annoyed he was at Nightmare Moon's antic. But then he thought of something, 'if she could do this somehow then how come she just doesn't her nightmare altogether?' With that he voiced his observation. Nightmare Moon's expression wasn't the one he expected, he expected something like shock, but what he got in return was frustration. Nightmare Moon's frustration was not towards Ryan, but towards herself and what hand fate gave her until now. ''Don't you think I know about that, don't you think I already tried?!'' She all but screamed at him as she started sobbing again. ''I-I can't, I just can't. E-each time I try to change my d-dreams they only get w-worse!'' At that point she could not speak properly as her sobbing grew more intense. Ryan seeing Nightmare Moon sunk that low also made him realize that what Nightmare Moon needed wasn't the promises he kept giving while awake, but a friend who would be there for her in her time of need, and right she really needed a friend. With that in mind he walked up to her, sat beside her, and hug her neck while rubbing her back and neck. ''I'm sorry Nightmare I didn't mean to make you feel miserable, but I'm here and if you want me as a friend then that is what I will be!'' He said as soothingly as he could, to try and make Nightmare feel better with herself. Nightmare Moon was not expecting to get hugged by Ryan of all person, after all she kept treating him like dirt most of the time. But hearing him say that work as she started to relax more and more as he kept muttering soothing words to her. In the end she hug him back. After what felt like hours later they finally separated with the both of them feeling a lot better, and it was shown by the ambient scenery. No longer was it a wasteland anymore with no life in it, but a forest full of life and happiness. 'Nightmares dream must be reflected by her state of mind I think, well at least it showed that what I did was not in vain.' He thought to himself while looking at the forest he and Nightmare Moon found themselves in. ''Thank you Ryan for what you did I really needed that, and if you do not mind. Yes I would like to have you as my friend!'' she with probably what was the brightest smile Ryan ever saw on her face. ''I would be glad to count you as one of my friend lady Nightmare Moon.'' He said and bowed in an innocent mocking gesture. ''Oh please Ryan, just call me Moon, we are friends now.'' But just as she said that the dreamscape of Nightmare Moon exploded in a bright flash of light. It signify that the dream had a=ended and that both of them were about to wake up. __o0o__ Ryan suddenly opened his eyes, and saw that Nightmare Moon was still held firmly in his arm, in the bed. But something was different, and that something was the fact that her hair was just like her hair when she was in her alicorn form in her dream. Tentatively he softly shook Nightmare awake, ''Night-Moon wake up! You've got to see this.'' Nightmare Moon was also awake but she preferred to remain unresponsive until Ryan showed that he was also awake. At his words she opened her eyes, but what greeted her was a face full of hair that was just like when she was still an alicorn and not a human. ''I do not need you to tell me what I need to see Ryan, because I see it right now.'' Shakily she grasped one of her strand of ethereal hair, just so she could confirm that it was not a dream still. When she grasped it something clicked inside Nightmare Moon, and she started searching inside herself for something that was not there before, and just as she had hoped she found it Her pool of magic was back, and already it was replenishing with the help of the ambient arcane essence present in the air. She took a deep breath and did the most 'uncouth' thing a mare of her position ever did, she squealed hard and loud.
Meet The Friend.Ryan was looking Nightmare up and about, walking back and forth in his bed chamber while sitting on his bed himself. From what he could tell, Nightmare was happy about the fact that she got her magic back. She kept rambling about how much she could do with all her power now all things she could see on earth now. Honestly that was when he tuned her out because he himself had become deep in his own thoughts. 'I wonder what she is going to do now? Will she stay here, or leave for her own world? Can she even go back to her own world now that she got her magic back? Holy shit now that her hair is like that she is even more beautiful! Wait WHAT!' He didn't just thought that did he, sure Nightmare was always beautiful before, but seeing her happy like that made him realize something. No matter what Nightmare was the most beautiful women on Earth, and nothing will change that. His line of thought was broken once Nightmare started hugging him with all her strength, which he was reminded by how strong she was, by the fact that he his pretty sure that he heard his rib crack, from the sheer force she put behind her hug. ''Can't... breath... can you... let go... please!'' He breathed out with what air he could manage to get inside his lung. As she heard him faintly speak words she did not heard, she also realized that in her happy state of mind she was crushing him with all her strength. She quickly let go of him, and let him catch his breath before apologizing to him in a sheepish manner. ''Sorry it's just, I am so happy my powers are finally back, and I do not know what to do with them now that I have them back?'' Ryan understood that Nightmare was happy, after all who would not be happy to have found one of the most precious thing you had previously lost. Not him that's for sure. ''I understand in your situation i would have probably acted the same so, no harms done,.'' Nightmare exhaled happy not to have hurt her first friend since, well forever. She exited his bed chamber and entered the bathroom to use the shower to refresh herself. Meanwhile Ryan did as he usually do since Nightmare came in his life, and that was doing the breakfast. Some people would have felt cheated in someway if they were in his situation, but not Ryan, why he did the breakfast every morning was simple. Nightmare could cook one of the best lunch and diner, ever, but for the life of her doing, breakfast resulted in the both of them throwing up in toilet mere moments later after taking only one bite of the morning meal. It was then that it was unanimously decided that Ryan would be doing the breakfast from now on. It still surprised him that at some time seeing Nightmare eats meat considering what she is, a pony and an alicorn to be more precise. Ten minutes later the breakfast was ready and Nightmare had exited the shower, and the both of them started eating. They were about to start a little conversation about the experience they shared in nightmare's dreamscape when someone knocked on the door. Intrigued, Ryan got up and signaled to Nightmare that it was okay, and to just continue eating while he answer the door. He wondered who could be at the door this early in the morning, but he would soon find out since he opened the door, only to be greeted by a bone crushing hug. Now normal people would be panicking by the fact that someone just grabbed them and was crushing them like that out of nowhere, but Ryan knew in advance who it was, Eric is long time friend from high school and also co employee back at the cafe. ''Dude seriously apart from the job I don't see you anymore!?'' Eric said while still maintaining his grip on Ryan. Normally being hug by people in a friendly manner such as this didn't bother Ryan. But twice in a row and with such force was annoying and painful, at least Eric wasn't as strong as Nightmare. With a little bit of effort he pry himself out of Eric's hold and hold him at arms length. ''Okay relax Eric, geez you're acting as if you didn't saw me in months, I mean you see me at the job each day?'' ''Sorry Ryan, it's just been a while since we did something together out of the job, and I decided that today we're going to do something, and no is not an option, we're doing something!'' Eric said with a tone that meant no argument will change his mind of idea. With a defeated sigh Ryan could sense that Eric will not accept a no, no matter what. ''Okay Eric, but there is only one problem! You see I'm not alone now, and I was eating breakfast as well. Can you at least wait for a couple of minutes until I'm finished?'' ''Oh that's right, you had your girlfriend stay with you didn't you, lucky bastard.'' He said jokingly, since he knew that it got on Ryan's nerve to speak of the mysterious girl he stayed with as she was his girlfriend. Ryan's knew that arguing with Eric will only end with him annoying him even further. ''I'll be back,'' he said with a sigh, breaking the awkward conversion as fast as he could. He then made his way back to the kitchen, leaving Eric in the restroom to wait for him. He saw Nightmare still sitting at the table waiting for him, seeing her looking at him with a raised eyebrow wondering what was happening, he decided to explain to her what was happening. When Ryan was explaining to Nightmare that one of his friend name Eric was here to do something with him, she got the great idea of accompanying him with Eric. ''Ryan could I accompany you with your friend for the day?'' She said with the best pleading tone she could muster accenting her puppy dog eyes, giving the word cute a whole new level. Ryan brought his hand to his chin deep in thought. 