Moonlight

Chapters

Ch 2: Children of the Moon
Ch 3: Heartland
Ch 5: These Hearts of Light
Ch 6: Arsenal of Allies
Ch 7: Dualism
Ch 8: Lucid
Ch 9: Dethrone
Ch 10: The Price of Liberty
Silver Grass
Ch 1: Stained Glass
Ch 4: Freedom March

Ch 2: Children of the Moon

“Don't allow your mind to tell your heart what to do. The mind gives up easily”

Luna is shoved onto the cold floor of the throne room in Canterlot Castle. Flanked by two caribou guards and with her arms bound behind her, she moans from the injuries she sustained as Dainn, the king of the caribou regime, sits upon the throne.

“Your escape attempt was pitiful, ‘Princess’. Did you really think you could escape from your place? Did you think that you could get away from me?”

“Unghh… This land isn’t yours! It was never yours to claim! YOU DON’T BELONG HERE!!” Luna retorts, raising her voice as much as she can. The guards beat her with their shock batons in response.

“I beg to differ. Equestria, and all the mares in it, are mine. And it’s about time you accepted that. Now… what to do with you. Why don’t we ask your sister, Celestia?” Dainn extends a hand out to his side to reveal the Princess of the Sun, kneeling beside the throne, a red collar around her neck.

“N-no…”

“What do you think we should do with your disobedient sister?”

“…I think she needs to be punished, master.”

“Hahaha! You see, Luna? When mares are put in their rightful place, beneath the feet of male kind, they truly shine. I hope you will come to see this. And if you don’t, well, that’s ok. Because I have all of eternity to make sure you break. And I’ll enjoy every moment of it. Guards, replace that collar with a black one. And get her ready for the re-education procedures.”

The guards forcefully grab the restrained Luna and carry her away as she kicks and screams.

“No! Let go of me! Tia! Help!! Please!! I don’t want this! No!”

They toss her into a pitch black room, where she can feel the presence of others. Glowing eyes pierce the blackness and converge on her. She can feel dozens of hands starting to grab and grope every square inch of her body.

“Aahh!! Stop! No!! Keep your hands off me!! Let me go! S-stop! Please!!! Make it stop!! MAKE IT STOP!!!”

The stone floor beneath her suddenly collapses into a black hole of nothingness, sucking Luna down into the abyss.

“NOOO!!!!”

Luna woke up with a blood curling scream, her eyes widened in fear. She pants almost uncontrollably as she holds herself, anxiously scanning her surroundings. The room she is in is unfamiliar. There are carpets covering the stone floor, a small table off to the side, and a large bookshelf, all lit by various candles and torches hung on the walls. Luna’s bed is soft and warm, a comforting feeling she has not experienced in years.

Before Luna gets up, the wooden door of her room flings open. Two noctrals scan the room, alerted by Luna’s distress. Luna is surprised to see them, though is quite familiar with their race, as she had earned their loyalty over a millennia ago. The two noctrals rush to Luna’s bedside, with worried looks in their cat-like eyes.

“Princess Luna! Are you alright? What happened?” Questions the noctral mare as she kneels by the bed, followed by the other, a stallion.

“Must have been a nightmare.” He guesses.

Luna remains terrified from her ordeal. “Where am I?!”

“Calm down, Princess Luna, everything is ok. You’re in Umbra’s capital, Cyllene.” States the mare beside Luna. Her eyes glow a radiant orange, unlike the common yellow irises of bat ponies.

Luna instantly recognizes the name. The Kingdom of the Noctrals, Umbra, is a very quiet and hidden nation. It rests past the eastern borders of Equestria, in the center of an oval-shaped mountain range. The capital is the largest city, though it is very simple in layout and design. Luna is completely dumbfounded as to how she was brought so far east so quickly.

Luna then realizes how suddenly different she feels, noticing that she is wearing clothes. Quickly grasping her throat, the red collar that was once clamped on her is no longer there. She tosses aside the bed sheets and turns to look at her back. The red wing sleeves are gone as well, revealing featherless and sickly looking wings. The two noctrals shudder a bit upon seeing her move them.

“I’m… Finally free… Thank you! Thank you so very much!!”

Luna reaches out and grabs hold of the noctral mare beside her, grappling her into an extremely tight hug. The noctral is shocked, but returns the hug with a smile. The stallion smiles as well. He turns around and notices the door opening again.

“The Elder is here.”

Appearing in the doorway are two more noctrals, giving escort to a much older noctral mare, the Elder. Her excessively grey mane and wrinkled eyes spoke her age, and she used a polished cane of black wood.

The Elder approaches Luna, who exchanges bows with her.

“Princess Luna, I am Vigil, the High Elder of Umbra. You may remember me, as I was at your welcoming festival when you returned from banishment.”

“Please forgive me if I don’t exactly recall. I… It’s been hard to think.” Says Luna, rubbing her head.

“It’s quite alright. We are beyond thankful to have found you, Princess. It was Night Seer and Lantern who were the ones to discover you, and bring you back here.”

Lantern, the mare with the orange eyes, nods as she and Night Seer, the stallion, give Luna approving smiles. Luna returns their gestures in kind.

“How did you know where to find me? How did you know about my escape?”

“We didn’t,” explains Lantern, “We have been watching Equestria since the caribou invaded, and after the first year we began to send small scouting teams past the borders at night, to learn more of what was going on. We were… horrified, with what we saw.”

Night Seer cuts in. “We happened upon you in the forest below your capital city by chance. Our planned scouting route that night was in a completely different direction actually, but we had to take a detour to avoid the wildlife. You’re very lucky, Princess Luna.”

Luna takes his words to heart. If she hadn’t decided to escape that night, she might have been captured again, or worse. Though thankful for the amazing amount of fortune she has been given, her situation now leaves a question; what next?

Elder Vigil notices Luna’s contemplative stare.

“You have a host of different paths to choose from, Princess Luna. The decision on what you will do next lies only with you. When you’ve chosen, you’ll find me in the city’s consulate building, in the Circle meeting hall.”

Luna nods in acknowledgement as Elder Vigil motions for Night Seer and Lantern to follow and give Luna some peace. They give Luna a look of assurance before closing the door behind them.

Alone once again, Luna rises from the bed, her limbs and back feeling quite sore. She makes her way to a nearby bathroom, leaning over the sink and splashing water into her weary face.

Luna gazes at the mirror, looking over herself. The empty space where her horn used to be makes her head look funny, and the stress in her eyes told her she was still tired. Her spindle-like wings, devoid of all feathers, are nothing but useless appendages. Her mane, once a brilliant hue of blue that shone with beautiful stars that mimicked night itself, is now ragged and damaged, lying still and growing pale in color. Nothing about herself felt right. Everything felt alien to her.

Thoughts swarmed into Luna’s head. Fate had granted her a chance, to do something, be it hide, run, or fight.

She could stay in Umbra, and live in peace with the loyal noctrals. But for how long? If King Dainn, the supposed ‘ali-caribou’ could live forever, he would not stop with Equestria. He would find Umbra eventually, and there would be no one to stop him. On the other hand, she could leave Umbra and keep running, fleeing to the very ends of the world, where no pony has ever gone. But she would leave everyone behind, and she would live eternally with the guilt of abandoning them to the horrid fate which was once her own.

Or, she could go back, and fight to reclaim Equestria. But how? Through betrayal, deceit, surprise and tact, the caribou were able to defeat Equestria in only days. Celestia and Luna were the trusted leaders of their land, and they had failed to defend it. They became powerless to Dainn, who overcame them with his seemingly limitless power. Luna could organize a resistance, perhaps gain allies. But who would follow a fallen leader who had failed everyone in the beginning? With no edge, no Elements of Harmony, no magic of her own, there was nothing.

Luna grabbed hold of the sink in frustration, bowing her head and clenching her eyes shut. She kept thinking.

There HAS to be a way! There must something in this world that can match them! There has to be… something in this…world. No… Not in this world…

Lifting to see the revelation in her reflection, Luna quickly exits the bathroom and her room, making her way outside of the building. She runs out of the house, stepping onto the frost-laden street. The cold air catches her by surprise, but she ignores it. Luna looks up at the clear night sky to find the one thing that could make a difference, which could help turn the tide.

The Moon.

“There is a way…”

The following night, Elder Vigil meets with the Circle, the primary governing body of Umbra. They await the arrival of Princess Luna, who had sent word she would be addressing the Circle formally.

“How has our Princess been?” asks a noctral member of the Circle, turning to Vigil. The Elder sighs in response.

“I am…unsure. She has gone through unspeakable torment. I do not know what she will choose to do-“

Suddenly, the large doors to the Circle meeting hall swing open, revealing a determined Luna. Garbed in a dark blue cloak made for noctral diplomats, she makes her way to the gathered members of the Circle, who are all sitting in their respective chairs, which form the shape of a crescent moon. Elder Vigil sits at the middle of the form. In attendance are many noctrals of the city, sitting in rows off to the sides of the hall.

“Elder Vigil, Circle of Umbra… I have made my decision.”

The entire hall falls silent, with the many Noctrals looking on.

“…I will return to Equestria, and do everything in my power to see it brought back to what it once was.”

A slow, resounding clap from several of the listening noctrals echoes through the hall. The Elder and the Circle remain silent, until one of the Circle members speaks.

“Do you have an idea of how you’ll accomplish this?”

“Yes. I stayed awake the entire day compiling thoughts and notes on a plan of action. It’s a complex plan, but in the simplest explanation; I will raise an army.”

“What about their king?” says another Circle member, “According to what we have learned, he was able to personally defeat you and your sister, Celestia, and then take control of Equestria in a matter of days. An army alone will not stop him.”

“Those that choose to follow me will not fight him, but his armies of caribou. I alone will challenge him.”

“And how do you propose to do that?” spouts another.

“…There are relics. Ancient items that once belonged to Nightmare Moon. If I can recover these relics, then I may have a chance to defeat Dainn.”

Whispers of uncertainty echo out from the attending noctrals and among the Circle. The Elder calms them down with a wave of her hand, then directs her attention to Luna.

“While you sound confident in this plan, you said these relics ‘may’ give you a chance. Are you concerned about their effectiveness?”

Princess Luna remains stalwart. “The relics have not been touched in over a thousand years. I still know where to find them and how to use them but… I need to understand the enemy more in order to fully be certain that the relics will aid me.”

Princess Luna stares at the Circle and the Elder. “I won’t be able to do this alone. I will need many allies from all walks of life. And so, I would like to ask the Noctrals of Umbra to listen to my plea.”

In a display of humility, Luna kneels before the Circle, bowing her head but still retaining her level of voice. Her diplomatic abilities have not waned during her imprisonment.

“You have sworn your loyalty to me for over a millennia, and I am more than grateful for that. If not for your temperance, curiosity and patience, I would not have escaped Equestria. Now, I come to you asking for your aid in reclaiming Equestria from the caribou. There is no other presence I can count on more than you in this time of need.”

The Elder and the Circle turn to one another to mutter between themselves. Luna patiently waits, but is surprised by how quickly they come to a decision. Elder Vigil makes her way down from the crescent chairs and stands before Luna.

“The Circle of Umbra have come to an agreement, upon hearing Princess Luna’s proposal. The noctrals will lend any and all assistance to Princess Luna. We will stand with our Princess of the Night, to take back Equestria.”

A round of excited clapping and cheer fills the air. Luna lifts herself up, smiling. She gently embraces the Elder, as is customary to solidify promises in Noctral culture.

Pulling away, Luna chuckles. “The Circle agreed much quicker than I had expected.”

Vigil grins. “If it were any other pony, they would’ve said no.”

Since the day the noctrals had pledged their allegiance to Luna’s forces, several months have passed. During this time, Princess Luna has been working with the best economic, diplomatic, and military advisors of Umbra, traveling to other cities within the kingdom. As per the agreement with the Circle, Luna has been appointed the head of Umbra’s resources, most in particular being the military, which in itself is a considerably small yet capable force. While she worked on building on their strength, Luna sent intelligence-gathering teams out to continue the scouting of Equestria and neighboring lands, in order to be in as constant update as possible. Now back in Cyllene, Luna awaits the arrival of Night Seer and Lantern, who have gathered together the intelligence procured by the scouting teams.

Entering the administration building in which Luna has her living quarters, the two noctrals knock on the door of Luna’s room.

“Come in!”

Opening the door, Night Seer and Lantern see Princess Luna doing chin-ups on a metal bar hanging from a door frame. It looks as though she’s been at it for quite some time.

“Hope we aren’t interrupting.” Night seer says casually.

“No, no… Just let me…. Finish this… Last set…”

Luna does three more chin ups before dropping to the floor, panting. Months of physical training and exercise have rebuilt her muscles, returning the strength and stamina that she had lost. She grabs a nearby towel and quickly wipes her face and her shoulders with it, approaching Night Seer and Lantern.

“Welcome! You’ll have to forgive me if I’m carrying an odor.” Says Luna, smelling herself over.

Lantern shakes her head. “You’re fine, Princess. We’re here with the collected intelligence reports from the last scouts.”

“Ah, yes. Come, we will discuss them in the war room.”

After taking a quick shower and dressing in her usual attire, Princess Luna meets Night Seer and Lantern in her personal war room. The two have spread out various sheets and reports across the round table in the center of the room, which contains a circular scale map of the known world.

“Thank you for waiting. Now, tell me of the findings.”

Night Seer gets up from his chair to move to one end of the round map, shuffling around some sheets. “We’ve culminated the reports into four major sections; Equestria, Zebrica in the south, Saddle Arabia in the south east, and the Griffin Kingdoms of the northwest. These sections summarize their current situation, as we can tell.”

He hands a few papers to Luna to look over, as he touches upon the first report.

“Equestria hasn’t changed much in the last few months. The caribou continue to fortify it, but they are in no rush and have been working lazily. The resistance efforts that were once very active have recently gone into complete hiding. It seems as though due to a mole or a leak, they had lost many of their hideouts in the past month alone, and have retreated into the shadows. It will take some effort to locate them again.”

Luna nods with a sigh, sitting down in a chair as Lantern takes the next section.

“Section number two details the Zebrican Lands, south of Equestria. Zebrica is made up of many different tribes. Though the caribou have not invaded them yet, these tribes are currently in a civil war, between the majority of the tribes who want to pay tribute to the caribou, and the minority of the tribes who don’t. It would be a perfect time for the caribou to intervene, but they aren’t, because the zebras loyal to them are winning on their own. We don’t know how long the smaller tribes will last against them."

Lantern continues onto the third report. “The report on Saddle Arabia is very short, as not many of our teams were able to reach that far south. From what we could tell, Saddle Arabia has been completely untouched by the caribou, and is guarding its borders heavily. They are in complete isolation. There isn’t much more we could find out.”

Folding her hands together in front of her snout, Luna nods. “And what of the griffins?”

Lantern looks at Night Seer, who agrees to explain it.

“We’ve noticed something very strange happening there. When the caribou invaded Equestria, as I’m sure you know, many stallions had chosen the new regime and adopted caribou culture. The caribou left them to their devices. But when the caribou entered the Griffin Kingdoms…” Night Seer pauses, as if questioning himself on what he is about to say, “They began to slaughter any male griffin they came across. They’re intent on wiping out the entire male population.”

Before Luna can express her shock, Night Seer continues.

“There’s more. We know that when the caribou came to Equestria, not every stallion joined them. A scant few resisted them. We believe that there may be something influencing them on a mental level. Something that cannot influence griffins.”

Luna contemplates this. “Was any evidence recovered?”

“It’s just a theory right now. There’s no proof. But if the caribou are so willing to kill the entire male population of griffins, then why don’t they do the same for Equestria? Or in Zebrica? Doesn’t make much sense.” Night Seer sits back in his chair, crossing his arms.

“Regardless, it’s a theory that we should hold on to for later. Thank you for your work, you two. And be sure to extend my thanks to the teams who gathered the intelligence.” States Luna, smiling.

Contrary to the Princess’ smile, Lantern’s expression bears sadness, her eyes glued to the floor.

“We lost two teams in Equestria. We don’t know what happened to them.”

Upon hearing this, Luna shuts her eyes, clenching her fist. She tempers her distress and quickly relaxes.

“…Their sacrifices won’t be in vain. And wherever they are, they won’t have long to wait. We are ready to take our first step into Equestria.”

Luna stands tall, looking sincerely at Night Seer and Lantern, who rise to meet her gaze.

“I’ll be making the final preparations tonight among the generals. I would like you two to accompany me.”

“Of course.” Night Seer bows respectfully, followed by Lantern.

Princess Luna surveys the round table map once more, overlooking the nations of the land. Umbra, The Griffin Kingdoms, Zebrica, Saddle Arabia, and Equestria. If the caribou are not stopped, they will have them all. The known world would change, and it would be lost forever. Freedom and liberty as they know it would cease to exist. It would be a time of darkness worse than infinite chaos, or eternal night.

“…”

“Princess Luna?”

“…Their reign will not last. For so long as I can feel, breathe, and live, I will do everything in my power to put an end to this madness. This, I swear.”

Author's Note

Thanks for reading! =]

Ch 3: Heartland

“When dictatorship is a fact, revolution becomes a right”

Night once again befalls the land of Equestria. As usual, the moon began to rise all on its own. By now, the fallen Equestria has grown used to this anomaly.

Princess Luna has not.

She knew her access to her magic was cut with the removal of her horn those years ago, but that only deepened the mystery of the moon’s state. Regardless of the centuries in which the moon had been Luna’s friend, and prison, it had ironically gained the one thing that everyone lost the day of the Fall; independence. Or so it seems. Luna wasn’t sure what to think about her moon anymore. The only thing she felt when watching it slowly cross the sky was betrayal.

Luna had entered Equestria’s eastern borders several hours ago under cover of darkness, accompanied by an elite team of noctrals, whom she called her Sentinels. Luna had personally hand-picked seven noctrals, skilled at guerrilla tactics and stealth, to directly support her in her mission. Among them are Night Seer and Lantern, who have grown close to their Princess in the months prior, ever since they rescued her. They are outfitted in light and flexible armor, coupled with dark cloaks used for camouflage. In terms of weapons, the noctrals carry stealthy daggers and short swords. Their primary weapons are katars, triangular blades held by a horizontal handgrip. These weapons are designed for thrusting, and can easily pierce heavy armor let alone flesh. The noctrals favor it among all other weapons as a heavy hitter that can be used easily in surprise attacks. Each of the party members has a single katar, as does Princess Luna.

Along the mountain path which Luna and her party of noctral Sentinels take, the sun begins to crack over the horizon. By instinct, Luna thought of her sister, Celestia. She wished that the Princess of the Sun still had some sanity remaining in her, but Luna was unsure. Celestia had turned in only months after the Fall, and for the following years took great pleasure in her own mistreatment, something which Luna despised her for. She remains conflicted on whether she hates her sister, or pities her. Regardless, Celestia’s sun was on its way, and the party needed a place to camp.

“Princess, there looks to be a few caves we can camp in.” says Night Seer pointing up to a slope which had the mouth of a cave above it. The party heads inside, taking a look around. Sunlight peers through the entrance, giving light to the inside of the cave. Other areas deeper inside light up as well, revealing a large and open chamber in the very center, along with many other entrances. The Noctrals marvel at the layout of the caves they have happened upon.

“We will camp here.” States Princess Luna. The noctrals comply, laying down their blankets and packs after using their camo-tarps to cover up the nearby entrances as best as they can, darkening the interior of the cave. A few candles are lit to supply some additional light.

As Luna sits down to unfurl a few maps and notes, she overlooks her party of noctrals, doing her best to remember the names of those she had picked. Crowe, Dew Drop, Star Glow, High Tide, and Spirit, along with Lantern and Night Seer. Though most of these noctrals hadn’t known each other prior to the mission, they got along almost instantly, forming friendships that reminded Luna of the friendliness Equestrians once had for others. She watches them with a smile, listening to High Tide tell stories of his travels, and to Dew Drop’s funny jokes, which spreads laughter among them.

The unofficial chef of the group, Star Glow, passes out loaves of bread, as well as her own home-made moon cakes, which excite the others. She gives one to Luna as well, bearing a grin as Luna gratefully accepts it. Star Glow returns to the others, complementing the sheen of Crowe’s katar as he sharpens it. He softly smiles, thanking her as he calls out to Spirit in order to ask her if she needs help with any sharpening. Spirit, who isn’t one much for words, becomes talkative with the group and politely declines Crowe’s offer. Luna can’t help but smile at their interactions, and is very happy to have them along.

After arranging the maps accordingly, and munching on her moon cake, Luna is rejoined by her second-in-commands, Night Seer and Lantern, who had just finished exploring further into the caves. They sit down around Luna’s maps after receiving moon cakes from Star Glow.

“This cave is amazing. It’s a lot bigger than it looks. There are other rooms and passages leading to more entrances. This whole place is like a natural fortress.” Remarks Lantern, expressing her joy.

Night Seer nods in agreement before turning to Princess Luna. “Where are we heading, Princess?”

“We are heading west, towards Whitetail Wood. It’s the closest and most likely place to find any remnants of the resistance.” States Luna. The map before her is really only a way to determine her current direction. Luna knows her homeland like the back of her hand.

"Do you think they will be willing to trust us?” Lantern asks.

“I don’t expect them to be openly accepting of us in the beginning. In all honesty I’m not sure what will happen. But it’s imperative we find them and lend them any aid we can.”

Luna’s lieutenants acknowledge her, overlooking the map. The closest town to Whitetail Wood is Ponyville, which is very close to the capital. Luna has memories of the quaint little town. It was once a backwater town, but it had become much more when Twilight Sparkle moved there under Celestia’s mandate. But now, it was like any other town in Equestria; dirty and depraved. Luna remembers how she was put on ‘display’ during the past Nightmare Nights in the center of Ponyville, where any male could have their way with her. She does her best to put aside those awful memories to focus on the present.

“We should reach the beginning of Whitetail Wood if we leave at moonrise, and will arrive in the morning of the following day.” States Night Seer.

“You are correct, Night Seer,” Luna sighs with content, deciding their planned course of action is adequate, “All that is left is to get our rest. We will need all of our energy and strength for tomorrow.”

With the plan set, Luna and her Sentinel team get their sleep during the daylight hours of Equestria, waiting for the night to arrive once more to allow them passage through the Equestrian country side. Tomorrow, they will have a chance to re-ignite the sparks of a revolution.

After setting out at night and traveling silently under cover of darkness, Luna and her Sentinels reach Whitetail Wood by morning. Though it is the middle of autumn, and the leaves have been turning hues of orange and yellow, they remain attached to the trees. There hasn’t been a running of the leaves in three years, and the trees of Whitetail Wood have not adapted to the loss of their symbiotic relationship with the ponies who once ran through the woods. It was helpful though for Luna and her team, as the less leaves on the ground meant it was easier for the group to move unheard through the wood.

Luna gives the order to begin searching for the resistance and any possible headquarters they may have here. Only minutes pass before commotion is heard near them, in a forest clearing.

The noctral Sentinels follow Princess Luna into the brush surrounding the clearing, hiding from sight as they observe several large and imposing caribou round up a group of ponies. They are mostly mares, with a few fillies among them.

Lantern scoots closer to Luna, whispering. “Most likely resistance. Caribou wouldn’t have taken them all the way out here if they were from a town. They were just captured.”

Luna glances at Lantern and then back to the clearing, listening in.

“It’s no wonder mares are so stupid. You all keep forgetting your place!” bellows one of the caribou, who strikes down a mare with a brown coat and a light yellow mane. She has been stripped naked and bound with rope, and is continuously beaten by two of the caribou. The other ponies cower together on the grass, some being pulled away to be molested by a horny guard. The younger fillies bury their faces away, crying in fear.

“You good for nothing sluts will be blanked for this, but not before we have our fun first.”

The caribou in charge forces the brown mare on her knees and shoves his cock into her mouth, keeping her head firmly in place with his hand. The other caribou begin to rope up the remaining ponies.

“There’s eight of them. One for each of us. We move on your command.” Whispers Spirit.

Luna turns to her noctrals, giving the signal to move in. The Sentinels nod, slowly creeping around under the cover of the bushes and shrubs. They soon get into position, each within striking distance of their target.

In quick succession, the noctrals spring out of their concealed locations, daggers and katars drawn, and drive them into the backs of the caribou guards. In only a few seconds after the surprise attack, seven of the caribou lay dead on the ground. The eighth draws his broadsword, his eyes darting to each of the seven noctrals glaring at him with their deep yellow eyes.

Princess Luna approaches from behind, delivering a forceful kick to the final caribou’s back, toppling him to the ground. She impales him with her katar, ending his life quickly. She nods to her team, noting their excellent execution.

The freed mares and fillies, utterly shocked to have been rescued, smile and cheer in amazement at their luck. The brown mare, who is released of her bonds by Luna, looks in disbelief at the Princess of the Night before her.

“You... You’ve come back. We thought you left for good.”

Luna gazes at the bruised mare. “Are you alright?”

“Yeah, I’m fine. It’s nothing I haven’t already been through.” She mutters, spitting at one of the corpses on the ground.

Luna’s noctrals help the frightened mares and fillies to their feet, receiving grateful hugs and thanks. Most of the newly freed mares are wary of the noctral stallions though, thanking them but keeping their distance and shying away. One of the younger fillies takes notice of the alicorn in their midst.

“Princess Luna!!”

Luna turns to the familiar squeaky voice, and is stunned to see Sweetie Belle before her. The white-coated and purple-pink haired filly tightly embraces Luna, her head only reaching up to Luna’s waist. Luna gently hugs her back in comfort.

“Thank you!! Thank you for coming for us! Everyone thought you left us, and that you weren’t coming back. But you're back! And you rescued us!!” Sweetie Belle exclaims, refusing to release Luna from her grip. Luna smiles and caresses her head, kneeling down to her level.

“It’s good to see you safe, Sweetie Belle.”

“Nobody believes me, Princess Luna. Rarity helped me get away. She has a red collar, but she isn’t one of them! She’s still good! We need to rescue her!”

Unsure of what to say, Princess Luna does her best to assure Sweetie Belle, and then rises to address the mare before her. “You’re a part of the resistance, yes?”

The brown mare nods. “I’m Mjolna, one of the leaders here. One of the last on this side of Equestria, actually. I’m afraid to say that ever since your escape, Princess Luna, the caribou have been searching for you relentlessly. They found and captured many of the resistance groups during their search.”

Mjolna gives Luna a rather cold stare. “I hope you aren’t planning to put yourself in charge of us now. I’m more than thankful for the rescue, don’t get me wrong, but the suffering that all of us have endured was because of your failure to protect us.”

Luna remains adamant in the face of Mjolna’s statement.

“I understand. I am the one who will have to live with the memory of that failure for eternity. But right now, none of that matters. What matters is getting you all to safety. Are there any more of you nearby?”

“We picked up some escapees before we were captured. The remainder of our group is still inside the forest. We have been using an abandoned storage cellar as a base. We’ll lead you there.”

Since the leader’s ragged clothes are now in tatters, Luna hands her cloak to Mjolna to give her some coverage, which she accepts for now.

In total, eleven mares and five fillies are still free, thanks to Luna’s intervention. Though deep in her mind, she wonders just how many ponies have made attempts at freedom, only to be re-captured and tortured for their disobedience. She shudders to think what they would do to fillies that would try to flee. Luna promises herself that she won’t let any more ponies fall to this corrupted form of living. This first victory, though small, will go a long way in her quest.

Mjolna leads the mixed group to a very dense part of the wood, stopping in a seemingly random spot. She lightly taps the ground with her foot, revealing a wooden plank below. The plank turns out to be a hidden trap door, which swings out to reveal a blue mare acting as a lookout. She welcomes them in, though looks quizzically at Luna’s noctral escort. Before Luna and her team enter, Mjolna stops them.

“The stallions of your team will have to wait outside.”

“Wait, seriously?” High Tide questions.

Crowe gives him a plain look. “You weren’t expecting this? These mares don’t need any more stress with us just walking in.”

Night Seer looks to Luna, assuring her. “We will remain out here, Princess, and keep watch. One camo tarp is enough for the three of us.”

Princess Luna nods as she, Mjolna and the mare noctrals enter into the trap door.

The storage cellar beneath the trap door is musty, and full of dust-laden furniture. The dirt on the ground is coarse and pocketed with rocks. Small strands of plant roots stick out of the gaps in the wooden walls, with some large tree roots sprouting at the back of the room. There are many mares in the underground space, all ranging in age. Most of the Ponies are scared citizens, while others are active in the resistance, armed with rudimentary weapons. They take sight of Luna but ignore her. Now that she thinks about it, Princess Luna realizes the only one actually happy to see her is Sweetie Belle.

Luna turns to the mares of her team. “Stay here, help where you can.”

They nod and turn away, as Mjolna takes Luna into the makeshift medical ward towards the back end of the old cellar, to meet with the only medical professional amongst the refugees; Nurse Redheart.

Removing herself from the embrace of a shaking patient, Nurse Redheart rises to meet Mjolna and Luna. Her eyes go wide upon seeing the Princess.

“Nurse Redheart has been helping ponies for a while in this hideout. We co-lead Whitetail Wood’s resistance.”

“Princess Luna. It’s a… privilege.”

Nurse Redheart bows her head slightly. Her hands and face are tinted with dust and grime, and her eyes bear the work of sleepless nights. Her current patient, a mare covered with harsh bruises and bandages, calls out.

“N-n-n-nurse…Nurse. Please, I’m…N-nurse.”

Nurse Redheart immediately returns to her, gently holding her extended arms and laying them down, humming sweetly to calm the mare.

“Breathe, Junebug. Close your eyes. Breathe. Push the memories away. Focus on nothing but your heartbeat.”

Nurse Redheart places her patient’s hand over her heart. Junebug’s rapid and heavy breathing diminishes as she calms down.

“There you go. Get some rest now.”

“T-thank you, Nurse Redheart.”

Redheart smiles at Junebug, rubbing her softly on the cheek before rising again to join Mjolna and Luna. The Princess gives her a look of admiration.

“It’s truly wonderful to see proper care being given to our fellow ponies.”

“You think this is proper care?!” Redheart suddenly snaps. Luna is taken aback as Mjolna remains silent.

“I’m sorry, I didn’t mean-“

“No, no, I’m sorry, I… That was rude of me," Nurse Redheart rubs her forehead, wiping away some grime, "But the truth still stands that this is not the proper care they deserve. They need a more comfortable environment, not a hole in the ground.”

“We’ve discussed this before, Redheart. There is nowhere else to go!” Mjolna makes her statement clear, though Redheart stubbornly continues.

“At the very least then, I need more medical supplies if I’m going to continue to treat these mares! Comforting words can only do so much.” Redheart retorts, though in a more hushed tone, remembering their vicinity to the patients.

Luna goes into her thoughts, getting an idea.

“There is another place to go.”

Nurse Redheart and Mjolna turn to Luna with curious faces.

Luna places her hands behind her. “I didn’t succeed in escaping Equestria. I made it down the aqueducts in Canterlot before falling unconscious in the forest. Noctral scouts from Umbra had found me and took me to safety in their homeland. I’ve been spending the past months preparing there, and only two nights ago I entered Equestria with the noctrals accompanying me. Along the way we camped in a mountain slope, a rocky place with many levels of caves. The area is ideal for a base of operations, and is close enough to Umbra to be able to defend, and to receive a line of supplies. My Sentinels and I can escort you all there in one night.”

Nurse Redheart crosses her arms approvingly. “Most of the patients can move easily, and we can carry those who can’t. That solves one issue, but they need urgent treatment before we can move. I need medical supplies.”

“Then I will find the medical supplies you require. Where must I go?” Luna states. A smile of hope appears on Mjolna.

“Ponyville Hospital. Collect anything you can carry. Bandages, syringes, medicine, clothes, books even. If you could do that for us… Then we would be in your debt, Princess Luna.”

“I’ll leave immediately for the hospital. You’ll have your supplies by tonight. I promise.”

Nurse Redheart smiles softly, expressing her gratitude as she returns to her patients. Luna and Mjolna exit the medical ward.

