Getting Even

by Mint

Rating: teen
Tags: Gore, Princess Celestia, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Dark, Sad, Main 6, Nightmare Moon, Romance, Princess Luna, Spike, Tragedy
Length: 132930

After falling in love Twilight must decide whether to stop Luna from stealing the throne or not.

Princess Luna arrives in Ponyville and begins to do wonderful things in the life of Twilight Sparkle. They become close friends...maybe even more, but when Twilight discovers that Luna may be after the throne the unicorn must choose whether to follow her head...or her heart.

Published 2012-04-08 04:54:02 UTC
Last updated 2015-05-19 03:43:52 UTC

Chapter 1

(A/N: When I started writing this story season two had just begun, but Luna had not yet made her second appearance. So this story is written from the perspective that the majority of what happened during and after that episode did not occur. I do take certain elements from the later shows, but for all intents and purposes in this story they never happened.)

Part 1: The Usurper

Twilight Sparkle yawned, putting her hoof in front of her face. It was quite late, but she was dying to finish the chapter on magical transfiguration. She used her magical horn to turn the page, and glanced through the remaining paragraphs. She should have been taking notes, but she decided to re-read it in the morning and do that. How she wished her stenographer was still around, her perfect little helper.

Spike, the wonderful little dragon she met the day she got her cutie mark, eventually grew up. Twilight once read that dragons grew in spurts, usually four or five, in their lifetime. Spike hit his first and got big, bigger than Twilight herself. Spike tried to say that nothing would be different, but it was apparent that things couldn't stay the same. Dragons are naturally short-tempered, territorial and stubborn. Spike was raised by ponies and despite being nice while he was young, his instincts began taking over. He was extremely protective of Twilight, to the point of growling and breathing fire at other ponies he had known for years if they spoke too loudly. He would also often stomp around Twilight, swishing his tail on the ground. When he was brought back to his senses he would state that he didn't know why he had done that. When the bookworm pony set out to study dragon behavior she learned something that unsettled her. This was mating behavior. Rarity was gone by that point, and Twilight was the person Spike knew best. Through his instincts he was protecting and courting his mate. The final straw came when Twilight arrived home one day, to find the entire outside of her tree scratched to pieces. When she opened the door she discovered Spike circling around, burrowing through the floor and into the ground. When she asked what he was doing, he simply replied that he didn't want anypony invading his place. Twilight then pointed out the fact that they had guests all the time, earlier in the day even, and he wasn't offended. Spike gave her a blank look, thought for a moment, and then realized that he had no idea what he was doing. It was then that Twilight gave him a heartbroken look, one he returned. He couldn't stay. In the end, he was a dragon and he needed to go and be a dragon. It was extremely hard on both of them, but Spike said goodbye to everypony and they both walked into the mountains. Twilight found a nice cave for her life-long friend and gave a tearful and heart-wrenching farewell. The pony felt her heart break as Spike cried into his hands and sobbed that he didn't want to be apart from his best friend. Twilight hugged him and reassured him that they would always be friends, no matter how far apart they were, and she would visit him whenever she could. They then parted, to lead separate lives.

Twilight sighed and closed her book. She was getting too tired and her mind was wandering to thoughts she didn't want to ponder upon. Thinking about her adorable little assistant made her heart ache. With magic, she began putting away her things. So much had changed since those magical years with her friends. Rarity was a fairly popular fashion designer in Manehattan, although this was largely due to her husband. She married a much older stallion, but he was well connected in the fashion industry. Twilight got the feeling that their relationship wasn't based solely on love, but Rarity was happy all the same. She even had her own magazine and in every issue she appeared thrilled. Fluttershy married a rather serious and strong stallion. He was sometimes gruff and prone to yelling. Twilight didn't like him a bit, but Fluttershy seemed to get along with and often defend him to other people. Pinkie Pie, Twilight doubted she would ever settle down. The hyperactive pony was still bouncing around, throwing party after party. Twilight figured that there wasn't a single stallion in all the world that could keep up with her, and the mare remained a spinster, working out of the local bakery, being a party planner as well as shop manager.

Rainbow Dash, poor, poor Rainbow Dash, Twilight had always suspected, but kept her mouth shut about it. The rainbow-haired pony confessed her love to another...unfortunately that person was Applejack. Rainbow only had eyes for other mares it seemed. Applejack was quite nice about it and responded with a respectful "no" in her old folksy, congenial sort of way. If Twilight remembered correctly it was something along the lines of "Sorry hon, my barn door don't swing that way, I am real flattered though." Rainbow Dash was thoroughly embarrassed, although not because Applejack turned her down. Word got out and everypony in town began giving her odd glances and whispered about her. The poor pony never learned how to deal with failure, nor everypony's cruel rumors and jokes. In the end it caused the mare to break down. She was desperate to leave town. Twilight helped her apply to all the flying squads in Equestria, looking for an escape. Her dream, the Wonderbolts, turned her down, stating that in a year she'd meet the minimum age requirement, but not now. All of the other teams rejected her as well, except for one, the Fillydelphia Lightning Wings. It wasn't well known, and relatively new. They didn't really have an age requirement and based on Rainbow Dash's record they accepted, not really expecting her to say yes. It would have made more sense for her to wait a year and join a top ranked team, but due to the circumstances Rainbow Dash jumped at the opportunity, accepted the job and with only a quick goodbye to Twilight Sparkle was off to Fillydelphia. No one from Ponyville had seen her since, although Twilight used to write to her from time to time. The letters stopped abruptly when Twilight wrote that Applejack was getting married and that Rainbow Dash should come. Even if she had been embarrassed, Applejack still loved Rainbow as a dear friend. Rainbow Dash didn't come and no more letters ever arrived.

Applejack married a third cousin from Appleloosa, Apple Tree. He was a nice and simply pony and was excellent at harvesting apples. It was a good thing too, their apple farm was difficult to manage with just Big Macintosh, Apple Bloom and Applejack. It also wasn't long until their first foal arrived, a filly they named Apple Core. Despite the family's clear lack of creativity with names, they were wonderful and happy people. The brother of Applejack had never married, but it didn't seem to bother him much. He was a simple and laid-back guy and didn't ever get angry or even excited.

Twilight sighed as everything was finally put away. So much had changed. Years could do that. Most of her dear friends had left Ponyville to follow their own paths. With so much heartache and separation the letters to Princess Celestia even dried up. Friendship meant dealing with the happiness and sadness together. All the same, Twilight didn't ever feel like writing about the dark times. As the pony began climbing the stairs to her loft where her bed was, she heard shouts from outside. She turned her head towards her window. In the dark she saw various ponies running to and fro, checking behind barrels and yelling at one another. She squinted in the dark, trying to get a batter look. They all looked like faceless shapes, scurrying around. Then, quite suddenly, the door to her house slammed opened. Twilight jumped and jerked her head around. As the door slammed shut her eyes widened. There, standing in her home, was Princess Luna, her once great enemy.

The princess kicked the door closed and threw her back against it, huffing and puffing. She had a worried expression on her face.

"Wow, they're fast!" Luna muttered.

"P-Princess Luna!" Twilight shrieked. The dark pony gasped and turned towards the other pony. She paused for a moment, as if trying to remember something.

"Oh, it's you, uh...Twilight Sparkle." Luna said. "What a coincidence. Of all the houses I could have hidden in..." Abruptly, there were some shouts from just outside the door.

"The screaming came from this way!" A male voice shouted.

"Hurry up!" Shouted another.

"Oh for pony's sake..." Luna whined. She zipped up the stairs and past Twilight. She darted under the bed. "Tell them I'm not here! Tell them I went to the Everfree Forest, please!" There was now a loud and continuous banging at the door. Twilight Sparkle stood stupefied for several seconds, her mouth agape. What was going on! Just a few seconds ago everything had been as it was for years. Now Princess Luna was in her house asking her to lie for her. What was she supposed to do? Her hooves led her to the door. When she opened it she discovered that the royal guards were standing at her doorstep, appearing very frazzled.

"We heard screaming coming from this direction!" One of the white ponies shouted far louder than needed. "Are you alright!"

"Y-Yes...I'm...alright." Twilight said, cringing a bit from his loud voice.

"Have you seen Princess Luna?" He ordered. Twilight gulped, her mind racing. She wasn't sure how to respond. In the end, she made a very fateful choice, one in which the ramifications would echo across Equestria.

"I did." Twilight said.

"Where is she!" The guard bellowed.

"She...she...I saw her flying towards the Everfree Forest!" Twilight shouted. The soldiers instantly turned and began running towards the black woods.

"Thank you for your assistance citizen!" They shouted back, moving away at a breakneck speed. Twilight closed the door, sighing exhaustively. When she turned around Luna landed in front of her, causing her to jump backwards, ricocheting off the door and landing in a heap on the ground.

"Thanks!" Princess Luna stated, grinning widely. "They're a lot faster than I thought." She grinned widely. "I'm free, I'm finally free!" Princess Luna reared back and laughed loudly. "Mwahahahahahaha!" The laugh was distinctly similar to when she was Nightmare Moon. Twilight stared blankly, not entirely sure what to think. Luna abruptly stopped, realizing that Twilight was staring at her. "Uh...too over the top?"

"Just a little." Twilight said, raising her hoof.

"Sorry, a little excited." The pony turned around and began walking around the house, happily. "Nice place, I didn't know you could have a home inside of a tree. You certainly have a lot of books." Using magic, a book came off the wall and hovered it in front of her. "Oooh, history." She began turning the pages. She commented on each subject she glanced over. "Wrong, wrong, didn't happen that way, it was an Ursa Minor...didn't mention me at all...mostly right...he only had three foals..." Twilight was standing in the same place, her hoof still in the air. Her mouth was moving but no sounds were coming out. What was going on!

"What did you do!" Twilight asked. Luna turned around, a quizzical look on her face.

"Nothing!" The princess stated. Twilight narrowed her eyes suspiciously. "Honest!" Twilight offset her jaw. "Really..." Luna's eyes gazed away. Twilight leaned forward, causing the princess to lean backwards. "I didn't..." Twilight growled a bit. "Okay!" Luna finally shouted, causing Twilight to finally lean backwards. "I ran away! I hate it at the castle!"

"What's so bad about it?" Twilight asked.

"It's boring..." Luna whined. "I've been there for years with nothing to do...I might as well be banished. Sis says that people need to get used to me being good again and that I shouldn't do anything stupid or dangerous. I just keep going to these royal parties with people from other nations, week after week. What am I supposed to say! Sorry I threw a tantrum and tried to make it night forever wanna apple fritter?" Twilight tilted her head. She had no idea Luna was really like this, of course she only met the real her for less than a day.

"So you just run away?" Twilight asked.

"Oh...I'll go back, I just want to get out for a little while, stretch my hooves." The Princess widened her eyes and gave Twilight a pleading expression. "Can I stay here, pweeeeeaaaaasssssseeee?"

"Uh...eh...I don't..."

"I won't be any trouble, I promise!"

"I...oh...alright...just as long as you go back."

"Don't worry, my trouble-making days are over!" Luna smiled and put the book back on the shelf. "So, what are we doing?"

"I'm going to bed." Twilight remarked, suddenly remembering how tired she was.

"Oh phooey, all everypony ever does at night is sleep. There's so much to do at night! There are plenty of beautiful things to find!"

"Okay, okay, we'll hang out at night sometime, for now I just want to sleep."

"Can I sleep too? I never slept in a regular bed in ages, I want to try it."

"Yeah sure, I've got an extra bed."

Twilight Sparkle lay quietly in her bed, attempting to simmer down from all the activity that had just occurred. Luna was lying on the spare bed, relocated beside Twilight's so that she could feel "more at home." The regular unicorn was having a tough time drifting off to sleep however. Luna continued to move around and gyrate on the bed, not in discomfort but in apparent happiness, enjoying the texture of the mattress and covers. Occasionally she would coo and stretch, apparently joyful at being in a new place. Twilight realized that it was doubtful she was going to get any sleep. The princess lived and played in the moonlight, as such she wasn't going to rest now. Twilight turned over towards the princess, who seemed to blissfully happy.

"Hey." The unicorn began.

"Yes my dear?" Luna asked happily, turning towards her as well.

"Why did you do it?" Twilight asked.

"I told you, I got bored and ran away." Luna repeated.

"No, I mean...turn the world into night forever." Luna flinched before making a face and looking at the ceiling.

"Like I haven't heard that question a million times."

"I realize that but the books say it was because you were jealous of the day and wanted people to appreciate the night more." Luna sighed before turning back to Twilight.

"That was part of the reason yes, and in the history books it makes me sound more vengeful and evil so the story took. There were a lot of reasons actually."

"Tell me then." Twilight instructed.

"Well..." Luna began, looking Twilight in the eyes. "Our parents were like us, winged unicorns or alicorns and very magical. They controlled the seasons. So after we were born, they told us that we would control the night and day. I went along with it and my cutie mark became a moon. When our parents passed away we had to start controlling the seasons, later by manufacturing the clouds, beating the leaves off the trees and so on. That's when the ugliness started. You see, the work was supposed to be equal. Each of us got an equal share of the work and admiration. Over time things began to change. The ponies began to favor the day over the night. All of the work for the seasons took place during the day, while everypony slept at night. While I slept during the day I missed so much of everything, the rainbows, ponies working, the singing, the parties, the joy. I asked my sister if we could shift some that workload to the night. She said that she would, but knew that no one would sign up for it and indeed they didn't. While I was annoyed at all of this, I wasn't really angry until it came abundantly clear that I was becoming second to my sister. Ponies began to fear the night and, by extension, me. Everypony would shrink in fear as I walked by. Ponies began calling me "the other princess" or "Princess Celesia's sister" or simply "the other one."" Luna turned onto her back and threw her front hooves into the air in frustration. "It's not my fault I'm purple like the night sky! And it's not my fault that you're so afraid of the dark! Without the moon and night, the entire country would be boiling hot under eternal daylight! Don't you know you need me!" Luna abruptly stopped, realizing she was going on a rampage. "Oh, sorry."

"It's alright." Twilight said, suddenly fascinated. "Keep going." Luna sighed before turning back to Twilight.

"I put up with it, knowing that it certainly wasn't my sister's fault. As time went on, I grew more and more angry. I was very powerful and magical myself, but no one thought I was very strong. Everypony thought I feasted on children during the night and did black magic over a caldron during the day. The people were becoming very, very ungrateful. Whenever I visited a town I was largely avoided and the only people who did approach me were children who were quickly retrieved by their parents out of fear. The only conversations people ever started with me were about my sister. I started to resent her because she was so pretty, popular and loved while everypony was ignoring me. Did they know how hard I worked to put the moon in the right place? Did they know how much magic it took to move the moon across the sky? Did they notice how beautiful something could be in the pale moonlight? No! All they could ever do was huddle around lighted fires, fearing everything they made a bump or a scrape they wouldn't have thought twice about during the day. The final straw however came one day while my sister was very tired. She had been working all day and the sun hadn't quite set yet. She decided to go to bed early, which delighted me. I finally had something to do. I had to meet this prince from somewhere, Prince Blueblood I think. He was from this haughty little family that names every firstborn male Blueblood." Twilight thought for a moment. She had heard that name somewhere before... "Anyway, the second he saw me enter the room he went off. He began raving "I don't want to see this dark, witchy little weakling! I want to see the real ruler of this country, not her weak, backroom little sister!"" Even Twilight had to cringe at those words. "Well, I lost my temper. I flew up into the air and glared down at him. Magic I didn't even know I had started pouring out of me. I got bigger and bigger until I was the same size as my sister and my mane became this purple mist." Luna smiled and sat up in the bed. She lifted her arms up, as if triumph. "He was cowering in fear. I shouted, "Weak! You think I'm weak! You think I'm a witch! You think I'm horrible! Well, I'll show you horrible! I'll show you just how strong I can be! If you won't love me, then all will know my name and tremble! Mwhahahahahahahahahahaha!" Luna did that laugh again that sounded exactly like when she was Nightmare Moon. Twilight could have sworn there were lightning bolts flashing around her as she did it. The unicorn gave the Princess the same critical stare she had before. Luna stopped for a moment, blushed a little and put a hoof over her mouth. "Oops, too much?"

"Just a little." Twilight said sarcastically again, raising her hoof. Luna snuggled back under the covers, slightly embarrassed. She stared off into space now, as if in another place.

"The whole land got dark and I kept it night with my magic. If they were going to be afraid of me, I was going to give them a good reason. If they thought I was weak, I was going to prove them wrong. If they weren't going to love me as my sister, then so be it. I made an ultimatum that until I was appreciated as I should be, the sun would remain set. Night after night passed without anypony trying to stop me, my sister figuring that I would cool off eventually. Ponies began to complain to her that they couldn't do anything at night. I would jump in and respond that they could do just as much at night as they could during the day, they just never tried. My sister began asking me stop all this foolishness, but I had already drawn my line in the dirt. If I went back on what I said now, I would be just as weak as they said I was. After a while however, tension began to grow. People from other countries began complaining and threatening to take action. They would come and threaten me only to leave cowering and screaming. I wasn't the tiny little pony I was before. I was a nightmare, so they dubbed me Nightmare Moon. I liked the title, as it made people see me as strong and terrifying. Just a little longer and they would respect me, which I felt was a form of love at least. My sister however finally had enough. She approached me, giving me her ultimatum. Either I stop this never-ending night or she would be forced to do something about it. I couldn't stop now; otherwise they would be right about me being weaker than my sister. I refused. She then brought in six young ponies, a lot like you and your friends. There was a shining light and I realized what she was doing. The elements of harmony were very powerful and with them she easily overpowered me. She apologized and said that she wished she didn't have to do this. She banished me to the moon for one thousand years so I could think about what I've done. The next thing I knew I was there. You know what it's like being on the moon for a thousand years?"

"No."

"It's boring. So, so, so boring. If I had stayed much longer I would have lost my mind. Good thing I apologized so quickly."

"What...you didn't mean it?" Twilight asked, suddenly surprised.

"I like how I got banished for one thousand years and then I had to apologize. Still, saying "sorry" sounded better than "I felt justified in what I did, but please don't send me back to the moon! It's like prison!" Luna's tone was eerily similar to Rarity's whining voice. "It worked all the same. I now see that I might have overreacted just a tad."

"Really, a tad?" Twilight asked. Luna sighed at the ceiling.

"Oh well, I won't do it again. Turns out there are fates far worse than being disrespected and not loved. Who knew?" Twilight felt something for the first time. She felt sorry for the poor princess. So much anger and jealousy and then she was put in a prison for a thousand years. It must have been hard with nothing to keep her company but her own sour thoughts. Luna abruptly looked very sad, reminding Twilight that she had just made the princess relive some of her most painful memories. Twilight shuffled across her bed and onto Luna's. The princess jumped as Twilight wrapped her arms around her body.

"Wha...huh...?" Luna said abruptly.

"I'm sorry." Twilight remarked. "I made you think about some bad things. I shouldn't have done that."

"No...it's...fine..." The princess's body was stiff, not used to somepony being so close. They were both silent and still for several moments, the princess unsure of what was supposed to happen next. Was she supposed to hug Twilight back, do nothing, move over? The princess turned to the person holding her.

"Twilight?" Luna asked. Her response was a snore. Luna sighed and rolled her eyes. "Good grief..." Twilight shifted in her sleep. Her horn was right in front of Luna's face. The alicorn thought for a moment. She had heard of Twilight and knew exactly who she was, even better than Twilight did. Perhaps...Luna could have a little fun. The princess leaned her own horn forward. She brought their tips together. A small light of magic passed between them. Twilight began moaning in her sleep.

That night, Twilight had a dream. Images swirled around her as a strange narrative seemed to play in her head. There wasn't a voice so much as the words being deposited in her mind. It was very unusual, and at times hard to follow.

"A long time ago, a group of beings arrived on this planet." Twilight saw several beautiful figures. They were like ponies, but they had antlers. They appeared to made of glass and left smoke trails as they hopped around. "They were like gods, able to wield the very energy that flows through the entire universe. They came upon this land, only to be saddened with what they found." Twilight saw them gallop through space and arrive on their planet. It looked different however. The land appeared like the color of rust and the water dark. "This planet had been lush when they came upon it last, but the intelligent beings that lived upon it had destroyed themselves." The glassy stags hung their heads as they saw abandoned buildings, bigger than Twilight had ever even imagined...and these were just ruins. "They sought out what life remained and were amazed to see that beings had survived the great extinction of their planet." The glass creatures galloped across the land, until they came to field with some very sparse grass. Twilight saw ponies, or representations of them. They were made of wood, as if they were puppets. They acted like real ones, walking around and grazing. "These creatures, these "horses" impressed the visitors. They decided to grant these beings with gifts. Some would care for the land, some would fly through the air...and some would be bestowed with the very power of the gods themselves..."

"Wake up sleepy head!" Twilight sat up, her mind full of cobwebs. She stared around for a moment, trying to see if those glass stags were still hopping around. It took her a few moments to realize that it had been a dream. Luna was trotting around downstairs, in a very happy manner. It was daylight outside now, actually much later than Twilight usually awoke, considering she barely slept last night. The unicorn stretched and hopped out of bed, shaking herself off like a dog. She instantly smelled something quite delightful. As she proceeded downstairs she saw that Luna was sitting at her dining table, several plates of food spread across it. There were warm pies, toast, jams and oatmeal sprinkled with cinnamon. Twilight stood dumbfounded as the Princess smiled over the food, as if she had accomplished something grand.

"You made this?" Twilight asked, her mouth slightly agape.

"Of course!" Luna shouted. "I'm the house guest, it's only right!" Twilight gave Luna that same judgmental stare she had previously. "Honestly!" She offset her jaw. "Really..." Twilight began leaning forward. "Okay! Magic might have been involved, feel better?" Twilight scoffed before sitting down at the table. She took a bite of the oatmeal and instantly stopped. It was wonderful, warm and tasted amazing. Twilight's ears sagged as she enjoyed the taste. "Do you love it?" Luna's eyes were large and sparkling.

"Yeah..." Twilight said, quickly taking another bite. Luna sat down as well, but seemed less interested in eating.

"Tell me," Twilight asked. "How long do you plan on staying?"

"Hmmm..." Luna began, glancing out the window. "A little while at least, sis isn't mad yet, she's still in that "oh that silly kid" phase, so I'm good for now."

"How can you tell?" Twilight asked.

"I can sense emotions." Luna stated matter-of-factly. Twilight briefly choked on her oatmeal.

"Wha...really?" She shouted.

"Every alicorn has a unique ability." Luna stated. "You ever wonder why my sister doesn't worry about you and seems to know where you are every second of every day? I think she has the ability to know where ponies are, no matter how far they go."

"You can...sense emotions?" Twilight asked.

"You didn't hear anything after that did you?" Luna asked back, her eyes half-shaded.

"What am I feeling?" Twilight inquired.

"I don't think you want me to say." Luna stated flatly. "I don't get to pick and choose what I sense."

"Come on! I want to see if it's real!"

"You may not like what you hear..."

"Tell me!"

"Really, I try not to pry into people's minds. I sense things that people don't even want to know about themselves. You. Won't. Like. It."

"I'll risk it! Come on!" Twilight felt like the old analytical side of her beginning to emerge. She was determined to somehow quantify this in terms of her understanding of the world. Luna took a deep breath.

"You're angry about Spike growing up, but you know you can't blame him for being a dragon so your anger is directed at yourself for getting attached to him. You experience anger, sadness and guilt when you think about him, somehow believing that with all your magic you should've been able to do something about it. You're angry at Rarity for leaving all of her friends so she could pursue her own dreams and because she broke Spike's heart when she left, with barely a word. You loathe the fact that she married a stallion she didn't really love just for a better position. You hate Rainbow Dash for leaving with even less of a word than Rarity and that she didn't have the courage to stand up for herself. You're angry at Applejack for being so blunt with Rainbow Dash instead of understanding and gentle, causing Dash to run away from her pain and embarrassment. You're frustrated with Pinkie Pie because she doesn't just try to make things happy; she ignores the bad things, pretending that Rainbow Dash, Rarity and Spike leaving doesn't bother her. You wish for one moment she would be serious and you two could have serious conversation about what happened to everypony. You're angry at Fluttershy for being weak-willed and unable to stand up for herself and allowing herself to be bullied into a marriage by an overbearing colt. Most of all, you are angry with yourself for having these feelings of indignity and hate at the people that are closest to you in life, yet you can't come to terms with these emotions unless you see them again, but they are so far away you can't, so all you can do is let these emotions fester." Twilight was stone-still, unable to move. Every barrier she had built around her emotions were torn to shreds in a matter of moments. She realized two things. One, Princess could read emotions quite easily and two, Twilight felt absolutely awful. She buried her face into her hooves and began crying. All the anger, hate, guilt and sadness after all of these years boiled over. Luna instantly appeared sad.

"I tried to warn you...oh!" Luna quickly bounded around the table. She wrapped one of her arms around Twilight's shoulder and put her head in the other pony's hair. Twilight leaned on her shoulder and sobbed. "I'm sorry, I'm sorry, I shouldn't have opened those wounds."

"You're right though." Twilight said through sobs. "I feel that way...all the time...I just...hic...cover it up with something else...so I don't have to think about it..."

"Twilight, no else is supposed to know these things." Luna said. "And I try my hardest not to read them. We all have feelings we can't control, but those are only the bad things, that's not all that's there!" Twilight raised her tear-stained face.

"It's not?" She asked.

"No! You also care deeply for all of them. Above all those bad things, you want them to find happiness and live their lives the way they want. Most of all, you want all of your friends to be together. That's what I sense most of all. So don't cry, all of us have bad parts of ourselves, but your good side is much larger than that." Luna wiped some tears away from Twilight's eyes. "So don't worry so much. You have friends that will love and care about you no matter what."

"Yeah..." Twilight said, recomposing herself.

"Now come on, finish eating and show me around town."

Luna followed Twilight across the square, the former wearing a dark cloak to hide her appearance. Despite the fact that the guards were wandering around the Everfree Forest, there was no telling when they would come back. Luna took glances out of her cloak, happily taking in the local sites. Ponyville had yet to really change since Twilight first arrived. Other than the fact that most of her friends left, it was all the same, the same people, shops and buildings. Twilight really didn't have much to show Luna, except her friends that did remain. They both entered the bakery that Pinkie Pie worked inside. The excited pink pony was bouncing around the room, hanging streamers from various things. She had already blown up many balloons which floated around from time to time

"Oh! You're early!" The hyperactive pony shouted, hopping right over to Twilight.

"E-early?" Twilight asked. "Early for what?"

"Gummy's after-after-after-after-after-after-after birthday party!" Pinkie Pie stated, hopping in place. "And my -after-after-after-after-after birthday party!"

"That's a lot of parties." Luna muttered.

"She's been throwing them compulsively since our friends began to leave." Twilight whispered back.

"Who's your friend!" Pinkie Pie asked happily. She gazed under the hood, her eyes bulging. Luna took the cloak off her head. The pink pony leapt up into the air, gasped deeply and flailed her legs back and forth spastically. When she hit the ground she shrieked, causing the whole room to shake. "NIGHTMARE MOON!"

"Huh?" Twilight asked.

"Wha?" Luna asked.

"You're not taking the sun away this time!" Pinkie pie shouted. In one great leap through the air she was behind her counter, stacked high with pastries. "Prepare for battle!" The pony picked up a cake and reared it back.

"What the..." Luna began. She didn't get to finish. The cake flew through the air at the princess. Twilight dived to one side, while Luna flew upwards. The pastries didn't stop flying however. At an impossible speed, Pinkie Pie flung the pies, cupcakes and fritters like a machine gun. Luna bobbed and weaved around the room, avoiding the barrage. Once however, a pie flew a little too close. Luna leaned over and managed to take a bite of it before it flew past her. It tasted divine. Now the princess was flying around with her mouth open, gnawing on the food as it flew by. Twilight tried to tell Pinkie Pie to stop, but the hyperactive pony was shouting about how she would personally save all of Equestria from this menace.

"Pinkie...stop...she...she's a princess...you...I...PINKIE PIE!" Twilight's shout caused the room to shake. Everypony in the room froze. With Luna's eyes averted at Twilight, a pie that had been in-flight struck her face. She quickly began licking it away, happily. Twilight was huffing and puffing, trying to catch her breath. "We saved her, remember? She's Princess Luna now, one of our rulers?" Pinkie thought for a moment, as if she was processing the information.

"Oh!" Pinkie shouted. "Duh! I forgot! Stupid Pinkie Pie!" The pony began knocking on her head, as if punishing herself.

"Yeah...don't forget again." Twilight Sparkle remarked. The entire bakery was now covered in confectioneries. It was just the usual mess that followed in Pinkie Pie's wake. "You better clean this place up, or the Bake's will be made at you."

"Okie dokey lokey!" Pinkie stated, giving a quick salute. She swarmed around the room, her nose to the floor and began eating the sweets like a vacuum. Although Twilight figured that was unsanitary, she knew there was no stopping the pink pony.

"C'mon Princess, we better leave her to clean...what are you doing!?" The princess of Equestria had her mouth to the floor, taking bites out of a smashed cake. Luna lifted her head up, her cheeks full of food.

"Ish good!" She exclaimed. "I wanna help!" Abruptly however, something bit onto the Princess's legs. It wasn't painful, so the purple pony gazed down without panic. She saw a rather large reptile trying to gnaw on her knee. The princess shrieked, flew up into the air and began flinging her legs around spastically. "What-a-what-a-get-a-whoa-whoa!" The reptile eventually fell off, harmlessly landing on the floor. "What is that!?" The princess clung to the top of a shelf, her face terror-stricken.

"That's Gummy silly!" Pinkie Pie remarked, hopping over to her pet. "It's okay, he doesn't have any teeth!" The alligator instantly began gnawing on the pink pony, but only got giggles out of her.

"Why do you have an alligator for a pet?" The Princess yelled.

"Because no one else does!" Pinkie pie replied.

"You ever think there might be a reason for that!" The pink pony on the ground tilted her head, as if she didn't understand the question.

"Princess, why don't we let Pinkie Pie clean up for the party?" Twilight said, trying to defuse the situation. "Let's go visit some other places first."

"Good idea!" Princess Luna shouted, zipping through the air and out the door.

"We'll come to the party later." Twilight said, smiling nervously and walking backwards out the door.

"Don't be late!" Pinkie shouted ecstatically.

"He really is harmless." Twilight Sparkle stated, as they were walking down the street. Princess Luna appeared frazzled by her experience with the erratic Pinkie pie.

"Being unable to eat us and being harmless are two different things." Luna stated. "Is that mare really that oblivious?"

"I don't know." Twilight stated. "Sometimes I think she's just a complete airhead and sometimes she seems so smart. I just don't know."

"Where to now?" Luna asked, lifting her cloaked head up.

"Well..." Twilight began. "I'd like to go see Fluttershy, but her husband doesn't want her to be out of the house very much."

"Oh I have ways of making people change their minds."

The unlikely pair approached Fluttershy's house. The place had originally been stacked acre to acre with animal houses, as well as the accompanying animals. Now it was pretty barren, with only one house to shelter Angel, her pet rabbit. The entire place had once been filled the happy sound of animals, now it was deathly quiet. When Twilight and Luna trotted up the house, they saw that Fluttershy was out in her yard. She was digging, quite exhaustively, into the dirt. There was a tree with its roots wrapped in cloth. It was apparent she was about to plant it. Angel was sitting at her feet, staring up at his owner. He seemed to be waiting to get some attention, but Fluttershy was too busy.

"Fluttershy!" Twilight called. The Pegasus pony gazed up, wiping her forehead. Angel however, upon seeing new arrivals, instantly bounded over to them. Luna, smiling, began petting the rabbit, causing it to rub against her like a cat. Fluttershy only smiled weakly.

"Oh, hello Twilight." Fluttershy said in her weak voice. "Who's your friend?" Princess Luna casually flipped her hood off. The pegasus pony flinched and her eyes widened. She instantly kneeled. "Oh, forgive me princess, I didn't realize..."

"It's fine Fluttershy." Luna replied, waving her hoof in the pony's direction. "You don't have to worry about that."

"A-alright..." Fluttershy said. "I hope I didn't embarrass myself."

"Not unless you start throwing cake like Pinkie Pie did." Twilight stated. Luna laughed. It was the first time Twilight had ever heard her do that. It was short, but it sounded pure and melodic. Twilight found it quite beautiful.

"So why are you planting a tree?" Luna asked.

"Th-the light in the morning." Fluttershy stated, motioning her head towards her house. "It shines in my windows, I'm planting this so it won't happen anymore."

"But Fluttershy," Twilight began, a worried expression on her face. "You love the sun to wake you up in the morning. You told me so yourself."

"Oh...um..." Fluttershy gazed at the ground. "Not..anymore..." Twilight narrowed her eyes. She had a feeling she knew who really wanted to plant that tree.

"Fluttershy!" A voice bellowed from her house. The pegasus pony cringed, lowering herself closer to the ground. A large, grey earth pony stomped out of the residence. He had green hair, a very stern face and a shiny gold coin for a cutie mark. He was also twice as large as Fluttershy and his voice carried for miles when he yelled. His name was Bridleburg, and he didn't seem to like anypony. "What have I told you!" He walked up right beside her.

"I-I'm sorry...they...they walked up to me..." Fluttershy muttered.

"People aren't allowed on my property without my permission!" He said, yelling at the two ponies standing in front of him. "I'm not surprised about you Twilight Spackle." Twilight's eyes twitched out of anger. She couldn't stand that pony. "And who is this? Another addition to the gang of ruffians?"

"This," Twilight began, waiting for a moment like this ever since she met him. "Is Princess Luna." Bridleburg's face dropped and he went a little pale. Luna smiled haughtily. He audibly gulped and kneeled.

"F-Forgive me Princess...I did not realize..."

"Oh, it's quite alright. I look like so many other ponies after all." The royal pony's sarcasm was palpable. Just how many purple alicorns with crescent moons plastered all over them were there? "You don't mind if we borrow Fluttershy for a while, do you?"

"Uh...u-uh..." He began. He didn't want to agree, but knew he couldn't refuse his monarch. "C-c-certainly, of course."

"Wonderful!" Luna said, in mock happiness. "Come along Fluttershy dear, we have things to do."

"O-of course!" Fluttershy said, quickly jumping after the Princess as the three mares walked away.

"A bit high-strung isn't he?" Luna asked Fluttershy as they put some distance between them.

"He's under a lot of strain." Fluttershy said quietly. "He used to be from a rich family, but they lost all their wealth a few years ago. He's still trying to rebuild his name."

"Still, he could be a little nicer..." Twilight muttered.

"Now, now," Luna stated. "Let's go see your last friend and go to that party."

"Pinkie Pie is throwing another party?" Fluttershy asked.

"When did she stop?" Twilight asked.

"Let's be positive!" Luna interrupted. "I'm not in town very often, with these thousand year gaps, let's have fun while I am."

The three of them approached Sweet Apple Acres. Endless rows of apple trees lined the rolling fields, just as they had for generations. Twilight hoped it wasn't apple-bucking season. Otherwise they would have to spend endless hours searching the apple forest for the residents of the farm. The unicorn never could keep up when the harvesting season was. It seemed to be year-round with these ponies. As they approached the barn, a smaller version of Applejack darted out of the door, a candied apple in her mouth. The small pony weaved into the trees, giggling the whole way. The real-sized Applejack came running out moments later.

"Apple Core, you get your hind-end back here!" Applejack shouted. "I told you no fixin's before supper! Don't make me tan your hide!" All three of the arrivals stood in stunned silence. Applejack looked a lot like she did years ago. She was bigger, like all of them, and her hair was slightly shorter at the moment. She stomped the ground with her front hooves. "I declare, that mare is worse than a porcupine in a sneezing fit."

"Hey...Applejack..." Twilight said, not quite sure how to respond to that. Applejack turned her head.

"Well howdy-doo!" Applejack said, trotting over. "Rare to see you Twilight." The earth pony's eyes drifted to Fluttershy. "Even rarer to see you, how ya been Fluttershy?"

"I'm great Applejack." Fluttershy replied, enjoying another pony's kind words for once. Then the earth pony's eyes fell on Luna, who took down her hood yet again. The pony drew back a moment. "Well crush my apples and call me sauce!" All three of the other ponies made an odd face, not quite sure what the country pony had said for a few moments. Applejack knelt briefly, but quickly came back up, excited. "'Been a long time since we had royalty on the farm, hope it's to yer likin'."

"It's...quite nice." Luna said.

"So what can I do ya for?" Applejack asked.

"Party...there's a party!" Luna replied, trying to get her words right.

"Pinkie Pie again?" Applejack asked. "She throws one every day. I can't play every day you know, got a farm to run."

"Yes, but the princess is in town." Twilight stated. "She's never been to one."

"Weeeeelllll..." Applejack stated, tapping her chin with her hoof.

"Come on," Luna said. "It's not nice to leave a princess waiting."

"Oh, alright." Applejack said. "It's been tough raisin' that little one. I guess I could use a break." Applejack turned her head back to the barn. "APPLE TREE!" All three of the other ponies stumbled backwards, holding their ears down. Applejack had yelled so loud that some apples fell off the tree.

"Yep?" Her husband asked, sticking his head out of the window of the hay loft. His father had been an Apple, but his mother was a country Orange. His coat was yellow in color and his eyes blue, like the Orange family, but his mane was Amber, like the Apples. His cutie mark was a half orange and a half apple stuck together, as he was apparently skilled at harvesting both.

"I'm goin to a party with a princess!"

"Okey." He stated.

"Find Apple Core and tan her hide okay? She ate before her supper."

"Aight!" He shouted.

"Simple stallion." Applejack said, turning back. "But he's real kind and a hard worker. Never once complained about my cooking neither."

"I wanna go! I wanna go!" Another pony came hopping out of the barn. This one looked a lot like Applejack, except that her mane was red and her coat was paler.

"Alright, alright Apple Bloom, don't throw a fit, you can come." Applejack stated. Apple Bloom was almost the size of Applejack when Twilight first came to town, but the poor pony was still without her much-sought cutie mark. Twilight knew it was because the young pony tried so many random things without really doing what she wanted to do, but couldn't make the filly see sense. In fact, none of the fillies in her little club had found theirs yet. They experience ridicule on a daily basis from their classmates, but never give up the search.

"I'll go get Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle!" Apple Bloom stated, taking off towards town.

"She's quite old to not have a cutie mark." Luna remarked, once the pony had left.

"Don't tell her that." Applejack stated. "She'll probably do something dangerous to try to find one."

When the host of ponies arrived back at the bakery, Pinkie Pie began hopping around in joy. She hadn't had this many ponies come to a party in a long time. Luna mostly stayed away from Gummy. It was apparent she had something against reptiles, or at least alligators. The Cutie Mark Crusaders, their club still alive and well, were bouncing around the room with Pinkie Pie, wondering if their cutie marks would be balloons like hers. While Princess Luna sat and ate some of the delicious cake, Applejack showed off her square dancing skills, which she did with proficiency. Pinkie Pie attempted to do the same and only landed on her face, causing the Princess to laugh and launch cake from her mouth. Every time Luna laughed, it caused Twilight to stop what she was doing and listen. She couldn't really describe it, it was like music. Applejack then began to coax the princess to dance. Twilight tried to cut her off, she was surprised to see the royal pony stand up and proceed to the open dance area. All of them now got a surprise.

Luna was a masterful dancer. She twirled and hopped around the floor, as if she did it professionally. Every movement she made matched the party music exactly. When she finally finished with a twirl, everypony clopped their hooves on the ground in appreciation. The princess strutted away, back to her cake.

"How did you get so good at dancing?" Twilight asked as the princess sat down.

"What do you think I did on the moon for a thousand years?"

The party wrapped up when Pinkie Pie finally collapsed, too exhausted to continue. Gummy was chewing on her tail, quite content. Everypony cleaned up, congratulated Gummy and Pinkie Pie on their after-after-whatever birthdays and headed home, all of them laughing. As the sun set, Twilight arrived at her tree house with the princess. The unicorn was hopping around, happy for once.

"...and Applejack's face was priceless when Pinkie Pie said "It's called the aristocrats!" I thought she was going to throw up!"

"Pinkie Pie certainly can throw a party." Princess Luna stated, throwing her cloak on a hook.

"She always could, she'll throw another tomorrow probably, expecting everypony to come." Twilight stated, hopping and skipping up her stairs. Luna giggled. She looked like a happy little bunny. It was very easy to make that unicorn happy. Twilight dive-bombed her bed and stretched out on it. "Ooooh, that was exhausting. I haven't had that much fun in a long time."

"I'm surprised you don't go more often." Luna stated, climbing the stairs much more calmly.

"Well..." Twilight began, her face falling. "It gets depressing after a while. Most of us have left town, just being there brings back memories. I don't know if the others feel that way..."

"They do." Luna said, lying down on her bed.

"How...oh, right." Twilight said, remembering Luna's special power. "Even Pinkie Pie?"

"Strangest thing..." Princess Luna muttered. "Your emotions are easy to read, like my sister's. Your friends are more guarded. I can't get much from Pinkie Pie, her thoughts are so quick and random it's hard to make out little more than her love of gum drops, cakes and balloons. Applejack is difficult to feel, she seems to have her emotions all walled up around niceties and country hospitality. And Fluttershy..."

"What about her?" Twilight asked, raising her head in concern.

"She's hiding something." Luna said, thinking. "It's big, like a thick, sticky black cloud that filling her mind. Whatever it is, she walls it up so well that the only thing I can read is sorrow." Twilight became more concerned about her winged friend than before. She figured that that husband of hers was abusing Fluttershy in some way, but now she seemed more convinced than ever. "Don't do anything stupid."

"What...I...no..." Twilight said, quickly remembering that Luna can easily know what she was feeling. "I wasn't..."

"I'm serious." Luna stated. "I only met the guy for a moment, but I didn't sense any restraint in him. You shouldn't test him, he might just snap."

"All the more reason to do something, I have to save Fluttershy." Twilight said bravely.

"Fluttershy is a grown pony." Luna retorted. "She can make her own decisions. Unless you have definite proof that he's abusive: Don't. Do. Anything." Twilight frowned, not liking what her princess was saying. There was some sense in her words, but the unicorn just couldn't abide by them.

"Fine." Twilight scoffed, turning over. "I'll just wait and see."

Luna listened closely as Twilight's breathing began to slow. She was so tired that after only a few minutes, she was sleeping soundly. The princess wasn't stupid. She knew exactly what the unicorn was going to do. That was Luna's intent from the beginning. What Twilight didn't know was that the princess cared for Fluttershy too, but had to walk a fine line for a ruler. She couldn't interfere with people's personal lives. Twilight however, was under no such constraint and would do anything for any of her friends, even if they had abandoned her. That was what made her endearing. The royal pony shuffled over to Twilight's bed. She once again touched their horns together, allowing some magic to pass between them. Twilight groaned in her sleep, images filling her dreams. Luna flicked some of Twilight's hair out of the unicorn's face.

"Dream deeply dear Twilight." Luna whispered into the sleeping pony's ear. "For you are far more important than you realize."

Twilight's dream continued from the previous night. She saw the beautiful glass-like stags with their large antlers hopping and frolicking around. Their mist-like trails stretched on behind them. They danced around the tiny ponies running across the globe. The wooden representations of the earth ponies, pegasus ponies and unicorn ponies went about their lives, seemingly oblivious to the glass giants around them.

"The travelers reveled in the beautiful beings they had created." The narrative continued. "The ones of the earth, of the sky and of magic rebuilt the world out of the ashes." Twilight saw the little wooden ponies begin to build things, they seemed to move in fast forward, constantly building, destroying and rebuilding. "Their tribes allied together and became towns, their towns grew into cities and their cities grew into nations. However, the same problems plagued them as those that inhabited the planet last." Twilight saw plains across the globe. All of them were flooded with the small wooden pieces, this time colliding and stomping each other. Earth ponies, pegasus ponies and unicorns were fighting each other, and only those different from them. Twilight saw the crystal stags hang their heads in sadness. "The ones created by those that travel began to fight over resources and power. Eventually, hatred, racism and greed all spawned by these conflicts were consuming them. The very same problems that plagued and doomed the previous inhabitants were repeating themselves." All of the glass stags turned to each other and began communicating in a way that Twilight couldn't understand. Abruptly, they all became small and tangible. All of the wooden ponies on the ground could see them. The visitors mixed among them, their true identities hidden. They began to nuzzle against the wooden representations, the ponies responding. "The visitors loved and mixed with their creations, in hopes that their partial progeny would bring peace. Being part of this world and yet part of the fabric of the universe would give them the very powers to control the elements of this world..."

Fluttershy returned home in high spirits, but they were quickly dashed when she saw that the lights were still on. Her husband was still awake, and would no doubt fault her for going to the party. Angel, who had attended as well, leapt off her back and hopped into his house. Fluttershy would rather have avoided going home, but she shuddered to think of what punishment awaited her if she dared stay away for a night. The moment the Pegasus pony entered the house, she saw her husband. He was sitting in a chair, facing the door. Fluttershy instantly cringed, fearing what came next. The earth pony stood up, a glare in his eyes.

"Enjoy the party?" He asked, his voice scathing.

"Y-Yes..." Fluttershy muttered.

"I should hope so." He replied. "I hope you enjoyed falling behind on your work and losing money."

"It's only one day..." Fluttershy whispered.

"Time is money!" He shouted. Fluttershy's chin touched the ground and she lamented that she couldn't go any further down. "Because of today, you have lost the reputation of being perfectly on time! All because you wanted to hop around and eat cake, what kind of adult are you!? Don't you understand anything!?"

"I had to go..." Fluttershy said weakly, tears gathering in her eyes.

"They twisted your arm? Put a spear to your neck? Threaten your life?"

"The princess ordered me..." Fluttershy whined. "I couldn't...say no..." Bridleburg growled. Even he had been put down by that royal pony. The last thing he needed were guards in his face. The earth pony turned his back to her.

"Fortunately I convinced them to put it off until tonight. If you hurry you can make both." Fluttershy's face fell.

"But...that'll take hours! It's already late and I have four tomorrow, one early in the morning!" Her husband turned around and stomped over to her, anger in his eyes. Fluttershy cringed close to the ground, fearing his wrath. Bridleburg put his hoof on her head and pushed her face against the ground. Fluttershy tried not to make a sound, lest she anger him more.

"Perhaps you forget who you are talking to!" He bellowed. "Wealth does not gather itself! Do you want me to live in the dirty little hole forever!? Do you want to be a nopony forever!? Staying in this hick town only caring for birds and squirrels!? With every coin you earn we get closer to the goal!" He squashed her face against the ground rather hard. "Or perhaps you don't care anymore? Maybe I should tell all of your friends and family about your latest career path?" Fluttershy lifted her head up against his hoof, panic in her eyes.

"No! Please don't, I'll do...!" Fluttershy didn't get to finish. Bridleburg pushed her face against the floor, shutting her up. The Pegasus pony's wings flapped briefly in discomfort.

"Then you better hurry, you're not going to miss any more appointments ever again!" The earth pony finally lifted his hoof. Fluttershy stumbled backwards, shaking her flattened face.

"Now go, before I have to punish you more." Fluttershy briefly felt like crying, but knew that it wouldn't do any good. She turned around, opened the door and dragged her feet back outside. No matter how hard she worked, she never seemed to be done.

Luna finally left her bed and Twilight moaning in her sleep. She stood near the window, looking at the moon. She never slept very much, even less than her sister. The moon was in its waxing phase, meaning it was growing to full moon. It would be there in a few days. However, its color had a reddish tint and it was rising in the constellation of Scorpius.

"Interesting night." Luna remarked, reading the signs. "The moon signals that change is coming...but good or bad?"

Chapter 3

Twilight awoke in a daze, which was unusual for her. She almost obsessively got the recommended amount of sleep as prescribed by the Canterlot Medical Biannual General Assembly, but not last night. The sunlight streaming in from the window finally roused her from her sleep. She sat up, yawning. Her hair was disheveled and there were bags under her eyes. The pony rubbed her eyes, trying to think. She felt something heavy on her feet. When she looked she saw Spike's head on the edge of bed. He certainly was sleeping in, he usually cooked breakfast by now...

Then Twilight remembered. Spike had returned yesterday. They had stayed up late talking. When Twilight went up to bed however, Spike woke up. He asked if he could sleep close to Twilight and the unicorn happily agreed. Spike managed to slither up to the second floor and lay his head on the edge of the bed. Twilight fell asleep much easier than she had in years, momentarily forgetting all of her problems. Now that she was awake she turned to her side. There lay the princess of Equestria, Luna. She was sprawled out like a filly, quietly snoring. Her eyes were twitching in the sunlight however. Twilight smiled. The grand alicorn looked cute like that, almost like she was harmless. The unicorn reached over and closed her curtains. She carefully edged out of bed, avoiding waking the two other inhabitants. She then tip-toed downstairs to fix her own breakfast.

To avoid making too much noise, Twilight grabbed a few handfuls of hay for her morning meal and sat down to think. Once she had time to ponder however, dark thoughts billowed out. She had a tricky and dangerous plan to enact. She had one driving purpose, nail Bridleburg to the wall. Twilight sighed. This was going to be troublesome. She took a few quick gulps of water and wiped her mouth. When she hopped off the stool however, Spike came walking down the stairs, yawning with his great jaws.

"Morning Twilight." He said, walking past her. He opened a cupboard where he had stored some of jewels he brought with him. He picked out a ruby and began munching on it, enjoying the sweet taste. "What are we going to do today?" Twilight brought a brush to her hair with her magic. She began straightening out her messy locks.

"Sorry Spike," Twilight began. "I promise we'll hang out this afternoon. I have some personal things to attend to first."

"But I'm your assistant." Spike said with a mouthful of ruby. "What sort of personal thing could you have to do that I can't help you with?"

"I made a promise Spike." Twilight replied. "I wish you had told me you were coming, I could have freed up my schedule."

"I didn't even know I was coming." Spike said, motioning his head towards the bed upstairs. "That princess went and found me even though she didn't know where I was."

"She is something else." Twilight said, feeling a little wistful about the rather cute alicorn still sleeping. "I'm interested to see what she'll do next." Twilight figured her hair as good enough and set the brush down on the other side of the room. "I've got to go Spike, try not to get into any trouble."

"Sure." Spike said, reaching into the bookcase. He pulled out an old dictionary Twilight never read. When he opened it a comic book fell out. It apparently was about a masked detective unicorn and his sidekick dragon. "I've got to catch up on my reading." Twilight stood dumbfounded for a moment. Had that been there the whole time? She just shook her head and proceeded out the door.

The walk to Sweet Apple Acres was a quiet one. Most ponies had already settled in to work for the day and the few walking around weren't in a talkative mood. Twilight was constantly yawning and stopping to brush her eyes. It was incredibly rare for her to not sleep enough and her body was intent on punishing her. When she finally did arrive at her destination she saw that the Apples were hard at work. Apple Bloom, now old enough to pull her own weight, was dragging her feet. She had a basket on either side of her back filled with apples. She dumped them in a large bin before sauntering off to get more, like a zombie.

"Hurry it up!" Applejack said as she trotted past her, carrying just as many apples. "Nothing will wake you up better than a healthy apple-kicking!" Apple Bloom muttered in response and didn't speed up at all. As Applejack emptied her apples into the massive bin Twilight approached her.

"Well howdy-do Twilight!" Applejack exclaimed. "I've been gettin' a lot of visits from you lately." Twilight tried to speak, but ended up yawning. "Well golly, you look as bad as Apple Bloom. Her and those gall-derned crusader friends of hers were up to their necks in trouble last night."

"I was up to no good too actually." Twilight replied. "Is Macintosh around? I need to talk to him."

"He's always around." Applejack said, as if the question was obvious. "I just sent Apple Tree after him to see if he can get big red to accept a marriage proposal."

"Another one?" Twilight asked.

"This one is really good though!" Applejack said. "She's a friend of our fourth cousin. She's a Strawberry and if our families connect together we'd own nearly a third of the farms in all of Equestria!"

"With the Apples, Oranges and Strawberries I don't doubt it." Twilight replied. Farming families sure lacked creativity with names. "Sometimes it's not about convenience, logic and what's good for everypony else."

"Read that in a book?" Applejack said, her eyes half-shaded.

"Maybe." Twilight replied.

"He's awfully busy Twilight." Applejack said. "What is it you want to talk to him about?"

"W-Well...it's...a secret..." Twilight said shakily. She hadn't been counting on Applejack being nosy.

"A secret eh...?" Applejack grinned and leaned close to Twilight. "You can tell me!" Twilight shrunk back.

"I...I made a promise..." Twilight remembered abruptly that she was a terrible liar. Applejack grinned.

"Oh come on..." Applejack began. "I won't share."

"Uh...well...uh...Macintosh has...a secret admirer. I'm...delivering a message for her!"

"Oh really!" Applejack instantly jerked her head up, a big grin on her face. "That's good to hear! Who is it? Is she nice?"

"Incredibly." Twilight said, relieved that Applejack bought that. "She's also very pretty."

"He ain't going fer that whole arranged marriage thing." Applejack said, thinking. "Maybe he'll go along with it if the mare already likes him. Alrighty, give it your best shot! He's over in field three, that way." Applejack pointed in one direction. With an encouraging pat from Applejack on her shoulder, Twilight marched away.

It was a lot harder to find him than the unicorn thought. "Field three" as Applejack described it was huge, as they all were. Plus, it wasn't like Twilight could tell one tree from another like Applejack could. The earth pony even named and babied them for goodness sake. Twilight spent much longer than she wanted to wandering around from tree to tree, getting the distinct feeling that she had no idea where she was going. When the sun was high in the sky, signaling lunch, the unicorn sighed and began walking back towards the barn. Lo and behold, just when she had given up and was walking back to where she started...she heard them! It was Apple Tree's droll voice. She instantly trotted off into that direction. As she rounded a particularly large tree she spotted them, bucking apples and picking them up to put them in large buckets.

"'Bout lunch time." Apple Tree said. Macintosh reared back and smacked a tree, easily knocking off most of the apples.

"Eeyup." The red stallion replied, picking up his crops.

"Sooo...given anymore thought to the proposal?" Apple Tree asked.

"Nope." Macintosh replied.

"Could you at least think about it?" Apple Tree asked.

"You're only bothering me because Applejack is pestering you." Macintosh retorted.

"Well, yeah." Apple Tree said, as if it were obvious.

"I'm not going to marry somepony because you want sis off your back. I'm also not going to marry somepony simply because it's convenient for the rest of the family." Apple Tree paused, with a curious expression on his face. Macintosh's response seemed to puzzle him.

"So when will you get married?" Apple Tree asked. Twilight wondered if the stallion even knew if there were more reasons to get married than the two Macintosh mentioned.

"When I feel like it." Macintosh replied. He dragged a full bucket of apples to a waiting cart. Twilight figured now was as good a time as any.

"Hey boys!" She exclaimed walking into the clearing. Both of the stallions turned to her.

"Twilight." They said at the same time with the same inflection.

'That's a little disconcerting.' Twilight thought with a shiver. 'Is everypony in their family exactly the same?'

"Good to see you!" Twilight replied politely. "Apple Tree, how have you been?"

"Okey." He replied.

"We hardly ever talk to each other." Twilight said. "We should do it more often."

"Do you have something to talk to me about?" Apple Tree asked.

"Well...no..."

"Then why would we talk?" Twilight's face was blank for a moment. How was she supposed to respond? Apple Tree asked it as if it were an obvious question...and it kind of was if the unicorn thought about it for a moment. Twilight cleared her throat.

"A-Anyway...I need to talk to Macintosh alone for a moment." She quickly began thinking up excuses as to why she needed to speak him alone better than the one she fed Applejack.

"Okey." Apple Tree replied. He began walking towards the barn, presumably for lunch. Twilight deflated a little. Was he really that simple?

The moment Applejack's husband walked away however, Twilight was at a loss for words. Just how did somepony open a conversation that led to Fluttershy's husband? The unicorn beat her hoof back and forth and chuckled nervously.

"Sooo...how have you been?" Twilight asked in a weak voice.

"Sis didn't send you here to propose to me did she?" Macintosh asked.

"Wh...wha...wha...What! NO! NO!" Twilight blushed furiously and babbled for several moments.

"Never can be too sure." Macintosh replied, picking up some apples. "She's been single-minded lately."

"S-So why not get married?" Twilight asked. "Most of your relatives have arranged marriages, can it really be that bad, and you get to court them first don't you?"

"I'll make my own decisions." Macintosh replied. "Not my family. I'll get married when I feel like it." Twilight tilted her head. She always thought that Macintosh was a simple, family pony. Why would he refuse so much?

"Oh well, it's not my business." Twilight said. She stepped closer to Macintosh, looking left and right to make sure no one was close. The red stallion eyed her suspiciously, wondering what she was doing. Twilight leaned close to his face and began whispering. "I need your help with something deadly serious and you can't tell anypony."

"Ooookay..." Macintosh said slowly, sure that the conversation was about to go into an area that would make him uncomfortable.

"Bridleburg is selling Fluttershy." Twilight said, her teeth gritting. Macintosh's expression fell. Twilight could see something spark and burn in his eyes.

"He what!" Macintosh said in a low voice.

"I need you to help me. I have a plan to make Fluttershy turn on him. I need you...to pose as a buyer." Macintosh's expression fell again, this time to a dumbfounded one.

"You want me to do what?" He asked.

"Bridleburg might not trust you to send Fluttershy out alone the first few times, so you might have to do it more than once."

"You want me to do what?"

"And...it'll have to be convincing...so you might have to actually...do it." There was a long stretch of silence. The red stallion's jaw was hanging open.

"You want me to do what?"

"Macintosh please." Twilight begged. "You're the only one I can count on! I want to make him pay, but I can't unless Fluttershy agrees to speak against him!"

"W-Why can't you just turn him in now?" Macintosh asked.

"Because, they would have to catch Fluttershy in the act for them to do anything, she'd be in trouble too and there's no way she would survive a trial, much less prison!" Macintosh flinched. That made sense. He backed up a few paces, with one of his front hooves up. He stared off into the orchard, as if thinking. He ground his teeth back and forth for a moment.

"We don't have any money." He stated. "We won't until the harvest is completed."

"I have a lot of money saved up." Twilight replied. "My grandparents are bankers actually; they set up an account for me with a higher rate of interest than normal." Macintosh sighed and lowered his head towards the ground. If Twilight wasn't mistaken...he seemed sad.

"Okay, I'll do it."

"Good." Twilight said. "Meet me after your work today."

"Fine." He lifted his head back up. He instantly furrowed his brow. "What is that?"

"What?" Twilight turned around. Storm clouds, seemingly out of nowhere, were billowing out of town. Both of the ponies stood dumbfounded.

'What could possibly create storm clouds?' Twilight thought. Then something grim hit the pit of her stomach. 'An alicorn!'

"Meet me at my house!" Twilight quickly said to Macintosh. "I've got to go!" Twilight began teleporting quickly. She blinked in and out of the trees, going as far as she could. She couldn't go very far with much proficiency.

Twilight made it out of the farm, but she was exhausted. Teleportation was one of the most complicated spells for a normal unicorn. Lifting things was simple, although the heavier the object, the harder it was. Teleportation was completely different. It involved disintegrating yourself and reassembling again somewhere else in the exact same form, without a hair out of place (ideally). Now Twilight set out into a dead run. She galloped as quickly as she could towards her house. The storm clouds were fast consuming the town. Everypony was wandering around, staring up at the sky. The sky was also beginning to rumble, signaling a storm. Twilight had to move quickly. If the guards in the Everfree Forest saw this, they would come as well. Then Luna would have to leave!

'No more leaving!' Twilight thought in her desperate run. 'No one else is leaving! Never again!' Twilight ran until her legs burned and she could barely breathe. As she approached her house she saw that Spike was standing outside. The clouds were indeed swirling from above her house. Twilight ran up to him. The dragon appeared bewildered and concerned.

"Twilight!" He exclaimed as she desperately gasped and wheezed. "You have to do something! Luna's gone crazy!"

"What...happened...?" Twilight gasped between breaths.

"I don't know, I think she's having some kind of nightmare." Spike quickly explained. "She just started screaming! I tried to calm her down, but she kicked up this wind inside the library and blew me out! Now these storm clouds are coming out of nowhere!" Twilight coughed a few times, clearing her throat. She began to march towards her house, still huffing and puffing. "Be careful Twilight!" The unicorn reached for the doorknob and pushed the door open.

She only made it two paces before a powerful wind pushed her backwards. She tumbled back out of the house, but quickly jumped back up. A crowd was beginning to gather. It was the last thing Twilight needed. The unicorn rushed inside and slammed the door behind her. She was immediately thrown against it, as another powerful wave of air blasted around her. Twilight cracked her eyes open when she landed on the ground.

Luna was hovering in the middle of the room. She had terrifyingly angry expression on her face. Her eyes were glowing and her hair whipped in all directions.

"Princess..." Twilight begin.

"NO!" Luna screamed. Her horn glowed abruptly. Another wave of wind swept around the library, sending books everywhere. Twilight expected this and braced herself, this time not being thrown against a wall. Luna slammed onto the ground, the whole house shaking. "I WON'T GO BACK!" She was shrieking at the top of her lungs. It wasn't a commanding voice, but one of desperation.

"What are you...?" Twilight tried to say.

"YOU CAN'T MAKE ME GO BACK!" She shrieked again. "I WILL NOT GO BACK TO THE MOON!"

'She is having a nightmare.' Twilight thought. 'I have to wake her up.' Twilight stood up. What greeted her however was a blood-curdling scream. It was the most painful and awful one Twilight had ever heard. It was one that was mixed with rage, pain and sorrow. It stuck a knife right into Twilight's heart. When Luna finally stopped however, the unicorn saw that her eyes no longer glowed. Instead they were slit, like a cat's. 'She's turning into Nightmare Moon! I have to stop her!' Twilight began approaching.

"NOOO! I WILL NOT STAY HERE! YOU CAN'T MAKE ME! NOOOOOO!" Another wave of wind swept around the room. Twilight held her ground, despite nearly being blown off her feet. She continued marching, closer and closer. "YOU CAN'T LEAVE ME HERE! YOU CAN'T! NO! NO! NO! NO! NO!' Luna's mane turned deep purple and began flowing in all directions. Her body began turning black in veins across her body that expanded all over her coat. Twilight finally stood before her. The alicorn was foaming at the mouth and her slit eyes were filled with rage. Twilight didn't know exactly what to do. She did the only thing she could think of. She lunged forward and wrapped Luna in a tight embrace.

"Stop, stop." Twilight whispered. "You're not on the moon. You're not. Calm down."

"I CAN'T BE HERE!" Luna shrieked. "I CAN'T BE ALONE!"

"You're not alone. I'm here. I'm here with you." Twilight could see the veins of black beginning to recede. Luna's mane returned to its normal color. "That's it. Calm down."

"I don't wanna be here..." Luna said in a weak voice. "I don't wanna be alone...not again..." Tears began dropping on Twilight's shoulder. As the princess blinked them away, her eyes returned to normal. "I can't be alone again...I can't..."

"You're not. You're not alone. I'm right here with you." Luna lifted her head and Twilight backed away to see. Luna blinked a few times, as if a little stunned. She stared right at the unicorn for a moment.

"Twilight?" She asked.

"All better?" Twilight asked with a smile. Luna paused for a moment, then her chin quivered and her eyes watered.

"Oh Twilight!" The princess leaped forward and wrapped the unicorn in a hug this time. "It was awful! I was on the moon again! I was all alone again! I was alone for so long! I can't do it again. I won't do it again! I'd rather die!"

"You're not alone." Twilight said, returning the princess's hug. "I'm right here. You won't have to do it again, I promise." The alicorn was shaking in fear. Twilight had never seen somepony so upset before.

"Twilight...my friend..." Luna said quietly. Abruptly however, she slumped over, nearly knocking Twilight over.

"Princess? Princess?" Twilight asked as she shook her. The unicorn gazed back and saw that she was passed out. She reached up with her hoof and felt the Princess's forehead. "Spike! Spike!" The dragon quickly entered the home.

"What is it? Did you get her?" He asked quickly.

"She's burning up, she must be sick!" Twilight shouted. "Get her up to bed, I'll brew something up!"

"Okay!" Spike replied. He easily lifted the alicorn and carried her up the stairs. Twilight trotted over and stuck her head out the door to the crowd.

"Sorry everypony!" Twilight said with a smile. "I left a weather experiment out and it got out of hand. I fixed it now." The crowd instantly murmured and began dispersing, some expressing relief and others complaining about how reckless Twilight was. The unicorn briefly gazed up to confirm that the clouds were, indeed, breaking up. Then she slammed the door again and locked it behind her.

Twilight managed to give the Princess a potion used for lowering fever and let her sleep. Now she sat beside her on the bed, above the covers. She didn't think alicorns could even get sick. The princess however was tossing and turning in her sleep, apparently having fitful dreams. Now Twilight had a new problem. Nightmare Moon still existed. Luna could still turn into her!

Twilight had always thought that the elements of harmony had completely destroyed that evil part of the princess, but apparently not. Was it really safe to let her wander around like this? What if she had another nightmare and couldn't be calmed down? Perhaps it was safer to keep her locked up. But then...

She had been crying. Something so evil could never cry like that. Her screams during the nightmare were ones of terror and sadness. Twilight had never really thought about it…but she had been on the moon, alone for one thousand years. The unicorn couldn't even comprehend how horribly lonely that must have been...and that scream... It was awful. It was unlike any Twilight had heard before. It was filled with pain and anguish. Twilight hoped she never had to hear it again.

Twilight stayed by Luna's side until somepony knocked at her door many hours later. Twilight knew who it was. She told Spike to stay by Luna's side and trotted down the stairs. When she opened the door the red stallion was waiting for her.

"Ready?" Twilight asked Macintosh.

"Nope." He replied, shifting the piece of hay in his mouth around uncomfortably.

"Neither am I." Twilight stated, closing the door behind her.

The walk over to Fluttershy's house was a long one, or at least it seemed to be. Twilight and Macintosh said nothing to each other. Just what did one talk about in this situation? The red stallion continued chewing and moving around the piece of hay in his mouth nervously. Twilight alternatively gazed between him, the ground and the scenery, as if trying to change the subject in her mind. They finally began trotting down the final road, just before their destination. Just out of sight, Twilight stopped Macintosh.

"Okay," Twilight began. "You have to make this convincing. Buy her and then pick a place away from town. He may not trust you right away…so we might have to do this a couple of times." Macintosh gulped, clearly disturbed by this.

"Wh-What if…" He began, his voice shaking.

"What if what?" Twilight asked, beginning to get nervous that he was flaking.

"What if Fluttershy is there?" Twilight flinched. She hadn't thought of that. How would the delicate pegasus pony react if she saw one of her friends going in to...buy her? Twilight was hoping to do this as painlessly as possible, but this would probably leave Fluttershy a wreck. Twilight sighed. The only other option was to turn him in now, which would get Fluttershy in trouble as well. There would be no way she would be able to deal with the shame from that. Even if she got off with no charge she would...have to leave town.

"Try not to look at her." Twilight said. "Tell him the ponies at the lumberyard sent you. Try to be quick and don't do anything stupid...not yet." Macintosh nodded. He took a deep breath, turned and marched towards Fluttershy's house.

After only a few knocks with Macintosh's hoof the door swung open. Bridleburg stood in the doorway, his eyebrow cocked. He stared the country stallion down suspiciously.

"You...I know you...I've seen your face before." He said, trying to remember.

"Macintosh." The red stallion responded, trying to keep calm.

"Yes, you were at the wedding." Bridleburg stated. "Anyway, what do you want?"

"I-i-i-is Fluttershy home?" He asked nervously.

"She's out...working." Bridleburg replied curtly. Macintosh ground his teeth together. He knew what that meant. "Anything else?"

"I…I want to make a purchase." Macintosh said, feeling a knot in his stomach.

"Purchase?" Bridleburg asked.

"The…ponies at the lumberyard sent me." Bridleburg's expression instantly lightened and a smug smile set over his face.

"Oh, I see." He said with satisfaction. "Do come in, let's talk." Macintosh trotted inside. The house had changed quite a bit. It was now filled with rich trinkets and expensive furniture, likely from Bridleburg's newfound source of wealth. He sat on a plush chair, signaling for Macintosh to sit on the opposing couch. The stallion declined.

"I always had a feeling about you." Bridleburg stated.

"Y-you did?" Macintosh replied, sounding shocked.

"Yes, you see, I'm not blind." Bridleburg replied with a sly smile. "I remember your face because I saw it at the wedding, giving those sideways, longing glances to my wife in her wedding dress." Despite the fact that Macintosh was already red, it was obvious to see that he was blushing deeply, from his face all the way to his chest. Bridleburg laughed.

"I was wondering when you'd be around, of course I didn't exactly put up posters. I always knew she'd go for high prices, being so cute and helpless."

"You...you planned this from the beginning?" It was extremely difficult for Macintosh to hold back the venomous tone under his breath. He could feel the veins in his neck beginning to pop from how strained they were. When Fluttershy married he had hoped, with every fiber of his being, that she would be happy and safe. To hear that she wasn't and he had been just uselessly kicking apples the whole time made him sad. This however...made his blood boil.

"I didn't plan to marry her the whole time if that's what you mean." Bridleburg replied shrewdly. "She wouldn't 'work' however unless she had a 'commitment' from me. It was the only thing she was particularly stubborn about. Mares huh?" Macintosh could feel a burning behind his eyes as his vision turned red. It took every ounce of strength not to attack and kill this stallion. "So, let's talk about a place. Do you have somewhere in mind?" Macintosh gulped and tried to think.

"Our barn, in the afternoon, everypony else will be working. It'll be empty."

"And no one else will show up?"

"No. They'll have no reason to be there."

"Better hope your right. If you get caught it's on your and her head." Macintosh felt his eye beginning to twitch.

"She can see you tomorrow, that okay?"

"I may...want more than once..." Macintosh said through gritted teeth.

"You may be out of luck there." Bridleburg replied. The red stallion was abruptly interested.

"What? Why?"

"I'm about to take her on a trip." Bridleburg stated calmly. "My old friends, most of them unseasonably rich, have taken a liking to the pictures I've sent them. We'll be hopping around from place to place, wherever their vacation homes happen to be. It'll take about a month, and I can't guarantee that if they make me a very nice offer for her, I won't take it." The usual boiling anger erupted inside Macintosh, however, dashed on top was fear. They could lose Fluttershy to some rich pervert! He couldn't allow that to happen.

"Tomorrow afternoon." Macintosh said. "At the barn."

"Okay, just be sure to have to money." Bridleburg replied. "It'll be 300 bits, paid before tomorrow." Macintosh flinched at that number. That was a lot of money. He could plant a whole new orchard of apples for that much. He hoped Twilight could pay, even if her grandparents were bankers.

"Okay." Macintosh stated.

"Good! Pleasure doing business with you!"

Twilight saw that Macintosh was trotting quickly out of the house. Once the door slammed shut behind him, he began galloping. As soon as he was by the Twilight's side, she could see that he was alarmed.

"We can't wait!" Macintosh said quickly.

"Huh? What happened?" Twilight asked, now alarmed herself.

"He's about to take Fluttershy across Equestria, he might sell her...permanently!" A wave of dread swept over Twilight. This just kept getting better.

"When is this supposed to start?" Twilight asked.

"After tomorrow, when I made the appointment!" Twilight stared off into the woods, desperately thinking. There was no way Bridleburg would trust Macintosh right away, but they couldn't take the chance that Fluttershy wouldn't come back.

"I'll have to do it tomorrow then." Twilight said. "I just hope she comes alone."

"I'm coming with you!" Macintosh said.

"What?" Twilight replied, her voice abruptly raising a few octaves.

"He planned this...the whole time! He married her just so he could use her! I want to trample him!"

"That's exactly why you have to stay away!" Twilight replied sternly. "If you beat him up, you'll be in trouble. We have to keep this quiet. We can't be reckless Macintosh. If we mess this up Fluttershy will be the one who pays!" Macintosh grimaced, not liking the idea of this.

"I can't just do nothing." He stated.

"You're not." Twilight replied. "You've set him up and now it's up to me to catch him in the trap. You have to trust me Macintosh." The red stallion didn't like it, but he wasn't as smart as Twilight was. Perhaps she was right...although he doubted it.

"He wants 300 bits, before the end of today." Twilight flinched at that number as well. No wonder three of those lumber ponies had to share. That greedy Bridleburg was trying to milk Fluttershy for all she was worth.

"I have that much." Twilight said. "Not much more than that, but I have it. Let's hurry before the bank closes."

Twilight returned home gave Macintosh the money and began brooding deeply. These were certainly dark times for Ponyville she lived in. The magical days she spent with her wonderful friends seemed like a lifetime ago. It all changed so quickly. Twilight never even thought during those happy days that they might someday end. Now she was trying to get Fluttershy's husband locked up for selling her as a prostitute. Rarity and Rainbow Dash were gone. Applejack and Pinkie Pie lived in their own world. She had sent Spike away, so that he might be a dragon. Even Zecora was returning to her homeland. The slow creeping shadow of isolation began seeping its way into her heart. When she opened the door to her home, Spike instantly slithered over to the door.

"Luna's been sleeping since you left." He explained. "I made some food in case she wakes up, what was Macintosh doing here? You gave him that bag, was it full of money...?" Spike stopped. Twilight was wearing a very heavy expression. Her eyes were filled with forlorn and her hooves dragged on the ground. "Twilight, are you okay? What happened?"

'What happened?' Twilight echoed in her head. 'Yes, what did happen? What happened to all of us?'

"We..." Twilight began, gazing at the ground. "We...we grew up Spike." She lifted up her head to her beloved assistant, no longer the tiny thing that could ride on her back. "And it sucks. It all sucks. Nothing went right. None of us kept our promises. All of us chased our own ambitions... everypony... but me." Spike's slit eyes were now filled with sympathy and sadness.

"Oh Twilight..." He said gently. He swung his head around her body, allowing her to wrap her hooves around his neck.

"I'm sorry Spike." Twilight said into his ear. "I'm ruining your visit."

"It's fine." Spike said. "You should've come and seen me if you were so sad."

"I didn't want to disturb you." Twilight said. "Just so I could complain."

"You could never disturb me Twilight." Spike replied honestly. Twilight sighed. She felt the weight of the world on her shoulders, but with her hooves around Spike it was a little lighter.

"Sorry I've been so busy, some things came up." Twilight said. "I have some things to do tomorrow, but after those, how about we hang out? We'll do whatever you want."

"That sounds great."

"I'm going to bed, I'm exhausted." Twilight released Spike and trotted up her stairs. She approached her bed, already rubbing her eyes with fatigue. When her hoof came back down however, she was surprised to see that Luna's head had risen from her own pillow and was staring around with a blank expression. Twilight froze, wondering what the Princess was doing. The unicorn then noticed that her guest's eyes were glazed over and distant.

'Is she still asleep?' Twilight thought. She walked around her bed and to the princess's own side. She calmly began stroking the alicorn's head.

"There, there, what is it?" Twilight asked. She was actually quite scared that Luna would go off again, awakening Nightmare Moon. The princess lifted her hoof and pointed it towards Twilight. The unicorn instantly became uncomfortable. "Wh-What? Me?" Luna shook her head. She pointed to Twilight's chest, particularly one side. "My...my heart?"

"I can hear." Luna said in a whisper, sounding as if she were far away.

'She can sense emotions...' Twilight thought. 'even when she sleeps.'

"Did I wake you?" Twilight asked nervously, her hoof over her heart.

"It sings." Luna said.

"Huh?"

"It sings to me, and the song is so sad." Twilight tilted her head. Singing? She must be really out of it.

"Go back to sleep." Twilight cooed. Luna instead leaned forward. She put her face right in front of Twilight's. The unicorn blushed a little, unaccustomed to somepony else being so close to her.

"The Spark grows."

'Th-The Spark?" Twilight tried to think. The last time somepony mentioned a spark it had to do with the Elements of Harmony. Was that what Luna was talking about?

"It will explode soon, and the new generation will come."

'Okay, that one made no sense.' Twilight thought, finally coming to the conclusion that Luna was delirious and just saying random things.

"That's lovely." Twilight said sweetly. "Now go back to sleep." The unicorn pushed the princess's head back onto the pillow.

"Just hope Celestia made the right choice with you." Luna muttered as she snuggled back into the bed.

"She did, she did." Twilight stated patronizingly. She rubbed the princess's head before trotting over to her side of the beds. She had a long day tomorrow, probably the longest of her life.

Princess Luna sat up in her bed. She groaned a little, rubbing her head. It was full of cobwebs. She had been delirious, that she knew. What she didn't know was what happened. All she could remember were some vague horrible dreams and some dreams about her childhood. She decided to forget about it. She reached up with her hoof and attempted to smooth out her rough mane, which was sticking out in all directions. She gazed out the window and squinted. How long had she been out? The sun was already past midday. She swept the covers off of her body and hopped out of bed. Her legs wobbled from disuse. The princess rocked back and forth for a moment before finding her balance. She gyrated her head, causing her neck to issue a popping sound. She yawned once and then finally proceeded down the stairs.

When she arrived at the ground floor, she was greeted by a curious sight. Spike was on his back, with his stomach in the sunlight from a window. Luna stared at him for several moments. She then asked the question that was on her mind.

"What are you doing?" Spike gazed up from the floor.

"Welcome back to the land of the living." Spike replied jokingly. "I used to do this all the time when I lived here. I still like it, it turns out."

"Oh." Luna replied nonchalantly. "How long was I out?"

"Completely, or just out of it?"

"Uh, both?"

"A day and a half." Luna appeared flabbergasted. That had never happened to her before. She had felt some strong enough emotions in the past before, but never one that knocked her out, for over a day at that.

"Good grief." Luna said, rubbing her head with her hoof. "Where's Twilight?"

"She said she had some business to take care of."

"Business?"

"She won't tell me what it is, but says it's vitally important." This instantly piqued the princess's interest. Considering what she had learned before she passed out, she didn't like how that sounded.

"Did she say where?"

"Nope...well..."

"Well?"

"Macintosh came over here last night and Twilight gave him quite a bit of money."

"Macintosh? Money?" Luna tilted her head this time. This made less and less sense.

"Macintosh is Applejack's brother." Spike explained.

"Oh yeah, the big red one." Luna said. She only ever recalled seeing him once in her life.

"She gave him a lot of money. It was a big bag. I could've bought a whole new pile of jewels with it, I bet." Luna liked this situation even less now. With her magic, she brought a brush over to her and began smoothing out her flowing mane.

"Where can I find this Macintosh?" She asked authoritatively.

"He's probably still working at their farm." Spike said.

"Stay here." Luna commanded, quickly bringing her cloak around her and marching out the door.

"That'll be a tall order, but I'll manage." Spike said with a sneaky grin. He laid his head back down and resumed enjoying the warm sunlight on his stomach.

"Hurry it up!" Bridleburg hissed as Fluttershy and himself trotted up to the barn. "I've already got the money!" Fluttershy however, was dragging her feet. Her face was low to the ground and her expression was incredibly downtrodden.

"Couldn't...couldn't it have been somepony else?" She asked weakly.

"You know any other red stallions named Macintosh with an apple on their flank?" He snapped back. Fluttershy bit her lip.

'It can't be true...' She thought. 'He...he wouldn't. Even if he knew...he wouldn't...' Macintosh was a kind stallion. There was no way he would do something like this to her. That's what she kept telling herself. They finally arrived at the large red barn. Bridleburg scanned around, making sure no one else was near. He leaned into the door, but it was too dark to make anything out inside.

"Macintosh, you here?" He asked.

"Yes." A voice whispered. It was too quiet to make out the source definitely, but it was good enough for the greedy stallion.

"Alright, get in there." Bridleburg stated. Fluttershy flinched backwards. She couldn't believe it. This was...really happening! Her eyes began to tear up at the thought of it. One of her friends...was going to use her! Fluttershy's husband narrowed his vision. He walked towards her, outstretched his hoof and looped it around her neck. He then shoved her into the barn. "Get to work!" Before she could change her mind, he slammed the door behind her. "Honestly, do mares ever get a clue?"

Fluttershy kept her back against the door, huddling in the dark. She expected somepony to grab her or pull her away from it. Instead, there was silence. The pegasus pony finally dared to look around. The barn was completely dark, save for some light seeping through the cracks in the structure. She couldn't see anypony however. She cautiously walked forward.

"M-M-Macintosh? A-a-are you th-there?" She stammered. There was a long paused.

"No, he isn't." Said a familiar voice. Fluttershy gasped and held her breath. A pony trotted out into the light.

"Twilight!" Fluttershy exclaimed.

Princess Luna aimlessly walked around the farm. This place was far too big for its own good. If she could fly, she could find anypony in a matter of minutes, but she couldn't risk being seen. So she was forced to engage in the more layman form of travel, on hoof. It wasn't so bad. The sunlight peeking through the leaves on the trees was quite lovely. She was, however, becoming impatient. These people needed a bell or something to summon them. Of course, they probably didn't get many visitors. Finally, the alicorn spotted one of the trees shaking. That could mean only one thing, somepony was bucking it. Luna trotted over to see Applejack kicking the poor plant quite violently. The country pony halted when the princess arrived, with a rather surprised look on her face.

