Black Feather

Nyx flew high over the meadows, forests, and rolling foothills of the Equestrian countryside on her way toward Canterlot. The familiar flight was one she had taken with Luna many times growing up. Their first flight together was when Nyx was only thirteen and couldn’t fly the distance herself. She had fluttered along until she got tired, then clung to Luna’s back for most of the journey.

The memory of that flight washed over Nyx as she watched birds soaring in flocks below, unaware of her presence. She had wrapped all four legs tightly around Luna’s frame, feeling the warmth of her body contrasting with the cold breeze flowing around her. Luna’s powerful muscles moved in rhythm with her wings as they cut through the air together. On occasion, she would look back and smile at Nyx, asking if she was doing alright. Nyx would nod and smile back. Despite the nervous twitch in her stomach, the closeness she felt with her royal friend brought a warmth she would treasure forever.

Nyx’s eye caught the sight of smoke billowing from the tall brick chimney of the Buckington Munitions factory below, breaking her reverie. It was a grim reminder of what had changed since those innocent years. She shook her head. What had happened to Equestria? What had happened with Luna, her friend?

Oh, that one she had never lived down with those two brats at school. “You’re friends with the Princess?! What makes you think you deserve to even be in her presence, Nightmare Moon?” Make that two things she never lived down. They never spoke like that when Luna was around, of course. But when was the last time Luna was around in that way?

This damn war was what happened, of course. Only two weeks after Nyx’s sweet-sixteen birthday, the zebras openly attacked southern Equestria. And over what? They were fanatics, raving about prophecy and superstition, and the princesses have always been tight-lipped about the details. Once war was declared, Canterlot went nuts with rumors and speculation. The panic of an entire nation kept the royal sisters busy as the illusion of peace and safety crumbled around them.

Things had never been the same with Luna after that. Eventually, she didn’t even write, and Nyx moved on to other things. Mentally stimulating things like studying with her mother. Pleasant, dreamy things like Rumble. Then, her academic studies in Canterlot five months later.

Nyx flew along, watching the farmers far below tending their fields and noticing the merchant convoys roaming between the small hamlets with their wagons. Of course, it wasn’t merely cider and produce in those carts. Ponies had recently begun trading weapons and medical supplies as well. A small shiver ran down Nyx’s spine as she considered how close the war was coming to destroying their way of life.

The Friendship Express paced her for a moment along the track of the Ponyville Line, and she glanced down at the heavily laden train. The cars were split evenly between passenger and military cargo and marked with the distinctive colors of the Royal Equestrian Army. Many of the passengers would be new recruits heading to the capital for enlistment and training, gathered from the towns and hamlets further down the line.

Up ahead, the massive bulk of Canterlot Mountain took up most of her view. The majestic balcony-city of Canterlot itself jutted from its side, streaming waterfalls down onto the landscape far below. Nyx swallowed dryly, an empty feeling creeping into her gut. She had flown this approach over a hundred times. Why did she feel like a filly on a first date? She chided herself; Luna was probably just catching up with her. It had been just over six months since everything went crazy from the school massacre. She was probably just way too busy to deal with Nyx and her activities.

As she drew closer, the opulent alabaster spires and towers gleamed with regal beauty. The entire city seemed to cast off an essence of luxury, power, and prestige. Nyx let out a sigh. What was she even doing here? In the past, she had felt at home at the Palace. Welcome. Now… with Luna on ‘professional’ terms for years, that feeling had faded.

Looking around at the Canterlot scenery, Nyx felt very out of place among one of the few remnants of high society that the war had left untouched. The gardens were perfectly manicured, and the fountains sprayed water in varying patterns into pools along the walkways. Ponies walked about every which way—some with the hurried air of important business, some with the casual stroll and turning head of an eager tourist. Others sat in the park reading or toured the grounds herding along their excited children, some of whom looked skyward, waving. Well, at least some things were better than they had been in the past; at one time, the sight of Nightmare Moon flying overhead would have sent such ponies running for cover.

Nyx approached the Palace, its many ornate stained-glass windows glinting in the sun. She caught a glimpse of the one depicting her mother’s ascension right next to the one depicting Luna passing judgment on Night—on her, ending one phase of Nyx’s life and beginning another. How appropriate. She circled around the largest tower and landed on the upper balcony next to a guard who was waiting for her.

“Princess Luna is expecting you.”

“Thank you, sir.” She walked past the guard into the immense hallway, looking up at the high arched ceilings. The sun shone through the detailed imagery of each delicately crafted stained-glass window, spreading a rainbow of colors on the plush carpet that covered the walkway.

Nyx turned to walk down a smaller hallway leading to Luna’s study. Her stomach twitched as she reached the door distinguished by a crescent moon emblem in the center. The guard outside the door stood unmoving until she came to a stop. He then opened the door for her, revealing Luna on the other side, standing near the far wall of the study. Nyx entered, closing the door behind her.