“Thank you for taking on this mission, Princess,” says Mjolna, “I have to ask a bit more of you though. The hospital… isn’t a hospital anymore. It hasn’t been for years. The caribou have gutted out the insides and changed it into a lab. They change mares in there. ‘Modify’ them to suit their needs.”

“What would you have me do?”

“Rescue any black collars you find there, and bring them back. Then destroy the building.”

Luna raises an eyebrow. “And how, exactly, am I supposed to bring down an entire building?”

“The machines that the caribou use. They must have a power source of some kind. Perhaps you could use them?”

Luna nods slowly. “I’ll return soon.”

“Good luck, Princess.” Mjolna calls out, watching Luna gather her Sentinels and exit the hideout.

Back outside, High Tide, Crowe, and Night Seer regroup with Luna and the others.

“Things go well?” asks Night Seer.

Princess Luna motions her noctrals to gather around her in a circle. “We have a mission. We are to infiltrate Ponyville Hospital. Gather any and all kinds of supplies needed by the resistance, and free any mares being held. Then we find a way to destroy the building. Once that is accomplished, we will return here and escort the resistance back to the mountain slope where we made camp the other day. Any questions?”

The noctrals look at each other, and then back to Luna. Not a single question is uttered.

“Good. We move at moon rise.”

As the night dominates the autumn sky, Luna and the Sentinels approach the Ponyville Hospital building. Cautiously creeping up to the stone walls, Luna takes point ahead of her team, leading them along the hospital’ exterior and towards the front entrance. Approaching the corner of the building, she peeks around, spying two caribou guards sound asleep around the front entrance. Among them is a red collared mare, sleeping like a lap dog next to her master’s feet.

Luna backs away from the corner, leading her team towards the back of the building, where they happen upon several balconies and windows. Using teamwork, the Sentinels climb up and onto the second floor balcony. Finding the glass doors unlocked, they slowly enter the building, carefully analyzing the poorly lit hall with their natural night vision. Daggers and katars drawn, The noctral Sentinels follow Luna inside.

“Spread out. Search the floor, then regroup here.” Whispers Luna. The Sentinels comply, fanning out into smaller groups. Lantern leads High Tide and Star Glow into one room, as Night Seer takes Crowe into another. Luna leads Spirit and Dew Drop into room labeled for medical files.

Opening the door with a small creak, they quickly survey the room, finding no threats. The room itself is a mess, with the surrounding file cabinets left open or tilted over. The files have been sloppily sorted into different stacks. The large desk in the center of the rectangular room has a few piles of notes, along with a host of nightmarish objects: plaques and stands with sheared-off unicorn horns on them. Dew Drop picks up one of the perverted trophies, looking at it with revulsion.

“This is disgusting.”

“That’s one of the least disgusting things you’ll see from the caribou,” says Spirit, picking up files and skimming through them, “They cut those horns off and shove them up the unicorn’s ass. One of the many things caribou like to do to their slaves.”

Dew Drop stares at the trophy angrily before tossing it away. Luna flashes back to her own horn, which is currently plastered onto Dainn’s throne back in Canterlot. She’s thankful in a way that it was made into a trophy instead of a giant toy. Though she can only imagine the pain and humiliation that some unicorns were forced to endure with their own horns.

Luna shakes those thoughts away and joins Spirit and Dew Drop in searching for anything of value. The notes on the desk are ledgers to keep track of the slaves that have been through the hospital’s labs. Many were once black collars, and are now mostly reds and purples according to the notes. They’ve been shipped out to various cities across Equestria, giving example to one of the last remaining forms of trade still existing in the land. The medical files around the desk reveal little of importance, consisting of personal records of patients from long ago, as well as an account of a pony attempting to steal slippers. Finding nothing more, Luna and her noctrals abandon the room and return to the hallway, where they regroup with the others.

“There’s hardly anything here, Princess. Everything seems to have been moved.” States Crowe.

“We found a map of the building,” says Lantern as she unfolds a torn and dusty piece of paper, “There are secure storage rooms in the basement. Our best chance of finding what we need is there.”

“Then we go down.”

Descending stealthily and bypassing a large congregation of caribou guards near the first floor entrance, Luna and the Sentinels arrive in the basement’s main room. Following the knowledge gleaned from Lantern’s map, Luna takes her team down a hallway and towards what used to be the boiler room. It seems as though the caribou have shut down the basement for the night, as not a single guard is around and there are no sources of light whatsoever. Luckily for Luna and the noctrals, they don’t need any light to guide their vision.

Stopping right before the boiler entrance, Luna raises a hand for the group to listen. Small muffling noises can be heard from the other side. Luna looks back at her team, motioning to the door. Night Seer takes the lead and utilizes his lock picking kit, cautiously removing the disabled lock and swinging the door open.

The old boiler room has had most of its appliances and pipes removed, save for one that hangs low across the center of the room. Along both sides of this pipe are a dozen black collared mares, each with their hands strung by chain to the pipe above their heads while their legs are bound in a kneeling position. They’re gagged and blindfolded, and have all kinds of demeaning and shameful words written on their coats.

The captive mares become startled as they hear the intruders before them, especially Princess Luna’s voice. “Free them as quickly as you can. Crowe, Spirit. Those machines should be nearby. Find them and see what you can make from them. Lantern, High Tide. Find the storage rooms.”

The noctrals get to work, exploring the nearby rooms as those with Luna tend to the black collars, using their daggers to cut away their restraints and to remove their collars. As they’re freed one by one, the mares immediately help their rescuers in freeing their fellow ponies, doing their best despite the darkness of the room.

One of the mares goes to Princess Luna, shaking her hand vigorously. “Thank you, thank you Princess! We never thought this would happen!”

Princess Luna comforts the mare, advising her and the others to be silent and careful where they step. She moves into an adjacent room to check up on Crowe and Spirit’s findings. They had found a large room, cleared out of its original contents to accommodate three ‘blankee’ devices, which consist of large, circular frames dotted with restraining clamps. Strange tools and a kind of laser device are facing the circle frame from above, and the control panel has a host of buttons and levers for altering the features of a mare when strapped to the machine.

Crowe drove his katar into the maintenance board below the control panel, tearing open the flimsy steel plate. Spirit watched from behind as Crowe stuck his hands inside the wiring and metal, fumbling with something.

“I almost feel dirty for sticking my hands inside this thing.” Mutters Crowe.

Spirit re-assures him. “It’s just metal. Focus on what we need.”

“Right.”

Luna approaches them. “Is there anything of use?”

Spirit looks up at her. “Yes, Princess. These things have power batteries of some kind. Crowe is trying to get at one now. It’s taking time though, and once we have it we need to figure out how to modify it into something we can use.”

“Ok,” says Luna, “Do the best you can. I’ll inform the others.”

Leaving the blankee room, Princess Luna looks for Lantern and High Tide. She finds them past a lock picked door, inside the medicine storage room, packing their bags to the brim with supplies. They give Luna a joyful look.

“There’s more than enough supplies here for Nurse Redheart here! High Tide, go get more satchels.”

“I’m on it-“

High Tide turns to exit, but smacks straight into one of the freed mares, who accidently stumbled in the dark towards him. Like dominos, their fall causes several of the nearby shelves of medicine to fall to the floor with a resounding thud, the sound bouncing along the walls.

Muffled voices and footsteps emanate from the floor above. Everyone freezes, their eyes glued nervously to the ceiling.

High Tide helps up the fallen mare as Luna addresses him and Lantern.

“We’ve been discovered. Get all of the mares in this room, and stay with them,” Luna commands as she briskly moves within earshot of the others, “Star Glow, I need you and Night Seer to cover the door. Spirit and Crowe, keep working on those machines. Everyone else, take a position in the room. Prepare yourselves!”

The noctrals draw their katars and find hiding places as Lantern and High Tide gather the freed mares into the medicine storage room. Star Glow and Night Seer lean against the right side of the entrance to the boiler room, leaving the door wide open. Everyone remains as quiet as a mouse as the heavy footsteps of the caribou get closer, their voices traveling along the walls.

“What the fuck was that noise??”

“You think maybe one of the sluts got loose?”

“Hey, we made sure those chains were good. C’mon, let’s just check it out. Might’ve been something we left hanging.”

The three caribou, one with a magic torch to light their way in the dark basement, make their way directly to the old boiler room. The one with the torch sees past the open door, noticing that all of their slaves have disappeared.

“What?! They’re gone!”

He moves with haste towards the doorway, and just as he sets a foot inside, Star Glow swings in front of the caribou and thrusts her katar straight into his stomach. Using all of her force, the Noctral pulls him inside the boiler room, throwing him to the floor before darting into cover. The second caribou draws his axe, going through the doorway and turning to the left to go after Star Glow. However, Night Seer lunges forward from Star Glow’s previous position, stabbing the second caribou squarely in the nape of his neck and knocking him down.

The third caribou hesitates and turns tail, attempting to flee. However, Princess Luna steps into the doorway and hurls a dagger at him, which finds its mark in his back, stopping him in his tracks.

Night Seer stands beside Luna. “That can’t be all of them. We’ll have to find a way around the other caribou.”

Luna nods, turning to him. “Night Seer, take Dew Drop and Star Glow, and setup an ambush in the tree line at the front of the hospital. I’ll push the caribou in your direction.”

“We’ll be ready, Princess.”

As her lieutenant sneaks out of the building with Dew Drop and Star Glow, Luna returns back to the medicine storage, giving the all clear for Lantern and High Tide to allow the mares out. In order to prevent any more collision mishaps, Lantern had advised the mares keep a hand on each other’s shoulder, creating a line of ponies connected to Lantern at the head, with High Tide taking the rear. The liberated mares eagerly help carry additional bags full of all of the supplies gleaned from the storage room. Luna tells them to use an exit on the first floor for their escape, and then proceeds to check on Crowe’s progress.

In the blankee room, Crowe and Spirit finish tweaking with the blue power battery ripped from the last of the three machines. Crowe turns to Luna as she enters.

“Princess Luna, I was able to modify the batteries into explosive charges. If placed correctly, they should cause a big enough explosion to take out the building’s support. To be entirely honest, I don’t know how effective these things will be. This combination of magic and technology isn’t very common.” Crowe explains, as Spirit helps place the batteries in a bag.

“We can only hope they will be enough. Excellent work, you two. I will create a diversion to allow you to place the batteries accordingly. Once you have, follow Lantern and High Tide back to the resistance hideout. The rest of us will be there shortly.”

Crowe and Spirit nod in compliance, exiting the room ahead of Luna. Luna scans the basement one last time before preparing herself for the encounter ahead. She channels her strength, purging all thoughts from her mind.

“I will give them reason to fear the night.”

Princess Luna walks unwaveringly down the main hallway on the first floor, short sword drawn to her side. The caribou guarding the front turns to her.

“Hey!! You stupid cunt, what are you doing here?!”

The large and muscular, though hardly clothed caribou marches towards Luna, unaware of her identity in the dimly lit hall. Just as he attempts to grab her arm, Luna brings her blade down upon him, slicing across his chest. The strike instantly fells the caribou, his limp body hitting the floor with a thud.

The other caribou guards become alert to Luna’s presence. They begin to draw their weapons, but one stops them as he recognizes the Princess.

“No! Do you have any idea what Dainn will do to us if he finds out we killed his property? We take her alive.”
With that, the guards pull out their shock batons. They crackle with small electric charges as they are activated, and cast blue light into the dark hall.

Though the caribou are larger and stronger, their speed is not something to be admired. Luna takes full advantage of this, evading the first caribou’s baton. She swings her sword up against his arm, exposing his bare chest to a forceful thrust from her katar. The caribou staggers from the fatal blow and is kicked down by Luna, just as another guard lunges at her. Not stopping for a second, Luna counters his assault with a speedy block, knocking his shock baton away with her katar and swinging her blade into the caribou’s side. As he spins from the strike, Luna cuts diagonally into his spine. With another down, Luna picks up some speed and dives forward, somersaulting underneath the swing of the third caribou. Her blade finds its mark along the back of his leg, forcing him to his knees. Luna takes both her short sword and a dagger in a reverse grip and drives them with all her might into the caribou’s upper back, yelling out as the caribou’s life ends.

Luna turns to the remaining caribou and slowly walks towards them, her menacing and vengeful eyes stab at her enemies’ souls as her once-silver weapons ooze blood. Her appearance is enough to thoroughly intimidate the three caribou, causing them to flee out the front doors of the hospital. They violently push aside the red collared mare off of the front steps in sheer panic, and make their way towards to the closest tree line, only to be ambushed by Luna’s Sentinels lying in wait. Dew Drop leaps from a tree branch and drives her katar into one of the fleeing caribou as Night Seer and Star Glow pounce from behind two trees, bringing down the other two in only seconds.

With all of the caribou in the hospital eliminated, Princess Luna makes her way down the steps, sheathing her sword. She grabs hold of the red collared mare by the arm and drags her to the grass beyond the stone steps. Night Seer, Dew Drop and Star Glow join Luna, encircling the frightened mare. The green pony shivers from being naked in the autumn night air.

“P-please, don’t kill me! You don’t have to kill me, I-I won’t tell anyone what happened here, I promise!”

The noctrals look to Luna to make a decision. Before she can however, an eruption of sounds come from within the hospital, causing the ground to rumble.

“Into the forest, now!!” yells Luna as she grabs the green mare and dashes with her towards the woods, followed closely by her Sentinels.

The hospital’s windows and doors shatter and burst as the whole building is rattled violently with explosions. The improvised batteries prove to be more than effective, and Crowe and Spirit had placed them expertly to ensure the building’s destruction. Ducking into the safety of the trees, Luna and the others witness the entirety of the former hospital collapse into a mound of rubble and ruins, followed by a cloud of dust which blankets the area.

As the dust settles, Luna directs her attention to the red collared mare, who looks even more frightened than before, due to the explosions. Luna lifts her to her feet, and looks her in the eye.

“…You’re coming with us. We’ll bring you someplace safe.”

Despite Luna’s intimidating stare, the green mare manages to suppress her fear and muster her courage.

“No! You don’t understand. What you’re doing is wrong! You’re disrupting the peace, bringing nothing but disorder! Things don’t need to change. Things are as they should be!”

The red collared mare receives nothing but scowls from her rescuers. Luna, however, continues to listen.

“I did have a black collar before. But I was blind then. I choose to obey willingly because that’s all that is left for us! They’re the ones in charge now. And if we want to survive, we have to learn our place.”

Dew Drop gave a very disturbed look upon hearing the mare’s reasoning.

“You must have a horrible self-esteem.”

Luna holds a hand at Dew Drop to silence her. The Princess of the Night approaches the mare, who does her best to stand her ground. Luna realizes in that moment that she is staring at her perverse reflection. The mare she would have become if she had given in to the corruption of the new Equestria. It sickened her on the inside, but in a way made her relate to the red collared mare before her. They had both been through the same ordeal. And yet she realized how ironic the situation was. Here they were, taking prisoner an unwilling mare, who would rather be a slave to those who would treat her as nothing but dirt.

This deluded mare is not like Luna. She is different. And Luna knows which path her heart has chosen.

“…No. If we want to survive, we have to fight back.”

A dreaded silence fills the surrounding air. Luna’s gaze pierces into the green mare for a few more seconds, before she turns back to her Sentinels.

“Keep a dagger on her. We’re returning home.”

Princess Luna arrives back at the Whitetail Wood hideout, with Night Seer, Star Glow, Dew Drop, and their unwilling prisoner in tow. They gain entry into the hideout, and almost instantaneously several resistance members point their swords and spears at the red collared mare. She cringes from the startling sight as Mjolna appears and looks to Luna for an explanation, who supplies one with haste.

“We’ve taken this mare prisoner. She’s harmless.”

“Harmless. And yet how many resistance groups have been rooted out due to mares like this one, coming in and claiming to change sides, only to betray her people!” Mjolna’s voice grows in fury. Her eyes speak her intentions of violence.

Luna steps before her. “This one isn’t looking to join. She’s your prisoner.”

Mjolna, her expression softening slightly, swiftly turns to the green mare, ordering the resistance ponies to lower their weapons. Mjolna takes the mare and throws her to the dusty ground, casting a scowl at her. Luna and her noctrals watch, as do the other ponies in the hideout.

“Do you have any family?” Mjolna questions.

The green mare remains on the ground, terrified. “Y-yes. Two sisters, and my parents.”

“Tell me something then,” Mjolna quickly continues, “Did you feel anything when you were all separated? When all marriages became void and families were torn apart? Or did you brush it off, content with seeing them all go away and getting a cock shoved into you instead?!”

“W-w-what? N-no, I-”

“Look around! You see these ponies here? All of them have lost their families to this sick life we’re trapped in! And ponies like you only make their suffering worse!”

Mjolna’s voice raises even higher, her anger along with it.

“N-no… Stop…Please!” The green mare flinches from her words, crawling to the nearby wall. Tears start to well in her eyes.

“Mares like you aren’t trying to survive or to serve your masters. You’re just being selfish. You’re choosing your own pleasure over those who cared about you. You don’t care about anyone but yourself. And just like your masters, you’re heartless.”

The hideout falls utterly silent, except for the now bawling mare. She curls up against the wall, tears now streaming down her face.

Luna looks around. Not a single pony tries to show any compassion or care to the red collared mare. They simply glower in contempt at her before going back to their business. Mjolna orders two resistance guards to bind the mare’s hands and to tie her collar to a wooden pole along the wall. They leave her in an uncomfortable position, and no one bothers to give her any water or food, or any kind of clothing. Contrary to what some would expect, the green mare takes no pleasure from being restrained here. Mjolna’s words had struck something inside the poor mare, as evidence from her sobbing. Luna pitied her, but dared not to offer her aid. She didn’t want to get on Mjolna’s bad side after coming this far. And despite her best efforts, Luna harbored a hatred for the green mare, and those like her. A hatred that had been growing inside Luna since the day of the Fall.

Afterwards, Princess Luna reunites with the rest of her Sentinels, congratulating them on a job well done. The supplies gathered from the hospital are given to Nurse Redheart, who is overjoyed to be able to finally give her patients the care they need. She is also happy to gain some new assistants in some of the newly liberated mares.

Soon Princess Luna is visited by Mjolna, who has calmed down after her outburst before. Mjolna hugs Luna with sincerity and gratitude, pulling away shortly after.

“I can’t thank you enough for what you pulled off, Princess. The supplies we have now will help us greatly, and the knowledge on how to make explosives from those power batteries is invaluable. The elimination of the former hospital will go a long way to inspire others, and to let them know that hope still exists.”

“No thanks are necessary. This is why I came back to my home. But there is still much more to do. And I can’t do it alone.”

“You’re absolutely right. And that is why, from now on, the resistance will follow you every step of the way, Princess Luna.”

Luna and Mjolna shake hands, a smile of trust on each other’s face.

“I’ll be sending out our carrier pigeons to spread the word to any other resistance groups to join us at this stronghold of yours.”

“Good. If you’re able, I need this message sent out to Umbra as well.” Says Princess Luna as she hands Mjolna a small, folded note.

“Not a problem, Princess. The pigeons are more than willing to help.” Mjolna states confidently as she parts from Luna.

As her newfound allies prepare for the journey to a new base, Princess Luna sits for a moment to take a breather. With the resistance now her friends, Luna is beginning to feel confident about her odds. As time goes on, more ponies will flock to the resistance and to Luna’s forces. Hopefully she will have as much success with the other nations she wishes to contact. Even then, there is still a lot that could happen. The caribou are still in firm control of Equestria. So many things could go wrong, and despite her confidence, Luna realizes that there is a chance she may fail again, and the chance to restore freedom would be lost forever…

“Princess Luna?”

Luna’s thoughts dissipate as she turns to see Sweetie Belle standing behind her. The filly takes a seat next to the alicorn.

“Hello, Sweetie Belle. How are you doing?”

“I’m ok.”

Luna can easily see the sorrow in Sweetie Belle. The young pony carries an air of loneliness around her, despite being with ponies who care for her. Luna does her best to think of ways to comfort the filly.

“I believe you, Sweetie Belle. That your sister Rarity helped you to escape. I would expect no less from a bearer of one of the Elements.”

A soft and grateful smile appears on Sweetie Belle’s face. She looks at the ground, twiddling her thumbs.

“Thank you, Princess Luna. I may be sad, but… I’m not worried as much as I was before.”

“Why is that?” asks Luna.

Sweetie Belle raises her eyes to Luna, suddenly acquiring her own confidence. “Because we have THE Princess of the Night on our side! We have a chance to save everyone if we work hard and keep fighting!”

“…I’m not the same Princess I used to be.”

“But you’re still you. The fact that you came back, and that you’re here with us shows that you are still Princess Luna.”

Luna’s eyes mist a little before she extends an arm and hugs Sweetie Belle, who returns the hug with both arms. An idea pops into Luna's mind.

“I have a special job for you, Sweetie Belle. I want you to go to everyone, those you know and those you do not, and spread as much hope as you can. Spread it far and wide to all those you see. Get them to smile, laugh, and believe in a better future. Do you think you can do that?”

“Yes! Of course! I…I could get my cutie mark in… in…”

“In bringing harmony, to those who need it most.”

“Yes!! You can count on me, Princess Luna!”

Sweetie Belle gives Luna one last hug before jumping to her feet and running off.

Luna turns to watch Sweetie look around for a moment. A mixed look of awe and surprise crosses her face as she sees Sweetie Belle go straight over to the green mare, who is still tied to her pole by the collar. Luna sees her talk to the mare, smiling the whole time and doing what she can to comfort her. Though she is still shaken from her treatment, the green mare begins to lighten up as she talks with Sweetie Belle. Princess Luna is amazed at the filly, and suddenly realizes that her example is what is needed to bring back unity to Equestria. Though it won’t be enough to extricate the caribou from their home, showing love and friendship to the ponies who have strayed from it might just help to bring Equestria’s salvation.

Princess Luna smiles softly to herself. She’ll remember to be a bit more like Sweetie Belle in the future.

Author's Note

The path to freedom goes on!
Thank you kindly for reading. =]

Ch 5: These Hearts of Light

“We need never be hopeless, because we can never be irreparably broken”

The mysterious mare known as Liberty had supplied Luna with everything and more.

The research done by Professor Walnut, a Canterlot native who had harbored Liberty from the Fall for three whole years, had shed light upon one of the most pressing enigmas of Equestria’s submission; The Crystal Heart. The Professor, with Liberty’s help, did a mix of detective work and magic studying, culminating in a disturbing yet crucial discovery.

At some point after the caribou had taken the Crystal Empire, a powerful and lasting spell was placed upon the entirety of Equestria, one which affected the minds of both stallions and mares alike. The immense magic culled stallions to support and follow the caribou patriarchy, while a portion of the mares were rendered mentally vulnerable, ultimately making them more susceptible to the caribou. However, very few stallions were seemingly unaffected by the magic, allowing them to remain loyal to Equestria.

This spell was determined by Professor Walnut to have come from the power of the Crystal Heart. In the Professor’s words, the caribou somehow ‘corrupted’ it into something else to suit their needs. Whatever the caribou did, and however they did it, one thing is for certain.

The Crystal Heart no longer represents love.

After she had thoroughly read through the findings, Princess Luna revised her plans. The number one priority lies in the destruction of the Crystal Heart. With its removal, Equestria will be able to unite properly under Luna’s guidance, and in turn, even the playing field.

Now, it was only a matter of reaching the Crystal Empire, and eliminating the source of the caribou’s influence. Whatever the cost.

Upon a small hill, Princess Luna crawls underneath the white camo tarp, which blends in with the surrounding snow. She takes up a spyglass and pokes it through the small opening at the front of the tarp.

Before her lies the Crystal Empire. A mix of orange torches and black clouds of night give the city a sinister glow, which reflects off of the blue and red crystal structures. The crystal palace stands at the very center, dwarfing the other buildings. Howling winds and flurries of sleet encircle the large city, preventing any clear view. Though it was easy to see how the caribou have fortified the city.

A massive wall nearly twenty feet in height surrounds the city, with several towers dotting its perimeter. Princess Luna isn’t surprised at the presence of such defenses. The Crystal Empire is one of the northernmost settlements in Equestria, second only to Lindesbarne. The caribou have had firm control of it even before the Fall, and three years is more than enough time to construct such unmistakable defenses.

The walls and guards told Luna one thing. That the Crystal Heart was indeed there, being protected and tended to by its most likely custodians.

Cadence and Shining Armor. The betrayers.

Luna remembers fondly of when Cadence and Shining Armor visited her in Canterlot in the early months of the Fall. It was Cadence who recommended drugging Luna during her imprisonment, in an attempt to make her more vulnerable. Part of the reason Luna chose a red collar was to avoid being pumped constantly with debilitating narcotics. It is difficult to say what could have happened, had Luna not convince the caribou of her willingness.

Luna’s plan doesn’t involve seeking out either of the rulers of the Crystal Empire. The priority is the destruction of the Crystal Heart, and nothing more. Though if she were to happen upon either of them, Luna would not hesitate to give them a piece of her mind. Now that she can use her fists, that is.

Coming out of her thoughts, Luna finishes her reconnaissance, packing up her camo tarp and strapping it behind her back. She makes her way down the snow covered hill, crossing over a small field before reaching another set of hills laden with snow, where the rest of her team are positioned.

Knowing that this mission would require stealth, Princess Luna had opted to take as few of her team as needed. She decided on bringing her lieutenants, Night Seer and Lantern, as well as High Tide. The final member to join is Liberty, whom Luna chose due to her knowledge of the Crystal Empire.

Princess Luna made sure that she and her team were fully equipped for an infiltration mission in the cold climate. Along with donning warmer winter gear, with white cloaks and less encumbering armor, they are equipped with new one-handed crossbows from Umbra. They allow the user to accurately and quietly take out ranged targets without arousing suspicion, perfect for the incursion into the Crystal Empire. In a place as hostile as this, stealth is the single most important factor.

“Ohhh crap it’s cold. I don’t know how those crystal ponies stand it.” Says High Tide, his teeth chattering.

Liberty smirks, turning to the shivering noctral. “They don’t have to. The Crystal Heart protects them from the cold. Take a look.”

Liberty points out towards the city. Sure enough, lush grass can be seen close to the outer walls erected by the caribou. Though the Crystal Heart had been corrupted, it still allowed the city to survive the freezing snowstorms frequenting the area, providing a sphere of warmth which blankets the Empire.

High Tide groans. “Well… Good for them. Brrr…”

As High Tide descends the hill to meet up with Night Seer and Lantern, Princess Luna joins Liberty.

“Princess Luna.” She acknowledges. Liberty’s golden hair is kept hidden underneath the hood of her cloak, making her golden eyes stand out among her white fur and the white snow.

“I’ve been meaning to speak with you, Liberty.” Luna says, stopping beside her.

The earth pony looks to her. “Yes?”

“We haven’t had much time to speak with one another over the course of our journey. I would like to learn more about you.”

Liberty pauses for a moment, soaking in Luna’s request. She turns to her, nodding.

“Ok. Well, I was born in Baltimare, and when I was old enough I moved to Canterlot and joined the royal guard. I wanted to be Celestia’s protector. She inspired me a lot, especially during her visits to my home town. For a pony like her to do so much for us for so long… I wanted to return the favor. I still do.”

Thinking of her sister was something Luna tried her best to avoid. The thoughts only made her cringe. Though hearing how she inspired Liberty in such a way lightens her heart.

Liberty continues.

“It wasn't long after the completion of my training and assignment to Canterlot when the Fall happened, on the day of the Spring Planting Festival. A close friend of mine, who'd been there for me for as long as I can remember, helped me escape our barracks and find Professor Walnut. Shell-... She... Well. I lost many of my friends in the Fall. Walnut took me in, and for the following three years I helped him with his research, and when it was completed, I left to find you. And now, I’m here.”

“Your collaboration with the professor was invaluable. Is he still in Canterlot?”

Liberty falls silent.

“The day I left was the day the caribou discovered Professor Walnut’s treachery. He sacrificed himself to save me."

Princess Luna somberly nods. “I am sorry about his death. But it was not in vain. He gave us a chance.”

Liberty stares at the fluffy snow below her.

“… I hope you're right, Princess. I really hope you're right.”

“It was not in vain.” Luna assures. The Princess of the Night has seen enough death in her time to think of it as a trivial matter. Yet she understands it more than most, not only because of her experience but also because of her insight to the dreams of others.

Interrupting the silence, Lantern approaches with Night Seer and High Tide behind her.

“Princess Luna, everything is set to begin the mission.”

“Thank you, Lantern. Everyone come close.”

As per her request, the group huddles close, forming a tight circle.

“I’m aware that you all know what is at stake here. And I know you are all up for the task at hand. But let me repeat once more. The Crystal Heart is our priority. We are not here to liberate the entire Crystal Empire, as unfortunate as it is. We must reach the Crystal Heart, destroy it, and then make our way back to Haven as soon as possible. Are we in agreement?”

With determined eyes and focused expressions, Luna’s team agrees. They are ready.

“…Then let us begin.”

The infiltrators hug the outer wall, carefully treading through the mounds of snow while crouching to avoid any scanning eyes perched upon the towers. In accordance with their plan, the group reaches a large embankment packed with thick snow and ice. The huge mound reaches halfway up the wall, allowing them to climb over.

Clambering up the embankment and stopping at the top, High Tide and Night Seer put their backs to the wall and cup their hands, giving Lantern and Liberty a boost up and over. After Luna is boosted over next, she and Liberty turn and give their hands to the two noctral stallions, helping them up. Immediately they move along the wall’s walkway in search of the second step of their plan; an armory.

Luna and her team leap onto the rooftop of the armory, which is connected to the wall. On the stone roof is a wooden hatch, which is connected to a ladder leading down to the second floor. Night Seer carefully opens the hatch door, allowing Lantern to peek in quickly. She spies a crystal stallion guard below, putting away his armor into one of many storage lockers.

Lantern pops back up. “Lower me in.”

High Tide and Night Seer keep Lantern steady as she is lowered down head-first. Stopping halfway, she slowly pulls out her crossbow and aims it at the back of the stallion, taking her time to line the shot while being upside-down.

With a silenced click, a crossbow bolt finds its mark in the back of the guard’s neck, felling him instantly. After giving the all clear, Lantern hops to the floor, followed by the others.

As Liberty moves the body into a corner, the team breaks open several of the lockers, finding two complete sets of crystal armor, along with armored helmets. Night Seer and High Tide don the armor and place the helmets upon their heads. Luckily for the noctrals, the helmets come with shielded sights, allowing them to keep their tell-tale eyes hidden from view.

Princess Luna deems them to be a little short for crystal guards, but they look convincing enough.

“We’ll be waiting on the rooftops for your signal. Try your best to avoid any unwanted attention.” Luna advises, double checking Night Seer’s armor.

“We’ll investigate the base of the tower with not a moment to spare, Princess. Should only take a minute.”

With their disguises complete, Night Seer and High Tide make their way to the bottom floor as Luna, Lantern and Liberty return to the rooftop. They make their way across the continuing rooftops, utilizing the caribou-built wooden buildings to stealthily follow Night Seer and High Tide as they walk on the ground.

During their rooftop-crossings, Princess Luna is able to get an able view of many parts of the Crystal Empire. Nearly everywhere she looks, there are examples of the Fall. There are auctioning platforms for selling red collars to visiting figures or local males. In several public spaces there are racks and crosses used to display black collared mares who continue to resist. Many of them are limp, only being held up by their shackles. It is evident that many of the poor mares have been strewn out like this for days on end. The streets and plazas of the once beautiful empire are littered with refuse and debris.

Landing on another roof, Luna motions for her companions to hold. Right before them lies the crystal palace, its lengthy spire appearing to touch the clouds above. They lay low and out of sight as Night Seer and High Tide walk as casually as possible around the base of the palace, where the Crystal Heart was usually kept in the past.

Luna watches them as they come about, finishing their circle. Just as Night Seer is about to turn in her direction however, he and High Tide are approached by a crystal stallion guard. Luna listens in carefully, barely able to catch the conversation.

“Lazy day, huh. Why are you guys wearing your helmets? It isn’t exactly cold right now.”

“Uhh….” High Tide stammers, “Y-yeah… Actually we were out on patrol earlier and uhhm… We got attacked by a polar bear. Punched me right in the face and, well… It was awful, don’t go out there.”