"Why I declare!" Applejack said, bowing briefly. "We haven't got this many visitors in a long time. What can I do ya for princess?"

"Had a lot of visitors?" Luna asked.

"Well yeah." Applejack began. "There was all of you the day before yesterday, Twilight yesterday and you today. Most activity I've seen since the Apple family reunion." Luna couldn't imagine such a quiet life, what with all the activity in the Canterlot castle.

"Listen Applejack, I need to speak with Macintosh."

"Well tarnation!" Applejack shouted. Luna cringed a bit. Did she say something wrong? "What's with everypony wantin' to see Big Mac? First Twilight comes to talk to him and then he's acting all nervous-like since! He was downright desperate for us to get to work today. Made us eat our lunches on the go. What do you want to see him for? Is there something you people are keepin' from me?" Luna gulped and shuffled her hooves a moment. Applejack was leaning closer, sensing something interesting. Luna thought desperately, trying to come up with anything. Something rather random sprung from her mouth and she regretted it the moment it came out.

"Well...you see...I...I think he's kind of cute..." Luna closed her eyes and cringed the second she said that. It sounded so lame. Applejack however instantly bloomed into a smile.

"Well cook me up and call me a fritter!" Applejack exclaimed. Luna opened her eyes for a moment and had to think about that one, not sure what she said for a moment. "It's you!"

"Huh?"

"Oh, Twilight must have come here yesterday without tellin ya. She said that there was somepony that liked Mac and she wanted to talk to him about it. It was you wasn't it?"

"Y-Yeah." Luna said, quickly rolling with it. "It was me. Totally me."

"It'd be mighty fine to have royalty in the family!" Applejack said. She put her hoof on her chin, stared up at the sky and had a big grin on her face. The princess would have to guess that she was fantasizing about it all.

"So...uh...where is he?"

"Oh! He's just over that hill. Knock 'em dead honey! I'm rootin' for ya!" Luna laughed nervously as she trotted away. That was awkward. She might have just married into the Apple family.

True to Applejack's word, as soon as Luna rounded the hill she saw Macintosh absolutely murdering an apple tree. He was repeated kicking it, despite the fact that most of the apples had already fallen off. He had frustrated look on his face, as if he were taking his problems out on the tree. Luna trotted over to him, without him even noticing. Once she cleared her throat however, he finally stopped kicking and stared at her. There were hoof marks in the poor tree's trunk.

"Huh, who're you?" Luna reached up and removed her hood. "Oh, I...uh...forgive me..." He attempted to kneel with the apples on his back.

"Forget that!" Luna exclaimed, waving her hoof in front of him. "What are you and Twilight doing?"

"Wh-What?" He asked, taken aback.

"You two are up to something!" Luna accused. "She came to see you yesterday, she gave you money last night and now no one knows where she is. What's going on?" Macintosh's mouth moved a bit, but no sound came out. Finally however, he lowered his head and stared at the ground.

"I can't tell." He stated, sounding sad.

"I'm a princess you know." Luna said, actually sounding a little cross. "I could order you."

"Even then ma'arm, I can't tell." He said, still sounding solemn. Luna fumed for a few moments. She wasn't about to come this far and be stopped, time to switch gears. A mischievous smile came across her face.

"You know Macintosh, Applejack's under the impression that I have a crush on you."

"Wh-what?" The red stallion stumbled backwards.

"I suppose I could go over that hill and tell her we're getting married."

"What?" Macintosh didn't know how to respond to that.

"Think she'd say no? That she wouldn't tell the whole town? That she wouldn't just call up a band, the mayor and the entire apple family to start this whole thing tomorrow?" Macintosh's eyelid began twitching. Luna stood beside him, rubbing her head against his neck and making him very uncomfortable. "Of course you'd have to be sent to etiquette schools to learn proper manners and how to be a excellent diplomat and politician. Being my husband, messing up in front of dignitaries would have dire consequences for the whole nation. It could start a war! You're going to have to make a tour of the entire nation, introducing yourself to crowds of thousands. It would take years!"

"You wouldn't." Macintosh said.

"Try me boy." She said with a wide grin. "I'm the monarch. I can do whatever I want, even if you say no." Macintosh gritted his teeth. He had a feeling she wasn't bluffing. He gazed at the ground. It was probably over already anyway.

"We found out that Bridleburg was selling Fluttershy out."

"He what!" Luna shouted, stepping away from the stallion.

"Twilight set it up so I would pose as a buyer so she could talk to Fluttershy and convince her to turn on him."

"She what!" Luna could feel both anger and concern wash over her. Twilight hadn't listened to a word she said! "Where, when!" Luna's voice was becoming loud and commanding. The wind had also mysteriously begun picking up in the orchard.

"At the barn, now, but it's probably already over." Luna instantly turned and bolted towards the large red building. "No, wait! I..." Macintosh took off after her, but the apples on his back weighed him down.

Applejack turned and saw Luna tearing the orchard at a speed that would put Rainbow Dash to shame. Macintosh was following behind her, a scared expression on his face. Applejack frowned.

"Ya blew it didn't ya Mac? Sigh...and I already had a good band picked out."

~*~

"Twilight, what are you doing here?" Fluttershy shouted, feeling confused and scared.

"I know everything Fluttershy." Twilight said. Fluttershy gasped and blushed deeply. She felt humiliated. She had tried to be so careful. How could this have happened? "It's over now. You have to turn him in."

"I...I can't." Fluttershy said in a weak voice. "I've...come so far..."

"What are you talking about!" Twilight shouted.

"Once he can regain his wealth, he's going to let me open veterinarian stations all over Equestria. I can help so many animals! All I have to do is work like this for a little while..."

"Oh come on Fluttershy!" Twilight shouted, a little harsher than she intended. "He never intended to do that from the start! He's just using you to get money for himself! He told Macintosh that he intends to take you around the country to sell you!"

"He...wouldn't do that..." Fluttershy's eyes filled with tears.

"He intended to sell you permanently to one of his rich friends! He only cares about himself and money! Look at his cutie mark!"

"But he said...he said..."

"He lied Fluttershy." Twilight said, walking over to her friend. She put her hoof on her shoulder. "He's using you, making you do things you don't want to do just for his own greed. You have to see that. He'll never give any of that to you. He's just going to use you and when he's done he'll throw you away! You can't let him do this. You have to turn him in. I'll help you. Come on..."

"I just...I wanted...I wanted it to be true..." Fluttershy sobbed. "I thought...that if we finally got the money...I could stop...I just...I just wanted to help everypony..."

"I know." Twilight said, tightening her arm around Fluttershy's shoulder. "But first you have to help yourself. You can do this."

"I...I..." Before Fluttershy could say another word however, the door to the barn swung open.

"What is going on in...!" Bridleburg stepped inside, finally hearing enough noise to get his attention. His neck instantly stiffened and a gaze of anger filled his face. "I should have known. All you small-town hicks stick together." Twilight pulled Fluttershy behind her. Bridleburg stepped into the barn, shutting and locking the door behind him. Twilight wasn't scared however. He was an Earth pony, by himself.

"It's over Bridleburg!" Twilight exclaimed into the darkness. She couldn't see him, but knew he was there.

"Is it?" The greedy stallion said.

"Fluttershy's going to turn you in!" Twilight threatened. "All I have to do is write a letter to the princess and she's off the hook and you're on for everything!"

"That so?" His calm voice was putting Twilight off.

"You won't be able to use her anymore for your...!" Twilight didn't get to finish. She got a rude surprise. A crate, one used to ship apples in, came zooming out of the darkness. Twilight wasn't sure how he did it, but he had managed to hurl it at her. The unicorn was completely taken by surprise. The large box smacked into the side of her head with considerable force, shattering upon impact. Twilight's vision exploded into stars. She wobbled on her legs before collapsing onto the ground. Despite desperate attempts to move or do magic, her body wasn't registering. Fluttershy screamed. Bridleburg emerged out of the dark, dragging another box.

"You need to learn your place." He said, standing over Twilight. "Once I teach you, I'll just bash your head in with this other one and take my wife away anyway." Twilight tried to jump up and attack him, but her body only twitched. Bridleburg cackled. Twilight could feel her lower body being lifted up by him.

'That...filthy...wretched...' Twilight thought, trying to fight him. It wasn't working.

"No! Please, don't!" Fluttershy shouted. Twilight could feel her yanking on Bridleburg.

"Get off me!" Bridleburg bellowed.

"I'll do whatever you want! I'll go wherever you want! I'll let you sell me! Just please, don't hurt Twilight!"

"I said get off me you whore!" There was then a loud cracking noise, like a hoof hitting something hard. Fluttershy shrieked and cried, before slamming onto the ground. Bridleburg cackled evilly. Twilight could feel him press his body against her back.

'I'll kill him...I'll kill him...I'll...'

Then she heard it. Twilight could feel her stomach drop. A blood-curling scream issued from outside. It was a sound that Twilight had only heard once before. It was filled with pain, sadness and anger. It stuck a knife into Twilight's heart...but not in the same way it did before. The entire barn shook. A few of the boards from the roof came loose and plummeted to the ground. Bridleburg dropped Twilight and stared around, confused.

"What is this?" He shouted. "Some kind of trick?" Abruptly, the light changed. It wasn't the bright, yellow rays of the sun. Instead, it was pale and white. He gazed up at the ceiling. "What! Is that...the moon?"

'No no no no no no no no!' Twilight thought, trying to move. Her body, however, wasn't obeying. Her hooves twitched uselessly. There was yet another scream, this one filled with fury. It made Twilight's blood run cold. 'This can't be happening! No!' Then everything went silent. Fluttershy lifted her head cautiously, a rather large bump forming on the side of her face. Bridleburg turned his head back and forth, staring around. The full moon was high overhead, despite the fact that it was still in the afternoon.

Then Fluttershy gasped, covering her face with her hooves. Bridleburg whirled around and froze. Something was seeping through a crack in the barn...a crack large enough for somepony to look through. What was pouring in was like a purple, sparkling mist. Tons of it whipped inside and collected in front of them. It swirled quickly around in the air. Then, in a flash of light, a pony appeared. Fluttershy shrieked in fear.

"Nightmare Moon!"

'No no no no! Stop, stop!' Twilight tried to scream, but all that escaped was a moan. Bridleburg abruptly appeared pale. His knees were shaking.

"Well, well, well..." Nightmare Moon stated, grinning widely. She briefly, and quite casually, stretched out her hooves and wings, as if she had just awakened from sleep, which in her case was true. "What have we here?"

"It's...it's not what it looks like..." Bridleburg said, in a very high-pitch and weak voice.

"Oh really?" The terrifying pony replied, still smiling. "Because it looks like you were about to rape my best friend. Glad you're not doing that. Thank you for clearing that up." Bridleburg gulped. "Lovely night." The mare gazed up at the moon. "A little early, but everypony loves a little change-up every now and again. Of course, moonlight is the perfect atmosphere for revenge..." Abruptly, the other crate Bridleburg had was hurled at the much larger alicorn. He had grabbed it with his two front hooves, reared back and two legs and hurled it. The crate struck a part of her face that wasn't covered by her helmet and shattered like the last one. Nightmare Moon didn't even flinch. She didn't even move. Then, still casually, she reached up with her hoof and swept some of the extra bits of wood off her face. She then stared at Bridleburg, her cat-like eyes not betraying an ounce of emotion.

"Ouch." She said, in a very calm voice. Bridleburg began backing away. "My turn." Her voice abruptly got very deep and devilish. The purple mist the pony had for hair drew back. Then, in one giant motion, it swept across the barn. Bridleburg was hit in the chest. He instantly went flying, as if he were nothing more than a ragdoll. He was struck with such force that he crashed through the wall of the barn and continued to soar. Nightmare Moon cackled, as if she had just told the funniest joke in the world.

"Up for a little game?" She cooed. Her body then melted back into mist and wisped out the new hole in the barn. Fluttershy lay on the ground, stunned. What had just happened? Suddenly, the barn door shook. The Pegasus pony flinched, not expecting the sound. The door rattled a few more times. Then, without warning, it burst open, the lock flying off. Macintosh came running in, spinning his head around. His eyes widened when he saw the state of the two mares.

"What happened!" He shouted, running over. "I knew I should have come! Twilight! Twilight!" He attempted to lift her up, but she was rather limp. She had a gash on her forehead and a trickle of blood was leaking out. Fluttershy quickly stood up and dashed over, helping the red stallion lift her friend up.

"Stop...her..." Twilight said weakly.

"What?" Macintosh asked as Fluttershy heaved her friend over his shoulders so she would be held up.

"Fluttershy...stop her..." Twilight said.

"What...me...why? I thought this is what you wanted."

"No...she's trying to change...she doesn't want to be alone..."

"I don't understand."

"If you don't stop her...all of that will be ruined...she...she'll kill him!"

Chapter 4

Nightmare Moon materialized outside the barn, still chuckling to herself. Bridleburg was attempting to escape, but his body wouldn't obey. He was limping on the leg he had landed on, not to mention that when the mist had struck him it knocked the wind out of him. The black alicorn grinned widely.

“Going somewhere?” She asked. Her mist slipped under the gray pony’s legs. She yanked one of his legs out from under him, causing him to fall flat on his face. Nightmare Moon cackled again. The stallion then attempted to scuttle away, looking more like a lizard than a pony. His tail was then seized and he was dragged, kicking and screaming, back to the pony named Nightmare. She had sure that he was pulled across the ground, leaving him covered in dirt. When he was finally in front of her she lifted him into the air and allowed him to dangle in front of her face. “Leaving so soon?”

“Listen...I’ll do whatever you want...just please...” Bridleburg said, trying to beg.

“Hmmmm...” Nightmare Moon stated, briefly bringing her hoof up and scratching her chin with it. “What do I want? Oh! I know!” Bridleburg was flung up into the air. He came hurdling onto the ground, with a sickening thud. “I want pain!” As if he were a cheap cartoon character, Nightmare Moon used his tail like a sling and flung him back forth, from one side to the other against the ground. With each hit, the stallion shrieked, his bones popping and cracking as pain ripped through his body. Nightmare moon briefly paused to get a look at her work.

“You bitch!” Bridleburg shouted. Abruptly, his tail was released. He hit the ground, but didn’t have time to recover. The mist grabbed him on the sides of his face and jerked him up. In an instant, he was face-to-face with a furious alicorn. She wasn’t smiling anymore.

“What did you call me?” She asked, sounding calm. Bridleburg didn’t answer, or rather he couldn’t. The mist had such a strong grip on his face that he couldn’t move his mouth. He was abruptly lifted up and then slammed onto the ground, head-first. He made an awful sound of pain and tasted blood in his mouth. He was then once again facing the terrible alicorn.

“What did you say?” She repeated, her tone irritated. Bridleburg only coughed, still trying to recover from the last hit. Before he could answer he was raised up and slammed onto the ground again. There was an audible “thud” when he hit the dirt. His eyes exploded with stars. When he was brought back to Nightmare Moon he coughed again, this time a few of his teeth came out.

“What...did...you...say?” Her voice was now venomously cold. Bridleburg tried to speak, he really did, but all that came out were coughs of blood. Nightmare Moon didn’t give him time to answer. Bridleburg was once again in the air. “WHAT!” He was slammed into the ground. “DID!” As he hit the ground again there was a hideous popping sound in his neck. “YOU!” When he was slammed down yet again, his face was first this time. Blood splashed on his face, leaking from his nose. “SAY!” The final hit was the hardest. It was halfway between the side of his head and his face. One of his eyes abruptly had everything covered in red. Either blood had splashed into it or veins in it had burst. Either way, he was incomprehensible pain. His head felt as if somepony was driving a hot spike into it with a hammer.

“I called you a “bitch!”” Bridleburg shouted desperately. Nightmare Moon’s eyebrows briefly went up.

“Oh.” She said, as if it were something minor. “That’s what I thought you said.” Bridleburg felt himself being reared backwards and then hurled through the air. He struck a tree a good distance away, right in the middle of his back. He let loose a terrible roar as he felt his spine snap in several places. He knew that some of his vertebrae had cracked, if not broke. When he flopped onto the ground he continued to choked and coughed blood. More of his teeth poured out of his mouth, with some sticking out in odd places. He twitched helplessly, trying to escape. The dark pony waltzed over to him, as if she were whimsically happy. She even casually stomped over dirt that was covered with splatters of his blood. When her shadow fell over the crippled stallion, he began whining in fear.

“I love playing games.” Nightmare Moon said to him. “Did you like my little version of “pinata?” Much more entertaining than “cat and mouse” I played last time.” Abruptly, the black pony lifted up her hoof and stomped it onto Bridleburg's throat. Despite the fact that various part of his body were broken, his legs gyrated around, desperately pawing at the air. His windpipe was nearly closed under the strong hoof.

“You see,” She began, ignoring Bridleburg's frantic attempts to breathe. “I thought that if I could trick my dear sister's little pets into doing the exact opposite of what they were supposed to do that my victory would be far more epic and satisfying.” A dark expression enveloped her eyes. Her hoof crushed down harder. Bridleburg issued a loud shriek of pain, reminiscent of horses being branded. He couldn't breathe at all now. Foam was beginning to leak out of his mouth. “I should have crushed them when I had the chance! That's when I learned, no more whimsical games, just down and dirty. Of course...” For brief moment Nightmare Moon's frigid expression lightened. “they had spirit. Something I had not seen in a long time, even before I spent those lovely years on the moon. It would have been a shame to crush something so rare.” The large pony felt the stallion beneath her beginning to convulse. She gazed down and saw that Bridleburg was spewing foam everywhere and his entire body was purple.

“You're foaming on me.” Nightmare Moon retorted in a very bitter and deep voice. She finally lifted her hoof. Bridleburg twisted his head and vomited copiously. After which he gasped, sounding as if his throat was still blocked. “Disgusting.” She lifted him up by one of his front legs. The rest of his body was limp, black and blue.

“Please...stop...” His voice said, sounding distinctly like a frog.

“Why so glum?” Nightmare Moon asked, grinning devilishly. She spun him around, his body swinging around widely and limply. “Look at that moon!” Bridleburg's head remained limp, his neck refusing to respond. “I said look at it!” The anger in her voice allowed him to muster what strength he had left. He managed to flop his head up, but only briefly. “Wondrous isn't it? If more people would notice it I might not be tempted to continue these games.” She spun him back around, his legs and free arm flailing uselessly in the air. “You don't seem happy.”

“What do you want from me?” Bridleburg asked weakly. Nightmare Moon briefly chuckled.

“Why, I want you to enjoy the night!” She stated. “Perhaps you need a better view?” Bridleburg's body was thrown up into the sky. He soared above the tree tops and continued on and on. His body disappeared into the clouds, giving Nightmare Moon an evil grin.

Fluttershy finally flew out of the large hole in the barn. She had attempted to a few times previously, but the awful sounds of pain kept her at bay. When the noise finally stopped, she mustered her courage and emerged into the night. The first thing she spied was her husband, with horrible injuries, dangling by one of his legs. Fluttershy was shocked and reeled for a moment. He was covered with blood, bruises, and some of his ribs had broken and were pressing against his skin. His head was dangling uselessly and his remaining teeth were hanging out of his mouth awkwardly. Fluttershy was frozen in place. How could she reason with somepony that could do that? Her stupor was abruptly ended when Bridleburg shot up into the air. Nightmare Moon issued a great laugh. Fluttershy stared for a few moments, puzzled. Then she realized what was happening. The alicorn was going to drop her husband, killing him. Fluttershy steeled her will and ran over. Nightmare Moon was staring up to sky as the pegasus pony approached.

“N-N-N-Nightmare...moon?” Fluttershy began. Nightmare Moon turned and saw the tiny yellow pony. She sneered for a moment.

“What do you want?” The alicorn said, sounding annoyed. She didn't attack Fluttershy, leading the pony to be a little braver.

“Please, stop this.” Fluttershy pleaded, looking up. She saw Bridleburg fall from the clouds. He was heading for the ground, fast.

“Why?” Nightmare Moon replied, as if it were a shocking request. “You would defend him after what he did to you and Twilight? He deserves it.” Fluttershy had to think quickly. The pony falling the sky was getting eerily close. She couldn't argue that it was for the alicorn's sake, which probably wouldn't convince her.

“That's probably true,” Fluttershy said. “but I don't want anypony killed for my sake. Especially not him, he's not worth it. Do you think Twilight feels differently?” Nightmare Moon was silent for a few moments, her slit eyes staring into Fluttershy's nervous ones.

“Suit yourself.” The alicorn's mist shot up into the sky. Just as Bridleburg was about to reach the treetops, he was grabbed by his tail. The pony shrieked as all of the hair in his tail was ripped out. It abruptly slowed him down. The mist then readjusted where he was falling. His body fell through the branches of a nearby tree. Each arm of the plant simultaneously assaulted him and slowed his descent. Finally, just as he was about to reach the ground, one of his back legs got wedged in between a forking branch. He cried out and gyrated violently, the bones inside of his limb being pulled apart. Then he just hung limply, completely spent. He swayed back and forth, now finally unconscious.

Macintosh led Twilight around the barn. One of her hooves was around his shoulder and she was leaning on him heavily. Blood was still dripping down her face. As soon as they arrived on the scene, they both heard a slamming noise. They saw Bridleburg become lodged in the tree. From the way he was just dangling Twilight was terrified that they were too late. She relaxed a little when she saw that his ribcage was still moving as he breathed. He was merely out, cold.

“Oh look!” Nightmare Moon said, sounding excited. “A real piñata!” Two large sticks began levitating around Bridleburg. They both began pummeling him, sending him jerking back and forth. Fluttershy watched with a stoic expression. She tried not to feel satisfied at him being beaten, but it was hard. Twilight stood on her own hooves and began stumbling over to the large alicorn. She was swaying back and forth uneasily, but she was determined to get there on her own. Twilight then heard a rather sickening cracking noise. Without even knowing what happened, she lifted her head up and shouted.

“Stop!” The beating ceased instantly. Nightmare Moon whirled around and stared at Twilight. Bridleburg's jaw was hanging off to the side, knocked out of its socket. The unicorn and alicorn stared at each other, silently. “I'm safe now princess, stop this.”

“Stop?” Nightmare Moon asked, smiling. “Why should I? With all this loneliness among your friends, I doubt the elements of harmony would even work!”

“What?” Twilight asked, puzzled.

“In this state, I can feel them, all the way across the kingdom.” The alicorn replied. “Every single one of them...feels the loneliness, the separation. With those dark feelings I'm willing to bet they couldn’t express the traits in the elements enough to make them work. This beautiful night, I think it should last for a little while longer.” Twilight thought for a moment. All of her friends...were lonely?

'Even...Rarity and Rainbow Dash?' Twilight thought. 'But they chose to leave! Why would they...?' Nightmare Moon's chuckling brought Twilight back to reality.

“I want to talk to Princess Luna.” Twilight said.

“We're one and the same.” Nightmare Moon replied, sounding not at all amused. “Besides why would I leave? You summoned me.”

“I did what!?” Twilight shouted.

“How quickly you forget.” Nightmare Moon began walking in a circle around Twilight, as if she were a predator looking for an opening to go for a kill. Twilight rotated with her, keeping them face-to-face. “What is my special power?” Twilight thought for a moment.

“You can...sense emotions?” Twilight replied, unsurely.

“And what were you feeling when you came home the other day?” It took Twilight a moment to think of what she was talking about. She must have been referring to that time Twilight came home after discovering what Bridleburg was making Fluttershy do. The unicorn’s eyes widened.

“I...felt...” She began, feeling her throat become dry.

“Rage Twilight. You felt rage.” Nightmare Moon finished. “Your dear elements may have separated us and sealed me away, but your rage woke me back up. Her mind was flooded with old memories as I crawled my way out of that rainbow prison. Her mind tried to fight me and her body became ill, but in the end, we became one again. Your rage was enough to break the seal...but when dear Luna felt that very same rage in her mind she called out to me, and I returned.” Nightmare Moon had made a full circle and was back where she had been at the start. She stared up at the moon. “Now that I'm back, no more childish games, no more trying to drag it out. This wonderful night will be appreciated, and all will love me...or they will fear me.” Twilight felt her heart pound. This couldn't happen! She was trying to help Fluttershy, not doom Equestria! The unicorn thought desperately and quickly.

“You said that Luna and yourself are one and the same.” Twilight said. The huge alicorn gazed back, her expression was incredulous.

“Yes, what's your point?” She asked.

“What did you say I was back in the barn?” Nightmare Moon flinched. She gazed away at the ground, snarling. “You said that I was your best friend!”

“What's your point?” The alicorn repeated, now through gritted teeth.

“I'm your best friend!” Twilight shouted. “I don't want this! I don't want a fight and I don't want you to destroy all of this! Weren't you happy before? Don't you like this place? Being with me? Being with everypony? You can't be here if you do this! You can't be with us! You can't stay with us! You can't...you can't be my friend if you do this.” Nightmare Moon was frozen stiff, her eyes darting back and forth. Finally, she growled. Twilight noticed...her voice was rising in pitch. Luna was coming back out! Twilight got through! The alicorn gazed back at Twilight, her eyes of rage melting away.

“You always were clever Twilight.” Nightmare Moon said, with both voices mixing together. “A thousand years on the moon and the first thing I see is a young, cute and upstart unicorn who dared to stand up to me.” A thick, black cloud began to emanate off of the alicorn, quickly obscuring her from all the people present. “You had spunk kid...even I couldn't bear to crush that, and that's why I lost. Why I'll probably always lose. I doubt there could be a better pony to have that Spark.” Twilight flinched. There was that word again. Luna...wasn't talking gibberish? What did it mean? Before she could ask, the cloud completely covered the alicorn. For a few moments, the blackness swirled around her. Everypony held his or her collective breath. Finally, as it dissipated, Twilight gasped and smiled.

Princess Luna stumbled back and forth for a moment, a hoof to her head. Her eyes were swirling in different directions.

“Whoa.” She said. “What happened? My head feels like somepony put it in a washing machine. I think I did something stupid but...” The princess turned around and saw Bridleburg dangling from the tree. “Oh yeah.” Her voice was abruptly deep. She turned away from him and trotted away, but not before taking a parting shot with her back hoof, causing him to sway again. She walked up to Twilight, looking concerned. “Twilight, you're bleeding, what happened...? Oh yeah.” She briefly turned her head and her horn lit up. One of the sticks lifted off of the ground and smacked him across the face, putting him in a slight twisting motion.

“He's had enough princess.” Twilight said. “More importantly...” Twilight pointed up to the sky. Luna gazed up. She saw the full moon staring back at her. She then turned back to Twilight.

“That's not supposed to be there is it?” She asked.

“No.” Twilight said. “It's only evening.”

“Right.” Luna walked away a distance and spread her wings to their full expanse. She closed her eyes and lifted up her horn. A blinding light issued from it. A beautiful series of sounds, like that of music, filled the area. Then, with surprising quickness, the moon moved in the opposite direction it should and the sun returned. Eventually, it reached its original position and settled there. Luna's wings folded back into place and her horn slowly went dim again. Once the music stopped however, one of her knees buckled and she nearly fell over. Twilight quickly became concerned and trotted over, finally regaining her balance.

“Princess, are you okay!?” She asked.

“I'm exhausted.” Luna said. “Turning into that monster and then controlling the sun and moon pretty much drained my usual reserves.”

“U-Usual?” Twilight asked.

“I have a lot more, hang on.” Luna said. She closed her eyes and her horn glowed faintly. She then boldly stood up and shook off her body, as if she were wet. “There we go, much better.” Twilight gawked. She looked as if she hadn't even done anything at all!

“How much magic do you have?” Twilight asked. Luna cocked her eyebrow.

“Is that a trick question?” She asked back. Twilight smiled for a moment before looking sad. She gazed at the ground and began kicking it idly.

“I brought Nightmare Moon back.” Twilight said. “I...I made you...”

“Bridleburg made me go berserk,” Luna said firmly. “and he paid for it. You stopped me from turning back at your house, remember? It wasn't your fault. You tried to stop me, he made me unleash it. It was his fault, not yours. I'll have to control myself from now on, but I think I can manage, now that I have friends.” Twilight smiled weakly. “There's something that side of myself probably doesn't want me to admit though.”

“What's that?” Twilight asked, tilting her head. She was immensely interested in hearing this.

“That part of me was happy to be free...because she was lonely.” Twilight looked shocked. She had never thought of that. “You were able to stop her because we share the same memories. The joy I felt at having you as a friend, she did as well. The last thing she wanted to do in the entire world was make you sad.” Twilight smiled, finally feeling happy. “Friends stop each other from making horrible mistakes. I guess that makes you an amazing one.” Twilight blushed a little and looked away. Her eyes saw Macintosh giving Fluttershy a sympathetic pat on the shoulder. The pegasus pony was crying in embarrassment in the knowledge that Macintosh and Twilight were aware of what she had been doing for money. The red stallion was attempting to console her by saying they didn't care about any of that, that they were happy that she was finally free and they would always be her friends. This only made her cry harder.

“She's going to need a lot of help.” Princess Luna stated. “She'll need her friends to stand with her.”

“We will.” Twilight said. “I'll make sure nothing like this happens ever again.”

“Good to hear.” That was when Twilight heard the worst sound in the world.

“Princess Luna! Halt!” It was the voice of the royal guards. Twilight's head whirled around, her face full of shock and fear. She was staring at Luna, trying to tell her to run away. The alicorn held up her hoof and shook her head solemnly.

“I'm afraid my time's up Twilight.” Luna said. “I scared the living daylights out of sis. I'm going to have to go and explain myself.”

“But...but...you're leaving!” Twilight said, her eyes beginning to water. “I...I don't want...”

“I know. I know.” Luna said. She nuzzled their head together, trying to comfort her friend. “I'm sorry I have to do this to you. Listen to me.” Luna grabbed her face and made sure that their eyes were staring into each other's. “Help Fluttershy. Spend time with her. Take her to this farm and applebuck with the Apples. Take her to Pinkie Pie's parties, no matter how many she throws. Help her take care of animals again. Don't let her deal with this by herself. Most of all, don't let you deal with this by yourself. Don't stay in your library. Go and spend time with your friends, every second you are able.” Twilight nodded, weakly. “They may not show it, but they are all just as lonely as you. Save them all from it, including yourself.” The soldiers finally arrived on the scene. There were over a dozen of them and all of them were huffing and puffing. They had likely seen all the activity from a distance and the moon in the sky and assumed that's where the princess was.

“Princess Luna, it's urgent that you come with us immediately!” The lead guard shouted, far too loudly. “Princess Celestia has ordered us to...!”

“Yeah, yeah.” Luna interrupted.

“I can't ignore this! You must...! Wait, what?” He had obviously been expecting resistance, not acceptance.

“One second though.” Luna said, trotting over to the sobbing Fluttershy. The pegasus pony gazed up, wiping tears from her eyes. “I think that a divorce is in order.”

“Divorce?” Fluttershy asked.

“Yes.” Luna said. She turned back to her guards. “Arrest that man!” She pointed at Bridleburg.

“Your majesty?” The lead guard asked.

“He's charged with assaulting Twilight and Fluttershy, as well as assaulting the monarch!” The guards stared at each other, but saw that she was serious.

“As you wish your highness.” The head guard stated. Several of the guards trotted over to the hanging man and attempted to take him down.

“Take him to prison.” Luna ordered. Bridleburg came loose and flopped around in the arms of the guards, most of his bones broken. “Er...after taking him to a surgeon that is.” He was put on the back of two of the guards and they rejoined the others. Luna turned back to Fluttershy, who was staring on, confused.

“Assaulting the both of you will probably earn him four years in prison.” Luna explained. “Assaulting a monarch however, will put him away for about thirty-five years or more.” Fluttershy's jaw dropped. “I'm going to shoot for the “or more” part. Now, with that “assaulting a royal” conviction, and he will be convicted, if you were to divorce him, you are entitled to all of the assets rather than just half. Not to mention that he is not able to object. Considering my position, I can easily order that the paperwork be approved immediately by the town mayor. So Fluttershy, what do you want to do?” The pony stared on in disbelief, trying to understand what was being told to her. When it finally dawned on her what the princess was saying, she turned to the only other pony well-acquainted with the law, Twilight.

“Is all of that true?” She asked. Twilight Sparkle thought for a moment.

“Yes.” Twilight finally said, smiling. “That is the law for assaulting a royal, and there is no time limit or restriction on the finalization of a divorce, if there is no objecting party.” Fluttershy's eyes darted around for a moment. She then stood up tall and cleared a throat.

“I want a divorce.” She said firmly.

“Excellent!” Luna said. “I'll drop by the mayor's office and get the paper work filled out. All you have to do is drop by and sign it.” Macintosh was smiling widely at this news. Luna stared at him and gave him a seductive wink. He flinched and blushed nervously, gaining a giggle from the princess. Luna walked back to Twilight, whose forehead had finally stopped bleeding.

“Get that checked out with the doctor.” Luna said, motioning towards her head. “You might have a concussion.”

“I know, I will.” Twilight said. They both stared at each other, wordless for a few seconds. Then Twilight wrapped her hooves around Luna and hugged her. Luna quickly returned to favor. “I'm going to miss you princess.”

“And I will miss you, my friend.” Luna said. They separated, Twilight already crying again.

“It's funny.” Twilight said.

“What?” Luna asked.

“I dreamed about gods coming to this planet.” Twilight explained. “I prayed to them the other night, asking that everything would work out. Even if they existed, I guess they failed a little. It’s pretty silly after all. They were just a dream.”

“Oh Twilight.” Luna said, sounding as if she were talking to a child. Twilight chuckled to herself. Luna leaned in close, her mouth near the unicorn's ear. “They're not those kinds of gods.” Twilight's eyes widened and her jaw dropped.

“What?” She asked. Luna didn't respond. Instead, she brought her horn to Twilight's. The unicorn felt something transfer into her mind. Twilight stumbled backwards, momentarily stunned. Luna winked at her.

“Sweet dreams.” The princess said with a smile. She then turned and trotted away. Twilight stared on, trying to process what just happened. The guards parted and allowed the princess to walk past them. They then followed her, the ones carrying Bridleburg bringing up the rear. This was the moment that Applejack finally approached, staring around. She saw the blood on the ground, the new holes in her barn, Macintosh still comforting Fluttershy, Twilight staring on dumbly, Princess Luna walking away with the royal guards, the night that occurred during the day and Bridleburg's broken body being hauled away from her farm. She blinked a few times, making sure she wasn't dreaming.

“Okay, what'd I miss?” The pony asked. All three of the ponies still present stared at her blankly, not knowing where to begin. Twilight then rattled her head. She turned and began walking away.

“I'm going to see a doctor.” Twilight said. “Then I'm...going to get some sleep.”

The dream unrolled again. The crystal stags took the forms of the ponies that inhabited the land. They approached some of them, nuzzling with them.

“The children of these unions were born far more powerful and wiser than their native parents.” The world turned and Twilight saw a massive cliff. Standing upon the edge of it, all in a row, were a new kind of wooden pony. They stood with large, unfurled wings, massive horns pointed to the sky and with light shining from behind them. “These children of the gods, these alicorns, stood more powerful than the rest. They were conceived to guide this fledgling race, lest they suffer the same problems and the same fate as the previous inhabitants. However, the inhabitants...resisted.” Massive amounts of the wooden representations of ponies began charging towards the alicorns on the cliff. The earth ponies, pegasus ponies and unicorns all charged in one direction, but still separate from each other. “Had they fought together, they might have won and there would be no need for the children of the gods, as they would be finally united as one race. However...they did not.” The alicorns flew up from the cliff.

There was now a huge field. Countless earth ponies charged across it, all towards a single alicorn. The lone pony lifted its horn, light coming out of it. The ground across the plain rumbled and began to split. The alicorn flew into the air as the ground broke apart, ponies falling through the cracks. Before any of them could recover, molten rock erupted from the crevices, flooding through their numbers. They cavorted and attempted to flee, but the lava overwhelmed them, consuming them all. The alicorn in the air hung its head, sad at what it was witnessing.

Now there were mountains. Countless wooden pegasus ponies, more than most could even imagine, were flying in a giant circles, as if they were a massive storm. There were so many that the ground was practically dark from amount of sunlight they blocked. At the center of their storm were three alicorns, all of them staring outwards. All of the regular flying ponies were slowly closing in on them, like aquatic predators closing in on prey. The alicorns lifted their respective horns and they glowed. Out of thin air, clouds billowed out. They began swirling violently, lightning dancing between them. In moments, a massive storm filled the sky. The terrible winds whipped around, the alicorns at the eye of the storm, untouched by any of it. All of the pegasus ponies began tumbling violently. They were at the mercy of the powerful force of the storm, tossed around like leaves. Mass amounts of them were slammed against the mountains, smashing to pieces. Some of them were struck by lightning, catching on fire. Others were simply thrown around, savagely hitting each other, their wooden limbs cracking and breaking in odd directions. Two of the alicorns in the sky hung their heads in despair. The other shook theirs, as if disappointed.

The scene then changed to a city. Inside were ponies of all kinds, cowering behind the walls, seeking protection. Standing atop of the walls was a single alicorn, bold and tall ready to give those inside what they sought. Outside of the city was yet another massive army, this one made up of unicorns. They all lifted their horns, each forming their own fireball. All of the spells lifted off, the fires were as numerous as the stars in the sky. Even the massive forest around the city lit up as the endless fireballs ascended. The flares sailed high into the sky and began to descend at a trajectory that would land them directly into the huddling ponies. The alicorn lifted its horn and light gushed forth. The fireballs redirected and they all began gathering above the powerful pony's head. One giant sphere formed, burning brightly. It grew bit by bit, with each addition to its mass. Finally, all of the pieces were collected. The unicorns stared at it, frozen in place, as if in shock. The new massive fireball was so large that it nearly stretched to the clouds above. The alicorn brought its horn down. The blazing sphere flew down beyond the walls of the city and hit the ground. The unicorns fled as quickly as they could, but it wasn't fast enough. The compressed fire exploded, sending a wave of flames in the direction of fleeing army. The flames rushed over the army and surged through the forest. The trees roasted in mere seconds and the ponies fell to the ground the instant the powerful blaze hit them. The woods lay in ruins and the entire army, countless thousands, lay crushed at the alicorn’s hooves. The ponies in the city rejoiced. The alicorn, in contrast stared at the sky, as if it were wondering why this had to happen.

“Finally, it was done.” Now the row of alicorns stood again, this time on the ground. Endless hordes of ponies, all of them different kinds, stood in front them. Standing at the front were three, larger than the rest, although this seemed to be for effect. There was one pegasus pony, one earth pony and one unicorn. They laid crowns on the ground in front of them and they bowed before the alicorns. The endless ponies behind them did the same. “In the end, every knee bowed and every tongue proclaimed. The alicorns ruled, for the good of all pony races, for the good of the planet and for the future of all.” The alicorns took flight and scattered in all directions, with various masses of ponies following them. “The globe was seeded with alicorn kingdoms and peace was finally obtained.” The crystal stags began leaping around the globe, as if in joy. They saw the ponies working, playing and building, all living together peacefully. They reveled in their new-found happiness. They communicated amongst themselves again. Then they began to do something that was hard to comprehend. They began running through time. In moments, villages instantly turned to cities, then turned to empires, then back to dust, then back to villages. They seemed to be popping in and out of time, as if to see how things were going. They would return, see the progress, rejoice and then hop again.

Then the dream shifted. There were two wooden alicorns nuzzling each other. Years later, two small alicorn children were dancing around them. The parents then lay dying in a devastated environment, covered in craters and darkness. The children mourned. The scene then showed the two alicorns grown up. They were swirling around a creature, combating it. The creature was serpentine, like a dragon, with the legs of a lion, goat, eagle and lizard. After a series of violent clashes, the two alicorns combined their power and the creature turned to stone. Countless years after that, one of the alicorns was hovering in the air. She was shouting at somepony on the ground, huddling in fear. She then changed. Her wooden representation began shifting in blocks, turning each of them inside-out. The alicorn was now bigger, with mist coming out of its mane. Now the two alicorns were arguing. Finally, the one that had not transformed used powerful magic. With an apparent scream, the one putting out mist disappeared. The one remaining on the ground gazed up the moon, in apparent sadness.

Now there was a small unicorn, in a nearly empty classroom. The wooden pony floated, sending magic everywhere. All of the ponies, as few as they were, in the classroom turned into various objects. The dragon in the room grew to gargantuan size. The unicorn had lost all control. The alicorn arrived, putting a hoof on the unicorn. Everypony else turned back to normal and the foal slouched. After a few words from the alicorn however, the young unicorn began jumping around in circles, rejoicing, a symbol appearing on her flank. It was then sometime later. The unicorn was sleeping peacefully over a book in the school she had been admitted. It was late at night and no pony was around. The alicorn arrived, pleased to see the unicorn so interested in her studies. The new arrival gazed back and forth, making sure no pony was around. She then leaned over and put their horns together. Something bright, blindingly so, emitted from the alicorn. The light was pure and contained the very same powers the crystal stags had, who were still prancing through time. The radiance passed from the alicorn's horn to the unicorn's. The foal didn't even awake. Once the light had been passed, the alicorn stretched a blanket over the foal.

Now the unicorn stood in a crowded room, looking up at a balcony. The banished alicorn had returned, mist coming out of her mane. Now they were in an old castle. The unicorn had been joined by five others, two earth ponies, two pegasus ponies and another unicorn. Their powers combined and a rainbow of color spewed out. It enveloped the alicorn, who seemed to struggle. When the color faded, the original form the alicorn had reemerged. The two alicorns met again, this time nuzzling each other.

Images then appeared flashes. The six friends were confronting a dragon. Now they were fighting a swarm of pests, where the bugs were adorable. Then they were cleaning up after winter, each of them doing a different job. Now they were all at some sort of cloud stadium, celebrating as one of their friends saved a group of falling people, leaving a wave of rainbows behind her. Then they were at a very large and fancy party, making a disaster out of it. Then they were confronting the old serpentine creature that the alicorns had ages before, turning him back into stone. Now there was a wedding. One of the unicorns, wearing a very ornate dress, was marrying an earth pony with very large and curly hair. The wedding was extravagantly decorated and attended by countless ponies. Then one of the pegasus ponies, the one who had been flying through rainbows, was talking to one of the earth ponies of the group, apparently confessing something. The earth pony shook her head, causing the pegasus pony to lower her head in despair. Despite comforting from the earth pony, in another flash the pegasus pony was flying away from their home, the original unicorn from the school staring on solemnly. The earth pony who had turned down the pegasus one was now getting married, this time on a farm of trees, surrounded by relatives and friends who were celebrating. Then another was getting married. This one a pegasus pony, marrying a much larger earth pony. It was much simpler, in a small chapel with many of the spectators had their heads down, not approving of the union.

Years later, the alicorn who had had been transformed numerous times, came barging into a house, where the one remaining unicorn jumped in shock. Then the unicorn saw the pegasus pony who had married the much larger earth pony with three male ponies, one approaching her from behind. The unicorn ran away, furious. Then the alicorn, now with mist coming out of her mane, was beating the much larger earth pony to bits, making him suffer.

Then there was an image of the world, the one the ponies resided upon. Closer and closer the dream crept to the ground. It zoomed in on one nation, then on one town, then on one house, made out of tree. Then into the house, where a pony and a dragon slept. Then onto the pony...sleeping on the bed. It was the unicorn that had been trying out for the school, the one that had been sleeping in the library, the one that had saved the raging alicorn, the one that had defeated the serpentine with her friends, the one who weathered three weddings from her friends, one of them leaving in shame and the horrible events surrounding the prostitution of the pegasus. She lied peacefully sleeping. Then it went closer, under the covers, into the body where there was darkness. There was a thumping, like a heartbeat. Then something began to glow. It was blinding, pure and seemed to be made of the same power as the crystal stags.

“The spark awakens.”

Twilight Sparkle awoke, sitting up in her bed quite abruptly. She shivered for a few moments. It wasn’t because she was cold. She felt as if somepony was staring at her, into her. Something had been here. It had watched her life and then arrived at her, at this very moment in time, the instant she had woken up. The feeling faded and Twilight again felt alone.

“What...what was all that?” She asked, unable to comprehend what she had just seen. “What does it all mean?”

The next day, Spike finally got his wish. Twilight and himself spent the whole day together. They first went over to Fluttershy's house. The pegasus pony had shut herself inside and refused to come out, saying she needed some time to think alone. Twilight would have none of that. She ordered Spike to bust down the door, which he did was amazing ease. Fluttershy attempted to hang onto the walls and cried for them to leave her alone. Twilight was having none of that as well. She once again ordered Spike to drag her outside, which he did with, again, amazing ease. They then began heading towards Sweet Apple Acres. Fluttershy kicked, struggled and attempted to grab at the ground, but Spike was incredibly strong now. Her assaults on him and trying to slow him down had no effect. Eventually, she stopped struggling and just slouched, sullenly, over his shoulder. When they arrived, Applejack was shocked to hear that they were going to help her. The country pony remarked on how fascinating it was that she hadn't seen either of them for a long time, now they show up every day it seems and even to work. She gladly accepted.

They spent the whole day picking apples and chatting. At first, Fluttershy was withdrawn and even begrudging to Twilight. However, once even Macintosh treated her like nothing was wrong, she calmed down. Once Twilight saw that Fluttershy was enjoying the company of others, she and Spike slipped away to Sugarcube Corner. Pinkie Pie was waiting with another party. They jumped around, sang happily and Spike gorged himself on sweets for the first time in ages.

Twilight did the same for many days, dragging Fluttershy out of her house and spending time with Spike. The rumor mill around town was that Bridleburg had run off with some other mare and left Fluttershy. Twilight didn't start the rumor, but she certainly helped it take off. There were more outlandish ones, like that he had run off with a cow, had been murdered or that Fluttershy fed him to some bears. The prominent one however was that he left her and the pegasus pony received sympathy from people around town. She became more and more open and eventually it was like the whole Bridleburg nightmare never happened. No news of a trial or arrest report ever emerged to the public, likely due to Princess Luna hushing everything up.

Spike finally had to leave. His instincts were beginning to take over and he was becoming territorial over the tree house again. Twilight was glad that this parting wasn't as rough as the first time. He knew his jewels were safe and he could visit any time. He was sad, but promised to visit. After he left Twilight only cried for a few minutes, remembering him as a baby dragon, riding on her back. How she longed for those days…

Things were not well for Twilight however. There was some kind of urge inside of her, one she couldn't place. She went around town, apple bucking, partying and visiting Fluttershy's house, which experienced an abrupt return of the animal population almost overnight. Every night however, Twilight tossed and turned in her bed, unable to sleep. The unicorn couldn't help but feel that she was forgetting something. She spent most of her free time reading and thinking of Luna, locked up all alone in the castle. It wasn't until three weeks after Luna left, when Twilight was sipping tea that it occurred to her what was wrong.

She was sitting with a good book, a teacup to her side and her legs throbbing from the apple bucking she had done earlier. She had briefly looked up from her book and chuckled. Fluttershy had found a new job for herself when she was off working with Macintosh alone, something that occurred with more and more frequency. Macintosh would buck the tree, which would knock off most of the apples. The few that would always remain, no matter how hard anypony hit it and would end up rotting off, still residing on the tree. Fluttershy decided to fly up and pick them herself. The whole Apple family decided that her job, from now on, was to follow them around, knocking the excess apples off the branches. Fluttershy was very pleased with herself, now that she would be spending more time on the farm. It all reminded Twilight of the time that all of her friends worked on the farm together, to help Applejack who was working alone. Twilight could still remember the letter she wrote the princess...

Letter. That's it! The urge within Twilight exploded once she realized what it was. She wanted to write a letter, a letter to Celestia! Just like she had done all of those years ago! Twilight tore out of her chair and ran to her desk, where her quill and parchment was. With her magic she lifted the quill out of the ink and hovered it over the page. She was so excited, she almost began writing gibberish. She paused for a moment, calmed down and began to think. She brought the quill to the paper.

“Dear Princess Celestia,

It has been years since I have written you a report, but I have had little to say. I thought there would be nothing more I could write about. I thought that I had learned everything about friendship and that all I could learn about from now on was how to be lonely. I realize now that isn't true. Princess Luna came to town a few weeks ago. I was afraid of her at first. I didn't know what to do with her. Soon however, I realized that she is just like everypony else. She can feel lonely, happy and angry. She saved me from something quite horrible, and in turn I saved her from doing something horrible. I was so depressed about every one of my friends leaving that all I could think about was my pain and how horrible I felt. I learned that somepony's personal pain may not just be felt by themselves, but all of the people around them, even if they are far away. I must set out to bring us all together. I will restore our friendships and allow this loneliness that I'm sure is in us all to go away.”

Twilight paused for a moment, allowing the flowing words that gushed out of her to stop. Her mind drifted to Luna, away from her friends and stuck inside of that lonely castle. Twilight resumed her writing.

“Princess Luna is a dear friend of mine. She saved me and others that I love and care about. She is a dear a friend of mine. I hope that you will let her come and stay with me sometimes. Her loneliness is probably greater than mine or any of my friends. She spent one thousand years by herself. I realize there is a side of her that is angry and dangerous, but I think that side of her just wants to be with other ponies too. Being lonely is one of the most awful feelings in the world, and I want to save her from hers, just as she saved me.

Your faithful student, Twilight Sparkle.”

Twilight Sparkle read over the letter, ensuring that it said everything that she felt. She blew on the ink, making sure that it was dry. She then rolled up the scroll and closed her eyes. She was the one that placed the spell on Spike that allowed him to breathe fire and send letters. It made it easier to transport them, rather than doing a spell individually each time. The unicorn’s horn glowed as she focused on giving the letter orders.

'Go to Princess Celestia.' She thought, pumping magic into it. 'In Canterlot Castle, in Canterlot.' The letter then glowed, absorbed a bit more magic, and then vanished with a flash. Twilight sighed, feeling as if a weight had lifted off of her shoulders. Now she had to go about bringing her friends back. Rarity should be easy to find. There were ads all over the fashion magazines about her clothing lines. Twilight trotted over to a cabinet, where she had previously put them after she didn't collect them anymore to keep up with her friends. Twilight fumbled through them, trying to find the specific ones. When she found an ad, with Rarity in a gaudy dress and her husband in a sharp suit, she also found their office address. It was, of course, in Manehattan. Twilight would have to take a trip. Now...how to get Rarity to come back? She was always busy. Maybe if Twilight could...

A flash filled the unicorn's house. She lifted her head up, gazing back and forth. Something then dropped on her head. Twilight reached up and brought it down. It was a letter! She had gotten a response already? Twilight excitedly unfurled the letter, the first one she had gotten in many years.

“My dearest student Twilight Sparkle,

I am so overjoyed to be receiving a letter from you, after all these years. I believe you are correct, there is always something new to learn about friendship and I look forward to a new series of letters from you.

In regards to your latest quest, and my dear sister...why didn't you just say so?”

Twilight blinked a few times, silently. What did that mean? Then it hit Twilight. A huge smile spread across her face. Another flash flooded her house. She pivoted her head around. Standing in her house, once again, was Princess Luna.

“Did I beat the letter?” The Princess asked, indicating she was racing.

“Nope!” Twilight said, waving it in the air. They both dashed each other, colliding together and wrapping their arms around each other. They both tumbled onto the ground, giggling happily. They hugged each other for several moments. Finally, Twilight pulled away a little, so she could look at Luna. “How long can you stay?”

“As long as I want!” Luna said happily. “Celestia said that as long as I don't attempt to make the night eternal, I can live here!” Both ponies grinned widely. Luna briefly nuzzled their heads together, overjoyed that they were together again.

“One step closer.” Twilight said.

“Hm?” Luna asked, pulling her head back away.

“To bringing everypony home.” The unicorn stated.

“About that,” Luna said, standing up. Twilight followed suit. “I have an idea.”

“For what?”

“To bring everypony home, and it’s a doozy.”

Chapter 5

(A/N: This chapter skips around a bit, so I separated the paragraphs that have a stretch of time in between them with an asterisk. This chapter also moves quite fast, but after this one it should slow down back to its original pace. It also ended up being a lot longer than expected. I also think it’s a bit tedious, so sorry about that. Please be patient, the real plot is about to start (chapter 5 and I haven’t gotten to the real plot yet, am I J.J. Abrams successor or what?))

“Explain this to me again.” Twilight said, the next morning. Luna and herself sat around a table filled with food the alicorn magic-ed up herself. “Because I didn't follow you last night.”

“It's quite simple my dear.” Luna replied. “I'm throwing a Grand Equestria Fair!”

“No, I got that.” Twilight replied. “I just didn't get how it had anything to do with me or my friends.”

“It's like this,” Luna began. “I'm throwing a massive festival. Officially it is to celebrate rural life and the ponies of Equestria. However, it's also to show off a bit to other nations. You know, celebrate wealth and power and all that. At this festival we're going to show off some of the best things of Equestria, one of those things being fashion.” Twilight's ears brightened. “I'm going to need to put on a fashion show, to proclaim our style to the world. For that...I'm going to need a famous fashion designer.”

“Rarity!” Twilight proclaimed.

“Right! We're also going to need entertain the dignitaries and ponies attending the fair. Since our country's famous for our flying squads, we're going to need a team of fliers to perform stunts for a show.”

“Rainbow Dash!” Twilight said, catching on. “But won't the Wonderbolts be angry? They're the top team in Equestria.”

“Twilight, Twilight, Twilight,” Luna said, waving her hoof back and forth. “This is to celebrate the common pony. How is having the most famous showing up the best for them? We're also going to need to display the animals of the kingdom, from big to small...and the fire-breathing.”

“Spike!” Twilight shouted.

“Precisely!” Luna said. “I'm sure you could convince Spike to come, and it's not like I can be turned down by the others, I'm the monarch after all, but do you know the best part?”

“What?”

“I'm going to need to host this in a small town, to showcase the best of what the common pony has to offer our nation...and what is the best small town in all of Equestria?”

“Well,” Twilight began, tapping her hoof on her chin. “In terms of capital GDP, Hoofington has the highest, but mostly for it having many rich pony summer homes. If we're talking about the most diversity I hear Trottingham has large populations from diverse nations, but its economy is rather poor. If you are referring to the one with the largest stores and factories I believe Fillydelphia has a high economic output, but has above-average pollution. If you are, perhaps, shooting for the newest, Appleloosa was founded just a few years ago, but it's only administered by Equestria, and not technically a part of it.” There was a long pause as Luna stared at the unicorn with the blankest look on her face she ever had.

“Ponyville, right!” Luna said, deciding to let that entire analytical exposition go. “So we'll hold a massive fair, bring in all kinds of business and make a lot of money for the entire town!”

“Where?” Twilight asked.

“I don't know that will be up to my planner.” Luna replied with a smile.

“Who?”

“You.”

“Wha?” Twilight's jaw dropped.

“I hear that you are amazing at organizing things.” Luna explained. Her horn glowed and a piece of parchment appeared in front of Twilight's face. “This is a release from Celestia from your studies. She is going to increase your pay to plan this event, and since you know a pony that can provide food, host games and can professionally deal with animals, I think your job will be rather easy.” Twilight's jaw hadn't moved.

“How did you...plan all this?” Twilight asked.

“I had a while to think.” Luna said, with a large smile. “Although I didn't expect Celestia to change the guards for a few years so I could escape, so I thought it would take a long time to implement, funny how life works out. So, when can all this be ready?” Twilight mouth moved, but no words came out. Her brain sizzled for a few minutes..

“Well, I suppose...it would take months. We have to send out notices, receive the tickets, prepare stalls and stands, organize the animals, plan the shows, order the food, find a suitable location...”

“I already issued the notices in all public places. I gave you three months.” Luna said, grinning mischievously.

“Wha...what!?” Twilight shouted.

“Good luck! Oh, you hear that?” Luna leaned towards the door, perking up her ears.

“Hear what?” Twilight asked, stunned. When she listened, she heard endless hooves beating on the ground, their volume growing. It sounded like a stampede!

“That would the paparazzi I called earlier.”

“You did what?” Luna scooted back and stood up, a wide smile on her face.

“This needs national and international attention after all. Let's go meet our captive audience!”

“Huh?” Twilight had been flung a lot of information in a very short amount of time. Now the princess grabbed her by the hoof and was dragging her out of her door. Twilight was instantly mobbed by flash bulbs and questions. She wanted to retreat back into her house, but the princess slammed it shut behind her. Twilight covered her eyes from the incessant light.

“The rumors are correct!” Luna shouted, raising her hoof boldly. All of the reporters began writing endlessly, probably already writing speculations about her words. “I am throwing a celebration for the common ponies of Equestria. I am calling it the Grand Equestrian Fair! It will be a wonderful even, showcasing what is best about Equestria, its ponies!” All of the paparazzi began taking endless pictures again, all asking questions at the same time, sounding like noise. The princess ignored them. “This entire event will be planned and coordinated by one of the common ponies, and my personal friend, Twilight Sparkle!” Twilight blushed red very deeply as the cameras and microphones were pushed into her face. Once again, her mouth hung open, her mouth moving and no words coming out. Fortunately the princess spoke out again. “All in Equestria and any other nation are invited! Now I must depart and allow Twilight Sparkle to get to work. I must go and seek out that which best represents our ponies!” Luna began marching away, the mob of reporters following after her and still asking questions. Twilight was left with a stunned expression and no idea of what just happened.

“What?” She finally asked, staring around the now empty street.

*

Princess Luna trotted for days, making a big splash wherever she went. Her crowd of paparazzi grew as she marched from town to town, showing off and inviting everyone to the Grand Equestrian Fair. She wanted an even bigger crowd however. She wanted everyone in the world to hear this. She actually had many reasons for throwing this huge event. Twilight's friends were part of it, but among other things, this was to show that she was now reformed and kind. There was also the idea of gloating about Equestria's greatness, so that it appeared strong to its surrounding neighbors. Luna also had another reason, one she couldn't share even with Twilight...not yet. More plans had to be laid, more debts to be paid and one final decision to make...a decision that did not belong to Princess Luna. That time had not yet come however.

Luna arrived at Manehattan, her entourage now huge. She stayed in the glitziest hotels, made pompous speeches in town centers and continued to build up this event. She knew Twilight could handle it, but worried how much stress this would put on the unicorn. Luna was trying to keep her busy, so there wouldn't be time to mope.

Luna entered a fashion office. It was in a very rich part of town, in a very fancy building. The reporters streamed in behind her, tripping over themselves in the revolving door. A secretary was sitting at a desk, calmly filing her hooves and painting them. She was wearing far too much makeup and her hair done up in huge curls. She was also oblivious as to who just walked in and didn't look up from the work on her hoof.

“Excuse me,” Luna began. “I'm here to see Rarity if I might.” The reporters behind her muttered and began writing Rarity's name, already speculating again.

“Do you have an appointment?” The secretary asked flatly. The reporters began writing down what she said.

'Do they ever stop?' Luna asked, remembering yesterday when they wrote down what she ate for lunch.

“Well...no.” Luna began, actually pleasantly surprised that someone was smarting off to her.

“Mrs. Rarity is quite busy.” The secretary said, applying hoof polish. “If you have some business with her you can request an appointment and she'll get back to you in a few weeks.”

“A few weeks huh?” The princess asked. “You think you will have found a new job by then?”

“Listen you I...” The receptionist finally lifted her head. Her expression fell and she went quite pale. She gasped in shock. Luna gasped as well, mocking the pony. “P-P-P-P-Princess Luna!?”

“Know any other purple alicorns?” The princess asked.

“Uh...uh...” The receptionist jumped up, spilling hoof polish everywhere. “I'm...I'm so sorry your majesty...I...”

“Just take me to Rarity.”

“Yes! Yes of course!” The receptionist bowed and led the princess to a door. The alicorn followed her through it, the paparazzi streaming behind, and taking pictures like mad. After weaving past a few offices of the various designers they arrived at two large doors. The receptionist opened them both and bowed to the princess. The alicorn proceeded through and apparently arrived at fashion central.

It was a massive white room, filled with mannequin ponies and tarp-covered sections. The tarp separated areas had endless flashing emanating from them. Because of all this, the paparazzi mob wasn't even noticed when they entered. Luna scanned the room. There were a lot of ponies moving back and forth. Quite a few of them were apparent grunts, scurrying around bringing cameras, coffees and articles of clothing. A few fancily-dressed ones were walking to and fro from the mannequins, pinning clothes to them and yelling at the workers bringing them things, as if the problems with the clothes were their fault. In this sea of ponies Luna didn't spot the one she sought. Perhaps Rarity was on a break or something?

Then one of the quartered off areas fluttered open. The princess saw that behind them were elevated platforms, various backgrounds and a circle of cameras. That was apparently where ponies went to model the clothes being prepared. A white unicorn with curly, purple hair strode out. She was wearing perhaps the gaudiest dress the Princess ever saw. It had layers upon layers of frill and lace, all covered with gems. There was a massive feathered had and even a gem-encrusted cap for her unicorn horn. The royal pony wondered how she could even walk under the weight of all of that fabric.

“No! No! No!” Rarity shouted. “It's wrong! It's all wrong!” She marched over to a line of mannequins, each one of them with apparently a different variation of the dress. “There's something missing!” Rarity turned to another pony standing around them. “What do you think, Hoity dear?” A male earth pony with light gray hair that came down into a ponytail (A/N: PUN!), sunglasses and a sharp suit trotted forward, gazing around.

“Well darling,” He said with a rather smug accent. “Perhaps the gems are throwing off the colors of the dress. They do tend to reflect the flash bulbs.”

“The gems are the point of the dress.” Rarity retorted.

“Now honey, I know you love gems, it is your cutie mark, but they don't always go with a dress.” Rarity slumped, apparently not wanting to agree with that assessment. Luna approached and stood beside Rarity, who still had not noticed a thing.

“Maybe there are too many layers.” Luna said. “I mean that thing makes you look huge.”

“It's difficult to walk in,” Rarity said without even looking at who was speaking. “but this is the style nowadays. Ponies want things that resemble the classical era, this whole “neoclassicism” movement.”

“That...is not how they dressed.” Luna said quite definitely.

“Now how would you possibly know...” Rarity finally turned to look. She instantly gasped and put her hoof over her mouth.

“Oh I'm sorry, did you not know it was me?” Luna asked, slightly sarcastically.

“Princess Luna!” Rarity shrieked. Every head in the room turned to look at them.

“Oh my!” Rarity's husband exclaimed. Ponies came rushing out of the tarp-covered sections and from their respective places. They swarmed around the princess, eager to see why she was there. Luna turned to the paparazzi and assumed a bold pose. They recognized this as her speech position. They all raised their cameras and notepads, already snapping pictures and speculating.

“Have all of you heard of the fair I am hosting?” The princess asked the fashion crowd. A few of them nodded and agreed. She turned to Rarity, whose mouth hung open. “This fair is meant to showcase that which is best about Equestria, its ponies! One important aspect of the ponies...is fashion! I want to look my best for this prestigious event. Therefore, I came to see my favorite fashion designer to purchase a new dress.” Rarity's jaw dropped further. Her husband stood beside her.

“Listen to that darling.” He remarked. “I told you we'd make a splash when we got married, didn't I?”

“In fact!” Luna proclaimed. “I am going to hold a fashion show during the event, to show ponies the world over how glamorous Equestrian fashion can be! I can think of no better pony to do this than my favorite designer, Rarity!” Rarity's mouth was wide open, a gaping smile across it. Hearing that she was a royal's favorite, would make a dress for her to wear at an international event and showcase her fashion to ponies the world over left her stunned. Her husband nudged her.

“Darling, say something.” Her husband said.

“WahaHAha!” She laughed abruptly, all of the happiness finally hitting her. It was the strangest one Luna had ever heard, and she had spoken to mules before. After Luna made sure that it was a laugh and not some sort of fit, she resumed speaking.

“I'll take that as a yes.” Luna said.

“Of course your majesty!” Rarity finally shouted. “I would be honored!”

“Good!” Luna said. She turned to paparazzi, making sure they were watching.

'Time to spring the trap.' She thought.

“I look forward to all these things three months from now...in Ponyville.” Rarity's face dropped. Her husband spoke for her, however.

“Well I, Hoity Toity, can promise that we will display our best fashions for all to see!” He announced.

“W-Wait!” Rarity tried to say.

“Report it to the world!” Luna cried, a wide smile on her face. “Fashion designer Rarity, of this company, will design my dress and show off her best fashions at the Grand Equestrian Fair in Ponyville, three months from now, to represent our entire nation!” All of the other fashionistas began clopping on the ground. The paparazzi rained down flashbulbs and questions. Luna grabbed Rarity and brought her in close, so that they could be photographed together. Rarity smiled nervously as her picture was repeatedly taken with the princess.

“Are you doing this on purpose?” Rarity asked quietly, through her smiling teeth.

“Maybe...” Luna replied through her own teeth. “I made a promise, and I intend to keep it.”

“I can't go back there.” Rarity retorted, her expression unchanged.

“Go ahead, let down the princess, your husband, your fashion company and your nation that will certainly look good in the papers.” Rarity made an odd noise, similar to somepony gurgling mouthwash. “I'm the monarch; I can do what I want.” The princess released Rarity. “I expect some early proofs when I return!” Luna now spoke loudly, so the press could hear her. “I'll leave you all to your work! Farewell!” She waved a hoof in the air and began marching out, the legions of reporters following her.

Luna dismissed the paparazzi, which they didn't obey. She merely stating that this was a courtesy and slammed her hotel door shut. She bought the penthouse suite. It was four rooms and cost a ton of bits in Manehattan, but she was here to show off. The main room was the size of a regular living room, and filled with sofas around a fire. She sat down on a sofa and sighed. At least that was done. Acting like a jackass and smiling like a politician for days on end rubbed on her last nerve. The constant flashes of light and barrage of questions also weren't helping. She still needed them however, and the bigger splash she made the more paparazzi would swarm around her. She needed this Grand Equestrian Fair to be huge, bigger than anypony could imagine. With so many ponies in one place, many things could be done in the dark... Those were things to be dealt with later.

Luna stood again and walked over to the wall beside the door. There was a string there that would ring a bell downstairs, signaling that she wanted something. The princess pulled it several times and waited. It took quite a while, considering she on the top floor. There was finally a knock at the door. When she opened it a pony dressed in a uniform was standing outside, huffing and puffing.

“What can...I...do for you...your majesty?” He asked quickly.

“Do you carry the Pony Flier magazine?” She asked.

“Yes ma'am.” The pony replied. “Can I get you the latest issue?”

“Get me that and all the issues you currently still have, I want them all.”

“As you wish your majesty.” The pony stated. He bowed quickly and dashed away, heading for the stairs. Luna closed the door and walked back over the couch. There was a bottle of strawberry fizz on the coffee table, in a bucket of ice. Luna used her magic and poured herself a glass. She sat down on the couch again and began drinking. She needed the magazines as she wasn't entirely sure where her other target, Rainbow Dash, was. She flew for the Fillydelphia Lightning Wings, but probably wasn't currently in the city. Flying squads had three seasons. The first was performance season where they put on aerial acrobatic displays for events and private gatherings. This was where they made the majority of their respective money. The second was competition season, where there would be official league games, both in graded performances and races. The third, and current, season was the training season, where the ponies would go and prepare for the other two. They often didn't train in their patron cities, as there wasn't enough room. Considering that Phillydelphia was known for smokestacks and having quite a lot of pollution, it wasn't a good place to train. Luna would have to sift through the main competition flier magazine in Equestria to find out where the Lightning Wings were training. That could take a while.

There was another knock at the door. Luna placed the glass on the table and began walking over to it, confused. It hadn't been a long enough time to get those magazines. She opened the door and saw yet another uniformed pony, but not the same one.

“Sorry to disturb you your majesty,” The pony said, bowing. “but there is a Mrs. Rarity here to see you. If you will allow her to come see you, please ring the bell, if not I will return downstairs and tell her to leave.” The princess thought for a moment. Did she really want to deal with this can of worms now? Well, it would probably have reared its ugly head up sooner to later. The princess leaned over and pulled the string on the bell several times. “As you wish.” The pony bowed again and began marching back towards the stairs. Luna shut the door. She trotted back over to the table in the room. She then picked up the entire bottle and began swigging it down. When she finally brought it back down she sighed again.

“A monarch's work is never done.”

Several minutes later, there was some very loud and very rapid knocks at the door. Luna growled a bit, hoping she could have rested for just a few moments longer. She trotted over to the door. When she opened it, a very angry unicorn was waiting for her. She was wearing a much simpler dress with a rather modest feather hat.

“Can you make my dress more like that?” Luna asked. “That one you wore today looked annoying to walk in.” Rarity barged her way through, ignoring what the princess said. “Won't you come in?” Luna said sarcastically. The princess shut the door.

“What sort of game are you playing!?” Rarity shrieked.

“Well, I was thinking of doing some crossword puzzles...” Luna replied.

“Why would you throw a fair at Ponyville!?”

“It's to celebrate the common pony. Ponyville is an excellent town for that.”

“Don't give me the PR statement! You trapped me into going back to that town, why!?” Luna lifted her eyebrow. She wondered if she should inform Rarity of what happened to the last person who threw accusations at her.

“Why would you be opposed to going back home?” Luna asked. “Your friends miss you.” Rarity flinched. She gazed at the ground.

“I can't go back.” Her voice had now fallen. “I just can't.”

“Why not?” Luna asked. Rarity seemed reluctant to talk about it, but was also desperate to not go.

“I...I...I left them. I had a choice. Hoity offered me connections, a job at a major fashion company and large contracts to design for celebrities. All I had to do was be his arm candy. I...I picked all of those things over my friends...my home...I...I can't go back. How can I face them now? I have everything I ever wanted here.”

“Except your friends.” Luna interjected.

“I can live with that.”

“That's a lie and you know it.” Rarity lifted her head abruptly. Her regal face had a nasty snarl on it.

“Who are you to tell me what I'm feeling!?” Rarity jumped back a little as, in an instant, the princess was right in her face.

“No one can lie to me.” Luna replied, her tone angry. “If you feel it, so can I.”

“Wh-What!?” Rarity shouted, confused.

“You regretted this decision the moment you got married.” Luna barked. “All you have been able to think about in your spare time are the friends you left behind! You've tried to keep busy, but it's not working as well as it used to! You've worried about your best friends this whole time, and haven't been able to find ones near as good here in Manehattan. You've wondered if they've been happy since you left. I have the answer for you. They haven't. They're miserable!” Rarity stared on, completely shocked. Then she lurched, brought her hoof to her face and began crying. Luna sighed. She hated this power of hers sometimes. Any emotion ponies had and the thoughts that caused them to be were known to her.

“What can I do?” Rarity asked. “I can't go back, not now.”

“You don't have a choice Rarity.” Luna said. “It's not about you. It's about all of you. I think you'll find that what you fear doesn't exist.” Rarity sighed, realizing that Luna wasn't going to back down. The unicorn wiped her eyes.

“Why are you doing this to me?” Rarity asked. Luna walked forward and put her hoof on Rarity's shoulder, in support.

“I'm doing this for you.” Luna stated. She smiled. “You’re worrying over nothing. Everything will work out, you'll see. Now, you better get to work now. You only have three months to prepare a show and make a dress for a royal.” Rarity sighed in defeat. She gazed up at the princess, defiance in her eyes.

“I'm not going to forgive you for tricking me into this.” The unicorn stated.

“I can live with that.” Luna said, chuckling. “I don't think you'll be bad-mouthing me at my funeral.” Rarity didn't think that was very funny.

A few minutes later, after the unicorn left, the door to the room opened. The original uniformed pony had arrived, a large stack of magazines in his hooves.

“I have your magazines your majesty!” He declared.

“Put them on the table.” The princess ordered. She was sitting on the couch again, drinking. The pony instantly obeyed. He trotted over and slammed the magazines down in front of her, bowing. Luna offered a few bits to the pony, who took them gratefully and left the room, bowing the whole way. Luna finished her glass and sat on the edge of the couch. The stack was quite high, and probably contained well over thirty magazines. Luna sighed yet again and put her hoof to her head. This day just kept getting longer.

“This will take a while.” Luna said, reaching for the one on top. It was the latest one published. “She's in a lower division so I'll probably have to search through most of them to...” Luna stopped, staring at the magazine. “...and she's on the front page.” It was hard to confuse Rainbow Dash with somepony else. Her hair was unmistakable. On the cover of the Pony Flier was Rainbow Dash, striking a pose in the air. The headline read “Star Flier Becomes Captain of the Lightning Wings.” “That made my job easier.” Luna used her magic and turned the page to the one designated on the cover for the story.

Apparently, the Fillydelphia Lightning Wings were the rising star in division two, as opposed to the Wonderbolts who were in division four. Which division a flying squad was in depended on how much money they were worth, in filling up seats in stadiums and merchandise, and their winning records against other teams in their division. Those that had won the vast majority of competitions and rake in a lot of money of their respective division several years in a row had the chance to move up a division. By contrast, if a squad lost most of their games and their money flow decreased they could be dropped down.

Luna read that the Lightning Wings had only started a few years ago, but in their second year Rainbow Dash joined them. From then on, they soared through division one and were currently rising through division two. Rainbow Dash's stats caused the entire team's average to be lopsided.

As Luna turned the page she saw an entire spread of the flying squad, with Rainbow Dash in the center. Luna's eyebrows went up. She had seen this team before, only she didn't know it. She had a poster of them up in her room, although it only had representations of the ponies on the team. It had their body, coat and mane, but their faces were blank. It was quite cartoony, but Luna didn't buy it because she actually followed the team. It was their uniform. The princess actually hated the Wonderbolt's jumpsuit. The Lightning Wings wore leather-like jackets, with fluff around the neck and hoofs. The jackets were fake leather as nopony in Equestria had to slaughter animals for their skin, largely due to the fact that the weather was now controlled. The team also wore pants, each one of them a different color and number, so they could be identified in the air. Luna liked the style of the jacket, so she bought the poster.

Luna read on through the meaningless, to her at least, stats and ramblings about competitions. Finally she got to section about what they were doing now. They were training at a flier's camp, located a few miles north of the city. The princess grinned slightly and put down the magazine. This whole magazine adventure she had sent that uniform pony on had been a waste of time. Not only was Rainbow Dash in the latest issue, but they weren't far from Fillydelphia in the first place. Luna sat back onto the couch.

Rainbow Dash would be far harder to get back to Ponyville than Rarity. The pegasus pony had left because of embarrassment and shame. Not only had the pony she loved turned her down, but the whole town had begun talking about her behind her back. If Rainbow Dash heard about the fair and where it would be held then she would find a way out of it. Luna could order her to do it, but even that might not be a sure thing. She would have to employ the same strategy she did with Rarity. The princess would have to trick her into agreeing to fly at the fair without her knowing where it was. Luna had her work cut out for her. It would probably be best if she went to bed early. Fillydelphia was a long walk.

*

It took nearly a week to get to Fillydelphia, which made Luna nervous. She could have just as easily teleported, but she needed the reporters to follow her. The princess made her usual announcement at all the towns she came across. What made her nervous was how fast the news was traveling. Granted, the Lightning Wings were training away from civilization, but it was only a matter of time. Luna considered many times during her long journey of skipping ahead, but the fleet of reporters tailing her had nearly doubled. They clogged the road wherever she went. The princess even spotted a few foreign ones in the crowd. She hoped the news would get to other nations in time.

Luna finally waltzed up to the camp described in the magazine, which actually had a gate. There were high walls around it, with ivy growing halfway up it. The camp itself was quite large, with hoops on huge poles for the fliers to go through and high trees cut into a maze obstacle course. It was situated in a huge field. The facility had apparently been made only a few years ago, likely when the team had been formed. It was evident by the fact that there were rotting stumps still littering the field around the area leftover from when they had been cut. It was important to have a large empty space to compete in so that the ever-growing trees didn't get in the way. There was a large bell beside the gate with a sign over it instructing ponies that this was a private camp and the bell should not be rung unless they had legitimate business or they could face reprisals to the fullest extent of the law.

“That's a bit harsh.” Luna muttered out loud. The reporters behind her muttered and began writing down what she said. The princess closed her mouth. She figured that she would have learned to keep her mouth shut by now. She let slip a few snide comments before. No doubt they would make front page news when these reporters sent their pictures and writings to the publishers. Luna used her magic and banged the bell as loudly as she could.

Then she waited, waited and waited. They were sure taking their sweet time in checking the gate. Meanwhile, the reporters were hovering around the princess, asking her opinion on the long wait and whether she intended to make a new law governing how long ponies were required to wait for somepony to arrive at the gate. Luna could feel a vein pop in her forehead in frustration. These paparazzi were driving her nuts. Every minute of every day they wanted her opinion on every single asinine thing anypony could ever imagine. For her own amusement sometimes she would use her magic and trip a few of them. Since none of the paparazzi wanted to stop, lest they miss something the princess said, they would often trip over each other, causing many of them to fall. Luna called it “reporter bowling.” Once she even managed to make three-fourths of them to fall. She never could make them all do it. There was always a pegasus or two in the crowd.

Finally, somepony began approaching the gate. It was a cook by the look of him. He had that chef’s hat and apron. He didn't appear to be happy to be marching out either. When he could see that the mob of ponies were carrying cameras he snarled.

“Listen here you paparazzi!” He shouted. “We told the last twenty times, no reporters are allowed within the training camp! I swear you leeches are like...” He halted dead in his tracks. He finally saw the purple alicorn at the head, one of her hoofs crossed over her other leg, showing irritation. The cook began shaking. “P-P-P-P-Princess...Luna...”

“Do continue.” Luna said. “I liked the “leeches” part.” The cook gulped, visibly bothered. He bowed from behind the gate and stayed in that position.

“Wh-What can I do for you my lady?” He asked.

“I would like to get a look at my favorite team if you don't mind.” Luna stated. The reporters behind her immediately began writing that down. The princess was glad they were finally going to report on something she wanted them to.

“Of course my lady, of course!” The pony jumped back up. He ran up to the gate and nervously groped with the lock. After several moments of fumbling, he finally had it and the gate swung open.

“Where might they be?” Luna asked as she strode inside.

“At the training fields my lady.” The cook said, bowing again. “This way.” He began leading her towards the elevated hoops and tree mazes.

The camp was quite impressive. The dorms looked a lot more like apartments, and good ones at that. The building itself looked brand new. It was likely built from the added revenue that Rainbow Dash was bringing in. There was also another building beside the dorms that Luna assumed was the cafeteria. She couldn't see much about it, other than it was a white building with an awning to the side where ponies could sit on wooden tables and benches to eat outside. The vast majority of the camp however was made up of the training field. Now that Luna got close, she could see several trails left by pegasus ponies flying around the hoops. One of them had a distinct rainbow one. Luna took a deep breath and prepared herself as they crossed a powdered white line on the ground, indicating the edge of the practice area.

Luna squinted up at the shapes zipping around above her. They were moving quite rapidly and it was hard to make them out. The rainbow one was zipping around a lot faster than the others and without that multicolored trail it would be impossible to tell who she was. Abruptly however, two of the trails collided and two ponies plummeted out of the sky. Two male ponies, one with an gray mane, one with a purple and both in the Lightning Wings uniform, slammed onto the ground, cussing and kicking. They pulled themselves apart and had their faces pressed against one another's, growling.

“Knock it off boys!” Came a female voice. The rainbow trail darted out of the sky and landed right next to them. The rest of the fliers followed suit. Rainbow Dash walked up to the two stallions, a serious expression on her face. “Getting each other injured sure isn't going to help us.”

“He bumped into me, captain!” The gray one growled.

“No, he bumped into me!” The purple one bellowed.

“He messed up!”

“No, he did!”

“You both did!” Rainbow Dash said abruptly. The both flinched and looked insulted. Rainbow Dash turned to the gray one. “Fling, during the triple axle you only turned twice, which threw off your timing.” Fling shrunk back, realizing his mistake. Rainbow Dash turned to the purple one, who was already cringing. “Thunder, during your canopy roll you did the second turn backwards and it threw off your rhythm. Regardless, we need to keep practicing, not determining whose fault an accident is.” The two stallions muttered, with Fling kicking the ground with his hoof in apparent embarrassment.

'She knows what she's doing and she's really good at it.' Luna thought. She trotted up to them. The mob of reporters finally got the attention of one of the other members of squad, the only other female. She was quite small, but had fiery orange hair and an opaque body. When she saw the alicorn approaching she lifted her hooves to her mouth and gasped.

“Princess Luna!” She exclaimed. All of the team members jerked their heads around, shared shocked expressions and then finally bowed as the princess finally stood right in front them.

“At ease.” Luna said, raising her leg. They instantly obeyed, with the peppy redhead still jumping back and forth in excited little jumps. “I hope there isn't any discontent among my favorite team.”

“We're your favorite!?” The redhead shouted.

“Indeed.” Luna said. “I have a poster of you all in my room.” The fiery-haired pony let loose a fan girl squeal and excitedly hopped up and down.