'She can't really come with us, her eyes and most importantly her hair would be too noticeable and way too weird to not get us in trouble in someway or another.' With a sigh he started explaining to her why coming would be an exceptionally bad idea. Nightmare understood Ryan's fear of her being find out as an alien, but there is one thing he did not take into account, magic. ''But you see Ryan you seem to have forgotten who I am and what I can do.'' She said mysteriously, and with a smirk plastered across her face. ''And what is that?'' Ryan replied not understanding what Nightmare was trying to get at. ''Simple my dear friend, the answer is, magic!'' She said as she extended her arms in the air as a flash of light surrounded her for only a second. Off course the did burn Ryan's eyes since it was so spontaneous he didn't had time to blink. When the light dissipated, he opened his eyes and saw nightmare looking like a normal human woman, minus her height. ''HEY, what's going on here?'' Eric said not sure if the flash that emanated from the kitchen was normal or not, and if it was safe for him to come in. Thinking fast Ryan took the light bulb that was in the kitchen and removed it from it's place as quickly as possible, and hid it in one of the cupboard. Just in time in fact, as mere seconds later, Eric came into the kitchen to look at what happened. What he saw left him speechless with mouth hanging open, as what stood before him was probably the tallest, but also the most beautiful woman he has ever seen in his entire life. Ryan not missing a beat, proceeded to introduce them both. ''Eric I suppose I should present to you, hum... Elena. And Elena I present Eric, my oldest and closest friend.'' He said it with the most forced smile plastered across his face, although it did look natural. Meanwhile Nightmare was looking at Ryan with murder in her eyes, for he dared choose her a name that she did not even had time to approve off, but quickly decided to thank him later instead for his quick thinking. She extended her hand towards Eric in an attempt to greet him, but retracted it when she caught the goofy look on his face, realizing that he was mesmerized by her. That gave her an idea, a devilish idea, one she will in fact, do right now. She walked up to him, brought her mouth to his ears, and softly blew on it. The reaction she got out of him was probably one of the best one she got out of doing something like that. But the best reaction she got, was when she teased Ryan the other day, by walking around his apartment half naked and dripping wet with only her bath towel covering her body. Of course Ryan saw what nightmare did to Eric, he wasn't angry, just immensely amused by the red that quickly covered his friend's face, though he didn't let his amusement shown apart from the little smirk that was present on his face. ''So I heard you wanted to do something with Ryan today, and I wondered if i could accompany you two today?'' Nightmare said without hiding her amusement from Eric's reaction earlier. That quickly seem to do the work in bringing Eric back to the waking world. He shook his head a couple of times to bring his brain to the present time, he thought about what Nightmare just said, and didn't saw anything against bringing her with them. (I hope I phrased this right). He nodded his head while saying, ''I don't see any problem miss, unless Ryan as a problem with it?'' The both of them, Eric and Nightmare, shot a glare in Ryan's direction, daring him to refuse Nightmare,s offer to accompany them. Ryan ignored the glare they shot at him since he was more than okay to bring Nightmare with them. ''I don't see a problem, and I could show Elena more of the city since I didn't had that much time since she got here.'' ''It is decided then!'' Nightmare exclaimed. ''Onward my knights to the city we go!'' Eric and Ryan looked at Nightmare in confusion wondering why she did what she did, which made her realize what she did and she blush in embarrassment, hiding her face behind her hair in an attempt to hide her shame. Ryan realizing that Nightmare in her excitement, slipped back into the royal attitude she had when she first arrived, came to the rescue with yet another lie. He didn't like lying to his friends, but to hide and protect her he will do just that, off course it left a bad taste in his mouth to lie like that, even considering it's Eric his best friend. ''Sorry about Elena, Eric she gets like that when she is excited,'' he said sheepishly. ''She is an actress, and sometimes she forget to not speak as if she was back on stage.'' ''Hum? Okay.'' Eric was not sure what just happened, but decided he would believe Ryan, only because he didn't know Elena. But then something else popped in his mind, ''if she is an actress what is she doing here in your apartment?'' He asked, after all if she was an actress she must be rich, so why is she staying with Ryan and not at her home. Ryan sigh, he realized that Eric would ask such question he was not dumb by any mean, he decided that going full way with the lie was the best visible option for him and Nightmare. ''Well she is here for vacation and since we are old friend she decided to live with me, it is only temporary though. Also for escaping the paparazzi I guess she didn't explain why though?'' The only part that wasn't a lie was the temporary bit, for he would try and help Nightmare return to Equestria. Nightmare was slightly angry at seeing the two of them talk about her as if she wasn't here, but in the end decided to let Ryan explain to Eric why she was here. After all it would come in handy for several reason. One, no one would try to attack her if they knew that she was a 'super model'. Second it would help her when it will come to the fact with being with Ryan if she was an old friend on a temporary visit for a vacation. ''Okay so if everyone is ready I say we go on out now while the sun still shine.'' Eric said excitedly trying to bring back why he came to Ryan's apart. Ryan just nodded in agreement and they both left to take Eric's car since it would be easier to stay together like this.