The guard looks at High Tide as if he had drank too much.

Night Seer shakes his head, looking to the confused guard.

“Sorry about that. Rook here has been trying to think up random stories ever since one of those cunts gave him a good swipe to the eyes. He’s just too embarrassed to admit it, so he’s been wearing his helmet all day. And I’ve been wearing one to make sure he doesn’t look like a complete fool.”

The guard gets a good chuckle from Night Seer’s story. High Tide goes with it as best he can.

“Thanks a lot… Snowball. You’re such a great friend.” He says sarcastically.

“Heh, those black collars can be a handful sometimes. Usually they break easily, so you shouldn’t have to worry about getting scratched up anymore. The ones that don’t break we put in the public service sections. Easy enough to use without getting hurt. Well, hope your eyes get better soon pal.”

The guard bids them goodbye, leaving Night Seer and High Tide as they breathe a subtle sigh of relief. Turning to each other to mimic conversation, Night Seer makes a hand gesture, waving his hand in front of him as if dismissing something High Tide said.

Luna recognizes his signal, which told her that the Crystal Heart was not at the base of the tower. It had to be somewhere inside.

Princess Luna had created a fallback plan, should the Crystal Heart be located within the walls of the crystal palace. Along the walls of the palace are many small balconies, which for the most part are unguarded. While Night Seer and High Tide continue to keep an eye out in plain sight, Luna, Liberty and Lantern would find their way in through one of these balconies.

Pulling out large coils of mountain rope with metal hooks at the tip, Luna and her companions arm their crossbows with the grappling hooks. They fire them up at the face of the palace, targeting the lowest hanging balcony on their side. The hooks embed themselves along the base of the balcony, wedging into the crystal structure.

Lantern tests her rope, finding it to be secure enough. She grabs it tightly and swings onto the wall, panting her boots firmly against the reflecting surface. As she begins to scale the wall, Luna follows, with Liberty taking the rear.

The three daring climbers scale the sheer face of the palace wall, their hands and arms aching from the harsh steepness and the length of the climb.

Lantern huffs, looking up ahead to see the balcony getting closer.

“Almost there!”

Crack

Lantern gazes up in horror as her rope jerks. The hook clinging to the balcony slowly creeps to the edge, its previous mooring broken from the weight.

SNAP

The rope tears free of its hold on the ledge, sending Lantern plummeting.

Just as the noctral lets out a scream, she is snatched by an arm.

Luna had saved Lantern from her fall.

Though Luna’s muscles quickly remind her that she cannot support herself and Lantern on the rope for long. Luna clenches her teeth in agony as Lantern reaches with her other arm to hold on to the Princess for dear life. An utter look of fear is in the noctral’s orange eyes.

“Liberty!! Can you take her?!”

“Yes! Swing her here!”

Using all her might, Luna cautiously swings a dangling Lantern towards Liberty, mindful of the strong winds encircling them.

Liberty manages to grab hold of Lantern, bringing her safely to a small jut in the wall with just enough footing to support them both.

Princess Luna breathes a heavy sigh of relief as she continues up the rope, soon reaching the balcony.

As she clambers over the railing, Princess Luna makes sure both remaining hooks are secure, and then pulls on the ropes briefly to let her companions know it is safe to continue ascending. Soon, both Lantern and Liberty safely make it onto the balcony.

Lantern drops onto the floor in exhaustion. Luna kneels beside her.

“Th-thank you, Princess Luna. I don’t know how you were able to do that. If you hadn’t…”

“I’m not about to let a friend fall to her death, not after how far we’ve come. Are you ok?”

“Yes, I’m… I’m ok. I… thank you.”

Luna gives Lantern a heartfelt hug to warm and assure her, before helping her up and turning to Liberty.

“Then let us find the Crystal Heart.”

Picking the locked balcony door, Luna, Lantern and Liberty silently enter the crystal palace, skulking through rooms and evading the watchful eyes of the crystal stallions on guard. Surprisingly, there appears to be few caribou within the palace walls. No doubt many of them are in Canterlot or spread across Equestria. And with the Crystal Empire so fortified, they must have deemed it pointless to guard the palace. Better to leave it to the stallions, so the caribou could find somewhere else with less worries and more mares.

As they continue, Luna and her party approach another room, which they easily gain entry to. However, they soon regret even opening the door as a bizzare stench reaches their snouts.

Within the room lies dozens of tubs, all filled to the brim with a white, sticky fluid. It is obvious to them what the liquid is, due to its viscosity. Surrounding the tubs are racks and long clamps, undoubtedly used to forcefully submerge unwilling mares into the cum-bath.
Liberty and Lantern look around in repulsion, though Luna does her best to ignore the tubs as she moves to scan the room further.

“And here I thought Canterlot was worse…” Mutters Liberty.

Moving towards a door at the end of the room, Luna hears movement on the other side, in what appears to be a smaller storage room.

“This way.” Luna beckons her companions. She opens the door cautiously, finding the room to be clear of any threats. Though the room is occupied.

“MMPHH! HMMPH!”

On the far side of the room is a black collared mare, her arms and legs spread-eagled on the nearby wall by several long straps. She struggles and pleads through the cloth gag stuffed in her mouth.

Luna removes the gag, allowing the mare to cough and breathe heavily. She can hardly budge with the straps securing her.

“P-Princess Luna! Oh, thank you! I can’t believe this! I can’t believe you’re here!”

“We don’t have much time. Do you know anything of the Crystal Heart and where it’s being kept? It’s imperative that we find it.” Luna quickly asks.

“N-no, I’m sorry. I’m not from here. I-I was brought here a week ago… I think. B-but Princess Cadence could know! She comes down here every day from somewhere up in the palace. She forces us into those tubs…”

Cadence was more in line with the caribou than Luna originally thought. Subjecting her own kin to what the caribou deem ‘right’ only proves further how far she has fallen.

Luna’s thinking is quickly interrupted by the captive mare.

“Please! You have to get me out of here!!”

A silence falls over them. Luna looks to Liberty and Lantern behind her. They know that they cannot take her with them.

As Princess Luna turns back to the mare, Lantern quickly leaves the room, in an effort to hide her tears. Liberty remains, though she stares at the floor somberly, occasionally looking at the mare on the wall.

“I’m… I’m sorry. We can’t free you. We did not come to free anyone.”

The mare squints her eyes shut, tears already flowing down her cheeks.

“Th-th-then… Please, tell my mom that I’m still ok. I… I haven’t changed. She lives in Manehatten. Tell her Ruby is ok!”

The mare bursts into tears. But before Luna can apologize and put the gag back in her muzzle, Liberty pulls out one of her daggers and goes up to the mare.

She cuts her loose of her straps, causing the mare to look at her with shock and confusion.

“We’re here to destroy the Crystal Heart, not to take you with us. But that doesn’t mean we can’t help you. Take this dagger, and use it to defend yourself if you need to,” Liberty says as she hands her the weapon, along with her winter cloak, “This will keep you warm, and you can use it to hide too.”

The mare looks at her with disbelief, though this is quickly replaced with a hopeful smile. Liberty smiles back, placing her hand on her shoulder.

“Ruby. Promise me you’ll stay here, in this room. Don’t leave until you know it’s safe.”

“I promise. H-how will I know when it’s safe?”

“I can’t explain everything right now. In short, the Crystal Heart is controlling the stallions, making them side with the caribou. Once we destroy it, many stallions will be freed of its influence, and they will fight against the caribou. Once you hear the fighting, find your way out and spread word to as many ponies as you can. Tell them that their best bet for survival is to head to Stalliongrad, to the south east. By the time you reach there, you should be safe.”

“O-ok. I will.”

Liberty places both of her hands on Ruby’s shoulders.

“When all of this is over, I want you to go find your mom, and I want you to tell her yourself that you’ll be ok. Understood?”

Ruby’s tears flow again, though this time in joy and hope, given to her by Liberty.

“Thank… Thank you! Thank you! I promise you I’ll find her! I will!”

With that, Liberty reminds the mare to stay safe and hidden as she and Princess Luna leave the small storage room and regroup with Lantern, who had overheard Liberty’s assurance of the mare. The noctral thanks Liberty for what she did.

Liberty gave the mare sound advice on what to do, especially about leaving the Crystal Empire. Luna had almost forgotten about Stalliongrad’s resident ponies. Once the stallions there are freed from the brainwashing, and the mares freed from their enslavement, the caribou in the city will be overwhelmed by the sheer tenacity of Stalliongrad ponies. Luna has no doubt that they will be able to liberate themselves in time to allow any ponies arriving a safe home.

Though there was little time to speak her mind as she, Liberty and Lantern continue through the palace, Luna kept thinking of how noble and admirable Liberty’s actions were regarding Ruby. Luna herself felt ashamed for almost leaving the prisoner to remain trapped, with the possibility that she could have been tortured further by her captors, or worse, be completely forgotten.

But Luna had good reason. They cannot delay the mission any further.

Princess Luna knows now, thanks to Ruby, that Cadence is indeed in the palace. A part of Luna’s mind jumped for joy upon learning the former Princess’s whereabouts. What better way to find out where the Crystal Heart is than to beat it out of the alicorn who betrayed Equestria?

Luna could not think of any option more satisfying.

After ascending two more stories, Luna discovers the door to Cadence and Shining Armor’s personal chambers. A lone crystal stallion stands guard, yawning and slouching against the wall in boredom. Luna instructs Lantern and Liberty to clear surrounding area and keep watch. As they carry out her orders, Luna sneaks along the nearby wall, managing to stay out of the stallion’s sight.

Only a few minutes later does Princess Luna cold-cock the stallion in the back of the head, quickly grabbing him to prevent him from falling to the floor with a thud. Luna lays him down, looting his pockets and uncovering a key. She inserts the key into the door and unlocks it, carefully gripping the doorknob and quietly entering. She cautiously closes it behind her, though the door makes an unavoidable click as it closes.

“Shining? Is that you?”

Upon hearing Cadence’s voice, Luna calmly creeps through the room. She determines her voice to have come from the room ahead, most likely the bedroom.

As the door begins to unlatch, Luna swiftly and silently hugs the wall, allowing the bedroom door to conceal herself as it swings halfway open.

Cadence walks out, closing the door behind her and making her way to the center of the room. Just like any other collared mare, she is completely naked. Though to express her status, her red collar is laced with gold trims, as are her red wing sleeves.

Luna hides in the shadow of the wall, waiting patiently and with intent as Cadence stops for a moment.

“Ohhh I see… I’m yours to take, master. However you want.”

Cadence goes to the opposite wall, leaning her forehead against it and placing her wrists crossed behind her. She alluringly pushes her ass out into the air, waiting for the grip of her Shining to come while closing her eyes. It seems that she and her master often play like this.

Princess Luna sees an opportunity.

Her winter boots mimicking those of a stallion, Princess Luna annunciates her steps as she slowly makes her way towards Cadence, stopping right behind her and letting her feel her air. Luna breathes sensually onto Cadence’s fur, while wrapping one hand around her wrists and the other around her waist. The former Princess sighs in delight.

Luna’s lips stop only inches away from Cadence’s ear.

“… However I want, you say?”

Luna’s words stop Cadence’s breath cold. Her eyes widen in fear as she recalls the all-too familiar voice.

Before having the chance to turn around, Luna grabs Cadence by the collar, dragging her into the bedroom and slamming the door shut. She pins Cadence against the wall while forcefully gripping the red collar around the fallen alicorn’s neck. Cadence’s own hands latch on to Luna’s arms in an effort to support herself as she is thrust against the wall, her wing sleeves bending into her back painfully.

“T-this can’t be happening! This is has to be a dream!”

“A Nightmare would be more appropriate. Would you like me to ‘pinch’ you?”

Just as Cadence begins to shake her head, Luna rams a fist straight into Cadence’s exposed stomach, causing her to reel and cry out, knocking the breath right out of her. Luna prevents her from flinching, holding her to the wall as she coughs in pain.

“I’m prepared to break every bone in your body, unless you tell me what I need to know. Where is the Crystal Heart being kept?” Luna demands. Her cold stare pierces through Cadence.

“I’m sorry, auntie Luna, but I can’t tell you…augh. I won’t tell you.”

Cadence was always a strong figure among the royals in the past. Even when she was only beginning royal duties as the third alicorn, she had the determination and resolve of a true leader. She’s retained at least some of that strength in defending her new ideals, much to the chagrin of Luna.

However, that strength is nothing compared to the strength of the Princess of the Night.

Princess Luna slowly pulls out her dagger, methodically dragging it along Cadence’s exposed fur.

“You’ve gained quite a bit of power here, Cadence. Undoubtedly because of your relationship with Shining Armor, and your… ‘trophy wife’ appearance. I wonder… How would your precious masters treat you if you had suddenly become bereft of a limb?”

Luna’s voice turns soft and smooth, whispering to Cadence as if she was singing a lullaby. The sharp tip of her dagger moves to Cadence’s shoulder, before making its way down with a sensual motion.

“Or, perhaps… You had lost your prized tongue? Or even your breasts? It wouldn’t take a second’s thought for Dainn, or even Shining Armor to deem you utterly devoid of all use. You would be left in some dank alley or hollow pit to rot. Just like the rest of the mares who are ‘deemed unsuitable’ to your masters’ needs. All it would take… Is one thrust…”

Under the steel glare of Luna’s eyes and the pressure of the blade steadily growing against her body, Cadence relents.

“The hidden room, at the top. It’s at the top of the palace.”

“Thank you.”

Princess Luna continues to stare at Cadence, sheathing her dagger.

“Y-you’re going to destroy it, aren’t you?”

“I came here to give clarity to Equestria. And to do that, I have to fix your mistake.”

“Even if you do destroy it, you can’t defeat Dainn. He defeated Celestia himself. You must realize that you’re setting yourself up to fail!”

Luna scoffs. “Dainn used the Crystal Heart to sway the stallions to his side. He is nothing but smoke and mirrors. And I will uncover the reasons behind his supposed ‘strength’. It is only a matter of time.”

Cadence continues to insist. “You won’t win. There’s no way you can restore the diarchy! This is Equestria’s future!”

“…I don’t need to restore the diarchy to save Equestria. That much is true.”

Deciding their conversation is at end, Luna knocks Cadence out cold, letting her fall limp to the hard floor.

Though she intended to leave, Luna continues to gaze at Cadence. She kneels down and pulls out her dagger, staring even more intensely at the alicorn. The words of Mjolna, from many months ago in Whitetail Wood, echo in her mind.

Mares like you aren’t trying to survive or to serve your masters. You’re just being selfish. You’re choosing your own pleasure over those who cared about you. You don’t care about anyone but yourself. And just like your masters, you’re heartless.

A look of disgust and anger creeps onto Luna’s face as her dagger’s tip rests right on top of Cadence’s heart. Her muscles tense and beg her to use them. The grip on her dagger tightens.

“Princess Luna?”

Luna snaps out of her thoughts, twitching her ears to catch the voice of Lantern.

“What is it?”

“Ah… We don’t have much time. There are more guards blanketing the area. If we want to find the Heart, we have to move.”

After a few more seconds, Luna puts away her dagger, shaking her head. She quickly gets up and exits the room with Lantern, leaving an unconscious Cadence behind.

As they close the door behind them, Luna snaps off the handle and tosses it away. Liberty joins them as they move towards the nearby stairwell.

“I have the location of the Crystal Heart. It’s being kept at the very top of the palace, in the old chamber which Sombra hid it during his reign. Come.”

It baffles Luna why a certain villain of the past had such a fascination with stairs. As she and her team ascend the massive spiral staircase, she wishes more and more that she could cast a reverse-gravity spell. Perhaps the exercise is more worth it.

They finally reach the top platform, and are immediately greeted by a fierce gale of wind, cold and frigid due to their altitude. The open arches surrounding the platform give a wide view of the entire area.

Floating in the very center of the platform is the Crystal Heart. However, it is no longer a heart.

“Well… Ok then. A giant penis. How creative.” Liberty remarks, shaking her head at the crystal representation of a male’s genitals. Testicles and all.

Lantern agrees. “I’m surprised the caribou didn’t keep it at the base for everyone to see it. To show another sign of their superiority.”

“They wanted to protect it somehow. Placing it up here and out of sight was the only precaution they thought necessary.” Princess Luna interjects.

Approaching the huge crystal phallus, Luna draws her sharpest blade. Though its current appearance is unsettling, the shape makes it much easier to effectively cut in half.

With one massive, overbearing slash of her sword, Princess Luna halves what was once the Crystal Heart. As it separates, the two pieces lose their levitation and fall to the floor, shattering into small chunks and fragments.

A moment of silence envelopes the group as they look down upon the fragments. Lantern breaks the silence.

“Did that do it? Did we lift its influence?”

A much colder wind breezes though the platform, bringing with it snow from the clouds above.

“Without the Crystal Heart, the Empire will be overcome by the winter weather. Come. Let us find Night Seer and High Tide.” States Luna.

Leading her team back down the spiral flight of stairs, Luna arrives back in the center of the palace. As she chooses a preferred way to make it to the ground floor, a commotion reaches her ears from the nearby hall. Luna and her group move to investigate, spotting three crystal stallion guards, along with a caribou overseer. One of the guards stands beside the caribou, while the other two are shielding a distraught black collared mare. The sight confirms to Luna that the caribou’s influence has indeed been lifted.

“Hand over that slut now you idiots!!” bellows the caribou. He is quickly supported by the stallion at his side.

“What are you guys doing?? We’re supposed to be taking her to the baths, not letting her go. What’s wrong with you?”

The guards protecting the black collar remain defiant.

“What’s wrong with us?! What’s wrong with you is the real question! Can’t you see what we’ve been doing to all these mares?? This isn’t us!”

The other guard joins in as Luna motions for Lantern and Liberty to move in quietly.

“We don’t give a damn what you say! We’re stopping this madness.”

With a snarl appearing on his face, the massive caribou reaches for his weapon, but is quickly stopped by a bolt fired from Liberty’s crossbow, which finds its mark in his shoulder. The other stallion guard attempts to flee, but is caught by another bolt fired by Lantern. Liberty rushes forward to drive a dagger into the caribou and the stallion before they can recover.

The other two guards and the mare behind them look shocked as Princess Luna approaches them.

“By the stars… Princess Luna!”

“Be at ease, ponies, you’re safe now.”

One of the stallions goes to Luna. “What happened? Why… Why did we do the things we did? I can’t believe…”

He stops to look upon the mare behind him. His expression looks as though he wants to apologize to her, but cannot think of any way to do so.

Princess Luna garners his attention.

“What was once the Crystal Heart… has been destroyed. It was influencing the minds of stallions all over Equestria, manipulating your conscience. Find a later time to dwell on this. Right now you must spread the news, and gather those still faithful to Equestria and lead them to safety in Stalliongrad. The winter will be upon the city soon.”

The guards nod, preparing to move out. Liberty stops them.

“Wait. Go up three stories, to the cum baths. There is a red coated mare hiding in the storage room. Her name is Ruby. Tell her you’ve seen us. Make sure she is safe!”

“Y-yes ma’am!” they reply as they take the mare with them and head in the direction of the stairwell.

Before they can get on the move again, Night Seer and High Tide, still dressed in their stolen armor, though this time without their helmets, appear from the end of the hallway. They jog down and reunite with Luna, receiving a warm hung from Lantern and a smile from Liberty.

“Princess! It worked… You have to come see this.”

Following Night Seer and High Tide, Luna, Lantern and Liberty are brought to the base of the crystal palace, and are given sight to the astounding change before them.

Throughout the city, there is conflict. As snow begins to stick to the ground and the buildings, shouts and cries can be heard from all around. Sounds of weapons clashing and chains breaking echo from the streets and alleys. Already there are freed black collared mares either fleeing from the caribou, or joining friendly stallions in fighting them off. With haste, a group of stallions rushes over to one of the larger public areas, quickly freeing the many mares shackled to the racks and taking them elsewhere, while some others distract caribou soldiers and enemy stallions from pursuing.

Equestria has woken up.

Liberty approaches Luna. “The ponies here need our help. We can free the whole city if we help lead them!”

“We cannot stay any longer. We must return to Haven…”

Liberty is about to object, though Luna smiles at her with a look of cunning.

“…Which means we will need to open the south eastern gates… Which are the gates pointing to Stalliongrad.”

Taking Luna’s hints, Liberty nods in agreement. With a reinforced confidence, Princess Luna leads her team through the turmoil of the city, dashing through the conflict with as much speed as possible. Luckily they are unopposed as they arrive at the closed gates.

On Luna’s orders, her Sentinels, along with Liberty, enter into the nearby buildings which house the gate’s mechanisms. They stealthily remove the caribou guards, and utilize the mechanisms to swing open the gates. They make sure the gate controls are sabotaged so that they remain completely open.

Already groups of ponies, both mares and stallions of various races, begin to make their way through the gate, garbed in whatever winter clothing and gear they could find. They hurry though and begin on the snow-laden road which leads towards Stalliongrad. Princess Luna watches them as her team regroups with her.

Princess Luna addresses them, standing at the gates as ponies pass by them, some looking in awe at Luna’s presence.

“Excellent work, all of you. This is your victory as much as it is mine. Now, we have a home to return to.”

As Luna’s party finally returns from their week-long journey, arriving back home in Haven, they are quite astounded to notice a boom in the population. Whole groups of ponies have arrived since the Crystal Heart’s elimination. The biggest change being that there are many more stallions. Not quite as much to reach the number of mares, but still a significant amount to outnumber the noctral stallions about.

“Incredible. It looks as though we have the population of an entire city here now!” says Lantern, admiring the amount of ponies who have arrived.

“We will have to keep building up Haven if we actually want to support a city’s worth of people. I’ll have to get to the drawing boards once we settle back in.” remarks Night Seer.

As her Sentinels go ahead and enter Haven, Liberty stays at Luna’s pace, which has slowed down. Luna pulls out a document she compiled during the journey home and hands it to Liberty.

“I would greatly appreciate it if you could give the report to Mjolna for me, Liberty. I’m thinking about laying my head down early.”

“Sure thing, Princess. I’ll let her know you say hello.”

Thanking Liberty, Luna watches as she walks ahead, melding into a crowd of ponies, some of whom welcome her back. Luna doesn’t make it much farther towards Haven before almost all of her Sentinels come out to welcome her home. Star Glow, Dew Drop, Crowe, and Spirit come, led by High Tide. They all greet Luna with cheer and praise, overjoyed to see their Princess once again.

Princess Luna herself is quite happy to see them again as well. It is the warm feeling of reuniting with loved ones, after being gone for a time, which brightens Luna the most. Such a feeling was rare for Luna in her time spent ruling. It is pleasant and heartfelt to experience again, and thanks her loyal noctrals for their welcoming.

The welcome is made official as Sweetie Belle appears from behind Crowe, running and embracing Princess Luna, who gladly returns the affection. Even the Bureau ponies, Scavenger Hunt and Tome, had come out to greet her, giving her a warm hug after Sweetie Belle.

It is all too surreal. Being welcomed home by so many friends. All of whom shared a love for Luna as though she was not some superior being or royal figure. But another friend who is simply cared about, thought about, and loved dearly.

Luna could not ask for a better victory.

The following day, Princess Luna is approached by Mjolna after her waking from a short slumber. Mjolna informs the Princess that she should consider taking the day off, and to replenish her energy. Though normally she would insist on continuing her duties, Princess Luna is grateful for the offer, and deems it wise to recuperate for the day. Though her mission was a stunning success, as evident by the amount of mares and stallions joining the forces of the rebellion, the venture in the Crystal Empire was not only quite taxing, but traumatizing as well. Luna knows she will be having even more nightmares now, sadly.

Deciding to take in some cool fresh air, Princess Luna walks outside of Haven and into the tent fields. She bids good morning to many Haven residents; zebras, noctrals, and ponies alike.

As she continues her walk, she comes near one of the common flat rocks that dot the slopes of Haven. Such rocks are quite large and used by the residents as places to sit or by the younger foals as something to climb on.

On this rock before her is a collection of some Haven residents, with Sweetie Belle among them. Each of them has a particular instrument in hand. A pegasus stallion with an old guitar, a zebra mare with a beautiful set of Zebrican drums, and a noctral mare with a flute. As they sit in a rough semi-circle on the rock, Sweetie Belle passes them each a piece of paper; sheet music of a song which Sweetie Belle had transcribed to the best of her ability for each of the musicians’ respective instruments. She gleefully helps each of them tune and clarify her scribbles. Luna had an idea of Sweetie Belle’s talent in singing, but she never knew that she was proficient in music theory. At least enough to write her own music.

Princess Luna watches with a smile as Sweetie Belle stands on the rock while the others sit. She counts them off, and the band begins playing a very catchy marching tune. It has a very exotic appeal with the Zebrican drums, though still retains a familiar Equestrian feel with the guitar and the flute. After a few measures, Sweetie Belle begins to sing in a cheery yet lovely voice.

We’re the toughest little, ponies in town!
Got the moves, got the mo-jo.
No harder working ponies around.
We are a trio, work as team.
We’ll be the first ponies out on the flaag waaving scene!

Their melodious and upbeat music rings out across all of Haven, even catching the ears of those in the caves closer to the surface. Several listeners come and watch, standing around the rock as well as sitting on the grass. Another round of measures go by for the filling music, giving way to Sweetie Belle beginning the second verse. This time, she is joined by the stallion strumming his guitar, who adds a bass voice to Sweetie’s alto.

We get-going when the, going gets tough!
We know, our very best is just, never enough!
We’re kinda short but so what? We don’t, get defeated.
We could take a little break but, we don’t need it!

We’ve got hearts, as strong as horses!
We’ve got hearts, as strong as horses!
We’ve got hearts, as strong as horses!
We’ve got heeaaaarrts, hearts as strong as horses!

A much larger group of ponies, zebras, and noctrals have now gathered around Sweetie Belle and her musicians, cheering and whistling. On the higher slopes, more onlookers perch themselves above to enjoy the performance as well. Many of the young ones jump up and down and dance with others. Everyone expresses joy and delight as they continue to gather and listen.

Sweetie Belle starts on the next verse, this time joined by the zebra mare playing drums.

When we put our minds together, we can achieve!
We’re the Cutie Mark Crusaders, and you should believe!
We’ve got determination, to represent the nation fooor the wiiiiin!

We’ve got hearts, as strong as horses!
We’ve got hearts, as strong as horses!
We’ve got hearts, as strong as horses!

And we’re playing to win, as we gallop to glory!
We can conquer any challenge we’re in!

We’ve got heeaaaarts!
Hearts stong as horses!
Hearts strong as horseees!!

With a last measure sound off, Sweetie Belle and the musicians finish their song, causing the now huge crowd before them to roar in an enormous round of cheer and applause. Luna looks around to see nothing but glee and mirth on everyone’s faces. The musicians all laugh and smile with each other, and at Sweetie Belle, who is perhaps the most joyful of them all. She goes around and hugs the musicians who played with her, thanking them for helping in the performance.

All of this merriment and sheer happiness baffles Luna. She had gathered them under a banner to fight for their freedom and to overcome the caribou’s might and terror. And here they all are, singing, dancing, and celebrating life. Luna sees that this is their most powerful weapon against the caribou. Their love for one another, be they zebra, noctral, or pony. Their compassion and will to live on despite all that has happened is a strength greater than any kind of magic. Princess Luna can tell that this is what true Equestrian magic looks like. Friends coming together to simply have fun and be friends. To lift and support one another, so that no one falls.

Luna gazes at Sweetie Belle, admiring her cheer. Suddenly, she notices a change in the young unicorn’s expression. She seems to have caught something in her sight, looking out towards the crowd. Luna sees her lips mouth something like a question, and then her eyes widen in disbelief.

As Sweetie Belle hastily hops down from the flat rock, Luna hurried herself to follow, wondering what spurred her senses. Luna makes her way through the crowd, noticing that the large body of Haven residents have moved aside to allow Sweetie Belle to run past them, towards something.

As Luna finds her way to the parting of the crowd, she discovers that she didn’t see something, but someone.

Her sister, Rarity.

As they ran to each other in between the crowd, embracing and falling to the grass with emotional tears, a resounding and uplifting cheer comes from those around. They witness the reuniting of two long-lost sisters, once torn apart by terror and suffering, now brought back through determination and love. Several of the onlookers are moved to tears themselves.

“Sweetie Belle!! You’re safe! You’re safe! Oh….Oh thank goodness, thank goodness you’re safe. I’ve…. I’ve missed you so much….”

Rarity’s words mix with her tears, her arms not loosening one bit around her little sister.

“I’ve missed you too Rarity. And now you’re safe too!”

Sweetie Belle and Rarity continue their embrace, until Princess Luna approaches. Sweetie Belle looks to her with a smile as Rarity gazes at her with a sense of awe.

Offering her hand, Princess Luna helps Rarity up. She notices that Rarity is looking particularly worse for wear, due to a black eye and several scratches and bruises marking her all over. Luna can only surmise she acquired such wounds in the chaos created by the lifting of the Crystal Heart’s influence, which had no doubt granted her the opportunity to escape as well. Her torn and scuffled mane fail to hide the stub of her sheared-off horn. The more Luna examines Rarity, the more she sees her as a fitting example of what a pony can endure and still find a way to survive.

“Princess Luna, I… Thank you. For keeping my sister safe.”

“It was not I alone. It is thanks in part to many of the ponies here that she is safe.”

Rarity looks around. The faces of ponies, zebras and noctrals, fillies and adults, smile back at her, with welcoming and accepting eyes.

“Then… thank you! Thank you all! I-I can’t… even begin to think of a way to show my gratitude.”

“There’s no need. Now, we should be getting you to the infirmary. Those wounds will need proper treatment.”

“Wait, Princess. There are others with me that need more care than I do. One especially.”

Rarity leads Luna to the group of escapees that she had arrived with. They all share similar injuries, though they brighten up and express relief upon meeting Luna. She returns each of their greetings in kind, though is shocked to discover that Rarity is not the only former-element bearer to have made it to Haven.

Sitting in the cart that the escapees brought with them is Fluttershy. Unlike the other ponies, Fluttershy makes no attempt to greet Luna. In fact, she doesn’t even seem to notice her. Even when Princess Luna approaches, she remains curled around her knees with an absent look in her eyes, as though she is trapped in another existence. Rarity gazes upon her friend forlornly.

“We were able to flee Ponyville thanks to fighting that broke out amongst many of the stallions and caribou. The only one of my friends I was able to find during the chaos was Fluttershy. For years she had been at the mercy of the caribou’s beasts… For lack of a more appropriate phrase. Now she’s… completely unresponsive. She hasn’t even shown any love or attention to the animals we’ve come across. Almost as if she is terrified of nature itself.”

Princess Luna had heard reports of the caribou giving mares to their war beasts. It was one thing to be assaulted and ravaged by a caribou, but to be subjected to rabid bestiality was another matter entirely. The caribou had perverted nature itself, and in turn had utterly shattered the fragile state of Fluttershy’s mentality.

There is no further way to help Fluttershy than to bring her to the infirmary and to keep her comfortable. Luna surmises that the only cure that could be given to her would be time.

With that, Luna helps Rarity, Sweetie Belle, and the other escapees into Haven, and with the help of her Sentinels, leads them to the infirmary. Nurse Redheart’s clinic has exponentially grown with the arrival of the zebras and the destruction of the Crystal Heart. Zebra shamans, with Zecora among them, give herbal and alchemic treatments to patients for any magical or unique ailments. Many ponies have now joined the clinic staff, not only mares but stallions as well. The unicorn stallions in particular are extremely helpful thanks to their spell casting, though few among them have had any prior medical knowledge.

As the other escapees are tended to by the clinic assistants, Nurse Redheart personally attends to Fluttershy, lying her down on a medical cot and doing her best to calm her. The pegasus gains a sense of fright however, holding herself and crying softly, as if she is reliving the memories of her time as a red collar all at once. Rarity and Sweetie Belle hold her hand, as Zecora comes to give her support as well.

After physically examining her and trying her best to commune with her, Redheart assures Rarity and Sweetie Belle before asking to speak with Luna outside of the infirmary chamber. They both enter the corridor, standing to the side to avoid obstructing the path.