“Ease up Sun Flash.” Rainbow Dash said out of the side of her mouth. “There are cameras here.” The rainbow pony then turned to Luna. “What can we do for you your majesty?”

“Have you heard about the Grand Equestrian Fair I'm throwing?” The princess asked.

“We heard about it.” Rainbow Dash replied. Luna became a little nervous, but the pegasus pony didn't seem shocked or nervous. She may not have heard where it was being held.

“I'm going to showcase what's best about Equestria!” Luna announced, launching into her usual speech. “We must show the world what being a citizen of Equestria is all about. This also includes our sports. I want you, my favorite team, to perform at this grand occasion, to showcase the best our sports have to offer!” The Lightning Wings began talking amongst themselves excitedly. Sun Flash began jumping several feet in the air, screaming like she just met her favorite celebrity. Rainbow Dash stuck her chest out in pride.

'She has no idea!' Luna thought. 'Perfect.'

“I knew royalty would recognize true talent!” Rainbow Dash announced. “We would be honored to perform.”

“Excellent!” Luna grabbed Rainbow Dash by the neck and pulled them together, so they were side-by-side. “Let it go out to all the land, less than three months from now the Fillydelphia Lightning Wings will perform at the Grand Equestrian Fair...in Ponyville.” Luna felt Rainbow Dash instantly go rigid. She could see that the pegasus pony's face went pale and her mouth hung open.

“P-Ponyville?” Rainbow asked, her voice breaking. Luna held the extremely uncomfortable pony, long enough for several pictures to be taken. Luna then released her, allowing her to stumble away, looking terrified. “I...I can't...” Rainbow Dash tried to speak, but Sun Flash, who was positively floored, leaped over and wrapped in a large hug, rubbing their cheeks together. Luna cocked her eyebrow. The emotions pouring out of the peppy pony were quite...intimate. Perhaps Rainbow Dash had moved on since Ponyville. There were one too many ponies present to focus very much, plus Luna was trying to avoid prying into other pony's minds unless she had to.

“I expect all of you to be there!” Luna announced. “Why, if one of you, say the star of the team, were to not show up, I would just...” The princess's eyes met Rainbow Dash's. “...have to get some other team.” Rainbow Dash went pale yet again. She was trapped into doing this.

“Don't worry!” Sun Flash shouted. “We'll all be there!” Rainbow Dash gave her a stunned expression. She was apparently trying to speak, but only whining noises came out.

“I'm counting on all of you!” Luna said. “Get to practicing!” All of the ponies bowed and took off, except Rainbow Dash. She was still as a statue, her face full of fear. The princess winked at her. “You better get to work Rainbow. You don't want to disappoint them.” Rainbow's jaw finally snapped shut. The alicorn could see anger boiling in her eyes. Luna turned back to the paparazzi.

“This concludes our Grand Equestrian Fair tour! You've all been great! I am now going to retire before heading back to Ponyville to prepare for our grand event. So uh...get lost.” The reporters closed in, all of them intent on asking a final question, before she walked away. Princess Luna had prepared for this however. Her horn glowed and in a bright flash, she disappeared. The reporters began staring around, as if expecting her to materialize close by. Then, in a collective mass, they all swarmed towards the exit.

Luna quickly rented another penthouse in the city. It wasn't near as posh as the one in Manehattan and it wasn't as high off the ground, but it was certainly quite nice. As opposed to a grand den like the last one, this one was more like a cozy home. Luna sat on a couch, relaxing. She paid the hotel a lot of money to keep the paparazzi out of the building and away from the skies around it. She was once again drinking something the hotel left for her, except now she was sitting in an armchair as opposed to a couch. She hadn't been sure that Rarity would confront her, but she was sure that Rainbow Dash would. She was just waiting for that knock at the door. It didn't happen. Instead she got a much ruder surprise.

The window to her room busted open. The princess jumped up out of the armchair, standing at the ready. Rainbow Dash was crouching in the room and breathing quite heavily, the window now wide open. She had apparently barged right in. Luna relaxed. The loud noise nearly made her jump out of her skin. Rainbow Dash was huffing and puffing and there was a furious look in her eyes.

“Oooh!” Luna shouted, sounding excited. “Is this an assassination attempt? I haven't had one of those in ages!”

“Cut the crap!” Rainbow Dash shouted. The princess frowned. This wasn't going to be a nice affair. “You set me up! You're trying to force me to go back to Ponyville!”

“I'm not trying.” Luna remarked. “I'm succeeding.”

“I don't know why you're trying to make me suffer,” Rainbow Dash retorted. “but I'm not going to Ponyville and you can't make me!”

“Fine, let Sun Flash down.” Rainbow Dash reeled and blushed deeply. She had not been expecting that. “What? Did I hit a nerve?”

“What are you trying to do!?” Rainbow Dash shouted.

“Bring everypony home.” Luna replied, crossing one of her legs over the other one. “You are going to reunite with your friends whether you like it or not.”

“They're fine without me! The only thing left for me there is humiliation and pain!”

“They're not fine without you and there is so much more!” Luna stood up tall and her wings were out to their full extent. “Twilight nearly had an emotional breakdown! Pinkie Pie is throwing meaningless parties over and over again, just in case you show up one day! Fluttershy's husband sold her as a prostitute for money. He tried to rape Twilight and I beat him within an inch of his life!”

“Wh-What?” Rainbow Dash looked genuinely shocked by this announcement.

“And despite what you might think, Applejack constantly regrets what she had to tell you, but knew she had to, because it was the truth. She misses you!” The fire instantly returned back to Rainbow Dash's eyes.

“That's a lie!” The pegasus pony shouted.

“IT IS NOT!!!!” The princess's voice echoed across the room. The entire suite rattled as her anger caused it to shake. Rainbow Dash shrunk back, abruptly afraid of the alicorn. “You cannot cover up the truth Rainbow Dash, not to me! You can't lie about things I've seen with my own eyes!”

“How could you...possibly know how Applejack feels?” Rainbow Dash asked, sounding terrified.

“No one can lie about how they feel, not to me.” Luna said. “I can feel your fear, anguish and sorrow, but I can also sense a part of you that is excited and happy to be going home. Twilight Sparkle is my best friend. I made a promise to her and I intend to keep it. She is miserable with her friends so far away, and I intend to bring all of you home, even if it’s kicking and screaming.” Rainbow Dash had backed into a wall. Tears were coming out of her eyes. Her legs were shaking and she looked desperate.

“I can't! I can't! You can't make me do this! I...I...” Princess Luna folded her wings. She marched over the rainbow pony and lifted her face up with her hoof.

“Rainbow Dash, what you fear doesn't exist. Your friends only want you back. They care about you and miss you. They don't care about rumors, reputations or what you've done in the past. They only want to see you again. Staying away for your own reasons while they suffer is...” Luna paused for a moment, closing her eyes. “...selfish. That's why I became angry. I'm not going to hurt you, but you have to go back to Ponyville.” Rainbow Dash looked at the ground.

“I hate you.” She stated. “I hate you for doing this to me.” The princess flinched, but quickly recovered.

“That's fine.” Luna said. “You don't have to like me. You just have to do what I say.”

The next morning Princess Luna awoke, paid her bill and teleported across the country. She appeared in Twilight's house, but found no one home. The princess gazed around the library, apparently trying to see if the unicorn was hiding.

“Twilight!” Luna called. There was no response. “Twilight! Are you here?” The only response was dead silence. “Huh, guess she's not home.” The princess walked out of the house. Despite the fact that it was already morning the streets were empty. The entire town was dead quiet. Luna scanned around, quite confused. She figured there would at least be a shopper or two. She walked down an empty street, wondering if a plague had struck this place. Finally, she saw a pony. It was a woman apparently putting fruits in a box. She seemed to be in a hurry. Luna quickly ran over, lest the pony get away.

“Hey!” The princess exclaimed. The pony turned and her eyes widened.

“Princess!” She exclaimed. She quickly bowed.

“Where is everypony, where's Twilight Sparkle?” The royal pony asked.

“Twilight's recruited the whole town.” The mare explained. “We're all preparing for the fair. Everypony is in the fields north of town.”

“The whole town?” Luna asked.

“Yes your majesty. All of us are being paid quite well from the crown. Thank you for that by the way.”

“Huh, sounds like things have been busy while I've been gone.” Luna remarked.

“I have to get out there quickly.” The mare stated. “Many ponies haven't had breakfast yet.”

“Stand close to me, I'll teleport you.” Luna stated.

When Luna appeared in the fields north of town she got a huge surprise. Countless ponies were building structures, cutting down trees and moving wood everywhere. The mare that had traveled with Luna thanked the princess and dashed away. Luna marveled at the organized chaos, impressed. She didn't know that this many ponies lived in Ponyville. Everypony was working tirelessly. Abruptly, a small pony which greatly resembled Applejack dashed by with a large caramel apple and a huge smile on her face. Applejack wasn't far behind, yelling up a storm.

“Apple Core, I swear that if you don't get back here with that there apple I'm gonna tan your hide so bad my grandchildren will feel it!!!” Applejack screamed. This didn't seem to faze her daughter at all, who continued running.

“Applejack!” Luna shouted. The country turned her head, but didn't quit running.

“Oh, hey princess!!” She shouted.

“Where's Twilight?”

“Over that hill!” Applejack pointed with her head, but then turned it back to the pursuit of her daughter. Luna chuckled a little. That Apple Core sure did love to steal things. Luna proceeded over the hill, in search of Twilight.

Applejack was telling the truth, that's what she was famous for. Twilight was at the bottom of the hill. She had a large clipboard in front of her face and she was shouting to a pony up on a building platform. They were apparently constructing some kind of bell tower. Why they would need that was a mystery to Luna. She trotted over to the unicorn, who was having a fit.

“No, no, no!!!” Twilight shouted. “I told you we need three-eighths bolts, not one-fourth!”

“Miss Twilight,” The building pony said, shouting from up the platform. “This is a temporary structure. We don't need such large ones!”

“This building is supposed to be the reference point for the entire fair!” Twilight shouted back. “It has to stay standing, no matter what! It'll also be a monument to the event afterwards! I have executive privileges. Now, do what I say!!!!” The building pony grimaced and cursed. He turned to the bucket of screws he had and handed it to his assistant.

“Get the ones miss obsessive wants!” He shouted, making sure Twilight heard him.

“Thank you!” Twilight bellowed. “I swear this is so...”

“Having fun?” Luna asked, finally getting her attention. Much to the princess's surprise, Twilight turned and gave her a stiff glare.

“Glad you could join us.” Twilight said with definite anger in her voice.

“What's the problem?” Luna asked, slightly surprised.

“Do you know what kind of headache you left me with?” Twilight complained. “I had to change the plans three different times, you know why?”

“No, why?”

“Because I sent out a notice that while the event was free, ponies still needed a ticket to be guaranteed food. Within a few days I had six thousand tickets purchased.” Luna whistled. That was quite a lot. “So, I decided to make it a multiple-day event, with ponies picking what day they wanted to come, with only a few thousand attending each day. The tickets then jumped to ten thousand!” Luna flinched, that was more than she expected. “So I then enlisted more ponies in the town to help, rather than those that were unemployed at the moment. We began making the field larger and using the wood to make stands, games and buildings. We're also using the buildings in Ponyville as part of the fair. Once your tour hit Manehattan do you know how many ponies bought tickets?”

“Uh...n-no?” Luna asked nervously. Twilight pushed herself up to her fullest height and gazed down on the princess, who was cringing.

“EIGHTEEN THOUSAND!! We've sold eighteen thousand tickets, with hundreds more each day!!!” Luna smiled nervously.

“D-D-Did I mention I sent invitations to all the surrounding countries already?” Twilight's eye twitched.

“No...no you didn't.”

“Surely sis sent some workers...”

“They'll be here in a few days.” Twilight said, turning back to her clipboard. “Workers aren't the problem. We have to feed and house all of these ponies! I've invited every food merchant in Equestria to have a stand here. We've also sent out notices that ponies need to bring tents to stay in! We'll be lucky if there's enough room from here to Canterlot for all of them! I have to plan entertainment, games, functions, and even the layout of the entire place! Those architects Princess Celestia sent can't agree on anything.”

“Not to add to your workload,” Princess Luna interjected. “but you're also going to need a place with a fashion runway and a place for a flying squad to prepare and perform.” Twilight's expression abruptly lightened. She gazed hopefully up at the princess.

“Th...they agreed to come?” Twilight asked with a widening grin.

“Agreed, blackmailed, same thing.” Luna stated. The unicorn's face fell abruptly.

“I wanted them to come back because they wanted to...” She said in a fallen voice.

“They wanted to.” Luna said. “There were just silly things holding them back. Anyway, they'll be here or so help me I will drag them here.”

“How are they?”

“They're both quite well. Rarity's famous and I think Rainbow Dash has a new beau.”

“How did you get them to come? What happened?”

“Ironically, the same thing both times.” Twilight tilted her head, no understanding. “I made a scene with the reporters, made them promise to come to fair so it would be reported to the whole nation and then later they both confronted me in my hotel room. Quite amazing actually, you all think alike.”

“What did they say?”

“Well, Rarity will never forgive me, Rainbow Dash hates my guts and I think if there's ever a resistance group against me they'll be at the head. On a positive note I kept all the little shampoo bottles and complementary chocolates the hotel gave me!”

“That's...quite harsh...”

“I didn't expect any less.”

“Well, I guess that's...” A roar filled the entire area. All the workers stopped and stared. A distance away, Fluttershy was beating the crap out of a bear, which was roaring. Luna's eye twitched. What in Equestria's name happened while she was gone!? “For pony's sake...” Twilight began marching over, her anger back in full force. “Fluttershy! I told you to stop making so much noise!”

“But Mr. Bear is really stiff! I'm giving him a massage!” The pegasus pony responded

“I don't care if he needs an appendectomy! Keep it down!” A small pony then hopped over to Twilight. It also resembled Applejack, but her hair was red.

“Twilight!” The filly shouted, a piece of paper in her hoof. “I finished my design for the fair!”

“Not now Apple Bloom.” Twilight said quickly.

“But I want to get it in to the running before one of those fancy Canterlot ponies win!” The filly whined.

“This isn't a game Apple Bloom. I have to work.” Twilight quickly trotted away.

“But...but...” Apple Bloom started kicking the ground with her hoof. “I worked really hard on it...” She appeared to be on the verge of tears. Luna couldn't stand to see the little mare so depressed. She was almost the age that Twilight was when Luna, as Nightmare Moon, first met her. The princess walked over to Apple Bloom.

“I'll look at it.” Luna offered. The filly turned her head and her eyes lit up.

“Ya will!?” She shrieked.

“Yep.” The princess stated.

“Thank you your majesty, thank you.” Apple Bloom handed her the paper and began kissing her feet. “Thank you...thank you...thank you.”

“Alright kid you're embarrassing me.” Luna said, shoving her away. She then gazed at the plans.

Luna's jaw dropped. She had been expecting cheap renderings, made with crayon showing flowers and a Ferris wheel. Instead it was drawn on grid paper, with even the elevation labeled. Each stall was given proper measurements and built into a perfect grid pattern. This little filly had spent a lot of time on this...and had done it right, like by the national standard, right.

“Wow.” Luna said.

“Ya like it?” Apple Bloom asked, hopping up and down.

“This is...wow...how did you...?”

“Well, I started off by thinkin' that we need a lot of room, right? We also need everything to be close together, and stuff like games, food and entertainment stalls needed to be in the same place, but ponies couldn't just be walkin' around all willy-nilly like. So I just thought that the stalls could be in squares, for places in the middle of their backs to put the supplies they need, so the ones that used the same stuff, like the games and foods, could be grouped together. Then I thought 'well, if everything is in a square then we could make a grid!' Then I heard you say we needed a fashion place and flier place, so I put them here.” Apple Bloom pointed to the area around the bell tower being constructed. “I left some space there in case ya'll wanted to build some stuff I didn't think of. Turns out it was convenient. Sorry it's a little sloppy. I did it free-hand.” Luna's jaw hung open. The princess couldn't tell any difference from the “free-hand” and the others. This design was brilliant. Basically, every ten stalls or so was its own unit, with its own supplies in a square behind them. It would bring down the amount of traffic from gathering supplies and make it easier to organize everything. The little pony even took the slope of the hills into account. The princess was silent for several moments. Then her jaw snapped shut.

“Let's go find Twilight.” Luna said, rolling up the parchment.

“Seriously!?” Apple Bloom shrieked.

“Yes, let's do it.” Luna said seriously. The happy filly bounced after the princess, happy as she could be.

Luna walked up to Twilight, who was yelling at somepony else for not cutting the trees down at the right angle. The poor unicorn had been worn ragged. When she finally turned away from the unfortunate lumberjack, Luna was waiting with a nervous smile.

“What do you want!?” Twilight said, growling.

“I want you to look at this.” Luna said. Apple Bloom was standing off to the side, hopping up and down in small jumps. Twilight took it and gazed it over. Slowly, her eyebrows lifted up and up.

“Wow this...is great.” Twilight said, looking it over again. “This is brilliant. It's perfect. Who came up with it?” Luna motioned towards Apple Bloom, who was practically hopping right up into Twilight's face. “You?”

“Uh-huh!” Apple Bloom said excitedly.

“Wow this is great Apple Bloom. This is what I'm going to use. You're amazingly good at this.”

“Really!?” The filly shouted.

“Of course, in fact, I want you to tell these builders how to do it. They don't have a clue what they're doing.”

“Of course!” Apple Bloom shouted excitedly. Twilight stared at the filly, paused for a moment, and then gasped. “What? What is it?”

“I don't believe it!” Twilight exclaimed.

“What?” Apple Bloom asked. Luna smiled.

“Good things come to those who wait.” Luna said. “Let me ask you, how many stupid adventures did you have to try to find your cutie mark?”

“A lot I guess.” Apple Bloom said.

“Well they didn't do any good did they?”

“I don't...”

“Look at your butt.” Apple Bloom turned her head. Her face practically detonated into a smile. She began jumping over everyone's head in joy. On her flank was a symbol. There was a piece of wood and a sledge hammer. The hammer had an apple symbol on its metal end, apparently showing what family she had come from. Apple Bloom had found her special talent in architecture and building. The pony was so excited that no one could talk to her for several moments. Luna chuckled. She had never seen somepony so excited to get their cutie mark.

“I love it, I love it, I love it!!” Apple Bloom shrieked.

“Why don't you go try it out?” Luna asked. “Go build that stand over there.

“Will do!” Apple Bloom shouted, shuffling off. It was around this time that a cart being pulled by somepony in a scooter arrived. Scootaloo was pulling Sweetie Belle along. They both got out, oblivious as to what just happened.

“There you are.” Scootaloo stated. “Did you show them your design for the fair? Why are you jumping around?” Apple Bloom stopped and posed, showing off her flank. Her two friends gasped.

“You got your cutie mark!” Sweetie Belle shouted. All three of them ran up to each other and began dancing around, each of them exceedingly happy. “What happened, how did you get it!?”

“Princess Luna helped me get it!” Apple Bloom replied.

“Wait a minute, I didn't...” Princess Luna tried to say. They wouldn't have listened anyway. Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle mobbed her. Scootaloo wasn't a good flier, but hovered around the princess. Sweetie Belle latched onto one of her legs.

“Please help us get our cutie marks!” They shouted at the same time.

“No I really didn't...” The princess tried to say.

“Pleeeeeaaaaaaasssssseeeeeee?” They begged in perfect unison.

“Girls, you have to wait for it to come to you.”

“Oh come on!” Scootaloo shouted. “We have to be the oldest ponies in Equestria without cutie marks.” Luna's vision narrowed quite a bit.

“Excuse me,” Luna said. “I don't know why you’re complaining, I had to wait hundreds of years for mine.” Both of the fillies gasped.

“Hundreds of years!?” Sweetie Belle exclaimed. “We can't wait that long.”

“Please help us!!” They both shouted at the same time. The princess grimaced a bit, realizing the situation she was in. Twilight smiled and walked over to her. Amid the pleas, the unicorn whispered into the alicorn's ear. The princess listened and then nodded.

“Alright!!” Luna shouted. Instantly both of the fillies backed away and sat side-by-side, hopeful gazes in their eyes. “You two have to do something for me first.”

“Anything princess!” Scootaloo said.

“Yeah!” Sweetie Belle added on.

“Okay, we are short on entertainment for the fair, and I have heard about your talents. Scootaloo, you will perform stunts on your scooter. Sweetie Belle, you will put on a concert.” Both of them flinched and cringed.

“I'm...I'm too shy to sing.” Sweetie Belle said.

“I'm not that good on my scooter...” Scootaloo said.

“It's the only way I'll help you. Apple Bloom got her cutie mark that way.” The fillies glanced at each other, each looking nervous.

“Okay...” Scootaloo said, staring at the ground.

“Yeah, I think I can do that...” Sweetie Belle said.

“Good!” Luna exclaimed. “You two better go practice, especially you Sweetie Belle.”

“What? Why me?” Sweetie Belle thought she was being insulted.

“Don't you know? Your sister is coming to put on a show too.” The filly's eyes expanded to a near impossible size, overflowing with happiness.

“Really!?” She exclaimed.

“Of course, and I hear that your idol is visiting as well Scootaloo.” The pegasus pony's face spread into the largest smile Luna had ever seen.

“Rainbow Dash too!?” Scootaloo shouted.

“So you two better perform well.”

“We will!” They both yelled at the same time. They instantly began dashing away, eager to get ready. Luna sighed, finally happy that the whole incident was over. She turned to Twilight.

“Thanks for the tip.” The princess said. “Can you pencil them in?”

“Already did.” Twilight said. “We were short on entertainment anyway.”

“We'll have to tell Apple Bloom to amend her building plans.”

“To what?” Luna and Twilight sparkled jumped. The filly had somehow managed to sneak up on them.

“Oh, it's you Apple Bloom.” Luna said.

“I finished!” The filly announced.

“With what?” Twilight asked. The country pony pointed. Both Luna and Twilight looked in the direction she indicated. “Holy...!! By all the ponies in Equestria...” Most of the workers were standing around and gawking as well. Apple Bloom had built a large, well-made stall in practically nothing flat. It was much larger than the ones Twilight had planned had had intricate symbols etched into the wood, some of prancing ponies, some of the symbols that Equestria was known for and at the very bottom of the stall near the edge was Apple Bloom's cutie mark, like a signature.

“You like it?” Apple Bloom asked. Luna gave Twilight a disbelieving sideways glance.

“How did you not figure this out sooner?” She asked.

“I...I...” Twilight could only stutter. “We...we might actually pull this off.”

“If we do...this will be the biggest plot to bring ponies back home ever.”

Chapter 6

(A/N: I have written a new chapter for this now, so I’m going to catch up by posting each chapter every few days until I get there. So check back every so often.)

The days of the fair were rapidly approaching. Twilight ended up making it four days long. Ticket sales finally seemed to taper off after 30,000. The unicorn however knew there were countless others who would show up without a ticket. This event was so big there would be no way to stop those who didn't have one from entering. The field north of Ponyville had grown to twice its original size thanks to the felling of the trees. The workers Celestia sent did arrive, but by the time they did Apple Bloom had built seventy-five stalls, a fashion hall and an obstacle course for Scootaloo. Everypony was incredibly impressed by the filly's talent. Everypony knew what that talent was now that she showed off her cutie mark to everypony she saw, especially those snooty ponies that made fun of her for so long.

As the time to the start of the fair decreased, Twilight started to become unstable. Her hair was disheveled, her facial expressions were becoming twitchy and she was obsessively mentioning that a “clock” was “ticking.” Luna hired her five assistants, which seemed to lessen the load a bit. Luna meanwhile spent most of her time giving updates to the paparazzi, who had found her again. She showed them the stalls being built, the buildings to house the entertainment and the flier's field. She also sent a request to Celestia. Days later, guards arrived. An event this big needed security, even in a country as peaceful as Equestria. Luna asked Apple Bloom to incorporate guard stations every so often. The building pony then announced that she already had when she heard about them coming.

It was just the same thing every day for the inhabitants of Ponyville for over two months: get up, work and go to sleep. The fair's location looked more like a city now. The bell tower in the center of it all was taller than any building in Ponyville. It could easily be seen from anywhere in the fair. Ponies had begun to arrive, hoping to stay in a hotel. They were out of luck however, as rich ponies had already ordered all the rooms ahead of time. Another city, this one made of out of tents, was beginning to form around Ponyville. The sellers in town were already becoming quite wealthy from the horde of new customers.

Four days before it was all about to start, Princess Luna was taking a walk around the fairgrounds. All of the stalls had been built and everypony was moving about, stocking the areas behind the stalls with supplies, as was Apple Bloom's plan. The guards were also being prepped for dealing with large crowds. The princess was smiling. This place was massive. There were also many, many places one could hide...if need be. The alicorn trotted into the “square.” It was the area around the bell tower. This was where Apple Bloom had placed most of the things that were meant to showcase Equestria. These various events were spaced hours apart, allowing ponies to disperse among the stands to buy things. Nearly every merchant in Equestria had agreed to come, from the blacksmiths to the grocers, shoemakers to fortunate tellers, and farmers to stylists. It was quite a glorious event, everything Luna had hoped for. Luna gazed over at the fashion building, which had a wooden dome on top and painted white. It looked like a temple and was painted to not look as if it was built out of wood. Apple Bloom conceived it when Luna mentioned that fashion was now in a “neoclassicism” phase. The structure certainly appeared to be out of the classical era.

A series of carriages pulled up to the building. The princess tilted her head. Those things were far too fancy for something around Ponyville. A unicorn stepped out of one of them, gazing around nervously. The princess grinned. It was Rarity. She was trying to stay hidden, but her big and curly purple hair gave her away.

“Get the outfits inside, quickly!” Rarity said. She quickly trotted inside the building, leaving her workers to do the rest. The alicorn chuckled. She turned and began trotting away, having a destination in mind. Rarity had arrived early to set up, probably so she could disappear during the actual event. She wasn't going to get away with that.

Luna found Twilight yelling at one of her assistants. The unicorn’s face was bright red. She looked as if she were about to explode.

“What do you mean there was a backup!?!?” Twilight bellowed.

“I'm...I'm sorry Ms. Sparkle...” The assistant said, sounding feeble. “I can't control the mail service...”

“It's supposed to be reliable!!!!!” Twilight shrieked. “How am I supposed to plan things if they are that unreliable!?!?!”

“There's been so much mail that they were overloaded.” The assistant replied. “They just now got it all sorted.” Twilight put her hoof to her head. She had been worn down to her last nerve.

“Get out of my sight and get to work.” Twilight ordered. “Get every scrap of food, every worker and everypony who isn't doing something and get to work, right now!!!!”

“Yes ma'am!” The assistant shouted. He turned and scampered away, eager to obey.

“What is it?” Luna asked. Twilight turned to her, a look of desperation and disbelief in her eyes.

“I expected an influx of tickets in the days leading up to the fair,” Twilight began. “but nothing like this. The mail service became backed up and they didn't tell us. They finally got enough pegasus ponies and just now delivered all the mail.”

“What's the verdict?” Luna asked, now kind of nervous.

“Counting the foreign sales, the outlying areas and all that was backed up...we sold...one-hundred and twenty seven thousand tickets.” Luna's jaw dropped. That was insane! “More than that are probably going to show up...even if only those who bought tickets show up this will be the biggest single event Equestria has ever held.” Luna didn't know what to say. She closed her eyes and tried to think. Was there even a way to deal with this many ponies? She opened her eyes.

“Here's what we do.” Luna said. “We keep our current plan. I will mobilize every guard we have on the payroll and call them to Ponyville. When we start running out of food, I will use magic to restock the areas.” Twilight flinched.

“Won't that be...exhausting? Even for an alicorn?” Twilight asked.

“Yes, I'll have to do magic constantly.” Luna replied. “However, I started this storm, I need to keep up with it.”

“What about Celestia? She will be unguarded.”

“Let me tell you something Twilight Sparkle. I've seen my sister fight and you've seen me fight. Those guards are more for the protection of everypony else than us.” Twilight grinned a little.

“What will you need?”

“I'll need a stock list of all the supplies each of those “cubes” needs and where they are. I can simply deposit them in the correct area if I know where they are and what they need. I don't have to tell you that fabricating things out of thin air is the most difficult spell there is. I'm going to have to rest and save my energy until then.” Twilight looked worried.

“Maybe you can talk to the vendors and find out where their warehouses are, teleportation is...slightly easier.” Twilight said.

“I'll do that.” Luna said. “I'm going to go sleep. Send a message to Celestia telling her to take over the sun and moon for a little while. One more thing though.”

“What?” Twilight asked, afraid to know.

“A certain famous fashion designer came to town.” Luna said. Twilight's eyes widened and the most wonderful smile spread across her face.

“Rarity is...?”

“In the fashion building, go see for yourself.” Twilight turned and bolted. Luna smiled. Then she sighed. She hoped to the heavens that this worked. She turned and began trotting away, heading for Twilight's house. Even if she wasn't tired, she was going to sleep anyway. Every single ounce of energy was now going to have to go to magic.

As Twilight bolted through the maze of stalls she could barely contain her excitement. Rarity was back, Rarity was back!!! All the unicorn could think of was hearing that fancy voice telling her how being a bookworm hindered her sense of fashion and that her hair looked awful the way she kept it. Twilight never thought she would miss those criticisms. As she rounded a corner, a small pony which greatly resembled Applejack ran by in front of the unicorn, a wad of candy in her mouth. Applejack wasn't far behind.

“Apple Core!!!!” Applejack shrieked. “I swear to all that is holy that if you don't get back here with that I will beat you so hard you won't wake up until you're an old maid!!!” As usual, the little Apple Core didn't slow down a bit.

“Applejack!” Twilight shouted. The country pony stopped.

“What? What?” Applejack asked, surprised.

“Rarity's back!” Twilight cried happily. She then resumed her relentless charge towards the center of the fair. Applejack stood stunned for a few moments. She then grinned and reached up to her stetson hat. She tilted it forward, covering her eyes.

“That little frou-frou dressmaker...” Applejack muttered. ““Never coming back” my hoof...” She lifted her hat back up. With very little effort she dashed over to a stall and hopped onto the top of it. “APPLE TREE!!!!!!” The call echoed around the entire town, fairgrounds and the original. Many ponies in the maze of stalls gazed around, wondering where the huge noise came from. Moments later, Apple Tree appeared on top of one of the stands.

“Yeah.” He responded, easily spotting his wife.

“Find Apple Core and give her the beating of a lifetime. I got to go meet an old friend!”

“Okey.” He replied. He jumped back down into maze. Applejack did the same. She then began jogging towards the bell tower, eager to be reunited as well.

Twilight bolted past the fancy carriages and into the rather grand building. She gazed around, quite desperately. Workers were now putting up large portraits of ponies in fancy clothing. There was a large atrium, with a walkway leading to the middle of it for the models to apparently perform on. Twilight couldn't see the fancy unicorn anywhere, leading to a wave of dread. What if she had missed her? Abruptly, somepony emerged from the back, where the models went to prepare.

“Where is the dress for the princess?” Rarity asked. “I have to set that out before leaving this...” She stopped dead in her tracks. Twilight's eyes widened. They stood staring at each other, completely wordless. Rarity gulped. “T-T-Twilight...” She tried to sound nonchalant, but it certainly wasn't working. “Well...fancy meeting you...” She didn't get to finish. Twilight broke into a dead run again. Rarity flinched, unsure of what she was doing. Twilight practically collided with Rarity, wrapping her in a giant hug. The fashion pony flinched again, this time in shock. Twilight squeezed her lost friend tightly. Rarity's dress had been torn and her hat and fallen off. The fancy unicorn couldn't seem to muster the strength to move however. She hadn't been expecting this, just cold hellos and disapproving glares. She was brought out of her thoughts by her friend beginning to convulse.

“Twilight?” Rarity asked. “Are you...?”

“I'm so happy...” Twilight said, clearly sobbing. “Where have you been? You can't just leave us...”

“Twilight...” Rarity said softly, feeling rotten. She reached up and began stroking her friend's hair. “I'm sorry...I didn't mean...I didn't want to...I'm sorry.” Rarity didn't know what to say. Twilight continued to cry. She could hardly believe it, Luna had kept her promise!

“'Never comin' back' eh?” Came a voice at the entrance to the building. Rarity and Twilight turned their heads. Applejack was leaning on the door frame, one of her legs crossed over the other. “I see you changed yer mind.”

“Applejack.” Rarity said. “What are you doing here?”

“I could ask you the same question.” Applejack said, walking into the structure. She had an irritated look on her face. “Or have you forgotten?”

“A-A-Applejack please...” Rarity said.

“I seem to recall the last night you were here, me and you havin' a conversation.” Applejack stated.

“I...I...” Rarity tried to back away, but Twilight held onto her, not allowing her to escape.

“I asked you if leavin' was what you really wanted.” Applejack began. “You broke down cryin' and jabberin' about how you were choosing a career over us and you were never comin' home. You wouldn't even let me talk. You left this town, spent all your time in Manehattan being all fancy and shmancy and can't even bother to write. Now you think you can just waltz in and expect us to forget all of that?” Twilight was now panicking. This was the reason that Rarity stayed away! If Applejack was going to do this now Rarity would leave and never come back! The fancy pony desperately tried to get away, but Twilight had a vice-like on her. Applejack leaned in close, so that their faces were inches apart. Rarity's eyes had tears forming in them. “If you expect us to just welcome you back...well you...are...right, darn-tootin'!!!” Applejack wrapped her arm around Rarity's neck and pulled it away from Twilight. She brought up her other hoof and began rubbing it back and forth on Rarity's scalp. “C'mere you fancy little frou-frou fluff ball!!”

“Applejack...let...stop...that's...” Rarity squirmed like a cat being given a bath. “Let...go...of...me!!!” Rarity managed to pull herself away, her hooves smoothing over her now messy locks. “Honestly are you ever going to become more civilized? Look what you did to my hair!”

“You never change Rarity.” Applejack said.

“So...so all that...” Rarity began.

“What? What I was sayin'?” Applejack said. She pointed with her hoof back outside. “I thought that up on the way over here.” Applejack poked Rarity on the neck. “I just wanted to see you sweat for a minute. Was that what was keepin' you away?”

“Well...” Rarity began.

“Rarity!” Applejack said, putting an arm around the unicorn. “We'll always be your friends, and you're always welcome in Ponyville!” Rarity sighed and closed her eyes. It looks like she worried for nothing. The unicorn turned back to Twilight. The lavender pony's eyes were watering, apparently happy that Applejack wasn't made at Rarity.

“Twilight darling, crying makes your cheeks puffy.” Rarity said. “There's no reason to cry so much, and are you still keeping your hair like that? It's so...without fabulosity.” Twilight began crying. Rarity was criticizing her style, like always. She wrapped Rarity in a large hug.

“I missed you so much!” Twilight cried.

“You busy?” Applejack asked. Rarity paused, her face pensive for a moment.

“No.” She admitted.

“Good, let's go meet Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie, they'll be happy to see you.”

Applejack told the truth, as she always did. The moment the three of them walked up to Pinkie Pie, who was trying to explain to one of the assistants what exactly a triple layer cupcake was and why the fair just had to have some, the pink pony leaped up into the hair, gasped and gyrated her legs in frantic circles. She screamed and in one giant hop landed on top of Rarity. They both tumbled to the ground, making Rarity's dress filthy. Applejack and Twilight chuckled. Pinkie Pie gave Rarity a tight hug before jumping back up.

“Rarity! You’re back! I'm so excited! Are you excited? I've never been so excited! We have to throw a party!” Pinkie Pie then gasped and put her hooves to her mouth. “We have to go set one up! To Sugar Cube Corner!!” The pink pony attempted to dash away, but Applejack grabbed her tail, causing the pony to slam into the ground.

“Whoa nelly.” Applejack said. “We're about to have the biggest party in the world in a few days. I think we can consider that her welcoming party.”

“Why don't we have both!?” Pinkie Pie shouted, jumping into the air. She seemingly ignored the fact that Applejack was still standing on her tail.

“Why don't we not?” Applejack replied. Rarity stood up and attempted to dust off her dress. She then saw that it was pretty much a futile effort. Twilight had ripped it in several places and it was stained from the dirt. Rarity sighed and finished ripping it apart with her teeth. She was now as she had been when she lived in Ponyville. The unicorn shook her body back and forth, as if she were wet.

“Was it always this breezy?” Rarity asked.

“Sorry about the dress.” Twilight said.

“Oh it's fine darling, I have more.” Rarity stated.

“You should go see Sweetie Belle later.” Twilight said. “She's going to sing at the fair.”

“My Sweetie Belle? Sing? In front of others?” Rarity sounded surprised.

“Princess Luna kind of tricked her.” Twilight admitted.

“Yes...she does tend to do that...” Rarity had a sour expression on her face. Abruptly something dropped from the sky. It was a certain yellow pegasus pony, who had a worried expression.

“Twilight,” Fluttershy began. “I don't think the beavers can be shown at the fair!”

“Why not Fluttershy?” Twilight asked, her tone condescending.

“I think all the pressure is getting to them!” Fluttershy said. “They seem nervous!”

“They're beavers Fluttershy.” Twilight replied. “They can't feel the pressure; they don't know what's happening.”

“Still...I think they don't need to be exposed to so many ponies...”

“They're going on display Fluttershy!” Twilight barked. She must have had this conversation a hundred times with Fluttershy. The unicorn didn't want to yell at her, but it was a little grating when the animal handler of the entire fair wanted to pull out animals for every hangnail, stuffed up nose or if they just looked uncomfortable.

“O-Okay...” The pegasus pony finally said, her wings slouching. “If...if that's what you want...” Fluttershy's eyes fell on the returning friend. Her eyes brightened instant. “Rarity!” Fluttershy trotted over to her friend. She briefly rubbed their cheeks together. “It's so good to see you!”

“You too Fluttershy. Are you going to be busy at the Fair?” Rarity asked.

“Uh...yeah...pretty busy.” Fluttershy replied.

“Oh phooey. I had a dress I made for you, and I was hoping you could model it at some point.”

“Oh...no...I couldn't do that...” Fluttershy said, shrinking back. “I don't like to model.”

“Well, it was a wedding dress I made for you. I missed the event, but I kept the dress. I was hoping it wouldn't go to waste.” The air abruptly thickened. Even Pinkie Pie looked uncomfortable.

“I...uh...” Fluttershy began, sounding incredibly uncomfortable. “We...got a divorce.”

“Really?” Rarity said, sounding surprised. She had a large smile. “I didn't think you had that in you. I guess you're a lot stronger than I thought.”

“Um...yeah...he was carried off by some other pony.” Fluttershy said, a bad poker face of a smile on her face. She didn't feel the need to mention that the expression was actually literal and the one doing the carrying was a royal guard.

“Forget him then.” Rarity said, waving her hoof in the air. “There are more fish in the sea. I guess that means you can use the wedding dress I made for you.”

“Yes...I guess I can.” Fluttershy said, a real smile on her face. A pony then walked by with a plate of disposable cups on her back.

“Free samples of sarsaparilla!” She cried, stopping by the friends. The five of them made favorable noises and began picking the cups off. “Be sure to visit our booth at the fair, the Dweller Sarsaparilla Company!”

“We will!” Applejack said, sipping the drink. “Pretty good. So Rarity, how's that hubby o' yours? Ever think about having kids?” Rarity sneered.

“Hoity? Apart from our wedding night he's hardly touched me.” Rarity replied.

“Oh.” Applejack said. She took another sip of the soda.

“He's probably as dried up as a pair of old chestnuts.” Applejack choked on the drink and the rest of the ponies gave Rarity shocked expressions. “What?” Twilight chuckled and took a big swig of sarsaparilla. “Either that or he only likes other chestnuts.” The lavender pony spewed her drink onto the ground. All of the others gawked.

“Rarity!” Twilight shouted.

“What?” The white unicorn replied, as if she didn't know what she did wrong.

“Good to have you home Rarity.” Applejack said, laughing.

“Rainbow Dash will be coming to the fair.” Twilight said. All of the ponies turned their heads towards her. They all had a blank expression, with their eyes wide as dinner plates.

“You sure?” Applejack asked. “I mean...Rarity still wrote to us...but Rainbow...”

“She used to write to me.” Twilight said. “Although she stopped at...some point.” Twilight didn't feel the need to mention that “some point” was Applejack's wedding. “We're all coming together again. Princess Luna promised. She had to trick her, but Rainbow Dash is coming.”

“I'm starting to notice a pattern.” Rarity said bitterly, swigging down her sarsaparilla.

“Was it so bad that you came back?” Twilight asked. Rarity gave her a glance. The white unicorn remained silent for a few moments.

“No, I guess it wasn't.” She finally said.

The ponies began pouring into Ponyville and they didn't stop. It was an endless torrent. The tent city around Ponyville became much larger than the town proper. Unicorns, pegasi and earth ponies all mixed together the new city. One could hop on top of the tallest building in Ponyville, look out and see only sea of tents, as far as the eye could see. The numbers became so great that some brave ponies pitched tents in the Everfree Forest. The cloth pyramids stretched from the edge of Ponyville to the edge of Canterlot. To signal to the endless masses that the fair had begun, they had rigged a single firework in the top of the clock tower. After that it would be sheer pandemonium. All stall operators were advised to go into their stalls and stay there for the duration of the fair, including the sleep. The stores in Ponyville were open before the fair and made an almost infinite stream of cash. Everypony needed something. Ponyville citizens walked around the tent city selling everything from flowers to hats. Still, the masses of ponies became anxious as the day drew nearer. Everypony assumed their positions as the day arrived.

Twilight began trotting to the clock tower. Princess Luna had devised a system. Unicorns would magically send her orders of things they were out of and where the stalls were. The alicorn would then use her magic to resupply them. Meanwhile she had to appear at nearly every event at some point or another. The next four days were going to rough, and everypony knew it. There were over one hundred thousand ponies out there, probably closer to two hundred thousand, all waiting for the celebration of a lifetime. Rainbow Dash wasn't supposed to show up until around midday, when the Lightning Wings were to come swooping in all dramatically. Until then, there would be nothing but endless buying and spending.

Twilight trotted up the clock tower. She stood on the balcony Apple Bloom had installed after the workers had finished with it. Twilight stared at the giant clock above her. The time had come, and passed actually, by thirty seconds. The unicorn turned to the rocket sitting up on the balcony. She used a bit of magic and lit the fuse. She stepped back and waited. The rocket took off, shot into the air and detonated, sending colorful sparks everywhere.

Twilight's eyes widened as she watched. It was like watching a landslide. Ponies began streaming into the huge grid of stalls. They were shoulder to shoulder, with not an inch of ground visible in the stampede. The lavender pony watched as the endless horde completely flooded the fairground, all the way to the clock tower. More of them were still hovering around the outside of the fair, trying to squeeze in. From where Twilight was standing, she could see items already flying out of the stalls at a constant rate. She was almost afraid to go back down. If there was any real trouble she doubted the guards could handle it. Still, she spent three months planning this; she might as well go and see what it was like.

Luna was backstage at the fashion house. The fair had just begun and she already had three orders to refill stalls. She did so easily, but the orders were starting early. Meanwhile she had to wait for Rarity to produce her dress. Countless ponies had squeezed into the fashion hall, many of them reporters from other countries reporting back to their respective homelands. Princess Luna was going to kick off the fashion shows by taking the runway herself. Various models were running to and fro in front of the Princess, preparing their own dresses. Luna, meanwhile, sat in one place and kicked at the floor. She sighed and glanced around, feeling useless. Rarity was taking her sweet time, probably making sure that everything was perfect. The white unicorn began approaching through the crowd of running ponies, a box hovering around her.

“Finally.” Luna stated, hopping up. “Is it ready?”

“Of course it's ready.” Rarity said, sounding quite curt. “What do you take me for?” The box opened and a dress fluttered out in front of Luna. The princess took it in.

“Wow it's so...so...” Luna began, struggling for words. “Yellow...”

“It's gold and yellow!” Rarity replied defensively. “Those colors go well with purple! I also lessened the layers, as you requested.

“Well, it looks...busy...” Luna said, a weak grin.

“Even more so with these.” Rarity said, a rather evil grin on her face. Dozens upon dozens of jewels levitated out of the box. They seemed to have hooks and ribbons on them.

“W-What are those for?” Luna asked, sounding nervous.

“Your ears and mane.”

“My what!?”

“Makeup!!!” Rarity yelled to the stylists and clopped her two front hooves together. A fleet of fashionistas descended on Luna, dragging her away to a chair.

“Wait a minute! I don't have ear holes! You're not going to put them in are you...wait...don't...don't!!! YEOWCH!!!!” Rarity chortled to herself and rubbed her front hooves together. She considered that her little revenge on the princess. Those earrings would be put in, one by one...all sixteen of them. The wounds could be easily healed with magic, but that wasn't all. Tying the jewels into the rest of her mane would create many tangles on the way out, pulling the princess's hair painfully when trying to remove them. Hassle and pain...Rarity's little revenge. “No! Not again! How many are there!? YEOWCH!!!!”

“Sixteen dear!” Rarity called, marching over to the princess. “Now don't squirm...here comes another...”

Luna was finally waiting in the wings, behind the curtain that led to the runway. Her ears were killing her. She had eight jewels hanging from each of her ears, each a different color. There were jewels tied into her mane, which were also all different colors and were spaced in a noticeable pattern. Then there was the glittering dress, made with gold and yellow. She was going to be a walking Hearth's Warming tree out there. Perhaps that's what Rarity wanted. Well, the princess was kind of asking for it, considering what she had done. Finally, the lights began to dim and the crowd hushed. Some reporters were already taking photos of the empty walkway. Spotlights then lit up the stage. Luna took a deep breath as the music started playing. The curtain raised and the alicorn began marching down the runway.

She may have felt like a decorative tree, but everypony else in the crowd was awed. She sparkled brighter than the morning sun. Her dress radiated golden light as she strayed down the catwalk, a fashion model's scowl on her face. She reached the end of the runway and posed, being flooded with camera flashes. She didn't know why they were doing that, considering that when the film was developed there would be nothing but blinding sparkles. Abruptly, there was a flash right in front of Luna's face. It was an order, more food at a certain set of stalls.

'Crap!' Luna thought, caught off guard. That was why she had planned to appear so early in the fair at this thing, so she wouldn't be caught on stage with them. She just didn't plan on the masses of frenzied ponies buying like the end of the world was coming. The princess kept her pose, trying to think. Before she could come up with something, two more appeared, all three of them now hovering around her. Ponies were still taking pictures, as if it were part of the show. 'Part of show...' Luna thought. 'That's it!' The three pieces of paper began twirling around her. She materialized a quill. In a much exaggerated regal pose she began acting as if she were signing orders on each of them. Then with a swish of her horn, one by one as the papers passed her, she made them disappear. In reality, she was filling the orders sent to her, but the onlookers couldn't tell that. The princess took the quill and put it behind her ear. She posed yet again. The song playing then had a pause in it. It was the way the music had been written, but it was also convenient.

“A princess's work is never done, especially when it comes to fashion!” Luna stated. The music then picked up again. The flash bulbs sounded. She turned and began trotting back along the runway, heading backstage. When she finally passed the curtains she heaved a sigh of relief.

“That was magnificent!” Rarity said, trotting up to her. “That improvisation was perfect!”

“Was it?” Luna said. She stepped aside as models strolled past her to parade in front of the cameras. “Not all of it was improv.”

“You mean those orders...?” Rarity began, sounding impressed.

“Were real ones.” The royal pony replied. Yet another paper appeared. “Good grief.” Luna motioned with her horn and it disappeared, the order filled. The princess was burning through magic like crazy.

“Well you did spectacular!” Rarity said in a dramatic fashion. “Time to get that dress off...”

“Huh...?” The princess said in a weak voice. Several stylists swept away with her, dragging her off to the dressing room. “Wait, we don't have to do this so quick! You have to untie the jewels before taking them out of...ow! OW!! Don't pull it! No...not the earrings...not the...YEOWCH! OUCH!!! OOOOOOUUUUUCCHHHH!!! Leave them in! By the gods, leave the earrings in!!!” Rarity chuckled evilly and rubbed her hooves together. The princess certainly deserved that.

Luna was now marching through the fair, her earrings jingling. She sighed, her hair feeling raw. The stylists that Rarity assigned to her apparently believed that pain really was beauty. They had pulled out large tufts of her flowing purple hair when they removed the jewels. The wounds from the earrings were still very sore and when they attempted to remove them it hurt...a lot. So when the wounds stopped hurting she would finally get them out. Until then her head would have to remain sparkly. Ponies were bowing as she walked past, some of them muttering how they liked her earrings. They may have looked nice, but they were a horror to put on.

“Princess!” Said a familiar voice. The royal pony turned her head. Twilight trotted through the mob to her side, a twinkle in her eyes. “I heard the fashion show went well! Wow, those earrings are lovely!”

“Say that after you wear them.” Luna said, turning her head and jingling the jewels attached to her ear.

“All the colors bring out your eyes.” Twilight stated.

“Why...thank you.” Luna hadn't been expecting that. The unicorn gazed over the masses, buying and selling things like mad.

“Wondrous isn't it?” Twilight asked.

“And exhausting.” Luna said as another order appeared. “Anything I have to do in between now and midday?”

“Well,” Twilight said, hovering her clipboard in front of her. “It says that you’re supposed to go visit, and in parenthesis “act high and mighty around,” the animals. Although Macintosh went to go help Fluttershy so everything should be fine.”

“He left from selling his family’s apples to go help her?” Luna asked, cocking her eyebrow.

“He sure did, I guess he's afraid she couldn't handle it.”

“Yeah that was it.” Luna said with a laugh. “It had absolutely nothing to do with the fact that thousands of stallions are going to be leering at her all day.” Twilight gazed up at the princess, a confused look.

“Why would he care?” Luna returned the look she received with one of shock.

“Twilight...are you blind?”

“To what?”

“I'll take that as a “yes.”” Luna muttered. “Alright, I'll go “inspect” the animals. I'll play a little matchmaker while I'm there.”

“With who?”

“You're killing me Twilight.”

Luna marched through the crowds towards the section where they kept the animals. Spike was at the head of the exhibit, posing, roaring and breathing fire to entertain the crowds. In exchange, every hour or so, he was given some jewels, which he ate voraciously and loudly, once again to entertain. Luna passed by him, crouching down so as to not warrant any undue attention. Despite the fact that she knew Spike wasn't particularly violent, she didn't think she could take a reptile roaring at her. Scaled creatures terrified her to death.

The princess weaved through the less populated animal pens. This part of the fair was only populated by young fillies and old ponies, hoping to pet the little animals. Fluttershy was in a pen, covering a ferret with a blanket. The princess approached and leaned over the side of the fence.

“Uh, Fluttershy?” Luna asked, seeing that the ferret had a thermometer in his mouth and an ice pack on his head. “What are you doing?” The yellow pony turned around, a worried expression on her face.

“I'm afraid Mr. Ferret is ill.” She said delicately. “I think it's the stress.”

“Stress...right...” Luna remembered that Twilight already pointed out the fact that they couldn't feel pressure. “Well, what's his problem?”

“His stomach seems to upset.” Fluttershy said. “He's been holding his stomach and slouching around. He might have an infection or an irritable bowel from the pressure or...” Abruptly the ferret burped very loudly. A silence then followed. The ferret then shimmied out of the blanket and began sniffing the ground.

“Stress.” Luna said. “Apparently comes with a stomach ache. Everything looks in order here.” The princess gazed around, scanning the ponies. She couldn't see the red stallion anywhere.

“Where's Macintosh?” Luna asked.

“Wh...Why do you want him?” Fluttershy asked, abruptly interested. Luna grinned mischievously.

“Oh you know...we talk sometimes.”

“Do you?” The pegasus pony didn't sound at all amused. Suddenly there was squeal coming from a different direction. They both turned their heads. Macintosh came into view, pulling a pig with a rope.

“Come on you mud-rolling varmint!” He said. “Stop bein' so stubborn!” The pig continued squalling and dragging its feet on the ground. The country pony was stronger however. He eventually shoved the swing into its pen and slammed it shut. “You sure are 'onry!”

“If you'll excuse me.” Luna said to Fluttershy, swirling her hair around attractively. Fluttershy frowned, a rather sour expression on her face. Luna chuckled as she trotted over. Fluttershy sure had some easy buttons to push. Macintosh was dusting himself off as the royal pony approached. Luna smiled, thinking how to push Macintosh's buttons now.

“Hey hot stuff.” Luna said. Macintosh jumped several feet into the air, before turning to the princess.

“P-P-P-P-Princess Luna...” The stallion said in a weak voice.

“How have you been?” The alicorn asked, sashaying way too close to him for comfort. “Working hard I see, with those rippling muscles of yours?”

“Uh uh uh uh uh...” Macintosh was stuttering helplessly.

“You know,” Luna said, rubbing her head right next to his. “that proposal is still available.”

“Proposal...?” His voice had raised a few octaves.

“You are a cute one when you’re babbling like an idiot.” Luna began rubbing the top of her head against his neck. His body was completely rigid.

“What are you doing?” He asked in a weak voice.

“Snuggling you.” Luna said, continuing to rub against him. Macintosh's eye twitched. He had no idea what he was supposed to do. “Write me.” Luna whispered into his ear seductively. She then trotted away, being sure to flip her hair in Fluttershy's direction, gaining a very angry glare from the pegasus.

'Too easy.' The princess thought. 'It'll only take a little more pushing.'

Luna then found a quiet place in a storage area behind some game stalls. She had chosen it because it was filled with stuffed animals for prizes, so there was a soft place to lie down. The princess rested as the orders continued rolling in. She rested her body and only used her magic as needed. She stayed out of sight until the sun had raised high in the sky. It was almost noon, which was when her next public appearance was. The Lightning Wings were set to come in around this time. Luna finally arose from her fluffy bed and stretched. She was starting to feel the strain on her magic and she wasn't happy about it. She could raise the moon, but materializing food was apparently too hard. Luna didn't want to burn too much magic though, so she hadn't touched her reserves. She yawned before spreading her wings and taking flight. There was a limit as to how high ponies could fly at the fair, but she was the princess, she could fly as high as she wanted.

She touched down by the performance field. The countless ponies around the field clopped the ground at her arrival in approval. Luna briefly waved at them before settling into her reserved (and very comfortable) spectator's chair, protected by an elevated platform and awning. She gazed up at the sun. It was almost time.

“Princess!” Luna turned her head. Twilight was standing off of the platform, being denied access by the royal guards. She was waving frantically. Applejack and Pinkie Pie were behind her, craning to see around her.

“Let them through!” The princess called. The guards parted and the three mares proceeded up the few stairs to the top of the platform. They stood beside the princess.

“Those guards sure are stubborn.” Twilight said, sounding grumpy. “Like they don't know me! I saved Equestria for pony’s sake!”

“They're probably tense because of all the ponies here.” Luna said. “You can't really blame them.” Twilight grumbled a bit. Pinkie Pie was staring up at the sky, already trying to see if the Lightning Wings were already there. Applejack was shifting nervously back and forth. The princess sensed her anxiousness and turned to her.

“How's the fair going for you?” The alicorn asked.

“Oh!” Applejack said, coming back to reality. “It's...really good. It looks like we'll sell all of our apples this year, that's a first.”

“A first?” Luna asked, confused.

“Yeah, ya see,” Applejack began. “We plant so many apples because some of them go bad before we can sell them, some of them get eaten by wild animals or bugs and some of them we eat. We generally only sell about a third, or if we're lucky half. We're going to make a killin’ this year.”

“Who's selling them right now?” Luna asked.

“We invited some of our relatives to help sell.” Applejack said. “If this pace keeps up after today then they might get to bring in their own apples and oranges as well.”

“Sounds like a lot of money.”

“Oh it is!” Applejack said. She nervously glanced at the sky, scanning the horizon.

“Just relax Applejack.” Luna said. The country pony jumped. She glanced apprehensively at the princess.

“It's just...” Applejack said. “I don't wanna make Rainbow Dash run away again. What do I say to her?”

““Good to see you” might be a good start. Tell her what's in your heart, even if it's not the same feelings as hers.” Applejack sighed and nodded. She turned back to the sky. “Where's everypony else?”

“Fluttershy says she'll fly over in a little while.” Twilight said. “She says the fish in the tank look sick.”

“How do fish look sick?” Luna asked.

“I don't know.” Twilight admitted. “Rarity's on her way over, but it might take a while as well. She doesn't like to push through a crowd so she'll take her time.”

“Guess it'll be just us.” Luna said.

“How much time do we have?” Twilight asked.

“None.” Luna said. All three of the other mares stared at her.

“How do you know?” Pinkie Pie asked. “My Pinkie sense feels nothing.”

“Well, I sense a very terrified pony flying here at break-neck speed.”

“Sense?” Applejack asked. “How can you...?” Her voice was cut off by loud cheering from the crowd. Everypony turned their head to the sky. The streaks of flying ponies flew into the area. The crowd went wild as the fliers instantly began doing formations and stunts. Applejack gulped nervously. She could see that one of them had a rainbow trail.

The show was impressive and seemed to go on forever. Some members of the press, dispersed among the crowd were taking pictures as the pegasus ponies performed amazing feats. They all moved in amazing unison. They even used their trails to make amazing symbols in the sky. The crowd frequently cheered and clopped on the ground as the fliers zoomed around. Even Twilight was impressed. Most of these moves were used by upper division teams. This was likely from Rainbow Dash being the captain. She had been a fan of the Wonderbolts for so long she likely memorized their techniques. The show was far longer than usual, probably because Rainbow Dash drew it out as long as she could. Finally however, they did their final move. That was when Twilight realized something. Rainbow Dash could bolt after the show. Rarity was easy to catch, she was too dainty to run very well, but Rainbow Dash was one of the fastest ponies Twilight had ever seen. The Lightning Wings came down in formation in front of the crowd and landed in a grand fashion. They were greeted by screams of admiration. Twilight turned to one of her friends.

“Pinkie Pie.” Twilight said in a serious tone.

“Yes Twilight?” Pinkie asked with a smile.

“Rainbow Dash is going to try and run.” Twilight said firmly. “I need you to go and grab her.”

“Okie dokie!” The pink pony asked. She instantly began hopping through the crowded area, as if it were easy.

“Come on Applejack!” Twilight shouted. She turned and began running into the crowd, with much more effort than her pink counterpart. The country pony sighed and lowered her hat over her eyes. She appeared to be thinking. Luna gave her a light tap on the leg.

“You better get going.” The princess said.

“Yeah.” Applejack said, lifting her hat back up. “I better.” She began trotting out into the masses.

The mob of spectators flooded the field, surrounding the Lightning Wings. Everypony was so busy watching and photographing Sun Flash jumping up and down like a crazy pony that they didn't see Rainbow Dash slip away. Despite the fact that her rainbow hair stood out, she managed to slip away from where her team was. She edged out of the crowd and attempted to trot away, aiming for the woods. She then got a rude surprise.

“Got you!” A joyous voice shouted.

“Pinkie...” Rainbow Dash began, turning her head. The pink earth pony was in the air over her and coming down fast. “...PIE!?” The pegasus pony was tackled, hard. Pinkie Pie wrapped her in a giant hug with all four hooves. Even if she acted oblivious, the earth pony knew what Rainbow Dash was trying to do and wasn't about to let that happen.

“I'm so happy you're back!” Pinkie Pie shouted. She had an iron grip on her target.

“Pinkie...let me go!” Rainbow said, dragging the pink pony behind her.

“Nuh-uh.” Pinkie said, a huge smile still on her face. Twilight managed to run past the crowd. She saw that Rainbow Dash was, indeed, trying to escape. She was actually leaving a trail in the dirt from pulling Pinkie Pie along. As soon as Twilight approached them, the unicorn used her magic and pulled on the pegasus's tail, stopping her dead. Rainbow Dash jerked her head around. She was increasingly becoming pale.

“Hello Rainbow Dash.” Twilight said with a smile.

“Twilight...” The rainbow pony replied breathlessly.

“There's somepony who's just as nervous to see you again too.” Twilight said, trying to restrain her powerful urge to tackle Rainbow with her own giant hug. There was somepony else who had to talk to her first. Rainbow gazed up and saw that there was somepony moving through the crowd with a large stetson hat on her head. The pegasus pony began pulling as hard as she could against her magically-held tail.

“Let me go!” Rainbow Dash cried.

“No.” Twilight said.

“Please!” The rainbow pony screamed, sounding desperate.

“Nope!” Pinkie Pie replied. Applejack emerged from the crowd. She saw Rainbow Dash and trotted over, a smile on her face.

“Let go! Let go! Let go!” Rainbow Dash shouted over and over again. Finally, when Applejack was in front of her and the pegasus pony froze, Twilight let go.

“Okay.” Twilight said, as if she were finally obeying. Pinkie Pie rolled away from her hug and stood a distance away, giving them space.

Rainbow Dash was frozen stiff. Her eyes were darting back and forth, in between the ground, the forest and Applejack. The country pony stood still, one leg over the other.

“You been gone a while.” Applejack said. Rainbow Dash gulped, sounding rattled. The earth pony stepped forward and in one quick motion she wrapped her arms around the pegasus pony's neck. Rainbow flinched, her face falling. Applejack squeezed her friend in a big hug. “You didn't have to be.”

“Wh-What?” Rainbow Dash asked, completely stunned.

“I missed you, ya silly filly.” Applejack replied. “No matter what you say to me, yer one of my best friends...and I never wanted you to leave.” Rainbow Dash didn't move. It was as if she were stuck. Rainbow Dash finally lifted up her own front two legs and returned the hug. Tears were streaming down her face.

“I missed you too.” Rainbow Dash admitted. Twilight then dashed over, tears coming down her face too. She hugged Rainbow Dash as well. Pinkie leaped over and did the same. As if on cue, a pony descended from the sky just outside the crowd and dropped something.

“I said gently Fluttershy!” Rarity cried, stumbling a moment from landing on the ground.

“Oh I'm sorry.” Fluttershy said. “I tried to be gentle.”

“Well, as long as you tried.” Rarity said, gently flicking her curled hair. “Honestly, it’s a good thing you spotted me and carried me here, otherwise I would have to move through that filthy crowd.” They both scanned around for their friends. Fluttershy saw all of them hugging each other and tapped Rarity. She turned and smiled. Twilight saw them, backed away from her hug and motioned for them to come over to them. There were tears in her eyes still. The two remaining friends trotted over and in one glorious moment, all of them wrapped their hooves around each other. They didn't say a word, but plenty of tears were shed. Most of them being Rainbow Dash, who was sobbing into her hooves.

“There's no reason to cry sugar cube.” Applejack finally said, despite the fact that she had tears of her own. “We're all together now.”

“Yes darling...” Rarity said, sniffling. “Crying makes your cheeks puffy.”

“I...I just can't...” Rainbow Dash tried to say. Twilight was crying just as hard. She reached over and wrapped Rainbow Dash in a hug and they both cried in each other's hair. All of the rest of their friends piled in on them, clinging together. Twilight could only sob as happiness overflowed in her heart. Everypony was finally home. Luna kept her promise.

The princess smiled from her reserved seat. She still hadn't moved, wanting to wait out the crowds. She could see the adorable Twilight Sparkle crying and sobbing in joy as all of her friends were finally reunited. Luna sighed and leaned backwards, finally finishing her good deed.

“Ah, what a day.” The princess said. “Does my heart good.” One of the royal guards approached her. He kneeled briefly before approaching.

“Your majesty,” He began. “The representatives you are waiting on have sent word. They will arrive at the fair tomorrow. They say they want you to be prompt, easily accessible and straight to the point.”

“They always do.” Luna said. “Thank you, you are dismissed.” The guard kneeled again before trotting away. Luna sighed, a more complex emotion clouding her eyes. Her good deed was done. Her dark deed had yet to be started. “I hope this works...because if it doesn't all of Equestria is in dire trouble.”

Chapter 7

(A/N: This chapter has a lot of character development in it and my sense of humor. It begins to get deadly serious next installment, so bear with me, okey? ^_^)

The second day of the fair started, and Luna was becoming exhausted. Yesterday was a constant roll of orders being sent to her. The princess had no doubt that she would have to dip into her reserves today. The fair was just as flooded with ponies as it was yesterday, and there were multiple events planned, not the least of which was Scootaloo's performance. Twilight and her friends had spent the better part of the day together, getting reacquainted. Rainbow told grand tales of her victories in competitions, Rarity described in detail all of her latest fashions, Applejack spelled out what was new with apples (which wasn't much), Pinkie went on and on about her parties that ponies bothered to show up to and Fluttershy described the animals that now largely inhabited her house. The only one not to talk was Twilight, who was so happy that if she attempted to open her mouth she knew that she would only cry some more. When they were gone, she had this aching in her heart that felt like a massive black hole, sucking up every memory and other emotion she had. With her friends absent all she felt like doing sometimes was lie in bed and cry. Now the pain was gone.

In the present however, Luna was walking through the fair, earning many gazes and bows. The ear rings were still in her ears and they still hurt like hell. She probably could have wormed them out...but after Twilight's compliment she felt like keeping them in. She was heading for the obstacle course Apple Bloom had built for her friend. It was mid-morning and about time for Scootaloo's show to start. Since the Princess was the one who asked her to perform she couldn't just not show up. Nearly every step of the way however another order appeared in front of Luna's face. With a sigh and a wave of a horn, the alicorn would fill them. Her usual magic was just about up. Just a few more and her reserves would be tapped into. Alicorns had a unique talent when it came to magic. They not only generated it, but could store it. Luna had quite a lot of magic held inside of her, but she didn't like using it. She liked being prepared and only wanted to wield it during emergencies, although she supposed that this counted as one.

Luna entered the arena. There were endless jumps, ramps and even a loop-d-loop here and there. The bleachers were filled, not necessarily because of Scootaloo's popularity, but just because of the sheer magnitude of the attendees. If even one in twenty decided to come it would fill up all the seats available. The princess arrived as Scootaloo was putting her helmet on. She was also preparing to wear some pads on her back that covered her shoulders and hips in case she fell from one of the loops. It also had the effect of tying down her wings, which made her stunts far more impressive. The poor filly was pacing back forth, her nerves on their last leg. Her legs were shaking and she was panting frantically like an exhausted dog.

“How's it going?” The princess asked, knowing the answer wasn't going to be a good one.

“I can't do this, I can't do this, I can't do this!” Scootaloo shrieked, taking off into the air and buzzing around Luna's head. “Have you seen how many ponies are out there? It has to be hundreds! What am I gonna do! What am I gonna do!”

“How about go out there and perform?” Luna asked, smiling weakly.

“I can't...I can't!” Luna began thinking quickly. There was already a huge crowd. The last thing the alicorn needed were angry ponies causing trouble around the fair because they didn’t get what they were waiting for. What did Scootaloo like above all else...?

“Okay.” Luna said.

“What? Really?” Scootaloo asked, setting back down onto the ground.

“Sure, I can't make you.” The princess continued. “I just thought that you would want to perform in front of Rainbow Dash. It's okay if you want to let her down.”

“Wh-What...?” Scootaloo's voice suddenly got weak.

“Oh, didn't you know?” Luna said, smiling. “She's in the crowd today, watching.” Scootaloo's face was a mix of happiness and fear. What was she supposed to do, disappoint her idol? The filly stared at the ground, kicking it in frustration.

“I'll do it.” She muttered. She quickly ran over and began putting her back pads on.

'Too easy.' Luna thought. 'These mind games sure are easy.'

“Excellent!” Luna cried. “Now hop to it, you don't want to keep your adoring fans waiting!” Scootaloo's hooves were shaking as she grabbed her scooter. She quickly redid her helmet nervously and marched out into the arena.

The crowd cheered as the filly appeared. Scootaloo gulped as she felt her stomach twist in knot. There were far more ponies than she thought there would be. There had to be over a thousand ponies out there! The filly scanned the crowd, searching for anything that resembled a rainbow. Each pony she laid eyes on was a solid color however. The more time she spent looking, the more silent it became. The crowd was beginning to wonder what she was doing. The more Scootaloo gazed around however, the less sure she felt. It became so quiet that one could hear a pin drop from the other side of town. The filly began backing up, seeking to go back into the preparing area. The princess had lied, Rainbow Dash wasn't there!

'What if she doesn't care?' Scootaloo thought as she walked backward in tiny steps. 'What if she's forgotten about me...what if...' That when she heard the sound of hooves clopping. The filly gazed up as somepony emerged above the wall of the arena. Scootaloo's eyes widened and a huge smile spread across her face. Rainbow Dash hung over the side of the wall, smiled and gave the filly a wink. Scootaloo felt her will become solid. She gripped her scooter tightly. She gave it a kick and it twirled around. She hopped up and landed on it. Then with a mighty kick, she was off.

Even Princess Luna was quite impressed. Scootaloo jetted around on that thing like it was second nature to her. With every jump and curve she performed a feat that impressed the crowd; from performing flips to spinning the scooter around like it were a toy. When it came time for one of the loops the crowd grew silent. The filly picked up amazing speed. As she entered it everypony held their collective breath. With surprising ease, Scootaloo cleared being upside-down and took off again. The masses cheered as she dramatically ground to a halt by turning her scooter sideways. She hunched down and began pawing at the ground, indicating that she was about to do something big. Even Princess Luna found herself leaning forward in anticipation.

The filly took off, heading for a large ramp. Scootaloo pumped at the ground with her foot as hard as she could. She picked up more and more speed as she approached the ramp, finally becoming a blur. She hit the ramp and launched into the air. Scootaloo sent her scooter into a spin. She then let go. Much to the shock of the crowd she began to flip through the air, free of her vehicle. She began spinning and flipping at the same time. As she began descending back down she still didn't slow down. What most ponies didn't see was the spin she put her scooter into was done with precision. It spun away from her and then back towards her. While still spinning she reached out with one of her arms and seized the handlebars of her scooter. A split second before she hit the ground, her bottom hooves found the deck. She hit the ground and expertly turned her vehicle, skidding it to a stop. The crowd erupted, cheering wildly. Scootaloo lifted her front hoof triumphantly. For several moments, all one could hear were the clopping of hooves as the crowd stomped them in the stands. Rainbow Dash was stomping on the ground like crazy, a large smile on her face. Luna walked out into the arena, drawing even more cheering from the crowd. The princess signaled to Rainbow Dash that she could enter. The rainbow pony leaped over the wall. She ran over to Scootaloo. The filly, just as her idol arrived, took a flying leap. They both spun around happily for a few moments. The crowd issued loud “aws,” assuming they were sisters or mother and daughter. The princess trotted over much slower, giving them time to be reacquainted.

“That was amazing pipsqueak!” Rainbow Dash said as Scootaloo finally stood back on the ground. “You're quite the athlete, I'm impressed!”

“Thanks Rainbow Dash!” Scootaloo shouted. “I bet it's not half as impressive as what you do! How have you been?”

“Oh you know...” Rainbow Dash said, instantly feeling flattered. “Just being awesome.” Luna approached Scootaloo and began giving the pony an examining glance, as if studying her body. Rainbow Dash gave her an odd look, which led Scootaloo to do the same.

“What are you doing?” Scootaloo asked. The princess didn't answer. She instead reached up with her hoof and lifted the padding that was on the filly's hips. Luna gazed under them for a moment before making a grunt of satisfaction. She then turned and walked away.

“Yep, I'm just that good.” She said to herself. Scootaloo and Rainbow Dash stared at each other quizzically. Then out of curiosity the filly reached up with her teeth and undid her padding. Once it fell away, her eyes widened. On her flank was an image of a beautiful golden scooter. As if paying homage, the deck of the scooter was decorated with a lightning bolt, very similar to Rainbow Dash's. The filly gasped and began jumping around in circles, desperate to get a better look and not realizing she needed a mirror. Rainbow Dashed chuckled at seeing her so happy.

Twilight was walking around the fair, happily. This was turning out better than she had expected. As the planner of this fair she got a final report on day one from her assistants. The amount of food that was moved, by estimation, was absolutely insane and ranged in the hundreds of tons. Crime was almost nonexistent. There were a few reports of theft, but those could largely be explained away as items simply being misplaced or Apple Core committing her usual crime. When asked separate questions about how satisfied they were with the games, foods, items and entertainment, almost all ponies answered that they were pleased. Day two was just as busy as day one. These two would probably be nothing compared to the following ones. Day three there was scheduled to be a state dinner for foreign dignitaries, Sweetie Belle's concert (as well as numerous others) and a starlight observing. The final one was Luna's suggestion. Ponies were going to hand out floating lanterns as the sun fell and when the stars came out they would light them. It would be fun for the children, but also would have the effect of doing something that Luna had long wished. They would be appreciating the night.

Twilight stopped walking. She saw something unusual. There were two ponies talking to a stall vendor. They appeared to be unicorns, but were shielded by brown cloaks. They were the only ones wearing them, as it was quite warm. After talking for a few moments, the vendor pointed straight at Twilight. The unicorn flinched, wondering what these cloaked ponies could want. They instantly turned, spotted her and then began trotting over. The two unicorns were both black and had very stern faces. Twilight took a few steps backwards, fearing what they had to say. They finally approached the unicorn, their faces not showing an ounce of emotion.

“You are Twilight Sparkle?” The bigger one said. Their accent was thick and was one Twilight wasn't used to hearing.

“Y-yes?” Twilight said, more as a question.

“Khorosho.” The taller one stated. Twilight tilted her head. What did that mean? “Ve vish to speak to your Tsarina Luna.”

“What...what?” Twilight asked, not entirely sure what he said because of his accent. The taller one turned and spoke to his companion, both of them speaking very quickly in a foreign language. He then turned back to Twilight.

“Your head woman, your...leader, Luna” He restated.

“Oh, Princess Luna.” Twilight stated.

“Prin...cess...dah.” The taller one said, sounding out the word. “Ve vish to speak wiz her.”

“Alright...follow me.” Twilight sounded unsure as she began trotting, the ponies walking close behind her. Throughout their entire exchange, their expression did not change, not even an inch and their tone was flat. They creeped Twilight out. Could they be assassins? Then again, if they were they were doing a very poor job of not getting caught, not to mention the fact that Luna could handle herself. Twilight decided that she didn't really have a choice. She knew that around this time Luna would be leaving the stunt ring, so she headed that way.

The princess was just exiting the area, feeling very smug. She was certainly skilled at being a manipulator. At least in this case it was to do good things. So far everything had worked out nicely. Rarity and Rainbow Dash had been reunited with Twilight, the first day of the fair went off without a hitch and Scootaloo now a symbol on her flank. Now all she had to do was pull several more miracles out of her butt and everything would be okie-dokie. Luna sighed and bowed her head slightly as she walked away, her horn abruptly feeling heavier. She had been pumping magic out constantly, bit by bit. She would actually prefer it to be in one chunk. It was like she had an itch that got worse little by little, growing in intensity each time she “scratched” it. Oh well, she dug this hole, she was going to have to claw her way out.

“Princess!” Twilight shouted, approaching her. The princess smiled before turning.

“Another cutie mark gotten.” Luna stated as she swirled around. She instantly frowned once she saw who was right behind her.

“That's great.” Twilight said, far more fascinated in Luna's abrupt frown. The most serious expression Twilight had ever seen came over Luna's face. It made her seem...intimidating, a feeling Twilight hadn't had since she first met Princess Celestia. Luna's eyes ran from one of the cloaked unicorns to the other. There was a glint in her eye that Twilight could not identify.

“Twilight,” Luna began, her tone commanding. “would you be so kind as to give us some privacy? This is a...matter of state.” This only made Twilight's curiosity burn hotter. What could it possibly be? Still, she couldn't disobey the princess.

“As you wish.” Twilight said reluctantly. She dragged herself away. Once the unicorn was out of sight Luna turned to the two visitors.

“Follow me.” She ordered. They did not respond, but obeyed all the same. Luna made her way to a secluded part of the fair with very few ponies. It was where they were preparing the state dinner for all the diplomats tomorrow. Luna found a place in between to piles of building materials where they would be out of the way and out of sight. The moment they were all alone Luna whirled around quickly. She slammed one of her hooves into the pile of wood at her side, right in front of the tall one's face. He flinched, but otherwise didn't do anything. The pile of logs rattled in a very unsafe manner.

“What do you think you were doing!?” Luna shouted.

“Finding you, Tsarina Luna.” The tall one replied.

“Za-what?” Luna asked.

“Tsarina, or ve call you Princess?”

“Actually...” Luna paused, thinking. “I rather like that word...it doesn't matter! I told you to come in with a low profile, not attracting attention! Did you tell everyone you came here to see me? Are you trying to stir up suspicion with other nations? Where is the stallion they usually send?”

“To answer your last question, he died.” The tall one replied. “I am his son.” The pony finally pulled down the hood of his cloak, revealing to Luna that he had the same brown eyes and white mane as his father.

“Oh...uh...” Luna said, abruptly feeling embarrassed. “My condolences on your loss.”

“Spasibo.” The stallion stated, however his face didn't show an ounce of emotion. “We tell not a soul when we arrive. Only that unicorn from before knows. We ask others “who is charge,” zey led us to her. If you vish, ve can silence ze pony.”

“N-No, no, no. That won't be necessary.” Luna said quickly. “That is...satisfactory. What might I call you?”

“I am Captain Coltov.” He stated. Zis my nephew, Herzkoof.” The nephew removed his hood and nodded at her. Luna was used to ponies bowing, but these ponies, as a whole, only bowed to their ruler and not any other. “Ve are here for ze official orders.”

“Yes.” Luna said. With a wave of her horn, a piece of paper appeared. Coltov used his own magic and allowed the paper to hover in front of him. He read it through. Fortunately it was in his native language.

“Everyzing appears in order.” He stated.

“And here's a second page.” Luna said, her voice low and her expression deadly serious

“Second?” The captain asked. Luna made yet another one appear. Coltov read the paper, halfway through it, his eyebrows raised. He stayed that way as he made it through the whole paper. After which he offset his jaw and clicked his tongue against the roof of his mouth.

“Zese are...interesting.” He said, gazing between them. “I know not how to respond.”

“Tell your...Tsar is it, to consider both pages...very carefully.” Luna said. “If you want money so much, think carefully how to get more for longer.” Coltov was silent. He clicked his tongue on the roof of his mouth again, gazing away for a moment. He rolled up both pages and stuck them into his cloak.

“He vill consider zem carefully.” Coltov said. “Ve vill set out immediately.”

“No.” Luna said. Both of the ponies instantly turned their heads to her. “There are ponies that have seen you, meaning they will likely figure out you were here.” Coltov's brow furrowed and a dire look now came over his eyes.

“You are not referring to...?”

“I invited ponies from every country.” Luna said. “Last time I checked, Geldermany was a country.” Both of the unicorn's eyes were instantly filled with scorn and their faces snarled.

“You expect us to stay when ze pigs are here?” Coltov asked.

“That's exactly why I want you to stay.” Luna asked. “If they even have a whiff of this before it starts they will make a major deal out of it and file a complaint with the crown of both of our countries to stop it. I think the last thing your country needs is more tension and the risk of war.” Coltov ground his teeth together, not liking the situation.

“Vat ve need to do?” Coltov asked.

“Stay for the state dinner and look as if you came to represent Retussia. After that you can return home. Above all, don't do anything stupid. Can your country really afford another war?” The captain gave her a stiff glare, but stomped his hoof onto the ground.

“Fine.” He stated.

“Good.” Luna said, walking out of the secluded area. “Do go and enjoy the fair, it might help that glum expression you inherited from your father.”

The princess needed to clear her head. The effects of those papers wouldn’t be felt for quite some time and she had to look like nothing was wrong, lest she gained unwanted attention, especially after the representatives from Retussia arrived. She decided to take a walk and act as if she were inspecting stalls. Most of the vendors were overly eager to give her products and often did so with shaking hands and nervous voices. The princess wandered around until she came to a stall overly decorated with symbols of apples. Applejack was vending the stall, which had countless ponies swarming around it. In the middle of servicing them the pony threw up her arms and waved them around.

“We are out of products! Sorry!” She bellowed. The crowd moaned in disappointment and dispersed, heading in all different directions. Luna smiled and walked up to the stall. Applejack was leaning on her hooves with her elbows on the front table, huffing and puffing.

“Need me to restock?” Princess Luna asked. Applejack turned her head and smiled.

“Nope, we’re out of apples altogether.” She replied. “We got relatives comin’ in later today. They bringin’ a whole mess of oranges and apples. I’ll send the order when they get here so you can move them in.”

“Sounds good.” Luna said, smiling. Applejack tilted her head, staring at the princess’s ears.

“I didn’t notice those yesterday. Hoo doggies, those earrings sure are pretty!”

“Yeah? Try putting them in. My ears feel heavy.” Just then, a loud cheering sound erupted from the other side of the fair. Luna and Applejack turned their heads towards it, as a reflex.

“What’s that?” Applejack asked.

“Either the Lightning Wings are kicking it off again or Scootaloo is giving another performance.”

“How’d the first one go?” Luna smiled smugly again.

“Another cutie mark down.” She replied.

“I was wonderin’ when she’d figure that out.”