The Price Of AngerFrom the point of view of Nightmare, the trip to the mall was fairly simple and quick. Go in Eric's car with Ryan, and let him drive them there. Now they stood inside the mall, which was eight times bigger than the Walmart Nightmare and Ryan went to to buy Nightmare's clothes, so that she had something to wear in her everyday moment. To say that Nightmare was impressed would be an understatement. She could not, for the life of her, stop looking around frantically in awe at every store that was in her immediate sight. It took Ryan's snapping his fingers in front of her face to make her concentrate on what Eric was saying about what, and where, they should do, and go. She hoped that her momentary distraction didn't catch Eric's attention and would bring suspicion on her. After all it would be a shame that all her and Ryan's effort went in flame because of a momentary distraction. Luckily it did not and Eric was still explaining what they were going to do for the day, ''so what are we going to do first!?'' Eric asked. Ryan decided to answer since he was the one who listened to Eric suggestion, ''well we could go shopping to start thing's up.'' He said while rubbing his chin in thought, he had to make sure that what they did would not reveal Nightmare as not being the one she is suppose to be. ''Then eating and going to the cinema to close the day sounds fine to me, what about you all?'' Nightmare meanwhile decided to follow Ryan's lead and appear as normal as she could be, which would depend on what they were going to be, and what they were going to do, but since it is Ryan who deciding what they would do she would be fine, she was sure of it. ''Sure bud no problem, I'm sure Elena would not mind seeing a romance movie with you.'' He said with a smirk and mischief in his eyes, trying to annoy Ryan at every chance he could get while they were all here. Ryan facepalm right there, he knew he should have been cautious with what he was saying, considering Eric tendency to annoy him at every chance he got. But he had to mentally applaud him for this one he didn't saw it coming at all. He sigh and say, ''no Eric, you know very well that Elena is just a friend to me and that is all we're going to be, friends.'' He wasn't sure why what he said made is chest hurt for some reason, but in the end decided to ignore it to return to the task at hand, and that was having fun. Nightmare was not sure how to react to Ryan's words, on one hand she was glad that Ryan consider her a friend,even though he assured her that he would be her friend and stay friend no matter what, she still felt glad to know he acknowledged her. On the other hand though, she felt like they could be more. But why should they be more, she was perfectly fine with Ryan being her friend, right? She decided to investigate on her own feelings later, for now there was some fun to be had and she intended to have the most fun out of the three of them. And with that they started walking around the mall visiting numerous shop, some of them about clothes, both for women and men. Even some about video games and other electronic stuff she did not understood what their use was for, she made a mental note to ask Ryan to comeback later for them so that she could buy a lot of video games, so that she could beat Ryan at them. Everything was going perfectly, until they reached the sports shop area. The look everyone shot at Nightmare made her, and Ryan, uncomfortable, the only one who correct with all the attention was Eric, after all he always crave the attention. 'Such an idiot to like being in the center of all things, but then again he is the only one of my friend to be all social and stuff,' Ryan thought slightly jealous of Eric's ability with talking with others. Ryan's thought was interrupted by a couple of whistling. ''Woo check her out guys, isn't she a beauty!'' One of the five guys, that approached them, said. ''Hey girl! Why don't you come with us? Instead of those two losers you're hanging out with.'' The one guy in the middle said to Nightmare, the others laugh at his comment like he made the greatest joke in the world. That got the attention of Nightmare, Ryan and Eric pretty quickly. Nightmare did not like the way those guys walk, talk, and most of all their eyes, who kept wandering over her body, undressing her as if she was their property. It was then that she actually understood what they called Ryan and Eric, losers. There is many thing Nightmare can tolerate, but having those close to her insulted is not one of them, and even though she just met Eric she is ready to call him a friend as well. 'Oh no, no one insult Ryan, he is the only one, apart from Luna, who has shown me kindness.' It is with that thought in mind, that she made her way towards the five excuse of men who thought themselves superior to other just because they have more muscles. One of the five guys saw Nightmare coming their way, he nudged the closest one in his stomach to get his attention, then pointed at Nightmare who was making her way towards them, with Ryan trying to stop Nightmare from doing something she would regret, and Eric looking in confusion at the two of them, wondering why Ryan was acting like the end of the world was about to occur. ''Please don't do this Moon,'' Ryan said that last part quietly so as not to be heard by Eric, who was trailing behind them, looking at the two of them with a confuse look. ''Nay dear Ryan, they dare insult you, calling you a loser,'' she spat that last word as if it was pure venom. If her eyes could be alight with flames of anger, they would be right now. ''I am going to teach them a lesson about respect, stay here if you wish Ryan, I will not be long.'' And with that started advancing towards the five men once more. Sighing in resignation, realizing that he will not be able to budge Nightmare in her decision to teach those five a lesson, he followed her at least making sure noting bad happens to her, or stopping her if it came to that. The footstep of Eric following made look back at him, with a tired look. He stop at Eric side, explaining in the same time what Nightmare/Elena was about to do, and quickly followed behind her, Eric with the intent on stopping Nightmare, and Ryan on protecting Nightmare, although he wasn't sure who needed protection, the memory of Nightmare kicking him in the stomach, on the first day, reminding him just how strong Nightmare really was. The both of them followed Nightmare to the scene of her calmly speaking with them, and it surprised Ryan to see her that calm, although he had a suspicion that it was all a mask to lure them into something, what exactly he wasn't sure. ''So as I have said, I would greatly appreciate it if you were to leave us alone, and not insult us please?'' Nightmare said calmly and kindly, and from the look of it everything was going well, from what Ryan could see. Until the nearest of the guy, the one who insulted them to begin with, replied, ''And if we say no what will happen then, eh, bitch.'' As he said that the other four started laughing at Nightmare. Ryan could see Nightmare bawl her fist in rage, even though he was getting tired and angry at those five punks as well. Seeing this he was about to grab Nightmare by the arm to stop her, but was stop himself by Nightmare who turn around with a calm look in her face, hiding her rage very well, apart from her clenched fist. ''Ryan stay here I will be right back, okay?'' She said sweetly. Ryan wasn't sure if letting Nightmare do this was a good idea, but decided to let her do what she wanted to do since they kind of deserve it for calling her a bitch. Because just like Nightmare he didn't really mind being insulted if it was by a bunch of kids who wanted to play tough, but they made one mistake, they insulted Nightmare, by calling her a bitch , and for this they lost all mercy he had for them. Warning the following scene might be considered dark by some people. Nightmare motioned with her finger to the five punks to follow her, with a come hither look, hiding her true intention from those five idiots. The five punks followed her unaware of Nightmare's true intention, only thinking that they had scored an easy girl to have 'fun' with. She led them to the men's bathroom, making them enter first with a wave of her hand, and quickly followed suit behind them. She looked around making sure that no one else was there, apart from her and the five others, and then started channeling her magic. The five punks then decided to turn around at this moment, freezing in place upon seeing Nightmare's glowing white eyes. Channeling even more magic, her armor was starting to materialize on her frame starting with her boots following by her armored legging, then her chest plate, then her gauntlets, and finishing with her helmet making her appear like a knight from the middle age. After that her mane lengthened becoming ethereal in the process to the point of showing the night sky at all who looked upon her in all her glory. But her transformation wasn't finished yet as two swirling vortex of magic, making them