“I... I don’t think there is much I can do for Fluttershy. I’ve examined her body, and I have given her a pelvic exam as well. To put it bluntly, she’s been through years of having sexual intercourse with… a lot of things. When you destroyed the Crystal Heart, I think she finally realized what she was doing and just… snapped.”

Princess Luna can easily see the sorrow and stress in Nurse Redheart. She is devoted to helping those in need, and curing them of their ailments. Even though she knows some patients can be beyond saving, Redheart doesn’t want to accept losing anyone.

Luna crosses her arms in speculation. “Is there no one among the medical staff that has any knowledge on mental treatment?”

“Well, we’ve been trying our best with the purple collars that are brought to us. Zecora and the shamans have not had any luck in their remedies for such mental trauma. And the unicorns that I’ve spoken to have no spells or magical treatments. The only spells that could help in some way would be memory spells, but we have no books on any of them. I even tried asking Scavenger Hunt and Tome if they’ve found any, but… They haven’t.”

Luna curses in her thoughts. Even if they had the appropriate books, it takes a special unicorn to be able to master memory spells. Ponies like Starswirl the Bearded and Twilight Sparkle were capable, but they were not average unicorns. Luna herself knows very old forms of memory spells, but they are of alicorn origination, and cannot be taught to any unicorn. And she herself cannot use it for… well, obvious reasons. No horn.

Amidst Luna’s contemplation, Redheart looks forlornly at the ground.

“I’m not a psychiatrist. I’m just a nurse. The only thing I can do now is keep her comfortable. That would be the most heartening thing to do.”

In that moment, Luna’s memories started to come together. Memories from all of her ventures thus far. The thoughts flashed to the many ponies, noctrals, and zebras she has encountered during her endeavors. Elder Vigil, Mjolna, Nurse Redheart, Zecora, Chief Zavala, Liberty, her Sentinels, Rarity, and Sweetie Belle. All of these people had shown her something. In their own unique ways, they are the paragons of the one thing that Luna now sees is the answer.

The heart.

Luna, with a revelation in her eyes, looks to Nurse Redheart.

“…Yes you do.”

“Excuse me?”

“Push the memories away. Focus on nothing but your heartbeat.” Princess Luna recites.

Nurse Redheart now shared the same revelation.

Princess Luna immediately turns back into the infirmary, followed closely by Nurse Redheart. Rarity and Sweetie Belle look to them with concern.

“Is there any way to help her?” asks Rarity, on the verge of tears.

“There is a way. We mustn’t focus on the mind. We must focus on the heart!”

“B-but…Do we not need a spell...?”

“No,” Luna cuts in, “We do not need a spell. We aren’t going to replace memories. We need to mend the heart. All Equestrians know that our strongest magic is not unicorn magic, or alicorn magic, but the magic of friendship. And with friendship comes love. And this magic is drawn from our hearts, not our minds.”

The ponies in the room begin to see Princess Luna’s point. And they realize that she speaks the truth. Nurse Redheart looks over the terrified Fluttershy once more, before turning to Luna.

“…How will we draw this magic?”

“We use our hearts. Come.”

Rarity, Sweetie Belle, Zecora, and Nurse Redheart gather closer Fluttershy, placing their hands upon her. Princess Luna stands behind Fluttershy, placing one hand upon her shoulder and the other upon her heart. They all relax and clear their thoughts, only focusing on their heart beats, and of the love they share.

A few moments pass. No bright flash or magical glow occurs. Only stillness, peace, and a lingering sense of harmony. As the ponies open their eyes, they look down to see Fluttershy opening her eyes with them. Her pupils have dilated, and she seems the opposite of before. Awareness is in her gaze.

Fluttershy feels the hands of the others in her own. She looks up, seeing Princess Luna.

“…Princess Luna? Y-you’re…upside down…” she says with a squeak.

At the sound of the pegasus’ voice, a grin of pure happiness spreads across the room. Sweetie Belle and Rarity hug Fluttershy. At first the pegasus is surprised by the sudden affection, though she weakly smiles at noticing Rarity and Sweetie Belle.

“She has come back, even after being so torn apart. You were true to say that what survives is the heart.” Remarks Zecora in wonder.

Princess Luna agrees, amazed in her own way that Fluttershy has regained some of her awareness.

Nurse Redheart begins to ask Fluttershy a host of questions, mainly of any pain she might be feeling.

“W-well, I… Uhm… I was w-wondering where Angel is… The last time I saw him was with the…Timb-…Ti….Ti….T-t-t-t…”

Fluttershy’s eyes widen as if she has suddenly seen a ghost. Her breathing is heavy and fast as she fails to form words. Nurse Redheart leaps to action, trying her best to calm her and to prevent her from potentially hurting herself.

Princess Luna and the others look to her as she deduces the problem.

“She must be having a memory relapse. We need to calm her down again!”

Before most could react, Zecora quickly calls out in Zebrican to a nearby shaman. The shaman brings her a small bowl with a grounded, powder-like substance within it. Grabbing a handful of the powder, Zecora throws it above Fluttershy’s head, letting it float gently upon her.

Within seconds, Fluttershy’s breathing slows and her eyes close as she drifts into a peaceful sleep. As the others become relieved, Zecora smiles, thanking the zebra shaman for bringing the powder. Nurse Redheart sighs thankfully.

“Ah… I should have remembered about your herbal anesthetics. Thank you, Zecora.”

Zecora bows, before moving to attend other patients in the clinic.

Still kneeling beside a slumbering Fluttershy, Rarity gently caresses her pink mane before lifting up and kissing her on the forehead.

“I suppose she will still have to be treated often, yes?”

Nurse Redheart nods. “Yes. It might take a little while, but with our new method and a combination of other treatments, I think Fluttershy will be able to be herself again one day.”

Sweetie Belle then chimes in. “What are you going to call the new method? Don’t doctors give names to new medicines discovered?”

Nurse Redheart looks to Princess Luna.

“Well… I think Princess Luna had put it the best way when she was explaining it. We will call it Heartmending.”

“And those who practice it will be called Heartmenders.” Princess Luna adds, receiving an approving smile from Nurse Redheart.

Though she was a bit nonsensical, Fluttershy had broken out of her near-catatonic state. Luna judges that she will still need continuing Heartmending sessions like this, as well as additional care from the medial staff. Though with enough patience and understanding, Fluttershy may very well be healed of her trauma, as could other mares who have been mentally broken.

Princess Luna leaves the organizing and leadership of the new Heartmender practice to Nurse Redheart, and also declares her the very first official Heartmender. Though to find other ponies capable of Heartmending may be a challenge, as it is deemed that one would have to be able to show incredible amounts of understanding, compassion and love to any pony they meet, even complete strangers. Luna has no doubts that Nurse Redheart can handle it.

The last few weeks have been hallmarked by two incredible and much-needed victories. Luna continues to hope and pray for such fortune and grace as the fight continues.

She may not even need luck anymore.

The spirit of Equestria has been revived.

Author's Note

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hcRQPAggmlE

Hope you enjoyed this chapter. There is more to come! Though now that college is starting again, it might be a bit of a wait. But I'll keep on writing! =]

Thank you for reading. =]

Ch 6: Arsenal of Allies

“The only way to deal with an unfree world is to become so absolutely free that your very existence is an act of rebellion”

Another dream.

Princess Luna has grown acclimated to these recurring dreams. Though this one is different…

There is an endless field of silver grass. The land is flat and wide. The night time sky looms above, dotted with many stars. Luna lies on the field, as if she had fallen from the stars above.

Standing up, Luna walks forward, noticing she is barefoot. The blades of grass feel cold as they brush the soles of her feet. Though there is a calm breeze about, the silver grass does not sway. It lies completely still, as if frozen by an unseen force.

As Luna continues, the dark air around her begins to lighten. Soon she finds the fields to be illuminated with light, as if the sun had risen suddenly. The stars of night are still clearly visible.

Luna takes a moment to observe her surroundings. Her eyes immediately catch a strange sight.

Before her is a small collection of flowers, growing sparsely among the silver grass. They are a myriad of colors, all basking happily in the light. All but one.

The lone flower in the center appears different. Its green stem curves downwards, and its blue petals are closed tightly into a ball. It does not embrace the light.

A strange and beckoning force seethes from the flower as Luna gets closer. She kneels to inspect it, before deciding to pluck it from the ground.

As she holds it in her hand, the flower slowly blooms, unfurling its large petals, revealing the center of the flower to be a mesmerizing black.

Luna is transfixed by its strange yet alluring charm. Soon, however, she notices that the other flowers have suddenly died.

Seven wilted flowers lay.

The silver grass begins to sway with the breeze, freed of its frozen curse.

The mysterious flower, still within Luna’s fingers, whispers to her.

“… Welcome back…”

“Who?”

“…Augh…”

Princess Luna awakes from her slumber, stretching her limbs across her bed of grass. A bed which is not the usual one that she sleeps on in the housing chambers.

As she stretches, Luna contemplates for a moment in her mind why her bed feels like grass. And why she is feeling exceptionally chilly.

“Who?”

Luna opens her eyes, adjusting to the bright and open sky. The Sun has only begun its climb across the great blue dome above. As her eyes focus, however, her view of the sky is blotted out by a mass of brown feathers with eyes.

“Who?”

Luna thought for a moment she was dreaming again, but as she lets the light into her eyes she makes out the strange ball of feathers to be an owl. An owl that is sitting directly on her chest.

“…Hello?”

“Who?”

Princess Luna stands up, patting down her clothes and shaking her featherless wings free from the clinging blades of grass. Luna had somehow fallen asleep upon one of Haven’s highest lookout positions, one that was less rocky and a bit grassier. Even so, Luna’s back ached incredibly, adding more to the fact that she fell asleep rather quickly last night. That to begin with was odd, as Luna usually works through most of the night. How she came to be sleeping outside of Haven is a bizarre mystery.

Regardless, today will be another day of work. It has only been two weeks after the destruction of the Crystal Heart, and as a result things in Haven have been even busier than ever. With more ponies coming in, looking for shelter or looking to join the fight, there is hardly a moment when Luna is not at work managing the safety and upkeep of the mountain sanctuary.

The brown owl had leapt from Luna’s chest as she rose. He flaps up and plants himself comfortably on her shoulder, prompting Luna to raise her eyebrow at him with a smile.

“I don’t recall ever seeing you around before. What is an owl like you doing all the way out here?”

“Who?”

Luna giggles, reaching to stroke the owl’s feathered chest.

“Nice try. I’ve had my experience with owls and their ways. Though I suppose you could accompany me. I hope you enjoy organizing things.”

The owl gives a look of happiness, hooting joyously in what Luna determines to be a solid ‘yes’.

Luna and her new companion begin to cautiously descend Haven’s rocky slopes. However, as she makes her way down, Luna spies several ponies, zebras and noctrals nearby. They are slowly ascending the rocks to the highest reachable point in Haven, which is commonly nicknamed the ‘eagle’s nest’ due to its height.

Luna stopped for a moment to observe the group of six reach the eagle’s nest. As they all set foot on the rocky platform above, they plant a flagpole into the ground and attach a large flag made of gold and white fabric. They raise the flag upright, revealing it to have half of a sun depicted in the side.

Luna makes it out to be part of the large Summer Sun Celebration banner that Scavenger Hunt and Tome had recovered several months ago. The golden and white remnant of the banner now flows furiously with the wind. It is a fitting symbol for Haven, and as the other Haven residents look up to it in awe and wonder, Luna resumes her descent.

Princess Luna reaches the lower slopes safely with her owl companion, making her way into the main cavern. Upon arriving, the lively hood of the cavern catches her by surprise. The many people of Haven come to and fro, working on keeping things flowing or simply looking around for something to do. Close by, a stallion and a noctral mare have a pleasant conversation. Across the cavern, two long-lost friends reunite in a long embrace. Groups of zebras and ponies intermingle as if they were neighbors all of their lives. All of the activity makes Haven seem more and more like a hidden city.

The main concentration of residents is by the ever-expanding Bureau. The Bureau area itself has become much more neatly organized and decorated since Luna saw it last. Instead of looking like a collector’s old junkyard, it now resembles a sort of traveling museum.

Luna approaches the front stand of the Bureau, receiving warm greetings from many of the ponies around her. Suddenly she stops, realizing that the ponies greeting her are actually part of a line leading up to the desk at the front of the Bureau. And that most of the ponies in line have little to no clothes on.

Manning the desk at the front of the line, Rarity and Scavenger Hunt distribute bundles of what appear to be newly stitched clothing to each pony in line. Princess Luna smiles softly at the sight, impressed at how Rarity always finds a way to be generous to others. Luna makes her way to the desk, scooching along the edge to place herself behind it, so as not to disrupt the line.

“Good morning, Princess!” Says Rarity as she turns to gather something from the table. Princess Luna notices that Rarity has made a healthy comeback since her arrival a week ago. Her mane is once again smooth and wavy just like fabric she is so talented with, and her bruises are healing quite nicely.

“I’ve been meaning to… Oh my…! Is that Owlowiscious?!”

Luna had forgotten about the presence of the owl on her shoulder.

With an acknowledging hoot, the owl flutters over to Rarity, who promptly hugs him.

“It is you! How in Equestria did you find your way here?”

“You know this owl, Rarity?” asks Luna.

“I do. This is Owlowiscious. He’s Twilight’s pet owl. I used to see him quite often before… All of this.”

Rarity lets out a sigh, letting Owlowiscious hop to a nearby table, where he continues to look back at her.

“Many of our pets simply vanished when the Fall began. Who could blame them? With no one around to take care of them, they had to find other means to survive. I wish I could at least know my Opal is ok…”

Rarity’s eyes drop to the ground. Luna herself hasn’t had a pet for quite some time, though she knows how a pet can be a trustworthy friend.

“I’m sorry, Rarity. Were you about to tell me something?”

“Oh! Yes. Come this way!”

Rarity turns and leads Luna, followed closely by Owlowiscious, towards the back area of the Bureau. There, a large and heavy wooden table is covered in all kinds of items and relics, though a portion of the table is being used as a fabric station. Piles and rolls of old and renewed fabrics lay in an organized fashion, coupled with an ancient looking sewing machine.

Rarity picks up a large folded square of gold and yellow, carrying it gently and bringing it to Luna.

“I took the Summer Sun Celebration banner that Scavenger Hunt and Tome had recovered and I created two flags from it. One was just put atop Haven. This is the other one. I was thinking that perhaps you could use a flag representing Equestria for when you need it most.”

Rarity hands the folded flag to Luna, who gratefully accepts it.

“Thank you very much, Rarity. It’s perfect.”

“I aim to please! And if you ever require anything else with a magnificent gold and white pattern, I have plenty of the banner left in extras. I could use it to make another flag or… maybe a cloak! Regardless, it will be here if you need it.”

“Thank you, I’ll be sure to-“

Luna’s stomach interrupts her, growling loudly in protest. Rarity can’t help but giggle, placing a hand to her muzzle.

“Oh, Princess. Did you not have anything to eat this morning?”

“I woke up outside today.”

“Outside? You slept outside? What in the world gave you that idea?”

“I’m not quite sure. But it seems my stomach is intent on punishing me for it,” Luna smirks, “Thank you again for your thoughtfulness, Rarity. Perhaps we can speak later?”

Rarity bows with regality in her posture, showing her experience with Canterlot nobility.

“Of course! If you’re able, I’m sure Sweetie Belle would enjoy it if you came with us down to the detention center later, for a visit with Meadow.”

Luna stops midway through letting Owlowiscious back upon her shoulder as the name Meadow strikes her. She was hoping not to come into too much contact with the prisoners held in Haven. The traitors, as they are more often called. Meadow in particular, due to the fact that Luna did nothing to stop her maltreatment at the hands of her own kin back in Whitetail Wood. In truth, Luna sometimes regrets that decision.

Sweetie Belle often spoke of Meadow. And if she was visiting her with Rarity today, Luna might as well tag along for a brief visit. It would indeed make Sweetie Belle happy.

“I… should have some time to accompany you. If it will make Sweetie Belle happy.”

“Wonderful! Find us again in a few hours, after you eat. We’ll head down together.”

With that, Luna departs from the Bureau with Owlowiscious, bidding Scavenger Hunt and Tome goodbye before leaving. Of the continuous concerns of Haven, none mattered more than the replenishing of personal nutrition.

At least, that is the excuse used by some residents to take a break from work to munch on something. Luna has adopted the excuse for herself.

Following a hearty breakfast at the mess hall, an unusual sound reaches Princess Luna as she steps out into the corridor. She looks down to her feet to see a dog barking at her. The small corgi quickly jumps up and down and runs down the corridor. Not a second passes before another dog follows, along with a rabbit. Luna rubs her eyes in confusion before following them.

She continues through Haven’s caves, spotting various small creatures taking residence alongside the citizens of Haven. Everything from ferrets to possums to small lizards, and even tiny sparrows and finches in the larger caves. Princess Luna either was too busy to notice them before, or they simply moved in over-night. Or perhaps they’ve been here all along, and only now they have begun to emerge. Another sign that the Crystal Heart’s effect has been lifted? Luna is unsure.

The concentration of animals begins to increase as Luna nears Nurse Redheart’s clinic. The many small animals seem to come and go the most from this area, and even some of the birds fly through the corridors to perch on small edges along the cave walls. Princess Luna decides to take a peek inside the clinic.

Inside, the regular staff of medical ponies and zebra shamans go about their work, caring for their patients. Though they are accompanied by a small yet diverse faction of animals, which scurry about on the ground, requiring the clinic workers to be extra cautious when moving about. Though being cautious is something they are already quite adapted to, thanks to their work.

Though the smaller animals abound, there is one significantly larger animal in the room.

As Princess Luna makes her way inside the infirmary, she easily spots an orthros lying down by the patient resting section. Beside the large, two-headed dog is Fluttershy, sleeping warmly as if by a cozy fire. Instead of being on one of the cots, she lies peacefully on a comforter mat with pillows, made even more comfortable with the fluffy orthros behind her. One of the orthros’ heads lies down over Fluttershy’s shoulder, sleeping soundly. The other remains wide awake with a happy grin, panting and letting his long, slobbery tongue hang out freely. The alert head observes everyone moving around him, and locks eyes with Luna for a second, cocking his head to one side in curiosity. Luna can’t help but smile at the unbearably cute scene.

“Good morning, Princess,” Says Nurse Redheart as she approaches, giving transport to a small mouse who somehow found his way onto her shoulder, “I see one of our new visitors has already made your acquaintance.”

Luna nods, looking to Owlowiscious on her shoulder once again. The mouse on Nurse Redheart squeaks upon seeing the owl and dives into one of the pockets lining Redheart’s medical apron. Owlowiscious notices, though chooses to ignore the mouse, receiving a noble approval from Luna.

“Yes indeed. I wasn’t expecting to see an orthros here though.”

“We were pretty surprised to find him. Yesterday he just wandered into Haven, along with several other animals. His tags said he was a therapy dog, so we decided to bring him to the clinic to possibly help with some of our patients. The instant he saw Fluttershy, though, he went straight to her. He hasn’t left her side since.”

Nurse Redheart grins at the peacefulness of the orthros with Fluttershy. Though as adorable as they are, Luna crosses her arms with concern.

“Is it a wise decision to keep them together? They haven’t tried to… Well…”

“We were a bit worried in the beginning, but we kept an eye on them, and they haven’t gotten too intimate,” Redheart assures, “The orthros knows what he is doing. He even helps during our Heartmending sessions with Fluttershy.”

“I’m relieved to hear that. Have you given him a name?” asks Princess Luna.

Redheart shakes her head. “We haven’t. We figured that once Fluttershy is up for it, we would let her pick a name for him. He is practically hers anyway.”

“That’s very considerate of you.”

“It was more Zecora’s idea.” Nurse Redheart says with a smile.

Princess Luna and Nurse Redheart continue to observe the half-slumbering orthros, protecting the resting Fluttershy like a guardian angel. Luna surmises that Haven would indeed be a more welcome place with the company of animals. The animals themselves seem to think so, with their recent arrival.

“I can’t shake the feeling that all of these animals know about Heartmending. There’s only three official Heartmenders here, including myself. And once we began to do regular sessions, all of these animals started showing up. It’s incredible.” Redheart smiles, as the mouse still hiding in her apron pocket pokes his head out.

Princess Luna cusps her hands behind her. “Heartmending partly requires unconditional love. There is no greater form of life in this world better at that than an animal companion.”

“I think you’re right about that, Princess. I wouldn’t mind having a few more around here to help out.” Nurse Redheart gently pets the head of the mouse in her pocket, looking to Luna one last time before returning to her duties

Luna herself gazes one last time at the orthros. If the animals have indeed arrived because of the Heartmending efforts, then it is undoubtedly a sure sign that the method is working. And that nature itself approves of its use. Another bit of good news to add to the list. A steadily growing list at that.

As Princess Luna had departed the infirmary, she had suddenly happened upon Rarity and Sweetie Belle, who were coming from the mess hall and were just about to search for Luna. Luna joined them from there on their way down to Haven’s detention center, within the lower caves.

The three of them soon arrive at the entrance to the cells, which was once a craggy opening leading to the dead-end chamber. Since Haven’s development, the entrance is now a fortified mix of wood and stone, consisting of two pairs of parallel doors.

The two guards at the entrance, both noctral mares, welcome Luna’s group in. They say hello to Rarity and Sweetie Belle in a friendly tone, mentioning to Luna that Rarity and Sweetie Belle are the center’s most common visitors. The doors open one pair at a time, in accordance with the developed procedure for security.

Passing through the doors, the cavern is a rather long cave, its space shaped like a cross. Lined along the walls furthest from the doors are wooden-built containment cells. All of the cells are kept in the quartered-off back section of the cave. Only a few are fully occupied, by mares or stallions still loyal to the caribou, even after the Crystal Heart’s destruction. Though the prisoner Luna and company are visiting in particular isn’t usually confined to her cell.

The green mare, Meadow, has been Haven’s first and longest prisoner, having arrived with Mjolna, Luna and the Whitetail Resistance when Haven was still unoccupied caves, save for the noctral detachment that met them as they arrived. For nearly all of the many months of her time in the cells, Meadow has been cooperative, and her good behavior has allowed her to have a bit more freedom around the cavern itself, being allowed to roam freely out of her cell. She isn’t allowed to leave the detention center, but she and a few other prisoners are able to enjoy their time in an area setup for relaxing. Tables and chairs, along with a few books and other activities, allow the cooperative prisoners to find some comfort.

Sweetie Belle and Rarity enter first, receiving more warm welcomes from the pony and noctral guards within the cave.

At the resting area is Meadow, sitting at one of the round tables. Since her time in Haven, the detention center guards have grown to appreciate her. Though reserved at times, Meadow is a nice mare, and the guards enjoy having conversations with her.

As a requirement by Haven, the inmates of the detention center must wear articles of clothing at all times. Meadow has complied with this for the longest, often wearing a rather loose-fitting shirt and shorts. She tries to keep her clothes aired out and loose, out of habit.

She keeps the same red collar that she arrived with around her neck.

“Hi Meadow!” exclaims Sweetie Belle, her young voice cracking a high pitch in its usual manner.

“Ohh, Sweetie Belle! Thanks for stopping by. You too, Rarity.”

“We couldn’t pass up the opportunity to visit you again, darling. We brought you a little something!”

As the trio sit down at one of the resting zone’s wooden tables, Rarity pulls out a beautiful and lush flower, attached neatly to a mane clip. The flower is a marvelous pink, with little stalks curling out from the bud.

“I thought you could use a little something new to brighten your wardrobe, and I must say the pink is a perfect match for your green mane!”

Meadow happily fits the flower in her locks of hair, setting it just before her left ear. She blushes and smiles from the generous gift.

“I…Thank you very much. It’s wonderful.”

“And I brought you tea again!” pipes up Sweetie Belle as she hands her a cup of white tea, brewed by the filly herself. With the aid of Star Glow’s expertise.

Princess Luna stops herself from going over, instead turning to the mare at the processing desk.

“Anything of late to report, warden?”

“Uhhh…no, not necessarily. I’ve already compiled and sent the reports to Mjolna in the Center Hall. Uhm… all of the purple-collared mares that were brought in have been sent to Nurse Redheart. Aside from that we haven’t had too many more prisoners in the past few days. It’s still concerning though, that there are still ponies out there who join the caribou. Even when they aren’t brainwashed.”

Luna agrees, nodding. “It is their choice, as baffling as it may be. The best we can do is prevent them from aiding the enemy. Anything in particular about Meadow?”

“She’s been the most helpful and cooperative of our prisoners. She’s still a bit introverted, though she works with us, and also takes a lot of time to help out the other prisoners. At least the mares. We don’t let her go near our male prisoners. Though she hasn’t tried to herself.”

“I see. Thank you. Keep up the good work, warden.”

“Of course, Princess. Thank you.”

Princess Luna waits a second longer, thinking on whether or not she should converse with Meadow. She hasn’t met with Meadow since she first found her at the Ponyville Hospital, and isn’t sure as to how to even approach her.

As Luna looks at them, Sweetie Belle turns to her, smiling and waving her over. It would make Sweetie Belle happier if Luna at least be compassionate to Meadow. Even if she still clung to the red collar around her neck, she was still a mare. And Luna did say to herself long ago that she would try to take after Sweetie Belle more often.

Princess Luna, making up her mind, goes to join them at the table, coming in mid conversation on Rarity’s old professions. As Luna pulls out a chair and sits, her eyes meet with Meadow’s.

“How wonderful of you to join us, Princess.” Says Rarity.

Luna smiles briefly, though keeps her eyes locked onto Meadow.

The green mare looks back, though with a look of uncertainty, and perhaps a little fear.

As Luna is about to speak, however, Meadow speaks first.

“I’m not heartless.”

“I’m sorry?”

“What that mare, Mjolna, had said to me in Whitetail Wood. She… said I was heartless. I’m not heartless.” Says the green mare with a quiver in her voice.

Luna, along with Rarity and Sweetie Belle, remain silent, hearing out Meadow.

“I love my family. And my friends. And I don’t want to force them to do things against their will. At the beginning of the Fall, I was a black collar. But it didn’t take long for me to realize I’d be happier and more comfortable as a red collar. The offers the caribou made were enticing. I… put myself first. It was out of survival. Everything about Equestria changed in an instant. I think you could agree that it was almost like they used culture shock as a weapon. And when you take time to think about it… It’s horrifying.

I was selfish. I had come to believe in the ‘new’ Equestria so much that it became my number one ideal. I didn’t want mares to suffer as black collars, so I tried to convince them that choosing red would make life easier and more enjoyable. It did for me, at least. Three years of trying to convert mares like that, and you begin seeing everything the way you want to. I was helping to keep order. If no one resisted, then there would be peace…

I’m sorry Princess Luna, if I’ve disappointed you. Or disgusted you. Right now, this… this is who I know I am. I don’t know how to explain myself any further.”

Luna continues to stare at Meadow as she hesitantly rubs her arm. Meadow has certainly proved to be an enigma of sorts. Though now, after finally listening to what she has to say, Luna understands her a bit more. She makes a good example of how tenacious ideals can be.

Luna can see that Meadow is being as honest as she can be. She was not heartless. She tried doing what was right in her eyes, and in that sense, she was doing what she could to try and care for other mares, trying to make their lives a bit more livable. Even if it still meant living as a slave.

“…I can’t blame you for your actions, Meadow. We all have ideals, and we all have a right to pursue them. And I must apologize to you, for the treatment you were given those months ago. Perhaps we can start anew? It would be better of me to listen more often to what you have to say.” Luna says, looking to Sweetie Belle upon finishing her sentence. The young filly proudly smiles back as Luna extends her hand out to Meadow.

Meadow stops for a moment, in disbelief at the Princess’ hand stretched towards her. However, a smile finds its way across her face as she meets her halfway, shaking Luna’s hand in agreement.

“Yes… I’d like that very much.”

The four spend the remainder of their time discussing more jovial things, like Sweetie Belle’s musical adventures. Although it is reassuring to know that Meadow has reason within her, Luna still fears for her place in the outcome. If Equestria is freed, then red collars with a past and mindset like Meadow’s will have a hard time readjusting. The majority of ponies may simply see them as traitors and nothing more. Though they may indeed be considered traitors to Equestria, they don’t wish any more harm than what has been done. They were only following a belief. They are still ponies of Equestria.

Luna decides to leave those thoughts for another time. They are only speculation. And policies can be discussed regarding red collar treatment once a new ruling system of Equestria is established. For now, Luna prefers to enjoy the moment. And to have some peace before work calls again. As there is still much on the road ahead.

The following day goes by like a breeze. Well, more like a fast and blaring wind. Princess Luna spent the entire day moving about Haven, working with her Sentinels and their prospective areas, as well as coordinating operations with Mjolna and Chief Zavala in the Center Hall. Never a dull moment passes for Luna, though some can certainly be stressful.

As the late afternoon sets in, Princess Luna walks along Haven’s slopes, approaching the training fields which have been set up for the resistance ponies to hone their skills. These training centers of Haven have expanded twice since the arrival of the zebras and the destruction of the Crystal Heart. Now with zebra warriors, noctral scouts and ex-royal guard ponies serving as mentors and tutors, many ponies are able to learn how to properly fight.

At the head of one of the training fields is Liberty, working with fellow ex-royal guards in teaching a select group of ponies in more advanced tactics and skills. Luna finds her in the midst of a session with the trainees, deciding to stop and observe.

Liberty addresses the group of a dozen ponies. Most of them are mares, with only a few stallions.

“The twelve of you have been selected for special training because of your display of skill and leadership qualities. Despite our growing numbers, we are always in need of officers. Not only to lead others, but to also be an example. A role model to look to.”

The ponies listening nod. Liberty pauses for a second, as if trying to remember part of a speech she memorized. She finds her point however, and begins to pace slowly, returning her eyes to the ponies.

“…For now, we will go over a quick recap on the basics of combat against caribou! Each one of you will have to know the basic tactics by heart, so that you can teach others and also be ready for the fighting ahead.

Always remember the main rule; never fight a caribou one-on-one. It’s best to retreat or hide until you can get help. But in a dire situation, if you get separated or lost, and find yourself facing a caribou alone, your most important tool will be agility! Use your smaller stature and lightness to make him miss. Tire him out. Then, only strike when you are absolutely sure you will do damage. In most cases, all you have to do is hit him anywhere but the chest. The average caribou’s concept of armor is to wear nothing but a breastplate. Exploit this. Here’s an example.”

Liberty draws forth the weapon on her back; a fairly uncommon double-bladed sword. She asks for one of the instructors with her, a stallion, to come forward. He happily accepts as Luna moves closer, standing off to the edge of Liberty’s area.

“You’ll be my caribou for now. No offense.”

A small chuckle rings out from the recruit ponies. The stallion only makes their chuckles louder as he archers his arms out and downwards, hobbling like a giant into the center with his tongue sticking out.

“None taken.”

Liberty continues as the stallion casts away his joking and assumes an aggressive stance. She carefully places the tips of her doubled bladed sword along certain points on the stallion’s body.

“The limbs are the preferred target. Injure an arm or a leg, and a caribou will have a hard time trying to get at you. And while I don’t doubt that many of you have a lot of strength, don’t try to brawl it out with a caribou. It would only take one punch to the head and you’d be out cold. Or worse. Your weapon should be your constant companion for this reason.”

Liberty holds out her double bladed sword, emphasizing her point.

“And if your weapon somehow fails you, use what is in your surroundings! Anything from a blunt object to stealing a caribou shock baton will do. Creativity confuses a caribou... Try saying that three times fast.”

The ponies laugh merrily at Liberty’s jests, with one of the mares actually attempting to say the phrase three times fast. Though she fails miserably, her tongue ending in a twist, Liberty applauds her for trying.

Before Liberty moves on, she notices Princess Luna off to the side, and asks one of her fellow instructors to continue the recap in her place.

Luna notices that Liberty only capitalized on fighting caribou, even though there will most likely be enemy stallions who will oppose them. Perhaps it is for the better that they at least know how to fight caribou in general, and apply the same skills against other enemies. It would only hurt Haven’s morale if the ponies in training were told to kill other ponies.