“Just needed a little push.” Luna sighed to herself. “Speaking of cutie marks, I’d like to talk to you about Apple Bloom.”

“What about her?” Applejack asked, instantly raising her eyebrow and looking suspicious.

“I was thinking,” Luna began. “after she finishes school, you might send her to Canterlot University.”

“Why would I do that? Isn’t school enough book learnin’?”

“As a general rule, yes, but Apple Bloom has incredible talent, more than I can believe. If she goes to the university she can get a degree in architecture and building.”

“What for?”

“She can uh...design huge buildings, like skyscrapers, mansions and castles.”

“She can build stuff here, what’s the difference?” Applejack wasn’t really quick on the uptake. She lived most of her life on the farm and couldn’t really grasp what the princess was trying to say. Apple Bloom could stay in Ponyville, but all she would build were small houses and small projects. Out in the bigger world, she could build things that make a huge difference, like castles, skyscrapers, dams and huge monuments. If Apple Bloom wanted to stay, that was fine. The princess wanted to make sure that such a talented pony had options.

“Um...” Luna said, trying to make it sound appealing. “You see, those who design buildings, particularly big ones, make about three times more than the builders, without doing any of the work.” Appeljack’s eyes brightened. A smile spread across her face.

“You don’t say?” She asked.

“Oh yes, having a degree in architecture ensures you can get even more for a job. With her skills, I doubt she would have any trouble finishing classes.”

“Hmm...” Applejack said, rubbing her chin. “I promised old Granny Smith before she passed away that I would take care of Apple Bloom.”

“What better way to take care of her than making sure that she makes a lot of money?”

“I guess so.”

“She won’t have to go until she finishes school. I’ll put in a good word and she’ll get a major discount, if not go for free.”

“That does sound nice, we should ask her.” Without walking around to the built-in door, Applejack leaped over the table and onto the ground. “She needs something to think about anyway.”

“Why is that?”

“She keeps bothering this young guard.”

Applejack led Luna to a guard station, which was little more than a single pony shack. There was a young, white pegasus guard, desperately trying to ignore a filly that was climbing on his back.

“How do you get to be a royal guard?” Applejack asked, leaning around his neck and looking into his face. The stallion didn’t answer. If Luna guessed correctly, he was a fresh recruit they acquired to help with the fair. He only appeared to be only a few years older than Apple Bloom and his legs were shaking trying to support her. “Is it hard?” His eye was twitching. “You know...you’re rather cute!” The stallion’s eyes became half-shaded and he growled. The filly on his back turned around. She began lifting up the armor on his flank. “What’s your cutie mark?” Abruptly, the guard reared back, knocking her off of him. He then resumed his normal position, as if nothing happened. Apple Bloom stood back up, pointing her hoof at him. “Hey! You did that on purpose!”

“Leave him alone Apple Bloom!” Applejack shouted. “Get over here!” The soldier heaved a sigh of relief as Apple Bloom trotted away. Luna would have let Applejack call her over sooner, but the princess was fairly amused by the filly’s antics. Apple Bloom trotted over to them, a big smile on her face.

“What is it?” She asked.

“The princess has something she wants to ask ya.” Applejack said.

“Apple Bloom,” Luna began. “When you’re done with school here, how would you like to go to Canterlot University?”

“University?” The filly asked.

“Yes, you can learn better ways to build things and you can get out of Ponyville.”

“Why would I do that?”

“By the gods they’re exactly the same, well you could learn to build things like skyscrapers, mansions and castles.” The country filly’s eyes brightened at that.

“Really?” She asked excitedly.

“Yeah, with a degree from Canterlot University you could build all kinds of things around the world!” Luna said, hyping up her plan. “Just think, you could build something that ponies will be talking about for thousands of years!” Apple Bloom’s eyes began to twinkle. Abruptly however, her face fell.

“Aw...well...that’d probably be awfully expensive...” The filly said. “Then there’s the farm. I couldn’t just leave it.”

“Apple Bloom dear,” Luna began, bringing one of her hooves to her chest, proudly. “I’m the monarch. We fund the Canterlot University. They’ll take whoever I say so for how much I say so. Judging from the talent you’ve displayed here our money would be well spent sending you there for free.” Apple Bloom’s eyes brightened slightly.

“And don’t worry about the farm.” Applejack added on. “Apple Core’s growin’ up. I’ll put her thievin’ hide to work just as soon as she’s physically able.” Apple Bloom now had a large smile on her face.

“So...so I can really go learn how to build those things?” She asked excitedly.

“And get paid large amounts to do it.” Luna chimed in.

“I’d love to!” The filly shouted, bouncing in the air.

“Good deal.” Luna said. “As soon as you finish school I’ll send a letter. You’ll be all set.”

Twilight was sitting at a picnic bench, eating some fried something or other. She had been bouncing around so much throughout the fair she really hadn’t been thinking about eating. Pinkie Pie had been, rather spastically, explaining what games she wanted to try for tomorrow. Twilight didn’t really understand why “extreme leap frog” required a giant slingshot, but she enjoyed how happy the pink pony was. Twilight hovered her lunch in front of her as she ate. It was some sort of flour tortilla wrapped around a mesh of hay, flowers, nuts and fried in vegetable oil. It was wildly unhealthy for her, but tasted quite good. She had been trying to hang out with her friends as much as possible, but Rarity was almost always putting on a show and if Rainbow Dash wasn’t putting on a show of her own she was shouting her teammates into shape. Twilight sighed and smiled. At least they were back home, even for a brief time.

“What here do I see? Why, it’s the organizer appointee!” Twilight Sparkle’s eyes and ears perked up. She jerked her head around and saw a familiar zebra. The lavender unicorn leapt from her seat and wrapped her friend in a hug.

“Zecora! I’m so glad you could make it!” Twilight shouted. “I was worried you weren’t going to come!”

“Miss seeing all of your hard work?” Zecora said. “That really would make me a jerk!” Twilight smiled, understanding the reference. When they had all stormed into Zecora’s hut for the first time, the zebra had said something similar.

“I’ve been so busy.” Twilight said. “I’m sorry I haven’t come to see you. I should have spent more time with you. When are you leaving?” A very solemn smile came over Zecora’s face. She had a gaze that Twilight understood would deliver bad news.

“I am sorry too my friend.” She said. “My time here has come to an end. I did not want you to worry. With all the work, you have been in a flurry. Tomorrow I set out for home. The exiting crowds from fair I will not have to comb.” Twilight felt a sadness grip her heart. She hugged Zecora again, this time more tightly.

“You should have come.” Twilight said. “I’m never too busy for a friend.” Zecora smiled and hugged the unicorn back.

“My time here has been great.” Zecora said. “Great tales back home I will relate.”

“I’ll miss you.” Twilight said as she finally released the zebra from the embrace. “Everyone else is here, you should tell them goodbye. I’m sure they’ll all miss you too.”

“Go see them I will.” Zecora replied. “All of my goodbyes I will fulfill.”

“Zecora,” Twilight began, tilted her head and looking sly. “Could you do something for me?”

“Ask anything that you desire. I will give it to you if it’s within my power.”

“Can you speak without rhyming, or do you have to always do that?” Twilight asked. The zebra smirked, gazing away from Twilight.

“Maaaaayyyybe.” The zebra said. Twilight smiled and they both quickly began laughing. When they stopped they gazed at each other one last time. “Goodbye Twilight my friend. I wish this had never come to end.”

“Me too.” Twilight said. They hugged one last time before the zebra began marching away. Twilight turned away from her, now wanting Zecora to see her tears. There had been enough of those these past years.

Applejack was dragging her husband across the fair. The stallion had his feet firmly planted in the ground, but Applejack was pulling him by his tail, leaving trails in the ground.

“I don’t wanna...” Apple Tree whined.

“You’re not gonna sit there and play at that gawl-derned roulette stall all day!” Applejack growling through her teeth. “You’ve lost enough of our profits on that money trap!”

“I was just about to win!” He whined again.

“You said that yesterday and you never did.” Applejack replied. “Come on, or I’ll rip your tail out!”

“Alright! Alright! Just stop! It hurts!” Applejack released her husband. He neighed gently and nuzzled the base of his hair that still stung. “Who’re we seein’ again?”

“I told you already, Rainbow Dash.” Applejack said.

“You mean the one that’s that flier in that...?”

“Yes.”

“The one who likes...?”

“Yes!”

“And she confessed to yo...?”

“YES!!” Applejack finally yelled.

“Won’t it be awkward for you?” Applejack’s face then spread into a very wide and evil grin.

“No more awkward then our wedding.” Apple Tree gulped and went bright red. He gazed at the dirt and kicked his hoof back and forth.

“Okey, sounds good.” He stated.

“Wonderful!” Applejack shouted. “C’mon, she’s got to be around the arena.”

After a few minutes of milling about, Applejack finally heard from one of the other teammates that Rainbow Dash had walked off with another pony named Sun Flash. Apparently they liked to take long walks and talk with each other. The teammate pointed them in the direction they walked and Applejack proceeded that way.

“At least she has somepony to talk to.” Applejack stated. “I was worried about her when she just ran off without sayin’ nothin’.” They were walking towards a more secluded part of the fair. It was where supplies that weren’t being created by magic were being stored. There were only a few ponies running here and there, either grabbing supplies, lost or simply trying to find a quiet place.

“Where do ya reckon she went?” Apple Tree asked.

“Well if I know Rainbow Dash she...” Applejack paused in mid-sentence. Her ear twitched as she lifted it in the air. “Hang on, I think I hear her.”

“I don’t hear nothin’.” Apple Tree stated.

“That’s ‘cause you're talkin’.” Applejack complained. She listened for a moment more before walking towards the sound. She rounded a large, ten foot stack of packaged cheese snacks. She then got an eyeful.

Rainbow Dash and a pony that Applejack could only assume was Sun Flash were standing very close to each other, their muzzles incredibly close. Sun Flash was giggling as Rainbow Dash nuzzled into her fiery red mane.

“Stop it!” Sun Flash said in a playful voice. “We’ll get caught!”

“You worry too much.” Rainbow Dash said, biting onto the other pony’s ear. Sun Flash shivered and giggled again.

“Stop it!” The red-headed pony repeated. Rainbow Dash released her ear and lowered her head back down. She nuzzled their noses together, causing Sun Flash to blush.

“You were so cute hopping in front of those cameras.” Rainbow Dash said. “You were like a happy little bunny.” Sun Flash blushed even more as their heads continued to rub together.

“Wow.” Apple Tree said quietly. “Is this what these kinds of ponies do all the time?”

“Stop staring.” Applejack hissed.

“You’re staring.” He retorted. “Besides, I’m not gawking it’s just...fascinating.” Applejack glared at her husband. She then raised her head and lifted her hoof in front of her face. “Oh no...don’t do that! It’s just...!” Applejack then issued a very loud and very fake cough. Sun Flash and Rainbow Dash jerked their heads around. Both of them blushed furiously at being caught. In a panic, Sun Flash spread her wings and took off, almost faster than Rainbow ever did.

“Sun Flash, wait!” Rainbow Dash shouted. The red-haired pony was gone however. The rainbow pegasus sighed, turning back to Applejack, who was now approaching.

“Soooo...” Applejack began, sounding awkward. “That was...Sun Flash eh?”

“Uh...yeah...” Rainbow Dash said, looking away and having a very nervous smile on her face. Apple Tree approached, looking a little grumpy from before. Rainbow Dash stared at him, confused. Then it dawned on her who it was. She instantly appeared surprised and then very uncomfortable. She gulped and backed up a few places, not knowing what to do. Applejack interjected before it could become worse.

“Rainbow Dash, this is Apple Tree.” Applejack said. “Apple Tree, this is my good friend Rainbow Dash.” Apple Tree held up his hoof. Rainbow Dash did the same, but hesitantly. The stallion however didn’t seem awkward at all as they shook hooves.

“I heard all about you.” Apple Tree said.

“R-Really?” Rainbow Dash asked, surprised that Applejack would talk about her.

“Yep, from what Applejack tells me, you’re the best flier in all of Equestria.” Apple Tree said.

“Well...you know...” Rainbow Dash reached behind her head and began tussling her mane, feeling very flattered.

“Is it true that when you break the sound barrier you create a sonic boom that throws out rainbows? What was it...?”

“A sonic rainboom.” Applejack interjected.

“Yep, can you still do that?” Apple Tree added on.

“Yeah, yeah I can.” Rainbow Dash was now waving her hoof up and down, now clearly at a loss of what to say.

“I’d like to see that.” Apple Tree admitted. “I’ve seen it in all those magazines Applejack has.”

“Magazines?” Rainbow Dash asked.

“Yep, let’s see...what all do you get?” Applejack sighed and shook her head.

“I get the Equestrian Flying Squad Fanzine, the Pony Flier, Hoops and Tricks, the Official Flier Magazine and the Flying Critic.” Applejack said, as if she had said it a hundred times.

“Yep, they’re starting to be a fire hazard.” Apple Tree stated.

“So many?” Rainbow Dash asked.

“Well,” Applejack said, smiling. “after I heard that you were on a flier team I wanted to keep up with you. I didn’t know which one would cover your team so I just got all of them.” Rainbow Dash flinched. She was deeply touched. She had no idea that Applejack...cared so much for her.

“There was another wasn’t there?” Apple Tree asked.

“I subscribed to it last month.” Applejack said, smiling widely. “I got the first issue just the other day when that huge amount of mail came in.”

“What is it?” Rainbow Dash asked, curious.

“Well...it’s...” Applejack appeared a little embarrassed. “It’s the...Official Phillydelphia Lightning Wings Fan Book.” Rainbow Dash flinched again. All the magazine consisted of was posed portraits of the members of the team and interviews. Only members of the fan club could order it. Not only had Applejack paid for a subscription to every flier magazine in Equestria, she also paid to be in the Lighting Wings fan club and paid to get their fan book. That was quite a lot of trouble...just to follow what Rainbow Dash was doing. The rainbow pony gazed at the ground, nervously pawing with her foot.

“That’s...really sweet.” Rainbow Dash said. Applejack walked over and stood beside her friend. She put her hoof over the pegasus’s shoulders.

“I gotta keep up with my best gal don’t I?” Applejack said. Rainbow Dash chuckled at herself. She had been terrified to go back. If Luna hadn’t tricked her, she would have never returned even until the day she died. It was funny now because what had kept her away...didn’t exist. Applejack didn’t hate her, think she was disgusting or anything like that. Instead, she was still Rainbow’s friend.

“Hey.” Apple Tree said. “You’re the one who confessed to my wife, right?” Applejack and Rainbow Dash went rigid. It instantly became awkward. The stallion however didn’t seem to notice anything had changed.

“Uh...uh...” Rainbow Dash stammered hopelessly. “W-w-w-well...I...uh...uh...yes. I...did.”

“Oh.” Apple Tree asked. He pointed to his wife. “Weren’t going to ask her to join us when we do that...?” Applejack leapt forward and waved her hooves in front of his face desperately. She began babbling loudly, trying to drown him out.

“UH UH UH UH!!!” The country mare shouted. “Shut-up Apple Tree!!” Rainbow Dash stared on positively baffled. Applejack turned back to her, looking incredibly embarrassed. “It’s...it’s nothing to worry about!”

“But last night you were the one who suggested it...”

“Shut-up Apple Tree!!” Applejack shouted at him. “It was a joke!!! It’s called role playing!!”

“It didn’t sound like a joke.” Apple Tree said, tapping his hoof on his chin. “I even asked you again to make sure that’s what you said. You said it would be fun if the three of us...”

“SHUT-UP APPLE TREE!!!!!!” Applejack shrieked at the top of her lungs. “What I was say when we’re alone is no one else’s business!”

“But if she’s going to join us then...”

“SHE’S NOT JOINING US!!!!!” Rainbow Dash however caught on to what they were talking about. She lifted her eyebrow, instantly shocked by the whole exchange. Apple Tree fell silent out of confusion, but Applejack was smiling nervously, sweating quite a lot.

“What do you two do when you’re alone?” Rainbow Dash asked. Applejack laughed nervously. Their uncomfortable conversation was thankfully interrupted. Somepony a distance away somepony shouted something.

“Come back here you thieving little filly!!!” Applejack made a sour expression before turning her head.

“That would be the light of our lives.” She stated bitterly.

“Huh?” Rainbow Dash asked.

“Hang on.” With surprising quickness, the country pony turned around and bolted out from their little hiding spot. She was gone in a few seconds and seemed to know exactly where she was heading. That left Rainbow Dash and Apple Tree alone together. The stallion didn’t seem bothered in the slightest and stood waiting patiently. Rainbow Dash however was a ball of nerves, not knowing what to say. He didn’t seem to care that the rainbow pony was in love with his wife. Could somepony really not care at all?

“So...” Rainbow Dash began. “Do I...make you uncomfortable?”

“Huh?” Apple Tree replied. “No. Why would you?”

“Doesn’t it bother you? You know...hearing that I confessed to her?”

“No.” He replied, as if it were obvious. “Why would it?” Rainbow Dash gave him a blank stare to match his. Was he really that simple? The pegasus then chuckled and shook her head.

“Applejack sure does know how to pick a good husband.”

“Glad you can see that. Would you remind her of that?”

“I sure will.” Applejack returned, this time walking. There was somepony tiny on her back. The filly had a large amount of cotton candy in her mouth.

“When I tell you not to take something I mean it!” Applejack shouted. “Every second you’re stealin’ somethin’ that don’t belong to you! I had to pay that stallion for it so you wouldn’t get arrested! When we get home, I’m going to beat fear into you!” The filly didn’t seem to be afraid in the slightest. She just continued munching on the cotton candy. When Applejack approached she reached behind her, grabbed the filly by the head with both of her hooves and held her up in front of her friend.

“Rainbow Dash,” Applejack began. “This is my daughter, Apple Core.” Rainbow Dash had a mix of emotions, shock that she had a daughter, a wave of something warm fuzzy as she was cute with her cotton candy and a feeling akin to pathetic disbelief.

“Apple Core? Really?” Rainbow Dash asked. “You couldn’t pick something that didn’t have to do with apples?”

“It’s a family tradition!” Applejack replied. “Say “hi” to auntie Rainbow Dash Apple Core!”

“Hurro.” Apple Core said, still chewing on the cotton candy.

“She’s so cute!” Rainbow Dash said, leaning close and giving the filly a look over. “She’s going to grow up to look just like you Applejack!”

“And live in prison for stealing.” Applejack said. Apple Core laughed through her cotton candy.

“Ohry eh I geh caugh!*” The filly said through the candy. Rainbow Dash lifted her eyebrow.

“Did she say what I think she said?” The pegasus asked.

“I hope not.” Applejack said. “You should join us for dinner.”

“I’d like that.” Rainbow Dash said.

The third day of the fair was coming. Twilight however, had no idea what was in store. She was soon going to meet somepony...she wish she never had.

* She said “Only if I get caught.”

Chapter 8

The third day of the fair arrived and Luna wondered if she were feeding every pony in the country. She was burning through her magic reserves like crazy. The place was just as packed as it had been since the beginning and everypony wanted a “sammich!” More to the point, Luna had used so much magic that she was becoming impressed with herself on how everything had worked out. Hundreds of thousands of ponies swarmed this town and everypony was making money hoof over tail. Meanwhile, Luna still had to stand up and appear pretty in front of the cameras. It seemed to have the desired effect. By the third day no one seemed afraid of her now. Most ponies were approaching her and thanking her for sponsoring the wonderful fair. No pony seemed to be avoiding her anymore. She was also getting compliments about her earrings, which had yet to be removed. Luna would direct them towards Rarity on where to purchase them. Apparently the princess had unwittingly started a fashion trend. The alicorn certainly hoped that these ponies loved pain.

Around noon on the third day, whilst walking around the fair, filling orders and introducing herself to the citizens of her kingdom, Princess Luna heard a rather disconcerting noise. It was the booing of countless ponies. The alicorn jerked her head around and attempted to locate the sound. She saw, around the fringes of the fair, that Sweetie Belle’s stadium was lit up brightly. It was about time for her to start singing. The princess figured that after Scootaloo got her cutie mark, Sweetie Belle would jump at the chance to do what Luna said...the alicorn hoped.

‘Hoping is for suckers.’ Luna thought. ‘Like banks.’ She spread her wings and took off.

When she landed behind the structure she realized that the booing was indeed coming from the crowd. Far more ponies had shown up for this event than Scootaloo’s, as everypony liked music. Luna walked into the small building that was used for preparations. It connected directly to the stage so it could be used as backstage. It was little more than a dressing room made entirely out of wood with a row of clothes, a table, mirrors and makeup. Once she entered the alicorn sighed and put two of her hooves to her forehead as a headache throbbed its way in. Sweetie Belle was desperately clinging to a support beam of the structure as Scootaloo and Apple Bloom were pulling on her tail, trying to get her to let go.

“Come on Sweetie Belle!” Apple Bloom shouted. “You can do it!”

“I can’t! I can’t!” Sweetie Belle shrieked, her hooves firmly locked around the massive log of wood.

“Yes...you...can...!” Scootaloo said each time she pulled on her friend’s tail.

“I can’t! There are so many ponies out there! I can’t do it! I’m too scared! I can’t!” Luna growled, still massaging her temples. Twilight Sparkle entered the room, a clipboard hovering around her.

“We’re overdue out here!” She shouted. “The crowd is starting to get restless!”

“Let somepony else go!” Sweetie Belle shouted, shaking with fright.

“You’re the headliner!” Twilight stated. “‘The singing prodigy from Ponyvillie’ remember?”

“I can’t do it!” Sweetie Belle shrieked again.

“I did it and it wasn’t so bad!” Scootaloo said. “I even got my cutie mark!”

“I don’t want it anymore!” Sweetie Belle replied.

“For pony’s sake!” Luna shouted, marching over. Scootaloo and Apple Bloom parted. With her magic, Luna pried the filly’s hooves from the support beam. Sweetie Belle screamed as she was lifted into the air. “You promised you would do this! Now you’re going to do it!”

“I can’t! I...I can’t sing in front of other ponies!”

“Oh you can, and you will.” The princess said. She began marching towards the stage. Sweetie Belle flailed helplessly as she floated in the air. An order appeared in front of the princess. She let it fall and quickly trampled over it with her hoof as she brushed by Twilight. “Not now!” Twilight stared at the princess as she passed by.

“She’s in a bad mood.” Scootaloo said.

“She certainly is.” Twilight agreed.

“Well, at least we get to hear Sweetie Belle sing!” Apple Bloom said.

“Yeah!” Scootaloo exclaimed. They both dashed out of the room, desperate to find their seats. Twilight sighed and picked up the order that had been sent. She examined and was surprised to find that it wasn’t an order at all, but a notice. The state dinner was ready for tonight. There was a line that caught the unicorn’s eye on the guest list however.

“Her Royal Majesty Princess Luna plus one guest, Twilight Sparkle.”

Twilight’s jaw hung open for a moment. She was attending the state dinner? This was an official Equestrian event, with dignitaries and representatives from all over the world...and the princess picked her to come. Twilight gulped before putting the paper on her clipboard. How was she supposed to respond to that?

Luna used her magic and pushed Sweetie Belle on stage. The boos of the impatient crowd turned to cheers. All of Twilight’s friends sat in the front row, Rainbow Dash with Scootaloo beside her, Apple Bloom with Apple Tree beside her, there were two seats next to him where Applejack and Apple Core were supposed to sit, but they weren’t present at the moment. Then there was Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy and finally Rarity who had the happiest smile on her face seeing her sister walk out on stage. What she didn’t know was that the walk was being forced by an alicorn. Sweetie Belle tried to fight it, but the princess was incredibly strong. Even the filly’s own magic was useless. Sweetie Belle walked directly to the center of the stage and struck a pose. The crowds cheered and clopped their hooves on the ground. Sweetie Belle was sweating profusely as a microphone hovered in front of her. Her hoof was forcibly pulled forward and wrapped around it as it was brought to her mouth.

“Sing!” Luna hissed as the crowd began to go quiet, waiting for it to start. Sweetie Belle shook her head furiously. “Sing! Sing!” The filly could feel the princess’s magic push on her stomach, attempting to shove the air out of her lungs. Sweetie Belle wouldn’t budge. “Sing or I’ll make sure you’re a blank flank forever!!” Sweetie Belle’s face fell. She didn’t like the sound of that at all. Before she could give it too much thought, Luna signaled for the music to begin.

Silence fell over the area as everypony waited for the singing to start. For a few nervous moments Sweetie Belle stood with her mouth open and no noise coming out. She missed the first verse of the song, causing Luna to grind her teeth together. Finally...the filly began to sing. Her powerful and rich voice washed over the crowd, which was immediately impressed. Once Sweetie Belle saw that they weren’t going to kick her off stage her confidence began to grow. Little by little, the princess weakened her grip over the filly as she began to sing along with the music. Her voice was perfectly pitched and did so with very little effort. She began walking around on stage as the crowd cheered and screamed.

The song then came to the biggest part. The filly’s voice easily amplified and filled the area. Everypony cheered as she sang in a voice that sounded well beyond her years. The lights that were on the stage began to move back and forth, making the singing even more dramatic. The princess gazed up at them, seeing that there was a mechanism making them do that. She couldn’t help but be impressed at Apple Bloom’s skill. When the climax of the song hit Sweetie Belle opened her mouth wide. A rich, full sound issued out. It was perfect and pleasing. The crowd went wild. Much to everypony’s surprise, and in a complete break with her usual character, Rarity leapt clear into the air and shouted at the top of her lungs.

“WHOO-HOO!! GO SWEETIE BELLE!” The fashionista shrieked at her sister. She had gotten way too excited. Every one of her friends stared at her but quickly turned their eyes back to the stage. When Sweetie Belle finished the final note of her big aria fireworks shot out of the front of the stage. Princess Luna blinked and stumbled backwards. She didn’t remember approving that in the budget! Once the alicorn’s eyes cleared however she got that smug smile again. The crowd cheered wildly as Sweetie Belle finished her song. She didn’t really know the reason why however. She finally finished and struck a dramatic pose. The crowd was leaping up and down, causing the ground and even the stage to shake. Luna marched out on stage, causing even more cheering. She stood beside Sweetie Belle who was excitedly waving at the crowd.

“Not so bad huh?” Luna had to shout.

“Not at all!” Sweetie Belle yelled back, her smile incredibly wide.

“Even better than you think!” Luna replied.

“Huh?”

“Your butt is now decorative.” Sweetie Belle tilted her head and gazed at her flank. Her jaw dropped and she froze in place. Her cutie mark had appeared. It was a very festive open-ended bell with a red ribbon stringing through the top. The instrument was in motion as the body and the clapper were going in different directions. On the bell was a single music note, indicating her unique talent. Luna turned around and briefly flicking her hair with her hoof. The princess trotted away, her nose held high. Apple Bloom and Scootaloo leapt onto the stage and they both tackled their friend. The Cutie Mark Crusaders had finally achieved their goal...with a little help from a princess.

Luna walked over to Twilight, yawning as if all of this had been little effort. The unicorn was staring off into space, completely out of it.

“If I was any better at this I would quit being a princess and do this professionally.” Luna stated. Twilight didn’t respond. It hadn’t even registered that the princess was there. “Twilight? Twilight!” The princess nudged the unicorn with her hoof. “Twilight!”

“H-Huh?” Twilight uttered, coming back to reality.

“You okay?” Luna asked, concerned. “I’m trying to gloat here.”

“Oh sorry, I was...thinking.” Twilight said. “Is Sweetie Belle alright?”

“Cutie mark and all yes.” Luna replied. “What’s on your mind?’

“Well...” Twilight said glancing at the clipboard, apprehensively pulling the notice off of it. She handed it to the princess.

“Oh what do they want now?” The princess whined. When she looked at it however her face fell a bit. “Ah, yeah, that’ll be fun, trying to keep the Retussians and Geldermans from killing each other for several hours.”

“Y-You chose me to go with you?” Twilight asked.

“Um...yeah.” Luna said, as if it were obvious.

“I don’t think...I mean...what will I do?” Twilight stuttered. “I don’t think I can. I don’t know anything about fancy dinners, or being a diplomat or even how I’m supposed to act.”

“I don’t want you there because you’re some kind of expert.” Luna replied. “I want you there because you’re my friend. I want one pony in that room that I can trust. I don’t really trust the rest of them.”

“Oh...I see.” Twilight said, now feeling relieved. “I thought you wanted me act in an official capacity.”

“No, I just want you to be yourself.” Luna replied. “Just be careful, it’s going to a room full of sharks.”

Luna left the staging area to give Twilight some space. The lavender unicorn had to deal with all the other singers, who were far more like divas than humble Sweetie Belle. The princess was pleasantly surprised when a group of fillies ran through her legs, attempting to play tag. The alicorn played with them for a little while, lifting up her legs and putting them down, making a little obstacle course. She was taller than most ponies, so there was plenty of room. Finally however the group ran out from under her, dashing away. The sent a hail of “thank yous” as they darted through the stalls. The princess smiled. They weren’t afraid of her at all. This was certainly progress from only a few years ago. Luna stared up at the sky and was easily able to judge the time. The state dinner wasn’t until the evening, what could she do until then? Fluttershy popped up in Luna’s head. She had laid the seeds of her plan with her, but they had yet to sprout. The princess wondered how much pushing it would take...?

“Might as well get on it.” Luna stated. “All my little games have worked out so far.” Just as the princess turned to head towards the animal exhibit another filly dashed underneath her and out behind her. When the alicorn turned to look, she saw the familiar sight of the back of Apple Core’s head. The filly had a bushel of grapes in her mouth and was fleeing as usual. Applejack came dashing by the princess, huffing and puffing as she yelled.

“Because of you I missed the concert doggonit!” Applejack said. “You get back here or so help me I will make you...!” The country pony disappeared into the crowd, in hot pursuit of her daughter. Luna stared on blankly for a moment, and then materialized a quill and a piece of paper.

“Twilight,” Luna began writing. “Do you have any books on kleptomania? If so, please give it to Applejack, she needs it far more than you. Sincerely, Luna.” The princess gave a wave of her horn and the letter disappeared, on its way to her friend. The alicorn chuckled to herself, shook her head and resumed her march.

Luna wasn’t even going to bother to check if Macintosh was there, she knew he was. The fact that he was at the heart of the events that transpired three months and didn’t care one bit about what was revealed proved how much he cared about Fluttershy. There were things holding them back, which Luna could sense. Usually the princess’s policy was not to read what ponies were feeling, but if it was for the common good so she figured this time it was allowed.

The princess weaved through a group of ponies watching Spike eat at the head of exhibit. He had his face buried in a bucket of jewels munching away sloppily. It wasn’t necessarily the way he would really do it, but it put on a nice show. Luna approached the stage and leaned over the side.

“Spike! Spike!” Luna shouted. Spike lifted his head out. He chewed on the residual gems and turned to the princess.

“Yes princess?” He asked.

“Where are Macintosh and Fluttershy?” She inquired.

“How do you know that they are together?” Spike retorted.

“How do I know that water is wet? It’s a logical conclusion.” Luna said, sounding sarcastic. “Where are they?”

“Probably off helping some other animal with a fake illness.” Spike replied. “Fluttershy was convinced that I had shingles earlier.”

“Sounds like her.” Luna said. The pegasus was overcompensating and looking for something to help to make up for her friends getting hurt at her expense. “So they’d be in the back?”

“Probably.” Spike repeated.

“Alright, resume eating.” The dragon happily obeyed, continuing to munch away.

Luna marched through the gated exhibits, noticing that some of the animals now had non-needed casts. The princess had never heard of a hypochondriac that projected upon others, but she might just have found one. She continued through all of the fences, some only a few inches off the ground, some several feet. There were plenty of fillies playing the animals, but no sign of the caretaker. The princess had to walk around for quite some time, feeling as if she were going in circles. She even stopped at one point to pet some cats before she remembered what she was supposed to be doing. It was as if cats had a cuteness beam they could fire and lure you in. Regardless, Luna was becoming annoyed. Finally however, as she passed what appeared to be a large chicken coups she heard voices. One had a country accent and the other was soft and delicate. Luna rounded the coup to find Macintosh holding up a chicken with his eyes half shaded. Fluttershy was attempting to look at the animal’s feet.

“Fluttershy honestly, there’s nothing wrong with the chicken.” Macintosh said, chewing on the piece of hay in his mouth, annoyed.

“I saw him waddling to one side!” Fluttershy replied, trying to hold its leg out. “He’s obviously in pain.” The animal didn’t appear to be in pain so much as it was annoyed. It was attempting to kick free. Macintosh sighed. Abruptly, he dropped the chicken which flopped onto the ground and ran away quickly.

“Seems like he’s running in a straight line to me.” The country stallion retorted.

“Oh! Now we’ll never know!” Fluttershy said, staring at the ground.

“Fluttershy,” Macintosh began, putting his hoof on her shoulder. “they’re all fine. You’ve done a mighty fine job here and pulled off all these animals being together without a hitch. This has been a wonderful exhibit and you’ve done well. Will you please relax?” Fluttershy sighed. Then she chuckled a little.

“I guess you’re right.”

“I am right, now you go on and help me feed all these gosh-derned animals. It’s a lot of work.”

“Thanks for your help.” Fluttershy turned to walk away. Her tail intentionally flicked up and her pink hair rubbed under his chin playfully.

“Hey, hey!” He replied, in mock dissatisfaction. Fluttershy giggled and began trotting away. Luna smirked evilly. This was going to be a cinch. Luna crept over to the stallion silently. He was half-heartedly spreading seed out, which the chickens were eating ravenously. Without being noticed, Luna was able to whip her tail around and gently glide it under his chin. “Fluttershy, I told you that WARRGH!!!” Macintosh turned his head as he spoke. Once he saw it was the princess he jumped several feet in the air out of shock and displeasure. She was back.

“Oh I’m sorry!” The princess replied in mischievous voice. “Did you think I was somepony else?”

“Uh...duh...uh...” Macintosh was instantly uncomfortable and at a loss for words. Fluttershy came trotting back, wondering what Macintosh had screamed about. When she saw the princess an expression of annoyance appeared on her face.

‘The stage is set.’ The princess thought.

“I have to tell you,” Luna said, nuzzling up beside him. “you working out here with the chickens makes you so rustically handsome!” Macintosh only fumbled with words. “I always thought that country ponies had a certain, muscular charm and you proved it.” Luna rubbed her head up his neck, causing him to stiffen. “You know, Applejack is still on about us getting married.” That was an obvious lie, but Luna could see Fluttershy’s eye twitch suddenly. “Should I go tell her that you’re good for it?”

“Wh-What?” Macintosh asked in a struggling voice. “I-I don’t think that...”

“Oh come now.” Luna teased, tracing her hoof along his shoulder. “You don’t have to be shy! Marrying a princess is great! You’ll be rich beyond measure, have servants wait on you hoof and tail and most of all you can leave all these hicks behind!” Fluttershy’s head was starting to turn red and her eyes were narrowing. Her jaw was also going back and forth, showing that she was grinding her teeth. Luna had heard legendary stories of how the yellow pegasus could blow her stack.

“I...I rather....like it here...” Macintosh fumbled. Luna wrapped an arm around his shoulder and leaned up to his ear. She still spoke loud enough for Fluttershy to hear.

“Good.” Luna cooed. “Let’s still pretend I’m giving you a choice.” Macintosh went a little pale. Fluttershy’s head began to shake. Finally she could take it no more.

“HEY!” She shouted at the top of her lungs.

‘Bingoooooooooo!’ Luna thought as heard victory bells go off in her head. Fluttershy stomped over to them quite loudly. Macintosh tried to edge away from Luna, but the princess held onto him tightly. For added affect, Luna’s flowing tail wrapped around his neck and began rubbing the end of it back and forth alluringly.

“Leave him alone!” Fluttershy shouted.

“Why should I?” Luna asked coldly. “He’s a grown stallion. He can make his own decisions.”

“He can’t when you’re the princess!” Fluttershy retorted. Luna cocked her eyebrow.

“So what?” The princess replied. “It’s like he’s any different from any other male. They’re all a bunch of mean pig-heads who take advantage of mares.”

“You’re wrong!”

“Really?”

“Really! He’s the nicest, kindest and gentlest stallion I’ve ever known!”

“You expect me to believe that?” Luna began circling the red pony, almost like a shark. “That he’s somehow different from every other male in the world, that he’s different from your ex-husband?”

“He’s a million times better than Bridleburg!” Fluttershy’s face and chest was bright red. She was incredibly angry. “There isn’t another pony like him anywhere!”

“Oh please!” Luna scoffed. “Only some dumb, hick pony like you would say that!” Macintosh’s head jerked around. His dumbfounded expression changed to one of annoyance.

“Wait a gall-derned minute!” He exclaimed. “Fluttershy isn’t dumb, and she isn’t a hick!”

“Really?” Luna asked, now turning to him. “She’s a weak little pegasus who fell for the first stallion that came around and only helps other animals to feel better about herself!”

“That’s not true!” Macintosh said in the most aggressive voice Luna had heard out of him. “She married him so she could help animals in the end! She doesn’t help them for herself, but because she loves them! She the kindest and least selfish pony I know!”

“You expect me to believe that?” Luna retorted.

“Yes! She’s the best mare I know!”

“Really?”

“Really!”

“So,” Luna began, turning to Fluttershy. “There’s no stallion like him in the world?”

“Absolutely!” Fluttershy said firmly.

“And she’s the best mare you know?” Luna said to Macintosh, still sounding incredulous.

“Of course!” Macintosh also said firmly. Both of them sounded as if they attained some kind of victory over the princess.

‘Perfect!’ Luna thought.

“Well.” Luna said, shrugging. She then smiled devilishly and her tone dropped dramatically. “Why don’t you two date each other?” Both of their faces fell instantly.

“Wha-wha-wha-wha-wha-wha-wha-wha-what?” Fluttershy stuttered.

“I...I couldn’t possibly...” Macintosh tried to say. Luna leaned forward and flicked her ear back and forth.

“Oh I’m sorry.” She began. “I could have sworn you two said that each of you is the best pony they know, am I right?” Neither of them answered, but Fluttershy audibly gulped. “Since you two immediately came to each other’s defense you obviously care for the other and you’re both single...sooooo?” Both of them were staring in between the princess and each other. “Why don’t you two talk it over?” The princess trotted past Fluttershy. Both of the ponies left behind awkwardly stared between each other and the ground, neither of them speaking. Abruptly, Princess Luna returned. She pushed Fluttershy forward roughly with her forehead to her butt. The pegasus issued a little squeal as her face was shoved mere inches from Macintosh’s.

“Think it over...deeply.” Luna said, before trotting away behind the chicken coup. She did peek an eye out from behind it however, intent on seeing what was happening.

Fluttershy and Macintosh blushed deep red, for the country pony even deeper red. Their noses couldn’t have been more than a hair’s length apart. They could feel their breath on each other...but neither of them backed away. Both of them gazed at nearly everything but each other. They didn’t speak, but continued to awkwardly stand so close together. Finally, Fluttershy lowered her head. She appeared embarrassed.

“It’s okay.” Fluttershy said.

“Huh?” Macintosh replied, instantly confused.

“You don’t have to do something just because the princess says so.” Fluttershy continued. “I know...after everything that’s happened to me...you couldn’t date me.” Macintosh appeared shocked by that statement. “After all the things I’ve done...I know that...” The red stallion leaned down and nuzzled the side of Fluttershy’s face. Her head jerked back up. The country stallion rubbed their noses together.

“Let’s do it.” He said with a smile.

“H-Huh?” Fluttershy asked, her jaw hanging open.

“I’d like to take you on a date, if you’d allow me.” Macintosh said. Fluttershy appeared completely dumbfounded. She didn’t know what to say. Finally, she averted her gaze, smiled and blushed furiously.

“R-Really?” She finally replied.

“Eeyup.” Macintosh smiled and gently rubbed the side of her face with his own.

“I’d like that.” Fluttershy cried a few tears, not expecting somepony to be interested in her ever again. They nuzzled up against each other affectionately. Luna sighed and stopped peeking. She smiled to herself. She saw that there was a chicken gazing up her with a chicken’s usual dead stare.

“Yes.” Luna said to the bird. “I’m just that good.” The animal tilted its head. The alicorn walked away with her head held high. Plan after plan worked for her.

Macintosh and Fluttershy were both kind ponies who deserved no insult. They both had deep feelings for one another, but there were certain things holding them back from each other. Macintosh was afraid that Fluttershy wasn’t ready for another relationship. He didn’t want to take advantage of her while she was vulnerable after her ex-husband, or even worse be a replacement for him. He was going to wait, possibly forever, before asking her. Fluttershy on the other hand had far darker demons inside of her. Macintosh knew what Bridleburg had been making her do. How could anypony love or even stand to be close to her after that? She felt as if she were tainted and damaged goods. She did some horrible things with horrible ponies, how could anypony ever think of being with her after that? She was content on spending the rest of her days by herself rather than face rejection. When Macintosh figured out that’s what was holding her back, he was determined to prove to her that wasn’t the case. Even if he feared hurting her or being the fall guy, he would never allow her to think that he didn’t want to be with her because of her past. He had to ask her out then. Luna knew all of this ahead of time, and only through trickery was she able to break the barriers that would have probably held them back for years, if not forever.

Luna had to deceive them. It all ended well in the end. When the elements of harmony were shared between Luna and her sister...the younger didn’t end up with honesty. As Luna trotted through the gates of animals she stared up at the sky and sighed. Her expression was solemn.

Plan, plot, manipulate and use, the tools that Luna had to employ. Her sister was always the righteous, pure and happy one. They had worked together long before Equestria fell into their hooves and it had always been that way. Celestia was the heart, Luna was the brain. While the heart ruled this country for one thousand years there was widespread prosperity. There was no war, no strife and very little suffering. Now the brain had returned after so long and there was very little power given to it. Luna ruled alongside her sister on paper, but when it came down to the bare bones of it, everypony followed Celestia. A one thousand years absence can do that. However, Luna didn’t have time to play games anymore. Time was running short and plans had to be laid far faster than the alicorn would have liked. She had lived for untold years...and now she was finally running out of time.

Twilight Sparkle walked uncomfortably towards the massive (for being temporary) building hosting the state building. The unicorn was getting appreciative stares for her fancy dress. It was one Rarity had provided from her show. It was stunningly pink and covered in red jewels. It was much more sedate than most of her dresses though. As Twilight approached the wooden building she marveled at its ornate construction. Apple Bloom had built it like a cathedral and some other ponies flew in some apparently unused statues and put them on it. It resembled something gothic, a time even before the classical era of Equestria. If it were three times bigger it would look like it was right out of the time period. Twilight shivered and sighed. Fearing what she would say or do. She had a tendency to be block-headed and oblivious sometimes. She once danced like dork in front of Canterlot socialites and Rarity didn’t tell her until much later how “adorkable” it was. Twilight took a deep breath, composed herself and marched towards the large doors of the building. As she approached however, the two pegasus guards spread their wings in the way. Twilight instantly appeared annoyed.

“Halt citizen!” One of them shouted. “No one enters without permission!”

“I have permission.” Twilight replied curtly. “My name is Twilight Sparkle.” The guard gazed at a list on the stand. He went through every name on the list and turned back to the unicorn.

“You are not on the approved list for staff and civilians! Please turn away now and return to the fair!”

“I’m an official guest of Princess Celestia!” Twilight bellowed becoming increasingly angry.

“Only foreign dignitaries and royals are on that list!” The guard retorted. “Please return to the fair before you must be escorted away!”

“I’ve saved this country more than once!” Twilight shouted at the top of her lungs. “What is your problem?”

“That’s enough guards!” Luna said from the inside. Twilight Sparkle heaved a sigh of relief. She would hate to disappoint Luna and not be able to show up. “Let her pass!” The guard she had been arguing with grimaced and opened the door in a very informal way with his foot. Twilight lifted her nose and marched past him haughtily.

When Twilight entered she found that most of seats at a long table had been filled. There were ponies dressed extravagantly, wearing jewels and some that even had paint on their faces. There were even two zebras sitting together. Every eye in the room was on Twilight however. The pony blushed and smiled nervously as the door slammed shut behind her far louder than necessary. Luna saw that Twilight was petrified so she stood up from her large throne-like seat.

“Fillies and gentlecolts, may I introduce Twilight Sparkle. She is the pony that planned this glorious fair we are all enjoying. Come! Sit beside me!” The various attendants clopped their hooves together. Twilight blushed further but quickly trotted to her seat next to Luna. As she sat down she whispered to the princess out of the corner of her mouth.

“What is that guard’s problem?” Twilight said very quietly.

“He’s captain of the guard and mad about being transferred from the castle.” Luna replied just as quietly. She then resumed her normal volume. “Almost everypony is here, so we will begin setting out the courses.”

“Who else could possibly be coming?” A stallion in what appeared to be a military uniform said near the end of the table. His accent was only slight, but he sounded smug.

“Who else do you think?” Luna said, indicating two empty chairs near the head of the table.

“I thought those were extra.” The stallion said, his voice abruptly deeper. “You don’t mean...?”

“The one and only.” Luna replied with a courteous smile.

“They wouldn’t show up to this event.” The dignitary replied, now sounding irritated. “They never come to events. You must really be joking.” He laughed hollowly. Luna returned the empty laugh.

“Oh, I’m really not.” Luna said. The stallion abruptly appeared angry. Most of the other ponies around the table were glancing around, confused. A few of them had caught on and were nervous.

“Why would you invite them?” The male pony’s voice was now deceptively courteous. His accent was coming back.

“I invited all nations to attend.” Luna replied, beginning to sound strained. “Last time I checked they were a nation.”

“If you use the term loosely.”

“Let us be civil.” Luna now appeared irritated herself, something that made the dignitary uncomfortable. “This is an official dinner and we all keep a certain decorum.” More sounds then came in from outside.

“Ve vere invited.” A familiar voice said.

“I’m sorry sir, but unless you are on the approved list for civilians and staff I cannot allow you to pass!” The same guard shouted.

“We are ambassadors.” The pony replied, quickly sounding angry.

“I’m sorry sir, but commoners are not allowed in.” Judging from what Luna had seen before, those two dressed in capes, they didn’t look the part and the guard wasn’t buying it. The princess felt a vein in her forehead pop.

“Would you just let them in!” She bellowed across the room. Everypony could hear the guard growl and kick the door open again. Two ponies covered in cloaks walked inside. The room was dead quiet as the dignitary in the military uniform began to go red in the face. The other ponies didn’t even look at him. They quietly marched to their seats. When they finally sat down, they removed their hoods. The representative from Geldermany straightened his neck at seeing the common Retussian faces they had.

“Nice uniform.” He barked, earning a glare from Coltov. “Looks to be in line with standard of quality from Retussia.”

“Nice face you’re wearing.” Coltov replied. “It certainly looks be in line with ze ones your ponies ripped off of women and children in my country.” The Gelderman ambassador looked as if he was going to blow a gasket. The Retussians had hard and glum faces, but they didn’t appear any different from the way they were before.

“Eveypony!” Luna said, with a very fake nice voice. “We will get along with each other. Those who do not will be asked to leave. It will then be reported, to international news, that the ambassador for their whole country could not keep their composure at an official state event. This will certainly not bode well for the dignitary or their nation. Let us all keep our composure. If you cannot, then I suggest you do not speak.” The Gelderman and Retussian kept their glare at each other. “Or, if need be, don’t look at each other.” They both reluctantly obeyed.

What followed was an actual pleasant dinner. The Retussians ate in silence and ignored all the dirty glances the Gelderman threw at them. Fortunately nopony spoke to either of them. Twilight instead spent much of the time talking to the zebras, who were on the other side of her.

“We were most surprised to receive this invitation.” One of them said. “I wouldn’t consider us a nation so much as an alliance of tribes.” They were both dressed in regalia Twilight was familiar with. They had rings around their necks and legs. They also had what appeared to be tattoos around their eyes and face, one with red, one with blue. The marks on their flanks were similar to Zecora’s in that they looked like suns, but the pattern was different. They had Mohawks, one regular and one with the ends wrapped in clumps.

“An alliance you say?” Twilight asked, instantly curious.

“Indeed.” Said the speaking zebra, apparently happy that somepony was interested. “We have an annual meeting out in the savanna. We gather, talk about our tribes and share news. It was fortunate that it occurred a few months ago. We received the news just in time for us leave our homeland and arrive here on time.”

“I see you’re not a sage.” Twilight said, smiling. The zebra seemed pleasantly surprised.

“My grandmother was, but I am not.”

“We had one live around here for years.”

“Really? Is she still here?”

“She left yesterday to return home unfortunately.”

“Pity, I would have appreciated the company of a sage.”

“Perhaps you know her? Her name is Zecora.” The zebra thought for a moment before shaking his head.

“I’m afraid I do not. She must be from a different tribe. There are tens of thousands of us across the savanna. Even though we all meet I cannot know all of them.”

“I have a question about sages, if I may. Why do they rhyme?” The zebra grinned widely. He seemed quite pleased to answer this question.

“It is part of their lot in life.” The zebra explained. His tail whipped up and hit the mark on his flank. “It also has to do with our life symbol, what you would call a cutie mark. When we are born, the stars, prophecy bones and runes determine what we do with our lives. We are raised to devote our lives to these tasks. The symbols appear on our flanks once we become set in our ways. Mine is one for a speaker. It is my duty to speak to other tribes and other races for the benefit of my ponies. Speakers learn how to have pride in our tribe and its ways, while also respecting others. Sages learn to understand nature and the flow of the world. That is why they are taught to rhyme, to learn rhythm and balance so they can better understand nature around them. In order to prepare for our roles all of us are sent upon a journey to discover what it means to be whom we are. Speakers are sent to live with other tribes to learn their ways and understand them. Sages are sent to faraway lands to learn how nature affects the whole world. Others of different lots are sent on similar journeys. Once we return and prove our worth to our fellow zebras we are accepted into our roles and receive these,” He pointed to the tattoos on his face. “the symbols of our tribe. We then take our place among them.”

“Wow.” Twilight said, incredibly impressed. “Zecora never told me about any of that.”

“She probably felt it wasn’t her place.” The zebra replied. “Or maybe you never asked.” Twilight chuckled to herself. She never thought of that.

The unicorn spent practically the whole dinner discussing zebra culture with the speaker. He told her about his family, his tribe and their ways. How his son had been picked to be a gatherer and would soon depart on his own journey alone into the wild to find respect for the land. He even described some ponies that had come to respect zebras and lived with them as equals. This interested Twilight.

“Really?” Twilight asked. “Can they marry zebras? Can they have children?”

“Of course.” The speaker replied.

“So...some zebra tribes have pony forefathers in them?” Twilight asked. “Are some zebras born with wings or horns?”

“I’m afraid not.” Twilight tilted her head in confusion. “The children of ponies and zebras are sometimes born with wings and horns, that is true. However, these offspring are unable to have children themselves.” Twilight flinched.

“That’s...unfortunate.” She said, abruptly feeling pity for them.

“It is, but life on the savannah is rough and there are many orphans. It is often the lot of these mixed ponies to care for those who are without parents.” That made Twilight feel a little better. The unicorn had hardly touched her food all night. She was absolutely enthralled by all that this zebra had to say and was intent on talking all night. Her conversation was rudely interrupted however.

A voice boomed outside the doors to the hall. The sound instantly made Luna go rigid and a look of disbelief spread across her face.

“Step aside mortals!” The voice shouted. Every eye turned to the door.

“Sir...you’re not on the list!” The guard actually sounded as if he was being genuine.

“Do I look like a need a list? I’m only going to warn you once.”

“Sir I cannot allow...” Everypony got a huge surprise. The doors swung open and a powerful gust of wind swept over the hall. Plates, utensils and manes flew in all direction. The two guards at the doors came tumbling in helplessly. They managed to jump to their feet and began running back to the pony in front of the door.

“Stop!” Luna shouted. Both of the guards halted, gazing back at her quizzically. “It’s no use...if he wanted to kill you he could quite easily.” They flinched, but obeyed. Somepony trotted into the hall, grinning from ear to ear.

“By the gods...” Twilight whispered. “It’s...it’s an alicorn!”

It was a male and he was as big as Celestia. His coat was as blue as the sea and shimmered just as much. On his flank was an image of a large tidal wave. His mane was deep red, almost the color of blood and flowed freely around him. Everything about him just screamed handsome. His teeth were pearly white, his face was perfect and his eyes were a lovely shade of frosty blue. There was something in his gaze however...something deathly intense. When she gazed over the regular ponies it was as if he was staring at a dog or some lesser animal. His eyes passed over Twilight and the pony could feel the fur all over her body stand on end. She got the distinct feeling...that she never wanted to be alone with this stallion. When he was done gazing around at the ponies in attendance he gazed up at the ceiling

“Oh, the inside is made of wood too!” He said, his voice was deep and melodic. His tone however, while sounding pleasant, was only veiling thinly concealed condescension. “How times have changed...we used to build them out of stone. I guess certain pony leaders aren’t as concerned with making buildings last.” Luna stood up on all of her hooves. She had the sourest expression on her face that Twilight had ever seen. The male alicorn’s eyes returned the pony sitting at the head of the table.

“Princess Luna.” He said.

“King Aecor.” She replied. Twilight flinched. She had heard that name before. He was the ruler of a kingdom called Oceanus one country south of Equestria, on the coast of the southern ocean. Twilight had been reading in-depth history of every known country on the planet for years...but she hadn’t gotten to Oceanus yet. She didn’t even know the ruler was an alicorn!

“Quaint country this has grown into.” He stated, gazing back up at the roof of the hall. “Everything built out of wood, how rustic.”

“It’s a fair Aecor.” Luna replied, in a very acerbic voice. “If you build temporary structures out of something else just to sit there uselessly afterwards then that’s your business.”

“So we’re being informal.” Aecor said, tilting his head. “I always liked that about you...little Luna.” Twilight could see that the princess abruptly tilted her head. The unicorn noticed that Luna’s mane was beginning to float upwards.

“Whatever you say...Corny.” The stallion’s eyes twitched. He didn’t appear too thrilled with his nickname either. “I apologize if our accommodations don’t appease your demands. You didn’t exactly RSVP.”

“I didn’t exactly receive an invitation.”

“A mere oversight I’m sure.” Luna’s fake smile was obvious. “Would you like to join us?”

“Like, obligated, same thing.” Luna’s right eye twitched noticeably. She turned to some of the servers. “Would you please go make a place for our new guest?” The nodded and rushed to the only empty spot at the table, on the end. They were carrying chairs, plates and cups. Aecor walked casually to his spot being prepared. He was gazing up at the structure again.

“I see style hasn’t changed much in Equestria.” He said rather casually. Once one took into account that the style was gothic, something very, very old, it was clear to see his implications. “I see that whole “movement of culture” thing hasn’t exactly hit here yet.” He sat down in a rather exaggerated fashion. The moment he did he gazed back at his chair, as if something was wrong with it. “Wood, for a chair? How...delightfully quaint.” He then turned to the food. He paused briefly, making a rather unpleasant face.

“Is there a problem?” Luna asked, sounding annoyed.

“No...no problem.” Aecor stated, picking up a fork with magic. “I find it...refreshing to be in a country where royals and commoners eat the same things.” He punctured a flower and cucumber sandwich with his utensil. “So do tell us Luna,” He said, hovering the food in front of him. “what’s new with the moon?” He put the food in his mouth. He paused there for a moment, brought a napkin up to his face, spat the food onto it and put it on top of the plate, indicating that he was done.

“Oh, you know,” Luna said. “about as much as the ocean.” Aecor chuckled audibly.

“I highly doubt that. There aren’t many tsunamis and storms on the moon are there?” He replied. He made a motion with his hoof. “Oh slaves! I’m done.”

“They’re servers, and they’re being paid.” Luna replied, now sounding audibly angry.

“Whatever.” Aecor said casually, shrugging. The workers made unpleasant faces and they cleared away his full plate. Aecor lifted his cup, sniffed it, made an unpleasant face and promptly put it back down. “If there’s nothing new with the moon how about what’s old?”

“What’s that supposed to mean?” Luna asked. Aecor shrugged again, a smile on his face.

“Well you spent so much time there.” Aecor said, chuckling. “Surely you must have story or two about some interesting rock or speck of dust that kept you company up there.” Twilight’s jaw dropped. He was purposefully trying to provoke her! Did he even have a clue about how violent Luna could be when she got angry? The unicorn’s eyes went between a smiling Aecor and an absolutely livid Luna. Her mane was flowing straight up into the air. Twilight knew that the next step would be for it to turn to mist...

“Okay!” Twilight shouted, instantly jumping up. “State dinner is over, we appreciate your company! Please exit the building and proceed to the starlight viewing! Thank you! Goodbye!” Many of the other ponies tried to speak, but Twilight didn’t stop. She continued motioning with her hooves for ponies to leave as she walked by them. “Thank you, goodbye! Thank you! Thank you, goodbye!” The ponies reluctantly began moving. Slowly everypony began shuffling out, all except Aecor and Luna who sat still as stone. Finally, after everypony else had left, Twilight nervously approached the male alicorn, feeling very feeble in front of him. She gulped before speaking. “Sir...if you would please...”

Aecor’s hoof shot out. It hit Twilight in the chest. She shot backwards and hit the wall of the building. The unicorn wasn’t hurt, but the abrupt strike left her dazed. Luna’s eyes exploded in rage.

“Mongrels do not tell me what to do.” Aecor said in very dire voice. It was like that of a lion, waiting to pounce on prey. The princess practically screamed. “Hit a nerve did I?” She reached under the massive table and flipped it over. It was tossed through the air easily, landing a good distance to the side. The servers that were still in the room instantly dashed out the door. They weren’t being paid enough for this. “How uncouth of you.”

“A thousand years and you’re still the same Aecor!” Luna growled, marching towards him with very loud steps. “You still walk all over those weaker than you!”

“I control those who need to be controlled.” Aecor said, standing. His voice was dead serious now. “Your uncontrolled emotions were your undoing last time and they’ll be the same this time as well.” The princess walked right up to him. She stretched up and their faces were inches apart, with eyes glaring right at each other.

“This time?” Luna asked. “Whatever could you mean Aecor?” The male alicorn chuckled darkly.

“Trying to trap me in your usual paranoia Luna?” He replied. “Rest assured that if there is any...contention with Equestria it will be between the real ruler of this country and me.”

“Really? I could have sworn there was title in front of my name.” Aecor chuckled again.

“Go ahead. Try to get ponies to side with you over Celestia. You think throwing a fair will change their minds?”

“Probably a lot better than drowning their loved ones under the ocean.” Aecor grinned smugly and stared off the side.

“Well, somepony’s been reading a history book.” Aecor said. He then turned back to her. “Did that book also mention how many rebellions there have been in either Oceanus or Equestria?” Luna didn’t respond, but her hair was flowing straight up into the air. “I thought so. How has the world fared since you left? Last time I checked, with the exception of a few lower beings,” He glanced at the Retussian’s previous chair. “Everypony has experienced peace and prosperity. Even this fair is being paid with money that your sister has accrued. How many state decisions have you made since your return?” Luna’s hair had melted into mist. “You just don’t want to face the simple truth.” Aecor leaned even closer, their faces less than an inch away. “This world doesn’t need you.” Black veins began to stream across Luna’s legs. She was only inches away from turning.

“Get out.” Luna said, both of the voices streaming out of her mouth. “Get out now.” Aecor chuckled, but turned and began walking away.

“Good luck little Luna, you’ll need it.” The stallion waved his horn and the doors were blown off of their hinges and flew into the air. The two guards standing in front of them managed to dive out of the way. The alicorn cackled loudly, spread his wings and took off into the air at a blinding speed.

The moment he left, Twilight leapt up from the ground. She didn’t dare come between the raging titans. If they could control such huge forces, she would be an ant by comparison. Now Luna was only moments away for going completely berserk.

“It’s okay Luna, calm down.” Twilight said, getting close. Luna’s hair remained up and the blackness across her skin stood still. “He’s gone. Flying into a rage now would only hurt you. Please, please stop this.” Her hair slowly came back down to its normal level. The black across her coat retreated and disappeared. Abruptly, Luna’s hair slumped as if it were wet. It hung around her face as she lowered her entire head. Twilight was shocked to see tears dropping onto the ground.

“I was afraid of what he said the whole time I’ve been back...but...” Luna’s voice was shaking. “It’s true isn’t it? I haven’t done anything since I came home. There hasn’t been anything for me to do. I’ve been gone a thousand years. Everypony had forgotten me. Now I’m just an add-on, some footnote underneath my sister’s chapter in history. This world...moved without me...and I...I...” Luna gasped a breath and let it out very shakily. Twilight instantly felt sadness at seeing her like this. Part of what Luna said was true, but part of it was not. Right now, Luna was the odd pony out. Celestia had ruled for so long by herself that it would take quite a while for ponies to adjust to having two again. The other half however...

Twilight leaned down and pressed her face against Luna’s. She lifted the princess’s head back up and nuzzled up against her.

“You are needed Luna.” Twilight said.

“Where?” Luna asked, not moving as Twilight rubbed against her. “By who?”

“Here, by me.” Twilight said. “If you hadn’t come back and then ran away to Ponyville none of this would have happened. I would have stayed at my library forever, wallowing in my sadness and solitude. You brought all of my friends back. You started this whole fair that so many ponies are enjoying. You made me happy, something that hasn’t happened in a very long time. I needed you. I still need you. Isn’t that enough?” Luna paused for a moment, taking in Twilight’s words.

“Yes.” Luna said quietly. “That’s enough.” Their heads nuzzled together for several moments. Luna didn’t have to read Twilight’s emotions to know she was telling the truth. The princess believed her. Her hair slowly began floating back up, waving despite the fact that there was no wind. Twilight felt relieved that she was feeling better. She finally backed away so she could stare at the princess.

“We should go.” Twilight said. “We’ll miss everypony watching the stars.”

“Yeah.” Luna replied, quickly wiping her eyes. “Let’s go.”

It was night now and everypony was outside. Luna paced around the fair, nodding at ponies who bowed her way. She could see ponies staring up at the sky, a few of them pointing out the constellations. This seemed to please the princess. She had a wistful gaze on her face as ponies began handing out the floating lanterns. They lit the candles inside them and the entire fair glittered with the faint glow of gentle flames. As they walked along, Twilight was abruptly asked a question from a random pony. They wanted to know where everypony was getting the lanterns. Twilight answered them and then turned back to the princess. She was several paces ahead of her. The alicorn had turned and was talking to a small filly that had to hold onto the lantern with her whole body to keep it steady. The small pony asked when it was okay to let them go. The princess smiled. She replied that the filly could let it go whenever she wanted. The pony quickly responded by letting the lantern go. It floated gracefully up into the sky. The little pony was absolutely ecstatic. It wasn’t exactly time, but everypony else to this as a sign released theirs. The lanterns all ascended upwards gently, like stars returning to the sky. Luna lifted her head and watched the filly’s lantern fly away. That was when something clicked inside of Twilight’s head and heart.

Maybe it was the soft candles in the moonlight. Maybe it was the fact that the weight of all that had happened finally fell on her shoulders. Luna’s soft smile, her eyes glittering in the moonlight, her earrings twinkling like tiny rainbows and hair waving among the flying lanterns...it was all beautiful. Twilight’s smile melted into a stupefied frown. Luna had saved her. Luna saved her from Bridleburg. She saved Fluttershy from a horrible life. She brought Twilight’s friends together again. She did everything she could, down to tricking and trapping...just to make Twilight happy. She engineered this whole fair, the largest in Equestrian history. She was using her magic to keep the whole thing going, just so it wouldn’t fail. What did she want in return? It was simple, for ponies to appreciate her beloved night...to appreciate her. It was such a simple thing for so much. She was happy, here among all these ponies letting lanterns go in the sky, simply because they were here, now. Luna and Celestia once shared the elements of harmony between them.

‘Generosity, laughter and magic.’ Twilight thought. ‘I’m sure of it.’ She was willing to give everything, her time, her magic, even he own well-being just to make Twilight happy. Her laugh was like a melody that made Twilight’s heart soar. She used her magic with such precision and expertise. She managed to keep hundreds of thousands of ponies fed and happy. All of what she did...for everypony, for Fluttershy, for Applejack, for Rarity, for Rainbow Dash, for Pinkie Pie, for Scootaloo, for Sweetie Belle, for Apple Bloom...for Twilight. It was all...just so...

“Beautiful.” Twilight said very quietly. Her heart began to pound. Her head began to spin. Her stomach tied into a knot. This powerful urge swept over her. She wanted to be close to the princess always. She never wanted to apart from her...not for a second. The unicorn’s entire body locked up. Her vision narrowed. She felt as if she were going to pass out.

“Twilight? Twilight!” The unicorn twitched. The moment in time had been frozen for Twilight, but not for everypony else. Luna had returned to her side. The lavender pony snapped out of her stupor. She saw that Luna was now only inches away from her. “Are you alright?” Twilight’s heart ponded in her ears and her face blushed. She saw Luna as something so beautiful now. For her to be this close...

“I-I-I’m fine.” Twilight stuttered helplessly.

“You sure?” Luna leaned forward and put their foreheads together. “You look a little flushed.” The unicorn went stiff for a few moments, unable to move. She could feel the warmth of Luna’s skin on her own. Finally, when she gathered her wits, she stumbled backwards.

“I’m fine!” Twilight said, a little too loud and her voice a little too high. “Honest! I am!”

“Okay...” Luna still sounded worried. She tried to sense what Twilight was feeling, but there were just too many ponies here with too many emotions. Twilight could have been feeling the strongest emotions ever while standing right next to the princess and Luna couldn’t tell what they were. Luna gazed at the clock tower and then back to Twilight. “Meet up there in a few minutes alone, okay?”

“A-Alright.” Twilight said, still slightly stupefied. As the princess trotted away Twilight took a deep breath. She suddenly realized that she hadn’t been breathing.

‘What...was that?’ The unicorn thought desperately. She had never felt anything like that before. It was like her entire body went crazy. She took a few more deep breaths before rattling her head around. She had a sudden urge for something to drink. Getting one should take up enough time before she was supposed to meet Luna at the clock tower

Twilight walked up the steps of the building, nervously anticipating reaching the top. Luna would be up there. Would Twilight have another strange reaction like that again? Twilight wasn’t sure if she could even walk when her body completely locked up like that. With a very nervous last step the unicorn arrived at the tower’s balcony. What she saw surprised her.

For a brief moment, Twilight felt terror. A familiar pony was sitting at the balcony, but not the one she was expecting. Her hair flowed like mist and her mane was as dark as the night sky.

‘Nightmare Moon!’ Twilight thought. She was preparing to turn and run or panic or try to calm the powerful pony down...but something stopped her. The alicorn wasn’t doing anything. She was simply sitting on the balcony, staring down at the ponies on the ground and then back up at the floating lanterns. Luna’s voice played in Twilight’s mind.

“That part of me was happy to be free...because she was lonely.”

Now there were countless ponies on the ground, admiring the night, the very lack thereof that made Luna create Nightmare Moon. Luna wanted her to enjoy this too. There was only one thing left that would make it perfect. Twilight fearlessly trotted over to her. She sat beside the large alicorn. Nightmare Moon turned and saw who it was and returned her gaze to the lanterns in the sky.

“Twilight.” The alicorn said casually.

“Lovely night.” Twilight replied.

“Lovely night indeed.” Nightmare Moon’s face appeared mellow somehow. Her usual grimace lacked its angry intensity. Twilight gazed up at her. There was twinkled in the terrifying pony’s eyes, one that the unicorn was sure wasn’t there before. The lavender pony leaned against Nightmare Moon affectionately, causing the alicorn to give her an odd look.

“Are you happy?” Twilight asked.

“About what?” Nightmare Moon retorted.

“Everypony’s appreciating the night now. They’re all looking at it, counting the stars and celebrating with lanterns.”

“About damn time.” Nightmare Moon said, gazing back out at the crowd.

“I’ll take that as a “yes.”” Twilight said, rubbing against the alicorn’s large shoulder. Neither of them spoke after that. Neither of them had to.

Chapter 9

On the fourth and final day of the fair, Ponyville was fuller than ever. Apparently most ponies decided that the final day would be the day to come. As a sort of highlight of the whole thing, Twilight had planned it so that every attraction, singer, performer and show (including the ones run by ponies she knew) were played in succession. Basically only one event would run at a time with enough of a gap between them for the masses to get to each event. When things were kicking off Twilight decided to get a better view. She had been so busy for three days she hadn’t had time to just watch this massive event.

The unicorn climbed a hill not too far from it all. She had timed it just right so that an event would end just as she reached the top. When the final cheers from the crowd at the flying range erupted across the fair Twilight was amazed by the mass of ponies swarming towards the next place. It was like a flood, covering the entire field. She marveled at all the ponies and thought about tonight.

As the fair ended, so did her friend’s beloved reunion. Rainbow Dash’s team was located in Fillydelphia. Rarity’s business was located in Manehattan. Spike’s home was in the mountains. In the end, they had to return there. Tonight however, before the fair was complete, they would all gather together for a dinner. They were going to share memories, stories and become reacquainted. Twilight couldn’t express how much she was looking forward to it...and how much she was dreading it. It would mark the end of this wonderful time. Everypony would have to leave again, returning to their own lives. It created a confusing and irritating mix of emotions inside of her.

“Why so glum Twilight Sparkle?” Twilight raised her head and her eyes widened to their largest possible extent. A massive smile spread across the unicorn’s face. Even as she turned around, she already shouted out the name of who stood behind her.

“Princess Celestia!” Once the unicorn spotted her she bounded over, quickly rubbing one of her legs affectionately.

“My faithful student,” Celestia began with a smile. “it is good to see you.”

“What are you doing here your majesty?” Twilight asked, still grinning widely.

“You didn’t think I’d miss the party of the century planned by my best student did you?” Celestia asked. Twilight could feel pride swelling in her chest. Both Princess Luna and Celestia apparently thought very highly of her. “I was looking for a way to get away from the castle since this thing started. The opportunity only presented itself when they needed me to fill the orders here.”

“Fill the orders?” Twilight asked, tilting her head. “What about Princess Luna?”

“Well,” Celestia began, chuckling slightly. “They couldn’t wake her up this morning. She was so exhausted after three days of this that she’s still snoring away.” Princess Luna must have been working harder than she thought. Twilight knew she had been successfully filling all the orders, which exhausted her, but to also appear at most of the events must have been too much. “Not that I mind, as I said I wanted to come.” The princess began walking towards the edge of the hill and gazed out at the fair. Twilight eagerly followed, happy to see her mentor. The alicorn whistled, apparently impressed by all the ponies that showed up. “You’ve done an amazing job. You could probably make a business out of planning events.”

“No thanks.” Twilight said firmly. “I’ll stick to studying any day.”

“Have all the events gone well?” The princess asked. “I heard about the fashion show, the concert and the scooter show, but I haven’t a report on the state dinner yet.” Twilight’s neck went a little rigid. How could she respond to that? She could lie, but no doubt the princess would eventually see the report. The unicorn didn’t want to make sound like the event didn’t go well, but...

“Y-You see...” Twilight began nervously. Princess Celestia turned her head, giving her student a curious expression. “There was...an uninvited guest.”

“Oh? Who might that be?”

“It...uh...it was...King Aecor.” Princess Celestia flinched and her face fell. For a few moments, her expression was inscrutable. Then she shook her head and sighed.

“I suppose Luna and he got into a tiff again, didn’t they?”

“Y-yeah...” Twilight said, slightly relieved that the princess understood. “King Aecor was baiting her, so I told everypony the dinner was over. When I tried to tell the king this he struck me and threw me against a wall.”

“You weren’t hurt were you?” Princess Celestia asked, her voice abruptly angry.

“No! No, I think he was just trying to irritate Luna. He almost made her...transform. After he left I calmed her down.”

“It’s a good thing you’re around.” Princess Celestia said, a thin smile on her face. “You seem to be a calming influence on my beloved sister.” The alicorn then sighed and turned back to the fair. “He just couldn’t let things lie.”

“Who is he?” Twilight said. “I mean, who is he really, not just the king of Oceania. Why did he try to make Luna angry? Why do they hate each other so much?” Celestia gave Twilight a gaze that only a mother could give a child when they didn’t understand something.

“Twilight,” The princess began. “the affairs of alicorns are long and complicated. We have histories that stretch back before even your great-great-great-grandparents were born.”

“I just...” Twilight began, trying not to sound like a petulant child. “I just...I want to understand Luna. I want to know more about her...but she’s so...”

“Mysterious?” Celestia finished.

“Yes, that.” The princess chuckled again.

“She isn’t so mysterious to me. I’ve known her my whole life. She isn’t that complicated my little pony. She just thinks too hard about things.”

“But...!!” Now Twilight knew she was acting like a petulant child. She still wanted to know however. “I want to know! She’s my friend...my...my...” Twilight paused, trying to think. Her mind drifted to the previous night. She could still remember how beautiful Luna looked in the starlight, how her hair glowed and her eyes sparkled. Something swelled up in Twilight’s heart then...but what was it? “I...I just want to know. I have to know more about her. I have to.” Princess Celestia stared at her student for the longest time, not saying anything. She seemed to be studying the unicorn’s face. Twilight kept up the strongest expression she could, trying not to become emotional. Finally, the princess sighed.

“Twilight,” She began, still sounding like a mother. “what happened between Luna, Aecor and myself started before Equestria existed as a country. They’ve been angry with each other since they were children, which for ponies like you was an eternity ago. They’re feuding over things now that happened before I was even a monarch. If you want to know Luna better then talk to her, spend time with her, have fun with her. Don’t dwell on her sad past. She has had a rough time for so long that she needs some happy memories. If anypony can give her some, it’s you.” Twilight smiled, but just a little. She would have to live with that answer. If Celestia didn’t want to talk about it...she wasn’t going to.

“Alright.” Twilight said, sounding disappointed. “Guess I should wake her up so she can enjoy her free day.”

“You should.” Celestia replied, spreading her wings, preparing to fly. “She fell asleep in Fluttershy’s house, to get away from the crowds.”

“You saw her today?”

“No.”

“Uh...somepony told you?”

“No.”

“Then how...?” Celestia winked and smiled.

“My little secret.” The princess took off, flying towards the next event at the fair. Twilight stared after her mentor for several moments, blinking rapidly. How did she know? Then the unicorn remembered what Luna told her. Each alicorn had a special ability. Luna could sense emotions and Luna thought that Celestia’s was to be able to know where ponies were, no matter where. Looks like the princess just confirmed it. Twilight wondered what Aecor’s was.

“I’ll wonder later.” Twilight said. She turned and began trotting away from the fair.

“Princess Luna?” Twilight asked, tentatively entering Fluttershy’s house. She gazed around, searching for the alicorn. Since she didn’t see her, the unicorn trotted up the stairs. Twilight tentatively knocked on the door to the bedroom before opening the door with a slight creak. “Princess?” It was kind of hard to miss her. Luna was considerably larger than Fluttershy and her hair was so full that it flowed over the edges. She was comfortably sprawled out on the bed, quietly snoring. Twilight chuckled a little and trotted over. The beautiful and regal pony looked just as helpless and cute as anypony else when she slept. The way she was laying reminded Twilight of filly that couldn’t get comfortable. The unicorn was feeling a little...whimsical.

The lavender pony reached up with both of her hooves and covered Luna’s nostrils. For a few moments the princess fidgeted uncomfortably. Then her mouth popped open and she let out a loud snore. Twilight chortled to herself, oddly pleased. She removed her hooves and began tickling the end of Luna’s nose. The alicorn fidgeted again. She began flaring her nostrils and twitching her nose. Finally, she snorted and swatted up with her hoof, trying to clear away what was teasing her. Twilight giggled again, holding her hoof in front of her mouth to muffle herself. Luna could be cute if she wanted to.

The unicorn took a brief pause to think. What was that feeling last night? It was as if her whole body suddenly went haywire, just from admiring Luna’s beauty. She had always been beautiful, but somehow that moment in time, at that place...it was like it was too much. Out of curiosity, and to see if it could happen again, Twilight leaned in close, examining her princess much more closely. At such a close distance, the unicorn could see subtle things she couldn’t before. Luna’s coat had a beautiful glossy sheen up close. Her face shape was perfect, like a model’s. The bones in her face had just the right proportions. When looking even closer Twilight saw something else, something hidden by the coat. The princess had a scar and it was a long one. Through her coat it looked like a thin line that began at the top of her nose and stretched below her eye. It made Twilight infinitely curious. What could possibly have hurt an alicorn?

Twilight gulped abruptly. She was close enough now that she could feel the heat from Luna’s body and smell the scent from her mane. She smelled like lilacs, even though she wasn’t wearing perfume. For a brief moment, the unicorn lost her senses. It was like Luna was sucking her in. With jagged breaths Twilight pressed her nose against Luna’s face. She gently began nuzzling against her fur, as if intoxicated.

Twilight was suddenly brought out of her stupor. The princess grunted and twitched. The unicorn jumped back, blushing furiously. Fortunately, it took a few moments for Luna to wake up. The alicorn groaned, apparently begrudged to awake. She sat up, her eyes appearing glassy. Twilight couldn’t help but admit that she still looked awfully cute being so scruffy and disorganized right now. Luna wiped drool from her mouth and gazed around the room.

“’Mornin’ Twilight.” She said, her mouth sounding full.

“Good morning Princess.” Twilight said, quickly trying to hide her embarrassment. “Although it’s almost afternoon.”

“What?” Luna asked, abruptly surprised. She turned and gazed out the window to see how high the sun was. “Good grief, I can only imagine the orders...”

“It’s okay, Princess Celestia is filling in for you.” Twilight replied.

“Did she?” Luna didn’t sound pleased.

“She wanted to come to the fair.” Twilight said. “She wanted you to enjoy it too, without being distracted by orders.” Luna groaned again. The unicorn almost chuckled. She looked like a spoiled child, being so petty.

“Well, nothing I can do about it now.” Luna said. She began trying to sooth her hair, which was flowing in all directions.

“I’ll help you.” Twilight said, almost eagerly. She wanted to see what Luna’s hair really felt like. She bounded over to Fluttershy’s dresser, grabbed a brush, removed the pegasus’s pink hair and ran back. Luna sat calmly and periodically yawned as Twilight went to work on her hair. It was a bit unusual in texture, but it went into place with the brush. It was constantly moving and flowing, but seemed to have a strange cohesion to it. Twilight allowed her hoof to move through it. It felt like water, flowing over her. Instinctively, the unicorn leaned forward and took another deep breath of the scent.

“It does that naturally you know.” Luna said.

“H-Huh!?” Twilight said, shocked and blushing.

“My hair. It smells like that on its own.” Luna finished. “Celestia’s smells like roses if you ever get that close.”

“O-Oh...” Twilight said. She then resumed her earlier work. “Why does it flow like that?”

“No idea. It’s always done that.” The rest of the brushing took place in awkward silence, at least for Twilight.

As they casually trotted towards the fair Luna continued to yawn and rub her eyes. She was apparently slow to wake. Meanwhile, Twilight couldn’t help but feel awkward. She was having these strange emotions around the princess. They were overpowering, confusing and just...weird. The unicorn decided not to dwell on them and just let them be for now.

“So,” Twilight began, trying to get her mind off of her emotions. “how long have you had that scar?”

“You noticed that did you?” Luna said, sounding passive. “That’s an old scar.”

“Old?” Twilight asked.

“Really, really, really old.” Luna added. “Older than you, older than Equestria, older than...well...pretty much everything.”

“How did you get it?” Twilight asked.

“Celestia gave me a dare. I was dumb enough to do it.”

“A dare? Celestia?” Twilight sounded shocked.

“She wasn’t always a fully grown mare you know.” Luna said with a laugh. “We were both fillies. I can still remember it, second most terrible day of my life.”

“What happened?”

“I don’t want to talk about it.”

“Well, what was the worst day?”

“I really don’t want to talk about it.”

“Oh...” Now Twilight felt awkward. She wanted to know more about Luna, but was getting stonewalled. There were several moments of silence.

“You seem surprised.”

“Huh?”

“Celestia. She wasn’t always a princess.”

“I know...it’s just...” Twilight gazed at the ground, thinking. “She’s been the princess for so long and for all of recorded history. It’s hard to imagine her any way else.”

“We’re just coming out of another empty age, so there isn’t much information left of what’s before that.”

“Huh?” Twilight had an incredibly blank look on her face.

“History goes through ages of highs and lows. We’re just entering a high. During the lows we lose most, if not all, records.”

“Is...there a reason for that?”

“Well, yes.”

“What is it?”

“I’d have to explain things that I’m actually not allowed to.”

“Not allowed?”

“It’s a...alicorn thing.”

“Oh.” There was more silence. Once again Twilight hit a wall. She tried to dig deeper and only found more mystery. She didn’t want the conversation to end however. “What else can you tell me about Celestia?” It was a desperate question, but it made Luna smile...a mischievous and gleeful one.

“Oh the things I could tell you.” She said happily. “She forbid me from telling things about her past, to maintain her image.”

“Oh...” Twilight said. “I see...” She felt like she hit another wall.