appear as black holes, appeared on her side. Following by the sprouting of four majestic night wings out of the swirling vortex. To finish it all in a royal way, a halo of power with the emblem of the mare in the moon in the center appeared above her head, showing to all her affiliation to the night itself. Slowly opening her teal draconian eyes, with the impression swimming in her magic, which was hidden from her for too long, she set her gaze on the five men, who disrespected her and Ryan, looking at her in abject terror not comprehending what was happening. It was then after she opened her eyes that the five men ran to the exit, only to slam into a wall of pure magic that Nightmare Moon created while the five of them stood there frozen. ''Leaving so soon, I do not think,'' she said, her word dripping with power, making the bathroom shake at her words alone. ''After all I did not get to teach you a lesson in humility and respect, that you five seems to need very much.'' By now the five men were shaking in fear pressing their back to the wall as hard as they could in an attempt to get away, in anyway shape or form, from the goddess of the night that stood before them in all her mighty glory. ''Do not try to escape little ones, for you see, I made sure that we shall not be interrupted by anyone coming in, for I isolated this place from the outside world completely.'' She said in her reverberating voice, showing in the same time her newly reacquired fangs in the wickedest smile you could see on a person. ''Now how about I start with you,'' she pointed at the leader of the group, and lifted him in the air via magic, using a levitation field on him, ''I have a splendid of idea? How about I make you live you worst nightmare, over and over again until you beg forgiveness?'' Her question was not really, but of an affirmation of what they're fate was going to be. Already she started weaving her spell, but first she had to delve into his mind to see what his greatest fear was. What she made her smile wickedly for this one greatest fear, was blood, and she had the greatest idea of how she would make experience such fear that he would beg for forgiveness. She will make him run away from a tidal wave of blood that would be consuming everything in an unending street, full of houses, cars and passerby that would be all the one he care about, until it would inevitably catch up to him, slamming him into countless walls and cars, and finally drown him. With her spell completed she launched him at the poor man, and already the effect was instantaneous. He slumped in her magical grasp and started screaming, crying, pleading for the nightmare to end. As he experienced all of this Nightmare cast her look on her next victim, but her look quickly drew back to the one experiencing his, magically induced, nightmare, and something happened inside of her for he was pleading his little sister to flee with him as fast as he could and as hard as he could. It was then that she realized what she was doing, his pleading reminded her of her own pleading while she experienced her own nightmare, not so long ago, where her sister was tormenting her about she was the vilest thing alive. She looked him over and asked herself. 'Why, why am I doing this? Already they were deathly afraid of me so why am I continuing this?' And with a light gasp the spell she cast on him evaporated, leaving him a crying, but awake, wreck. he was looking at her as if she was a monster. 'I am a monster no one would do something like this, but I did. Oh dear Celestia why, why did I do all that!?' Her self loathing quickly overwhelming her, she brought her knees close to her chest with her arms wrapped around them, and like that, started sobbing uncontrollably. The other four quickly ran up to their friend, while staying as far away as possible from the crazy goddess, to check up on him. Seeing as he was physically fine they drag him to the corner, farther away from Nightmare, and sat with him as they cast fear filled glance at Nightmare from the corner of their eyes. Mentally exhausted, Nightmare's wings disappeared, just like her armor, which returned to the pocket dimension where she normally keep it, and her symbol of the mare in the moon did. Looking up, with tear streaking eyes, at the four still conscious guys, she used the last amount of her will power to put her sadness aside, for now, and decide to cast a memory erasing spell to erase the last six minute of their life so that they will not remember what happened them, and in the same time plunge them into sleep. The effect was instantaneous the five of them went completely still, even the who was crying from his recent experience , and seconds later went to a peaceful sleep. End of the dark scene. Ten minutes later after Nightmare went inside the bathroom area, Ryan saw Nightmare running out of the bathroom, crying, and not even stopping for them and quickly exited the mall through the nearest door that lead outside. Ryan seeing this looked at Eric who was looking for his part lost, but also angry for, if his suspicion was correct, the five guys inside did something horrible to her. He motioned for Ryan to go after Nightmare/Elena, while he would go look at the five assholes inside the bathroom. Ryan nodded at Eric gesture, saying thanks and promptly left to chase after a crying Nightmare, unsure what to expect but determined to help her like he did with her nightmare.
Friendship Is Indeed Magic (Part One)Ryan exited the mall running after Nightmare, unfortunately she was already out of sight and nowhere he looked he could see trace of her. He started wandering the parking lot in hope to find her somewhere, but just like when he exited he could not see her, that is until he decided to look up. Nightmare stood on the roof of the mall quite visibly, by the fact that the illusion she casted on herself earlier this morning seemed to had dissipated with her current state of mind. Her ethereal mane billowed in the air, like he saw when he woke up this morning. The more he approach the form of Nightmare, the more he saw that she was shaking, probably sobbing her heart out at what happened inside the bathroom, even though he did not know what she did in there. He took a deep breath and exhaled, he repeated this little exercise multiple time to regain his breath. He look from side to side making sure that no one was here, and when he saw that no one was in the area, he call out to her to gain her attention. ''Moon what are doing up here?'' He could not see her very well from how high up she was, but he knew she heard him by her little jump she made in surprise. Nightmare did not expect anyone to find her with the 'notice me not' spell she casted on herself to be ignored, and the fact that she was found, by Ryan of all person made her jump in surprise at hearing him call out to her. She looked up in surprise and then down at Ryan who was clearly looking at her. She checked herself making sure that the spell she casted on herself when she exited was still active, and indeed it still was. 