Luna’s study was small as far as Palace rooms go but plenty big enough for its purpose. There was a notable lack of opulence. The main desk sat up against the lengthwise wall. Its dark cherry finish was old and worn. Each of its drawers had polished brass hoof clasps. On the desk were piles of papers in disarray, save for the large writing area in the center which had a map resting on it. A small coffee table sat adjacent to the desk. It too had stacks of papers in addition to a dinner plate with a half-eaten salad on it. On the opposite side of the desk, Luna’s bookshelf was filled with books of all sizes, some of which were lying on their sides.

Luna glanced at Nyx as she placed a book on the shelf where she was standing. She turned to face her visitor. Nyx trotted a couple quick steps forward out of reflex, then straightened, remembering herself. “It’s good to see you, Luna.”

“It has been too long,” Luna said with a smile. “Please, sit. Make yourself comfortable.”

Nyx knelt down on a fine, plush floor-cushion next to a large bookshelf.

“I appreciate you coming so swiftly at my request,” Luna said, kneeling down on the cushion directly adjacent Nyx. She hesitated, appearing unsure which words to choose. “Have you been well?” she asked finally.

“There’s tough times. But together, we get through it.”

“Indeed.” Luna fell silent for a moment, her somber gaze locked onto a distant, unseen point through the floor. Taking a breath, her eyes returned contact. “Nyx, I am sorry for how things turned out. I know I have not… You- You have a good family.”

Nyx’s ear twitched. “Thanks.”

“You still field-test for GTI, yes?”

“Quite a bit, actually,” Nyx replied, happy leave the awkward moment behind. “We do a lot of war game scenarios, sometimes with the SkyGuard. We don’t go looking for trouble, but once in a while, we end up in a live zebra encounter.”

“Yes, I heard about what happened yesterday in Ponyville. I am very impressed, Nyx. That was exemplary, saving the child from assassins.”

Nyx blushed, her hoof fidgeting with the cushion’s decorative edging. “Thank you.” She wondered if Luna would still think it was exemplary if she knew what Nyx had done to those two zebras. Just thinking about them caused her to become agitated.

“Why were they even there? It’s Ponyville. We almost never get incursions that far inland.”

“I wish I knew. I believe it will likely get worse.”

“Worse than this?” That was the last thing Nyx wanted to hear.

“The zebras are pushing in harder now than ever before. Many things are changing in the war, Nyx. I have called you here to ask for your help with some things.”

“We’re always glad to help, Luna. What do you need?”

Luna levitated a map of Equestria off her desk and spread it across the floor between them.

“There is a situation in the west coast bayous. Are you familiar with the region?”

Nyx chuckled. “Only that Apple Bloom went out there by herself when she was a filly just to prove to her sister that she could handle it. Nearly got herself eaten by—”

Luna blinked, her face unreadable.

Clearing her throat, Nyx lowered her voice. “Um, no actually, I haven’t been out there myself.”

“I see. We hear very little from this area, but yesterday, I received a report of a group of zebras making their way inland through the labyrinth of paths and waterways. I am concerned for the local settlements. There are good families living out that way who prefer a peaceful, isolated, rural life, and I want to ensure they do not fall prey to zebra military forces.”

Nyx studied the map. “Sounds like something for the military to be doing.”

Luna raised an eyebrow. “That… is correct.”

An awkward feeling formed in Nyx’s stomach, her ear twitching again. “Um… Luna, I’m barred from combat apart from the occasional private encounter. I’m not allowed to fight alongside the military, per your orders.”

“I know, Nyx. There was a good reason. When you stopped the zebra attack in the Crystal Empire, do you remember what happened?”

“Not really. It was three years ago. I… I remember seeing uncle Shining get shot. Everypony freaked out. I wanted to protect Mom, but I didn’t know what was happening. I couldn’t see the threat. I don’t remember what happened next—just waking up in the hospital.”

Luna appeared to be struggling with whether or not to say something. After a moment of thought, she spoke.

“The reason you burned out is because you cast a spell which required probably twenty times as much magic as you were capable of holding. It is an old war spell I developed some three thousand years ago called Death Blossom. It was designed to eliminate all nearby enemies, wherever they might be hiding. Even I can only cast it once without recharging.”

Nyx’s mind raced. War spell? She didn’t know any war spells. “Luna, how… But you took—”

“I know. My sister and I asked one another the same question. It would appear that taking away somepony’s history is not as easy as I had once believed. I know many war magic spells, Nyx.”

So that’s why. Nyx somehow still had some of Luna’s past knowledge. “And this is why I wasn’t allowed to fight.”

Luna nodded. “When an alicorn casts a spell, the energy is found to complete it. If we burn out, the energy is forcibly taken from other sources. You are strong, Nyx. But your magic capacity is very low for an alicorn. It will grow with time, of course, but you are still quite young, which makes burning out very easy to do. This puts yourself and any nearby friendly forces at serious risk. Imagine if something like that happened near one of our unicorn shielded positions.”