“...So here’s some stuff!” Luna said, grinning ear to ear. Twilight gave her a surprised look, but then realized the alicorn delighted to spill the beans. “Bet you didn’t know your dear princess used to be a big heartbreaker.”

“Heartbreaker? You mean...?” Twilight said, in disbelief.

“She flew from stallion to stallion, one after another.” Luna said, amused by Twilight’s apparent shock. “She got bored quickly and dumped them for another that entertained her...or was attractive.”

“Really?” Twilight still looked to be in shock.

“She always needed to be in a relationship and was horribly depressed when she wasn’t.”

“And you?”

“Me? Well...I got around a bit.” Luna chuckled to herself. “All that was a long, long time ago, before either of us were princesses. You have to admit, Celestia is drop-dead gorgeous. Nopony ever turned her down for a date...or a night.”

“She...?” Twilight’s jaw dropped and her eyes widened.

“What? How do you think we were conceived, with sunshine, rainbows and sugar? We can have our fun too.”

“Did...you do a lot of that?” Twilight felt something cold prick inside of her heart. How many other ponies had Luna been with? The unicorn didn’t want to think about some random stallions laying their hooves on the wonderful and beautiful Luna.

“No, not a lot.” Luna replied. “I didn’t have near as many clamoring fans as Celestia. I’m not nearly as flashy.”

“But you’re just as beautiful.” Twilight said it as a knee-jerk reaction, but blushed the instant it came out of her mouth. Luna only smiled as a reaction.

“Thank you, I’m glad somepony thinks so.” Twilight wanted to respond, but couldn’t think of anything to say. They walked the rest of the way to the fair in silence.

Luna left Twilight at the entrance, stating that she was going to join her sister at the events. Twilight gave a nod and a goodbye as the alicorn left. She missed Luna the instant the princess left, but the unicorn needed to think. She walked through the rather empty fair, most of the ponies attending the series of events today. Twilight strolled through the stalls like a zombie, mulling over her thoughts. Never in her life had Twilight had these emotions. When Luna was around there was this overwhelming rushing mix of nervousness, happiness and disorientation. Twilight would consult a book or two, but she didn’t feel it was appropriate to leave the fair. Besides, what was she supposed to look up, “bizarre reactions to alicorns?” Despite the fact that all of this was strange and quite jarring...the unicorn didn’t want Luna to leave. She didn’t want them to be apart. Even if the feelings were uncomfortable...they were pleasant somehow. She wanted them to stay. She wanted to feel them again. How could something be unpleasant yet desirable at the same time? All Twilight could do was make herself more confused than she was before.

“Come on! You want me to pay seven bits for that tiny bowl!!” Twilight jerked her head towards a familiar voice. Rainbow Dash was sitting at a booth, haggling with the pony serving her. She was attempting to order a bowl of noodles and vegetables.

“Everypony for four days has paid the same price!” The pony working the booth retorted. “I’m not going to change it now.”

“That’ll barely even wet my appetite!” Rainbow Dash complained. “I’m an athlete! I need more!”

“Then buy more than one.”

“That’s highway robbery!”

“Either pay for it or don’t.” The pegasus grumbled but laid out the bits. She got her bowl and instantly began eating up her meal. Twilight smiled and trotted over. She sat on the seat beside her friend.

“Hey Rainbow Dash.” Twilight said. The pegasus turned her head.

“Hey Twilight!” She said, launching a few noodles from her mouth. “Don’t buy from this place, they rip you off.” The pony running the booth sneered at her, but didn’t say anything.

“I’m not hungry.” Twilight replied. “Why aren’t you showing off at the stunt field?”

“On a break.” Rainbow Dash said between bites. “I need to eat at some point.”

“How are you and Applejack getting along?” Twilight asked. The pegasus flinched and took another bite of her food before continuing.

“It’s...uh...going okay.” Rainbow said uncomfortably. “Just...a step at a time. I’m actually more uncomfortable around her than her husband.”

“Apple Tree?” Twilight asked. “He seems like the type not to be bothered by anything.”

“He’s not. I just have to get over this whole nervous, dizzy thing I have when I’m around her.” Twilight froze. Her eyes stared off at nothing as her mind seemed to ground to a halt. For a few seconds, she thought that she heard Rainbow wrong.

“Wh-What?” Twilight asked.

“Oh you know, the whole “love” thing.” Rainbow Dash spoke as if it was a casual, everyday thing. Twilight still felt like she was in shock. “Even after all this time it’s hard to not think about it.”

“Wh-wh-what do you mean?”

“Well, you know. Your heart pounds in your chest. Your head spins. You can’t think of anypony else. You miss them even when they’ve only been gone a few minutes. When you see them you feel terribly nervous, thinking they’ll find you out or that you’ll say something that will make them hate you or make them angry because you know that them thinking something bad about you will break your heart...oh I’m sorry...” Rainbow Dash blushed, realizing that she was prattling and not sounding like her usual confident and arrogant self. “I got a little carried away.” Abruptly, Twilight fell out of her chair, her legs sticking up straight into the air. “Tw-Twilight!” Rainbow Dash jumped off her chair and kneeled next to her friend. “Twilight! Are you okay!? Twilight!!”

“Huh?” The unicorn asked, as if Rainbow Dash had interrupted her thoughts.

“You fell over.” Rainbow replied.

“I...I did?” Twilight sat up, gazing around dumbly. “Oh, I guess I did.”

“Are you okay?” The pegasus asked, sounding very worried.

“Oh I’m...it’s...does it always feel like that?”

“Huh?”

“When you’re in love, do you always feel overwhelmed like that?”

“Oh, that. No, it’s just that I haven’t seen her in a while so it’s like the first time I guess.”

“Does it...get better?”

“I don’t know about better...” Rainbow Dash began staring off into the distance. She seemed to instantly become lost in her own thoughts. “These feelings dissolve into a warmth in your heart, but it hurts just to have it there, knowing they don’t feel the same. At the same time...you love it. You want that pain to be there, because that means they are close. It’s like a war in your heart, a mix of joy and sadness, but you’ll go through any pain, physical or emotional, just to be around them. Pain is just a minor inconvenience. You’re willing to go through your whole life by their side, even if you can never get close enough to put the flames in your soul out. That is, until they give their heart to somepony else...” For a brief moment both of them were silent. Suddenly, as if returning to her senses, Rainbow Dash flinched and smiled nervously. Her face blushed even deeper red. “I’m sorry, I keep rambling. Guess I don’t need to think so hard about things.”

“No it’s been...enlightening.” Twilight said. She rose from the ground, dusting herself off. “You should try your hand at poetry Dash.”

“Oh, I’ll just stick to reading Daring-Do.” Rainbow Dash said, blushing and waving her hoof back and forth.

“I think,” Twilight began. “I’m going to go find Luna. I’ve got to talk to her about things.”

“What things?”

“Well...I...”

“Is she leaving after the fair?” Twilight twitched and instantly went pale. Her eyes widened and she abruptly felt weak in the knees.

“What are you talking about?” The unicorn asked, her voice four octaves too high.

“She couldn’t do anything at Canterlot because she was feared right? You told me that she threw this fair to improve her image. I think it worked wonders. All I hear everypony talking about is how good of a job she did and how generous she is. I figured now that the problem is fixed, she would go back to Canterlot and rule with Princess Celestia.” Twilight felt something icy pierce her heart. It was like a ton of bricks fell onto her body and every good feeling she ever had in her life was squashed. “Are you sure you’re okay? You look awfully pale.”

“I...uh...” The unicorn hadn’t even considered any of that. Now that Rainbow Dash laid it out like that it made sense. “I have to...talk to somepony.”

“Alright, but if you get too tired be sure to rest.”

Twilight now walked through the fair like an even deader zombie. Things were echoing around in her head, louder than anything she had ever heard before. It felt like these nagging questions were eating away at her soul. Was she in love with Princess Luna? Was Luna going to leave? Would Luna even be interested in common ponies? Would Luna even be interested in mares for that matter? Was there anything Twilight could even do about any of this? For the first time, in a very long time, Twilight felt completely helpless. There wasn’t a book on alicorn dating, how to keep a princess from returning to a castle or what to do when the one you love is thousands of years old. She would have to deal with these issues one at a time, starting with the one that was most pressing.

Twilight arrived at the concert stage when the event ended. Just as she was about to enter the structure a torrent of ponies exited out of it. Each of them was buzzing excitedly about the princesses being right behind them. Twilight attempted to slip through them, but they were like a giant mass, pushing her back. In a matter of moments she was shoved behind waves of ponies who made an empty column in front of the entrance. Twilight tried to say something, but all of them were talking so loudly she wasn’t heard. The royal guards emerged and the crowd erupted, cheering like maniacs. The two princesses emerged, flanked by a line of guards on either side. Flash bulbs and screaming fans rained down as they trotted by, smiling and nodding. Twilight tried to jump up and get Luna’s attention, but the alicorn was practically being blinded and deafened. They went past her, completely oblivious to everything around them. Twilight instantly felt a terrible emptiness enter her. What if Luna was leaving? Would she even get to see the princess before she left? What if...she never saw Luna again? Something painful and all-consuming entered Twilight’s heart. It was cold and terrible. It was the same feeling she had only a few months ago, forever stuck in a rut...all alone. This time...it was so much worse.

Luna stopped dead in her tracks, alarming her sister. Celestia turned her head to her sister, instantly worried. Luna raised her head, a quizzical expression on her face. She turned her head in one particular direction. Twilight’s mood instantly lightened when the princess spotted her. Luna’s eyes lifted and she smiled lightly. She turned back to her sister and they spoke for a few moments. Then the alicorn whirled around and began marching towards Twilight. The press instantly mobbed her however, assuming she was now taking questions. For a few moments Luna stared at the flash bulbs and microphones dumbly. Then she grimaced and her horn glowed. She disappeared in a flash. The press stared around in circles, trying to see where she went. Celestia giggled, as if amused. She resumed trotting, causing the mass of ponies to follow. The press instantly lost interest and continued to pursue Celestia. Twilight however, stayed where she was, staring around and around. She couldn’t see Luna either. For a few moments, the unicorn was confused. The princess obviously saw her, where did she go? There was a flash beside Twilight.

“Are they gone?” Luna asked. She had a cloak around her body again. For a brief moment Twilight was stunned by her sudden appearance. She quickly recovered however.

“Yeah, they followed Princess Celestia.” Twilight stated.

“Oh good. I suddenly remembered something while hobnobbing with all the masses.” Luna said.

“What’s that?”

“I hate hobnobbing.” Twilight could help but chuckle a little. The princess certainly didn’t seem fond of crowds. “I haven’t eaten yet, have they started packing up the stands yet?”

“They have, but I’m sure there are many still left.”

“I know of a good one, let’s hope it’s still open.”

Fortunately, it was. It was a wonderfully decorated stand selling spiced bread and sandwiches. They arrived as the stall was closing, but they were more than happy to fill one last order for royalty. Luna and Twilight resigned themselves to a quiet corner of the ending fair, eating the spicy bread and sweet fruit sandwiches. Twilight remained quiet, afraid to open her mouth. She had a million questions swimming around in her head. She was terrified that the wrong one would come flying out. When the crowds across the fair cheered again Luna lifted her head. She munched on a fruit sandwich for a moment.

“They’re easily amused.” Luna said. “You put this thing together amazingly well. It ends with the fireworks tonight, right?” Twilight nodded, still afraid to speak. “I know I started all this, but I’ll be happy when it’s all over. I could use some good rest.”

“What are you doing,” Twilight began, sounding awkward. “after the fair?”

“Hm?” Luna cocked an eyebrow, intrigued by the question. “Well, I was thinking of going home and getting some sleep.”

“By home do you mean...?”

“The...library?”

“And after that?”

“What are you trying to ask Twilight?”

“Are you,” Twilight stared at the ground, a familiar loneliness crawling into her heart. Luna sensed this, and instantly became concerned. “going back to the castle?”

“What? Why would I go back?”

“Everypony likes you now, no pony is afraid of you and everypony has accepted you as a princess. Isn’t that why you threw this fair? Don’t you...want to go back and rule at Canterlot?” Luna let loose a rather abrupt and high-pitched laugh.

“Is that what you’re so worried about?” Luna asked. “That I’m going to go back to hobnobbing at the castle? Please!”

“But...don’t you want to rule Equestria beside Princess Celestia?”

“No! Well...yes...well...”

“Well?” Luna took a deep breath and sighed.

“We tried ruling together...I ended up on the moon.”

“Oh.” Twilight was finally beginning to calm down. “So, you’re not leaving?”

“No Twilight, I’m not leaving. I mean, after the fair I have to go to Canterlot to smooth over some...frayed nerves I might have created at the dinner, but rest assured I’ll be back in a few days. Where would you even get an idea like that?”

“Oh just...talking to ponies.”

“Well, talk to me before you start freaking out, I felt you across a crowd without even trying.”

“Sorry I...guess I panic too easily.”

“That you do.” Luna reached up and roughed Twilight’s mane on her head. “Learn to relax a bit.” Twilight felt her heart briefly flutter at the alicorn’s touch. Luna wasn’t leaving...but there was one other thing on Twilight’s mind. This one was much more embarrassing. Twilight had never asked any other pony about love before, let alone if they loved her back. The unicorn tried to control her emotions, trying to ensure that Luna couldn’t sense them.

“Listen,” Twilight began. “There’s something I want to ask you...”

“Hey Twilight!” A vivacious and overexcited voice shouted. Twilight and Luna turned their heads, but already knew who it was.

“Oh, hi Pinkie.” Twilight said, trying to veil her annoyance and disappointment.

“Guess what! Guess what! Guess what!” The pink pony shouted, hopping up and down in the same place.

“What?” Twilight asked, not sounding at all excited.

“Big Macintosh and Fluttershy are dating!” Twilight and Luna’s faces melted into shock, but both of the other ponies failed to notice that the princess was being facetious.

“Really?” Twilight asked, sounding genuinely surprised.

“No way!” Luna echoed, her voice clearly fake.

“Uh-huh!” Pinkie Pie said in her usual over-excited manner. “Applejack caught them kissing behind a tree!”

“Oh my gosh!” Twilight shrieked.

“I am completely stunned by this turn of events!” Luna shouted, both other ponies still oblivious to her sarcasm.

“Did you come here just to tell me that?” Twilight asked.

“No! I...wait...uh...” Pinkie stopped bouncing and put her hoof to her chin. “I was supposed to...uh...wait a minute, I can get it.”

“Can you speed this up?” Twilight whispered to Luna.

“I’m not a mind reader, I’m an emotion reader.” Luna replied, equally as quiet. “But I can try.” As Pinkie tapped her chin, Luna stared at her. After a few moments, the princess’s brow wrinkled and she frowned.

“Oh yeah!” Pinkie Pie said. “Applejack has started cooking for our dinner tonight! She needed help setting it up!”

“We’ll head that way then.” Pinkie Pie instantly began leaping away, humming blissfully. “Oh well, I guess she remembered. Shall we go?” Princess Luna blinked a few times.

“Twilight,” Luna began. “She remembered the whole time.”

“Huh?” The unicorn asked.

“I couldn’t dig very far, but I think she’s a lot smarter than she lets on. The only reason I even knew anything is because she was happy that you think of her as a happy-go-lucky pony. She was only pretending to be an airhead, although I don’t know why.”

“You mean...Pinkie Pie has been lying to us for years?” Twilight asked.

“No, not exactly.” Luna said. “She just wants everypony around her to be happy, that’s the only thing I could glean, but I didn’t get the feeling that what she is, is a lie.”

“I don’t understand.” Twilight said.

“Neither do I.” Luna replied. She turned to Twilight. “I think maybe you should talk to her about being more real with you. There’s something interesting about her, but I can’t quite figure it out.”

“Huh.” Twilight said. She began trotting away, the princess quickly following her. “You know, when I found out Zecora was leaving I went to see Pinkie Pie.”

“Did you?”

“I kind of...flew into a tirade. I had always thought she was just an air-headed pony who didn’t think about anything but cotton candy and cupcakes. I found out she’s much more aware than I suspected. She actually gave me a very logical and reasonable response.”

“Hmm...” Luna gazed up at the sky as she walked, pondering her thoughts. “What an interesting pony. Maybe I should get to know her better.” Twilight gazed at the princess and saw that the alicorn had her head in same position it was last night when the unicorn’s heart pounded. Twilight felt a brief skip in her heart before jerking her head back to staring out in front. She had to control herself, otherwise Luna would feel her emotions, even if she wasn’t trying.

“Pretty wild about Macintosh and Fluttershy huh?” Twilight asked.

“Totally unexpected.” Luna stated. Twilight still didn’t catch the sarcastic tone in the princess’s voice.

“They’ll be great together probably.”

“Most likely.” Twilight gulped, easily getting nervous before she steered the conversation down the path she wanted it to go.

“I imagine you have a lot of relationship experience.” Twilight said, trying to control the tone of her voice.

“A bit.” Luna said, a slight smile on her face.

“Compared to Princess Celestia or the rest of us?” Twilight meant it as an honest question, but Luna thought it was sarcastic. It made the alicorn laugh through her grinning teeth.

“Compared to her, none.” Luna finally said. “Compared to everypony else I guess more.”

“You guess?”

“I’d say that the amount of ponies I’ve dated is less than the average pony, taking into account my age, but it’s much more than everypony else just by numbers.”

“I see...” There were a few moments of silence, as they approached the stand Applejack was using to set up the dinner. Many of the other vendors were doing the same, celebrating their good fortune. “Were there any...mares?” Luna turned her head and gave Twilight a curious expression. Twilight kept her face as straight as she could, as if it were an honest question. She could feel her face burn and blush, but she tried not to attract any attention towards it. They were only a stone-throw’s distance from the stall.

“A few.” Luna said.

“What were they like?” Luna chuckled a bit. They stopped at the threshold of the door to the inside. Luna gave Twilight a somber expression.

“Twilight,” Luna began. “It’s not that I don’t trust you, I do believe me, but I don’t like talking about my past before...I went away, not even with Celestia.”

“O-Oh.” Twilight said. She abruptly felt very guilty. She had been making the princess relive something she didn’t want to.

“Hey, don’t feel bad.” Luna stated, giving Twilight a brief pat on the shoulder. “It’s not that it’s painful it was just...a long time ago.”

“Okay.” Twilight said.

“Besides, if you want love advice I’d talk to Celestia. She’s way more experienced than I am.”

“Love...advice!?” Twilight abruptly blushed. That wasn’t her intention at all, but apparently the princess thought so.

“Oh? That’s not it?” Luna asked playfully. She leaned in close and gave Twilight a wink and a smile. “I’m not going to read too much into your emotions, but it’s hard not to feel them when they’re pouring out of you. So, who’s the lucky mare? It is a mare, isn’t it? Otherwise why would you ask?”

“Uh...uh...duh...” Twilight was at a loss for words.

“Good luck!” Luna said. “Hope it isn’t Applejack, that ship has sailed.” Luna trotted inside, smiling to herself. Twilight gulped, feeling more nervous than she had been in her entire life. Not even facing down Nightmare Moon, dragons or Discord had gotten her this riled up. Luna hadn’t delved into Twilight emotions, so she didn’t know who the unicorn was pining after, but it proved one thing, one thing that terrified Twilight above all things. Twilight Sparkle was in love...with a princess.

“What do I do?” Twilight whispered to herself. “Who do I talk to?” The pony sighed and trotted inside, trying to control the storm building inside of her.

What followed was actually a lovely dinner. After assisting Applejack, Twilight tried to enjoy the occasion between her friends. All five of them were there, along with Spike who had to peek his head through the stall’s front, Apple Tree, Apple Core, Macintosh and Princess Luna. Pinkie Pie’s line of conversation was hard to follow, but Twilight listened more closely than she did before. What did Luna mean that Pinkie Pie was lying and she wasn’t? It made the unicorn more curious than ever. Twilight was happy to see that any awkwardness between Rainbow Dash and Applejack seemed to be gone. Rainbow Dash went on for hours about how their season was going, how great her teams were, their strategies against other competitors and what each individual member’s strong and weak spots were. She spent the longest time talking about a mare named Sun Flash. The more she went on about her, the more Applejack smiled.

“Sounds like you and Sun Flash spend a lot of time together.” Applejack said. Rainbow chuckled nervously and blushed. Applejack gave her mischievous grin. The rest of the table gave both of them confused looks. Apple Tree just munched on an apple pie, his expression flat.

“So what’s new on the farm?” Rainbow Dash asked, trying to change the subject.

“Oh you know...just...” Applejack paused, actually thinking. It took her a few moments to process her thoughts. “Apples...I guess...” Applejack really couldn’t seem to think of anything.

“Well, you had a foal while I was gone.” Rainbow Dash said, her eyes half closed.

“Oh yeah,” Applejack said, looking off in her daughter’s direction. She was sitting grumpily at the edge of the stall, a leash around her neck that was tied to a support beam. She couldn’t run away and steal things now. “She’s certainly a handful.” Rainbow Dash put her arm on the table and supported her head.

“What was it like being pregnant?” The pegasus pony actually sounded interested.

“It was...mostly unpleasant.” Applejack admitted. “I was fat, moody and my hooves hurt far too often from walking around. Of course when I actually had her I was kickin’ screamin’ and blamin’ Apple Tree for doing this to me, didn’t I?” She elbowed her husband, who briefly lifted his face from his eating.

“She did.” He echoed.

“So after all that are you going to do it again?” Rainbow Dash asked.

“Well sure. It was worth it in the end. You know, when she not stealin’ somethin’.” Applejack threw a glance at her daughter who only made a “humph” sound.

“Sounds like fun. Invite me when it happens.” Both Apple Tree and Applejack gave her an odd glance. “Oh, the birth not the...other part.” Rainbow Dash blushed, but all Applejack did was laugh.

Another line of conversation that caught Twilight’s ear was between Rarity and Spike. The fashion pony took a break from describing her various clothing lines and shows to talk to the dragon leaning his head into the building.

“So Spike, have you been?” The unicorn asked.

“Me?” The dragon asked, surprised that Rarity was asking him a question. “Oh, fine I guess. Just doing...dragon things.”

“I bet you have a hoard of jewels.” Rarity said, leaning towards him and smiling dreamily. Spike actually blushed and scratched his chin.

“Oh it’s...pretty big....” He said nervously.

‘I wonder if Rarity even knows if she’s doing that.’ Twilight thought, referring to the flirting.

“Any female dragons catch your eye?”

“What?” Spike’s voice raised a few octaves, almost sounding like his young self again. He blushed even redder this time. “Oh...I...I’m still too young to even think about tangling with the other males for that sort of thing.”

“Doesn’t mean you can’t look.” Rarity said. “I’m married, but it certainly doesn’t stop me from ogling those stallion models and their perfectly chiseled muscles.” Everypony who heard her turned in her direction, a rather stunned look on their face.

“Rarity!” Twilight said, shocked by the statement that came out of her mouth.

“What?” Rarity asked, as if she said nothing wrong. That was when, abruptly, Apple Core began pulling on her leash. She seemed to be leaning as hard as she could to gaze outside.

“What do you think you’re doin’?” Applejack asked. The little foal pointed at the outside, waving her arms around. “What do you wanna steal now?” That when they all heard a loud pop.

“Fireworks.” Twilight said, sounding solemn. “The fair is over.”

“Let’s go watch!” Rainbow Dash said, trying to keep the mood up. She darted outside. Every other pony followed, except for Applejack who briefly untied her from her post and pulled her by the leash outside, albeit grudgingly.

All of the ponies outside stood and watched the colorful display all across the sky. Fireworks shot up from the center square in what seemed like an endless show. Everypony was mesmerized by the explosions of color filling their vision. They could hear the faint roar of the crowds from the square as they cheered each and every explosion. Twilight briefly tore her gaze away to see Fluttershy and Macintosh. They weren’t even paying attention. Fluttershy’s head was under Macintosh’s chin. The red stallion had his nose buried in her hair, apparently playfully snorting on it. They were a couple now. Apparently that was what lovers did. The unicorn turned her head and gazed at Princess Luna. The bright explosions of color in the sky were reflecting off her face. Each time a new ray of light came in at a different angle Twilight saw a new slice of her beauty. Even more, her mane glimmered in the light of the fireworks, like the shimmering of stars. A brief image of Macintosh’s nose in Fluttershy’s hair came into Twilight’s mind. The unicorn had an overwhelming urge to smell the princess’s hair again. The lavender pony started to lean over to do that, but stopped herself halfway. She gulped and turned away. It was so easy to get lost in the moment. Twilight faced straight ahead.

“Princess Luna?” Twilight began.

“Yes?” The alicorn replied. Twilight’s mouth moved for several moments fruitlessly. She wanted to say everything, everything that was bottled up inside of her and causing her to be so overwhelmed. Yet there was fear, apprehension...and they weren’t alone. Whenever she was around the princess now, the world seemed to stop and she forgot everything else. Finally, Twilight sighed.

“Thank you.” Twilight said. Luna gazed down at the ground and blinked a few times rapidly. She lowered her head.

“Don’t thank me Twilight.” The princess said.

“Huh?” Twilight turned to her. “Why?”

“Just...just don’t.” It looked as if Luna had something weighing her down. Twilight was about to question it further, but then something happened that gave her pang of fear.

The fireworks stopped. The fair was over. There were a series of stomping hooves around the square, then utter silence. Macintosh and Fluttershy separated, the pegasus pony gazing around awkwardly. All of them were very quiet.

“So...” Rainbow Dash began. “I guess...uh...that’s it.”

“Y-yeah...” Rarity added in. There was more silence.

“The Lightning Wings are going to have a meeting...before we leave.” Rainbow Dash said uneasily. Spike himself gulped, not knowing what to say either. There was even more silence. That was when Twilight turned and trotted over to Rainbow Dash. She quickly wrapped her friend in an embrace.

“I’m going to miss you.” Twilight said. As if it were a sign, all of them quickly drew together. They all began wrapping their hooves around one another. Twilight felt her eyes burn as tears began to flow out.

“Don’t cry Twilight.” Rainbow Dash said. “I’ll visit, I promise.”

“Darn tootin’ you will.” Applejack said, not-so-stealthily sniffing back tears. “Or we’ll send the princess to bring you back.” The country pony turned to Rarity. “You better as well, or I’ll find that old dress I designed that you made and crash a party.”

“I promise.” Rarity said with a small giggle. Spike had been trying to get in on the hugging, but was too big. Now, instead, he wrapped his entire long body around the lot of them. It was now like a hugging sandwich. Twilight continued to cry profusely as Spike nuzzled her with his snout, Rarity gave her a farewell kiss on the cheek and Rainbow Dash gave another hug. Eventually they all began crying. Pinkie Pie promised everypony a party on their return. Fluttershy swore that she would be stronger from now on and would never let somepony use her again. Rarity swore that she would take time off from her work to bring them all personally-made dresses. Applejack said that they would all have to come and try out the zap apple jam, which would be coming next year. Rainbow Dash said that when (not if) the Lightning Wings won the championship she would move the party to Ponyville. Spike promised to visit at least once a month, now that his den was safe. All Twilight could do was cry. She knew that it wasn’t like before. They weren’t running away, but merely moving in different directions. She had no doubt they would come back. Still things could never be the way they were. They could never be the little ponies that were back then, all together and happy. Twilight wished, with every fiber of her body, that they could all come home one day.

Luna had backed away from all of it, giving them all some space. The princess sighed, feeling sad that Twilight was hurt. Macintosh had his head turned away from everypony, trying to hide the fact that was getting emotional. Apple Tree had his daughter in a choke-hold under his arm, preventing her from escaping. She appeared annoyed, her father merely sporting his usual passive face in return. Luna smiled solemnly and stared up at the sky. She studied at the stars for a moment, seeing that Betelgeuse and Altair were shining brightly. It was a sign of prophecy. Luna squinted for a moment, wondering what that meant. Then a shooting star streaked across the sky, a sign of wishing. The alicorn gazed down at the group of friends, back up at the sky and then back at them. Her eyes focused on Twilight, who was crying. The princess thought for a moment, then smiled, a true smile. She gazed back up at the sky.

“Well played fates.” She said. “Well played.” The alicorn then sighed. Her eyes narrowed and a very dark expression crossed her face. “Now why can’t you tell me if I’m doing the right thing?” Luna closed her eyes and shook her head. She shouldn’t be thanked. Not by Twilight, not by the ponies at the fair...not by anypony.

A large distance from ponyville, halfway to Retussia, two unicorns were walking along an Equestrian road. The bigger one stopped. He turned and briefly lifted his hood. He stared at the sky a moment. It was a little habit he had. Once he was lost behind enemy lines. He did not know where he was, where he could go or when the enemy would find him. It was then that he remembered the old lessons of his father. The stars would guide him home. In the end, he used what he had learned so long ago about their positions to find his way back to friendly territory. It had saved his life. Now he gazed up at them as if it were a matter of respect. The other pony with him finally noticed that his uncle had stopped. He turned around and approached the older unicorn. He said something in his native tongue.

“Speak in zis country’s language.” Coltov stated.

“Pochemu?” Herzkoof asked.

“Ve are ze ambassadors of zis country now.” The captain explained. “If you speak in our tongue around zem, zey become distrustful. Practice speaking ze language when in ze country.” Herzkoof appeared annoyed, grimacing a bit more than usual.

“Vhat vill...Tsar pick?” He asked.

“Vat vill ze Tsar pick.” Coltov corrected. “To answer, I do not know. It vill depend.”

“On?” Herzkoof retorted.

“Whether he vants to be in safe position and get less or be in dangerous one and get more.” Coltov lowered his hood and continued marching into the night, his nephew right behind him.

“Tsarina Luna is dangerous pony, no?” Herzkoof asked.

“Dangerous or clever, I cannot tell. In ze end, ze Tsar will decide.”

Chapter 10

True to her word, in two short days Luna returned. The moment she walked into the library Twilight had to contain herself from crying. Just being away from Luna for two days felt like forever. Twilight knew that Luna could feel others emotions, but controlling herself was not something she had practice at. Luna didn’t seem to notice however. Twilight thanked the gods that the alicorn tried to keep her powers out of ponies. What followed was one of the most blissful weeks of Twilight Sparkle’s life. Luna and herself were side by side almost the whole time. The residents of Ponyville got used to seeing them together. Eventually Twilight began to feel what Rainbow Dash had described. The intensity of her feelings finally diminished into gentle warmth. Now all she desired was to be close to Luna.

Now, a week after she came back they were taking a picnic on a lovely hill in the sunshine. It was a warm and lovely day and many other ponies were out and about, playing, walking their pets and picnicking as well. Everypony in town had become so accustomed to Luna that they barely gave her a second thought. After they ate Twilight and Luna dissolved into pleasant conversation. They were both lying on the blanket, bathing on the sun.

“So you didn’t like foal-sitting?” Twilight said with a smile. They had both taken care of Pound and Pumpkin Cake the previous day. Rather, Twilight volunteered and Luna decided to accompany her. The princess admitted that she had little to no experience with children. While she was away from the castle she wanted to experience things. Needless to say she had a shocking experience.

“About as much as I like hobnobbing.” The princess replied, stretching in the sun. “I had no idea babies were screaming, stinking little balls of tantrums. I think I’ll pass next time.”

“Babies aren’t always like that!” Twilight replied with a large smile. “Sometimes they’re fun.”

“Not often enough.” Luna said.

“Have you never taken care of a baby before?”

“Never.” Luna said.

“Good grief!” Twilight said, actually sounding surprised. “How old are you Luna? How can you not have had any experience up until yesterday?” Luna chuckled. She should have been offended, but she knew Twilight well enough to not be.

“I’m old enough Twilight.” Luna said. “Oddly enough being a monarch does not entail much child-rearing.”

“What about before that?” Twilight pried. Luna didn’t like to talk about her past, but every now and then Twilight would ask little questions to glean what information she could. Luna paused, as if thinking for a moment.

“I was...busy.” Luna stated. Twilight knew she wouldn’t hear anymore. This was a dead end.

“Every think about having any children of your own?” Twilight asked, rapidly changing the subject. Luna laughed again in a high-pitch octave, as if the question was ridiculous.

“Nooooo.” She said, her voice suddenly deep.

“Not even a little?” Twilight asked, sounding surprised by her strong reaction.

“Not really no.”

“Uh...why not?”

“It’s not a simple decision for an alicorn. It’s also...difficult.”

“What is?”

“Just...everything about it.” Twilight had no idea what she meant, but decided to let it go. It was like she was playing a game with Luna, trying to get closer and closer to the truth.

“Does it have something to do with powers? Like yours?”

“Well there’s that.” Luna said, laying her head on the ground. “The last thing I would want is a foal with massive magical power being able to read my mind.”

“What’s Princess Celestia’s power?”

“I think it’s to find ponies, or to know where they are. She never told me outright.”

“Oh, what about...” Twilight stopped herself. She knew mentioning his name would bother Luna...but she genuinely wanted to know. “What about King Aecor?” Luna blinked a few times, silently. Twilight began to become nervous. Had she offended Luna? The last thing Twilight wanted to do was offend the princess, it would devastate her.

“I honestly have no idea.” Luna finally replied. “Truthfully I spent most of my life trying to avoid even thinking about him.”

“Oh, well more down to earth, Applejack invited us to their annual Apple family reunion next week.” The change of subject was much more awkward, but Princess Luna smiled and went with it.

“Sounds like fun.” Luna said, her blinking becoming slower and slower. “A huge gathering of ponies just like Applejack and her husband.”

“At least Macintosh has a mare to show off to them now.”

“I think he’s done enough showing off.” Twilight giggled and Luna yawned. Macintosh and Fluttershy, ever since the fair, had become as inseparable as Luna and Twilight. They had been caught numerous times nuzzling and kissing in hidden places. The whole town knew about them in a matter of days.

“If they didn’t get enough of him they certainly will of Apple Bloom.” Twilight said with a chuckle.

“How many houses has she added on to now?” Luna asked.

“Fifteen so far.” Twilight stated. When the fair ended there was widespread concern of what to do with the sea of stands that were left. That problem solved itself when Apple Bloom began taking them down and adding rooms and whole new floors to other pony’s houses, sometimes with permission and sometimes without. All the same the stands were steadily disappearing. Now that she found her talent she was obsessing with it. “All of them are now insufferable.”

“How many agent offers did the other two get?” Luna asked, her voice becoming weaker.

“Sweetie Belle got fourteen, Scootaloo six. They’re awful now.” Twilight gazed up at the sky. “I hope, even if they get separated by thousands of miles, that they stay friends. I don’t think you’re willing to put on another fair just to bring them together are you?” Luna didn’t answer. Twilight figured the princess thought it was rhetorical. “I got a letter from Rainbow Dash the other day. They won their first competition. She’s as full of herself as she always was. Rarity started yet another fashion line. She calls it “Tastes of the Country Folk.” Applejack said it was a load of apple sauce and she’d never seen anypony dress that way. I wonder what Spike is doing...” Twilight narrowed her eyes, watching the clouds float by. “I should probably visit him.” Twilight turned towards her guest. “Luna? Luna?” There was an abrupt snore from the alicorn. The unicorn giggled. Luna could certainly be cute when she wanted.

The princess looked completely innocent, with her mouth gaping open and gentle snores coming out. No pony could ever guess just how powerful she could be when she was angry. A gentle breeze washed over the hill. Luna’s brilliant purple hair flowed, flickering the sunlight off of it. It looked like the sea, with gentle rolling waves. Twilight got an odd urge, one she desperately wanted to fulfill. The unicorn glanced around, making sure nopony was watching her. The hordes of ponies on the hill weren’t even glancing her way. They were all interested in flying kites and their own picnics. Twilight took a big gulp, leaned toward the princess and buried her face into her hair. The unicorn took in a deep breath, inhaling the sweet smell of lilacs that emanated from Luna’s hair. For several minutes Twilight blissfully smelled the princess’s scent. It brought back all the memories from the past few months, the ones that turned Twilight from a depressed shut-in with her friends all far away (whether figuratively or literal) to a love-struck mare with all of her friends closer than ever. It was amazing what Luna had done for everypony. Of course, not every moment can last forever.

“Wooooohoooooo!!!!” A loud shout filled the area. A pony dropped from the sky like a rock, slamming into the ground. It made such a loud noise that everypony in the park jumped and jerked their heads around. Even Luna jerked awake and gazed up.

“What the...?” The alicorn said, disoriented. A pegasus pony stood up, her knees wobbling, but seemingly otherwise unhurt.

“Oops, my bad!” She cried. Everypony sighed with relief as they saw that she was carrying a mailbag on her side. The mail pony’s eyes were going in different directions. Twilight wasn’t sure if this was due to the impact or if she was born that way. The pony meandered for a moment before heading directly towards the princess. Luna stared at the pony with a perplexed expression. The pony stopped in front the princess, crinkled her mouth and began digging in her bag without looking. She pulled out a mess of letters. She held the bunch of them towards the princess. “I brought you a letter!” She said it as if she had accomplished something. Luna gazed at the mess of letters, back at the pegasus and then at the letters again. She picked up the lot of them with her magic and began sifting through them. The vast majority of them were actually not for the princess. Finally however the alicorn found the single one addressed to her. She put the rest of them back into the mail pony’s bag.

“Thank you.” Luna said, giving a fake smile. The pegasus gave a salute and took off. Promptly however the flew in the wrong direction, hit a kite and tumbled into a tree. Everypony on the hill stared for several more moments.

“I’m okay!” The pony shouted from the tree.

“I think I know why the mail was so backed up during the fair.” Twilight said, having an annoyed expression. Luna sighed and opened the envelope. She extracted the letter and stared at it. In a matter of seconds her face fell. She furrowed her brow and quickly crumpled it up the piece of paper.

“Son of a cow’s loins.” Luna hissed. This caused Twilight to tilt her head and stare at the sky. She had never heard that particular phrase before. The princess stared at the sky as well. “What time is it?”

“About one o’clock, why?” Twilight asked.

“I have to go.” Luna replied. She had already turned and began trotting away. “I’ll meet you back at the library later.”

“Wait, what is it? Where are you going?” Twilight didn’t receive a response however. The princess was gone. The unicorn stood dumbly for a few moments before collapsing onto her bottom. Just moments ago her face was buried in Luna’s mane, now she was gone, like she wasn’t here at all. Now Twilight felt empty. She wondered if it would always be like this.

There was something nagging Twilight, something different from before. When Twilight finally realized how she felt about Luna she was overjoyed. After some time however she felt some new hole in her heart. It seemed like one turbulent feeling after another washed through the unicorn. If only Twilight had spent some time socializing when she was growing up instead of constantly having her nose in books. Twilight yawned, feeling drowsy in the warm sunlight. The unicorn guessed that a nap couldn’t hurt. She curled up on the blanket and closed her eyes. Maybe she could look at some books on relationships later. They didn’t help at all before, but it might give her some ideas.

Twilight was surrounded by fog, endless fog. The unicorn felt helpless. Somehow she knew that this fog didn’t have an exit. She could run for a thousand years and not reach the end. Twilight screamed into to white haze, tears streaming down her face. There had to be somepony out there. She couldn’t be here forever, she couldn’t be alone forever. It seemed as if the fog was consuming every part of her. How could she possibly escape?

That was when she heard hoof steps. Twilight whirled around and her face exploded with joy. Walking out of the mist towards her was the one pony that could make it all better, Luna. The unicorn joyously leapt towards the alicorn. In an instant, they were nuzzling each other. For several moments, Twilight was all better. When they finally stopped the unicorn tried to express her gratitude, but without her permission her mouth spoke something else.

“I love you.” Twilight couldn’t control her mouth. Luna then smiled, but it wasn’t the kind Twilight wanted to see. It was the one an adult would give a child when they said something absurd. Twilight quickly tried to recover, saying something to negate what she just said.

“I love you.” No! She didn’t mean to say that. Luna sighed and shook her head, in a similar manner to her smile. Twilight was desperate. She tried to scream it, hoping it would be different.

“I love you!” Stop it! Stop it! Luna began trotting away. Twilight tried to pursue her, but couldn’t. When she gazed at her hooves she saw that they were now deep in cement. She watched in horror as Luna began to fade into the mist.

“I love you!!!” The last vestiges of Luna disappeared into the whiteness.

“I LOVE YOU!!!!!!!!!!!”

Twilight jolted awake, instantly sitting up. For a few moments, she was disoriented. She then saw where she was. She was still on the hill, lying on a blanket. Ponies were still playing around her, enjoying the day. Twilight however was sweating profusely. She was also panting heavily. She put her hoof to her head and tried to calm down. What was that dream? It was one of the strangest Twilight ever had. It ended with Twilight screaming into nothingness, hoping Luna came back. It was almost as if the emptiness she felt became real. If that was really how she felt, then why was she telling Luna that she...

That’s when it Twilight. She knew what she wanted...and it scared her more than anything in her life. She wanted an answer. How did Luna feel about her? What her dream showed her was what she feared the reaction would be. The princess was older than Twilight could even imagine. How could Twilight, a filly by comparison, hope to get the love and affection of somepony so grand.

Twilight lifted her head. She didn’t know if she had the courage to do it, but there was one thing she wanted even more than an answer. She wanted to be near to Luna. Twilight stood and began quickly galloping away, leaving everything behind. She had to find Luna, at all costs.

Twilight ran like a madmare through the town. She ignored everypony who threw her a glance or a word of acknowledgement. At every alley and turn the unicorn would come to a grinding halt, desperately looking for the alicorn. Each time she came up empty. Street by street Twilight went through the town, running at a breakneck speed. It was only a matter of time before she collapsed. Finally, in an alleyway, Twilight tripped over one of her own legs and collapsed face-first into the ground. She tried to stand, only to find that her legs refused to obey. For a few moments the unicorn squirmed like a crab, but eventually gave up. Twilight felt like giving up. If she waited here in the dirt, would anypony even find her?

“Twilight! Are you okay?” That was fast. Twilight gazed up to the familiar voice.

“Pinkie Pie?” The pink earth pony was staring down at her friend, a worried expression on her face. “What are you doing here?”

“I work here.” Pinkie said, pointing to the building behind her. Twilight had failed to notice that it was Sugarcube Corner.

“Oh.” Twilight replied. She attempted to stand again. After a few wobbly near-falls, she managed to be on her own four hooves. “I was jogging.”

“It doesn’t look like jogging.” Pinkie said, her usual cheerful tone back.

“I-I’ll be fine.” Twilight said. “I have to go.” The unicorn tried to trot away, but failed as with every step her legs wobbled.

“Twilight, why don’t you come inside and rest?” Pinkie asked.

“I’m...I’m fine.”

“Oh come on, I won’t take no for an answer.” The pink earth pony began dragging Twilight inside, whether she agreed or not. Twilight found her friend to be stronger than she thought. No matter how many times she tried to talk her out of it, Pinkie pulled her inside.

When Twilight was finally plopped into a chair she realized that she was more exhausted than she thought. The unicorn found that she couldn’t get back up. Pinkie meanwhile quickly brewed some tea. Twilight wasn’t even aware that Pinkie knew how to brew tea. However, minutes later there was a warm cup right in front of her. With a sip from a floating cup the unicorn found that Pinkie was actually decent at it.

“So,” Pinkie began, sitting down in front of Twilight with a smile. “what’s on your mind?”

“What makes you think there’s something on my mind?” Twilight asked.

“Because I haven’t seen you go jogging in six years, that’s why silly.” Pinkie sounded completely carefree. Twilight suddenly remembered something. Luna once said that Pinkie was smarter than she let on. Perhaps the earth pony already knew there was a problem. Twilight sighed and took another sip of tea.

“I don’t know Pinkie.” Twilight admitted. “My head hasn’t been right in a long time.”

“Come on, tell me about it!” Pinkie said, smiling, their faces inches apart. Pinkie’s face still gave her an impression of being blissfully unaware. Twilight paused, wondering if this was really worth the effort. It certainly couldn’t get worse.

“I was lonely when everypony left.” Twilight began. “I just hid in my library. Then Luna came and everything...I just...I don’t what to think anymore.” The unicorn didn’t feel like spilling her entire heart to anypony, even if it was one of her best friends. The last thing she wanted everypony to know was the fact that she was madly in love with the princess.

“Why don’t you tell me without saying names?” Pinkie asked. Twilight gave her a blank stare. How did Pinkie know that was the problem? The earth pony tilted her head, as if she didn’t know how astute she was.

“I...I feel something for somepony.” Twilight said. “It’s deep, powerful and I can’t control it. I...I want to know if they feel the same but...what will I do if they say no?”

“Would that be so bad?” Pinkie asked. “You can still be friends.”

“Pinkie, I can’t bear to be away from them for a few minutes.” Twilight said, feeling weight beginning to press on her shoulders. “When Rainbow Dash said her feelings to Applejack and was told “no” she ran away. What if...they run away?” Pinkie sighed. She was silent for a few moments.

“Sometimes ponies say “no” Twilight.” Pinkie said. “If you never ask them, you’ll never know. If you never know, it will eat at you the rest of your life. I’m sure she...I mean they won’t just leave you Twilight.” Twilight gave her another blank stare. Did Pinkie know who Twilight was talking about?

“I guess...you’re right.” Twilight said, gazing down at the table. “But if she says “no” I...I...” Twilight began shaking. “I don’t...I don’t know if I can take...” Twilight’s eyes began to well up. Pinkie’s face melted into sympathy. She quickly hopped out of her chair and ran around the table. Twilight felt the warm arms of her friend wrap around her. The unicorn instantly reciprocated. They both held onto each other for what seemed like a long time. Twilight let out a few tears and Pinkie gently comforted her.

“It’ll be okay Twilight.” Pinkie said. “No matter what happens, we’ll still be your friends, no matter what. I’ll still throw you a party, whether she says yes or no.”

“That’d be great.” Twilight replied quietly.

“Now cheer up.” Pinkie said, separating from her friend. She gently wiped Twilight’s tears away. “I can’t stand it when my friends are hurting.”

“Thanks Pinkie.” Twilight said. “I feel a lot better now.”

“Good. I’m going to get you more tea and some cookies. You’re not leaving here without enjoying some of my sweets.”

When Twilight finally left the bakery she did really feel a lot better. Pinkie certainly seemed to clear her head. The unicorn tried hard not to let her imagination run wild and make her panic. She continued to search Ponyville, but was much calmer now. Even as the sun began to go down, Twilight didn’t give up. Where could Luna be? Eventually, Twilight left town, beginning to search the area around it. The unicorn ended up in the fair graveyard, where the stands still resided. Despite the fact that they had been disappearing quite rapidly there were still hundreds of them. Twilight trotted through them, beginning to feel lonely. There wasn’t a soul in this entire place and it was that time of day when everything was dead quiet. After several minutes Twilight decided to give up. In the end, Luna would have to come home wouldn’t she? The unicorn gave a hefty sigh and turned to head home. That was when she heard it. Her spine straightened and her ear perked up. It was Luna’s voice. It was like music to the unicorn’s ears. Twilight turned towards it and began galloping towards it. It was at the now unused clock tower, which had been at the center of the fair.

Twilight cleared a building, giving her a good view of the center. Luna was indeed under the clock tower...but she wasn’t alone. This made the unicorn freeze. She easily recognized the two that were with her. It was the Retussians, the ones that had been at the fair. It surprised Twilight so much that she froze. Then, partially panicking, she jumped back behind the building. What was Luna doing with them? All Twilight heard...was Luna chewing them out.

“I’ve spent hours trying to find you!!!” Luna bellowed. “Where the hell were you!?!?”

“Ve said clock tower.” Coltov stated. “Ve vait under clock tower.”

“This one doesn’t work anymore!!” Luna shouted. “I was under the one near town hall forever!!”

“Zis only one ve know.” Coltov said. “Ve sent letter veeks in advance.” The princess sighed, realizing that it was useless to argue with a Retussian.

“Whatever!” Luna shouted. “I got your letter late, what was the decision?” Coltov and his nephew glanced at each other.

“If you can really provide ze money...our tsar accepts the second page.” Coltov stated. Luna sighed, as if a great weight had been lifted off her shoulders.

“Thank the heavens.” Luna said. “When will the troops arrive?”

“Tomorrow.” Coltov stated. “Zey vill arrive in Canterlot, but with so many zey cannot travel quietly. Your...Princess Celestia vill know zey are coming.”

“Of course she does.” Luna said, gazing at the ground. “She knows everything that goes on in her kingdom, or so she thinks. Hopefully they’ll be in the castle before anypony is the wiser.”

“If zis fails,” Coltov stated. “ve run, and disavow any connection with you.”

“Your loyalty is overwhelming.” Luna said, giving Coltov a stiff stare.

“Our only loyalty is to our tsar.” Coltov said.

“Yeah, yeah.” Luna said. “Remember, don’t do anything until I tell you to, understand?”

“Dah.” Coltov stated.

Twilight couldn’t believe her ears. Her jaw was hanging wide open and it felt like a knife had been stuck in her heart. Was she hearing what she thought she was? Luna was ordering troops into Canterlot? She was keeping it a secret from her sister? She was going to lead them into the castle? She was going to...to... Twilight jerked her head to the ground. This couldn’t be happening! Luna was going to take over Canterlot! In a moment of sheer panic, Twilight turn and ran away. There was only one thing on her mind now. She had to tell her life-long teacher, Princess Celestia. Her rapid hooves startled the ponies under the clock tower.

“Ubivat!!” Coltov shouted to his nephew. Herzkoof, in the blink of an eye, stuffed his head into his cloak, came away with a knife in his mouth and began darting towards the sound, at top speed.

“Leave her!” Luna shouted. The Retussian stopped in his tracks, giving Luna a confused look.

“You knew zey were zere?” Coltov asked.

“Of course.” Luna said, walking over to Herzkoff and taking the knife out of his mouth. “She’s terrible at hiding her emotions, but if you lay a hoof on her...” The alicorn roughly re-sheathed the blade. “...I will break both of your spines. Is that crystal clear?”

“Dah.” Coltov replied.

“Nyeizbezhno” Herzkoof stated.

“I’ll take that as a “yes.”” Luna said. She sighed and shook her head around. “I’ll deal with this. You two go prepare.” The two unicorns nodded and began trotting away. Luna spread her wings, preparing to take flight. “Forgive me, Twilight.” Luna zipped into the air, instantly being lost in the sky.

Chapter 11

Twilight abruptly stopped, only halfway on her journey to Canterlot. She slumped over against a tree, gasping and panting. Both her horn and her hooves were tired. In a frenzy, she had dashed off from the old fairground. She alternated between sprinting and teleporting. There was only one thing that ruled her mind. She had to find Princess Celestia. How could Luna do this!? Twilight trusted her! After everything Luna had done, her friends, the fair...even helping everypony Twilight had ever known...just to do this!? The only reason Twilight stopped running was because she was ready to collapse. She had never felt so betrayed in her life. Every wonderful feeling she ever had about Luna turned to rage. The unicorn gazed up at the sky, finally catching her breath. She spied the moon, now currently a crescent shape. Luna would likely return there for this, maybe even forever. It was what she deserved.

Suddenly she felt a pang in her heart. It was a gush of pity and sadness. Luna would be gone...forever? Doubt suddenly clouded the unicorn’s mind. Did she want that? Is that what she really wanted to happen? The unicorn rapidly rattled her head around. Yes, it was what she wanted!! Luna was a traitor! Princess Celestia had to know! Twilight had to protect Equestria! The unicorn took another deep breath and resumed her run. She ignored the pain that continued to creep up in her heart. The love she felt was a lie. That’s what she kept telling herself.

As night descended Twilight finally entered the castle. Most of the guards recognized her and let her through, although they stared after her, perplexed. After running through several halls Twilight came to the grand doors to the throne room. The captain of the guard from the fair was standing at the door. The instant he saw Twilight bolting for the door he jumped in the way.

“Halt citizen!” He shouted, a sour expression on his face. “Commoners aren’t allowed to come inside!”

“I have...an urgent...message!” Twilight tried to say.

“If you want an audience, make an appointment.” The guard ordered. “The princess is about to retire.”

“I...have...to...!!!” Twilight could barely breathe, much less argue. The guard began shoving her backwards.

“I’m sorry, the princess has no time for...GUOH!!!” Much the guard’s surprise, Twilight leapt forward and smashed her head against his. Her horn rammed into his forehead through the gaps in his armor, cutting a gash. The guard instantly fell backwards, completely stunned. The other guard at the door attempted to intervene, but Twilight was too quick. With her magic she tore the door open and dashed inside.

Princess Celestia was already off of her throne and down the steps. She was talking to an attendant, apparently making the next day’s schedule. When the doors tore open she jerked her head up. Her faithful student, Twilight Sparkle came dashing over, covered in sweat and looking completely terrified. Princess Celestia instantly appeared concerned. She walked over and leaned down to her student.

“Twilight, what’s wrong? What is it?” She asked terrified.

“I’m sorry your majesty!” The bleeding guard said, dashing inside and grabbing Twilight. “She assaulted me and ran inside. I’ll deal with her!”

“That will be quite alright.” Celestia said to him, sounding quite civil.

“But your majesty...!!”

“You may want to have that checked.” The princess said, pointing to his head. “You might need some stitches.” The guard ground his teeth together, but obeyed as he released the unicorn walked out of the room. “Now what is it Twilight? Are you okay?”

“Luna...Luna is...she’s...” Twilight couldn’t talk without gasping for breath. The more she tried to talk, the less breath she had.

“What is it? What happened to Luna?”

“Not Luna...you...she...she...” Twilight took a deep breath so she could get it out. “She’s going to betray you!”

“She what!?” Princess Celestia abruptly lifted her head, a shocked expression on her face. “How!? How is she going to betray me!?”

“Yes, I’m also quite interested.” Twilight went rigid. Both of them turned their heads towards a column supporting the large hall. The purple alicorn came from around it. She leaned against the ornate support, crossing her leg over the other one. “How am I going to betray my sister?” Twilight narrowed her eyes. All she could feel was anger. Luna however appeared almost completely calm, as if she was completely uninterested to the whole situation. Twilight, however, was not to be deterred. She turned back to Celestia, who was now baffled.

“I watched her having a secret meeting with Retussians!” Twilight explained quickly, now that she could finally speak. “They were talking about bringing troops into the capital, secretly! They’re going to be here tomorrow!!” For a few moments, Celestia had a blank look on her face. She then smiled and giggled slightly.

“Oh Twilight, calm down.” The princess said.

“Wh-what...?” Twilight suddenly felt completely flabbergasted.

“I signed off on the troops.” Celestia explained. “We’re borrowing a few hundred from Retussia. Luna’s a bit of a nervous nelly, so she convinced me on the deal. I know all about it.” Twilight face and heart sank. What? This...this wasn’t...?

“But...she had a secret meeting...” Twilight said. “They...were going to sneak inside the castle. They said that...you wouldn’t be able to stop them once they were inside.”

“Did they...?” Celestia asked. She gave her sister a curious glance. “What is that about?” Luna sighed. She closed her eyes and shook her head.

“I...might’ve given them a second order.” Luna stated.

“Second?” Celestia asked, sounding annoyed.

“I asked...for twice as many soldiers as you did.” Luna was relating this like one would to a sister over a broken toy.

“Luna!” Celestia said, in a disappointed sister kind of way. “We agreed on two hundred! Why would you go and order four!?”

“I’m sorry!” Luna whined. “I wanted to be sure! I’ll pay them, I promise.” Now it was Celestia’s turn to sight and shake her own head. She appeared more annoyed than angry.

“Alright, it’s not that bad.” She said. “Let’s just both agree on something from now on before we go behind each other’s backs, okay?” Luna nodded reluctantly. Celestia turned back to her student. “So you see Twilight, this was just a little spat, nothing quite that serious.” Twilight’s knees began to quake. A horrible feeling of humiliation and terror came over the unicorn. Her face became pale and her stomach felt like ice water. She slowly turned towards Luna, who had a cold, steely gaze fixed on the smaller pony.

“L-Luna...I...” Twilight tried to speak.

“You accused me of treason Twilight.” Luna said.

“Now, now Luna...she’s was only...” Celestia tried to say. Luna however lifted her hoof.

“Da-da-da!” Luna said, silencing her sister. “Just from one overheard conversation you were ready to throw me to the moon?”

“I wouldn’t have...” Celestia began. Luna stuck out her hoof towards sister, this time showing she was angry. Celestia shook her head, but stayed silent.

“After all I did for you, you just made such an easy snap judgment?” Luna continued.

“I...I’m sorry...I just...” Twilight began to cry. It felt as if her heart was cracking apart with pain. Incredible sorrow washed over her. She had accused one of the most wonderful ponies she knew with one of the most terrible crimes...which she didn’t commit.

“Just what!?” Luna shouted. “You accuse me...of treason?”

“I...I...” Twilight was shaking. After all the things that had happened, all the happiness and wonderful events...it was all crashing down. Luna turned around, giving Twilight a cold shoulder.

“Go home Twilight.” Luna said coldly. “I don’t want to look at you.” Twilight lurched for a moment.

“Luna...please I...” The purple alicorn’s horn lit up. Twilight shrieked as she flew into the air. She was thrown backwards, zipping out of the room. Before the unicorn had time to do anything the doors to the throne room slammed behind her. The moment they were alone Celestia gave her sister a harsh stare.

“Was that really necessary?” She asked grumpily. “You broke her little heart.”

“She accused me of betraying you and this nation.” Luna stated. “Was I supposed to treat her like she stole the last cookie?” Celestia sighed and shook her head.

“She’s probably crying her little heart out!”

“I’ll go and make up, don’t worry.” Luna said, making a duck face. “I just want her to be more careful before charging off again.”

“You’re always quick to start a fight.” Celestia said. “You both need to calm down before talking again. Why don’t you sleep here and go see her tomorrow?”

“That’s okay sis.” Luna said, walking towards the doors. “I’ll walk back to Ponyville. Maybe I’ll see her on the way.”

“I expect an update.” Celestia said as her sister opened the doors to the room. “I don’t want to see my most faithful student so upset again.”

“I got it, I got it.” The doors shut behind Luna. Instantly, her expression became grave and dark. She turned to the remaining guard at the door. “Where did she go?”

“When the doors slammed she burst out crying.” The guard stated. “She ran off, wailing about how she wanted to go home and never leave again, your majesty.”

“Peachy.” Luna snarled. “Thank you.”

Luna began walking out of the castle. The dark gaze never left her face. When she crushed Twilight she felt something. In order to even sense it Luna did something she almost never did and was against her own rules. She had to make sure the unicorn didn’t do anything stupid, so she reached deep into Twilight’s mind. What she found was something of which she had been afraid, something that almost made her break her act. The alicorn could sense all the affection Twilight felt for her melt into sorrow and regret. It consumed her in a matter of seconds. It was like watching a wonderful, sparkling blimp catch fire and burn to ashes. From the depths of her sorrow and anguish that the princess had once felt herself, Luna finally knew the truth. Twilight loved the princess, more than anything...and Luna had just humiliated and crushed her for a scheme.

“Rather cruel don’t you think?” Luna’s face instantly curled into anger. She didn’t need this right now.

“I told you,” Luna said to the air. “if you’re going to talk to me, stay in my line of vision.” Something suddenly appeared on the ceiling of the castle, standing on it upside-down...only Luna saw them however.

“Touchy!” Nightmare Moons stated. She dropped to the floor casually and began circling Luna. “I had no idea you were such a mare-killer! Look at you!”

“Not now.” Luna said flatly, marching straight out of the castle.

“Oooooooh...acting tough now!” Nightmare Moon said. She began walking beside Luna. “You seem angry, what’s to be angry about?”

“What’s not to be angry about?” Luna retorted.

“Well, let’s think about this.” Nightmare Moon tapped her chin, gazing at the stars. “The troops are on their way, Celestia doesn’t suspect a thing and any suspicions she could have had were just thwarted in that room. I must have missed the part where the whole thing went to pot.”

“Twilight.” Luna said. “Twilight is where it went to pot.”

“Oh?” Nightmare Moon stated. The vision of her fell over Luna’s back and began lounging. “I seem to recall a certain pony stating that she would never care about love again. Of course it was surrounded by the blackness of space...” Luna bumped her off. Nightmare Moon floated into the air, but just as easily floated back down onto her feet. She continued following Luna.

“I didn’t forget.” Luna said. “It’s just...here...it’s different.” She gazed at the ground as she walked along. “It’s easy to swear everything off when it’s empty...and cold. I’m submerged in it here. Everything is warm, kind...and adorable.”

“You love that little pony?” The vision asked, sneering a bit.

“What’s not to love?” Luna asked, finally smiling. “She’s excitable like a bunny, so easy to please and only wants to help those around her. How could I not?” Nightmare Moon was silent for several moments.

“And there hasn’t been countless other like her over the millennia?”

“Not like her.”

“You say that every time.”

“And I mean it every time.” Nightmare Moon sighed.

“Your heart shattered into a million pieces last time.”

“That wasn’t my fault!” Luna abruptly growled at her invisible companion.

“It wasn’t, but the pony responsible still hasn’t gotten what they deserve. Don’t forget that.” Luna scoffed and turned back to the road. She was now exiting Canterlot. It was the dead of night with the moon high in the sky. “You’re willing to jeopardize everything for a single little pony?”

“What? Like you don’t like her?” Nightmare Moon pulled her head back and put her hoof to her chest.

“Who, me?”

“You didn’t think she was adorable when she snuggled up on your shoulder?” Now it was Nightmare Moon’s turn to scoff and look away. That made Luna smile. “Maybe...I can have it all.”

“All?” Nightmare Moon asked. “You want your cake and to eat it too?” Luna sighed.

“I’ve...never gotten what I wanted.” Luna said, a sad expression coming over her face. “Never in my life. I’ve always been somepony’s daughter, somepony’s sister, the other princess, the other one...the one that was evil. Just once...just this once...I want it all.”

“If you tell her the truth, what’s to stop her from running back to Celestia?” Nightmare Moon spat.

“Nothing I suppose.” Luna said. Abruptly, Luna’s other half jumped in front of her. She bared her teeth, apparently furious.

“You’re willing to let everything fall apart for one little pony!?” Nightmare Moon shrieked. Luna didn’t stop. She walked right through her vision.

“Yes.” Luna said. “I would have thought by now you would know that much about me.” Nightmare Moon sighed.

“You know the stakes, why would you do this?”

“If I can’t have anything happy in life why should I even care? I’m tired of being the sad one, the one on the outside, the one who is second. If this doesn’t work, I’d rather be on the moon for ten thousand years and let them have it all.” Nightmare Moon stared at her other half. Luna had that smile on her face. That reckless smile she had when she was betting everything, when it was all on the line and she regretted nothing. The last time that happened all she got out of it was a prison in the darkness of space.

“It’s not your funeral, it’s ours.” Nightmare Moon said. Luna merely scoffed.

It was almost dawn as Luna arrived back in Ponyville. For the first time, in nearly one thousand years, Luna was afraid. This was something that had been in the making countless eons ago. Now she was betting it all on her heart. Luna could feel her heart pound as she approached the library. When she got to the door she paused, put her hoof to her heart and gulped.

“Don’t do it.” Luna closed her eyes and shook her head.

“You know me better than that.” Luna stuck her hoof out and the door opened.

Almost instantly, Twilight head jerked up. There were fresh tears in her eyes, with multiple more on the carpet beneath her. She hadn’t even bothered to make it to her bed. She ran to a corner and collapsed, sobbing on the ground. The most terrible pain of her life gripped her. Every good thing she had ever felt had been flipped around. As good as they were, they were that bad now. Between terrible wails and sobs, the unicorn could barely breathe. So when the door to her house opened and Luna entered, she was understandably shocked. The alicorn stood in the doorway, one of her hooves crossed over the other. She had a soft smile on her face. Twilight’s tear-glittering eyes stared at her, dumbfounded.

“Luna...I...” Twilight tried to say. Luna however, briefly chuckled. Twilight shrunk back a little, terrified that Luna had merely come to heap more coals on her.

“Save it.” Luna said. “You know, you are quite the piece of work.”

“What...?” Twilight was now confused.

“One of the most intelligent unicorns I ever met.” Luna elaborated. “I thought with all your books and planning you wouldn’t just go running off like that. Even when Fluttershy was being used you managed to stop and form a plan.”

“What?” Now Twilight was becoming worried.

“That might have been your mistake.” Luna said. “Rushing off without a plan.” Luna began walking forward, towards the unicorn. “Simple, quick plans are easy to crush.”

“Are you...are you...?” Twilight began to look hurt, but in a different way. “But...Celestia...she...”

“She wrote the first order.” Luna stated. “I wrote the second. How could she possibly know what the second one said? I can make up anything I want.” Twilight’s eyes narrowed. She appeared angry.

“You...You humiliated me in front of the princess! You made me so sad I wanted to die! I’m so...so...!!”

“Angry?” Twilight flinched. Luna was right in front of her now. The soft smile never left her face.

“Yes! Angry!” Twilight shouted. “And I’m...”

“Going to Celestia?” Twilight flinched again. Luna didn’t sound concerned.

“You think I won’t?”

“No.” Now Twilight took a step back.

“Wh-What?”

“I was scared.” Luna said. “I was terrified that you would hate me, run off to Celestia and I would be alone forever. Not anymore.”

“Are you crazy?” Twilight asked. Luna laughed.

“Are you?” Twilight still appeared to be confused. “You can’t hide anything from me Twilight Sparkle. There’s not an ounce of malice in you.” Twilight’s eyes widened. She then quickly gazed at the ground. “You’re not angry, you’re relieved. Care to tell me why?” Twilight gulped. “I could read why, but I would rather you tell me.” Luna leaned close to Twilight’s face. “Well...?” There was silence. Luna could sense an air of distrust. She sighed and gazed at the sky through a window on the wall. There were a few moments of silence.

“Alright Twilight.” Luna said. “Let’s tell each other the truth.”

“The...truth?” Twilight asked, giving a sideways glance to her.

“Let’s make a deal.” Luna said. “You tell me the truth, and I’ll tell you the truth...all of it.”

“You’ll...tell me everything?” Luna nodded. “Your past, what you’ve been doing...why you’re doing this?” Luna abruptly appeared uncomfortable. Then she nodded. Twilight thought for a moment.

“Okay.” Then, all was spoken.*

“Why?” Luna asked. “You’re not angry and you don’t hate me, even when you know the truth, why?” They were staring into each other’s eyes, both of them close enough that their breath could be felt on each other’s nose.

“I...” Twilight tried to say. ‘I...When I was running here...I felt...sorrow, sorrow that I couldn’t have even imagined. I thought it was because I made a wrong accusation, but when you walked in...I knew that it wasn’t the truth. I thought...” Twilight bit her lip.

“Go ahead.” Luna said.

“I thought...I’d never see you again.” Twilight finished. “Ever since you came barging in my life, all you’ve done is help me. You brought Spike back to me, you saved Fluttershy, you threw the biggest fair in the history of Equestria, just to bring my friends and I back together. Everything you do...it just...brings me joy. What I did snuffed every bit of that away. You were gone forever...and whatever happiness I felt was crushed.”

“Joy?” Luna asked, a smile on her face. Twilight flinched. She bit her lip again.

“I...” Twilight said. “Whenever I’m around you I feel so happy. The scent of your hair is my favorite smell. The sun doesn’t shine in the morning until I see your smile. When I hear your laugh, it’s my favorite sound. Seeing you sleep next to me is my favorite sight. The...the night...” Twilight gulped and briefly closed her eyes. “The night of the fair...I saw your mane sparkle in the moonlight, your smile shine gently, your heart lift from all the ponies enjoying what you love. You were...the most beautiful pony in the world. The more time went on though...the more I...felt empty.”

“Empty?” Luna actually sounded confused.

“Something was missing. When I was around you I never wanted to leave...but a pain began spreading. Just...being around isn’t enough. I want more...I want to be...complete. I...I have to tell you something, but I’m afraid...more afraid than I ever been in my entire life.” Twilight took another deep breath.

“So tell me.” Luna said, smiling again. “Tell me how you feel.”

“When I ran out of that castle...” Twilight began. “I thought you were gone forever. I would never see you again. The thought of that was...was too much...” The unicorn’s eyes began to water. “If...if I run to Princess Celestia now...she will make sure you go away. I can’t let that happen. No matter what you plan...I can’t...” Twilight wiped her eyes briefly. “May everypony in Equestria forgive me...but I can’t let you be banished. I...I care about you too much.”

“Ask me Twilight.” Luna said, leaning even closer to Twilight. “Ask me what’s on your heart.”

“I...I...” Images flashing in Twilight’s head. She saw Luna at the fair, the most beautiful thing she had ever seen in her life. She saw Nightmare Moon, Luna’s fury, beating Bridleburg with sticks. She saw Luna face-to-face with Aecor, anger in her eyes. She saw Luna with her hair close to the ground, completely flat in sorrow. She could feel Luna’s warm mane and coat as Twilight rubbed against her and comforted her in her depression. She could see Luna’s sweet face as she slept in the sun. She could see Luna awkwardly trying to handle one of the Cake’s foals, completely unsure of what to do. She could see...Luna plotting with the Retussians, giving them treasonous orders. She could see Luna lying and making her look bad in front of Celestia. She made her out to be a bad guy and made her feel like the worst person in the world.

She’s a liar.

‘I know.’

She’s a deceiver.

‘I know!’

She’s a traitor.

‘I know!!!!’

“I...” Twilight kept saying. “I...” Twilight took a deep breath, steeled her will. She gazed into Luna’s green eyes with her violet ones.

“I love you.”

There was a deafening silence in the room. Twilight dared not move or even speak, in case she would dissolve into fits. Luna let out a sigh.

“After all these eons, those words still move me.” Luna said. Twilight’s eyes widened. Luna smirked briefly. “I love you too, Twilight.” The alicorn leaned forward. Then, in a moment that made Twilight’s heart feel as if it had stopped completely, Twilight and Luna’s lips pressed together.

Twilight didn’t have the words. It was like when a panda made a giant yawn. It was like when you rubbed your face in the fur of a pet for the first time. It was like the when you see the perfect sunset in that one and only moment. It was like the moment when you walk in on your surprise party and realize your friends hadn’t been ignoring you all this time. It was like that moment when everything clicked, when everything was perfect, when the whole world could burn down around you...and you wouldn’t care a single bit. It was like that. Time had stopped for Twilight. What seemed like an eternity passed with her shrunken back, wide-eyed. When function finally returned to her brain she rose back up, making sure their lips fit together perfectly. Then she closed her eyes and let her heart bask in warmth and delight. The unicorn however was inexperienced and soon found herself yearning for breath. She held on until she could stand it no longer. Much to her disdain she pulled away, gasping. Luna giggled.

“You have to breathe through your nose.” She stated.

“Sorry.” Twilight said.

“You don’t have to apologize.” Luna emphasized.

“I love you.” The unicorn repeated, as if making sure she still got the same response.

“I love you too.” The alicorn replied. Twilight leaned closer, but was met halfway by Luna. They kissed again, causing the unicorn’s heart to leap. This time she did it right, breathing through her nose. All the unicorn ever wanted to do was be in this moment forever.

After an eternity Twilight eventually let Luna go, although she was reluctant to do so. They lay curled against each other on the floor, the unicorn settling for having her face buried in the princess’s mane. Luna let her stay there, letting her do what she wanted. Now she was like an overly-attached happy little bunny. Even after the sun began to rise, Luna didn’t attempt to move. She was content to stay here indefinitely if Twilight liked, plots be damned.

“We had a deal.” Twilight finally said, lifting up her head.

“Hm?” Luna asked.

“Now you tell me the truth, everything.” That was when Luna remembered. She promised Twilight the truth. She had been so happy and content she had forgotten. She hadn’t felt joy like that in over a thousand years. However, the instant Twilight reminded her, the princess’s wistful expression faded into a serious one.

“What do you want to know?” Luna asked.

“Why are you doing this?” Twilight asked. Luna sighed and gazed at the wall.

“What a question.” The alicorn said. “I could spend years explaining it all to you. It all began so long ago with things I’ve buried for thousands of years.”

“I want to know.” Twilight said. “Even if it takes my whole life.” The alicorn thought for a few moments. Then she smirked and made a few motions with her horn.

“I can show you.” She said.

“You can show me your memories?” Twilight now sounded excited.

“It’s the quickest way. If you want to understand everything it’s also the best way. Here’s the thing, don’t try to take in everything at once. Ask one thing and get one answer at a time. If you try to take everything I’ve ever experienced all in at once it will drive you insane. This is incredibly dangerous, you understand?”

“I do.” Twilight said.

“Your body will be like a dummy until you’re done. Don’t worry though, I’ll take care of you.”

“I trust you.” Twilight was too excited to really be worried. All these months with the princess had been fruitless at digging into her past. Now it was going to all be revealed to her.

“One more thing.” Luna said, bringing their horns close. “My past...isn’t exactly happy. When you come out of it...don’t pity me. Celestia pities me. I don’t want it.”

“O-Okay.” Twilight said, not quite sure how to respond to that. Luna sighed through her nose.

“Close your eyes.” Twilight obeyed. “Remember, even if you decide to side against me after this...I still love you, and I don’t blame you.”

“Why would I...?” Twilight didn’t get to finish. Luna’s horn touched the tip of Twilight’s. In a split second Twilight’s mind was flooded with the memories of a pony that had lived an eternity.

Twilight Sparkle realized that she didn’t have a clue about anything, she never did, nopony in Equestria ever did.

* A line from my favorite book, The Scarlet Letter.

Chapter 12

Twilight felt as if she were floating in water. Light, like it was shining off of ripples, was dancing around her. The unicorn felt disoriented and confused. She wasn’t sure where she was at first. Then she remembered everything. What was this? Luna’s mind? Was she swimming inside Luna’s head? She was about to ask a million questions, but remembered Luna’s warning. One question at a time, one answer at a time. Twilight tried to speak, but the words only stayed in her head.

‘How does this work?’ She asked. That was when she felt something odd. It wasn’t words per se, more like a feeling of intention, but Twilight understood and formed it into her own words.

All you have to do is ask, and it will be shown to you. The unicorn decided to test it out.

‘How old are you and Celestia?’ Almost immediately, Twilight could sense an overwhelming feeling of annoyance. Apparently Luna was incredibly irritated by that question, kind of like how a middle-aged mare would be. ‘You promised.’ Then came a feeling of reluctant acceptance. When numbers appeared in Twilight’s head she checked them over and over, to make sure they were right. If she could move her mouth it would’ve been hanging open.

Luna was 19,574 years old.

Celestia was nearly 21,000, Luna wasn’t sure, as Celestia never really told her how much older than her she was. Twilight couldn’t believe it. They...it...they were older than the ancient ruins around Equestria! The things they must know! Why did they never talk about it!? Twilight then got more things in her head.

What would the alicorns say? Oh that’s so funny, it reminds me of a joke I heard 5,000 years ago?

‘Point taken.’ Twilight thought. What else could she ask? The unicorn let her mind wander. ‘Where are you from?’ Twilight briefly felt a gush of sadness, but she didn’t have time to analyze why Luna felt that way. Abruptly the ripples of light around her transformed. She was now floating above one of the most beautiful places she had ever seen.

Much to her surprise, it was tropical. It was what appeared to be a cove, with a narrow entrance to it from the ocean. At the center of the cove was a tiny island with a single palm tree. There were cliffs around the cove with grass and small trees growing on them. There was a small waterfall off to one side that fell into a pool made by rocks and mortar, which then leaked out onto the ocean. There were palm trees, lush grass and bushes all around. Every time the water from the cove washed up on the beach it shimmered in the sun. Everything in this place seemed completely picturesque, perfect...a paradise. As Twilight turned to gaze up the cliff she saw a cave. An emotion she was familiar with washed over her. That cave was home, Luna and Celestia’s home.

‘A cave? Really?’ The scene faded and almost instantly Twilight was in the cave. It was more than she expected. There was actually a cloth screen near the entrance, to keep moisture from the ocean out. Stones had been places in the perfect pattern of a swirl and fit so well together that there wasn’t an open space between them. There were ornaments hanging from the ceiling, a stove, cabinets and a bed. There were even different sections of the cave with their own cloth barriers, apparently all the other rooms whether for Luna, Celestia or storage, were apparently perfectly tiled with rocks. There were candles in the walls, with mirrors behind them to increase the light in the place. There was a hole on the ceiling of the cave, and Twilight was informed that it was more significant than just an opening. It was shaped to let cool air fall and hot air to rise, making the cave almost always cool in this tropical weather. The spiral stone tiles were even slightly angled just right so that when it rained the water from the hole would flow out of the front of the cave. There were intricate drawings on the walls, depicting such things as alicorns frolicking through flowers or flying proudly in the sky with amazing accuracy. In short, this place was nicer and better put together than any house in Ponyville. This would have taken a lifetime and a fleet of craftsmen to pull off today.

‘You lived in this place?’ Twilight was now outside again. She was compelled to look at the pool from the waterfall. It was no longer empty. Twilight felt shocked and overjoyed at the same time by what she saw. She saw what appeared to be a foal Luna and filly Celestia in the pool, being scrubbed by two fully-grown alicorns. The floating unicorn realized something. Those must have been their parents! The baby Luna was splashing around, giggling happily. Some of the water got all over her sister.

“Momma!” Celestia complained. “Luna’s getting me all wet!”

“You’re in the bath dear.” The grown female alicorn stated, her voice warm and gentle. “You’re supposed to be wet.” The young Celestia crossed her arms and sat grumpily as the male alicorn took some soap and began scrubbing it into her hair.

‘Is that...are those...I don’t even know where to begin!’ Just to see their princesses, who in all of Equestria history have always been as they are, as little foals left Twilight shocked. ‘Those are...you’re parents?’ Twilight was in the cave again. She saw what must have been their mother. She was a beautiful pony with a brilliant green mane. Her coat was white and shimmered in the sunlight. Her cutie mark comprised of a sun, like Celestia’s, but different. The emanations from the sun indicated heat. She could apparently control when summer came around. Twilight’s image was of her delicately painting the walls. Her eyes were blue and matched the sky. She was sitting on her hind quarters, with a distended stomach from an apparent pregnancy. With every delicate stroke of the brush, more of the picturesque and perfect scenery came to life. Despite the fact that her power was based on seasons, she had a passion for painting. Her paintings were featured in art galleries all over, as perfect examples of what her craft should be. Her name was Aestiva, Lux Aestiva. Abruptly, her husband walked over. He kissed her cheek. They both smiled and nuzzled against each other happily.

Now Twilight saw the image of the male alicorn. His mane was a brilliant silver. His coat however was burnt gold and practically shined like the sun. His cutie mark was that of a snowflake, showing that he controlled winter. His eyes were green, like emeralds. He was on the cliff above the cave, over the hole that led down to his house. He was dangling a string with a weight on it down the hole. He was also rubbing his chin with his hoof. He was apparently trying to figure out if the tunnel was shaped right for temperature control. Despite the fact that he controlled winter, his favorite hobby lied in architecture. Before they came to this place he built grand cathedrals, temples and opera houses, in apparent designs that Twilight recognized as ancient ruins. His name was Hiemo. His wife shouted up from inside the cave. He gazed down and saw his wife with a baby Celestia in a sash around her shoulder. She waved up at him and he responded in kind.

‘They were great ponies.’ Twilight thought. ‘They built cathedrals and wonderful works of art. Why are they living here, on a beach with no pony around?’ The answer, Twilight understood, was so complicated, mysterious and earth-shattering that she would have trouble understanding it. It went back to why there was a dark age just before the current one, why Luna was doing what she was doing and why it was important to the whole world. Just feeling the emotions from what was trying to be expressed made Twilight’s mind boggle. ‘Start from the beginning.’ There was a pause as if taking a big breath from a dive, then it was all laid before her.

*

Luna was outside, on the beach, playing with Celestia. They were butting a homemade ball back and forth with their heads. The apparent objective of the game was to keep it going back and forth, without getting it stuck on their horn. This was the only game they played where Luna had the edge. Her horn was smaller and stubbier. It was as they had played it a million times before, but something abruptly changed. Something fell out of the sky and hit the sand of the beach near the water. It fell so fast that neither of them had time to even sense it was coming. It landed with a wet thud. Both of the young alicorns jerked their heads around. What was now walking towards them was a pony as big as their parents, and for good reason. It was another alicorn, the fourth one that either of them had ever seen in their life. Their contact with the outside world was limited. They occasionally had contact with villages far from here or the rare fisher, but other than that the only ponies they knew were their parents. This new alicorn had a double-color hair, the outer layer of deep red and the inner with golden red. His mane was a vanilla-green and his eyes a warm brown. His cutie mark appeared to be that of a glowing orb, shining brilliantly. He looked even older than their parents.

“Hello.” He said to the two stunned fillies. “You must be the daughters of Aestiva and Hiemo, are they around?” For a few moments, neither of them said a word. It was Celestia that finally broke out of her stupor.

“Momma!! Papa!!!” She screamed at the top of her lungs. Their mother came dashing out, concerned about her children. The moment she saw the alicorn she stopped dead in her tracks and appeared annoyed. She then casually walked forward, standing in front of her children.

“Lucerna.” Aestiva said in acknowledgement.

“You are looking as beautiful as ever Aestiva.” Lucerna stated bowing to her.