'So why is he seeing me? Is it because of all the time we spent together? Or is it because of the fact he bonded with me via the dreamscape?' She shook her head and decided to let the subject drop. Instead she began focusing her power via her horn that now adorn her head since she returned to her 'true' human form, and cast a teleport spell to bring Ryan beside her and ask him herself. Ryan upon feeling that weird tingling sensation, and seeing Nightmare's horn glowing with power, thought she was about to run away again, was about call out to her again. Only to fall face first on the roof of the mall, with a heavy sense of nausea. His vision was swimming, and he felt like puking, and he probably did by the smell that came to his nose. Nightmare knelled down near Ryan to make sure that he was alright, but did not touch him otherwise. ''Are you alright Ryan?'' She asked unsure. She was not use to teleporting others, and so easily forgot the sense of nausea that overcame those that get teleported for the first time like Ryan. ''I'm okay,''Ryan said after taking a few long breath to make the sense of nausea disappear. He sat down to look into Nightmare's eyes and saw relief wash over her at seeing him not puking his stomach out like did moments ago. ''But what did you do? How come I'm on the rooftop of the mall!?'' ''I teleported you using magic so that we could talk without you yelling all the time.'' She said without directly looking at him feeling a little guilty for him feeling bad, and worrying him by exiting like she did at bathroom. ''Well why didn't you just flown down, instead of teleporting me?'' he said looking at her a little bit irritated by her, but overall relieved to have found in the end. ''It was the first thing that came to mind... I'm sorry leave alone if you want.'' And with that said she turn around, completely forgetting why she brought him up in the first place, and sat down near the edge of the building with her legs hanging out. She looked to the side when she heard Ryan sitting down beside her as well. ''What are you doing?'' She asked. ''Well originally I came to find and find out what happened in there that got you so upset, and I can't get down alone form here!'' He said that last part teasingly, as he poked her shoulder in a friendly gesture. He quickly sobered up though since he was worried about her and ask. ''So what happened in there Moon?'' Seeing her turn her head to the side only meant that she was ashamed by what happened. ''You can tell me anything Moon, I won't get angry I promise, I'm your friend and friend should trust each other.'' He said softly in an attempt to reassure her, to make her open up so that she could speak without fear. ''I-I-I do not want to talk about it, not right now at least.'' She had trouble speaking and telling him what happened, even though he reassured her that he would not be angry. She could not get the image of Ryan shouting at her about how disappointed he was in her, and how he never wanted to see her again, this is why she did not want to tell him right now. Comfortingly, Ryan rubbed Nightmare's back to calm since she started panicking again. ''I understand I'll wait till we're back at the apartment, but you will have to tell me what happened.'' He said with authority, not to scare her, but to make a point. ''You know it's not good to keep things inside or they will accumulate and blow up in the end.'' He explained his point to her and made the gesture of something blowing up. ''Ok,'' Nightmare said unconvincingly, but knew that in the end Ryan was right, it was not good to keep things inside, she and Luna were the prime example of it. ''But i have to ask though before we return to Eric, how can you see me? I mean I casted a 'notice me not' spell on myself so as to not be disturb!'' She said intrigue by what his answer is going to be. ''Yet you can, why?'' Ryan was surprised by what Nightmare just told him, yet it made sense since no one saw Nightmare on the rooftop earlier, before he found her. ''I don't know, but I would think it is the connection we have as friends. But then again I don't know how magics works so it can be something else!'' Ryan said with his chin on his hand, deep in thought. Sighing in defeat as she thought the same thing but had no way to prove, it she started channeling another teleport spell, but remembered at the last second to warn Ryan. ''Brace yourself Ryan we are teleporting again'' With a flash of light they reappeared on the asphalt of the parking lot, with Ryan falling on his ass, but Nightmare standing on her feet as she was used to the spell. Apologising to Ryan she extended her hand towards to help get up, he grasp her hands and she lift him back up on his feet, with him with a surprise expression on his face, which shifted to embarrassed at having forgotten Nightmare's strength. Channeling her magic once again Nightmare changed back to her normal human, without the horn and dragon eyes. ''I just actually remarked that you had a horn now, when did this happened?'' He asked Nightmare confused. Nightmare looked back at him, to answer him.'' Probably during the bathroom incident, which I will not talk about until we reach you apartment!'' ''Okay so shall we head inside?'' He said as he made the motion to enter the mall. ''I am right behind you Ryan.'' Nightmare replied grateful for Ryan to not press her more on the bathroom incident, although she was pretty sure that Eric will have plenty of question about what happened. __o0o__ They were inside the mall once again, only to come face to face with Eric, who was looking at Ryan with relief. But his look of relief was gone and replaced by one of fear and confusion the moment he saw Nightmare by Ryan's side. ''Seriously girl what the fuck did you do to those guys in there!?'' He said and pointed to the bathroom where the same thug that Nightmare assaulted still lay unconscious. ''I mean they are both unconscious, which would not be a problem with me since they kind of deserve it for their behavior earlier. But_'' He was interrupted by Ryan, who held a hand in front of his face in a silencing manner. ''Eric yelling at her will not make it easy for her, and i promise that she will explain everything to both of us. You will won't you!'' He said as a question, but Nightmare knew that that was no question and more of a fact instead, and so she did not try to argue. ''I will I promise Ryan.'' She said apologetically with out looking at Eric directly with her still puffy red eyes from all the crying she did earlier. That answer did calm Eric as his demeanor softened, and it was then that he took a good look at Nightmare for the first time since she got back. He could see that her eyes were red, probably from all the crying she did, even he did not knew why she cried. ''All right but I'm holding on to that promise, both of you, to explain to me what happened.'' ''I did not expect any less from you dude.'' Said Ryan with a little relieved smile that Eric took it that good thus far, he just hoped that it will remain the same when Nightmare will start explaining things. Nightmare looked relieve as well, but she realize also that the previous good mood was now thoroughly gone, and said the only thing to alleviate things a little. ''So what about that movie that we are suppose to see?'' She asked, trying to change the subject to a more happy one. ''Well we can go see it now since it took me a good half an hour to find you in the parking lot!'' Ryan said agreeing with what Nightmare just said and started walking towards the cinema. They both followed him, Nightmare because she did not remembered where it was, and Eric to stay at Nightmare's level to keep an eye on her. They could say whatever they want about his friendship with Ryan, but he cares a lot about Ryan, to the point of considering him as a brother. They arrive at the cinema, they were slightly annoyed that they will have to wait to buy their ticket since a file was present now, but decided to wait nonetheless. Ten minutes later with their ticket in hands they made their way to room number five to watch the movie Red with Bruce Willis. Two hours later they exited the mall, happy as anyone can be after watching a damn good movie. They found Eric's car park in the middle of the parking lot, where they left it before entering the mall, and made their way back to Ryan's apartment, where Nightmare will start explaining her special situation to Eric, and what happened exactly to him and Ryan what happened inside the bath room. To say she was looking forward to it would be a bold lie as she was sweating with fear of what will happen once everything was said.