Princess Luna ceases her internal observations as Liberty approaches.

“You sound as though you have been doing this for years.” Remarks Luna.

Liberty scoffs, though only at herself.

“I can’t imagine how. I thought about taking the officer exams in the royal guard a few times, but I never did. I'd never make a good leader. There are other ex-guards here who know a whole lot more about this stuff than I do. Why am I in charge of this when they should be?”

Luna crosses her arms. “I chose you to train officers not simply because of your experience. You had just said it yourself, actually. You were not only chosen to lead, but to be an example to your fellow ponies. You inspire others, Liberty. Sometimes, that is the only thing you need in order to be a leader.”

A reassured smile appears on Liberty’s muzzle.

“I... Thank you, Princess, that... makes me feel a lot better.”

“I'm very glad.” Luna replies, her gaze now upon Liberty’s double bladed sword, “Might I ask about that weapon of yours? I haven’t seen you with it before.”

Liberty hands the staff-like blade to Luna. “Scavenger Hunt had found this during one of her trips. During my time in the guard, I spent a lot of time teaching myself how to use a double bladed sword. I could hardly put it down. Scavenger Hunt didn’t mind parting with the one she found, and Tome gave it a good polish before letting me have it. I’ve been catching up on practicing with it when I can.”

Princess Luna swings the weapon around in the air beside her, testing its balance and weight before returning it to Liberty. She gives her an impressed look.

“A double bladed sword is one of the most difficult weapons to wield. It takes years of dedication to truly master its form. It is a fine weapon.”

“Thank you. Was there something you wanted to speak to me about, Princess?”

Luna nods, waving for Liberty to walk with her along the slopes. They begin a slow climb upwards upon the grassy inclines. The sunset begins to paint the sky a deep orange.

“I have been discussing much with Mjolna and Chief Zavala on our next plan of action. The next objective will be the Griffin Kingdoms. I will lead my Sentinels there to contact the griffin Minister of War to forge an alliance. We will be leaving sometime within the week. I want you to stay here and continue the training of the resistance fighters, as well as to help watch over Haven.”

“Sounds like a good plan. You can count on me here, Princess.”

Luna receives an assuring smile from her friend. The two stop near a rounded boulder sitting in a dip in the slope incline. Liberty turns to Luna as they stop.

“So, I was talking with a few of the old royal guard that have arrived in Haven, and we have decided to try and reshape the old royal guard. We want to create a new kind of guard, one that can help ponies while spreading Celestia’s old influence and teachings. I thought ‘Guardians of the Sun’ would be a nice name. I was wondering if we could get your approval.”

Princess Luna initially blinks in surprise at this, though comes to see Liberty’s reasoning. The fight to free Equestria will be a long one, and ponies will need a figure to be reminded of. They shouldn’t be left with the caribou’s influence in their minds. They should be reminded of their great past, and of the great leader who protected them for millennia.

The more Luna thinks about it, however, the more she feels uncertain about the prospect.

Liberty’s voice brings her back to the conversation.

“Princess Luna?”

“I’m… not sure if that is a wise idea…”

Liberty sighs.

“I don’t know what it is about your sister, Princess Luna. All I know is that for everything you have talked about in freeing Equestria, not once have you mentioned Celestia. She may be a red collar now, and she may choose the caribou over us, but I still believe that she is the same pony as before. She is still the same leader. And she can still be saved. I’ll do everything in my power to see that happens.”

“I…”

Luna hesitates, though not as a means of finding an escape. She simply does not know what to say about her sister. She has been through countless challenges with Celestia, and yet in only three years she has felt as though nothing good of her sister remains. That perhaps there is only one fate left for her.

“I just…”

…Dum…d-d-d-dum…d-d-d-dum…d-d-d-dum, dum, dum…d-d-d-dum…d-d-d-dum…

Princess Luna’s ears twitch, picking up a feint sound from afar. Drums.

“Do you hear that?”

“…Yes. It’s getting closer.” says Liberty.

Suddenly, Night Seer appears and approaches the two. He huffs from having sprinted up the slopes to reach them.

“Princess… You have to come and see this.”

With Liberty close behind, Princess Luna follows Night Seer across the slopes. They head to the higher end of the sprawling tent field, standing upon a flat rock to get a better look at the wooden walls of Haven. The steady and pounding drum has grown louder as it emanates from the other side of the wooden gates.

Luna can see the gate keepers scrambling. One of them yells out.

“Open the gates!!”

As the massive timber doors swing inward, several wide rows of dull and withered gold marches through, coming down the pathway straight towards Luna and the others. At the very front of the mass is a flag, bearing the unique symbols of the southern sands, which belongs to only one nation.

Saddle Arabia.

The huge and long columns of Saddle Arabian troops take a few more minutes to completely enter Haven, the wooden gates closing behind the last of the troops. The sand ponies of the south eastern lands march in flawless unity. Their longbows held within their unflinching arms match each other precisely as the column passes by Princess Luna. They bear formidable weapons, from shimmering daggers to ornate yet vicious scimitars. The Saddle Arabians, beneath their rusted gold armor, have varying hues of tan and brown in their coats and manes, with the occasional bright yellow and orange.

The citizens of Haven look on, completely dumbfounded at the sudden arrival of the visitors. Residents and soldiers alike gather around the Saddle Arabians, gazing with wonder and curiosity. Luna and her companions are just as amazed to witness the spectacle.

As the gates close and the columns come to a halt, the Saddle Arabian leader reveals himself, approaching Princess Luna from below. His armor and weapons are no different than those of his troops, though what marks him apart is his lack of a helmet and the white sash wrapped around his waist.

The Saddle Arabian bows respectably, holding a fist to his chest plate. He keeps his bow for several seconds before rising and looking to Luna. The stallion has a deep coat of sandy fur, and a pale grey mane with light streaks of green. His eyes resemble bright emeralds.

“… The Sultana of Saddle Arabia sends her humble greetings to you, Herald of the Night Sky, and to your people. I am here to represent her wish of invoking the alliance of old, which was once shared between our nations. We have come to lend you aid.”

The Saddle Arabian troops shift and lower their longbows. They swivel to face Princess Luna. Hundreds of focused and stoic eyes watch her.

“Sweet Celestia…” Liberty mutters under her breath as Luna steps down off of the rock, meeting the Saddle Arabian eye to eye.

“May I ask who is representing the Sultana?”

“That would be I. General Zeitun Ta’lab. Though I ask that you call me General Olive.”

Princess Luna bows in return. “You and your ponies are most welcome here, General Olive. We have some free areas to house your troops upon the slopes, though there is not much room. I apologize for any inconvenience this might bear. If you would accompany me to the Center Hall in order to discuss more, I would be grateful.”

“Of course.”

The General signals his company to be at ease and to settle in. Luna advises Night Seer to gather the other Sentinels and aid the Saddle Arabian officers in their new accommodations. As he does so, Luna and Liberty guide General Olive inside and to the Center Hall, where they sit by the war table map.

“What state is Saddle Arabia in, General? Have the caribou made their presence known?” Luna queries, eager for any information regarding the reclusive state of Saddle Arabia.

General Olive sighs as he wipes his brow.

“They have not, bless the sun. But I’m afraid my country has seen better days regardless. The caribou’s occupation of Equestria has broken down trade across the entire continent. We have been suffering tremendously from this. Saddle Arabia cannot grow enough food for its own people, and thus, we are slowly starving. The Sultana has said that by the time the caribou were to make their way to the southern sands, all they would find is a graveyard. Our isolation could last no longer. We needed to take action.

Thus, the Sultana deployed my company some months ago to locate any kind of allies in Equestria and aid them. We had encountered numerous guerrilla ponies, and they had directed us to your stronghold of Haven. Forgive us for our tardiness. We were expecting to arrive much sooner.”

“Do not blame yourself, General Olive. It is better to have you here now, than to not have you at all.”

“Of course, Princess. Please, let me know how my troops and I could be of any assistance to you and your allies. Weeks of travel have left us more eager than tired.”

Luna acknowledges General Olive’s offer, bowing to him once more before she exits the Center Hall with Liberty, followed soon by Mjolna.

“We’re gonna run out of room at this rate, Princess.”

“I’m aware. Though the Saddle Arabians could not have come at a more critical time. With only one more ally, we will be ready. I’m accelerating my plans. I’ll be leaving immediately for the Griffin Kingdoms.”

“Alright, Princess. I’ll make sure Chief Zavala and General Olive know. We’ll man the fort while you’re gone.” Replies Mjolna, nodding to Luna before she returns inside the Center Hall.

Liberty looks to Luna with a smile.

“Be careful out there, Princess. I hear the griffins are in a brutal war with the caribou. And that they’re losing.”

“I’ll do my best to aid them, but there is only so much one pony can do.”

“I have a feeling you’d be surprised. Just look at what one princess was able to do with an empty cave and a little bit of determination.”

Princess Luna places her hand upon Liberty’s shoulder, grateful for her support.

“Thank you, Liberty. Best of luck with your recruits.”

With that, Luna departs to collect her Sentinels, and to gather what necessities she will need for the long journey ahead. The Griffin Kingdoms lie far to the north west, past Canterlot and across various kinds of rocky and forested terrain. The journey must be made, however. Princess Luna only needs one more major ally in her plight. The griffins support will be necessary for Equestria’s struggle. Luna can only hope things go well.

The journey north towards the Griffin Kingdoms was by far the most difficult of Luna’s ventures. Not only was it the longest she and her Sentinels have ever traveled from Haven, but the group had to often take detours or stop and hide away, to avoid being spotted by caribou forces or to simply find ways around the rough terrain. The weather was unforgiving, especially as they went deeper into the griffins’ realm.

As the griffins had been at war with the caribou for three years now, Luna had no doubt that she and her noctrals would come into conflict with enemy forces. They made sure that they were clad in the most reliable armor they could wear while still remaining mobile. Along with their usual armament of katars and daggers, some of the Sentinels brought along longswords and crossbows for more open combat. Crowe and Spirit had managed to muster up a few battery charges from Haven’s supply, adding to their armament an explosive element should they need one.

Despite the challenges, they have made the journey successfully. Luna and her Sentinels are safely within the southwestern borders of the griffin homeland.

Though safely is putting it lightly.

“Don’t move!!!”

Springing from the surrounding brush and pines along the winding path, a dozen griffin soldiers, armed to the teeth with serrated swords and menacing crossbows, surround Princess Luna and her noctral Sentinels. They are clad in a myriad of steel and vested armor, which bear battle scars of all kinds. Tense moments pass before the lead griffin scout addresses the party, sheathing her battle axe and signaling her troops to lower their weapons.

“Well stab me through my heart and clip my wings. Princess Luna. You’re… a lot shorter than I had imagined.”

As her Sentinels lower their guard, Princess Luna parts her mane to one side, revealing the stub of her former horn. She extends her spindly wings outward as well, wearing an unamused look.

“Ah… Right. Sorry. Stupid of me to say that,” the griffin scratches her head, then extends out her hand with renewed confidence, “Commander Skyward, Red Hawk Regulars.”

“We’re anything but! HOO!” exclaims one griffin soldier, followed by the others. The Commander, instead of hushing them or glaring at them, only smiles proudly.

Luna shakes her hand briefly, ignoring any need for royal protocol. The name of Commander Skyward’s group rings in her mind as a familiar one.

“Red Hawk Regulars. One of the more decorated military units of the Griffin Kingdoms. From what I recall, your unit was usually stationed in the northern provinces.”

“Usually. Though nothing has been usual in the past few years. When the caribou attacked us, my Red Hawks and I fought mostly in the north, along with the majority of the Kingdoms’ military. In this past year though, we’ve been repositioned down south, to counter a growing offensive aimed at weak points in here in the province.”

Commander Skyward sighs for moment, looking at her griffin soldiers before returning her attention to Luna.

“They’ve all but annihilated the other units fighting here in the south. My Red Hawks are all that’s left, and they’ve cut our numbers in half, killing male griffins and taking females captive. Needless to say, we’re getting our asses kicked. And it’s damn embarrassing.”

“That’s precisely why I’m here. I must contact your Minister of War,” Luna states, “The caribou hold on Equestria is slowly weakening. Ponies are beginning to fight back, with help from numerous allies. If the Griffin Kingdoms work together with Equestria’s resistance, then we can defeat the caribou and drive them from our homes. But only if we work together.”

The griffins of the scouting group murmur to themselves, though they seem to be in acceptance of Luna’s proposal. No doubt many of the griffin soldiers are tired and demoralized from fighting a losing war by themselves for years.

Commander Skyward nods.

“…Well you’re in luck Princess. The Minister isn’t far from here. She’s set up with the rest of my regiment along Tarsus Line, our final defensive point here in the south. We’ll lead you there.”

Princess Luna accepts the Commander’s offer. Skyward turns to her griffins, who are already primed to be on the move again.

“We’re heading back to the nest! Double-time!”

Luna turns to her Sentinels.

“Be ready to pick up speed. We should not slow the griffins down.”

Dew Drop chuckles, “Has it been that long since our last mission together, Princess? We’re noctrals! You can count on us to keep up!”

With a reassuring smile, Luna leads her Sentinels and follows Commander Skyward’s group northward. The griffins and noctrals meld into one group, with introductions and friendly banter present as they move through the rough woodlands.

Luna in particular sticks close with Commander Skyward.

“Have the griffins gained any intelligence on the caribou forces?” Luna asks, as Commander Skyward climbs over a fallen tree, helping the Princess up behind her.

“A lot. But to sum it up, we’ve been fighting a professional army. These haven’t been occupational troops or dumb rapists. They’re legionnaires, specifically trained to wage war. I’m not sure if you’ve faced them before.”

“My noctrals and I have only faced one such caribou force, near Zebrica. They were brutal fighters. Where are these legionnaires coming from? They weren’t present during the onset of the Fall in Equestria.”

“I don’t know. They say that the caribou suffered some sort of cataclysm in their homeland. That’s utter bullshit. There’s no way they could be this numerous and this powerful in the wake of a disaster, even if said disaster was decades old. The caribou legions have steady chains of supplies and reinforcements from north eastern points. We’ve had our victories, but they are rare. We would end up being outnumbered and completely overwhelmed on an average day. Until recently, that is.”

The continuously rough terrain persists as the woodland temporarily turns rockier. Luna and Skyward clamber over boulders, followed by their respective teams, until they reach a small section of gravel which is flattened out.

“You’ve found an advantage?”

“Yup. Hang on,” Commander Skyward stops to signal the group, “Call it here, Red Hawks! Take five! One on lookout.”

The Red Hawk griffins stop and rest, along with Luna’s noctral Sentinels. While they settle down and keep a lookout, Skyward brings Luna up along several higher rocks, leading to a viewpoint.

Upon reaching the viewpoint among the rocks, Skyward points out across the sprawling hills smothered with destroyed and uprooted forests. There, lies the Tarsus Line, and the advantage Skyward mentioned.

Placed in the center of the Line is a massive, dark grey block made entirely of metal. The steel structure has a huge, long barrel made of the same material mounted on top. The barrel points to the sky at heightened level. A network of trenches, barriers and emplacements surround it, made busy by hundreds of griffins.

“We call it the ‘Thunderhead’. It’s a cannon that the Minister of War commissioned as the war progressed. It’s basically an over-the-top version of this.”

Commander Skyward pulls out a pistol from a tucked-away holster, handing it to Luna for her to inspect. The pistol, made of wood and compressed metal, is fairly lightweight.

“A Fire Dart pistol. The invention that gave us a fighting chance.”

“Incredible. How does it operate?” asks Luna.

Skyward takes the pistol back, removing some parts and sections one at a time to show Princess Luna.

“It uses a mineral powder mined from the Ridgeback Mountains, a highly flammable powder, and small, conical projectiles we call ‘darts’. In combination with pressure added to the powder, this handy little innovation can fire a steel dart farther than any standard arrow or bolt. And it can punch through most caribou armor.”

Luna is thoroughly impressed by the griffin technology. If such weapons could be mass-produced and lent to Equestria, ponies would become much more effective fighters. Luna reminds herself to ask the Minister of War if such an arrangement could be made.

“And the Thunderhead Cannon works on the same principles?”

“Yes. But three times as large. The cannon uses heavy shells instead. Lots of powder is used to give the necessary charge to fire it. The shells themselves are just hollow, metal cones. They are meant to slam into any structure with enough force and destroy it. It isn’t explosive, so it’s not very good against infantry.

We only recently moved it here. Our plan is to hopefully lure the caribou in for another try at breaking Tarsus Line. When they do, we’ll punch a hole right through them with the Thunderhead, giving us a chance at regaining lost ground when the caribou retreat. It’s a dicey plan, if you ask me. But it’s better than nothing.”

Princess Luna and Commander Skyward finish descending the rocky hills with their team and reach the edge of the Tarsus Line, making their way to the various posts setup behind the Line. Skyward leads Luna to the officer tent, where the various other officers of the Red Hawks, as well as the Minister of War’s personal unit, formulate battle plans and movements.

Luna expected the tent’s innards to be much livelier. Around the scattered maps and tables are only three other griffins, one of them a soldier reporting in. Commander Skyward looks just as surprised.

“Where’s the Minister?”

One of the officers approaches her.

“Minister Rhona left, ma’am. She went to requisition reinforcements from the outpost a few miles north.

“Dammit! We need her here! This whole plan we have was her freaking idea to begin with! Now she’s just leaves when the caribou could be at our throats within the hour?!”

Skyward throws her axe to the ground, dragging her hand over her eyes in frustration.

“The caribou will have broken through this Line by the time she comes back with enough reinforcements. I can’t believe this…”

The Commander storms out in a huff, leaving her axe behind. Luna scoops up the axe before she leaves the tent herself, finding Skyward right outside.

The griffin Commander looks at her troops around her as they hustle about, maintaining what defenses they have along the Line. She feels Luna’s presence stand beside her.

“… If you leave now, you could catch up with the Minister at the outpost directly north from here. Shouldn’t be a long way.”

“The Minister left to get reinforcements, yes? Which means she would return here.”

“No guaranteeing that she will. Something else could pop up that could demand her attention. Then again, she’s known to never back down from a fight.”

Luna hands Skyward her axe.

“Then I will wait for her here. You could use the extra hands.”

Commander Skyward, upon taking her axe, stares back at Luna with slight disbelief.

“You know, you Princesses never struck me as so willing to stick around for a fight.”

“Believe me, I’ve had my fair share of fights in my day.”

“Oh really? Since when?” Skyward asks with a chuckle.

“Since long before you were even born.” Luna smirks back with a cunning look.

Commander Skyward bobs her head with an approving grin, not insulted or spurred in the slightest.

“Should I consider this a royal honor then? A warrior princess is in our midst!” she says, holding her axe high and announcing her voice as to imitate some grand figure. Luna thought she sounded more like a games announcer. Though she is enjoying Skyward’s playfulness.

“Equestria isn’t as used to fighting as the griffins are, so that wouldn’t be a very fitting title. I prefer to go by a griffin saying, when it comes to combat. ‘On the battlefield, there is no rank. Only brothers and sisters fighting together’.”

Skyward looks impressed at the Princess, and ends up giving her a punch to her shoulder in comradery.

“That settles it! You’re my favorite Princess.” She says with a heartfelt smile.

Her smile lasts for only a few moments as a loud and blaring alarm bell echoes from across the Tarsus Line.

“They’re coming! Legionnaires!!”

As the griffins scurry to their defensive positions, Commander Skyward wastes no time in moving, getting within sight of as many of her troops as possible. Dozens more Red Hawk soldiers and officers rush out from the tents.

“You all know the drill!! We hold this line no matter what, and we protect the Thunderhead. Without it, we lose this Line! Red Hawk Regulars!”

“WE’RE ANYTHING BUT!!!! HOO!!”

The hundreds of griffin soldiers roar in confidence, quickly dispersing and moving to enforce the Line just as Commander Skyward finishes.

Princess Luna rallies her own Sentinels together in a circle following the Commander’s speech.

“Stay close to me, all of you. Don’t get separated. Understood?”

“Yes, Princess!” Star Glow replies as the rest of the Sentinels nod.

Luna smiles to them, then turns just in time to meet once more with Commander Skyward.

“Princess. My griffins can handle the Line itself. I need you and your team to support me in defending the Thunderhead. If any legionnaires break through, we can’t let them take out the cannon.”

Luna quickly agrees. “Where to?”

“Follow me!”

Commander Skyward leads Luna and her noctrals down towards the wide and shallow trenches of Tarsus Line. The uneven earth and rocks of the terrain provide a good natural defense, bolstered by emplacements installed by griffin engineers. Hundreds of griffins armed with long range weapons take cover along these barriers.

As they arrive at a more open section of the Line trenches, Luna picks up a feint whizzing sound, coming from beyond the Line and from above.

“INCOMING!!!!”

Skyward quickly stops Luna and her team, urging them down. As several griffins run through the open area, long, silvery javelins appear from the sky, impacting into the earth around them. Some bounce off hard rocks as griffins scramble for cover. The javelins that buried themselves in softer ground shift, mechanically triggering a large burst of electricity, catching some griffins within its range. The burst lasts for a few seconds, then suddenly shuts off, depleting its limited charge. Luna notes their similarity to the caribou shock batons used in Equestria.

The unfortunate griffins caught within the electrical bursts cry out and fall to the ground, incapacitated, though not severely injured by the javelin-charge.

“What the heck was that?” High Tide stammers.

“Legion javelins. The shock isn’t enough to kill you, just knocks you out. It’s a painful experience.” Commander Skyward replies, soon motioning for Luna’s group to follow once more. They hastily cross the open trench, as several other griffin soldiers drag their unconscious friends to safety.

As they continuously move and duck into cover to avoid caribou bolts and ballista shots, Luna and the group makes it to the trenches closest to the Thunderhead. The weapon’s size is truly enormous, the metal structure alone being two stories high. On the bottom are four pairs of massive caterpillar treads, two to each side of the body structure. To think the entire weapon itself has a mobile capability only adds to its innovative and terrifying design.

Up on the structure platform, a team of griffins move diligently to operate the cannon, preparing a shell to load. Luna can’t make out the whole process from on the ground.

“We’ll hold this position.” Commander Skyward states.

Luna’s Sentinels dig in in the shallow pit of earth as Luna pokes her head out at the opposing caribou forces to scope them out.
Filling up the desolate plains ahead of them are massive, brass-armored formations of caribou legionnaires, accompanied by large wooden and steel artillery, mainly in the form of wide ballistas and compact bolt launchers. The artillery launch volleys of bolts and javelins, which rain down loosely upon Tarsus Line. They come down as fast as raindrops, raking the ground, splintering off rocks and felling griffin troops caught under the deadly hail.

Luna returns her attention to the slowly encroaching caribou lines. Dotting the formations are a sight uncommon to Luna, though not unheard of. Massive caribou war beasts move like hulking t-rexes shrouded in grey fur and the same brass-colored armor as their masters. Their huge jaws proudly display their sharp teeth as the beasts roar in dominance. The beasts themselves must be a common sight in the Griffin Kingdoms, as few griffins seemed fazed by their presence.

Luna purveys the enemy once more, taking note of the largest unit in their ranks. A massive mobile siege engine, shaped like a massive broad shield, slowly crawls its way towards the Line. The dark, reinforced mobile wall is undoubtedly shielding groups of heavy caribou troops, waiting for the opportunity to move right on top of the Line and spill into the trenches, giving them a chance at quickly sweeping out the defending Red Hawks.

The Thunderhead should be able to punch a hole through the siege engine. Luna hopes that it would only take one shot.

As she ducks back into cover, Commander Skyward dives next to her, holding the sides of her head where the griffin-equivalent of ears should be. The gears of the Thunderhead’s barrel churn, aiming the cannon towards the siege engine in the distance.

“You might want to cover your ears!!!!”

Luna and her Sentinels quickly hold their ears down and crouch as closely to the ground as possible, clenching their eyes shut.

At first, the shockwave of the cannon’s blast literally shakes the earth, as if the ground had suddenly become as flexible and light as paper. The sound burst of the cannon was the loudest thing Luna had ever heard, as though a dragon had swooped down and roared as loudly as possible right into her ears. Though that roar only lasted a second before silence settled in, followed by a numbing ring in her ears. Luna slowly opened her eyes after several seconds, yet still could not hear anything. Afraid that she had gone deaf, Luna is quickly relieved as the sound of Skyward cursing slowly reaches her ears.

“…Dammit! It missed!!”

Luna’s Sentinels reel from the deafening experience and slowly return to their senses, as Princess Luna turns over to take another look at the caribou.

The shell launched from the Thunderhead passed over the encroaching siege engine, instead burying itself at a much further point in the legion’s lines, obliterating a set of ballistas through sheer force of impact.

“The operators knew what they were aiming at, yes?!” Asks Luna, her voice raised almost to her old royal Canterlot pitch.

“Of course they knew! It’s the accuracy of the cannon which is screwing things up! They’ll have to load another round!”

Another warning of more projectiles reaches their ears. Though as Luna and Skyward look up, they see the black mass of bolts and shock javelins falling not upon them, but right on top of the Thunderhead’s platform.

The crew has a safety measure in the form of several metal sheets which can be raised to cover the open platform. However, the sheets have to be lowered in order for the cannon to aim and fire.

The loader crew desperately attempt to get the sheets up in time, but they are too late as the volley of sharp bolts and javelins assails them. The sheets come up to block the remaining projectiles, though the cannon remains unresponsive. Luna sees the body of one of the loaders fall off of the platform and hit the ground with a thud.

Skyward looks to Luna with horror.

“There’s no way we can come out of this without that cannon…”

Luna doesn’t even spare time to think. She looks quickly to her Sentinels and to the cannon, then back to Skyward.

“How many does it take to operate the Thunderhead?”

“Eight… You’re not seriously gonna-“

“We’ll deal with that siege engine, Commander.”

“W-wait! You aren’t even trained to use the damn thing!!” Commander Skyward calls out, only to be left unheard as Luna rallies her Sentinels and takes them behind the Thunderhead’s massive base.

They quickly climb the pair of ladders to the top platform, which is riddled with bolts and most of the dead operators. As they move up to the front of the platform, however, Lantern finds one of the crew to be alive, though severely injured.

“Princess! A survivor!”

Luna rushes to the male griffin’s side as he coughs. A bolt had struck him through his wing, piercing through and digging into his left arm.

“Gahhh. Where’s the rest of my crew? Who are you?”

“They’re gone. We’re your replacements.” Luna replies, waving over High Tide to try and tend to the griffin’s wounds.

“Blast it… I don’t need a bunch of vampires and miss moon-butt touching my cannon! I built it! Only trained griffins- “

“You’re griffins are dead, and griffins are dying all over the Line! If we don’t keep this cannon operational the caribou will win! Now tell us how to fire this thing!” yells Dew Drop as she enters the conversation, cutting off the injured griffin.

“Fine. But I ain’t gonna repeat myself! You can call me Howie. CHIEF ENGINEER Howie! Now help me with this bolt in my arm. It hurts.”

With a subtle rolling of his eyes, High Tide grabs hold of Howie’s arm, assisted by Lantern. He snaps off the blunt end of the bolt and quickly pulls the other half out, handing it to Lantern so he can dress the wound. Howie seems unfazed, and looks more worried about the cannon than his own arm.

High Tide finishes putting engineer Howie’s arm in a sling. He soon gets up to his feet, and looks around the platform, and then back to the noctrals. Luna can’t help but feel as though this griffin is a bit off his rockers.

“Alright. I’ll be using the range finder. The other jobs should be simple enough for you to do. I need two of you in front with me. Three others need to man the rotating ports to move the platform and the shields. The rest of you setup along the cylinder stretching down. Get to those spots and listen carefully!!”

Howie hobbles over to the high-seat, with a complex piece of equipment serving as the range finer. The Sentinels fan out, borrowing ear muffs from the fallen griffins and taking the positions noted to them. Crowe, High Tide, and Spirit move to the cylinder loading sections. Star Glow, Dew Drop and Night Seer go down a level to find the cranking wheels which control the shields and the platform turret. Luna and Lantern stand at the front of the platform, close to Howie.

From what Luna could tell, the section which she and Lantern stood at is where the shell is directly loaded into the cannon from the cylinder stretching back. Which means the cylinder is used to carry the shell from whatever ammunition storage is below the platform, in the structure base. It’s a simple but efficient design, making it relatively straightforward to reload the cannon.

“Can’t tell if we can lower the shields yet. You! Orange eyes! Tell me what you see through any slits in the shield!”

Lantern finds a small opening in between the metal sheets, peering through.

“Another volley coming in! Aimed right at us! I think they have to replenish bolts after this next one! Gah!”

Lantern ducks to the floor as the bolts begin impacting the shields, one finding its way halfway through the slit.

“Hey! Cylinder vampires! Bring up another shell using the lift and push it up!!”

“We’re not vampires you jerk!” Spirit yells as she activates the lift, which brings up another shell. She and High Tide move the heavy shell from the lift into the loading cylinder, then join Crowe in pushing it up towards the barrel hatch.

As the bolts continue to bounce off of the metal sheets, Lantern examines the shell and then the caribou forces once more, turning to Luna.

“Princess, I have an idea! The shells are hollow. If we could put a battery charge in the shell and time it right, we could do twice the damage! Not only could we destroy the siege engine’s wall but wipe out the caribou behind it!”

“That might just work. Crowe has the batteries.” Replies Luna just as Crowe gets the shell through the cylinder and to the barrel hatch.

As Howie gives impromptu instructions to Luna on putting the shell in, Lantern quickly grabs a battery charge from Crowe’s bag. With experience in using the repurposed battery, many fighters have learned how to set a time limit on the charge, mainly thanks to Crowe and Spirit’s discovery on its use.

Lantern follows the white paint marks on the twisting cap of the battery, setting the charge time for six seconds just as the bombardment of bolts ends.

“Lower the shields!!”

With all of their might, Night Seer, Star Glow and Dew Drop crank the wheel forward, causing the metal sheets to fold downwards, giving full view of the battlefield from the platform. Howie quickly spies through the range finder, turning one of the wheels in order to lower the cannon barrel sluggishly. The barrel lines up with the caribou siege engine just as Lantern readies the battery inside the shell.

“We’re all set!! Load the shell now and yank the cord when I give the word!”

Luna nods to Lantern, giving her the all clear.

“Everyone down!!!”

Lantern presses down on the battery cap, setting the charge timer. She quickly closes the shell followed by Luna closing the barrel hatch.

Then, with all of her strength, Luna pulls forcefully on the firing cord.

The ear muffs help in dampening the massive blast as the entire Thunderhead rattles from the launch. Luna looks out to follow the shell’s trajectory, catching it mere milliseconds before it tears through the caribou siege engine, eviscerating the protective wall like it was nothing. Moments later, the shell explodes from within into a massive fireball, obliterating the caribou legionnaires behind the destroyed siege engine.

A round of cheer spreads from across Tarsus Line. Some caribou begin to hesitate.

“What did I just say?!? Wait for my word! No-good princesses. What did you do with that shell?”

As her Sentinels look to her, Luna smiles back, unable to resist a chuckle. Her Sentinels laugh as well with joy.

“Quit you’re laughing! I’m serious! What… Oh… CRAP!!” Howie yelps.

Luna quickly looks once again out to the battlefield, only to see the closest caribou line charging at the Thunderhead from the right.

With a stomping war beast leading the charge.

“QUICK!! TURN THE PLATFORM RIGHT!!!”

Night Seer, Dew Drop and Star Glow jump on the second wheel crank, winding it as fast as possible. The Sentinels at the cylinder load another shell, pushing it up to the barrel hatch.

Luna and Lantern don’t bother with another battery. They shove the shell in and slam the hatch shut.

Lantern turns to Howie, “Are we aligned??”

“JUST PULL THE DAMN CORD!!!”

The war beast lunges for the cannon barrel just as Luna pulls the cord once again.

In what sounds like a heavy sponge being crushed by a boulder, the war beast splits violently into several chunks of flesh, the shell passing right through it and hitting the ground. Raindrops of blood and blobs of flesh fall onto the platform. One piece of meat smacks Howie across the beak.