“We didn’t tell you where we lived so you could come visit us.” Their mother stated.

“The situation has...changed.” He stated.

“In what way?”

“It has...deteriorated.” Aestiva narrowed her eyes. Her husband finally came trotting out. He appeared just as irritated as his wife.

“Luna, Celestia go inside.”

“But...!!” Celestia began, about to complain.

“Now.” Their father emphasized. Celestia appeared annoyed, but she walking slowly inside of the cave, Luna following her. The moment they entered the cave Celestia darted to one side, put her back against the wall and leaned her ear near the entrance.

“Quiet Luna.” Celestia whispered. “Come over here and we can both listen.” Luna was a little too young to understand, but obeyed her older sister. Their parents were too concerned to notice that their kids were eavesdropping.

“What are you doing here?” Hiemo asked, sounding angry.

“You look well Hiemo.” Lucerna began. “Rest assured that if I did not fear for you or your children I would not have come.”

“Speak quickly.” Their father barked. “We came here to avoid this.”

“The separate camps have turned into factions and tensions are rising.” Lucerna stated. “Refugees are flocking to us, and hidden among them are spies. Those running to us come bearing horror stories and those running back have information about our armies. I cannot delay it forever.”

“All of these are politics we want no part of.” Aestiva said scathingly. “Our note was clear. Our side is neither.”

“I fear that option is no longer viable.” Lucerna replied. “All the stragglers and loners are being recruited those that aren’t are being threatened, or worse disappearing.”

“I fail to see how any of this is our problem.” Hiemo stated.

“Aestiva, Hiemo, they know where you are.” Both of the adult alicorns growled and shouted.

“And whose fault is that!?!?” Hiemo said angrily.

“To be honest, no one, but if blame had to be placed, it would be you.”

“Under what theory!?” Aestiva shouted.

“Word travels. You can’t be hidden from the world forever. Tales have reached the ears of both sides of the family of alicorns that live on the beach. Everypony you meet passes on the story. It’s only a matter of time before somepony decides to act.” There was a moment of silence. Hiemo and Aestiva glanced at each other for a moment.

“We choose neither side.” Hiemo said firmly. “We just want to be left alone. You understand that and we will make them understand that.” Lucerna stood in silence for several moments, his face blank. He then bowed respectfully.

“As you wish. I truly hope that both you and your children remain safe.”

“Thank you very much for your concern.” Aestiva replied. “Now go and leave us in peace.” Lucerna bowed once more, spread his wings and bolted up into the sky, leaving an explosion of sand in his wake. Both of the alicorns remaining glanced at each other nervously. They then turned around and walked back into the cave. The moment they entered they saw Celestia and Luna waiting for them.

“What was that stallion talking about momma?” Celestia instantly asked.

“It’s nothing that nosy nellies need to know.” Aestiva replied, referencing them peeping. Celestia crossed her hooves grumpily.

“Luna? Are you alright?” Hiemo asked. The other two ponies turned their heads. Luna was sitting on her hind quarters, her eyes wide and she was shaking. “Luna? Luna!” Hiemo gave her a nudge for a moment. He then scooped her up in his arms. “Luna!!! Luna!!!!!” The purple alicorn finally flinched. She turned her head to the one holding her.

“Papa?” She asked.

“Of course it’s me, are you alright?” He asked, gravely concerned.

“Lucerna is going back to Numbria.” Luna stated.

“What?” Aestiva asked, suddenly interested. “Luna, how could you know what that place is?” Luna didn’t answer.

“He’s terrified.” Luna said. “I could feel it. He is scared to death for his country, for his ponies, for us. He’s terrified...of Nox.” Both of the parents quickly shushed their daughter.

“Don’t ever say that name!” Hiemo said firmly.

“Who is it!?” Celestia asked excitedly.

“Never you mind!” Aestiva barked.

“Luna, how do you know all this?” Hiemo asked.

“I can see it.” Luna said. “I can feel it. I can...sense it.”

“Her power.” Aestiva whispered.

“Hell of a time to kick in.” Hiemo muttered. “Listen Luna, you don’t have to be scared. We’re far away from all of that. We’re safe here.” Luna glanced at her father, then her mother.

“Then why are the both of you scared?” They both appeared surprised and uncomfortable. They glanced at each other yet again.

“Luna dear,” Aestiva stated. “It appears you can reach into pony’s minds. It might be good in emergencies, but it is impolite and inappropriate to do it all the time or without their permission. You are never to use this power on us or anypony else without it being absolutely necessary or an emergency, okay?”

“Okay momma.” Luna said, apparently obeying instantly as she stopped shaking.

“Now both of you get ready for dinner.”

“Okay momma.” They said in unison. Both of the foals scuttled off, apparently already forgetting what transpired. Their parents however remained behind.

“Do you think he’s really that terrified?” Aestiva asked.

“He didn’t look it.” Hiemo replied.

“He never does.”

“The only other explanation is that Luna got ridiculously lucky.” Aestiva now looked worried.

“He truly believes we are at risk.” She said.

“Hey, hey.” Her husband replied, lifting her chin with his hoof. “If...he...comes after us, then we will find another peaceful place to live. We’re not worth that much effort.” Aestiva smiled at that statement. They briefly kissed and nuzzled. “Now let’s go eat.”

Twilight could tell that now centuries had passed. Luna and Celestia were sleeping inside the cave, but they were much bigger now and Celestia’s hair had begun to flow. Luna abruptly woke up, yawning. She stared around the cave, groggily.

“Mom?” She asked. There was no answer. Luna paused for a moment before daring to use her power. She often utilized it when it was forbidden, just for convenience. She sensed some powerful emotions coming from outside. Luna stood up, stretched for a moment and trotted outside. The moment she reached the entrance she froze. She quickly darted around the edge of the cave and peeked around. Her parents were both outside, arguing with another alicorn. This one...this one was different, to say the least. It was a male, from what Luna could tell. His coat was jet black, without a hint of light. His mane, by contrast, was stark white. Neither of them glittered at all. His cutie mark was that of a red hoof gripping a spear, leaving Luna confused as to its meaning. Finally his eyes were bright red, almost like that of blood. He was absolutely terrifying.

“We told you no.” Hiemo said. “We meant it.”

“And I told you,” The male pony began. “That is not an option.” His voice was unlike any Luna had heard before in her life. It was insanely deep, almost sounding artificial. His eyes had a terrible glare, like that of a tiger.

“We hold the same stance we always have.” Aestiva reaffirmed. “We will have no part of this.”

“The rules have changed.” The other pony stated, sounding angry. “You are either our enemy, or our ally. I suggest you choose wisely.”

“We are neutral!” Hiemo replied, equally angry. “We are neither!!” For a few moments the dark pony glared at them. He then grinned, but it didn’t contain an ounce of joy in it.

“Have it your way.” He stated. His wings spread and in an instant he was gone. Both of Luna’s parents instantly relaxed. They were incredibly tense, but not nearly as tense as Luna. The purpled alicorn reached into the dark alicorn’s mind, feeling his emotions. It was cold, so cold. His anger, his rage, his pleasure, his pain, his happiness...everything was cold. There was no light in his soul, like it had all been sucked out. He did not feel empathy, love or caring. He was like a machine, one whose hooves are soaked with blood.

“His followers are getting worse.” Hiemo stated.

“We’re going to have to move.” Aestiva stated. “Somewhere where there are absolutely no ponies, at least until this whole thing blows over.”

“I fear it may not just blow over.” Hiemo replied. An odd wind began passing over them. Gazing out into the sea they saw a storm that was incoming. It was dark, even in the dead of the night, with lightning dancing across it.

“A storm is coming.” Aestiva stated. “We have to take shelter.”

Now it was days later. Celestia and Luna were curled up in a corner of the cave, huddling with their mother. The storm had not abated in those days, not even for a moment. Water continued to pour in through the hole in the ceiling. Every now and again, Hiemo would stick his head out of the cloth entrance, only to see the same thing as always.

“Any sign of stopping?” Aestiva asked.

“No.” Her husband replied. “The ocean keeps creeping closer and closer too.”

“Is this...a natural storm?” Aestiva asked. Her husband gave her a nervous glance.

“If this keeps up, we’ll just simply leave.” Hiemo replied.

“Where will we go?” Celestia asked nervously. “We’ve always lived here!”

“We’ll make it.” Aestiva said. “Just be patient and...”

That was when the whole cave rattled. The alicorns could feel the earth rumbling, as if there were a great earthquake. “What was that!?” All of the alicorns then dashed outside. In the howling wind and rain they gazed around. Luna could barely see, but what she could see frightened her. The clouds in the sky were black and swirling. Lightning danced in between the clouds ruthlessly. The rain came down in powerful and often painful sheets. This was the worst storm she had ever seen. That was when she heard a noise, unlike any she had heard before. It was coming from the sky, but rumbled like an earthquake. Luna could feel the power of it all the way into her gut. That was when something came barreling through the clouds, briefly parting the storm. It was like a ball of fire that zoomed over their heads. The sheer noise of it made Luna hold her ears closed. It soared down past them and their home. When it landed on the ground, far behind their home, they could feel the impact rattle the entire earth around them.

“Meteors!?” Hiemo shouted. He immediately spread his wings. “I’m going to go look.”

“Be careful!” Aestiva shouted. In the blink of an eye the male alicorn was up and away, soaring high into the clouds. All of the alicorns on the ground waited anxiously for what seemed like an eternity. Finally, he came falling back to the ground, like one of the meteors themselves. He landed roughly, sending up a huge cloud of sand. He immediately dashed over to his wife.

“It’s bad!” He announced. “There have to be thousands about to come raining down, some of them big enough to blast the entire southern region to dust!”

“We have to leave!” Aestiva shouted.

“What about all the other ponies!?” Celestia shouted.

“There aren’t that many!” Aestiva shouted, trying to drag her daughters away. “We can’t help them!”

“There are plenty!” Celestia shouted. “There are over 125,763 ponies in the southern region!” Even in the pouring rain, the howling wind and crackling lightning both of her parents stopped and stared at their daughter.

“How do you know that?” Aestiva asked.

“I just do!” Celestia shouted. “We can’t just leave them! We have to save them!” Hiemo and Aestiva both looked at each other. There was some kind of understanding passing between them. Luna looked at them both, confused.

“Aren’t we leaving?” Luna asked.

“Stay in the caves.” Aestiva ordered. Both of the alicorns spread their wings.

“No! Don’t leave!” Luna shouted.

“Good luck!” Celestia shouted instead. They both nodded. Then, in an instant, they were jetting up into the sky.

“No!” Luna shouted, spreading her own wings. Celestia quickly grabbed her sister however, preventing her from flying.

“Stay here Luna! We can’t help them!” Celestia shouted. Luna however kept kicking and screaming.

What followed were many minutes of nervous waiting. There were loud noises, like that lightning above the clouds. A few meteors streaked through, but at odd angles. Some of them veered wildly into the ocean, other hit land only to shatter harmlessly. Finally, the meteors seemed to abate. Two objects then fell from the sky. Luna shrieked once she saw that they were her parents. Her mother helplessly hit the sand. Their father landed in the ocean, but not too far away. Luna dashed over to her mother, screaming and wailing. Celestia dived into the choppy water and quickly swam to rescue her father. Using her magic, she managed to drag him onto the sand, and lay him next to their mother.

“Mom! Mom! Are you okay!?” Luna shouted. “Answer me! Mom!!!”

“I’m afraid...” Hiemo said, coughing up water. “That...she’s...slipping...”

“No! Don’t say that!” Celestia shouted.

“She...took one to the head. I tried...to intercept it directly...but it broke my horn off.” Luna gazed up from sobbing on her mother to see that, indeed, his horn had broken in two. “After that...I was pummeled.”

“Y-You’ll make it!” Luna cried. “It’s okay! It’ll grow back!”

“It took all my magic...to divert that big one.” Hiemo continued.

“B-Big one?” Celestia asked nervously.

“It would have completely destroyed the southern region...all I could do was drive it into the ocean.” He glanced at the sea. “It will make a tidal wave. This place will be...” He started abruptly coughing Blood began coming out his mouth.

“Dad!” Both of the young alicorns shouted at the same time.

“Ce...Celestia...” Hiemo croaked. “You...You have to...protect your sister. Make sure...you two are safe. Stay away...from Nox...and his soldiers. Don’t fight them...He’s...He’s...He’s evil...”

“I will dad.” Celestia stated. Luna continued to wail, holding onto her father with all of her strength.

“Go...the southern region is safe...but this place...is done for...” He said. Celestia nodded. She began prying Luna’s stubborn hooves off of their father. The young filly was kicking and screaming, not wanting to let go. Finally, using magic, Celestia pried her off. The older sister seized Luna and instantly began flapping her wings desperately. She rose as quickly as she could in the sky, her sister fighting her every step of the way. Luna could still gaze down at the beach. She saw her father edge his way over to their mother. With a smile on his blood-stained face, he wrapped his hooves around his wife. There they lay, wrapped around each other on the beach. That was when they heard a very loud boom. Both of the young alicorns turned their heads. It was coming from the ocean. Something large and on fire had struck far off shore. In a matter of seconds, a massive tidal wave began sweeping towards the shore. Luna began shrieking again and Celestia began flapping, trying to desperately get them away. The younger sister watched as the powerful wall of water obliterated their cove, swept up their parents and disintegrated the cliff. Everything they had ever known was gone.

*

Do you want to continue?

Twilight was overcome with shock and sympathy. In a matter of days everything Luna had based her life around were gone. Her parents were dead, her home was destroyed and she was an orphan without a place to go. Judging from the way Celestia acted, one would never be able to guess that all this was true. However, that question remained.

Do you want to continue? It only gets worse from here.

‘Worse?’ Twilight thought. ‘How could it possibly get worse?’ The question still remained. Twilight thought only for a few moments. She wanted to know everything. She couldn’t bail now, even if the truth was painful. ‘Yes. Show me more.’

*

It had been even more centuries now, centuries of wandering, occasional reprieves and often living off of the land. Some ponies were nice, others were hostile. It was essentially a hit and miss game. Centuries weren’t long in the life of an alicorn, but when there was constant worry and almost no relief they felt like an eternity. That was until they both found a wonderful place.

It was simply called Brightvale. It was far north of where they used to live and was quite different. It wasn’t tropical, but temperate. A quiet farming village filled with nice ponies who didn’t reluctantly give them some food and tell them to leave. They invited Celestia and Luna into their homes. There was actually a fight over whose house they would stay in, as multiple ponies wanted them to stay. They seemed delighted to have alicorns living in their village. It was a wonderful place with rolling fields of green grass, pleasant cows, and a calm, if slow, disposition. Everything about this place was like a paradise to the two wayward sisters.

One day Luna woke up to the sunlight on her face. She sat up and rubbed the sleep from her eyes. She gazed out the window and squinted in the sunlight. She was older now. Her legs were much longer and her hair was starting to flow. She was nothing like Celestia though, who was now only a little shorter than the tallest stallions in the village. Despite the fact that Celestia and Luna were far older than probably everypony in the village combined, they introduced themselves as teenagers and were treated like them, although Celestia was almost an adult now. An older couple happily took them in, although many volunteered. They seemed like they would be the most parental.

Luna finally got out of her bed and brushed her hair. She didn’t have anything of particular importance to do that day. The two alicorns had practically made hard work obsolete in Brightvale. With a swish of their horn they could do an entire day’s work. As Luna finally became satisfied with the way she looked she trotted down the stairs. Their “aunt” was working in the kitchen, grinding flour to make bread. Their “uncle” was away at the moment, most likely working.

“Good morning auntie.” Luna said.

“Good morning Luna dear!” She replied, flashing Luna a smile. She was past her middle years, with wrinkles on her eyes and mouth. She was an earth pony, like the vast majority of the village. Her hair was silver with age and her fur was the color of a red delicious apple. She also had incredibly warm brown eyes, which was what attracted Luna to her. “You don’t have to worry about the harvest, Celestia left early and hopped right into the fields!”

“After Leo no doubt...” Luna muttered.

“What was that dear?” Her aunt asked.

“Nothing.” Luna replied. “I think I’ll just go see how the fish are biting.” While the ponies themselves didn’t eat them, other animals they took care of did.

“You sure do love fishing!” Her aunt replied, tossing a pear at the alicorn. Luna caught with her magic and took a big bite out of it.

“I sure do...” She muttered.

Luna began walking through the village. It was certainly a picturesque place, littered with log cabin homes, wooden fences and individual gardens. Everypony Luna passed gave her a wave and a “hello.” All the ponies of the village were instantly receptive to them, but were even more gracious when they saw what the alicorns could do. Now they were practically shoo-ins for the position of mayor (should they want it). As Luna passed by the hay barn however she spied something white with rainbow hair out of the corner of her eye. Luna kept walking a few paces, the image not registering. She then stopped, hopped backwards a few paces and turned her head incredulously. Celestia was casually sprawled on a pile of hay. She had a stalk of cinnamon sticking out of her mouth and she appeared very relaxed. There was only one reason she could be like that. Luna trotted over to her sister, who didn’t even notice.

“Are you comfortable?” Luna asked. “Would you like a drink?”

“Would you Luna dear?” Celestia asked, not even looking at her sister.

“I thought you were harvesting the right field.” Luna stated.

“I did, and I finished. Took me less than a minute.”

“Celestia if we do everything they’ll get lazy.”

“Doubt that.” Celestia then stretched and changed position to something even lazier.

“Off with Leo I take it?” Luna asked, cocking her eyebrow.

“No, Tom.”

“Tom? What happened to Leo?”

“Broke up with him last night. He uttered the break-up words.” The oft-mentioned “break-up words” was an apparent phrase that sent Celestia running. Although Luna didn’t know for sure, she had her suspicions on what it was.

“I love you?” Luna asked.

“Mind your own business.” Celestia stated. She still hadn’t even glanced at her sister yet.

“Whatever.” Luna said. “Listen, the harvest festival is in a week and we need to bring something.”

“We are, our glorious presence.”

“That’s not funny.”

“It wasn’t meant to be.” Luna sighed. After Celestia had her fun she wasn’t much one for conversation.

“At least think about it.”

“Oh I don’t think I’ll be able to stop thinking about it.” Luna turned and began walking away.

“Skank.”

“Bitch.”

*

‘Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa!!!!’ Twilight thought quickly. What she saw abruptly froze in place. ‘That really happened!?’

It did.

‘You two...called each other that?’

More than once.

‘You two...are nothing like that.’

It was over ten thousand years ago. A lot can change in ten thousand years. Back in the day Celestia enjoyed the company of stallions immensely and Luna was nosy and often judgmental, times change however. Do you want to continue?

‘Yes, yes. Good grief.’

*

Luna continued from the barn and trotted through the fields. She passed by various fields of cows, many of whom hailed her with greetings. The alicorn occasionally stopped, made small talk with some of the ones she was more familiar with. Speaking with the bovines was often refreshingly simplistic. It was always about how the grass was, how their children were doing and how well milk was going. Eventually Luna bid them all goodbye and began approaching the tree line.

When the village was settled by refugees from a different country, they came across a river in the woods. It was said that after all the hardships their forefathers faced, this pure water source with the sun glowing off of it seemed like heaven itself. So they called the place Brightvale and settled. It had been several generations since then. The village moved to the fields around the forest, but the name stayed the same. Luna didn’t have to go far into the forest to find the fabled river. It was too wide, just big enough to have fish swim down it. The waters were also completely clear, making the fish completely visible. Luna arrived at the river, gazing left and right. She saw the net that was used by the fisher, but he wasn’t around.

“Skye! Skye!!!!” Luna shouted.

“Up here.” A calm voice said. Luna turned her head upwards. Up in a nearby tree was the only unicorn of the village. His name was Skye Watcher and his cutie mark matched his name with a spyglass. His coat was a light blue and matched the sky above him. His mane was two colors, alternating in patches of red and yellow. His eyes were a bright green. One of them was currently glued in a spyglass and was scanning the sky.

“What are you doing?” Luna asked. “Your net has fish in it!”

“They’ll stay.” He replied. “I’m looking for the cloud city.” Luna lifted off and landed on the other side of the tree, making sure that her branch was secure.

“Cloud city?” Luna asked.

“A city built in the clouds where pegasai live.”

“I know what a cloud city is, Skye.” Luna said, her eyes half-shaded. “I mean, why are you looking for it?” Sky lowered his scope.

“It’s been circling over there for as long as I can remember.” He said, gesturing with his hoof. “Making a huge circuit every few years, but now it’s gone.”

“You mean it’s off course?”

“It would have to disappear over the horizon. That would take weeks, not a single night. One day it’s there, the next there’s no trace of it.” He collapsed his scope and put it in his bag. He glanced at Luna. “Want to go have a look?”

“I’m fine here.” Luna replied.

“Just “fine.”” Skye replied, shimmying down the tree. Luna lifted off, slowly floating down with him. “And you’re perfectly happy with just “fine?””

“Well yes.” Luna said. “I have ponies who care about me, a comfortable life, plenty of food and it’s peaceful. Why would I leave?”

“Haven’t you ever wanted to know more?” Skye asked.

“About what?” Luna asked.

“Everything. What happened to that cloud city, what’s going on in the world, why that constellation looks that way, what kinds of ponies live over that ridge, how big the ocean is, how far away can I travel...everything.”

“I don’t really need to know any of that stuff.” Luna replied. Skye finally reached the ground. He dusted himself off.

“How interesting, an alicorn that acts like an earth pony.” Luna smirked.

“Well, maybe I just have something more interesting right here.” The alicorn brushed up against him, rubbing the top of her head against his chin. Skye then grinned himself.

“One kiss on the cheek and I’m never rid of you.” He said.

“I think it was the one on my lips that “hooked” me fisher.” Luna lifted her head away so they were facing each other. Skye leaned forward and they pressed their lips together.

Skye was different from the rest of the villagers. He was inquisitive, insightful and intelligent. He was known as the town bachelor, although unknown to everypony else that wasn’t true anymore. He had been grown for quite some time, approaching the halfway mark to middle age. Despite this, he never seemed to make any effort to marry, more content to keep his head in the clouds. When he first laid eyes on Luna however that changed. He was infinitely fascinated by the alicorns, wanting to know all he could. He also earned the admiration of the purple alicorn by being the only stallion to turn down her sister. In terms of comparative life spans he was much older than she was, but considering her massive lifespan they thought nothing of it. They finally separated, Luna having a large grin.

“Taking someone to the festival?” She asked.

“No one as of yet.” He replied, grinning slightly.

“Afraid to lose your title?” Luna asked, referring to him as the town bachelor.

“You mean to you?” He asked in turn.

“Yeah, to me.” Luna asked. He sighed and gazed away, mocking being pensive.

“I don’t know.” He then leaned down, although not very far, to Luna’s neck. He nuzzled against it, causing Luna to shiver. “I’ll have to think about it.”

“Well think quickly, a mare doesn’t get any younger.”

Much to Luna’s shock, a few days later, her aunt asked her for her body sizes. She was making both of the sisters a dress. Luna hadn’t worn a dress in her life, much less any clothes at all. The last time she went to the harvest festival she didn’t have to wear anything and now they wanted her to wear more than she had ever had in her life. While it puzzled the alicorn she wasn’t going to grill her aunt on the matter. It ate practically a whole day, considering that the alicorns were larger than most, if not all, of the mares. Much to Luna’s surprise her aunt and uncle had somehow acquired bright textiles. How they got them in this isolated village was a mystery. They seemed especially excited to get the rather rambunctious sisters in something fine and dainty. Their aunt spent the better part of the days leading up to the festivals making them. Celestia’s was especially hard due to her size. Finally, as the day of the festival arrived, Luna was shoved in the dress, poked, prodded and carefully groomed. It made the alicorn wonder if she was being shipped off to be married.

While Celestia seemed positively delighted to be dolled up so well, Luna felt uncomfortable. She walked awkwardly and felt itchy every step of the way. Her mother, so long ago, had done a bit of grooming on them, but it was nothing compared to what she just endured.

“My mane almost feels sore.” Luna said as they walked towards the village center.

“Really?” Celestia asked, her voice sounding kind of haughty. “I feel just like a princess!”

*

Epic foreshadowing.

‘I don’t need running commentary.’ Twilight thought.

Suit yourself.

*

“Why don’t you take Tom by the arm and waltz in there like you own the place?” Luna asked.

“I’m dating Silver.”

“Silver? Silver Plough!?” Luna looked incredulous. “Isn’t he the mayor’s son? When you break his heart, and you will, won’t the mayor be pissed?”

“Meh.” Celestia stated as they trotted into the center of town. “What are they going to do, fire me?” The white alicorn immediately waltzed away, seeking her latest beau who was at the head of the largest table.

“Skank.” Luna hissed. She then gazed around for her own stallion. It actually took her several moments. She finally spotted him, away from everypony with his eye back in that spyglass of his. The alicorn sighed, shook her head and smiled. Even without wings he always had his head in the clouds. She calmly trotted over to him.

“Do you ever look at the ground?” Luna asked.

“I talked to a trader today about the cloud city,” He stated, lowering his spyglass and collapsing it. “Apparently it really did disap...” Skye turned to Luna. The moment he did, he abruptly stopped talking and his eyes widened. “That’s...I...I...uh...” Luna tilted her head. What was his problem? “You...uh...that...you...look beautiful.” Luna’s face lit up bright red. Nopony had ever said that to her, apart from her parents. The alicorn, for perhaps the first time in her life, was completely stunned. “That dress is...it’s...wow...it...I’m sorry, what was I talking about?”

“I...don’t know.” Luna said. Her dress was a mix of bright red and yellow colors and had beautiful flowing look to it.

“Where did you get that?” Skye asked.

“Auntie made it.” Luna said.

“It’s...perfect. I mean...you’re really, really beautiful in it.”

“Th-Thanks.” Luna saw something in Skye’s eyes that she hadn’t before. He had always looked at her with happiness and a smile, but it was different now. He had been seeing her before, now it was like he was really looking at her. He walked beside her and held out his arm.

“Shall we go?” He asked.

“Oh...yeah.” Luna was completely shocked. Not only had he never been so forward, but now he wanted to be seen with her.

After all the ponies finally arrived, even the town drunk, everypony sat at their respective tables. The two sisters sat next to each other with their dates on the other side. Celestia gave her sister a curious glance once she saw who was with her, but otherwise didn’t acknowledge her. Finally however, the mayor called the place to order.

“Welcome one and all to our harvest festival!” The mayor was greeted with cheers and raised cups. “Today we appreciate all our hard work for the past year. This harvest festival however, we honor more than just our bounty.” While everypony else smiled, the two sisters appeared confused. “We’re also here to give our thanks to two very special ponies who have made our lives so much better.” Celestia grinned widely, but Luna’s face lit up bright red again.

“Oh god...” Luna whined, slowly sinking below the table.

“Don’t think so.” Skye said. He grabbed her by the arm and pulled her back up.

“Celestia and Luna!” Every face turned to them and Luna could feel her face burning. Celestia ate it up however. She pleasantly waved to everypony. “Tonight is also dedicated to you, two mares to whom we owe so much!” Everypony cheered and raised their glasses. Celestia grinned delightfully. She turned to her latest stallion and gave him a sneaky grin. Then, in front of everypony, they leaned together and smashed their lips together sensually. All the villagers instantly shouted and whistled, except for the latest stallions Celestia had dumped who merely glared. Luna rolled her eyes, but when she did her eyes rested on Skye, who was giving her an odd look out of the corner of his eye and a grin. Luna’s eyes widened.

“Don’t you dare.” Luna said. He merely chuckled then, for all the village to see, he leaned forward and kissed an uncomfortable Luna. This elicited even louder shouts and whistles, as well as some shocked chatter that the eternal bachelor wasn’t that way anymore. The kiss wasn’t long, unlike Celestia’s as they were still trying to climb each other. The moment he separated he saw that Luna’s face and neck were completely red and she had a seditious glare in her eye.

“I’m going to kill you.” She grumbled.

“I’m sure.” Skye replied.

“To love!” The mayor cried. Everypony cheered yet again and all took drinks.

Luna only stayed for a few minutes. She ate very little and waited until all the attention strayed away from the two sisters. Not for a single moment did her face stop blushing. It took longer than she wanted, as Celestia thrived on attention. Finally however most of the faces turned away.

“Let’s go.” Luna whispered to Skye.

“What? Now?” He asked.

“Yes now.” Luna stated. He appeared confused, but obeyed. Despite Luna’s bright dress, they managed to slip away. The alicorn dragged the stallion across the town, trying to find some place to hide. She eventually found the hay barn. They both rushed inside and Luna abruptly closed the door with her magic. No sooner had they closed then Luna broke down. She put both of her hooves to her face.

“Oh my god I’m so embarrassed!!!” Luna shrieked.

“Why? What’s the problem?” Skye asked, chuckling.

“You know what!!” Luna shouted, lowering her hooves long enough to glare at him. “Why did you have to do that!? Just because Celestia’s a slut doesn’t mean we have to copy her!!” Skye shrugged.

“Maybe I wasn’t copying. Maybe I just wanted everypony to see that such a beautiful pony was mine.” Luna flinched in shock. Why was he suddenly so different? What changed?

“You’ve never acted like this before.” Luna said. “You all always seem lost in thought and looked at the sky...now you’re just...focused.” Skye stared at her for a few moments.

“You really are beautiful in that dress.” He stated. “It brings out the color of your eyes and hair. You’re like a glowing flower, begging to be picked.” Luna blinked dumbly at that statement.

“Wh-What?” Luna asked, with a smile. She wasn’t sure, but she thought she was complimented.

“Luna, where are you from?”

“H-huh?”

“I’ve know you for years, but I’ve never asked.”

“W-Why do you want to know?”

“When I was a foal some travelers came to this town.” Skye began, sitting on a hay bale. “They were group of wandering performers. Among them was a mare, the likes of which I had never seen. She dressed in the most wonderful and colorful clothes I had ever seen. She could dance like no other pony I had ever seen in my life. When I asked her how she learned to dance like she told me that she simply listened to music, let it move through her heart and she became complete.” He reached into his pack and pulled out his spyglass. “Then she gave me this. The instant she did, my cutie mark appeared.” He gazed off to the side. “Ever since then, I’ve had my eyes on the sky and what’s going on outside of the town. I was desperately searching for that one thing, the thing that the dancer had found, the thing that would make me complete.” He gazed back up at Luna, grinning. “But when I saw you in that dress I...realized something.”

“Wh-What?” Luna asked.

“I’d been looking in the wrong place.” Skye said, grinning. “The mare from my childhood didn’t just have one thing to make her complete. She had a stallion that played her music for her. I’d found one thing that made my heart sing,” He tapped his bag that had his spyglass in it. “but that wasn’t all I needed. I had my eyes on the skies, looking for that other thing I needed. The moment I saw you...I realized...just how beautiful you were.” Luna blushed brighter than she ever had before. Apart from the occasional kiss and cuddle they had never done anything serious. It was becoming apparent however that he was asking for more.

“I don’t know anything about you.” Skye said, opening his hooves. “I never...I never thought to ask. Now I...want to know everything.” Luna gulped. What should she say? This was rather sudden. The alicorn sighed. She walked over and sat on the bale of hay next to him.

“I’m from a place south of here.” Luna said. “I don’t know if it had an official name, but we called it The Cove.”

“We?” He asked.

“Celestia and my parents.”

“Where are they?” Luna flinched.

“They died.” Luna said. Skye abruptly appeared uncomfortable. He fidgeted slightly.

“I’m sorry.” There was an awkward silence. “How did they...? You know what, I’m sorry, forget it.” Skye quickly looked away, not wanting to hurt Luna. There was more silence.

“There was a storm.” Luna said. The stallion jerked his head towards her.

“A storm?” He asked. The alicorn smiled solemnly.

“An earthly one and one from space.” Luna said. “The storm on earth was terrible, powerful and lasted for days. Then one came from space. Rocks came barreling down, threatening to destroy the entire southern region. My parents sacrificed their lives to save so many...only to be washed away from a tidal wave. Everything I ever knew was destroyed. The cove where I lived was gone. Celestia and I just...wandered, until we found this place.” The alicorn’s face hung low, her eyes both sad and wistful.

“I’m sorry.” Skye stated. He scooted over to her hay bale and wrapped one of his hooves around her shoulders. Luna leaned against him, her head rubbing on his neck. She could feel his breath beginning to become erratic and his pulse picking up. She could have easily read what he was feeling...but she wanted to believe him without cheating.

“Skye?” Luna asked.

“Yes?” He replied.

“Why did you turn down my sister?”

“You really want to ask me that?”

“Yes.” Skye sighed.

“She’s beautiful.” He noted. That was a bad start. “In a sort of...glamorous, picturesque kind of way, but it wasn’t hard to see that she’s vain and shallow. Whereas the mare that came with her, possessing her own beauty and charm, was much more thoughtful and humble. She was much more interesting.” Luna smiled. There was even more silence. This one however wasn’t so much awkward as it was tense. Skye gulped. Luna turned her head up to the stallion so that their eyes could meet.

“Skye?” She asked.

“Yes?” He replied.

“If I asked you to stay in this town with me forever, would you?”

“Yes.” Luna leaned closer.

“If I told you to stop wondering about that cloud city, would you?”

“Yes.” Luna leaned even closer. They could feel their breath on each other’s nose.

“If I told you to get rid of that spyglass, would you?”

“Yes.” He didn’t hesitate for a moment.

“Good.” Luna said, smiling. “Do all that, but you can keep the spyglass.” She finally leaned forward all the way, allowing their lips to briefly touch. She backed away, only to see something she hadn’t before. He had a look in his eyes she didn’t recognize. They were filled with desire and glowed like they were on fire.

“Luna...” Skye pushed her onto her back on the hay bale. He hovered over her.

“I love you.” Luna said.

“I love you too.” He replied. He began laying kisses down her neck, causing her to shiver. She began panting his name in his ear as they enveloped their arms around each other.

Luna rose from her bed yet again. This time however, many years had passed. It was winter outside, although no snow had fallen yet. Luna was in the same bedroom as before, although everything in the room looked more worn. While she still lived in the same house, it wasn’t because she needed to. Her aunt was old now and after their uncle passed away she needed help. While Celestia was still spinning from stallion to stallion, Luna gratefully stayed at home, making sure that her aunt was well taken care of. The alicorn rubbed her eyes, as she usually did. That was when she heard a groan beside her.

“Must you get up so early?” Skye asked.

“Yes, I must.” Luna replied, smiling. The stallion rolled over, dragging himself to the edge of bed. He wasn’t as young as he once was, not anymore. His joints were starting to become stiff and a few grays were appearing in his mane. He also had wrinkles around his eyes. He was entering middle age. He sat on the edge of the bed, briefly rubbing the back of his neck.

“Thanks for last night by the way.” Skye stated.

“I know what you like.” Luna said, giving him a seductive wink. The stallion sighed, gazing up at the ceiling.

“Luna.”

“Yes dear?”

“I’m old.”

“I’m older.”

“Yes, but in a few more decades I’ll be even older, and you won’t age a day.” Luna knitted her brow. She moved over on the bed, wrapping one of her arms around his back and kissing him on the cheek.

“Where is this coming from?” She asked. “After all of these peaceful years in this place you go and bring that up. Are the fish not biting anymore?”

“My bones are stiff in the morning.” He stated. “My hair is getting gray and it’s getting harder to see out of the spyglass.”

“You can still see me right?” Luna asked. “That’s all I care about.”

“Doesn’t it bother you?” He asked. “We’ve lived together for so long. One day though...I’ll be too old to keep up with you. What will you do then?”

“Stay home I guess.”

“Luna...”

“Listen Skye,” Luna wrapped her hooves completely around him. “I love you, no matter what you look like. I’ll be happy as long as you’re with me.” She giggled. “No matter what mid-life crisis you go through.” He gave her a rather curious glance out of his eye. “Afraid to be stuck with an older mare?”

“You’re hilarious.” He stated. He groaned and stood up, some of the bones in his legs cracking. “Going to go see how the fish are biting.”

“You do that.” Luna said. “I’ll make breakfast for you and auntie. If they aren’t biting, come back for some afternoon delight!” Skye scoffed.

“I’m not a machine Luna.”

“Could have fooled me.”

Later that day, Luna had wandered out into the forest. Her sister and herself had drifted apart over the years, mostly due to their different lifestyles. The younger alicorn was actually rather shocked to see her sister spending her time with stallions that were sons of ponies she dated back in the day. Yesterday however she received a letter from her sister. She wanted to talk, about what Luna wasn’t sure. She instructed Luna to come to the place where they were first discovered by the town. The alicorn remembered the place mostly because of the odd twisted tree that they had hid behind when they first saw the ponies of the town. Luna arrived at the tree to see her sister already there. She looked the same as she always had been, stunning and bright with a certain air of finesse about her. She was leaning against the gnarled tree, a rather worried expression on her face.

“How are you sis?” Luna cried. Celestia briefly jumped, before smiling and turned to the approaching pony.

“Fine thank you.” Celestia replied.

“Still running around?” Luna asked, grinning.

“Still staying in?” Celestia replied. Neither of them answered. They were both referring to their social statues, with Celestia frequently running through lovers and Luna staying with the same one for years.

“What’s with the letter? You could just come over. Auntie would be happy to see you.”

“I know.” Celestia seemed different, almost as if she were agitated. “This is something I think only we should talk about.”

“What is it?” Celestia sighed, briefly gazing at the ground.

“One of the kids told me something interesting the other day.” She explained. “He said he saw a pony flying through the air. Supposedly they looked like us...only black.”

“Black?” The last black alicorn Luna saw, so long ago, terrified the hell out of her.

“Whoever it was seemed to be looking for something.” Celestia said. “I was concerned, so I actually left the village to check some other ones. Apart from the usual stares at my...looks, they told me some alarming things. They said that over the course of their lifetimes, villages have been wiped out.”

“Wiped...out!?” Luna said, utterly shocked.

“Do you remember that cloud city that used to hang around here?” Luna’s memory stirred, back to one of the happiest times of her life. It was something she made Skye forget about.

“Vaguely.” Luna said, becoming a little pale.

“Well they were apparently arguing with a group of alicorns. One day the entire place disappeared. There are rumors that the entire area under where it had been was littered with pegasus bodies, although I don’t know if that’s true or not as all the evidence of it was gone.” Luna was fast becoming nervous.

“The last time you told me you saw a black alicorn was just before mom and dad died.”

“Yeah. It...was one of Nox’s stallions.”

“Do you remember what they told us?” Luna nodded.

“Stay away from Nox...and his ilk.” Celestia sighed. She stared off into the woods.

“Maybe we should leave.” Celestia said.

“Leave!?” Luna shrieked.

“What if they’re looking for us?”

“Why would they look for us!?”

“We’re alicorns aren’t we? Remember what Lucerna said? No pony can be neutral anymore, at least that’s what they think. No matter where we are, we attract attention, it’s only a matter of time. If we leave now and see that we’re not here anymore they may just leave this place alone.” Luna scoffed. She whirled around, turning her back on her sister.

“It might be easy for you to leave,” Luna said. “but some of us aren’t as flighty as you.” Celestia gave her sister a little glare.

“No matter how much you love him, he isn’t like us. None of them are like us.”

“Celestia you...!!” Luna whirled back around to her sister. She had various venomous words to utter, but before she could Celestia pointed an accusatory hoof at her.

“You know what I mean!!” The white alicorn shouted. “You don’t think I have a reason to be the way that I am!? In a thousand years the dust from their bones will be gone, but we will still be here, left with nothing but memories!!” That shut Luna up. Celestia lowered her hoof. “Why should I get invested in anypony if that’s our fate?” They were both silent for several moments.

“I won’t leave.” Luna said. “I’m not like you.”

“I know that.” Celestia said. “But if worse comes to worse, we cannot fight Nox’s ponies. You know that.”

“I know.”

“Then we’ll just have to hope for the best.”

They didn’t have to wait long. Some weeks Luna got another letter from Celestia, this one telling her to meet in the forest again. This note looked hastily scribbled however. So, late at night, Luna began her trot into the woods again. The alicorn was quite annoyed by the letter this time. Their previous conversation made her all-too aware of Skye’s mortality. She wanted to spend as much time with him as she possibly could. As the purple alicorn approached their usual tree, Celestia was already there. She had one of the most depressed looks on her face her sister had ever seen.

“What is it this time?” Luna asked. Celestia shook her head and sighed.

“I’m sorry Luna.” Celestia said.

“About what?”

“They saw me.”

“What?” Luna voice dropped. “Are you sure?” Celestia closed her eyes and shook her head.

“I looked up in the sky and saw one. They stared right at me...and smiled. It’s only a matter of time.”

“We have to warn everypony!” Celestia looked away.

“It’s too late.” Celestia said. “If everypony tried to leave they would see it. I could only get you away. Without us there they will leave.”

“You don’t know that!! We have to...!!!”

“It’s too late.”

“What do you...?” Luna heard an explosion behind her. She whirled around, her eyes as big as they could go. Through the trees she could see flames. “No!!” Luna began galloping towards the village, but no sooner had she done so then Celestia tackled her.

“You can’t Luna!!!” Her sister shouted.

“Let me go! I can’t just leave them!!”

“You have to! Look at the sky!” Luna instantly obeyed. What she saw shocked her. Fireballs continually shot out of the sky. The flames were so bright that they illuminated those who were firing them. There were maybe a dozen. In the brief moments they were lit up Luna could see black alicorns with red eyes. They all resembled the one Luna had seen all those centuries ago. “They’re Nox’s soldiers! On top of that there are too many of them! If they see us in the village they’ll burn the whole thing down to get to us!! The only thing we can do is leave and hope that if we aren’t there they will leave them alone!”

“But...I can’t...” Luna said, sounding frustrated.

“Contrary to what you believe I care about them too. If we fight them however, all we will accomplish is our deaths.” Luna squeezed her eyes shut, crying softly. “Come on! We have to go!” Celestia finally stood and picked up her sister. She dragged her away, just as she had done all those ages ago on the beach. There was a rather large explosion. It made Luna’s head jerk to the sky. That was when she saw it. There was an alicorn flying in the sea of black ones. For a split second the purple alicorn saw a mane of red and a coat of blue, the color of the ocean. Then it all faded back to black.

It was morning now. Luna, now back in the town, dropped to her knees. Celestia merely stood still as a stone, with her eyes wide. The village of Brightsvale was gone. Every building, house, barn and field had been burnt to ashes. What had been done to the ponies was far worse. They were all in a pile, along with the cows and livestock. It was unclear at what point they had been slaughtered, but their bodies had all been burnt, with three exceptions. On a tree, three of them dangled. One was the alicorn’s aunt, one was Celestia’s current lover and the last...was Skye. It was apparent they had been tortured, as they had burn marks all over them, their eyelids cut open, their ears cut off and their cheeks sliced. Even their genitals had been horribly burnt and cut to pieces. Finally they were hung, horrible expressions on their faces.

“You...you said...you said they would leave...” Luna said, her voice quivering.

“I know.” Celestia replied, equally unsteady.

“You said...you said...” Luna abruptly jumped up and tackled her sister, pinning her to the ground. She had her hooves around Celestia’s neck, but her sister wasn’t resisting. Tears were freely flowing from Luna’s eyes. “You told me to run!!! You told me to leave!!! You said it was our only hope!!!!!!” Luna applied more pressure to Celestia’s neck. Still she didn’t resist.

“It was.” Celestia said. “If we had come...they would’ve killed...us too...” Celestia voice was getting weak.

“They were tortured!!! They were killed!!! Everything...everything...everything was slaughtered!!!! I’ve lost everything!!!!” Celestia could no longer breathe. She reached up with her hoof and gently stroked Luna’s cheek. The younger alicorn, completely thrown off, lightened her grip.

“Not...everything sis...” Celestia croaked. “You still...have me.” Luna froze. Slowly her hooves lifted off of her sister’s neck. She then collapsed and began sobbing. Pain began pouring out of her heart as for the second time in her life, everything good in her life had been utterly undone and turned into pain. Celestia wrapped her hooves around her sister, cradling her.

“I’m sorry Luna.” She said. “I’m so sorry.” As Luna wailed in terrible sorrow and pain, several tears escaped Celestia’s eyes as well. For what seemed like an eternity, neither of them moved.

“We have to go.” Celestia finally said, holding back a sob. “They’re coming back.”

“How do you know?” Luna asked weakly.

“I just do.”

“Where we go?”

“Where there is nopony. Where no pony can find us...and no pony can be hurt because of us. Come on.”

*

Twilight felt as if she were going to vomit, if she could in this state. She could feel overwhelming sorrow and a physical revulsion. Not only could she see what Luna saw...but she could also smell it. Never in the unicorn’s life had she smelled something so stomach-turning. It was the scent of burning flesh and rotting corpses. Twilight could feel the sheer pain and anguish that flowed through Luna and it made her want to die, just to escape from all of it. Even then, she knew what she felt was only a fraction of what Luna felt. The alicorn was skipping all those years she had spent with Skye, learning about each other, exploring each other and all the time they spent together. Loving somepony for a lifetime...only to watch them die in a horrendous way.

Do you wish to continue?

Twilight lifted up her head, or at least what she perceived as her head.

‘Does it get worse?’

It doesn’t get better. Do you wish to continue?

Twilight honestly considered quitting. From what she had seen of the princesses, they ruled by love and caring. There was little strife simply because of their just and magnanimous nature. No pony could possibly have guessed what sort of chaos and pain they had come from.

‘Should I?’

It’s up to you.

‘Will I know why you’re doing all these things now?’

Yes.

Twilight closed her eyes. She had to know. She had to understand. Even if it meant enduring the worst possible pain imaginable...she had to understand Luna, the pony she had come to love.

‘Yes, I want to continue.’

Chapter 14

When Luna got to Mitera’s camp she got a pleasant surprise. Celestia had been nervously waiting inside the commander’s tent for her. The white alicorn, upon seeing her sister, shouted in surprise and made a dash for her. Luna received another very tight hug, the second in the past few days. The dark alicorn was surprised by her sister’s sudden outpouring of emotion. Mitera seemed delighted by the public display. She suggested that they stay in the same tent, but Luna quickly shot that down. The last thing she needed was to wake up and see Celestia doing her favorite activity. Luna resumed her usual duties, with the same commissioner of supplies as before. It was monotonous work. A few days went by before Mitera announced a new operation. Luna attempted to make a stink and go along, but the older alicorn wouldn’t budge and mentioned that Celestia was forbidden to go as well on Lucerna’s orders. The day the operation commenced nearly everypony left, including Mitera. A skeleton crew was left at the camp, as well as the supply ponies and Celestia. With such a small group of males, Celestia was largely bored, as was Luna. One day at the mess hall Luna entered for a snack. Normally she would save the food for everypony else, but there was almost no pony there. When Luna entered the tent however she saw her sister. She was sitting at one of the tables, a plethora of food in front of her. Apparently in a funk, she had eaten much already. She was staring at the ceiling, a wistful look in her eyes.

These past few weeks had been rather excruciating for Luna as well. Left with nothing but her thoughts they could stew on little else but her past pains or Mitera. Mitera was so different from any other pony Luna had met, yet they were so similar. Both of them had gone through terrible, terrible pain. Mitera’s country was gone, her leg mutilated and yet she still smiled and took care of other ponies. She was so strong, beautiful and kind. Luna sighed as she stared at her sister. How easy it must be for her. No real emotion, no real commitment, just casual sex. Nothing with Luna was casual, everything was so deep and complicated. Luna approached her sister, who did not acknowledge her approach. Luna closed her eyes, her usual emotions broiling in her mind.

“I wish I were more like you.” She said. Celestia’s head snapped around so fast that it almost created a gust of wind.

“What!?” Celestia said, far too loud and several octaves too high. That was the last thing she ever expected her sister to say. Luna opened her eyes but stared at the ground.

“My head is always so full of worry and emotion and...just...stuff...” Luna said. “What I wouldn’t give to be you for a day.”

“Really?” Celestia asked, almost sounding flattered.

“You always seem so carefree. You’re also so easily pleased. It’s never...simple with me. I’m never just happy.” There was silence between them for several moments. Celestia had a blank look on her face. She sighed and looked back at the ceiling of the tent.

“I sometimes want to be you.” Celestia said.

“Huh? Me? Why?” Luna sounded shocked. Now Celestia looked at the ground.

“I’m...not bold enough to be with somepony longer than a month. I’ll get attached, they’ll die and I’ll be left with nothing. Ever since mom and dad died...I...I’ve been afraid to let anypony close...including you.” Luna appeared slightly dumbfounded. This was the first heart-to-heart they had ever had since...well ever. “But you, you find somepony who will love you for their entire life, and you stay and stay and stay.” Celestia glanced at her sister, her eyes filled with sadness. “Every time I see you like that I think about what mom and dad had, and how you found that...kind of relationship. The one I’ve always wanted.” Both of them were silent once again. Luna trotted over and sat in the chair next to her sister.

“If that’s what you always wanted, why do you keep just flying from one pony to another?” Luna asked. Celestia made a sneering frown.

“They’ll die.” Celestia said. “I told you before, in a thousand years the dust from their bones will be gone and we’ll still be here.” There was silence again. Luna’s eyes darted back and forth as she was in deep thought.

“What about an alicorn?” Luna asked. Celestia gave her an incredulous glance. “We’re around alicorns now.”

“We’ve only met two alicorn stallions.” Celestia said. “One is our great uncle. The other is a scatterbrain.”

“Gramen is deeper than you think.”

“He’s still not my type.” Celestia sighed. “I don’t want to get attached to a common pony and I don’t know any good alicorns.” Luna glanced at the ceiling briefly.

“You could try an alicorn mare...” She said. Celestia gave her sister a look that was a mix of shock and disbelief.

“Huh?” Celestia asked. Luna looked away and blushed, but continued talking.

“I mean, loving a mare wouldn’t be that bad would it? It would work out, wouldn’t it?” It was Luna’s round-about way of asking Celestia’s opinion on a relationship with Mitera, if such a thing could exist. Celestia continued to have that look, but answered.

“That’s...not really my thing. I suppose it could work. Assuming I were into it.”

“So it’s...not weird for mare to love another?”

“Whatever floats their boat I guess.”

“You know, Mitera’s been talking about a meeting among all of the alicorns coming up.” Celestia’s head jerked back to her sister.

“Really!?” She actually sounded excited.

“Mm-hm. It’s so they can discuss a way to finally bring this war to an end. I’m told that almost every alicorn in Lucerna’s army will be there.” Celestia chuckled to herself happily.

“I wonder how many stallions there will be...” She muttered. Now Luna chuckled.

“You’re easy to make happy.” Luna sighed. “I haven’t been happy in a very long time.”

“You’ll be happy again.” Celestia said with a smile.

“You think so?”

“Of course. Just be patient. This war can’t last forever.”

“I wonder...” Luna grumbled. Just then a pony came dashing into the tent. He appeared frantic and out of breath.

“Lady Mitera’s back!” He shouted. Luna’s face instantly brightened. “She’s calling for the two of you. They’re carrying a lot of wounded.” Her expression then darkened.

“We better go.” She said. “She probably needs our help.”

Luna and Celestia quickly trotted over to the entrance of the camp, but didn’t even have to get close to it to see the leftover carnage. Already they were lining ponies along the pathways, lying on makeshift stretchers. Many of them had grievous wounds, poorly stitched cuts, horrible burns and some even missing limbs. Luna tried not to think about it as Celestia went a little pale. When they arrived at the entrance to the camp they spotted Lucerna. He was marching away from another alicorn who was eagerly keeping up with him, spitting and yelling. It was Mitera, and she seemed quite angry. Despite her bum leg she was marching quickly.

“Dammit! Don’t walk away from me!!” Mitera bellowed.

“What more do you want from me?” Lucerna asked. He had a dark expression on his face. Mitera however was hopping mad.

“How many more generations of your subjects do you want to waste in this war!? How many more losses are you going to sustain!!”

“As many as it takes!” Lucerna cried back at her.

“Do you want to end this war or do you want to keep fighting it forever!?” The stallion finally stopped walking. He spun around and glared at Mitera.

“Dost thou thinketh me a fool!?” He shouted. Luna’s brow instantly knitted. Was Lucerna even still using words? “Dost thou believe I fain to march to war!? If thou art displeased then aroint swithly!” He then quickly marched away, his hooves beating the ground. He nearly knocked over Luna and Celestia, who had to hop to get out of his way. “Begone!” He shouted at them as he marched away. Both sisters stared after him, quite confused. They continued their journey to Mitera, who was grumbling beneath her breath.

“What was that about?” Luna asked. Mitera sighed.

“About the war.” Mitera asked.

“Regarding?” Celestia pried.

“Whether or not he’s trying to end it or not.” Mitera’s voice was bitter. That was when Luna spotted it. Mitera had a nasty cut on her leg. It was long enough and deep enough that some flesh was hanging off of it.

“What happened!?” Luna shouted, probably louder than she needed to. Mitera glanced down briefly before jerking her head back up.

“A stray shot.” She said. “It’s not that bad. Help the other wounded, that’s why I called you here anyway.”

“You need that tended to immediately!” Luna shouted again, almost making it sound like a demand.

“The soldiers need to come first. Mine’s only a minor...”

“You’re their leader! If that gets infected and you get sick they’re going to need more than some bandages!” Mitera looked taken aback. She couldn’t seem to believe Luna was standing up to her. There was silence for a few moments, but finally Mitera nodded. “Fine. Make it quick.” Luna quickly took Mitera’s hoof and began leading her away. Celestia looked around, dumbfounded. “Get to work!” She snapped her head briefly in Mitera’s direction before regaining her senses.

“Oh! Right!” She quickly trotted to the nearest soldier.

Inside a nearby tent, Luna was cleaning the wound Mitera had. It appeared to be irritated, meaning that she had walked with it. Luna actually felt slightly angry that she did that. She was using a cloth soaked in ointment to clear the wound. When she went too deep Mitera winced.

“Ow.” The mare said. “That hurts.”

“You’re lucky it’s not worse!” Luna shouted at her, using her magic to grab a needle and string. She had fortunately learned how to do this in her idle time in the camp. She began patching up the huge gash. “You walked with this wound!? Do you want to lose another leg!?” Mitera looked taken aback again. She had never seen Luna being so forceful with her. Perhaps it was because she was worried.

“Sorry there wasn’t really time to pause in the...orderly retreat.” Mitera said the last words bitterly. Luna’s mind went back to the conversation the mare had earlier.

“What happened to Lucerna?” Luna asked. “Did he have a stroke? He started speaking gibberish.”

“It wasn’t gibberish.” Mitera replied. “Lucerna is very old and he’s always had trouble adjusting to the way languages change. He’s so used to talking one way that he actually has to put effort into speaking today’s dialect. That’s why he talks funny sometimes.” Now that Luna thought about it, Lucerna rarely used contractions and often said some old words. “Sometimes when he gets angry or excited, he’ll start speaking in the dialect he’s most comfortable with, which was very long ago. He only does it with the older alicorns, as we will actually understand him.”

“What did he say?” Mitera sighed.

“He asked if I thought he was a fool and that he delighted in war. He then told me that if I was unhappy I was free to leave.” Luna had finished stitching and began wrapping the wound.

“What is going on? No pony is telling me anything and it’s driving me nuts.”

“Nothing good.” Mitera growled. “No progress, more losses and Lucerna refuses to target their resources. Another generation will be wasted.” Luna finally finished, securing the wrapping around Mitera’s leg. “On the other hoof, I’m glad you came out of your shell.”

“My what?” Luna cocked her eyebrow.

“You’ve done nothing but mutter and look away from ponies since you got here. You seem more open now.” Luna thought for a moment before it dawned on her. She didn’t act like that...except for around Mitera. Luna gulped and looked at the ground.

“Y-Yeah. It just...takes me a while.” Luna quickly lied.

“Well good.” Mitera said. “Go and help all the other ponies. At this rate we’ll need to send them home to sire more soldiers.”

Just at that moment, on a hill not too far from the encampment, two ponies were watching the injured being moved into the settlement from under the shade of a tree. They were large, and both had horns and wings. Only one had long flowing hair however. The other appeared to have his mane shaved.

“Are you certain uncle?” The one with flowing hair asked. “They’re a bunch of panderers and softies. They coddle the commoners and won’t do what is necessary for war.”

“We can help them do that.” The uncle replied. “You’ve seen with your own eyes what awaits us back there. We must choose between probable death and certain death.”

“Pleasant choices.” The younger replied, sneering.

“Let’s make our case. Hopefully they will see us as useful.” The stallion with flowing hair stepped into the sunlight. His mane was deep red, almost like blood. His coat was as blue as the sea and shimmered just as much. His eyes were a frosty blue, and were just as cold and unforgiving as the ocean.

“I just hope I can hold back my vomit being around all these mongrels.”

The two approached the gates of the encampment. They didn’t wish to alarm the whole place by flying in and potentially causing a ruckus. As they got close, the guards at the doors lifted their weapons and stood at attention. The lead pony had a shocking appearance. His coat was a light green. He was missing an ear, littered with scars, had a shaved mane and an eye patch over one eye. They couldn’t see but his cutie mark was that of a sword. The other pony with him was brightly colored. The guards could see that they both had horns and wings. When they finally were within speaking distance the guards recognized them. They raised their spears and blocked the way.

“What are you two doing here!?” One of the guards shouted, stopping them in their tracks. “Give us one good reason we shouldn’t kill you now.”

“Go ahead and try you filthy, low-life mong...” The bright pony began, venom in his voice.

“Remain calm.” The older pony interrupted. He turned back to the guards. “If we wanted to attack, we would have. We’ve come to speak to your king. We only wish to talk, we will not fight.” The guards glanced at each other. They had come alone, and they certainly could kill the guards if they really wanted to.

“One moment.” One of the guards said. He turned and dashed into the camp. The remaining guards kept their weapons up and their eyes forward. The colorful alicorn appeared annoyed. He glanced at their metal-tipped spears.

“Are you enjoying pointing those things at me?” The guards didn’t respond. The alicorn’s horn lit up. Almost instantly, the end of the spear melted off. All of the guards jumped back, looking panicked.

“Remain calm!” The older alicorn cried. He glanced at the younger. “Knock it off.” The colorful alicorn grumbled, but seemed to obey. After a few more tense moments the guard came dashing back, Lucerna following him. When the alicorn approached the gate he appeared completely shocked. He couldn’t believe what he was seeing. He trotted the rest of the way apprehensively.

“May I assist you two?” He asked, sounding confused.

“We’ve come to talk.” The older said.

“I’ve seen you on the battlefield.” Lucerna said, his eyebrow raised. “Both of you.”

“We’ve...had a change of plans. May we talk privately?”

Moments later in the leader’s tent the three of them sat together at a table. On the table was a map of the current battle lines, with figurines and red exes, indicating battles.

“You wanted to talk, so talk.” Lucerna said.

“We no longer hold loyalty to Nox.” The older alicorn stated. “We’ve come to offer our services.”

“Such a sudden change.” Lucerna said, sounding disbelieving. “Might I ask what brought this about?”

“We’ve...heard some disconcerting things.”

“You were in the company of Nox, you are going to have to be more specific.”

“His children are little more than savages, and can’t keep their mouths closed. We had been informed that once this war is won that they would receive all of the land and we would be done away with. After some...careful listening, we heard it straight from the devil’s mouth. So, we have come to join your cause.”

“So you are joining me out of necessity rather than loyalty.” There was a certain unpleasantness in his voice. He didn’t like the sound of their explanation.

“I do not even know you, your highness. How could I have pledged my loyalty?” The other alicorn pointed out.

“True. Who are you two?”

“My name is Epitelikos.” The older said. “This is my nephew, Aecor.” The younger nodded, but didn’t appear pleased to be where he was.” Lucerna’s face fell. His eyes widened.

“Epitelikos?” He asked.

“Ponies call me Pit.” The older alicorn stated flatly.

“You...are Nox’s strategist.” Lucerna finished. Aecor smiled, revealing his brilliant white teeth.

“I think we just got accepted.” He said gleefully. Mitera then entered the tent. She gazed around the room until she spotted the two new alicorns. She instantly appeared shocked.

“What are they doing here!?” She shouted, sounding outraged.

“Please sit Mitera.” Lucerna said. “We all have much to discuss.”

It was some time before the four of them finished their discussion on why they shouldn’t kill Aecor or his uncle. The discussion then moved on to strategy. They began motioning to the map on the table while Pit described all the troop movements he took in their previous battles.

“Without me,” He said. “Nox will move in the most basic formations possible.”

“In battle the tactics were impressive.” Mitera noted. “In terms of troop movements they were basic.”

“I commanded the major battles.” Pit elaborated. “But I didn’t tell him how to move his troops. An army marches on its stomach. Without me and without supplies he will likely crumble.” Lucerna instantly appeared uncomfortable.

“So in your...professional opinion,” Mitera said, clear discontent in her voice. “the best course of action would be to attack his food supplies.”

“Of course.” Pit replied. “That is the backbone of battle tactics.” Mitera instantly glared at Lucerna. He glared back, but neither of them saying anything. Pit instantly recognized what was going on. Mitera must have been saying the same thing he was. Lucerna was reluctant, likely because of his pesky attachment to common ponies. “If Nox’s army is not broken he will simply keep fighting on and on. If you crush his army now, it will save generations more from fighting to their deaths. Kill a lot now, or kill a lot for every generation to come. In the end you would be saving lives.” Lucerna sighed and closed his eyes.

“It would appear that I have been outflanked.” Lucerna said. He opened his eyes and stared at the map. “Very well. I am not happy about this, but I will allow it.”

“Finally.” Mitera said.

“This is all incredibly fascinating.” Aecor said bitterly. He instantly stood and began trotting out of the tent. “However, I think I’m going to go take a flight, get a better look around this place.”

“Do not cause any trouble.” Pit ordered firmly.

“I won’t dear uncle.” Aecor said in a patronizing voice. He exited the tent, only catching the tail-end of the conversation.

“He places his supplies in predictable places.” Mitera said. “We only have to wait for him to make his lines and we’ll be able to find them.”

“You don’t have to wait.” Pit replied. “He will move them here, here and here.”

“So then his supplies will be...” Aecor rolled his eyes at all this prattle. All this trouble for some lowly common ponies, seemed like way too much effort.

Luna had been going from pony to pony, wrapping wounds, suturing cuts and soothing pain. Almost every pony was screaming in pain, some begging for death. The more Luna wandered around, the more she was reminded of the terror that had happened all those years ago. Seeing all of her loved ones burned to a crisp after being tortured, it made her go pale just thinking about it. The very sight of seeing Skye hanging from a tree with his body mutilated had haunted Luna’s dreams for decades. She began servicing those near the commander’s tent. Just as she finished wrapping somepony’s wound she gazed up. A pony exited the commander’s tent. Luna’s vision instantly narrowed. She could hear a ringing in her ears and a pain in her heart. An image flashed inside of her head. It was on that cold night when Celestia pulled her away from her village. As she ran, she gazed up at the sky. Black ponies dotted the sky as fire rained down on the place she had grown to love with all of her heart...save for one, one pony with a red mane and a blue coat. Anger shot up inside of Luna. It was a cold, familiar fury. It was the fury that had nearly made her strangle her sister. It was a fury that can only be brought when somepony was wronged in the worst way...when they didn’t deserve it. In her rage she charged forward, a fire in her eyes.

“You son of a bitch!!!!!” Aecor turned his head. Before he had time to react, a pony was diving at him. In a panic, he scuttled backwards and ended up against a post. The alicorn that charged him had her horn pushing into his neck. It was glowing, just dying to go off and rip his head off. “I’ll kill you!!!!”

“Uncle!!!!” Aecor shouted, actual fear in his voice. Three ponies charged out of the tent and saw something that alarmed them all. Luna was pushing her horn against Aecor’s neck. There was pure rage in her face. She looked as if she were moments away from blasting him wide open. Aecor had raised his head as high as it could go, just barely managing to keep her from eviscerating him. He was against a post, unable to move without Luna cutting into him. Luna’s horn was just about to blast when the three came upon the scene.

“Luna! Stop!!” Lucerna shouted. His order was just enough to stop her, but she didn’t back down. Her horn continued to glow and its position did not change.

“He was there!!!” Luna shouted. “He killed them!!!”

“Who!? What are you talking about!?” Lucerna shouted.

“My village! The one I lived at before!” Luna continued raving. “Nox’s army attacked it and killed everypony! Innocent ponies who never hurt anypony, who weren’t even in the war!! They were tortured, murdered and burned! He was there!!! He killed them!!!!!!”

“I have no idea what she’s talking about!” Aecor said desperately.

“It was Brightvale! Near the border with the southern region! Next to the river! You were chasing us!!!” For a split-second a look of realization came over his face. He hid it just as quickly.

“I...don’t know what she’s talking about!!!” Aecor shouted again. Luna however could feel his fear. She saw what he was trying to hide, through his own eyes. It was her village from the air, with fireballs raining down on it. Aecor was laughing along with the dark ponies flying around him.

“He’s lying!!” Luna shouted. Lucerna turned to Mitera. There was something unspoken that went between them. Mitera stepped forward and looked at Aecor straight in the eyes.

“Is this true?” She asked calmly.

“No!” Aecor cried.

“You lie.” Mitera said. Aecor flinched. He glanced at his uncle. Now something unspoken was going between them. The older pony appeared to be thinking, while Aecor looked as if he were listening.

“Okay! Okay!” Aecor cried. “I was there, but I didn’t do anything!”

“He’s lying!” Luna said.

“He is.” Mitera confirmed, although how she knew was a mystery. Aecor looked at his uncle again. Again, something went between them.

“Alright! Alright, the truth!” He cried. “I was there, and I did attack the village! I didn’t know anything other than that we were attacking! Nox’s children were ordered to go and I just tagged along!”

“Why did you go?” Lucerna asked. Aecor gulped and looked incredibly uncomfortable, even if he had a horn to his neck.

“I...was bored.” He admitted.

“So you went and attacked an innocent, neutral village because you were bored?” Lucerna didn’t sound pleased in the slightest. There was an incredibly tense silence.

“Who did you torture!?” Luna finally cried.

“Nopony!” Aecor cried. She pushed the horn even harder into his neck. A trickle of blood began going down her horn.

“Who!?”

“Nopony! I swear!” Aecor shouted. “I just kept them corralled!” Luna saw an image from his mind. Aecor was cackling as the ponies of her village huddled in fear. He turned and saw Skye hanging from a tree. They were cutting into him and he was screaming in pain. Aecor laughed again and turned back to the villagers. It looked as if they wanted to do something, but were apprehensive as Aecor stood in front of them. The alicorn smiled smugly and unleashed a bolt of electricity. He laughed again as all the villagers, young, old and even newborn screamed in pain as they were all shocked.

“You worthless...!!!” Luna’s horn lit up.

“Luna don’t....!!!!” This time it was Mitera. Luna had no intention of stopping, but something struck her. Celestia had swooped down, almost completely silently. She tackled her sister and kept her from blasting Aecor apart. Luna was instantly kicking and screaming, but Celestia held her back.

“Celestia, get her away from here!” Lucerna shouted. Celestia instantly tried to obey, but Luna didn’t make it easy.

“I’ll kill him! I’ll kill him!! Let me go!! LET ME GO!!!!” Luna was like a savage animal, biting, clawing and kicking to get away. Celestia however managed to grab her by the hair and drag her away. Once Luna was out of sight Lucerna and Mitera turned back to Aecor. He was rubbing his chin and cursing under his breath. He realized that they were glaring at him, both appearing angry.

“What?” He asked, sounding annoyed. They then both turned to his uncle. The pony gave them his usual tepid stare, but there was something unhappy in it this time.

“Wherever I go, my nephew goes.” He said. “And vice-versa.” Lucerna sighed. He again didn’t appear happy about this prospect.

“Keep your retainer under control.” Lucerna stated.

“Same to you.” Pit replied flatly. He walked forward and motioned for Aecor to follow. “I’ll move what forces we have to a camp not far from here. As Nox is infamous for his assassins I would advise you not to disturb us during the night.” Both of them began marching out of the camp. Aecor was still rubbing his chin and cursing.

“Why do I immediately regret this decision?” Lucerna asked.

“We do what we must.” Mitera said. “The sooner this war is over the better.”

“Attend to Luna and do your best to assure she stays calm. Tell her she is to remain in this camp, no matter what. That is an order.”

Celestia finally had Luna completely restrained. It involved twisting both of her front legs behind her back and pressing her body against her. Luna however was not calm in the slightest. She was still kicking and thrashing like a wild mare.

“Let me go! Let me go dammit!!!” She continued to scream.

“Quit it!” Celestia shouted back. “Calm down! What did you think you were doing!?”

“I was going to kill that son of a bitch!!!” Luna cried.

“Are you insane!?” Celestia cried back. “What for!? You haven’t killed anypony in your life!”

“He was with the ponies that attacked our village!! He joined in the slaughter!! He helped those that killed all of our loved ones!!” Celestia seemed to take pause at that. She seemed to be thinking quickly.

“I don’t remember seeing him.” She said.

“I do!! I’ll never forget!! Let me go!!!” Luna didn’t seemed dissuaded in the slightest.

“That is enough!!!” Luna instantly stopped her struggling. It was the voice of Mitera. She sounded quite stern and angry. Celestia finally sighed with relief. It was taking nearly all of her strength to hold her sister down. “You will stop acting like a little savage!!”

“But he...!!!”

“I know.” Mitera interrupted. “But he has shown no aggression here. There are rules of war Luna. When an enemy comes to treat with you, you do not attack them. On top of that, they are no longer enemies.”

“What!?” Luna shouted, outraged. “He’s a monster! He delights in hurting others!!!”

“We are aware of that fact.” Mitera said. “However his uncle is invaluable. He is forbidden to act in an aggressive manner, and as long as he does not attempt to do so he is a member of this army.”

“You can’t be serious!”

“I’m dead serious.” Mitera motioned to Celestia. The white alicorn gratefully released Luna, who instantly stood and began stamping her hooves on the ground.

“You expect me to just sit by and do nothing while that murderer gets away!?” Luna cried.

“You have been ordered to do just that.”

“Ordered!? You think I can be ordered...!?”

“Are you saying that you are not a member of this army?” Luna stopped abruptly. She wanted to join in this fight. If she said “no” they would likely send her away somewhere safe, far away from the war. While Aecor was present at the slaughter, it was Nox’s army that carried it out. She couldn’t quit now.

“Yes...” Luna muttered.

“Then you will obey orders.” Mitera was standing over Luna in a very commanding manner. “You will stay away from Aecor and his uncle...or face punishment. Is that clear?” Luna growled. Mitera wasn’t backing down however. “Is that clear?” Mitera was beginning to sound annoyed.

“Yes.” Luna said in a very deep voice.

“Good. I expect no more problems.” Mitera turned and walked away.

“It’ll be okay.” Celestia said. “We’ll deal with this some other day.” She also then walked away. Luna was left alone, fuming. She didn’t care if she was ordered or if she died in the process. She was going to make Aecor pay for his crimes.

Luna entered the supply tent, having no desire to actually move supplies. She could feel a powerful fire inside of her chest. She had never been angrier in her life. She just couldn’t live with this injustice being so close to her.

“Are you alright?” Luna looked up. It was the commissioner of supplies, the same from her last camp. Through all of this he had been the one pony she had seen every day. He had also been the one pony that had been grateful to her in ages. Luna began thinking.

“No. I’m not.” Luna said.

“What is it?” He asked. Luna gave him a grave glance.

“You are a soldier, right?” She asked.

“Huh? Yeah...”

“You went through training? You know how to fight? How to track, scout and sneak?”

“Yes, I went through training. What’s this about?” Luna sighed.

“Can we go somewhere and talk?”

In a secluded part of the camp Luna told the commissioner everything. She told him her entire history, up until that very moment. By the end the tale the commissioner had wide eyes and appeared as forlorn as Luna was.

“That’s terrible.” He said. “And he’s in a camp not too far away?”

“Yes. I’ve been ordered not to go near him.”

“How can they just accept somepony like him into the army? He’s a monster!”

“I’m glad you see it that way. I...” Luna closed her eyes and sighed. “I can’t just sit by and do nothing. I...I have to get him.”

“You want...to kill him? Against orders?”

“What am I supposed to do? Smile and pretend he didn’t slaughter my family? What would you do?” The commissioner sighed.

“I...wouldn’t rest until they faced justice.”

“So...will you help me?” The commissioner appeared conflicted. On the one hoof, he really liked Luna and she had done nothing but help him since the day he met her. On the other, he was going to go after a pony that was in the army he served.

“What exactly do you want me to do?” He asked.

“I just need you to distract the guards. I’ll take care of the rest. They won’t even know it was us.” The commissioner sighed and gazed at the ground. He was weighing his options carefully.

“Are you sure we won’t get caught?” He asked.

“Of course. If we do, I will take all the responsibility. You have nothing to worry about.”

“You say that but...” The commissioner growled. “Alright, but this is only because of all the horrible things he has done. Otherwise I wouldn’t touch this.” Luna jumped forward and wrapped him up in a hug. He was instantly stunned.

“Thank you! Thank you so much!” Luna cried. “No pony has helped me in ages! Thank you!”

“It’s alright, it’s alright.” The commissioner stated, patting her on the back. “Let’s just get this over with, and make sure nothing bad happens to any of us.”

“I promise! Wait...us?”

“Yeah, I have a plan.”

It was now night and Luna was skulking around like a cat. She had checked a map and found out where Aecor and his uncle were camped. The problem was, they would be wary of retribution from Nox. There would be guards everywhere, leaving no place uncovered. That’s why Luna needed a distraction. She liked the commissioner’s plan, but it all depended on the fact that he attracted the attention of all the guards. When Luna approached the camp, shielded by bushes, she saw how true that was. They had built a palisade wall and a rampart in less than a day. They worked incredibly fast. On top of that, there were guards almost every few feet. All of them were scanning the forest and watching the skies. This was not going to be easy in the slightest. Luna waited for what seemed like forever. If she got any closer then she would be spotted. Finally however she heard a grateful noise.

“Open the gates! Open the gates!!” All of the guards turned their heads. On the other side of the camp a large cart, filled with supplies, was rampaging towards the gates. After some muttering from the guards there was a crashing noise. The gates had been crashed into. All of the guards instantly rushed away from the walls. Luna smirked. She can’t believe how swimmingly that worked. She quickly dashed for the walls, flew up to the edge and peeked over. All of the guards around the walls had swarmed the gates. The commissioner was there, cussing and spitting. He was blaming them for not opening the gate for supplies sent by Lucerna. He was acting like a mad pony, leaving the guards confused as to what to do. Luna then quickly flew over the wall and darted into the sea of tents. She counted her lucky stars that she was as dark as the night. Otherwise she would probably be easily spotted.

Luna began slinking behind tents as the fuss over by the gates continued. The commissioner and the stallions with him continued causing a stink, even though the guards tried to placate them. It took Luna several minutes to find her way around. A few times Luna swore she had been spotted, but all of the soldiers had their eyes on the gate in the distance, staring and muttering. The rogue alicorn made her way to the center of the camp. Lo and behold, there was Aecor. Luna contained her anger as much as she could. He was sitting in front of the largest tent, eating a rather large meal. It was the biggest Luna had ever seen since that feast she had at her village, ages ago. This only pissed her off more. Not even Lucerna ate that well. Luna silently circled the tents, trying to find the perfect place to get him from. She eventually got behind him, barely able to contain herself. All she had to do now was take a proper aim. One precise shot and she would slice his neck wide open. She crept forward, inch by inch, her heart pounding in her ears. Finally she was in range. She took careful aim, began charging her magic and...

Somepony grabbed her. She wasn’t even sure what happened. One moment she was about to blast Aecor apart, and the next she was looking at the sky. Somepony seized her, flipped her over and then smashed her neck against something hard. Stars exploded in her eyes as her spine cracked and her body twitched helplessly.

“Found them!” It was Pit’s voice. He didn’t sound happy.

“I figured as much!” Aecor shouted, wiping his mouth and putting his food down. “Kill those idiots by the gate!” Panic swept through Luna.

“I’ll deal with this one!” Pit shouted. Luna heard the sound of a sword being drawn. Now a new wave of panic swept over her. This was going terrible very quickly. Luna was picked up as a blade was put to her neck. Luna couldn’t see yet, but she could feel Pit twitch. “Ah hell.” He turned towards the camp.

“Stop!! Stop everything!!!”

“What!? What is it!?” Aecor cried.

“It’s not one of Nox’s!!!” He shouted back. “It’s Lucerna’s crazed niece!”

“That bitch!? Bring her here! Bring the idiots by the gate here too!” Luna tried to fight, but her limbs wouldn’t obey. Instead all she could feel was pain in her spine and head. Whatever Pit had done disabled here. Luna was dragged to the large tent. Her vision was clearing and she could see Aecor’s sneering face. Luna felt a wave of disgust, but knew she was helpless. Once she had been placed in front of the tent, much to her shock, Pit sat on her back, causing her to yelp in pain. He didn’t seem to notice her cries of pain.

“Bring them here!!!” Luna was in terrible pain, but saw through squinted eyes as a very panicked commissioner and some of his workers were brought before them. “Do you recognize this?” Pit picked up Luna’s head by her hair. The commissioner tried his best to maintain his composure.

“I had no idea she was here.” The commissioner said. “Sir, I assure you, we are only here to deliver the supplies sent by lord Lucerna.”

“Really?” Pit asked, dropping Luna’s head unceremoniously. “You know, because of the potential backlash from Nox Lucerna told me that if he were to send me anything, he would accompany it with an official letter.” Pit held out his hoof. “Care to provide it?” The commissioner and his workers fidgeted nervously. “Care to try again?”

“We...we...” The commissioner stumbled.

“It was all my idea!” Luna cried. “I made them do it! It was all me!”

“I don’t doubt that.” Pit stated. “Such a hackneyed approach had to be done by a child. All the same, what am I to do with all of you?”

“Punish me! This was all my doing!” Luna shouted.

“I’m fine with that.” Aecor said. “I’ll do it.”

“You’re not going to touch her.” Pit said sneering.

“I wasn’t going to kill her...just enjoy her.” Dread swept over Luna. That was a fate worse than death.

“You will do nothing of the sort.” Pit replied. Luna relaxed a little, as much as she could with somepony sitting on her sore back.

“Why not?”

“This is Lucerna’s niece. No matter what she’s done, if we are cruel to her he will kick us out, regardless of the circumstances. On the contrary, we should be merciful. It will get us points with our dear commander.”

“Are you kidding!? We do nothing!?”

“I didn’t say that. The collaborators are of no relation to Lucerna.” A new wave of panic set over Luna. She tried to fight against Pit, but her spine would still not obey. All she could manage to do was twitch.

“Great.” Aecor sounded happy. He walked up to the group of stallions who looked at him with panicked expressions, all except for the commissioner. He was staring at Luna. The mare could feel the expression he had sear all the way to her heart. She had promised that nothing would happen to him, that he would be safe and nothing would happen to him. He looked at her with the eyes of somepony who had a promise broken.

“Don’t! It was all my idea!!! It’s all my responsibility!!!” Luna screamed.

“Good, then you shall never forget this.” Pit replied coldly. Aecor cackled happily as electricity leapt from his horn. A bolt of energy shot out of it, hitting all of the stallions there. They screamed in pain and began falling to the ground. Aecor didn’t stop however. All of them began to convulse as pain shot through their bodies.

“No! Stop it!!! They didn’t do anything!! Stop it!!!! STOP IT!!!!! STOOOOOOOOOOP!!!!!!!” Tears streamed down Luna’s eyes as she screamed in agony and futility. She watched as they shook and the life drained from their eyes. Aecor still didn’t stop. He continued laughing and shocking. Their bodies began to blacken and parts of their bodies were popping open. Finally, they all lit up into flames. Only then did Aecor stop. Luna screamed in horror at what she had just seen. This was what her village had gone through...and she had been forced to watch it happen. Luna wailed and cried and Pit scoffed.

“Let that be a lesson.” He stated, finally standing and grabbing Luna by her hair. “Learn to obey orders.” He began dragging her away, still trying to kick and scream.

Luna was unceremoniously thrown into a ditch outside the camp. She was then abandoned. The bodies of Aecor’s victims were thrown in beside her. It took Luna many minutes to regain the feeling in her limbs. Once she did, she crawled out of the ditch and vomited. How could they do that!? What kind of monster was he!? Luna was as determined as ever to get him. He had to pay, one way or another Aecor had to pay. However, right now, Luna was in terrible pain. Her back had never hurt like this before and she was incredibly wobbly on her legs. Luna fought back tears and began hobbling back towards her own camp, left with no place else to go.

The walk was painful, in more ways than one. To have that awful smell of burnt flesh in her nose again...it almost caused her to pass out in terror. On top of that nauseous feeling, she was in terrible pain. She hobbled for miles, her neck and back feeling terrible. Finally, as day began to break, she arrived at the camp. She wobbled through the gates, with nopony stopping her. Once she entered however, somepony was waiting for her. That pony...was Lucerna, and he had the most furious expression on his face that Luna had ever seen. The moment she entered he was staring her down, his eyes glaring.