“What happened three years ago was an accident. How can I be sure it won’t happen again? I’m careful to watch my energy storage.” Nyx tapped a hoof at the spell matrix resting at the base of her horn. “I only use high-drain abilities when absolutely necessary.”

A gentle smile formed on Luna’s face. “You have grown much, and your discipline has improved in recent years. It is a risk, yes. But a risk we must accept, which is why I am rescinding the decision. That, plus priorities have shifted over the past six months. We need all the help we can get, so I hereby allow you to participate in the war but only under supervision, and only on the missions I personally choose for you.”

Wow. After three years. It was too good to be true! “Thank you, Luna. This means a lot,” Nyx beamed. “But I still don’t understand something. Why do you need our involvement on this mission if you’re sending the military in anyway?”

Luna thought for a moment before standing up and placing the map back on her desk. She turned to Nyx with a warm smile. “Would you like to get some air with me? I have been cooped up in this room for most of the day and could use a change of scenery.”

Nyx wasn’t sure why Luna avoided her question. She returned a weak smile and nodded. “Sure, sounds good to me.”

Luna opened the door and stepped out of the room. The two dark alicorns walked down the hallway to the upper balcony. The sun hung low in the sky, casting long shadows across the city as they approached the railing.

“Follow me.” Luna winked at Nyx, then leapt off the balcony, flipped backward in a three-quarters loop, and dived straight down with a full-spin, arcing just past the edge of Canterlot. She sped alongside the main waterfall, which flowed to the land below, casting rainbows through the clouds of mist that surrounded them.

Nyx pushed herself to keep up. It never got old to see the princess’s agility, speed, and aerobatic prowess. The two plummeted for several seconds as the ground rushed up at them, then broke with wings suddenly outstretched. They flew a short distance away and alighted on the top of a small hill within sight of a massive construction project.

There were many zebras working below on the scaffolds, building an aqueduct at the base of the main waterfall. Off to the side, more zebras were building an array of simple houses and digging tunnels to channel water beneath them. Not far from the residential area, zebras were busy plowing land for farming. Workers were laying pipes that ran from the main aqueduct into the new fields for irrigation.

“I sometimes come here after a long day,” Luna said, catching her breath. “I find it gives me perspective.”

Nyx took in the scene. “I saw this place on the flight over. This is the new zebra village, isn’t it?

“The Underfall,” Luna confirmed with a nod. “I felt it best to give this place to them. Equestrian zebras have been requesting a more central community for some years now.”

Nyx kept her eye on the zebras. Several had noticed the pair of alicorns on the nearby hill but kept working. A small part of her was surprised that they weren’t attacking.

“A lot of ponies think they should just go back home.”

Luna turned to face her. “And where is home, Nyx? How many of them grew up in Equestria? Would they not be viewed as traitors by their own people even if they did try to return? This war is not inconvenient only for us; it has put the many good zebra citizens of Equestria in a difficult situation. A great number, especially in the south, even fear for their safety.”

An uneasy feeling fell over Nyx as she recalled her recent conviction about zebras being monsters. She understood the importance of not prejudging others. Her entire childhood was a battlefield of social conflict centered on this very concept. How could she have allowed herself to forget this?

“I… imagine these zebras are feeling like they don’t really belong anywhere. That they have no place in the world. It must be terrifying.”

“Indeed,” Luna replied, her voice soft. “So I have ordered the construction of this place where they can live in peace among their own kind, largely unbothered by potentially angry or vindictive ponies who cannot tell the difference between a citizen and an invader simply because they share stripes. Unfortunately, I will likely be criticized for this as well. I am already somewhat unpopular among the zebras as it is, given my… our legacy as Nightmare Moon. You, perhaps even more, likewise share in this.”

“That’s an understatement,” Nyx said flatly, eyes still on the zebras. They were hard workers and rarely caused trouble. While they still made her a little nervous, they weren’t the enemy.

“Why have you shown me this?” Nyx asked.

“A test,” Luna said simply, turning to face her. “And a lesson. Nyx, it is very likely that you will become a champion in this war in the near future, no doubt attracting considerable attention from the zebra government. You just witnessed three zebras attempting to murder an innocent child. I needed to know if you could still feel compassion for them as people. That you will not allow yourself to simply become a zebra killing machine. I need you to have the right perspective regarding who your enemy is. And why.”

Nyx was taken aback. Did Luna really see her as a champion of the war one day?

“I see. I think I understand, Luna. But my question remains about the mission. Why send us if you’re sending the military in anyway?”

“Your heroism yesterday convinced me that you were ready. But it would be unwise to throw you into a large operation as your first mission. You need a chance to prove yourself. This mission is a milk run; it is low profile, and you are unlikely to see actual combat. And if you do, I will be sending more than enough soldiers with you to handle this little incursion into the swamps. My goal is to ease you into your new role, not to get you killed on your first mission.”

“Well, hopefully I won’t be killed on any of my missions.”

Luna poked her shoulder. “Fear not, young one. I say that tongue in cheek.” Luna shot her a wink.