“Agh… well done… ouch.”

Luna and her Sentinels breathe a huge sigh of relief, splotches of the war beast’s blood sticking to parts of their armor. The charging ranks of the caribou line are cut down by a barrage of Red Hawk bolts and pistol bursts. The remaining groups of the caribou legions begin to turn around, sounding a retreat. Seeing this, Commander Skyward rallies the entirety of Tarsus Line and charges forward. Hundreds of Red Hawk troops run out into the battlefield, swords and axes drawn and pistols ablaze.

Luna and her Sentinels prepare to load another shell, though Howie stops them.

“Don’t be too eager there. We don’t want any friendly fire. Plus it looks like the Minister came back.”

Princess Luna climbs up to Howie’s range finder and peers through it. Sure enough, in the distance lies a massive force of griffins, rolling down a hillside straight into the caribou flank. They quickly meld with the Red Hawks and drive the caribou further off, destroying their artillery and bringing down several war beasts.

“I’ve gotta admit… You and your vam-… I mean, bat-ponies, did a damn fine job here. Thanks for helping me out.” Says Howie as Luna hops down from the range finder seat, stammering a bit to remain polite.

“You’re very welcome, Howie. Perhaps we might work together again.” Replies Luna with a small bow.

“Don’t see how, but… I wouldn’t mind.” He says, bearing a gruffy smile towards the noctrals.

The battle for Tarsus Line had been won.

“I have to thank you again for helping Commander Skyward’s Red Hawks, Princess.” Says the griffin Minister of War, Rhona, “You had great timing.”

“I would have no excuse not to. We are all fighting for our freedom.”

Minister Rhona nods, retaining a stoic impression. Commander Skyward stands beside her as her Red Hawks, along with the reinforcements, pack up supplies and equipment from the tents.

Behind them, the massive treads of the Thunderhead begin to slowly churn, propelling the huge weapon forward at the pace of a snail.

“The formation of an alliance will no doubt be approved by the ruling courts of the Kingdoms. However, I’m limited in what resources I can spare you. There are still caribou legions occupying our lands in the north, and they won’t be easy to remove. I can’t send any of my units away from that front.”

Though a bit disappointed, Luna wasn’t surprised. Even if she didn’t ask for too much.

“I understand, Minister Rhona. I don’t want to lay claim to resources that are critical to your fight against our enemies.”

“I’m grateful for your understanding. Now, I am able to send with you several shipments of fire dart pistols for use by your troops, as well as additional shipments of armor, other weapons and miscellaneous equipment. You’ll need some help with transporting the supplies, so I’m assigning Commander Skyward’s regiment to accompany you down to Equestria.”

Skyward blinks in surprise, though stands at attention when the Minister turns to her.

“Commander Skyward, you and the Red Hawk Regulars are hereby assigned to aid Princess Luna in the delivery of the shared supplies to her forces in Equestria. And to ensure that said supplies will be used efficiently in and out of battle. Return to the Griffin Kingdoms when you see fit, Commander.”

The Minister turns back to give the Commander a subtle wink, before leaving her and Princess Luna.

As a smirk crept its way onto Skyward’s beak, Luna beamed as well.

“Am I to understand that you and your troops will join me?”

“I basically just got permission from the Minster of War to do whatever I want with my Red Hawks, so yeah. You saved me and my griffins out there, Princess. The very least we can do is join your merry band of fighters. And something tells me you’ll want to use our giant gun again.” Says Commander Skyward, punching Luna lightly on the shoulder.

“King Dainn is situated in Equestria’s capital of Canterlot. The fortifications there will be strong. And what better way of dismantling fortifications than with an enormous cannon?”

Skyward laughs in agreement. “No better way, hah! How about the rest of your war plan?”

“Once we return to Haven, I’ll be gathering you and the other leaders to solidify the plans in a meeting. I’ll explain everything there.”

“Alright then. The sooner we get there, the better.”

As Commander Skyward leads her Red Hawk Regulars, Princess Luna gathers her Sentinels into the group. They begin the long journey back to Haven, already blessed with clear skies and mild weather for the return trip.

Princess Luna has succeeded in gaining the last ally she needs. All of the pieces have come together, and soon Luna will be able to lay out the drawings for the final move against the caribou. And then, Luna will proceed with her most critical step. The phase which she has been building up to since her revelation in Umbra.

Her gaze will shift to the Moon.

Author's Note

Ch. 6 done. A lot longer than I expected.

Thanks for reading as always. =]

Ch 7: Dualism

“When you light a candle, you also cast a shadow.”

Cold and brisk. A sunless morning in Haven.

Princess Luna stands atop the grassy slopes, conserving her warmth within her layered clothing. Below her, the residents of Haven begin a very early day.

In beginning preparations for Luna’s next step, the entirety of Haven has begun re-organizing its settlement structure. Any and all non-combatants living outside on the slopes are being relocated to newly created space within the cave systems.

Simultaneously, combat-ready residents and those in-training are moving equipment, weapons, and other provisions into sections outside Haven, effectively repainting the sanctuary as a war-time fortress.

An idea of this has been planned by Luna for some time since Haven’s discovery. Upon first entering the caves, Luna saw the value of Haven as a military staging point. Its location and natural formation give it great benefits for any army to utilize, and it is perhaps one of the most defensible locations in Eastern Equestria. Suffice to say, Luna was surprised that no pony had discovered it sooner.

This is not to say Luna intends to turn the whole mountain area into a military base. It will be critical to provide safety for refugees now and in the foreseeable future. Perhaps one day, Haven might be built up even more, becoming a small town or even a city. The thought is a promising one.

As she continues to oversee the slopes, Luna cannot help but marvel at the unity and cooperation among the allies of Haven. And with the addition of the newly arrived griffins of the Red Hawk Regulars, Luna’s growing army has become a colorful menagerie of beings. It doesn’t take long for the ice to break between the many races, dispelling any notion of segregation. Were it not for their similar plights and a common enemy, friendships among these different races would have been a scarcity.

The greatest change so far, however, is the much needed strength brought by Commander Skyward’s griffins. Not only do they contribute as veteran fighters and instructors, but the heavy hardware of fire dart pistols and various other weapons and armor adds a much needed upgrade to Haven’s forces. With the proper training, Equestrian troops will be much more of a threat on their own. Even more so in an organized unit.

Speaking of heavy hardware, the Thunderhead, being incredibly huge and slow, is still making its way down from the north. Guarded by Red hawk troops, along with a special noctral team assigned to it by Luna, the Thunderhead is constantly on the move. The mobile cannon’s crew and escort cannot afford to stop for even a day, despite the difficulties with moving the huge weapon through back roads and empty fields. Caribou eyes have been kept off of the Thunderhead’s current route thanks to false intelligence distributed by Minister Rhona in the aftermath of Tarsus Line. The open window given by this should be enough time for the cannon to reach Canterlot.

Princess Luna is on a deadline. She must acquire the final part of her plan, the relics of Nightmare Moon, before the Thunderhead reaches the outskirts of Canterlot. Though the pressure is on all of Haven to mobilize before then, Luna knows it is up to her and her alone to make it in time.

Luna sighs before turning to her left, spying Lantern approaching her from a path below.

“Good morning, Princess.”

“Good morning, Lantern,” Luna smiles softly at her noctral friend, “Things appear to be going smoothly.”

Lantern nods, joining Luna in looking out at the slopes of Haven. “They are. We’ve already moved out all of the equipment we need, and all of Haven’s refugees are safe and sound inside the caves. All of our soldiers are now settling on the slopes, and training with the new griffin pistols will begin soon.”

Luna nods in approval as Lantern continues.

“I’m also happy to report that Elder Vigil has just arrived from Umbra to attend the leader summit.”

Princess Luna is pleased to know Elder Vigil was able to arrive. No solid or formal plans have been laid out since Luna asked for Umbra’s assistance those many months ago. Now, with a leader representing each of the allies Luna has gathered, she can begin to lay the groundwork with them on the future of not only Equestria, but the entire continent as well.

Luna thanks Lantern for the updates, receiving a grin from the noctral. Old thoughts find their way into the back of her mind as she notices the shine in Lantern’s orange eyes. She doesn’t seem stressed at all, unlike Luna.

“How have you and the others been, Lantern? I feel as though I don’t get to see you all as often as I’d like. Is everyone still doing alright?”

Lantern blinks, surprised by the change in subject.

“We’re hanging in there, as much as anyone is, really. Keeping up morale and working hard, hoping that things go our way and that we defeat the caribou… Actually, now that you ask, you know about the group of foals that like to play around the slopes?”

Princess Luna cocks her head. “Yes, what of them?”

“A few days ago, the other Sentinels and I had just finished helping with the last of the Red Hawks’ supplies, moving them into storage. Some of the foals were following us out of boredom, asking what we were doing. When we finished we took a break with them. What came next was the largest and most intense game of tag I have ever played.”

Lantern fails to hold back several chuckles as she continues.

“It was a long game, and it ended with Crowe getting tackled by Spirit and then dog-piled by all of the foals. It was so much fun! It would’ve been nice for you to have been there, Princess. Though we knew you needed your rest after the journey from the Griffin Kingdoms.”

What fun that could have been. Running around like kids, not giving a care about the world. Only about the friends around you and the laughter in the air. Luna giggles at the thought, indeed wishing that she had been out and about that day.

“It is wonderful what you did for the foals. And don’t worry, there is always next time. For now, we shouldn’t delay. Send word to prepare the summit, please.”

“Of course, Princess.” Lantern nods respectively, shortly making her way down the slopes.

The sooner the summit can be done, the sooner Luna can begin her search. Though hearing about her Sentinels and their own little adventures leaves Luna yearning for more time with them. Anything that detracts from the stress she’s under helps, but knowing that her Sentinels enjoy themselves brings a warm feeling. As if there was no impending war, or as if there was never any Fall to begin with.

Such feelings, Luna realizes, come from the bonds of friendship. Bonds, like those she shares with Sweetie Belle, Rarity, and her Sentinels most of all, are what will save Equestria, and the world.

Luna will keep them close. Together, they will succeed.

Nothing will break their bonds.

By the afternoon, Haven’s relocating of population has been completed. Luna now waits just outside of Haven’s entrance to the main cavern, where the summit will be taking place. Initially, Luna thought that the Center Hall would be the preferred location to conduct the meeting, being the nerve center of operations. However, the summit is important not just to the leaders themselves, but to all of Haven’s residents, as well as the many peoples of the nations present. Princess Luna decided to move the meeting to a more public place in the main cavern.

For this special occasion, Luna has donned the same blue vestments she wore when appealing to the Circle in Umbra. The diplomatic robes of stature still match Luna’s own colors well, as do most noctral clothing.

Luna paces slowly at the edge of the main cavern, furrowing her brow as though she is recollecting a memorized speech. Though in reality, Luna’s mind is clear. As royalty, it is commonplace to address others formally, and Luna has had lifetimes of experience in speaking. Her thoughts are already pristinely organized, her topics to address neatly gathered in her mind.

Luna stops for a moment as Mjolna arrives from within the main cavern. The former resistance leader had been recently appointed Marshal of Equestria’s forces, now representing Equestria alongside Luna for the summit. She is also dressed for the occasion, wearing whatever formal attire she could come across. In this case, it’s the armor she intends to wear into battle.

“The leaders are… er…We are ready when you are, Princess.”

“Thank you. How are you fairing, Mjolna?”

“Fine, though all this formality is new to me. It’s weird being around other leaders who have earned their spots because of experience or nobility. I mean, I only stepped in to lead the resistance in Whitetail because no one else could. Am I really the best choice for Marshal?” Says Mjolna with uncertainty as she crosses her arms.

Princess Luna understands, nodding.

“Sometimes, when we are pushed, we exhibit talents we did not know we had. You have not only guided your fellow ponies, but also kept watch over Haven and all of its people whenever I was unable to. Giving you the responsibility of Marshal was a natural decision. I have the utmost confidence in you.”

Mjolna’s ears fold down, taking in Luna’s praise with surprise.

“Well… thank you, Princess. I won’t let you down.”

Marshal Mjolna returns to the main cavern, leaving Luna to continue her pacing. Fortunately, the final attendee of the summit arrives, appearing before Luna just as she turns.

“I’m sorry for keeping you waiting.”

Clad in a dull and incomplete set of royal guard armor, Liberty stands before Luna. Around her neck and shoulders lies a magnificent cloak of gold and white, and though withered, it has the bright shine of a ray of sunlight. Luna can tell it was crafted from the leftovers of the Summer Sun Celebration banner.

“Do not worry. Patience is a virtue always in need of practice. You look well.” Says Luna. The Princess had requested Liberty to attend the meeting to be her aid, among other reasons.

“Thanks. I just got this from Rarity. I have to admit, she’s one of the best tailors I’ve ever seen.” Says Liberty, grasping the edge of her cloak with her hand. The colors match Liberty’s white fur and golden mane exquisitely.

“I couldn’t agree more. Now, are we ready to begin?” asks Luna.

“Lead the way, Princess.” Liberty bows in reply.

The two make their way into the main cavern, passing through the many residents gathered and reaching a large open area made clear just outside of the Bureau’s area. The large and sturdy table which stored all of the collected fabrics and cloth from pre-fall Equestria has been moved out into the center of this area. It is covered with a white table cloth, with some stitched patches of different shades. It gives the rustic table a much more ornate feel.

Luna and Liberty take their places at the long-table, entering in to a conversation being held by the five other leaders; Marshal Mjolna, Chief Zavala, Commander Skyward, General Olive, and Elder Vigil. Their banter centers on Elder Vigil, who was given a chair to sit in for the summit while the others stand. A noctral aid stands to her right side, and the Elder’s black cane rests on her chair’s left arm.

“If I’m to understand, the title of Elder is the most revered position. You pass ruling over the Circle of Umbra, and the Crescent Court. And from there, the various duties of governing branches extend into the different areas of progress, yes?” General Olive recounts, having just listened to Elder Vigil explain Umbra’s governing system.

“That is correct, General. I have been ‘in the business’ for twenty eight years, as of recently.”

“That is truly impressive! Saddle Arabia operates similarly. The Sultana commands the viziers of the Sultanate, and through their guidance our nation makes decisions. Though our viziers can be deluded and foolish most of the time. Even when our people were beginning to starve, some still argued against sending my troops and I into Equestria. Thankfully the Sultana’s wisdom proved them wrong.”

“Count yourself lucky, Olive,” Commander Skyward cuts in, taking a quick swig of some kind of griffin ale, “Politics in my country are painfully simple. You yell as loud as you can until you are heard, and if you aren’t heard, you start a brawl.”

“How… creative?” General Olive replies with a smirk.

“How does anything ever get done then?” Mjolna quips, having just settled on the same side of the table as Skyward.

The griffin commander finishes her drink before continuing.

“The fights only ever happen between the different royals and their consorts. We are called the Griffin Kingdoms, after all. So while they yammer at each other, the government leaders underneath the nobility just go ahead and do their thing. That includes the military hierarchy as well. Sure, some big wigs will get fired or exiled or whatever, but at least the kings and queens don’t have to worry about making decisions while they have their arguments. For practically any other race, this would never work. But for us griffins? It’s how we roll.”

“Hmm, griffins. Always straight to the point, no matter what is going on around them.” Remarks Elder Vigil, giving an elderly chuckle.

“You bet. Since we are on this topic though, what about Zebrica? How do you run things down on the savannah, Chief?”

Commander Skyward casts a grin across the table to Chief Zavala, who has been standing in between General Olive and Elder Vigil, calmly listening for most of the conversation. She twitches her striped ears and closes her eyes with sage-like poise.

“…Once, the people of my homeland learned much from our pony neighbors, in the ways of friendship. Out of many, many tribes, we acted as one, sharing rule in kinship. Each tribe had a Chief to lead them, and each Chief had a say. What was best for Zebrica would be decided by the Chiefs, each and every day…”

Chief Zavala pauses, exhaling the air from within her chest. Her eyes speak much more, as if telling a tale of sadness, pain, and grief in just one look.

“…A great nation, it once was. Now just memories, due to one cause. The caribou have destroyed all that my people have ever known. They turned us against each other… a corruption which was much too easily sown.”

“Oh…I’m, ah…. Sorry for prodding.” Skyward pipes up quickly, awkwardly rubbing her arm. Chief Zavala waves it off, returning to her humble state.

“Do not worry, Commander, it was but a question. Though it seems now Princess Luna is ready for our session.”

Princess Luna meets eyes with Zavala and the leaders, Liberty settling right beside her. Surrounding their table are hundreds of ponies, noctrals, zebras, griffins, and sand-ponies. Civilians and soldiers alike, all in attendance to witness the summit. Among them are those who Luna recognizes as she looks around. Sweetie Belle, Rarity, the Bureau ponies Scavenger Hunt and Tome, and of course, all of her Sentinels standing close by. The only ones absent are Nurse Redheart, Zecora, and the infirmary’s staff, no doubt still kept busy with patients such as Fluttershy.

Still, it is a lot of eyes and a lot of ears. Luna is glad to see them all.

Princess Luna breathes calmly, turning her view out to the many faces surrounding her. She addresses everyone in a strong and dedicated voice. Small rays of sunlight peer through the cavern entrance, illuminating half of the table.

“… These caves were empty when my Sentinels and I first discovered them. That was many months ago. No one would ever guess that those were the very same caves we now call home today. Now, they are filled with animals of all kinds, Items of culture saved from destruction, and beings from many different walks of life. But most importantly, it is filled with friends, united in the darkest of times. We are all here because we believe in our right to decide our own lives, and to celebrate life for all of its gifts. Now, let us solidify our beliefs.”

Luna motions for Liberty to pass her a large document, a large scroll-like sheet of rough and aged paper. The document is the template of the summit, Luna having worked on its contents for several nights.

Princess Luna keeps the rolled-up scroll on hand as she continues her address.

“I know that not all of the leaders present at this table can vouch for their entire people. But you are all equally vital to this endeavor. And here and now, we must come together. Once, during an age long ago, at the dawn of our time, a group of ponies came together to defeat a pack of windigos, which were threatening their very existence. Their alliance succeeded, and it paved the way for the beginning of Equestria, and many other great nations in kind. The time has come once again for an alliance.”

Luna holds up the document for all to see, letting it unfurl.

“This is the Treaty of Haven.”

The paper, strewn with lines upon lines of black ink, basks in the light as Luna continues.

“This document is a precursor, or prototype, of what the actual Treaty will entail. As we know, this is not the ideal time nor place to create a formal international alliance. But I feel… I know… that we cannot defeat our enemies and reclaim our homes alone. We have to be united, and thus, the beginnings of this Treaty will start here, in the caves of Haven.”

Princess Luna places the document down on the table, as quills and ink pots are spread among the leaders.

“In essence, this is a pledge, to each of the allies gathered here. Equestria was never alone in its suffering. By the fact of our diversity here in Haven, that much is already known. Now, I will summarize the main aspects and points of the treaty, beginning with Equestria…”

As the leaders and the crowds surrounding them keep their silence, their gaze locks on to Luna.

The Princess of the Night pauses. What she is about to say is a subject she has not spoken of to any pony. One of vast importance, and personal feelings.

“Many of you have been wondering… about my thoughts regarding Celestia.”

The cavern’s silence finds a way to be even more still. The void is only filled when Luna speaks.

“… I find it that… I must be honest with all of you. I have come to the decision to erase the diarchy of Equestria.”

Some gasps fill the air, onlookers covering their open mouths as others murmur to one another. Luna expected this reaction.

“Equestria has indeed prospered for countless years under the diarchy. I know most of all. Though during my banishment for those one thousand years, Celestia brought Equestria well into a monarchy, which was so successful that over time no pony noticed the difference with my absence. I believe that… Equestria will benefit more from a form of monarchy.”

Some whispers follow in the wake of Luna’s statement, though there are no objections. The leaders at the table continue to listen, Mjolna and Liberty being the most attentive.

“It will be a constitutional monarchy. Equestria ruled by a single alicorn monarch, in conjunction with a board or circle of administrative leaders, who would aid in the national decisions and affairs. A greater sense of involvement will be granted to Equestria’s subjects in the nation’s decision-making.

I know that begs the question. Will my sister rule, or will I? I cannot outright claim the throne to be mine. Nor can I simply place the position to either one of us at this time of imbalance. We must first take back Canterlot and rescue Celestia. I will take temporary command of the new monarchy until Celestia can be healed and brought back to a stable position to rule. If, in the worst possible scenario, Celestia is unable to be saved, then I will take the mantle permanently.”

Many seem to agree, with heads bobbing and spoken words of content. Luna keeps close attention to Mjolna and Liberty’s reactions. Mjolna seems mostly complacent with all of Luna’s statements so far. Liberty agrees earnestly as well, especially with rescuing Celestia.

“On that note, I am motioning for the creation of a re-organized royal guard, which will not only serve as Equestria’s protectors, but will spread the influence of Celestia, regardless of her state in the future. Her guidance and beliefs of old will be carried and spread all over by the Guardians of the Sun. This will be heralded by their leader… Liberty.”

Liberty turns utterly shocked, her mouth agape and eyes wide open as the entire table and the surrounding crowd gaze upon her.

“Liberty will be the official head and representative of the Guardians of the Sun. She will direct them as she sees fit, in coordination with the governance of the new monarchy. ” Luna states.

Liberty remains dumbfounded at the Princess as an applause is raised. Her look of shock turns into a smile, one of amazement, after receiving a wink from Luna.

“Now… That is the current settlement for Equestria. But this conflict we find ourselves in is not limited to the land we stand upon now. The many nations that also inhabit this world have fallen prey to caribou ambition. Equestria cannot be freed without allies, and it cannot fully heal without healing said allies.

Retaking Zebrica, defending the remnants of the Griffin Kingdoms, reopening trade routes with Saddle Arabia and ensuring Umbra’s safety are all of the utmost priority in foreign action. Equestria will do its absolute best to disperse this aid to each of your homelands. It will be difficult, as the caribou will not be ousted from their holdings in only one battle. This will be a lengthy conflict to come. Nevertheless, we will work together. Cooperation is key.

Thus, I move to the second major point of the declaration; creating an official foreign alliance, off of the treaties of the past millennia, reborn in the Treaty of Haven. All of the nations here will be joined together under the banner of the Haven Alliance. If any of the leaders have any objections or thoughts, now is the time.”

Princess Luna carefully observes each of the leaders.

They glance among one another, exchanging only looks of comradery. No objections exist. No thoughts in need of uttering or explaining. Even before it could be called official, the leaders of the summit have determined their newfound alliance to be right.

Their eyes rest on Luna as she grins, proceeding onto the signing.

“As Princess of Equestria, second to Celestia, I pledge that I will do everything in my power to not only restore Equestria, but to give any and all aid in restoring the nations of the Haven Alliance.

Now, I ask that the representing leaders to give their signatures on the Treaty.”

Passing the Treaty counter-clockwise from Luna, the leaders begin to observe the document. It doesn’t take long before the Treaty passes hands through all of the leaders, stopping once back in Luna’s hands. The bottom of the document now bears five unique and powerful signatures.

Saddle Arabia, The Sultana’s 3rd Saddle Arabian Expeditionary Company

General Zeitun Ta’lab

Zebrica, Zebra Free Tribes, Ojo Tribe

Chief Zavala

Umbra, Circle of Umbra and the Crescent Court

Elder Vigil

Griffin Kingdoms, Minister of War Rhona’s Northern Provincial Battalion, Red Hawk Regulars

Commander Skyward

Equestria, Equestrian Armed Forces, Home Army

Marshal Mjolna

Taking her quill, Luna signs just below the other signatures, leaving room right above her name for the final signature from Liberty.

Equestria, Guardians of the Sun

Liberty

Equestria, Princess of the Night, Ruler of Equestria

Princess Luna

Luna gently presses across the Treaty’s paper, flattening it on the wood of the table. She returns her attention and voice to address everyone in the cavern.

“It is done. Now the time has come… for us to step into the light. And confront our enemy face to face.”

Luna raises her voice to heights she has not used in years. Passion and drive fueling her words, echoing out even further than the cavern itself

“Let this day signify the beginning of the Haven Alliance. And let the Treaty of Haven be, from this day forward, an official declaration of war. By the nations and people of the Haven Alliance unto the Caribou Empire. Together, we will take back our homes, and take back our right to live freely!”

A thunderous and bellowing round of cheers spreads all across the cavern, as the residents of Haven roar with confidence. Though it is only a small step, forming an official treaty on a piece of old paper, it has brought a sense of hope to all.

Princess Luna hands off the completed Treaty to Scavenger Hunt and Tome, who handle the document with extreme caution. They bring it to the Bureau area, and begin outlining and copying its contents down on another sheet, with the aid of other ponies.

As the summit comes to its close and the attending crowd begins to dissipate, Mjolna notices the copying and gives Princess Luna a puzzled look, bringing the other leaders to its attention as well.

“Princess? I’m not too familiar with how this diplomatic stuff goes but… I’m guessing we’re making a copy of the treaty for safe keeping?”

“Two copies. One for us to keep in a secure location in case anything should happen to the original document. The second… is for Dainn.” Luna informs.

“Implying caribou know how to read.” Skyward jests, earning some smiles.

Luna remains serious. “Literate or not, he will understand its message. That all the lands he and his caribou have marred with their presence, directly or indirectly, are now united against them, despite all of their efforts to control us.”

“How will we get the declaration to Dainn in Canterlot? We wouldn’t want to risk one of our own being captured.” Queries General Olive with a gesture of his arms.

Luna pauses for a moment, reflecting on her choices. One or two mares would never be able to reach Dainn to give him the document. A stallion could deliver it alone, but he would likely be considered a part of some resistance now that the corruption of the crystal heart has been lifted.

Though there is one mare who, with a proper escort, would be the ideal choice for this task.

“I have someone in mind who can…”

“Will you be up for it, Meadow?”

Not far from the gates of Haven’s wooden walls, Luna speaks with the prisoner, Meadow. With her is a stallion who volunteered to lead Meadow back to Canterlot, and to ensure that the declaration copy is delivered to Dainn.

With Luna is Mjolna, who is briefing the stallion on his mission.

“I… I don’t think I can do this…” Meadow says sheepishly, cradling the cylinder containing a copy of the Treaty of Haven within her arms.

“Nothing is set in stone, Meadow. To sell the deception, you are under the ownership of this stallion. If you decide you don’t want to return to your life as a red collar, then he will safely return you to Haven. I don’t want you to think I’m throwing you away.”

Meadow nods, looking to the grass beneath them as she feels the red collar around her neck. Luna takes notice of the pink flower in her mane, the same one which Rarity had gifted her some time ago.

Luna’s attention turns to Mjolna as she approaches with the stallion.

“Pine Breeze is ready to safely guide our ‘escapee’ back to the caribou.” Mjolna states, nodding to the stallion before placing herself at Luna’s side. Not once does she acknowledge Meadow, glances or otherwise.

Meadow lifts her eyes from the ground. As she does, Luna notices something new about them. A hidden spark of what looks like courage.

“It doesn’t matter what happens to me now, or in the future. Equestria… deserves to be free. I’ll help deliver the declaration, and I will do what I can to help collared mares still under the caribou.”

With a sincere smile, Luna places her hands upon Meadow’s shoulders.

“I’m in your debt then. Be safe, Meadow.”

“You too, Princess. And, uhm… would you let Rarity and Sweetie Belle know that I said goodbye?”

“I would… but I think they’d rather hear it from you.”

Princess Luna points closer towards Haven’s gates, revealing Rarity and Sweetie Belle in the distance. They wave as they wait near the gate’s edge.

Meadow lets out a breath, smiling and waving quickly before turning back to Luna, giving her the same grin and thanking her one last time before making her way down to the gates with Pine Breeze.

Mjolna crosses her arms, looking to Luna with suspicion as she watches Meadow give parting hugs to both Rarity and Sweetie Belle before disappearing into the forests beyond Haven.

“I’m not sure about this, Princess. Can she be trusted to keep Haven a secret?”

“I trust her. Even when she was misguided, Meadow tried to help others in the only way she knew how. She will not betray us.”

“But what if you’re wrong about her. What if she does give us up?”

“She won’t.”

“But Princess-,”

“Enough, Mjolna.” Luna stops Mjolna’s persistence, “Stay your mind from these worries. You should be focusing more on keeping watch over Haven and going over the battle plans while I am away.”

The Marshal sighs.

“Fine. I’ll return to my duties then. Best of luck on your search for the relics.”

Mjolna quickly turns in the direction of the main cavern, setting off before Luna can thank her. Though before she gets far, she stops to face back to Luna.

“I may not trust Meadow… But I trust you, Princess Luna.”

Mjolna cracks a smile before resuming her course.

Even if she doubts Meadow, Mjolna’s trust is something truly valuable to Luna. For what the future may hold, Luna hopes that she will be able to keep it.

Princess Luna gathers the remainder of her gear outside of the gate tower on the wall. Her outfit is complete with one dagger, her katar, a new holster for a single fire dart pistol, plenty of pouches for additional equipment and some rations, jars of zebra alchemical compounds to keep creatures at bay, and a double-layered camo-tarp.

Luna dons the equipment over her camouflaged hiking vestments, finishing by draping the camo-tarp around her shoulders like a massive, thick cloak. The gear will aid her in her journey towards the Everfree Forest.

Her final destination lies at the forest’s heart. The Castle of the Two Sisters.

As Luna take a moment to cast her gaze at the setting sunlight, glowing as it drops below the treetops, she is approached by Liberty.

“I, ah… just wanted to thank you, Princess Luna. I’m honored… I’m really honored to be able to lead the new guard. But… why did you choose me?”

Luna keeps her gaze on the sunset.

“My sister has made a huge impact on countless lives, for thousands of generations. However, I have never seen a pony quite as inspired by her as you, Liberty. You wanted to be Celestia’s protector. And now you are.”

Liberty’s eyes well. She manages to hold the tears back quickly, a smile tugging at her lips as Luna turns to face her.

“I can’t thank you enough… But there’s one thing that you left out about me during the summit.”

Luna raises an eyebrow, smiling all the while.

“And that is?”

“My name. My name is Chorus.”

To have earned the knowledge of Liberty’s true name is something Luna did not expect to happen so soon.

“It is a fine name. Would you have rather put it down on the Treaty?”

Liberty, or rather, Chorus, shakes her head.

“Not really. I prefer being called Liberty. I just thought you deserved to know all of who I am, after what you gave me.”

“As you wish. The night is nearly here, I should be departing.”

“Alright Princess Luna, I’ll let you go. Travel safely. We’ll be here for you when you come back.”

The two friends pause a moment as the sky begins its shift to the nighttime. The Sun and Moon trade places above Chorus and Luna. A familiar feeling sets in. Luna had spent many a time like this with her sister, under where the sky breaks in orange light, each morning and each evening.

Right now, Chorus is the closest semblance to Celestia that Luna has.

“…There’s no need to address me formally anymore, Chorus. I’d rather you just call me Luna.”

Chorus grins as the last of the sunlight touches upon her face.

“Sure thing, Luna.”

Chorus departs, heading back to the gates. The moon, bright and full, rises above Luna, signaling her time to begin her trek.

Princess Luna steps forward, only to stop as she catches the sound of multiple footsteps coming from behind her.

“Princess, wait!”

Luna stops to turn around, her eyes widening to see her Sentinels before her. Night Seer, Lantern, High Tide, Star Glow, Crowe, Spirit, and Dew Drop all gather, facing Luna with glints of sadness in their eyes. Luna had already said her goodbyes to those close to her after setting Meadow on her way. She hopes nothing is wrong.

Star Glow approaches, carrying a small bag rife with the scent of moon cakes. She hands it to Luna.

“I know you already have your supplies with you, but… Sweetie Belle and Rarity helped me make this last batch for you. Just in case you get an extra craving.”

“Please, Princess, take us with you! We’ve accompanied you on every journey thus far. Why does this one have to be different?” Pleads Crowe.

Luna only returns a somber expression.

“I’m sorry… But the place where the relics are held is a place only I can go. If I could have it another way, I would not hesitate to bring you all along. But do not worry, I will return very soon.”