“Where have you been?” He asked coldly.

“Pit and Aecor!” Luna cried. “They attacked me! They killed your soldiers!!!”

“What were you doing in their camp?” Luna froze. He knew. He knew exactly what happened. Pit must have somehow gotten a message to Lucerna. She hadn’t anticipated this, nor had she thought about a response. A very nervous feeling was exploding in her gut. “Answer me!!” Luna cringed. Lucerna was bellowing at her, clear displeasure in his voice.

“I was...I just...I couldn’t do nothing!!” Luna cried.

“So you deliberately disobeyed me!? You attempted to attack a pony that not only is in our army, but has intimate knowledge of our strategies! What if they had gone back to Nox!? What if they turned on us!! You threatened our entire army for your own personal revenge!!!”

“I saw him slaughter innocent ponies!!” Luna cried. “I saw him kill my loved ones!! I watched him electrocute your soldiers to death!!”

“And they just happened to be there?” Lucerna asked coldly. Again Luna froze. A sick feeling began setting in the pit of her stomach. Lucerna wasn’t going to like this, not one bit. Luna gulped again.

“They...agreed to be there.” Luna said.

“Who?” Lucerna said through gritted teeth.

“The...commissioner...” Luna thought his eyes were going to pop out of his head.

“My...commissioner...of supplies?” His voice was quivering. “You roped in...my commissioner of supplies into this scheme...and got him KILLED!?!?!” Lucerna’s voice boomed around the camp.

“He agreed to it!” Luna shouted.

“I don’t care!!! I’ve lost a valuable member of my staff!! All because YOU couldn’t contain yourself!!!!”

“He’s a murderer! He’s slaughtered innocent ponies!!”

“I DON’T CARE!!!!” Luna felt something odd settle over her heart. She had this feeling, before when she spotted Aecor. It was similar to anger, but it felt different. For one thing, it made her heart feel cold, not hot. She could also feel her vision narrowing.

“You don’t care!?” Luna shouted back. “How can you not care!?!?”

“Because they are useful!!!” Lucerna cried back. “They bring salvation and an end to the war! If we have to use somepony so terrible, then so be it!!!”

“That makes you no better than them!!!”

“Really?” Lucerna leaned forward and gave Luna the coldest glare she had ever seen. “If you don’t like it, then you can leave!”

“What!?!?”

“Let me be clear Luna, right now, you are the liability. You are the one who is expendable. You may be my great niece, but you have nearly cost me a great resource. If you cannot live with those two in the army, then you may leave.”

“You’re picking them over me!?”

“I am. If you are not capable of following my orders, then you are not welcome here. If you pursue Aecor again, they are free to do with you what they will.” Luna could feel something throbbing deep inside of her, almost beating like a heart.

“You’re...abandoning me!?” Luna could feel the cold rage spread throughout her body. Lucerna turned his back on her.

“If you cannot follow orders, then I am. If you are staying go and get some rest. I’ll decide what to do with you later.” Lucerna began walking away. Luna felt the cold anger surge through her. No pony was going to help her, no pony had ever helped her. She stood by while everypony that she ever cared about were killed. Now that she finally had the chance to do something about it, everypony was against her, her great uncle, the army, her sister...everypony. Everypony was standing in her way, and if she didn’t do what they wanted they were going to kick her out. She had an uncontrollable rage and no way to get out...not without being completely abandoned by everypony she had ever known.

Luna screamed at the sky. The scream was full of rage and pain. She didn’t care who heard it and what they would think. The alicorn had never been angrier in her life. In her fury she swung her horn around and threw into the air a whole line of tents. She beat her hooves on the ground and swung her horn again. This time she cut a huge swath out of the ground, as well as leveling a whole new line of tents. She screamed again, kept kicking and kept throwing things up into the air. Mitera and Celestia came running, as well as many of the soldiers. Lucerna however, held up his hoof, stopping them dead. They gave him quizzical looks, but obeyed.

*

Twilight felt something odd happen. As Luna pitched her massive fit, images flashed before her eyes. Luna tossed up a mess of debris, still screaming. Twilight saw a brief image of a baby pony, kicking in the womb. Luna launched a huge storm of dust into the air. Now Twilight saw an eye with a slit pupil. Luna kicked over a wooden pillar, snapping it like a twig. Twilight saw a huge swirling black cloud, as if it were swirling around her. Finally, Luna screamed at sky, using every ounce of breath in her lungs. Twilight heard a laugh, an ominous laugh that caused her entire body turn rigid. She recognized it and it terrified her. A single image rested in her mind, of that dreaded pony that had a black coat, slit eyes and purple mist for hair.

Nightmare Moon. Twilight understood what this meant. She had seen a foal in a womb. It was on that day, all those years ago, that Nightmare Moon had been conceived. The spark of her creation was at that moment, when Luna allowed her unbridled rage and anguish take her over.

*

Luna finally ran out of steam. She collapsed on the ground, completely spent. An incredibly uncomfortable silence fell over the camp. For several moments, no pony moved or said a word. Finally Lucerna gazed back, his expression unchanged.

“And clean this mess up!” He finally bellowed. He then marched away, without saying a single word more. Everypony else continued to stare awkwardly. Luna eventually stood back up, her legs shaking even worse than ever before. Celestia was the one who cautiously approached, appearing quite afraid of her sister.

“L-Luna?” Celestia asked, finally approaching her. “Are you okay...?” Luna jerked her head around to her sister.

“GET AWAY FROM ME!!!!” She shrieked. With a brief shot of magic a cloud of dirt was shot up at Celestia, who screamed. The white alicorn stumbled backwards, completely shocked.

“Luna! I...I don’t know...” Celestia seemed hurt, as if she didn’t know what she did wrong.

“That’s just it!!!” Luna shouted, giving her sister the angriest stare she ever had. “You don’t know anything!!! You don’t want to know anything!! You just want to fly from stallion to stallion not caring about what happened to our parents, our family or the ponies that loved us!!! You don’t care about anything as long as you can be a slut!!!!”

“I...I....” Celestia was shaking. It appeared as if Luna had really hurt her.

“Get away from me!!! Now!! Stay away from me!!!!” Celestia turned and ran away, already making sobbing noises. “All of you!!! STAY THE HELL AWAY FROM ME!!!!!!” In one last blast of fury, she sent up a tall tornado of dirt, sending most of the soldiers briefly scuttling backwards. Luna finally slouched, panting exhaustively. Tears began leaking out of her eyes. She felt alone in the world, completely and finally alone. Nopony was going to help her...nopony would ever help her. With a defeated attitude, and her soul completely spent, she used her magic and began picking up debris. She picked up the canvas from the tents and began putting them back together.

*

“Stop!! Stop!!!” Twilight cried, holding her head. “I can’t take it anymore!!!!! Make is stop!!!” In an instant it did. The lavender unicorn curled into a ball and put her hooves on her head. It was too much, it was all too much. She could feel Luna’s rage, smell the burning flesh, feel her hopelessness, her defeat and her anguish. She couldn’t take it anymore. Twilight began sobbing, unable to take all the pain anymore. For several moments, she stayed like that. Then she felt herself on a flat surface. A wing came around her body and somepony nuzzled her face. Twilight opened her eyes and looked up. Everything around her was complete blackness, except for one pony with her that was glowing.

“Luna!” Twilight shouted. It was the current Luna. She was bigger, more beautiful and most of all, she was smiling. They nuzzled against each other for several moments, letting Twilight calm down.

“It’s okay my love.” Luna said. “I’m sorry I overwhelmed you.”

“I should be able to take it!” Twilight said. “I shouldn’t be like this! You went through it! I should have...!!!”

“Twilight, it’s okay.” Luna said, giving her a warm smile. “I’ve had a rough life. You’ve had a happy and gentle one. You can’t expect to completely take every bad thing that’s happened to me.” Twilight nodded and began nuzzling Luna again. It was giving her a lot of comfort. “We’re running out of time.”

“We are?” Twilight asked. Luna nodded.

“I know you won’t stop, but I can guide you better and make it easier. It will also speed things up.”

“I’ll...still know everything?”

“Yes, I promise.” Luna said. “It’ll be okay.”

“Does it get better?” Twilight asked. Luna smiled again.

“Yes. For once, it gets a little better.” Twilight then nodded and wiped her tears.

“Okay, I’m ready.” Luna leaned forward and their horns met. Twilight again sank into Luna’s world. This time however, she had renewed confidence. She felt as if Luna was much closer to her this time. She felt much more secure.

Chapter 2

Twilight and Luna sat in an extravagantly decorated hut. The royal guards had drifted back into town to look for clues and gather supplies to go back into the Everfree Forest. So she wouldn't get caught, the princess now hid in the place she had Twilight lie about on the first day she arrived in Ponyville. Fortunately the princess could teleport better than Twilight could. Now they sat in Zecora's hut, enjoying some of her wonderful tea.

"The guards came around just the other day." Zecora stated, pouring the princess a new cup. "They questioned me, but I had nothing to say."

"Well, please tell them I came by here." Luna said with a smile. "Just don't tell them where I went."

"Lying I do not usually do, but tell them I will that you passed through." Zecora replied.

"Thank you." Luna stated. The zebra turned around and went back to her brew she had been cooking since they arrived.

"Have you met zebras before?" Twilight asked quietly.

"A few." Luna said, taking a sip. "Wow this is good tea."

"It is, isn't it?" Twilight asked, smiling. "Did the zebras you met always rhyme?"

"No..." Luna said, thinking a moment. "But I don't think Zecora is a normal zebra."

"How do you mean?" Twilight asked.

"The ones I met spoke of "sages." They were people that mastered in potions and generally left their land for a time to gather wisdom. I was told that many of them were odd and had unusual habits. Zecora is probably one of them."

"Indeed I am what you say." Zecora said, trotting into the conversation, with a smile. "And unfortunate news I have to relay."

"What is it Zecora?" Twilight asked, looking concerned.

"It is nearing the time I return to my land, it is unfortunate as my stay here was grand." Twilight flinched and appeared hurt.

"You're...leaving?" She asked. Zecora nodded with a solemn smile. The past few years had been hard on Twilight. With her friends scattering in all directions and her remaining ones finding their own lives, her loneliness was often hard to bear. She had taken solace in visiting Zecora, even if the zebra was hard to understand. They would sip tea, talk about Twilight's problems and discuss happier times with Twilight's friends. Now even that was ending. "Oh Zecora! I'm going to miss you!" Twilight bounded around the table and wrapped the zebra into a hug with both hooves. Zecora gave her a pat on the back.

"You must relax dear young one, I will be here for several more sets of the sun." Zecora stated. Twilight separated from her striped friend, but her face was sad and hallow. It was an expression that made Luna's heart break a little. It was one of painful resignation, and the princess guessed that Twilight had that face on a lot the past few years.

"H-h-how am I supposed to get my tea...?" Twilight asked, her voice becoming weak and her eyes watering. She obviously wasn't really talking about the tea, but didn't want to beg Zecora to stay away from her homeland. The zebra smiled, knowing that her friend was hurt.

"I will mail you some my dear friend, our correspondence will not end." Twilight hiccupped briefly, biting back tears. Zecora kissed her on her forehead, trying to comfort her.

When Luna finally sensed the frustration of the guards as they entered the forest again, the two of them teleported back to Ponyville. The moment they arrived back inside Twilight's house, the lavender colored unicorn dragged her feet over to her desk. She sat on the chair and slammed her face onto the table rather hard.

"C'mon..." Luna said nervously. "It's not that bad. You can still write to her right?"

"Like Rainbow Dash?" Twilight said, her voice muffled by the desk. "Everypony I know and love is leaving me."

"Oh Twilight, they're not leaving you," Luna said, walking right up right beside the pony. "Their lives are just leading them in different directions."

"Like mine?" Twilight replied. "I've stayed at this house since Princess Celestia ordered me to. Maybe I should move back to Canterlot and get a real job..."

"But you've spent your entire life studying magic!" Luna stated, abruptly feeling terrible for the little unicorn. "Sis hasn't pulled your stipend yet! Don't give up!"

"At a real job people are less likely to just up and leave..." Twilight muttered. "Everypony is just going to leave me if I stay here..."

"Not everypony in your life is going to leave you!" Luna said desperately.

"What, like you?" Twilight said, lifting her head.

"Uh...uh..." Luna said, being caught off guard. Twilight was hurt and was lashing out. The princess understood that, but that didn't make it any easier to take.

"Like you're going to stay?" Twilight said bitterly. "Sooner or later those guards will find you and then you'll have to leave! You'll leave me too! Just like everypony!" Tears were periodically streaming down her face. "Why are you even here?" Luna twitched. She hadn't seen a pony this hurt in a long time. The mare that only yesterday was hopping around happily at a party, now crying in a heap, hurt the Princess's heart.

"Twilight..." Luna finally said, her voice straining.

"I just want to be left alone." The unicorn said, putting her face back onto the desk. Luna knew she meant the opposite, but Twilight was also dealing with the coming pain of Luna leaving and was pushing the princess away. The alicorn shifted nervously. There was something she could do...but it was not recommended. In ancient times it led to some serious trouble and only alicorns were capable of doing it.

"Twilight," Luna began. "Look at me." The unicorn reluctantly obeyed, already appearing exhausted. "I want you to empty your head." The unicorn squinted and wiped away tears.

"What?" She asked.

"Just trust me, empty your mind, make it blank and don't think of anything." Luna instructed. Twilight had no idea what she was talking about, but decided to obey. She closed her eyes and began trying to clear her mind. "Think of an empty, white room, with absolutely nothing in it, got it?"

"Yeah." Twilight said.

"Good." Luna replied. She leaned forward and brought the tips of each other's horns together. Before Twilight had time to question what was happening, Luna sent magic into the unicorn's horn. The pony flinched and gasped. Her mind abruptly filled with memories, just as vivid as they had been when she first experienced them.

Twilight felt Spike on her back, and ropes over her mouth.

"Hi-ho Twilight, away!" He shouted. The unicorn gave him a glare.

"And just what do you think you're doing?" Twilight asked, her tone harsh.

"Please Twilight, just give me this." Spike pleaded. He was such a young dragon with the most childish of crushes upon Rarity. Twilight couldn't just cramp his style.

"Ugh...fine!" Twilight said. She reared back and then took off down the tunnel.

The moment changed. Now Twilight was in Zecora's hut for the first time. All of her friends from Ponyville were there. They had all been affected horribly by some plant, but they were blaming the zebra instead. Rainbow Dash had just crashed, her wings upside down. Everything in Zecora's hut had been smashed, including something she had been brewing.

"We're onto you Zecora!" Twilight shouted, her horn floppy on her head. "I didn't want to believe you cursed us, but the evidence is overwhelming!"

"You made me look ridiculous!" Rarity interjected, her hair in shaggy curls.

"You made me sound ridiculous." Fluttershy added, her voice distinctly like a stallion's. Pinkie Pie then tried to speak, but all that came out was spitting gibberish. Her tongue was too big for her mouth. At the time, Twilight thought that might have also been a blessing, considering how bad Pinkie was at keeping a straight line in a conversation.

"You ruined my horn!" Twilight said, accusingly.

"How dare you!" Zecora shouted angrily. "You destroy my home, destroy my work! Then boldly accuse me of being a jerk!"

"You put this curse on us!" Rainbow Dash shouted. "Now you're going to uncurse us!"

"It is unwise to venture down this road!" Zecora said, stomping her hoof onto the ground. "Your actions will make my anger explode!"

"Where. Is. Apple Bloom!" Twilight shouted, now sounding angry. She pushed her forehead against Zecora's, both of them pushing against one another.

"Zecora!" Apple Bloom shouted, entering the door of the house. "I think I found all the things ya asked for!" Apple Bloom's surprised face was the last thing Twilight saw, before the scene faded.

Now she was at Pinkie Pie's birthday party, the first surprise one they ever sprung on her. They were in a barn full of balloons and streamers, and Pinkie was fuming at them. The poor pony thought that they were trying to kick her out of town or something. Once the Pinkie realized that this was her birthday party her hair abruptly poofed out again and her usual demeanor returned.

"Because it's my birthday!" She shouted with mirth. Her arms stretched out in both directions as she rounded her friends in a huge hug. "Oh! How could I have forgotten my own birthday?" Everypony else heaved a sigh of relief. The pink pony abruptly dropped all back onto the ground. The hyperactive pony began bouncing around, excitedly. "And you like me so much you decided to throw me a surprise party!"

"That's what we've been trying to tell you darling." Rarity said, flashing a pretty smile.

"You girls are the best friends ever!" Pinkie Pie shrieked, still hopping around. She abruptly stopped moving and lowered her head. A sad expression came across her face. "How could I have ever doubted you?" Twilight smiled and trotted over to her friend.

"It's okay Pinkie Pie." Twilight said. "It could've happened to any of us." Abruptly, all the other ponies approached the two of them, reassuring Pinkie that they weren't mad.

"I'm just glad I haven't been replaced by a bucket of turnips!" Rainbow Dash said. Pinkie Pie smiled nervously, remembering her crazy behavior a little earlier.

"Huh?" Twilight asked, not yet aware of Pinkie had been doing back home.

"You don't want to know." Rainbow Dash replied from above her, smiling mischievously.

"Alright girls, enough of this gabbin'!" Applejack exclaimed as she walked over to the record player. "Let's party!" She turned the device on. As the music started to play, all of the ponies began dancing. Twilight was filled with happiness to be around her friends. At the time, she didn't even realize how much it all meant to her. She certainly did now that it was all gone.

Twilight stumbled out of her chair, her mind swimming. It wasn't a memory spell. It was deeper. She could feel Spike on her back. She could smell Zecora's spilled brew. She could hear the music, smell the hay in the barn and feel her hooves move to the music. She was there. Twilight scuttled around like a foal, trying to figure out how to walk. It wasn't until the princess lent her support that she managed to stand up straight.

"What...I was...there...it...what was...?" Twilight babbled incoherently. She stared around her house, unsure of where she was or what year she resided in.

"It's something we alicorns can do." Princess Luna replied. "We can do more than just show your memories to you. We can make you relive them."

"That was...incredible." Twilight said, her senses finally returning. Once she realized that what she saw, smelled and tasted were all memories of the past, she felt familiar haze of sadness set over her. "Can you...do that again?" Luna sighed and looked away from Twilight.

"Most alicorns refuse to do the practice." The princess stated, seemingly ignoring the question. "You see, it's like a drug. Why deal with the terrible things of the present when you can just run away to your happy past? Some less virtuous alicorns began acting as dealers, selling the ability to live in your memories. There were people that starved to death, content with just seeing the past over and over again. The alicorns that ruled worked for millennia to break the practice." Twilight thought to herself a moment. She understood what Luna was saying, but why even do it in the first place?

"Then why did you do it?" Twilight asked, managing to stand on her own four feet.

"I couldn't stand to see you in so much pain." Luna said, walking towards a window. Twilight stared at the princess, but the royal pony's face was turned away from her. "I wanted to remind you of the good times, not just the bad." Twilight stared at the ground. She didn't know what to make of what just happened. She really wanted Luna to do it again, but knew it was better that she didn't. The unicorn really needed to clear her head.

"I'm going for a walk." Twilight announced, heading for the door. Luna didn't respond.

When Twilight Sparkle left, Luna began pacing the room, her head low to the ground.

'Why did I do that?' The unicorn thought, feeling miserable. She told herself that she had good intentions, but didn't know if that was true. Luna missed the happy bunny of a unicorn she saw yesterday. Twilight was hopping around, chatting happily and discussing things in magical textbooks and taking Luna's answers to them far too seriously. In short, Twilight was being adorable. Then Luna saw her hit the depths of despair, cry and lash out. It was too much, so Luna performed forbidden magic. It certainly wasn't her wisest decision.

The princess kicked a bookcase, mostly out of frustration. Much to her chagrin, something fell from the top of it and landed directly on her head. The alicorns stumbled backwards, most ungracefully. She growled at herself, rubbing where the object struck her. Luna gazed up and saw something that took her a few moments to process.

It was a basket, the blanket inside partially spilled out. It puzzled the princess as to why Twilight would need such a thing. As she approached, she used her magic to lift up the sheets. Her eyes widened when she saw what was underneath. A small collection of colored gems was hiding inside the basket. Why would Twilight keep these? Since the discovery of the spell used to find gems, they had become nearly worthless except to look pretty. Then something fluttered off of the blanket. It twisted in the air and landed on top of the jewels. It was a purple dragon scale.

Luna heart broke a little. This had been Spike's bed. He must have hidden the gems under his covers as his little stash for a snack. Twilight kept the bed as she had found it, she hadn't even checked under the blanket. She probably couldn't bear to get rid of the thing. Luna made a slight whining sound at the sudden emptiness inside of her. She probably made Twilight feel worse instead of better... well no longer. Luna leaned down and seized the basket with her teeth. She turned and charged out the door. With no regard for getting caught, she took off into the air.

Twilight slouched around Ponyville, dragging her feet. When she said that she should leave Ponyville earlier it was the first time she ever did so. She had so many happy memories and quite a few friends still in town. Now, however, the sadness was beginning to overwhelm both of those. She was a grown mare now. She couldn't read books forever. So far the only thing she had in the way of a job description was "Celestia's favorite student." She was now giving serious thought to going out and looking for a job.

She needed somepony to talk to, but her choices were slim. She could talk to Applejack, but the pony was always so busy. Twilight wasn't entirely sure when apple-bucking season was, but it seemed like it was year-round. Added in with the fact that her husband Apple Tree was largely useless without her, Apple Core was quite the little rascal and their farm had grown in size much faster than their family Twilight wasn't likely to get Applejack's attention for long. Twilight couldn't go see Zecora without breaking down into tears, so that was out. Twilight groaned as she turned down a street and began walking towards her inevitable destination. She even considered the Cutie Mark Crusaders before settling on this decision. She was going to... attempt... to speak to Pinkie Pie.

When Twilight entered the bakery, she was greeted with a familiar sight every time she saw Pinkie Pie. The pink pony bounded over and stuck her face directly in front of Twilight's.

"You're just in time!" The pony shouted. "I'm starting Gummy's after-after-after-after..."

"That's great Pinkie." Twilight said quickly, putting her hoof in front of Pinkie's mouth. "I'm not really in the mood for a party."

"A party will put you in the mood for a party!" Pinkie shouted, making about as much sense as she usually did. "Come on!" Pinkie leapt into the center of the room and began dancing.

"Pinkie..." Twilight began, a vein in her forehead beginning to pop. The pony continued to ignore her, cheering Gummy on. The alligator merely blinked his eyes however, each one at a different interval. "Pinkie!" Pinkie began whooping at the ceiling, hopping around excitedly. Twilight felt anger boil inside of her. It was the first time she had ever felt this way about Pinkie. Did she even care? Are parties and confetti and cupcakes all this pony can think about? Doesn't any of this matter?

"PINKIE PIE!" Twilight bellowed with all of her might. Pinkie landed on the ground and flinched away from her friend. Twilight's voice was seething with rage. Her sorrow had turned to anger, and Pinkie pushed her buttons. "Don't you even care? Everypony is leaving and all you can do is mindlessly throw parties! Everything can't be solved with a party! They won't bring our friends back!"

"Why are you yelling at me?" Pinkie said in a soft voice, lowering her head towards the ground.

"Zecora is leaving!" Twilight shouted. "The Princess is leaving...everypony is leaving, and you're throwing a party!" Pinkie shrunk back more, not believing Twilight could ever be so harsh.

"The party isn't for them." Pinkie said quietly. "It's for you."

"H-huh?" Twilight asked, her anger quickly fizzling.

"We're not celebrating them leaving, and I certainly care...but I don't want any more sadness. I thought if I threw a party, the sad look on everypony's face would disappear... and it does... for a little while. So I keep having parties so all of my friends will be happy." Twilight had a blank expression on her face for a few moments. She had never thought of it that way. She figured that Pinkie Pie threw these endless parties because of some pathological need to escape her own sadness. Twilight sighed and lowered her head. She kicked her hoof at the ground a few times.

"There's only one way to cure this sadness Pinkie." Twilight said. "And it's not with a party. We can't have what we used to when we were fillies. We can't just have everypony come back and act like we did back then."

"If we can't bring it back," Pinkie began. "then we can only work with what we have." Twilight stared at the pink pony. She wondered just how smart Pinkie was. How much of her personality was really her and how much was just a happy-go-lucky front? Maybe both were her, just different parts.

"You're right Pinkie." Twilight said. "I'm sorry for yelling at you." The unicorn turned around and began walking out the door. "I need to walk until my mind clears, I'll be gone a while." Pinkie smiled to herself.

"The party will be waiting for you when you do!" Pinkie gazed down at Gummy, who was chewing on a ribbon. "You'll always love me, won't you?" The alligator's right eye blinked. That was when, quite abruptly, Pinkie's entire body began to shudder. Her face fell and was replaced with one of concern. Her Pinkie sense was going off, but this feeling... this had only happened once before, and something amazing happened. Something amazing would happen... but amazingly good or bad?

This was a lot harder than Luna thought. Her sense of smell was quite good, but the mountains to the west of the Everfree Forest were swarming with unpleasant creatures. Luna had already run into two ursa majors, three of the wrong dragons and a very angry scorpius who for some ungodly reason refused to let her leave until it got a snip of her light blue hair. Exhaustively, Luna collapsed in front of yet another cave, the basket still in her teeth. She was going to have a serious conversation with Celestia about taming these forests when she returned back to the castle. Luna stood up and dusted herself off. She approached the edge of the cave and took a sniff. It reeked of reptile.

The Princess had absolutely no love of these scaled creatures. A very traumatic event in her childhood was to blame, one she didn't like discussing. Luna steeled her will, took a deep breath and marched into the cave.

After only a little ways in, she saw that this cave belonged to a dragon. The walls had deep claw marks in them, a territorial gesture for the creatures. The princess gulped, beginning to think this was a horrible idea. Of course, if she went back empty-handed all she would see was Twilight crying. Seeing the poor unicorn's face in emotional agony made Luna's heart ache. She couldn't bear to see it. The Princess emerged into a cavern. She shuddered a bit, feeling her knees become wobbly. This was a dragon's den. Piles of jewels were scattered around, although they were not large. The princess set the basket down on the ground. She tried to speak, but her voice failed her for a few moments. Finally, she cleared her throat.

"H-Hello?" She called. "Is anypony there?" For a time there was nothing but silence. Then she heard a grunt and a shuffling of feet. After a few tense moments something emerged from a side cavern. Luna knew she found her mark. The dragon had aged a bit, but he was still easily recognizable. His scales were light purple, his underbelly was light green and his now spiky ears were sap green. His body was more serpentine and much longer. He was even bigger than Celestia now. His tail now had a larger, sharp ending. His snout was slightly longer and the spikes on his body had evened out (as opposed to being grossly larger on his head) and become sharp. The young dragon growled at the pony in his cave, causing her to shrink backwards. She saw his sharp claws were covered with dirt. He had been digging for more gems.

"Who dares disturb my cave?" Spike said, growling. His voice had deepened quite a lot. Luna was beginning to lose her nerve. The other dragons she ran into were either sleeping or indifferent to her presence.

"D-Don't you remember me?" The princess asked.

"Leave now!" Spike bellowed. "Before I get angry!" He shot a brief stream of fire into the air. Luna yelped and jumped into the air, her feet scrambling uselessly. Her foot nicked the edge of the basket, tipping it over. The blanket inside billowed out, along with the jewels hidden underneath. Spike gazed at it, mesmerized. Luna was huddled on the ground, shaking. Spike walked over to the basket, quite calmly. He sniffed the gems, his eyes closed. He could still smell the tree house on them. It made him feel like he was a baby again. He raised his head back up. His brain was now clear for a moment, free from his baser impulses. He recognized the poor pony huddling on the ground. "You're the princess, the one that was Nightmare Moon." Luna opened one eye. She saw that Spike now had a kinder expression on his face.

"Y-Yes." She said, raising herself off the ground. "You remember me!" Spike gazed down at his secret stash of jewels.

"I left this at Twilight's house." He stated. "Why do you have them?"

"I'm visiting Twilight." Luna replied, some of her fear fading away. "I saw this and thought I would bring these to you."

"Thanks." Spike said, sounding confused. That was an awful lot of trouble for a just a few gems.

"Listen," Luna began. "Twilight is very sad. Zecora said she was leaving for her homeland soon and Twilight isn't taking it very well. She feels that everypony around her is leaving and soon she'll be all alone. She even told me that she should quit being a student and just get a job back at Canterlot!"

"That doesn't sound like Twilight." Spike said, scratching his chin with his claw.

"I know, she's in a very bad way right now, so I thought who better to cheer her up than her assistant, roommate and friend?"

"Well, I'd love to," Spike replied. "but the last time I left my cave I came back and found several other young dragons pillaging it. That's why I moved and Twilight couldn't find me anymore. My instincts tell me to stay here and I'm afraid that if I do I'll return to find all the gems I worked hard to find gone."

"I could hide the entrance of the cave."

"Y-You can do that?"

"Of course, it's a simple illusion spell. I can make it appear as if the entrance to the cave is nothing but the smooth rock of the mountain." Spike smiled, revealing a new row of sharp teeth.

"Then what are we waiting for?"

Twilight made her way to outskirts of town, kicking up dirt she dragged her hooves. Perhaps Pinkie really wasn't as stupid as she seemed. Then again, how much thinking did it take to realize that throwing parties for everypony when they don't show up is useless? Twilight sighed into the dust and leaned onto a pile of logs. She briefly gazed around. She was the lumber mill, a place on the edge of Ponyville. Since the Everfree Forest and Whitetail Wood had plenty of trees and the demand for houses continued to grow they frequently chopped down and processed lumber here. It was also pretty convenient that magic could easily grow the foliage back. The whole place reeked of wood and was covered with sawdust. Twilight wrinkled her nose and then blew out her nostrils. She was going to start sneezing if she hung around here. She turned to return moping in the other direction...

That's when she heard a laugh. It was a stallion, and his outburst was a great guffaw, as if he found something completely hilarious. Twilight perked up her ears. It was an odd sound, particularly around here. What could be so funny in a sawmill? Then she heard a high-pitch whine. Twilight's face fell. She recognized that noise anywhere. She heard it the first day she came to Ponyville. The unicorn rounded the pile of logs, only to find numerous others interwoven in front of her. She had to climb, side-step and walk around many of them to finally get where the sound was coming from. As she peeked over a final log, she got the biggest eyeful of her life.

There was a shack behind the piles of logs. The door was ajar and the unicorn could see there was a table with several papers on them. It was more than likely some kind of tally station, to keep up with how many logs there were. That wasn't what drew Twilight's eye. In the shadow of the shack was a puddle of muddy water, which had apparently survived from the last rainfall. In that puddle, covered with mud, was Fluttershy.

"I-I-Is this enough?" Fluttershy asked, her voice barely audible. There were three stallions standing around her, two earth ponies and a unicorn. One of the earth ponies, the color of mud, barely out of being a colt and with crooked teeth, was the one cackling like hyena, as if he found this absolutely hilarious. The unicorn, fully-grown and green-furred, reached up with his hoof and rubbed his chin. There was a devilish gleam in his eyes however.

"I don't know." The unicorn said. "What do you guys think?"

"Dirtier, dirtier, hyuck hyuck!" The mud-colored pony cackled.

"You heard him." The unicorn ordered, a wide smile appearing on his face. Fluttershy briefly closed her eyes and trembled. She then fell into the puddle and began rolling around, much to the howling laughter of the stallions. She stood back up, her hair and body completely covered in mud.

"Is this enough?" Fluttershy asked, sounding utterly humiliated.

"Yeah, you're a dirty little mule." The unicorn said, grinning loudly. "'Nee-haw' like a mule, go on." Fluttershy issued a tiny whine, which didn't have any discernable words. "Sorry, didn't catch that." The unicorn's voice was mocking. He flicked his ear, leaning in closer.

"N-n-nee-haw..." Fluttershy muttered, tears beginning to stream down her face.

"Louder." The unicorn ordered.

"Nee-haw."

"Louder."

"Nee-haw!"

"Louder, louder! Hyuck, hyuck!"

"Nee-haw! Nee-haw! Nee-haw!" Fluttershy was practically screaming it at this point. Tears of humiliation were pouring down her face. All of the males laughed uproariously. The unicorn wiped a tear from his eye.

"Oh you are a dirty mare!" He exclaimed. "Bridleburg was right, she's just the best!" His gaze abruptly changed to something lascivious. "Now...turn around." Fluttershy sniffed and wiped her tears away. She attempted to walk out of the puddle, but the unicorn held up his hoof. "No, you stay in there. Dirty mules deserve to roll around in the muck and filth." Fluttershy flinched, but obeyed. She turned around and stood waiting.

"Oh come on boss!" The mud-colored pony exclaimed. "I want a turn! We all pitched in to get her!"

"We'll all get a turn, but I paid the most, so I get dibs." The unicorn replied. He began marching forward, licking his lips.

Blind rage. Those were the only words Twilight could even think of to describe what burned inside of her gut. Fluttershy's husband...was selling her out! Twilight couldn't even think straight. She couldn't watch the scene anymore. She lowered her head back behind the log and grated her hooves against the ground in rage. She desperately wanted to jump over the log, charge in, beat those stallions senseless and rescue Fluttershy, but that probably wouldn't work. Even in her limited capacity, she knew it was a bad idea. The ringleader was a unicorn, a full adult male too. If he was magical enough to move these logs around he could certainly put up a fight. Then there was the matter of the two earth ponies. She couldn't fight all three of them at once and then if she lost... what would they do to her? Fluttershy would be humiliated, Twilight would face the unimaginable and Bridleburg would still get his damned money. No...there needed to be a plan. She had to blow this wide open. She would show Bridleburg for what he was and hang him for it. She would see to it personally, even if it was the last thing she would ever do! As much as it hurt and burned her up inside... Twilight turned and walked away. Her vision had a red haze over it and her guts were twisted up. Even as she walked, she stamped her hooves onto the ground so hard that sawdust went in all directions.

The door to Twilight's home burst open. Luna spun around, smiling. Spike was standing in the room, sniffing everything, as if making sure all of it was the same. The princess expected a happy gasp and the pony would begin hopping around excitedly again. Instead, Luna stumbled backwards. She wasn't attempting to sense emotions, but Twilight's feelings bled into her mind. Luna couldn't make sense of it. It was just blind anger. There were no words, no images, no thoughts... just rage. The princess grabbed her head and tried to clear her mind. The emotions were so strong that it nearly knocked out the powerful alicorn. Spike turned and smiled as well, but Twilight calmly marched inside, a stern expression on her face. She merely glanced at the dragon before continuing on to her library bookcase.

"Spike! Take a note!" She ordered. The dragon and the alicorn in the room glanced at each other. Luna was dazed and still trying to make sense of what was pouring into her head. She appeared confused. Spike simply shrugged, not sure what to do. He reached for a quill and a piece of paper and began writing, as he always had.

"Dear Princess Celestia," Twilight began, pacing back and forth. "it has come to my attention that certain unscrupulous individuals in the town have begun contributing to..." Twilight abruptly stopped. Her rage disappeared, finally allowing Luna to focus. The Princess's eyes rotated in different directions for a moment. Twilight's head jerked around and a wide smile broke out onto her face. "SPIKE!" Luna watched as in two huge bounds the unicorn leapt over to the dragon and wrapped all four of her hooves onto Spike's neck. "Oh Spike! I missed you! I missed you so much!" Twilight rubbed her cheek back and forth joyously on his rough scales. "How have you been? Have you been eating well? Are you sleeping well? Have you had your second growth spurt? How big is your gem pile? Have you gotten good at breathing fire? Have you been sick at all? I can make some food if you are!"

"It's good to see you too Twilight." Spike said, realizing she was babbling. He reached up with his hands and wrapped the unicorn in a hug. Twilight attempted to do the same, but only managed to spread her legs out across his broad chest. Both of them stayed that way for several moments, neither of them letting go. Twilight abruptly felt something wet. She opened her eyes and saw that a small stream of water was leaking down Spike's neck and onto her face.

"Spike?" Twilight asked.

"Yes?" The dragon asked.

"Are you crying?"

"No." The dragon said as he sniffed his massive nose.

"Neither am I." Both of them returned to their hugging. Luna enjoyed the scene. She smiled as she sensed the warm, gentle love that was emanating from Twilight. She couldn't sense anything from Spike. She had suspicions that she could only sense the emotions of ponies but had never met anything intelligent enough to confirm it. Now she knew for sure. Luna enjoyed the happy feelings and the memories attached to them. Abruptly however, the Princess became dizzy. She had flown for huge distance, been scared out of her wits and overwhelmed mentally all in one day. Normally all that would have been manageable, but she hadn't slept in several days. None of these things were a big deal all by themselves, but combined altogether they were taking their individual toll and working together to exhaust her. Luna desperately wanted to know what made Twilight so mad, but those emotions were gone She wasn't a mind reader and could only sense thoughts and memories that the emotions a person was currently feeling were attached to. Luna put her hoof to her head and wobbled for a moment.

"I'm going to take a nap." Luna said, not sure if they even heard her. "You two enjoy yourselves." Luna stumbled up the stairs towards the guest bed.

Twilight and Spike talked all day and night. The unicorn even invited Spike to Pinkie's party tomorrow. When the dragon asked how Twilight knew there would be one the unicorn simply laughed. They talked about books, their childhood and what all of their friends were doing now. Twilight forgot all about her problems. She forgot about Fluttershy, about Zecora and about the scattering of her friends. It was a long time before they ran out of breath. After that they both drank some of Zecora's tea and Spike drifted off to sleep. Twilight was leaning against his snout, listening to his deep snore. The unicorn watched her apprentice sleep, seeing him as the baby dragon from her memories. Finally, she stood up and picked up their teacups. She set them aside and stood in front of a window.

Luna was a very nice pony. Twilight had heard the entire story from Spike. Luna had sought out Spike in the mountains, even when she didn't know where he was. Twilight owed the Princess a debt for this and would have to find a way to pay her back. Her thoughts invariably returned to her most pressing matter however, Fluttershy.

How could Fluttershy just go along with that? She could have just told him 'no' and left! How could she do that? Twilight understood that Fluttershy had a weak personality and Bridleburg had an overbearing one, but this was just awful. Twilight, in her anger, had originally planned to write to Celestia and have her break up the buyers around the saw mill, attempting to put Bridleburg out of business. After she had calmed down, she realized that probably wouldn't work. The workers at the sawmill, who came from all over Equestria to work, couldn't have been the only buyers. Even if they were, Bridleburg could simply take Fluttershy elsewhere and set up shop there. She had to catch him the act. She had to convince Fluttershy to turn on him and say that she had been forced into this. She would see Bridleburg in jail for this or she would deal with him... herself.

Twilight had never had such dark thoughts before. To even consider doing what she thought about... however, no one hurt Twilight's friends, NO ONE. Bridleburg would pay. An idea popped into Twilight's head. She was going to have to set him up. She needed to speak with Fluttershy alone, unlikely considering that Bridleburg never left her alone... except when she was working. Twilight needed somepony to pose as a buyer. Then she would convince Fluttershy to turn on him. They would go to Princess Celestia and Bridleburg would be exposed for what he was and suffer the consequences. Twilight gazed up at the nearly full moon. She knew of only one stallion that might help her.

"Please watch over me." She said at the sky. For a moment, she saw those frolicking wisps in her head. The ones from her dream that apparently created ponykind as they were today. It was silly. It was just a dream...wasn't it? "Please help me," Twilight continued. "and if you could...please give Big Macintosh an open mind?"

Chapter 13

Celestia and Luna didn’t have many options. They sought a place that didn’t have ponies or where they would not be found by them. That left very few places. If they hid in a forest they might be found by a hermit or hunter and they could pass on the story. They could hide on an island, but they could be found by a ship or pegasi. They would have to find an extreme place, where nopony wanted to go or would go. They could go to the high mountains, it was cold and nopony would be there. This place however ran the risk of them being found by somepony climbing the mountain or a trader moving through. They could go to the far north, where there was a continent of solid ice, but there were no plants and they would be forced to eat meat. That wasn’t an appetizing choice. That left only one place: the desert. There was one to the far west...and it was hot as hell. Nopony lived there, traders avoided it and the heat made it impossible for normal ponies to stay for an extended period of time. Fortunately, the alicorns weren’t normal ponies. After scouring the desert for some time they found a large collection of rocks, hundreds of feet high, in the sea of sand. Using their magic they burrowed a cave into one of the rocks and drew up water deep from underground. There, for what seemed like forever, they stayed.

Luna lay in the cave, the oppressive heat making her sluggish. It was Celestia’s turn to find food. It usually consisted of roots, cactus and the occasional bush. Cactus actually didn’t taste too bad, but bushes were tasteless and the roots were bitter. They had been there for several decades; most of it had been in silence. What could they talk about? All the ponies they ever cared about had died before their time in horrible ways. Now they sat in the heat and emptiness, opting to live in hell rather than around ponies. Celestia finally returned, bearing mostly roots. They had eaten nearly all of the cactuses in the whole desert. Luna didn’t even acknowledge her sister as she dumped the roots on the ground. The white alicorn then trotted over to the well they had made and drew up some water. She promptly took the bucket and dumped it over her head.

“It’s hot.” Celestia said. “More than usual.”

“It always is.” Luna said, not moving from where she lounged on the ground. There was no escape from the heat. Even the nights were blistering. Both of the alicorns were in a rather deep depression. Neither of them had seen another pony since they got there. Celestia, once a stunning pony with suitors coming and going, now had hair that always had a brown sand-colored tint to it. Her face was usually caked with wet sand around her eyes and mouth. Often times she had to use her tail to swat flies away from her. Luna was in similar shape, but wasn’t so much depressed as she was whipped. While Celestia craved attention and affection, Luna desired nothing more to be alone now. She tolerated her sister. Celestia collapsed on her particular spot, and lounged much like Luna did.

“Maybe we should look around, see if the war’s over.” Celestia said.

“We would only attract attention.” Luna said. That was their second line of conversation. They have this brief discussion every few weeks. Celestia sighed with defeat and lay in silence. Luna supposed this was their way of grieving. They were alicorns, all these years were just drops in an ocean of years. Luna would have been happy to stay here for the rest of eternity...but...

Luna’s mind drifted to the source of their troubles, those black alicorns with those violent red eyes. They burned their village to the ground, tortured their family and friends, slaughtered them all and then promptly went on their merry way. Luna’s mind went back to her childhood, one of the only other alicorns she had pleasant memories of, Lucerna. All those eons ago he warned her parents of an incoming war. Her parents wanted to remain neutral in it. The war found them anyway. No alicorn was safe. No alicorn could stay neutral.

Luna picked up her head. She blinked a few times. She actually bothered to think for the first time in a long time.

“Celestia.” Luna said. Her sister’s own head popped up. This was the first new piece of dialogue they had in a long time.

“Y-Yes?” Celestia asked.

“Maybe...maybe we shouldn’t avoid the war.” Luna said.

“Come again?”

“Look, our parents told us to avoid fighting...but they’re gone and the situation has changed. We could wait here until it all blows over, if it will at all, but assuming that it does, how long will it take? Alicorns live forever Celestia. This war may never end.”

“So you’re suggesting...we get involved!? We don’t even know where the different sides are, much less which one is the best.”

“The ones that attacked us are obviously the ones not to pick.”

“But where is the other side?”

“Numbria.”

“Pardon?” Celestia was now standing up.

“Lucerna.” Luna elaborated, standing on her own. “Remember him? I saw a place in his mind, where he lived, Numbria. I doubt he’s on the side that’s attacking villages. We could find him.”

“So you’re suggesting that we do the opposite of everything we’ve ever done in our entire lives, against the advice of our parents and side with ponies that may or may not have slaughtered everypony we’ve ever known in our lives.”

“That or we could just stay here for a few thousand years and see if it blows over.” Celestia gazed at the ground, not appearing very sure. “It’s a city y’know, there are probably thousands of stallions.” The older alicorn’s head jerked around.

Weeks later, the two alicorns were walking down a cobblestone road. The climate had significantly improved over their previous home, being far more temperate and littered with trees and forests. They were covered in dark brown cloaks, concealing who they were. Luna did indeed take them to the city of Numbria, but were told Lucerna was out in the field with his army. They were informed that there was indeed a war going on, a very big one. Celestia was devastated to find out that every able-bodied stallion, apart from the city guards, had been called into action. All that remained were old stallions and foals. At first the guards refused to give them the location of Lucerna’s field camp, but after a brief stripping of their cloaks they instantly relented. They seemed rather ecstatic actually. Something about alicorns being the most-sought after type of pony.

Now they both were walking in the direction the guards indicated. Celestia was dragging her feet, slightly depressed that she hadn’t had any real attention yet. Luna however had her eyes and ears opened. She began to notice things. The further they walked down the path, the fewer ponies she saw. A day or two ago they passed a village. All the ponies were very quiet and skittish. Several times since then Luna had spotted what appeared to be abandoned villages, some of them partially burnt, a few of them burnt to the ground. Still, they marched on.

Finally, as they crested a hill they saw it. There was a sea of tents surrounded by a wooden palisade wall. There were ponies swarming about the place. Just as they gazed upon it a legion of pegasi swarmed away, heading in all directions. There were also earth ponies on the outside of the encampment, apparently doing some form of drills. Inside of the camp, unicorns were tossing various objects through the air, practicing their magic. There had to be well over ten thousand ponies below and above them. There were more ponies than either of the alicorns had ever seen in their entire lives. For several moments they were in awe, completely dumbstruck by the sight. Finally, Luna regained her senses and cleared her throat.

“Let’s go.” She stated, beginning to trot. Celestia followed, wordless. Both of them stared around like tourists, completely fascinated by all that was around them. Celestia was so shocked that she didn’t even notice that she was surrounded by ten thousand potential dates. It took them some time to get to the gates of the place, earning some curious gazes from some of the ponies doing drills. Eventually they arrived. The moment they did however the ponies guarding the gates crossed their spears, barring their entry.

“Halt!” One of them shouted. Both of the ponies flinched. They had never met soldiers before and were unfamiliar with their demeanor or behavior. “State your business!” Both of the ponies were hesitant to speak, but as Celestia abruptly developed the hiccups from being frightened Luna decided to speak.

“We...wish to see Lucerna.” Luna stated.

“King Lucerna is very busy.” The solider stated. “Is this a field report or official business?” Luna didn’t have a field report, and she wasn’t sure what qualified as official business.

“N-No...” Luna said.

“Then you will have to leave!” The guard shouted. “This is an official military camp and is not open to civilians!”

“But...but we’ve come all this way...” Luna muttered.

“If you don’t obey, I will have you escorted away!” More guards abruptly appeared around the gates, all of them armed. Luna gulped, Celestia began hiccupping even louder.

It was then, by a stroke of luck, they saw somepony walking in the camp not too far away. He was surrounded by a retinue of armored ponies, apparently giving him information as he trotted along. They instantly recognized the pony, despite the fact they had only seen him once before in their lives. His bright red mane and vanilla-green coat were unmistakable. As a reflex, Luna leapt forward. The guards instantly ran forward, grabbing and pushing her back. Several more guards rushed in. With all of her strength, Luna managed to not be seized, even throwing a few back twenty feet or so.

“Lucerna!!!!” She shouted at the top of her lungs. He was quite a distance away, but he managed to hear. He turned his head towards the gate, a puzzled expression on his face. Who could possibly be trying to rush into their walls? Luna then remembered her cloak. She reached up and jerked it off her body. The moment she did she spread her wings to their fullest extent and raised her head. Surprisingly, the guards scattered, some of them falling all over themselves. They appeared afraid. Many of them were shouting about Luna’s dark color and were desperately scrambling for weapons. Celestia jumped in as well, throwing off her own cloak. Her bright white coat instantly left them puzzled and left the guards befuddled as to what to do. Lucerna’s eyes however widened. He quickly trotted over, his mouth slightly agape.

“Luna?” He asked when he was finally close enough. “Celestia?” Instantly, the two sisters appeared relieved, overjoyed that they finally found somepony that knew them. “Let them through!” The guards parted, clearing a path. “Come children.” Both Luna and Celestia took off running. Despite the fact that they had only met him once they were overjoyed to see Lucerna. They instantly hugged him, both of them wrapping their hooves around his neck. He happily reciprocated. “I feared that all of you were lost. What of your mother and father?”

“They’re dead.” Celestia said.

“A pity.” Lucerna replied, his voice falling low. He sighed, as if there was a great weight on his sholders. He then finally released them. “I feared as much. I’m happy that you are both well however.”

“If...If you don’t mind me asking...” Luna began. “How did you know our parents? They never said.” Lucerna chuckled.

“They were never much for familial ties.”

“What?” Luna asked.

“I am your great uncle.” Both of the female alicorns looked surprised.

“R-Really? Hic!” Celestia said, promptly followed by an outburst.

“Truly.” Lucerna said. “Come, we have much to discuss.” They instantly followed him, going in the direction of a huge tent in the center of the massive camp. “Your mother is my niece. After the...unfortunate demise of your grandmother, Aestiva became more reclusive, more focused on her art. She had no interested in ruling.”

“Ruling?” Luna asked. “You mean she was...?”

“Indeed. Your mother was a princess, heir to the fallen throne of Equestre.”

“Fallen?” Celestia asked.

“There were more...unfortunate demises.” Lucerna seemed rather bitter every time he said “unfortunate.” “War was imminent and with no one left to take the throne I offered the citizens the opportunity to migrate to my country. Most of them actually accepted my offer, the rest remain as independent villages. I could not convince Aestiva to return, especially after the two of you were born.”

“The war has started hasn’t it?” Luna asked.

“Indeed.” Lucerna said. “For quite some time now.”

“It’s this Nox isn’t it?” Luna continued.

“Indeed.” Lucerna’s voice was much deeper now. They entered the large tent. It was like a circus tent and was filled with war maps on stands, weapons and tables with small figurines on it. There were two alicorns already there. Celestia and Luna gawked on them. Both of them were fully grown, one was a stallion, one a mare. The male seemed to have a dull expression, almost as if he didn’t care. His coat was bright yellow like the sun and his cutie mark was a daisy, not something somepony would expect on a stallion. In addition to that, his eyes and mane were green. His body seemed to scream “plants,” but he also gave an aura of laziness. The mare was quite different. She had brilliantly flowing golden hair accompanied with brilliant green eyes. Her fur was the color of marble and her face was quite possibly the warmest and friendliest that Luna had ever seen. Curiously, she had a dress that covered her lower half, but it did not detract away from her beauty although it did hide her cutie mark. The woman gazed up from the map she was staring at.

“Lord Lucerna!” She said, turning to him and bowing as he approached. The one with the lazy look gave more of a brief bow before turning back to a different map. “I’ve been looking at the movements of the enemy and I think I know how to push them back.”

“That’s great to hear Mitera.” He said. The female alicorn gazed around Lucerna at the smaller ponies behind him.

“Who are these two? I do not recall ever seeing them.” Mitera asked.

“These are my grand-nieces, Luna and Celestia.”

“The daughters of Aestiva and Hiemo?” Mitera asked, her eyebrows raised. “We thought you were lost. It is good to see that you are both alive and well.” She then smirked. “And that you have inherited your mother’s beauty.” Celestia reached up with her hoof and strained it through her mane, grinning.

“Oh well...you know.” Celestia said, happy that she was finally getting compliments. Luna just blushed furiously and gazed at the ground, although she was not sure why she was getting so worked up.

“What is this plan?” Lucerna asked. Mitera nodded and walked over to the table at the center of the room. Luna noticed that one of her back legs, covered by the dress, was completely stiff, giving her an odd walk. She pointed to various figurines on the map.

“As you can see, they’ve distributed their forces in a very standard typical pattern.”

“Nox has always done so.” Lucerna said. “What of it?”

“Well, if he is following the standard pattern then he is putting his food and supplies here, here and here.” She said, pointing as she spoke. “If we can sneak around and burn all the points where he keeps his food...”

“Nox will not sail back.” Lucerna said, pointing to the sea. “You know that. All we will accomplish is to make the layponies within his armies desperate with hunger. They will fight like wild horses, and desperately seek our food.”

“Then we will know where they will attack. It demoralizes them and determines their next action. It’s perfect.” Lucerna however appeared apprehensive and nervous.

“We will force the common pony suffer for the actions of Nox.” Lucerna stated.

“This is war Lucerna. We have to defeat the whole army, not just Nox.” Lucerna stared at the map with a thoughtful expression. “Lucerna!”

“Give...give me time to ponder.” He stated. He then turned and quickly marched out of the tent.

“Lucerna!” Mitera shouted. She took a few stiff steps before stopping. She couldn’t catch him. She sighed and shook her head.

“He’s going to be the death of us.” The lazy alicorn said.

“He’s our commander.” Mitera barked at him. “We will obey his orders.”

“Suit yourself.” The male replied. Mitera sighed again and then stared at Luna and Celestia, as if remembering they were there.

“I’m sorry for that.” She said to them both. “Lucerna has an incredibly kind heart and it sometimes clouds his judgment. It leads to quite a number of arguments. I’ll take care of you for the time being.”

“Good...good...” Celestia said, sounding as if that wasn’t what she wanted to hear. “Um...do you ponies have like a dining hall or canteen or...”

“Are you hungry?”

“Uh...yeah...” Luna sighed to herself. Celestia really wanted to know where the off-duty stallions were. Well, it was what Luna promised her.

“It’s the big tent on the west side of the camp, I can take you there if you want...”

“No, no, I’ll...manage.” Celestia then turned and trotted out of the tent, a spring in her step.

“She seems happy.” Mitera said, smiling slightly.

“She’s gone looking for a stallion.” Luna said.

“Oh...” Mitera frowned briefly before shrugging. “Well she’s young and pretty, as long as it makes her happy.” Luna found herself gazing Mitra’s soft features. She had a gentle beauty to her, much more pleasing than even Celestia. She didn’t even flaunt it around like Celestia either. She must have noticed because the adult alicorn turned towards the younger. Luna jerked her head away and blushed again. There was something about that mare that was making her nervous. Mitera chuckled to herself.

“Need to rest?” She asked.

“I’m...fine.” Luna said.

“Good, I’m going to assign you to the commissioner of supplies.”

“Supplies!?” Luna shouted, jerking her head around. “I did not join this army to move supplies, I came here to fight.” Mitera abruptly raised her hoof. Luna shrunk back, unsure of what she was doing. The mare’s hoof came down on Luna’s head, gently. She ruffled her flowing hair, as one would a small child.

“You’re too young for war little one.” Mitera stated. Luna blushed once again, this time out of embarrassment. She dodged from under the hoof and walked a few paces away.

“I am not!” Luna cried, sounding an impertinent child. Mitera giggled, as if dealing with an impertinent child.

“Truth be told we need you there.” She explained. “All the other alicorns are like you, eager for war and unwilling to accept a lesser job. We have fewer alicorns than the enemy and have to make it up with common ponies, however we would need thousands of regular ponies to make up for a single alicorn. All of these ponies require three meals a day. We’ve been having serious problems moving all those supplies to the battlefront. What takes a thousand ponies a month to move would take an alicorn days. I’m not just sticking you there to put you out of harm’s way. I’m sticking you there because I need you there.” Luna grumbled for a few moments quietly to herself.

“Fine...fine...” She muttered.

“Atta girl!” Mitera said, smiling. Luna blushed yet again. Mitera seemed to know the exact thing to say to make Luna embarrassed. “Gramen, would you take Luna to the supplier’s tent?” The male alicorn, who had been present and silent the whole time, groaned a bit. “Oh yes, I know how physically tiresome it is to walk across the camp. Please, if it is in your power and you’re not too exhausted, take her to the supply tent.”

“Whatever you say matriarch.” Gramen snapped. He walked up to Luna and motioned with his head. “Come on, let’s get this over with.” He began walking outside. Luna glanced at Mitera, giving her an odd expression.

“He’s harmless.” She reassured. “Just follow him.” Luna sighed, but obeyed, following the green pony.

Luna walked beside the silent pony. Even the way he walked seemed lazy and out of energy, frequently dragging his hooves. Luna was left with a million questions, curiously most of them circling around Mitera. She could try to ask “Mr. Excited” beside her, but whether or not he would talk was a mystery. Luna cleared her throat to get his attention, but he showed no sign of noticing. Luna growled slightly at his seeming uninterest.

“Sooo...” Luna began, trying to sound casual. “Who are you?”

“Gramen.” He replied and said nothing else.

“I mean...is there more?”

“Gramen 5th Earl of Rostberry, Duke of Ketlith, Duke of Arcadia, Viscount of Wysteria, Greater Secretary of Agriculture, 72nd in line for the throne of Numbria and graduate of the University of Numbria.” He briefly gave Luna a lackadaisical glance. “Hoorah for the fighting squirrels.”

“Huh?” Luna asked, confused.

“The fighting squirrels were our mascots, our symbols for sporting events.”

“Oh.” Luna said. “Uh...anything else?

“I think I might be the Earl of Callabray and Icthia. They died a week ago in a battle and Lucerna hasn’t assigned them to anypony, but I think I’m the one with the least titles.”

“I see.” Luna said. “So...he’s the king?”

“He hasn’t been crowned so we don’t have a king, but technically he’s the regent.”

“And...and...Mitera?”

“Aunt Mitera?” He asked.

“She’s you’re aunt?”

“No, she just acts like she is.” There was a tone of bitterness in his voice. “She was queen of Catalina, east of Numbria.”

“She’s...a queen!?” Luna shouted.

“Was.” Gramen reiterated. “They were almost on the coast. When the invasion came they got slaughtered. Lucerna took as many of the civilians as he could, but ultimately they got there too quick. It all burned to the ground. The only reason she ran was because she came to us for medical attention. By the time she was well again it was all over.” Despite the fact that this all sounded horrible Gramen said it in a flat and effete voice, almost as if he didn’t care.

“That’s...horrible.” Luna said. “You uh...sound sad.”

“Nothing I can do about it.” He replied flatly.

“What is...well...what else can you tell me about her?” Luna didn’t want to sound as if she was trying to gossip, but at the same time wanted to know. Gramen sighed, as if this was all so exhausting to him.

“She’s nosy, she thinks she always knows better and she thinks she knows what’s best for me.”

“So she’s your mother?” Luna replied, a step ahead of what he was implying. Gramen actually looked at her this time, giving her the feeling that he was actually impressed.

“Sharp aren’t you?” He asked. Luna grinned at him. “Just what we needed, a smart-mouth.” Luna merely chuckled. She heard a loud noise above her and gazed upward. Pegasi were performing impressive maneuvers. They were dodging one another and occasionally colliding, apparently practicing for battle. That was when it finally occurred to Luna. She hadn’t bothered to ask perhaps the most important question.

“How goes the war?” Luna finally asked.

“I just do what they tell me.” Gramen said. “I don’t pay that much attention.”

“I’m supposed to believe you know nothing about a war in which you are fighting?” Gramen then grumbled.

“What am I, the tour guide?” He whined. He abruptly stopped and pointed a few tent rows down. It had a flag over it with a crate embroidered on it. “That’s the supply tent. Go fetch.” He turned and began walking in a different direction. “Why don’t they just make me the designated babysitter?”

“Gelding!!” Luna screamed after him. He didn’t respond. Luna grumbled a bit before trotting the rest of the way to the tent.

*

That was when Twilight felt something. It was something akin to...being excited. It was like what a foal would feel going to a carnival for the first time. A happy memory was about to happen, one that was apparently very important to Luna. Twilight began feeling the same thing, eager to see what would occur.

*

Luna entered the tent. It was stacked bottom to top with wooden crates. There were ponies running in and out of it, loading the boxes desperately onto a cart. Luna stayed out of their way for a few moments, staring. A pony with an abacus was walking along the crates, examining them and moving the beads on his device.

“Move the grain first!” He shouted. “It’s the staple food! Move the vegetables last!” He desperately trotted along, looking at the writing on the crates. That was when he nearly ran into Luna. Once he realized somepony was in his way he jerked his head around, apparently annoyed. “Who are...?” He began incredulously. Once his eyes studied her for a moment they instantly widened. He then stepped back and then did something Luna never expected. He kneeled before her.

“Forgive me my lady.” He stated.

“Hu...hu...huh?” Luna’s mouth was hanging open and she was completely dumbfounded.

“I did not recognize you. Are you of Lucerna’s house?”

“Uh...he’s...my great uncle.” Luna sounded stunned.

“Then I am your loyal subject, how might I help you?” Luna’s heart began to flutter. This was the first time, in her entire long and infinite life, that sompony had given her that kind of respect. She felt...important, needed and wanted. Ever since she had been born she was dependent on others. Now...it was like they needed her. Luna could feel her chest swell with pride. For the rest of her life she remembered this moment...the moment where she no longer felt like a refugee...but like a royal.

“I...I’ve been assigned to assist the commissioner of supply.” Luna finally said.

“That would be me my lady.” He stated. “What are your orders?” Luna continued to stare at him. He was still on his front knees, unmoving, his workers occasionally gawking at him.

“Why are you still on your knees?” Luna asked.

“You have not told me to rise.”

“Oh...uh...you can rise.” He instantly obeyed, picking up his abacus and standing back on his feet.

“Thank you my lady.”

“You can...call me Luna.”

“It will be Lady Luna then.” Luna began to blush. This place was so foreign to her. There were...nice ponies...and so many of them...and respect.

“I was...just...I’m here to help. They told me they needed an alicorn in supplies.”

“You wish...to do manual labor?” He asked. “Isn’t that inappropriate?”

“No I...I don’t mind.” For a few moments the commissioner stared at her, his eyebrow raised.

“As you wish my lady.” He pointed to the boxes. “The soldiers are almost done with their drills for today, and they’ll want their evening meal. We’re running behind as usual. We need to get the food to the dining tent where we hand out rations. By this time of day we are so exhausted that we can’t move all the food in time. I don’t want you to strain yourself...” Luna lifted her eyebrow, feeling slightly offended. “...but if you could help move a few of the boxes into the cart we would be most apprecia...” He stopped short. Luna’s horn lit up. In an instant all of the hundreds of boxes, including the one in the hooves of the ponies and in the cart rose into the air. The commissioner stared dumbly for a moment while Luna stared on with a smug smile. “Oh.”

“Yeah...” Luna said. She calmly trotted out of the tent, the boxes following her like little ducklings, following her every step.

The commissioner followed her and instructed her where to put the supplies, which she did with ease. She stacked all the crates in perfect order, one by one, much to the commissioner’s surprise.

“So,” Luna began, as the last box fell into place. “why are all of your workers earth ponies? A few unicorns could do this work much faster.”

“That’s true.” The commissioner said. “However, they’re needed for the war. Pegasi and unicorns are much more useful in battle than we are.” That reminded Luna of a question she had asked before.

“How goes the war?” Luna asked.

“Rough.” The commissioner replied. “We have a lot of losses. Every few months we bring in more troops and I doubt anypony from the past year still remain, although we send the wounded back home to start more families so they, like their fathers may go on to war.”

“Fathers?” Luna asked. “How...long has this war been going on?”

“I...don’t know precisely.” The commissioner admitted. “Although I do remember my grandfather with a leg missing telling me of his exploits.”

“How did this all start?”

“I do not know precisely. I do know the dark army arrived long ago from the ocean to the east. I imagine they ship ponies in as well. I’ve been hearing rumors that every single alicorn is now involved in this war, on one side or the other.”

“My sister and I may have been the last hold-outs.” Luna admitted.

“Well, we appreciate you my lady.” The commissioner said, briefly bowing. “You just did half a day’s worth of work in a few minutes. I am grateful.”

“Thank you.” Luna said, smiling. “Say...where could I find Mitera?” She had a sudden, and unexplained, urge to go talk to the mare.

“I imagine she went back to her own camp.” The mare felt disappointed.

“How many camps are there?” The commissioner laughed.

“A lot.”

For several weeks, Luna found herself bored. She would occasionally have to fly to a different camp and move ungodly amounts of supplies, but otherwise she did nothing. Rumors were abound throughout the camp about a white alicorn that spent all her time around the soldiers, flirting and spent the night with you if you were nice enough to her. Needless to say, Celestia was already back in her element. Luna wasn’t surprised. When times were bad, they stuck together when times were good...they...barely see each other. Regardless, Luna did her job and spent her time with the earth ponies. They reminded her of the nice villagers from what seemed like so long ago. Everything was fine and happy like they always had been...until...

Luna was moving boxes when it happened. It sounded like thunder cracked across the sky. She jerked her head up at the cloudy sky. A white fireball dropped down as quick as lightning. It struck inside the camp, sending up a massive explosion and a deafening boom. Shouts went up around the entire area.

“RAID!!!!!” All of the pegasi flew up into the air, darting into the clouds. All of the unicorns in the camp stood at attention, as if waiting for something. Pegasi then began dropping out of the sky, like rain.

“ALICORNS!!!!” Almost instantly the few alicorns present in the camp, including Lucerna and Gramen, flew up into the air. As soon as they entered the clouds they lit up like a thunderstorm. Pegasi were tumbling down, battered and some of them incredibly bloody. They dropped all around the camp. Luna was mesmerized. In a matter of seconds everything had changed yet again in her life. For a few minutes it was raining ponies, most of them landing in a heap and then dragged off by earth ponies for treatment. Finally, Lucerna descended back down and hovered over the camp.

“BOMBARD!!!!” Instantly, all of the unicorns began firing blasts at the sky. Lucerna flew back up into the clouds, seemingly unconcerned by the attacks. The sky was now lit up, like there was powerful sunlight behind it, desperate to shine through. That was when something new dropped from the sky.

Something black slammed into the ground near Luna. The alicorn stared dumbly as something with one wing stood up. It was a pony...or it was supposed to be. Its body was black, its mane was black and its eyes were red. Its wing had been blasted off and it was bleeding out of it. The pony stood up and hissed like a crazed creature. Its red eyes rested on Luna. It snarled and its horn lit up. In a split second, it all happened. A blast of magic shot at the alicorn. A nearby earth pony however dashed in the way. The poor pony instantly lit up in flames. It screamed in unholy pain as its skin cooked off its bones.

Luna snapped and then screamed in sheer terror. She could smell it...that terrible and sickening smell of burning flesh. Her mind flashed back to that horrifying day she found ponies she knew and loved piled together and burnt. The alicorn turned and ran, diving into a tent and curling into a ball. She wasn’t sure what happened next. There were countless concussive blasts. The tent collapsed around Luna, covering her. She could feel dirt piling on top of her as she shook in fear uncontrollably. She could hear the terrible screams of ponies as they were blown apart.

The attack must have lasted for hours. Luna knew she was buried, but actually preferred it right now. Even when silence settled Luna did not move. She wanted to be sure...so she waited. The alicorn waited for a very long time. Every time she thought it was time to move her fear got the best of her. Finally however, she was getting hungry. Luna began digging her way out. It took her a lot longer than she thought. After another long period she managed to tumble out of the pile of dirt and breathe fresh air.

The camp was gone. All that remained were piles of dirt and debris. Smoke was billowing out in places. Even the forest and field that had been around them were filled with craters and burnt patches. It was all gone...once again...it was all gone. As Luna’s wide eyes scanned the area she saw somepony familiar...but confusing.

“Gramen?” She asked. His head was bent down to the ground and he seemed to be doing something. Completely numb, Luna trotted over. He didn’t even seem to notice. Once she got close, Luna could hear him singing at the dirt. “What are you doing?” He held up his hoof, indicating silence. He continued to sing, a soft melodious tune. Then, much to Luna’s surprise, a small plant sprout grew out of the ground. The tiny protrusion seemed to be growing along with Gramen’s gentle tune. It stopped however, after growing less than an inch and only shuddered. The stallion sighed and lifted up his head.

“The ground has been scourged.” He said.

“Scourged?” Luna asked. He still didn’t even look at the mare with him.

“Too much death.” He said. “This place...it will take a lifetime for plants to return.” Sadness overwhelmed the alicorn’s face. Luna was surprised. She thought he didn’t care about anything. “I can’t stand it.”

“The death?”

“The silence.” Luna turned her head around and around. She could hear a lot of things, mostly the sound of things burning.

“I hear things.”

“You don’t hear the trees.” Gramen said. “You don’t hear the grass, the flowers and the bushes. I can hear them all...but not anymore.” He stared down at the tiny sprout on the ground. “It’s screaming.”

“Screaming?”

“Screaming in pain. It’s hungry, it’s lonely...it won’t make it.” Gramen leaned back down to it. He began singing again, this time low and solemn. Instantly, the tiny sprout withered and receded back into the ground. “I’m sorry.” There was a period of silence.

“I don’t get it.” Luna said. The stallion turned towards her, now appearing annoyed.

“What don’t you get?”

“You don’t...seem to care about anything. So you care...about plants?” The alicorn stared at her, a blank expression on his face.

“I can hear them.” He said. “That’s the truth.” He stared out at the devastated landscape. “I love plants. Their song is so peaceful, slow, and meaningful. They are patient, simple and everywhere. If I’m worked up...if I’m angry...if I speak to some other pony...I can’t hear them.” Gramen sighed. “Now it doesn’t matter.” There was silence between them. It would appear that he was much deeper than Luna thought.

“Is everypony...dead?” Luna asked, fearfully.

“No.” Gramen stated. “They left here, but they’re not dead. They’re looking for you.”

“Really?” Luna sounded surprised.

“Especially Lucerna.” Gramen said. “He...doesn’t want to lose any more family.” Luna suddenly felt very warm inside. There were ponies out there who actually cared about her. The stallion lifted up his horn and shot a bright light into the air. Before Luna had time to worry about what it was a flash went off beside her. A pony had teleported over to her. It was Lucerna, who immediately wrapped Luna up with his hooves.

“Thank the heavens!” He shouted. “We thought you had perished!!”

“Lucerna...you’re...choking...me...” Luna croaked.

“Forgive me.” He said, releasing her. “I did not want any more death than we’ve already had. We’re abandoning this position and moving to a different place. You’re sister has already fled.” Another pony descended from the sky and landed next to them. It was Mitera. It took her several seconds more than an average pony to land as she almost ground to a complete halt before setting her hooves on the ground. She did however wince a little and stagger on her hidden back leg.

“Thank goodness you’re alright.” She said, a worried tone in her voice. Luna once again found herself blushing. The mare walked over to Luna and lifted her chin. She gazed all over her face and down her body as the patient found her face burning. “You’re a little dirty but otherwise in perfect health.”

“Excellent.” Lucerna said. “Her sister has journeyed to your camp Mitera, please take Luna with you when you return.”

“As you wish Lucerna.” Mitera stated. Both Gramen and Lucerna began trotting off in a different direction. Mitera turned back to Luna with a smile. “We’ll have to walk. The skies are not safe to travel.”

“O...Okay.” Luna said.

For what seemed like hours they traveled in silence. Every time Luna tried to open her mouth her throat got dry and words failed her. She had to walk slightly slower due to Mitera’s ugly limp. Luna had so many burning questions to ask the beautiful mare, but nothing came to her mouth. Finally however, she managed to squeak out a question.

“So...uh...about...Lucerna...” Luna began.

“Yes, what is it?” Mitera asked, sounding friendly. This encouraged Luna to keep talking.

“Um...he’s the leader, right?”

“Indeed.” Mitera said.

“He’s...not very aggressive.”

“No he is not. However, he’s been Nox’s opposition from the beginning.”

“Nox is from across the sea, right?”

“He is.”

“What does he want? Why is he destroying so much? Why did destroy your...?” Luna stopped short and bit her lip. Mitera however knew what she was about to ask. Although the mare sighed a little solemnly she didn’t show any signs of anger or sadness.

“He wants it all.” Mitera explained.

“All?”

“He wants supreme control over the common ponies, over other alicorns, over the resources, the cities and the seas. If he can’t have it he will destroy it. Most alicorns thought he would never cross the great sea. Lucerna knew he was a real threat the whole time. It took...several decades and a lot of deaths for ponies to see the truth.”

“Deaths?” Luna asked.

“He had assassins working on this continent for generations, religious radicals who worshipped him as a dark god.”

““Unfortunate demises.”” Luna said, echoing Lucerna.

“Unfortunate indeed.”

“My grandparents...”

“Were killed.” Mitera said with a nod. “I only met your mother once, but from what Lucerna told me as soon as your mother found out about her mother and father she became more reclusive. She wasn’t ready to take the throne so another relative did while she prepared. One after the other however the interim rulers fell. The more family she lost the more Aestiva became isolated and more interested in her art. Finally she met an alicorn architect by the name of Hiemo. They fell madly in love with each other. After a few more deaths and with the family almost completely gone they decided to go on a retreat...that lasted for the rest of their lives. The only pony they told where they were going was the one pony they could trust, that was Lucerna.”

“I see.” Luna said.

“Lucerna’s desperate not to lose any more family.” Mitera added. “His family is now all but gone when they used to be one of the largest out of all the alicorns.”

“How terrible.” Luna said. “I’ve been...outside of all of this my whole life. I didn’t know the world was so...”

“Violent?” Mitera finished. “It was not always so. This war is the first of its kind on this continent. We’ve never had this kind of problem before.”

“And on the one across the sea?” Luna asked. Mitera sighed.

“I do not know much about what happened across the sea.” She admitted. “I do not know much about Nox either. Very few have even seen him...but those that have...”

“What? What?” Luna asked desperately.

“They say...that he looks like a monster.” Mitera said. “That he looks more like a dragon than a pony.”

“Is that...possible? I mean, could he be half dragon?”

“I don’t know. I’ve never actually seen him, but I don’t think that dragons and ponies can mix. I’ve never seen a hybrid, and I’m quite old.” Luna nervously glanced away from Mitera. A nagging, but inappropriate question began circling in her head. Luna cleared her throat before speaking.

“Ahem...uh...how...how...how old?” Mitera gave a rather fake and shrill laugh. She had a rather interesting grin on her face as well.

“Old enough little one.” She said in a demeaning way. Luna blushed harder than she ever had before.

When it finally got dark it appeared that Mitera’s leg was bothering her. They settled a little way away from the road and with a few simple waves of her horn Mitera made a fire for them to gather around. Luna was worried that it might attract enemies, but Mitera stated that they weren’t in any actual danger. The enemy hadn’t mobilized yet and they were merely moving the camps so that it would be easier to defend against further raids. Now they both sat around a fire. Luna found herself gawking at Mitera. In the soft light from the fire her soft features seemed even brighter. She was laying on the ground, her dress cascading down her lower body. She was casually staring at the fire, supporting her chin with her hoof. She seemed to be deep in thought. After her last inappropriate question Luna was completely silent. She didn’t want to risk offending Mitera. Seeing her in this firelight however...made Luna’s heart pound.

“Wh-Wh-What are you thinking about?” Luna asked.

“My country.” Mitera said casually. Luna looked away nervously.

“I didn’t make you think about something painful did I?” She asked shyly.

“No. I think about it all the time.” Mitera replied. She then sighed. “I used to have this garden.”

“Yeah?” Luna asked, suddenly interested.

“I always lived as frugally as being a royal would allow. I always saved as much money as I could for things like healthcare, farming subsidies, educating vouchers...you don’t know what any of those things are do you?” Luna shook her head. “Well, they’re for the common ponies. Lucerna made that standard so I decided to follow it. I made one exception. Most royals get a stipend from the taxes. A rather hefty sum they give us to spend on ourselves for whatever our selfish wishes are. I spent all of that every year on my garden. It was this huge sprawling complex filled with floating enchanted flower pots, waterfalls that sparkled, rosebushes that stretched all the way to the ceiling and these giant colocasia plants that I bred that a pony could actually walk on. I spent every moment of my free time there. I spent lifetimes building, breeding and enchanting that garden. It just a few years...it was all gone.” Mitera sighed. “I loved that thing.”

“You can...build it again when the war is over.” Luna said. Mitera chuckled.

“My country is scorched.” She said. “Only a fraction of my people survived. It will take a long time for the land to heal. It will take even longer for my people to recover the population that they lost and for me to be able to afford a stipend or any kind of luxury will take several lifetimes.” Mitera sighed again. “That’s all assuming that everything goes well.”

“We alicorns live for a long time don’t we?” Luna said, trying to cheer her up. “You’ll get there soon enough.” Mitera shook her head.

“You’re young.” She said. “Although what you say is true...I don’t think you’ve lived long enough to see it yet.”

“See what?”

“To see something you’ve put lifetimes into burn to ashes. Everything you’ve ever known and love, families you’ve known for countless generations and places that have stood since your birth, eons ago, blown away...and there’s nothing you can do about it.” Mitera took a deep breath, but it was jagged and halted. She sighed it back out before rattling her head around. “Sorry, just having a rough day.” Luna stood up, walked over to Mitera and wrapped her hooves around her neck.

“There, there.” Luna said. Mitera felt awkward having somepony so young comforting her. “I’m sure Gramen would be happy to grow you a new garden and it wouldn’t take a lifetime.”

“I suppose.” Mitera said. “He certainly loves plants.” Being so close, Luna could not resist taking a brief sniff of the mare’s mane. It smelled like a crisp spring morning, as if everything was about to come alive. Luna’s eyes drifted down Mitera’s body. She stopped at the dress on her lower half. Luna let go of her head but stayed close, staring into the beautiful mare’s sea-green eyes.

“What happened to your leg?” Luna asked. Mitera gave her a blank stare, as if she were trying to hide her emotions.

“Do you want to see?” She asked. Luna gulped, unsure of why she was so nervous. She nodded. “So look.” Luna trotted around. She felt like she was doing something indecent as she reached for the edge of the dress. With a shaking hoof she lifted it up. Her eyes widened at what she saw. Mitera’s left back leg was gnarled, bumpy and in one long chunk. Whatever happened was painful.

“What happened?” Luna asked.

“There was a battle, a brief one.” Mitera explained. “Lucerna wasn’t ready and I was trying to hold them back so my people could escape. One of Nox’s kin grabbed my leg and broke every bone in it. I was in terrible, debilitating pain. The little imp rapidly healed my leg, fusing everything together so I would be disabled for life. The pain lessened, I turned around and I blasted their head open. My men dragged me away and gave me to Lucerna for medical attention.” She stared off into the woods. “Everything is in one piece, the bone, the ligaments, the tendons and the muscle, all fused together. It took them weeks to figure out what happened, weeks to figure out there was nothing they could do and weeks to deaden every nerve so I couldn’t feel pain. By the time they were done...it was all over.”

“Sorry.” Luna said, mesmerized by her leg.

“You didn’t do it.” Mitera replied. Luna could feel her heart pounding in her ears as a powerful urge began to overtake her. Shaking nervously she pushed the dress higher and higher. Mitera did not show any sign of being bothered. Luna finally lifted it all the way up. Mitera’s cutie mark was now out in the open. It was a red heart, with a rainbow wisp around it. It was beautiful, like she was. Luna found herself gawking at it, as if mesmerized by her hip. All Luna could hear was her heart pounding in her ears.

“Are you going to look at it all day?” Luna was snapped back to reality. She blushed furiously, dropped the dress back down and stood up.

“Sorry.” Luna said.

“Don’t worry about it.” Mitera said. Apparently she hadn’t noticed the expression Luna had when she was staring.

“Good night.” Luna said quickly, trotting around the fire and curling up on the other side, facing away from Mitera.

“Good night.” Mitera said, chuckling. Luna lay on the ground panting and waiting for her heart to slowly calm down. What suddenly possessed Luna to act that way? Ever since she met Mitera Luna couldn’t seem to control herself around her. Every compliment made her blush and every time she was around her she couldn’t calm down. She hadn’t acted like this since...

Luna’s eyes shot open, as wide as they could go. She hadn’t felt this way since...she had been with Skye!

“Oh hell.”

Chapter 15

No sooner had Lucerna sat down at his desk and began signing orders then Mitera came charging into his tent.

“What in the hell did you do!?” She shouted. Lucerna gave her a stiff glare before glancing back at his papers.

“This really isn’t the time.” He snapped back.

“I’ve never seen a fit like that in my life! If she were a little more powerful she would have destroyed the entire camp!”

“She’s a child and I treated her like a child.” Mitera marched forward and stomped her hoof hard on the table, stopping him from working.

“She is not a child. She may be a child by our standards, but she has been through enough trouble to fill many lifetimes.”

“We’ve all gone through tough times Mitera, you included.”

“Yes, but I was much older and much more mature. That wasn’t a toddler’s tantrum because they didn’t get what they wanted. That was a full mental breakdown. She snapped.”

“What would you have me do?” Lucerna asked, sounding as if he were on trial.

“Perhaps not have one of her only family members in the entire world tell her that she’s worthless to him.” Lucerna flinched. “When I was queen, I allocated some of the money for healthcare to found an institution on mental health. After many years, they began publishing books on the subject. I’m not an expert, but Luna, and to a lesser extent her sister, have a serious stress and anger management problem.” Lucerna cocked his eyebrow.

“In simpler terms?” He asked.

“Both of them have been through possibly some of the worst things in the world. Through it all, there has been nopony to help them. They have unresolved anger, depression, trauma and they do not have the emotional skills to deal with it.”

“But Celestia...”