“I know,” Nyx chuckled. “I’m actually pretty excited about it!”

“This mission is important, Nyx. It may be uneventful, but the zebras are up to something strange. I want somepony I can trust out there to figure it out if possible—somepony smart enough, with a natural curiosity, to get to the root of the matter. I cannot have them discovering how vulnerable we are.”

“What do you mean, vulnerable?”

“The reason I’ve been promoting militia groups in recent weeks is because we do not have enough soldiers to cover the outlying areas. This problem in the bayou region is a good example because it is undefended. If the zebras learn of this, there will be strategic consequences.”

Nyx considered this for a moment. The pair watched in silence as the zebras worked in the distance, the sun sinking below the horizon. Dozens of lanterns were being lit across the new village as dusk fell over them like a blanket. Zebra children were playing in the streets and had begun to file into their homes, most of which were makeshift temporary shacks. Nyx could just make out the soft percussive sounds of strange, unfamiliar music coming from a central campfire, which had several zebras gathered around it. Nyx shook her head. They were so very different.

“I need to ask you something, Luna. If I’m going to be active in the war going forward, what kinds of things would I be doing? I’ve wondered for a long time now how I might be able to help. Where do I fit in?”

“One moment, Nyx…” Luna turned her attention to the east and stared off into the distance, her eyes flashing white and her horn flaring for a second as subtle, detailed patterns raced across her coat for just a moment. Nyx’s mane was tousled by a gust of wind, and the air around Luna felt electric as the moon peeked above the horizon. She turned back to Nyx.

“As an alicorn, you can bring very mobile, concentrated strength to a fight. There are certain missions where having you along could mean the difference between success and failure. As your skills grow, I would like you to work with some of my officers and assist them in these missions. Eventually, you would act as a special operative or a commander, depending on what suits you.”

Nyx’s mind was spinning. She stared off to the horizon, the soft light of the rising moon shining in her eyes.

“One step at a time, Nyx. Do not stress over the future; that is my job. For now, there are preparations to make. First, you will need to be properly equipped. You have been getting by on very little from what I understand.”

Nyx snapped back into focus. “Um, we scavenge what we can if we encounter zebras. Sometimes, we come in and clean up after the military has pushed a zebra position back. GTI also gives us some fun toys. My spell matrix is pretty cool.”

Luna smiled. “I want to open the doors a bit wider and give you greater access to weapons and medical supplies.”

Nyx’s ears shot up. “Seriously?”

“Also, if you want to bring in new ponies to your team, you can—but please run it by me so I am aware.”

“Hmm, I can’t see that happening anytime soon.”

“I can. But that is a topic for another day. I need to send you out on this assignment as soon as I organize some ground forces to accompany you. They will rely on your team’s hunting skills and aerial advantage.”

Nyx laughed. “Hunting skills? I guess.”

“It is true, is it not?” Luna smirked. “I have heard stories.”

“Somepony leaking our tactical secrets, now? No seriously, we actually had a crazy-lucky example just yesterday. Between Flitter’s weird changeling emotion detector and my T.E.I. it’s hard for them to hide.”

Luna grinned. “As I said. Hunting skills. Do not question your princess’s choice of words.” She poked Nyx in the side with a chuckle.

Nyx felt a nostalgic warmth at Luna’s demeanor. She had missed moments like this.

“Come. Let us return.” Luna looked at Nyx; a mischievous spark began in her eyes and blossomed into a grin. “I will race you to the top!” Luna took flight, flapping hard to quickly gain altitude.

Nyx grinned and leapt into the air, recalling the moments from her youth when they would play together. Luna had often given her a head start with Nyx giggling as she raced on ahead. She would squeal in mock terror as Luna passed her then performed some aerial stunt which slowed her down. Those moments would end in occasional victories which turned into hugs, cuddles, and laughter, followed by tea and chatting.

Tonight, there was no such head start. But Nyx had grown much in strength since those days. She pushed her muscles to their limit and worked to catch up to the princess. Luna glanced to her left, noticing Nyx just over her shoulder. The brief look of surprise etched on her face was priceless. Luna then fixed her gaze forward and redoubled her efforts.

The two returned to the upper balcony feeling winded but alive. “You know,” Luna said between breaths, “You really made me work for that victory.”

Nyx worked to catch her breath. “That was great,” she wheezed. “I forgot what a strong flier you are. Not bad for a… how old are you again?”

Luna chuckled. “It is not polite to ask a mare her age.” She winked, then regarded Nyx with a thoughtful gaze. “Please, come join me inside.” Luna walked into the palace as Nyx stood alone on the balcony for a moment letting her trembling muscles calm down.

Nyx trotted to catch up, following Luna through the Palace down a different hallway than before. They stopped in front of a doorway which had a black disk made of polished onyx mounted on the wall. In the center of the circle was a gold crescent moon. Three clear crystals were embedded near the edges of the stone disk surrounding the moon. Luna leaned forward, bringing her horn close to the lock, causing the crystals to glow. With a click, the door unlocked and opened. She then led Nyx into her private chambers.