Friendship Is Indeed Magic (Part Two)They were all sitting in the kitchen in Ryan's apartment, with Nightmare and Ryan side by side facing Eric, with the former in all her glory with her full armor, without the helmet on, and horn standing on full display for the world to see. Eric was now who was looking at them with surprise and awe, with his mouth hanging open after hearing Ryan and Nightmare's tale of what happened during the last week. Eric could not believe it the 'woman' sitting by his friend's side was in fact not a woman at all, but some kind of pony deity of the night or some shit. To say that today was full of surprise would be considered the understatement of the century, after all who can say they encountered an alien deity with the appearance of a woman only to discover that she was some kind of talking horse. Of course he did not believe the both of them when they started telling him all of this, that is until Nightmare returned to her normal form using magic. Nightmare, meanwhile, was looking to the side with shame plastered across her face, for what she was about to tell the both of them was not something she was proud of. She would have preferred to tell only Ryan, but he assured her that Eric would not react badly, 'I just hoped that he is right about his friend or I will have to do_.' She violently shook her head to get that idea out of her head, 'no Ryan trust me not to do something like this and I will let him handle it if the situation degrade!' She thought as she gaze at Ryan, who sense her looking at him and smiled at her reassuringly. ''So Ryan told me that you had something to tell us, Nightmare right?'' He asked with a raise eyebrow for confirmation. At her nodding he continued, ''so is it about the thing that happened today at the mall or is it something else?'' He finished with crossing his arm on his chest, and letting himself fall on the chair he was sitting on to relax himself better. ''Yes, it is about what happened earlier.'' She said let out a sigh to calm her frantic nerves, unsure of what will happen from here, but determined to see it through. ''I will be honest with the both you, what I did in there is not something I am proud of, but it seemed like a good idea at the time to teach them respect.'' Taking another breath she started relating to them from her point of view what happened. ''I started by scanning their mind via the use of magic, do not worry it is painless and you feel nothing about the intrusion.'' She said once she saw the expression from Eric, Ryan him pretty much understood that if she could go inside others dreams she could read minds, and so was not as shocked as Eric. ''I discovered then the fear of each and everyone of them, on of them was the fear of blood. With that knowledge in mind I sent that one ,specifically, to sleep and created a nightmare where he was running away from a wave of blood that was destroying everything in its path. But the longer he was running away, the more horrid the destruction get, to the point where he was beginning to see people close to him... die... swallowed by the wave... and it was then... that I... that I.'' At that point Nightmare stopped trying to talk, as she was crying too much for anything coherent to be heard. Ryan was prepared to hear something horrible, but he was nonetheless shocked by what Nightmare as just told them. He looked over at Eric, to see him shivering on his chair with a look of pure fear on his face after hearing what she said. 'No matter, yes she did something horrible, but from the look of it she is already paying from what she did, and I will not betray her trust by lashing out to her.' Ryan thought. He then did the only thing that came to mind he hugged Nightmare from the side, as he whispered soothing words to try and calm her down as best he can. All the while looking at Eric who was now looking at him as if he was insane, maybe he was but he did not really care he promised to Nightmare he would help her, and he will, by comforting her, as this is what she needs the most right now. Eric was flabbergasted here he was watching his best friend comforting that monster, who just hours ago raped the mind of someone, by making him live his worst nightmare over and over again. He was not sure how to react, but staying still as a statue seems as a valid option for him right now. ''So what happened after that?'' He said with a shaking voice, showing how scared he is right now. 'Great as if I need more gruesome details, good job brain.' Composing herself so as to stop crying, and thanking Ryan once more for his support and understanding, she resumed from where she left. ''When I realized what I was doing, I released him and the others from all the spell that I put in place, and I reverted back to normal. But even then the damage was already done, so I did the only thing to repair what I did, I erased their mind of me and of the moment since they entered the bathroom.'' She was still full of shame for what happened, but at least now she calm once again, and if only a little bit proud that no lasting damage as been done during this whole ordeal, at least she hope so. Looking at Ryan, she was glad to see understand and support. But once her gaze settle on Eric she knew that the battle was not over, for she had to convince him now that she was not a monster, which she was not sure she was. ''So let me recap!'' Eric exclaimed with anger. ''Not only do you rape somebody's mind, but after you're done with them, you erase everything you did! Who do you think you are god? And after doing that you expect us to believe that everything is sunshineand rainbows!'' His anger grew until it became unbridled fury. ''Nuh huh, I'm done, you can go and **** yourself, you, you. ARGH!'' He finished with a shout and grip is hair as if he was trying to rip them off. Ryan was surprised, for it happened very seldom, like only one other time, that he recalled seeing Eric this angry and prompt to punch someone. He decided to intervene, as Eric outburst sent Nightmare into another bout of depression, which is shown by her head hanging lower and lower at each word Eric said. ''Eric calm down, you don't need to shout at Nightmare, she is already paying the price of her action enough as it is, without you adding more weight to her conscience!'' Ryan's words seemed to work as merely a few seconds later, Eric was calm once again although still angry at Nightmare. ''Sorry it's just that hearing her explain herself made me remember bad memory.'' He said as he pointed to Nightmare. Of course Ryan knew what memory Eric was talking about, as he was there when it happened. What happened next was Nightmare calming herself with breathing exercise she learned to use when she was still one with Luna. After being calm enough she look up at Eric, ''I know what I did cannot be undone so easily, I just hope that i limited the damage enough so that they don't remember it, and to answer your questions. No I do not believe myself as a god, nor do I expect it to be all sunshine and rainbows. The only thing I ask is for your forgiveness?'' She finished as she bowed towards Eric in an act of plea for forgiveness. ''Well I forgive her,'' Ryan said as he envelope Nightmare in his arms as if he was trying to protect her. His own action surprised him a little, for he rarely acts like that, no that was more Eric acting like that. Eric was surprised to see Ryan embrace Nightmare like that, and so did Nightmare, if her expression was not enough, but in the end decided to follow Ryan's lead and trust Nightmare, for now, only so that he could place this awkward moment behind him. Rubbing the back of his head he sigh and say, ''alright I forgive you as well, but mess up once, or hurt Ryan, and will come and mess you up so badly you will wish you were never born.'' He said as he pointed his finger at her, as a warning that he was dead serious. Ryan knew that the discussion was over, and to be frank with himself, he was that this was the case. The whole conversation was nerve wracking and infuriating in someway, and so he decided to change the subject. ''So what do we do now?'' Eric at those words got up and look at the both of them, ''me? I'm going home and sleep on everything that's happened today.'' And with that started making his way over the door, but was stopped as Nightmare was addressing him. ''You promise to keep this a secret Eric? If not for me, for Ryan at least.'' She said with steel in her voice that was previously lacking throughout the whole conversation. ''I promise.'' And with that he open the door and left, closing the door behind him. ''I suggest that we do like Eric, we eat and go to bed after.'' Ryan said as he move to start the diner, which was Mexican food for today. Nightmare looked back at Ryan and nod at him as she move to set the table. After the diner the wash the dish, even though there was not much to be done. They then proceeds to use the shower to wash the filth of the day off their bodies. After their respective shower they went to bed, with Nightmare using Ryan's bed as he offered it to her, and Ryan using the couch. But was stopped by Nightmare who dragged him to his bed by using levitation to facilitate her job at forcing Ryan, since he would have disagreed to use the bed if she was using it. Once the both of them were in bed they fell asleep rather quickly, tired by the day activities, and events.