Though they remain saddened, her Sentinels nod in acceptance.

“We understand, Princess. Your mission is yours alone, and our place will be here in Haven until you return.” Night Seer states, his words followed by bows and mumbled agreements from the others.

Luna bows to them gratefully. “Thank you for understanding.”

Though she is about to bid them farewell, Luna is stopped once again as her Sentinels hug her one by one, forming a group hug.

Princess Luna hug them back.

“...I wouldn’t be able to get this far without you. You… You are all the closest friends I’ve had in a near millennia. Among all others, you are what drive me each day.”

Her Sentinels can do nothing but smile and continue their embrace.

“We will see you again soon, Princess.” Breathes Lantern as Luna pulls away.

With the moon now risen behind her, Luna turns one last time to her dear friends.

“Have some fun for me while I’m gone.”

Chirps, rustling and vibrant scents define the Everfree Forest during the nighttime hours.

Luna had reached the sanctuary of the thick forest only an hour ago. She had spent most of the prior day hidden, moving only when she could assuredly avoid detection. It took her the entire day to skirt around the edges of Ponyville.

During her sneaking, Luna was able to do some light reconnaissance on Ponyville and some surrounding areas. For the most part, it seemed as though Ponyville was still occupied by the caribou. Luna recalled upon meeting with Rarity in Haven that she had escaped the town due to the destruction of the crystal heart and the chaos produced from it.

Whatever rebellion that occurred in Ponyville, it was at some point quelled by the caribou and stallions still loyal to them. Though lightly guarded, it continues to be run by the enemy.

There was something more concerning that Luna had noticed though.

Normally, the floating city of Cloudsdale could be seen not too far from Ponyville’s location. However, there was no sight of it as Luna passed through. Perhaps it was moved to another location, for whatever means. The only thing left in the city’s wake was a field smothered by fog. The very same field that Cloudsdale used to hang over.

What thoughts Luna had of the cloud-city were cast aside as she made her arrival in the Everfree, just as the sun had set. Now, it is a matter of reaching the center.

The Everfree Forest is easy enough to traverse for Luna, as her night vision comes in handy, and her lifetime of living in the Everfree Castle lent her a familiarity with the thick forest that surrounded it. The path to the Castle contains few challenges. Save for one of its current, yet alien resident.

Luna had expected to encounter hive creatures among the brush, as she had heard more accounts in Haven of ponies encountering them near the edges and center of the Everfree. However, the only signs of them are the creatures themselves out in the open, dying on the ground and in the brush. The air is unusually thick around them, convincing Luna to take a few whiffs of the mist among the vegetation.

The misty air appears to be of the same make as the alchemic deterrent used by zebra shamans. The same deterrent that Luna had brought with her, though this was not her doing. Luna had only used one container to cover herself upon entering the Everfree. The entire forest air around her is damp with the alchemy, the mist heavy and pungent.

Princess Luna continues onward, eyes open and ears swiveling. It doesn’t take much longer before she arrives at the place she once called home.

The ruins of the Castle of the Two Sisters.

Luna encroaches upon the wooden bridge that crosses the crevasse surrounding the old castle. There is a problem though.

The bridge is gone.

Someone had cut the ropes on the far side of the crevasse. The bridge dangles from its moorings on Luna’s side.

“Of all the times to be without wings or a horn.” Luna mutters, overlooking the rocky gap.

She is not out of options though, as Luna has a long history with this place. Whoever cut the bridge down likely doesn’t know about the various other entrances, the closest to Luna being the one at the bottom of the crevasse.

Descending the staircase, Luna steps onto the soft dirt of the crevasse, coming to the hollowed out rock beneath the castle perimeter, marked by a tell-tale glow.

Luna stops for a moment to approach the ancient and mysterious Tree of Harmony. Its crystal bark and vines of light shine with an alluring brightness.

It is a shame that the tree could never be fully studied. Perhaps some pony might come here in the future and finally uncover the tree’s purpose or origins. It had certainly perplexed Luna, even with her own knowledge.

Whether or not that day will come, for now, its secrets will remain locked away.

Princess Luna continues on, going into a smaller alcove further within the rock. There, she instinctively locates an old and rustic stone door, and opens it by pressing on one of the stone bricks making up its frame. It sluggishly slides open, giving way to a stairwell filled with cobwebs and dust.

Her mind racing with memories of long ago, Luna ascends the stairs, coming to another door, this one wooden. With a drawn out creak, she opens it and enters into one of the castle’s dank storage rooms. The crates and barrels within have not been moved for decades, though Luna notices a difference as she proceeds further inside, making her way into one of the level corridors.

The hallways are lit with torches. Freshly lit torches.

The inhabitants of the old castle must be using the ruins as a place of refuge. Some of the other storage rooms show recent signs of use, with dust cleared away and items rearranged. Stacks of firewood and stone blocks take up most of the space.

Princess Luna advances, now even more determined to find the current residents. She moves through the basement levels, nearing a large stone stairwell which leads up to the ground level of the castle. The only torch on the stairwell is blown out, likely by accident.

Just as Luna finishes the climb, the door at the top of the stairs suddenly snaps towards her, smacking her square on the nose. The force of the impact sends her tumbling down the stone stairs, her fall only breaking when she crashes into a wooden barrel at the bottom.

Luna groans, grimacing as she tries to figure out what just happened. As she tries in vain to remove herself from the remains of the barrel, a mare’s voice echoes from the opened door above.

“Oops! Sorry, Night Wing! I keep forgetting which way to open these doors. I’ll come heeAALP!!”

The mare cries out in surprise, tumbling all the way down and landing right on top of Luna before she could lift herself out of the way. If Luna wasn’t sprawled out in a painful position before, she is now.

Luna thought the voice was a familiar one. After the dust settles she gets a good look at the mare who had careened into her.

It only took an instant to recognize the scrunched snout and crossed eyes of a certain pegasus.

“Derpy?!”

Of all of the surprises Luna has been through, this was one to remember.

As she keeps an ice cold rag on the bump on her nose and another on her back, Luna speaks with Night Wing, the leader of the second noctral scout team which went missing nearly a year ago, while Luna was still in Umbra.

The noctral mare fingers through her purple mane, which shows signs of neglect due to the months of living in the ruins. Her own equipment and clothing have been torn and weathered, though most of it is covered by her rough cloak, which is half of an old camo tarp.

“My team and I were nearing Ponyville when we noticed some unrest. The caribou had discovered a home which was hiding a fairly large group of mares. There were too many guards and too many eyes for us to do anything. We made it to the edge of the Everfree when we happened upon Ms. Derpy and her family, who had managed to flee from the hideout. My scouts and I took care of the caribou chasing them, and from there we fled into the forest, finding the old castle. I made the decision to cut the bridge and hide in the ruins. Sorry for worrying you, Princess. I didn’t want to risk being discovered trying to return to Umbra.”

“I understand, Night Wing. You made the right choice. How have you all been surviving?” asks Luna.

“Growing our own food and foraging in the Everfree, thanks to some other hidden paths we found into the forest. The first few months were tough, as there were too many hive nests nearby for us to gather much. Thankfully a Zebra mare found us and showed us a way to use zebra alchemy to ward them off, along with any timberwolves or stray war beasts. Since then it’s been much safer to venture out for resources.”

Luna recalls how Zecora rescued the first missing team from hive nests several months ago. She must have encountered the second team as well.

“You’re the most surprising thing that’s happened to us in a while, Princess. You must be here for a reason, right?”

Luna removes the wet rag from her nose.

“Within the past year, I’ve gathered many allies to fight the caribou. We will soon strike at Canterlot, but there is one last thing I need before we can. Two relics of Nightmare Moon.”

Night Wing raises her brow, impressed.

“The sooner you kick the caribou out the sooner we can leave this place. We’ll gladly help you look for the relics in the castle.”

“Thank you, but that won’t be necessary,” Luna states, shaking her head, “They aren’t in the castle.”

Luna looks up.

“They’re on the Moon.”

Having rested a little, Luna departs from Night Wing and proceeds through the castle grounds, heading towards more reserved sections of the castle. Along the way Luna passes by several of the other noctral scouts of Night Wing’s team, greeting them and doing what she can to raise their spirits.

Though before Luna can enter one stone hallway which leads to the other end of the castle grounds, she happens upon a familiar filly.

“Princess Luna!” Dinky exclaims from behind the stack of books covering most of her face. Several stray books float behind her in erratic patterns, enveloped in the golden aura of her magic.

The heavy texts in her arms begin to wobble, swaying back and forth as Dinky scrambles to keep balance. The books begin falling forward, though they are stopped as Luna quickly catches them and Dinky, preventing their fall. The books held in the filly’s magic flutter about before finding their way to the ground as Dinky loses concentration.

Princess Luna takes the old texts off of Dinky and hugs her.

“It is good to see you again, Dinky Doo. You’ve certainly grown these past years.” Remarks Luna, noting on Dinky’s use of magic. Knowing she was able to keep her horn is just as noteworthy.

“You too, Princess,” Dinky replies, pulling back from Luna “Thanks for the help. I heard from Mom that you showed up in the basement! And that she smacked you with a door and sent you tumbling, and then she fell in too and right on top of you. I hope you’re feeling better!”

Luna chuckles. “I am quite alright, thank you. You got these texts from the old archives, yes? Where are you taking them?”

“Dad asked if I could look for some books for him. I was just on my way to bring these to him. You haven’t met my Dad before, have you Princess?” Dinky says, beginning to pick up some of her books.

“I have not, though now is a better time than never.”

Princess Luna scoops up most of the large books, carrying them with ease as Dinky takes a few of the smaller ones, using her magic to lift some of them.

They make their way to one of the more hidden courtyards of the castle. In the very center of the stone and grass-laden yard is a large circular platform, marked with enchanted, millennia-old runes.

What lies before Luna is her gateway to the Moon.

Dinky veers to the right, entering under one of the alcoves that line the edges of the courtyard. There, surrounded by wooden desks and piles of books, is a brown earth pony, dressed in somewhat formal clothes, the most striking being his green tie. A beige trench coat lies hanging on a stone extremity nearby as well as a rather long scarf.

“I got the books you asked for Dad.” Dinky states, placing her books on the desk, those floating in her magic finding their way neatly to the pile as well.

“Ah, perfect! Marvelous work, Dinky. Aaand is this who I think it is?” Says the stallion as he rises to meet eyes with Luna after hugging Dinky.

Though she had never come face to face with him, Luna knows much about the brown stallion before her. The Doctor, as he is commonly called. Luna had learned much of him from venturing into Dinky’s dreams when she was younger. It seemed he and Dinky’s mother had a very fateful encounter, one which sparked an adventurous relationship. From what Luna could determine in Dinky’s dreams, the filly was overjoyed to have a father in her life.

“Doctor Whooves, I presume?”

“In one way or another, that’s me. Terribly sorry if we’ve been using your archives. You have an incredible sum of knowledge here. I’ve always wanted to visit this place. I’ve never really gotten the chance until now, with us being stuck here and all.” The Doctor shakes Luna’s hand, differing from the usual bows which Luna receives.

“It’s quite alright, Doctor, and thank you. Books were made for reading, and the ones within this castle are no exception. Though I’m curious as to why you’re set up here.”

“Ah, about that. You’re probably thinking I could just sit in the archives and read there. But I was intrigued by this courtyard. Not just the décor, though mind you it’s still lovely even after all this time. You see, it’s this platform here.”

The three of them move outside of the alcove, stopping beside the circle in the center of the courtyard.

“The platform is called a confluence plate. It is a transporter, essentially, which will allow me to travel to the Moon.” Luna says, enlightening the Doctor.

“Incredible! I had a feeling it was intended for such a purpose. It wouldn’t be happened to be charged by sunlight…. Would it?”

Luna is both surprised and impressed by the Doctor’s knowledge. He must have been reading quite a lot during his time in the castle. Though there aren’t any books inside the old archives which detail the confluence’s design or purpose.

“… You are correct. The plate takes in solar light, using the energy to power its transportation abilities. It’s heavily dependent on the cycle of day and night to operate safely. Though I’m curious… how did you determine this?”

“Oh it was nothing really. I just spent a lot of time studying it. You know, examining it, hypothesizing about it, scanning it and the like. I have… some experience with teleporting things and things that teleport, so to speak. Fascinating forces aren’t they?”

The Doctor is truly an enigma of sorts. Perhaps once Luna regains use of her magic she will take some time to look into his dreams. Something tells her she may have a hard time doing so.

“So this confluence plate will take you to the Moon then?”

“Yes. Though it will be one-way trip.”

Both the Doctor and Dinky give Luna concerned expressions.

“But… if its one way then how will you get back?” Dinky wonders.

“The relics which I am in search of have several powers. One of which is the ability to allow transport to the Moon and back. Once I’m in possession of them, it won’t be difficult to return here.”

Luna raises her head to scan the night sky, in search of the Moon. Unfortunately, the only thing residing above is an endless sheet of dark clouds, which had moved in only a few minutes ago. The blanket-like cloud cover completely obscures any trace of the Moon.

Luna’s ears twitch and her eyes blink as tiny raindrops begin to fall, some finding their mark on her nose. Only seconds pass before a steady downfall of rain sweeps over the castle and the forest, loudly pattering on the stone.

The Princess makes her way into cover underneath the connecting alcove, following the Doctor and Dinky.

“I can only activate the confluence plate once the Moon is fully visible. I’ll have to wait until the storm passes.”

“Should only take a few hours or so,” states the Doctor, peering outside, “Perfect time for a cup of tea. Not sure if we have any tea leaves left, or even sugar for that matter. Blast. I’ll have to ask Carrot Top if her garden has more leaves. I still can’t quite fathom how earth pony magic is able to accelerate plant growth like it does. And to think I was so close to creating a scientific method of doing the same thing! A spell for this, that, and then innate magic comes into the mix too. Oh well.”

Luna’s initial surmises were correct. This pony is… very strange.

“Would you mind visiting Carrot Top and asking her if she has any tea leaves, Princess?” Dinky asks, cutting in the conversation.

“Of course. I was thinking about taking a walk anyway.” Replies Luna, readying herself to depart.

“Splendid, thank you.”

“Thanks, Princess! She’s in that huge courtyard on the other side of the castle. We’ve been using it as a farm. See you again soon!”

Crossing through empty halls and massive rooms, Luna arrives at the largest courtyard of the castle. There, she sees Carrot Top out in the rain, tending to a garden filled with many low-lying plants.

Luna steps out into the showers, the rain smothering her almost instantly. As she reaches Carrot Top, Luna is glad she chose to hang on to her camo-tarp, which doubles as a water-proof poncho.

“Nice to see you, Princess!” Carrot Top announces mid-planting.

“Your garden will certainly benefit from the downpour. But why are you tending to it now?” Luna queries, the rain now forming small streams along her cheeks and snout.

“I check up on the garden’s productivity regularly, rain or shine. Though I like standing out in the rain whenever I can. Makes me feel cleansed of everything, you know?”

Carrot Top grins from beneath her sun hat, and from behind the tiny waterfalls pouring over its rim. Luna grins back, taking her words to heart. The rain does feel good on the body, and even more so on the mind. The feeling of having every foul thing latched on to you wash away with the rains of nature…

Princess Luna makes a mental note to recommend using rain to Nurse Redheart’s Heartmenders as Carrot Top finishes collecting two bushels of fresh carrots. She takes them over to one of the stone alcoves at the courtyard exit, keeping them dry. She keeps herself in the rain, stopping to stretch her arms outwards, as if giving thanks to whatever force brought the rainclouds.

Luna takes a seat on one of the old wooden benches nearby, ignoring its soaked state. She beckons Carrot Top to join her.

The two sit upon the bench. Luckily the night is not too cold, nor the rainwater too heavy. Just like a summer shower.

“I wanted to talk to you about the Fall, Princess Luna.” Carrot Top blurts, her tone remaining friendly.

Luna nods. “What’s on your mind?”

“Everything, really. Mainly stuff about the caribou, and their culture. What they’re doing to everyone. Enslavement, erotic subjugation, domination and submission, whatever you want to call it. I’ve been thinking a lot about it.”

Luna continues to listen, phasing out the sound of the rain in favor of Carrot Top’s voice.

“Honestly… I’m kinda into that stuff. I mean, doesn’t every pony have that one thing that excites them?”

Though the rain hid it, Luna began to blush. Carrot Top isn’t wrong. Luna has indeed seen many a dream about fantasies in the past. Though she would never admit it, even Luna has fantasies of her own. She quickly buries the desiring thoughts of being tickled.

“Erm… Yes. That is fair to say.”

“Now I’m not saying I support what the caribou are doing. I’m completely against it. On a more personal and intimate level, I wouldn’t mind being ‘on the bottom’ per say. I just wish the caribou culture was a bit more peaceful. Less conquering and patriarchal and more considerate and… well, consensual really.”

Luna rubs her chin. “Interesting. Were you a black collar?”

“From the very beginning. There would be no way I could enjoy myself knowing how bad things are. This is more than just some horny stags coming in and wanting slaves. The caribou want to erase everything that we are culturally and individually and replace it with what suits them. It’s… really scary.”

Carrot Top folds her hands together on her lap.

“I like having fun, but the Fall isn’t any kind of fun I’d want. The safety of my family and friends comes first. That is what’s most important.”

Luna cracks a smile at her. “And something to be admired. Thank you, Carrot Top. I think I’ll be leaving now. Before I go, the Doctor was wondering if you happen to have any tea leaves left. He and Dinky requested that I bring some to them.”

“I do, but don’t worry, I’ll bring them to the Doctor,” Carrot Top beams, “Thanks for stopping by. Sorry to ask more of you, but could you take one of those bushels of carrots to Derpy? Sparkler should know where she is. You can find her in the huge hall where Night Wing and the others spend their free time.”

“A favor for a favor. I’ll deliver them for you.”

As the rain persists, Luna finds her way into one of the great halls, currently being used by the noctral scouts as an exercise and practice area. There, while toting her basket of carrots and dripping with each step, she spots Sparkler. The unicorn had just finished practicing with a short bow. She overlooks her arrows jutting out of the painted target made of branches.

“Practicing archery, I see. Your aim is remarkable.” Luna compliments, noticing how closely grouped the arrows are in the target.

“Thank you, Princess. The noctrals have been teaching me how to use a bow and arrow since we came here. I can even use my magic to hold another bow at the same time. Useful for whenever we go foraging.”

Luna crosses her arms, impressed at Sparkler’s skills. The two move to sit down on one of the many steps towards the back of the hall.

As Luna places her carrots beside her, Sparkler begins to speak her mind.

“What’s it like out there, Princess? Outside of the Everfree. Are we finally fighting back??”

“We are indeed, though not without help from many allies. We will soon begin an attack on Canterlot, in hopes of retaking it.”

“Good.” Sparkler breathed, “Did you find out why the stallions joined the caribou? Why they betrayed us?”

From the stressful quiver in her words, Luna can tell Sparkler has thought about this topic for some time. Luckily, she has an explanation to help soothe her stress.

“They never joined them. A few did indeed betray Equestria and aided the caribou, but the majority of the stallions did not consciously join them. They were brainwashed.”

“Brainwashed?” Sparkler echoes.

“Yes, by a corrupted crystal heart, which the caribou had possession of before they even reached Canterlot. The stallions did not realize what they were doing, due to its influence. I was able to destroy it though, some months ago, and remove its effects. Any hatred towards stallions is misplaced. In a sense, they are just as much victims of the Fall as we are.”

Sparkler suddenly jumps up to her feet in frustration. Luna quickly follows, noticing her clenched fists.

“But how can you say that?! The stallions weren’t subjected to what we were! Mares were beaten and thrown in alleys to rot. Others have had their brains scrambled, from their own insanity or from being blanked! Three years of nothing but mindless fucking and fucking and fucking!!”

“No one can deny any of that,” Luna interrupts, gently grabbing hold of Sparkler, “But it isn’t just about mares. Stallions who have tried to help mares have been often changed into a mare themselves. In other lands, if the caribou cannot find a way to control the males, they simply slaughter them.”

“It doesn’t make us the same.” Sparkler protests.

“Sparkler. By thinking this way, you are letting the caribou win. They have nearly dismantled the harmony which has kept us all together. The only way we are going to win is if we replace caribou lies with the truth. And the truth is that, whether one is a mare or a stallion, we are all ponies. We are all Equestrians.”

Wiping tears of anger from her cheeks, Sparkler briskly nods, casting her eyes to the ground.

“… I’m sorry, Princess. I just… I just wish we could go home.”

“You are a strong mare, Sparkler. I need you to stay strong. If we all can stay together and stay strong… then we will be able to go home again.”

“Ok…Ok. Thank you, Princess Luna. Even if you aren’t staying I’m… Glad that you came to visit.”

“Likewise. Do you know where I can find Derpy?”

“Yeah, she went to the lounge room next to the archives. The study room.”

It has been nearly an hour since the start of the downpour, with no break in sight. Truthfully, Luna isn’t surprised. Even before the Fall, the Everfree was always unpredictable.

But the timing of the rain is what chides Luna. Her friends and her followers are waiting on her to return to them and lead them, and here she is being held up by moody clouds and a virtual monsoon.

Dispelling any frustration, Luna decides to return inside and head to one of the recreational lounges in the castle. Sparkler had made mention that Derpy was most likely there.

Princess Luna traverses the stone halls, arriving in the study room adjacent to the archives. She enters into the lounge area, kept bright and warm from a lit fireplace. The entire area around the fireplace has been converted into a makeshift kitchen, made mostly of repurposed furniture and wooden cooking wear.

There, Luna spies Derpy, tending to the crackling fire. Like both Dinky and Sparkler, Derpy was spared of the Fall’s aftereffects. Her wings are still healthy and full of feathers, though perhaps a bit unkempt.

As Luna gets closer, she also notices the stakes and large cooking pot installed over the fire. Water bubbles in the cauldron-like pot, fizzling as Derpy adds in ingredients for a stew of some sorts. The scent of wild and unusual spices fills the air.

“Hmm… I forgot something… Wait… Carrots… Did I already put them in?”

“I believe your carrots are here.”

Derpy turns to face Luna, though as she does she nearly tips the entire pot with a stray hit from her hand. Luna quickly helps her steady it, setting the carrots down beside her.

“Oohhh gosh… thanks, Princess. Clumsy me, as always.”

Luna sits beside Derpy as she continues to tend the stew, chopping the carrots with a nearby knife and wooden slab. The fire is a lot warmer than it appears, and helps with drying Luna’s soaked clothes and mane.

“I feel so bad about earlier, Princess. I’m really sorry for hitting you with the door… and pushing you down the stairs… and falling on top of you.” Derpy rubs her hands after finishing with the carrots, her eyes crisscrossing as she grins sheepishly.

Though it did give her a bit of a rattle, Luna can only smile when she looks back at the mishap. It was more like a prank-gone-wrong, if anything.

“Don’t fret, Derpy. I can withstand a fall like that easily. I’m just happy that I broke your fall.”

“And that the barrel broke yours?”

Luna chuckles. “Yes, that too.”

After spending some time monitoring her cooking, Derpy and Luna leave the pot be and rest on one of the old rugs covering the study room floor. They would have used the furniture to sit, had Derpy not been using them all to store her cooking supplies. Luna did not mind laying out on the floor though.

“Dinky has grown in the past few years. Her magic looks to be improving as well.” Luna remarks.

Derpy gives a motherly smile.

“She has, hasn’t she? I don’t know a whole lot about unicorn magic, but I urge her to practice or read up on it whenever she can. A lot of the books here have definitely helped her.”

“I actually bumped into Dinky bringing books to the Doctor. She definitely looks to him as a father. Though I am curious, are you…?”

Derpy blushes, rubbing her arm.

“With the Doctor? Well… yes. We’ve been together for a long time now. Unlike most other stallions, the Doctor didn’t turn on us. I couldn’t be more thankful to be with him, and I have him to thank for saving everyone here, at least until Night Wing and her noctrals found us. I… really want to marry him, and have a wedding. But…. Have you seen what happened to married couples during the Fall?”

Marriage meant nothing to the caribou. It was just another aspect of life which needed to be thrown in the trash. No doubt the mares who suffered the most from the Fall were the ones who were either betrayed by their husbands, or torn away from them.

“I’ve heard, yes. Are you engaged?”

“Yes, just as the Fall happened actually. I only want to get married when it’s safe again though. And preferably… with you ministering it, Princess. I know you’ll probably be very busy but… It would mean a lot to us if you were able to.”

Luna expresses worry, though deep down she isn’t surprised that Derpy had asked her. Renewing marriage will be one of the more crucial steps to recovery for Equestria in the future. More marriages, and the love that comes with them, will do wonders for healing Equestria’s culture.

If Luna can give that kind of happiness to Derpy, the Doctor, and their family, then that’s what she will do.

“Three years is a long time to be engaged, but I’m afraid you may have to wait for several more years. I don’t know when exactly Equestria will be safe enough, but… I’d be honored to give my services. You deserve it.”

Luna spends the following hours dining with the residents of the castle ruins. Though the amount of food is meager, joy is still shared between all, as stories are told and laughter let loose. The carrots went well with Derpy’s superb cooking, and the Doctor was satisfied with his tea.

Luna helps supplement the small feast with some of her rations, including most of the moon cakes which she had saved. After splitting them into smaller pieces and sharing them, the little pastries became the center of attention. The noctrals ask Luna who made them and if they could get the recipe. She promises to ask Star Glow for her recipe once Canterlot is retaken and they are able to return to the Everfree.

Though it was a merry time, the dinner ends shortly, and Luna notices that the rainclouds have finally passed. The time to use the confluence plate has come.

Having finished her time in the castle, Luna quickly gathers her lantern and heads to the confluence plate. She places her hand upon the old rune markings, sighing in relief as they glow in response.

“Princess Luna!”

Luna hadn’t realized how fast she had ran out. Only Derpy caught her leaving as the others were relaxing after dinner.

“Are you leaving already?”

“I have to get the relics from the Moon as quickly as possible. I cannot afford to wait any longer. Though I will not be gone for long. Tell the others that I’ll be back soon. Then I will say a proper goodbye.”

Derpy nods.

“Alright… We’ll be here when you get back!”

With a final turn, Luna steps onto the confluence plate. It glows even brighter with her presence, and in an instant, a bright dome of light engulfs her.

The light grows in brightness before shooting straight into the night sky above, leaving a trail of tiny specks of white light resembling the stars.

As the light blasts away from the plate, Luna vanishes with it.

As the column of light slows and recedes, Luna finds herself at her destination. She gazes up at the endless black sky, shining with luminescent stars. The ground around her is pocketed, grey and rocky.

Behind her, the glow of the world itself basks within the faraway sun’s light. A brilliant blue sphere of life. A slowly moving portrait which Luna has observed for longer than she can remember.

Princess Luna takes in the sight once more, before beginning on a hike over the craggy and dusty hills. The silence around her is the only presence which thrives on the emptiness of the Moon. Here, it pervades.

Her trek reaches a halfway point soon after.

The Divide. The Moon’s permanent line separating the light from the dark.

For the better part of her banishment, Luna had mapped out every single detail of the Moon’s geography, naming the several regions which she had marked. Whenever Luna had a hard time thinking of something to do or just wanted to go for a walk, she would spend her time on the fine line of the Divide. For what the Moon had, it was the most scenic route.

There was one hilly spot on the Divide which Luna had always envisioned a house upon. It has the most even ground of any place on the Moon. If, for whatever reason, Luna decided to settle on the Moon, she would most certainly pick that spot.

After crossing over the Divide, Luna continues her trek. She walks on the dark side of the Moon, her memory guiding her to her destination…

A massive crater, the deepest well on the entire Moon. It was meant to be the unavoidable barrier, the impassable feature which kept the Moon’s prisoner contained within its bowels.

It took decades for Luna to overcome it.

Lining the visible edge of the crater walls lies a crude stair well, which spirals down into the darkness. Luna remembers it well, as she had carved every single step in order to clamber out of the black well. Thousands upon thousands of steps.

Luna begins her descent. As the darkness reaches and touches her, Luna brings up her lantern, which lights her way with an orange glow. Had it been the dark night in Equestria, Luna could see just fine. But on this level, in the bowels of the Moon’s rock, it is an unworldly darkness.

As the crater well engulfs her, the stairs slowly straighten out, going deeper and deeper into the abyss.
Luna walks within the farthest depths of the Moon, crossing a single walkway leading to a feint light at the end.

The very core of the Moon lies before her.

A round platform, shrouded in an ominous blue and green light from ancient spell-bound luminaries, appears with a pedestal at its center. The rock and stone hexagon bears the relics which were forged by the Princess of the Night over a millennia ago, aided by the dark secrets of Nightmare Moon.

Phobos and Deimos. Blades of the Moon.

The two long and venerable blades are dullish grey in color, and exude a feint trail of darkness. Though they slowly begin to glow with a luminescent teal, as if having captured motes of starlight within their metal frames.

Luna carefully grasped them, unimpeded by the relic luminaries that once prevented her from retrieving the ancient weapons during her banishment. The swords hum for a few moments when in Luna’s palms, as if happy and grateful to be in the hands of their owner once more.

Luna has what she came for. Her ultimate key to defeating Dainn.

There is no time to waste. Luna gathers the old yet preserved scabbards of the swords, strapping one to her waist and the other on her back. She sheathes Phobos and Deimos within them, and promptly departs from the core, making her way back to the surface. The turquoise luminaries surrounding the pedestal slowly dim and extinguish themselves, letting the darkness swallow what’s left.

Luna resurfaces, hooking her lantern back to her belt as she exits the crater well. An air of confidence envelopes her. Luna will be back in Equestria soon, and will have everything she needs to go to war.

Luna begins retracing her hike, crossing over the Divide once more and into the light, where she regains visibility of the world. Here, Luna will be able to use Phobos’ powers of teleportation. Both Phobos and Deimos were crafted with enchantments so advanced, they could be capable of matching, and even overcoming, an alicorn’s magic. Phobos was gifted with the ability to utilize various forms of teleportation, without the need to cast any spells. When used properly, it is truly something to fear.

With her trek completed, Luna comes into the light and in view of the world again. She senses the magic within Phobos, its slowly resurging power displayed from its teal glow. It is time to leave.

Though before Luna commences her teleportation, she stops. The void of emptiness around her suddenly feels… different. A strange shift in the Moon air puzzles her, as an unknown force seems to tickle her every sense.

It is all too familiar.

She scans the empty greyness surrounding her. Craters and rocks dot the landscape, though there is no sign of any other being.

Luna blinks. And suddenly, a black figure appears, standing only yards away.

She bears a smile that Luna recognizes as her own.

“… All hail the Princess of the Night… Daughter of the Moon… Welcome back…”

Nightmare Moon whispers, smoothly extending her arms out. Though her voice is hushed and gentle, Luna can hear her as though she were right beside her.

The figure of shadow takes a few steps forward before pausing, fixed within Luna’s glare. Devoid of her star-metal armor of the past, Nightmare Moon looks much more akin to her former host. Her shape and height completely match Luna’s, and she even displays a lack of a horn and featherless wings. Luna finds this odd, and strangely unsettling. It is as if a painted mirror is before her.

“You’ve survived all this time… It was you reaching into my dreams, wasn’t it?”

“I had to try and commune with you somehow… And it seems my attempts have paid off. You have come back.”

“I have, though not for you. Only the swords.” Luna cuts in, snapping at the shadow.

Undeterred, Nightmare Moon continues.

“I know your struggles, Luna. I have learned much from your nightmares… I know all about the pain you feel inside. I find it quite amazing, actually, that you have been able to survive three whole years underneath the caribou. And in only one year you have gathered the means to challenge them. Impressive indeed...”

Nightmare Moon folds her hands behind her as she begins to pace forward, inching closer and closer to Luna with each small step.

“But there is much at stake. Everything depends on you. Would it not be easier to share the burden? To lift the weight off of your shoulders alone?”

She stops, now standing only a few feet away from Luna. Her seriousness turns to sincerity.

“We’ve worked together before, Luna. We can do it again. We can save Equestria, together, and ensure its safety for millennia to come.”