The air felt warm and inviting despite the cool colors which surrounded them. The room was decorated in deep violet hues with midnight blue curtains held in place by golden silk ropes. Framed paintings of the night sky hung from the walls, and a large, central carpet spread in front of the marble fireplace. A plush, purple floor couch sat on the carpet along the left wall perpendicular to the fireplace.

Along the opposite wall from the couch was a dark, wooden, intricately carved writing desk which held blank scrolls, a quill, and an inkwell. It looked very worn, and the sides had engravings which might have been writing nopony would have used for thousands of years. Among the engravings were several symbols. Both Luna’s and Celestia’s cutie marks could be seen alongside two others which Nyx did not recognize.

On the floor, along the left side of the desk, sat a wooden lock-box with metal edging and gems set into the corners. This, too, looked ancient. To the right of the writing desk was a refreshment cabinet containing a variety of drinks and fruits held in magical stasis.

An arched cutout in the wall led to Luna’s private balcony. The framed glass double doors were shut, yet allowed airflow through two adjustable panes. Nyx could see the light of the rising moon shining through the thin white curtains moving in the breeze in front of the doors.

A fire crackled beneath the mantel’s golden crescent moon emblem, radiating warmth into the room. The smell of lavender incense filled the air, giving Nyx a sense of comfort and calming her nerves. Luna walked over to the couch and sat, making herself comfortable. Nyx looked around the room, taking in the style which Luna preferred to call her own.

"I love your room!" She glanced at Luna, who was watching her intently.

Luna smiled and appeared to relax a bit. “Thank you. I am pleased to hear that.”

Nyx sat down beside her, feeling her body sink into the soft velvet cushion. She situated herself and regarded Luna. She looked tired, and not because of the race.

“Luna, how have you been?” Nyx asked. It was a genuine question. Nyx disliked small talk, and if memory served, Luna did as well.

A pause lingered in the air for a moment as the princess considered her response. Glancing downward with ears tilted back, she let out a sigh. “A bit stressed, to be honest. These past several months have not come easy. I have had many challenges.”

“Do you get much chance to talk to Celestia about things?” Nyx asked.

Shifting a bit on the couch, Luna continued looking downward and said nothing.

“Well… you can share your worries with me if you like. I don’t mind,” Nyx offered with a kind smile.

Eyes glancing briefly toward Nyx, a bittersweet smile played at her lips. Her expression softened as she turned to her guest. “Thank you, Nyx. I feel… To be honest, it has been a long time since there was somepony with whom I could…”

Before Luna could retreat, Nyx leaned forward, placing a hoof on her hind leg. “It’s okay,” she said, gently.

Her defenses fading, Luna met her eyes directly. “You have no idea how restrained I must be with most ponies, Nyx. There has been no one with whom I can be candid with. I have become the princess of war; I cannot appear uncertain in my resolve. I cannot show how much it affects—”

Eyes falling once more, Luna looked as if she were carrying the weight of the world. And it was not lost on Nyx that perhaps, in fact, she truly was.

“I have had to turn Equestria upside-down these past six months,” she continued. “You must understand, Nyx, it is necessary if we are to end this war. The increased focus on advancing technology and conducting military campaigns have not come easy for many. Peace advocates have protested my decisions and, in fact, my very rule. I have had to be firm. In the process, I have almost completely alienated the old Noble Houses of Equestria. I do not have room to entertain their outdated prattle. They have not taken it well.”

Nyx stifled a chuckle. She herself was no fan of the nobles and their ways.

Meeting Nyx’s gaze again, Luna leaned in closer. “But what is more distressing, I feel that this year’s burdens have distracted me from more important things which life used to allow.” After a moment’s pause, she reached for Nyx, pulling her close in an embrace. “I have missed you.”

Eyes shooting wide for a second, Nyx put her hooves around Luna’s shoulders, pressing into her neck. Memories flooded her mind as she held tight to the one pony who had most been like an older sister to her.

Pulling back gently, Luna forced a weak smile as she looked upon Nyx afresh. “So much has happened since we spent any real time together. You have grown so much, Nyx, despite my absence. I am very proud of you.”

Her cheeks heating up a bit, Nyx shook her head slightly. “I know you’ve been busy. It’s alright. And this year has been no picnic for any of us. I think you’ve been handling things pretty well, to be honest. Ruling the nation by yourself can’t be easy.”

Her body stiffening slightly, a subtle huff escaped Luna’s nostrils. “Celestia’s hiatus was… necessary,” she said, her tone growing serious. “Though I bear the burden willingly, I admit it has caused me to question myself more than a few times.”

Nyx’s curiosity internally poked at her. “But why? Surely, both of you can—”

Holding up a hoof, Luna cut off Nyx’s train of thought. “My sister knew the changes Equestria must face, and she knew that I must do it alone. It is now my duty to bring the nation out of the defensive position we have been in for nine years. To not only end the war, but to ensure that the zebras will not pose a threat to Equestria in the future.”