The Sadness Of Days Past (Part One)Ryan open his eyes to see that just like last night, he was once again inside Nightmare's dreamscape, evident by the white plain of the place he was now in, and by the lone dark, with pale blue armor, alicorn sitting in front of him, studying him with her intelligent teal draconian eyes. ''You are here again! Is it because my ability to dream walk is bleeding off on you, or is it because we are friends, I wonder?'' She said as she looked over Ryan with a fang filled smile adorning her face. ''My thought exactly Moon, though I don't mind spending my sleeping time with a friend, and considering you're the only friend that can do that.'' Ryan said as he looked at Nightmare's alicorn figure with wonder, no matter how many times he will see it, she will always remain impressive, both in human or alicorn form. Nightmare's cheek started to grow red at Ryan's word, shaking her head to return to her previous thought process, she continue where she left of. ''No matter, it is good that you are here Ryan. After what happened today, I decided to show you what my past is about.'' She said as she turned towards the white expense and then started rubbing her chin with a blue plated hoof, seconds later hoof return to the ground and, she turned back towards Ryan. ''I remember you asking me to tell you what my nightmares was about, instead I will show you what my nightmares are through my memories of them.'' Ryan walk up to Nightmare and put a hand on her neck, when he saw the fear in her eyes at the mention of her nightmares. ''You know, if you don't have to show me your nightmares if you don't want to I'm not forcing you!'' He said in an attempt to sooth Nightmare's fear, which seems to work by how relax her body got after he said those words. ''Thank you Ryan, but I have to show you for you deserve it, I am just afraid you will hate me after I show you my past?'' She said with sadness creeping back into her body. ''Nightmare! I won't hate you, I promised to you that I will be your friend and that I will help you return home, and that is what I'm gonna do!'' With that he let go of Nightmare, and sat beside her. ''So show me, and I promise we'll still be friends.'' She nodded, and with that her eyes started glowing, just like the previous time she used magic. The landscape quickly started change, it was not white anymore but a lone hill in the middle of a forest. It was night time by the looks of it, which was proven right since the moon shone in the sky, illuminating the place with it's soothing light, and fighting the darkness of the night away. The both of them stood at the base of the hill, with Nightmare looking at the top of it. Ryan followed her eyes to look at the hill, more precisely at the top. It was then that he saw a lone small midnight blue alicorn with a soft baby blue mane, standing at the top of the hill looking at the moon, with her horn glowing the same baby blue light as her coat, as if she was trying to reach the moon itself, which was apparently the case. The moon was starting to glow, and the little alicorn voice was being carried to us by the strong wind that was starting to pick up, because of the amount magical energy that she was currently using. Ryan could make words that seems to be out of the bible for how religious they sound, things about venerable moon and rightful place, it was then that it click. 'This is Luna, Nightmare's big sister, when is this taking place?' He turned his head to look at Nightmare, only to see the most happy expression he ever saw, plastered on her face with the tears of joy flowing down her eyes even. ''When is this taking place Moon? If this is the past as you've said then she was really young, since she is only half your size?'' This is snap Nightmare back to reality, with a shake of her head she turned her head to look into Ryan's eyes, and with the same smile she had when she was looking at Luna she said.''What!? Oh yes, yes it is, you are right Ryan this is indeed the past, my and Luna's past. This memory in particular, was the place of my birth, when Luna connected herself with her heavenly body, the moon, it was a glorious moment for her, for she found herself a little sister to take care of, me. But now watch and after you may ask me any question you want, I owe you that.'' And with that she fell back into silence and return her attention back to the memory that was playing before her, with Ryan doing the same and following her advice to wait until the memory is over before asking another question. The moon by now was glowing even brighter, but apart from that nothing else was happening. That is until Luna started to glow as well, and not a soft light but a light so strong that Ryan had to advert his eyes in fear of going blind, unlike Nightmare who kept her unfazed by Luna sudden glow. All of this happened in a mere three seconds, for the next the glow had faded away. Ryan looked back at the top of the hill, only to see Luna with a now ethereal mane that billowed as if the wind was blowing, even though there was no wind. ''This is how I was born Ryan! By Luna connecting herself with the very moon itself.'' Nightmare said, which brought Ryan's gaze back to Nightmare. ''And by doing so the moon birthed me, in someway? Don't ask neither me nor Luna understand how or why it happened, it just did.'' She said when she caught Ryan's dumbfounded look he cast her way. ''I still remember the first word I said that time, they were 'hello? Are you my sister?' And from that day forth we became sister, best friend, and moral supporter to each other.'' She didn't say, or do anything afterword, apart from staring longingly at Luna, as she was too caught up in her own happy memories to realize that the memory they where in question in had faded to white, since Nightmare was not supporting it in the end anymore. ''So what are you Moon? The spirit of the moon given form or is it something else?'' Ryan asked unsure what Nightmare really was. ''Good question. One which Luna and I came to the conclusion that if Luna is the light side of the moon, always present, always seen. Then I am the darker side, always present, but never seen. At least that is what is making the most sense to the both of us!'' She said and quickly chuckled at the memory of the both of them, brainstorming for ideas on what Nightmare was when they were still young. But Nightmare became serious once again and went back to what they originally were here for. ''But enough about, that I believe I have some more memories to show to you before this night is over.'' Nightmare eyes started to glow once again, and this time the scenery change, but unlike the previous one this was far more dark in the sense that they were literally on a snowy battlefield, overlooking a dark crystal spire with some kind of dark crystal city surrounding the spire. ''This is, or was the crystal empire!'' Nightmare said with sadness present in her voice, at the memory of the once glorious city state. ''But it was corrupted by the vile usurper who claim the throne, by killing the previous royal family, and enslaving their citizen. King Sombra!'' The venom present was so thick that you could literally kill a whole village with it. ''Wow!'' Ryan stated, shocked by Nightmare's revelation. ''And here I thought your world was more sunshine and rainbows! Guess I was wrong'' ''Really Ryan, sunshine and rainbows!'' She chuckled a little at the thought of it but quickly sobered up. After Nightmare last word, something caught Ryan's attention on the corner of his eyes. There on their right, on a hill similar to theirs overlooking the crystal empire was two shape. One was pristine white alicorn, with a billowing mane reflecting the day sky and it's many