“Hides behind stallions and one night stands. She’s found an escape, although whether we can call it healthy or not I do not know. I don’t know about you, but she sleeps with more stallions in a week then I have my entire life.” Lucerna seemed incredibly uncomfortable with Mitera discussing such things. He sighed and leaned back in his chair, holding his head.

“What am I supposed to do?” Lucerna asked. “I have a war to manage, soldiers to train, operations to plan. Those girls are the closest in relation to me in my entire family now, but I can’t just take off from the war to deal with it.”

“Luna and Celestia need to get away from this place.” Mitera said, finally lifting her hoof off the desk. “Any more stress and Luna may snap again, and Celestia might start breaking down as well. They need a calm and quiet place to learn how to manage their stress and anger.” Lucerna mulled over this for a moment.

“If we send them both then we’ll be in the same problem with supplies.” Mitera sighed irritably. She didn’t like this idea of choosing between them.

“Then I suppose Luna, she seems the most unstable.” Lucerna then gave Mitera a curious glance.

“You do realize that there is only one pony who knows about these things, right?”

“Huh? Oh...me?” Mitera suddenly appeared unsteady. “No...no...I...I just read some books. I’m not an expert, I told you...”

“The experts you speak of are dead Mitera.” Lucerna said bluntly. “You are their best hope.”

“I...uh...but the war...”

“You will be recalled when a major operation starts. For now, we have a strategist who can properly manage our army.”

“I do not trust them.” Mitera said firmly.

“Nor do I. I will surround myself with allies, I will not be strong-armed. Trust me. Besides, a break will be good for you.”

“It would be good for you too.” Lucerna chuckled, abruptly feeling very old.

“If only it were so.”

“I need to be at the meeting.”

“Of all the alicorns, of course.” Lucerna sat back up in his chair. “After the meeting, take Luna away from this place. There is this village outside of Numbria, next to the Golden Plain. I spent my childhood on that plain. It was quite peaceful.”

“Lucerna, I tremble to think how long ago your childhood was.”

“As do I.”

After Luna finished fixing all of her damage, she wordlessly marched to her tent. She closed the tent flap and collapsed on her bed. It was there she lay for the rest of day. She didn’t come out, not for food, drink or anything. Luna alternated between crying, sleeping and just zoning out by staring at the wall of the tent. Lucerna’s words were ringing in her ears. For the first time in her life, Luna felt defeated. Nopony cared about her, and she didn’t care about anypony else. Normally she would be bounding around, looking for something to do or somepony to help. Now all she wanted to do was lie in her bed and do nothing. She spent the next morning still in bed. She barely even moved. She never thought in her wildest imagination...that she would miss those miserable days in the desert. Now she didn’t even have company in her misery. She thought that maybe if she could stay there forever, everypony would just leave her alone. She knew that wasn’t possible anymore. Somepony, sometime would find her or come looking. She was too visible now; too many ponies had seen her. As noon began to run on she began to have dark thoughts. Maybe she could tie her wings down and jump off a cliff, or tie a rope around her neck or walk into the ocean...the ocean that once housed her parent’s beloved home. Luna buried her face into her pillow and began to cry again. Maybe if she did those things she could see her mother, her father, her auntie, all the people of her village...and Skye again.

Abruptly the flap of her tent opened. A member of the supply team walked in, carrying a tray of food.

“L-Lady Luna?” He asked apprehensively. “You...haven’t eaten in a day and half. Lord Lucerna said to bring you some food...”

“Get out.” Luna’s voice was almost lethal. Her horn briefly let up and the worker was shoved out of the room, so roughly that their hooves left marks in the dirt. The pony squealed as they were shoved well out of the tent and across the path, still managing not to spill any of the food. Clear on the other side they collided with another pony.

“Watch it!” They cried. The worker looked up and instantly felt forlorn.

“Oh! Forgive me Lord Gramen! I did not mean to strike you! Please do not report me! I don’t need another charge of insubordination on my recor...!!!”

“Da, da, da!” Gramen said, waving his hoof in front of the worker’s face indicating for him to stop. “I don’t care. Just watch where you’re going.” Gramen’s usual placid look was on his face. He had shown up for the meeting of the alicorns, which was about to start at any moment. He gazed down at the tray of food. “What are you doing?” The worker then appeared grave.

“I was trying to bring food to Lady Luna, she refused it however. Lord Lucerna ordered me to bring her food, but she rejected it. I’m afraid of what he’ll do if...”

“She’s not eating?” He asked. “Why not?”

“Oh...well...a lot of things have happened.”

“Such as?”

The worker relayed everything that had happened since Gramen had last been present. The alicorn’s expression didn’t change through everything, betraying no emotion. The worker finished, appearing quite forlorn by the end.

“Sounds like a real bummer.” Gramen replied flatly.

“Uh...yes...a bummer.” The worker hadn’t heard it summed up so simply and without emotion before. Gramen grumbled a bit.

“A whole day and half huh?” He asked.

“Yes sir.” Gramen was silent for several moments. His ears were twitching.

“Dammit, I can’t hear anything.” He said. The worker stared around, hearing all kinds of things.

“Sir?” He asked confused.

“Nothing.” Gramen said. He picked the tray up with magic and turned to Luna’s tent. “Go tell Lucerna I’m giving it a shot. If I can’t do it, we should just give up.”

“Yes sir.” The worker said, gratefully trotting away. Gramen grumbled the whole way, as he marched into the tent.

“I said to go away.” Luna said in her lethal tone. Gramen could feel her magic press on him. He used his own to deflect it however.

“I think you’ll find I’m much harder to get rid of.” He said. Luna’s head snapped around. The stallion could see that her eyes were bright red from crying, she had bags under them and her hair was a complete disaster. Gramen flinched, but otherwise didn’t show any emotion.

“You! What are you doing here?” She asked.

“Alicorn meeting.” Gramen said flatly. “Got to show up whether I like it or not.” Luna narrowed her eyes.

“I see.” She quickly fell back onto her pillow and turned away from him. “Wouldn’t want to keep you from your duty.”

“Oh please do.” Gramen said. He floated the food tray over and put it on the table beside Luna’s bed. “Anyway, you have to eat whether you like it or not, kind of goes with that whole annoying “life” thing.”

“I don’t care.” Luna said curtly.

“I know the feeling, but the whole food thing is kind of important.”

“Leave. Me. Alone.” Luna said emphatically. Gramen then sighed and grumbled.

“Might I make a suggestion?” He asked. She didn’t respond, so he continued. “You do realize that just laying in here wasting away will in no way get you any sort of revenge.”

“What revenge?” Luna asked. “They’ll just stop me if I try and I’m much less useful than they are.”

“What about the rest of the world? Are you simply going to abandon it?”

“Everyone I’ve ever cared about has either betrayed me or dead. What do I care?” Gramen made an unpleasant face. This was not his thing.

“Just...what if...oh whatever. Do what you want.” Gramen whirled around and marched out of the tent. The second he was outside he instantly stopped. His seemed to be pondering something. He lifted his ear to the air, as if trying to listen to something. “Dammit! I can’t hear anything! Why do I have to give a damn!?” He sighed in frustration. Just then, the worker from before returned. He seemed eager as he walked up to the alicorn.

“Lord Gramen, did you have any success?” He asked.

“Yes, I got myself all worked up and annoyed.” He replied. “Look, tell Lucerna I’m not going to make it. I got something to do.”

“Sir, all alicorn lords are required to attend. What am I supposed to tell Lord Lucerna?”

“I would suggest telling him in my usual sarcastic tone that “did you really think I was going to show up?” Good luck.” Gramen spread his wings and like a rocket he shot into the air, leaving a cloud of dust behind him. The worker grumbled a bit, but turned and began his return to his lord.

Near the end of the day somepony entered Luna’s tent again. Gramen had returned. His hair was disheveled and his expression was even more disgruntled than before. He saw that Luna had not moved. He did feel a little better, seeing that some of the food had bite marks on it. He marched over to her bed.

“Hey.” He said.

“What do you want now?” Luna complained. “Come to give me a pep talk?”

“No, I came to give you a very hard-fought gift.” Luna turned over, a shocked expression on her face.

“What?” Almost instantly, something was hovered in front of her face. Stunned, she reached up and grabbed it with her hooves. It was a simple pot with a flower in it. The flower however was quite unique. It was completely white and was shaped like a bell with stamens hanging out of the bottom. The petals also sparkled in any kind of light. Luna couldn’t help but stare at it. “It’s...it’s beautiful. What is it?”

“It doesn’t have a name.” Lucerna stated. “It only exists in one place.”

“It...it does?” Luna asked, starting to sound impressed.

“Yeah, on day I was...avoiding work...and I wandered to the White Mountains.”

“The White Mountains?” Luna asked in disbelief. “Aren’t those the mountains about three thousand miles to the north?”

“That what magic and wings are for.” Gramen replied. “While I was flying over the mountains I heard something very unique. I flew down to one of the summits. In the crater at the top of the mountain I found a hot spring under a rocky outcrop. Sitting in that single warm place are a group of these flowers. It is the only place where these grow. There are maybe twenty in existence at a time.” Luna continued to stare at the flower. It certainly was beautiful. The bell-shaped top certainly sparkled like snow.

“Why did you bring me this?” Luna asked.

“Eventually this flower will disappear.” Gramen explained. “The hot spring at the top is heated by magma that seeps from the top of the mountain. A single spewing of lava and it’s all gone. If that doesn’t get it, ponies will eventually find them and whether intentionally or otherwise they will wipe them out. It is a weak little species that will soon be forgotten, with perhaps only two ponies ever knowing they exist. Their song however, is so unique.”

“It is?”

“It’s like a series of delicate bells, all chiming to one another. These flowers don’t just sing to me, they sing to each other. This one however is different.”

“Different? Different how?”

“It’s no longer singing. These flowers only ever sing to each other, they won’t to any other plant. Soon it will wither and die.” Luna glanced up at Gramen, appearing almost completely befuddled.

“Then why are you...?”

“If you’re going to wither and die away from the rest of the world, then you might as well have company.” Luna gave Gramen a very curt stare.

“And you’re doing this why?” Gramen sighed and briefly appeared to contemplate the answer, as if he was reluctant to actually say it.

“Just like the flower, I think you have a very unique and very beautiful song. Just because right now nopony is singing with you doesn’t mean it’ll stay that way forever. One day you will find a pony, or maybe a lot of ponies, who will sing just like you, but if you give up now you will find none of them.” Luna stared at Gramen. Both of their expressions were blank. His by default, hers because she wasn’t quite sure what to make of what he was saying.

“But right now...” Luna began to say.

“It won’t stay this way. Eventually things will change. You can’t have your revenge now, but eventually you will. You just have to be patient...and not give up. Whether it’s in a thousand years or ten thousand, you can still give them what they deserve.” Luna continued to stare at Gramen. His expression was as unreadable as ever. She finally sighed.

“I understand Gramen.” She said. “All the same, I can’t go back out there and act like I used to.”

“You don’t have to, but you don’t have to give up either.”

“Yeah, you’re right.” Luna said. “This is my gift right? So I can do what I want with it?”

“Of course.” She held it out to the stallion. “I want you to take it back home, so it can sing again. If it’s not too much trouble.”

“It’s not. If I stay here Lucerna will make me do something.”

“As opposed to flying thousands of miles in one night?”

“For a flower, that’s not work.”

Luna finally ate a considerable amount and got out of the bed. She didn’t exit the tent, but managed to stretch her legs and fix her hair. She had to wait the rest of the day until somepony came to her tent. The pony who arrived instantly made her nervous. Mitera was the one who walked inside. She saw that Luna was sitting on her bed and looked as if she were better than she heard.

“Oh!” Mitera said as she entered. “I’m glad to see you’re feeling better.” Luna gazed away and grumbled. She didn’t feel like being nice and gentle, and Mitera was the one pony who could elicit that response. “Are you alright to travel?”

“What’s my assignment?” Luna muttered. She had assumed that Lucerna was going to assign her to some backwater place to keep her away from here.

“Military leave.” Luna’s head snapped back to attention.

“What!? You mean a break!? The soldiers don’t get a break!”

“Of course they do, not all at once, but they do. I’m on leave too, so we’re going together.”

“We...we are?” Luna instantly became nervous.

“We are. Now get all your stuff together. They’ll recall us when we’re needed.”

Luna got what few possessions she had and met Mitera outside her tent. They both began walking out of the camp. When they rounded a turn Luna saw what she recognized as Celestia’s tent. A pony came out of it. It was stallion alicorn and he was actually difficult to look at. His mane, coat and eyes were all a glittering golden color. In the sunlight his entire body sparkled. His cutie mark was that of a bar of gold. Despite all this flashiness he had a kind gaze in his eyes. Celestia followed behind him, having that tell-tale smile on her face. As soon as were both outside the tent the golden pony turned back to her and they both nuzzled their faces against each other.

“Golden Dust.” Mitera said. “He’s a count.”

“Why should I care?” Luna said as they approached them, heading for the exit.

“She’s your sister.”

“And that’s the only thing binding us.” Mitera made a disappointed face that bothered Luna far more than she let on. After nuzzling for a few moments the golden stallion spread his wings and flew into the air. Celestia stared after him with a wistful look in her eyes. Just when she looked down the two other ponies walked past her. Celestia got a good look at her sister not even acknowledging her existence. The white pony instantly appeared hurt as Luna trotted on. Mitera continued to give Luna a glare. Finally, Luna stopped. She grumbled a little before turning and running back. Celestia had been gazing at the ground and didn’t see her approach. Luna quickly wrapped her sister in a hug. For a few moments, Celestia was stunned. After a few moments she lifted her own hooves. They were both silent as they shared a tender moment. Then Luna broke the hug and quickly ran back to Mitera. Celestia had a small smile now. They continued on, all of them in a considerably better mood.

“There, was that so hard?” Mitera asked.

“Hard enough.” Luna said. Although she felt better, she didn’t show it.

“Come on, is there really anything that can make you stop loving your sister?” Luna thought for a moment. Love was a pretty weighted word and it meant different things for both Luna and Celestia. Luna did love Celestia as a sister, but if there was one thing Luna understood it was this: there were unforgivable sins. If Celestia ever committed one of those...

“Yes.” Luna said gravely. “There are.” This earned her a worried gaze from Mitera.

After a few days of flying they arrived at Numbria. It was the second time Luna saw the city, and this time it was from the air. Most of it wasn’t exceptional, but at the center of the place was a grand palace. Luna had a desire to see it, but that wasn’t where Mitera led her. Instead they went past the city and over a few lush set of fields. At the edge of these fields was a tiny set of log houses. It was here that Mitera set down.

“Ah, what a quaint place!” Mitera exclaimed. She marched over to one of the cabins and walked inside. It was simple, with a bed, table and fireplace. It had a rustic charm to it that Mitera had not experienced since her youth before she was whisked away to palaces. “It’s lovely.”

“If that’s what you want to call it.” Luna muttered. In reality, it was more than what she was used to. The places she had lived in up until that point in her life went like this: cave, homeless, shared small house, homeless, cave, homeless and tent. Mitera quickly dropped her things and began stretching after her long journey. “What is this place?”

“It’s a quiet retreat for city foals during the summer.” Mitera explained. “Because of the war however many of them are actually working now, pretty sad.” The older mare clapped her hooves together. “Okay, let’s get to work.”

“Work? I thought we were on leave.”

“We are, but that doesn’t mean we can’t have a good time.”

“A good time?” Luna cocked her head. She didn’t understand.

“You are going to spend this time learning about you.”

“About me? What?” Luna was even more confused now.

“Let me ask you, do you have any hobbies?” Mitera asked.

“Uh...well...not that I can think of...” Luna admitted.

“Is there anything you’d like to try?” Luna thought for a moment. She thought about that flower Gramen had showed her. The story he had told her about its family touched her. On top of that, seeing Mitera talk about her own garden made her want to try it out.

“Gardening.” Luna stated. Mitera seemed surprised and at the same time smiled delightfully.

“Excellent!” Mitera exclaimed. “Let’s go out and get some seeds and mulch! It’ll be great!” Luna blushed and looked away. It was the first time the young alicorn mare had seen Mitera excited. It made her face light up with a beautiful glow. The fluttering in Luna’s stomach was beginning to return.

A few hours later both of them were out in an unkempt garden on the grounds. Both of them were using their hooves to dig rows in the ground. They weren’t using magic however. Luna was actually unaccustomed to working with her hooves. She had always used magic. Occasionally her hooves would occasionally hit a rock and it would hurt quite a bit. After about the third time Luna growled and leaned up from her work.

“Why don’t we just use magic?” Luna complained. Mitera gazed up from her own work, she appeared quite pleased however.

“Doing work with your own hooves is more gratifying.” Mitera stated. “I planted and maintained my entire garden without magic.” Luna grumbled, but figured that if Mitera could do it she could do it. Luna went back to digging. After a few moments however she hit another rock. Again, shooting pain went up her legs.

“Dammit!” Luna shouted, slinging her hooves around. “This rotten...!” Her horn lit up and she was about to dig the rock out of the ground and throw it. She interrupted however.

“Stop!!!” Mitera commanded. Luna instantly did so, surprised by her tone. “Getting mad at the dirt won’t help. Take a deep breath.”

“Huh!?” Luna cried.

“Take a deep breath. Inhale through your nose, exhale through your mouth.”

“Why!?”

“Just do it.” Luna growled but did as she was told. “Again.” Luna repeated. “And again.” She obeyed. “Now inhale but hold it.” She closed her eyes and took a deep breath. “And exhale.” Luna did so. “Feel better?”

“Uh...yeah.” Luna admitted.

“Good, remember that whenever you get mad. Now dig into the dirt more gently. Take your time.”

“Alright.” Luna said. She appeared slightly confused for a moment. How did Mitera do that?

After a day of tilling the soil and planting seeds Luna fell asleep that night rather easily. Staying asleep was different matter. Her brain was still wracked with images of burning bodies. All she could see were the supply ponies and her village, burning and dying. After the third bad dream Luna sat up in her bed. She could feel her old anger beginning to boil. It was smoldering in her guts. Dark thoughts began festering in her head. She wasn’t in camp anymore. There were no guards. She wouldn’t have to involve anypony now. She could slip away in the night and find that pony. Luna rolled out of bed as quietly as she could. Mitera was in a bed next to hers. Without a single sound Luna crept to the door.

“Where are you going?” Luna almost jumped out of her skin. She whirled around to see that Mitera was now sitting up. She looked as if she were wide awake.

“Wha...but...you were...”

“You walk loudly, compared to an assassin.” Mitera leapt out of bed and bounded over to Luna, who was too stunned to move. She stopped with her face inches from Luna’s. This instantly made the younger mare uncomfortable. Mitera didn’t look at all amused. “Any particular reason you were sneaking off?”

“Uh...I...uh...” Luna stammered.

“You think you can just waltz off and do what you want?” Mitera asked. “There are rules that decent ponies follow Luna. You have to obey them.” Luna narrowed her eyes. Her old anger was beginning to return.

“They are not decent ponies.” She said.

“That means that you can stoop to their level?” Mitera asked. Luna flinched. “If you do this you will be viewed as dangerous as they are. You will be as good as Nox’s children, ruled by their emotions and without rhyme or reason.” Luna gazed at the ground. Mitera’s words actually made sense, although she didn’t want to admit it.

“What am I supposed to do?” Luna asked. “Let my anger eat me up?”

“No. Think about your home.”

“I do! All the time!”

“Not what happened to it, the way it was. Think about your parents in the cave. Think about the best times you had with Skye. Think about the happy times, not the bad.”

“For what?”

“Because if you focus on the bad all the time you will only destroy yourself. We fight this war so that we can have happy days like those again. I have hope that it will all end someday. Unless you can focus on the happiness in your life, when this war is over you won’t be able to find a place in the world.” Luna’s mind drifted to Gramen’s words. The miserable times would end eventually. Could what Mitera was saying actually come true?

“So I just...”

“Think about the positive, dream of days just like those, take deep breaths, long walks and tend your garden. Work through your problems. Let’s work through all these troubles together, okay?” Luna reluctantly nodded.

Day after day Luna and Mitera worked. As the days turned to weeks Luna finally began to feel her anger subside. She let the words of ponies like Gramen and Mitera flow through her head. All the while they planted and tilled little gardens. The more time they spent alone, the more the old feelings Luna had for Mitera began to creep up. Before, they had been buried under layers of hate and anger, but those were fading.

One day it began to rain. They were both working in their now extensive garden. Luna was pleased with the progress as beautiful flowers and bushes appeared. When it began to rain however she quickly trotted under the porches of one of the cabins, hiding from the rain. When she turned to look at Mitera she saw that the older alicorn hadn’t moved. Instead, she was standing in the rain, her eyes closed and her head towards the sky. Luna gawked as the stunningly beautiful pony, her hair wet, smiled at the heavens. There was something so beautiful about her in that moment, as her features were only accentuated by the water. For those few moments she was reveling in nature’s blessing, happy that it would nourish the ground. Luna wished she could stare at it forever, but the pony finally lowered her head and trotted over to where Luna was. The younger alicorn gulped, suddenly very nervous. That apprehension was amplified several times over when Mitera, finally under the porch, reached back and ripped off her wet dress. It was the first time she had ever been without it, in all the time they spent together. Even though most of the ponies Luna knew didn’t wear clothes, there was something shocking about seeing Mitera suddenly naked, with or without her leg. She trotted beside Luna and stood with her, watching the rain.

“We’re both girls, right?” Mitera said smiling. “It’s not like you haven’t seen my leg before anyway.”

“R-R-R-Right...” Luna muttered. However she was blushing furiously and looking away, as if seeing something indecent.

“There’s something so cleansing about rain.” She stated. “It brings the ground to life and washes away the imperfections. I love the rain.” Luna snuck a glance at Mitera’s face. Along with her wet mane she had a gentle smile on her face and her eyes were sparkling. Luna gulped again. She could feel a knot in her stomach and a pounding in her heart. She had this great desire to tell Mitera something, anything really, but there was such an age difference, not to mention the fact that it would be out of the blue. Luna managed to clear her throat.

“Y-Y-Y-You know...” She stammered. Mitera glanced at her. “I know this mare, an alicorn.”

“Okay.” Mitera stated, looking confused.

“A-And she is in love with this alicorn who is much older than her.”

“How much older?” Mitera asked.

“A lot.” Luna reiterated. “She’s...um...not sure what to do about these feelings or even how she’s supposed to conduct herself. The older pony has no idea and the mare has no idea how to tell her.”

“Well it depends on who they are.” Mitera stated. “Each pony is different; I’d have to know who they were to really give them advice. Do I know them?”

“Oh, you do...” Luna said quickly turning her head away from Mitera and blushing.

“I do? How well?”

“Really well.” Mitera stared at Luna confused for a moment and then, all at once, her eyes widened and shock went across her face.

“Oh...OH! Oh...um...well...” Mitera quickly turned away from Luna and began turning red herself. She had been caught completely off-guard by this and nervously shuffled her hooves. “That...that’s...a complicated answer.” Mitera cleared her throat and thought for a few moments. “I would say to...that mare...that considering how old alicorns that it would be wise to be patient. There is also a war going on and...should the conflict pass...certain ponies could be more concerned with their personal lives.” Both Mitera and Luna turned to each other. Mitera had that gentle smile she was very good at showing. “And that she is a very beautiful mare who has all the time in the world ahead of her. If her love is truly worth having, then it will be well worth the wait.” They stared at each other wordlessly for a few moments.

“Yeah.” Luna said, gazing back out at the rain. “I guess you’re right.” They didn’t say anything more as they waited for the rain to pass. The whole time they were there, they never spoke of it again.

Just as their garden was about complete a pegasus pony came darting out of the sky. They were right in the middle of planting a tree in the dead center of all the garden, a lovely willow that would be the centerpiece. The pegasus however appeared desperate and out of breath. They handed Mitera a letter and, despite being almost completely exhausted, took flight into the sky once again. The older pony opened the letter and gazed over its contents, looking increasingly distressed the more she read.

“What is it?” Luna asked, now becoming equally worried.

“We’ve been recalled.” Mitera stated. “A major operation has begun, or rather it has already begun.”

“They said that they would tell us when they did that!” Luna complained.

“It was completely secret.” Mitera said. “They went into Nox’s territory and raided his supply bases, burning them to the ground.”

“Isn’t that good?” Luna asked.

“All of them. It went better than expected. They’ve pushed Nox into a corner. He has to attack, whether he wants to or not. A very grave battle is approaching. All alicorns are to report for position, regardless of age or status.” Luna felt butterflies in her stomach. If a battle was coming it would be her second ever. Now it even looked as if she was going to actually have to fight this time.

“Looks as if we’ll have to do this later.” Luna stated, indicating the tree.

“Much later.” Mitera reiterated. She sighed and crumpled up the letter. “Let’s get cleaned up and get going.”

They flew in silence. Both of them were nervous about what was going to happen. Neither of them had been on the front line and had no idea what was happening. Now they were soaring to a battlefield. Once they approached the old camp they could see that it had changed. All of the trees around it had been cut down. Outside of the camp they were making lines of trenches, wooden staves and barricades. Luna’s eyes widened as she got even closer. Behind the camp and all of the defensive lines were the most ponies Luna had ever seen in her life. There had to be tens and tens of thousands, all in neat lines. In front of the camp and all of the soldiers was Lucerna. He was apparently making a speech. Mitera and Luna flew behind all of this and into the camp. Ponies were swarming in all directions, carrying messages, supplies and weapons, apparently preparing. Mitera honestly appeared worried.

“I’m going to go to the command tent.” She stated. “Go see your sister.”

“Celestia?” Luna asked.

“It looks as if battle is eminent. If this is true, you should at least settle everything with her...if the end is coming.” Luna gulped nervously and Mitera trotted, as quickly as she could, towards the center of the camp. The younger alicorn quickly began making her way to her sister’s tent.

When Luna entered the tent she knew something was wrong. Celestia was sitting at her desk, her head on it and her hooves over her face. She was crying.

“Celestia?” Luna asked, sounding worried. Celestia didn’t respond. She only continued sobbing. Luna spotted that there was a letter on her desk. With magic, she brought the letter to her and began reading. It was an obituary. It stated that Count Golden Dust had been killed during an enemy raid. The younger sister instantly felt very sorry for her sister. Here she took a chance in a relationship with an alicorn and he dies. “Oh Celestia...” Luna trotted over and wrapped her sister in a hug, putting her sobbing face on her shoulder. “I’m so sorry.”

“He...he...” Celestia said, hiccupping. “He...teleported here every night. He...hic...he was so nice...so gentle...hic...he would send me...golden flowers...every morning.” Celestia began sobbing again. Luna gently began stroking her sister’s hair.

“I’m sorry Celestia.” Luna said. “I know how hard this can be.” For several minutes they didn’t speak. Celestia merely held on to her younger sister and cried. After what seemed like an eternity she finally managed to catch her breath.

“No more.” Celestia said. “I’m not going to do this anymore.”

“What do you mean?” Luna replied, loosening their grip so they could look into each other’s eyes.

“I can’t do this...again. I’m just...going back, going back to the way things were.” Luna couldn’t blame her. Luna was tired of ponies dying as well and to have somepony you love do so...it was mortifying. However, the younger alicorn was now thinking. Celestia did say that she flew from one stallion to another because it made her feel better...

“Does it...really make you feel better?” Luna asked apprehensively.

“What?” Celestia asked.

“What...you usually do, just being casual about it, does it make you feel better?” Celestia tore her eyes away, staring at the ground now.

“Yeah,” She said solemnly. “For a little while. It’s not really...a long fix but...”

“But?”

“There’s no pain when it’s casual.” Luna was silent as she thought about it. She wondered if that was really true...

Abruptly a pony came rushing into the tent. He appeared out of breath and very rattled. Celestia quickly wiped her tears away as the pony desperately caught his breath.

“Lady Celestia and Lady Luna.” He stated.

“Uh...present?” Luna said, confused.

“Lady Celestia is to report to right ridge magical artillery. Lady Luna is to report to the left ridge magical artillery.”

“Okay.” Luna stated. “Thank you.” The messenger nodded and quickly turned to dash away. Luna gave her sister another hug. “Let’s meet up after the battle okay?”

“You promise?” Celestia asked, sounding worried.

“I promise.”

“I’ll hold you to it. If you don’t...I’ll never forgive you.”

Luna assumed her position with other unicorns. She was at the back of the line, obviously so she would remain safe. Celestia was in a similar position on the other side. From what she could gather from the mutters of all soldiers they were about to face Nox’s main army. The army was arranged in a semi-circle around the camp, apparently facing the direction that the enemy was coming. From what Luna could see they were in a great position. They had created several lines of trenches lined with spiked logs all up the hill leading up to the fort. These trenches were filled with the tens of thousands of soldier ponies, all with armor and myriad of weapons. Luna was situated at the crest of the hill with the rest of the magic artillery and archers. Any sane pony wouldn’t attack them here. They would sustain terrible losses. Nox however had lost his strategist and was desperate. Luna waited nervously as time seemed to drag on and on. The soldiers were even more nervous.

All of a sudden however they heard chaos from the skies. Luna gazed up. The cloudy sky was lighting up, as if it had lightning. At first she confused on what it could be, but then she saw some ponies dip through the clouds, clawing and fighting. This was the beginning, the vanguard. It only made sense to send in the flyers first to assess the enemy’s strength. It would only be a matter of time now. Luna didn’t have to wait long.

She heard the first beats of the drum before she saw the army. As the drumming grew louder her heart beat faster. The sound grew louder and louder with each passing moment. Luna could see the woods around the fort beginning to rustle and rumble. She could feel her heart pound in her throat as they began to emerge. There were countless of them, more than Luna could ever count. It wasn’t just Nox’s children either. They were all regular ponies, with unicorns and earth kinds mixed together without any real organization. All of them were wearing black armor with wings on the helmets and backs. They were all carrying weapons, ranging from spears to swords with some archers mixed in. All of them were silent, with blank expressions on their faces. It was almost as if they were mindless beings. Lucerna’s army was equally as silent on their approach, but they were far more nervous. Just out of range of their archers they stopped. For several moments, the army stopped. It was certainly a sight to see. A hill over a valley and the entire place filled to the prim with ponies, yet none of them spoke and none of them moved. Then, without warning, something plummeted from the sky. It landed in front of Nox’s army with a loud thud. It was one of Nox’s children, in its complete, dark glory.

“Charge!” The evil pony shrieked. All at once, the entire dark army shouted and charged. Luna watched with wide eyes as what appeared to be a tidal wave of black washed towards the hill. Arrows launched from behind Luna and came sailing down at the approaching army. Almost an entire line of the army fell, screaming and bleeding. It didn’t slow them a bit. The next line of them charged right over the downed ponies. At the first trench the ponies prepared for the invasion. They raised shields and readied their spears. The savage ponies ran right into the line, some of them skewering themselves on the wooden spikes in front of them. It was a flood, trying to wash over a dam. The dark army was losing soldiers fast, but seemed to have a never-ending supply of replacements bleeding out of the forest. Luna was mesmerized by the scene, but was soon snapped out of it when she heard an explosion. Luna jerked her head towards it to see that the magical ponies had begun firing. It was like a never-ending death machine. Those who jumped into the trenches ran into a defensive line and completely halted, if not got them killed. Those running towards the trenches were pelted with blasts of magic and arrows. They were getting slaughtered, but they never stopped running. Luna was still too stunned to do anything. The enemy however began firing their own bolts of magic at them. A single blast grazed right by where Luna was standing. She panicked and shot her own blast back. Luna watched as they blast shot right at a soldier. It struck him, detonated and blasted him into several pieces. The young alicorn was completely stunned. That was...the first time she had ever killed anypony. It was just some nameless pony in a faceless army...but they were dead. Luna gulped, abruptly feeling kind of queasy. Just then however there were panicked shouts from the front line. They had finally been overrun. The remaining ponies ran to the next one, the dark army right behind them. Luna steeled her will and began firing more. She tried not to think of them as ponies, only as nameless enemies.

It went on for hours and hours. The day darkened as Luna continued firing. The archers had long run out of arrows and most of the unicorns had run out of magic. Still the dark army continued charging up the hill. There were so many dead that there were mounds of them strewn all over the place. At places, the dark army was helping those in front of them by pushing them over the mountains of bodies. It was a massive, bloody mess. Still they never stopped and they never seemed to run out of soldiers. Three trench lines before the top of the hill Luna realized that their position could not be kept. They to be killing by the rate of seven to one, but there were still endless reinforcements pouring out of the forest. They weren’t going to lose by strategy, simply by numbers. As the third line from the top fell Luna became nervous. Her magic blasts that originally poured out incredibly rapidly were now just random spurts, and they often did no damage. Even Luna’s neck was becoming sore from the slight backlashes from launching her spells. As the second from the top fell and the last line was making its stand there came loud shouts from all around. The sky abruptly made a very unpleasant sound. Luna gazed up to see that the clouds suddenly became pitch-black, shielding all light. Even the darkest night wouldn’t be this black. Luna could barely see her hoof in front of her face. Lightning was dancing all around the black clouds. The dark army erupted into riotous cheers that almost deafened Luna. Soldiers abruptly began lighting torches, but in the chaos Luna couldn’t really see what was happening. Abruptly, something landed beside Luna. She jumped several feet in the air, terrified that something was attacking her.

“Run!” Mitera shouted. “The battle’s over, retreat!”

“Okay!” Luna needed no more coaxing. She turned and ran like a mad pony. She wasn’t even sure where she was going. After running for quite a distance Luna saw a collection of torches not too far away. In the flickering light she saw Lucerna, surrounded by several other ponies. As Luna came running over the other ponies in group turned towards her, their weapons at the ready. The alicorn came grinding to a halt, with the blades of the weapons inches from her.

“It’s me! It’s me!!!” She shouted.

“Luna?” Lucerna said, sounding relieved.

“What is it!? What’s going on!?” Luna shouted, panicked.

“It’s Nox.” Said someone trotting into the light. It was Pit, with his grinning nephew right behind him. “He’s here?” Luna was too exhausted to be angry right now.

“Here? Right here?” Luna asked, now sounding more panicked.

“That’s what the darkness is.” Pit said, sounding as if it were obvious.

“Scared little Luna?” Aecor said, flashing a smug smile. Luna completely ignored him, unwilling to deal with him at the moment. She instead turned toward Lucerna.

“What do we do?” She asked.

“Since you’re back,” He said, addressing Pit. “I assume you were successful?”

“In a way.” He said. “We can discuss it later. For now, we much abandon this position.”

“Uh-oh.” Aecor stated. He pointed back towards the battlefield. Everypony turned their heads. What Luna saw was making her heart stop. She could see by far-off torch lights that the dark army had circled something. It was Mitera, dangling apparently by her neck above all of them.

“No!!!!” Luna screamed, she turned and tried to dash back towards the location, but somepony tackled her. She jerked her head around and, much to her surprise, it was Aecor. Her old anger abruptly came boiling back up. “What are you doing!?” Aecor turned back to his uncle. Luna couldn’t see his expression, or what was going on between them, but Pit appeared surprised for a moment. Luna however began kicking and trying to get free. “Let me go! Let me go!”

“Don’t be a fool.” Pit said. “You’ll die.”

“We have to rescue Mitera from Nox’s army!”

“That isn’t Nox’s army.” Luna turned towards him, appearing confused. “That is Nox.” Luna jerked her head around. It was only thanks to some random lightning flashes that she could make out what Mitera was dangling from. Once she could see it however she felt her knees grow weak and the color drain from her face. She couldn’t see what Mitera was hanging from because it was pitch black, the blackest black Luna had ever seen in her life. It was a pony...in the loosest sense of the term. It was giant, perhaps twelve feet tall. If it had a cutie mark, it didn’t show. His mane, coat and tail were completely black. Its eyes were completely red. There was no white, no pupil, no iris, just blood red. Its face was contorted into a horrible smile. In the flickering lightning Luna saw what she couldn’t believe. Every single one of its teeth was razor-sharp, like that of a predator.

“Is that a pony or a dragon?” Luna asked weakly. Even above all the noise, the lightning, cheering soldiers and stampeding hooves, Luna could hear it. The most evil, cold cackle she had ever heard. It sent chills down her spine and made her feel queasy just listening to it. The massive pony stared down at Mitera, who was dangling from his hoof as he choked her. He shook her around effortlessly. Mitera twitched to life. She opened one of her eyes. She could see Nox’s rows of razor-sharp teeth and his blood-red eyes. He was laughing at her helplessness. In one final act of defiance, Mitera spat in his face. Nox snarled and his horn lit up. Then, in a moment that was forever seared into Luna’s memory, Mitera’s neck was cut clear in half. Her head went flying and Nox slammed her body onto the ground. The army around him cheered.

“NOOOOO!!!!!!!!” Luna shrieked in both anger and horror. She tore away from Aecor and began charging towards the enemy army.

“Uncle!” Aecor shouted. Luna could feel something grab her. She felt herself abruptly looking at the sky. This had happened once before.

“No! Don’t...!!” She didn’t get to finish. She felt her neck slam into something hard. Stars exploded in her head as her body went stiff. She whined as her body refused to obey her.

“We need to run from here...now!” Pit shouted. Luna could feel her body being lifted and carried away. There was nothing she could do to fight it.

“Retreat! Retreat!!!” Lucerna shouted. Luna could hear countless beating of hooves as the army fled.

Luna was unsure at what point she passed out. Pit had done whatever that was twice. The second one was much harder. Luna had tried to stay awake and tried to fight being carried away, but her head spun, her vision narrowed and her body simply would not obey. In the end she descended into blackness. When she did open her eyes again she could see there was light in the sky. Luna blinked a few times before regaining her senses. She glanced around. She was actually lying on the ground, but on some bedding and under some covers. She was also in a sea of other ponies, all lying on the ground. They were all injured, with some of them moaning and groaning in pain. They were lying out in the courtyard of some castle with nurses and doctors running around helping people. For a few moments, the alicorn was disoriented and confused. Then she remembered all that happened.

Luna growled and grabbed her head, curling up in to a ball. She felt so exhausted and so defeated. She couldn’t get ahead and she couldn’t get a break. Every time she got a happy moment it was ripped away from her. Every good thing that had ever happened to her had been stained by death and destruction. Now even those few short weeks she spent tilling a garden with Mitera couldn’t be happy because of the horrible image now burned into her head. Luna was too tired to throw a fit, too tired to charge out for revenge and too tired to get up. She just wanted to lay down and cry. A few tears began streaming out of her eyes as she started convulsing.

“Ouch! Leave it alone! I’m fine!” Luna jerked her head up. She knew that voice. Gramen was lying in the courtyard as well, some distance away. His stomach was wrapped in bandages. There was a nurse apparently trying to check what was under the bandage. “You’re the fourth pony to come and check on it! It’s fine!”

“But my lord, we must make sure you are healthy!” The nurse shouted.

“Do I sound like I’m dying!?” He bellowed back. “Leave me alone!” The nurse reluctantly bowed and trotted away. Abruptly happy to see a familiar face, Luna jumped out of her covers and ran through the beds towards him.

“Gramen!” Luna shouted as she approached him. He turned his head and spotted her.

“Hey.” He said flatly. Luna, much more excited to see him, trotted right to his bed. She quickly grabbed his hoof and held it. Gramen gave her a quizzical glance, but didn’t tear his hoof away.

“Are you okay? Are you hurt?” She asked.

“It’s not that bad.” He stated. “It was just a stray shot. I’ll be fine.”

“Thank goodness.” Luna said, sounding relieved. Again Gramen appeared kind of confused. He never would have guessed that she would be so happy to see him. Luna was silent for a few moments, not entirely sure how she was going to say this.

“Mitera is...she’s...” Luna tried to say, her throat catching.

“I know.” Gramen said, staring at the sky. “They think that maybe eighty to ninety percent of the army at the main camp was destroyed.” Luna jerked her head up, realizing something.

“My sister?” Luna asked.

“I haven’t seen her, sorry.” Luna now had something to bring her down. In all that chaos her sister might not have even survived. If Celestia was gone...Luna shuddered. There was no way she could ever keep going. Celestia was the only pony who really knew Luna. Gramen and Lucerna were though, but they had only known Luna since she got to their camp. Celestia had known Luna all her life.

“We’ve won.” Luna jerked her head up.

“What!?” She shouted. “How do you figure that?”

“Look over there.” Gramen instructed, pointing with his other hoof. Luna lifted her gaze and saw that there was another courtyard connected to the one she was in. In that one were bodies, all wrapped in bags. There had to be hundreds of them.

“Who are they?” Luna asked.

“Nox’s children.” Gramen stated. “One-hundred and twenty five of them.”

“How many does he have?” Luna asked, shocked.

“Not sure, but Pit said we killed anywhere between a third to a half of them. The only thing keeping Nox’s army together is his children, and we just killed a ton of them.”

“That wasn’t at the main camp was it?”

“No, it was at my operation.” Luna turned to him.

“What happened? No pony really told me.” Gramen sighed. It was rare for him to talk so much, but Luna could tell that he wanted to.

“The main camp attack was a diversion of sorts.”

“Of sorts?” Luna couldn’t believe that the massive battle that she saw was merely a distraction.

“After we destroyed Nox’s supplies he was desperate. We took all the supplies we had captured to this castle, one that we made sure Nox knew about. He sent his main army at our main camp with he sent most of his children to this castle. We were ready for them. They threw themselves at the walls again and again and we blasted them back over and over. They dropped like flies but they kept charging like wild beasts. A shot from one of them hit my side, burned my entire stomach.”

“How did you get away?” Luna asked.

“Pit and Aecor.” Luna’s expression became dark, but she also appeared shock.

“They saved you?”

“They saved everypony. They managed to swarm into the castle and looked like we were going to get slaughtered. Both of them jumped in and starting fighting. They were brutal and incredible. They couldn’t be hit and they ripped ponies to pieces. I’ve never seen ponies fight that way before. They held off the entire army while we evacuated the castle. Nox’s children took the supplies and left, leaving the bodies behind. Pit also estimates that Nox lost as many as 90,000 soldiers at the battle at the main camp. It was a disastrous day for Nox.”

“So...we won the day?” Luna said, bringing it back to his original statement.

“We may have won the war. Nox can’t readily replace all of the things he lost and we can. He’s finally reached the heartland of Numbria...but he’s lost too much in getting there. He’s not going to retreat so he’s going to try to take us out as quickly as possible.”

“And that’s good?”

“It’ll end this war a lot sooner, but there will be a lot more battles from here on out.”

*

Abruptly, Twilight was aware of her body again. However it was numb and wouldn’t obey here. She could feel severe disorientation and couldn’t even open her eyes. She could, however, hear.

“Is everything ready?” It was Luna’s voice.

“It is all prepared, ve vait for your orders.”

“Good, let’s begin marching.”

“Vat about her? She does not look vell.”

“She’ll be fine, I can make her walk.” Twilight could feel Luna approach and almost instantly, she melted back into her vision.

*

Luna fought, ran and delivered supplies for months. She had gotten word that Celestia was alright, but was stationed elsewhere. She flew from castle to castle, battlefield to battlefield, town to town. Twilight saw various visions pass by her quickly, so it would not horrify her. She saw mountains of bodies, horribly mutilated after battles. She saw cities being burned to the ground from the air, as Luna watched helplessly as she was under attacked. Afterwards, they found a mountain of skulls of foals that had been placed to intimidate them. It didn’t work. Twilight could see another image that was burned into Luna’s mind. It was Aecor. He was standing before a begging solider of Nox’s army. The young stallion was hungry, tired and clearly didn’t want to die. He was on his knees, begging Aecor not to kill him. With a delightful laugh, Aecor slashed his neck open. As the blood splashed all over him he cackled happily. He was cruel monster, no matter how much he fought for them.

Now, ages later, Luna was standing outside of the commander’s tent at their new main camp just outside of the city of Numbria. She wasn’t allowed in, mostly because of all the confrontations she had over the past months with Aecor. He had done many more unspeakable things that Luna wouldn’t tell to anypony, even as a horror story. She was actually behind the entrance, with her ear against the canvas, listening. All the other alicorns were discussing the state of affairs. Nox’s army was exhausted, hungry and whipped, but they were still numerous. Lucerna’s army had managed to give them the run-around all this time, chipping away at them, but Nox had lost patience. He was now marching straight for Numbria, looking for the final battle.

“We can avoid him no longer.” Said Pit’s voice. “We have to undo him. If he seizes the central part of the country he’ll have access to all the major highways. We can’t let him seize that or he might recover.”

“We cannot allow him to lay siege to Numbria.” Lucerna said. “The walls were built over a thousand years ago. They are crumbling and not built for this kind of warfare.”

“The area between Numbria and Nox’s army is not the best of terrain.” Pit elaborated. “There are intermittent forests, rocky cliffs and generally uneven land. Nox will accompany his army, meaning the sky, if cloudy, will be pitch-black. They are used to fighting in darkness, we are not.”

“The clouds will begin clearing by the day after tomorrow...” Lucerna began.

“Do you honestly think Nox will wait that long? We need a flat plain, an open sky and, preferably, a steep incline towards us to wear them down during their mad charge.” There was silence among the alicorns as they all thought. Luna however felt a bell ringing in her head. She knew of just the place. She dived towards the bottom of the tent and squirmed her way in.

“I got it! I got the place!!” Luna shouted, crawling her way into the tent.

“Luna!” Lucerna shouted, as if reprimanding her. Luna ignored him. She ran over to where the maps were, pushing some of the other alicorns out of the way. She grabbed a different map and quickly spread it over the table. It was a depiction of the country from the other side of the capital city.

“Here!” Luna cried, pointing with her hoof. Despite that she wasn’t supposed to be there, everypony leaned in, including Pit and Aecor.

“The Golden Plains?” Pit asked. Lucerna went rigid and his eyes widened. He looked as if somepony had just said something shocking to him. Pit picked up the map with magic and looked it over.

“An open plain that with a gradual incline...why was I not shown this?”

“Because, it’s on the other side of Numbria, one not facing Nox’s army.” Lucerna stated. “I used to play there as a child...” Everypony glanced at Lucerna, wondering why he looked so rattled.

“It would be perfect.” Luna stated, remembering it from her time of leave.

“It’s on the wrong side of Numbria.” Lucerna reiterated.

“Then how about we move Numbria?” Pit stated. Now everypony looked at him. “We evacuated the city, let Nox have it...empty. We take everything he could possibly want and use with us and burn the rest.”

“Would that be for the best?” Lucerna asked.

“It would save the common ponies, who you’ve been trying to protect this whole time, and heavily demoralize Nox’s army. He would also see that just taking the capital does not mean he wins. We will fight him to the last.” Lucerna sighed, grabbing his head and shaking it around.

“That figures.” He stated.

“What?” Pit asked.

“Nothing. Let’s get to it. Evacuate all the people, take all the supplies and valuables and whatever we can’t carry we burn.”

Luna was lying on her bed in her tent a few days later. She couldn’t stop her head from spinning. The past few days had been a whirlwind. She was part of the regiment that evacuated the city. She watched as endless crying and weeping ponies carried everything they could on their backs. Pegasi lifted out royal valuables, such as gold, monuments and treasures. Luna marveled as the massive city emptied in a matter of a few days. Then, once everypony had left, they set the fires. With nopony to fight them the fires flourished. They picked the castle clean, melted all the weapons they couldn’t carry and destroyed huge sections of the protective wall. They made the city useless. Then, as if they were the raiding army, they simply left the smoldering city, no completely quiet. All this made Luna exhausted and she wanted to rest, but couldn’t. Nox’s army was spotted moving towards Numbria. It was only a matter of time before they realized what Lucerna’s army had done and came charging into the Golden Plains. They would find that there were a network of battlements, forts, trenches and pitfalls waiting for them. If they charged blindly they would get slaughtered, and that would probably be what they did. Nox’s army, despite being tired and half-starved, was still massive and most of them still believed that he was a god. It wouldn’t be easy. Now, all Luna could do was worry and fret. This was it, the final battle. Lucerna wasn’t going to retreat from this one. All the bodies, the heartache and the terror was about to come to a head...and Luna couldn’t sleep. She reached up with her hooves and gripped her head. She needed to sleep and she needed to rest yet she couldn’t get rid of her stress. That was when she heard the entrance to her tent opening. She pivoted her head to see who it was.

“Gramen?” She asked, sitting up. He flinched for a moment.

“Sorry, did I wake you up?” He asked.

“No. Sleep is for quitters.” Gramen actually chuckled at that. “What is it?”

“Well, there’s a big battle coming.” There was a pause after he said that.

“Uh...yeah?” Luna asked.

“Hm? Oh yeah, sorry just listening.”

“Listening to what?” Gramen used his magic and brought something up to her face. Luna gazed at what it was for a moment, before smiling. It was a flower in a pot and it was familiar. It was shaped and sparkled like the mountain flower, but had a slightly different color. Through the middle of each petal was a streak of purple. It gave a unique yet beautiful look.

“Is this...the mountain flower?” Luna asked, grinning.

“In a way.” Gramen replied. “I found a flower that it would mix with. These flowers can sing along with the ones in the mountain and they sound the same. More importantly, these flowers can sing with other plants.”

“It can?” Luna sounded excited. “So it can grow anywhere?”

“Indeed.”

“That’s great!” Luna said, gazing around it. “What are you going to call it?” Gramen was silent for a few moments, as if he were reluctant to answer.

“Well, considering that I bred it with a purple flower...and it made it stronger...I was thinking that...well...”

“Well what?”

“I was...going to call them...Moon Lillies.”

“Moon?” Luna asked, sounding confused. Then it clicked. Her mane and coat were purple and her name meant “moon.” Luna then smiled slightly.

“Oh...I see.” She said.

“I think you should have this one.” Gramen said, handing it to her. “There are others growing in the mountains right now. I’ll spread them around once they grow.”

“That’s...wonderful Gramen.” Luna didn’t quite know what to say. He had bred a beautiful flower and named it after her...that...was really sweet...

Celestia’s voice abruptly rang in Luna’s head.

“There’s no pain when it’s casual.”

Luna was silent for a few moments, thinking. She then put the potted plant off to the side. She gave Gramen a hard stare, making him uncomfortable.

“What? What is it?” He asked. Luna made a motion for him to come closer. Cautiously, he marched forward. Quite a abruptly, Luna lunged forward, seized him around the neck and roughly pressed her lips against his. Gramen instantly froze, his eyes as wide as they had ever been. For a few moments, Luna kissed him roughly before backing away.

“What...?” Gramen tried to say.

“You’re very sweet.” Luna said, flashing him a seductive smile. “Even if you act like you don’t care, I know you do. If we’re going to die soon, why not have one last bit of fun?”

“Huh?” Gramen was too stunned to comprehend what was happening. Luna then grabbed him and pulled him onto the bed. She rolled on top of him and sat on his body.

“I’m going to have sex with you, is that problem?” Luna stated, trying the more blunt approach.

“Uh...um...no...I guess not.” Gramen said, still sounding stunned.

“Good.” Luna said. She leaned back onto his body and pressed their lips together again. For a few moments, Gramen was still stunned. Then, all of a sudden, he closed his eyes, started to return her kiss and wrapped his hooves around her body.

Luna opened her eyes, finally feeling rested. For a few moments, she was confused as to why she felt something wrapped around her stomach. She then remembered what happened last night. She sighed and laid her head back onto her pillow. She had insulted Celestia her entire life for it, but it actually worked. After they had finished Luna had fallen right to sleep. Gramen had slept beside her, his arms wrapped around her from behind. Luna however could hear him sniffing her hair.

“Are you enjoying that?” Luna asked.

“Your hair.” Gramen remarked. “It smells like lilacs.”

“And yours smells like grass, what’s your point?”

“I like it.” Luna sighed gently.

“Thanks.”

“What did this come from? Why so suddenly?” Luna sighed yet again.

“Celestia does it all the time.” Luna explained. “She says it makes her feel better.”

“Oh? Did it help?” Luna smiled.

“Yeah...for a little while.”

“Glad I could help, call me anytime.” Now Luna giggled. Gramen abruptly released Luna and propped himself up. Luna rolled over so she could see what he was doing. They were now looking at each other dead in the face.

“Luna, there’s something I want to know.” Gramen began. Luna could see that he was being completely serious. “Was I just lucky?”

“What do you mean?”

“What if some other stallion had walked into your tent, would the outcome have been the same?” Luna looked slightly offended.

“What? No.”

“Really?” Gramen smirked, as if satisfied.

“The idea didn’t even pop into my head until you gave me the flower. It was really sweet and I was moved.”

“Oh...well I try.”

“Even though you act like you don’t care, you really are a nice pony.” Gramen then sneered.

“Not always.” Luna leaned up and briefly kissed him on the lips, surprising him.

“Thanks.”

“For what?”

“For being you.”

Chapter 16

(A/N: Look what I found! I thought I lost all of my progress, got discouraged, and stopped writing this. A class I am taking made me use Google+ and while exploring Google Docs, LOOK WHAT I FOUND! It isn't much, but I hope you enjoy it.)

Luna stood on the Golden Plains, ready as she could ever be for battle. She was standing on an elevated ground bank, placed there so the magic artillery could have a better shot at the incoming army. Thousands upon thousands of ponies stood in front of her, held in tight formation, not saying a word. In front of them was a barricade, one of many that littered the way between themselves and Numbria. They had gotten the word earlier in the day, Nox’s army had reached the city was now marching into the Golden Plains. There were many obstacles in their way to slow them down, walls, barricades, pitfalls and traps, but they continued to march. The entire army stood still as a statue. This was it, the final battle. This was where they either killed Nox or he killed them. Finally, Luna could hear the rumble of distant hooves. She took a deep breath and tensed up, waiting for the hordes to descend past the barricade. The lookouts that were on top of the wooden wall came running down, shouting that the dark army was coming. No sooner had they charged and taken their place among the rest of the army then the barricade began to shake and shudder. Countless ponies were beating and slamming into it, intent on making it fall. Luna held her breath. After a few moments, the wall came slamming down, almost all at once. In an instant, the armies were face-to-face. They were all both sides could muster. The entirety of their power was before each other.

Luna scanned the dark army, almost surprised. They were thin, malnourished and looked exhausted. To be sure, Lucerna’s army was also tired, but not near to this degree. They were a lot less intimidating this time. For a few crucial seconds, the armies stood in silence. Neither seemed ready to move. Then, just like last time, a pony as black as night dropped from the sky. He stood in front of the dark army and pointed with his hoof.

“Attack!” he declared. In an instant, the army screamed and charged. Lucerna’s forces dug in and linked shields. The waves of ponies slammed into the huge line. Instead of being thrown back, they held firm and it was Nox’s army that was thrown back. That was when everypony began clawing and tearing at one another. Luna could feel the wind blow from behind. She looked back to see countless pegasus ponies fly into the sky. On the mostly clear day she got an eyeful. The sky was filled from horizon to horizon with ponies. They were colliding, ripping, tearing and punching. Still, she waited patiently. They had not been given the order to fire. She turned back to the field, her eyes narrowing. More and more waves of Nox’s fighters were pouring onto the line of Lucerna’s troops. Still, the line was holding. The amount of troops piling at the front was increasing. Eventually countless of them were bunched up. They were beginning to pile on top of each other. It was a giant crunch of ponies. Finally the order came.

“FIRE!” Instantly, those on the elevated battlements began firing their magic. It was then that Luna understood. That was the plan all along. Hold a tight defensive line, allow the enemy to bunch up until they couldn’t move and then mow them down. It began working like a charm. The dark ponies fell like flies. With them so close together every shot hit somepony. The bodies began to weigh down on top of the soldiers actually trying to fight. It was turning into a mess. That was when Luna heard a loud sound from behind her. She turned to see giant rocks of fire arching over the battlefield. They landed in the huge groups of Nox soldiers. Apparently, they had catapults.

“They think of everything.” Luna said, begrudgingly giving Aecor and Pit a compliment. Luna turned back and resumed her fire. It continued this way for quite some time. Row after row of Nox’s army was being mowed town. It was turning into something not a battle, it was quickly becoming a rout, if not a slaughter. Lucerna’s losses were only a few and the bodies from Nox’s were piling up.

Finally, Nox’s army stopped. Luna wasn’t sure if there was an order or they had just had enough. The waves stopped and those in the front backed off, tripping over bodies in their wake. For a few moments, neither army moved. Luna could see it in their eyes. Fear. They realized they were in trouble. That was when someone from Lucerna’s side shouted.

“CHARGE!” The army obeyed. They instantly ran forward, wielding spears, swords and axes. Nox’s army didn’t form up or make a defensive line, they only cringed. They weren’t used to being on the defensive. Lucerna’s army instantly began making headwind. They were slicing their way through soldier after soldier, with Nox’s army at a loss as to what to do. Luna heaved a sigh and lifted her head. Could it really be this easy? Had Nox’s army just run out of juice?

That was when the sky darkened. Nox’s army cheered. The sun looked as if it had been covered by some kind of eclipse. There was some light, but it made it looks as if they were all fighting in the night. Luna knew what that meant. After a few breathless moments in the dark there were series of massive explosions. They were in front of Luna and were rapidly approaching. By the time she could even register that she should run the explosions reached the earth embankment. She was thrown into the air, deafened and numbed from the blast. She was aware that she hit the ground and skidded to a stop. She groaned, suddenly finding that she was in pain. After a few moments of pain she attempted to sit up.

She was rudely stomped back onto the ground, a hoof on her face. She groaned again, now her entire face hurting. She heard something chuckling over her head. It was a deep and dark cackle, as if predator was happy that it caught its prey. Luna growled, getting annoyed that something was causing her more pain. In a moment of desperation she tore her face from under the hoof and bit onto skin with her teeth. There was a shriek and she was released. Luna stumbled away as quickly as she could. After a few moments of rattling her head around she stood up to face the pony.

“Oh...that...that figures.” She muttered in a quivering voice. She was being stared down to by a twelve-foot giant pony. He snarled while shaking his hoof where she bit him. She could see his razor-sharp teeth and glowing red eyes. Her knees wobbled when she realized that she was alone with him. Nox’s massive horn lit up. He sent a blast of magic at her. Luna managed to jump out of the way, but the resulting explosion sent her flying. She tumbled again, this time jumping to her feet right away. The moment she was up she found that Nox was in her face. ‘He’s...fast!’ The massive alicorn backhanded her with his hoof. It felt like she had been hit with a massive hammer. She sprawled as she flew through the air once again. This time she hit the ground in a heap, looking more like a ragdoll than a pony. Nox grinned and began trotting over to her. He stood over her, raising his hoof. It was directly over her disoriented face. With one single pound he could crush her like a melon. Just as he was about to bring it down he was interrupted. A magic blast struck the side of his body. He jerked his head around, snarling yet again. There was another male alicorn, glaring at him.

“That’s enough Nox!” Lucerna shouted. Nox cackled, as if immensely pleased with himself. He began marching over to his new target. Lucerna was well past being a full-grown alicorn, but was still completely dwarfed by the giant being of darkness before him. When they were only a few paces away, Nox smiled, showing his razor-sharp teeth. “I am done being intimidated by you. Either fight me or surrender.” The massive pony then frowned. He didn’t like the fact that Lucerna didn’t cower and quake. Nox’s horn lit up. In an instant, Lucerna was gone. He teleported much easier than Luna could. Where his had previously been standing was blown apart. Nox, seemingly able to follow the teleport turned his head. Lucerna was now a distance away. He shot bolts of electricity at the dark pony. Nox casually threw up a shield and blocked them with ease. He grinned and then lit up his horn again. The ground cracked beneath Lucerna’s feet and a spout of lava came bursting out. The regent blasted up into the sky. The moment he did Nox fired his own bolt of electricity. Lucerna teleported again. Nox teleported as well. The moment the regent materialized he found that Nox was in front of him. Nox punched his hoof at him, barely giving the other alicorn time to raise his own front arms in defense. Lucerna dug his hooves into the ground, but he still shot backwards. His hooves cut grooves into the ground as he slid backwards. The moment he stopped he gazed up to see that Nox’s horn was glowing again.

“Unácumendlic mihtig!” Lucerna shouted. A bolt of power shot at him. Lucerna teleported, quickly followed by Nox. This time, the regent expected it. The moment he materialized, he fired his own blast. Now it was Nox’s turn to teleport away. Both of them rapidly transported around the devastated area, materializing only long enough to fire a magic blast and then teleport again. It was a mess of light, explosions and the sound of magic. Luna was finally beginning to raise her head. She grit her teeth as she watched the fury play out in front of her.

“What the hell? Is he...invincible?” Luna didn’t know what to think. How could he be that powerful? What was he? Could they even beat him? Finally, Nox launched a blast that was too close. Lucerna had no choice but to respond with his own. Their powers met in a loud crack of magic power. Now they were in a pushing match, unable to escape. Nox chuckled to himself. His power began pushing Lucerna’s back. The regent squinted and pushed with as much magic as he could. Despite all of that, it only slowed the beam of magic coming from the massive pony.

Just as it looked like Lucerna’s number was up, two ponies emerged from the darkness. It was Pit and Aecor. They happened upon the scene and stopped. Lucerna’s was about to be overwhelmed and likely slaughtered. It was up to them. Even with three alicorns, it wasn’t a sure deal that they could defeat Nox. They glanced at each other, their three icy-blue eyes matching.

“In for a penny.” Pit finally said. He then began running towards Lucerna. Aecor only growled. He couldn’t believe he was in this situation, siding with ponies that would mingle and coddle with weaklings. However, after only a few moments more, he chased after his uncle. They both arrived at Lucerna’s side. The regent glanced at them and looked immensely relieved. Both of the new arrivals add their own streams of magic to the fray. Instantly, Nox’s power halted. The massive pony grimaced as he began pushing harder. Still the balance did not budge. Much to his chagrin, the massive pony began losing ground. The combined efforts of Lucerna, Pit and Aecor were beginning to push him back. Slowly but surely, their power was creeping up on the giant pony. After what seemed like an eternity it was upon Nox. He began to growl and snarled with all of his teeth. He was really straining now, with their power inches from his horn. Finally, Nox roared and unleashed a powerful shockwave of power. In an instant, all of the gains were lost. All three of the opposing ponies went flying. They soared and hit the ground hard, knocked completely senseless. Nox growled and began marching over to where they laid, groaning and senseless. The monster pony went right to Lucerna. He briefly gazed over the regent’s body before raising his hoof. He hovered it over his head for a moment. He then raised his hoof high over his head, ready to bring it barrelling down.

Just at that moment, a magic blast hit him in the posterior. Nox roared yet again, both in pain and in frustration. He turned his head, like a hawk scanning for prey. All that greeted his sight was Luna, finally on her shaking hooves.

“Oh that was...so smart…” Luna muttered to herself. She wanted to run away, but her legs wouldn’t obey. Nox seemed to know this as he laughed. He casually trotted over as Luna tried to back up, but only stumbled. He was right in front of her in moments. Luna’s teeth chattered as realized just how tall he really was. His horn lit up signalling he was about to launch a blast of magic. Luna had no choice. She responded with her own. Their blasts met each other and Luna instantly realized just how powerful he was. She could feel his stream of magic down to her hooves. It felt like any moment that even the ground would give way. Luna pushed as much of her magic as she could out of her horn. Still, it did not good. Nox’s power was quickly overpowering her. She cracked her eyes open, staring up at him. He was smiling gleefully, enjoying the sight.

“Die...my little pony.” He said, his incredibly low voice rumbling inside of her ears. “Die.” Luna’s eyes shot open. She didn’t know why, but that word sent a spark of anger through her. Die? Die!? DIE!?!?! What had she ever done!? What did any of them ever do!? What was his problem!? Why did he think he was so special!? Did he think he had the right to decide who lives and who dies!? Who is better than everypony else!? Did her parents deserve to die!? Did Skye!? Did their village!? Did Mitera!? This bastard destroyed everything she had ever loved!!! He sure as well wasn’t going to kill her!

“You know what!?!?!?” Luna shouted, abruptly standing tall. Nox abruptly appeared surprised. “I’m sick of this war! I’m sick of everyone dying! I’m sick of living in fear! I’m sick of everypony suffering!!!” Abruptly Luna’s eyes became slit and changed color. Nox appeared taken aback. “AND I’M SICK OF YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!” An abrupt wave of power shot out of Luna. Magic gushed out of her like a waterfall. Nox didn’t have time to respond. The wave of magic shot right through his. In in a blinding moment, Luna’s magic struck his horn. Nox screeched and stumbled backwards, gripping his horn. He rattled his head gripping his forehead. He growled and hissed in pain, his entire body twitching. Luna meanwhile swayed and collapsed. She couldn’t feel her legs and a numbness began settling over her body. She was beginning to feel cold.

‘Uh oh...I think...I used too much…’ Luna thought. Her vision was beginning to narrow. Nox finally lowered his hooves, growling and snarling. His horn was smoking. He took a step towards the disabled Luna.

“Oh Noxy!” Said a delighted voice. The enraged pony turned his head, opening his mouth and hissing. Aecor was grinning from ear-to-ear. Nox appeared to strain, as if trying to use magic. His face abruptly fell as if in horror. “Magic 101. What happens with another pony’s magic hits your horn?” Nox’s eyes became wide. “Your horn loses it’s ability to produce its own for at least a few hours. Don’t tell me the high-and-mighty Nox forgot such a basic rule?” Aecor began advancing towards him. The gargantuan pony took a step back. He was beginning to seat. “Oh...please tell me this happening!” Aecor began laughing, appearing completely delighted. His uncle and Lucerna were beginning to stand behind him. “Please tell me the all-powerful dark god Nox is trying to run away! It would literally make my year!” Nox took another step backwards. Aecor and Lucerna began marching forward.

The giant pony whirled around and attempted to run. Aecor instantly laughed and launched lightning from his horn. It struck Nox, causing him to yelp and scream like a wounded animal. He began convulsing uncontrollably. Lucerna and Pit quickly caught up to Aecor and unleashed their own electric blasts. Nox shrieked a few octaves higher and flopped onto the ground. Luna struggled with consciousness as Nox flailed on the ground like a fish out of water. He wailed for what seemed like forever. Finally, the noise stopped. His black coat caught fire and his whole body twitched, now solely out because of the electric charge.

“Do not stop!” Lucerna cried. “Destroy all of him! Do not leave a single hair of his in this world!” All three of them obeyed. The shocks continued. The flesh began to peel away off of Nox’s body and his insides began to burn. The inside flesh wasted away. The whole area smelled like burnt bodies, but no pony stopped. His insides charred to ashes, leaving only his bones. Those remains danced around for a moments, crackling under the heat and force of the electricity. Finally, they exploded into intense blue flames. They cracked and degraded beginning to break into shards. Those shards broke into dust and the dust burned away into nothing. Even when there appeared to be nothing left, the three still shot electricity. Finally, a huge plume of smoke blasted out of where the remains where left. It swirled into the dark sky, like a tornado. The twisted face of Nox formed out of the clouds, howling and shrieking. Lucerna gazed up at the tornado of smoke, a look of anger and hate on her face.

“Die! Die! Go into oblivion! You have lost!” He shouted. Nox gave out one last cry of pure rage and hatred. Then with a loud explosion the smoke dissipated. In an instant, the sky lightened. It was suddenly a bright, rosy sunset, with streaks of red across the sky. Panting with complete exhaustion, Lucerna raised his head to the sky. Tears were running down his face.

“It’s...it’s over…” He said in a weak voice. “It’s...finally...finally over.” He let out a weak, shaking sigh. Luna’s vision failed her. The numbness and cold finally consumed her body. She could feel her lungs struggle to inflate. Her consciousness was fading. Her ears were starting to hear everything hollow.

“Luna! Luna!!!” She recognized that voice. It was Celestia. “Wake up! Please wake up! She’s cold! What’s happening!?” Luna couldn’t make out who anypony else was. It was too muffled.

“She used too much magic. She no longer has any to keep her alive.”

“I don’t have any left! This can’t happen! You have to save her! You have to!”

“I...have no more to spare.”

“Neither do I. I used it all against Nox.”

“No! No, no, no, no! The war is over! She can’t die! She can’t…” Luna’s hearing failed. She could feel herself slipping away.

Luna suddenly found herself walking through a long tunnel. There was a light on the other end. She was compelled to walk towards it. After what seemed like an eternity she emerged into a place made of pure, white light. It took a moment for her eyes to adjust. The moment she did, she broke out into the biggest smile of her life. Standing in front of her were all the people she had ever loved, her parents, the villagers, Skye, Mitera and even the supply commissioner. They were all waving and smiling, just as eager to see her. Luna leapt in joy and danced around happily. She began bounding to her friends and family. Then, without warning, she hit a barrier. It was invisible and unbreakable. Luna shrieked in anger and sorrow. She slammed against the barrier again and again. Why!? Why couldn’t she be with the people she loved!? She cried in anguish and fury. She stared at the people she loved with tears in her eyes. She could feel herself being pulled back into the tunnel. She was fighting it, but she knew it would overtake her. Aestiva, Luna’s mother, put her hoof over her mouth.

“Don’t cry little Luna.” She said. “Someday, we will all be together, but it is not this day. The world still needs you Luna. It needs you more than anypony. You are more important than you will ever know.” Luna sobbed as she was pulled back towards the tunnel. Everypony waved and smiled, wishing her luck. “And tell Celestia…”

Luna felt herself in something so tight that it was difficult to breathe. Something was dripping on her face. She was in great discomfort, as she struggled to get air in her lungs. She opened her eyes. At first, everything was black. Then she sensed light, then shapes and then those shapes came into focus.

“Celestia…” Luna moaned. The white alicorn gasped and gazed down, tears still streaming down her face.

“Luna? Luna!?” Her sister shouted, sounding shocked.

“You’re crushing me…” Luna croaked.

“You’re...you’re...alive…” Celestia began crying again.

“Mom...mom…” Luna tried to say. Her sister was still squeezing her way to tight.

“Mom?” She asked, puzzled.

“Mom says...don’t give it away so easily. Make...them work for it...a little.” Celestia gasped and then began sobbing again.

“You’re alive!” The white alicorn dove her head towards her sister’s face.

“Ack...Celestia...don’t...stop...don’t...don’t kiss me! Ack! ACK! STOP! GROOOSSSSS!!!!” Luna finally got some air in her lungs. She desperately pushed away from her sister, getting her mouth away from her face. “Stop it! I know where that mouth has been! Keep it away from my face!” The moment that she stood on her own hooves again, she suddenly found herself squeezed in another pair of strong arms.

“We geliefan unc had gefaran! Ic béo fægen!”

“Gaaah! Lucerna...must...breathe…!!” The massive alicorn released Luna, finally allowed her to breathe. Luna took a few deep breaths before looking up at her great uncle, who seemed to be crying as much as Celestia. “Is...is it all over?”

“Yes.” The regent said, wiping his eyes. “Yes. It is all over.” Luna heaved a sigh and groaned at the same time.

“Thank the gods…” She whined. She then threw an accusing stare at Lucerna. “Don’t you ever let this happen again!”

“I will not. I promise.” He said, sounding honest. Abruptly, something dropped from the sky and slammed next to Lucerna. Luna jumped and put up her hooves, ready to fight. She snarled once she saw it was Pit.

“My lord, now that Luna is safe you must resume commanding the army.” He said in a matter-of-fact way. “We have to mop up the rest of Nox’s army. Let’s make sure this is really the end.”

“Of course, of course.” Lucerna said. “Luna, you be sure to get some rest. We do not need another scare.”

“Okay, I promise.” Lucerna took off into the sky, resuming his duties. Pit stayed behind. He cocked his eyebrow at Luna, looking incredulous. “What?” Luna was sounding incredibly annoyed.

“Make it count, little one.” He said, as if accusing her of something. He then spread his wings and took off. Luna growled after him. She then turned to her sister, who looked a little nervous.

“What is he on about?” Luna asked.

“Oh...uh...I had to give you the last of my magic to keep you alive.” Celestia said, smiling weakly. “I almost killed myself in the process.” She then laughed weakly.

“I thought...you said you were out of magic.” Luna replied, raising her eyebrow.

“What? No I didn’t.” Celestia replied, waving her hoof in the air.

“But I heard...oh forget it.” Luna sat down and heaved another sigh. “This is the longest day I ever had. I cannot imagine one ever being longer.”

~*~

It was now some months later. The location was Numbria, the capital of the country. All of it was in a state of being rebuilt. The palace was still damaged, with one of the towers of it still collapsed. All the people of the city had flooded the square, all of them were gazing up the steps of the ruined castle. There were red carpets down the steps, signalling that it was a grand occasion. The throne had alicorns lining both sides of it. Luna, Celestia, Gramen, Aecor, Pit and a few others that were related to Lucerna were there. Finally, the doors to the castle opened. Trumpets sounded and the crowd erupted. Lucerna emerged from the doors, draped in royal robes. He marched to throne, in a very dignified manner. He sat upon the throne, pride on his face. An old pony marched across the alicorns, followed by a young filly, carrying a pillow with a crown on it. The old pony stopped in front of Lucerna, who lowered his head. The old pony lifted the crown from the pillow and placed it on the alicorns head. The elderly pony stepped away, allowing Lucerna to raise his head in pride on his throne. Gramen stepped forward. For this day, at least, he appeared happy and excited.

“All hail Lucerna, King of Numbria!” He shouted.

“HAIL! HAIL! HAIL!” The crowd shouted, loud and long. The war was finally and truly over. With his country now at peace, Lucerna accepted his rightful throne.

Not long after that, two alicorns were marching on the road away from the city. One was white as a pearl, the other as purple as the night sky. They had packs on their backs and were eager to march away. They had determined looks on their faces. The war was finally over, and they had set off to find their way. As they entered the forest, leaving the city in the distance, they were finally caught.

“Stop!” Both of them froze and cringed. They knew that commanding voice. They turned around as Lucerna dropped out of the sky. He was still in his royal red robes and crown from earlier that day. When he landed he had a suspicious look. “I knew I should not have told you about your mother’s old kingdom. I cannot allow you to march off to certain death.”

“We’re not marching to our deaths.” Luna said, sounding incredulous. “I don’t know if you noticed uncle, but we have both been in battle and I might be a teeny-little bit responsible for the defeat of your greatest enemy.”

“We finally have had our victory.” Lucerna said, sounding exacerbated. “Can’t you stay, at least for a little while longer?”

“Lucerna...uncle,” Celestia began. “We have to find our own way, just like our parents did. You have been more than generous to us. You took us in even though you didn’t even know us, and we are eternally grateful, but this isn’t our kingdom or country. We don’t have one, but we know where we might find one. The people in Equestre are suffering. That land is our parent’s legacy, and we cannot allow it to be destroyed.” Lucerna then sighed, lowering his head.

“You both are so much like your mother.” He said. “Still, there is somepony who deserves an explanation as well.”

“Huh? Who?” Luna asked. Lucerna smiled and turned around. Another pony landed a distance behind him and quickly marched up. Luna tensed up once she saw who it was. It was Gramen, who looked extremely agitated.

“Celestia.” Lucerna said, as he walked past Luna. “Come with me. I will tell you the safest and easiest way to get to Equestre.” Celestia obeyed and they stepped out of hearing range. Gramen walked up to Luna, who instantly looked away and appeared uncomfortable.

“So...you’re leaving?” Gramen asked.

“Yes...I have to.” Luna said, looking up at him. He appeared slightly hurt.

“You don’t...have to.” He said, looking at the ground.

“Where would I go?”

“Well...there’s a certain lord around here who just inherited a lot of territory. He’s also not that interested in managing all of it. He would...need somepony to help him, somepony to be with him...somepony to give him foals so he could divide that land up as quickly as possible.” Luna then abruptly laughed. Gramen quickly jerked his head back to her, but there wasn’t an ounce of malice in Luna’s eyes.

“Gramen, I’m not that kind of mare.” Luna said. “I wouldn’t even know how to begin to do that. I have spent my whole life running around, aimlessly looking for a home and then having anything close to that simply being ripped away. Right now, I don’t even know what kind of pony I am.” Not it was Luna’s turn to look at the ground. “I once had all those things, a home, somepony I loved, somewhere I belonged...but it was all burned. Ever since then I been running and running. I was so sure who I was, but now I don’t know. I don’t know who I am or what I am. I’m so lost and...I’m looking for somewhere I belong. I’m...not the pony you want me to be. I...I can’t give you what you want.” Gramen sighed, sounding defeated. Luna turned her gaze back up at him. “You deserve somepony better than me.”

“I sincerely doubt that.” He replied quickly. “You deserve somepony better than me. I was...hoping you would settle.” Luna only laughed.

“You’re very sweet Gramen. I care about you very deeply, but I have to find my own way.”

“Yeah...I figured it was something like that.” He gazed off into the woods, now appearing annoyed. Luna smiled. She then trotted forward, grabbed his face and turned it towards her. She pressed her lips against his, shocked him. After a few moments, Gramen closed his eyes and returned her kiss. For what seemed like an eternity, they were joined together. Finally, Luna pulled away. She was grinning very wide now.

“You’re a wonderful pony Gramen.” Luna said. “When we see each other again, I will have found my home. Then we can talk seriously.” There were a few seconds of empty blinking, and then Gramen sighed and smiled.

“Alright Luna, I’m going to hold you to that.” Gramen said. Luna smiled and finally spun around. She then marched away. She walked past a gawking Celestia, whose wide eyes had watched the whole exchange. She flashed a surprised smile at Lucerna and then followed her sister. The king walked back to Gramen, who still looked defeated. Lucerna put one of his hooves on the young stallion’s shoulder.

“The night is a beautiful, but also untamable and wild. Only when the land is inhabited and becomes home does the night become calm.”

“And...that would be a metaphor?” Gramen asked, sounding annoyed.

“It can be whatever you want it to be.” Lucerna said, resuming his march back to the city. “All I know is, they are just like their parents. You cannot chase them, you can only wait for them to come to you.”

“Aestiva and Hiemo never came back!” Gramen shouted after his king.

“I know.” Lucerna replied. The green pony growled, slouched and then spread his wings. Plants were so much easier.

Luna and Celestia marched along the road in silence. Celestia was grinning mischievously, Luna was frowning, now liking her sister’s expression.

“So...you and Gramen?” Celestia asked.

“Shut-up.” Luna replied curtly. Celestia giggled. As they turned a bend in the forest they both froze. Casually leaning against a tree, with one hoof over another was Aecor. He seemed blissfully unaware of the approaching sisters. Celestia instantly looked panicked. She turned to her sister, looking terrified.

“Celestia.” Luna said, flatly. “Go on ahead.”

“Luna, please.” Celestia said. “I can’t do this on my own.”

“I know.” Luna replied, giving her sister a serious look. “I’m just going to talk, I promise.” Celestia looked disbelieving, but saw that her sister wasn’t going to back down. Celestia took an uncomfortable breath and walked on. She walked past Aecor, giving him a pleading stare and disappeared into the trees. Luna marched forward, not looking at him. When they were beside each other, Aecor finally spoke.

“Running away again?” He asked flatly. “Then again, that was what you are best at.” Luna stopped. Her expression remained flat.

“I’m not running away.” Luna said. “I’m running towards something now.”

“Use whatever semantics you want, running is running.” Aecor replied, grinning. Luna finally looked at him, her eyes looking murderous. Aecor didn’t flinch.

“We alicorns live forever Aecor. One day, even if it takes an eternity, I will make you pay for what you have done.” Aecor laughed, looking up at the sky before looking back down at Luna.

“I have forever as well little Luna.” He said, sounding amused. “Someday, I will tear down everything you have ever built, everything you have ever loved and everything you have ever known, worse than Nox ever could. Then you will beg at my feet, knowing that I was right all along.” Both of them stared each other down. Luna wanted nothing more than to leap on him and tear his throat open, but she had made a promise.

“Someday...I will kill you. Then all of this will truly be over.” Luna’s eyes briefly became slit. Aecor still didn’t budge, unbothered by her apparent change. Rather, he smiled, seemingly pleased.

“Oh Luna, you have no idea. This will never be over.”

“Whatever you say...corney.” Aecor’s eyes twitched, showing his displeasure. Luna then resumed her march, keeping her eyes on the road. Soon, she left Aecor behind. When she finally caught up to Celestia, the white alicorn relaxed, relieved that nothing had happened. They walked side-by-side once again.

“Thank the heavens, now we can put all this behind us.” Celestia said.

“It’ll never be behind us.” Luna said. “But maybe one day, it will all be over.” Celestia didn’t get what her sister was saying, but decided to drop it.

“Lucerna told me about what we’re going to face.” She explained.

“Oh? He did mention that it was creature of terrible power.”

“He says it’s a draconequus. It’s a creature made of many different arms.”

“Sounds messy. Just how powerful is it?”

“Uncle didn’t know. He did say that they are often called gods of chaos.”

“That sounds pleasant. Well, somepony has to save Equestre, and it looks like it is going to be us.”

“Equestre. You know, I don’t like that name.”

“You don’t?”

“No. It sounds sounds like “sequester.” Such an unpleasant word. I would prefer it be softer sounding.”

“Like what?”

“How about...Equestria?”

Author's Note

I don't know if I'll ever post anymore chapters, but I thought anyone still willing to read this at least deserved to know what happened with the war.