Luna’s words rang in Nyx’s mind. “But… alone?”

“Celestia has kept her distance,” Luna replied with a nod. “It is not as if she does not support my decisions, Nyx. She does, fully, but she wants to avoid micromanaging my efforts. Though it is a tremendous struggle for me, I understand why she must remain silent. It only… I only wish…”

Luna’s eyes had closed, her expression pained.

“What is it?” Nyx asked, gently, as she leaned forward a bit, trying to read the princess’s expression.

“Having nopony to share my feelings with has been more difficult than I expected. There are times when my burdens are too much to bear. Especially thoughts of…”

It was then that Nyx understood. “Brumby Ridge,” she said, quietly. Of all the countless concerns which burdened the princess, this was the one which would have stood out above the rest. For Nyx herself had shared this burden, the tragedy having robbed her of many nights’ sleep.

“It weighs heavily on my heart, even after all these months,” Luna admitted.

Nyx recalled the horror of that day. “I… Yes, when we heard about what happened, I couldn’t believe it. I must have wept all night for the families and children.”

Luna sighed. “All the families are still grief-stricken. I visited as many as I could. After only a few, I could not bear it.”

Her brow furrowing, Luna paused as if wrestling with her thoughts. Her eyes grew wet and the air felt charged as a faint whiff of ozone drifted through Nyx’s nostrils.

“Those were my students!” she snapped, suddenly. “Those were my teachers and staff! I personally chose them!”

It was short lived. Clearly spent, Luna’s voice fell to a whimper. “Loving, dedicated, incredibly talented ponies doing what they could to raise up the next generation of—”

Luna paused, composing herself. Nyx’s ears fell as she shifted in her seat, her heart aching. She could not recall ever seeing the princess so vulnerable.

“So much has been lost, Nyx,” she said softly before clearing her throat. “It was going to be such a momentous day. We were on the verge of a breakthrough. All the tests had worked perfectly, and the children were so excited about their project. Celestia and I were there at CSGU, along with many of the parents, ready to welcome my students through the portal.”

Nyx had heard this story from her mother after the tragedy. Twilight had been there in Brumby Ridge, on the LSGU side of the experiment, monitoring events from the research institute and ensuring they were provided with sufficient power.

Luna’s head hung low as she continued. “When the portal failed to manifest, we assumed the students were running a bit behind. Surely, it would only be a moment. After fifteen minutes, Celestia powered down the target zone. We all stood there, wondering what happened. I remember a mare approached me, asking where her daughter was. I… I assured her that they—”

Luna’s breath caught, her voice cracking. “That they would be okay.” A tear ran down her cheek, and she looked up toward the ceiling in anguish as if petitioning fate to reverse its decision.

Nyx knew the rest of the story. When dozens of zebra civilians fell through the portal, the Brumby Ridge defenses sprang to life. There was a reason it was known as the most well-defended town in Southern Equestria. Twilight had watched helplessly from her window at the institute as it unfolded. The blood. There was so much blood. When the REA finally managed to shut down the defenses, the only sound was the odd hum of the misaligned portal as it remained open to the zebra capital on the other side.

Of course, their response was predictably brutal.

“Celestia still blames herself, at least in part,” Luna said after drying her eyes. “She tried for so many years to negotiate with the zebras through diplomacy. Her belief is that if she had only abandoned this effort and pushed to end the war sooner, then over seven hundred children would still be alive.”

Nyx put a hoof to her mouth. “Surely, she can’t actually believe this.”

“Nyx, she is not wrong. Celestia did everything she thought was right when dealing with the enemy nation. She tried for years to reason with them—to not give them a reason to fight or to hate. She asked me to stay out of it as well because my presence only riles the zebras up.

“But why won’t they listen?” Nyx asked sharply, finding herself growing agitated. “What do they want, anyway?”

Luna’s silence at that question only served to irritate her further. “Well?”

“Nyx, you mustn’t—” Luna stopped herself, only causing Nyx’s question to burn within her. What did the zebras want? Why couldn’t they be talked down?

Voice raised, Luna spoke with barely-contained fury. “After what they did to my children, do you really think these are the types of people who listen to reason?! Should we honestly be surprised that after nine years of trying to talk to them, things have only gotten worse?”

Leaning forward, Luna stood up from her position on the couch. She walked over to the fireplace a few steps away before sitting on the carpet, facing away from Nyx. A midnight-blue levitation field poked at the burning logs, through the flames, sending glowing sparks up the flue.

“You do not understand what Celestia has chosen to unleash upon the zebras, Nyx,” Luna said as she stared into the flames. “Over an hour had passed before an exhausted pegasus arrived from Brumby Ridge to tell us what had become of my students.”

As Luna continued, she poked again at the flaming logs, turning them over in the fire. Nyx swallowed dryly as she noticed the room appear to grow much darker despite the increased intensity of the flames.