color, adorning a gold armor armed with an halberd, and the other one was midnight blue smaller alicorn, with the same billowing mane, only this one was the night sky itself, adorning a black suit of armor that seemed to be made out of obsidian, armed with a long sword. ''Is that Luna and Celestia'' Ryan said and pointed at the figure on the hill. Nightmare following his to see what he was pointing at, nodded in agreement. ''Yes it is, and this specific battle was the last of a long bloody war.'' She said with a neutral expression, acting as if the mood she set the last minute did not occur. Squinting his eyes to better look at them, Ryan saw that Luna was much older in this memory than in the previous memory. ''When as this taken place?'' he said trying to know more about this took place. ''What do you mean 'when' Ryan?'' Nightmare asked, although she probably knew what he was asking. ''What I mean is, when did this took place compared to the previous memory?'' Ryan elaborated. Bringing a hoof to her chin, and looking up in thought , Nightmare thought started to remember when exactly. ''I would say... Two hundred and fifty years, give or take a few years.'' She brought her hoof back down, and set her gaze back on the dark crystal spire. Before Ryan could reply Nightmare started beating her wings, and quickly she started hovering above the ground. Turning back to face Ryan she said, ''I will carry with my magic seeing as Luna and Celestia are about to attack Sombra last hold.'' Her horn started to glow, and Ryan could feel himself being levitated above the ground. The feeling of him being levitated like that felt weird to him, it was like being stuck in zero gravity, but without having any control over the direction, because all of this was being taken care of by Nightmare. Nightmare was starting to beat her wings faster, to catch up to the two figure ahead of them. Moments later the four of them burst through a stain glass window, depicting Sombra ruling over the crystal empire. Quickly the two sisters activated the elements of harmony and blasted Sombra with it, but it was all for nothing, as mere seconds later Sombra came back on top of a giant dark crystal, which slammed directly into Celestia, making her crash into the wall, surprising Luna in the process. Sombra looked back at Luna with a confident smirk, he then used his scythe against Luna by doing a vertical with such force that Luna slammed painfully to the ground. The battle continued like this for almost a half an hour, but after the first half of the battle Celestia was rendered useless since Sombra used an illusion spell on her, showing her her worst fear, which was of Luna falling to the dark side. But now, after another fifteen minutes, it looked like Sombra had defeated Luna as well by using the same illusion spell he used earlier on Celestia, sending her fighting her worst Nightmare. Suddenly Luna started laughing, but it was a dark ominous laugh, and this laugh was strange for it was like someone else was laughing in sink with Luna. Ryan knew what that second laugh was for he heard it before, it was Nightmare laughing, somehow when Luna was rendered unable to continue the fight Nightmare took over to Finish what the two sister started. ''At that moment, I had no choice but to reveal myself, if I had not Sombra would have won and he would have covered the world in absolute darkness.'' Ryan look at Nightmare, and he saw that expression was one fury, which was directed at Sombra. ''Know this Ryan I do not like seeing others suffer, but if have to be seen as evil to protect others and bring peace to our little ponies, so be it.'' And with that Ryan's attention was brought to the battle just when Sombra was slammed to the wall by a furiously looking Nightmare Moon wielding Sombra's scythe which had been reforged by Nightmare's magic to resemble a weapon made by the night itself. She drew back and with an ominous dark chuckle said, ''I am a Nightmare,'' and with a fang filled snarl slashed Sombra across his chest. The following moment, the scene ended sending them back to the white dreamscape Ryan and Nightmare grew used to. ''Wow hum okay, that was interesting, but why did skip such a huge time frame to show me that particular memory?'' Ryan asked once the shock of the place changing rapidly ended. ''Because I do not believe the moments earlier to this event to be of much importance, and because I do not have enough time to show my, and Luna full story.'' Nightmare replied emotionless, even if it was not the case, she had to appear strong, that is what the memory of her birth reminded her, to always be strong no matter what, although it grew difficult to do so because of her relationship with Ryan. ''Well I would still like to know what happened then still.'' ''Maybe another time, but for now we must continue, and I know exactly when to start next!'' Just as she said that her eyes and horn were glowing once again, and this time the scenery change to something that Ryan had no word to describe what it was he was looking at. Before him was a place that a man high on mushrooms would see, just like on the movie, pick of destiny with black jack. A little further ahead stood the two sisters once again, this time facing something out of a horror house, it was a mismatched being made out of multiple things, things he could not describe. ''What is that thing!'' Ryan exclaimed as he pointed to the being, that was sitting on throne made out of wood, that was well fitting for a creature as mismatched as that. Nightmare chuckled at seeing Ryan's reaction at seeing Discord for the first time, 'and only if we are lucky.' ''That Ryan is Discord, master of chaos and disharmony.'' ''Well the name is fitting, I mean look at that is body scream chaos!'' ''I know Ryan, but no matter how goofy Discord is looking like his power are great, and he is invulnerable to the strongest of magic. The only thing that could affect him are the elements of harmony. And if you want to know when that took place it was fifty years before the fall of Sombra.'' Nightmare said when she caught Ryan's questioning gaze. ''Okay, But why didn't you show me that memory first?'' Ryan asked puzzled as to why Nightmare did not show that first. ''Because I do not remember that event. What you see is the extent of what I remember of this day, or week.'' Nightmare said disgruntled at the fact that no matter what she did she could not remember anything further than this. ''Wait, wait. You said 'day or week' why? what do you mean by that?'' Usually, from Ryan's point of view, when you fight a big villain like that, the does not last a whole, 'or does it?' Nightmare looked back at Discord's cheeky grin and sigh in exasperation, she wanted this memory to be dealt with as soon as possible, but with Ryan asking question all the time, it would prove to take a lot more time than she thought. '' During his reign Discord had total control over everything.'' She emphasized the last word to mean truly mean everything. ''A day could last a single second to a full hour with him, and the same could said for the night. That said though Luna informed, although partially that because of Discord being arrogant the fight did not last more than a mere two minutes. That buffoon actually let himself be hit by the elements of harmony, thus ending him being trapped in stone for the rest of eternity.'' Ryan was looking at Nightmare with wide eyes, he then whistled in amazement. ''Damn that's impressive, those elements sure don't joke around when they something!'' ''True, remember me and Luna were for a thousand years by them, remember.'' She said and the scenery shifted to the white dreamscape once again. ''Do you have any question before we continue?'' ''Actually, only one.'' Ryan said, and quickly elaborated. 'When will you show me the memory of your banishment?'' Ryan asked. ''Soon but first I will show you how Luna and I became jealous of Celestia, and hateful of the ponies.'' She said and once more her eyes and horn glowed once again to show Ryan another part of her past, one that she would prefer to remain lost and forgotten, but she promised Ryan that she will show him her past, and she never go back on a promise once made.