“Seven hundred twenty three beautiful souls, Nyx. When we found out, I left Canterlot immediately. The entire flight there, I kept telling myself that it could not be true. It must have been a mistake. Then, when I saw them with my own eyes…”

A hollow formed in Nyx’s gut as Luna fell silent for a moment, the flames growing in strength. The fireplace was now the only thing she could see apart from Luna’s silhouette as it eclipsed a portion of the flames.

“That evening, I flew south, beyond the border. I was out all night.” Luna dropped a hovering log into the fire, sending a burst of embers up the flue before turning to face Nyx.

“By morning, there were… far fewer zebras in the world.”

Luna’s words hung in the air like the spectre of death for several seconds before she continued. Nyx had no words.

Standing up, Luna approached the couch where Nyx sat. “Do you want to know why Celestia gave me the throne?”

Sitting motionless, Nyx said nothing, her eyes remaining locked onto Luna’s as the princess softened her expression at last. She then sat beside Nyx, the room becoming brighter as her emotional tide ebbed.

“Because… Because she knew I would kill them,” Luna said, the pain still evident in her voice. “All of them, if necessary. She said to do whatever I have to do. And I did, Nyx. I have turned Equestria into an engine of war. One day, my sister will be able to return to the throne. When it is done.”

“So that’s why it had to be you,” Nyx said.

“It was something Celestia could never do,” Luna replied with a nod and a note of sadness. “Celestia and I have always brought balance to Equestria. You must understand, in ancient times, ponykind was never like how you remember growing up. But in my thousand-year absence, the nation has grown soft. I do not blame my sister; it is her way and her strength. Benevolence is her virtue.”

“What will you do now?” Nyx almost didn’t want to hear the answer.

“Equestria does not need balance at this time,” she replied. “Ponykind has benefitted much during my sister’s solo rule, but I will bring back Equestria’s strength. It is well underway, but again, the task is often more than I can bear.”

Nyx shifted closer to Luna as her voice drifted into silence. She reached out to touch a hoof to Luna’s shoulder. “How can I help?”

“With Celestia mostly absent as of late, I… I have nopony to talk to. She has always been there. We… we could talk about anything. You do not understand, Nyx. For thousands of years, this is how it was. I cannot…”

“I’m here now. If you want—”

Luna put her hooves around Nyx once more. “You have been like a younger sister to me, Nyx. It would mean a lot to me if we spent time together again like we used to.”

Nyx’s heart leapt. “I’d like that a lot. I’ve missed you too.”

Luna straightened herself and smiled. “I need something to drink.” She got up and walked over to the refreshment cabinet. Looking back at Nyx, she hovered a pair of cups, shaking them just a bit. “Tea?”

“Yes, please.”

Luna poured two cups of tea and levitated them over to the couch along with a plate of peach slices before returning to where she had been sitting.

“When my sister first gave me the throne, I was full of fire and energy. Then, when the implications settled in my mind, I was terrified! I had become accustomed to ruling with my sister. The added responsibilities, especially during the war, have been a tremendous pressure.”

“I can’t imagine trying to manage a war,” Nyx commented, taking a cup in her own telekinetic grip.

Luna sipped her tea. “It is not so much that. I tend to think I understand wartime strategy quite well. After all, I have seen many in my lifetime. However, it is all the more difficult with the absence of Celestia. I miss her and long for the day when she can return to the throne. Thankfully, she still raises the sun in the morning, although many days, I do not even know where she is.”

Luna’s brow furrowed. “You know, I once coveted the throne so much that I attempted to destroy my sister and take rulership entirely for myself! Now that I have it, I find it is not nearly so attractive.”

Nyx nodded, recalling her own experiences. “Sometimes things seem like a really good idea until they actually happen.”

“Indeed,” Luna said, failing to mask her irritation.

Nyx considered her thoughts while watching Luna silently cool her emotional momentum. “You know, I’ve also experienced some cruel irony in recent weeks.”

“How so?”

Nyx became self-conscious, her voice taking on a quiet tone. “I’ve been having nightmares.”

Luna’s eyes widened. “Oh my. Really?”

Nyx nodded.

“You know, I can probably come in and help with them if they are too irritating.” Luna took another sip.

“It’s more than just bad dreams. I feel like they are… temptations to embrace Nightmare Moon once again.”

Luna nearly spilled her tea. She tensed slightly, eyes fixed on Nyx. “Please explain.”

“I’ve had maybe four now over the past few weeks. Something will be chasing me, but I can’t shake it. Then, I’ll see sanctuary. The only way out. The last one was Nightmare Moon’s castle. I jumped right in, not knowing it would be a trap.”

Luna closed her eyes and rubbed her face with her hooves. “Mmmmm…” She shook her head and sighed. “That was not a trap.” She looked back up at Nyx. “Have you had any strange magical outbursts? Other than what happened at the Guard ceremony.”

“Uh, yeah. I was just telling Mom about that yesterday.”

“What happened?”

“It was during the zebra attack on Ponyville Elementary. I… I incinerated two zebras with my mind when we caught up with them. I was really angry. I didn’t mean to…”

Luna fidgeted like she was worried about something. “You were outraged, but setting them ablaze was not your intention. You cast no spell—it just happened. In your mind, you felt the matter in their bodies shift at your will. You wielded tremendous forces like a tool or extension of yourself. Is this correct?”

Nyx thought for a moment. “I… didn’t think about it quite like that, but now that you mention it, yeah that was kind of how it felt. Mom didn’t believe me when I told her. She said that’s not how magic works. And it isn’t; I wouldn’t have believed me either.”

“Twilight is not aware of this type of magic, Nyx. It does not operate by the same rules as unicorn magic. If I were to guess, your device showed no loss of stored magic after the event?” Luna pointed at Nyx’s Spell Matrix.

Nyx engaged the indicator, showing the figure floating in the air before her so that Luna could see it. It read one-hundred percent. “Actually, it went up. I thought maybe it was a glitch. When I talked to Mom about all this, she said that Celestia had asked her to look out for that kind of thing. She seemed worried that it might mean I was a different kind of alicorn or something. What does that even mean?”

Luna regarded Nyx for a long moment before speaking. A drop of sweat ran down her cheek. She sighed again. “Nyx, what your mother said is true. Your origin was rather unusual. Celestia and I thought maybe you would be spared the… maybe you would turn out like your mother. At this point, however, I suspect that you are indeed a natural alicorn like we are.”

Nyx was confused. “Does it matter?”

“It does. Your nightmares are caused by it.”

“Can you help? You’re a dream-warden after all.”

“No. This is beyond my ability—you are dealing with forces much more powerful than I can contain.”

What?! Adrenaline shot through Nyx’s body, and she could feel her face heat up. “What can I do about it?”

“It seems you have yet to acquire a Virtue of Harmony.”

“A virtue of… What do you mean?”

“There are many Effects of Harmony which ponies exhibit. Possessing one of these traits far in excess of most ponies is known as having a Virtue of Harmony. When you discover yours, you need not fear returning to your past sins. I cannot overstate how important this is, Nyx. I do not exaggerate when I say that the fate of the world is at stake.”

Nyx nearly fainted. She couldn’t be serious. “What! If it’s that important, can’t I just pick something? This is something I have to decide to do, right? Well I decide, then. I don’t want to be a threat to others.”

Luna shook her head. “It is not that simple, Nyx. Virtues of Harmony are not decided. They are discovered through actions and character traits. You must live it out first, and only then will it stop what is coming.”

Nyx felt herself trembling. “What is coming, Luna? I don’t understand.”

“Terrible things.”

Nyx swallowed dryly. “I can’t go on this mission, Luna. I can’t be a danger to other ponies!”

The princess shook her head. “Look at your cutie mark, Nyx. Look at the promise you made to me fifteen years ago. I wager your virtue is very likely linked to these things. It is actually more important now that you go on this mission—that you begin to realize what constitutes Nyx Sparkle. Perhaps then, your virtue will be unveiled.”

Nyx became overwhelmed with uncertainty. She spoke quietly. “But how will I know one trait that stands out among the rest?”

Luna put her hoof on Nyx’s and smiled. “Your character is very strong. The love your mother raised you with has planted the seeds of your true identity. Looking back at the adversity you have faced even as a young filly, you have accomplished more to resist your darkest temptations than I ever have. I am confident you will find it.”

Nyx blushed. “You flatter me.”

“There are no words of flattery here, young Nyx. Only the truth.”

Luna stood. “I do not wish to keep you too late. You should get back to your family.” She walked with Nyx back to the upper balcony.

“I want to tell you how much it means to me to have another alicorn to talk to. Celestia and I were always quite close, enjoying each other’s company and talking about whatever was on our minds. I hope you will seriously consider my offer to renew our old friendship. You and I still have many things in common and similar struggles.”

Nyx offered a warm smile. “I’d like that very much. Thank you. And not just for your support—thanks for your trust and friendship.”

“And Nyx, you must keep me privy to your identity struggles. I want to know when you continue to have the nightmares or are further tempted toward darkness in your waking thoughts. Remember what I said about finding your virtue. And do not hesitate to come to me if you need help understanding the changes you will be going through.”

Nyx nodded.

“You better get going. We both have much to think about. Take care, Nyx.”

Nyx gave Luna a tight embrace. She then took off from the balcony into the starry sky toward Ponyville.

A half-hour later, exhausted and excited, Nyx stepped out of the lift to find Rumble and Flitter playing cards at the table.

Rumble got up to greet her with a kiss. “Hey, hon. How’d it go?”

Nyx grabbed him and collapsed onto the couch, pulling him along to land on top of her. She laughed and squeezed him tight.

“I take it you had a good talk, then?”

“It was fantastic. I got my friend back! And we have a mission!”