“Hold your tongue, Nightmare. I did not come to the Moon to listen to your false promises. I am past you. There is nothing you have that I will ever want!” Luna replies defiantly.

“I see. A pity. Though I am certainly not surprised.”

Luna looks to her with suspicion, eyes squinted.

“I was not expecting you to agree with me. The Elements cleared your mind, and since then you have gained much wisdom.” Nightmare Moon confesses.

“Then why do you linger? Are you trying to challenge me?”

Luna’s dark reflection chuckles.

“No. I couldn’t hope to fight you, let alone defeat you. I’m not very physical, as you may know.”

In an instant, Nightmare Moon bursts into a shadowy mist which seeps into the ground like rainwater. Luna turns shocked and steps back, though can feel the presence of the mist form all around her as it ascends from below. It hugs her in a strange way, like smog wrapping itself around her torso as it echoes a voice into her ear.

“And I can’t merge with you without your willingness, like last time.”

The shadowy mist quickly pulls away, unsheathing Phobos and carrying the sword with it to a nearby rock.

Nightmare Moon re-materializes seated upon the stone, holding Phobos within her hands. She gently strokes the length of the blade, gazing at it intently.

“The Blades of the Moon… Phobos and Deimos… Truly magnificent, aren’t they? Weapons crafted to hold extraordinary powers. Our last legacy. Had we only the chance to actually use them, those many years ago…”

Nightmare turns to Luna.

“…Things might have been different.”

Luna grips Deimos’ hilt, keeping a subtle guard while staring down Nightmare Moon. However, Nightmare Moon shows no signs of aggression, and simply remains seated, returning her eyes to the sheen of Phobos.

Luna has had enough. She will not be played by her twisted shadow.

“You have nothing left to say, Nightmare Moon. Return Phobos to me, or I will take it back myself.”

“Oohh, very well… Allow me to sheath it for you.”

In one blink, Nightmare Moon disappears without a trace. Luna keeps her hand on Deimos, her eyes scrambling to find the shadow of black.

SSCHLUNK!

“W-…w-wha..”

All of Luna’s senses explode. Pain blares throughout her body like a shockwave.

The air in her lungs freezes, as if she is being choked from within.

Luna looks down, and sees the end of Phobos protruding from her chest, gutted straight through her heart. Her eyes widen in horror as they lock on to the blade, her hands and body trembling uncontrollably from shock.

Nightmare Moon, still clenching Phobos’ hilt from behind Luna, whispers into her ear with a smile.

“…Go to sleep…”

With an unsettling tear of flesh, Nightmare Moon rips Phobos out from Luna’s chest, letting the Princess fall to her knees with a cry of sheer agony.

As Luna reels from the gaping hole in her chest, she collapses, falling to the ground in a fit of painful spasms.

Luna’s struggles cease as her body lies still.

Her eyes, frozen.

Herself, gone.

Author's Note

Thank you for reading! =]

Ch 8: Lucid

“It does not do to dwell on dreams and forget to live.”

... ….

…. ….

…..

……

…. ….

….. ….

…….

…

…Death…

…Is this what it’s like?

…

…Dark… Black… Cold...

…Lonely…

…How could this be…

…

…No… This…

…This is a dream.

…How?

…?!?...

“Aaah!! Hah…Hhaah…”

Luna wakes in a dark and unknown place, gasping for air as though she had emerged from a deep pool of water. The floor beneath her is made of marble tiles, which stretch out and angle upwards into walls, creating a small room. The surrounding darkness is thick.

The presence of another is felt, the heavy air rippling as she pants.

“Ghaah… H-… Harder than expected….”

The voice of Nightmare Moon reaches Luna’s ears, writhing in pain as if she had just fallen from a great height.

Luna’s vision slowly returns as she hunches over, her hands flat on the floor. She remains focused on herself, breathing heavily and shaking from a sudden chill within her body. As though a gale of cold wind swept right underneath her skin, enveloping her bones.

Looking down, Luna’s eyes widen in terror as she takes sight of the massive hole in her chest, right where Phobos had struck.

Where blood, tissue, and organs should be, there is nothing. Her insides are simply gone. Ribs, lungs, heart, and all.

Reeling back, Luna’s gaze of shock turns to one of malice as her eyes lock onto Nightmare beside her, who still struggles to lift herself above her knees.

“YOU.”

In a burst of strength, Luna lunges for Nightmare, thrusting her against the stone wall with one arm pinned across her neck as she grits her teeth.

“You know not what you’ve done!”

“Urk… I’m pleased you caught on… Gnh… so quickly. I wouldn’t want you to think you died.” Nightmare spouts, struggling to speak under Luna’s force.

“Hardly. I know full well what you’ve done. This is a dream. MY dream. We cannot freely traverse dreamscapes without magic!”

“I’d love to speak more with you, Luna, but it’s rather hard to breathe like this.” Nightmare says plainly.

Luna glares at her for but a second more before releasing her, letting her clear her throat.

“I know you. You have a reason to be here. You seek something to benefit yourself.”

“So quick to assume,” Nightmare huffs, getting to her feet, “Have you ever thought that I might be trying to help you by diving into your subconscious?”

“Considering your methods, I highly doubt it.” Luna retorts, pointing to the hole within her chest.

Nightmare Moon merely glances at the damage she inflicted upon Luna, seemingly indifferent to how painful it was.

“You already stated the obvious before… You will never accept anything I have to offer. What other choice did I have than to take you by surprise? I know you’ll never believe me, but… I did this to help you.”

There is only so much that one can assume, and Luna has assumed much on Nightmare Moon’s true intentions. Perhaps it might be better to ask questions, even if they seem pointless.

“If we are truly going to be stuck together for the time within my dreams… Then be honest with me, Nightmare. Why did you do this?”

“… I’ll spare you a heartfelt speech. Put simply, I’m doing this as my contribution to your war effort. Specifically, to further your chances of victory.”

Luna furrows her brow. “How so?”

“Having Phobos and Deimos will undoubtedly lend you an edge against Dainn… But you’ll need to be at your peak to defeat him. You will need your magic.”

“I need a horn to cast magic. If bringing us here was to remind me of that, then I question your sanity.”

“Ahh but Luna… Magic doesn’t come from the horn. It’s already stored within us. The horn is just used to draw it out and direct it. Your own mind tells your horn what to do, just as it tells your arms or legs to move when you want them to. I know of a way to allow you to tap into your magic… Even without your horn.”

Luna remains suspicious. Had such a technique ever existed before, Luna would have surely known of it. Whatever ritual or method Nightmare Moon is proposing… it is likely of a dark origin.

Nightmare Moon continues.

“We need to find one of your dreams that contains the ‘locus’, as I call it, which will act as the key to your stored magic. Thus, we are going to have to go from dream to dream until we find it. And without a current use of magic, as you pointed out, we need to find your waking points. I’m sure you recall them, yes?”

Luna slowly nods, attempting to speak up, only to be cut off by Nightmare as she resumes.

“I should also warn you… this process is in no way painless. You will experience mounting headaches, due to the building pressure and lack of a horn to channel your magic. Use it only when absolutely necessary, lest you permanently damage your brain. We wouldn’t want that.”

Nightmare’s words come off as having been spoken from a doctor. A doctor which may not have all of Luna’s best interests in mind.

“… How do I know this isn’t a ruse? That you won’t simply betray me and attempt to merge yourself with me again?”

Nightmare’s lips curl into a sisterly smile.

“I’ll always have my agendas, Luna. But think of it this way… I’m the least of your worries right now. You have been mustering as much strength as you can to challenge the caribou. I’m only adding to that strength. With or without me… You’ll have your magic back. And with it, another tool to help you save everything. And everyone.”

As much as Luna would rather wave all of this off, she sees no other choice. She must escape these dreams and return to the waking world as quickly as possible. And if Nightmare Moon is telling the truth, then this side-tracking just might bear a critical advantage. Access to magic untouched for years.

However… If Nightmare Moon is lying… Then Luna may very well be nearing her own demise.

Her choice is decided. Luna extends her hand to Nightmare, who promptly shakes it to seal their sudden alliance.

Pulling away from her now-ally, Princess Luna scans the marble room. It appears to be for storage use, with one wooden door directly behind them.

Towards the wall opposite the door, both Phobos and Deimos lie still. They lean against the stone, yearning to be handled once more.

Luna moves to the swords, picking up Deimos. Its hilt is warm to the touch.

As she grasps onto Phobos however, Luna is stopped short. The sword refuses to budge from its place, as though it were welded to the wall itself.

Luna tries several times in vain to remove it, until Nightmare Moon urges her aside.

To Luna’s surprise, Nightmare lifts Phobos with unencumbered ease.

“It would appear that we are to have our own protection.” Nightmare says with a smile.

Luna frowns, sheathing Deimos away. A troubling and unfortunately-necessary sacrifice, it would seem. All the more reason to keep a close eye on her new companion.

Luna sighs before approaching the wooden door.

“Fine. Then let’s be off.”

As the two exit from the wooden door, with Nightmare Moon in front, they come into a small hallway, one which heavily resembles those found within Canterlot Castle. In the hallway, shadows of ponies go back and forth, some imitating a patrol of guards and others as servants within the castle performing their duties. The ghostly presences pass through both Luna and Nightmare, oblivious to them.

Within Luna’s subconscious, nothing is in a transfixed form. This plane is a melting pot of dreams, memories, thoughts, and sometimes the rare precognition. Luna is in her element. And still, she cannot tell what lies ahead. This is above all the greatest obstacle of the dreams to come. Unpredictability.

Despite the unknown lying ahead, Luna does recognize aspects of the current dreamscape. The dream within Canterlot Castle was one she had a year ago, just before waking in Umbra after being rescued by the noctrals. Though true to the unstable nature of Luna’s subconscious plane, the current dream is flipped in reverse, making finding the waking point much more difficult.

Luna and Nightmare Moon move briskly down the hallway, passing through another set of doors which reveal the castle’s main hall. It is lined with torn banners and cracked pillars. The stained glass windows along the huge walls are all shattered, as though some one jumped through each one repeatedly. The castle throne lies at the very end.

Though there is much more covering the great hall.

The entire hall is splattered with an obscene amount of blood, sticking everywhere from the marble tiles to the columns, and even parts of the ceiling. The floor lies littered with chunks of flesh and dismembered limbs, organs crushed and wrung out. Those pieces which are identifiable look to belong to a caribou. Luna assumes it to be the king himself.

Upon reaching the end of the hall, Luna and Nightmare inspect the throne. The seat has been split in half, as if an executioner brought down his axe upon the wide chair. The attached plaque which held the sheared horns of the Princesses as trophies is nowhere to be seen.

At the foot of the throne, sprawled on the steps, lies Celestia. The bright red collar around her neck standing out from her white coat.

She pants and coughs as Luna approaches.

“I… I never imagined you could do something like this, Luna. Is killing your only pleasure? You’ve become nothing but a monster! Our peace is shattered… Now all we will know is war…”

Luna’s saddened stare slowly transforms into a snarl of vehemence.

“You were stronger than this. How could you let them break you?! You’ve let a pretender of a king utterly defeat you, even coerce you into acceptance. You… We… could have prevented all of this.”

Nightmare Moon stands beside Luna, sneering.

“I wouldn’t give her so much credit… Don’t you remember how easy it was to defeat her when we returned?”

“No. That Celestia was different. She wanted to forgive me. This one… Is just like the Celestia that ignored me. The one who cared only for herself, even while I grew disillusioned and hateful from under her shadow those thousands of years ago...”

“Then what would you do with this Celestia?”

Luna continues to stare at the broken Celestia before her, but then twitches her ears, shaking her head back into focus. She calms herself, the snarl on her face disappearing.

“…If you think I don’t know what you’re doing Nightmare, you’re sadly mistaken. I won’t give in to your influence and kill my sister.”

“And here I thought you grew out of being paranoid,” Nightmare Moon shakes her head, looking to Celestia, “I don’t want to kill Celestia. Or make you kill her, for that matter.”

Luna quickly turns to Nightmare Moon, watching her intently as she shrugs.

“Killing her does nothing for me, or anyone really. Let ‘this one’ wallow. We should be finding your waking point and moving on.”

Nightmare Moon promptly turns away from the throne. Even though she still thought badly of Celestia, Luna heard something different in Nightmare’s tone. As though she was speaking much more spontaneously, instead of selecting her words.

She has motives here, regardless of her ‘helpful’ intentions. Luna decides to remain wary.

Returning her attention to the throne, Luna gazes down at Celestia as she holds her wounded self. Her face is buried beneath her mane, and even if Luna could see it again, she is sure that she would not recognize it.

With a somber look, Luna leaves Celestia on the steps, turning to catch up with Nightmare.

Only then does the entire room begin to rumble viciously, mimicking that of an Ursa Major’s growling stomach.

Both Luna and Nightmare Moon stand at the ready, blades drawn. Blackness, with a vile stench and horrid form, seeps like tar from the walls and ceiling. The puddles forming on the floor grow lengthy, tentacle-like limbs, made of a sickly fluid.

The limbs boast grotesque hands upon them as they line the edges of the room and turn towards Celestia. Those closest inch forward like slugs, extending themselves to grab hold of Celestia’s arms and legs. The nerve-wracking sound of flesh tearing and bones breaking echoes across the hall as Luna witnesses the monstrous hands eviscerate her sister.

They then direct themselves towards Luna and Nightmare, crawling in their direction in a sluggish manner as more and more spawn from the surrounding sludge.

“I’m going to assume they intend to kill us.” Nightmare notes as she slashes at one spindly hand, causing it to emit a shrill cry and dissolve. Others take its place.

“These creatures are familiar… They were in this dream. Near its end. They had latched onto me and dragged me downwards after I was thrown into the room we began in.”

“Brilliant. We can’t progress unless we get past them.”

As Nightmare Moon hacks at another limb, Luna dwells for a moment.

“I know what we have to do.”

“And that is?”

“Let them take us.”

Nightmare Moon growls under her breath.

“I don’t know if you hadn’t noticed, but your pitiful sister just got ripped apart a moment ago. I needn’t remind you of what could happen if we die in this plane!”

“These monsters are what brought me to my waking point! You must trust me on this!”

The countless hands and limbs completely encircle Luna and Nightmare Moon, slowly pushing them back to back.

“I sincerely hope you’re right about this.” Nightmare snarls as she and Luna drop their guard, putting Phobos and Deimos within their scabbards.

The hands of black begin laying upon them, indiscriminate in where they touch. Some extend to longer lengths and twirl themselves in a tight circle around Luna and Nightmare, trapping them in a coil and drenching them in slime.

Now tightly pressed back to back, their wings bending uncomfortably, Luna and Nightmare offer no resistance as the prehensile limbs continue to restrain their victims.

The floor beneath them is now only a thick pool of sludge, pulling them down slowly like quicksand.

Before they could reach for another breath, Luna and Nightmare submerge into the dark pool, swallowed alive by the monstrosity of the dream.

As the pressure builds and the light wanes, Luna loses all of her senses, and blacks out.

The stars! They’re so beautiful.

Another lullaby…Please

When will I find my path?

The whole Moon?? I can be like Tia now??

I will make you proud!

Wh-…Where is everypony?

Why can’t I just be loved?...

Luna reawakens, finding herself with Nightmare Moon in the gardens of the castle. Rotting vines block any exit, and a sickly haze surrounds the decrepit garden.

The second dream.

A commotion stirs from the center of the dying garden. A familiar voice echoes.

“No!! Let me go! Stop! Please!”

Celestia’s cries reach Luna’s ears. She rushes out into the garden, leaving Nightmare Moon in the dust.

Before her appear her doppelgangers. The red and purple collared Lunas.

They cross the garden ahead of Luna, dragging a blindfolded and struggling Celestia.

“We must remember our place, sister. You mustn’t disobey.” Says the red collard Luna, pulling Celestia by her bound-together wrists with little effort.

The purple collared Luna follows, her hips and shoulders swaying sensually as she crawls on all fours.

“Just give it a bit of time, sis. You’ll love it soon enough. Then you’ll be begging for more and more and more and more. That’s when the fun really starts.”

“Stop this, please… I don’t want to go!”

Her fist clenched tightly around Deimos, Luna dashes towards her doubles and her sister, commanding their attention.

“GET YOUR HANDS OFF HER!!!!”

With one powerful slash, Luna decapitates her red collared double. Celestia cries out as the headless body falls to the ground.

Luna wastes no time, grabbing hold of her purple collared double and impaling her with Deimos repeatedly, disemboweling her torso until she is utterly lifeless.

Just as quickly as her anger rose, it subsides as Luna moves to aid Celestia.

“How quick you are to kill yourself for her…” Nightmare Moon mutters, looking over the corpses of Luna’s doubles as she walks past them.

Luna ignores her, keeping her eyes on Celestia as she cradles her and removes her blindfold.

“L-Luna! Is it… Is it truly you this time?” she stammers, oblivious to the hole in Luna’s chest.

“It’s ok, Celestia. I’m here with you now. You are safe.”

Celestia’s eyes turn from relief to terror.

“No… noo… Nowhere is safe, Luna! The caribou… Dainn… they’re everywhere! I see them… every single day…Every time I wake and every time I sleep! They won’t leave me alone!!”

Celestia stares at Luna as she is cradled in her arms. Her eyes well with tears of pain, her voice quivering and rife with fear.

“Luna… Please… I can’t live knowing my ponies are crying out for me… And that I can’t save them. I… need you to end it. Take me away from this nightmare!!”

Luna freezes, choking up. Her eyes dart as she stammers.

“N-no, I… I can’t…”

“Would it not be the merciful thing to do?”

Nightmare slowly appears over Luna’s shoulder, hands held behind her back. Luna resists casting a glare at her.

“…You’d never understand what family means, Nightmare…”

“… No… I suppose not… Though-…”

Nightmare Moon stops, cutting herself short.

Luna looks back, noticing her gaze fixed upwards, beyond the garden. She follows her sight line, turning her head up to the sky.

In the outline of an enormous pale Moon, appears a shadow, floating in place as though it were held by unseen strings.

Instantly, Luna recognizes the winged shadow. It had saved her when she confronted her doubles in this past dream. She had long suspected it to be an extension of Nightmare Moon’s intrusion into her sleep. Those suspicions can now be discarded.

As Luna looks upon it with lucid eyes, she now notices the winged shadow resembles a giant crow. Its wispy feathers exude trails of eerie light, and its talons resemble dark and dull scimitars.

Perhaps what is most unsettling is the crow’s lack of a visible head. And yet two pupil-less eyes hover in their rightful place, glowing a deep blue.

The winged shadow remains utterly silent, its wings stretched outward. It slowly descends, daintily curling its talons around the stone barriers of the garden’s very edge.

“I don’t believe it to be hostile…” Luna states, looking back to Nightmare Moon.

Celestia continues to gaze upward, fixated on the ethereal beast.

Like a ghost rising from its grave, Celestia ascends from Luna’s arms, enthralled by the presence of the winged shadow. She steps sluggishly, her hands still bound before her.

“Celestia? What are-,”

Luna stops as she feels Nightmare’s hand grip her shoulder.

“Wait.”

The winged shadow extends a scaly foot as Celestia stops before it, becoming scooped up in the talons of the crow. With a massive beat of its wings, the winged shadow lifts from its perch, ascending gracefully above the light haze.

Like an angel of death to a lost soul, the winged shadow ferries Celestia off into the rays of moonlight, flying until they are but a speck against the pale Moon.

Moments of silence pass as Luna and Nightmare stare at the Moon’s glow.

“One can only wonder at how symbolic that must be. Might this be a reflection of your own feelings, Luna?” Nightmare queries.

“If they are… Then I’m not sure what to make of them.”

“You shouldn’t forget what dreams are, Luna. They are windows which show one’s past, present, and future. A reflection of what one was, is, and will be.”

As much as it pains Luna, Nightmare is right. But there is more to be focusing on than the hidden meanings of past dreams. Luna still has friends waiting on her to return.

“That’s a subject to dwell on later. The winged shadow embracing me was my waking point in this dream. Now that it is gone, I’m not sure where-,”

A wave of air pushes down upon Luna and Nightmare from directly above.

Just as they raise their heads, the open talons of the winged shadow crash down upon them, trapping both Luna and Nightmare under each clawed foot.

The winged shadow quickly lifts them up into the haze above, each blue eye focused on each of its captives. The force of its wings churn the air, transforming the haze into a dense layer of black cloud, covering any trace of the garden below.

Though whipped and shaken violently with each beat of the shadow’s wings, Luna manages to grab hold of Deimos. She readies for a swing at the crow’s legs, calling out to Nightmare.

“We will strike its legs in tandem! Are you-,”

The winged shadow suddenly cries out in pain, wavering for but a moment. Luna looks to the other set of its clutched talons.

Phobos’ mark shows upon the beastly crow’s scaled leg, the gash bleeding smoke. Luna watches as it opens its talons, letting Nightmare plummet into the black clouds below. She vanishes without a trace.

Without delay, Luna quickly rears Deimos again, but the winged shadow beats faster this time, rising even further into the nothingness above. The shaking and rattling persists, causing Luna’s grip to loosen.

Deimos falls, spinning as it is swallowed by the clouds.

Their climb continues, the air becoming frigid. The bright and pale Moon casts them as a silhouette amongst the clouds. The winged shadow seems intent on flying forever, taking Luna with it to the dark heavens above.

Luna frantically tries to recall the dream. And suddenly remembers hearing a voice before the dream ended. The voice of Sweetie Belle.

Her voice pulled Luna away from the winged shadow. It was this act which became the waking point.

That meant that now, escaping from the winged shadow would give transport to the next dream. But there was no way now, without Deimos.

As the air grows colder and colder, Luna feels a rising pain within her skull. A migraine festers within her forehead, imitating the anguish of bashing one’s head against a steel wall. The pressure builds, ricocheting down her spine and back up to her horn’s stub in a painful spike. The stub of her horn lets loose tiny inklings of teal light. Her eyes glow briefly before she squints them shut in pain.

With a rising cry of defiance, agony, and desperation, Luna suddenly exerts a volatile bubble of energy to surround herself, its light illuminating the black feathers of the winged shadow.

The bright bubble expands rapidly, pushing away the talons of the crow. It vibrates uncontrollably before unleashing a massive pulse of pure magic, bathing the cold air in a teal glow.

The winged shadow reels, flapping and struggling to regain balance in the air.

Luna floats for but a second in the aftermath, her limbs outstretched and herself freed of the winged shadow, before gravity takes her.

The rush of the wind and air around her grows more and more violent as she descends, dampening her senses until there is nothing but blackness.

…Dear sister…

I accept you into my being.

...Oh dearest sister…

I will let you in.

...The mistakes you have made…

will grant us our rightful place.

What fault do I bear?!? NONE! It was you who did wrong!!

...What have I done?...

Coward. Sealing me away.

...Forgive me!...

I will have my vengeance.

...It was a Nightmare…

to wait a thousand years, for my return.

…We are one…

…and always will be…

Luna awakes once again, this time on the endless plains of silver grass.

The third dream.

The grass seemingly cushioned Luna’s fall from the previous dream. No clouds linger above. Only a night sky filled with gleaming stars.

Luna’s sudden outburst of magic was unexpected, and indeed quite painful. As she reels from the advent of it, Luna realizes that Nightmare Moon had fallen into this dream first, and thereby must have found the locus for Luna’s magic.

Though exactly what she did is unclear, and still troubling. For all Luna knows, Nightmare Moon could be plotting other things at this very moment, somewhere within this empty dream.

Pushing herself up, Luna spots Deimos lying only inches away from her, planted into the soft ground.

Luna rises to the emptiness of the fields around her, acquiring Deimos once more. The grasslands of grey hold nothing to see.

But there are plenty of things to hear.

Luna’s ears swivel as her head turns, catching the feint voices of others from all around her. She picks one direction and follows the voice, itself now singling out as Luna continues to walk.

After only a few minutes, the voice has completely drowned out the others, and is undeniably clear.

It belongs to one of her Sentinels… High Tide.

His words ring out, as if echoing across a lake, yet remains clear and pristine. They belong to a memory… a conversation Luna once had with him.

Luna stops still to listen.

………

“… Umbra is actually quite diverse in climate. I’ve traveled all across the country, to each mountain and each river, each forest and each valley. It is beautiful. I’d never pick any other place to call home.

…Oh no, no. I’m a traveler at heart! I’ve been to many places in Equestria. Trottingham, Las Pegasus, Manehatten, and many other amazing places!

…Oh that’s easy. Favorite trip was to the Mareibbean. I went there with my dad one year. Had a little cabana on the beach. The weather, the sun, the food, the wildlife, the locals… Everything was gorgeous. Maybe you’d like to come with me next time? We should all go!”

………

Luna realizes this was from some months ago in Haven. Her voice is not present in the memory.

It is at this moment that Luna notices the tiny flower before her, settling right below where High Tide’s voice was emanating from. With his voice now gone, the flower begins to wilt, losing its bold colors and drooping to the side.

The other voices of Luna’s Sentinels return, feint and reaching from different directions. Luna picks up another and follows.

She arrives at the second flower. The voice belonging to Crowe.

………

“…Do you need me to sharpen any of your blades, Princess?

…Ah, ok. Are you sure? I’ve just been a little bit bored lately. I miss my tools and my workshop back in Cyllene. And since we aren’t in Haven’s armory, I feel a little… idle. There isn’t much to do but think and walk as we trek towards the Griffin Kingdoms.

…I’m not one for a whole lot of conversation, but… Thank you, Princess. If I think of anything to talk about, I’ll let you know. I’m glad that you’re so caring of us.”

………

The memory ends. The flower wilts. Other voices call.

Luna finds the third flower. The voice belonging to Spirit.

………

“…Hmm? Oh, Princess Luna.

…Yes. I’m doing fine. I figured I would take the full watch. Give some of the lookouts a break.

…Yes, I’m… Well no… It’s…

I just… was thinking of my mother. She passed away before you selected me for this mission. She was my whole inspiration for becoming a scout. Everything I know, I learned from her. Being out on watch makes me… feel better. Reminds me of the times my mother would take me places.

…I… Thank you. I work every day in her memory… I’m beyond proud to be her daughter.

…If I may be honest, Princess… In many ways… You are just like her.”

………

The memory ends. The flower wilts. Other voices call.

Luna finds the fourth flower. The voice belonging to Dew Drop.

………

“…I know, right? I’m just glad you found that joke funny. The best way to tell someone apart is from their laugh!

…You know Princess Luna, I never thought in my life that I’d ever get to meet you in person. Let alone spend this much time around you. Being on this team is… One heck of a dream come true!

…I’m just happy that you consider me so special. Thank you, Princess. Before you go, I gotta ask you about this pony I’ve been hearing about. I forget the town she lived in, but I heard she could make some amazing comedy! I’ve got to meet her!”

………

The memory ends. The flower wilts. Other voices call.

Luna finds the fifth flower. The voice belonging to Star Glow.

………

“… Oh thank you, Princess. I’m very glad you enjoy it! Mangoes are hard to come by here, and I wanted to save that one for you. It was my first crack at making smoothies too!

…Yes! Speaking of Sweetie Belle… And, well, everyone here… I’m happy to be a part of all this, Princess. What we are doing here… Is good. It’s right.

…I do. I make ponies happy by giving them food they can enjoy. Food that they don’t have to beg for or be deprived of. Food they deserve to have simply because they are people like everyone else.

… Not at all! I used to cater to much bigger groups back in Umbra. Here in Haven, I can manage just fine, thanks to all the help from the other cooks here, that is! Maybe you’d like to come down to the place I worked at sometime? It’s in Pasiphae. It’s got the best baked goods in all of Umbra!”

………

The memory ends. The flower wilts. Other voices call.

Luna finds the sixth flower. The voice belonging to Night Seer.

………

“…Everything is accounted for and on schedule, Princess Luna. You should be able to conduct the summit in the next few days, and afterwards, be ready for the move on Canterlot.

…Well, I was considered a scholar for some time. I have some relatives at the College of Setebos, in northern Umbra. I went there myself for a few years. Never actually graduated but… I intend to try again someday. Also to visit the town itself. I grew up there for most of my life.

…That would be nice, thank you. Perhaps we could bring the others and Lantern too.

…What? N-no, I… Princess please, Lantern and I are just friends, just as we are with all of the Sentinels. As much as we have time to spend, we must remain professional. There’s a lot at stake if we don’t…

…Alright, alright… I admit…

…She has beautiful eyes…”

………

The memory ends. The flower wilts. One last voice calls.

Luna finds the seventh, and final, flower. The voice belonging to Lantern.

………

“…Liberty sure seemed happy after that promotion. She’s a kind pony, and strong too. I think she will be perfect for leading this new guard.

…Yes. We’re actually good friends. Ever since the mission to the Crystal Empire, that is. She definitely is a unique pony. Kinda reminds me of my brother a little bit. He’s in scout training right now, in Cyllene. Taking after me, I guess.

…I’m sure he would be honored to be here too. He could meet the others and Night Seer!

…Eyeing? Night Seer? Me?... Ah, well… I guess it must be a little bit obvious, huh.

…I think you of all knows that best. If you hadn’t chosen us… None of us would have become such good friends. We would all be scattered across Umbra. But now we can’t imagine life without the other.

…Thank you, Princess Luna. Without you, I never would have met my best friends… And I never would have met the love of my life…”

………

The memory ends. The flower wilts.

All lies still.

Luna now stands in the silence of the fields. Recollecting her memories was heartwarming, as if she were reading letters from home while away at war. Though now… There does not seem to be anything left to do.

Yet there is still one part of this dream not accounted for. There were eight flowers, not just seven. The eighth one was the one Luna plucked.

Nightmare Moon must be in here somewhere.

Luna begins walking again, noticing for the first time a change in the terrain. She comes over a small hill, revealing it to be the edge of a large crater. The silver grass covers all but the very center, where instead, a large patch of luminescent flowers bloom. Their petals look to be imbued with the forces winter.

Among the cold flowers is Nightmare Moon.

Luna clamors down, walking up behind Nightmare Moon as she lies peacefully on her side, letting the cold and icy flowers cushion her.

“… You’ve arrived. I was beginning to worry that I had not found the locus in time.” Nightmare states, as she fumbles with the lining of an ice-blue petal.

“So you did find the locus here. The resurgence I just experienced was thanks to you…”

“Indeed. Now, when under duress, you will be able to utilize your magic in… arduous bursts. Who would have thought that the locus was but a lonesome blue flower?”

Nightmare Moon sighs with content, adjusting herself to sit more comfortably. Luna places one hand gently on the hilt of Deimos.

“I like this dream. The flora is beautiful. It would make a better sight on the Moon’s surface, in place of the barren wastes. Wouldn’t you say?”

“If some were willing to live on the Moon, then yes. It would be a waste if no one was there to see them.” Luna replies, gazing out at the swath of icy flowers. They are significantly bigger than the wilted flowers which held Luna’s memories. And they indeed emit an air of frigid grace and charm.

Nightmare Moon agrees with a nod. She remains seated on her mat of winter colors, with Luna standing behind her. She speaks up once again before Luna can muster any words, looking up to the blackness above, with its stars shining bright.

“Let me ask you something, Luna… Do you truly know what the stars are?”

Luna does not answer, preferring to let Nightmare answer herself.

“They are Suns… Like Celestia’s. Ours is but a speck in comparison. Do you know what this means? There are countless Suns and Moons in the blackness of night. All of that power…”

Luna shakes her head.

“No, that… that can’t be possible.”

Nightmare continues undaunted.

“We know very little of our existence, Luna. But I have discovered the truth. A blasphemous truth, to those who fear me. But the world will learn for themselves soon enough. Give them a century or two, and they will uncover the very same revelation.”

Nightmare’s thoughts can only be delusions of grandeur. She may be incredibly misguided, or wrong entirely, but she seems to believe every word of her statement.

A revelation… That the hundreds upon thousands of stars in the night sky… Are not stars at all… But distant Suns.

As Luna clears her mind, Nightmare Moon rises, now staring down at the motionless winter blossoms.

“… I believe the dreams end here…”

She draws Phobos, keeping her back to Luna. The windless air grows heavy with tension.

“…Do you still like to dance, Luna? Is the waltz still your favorite?”

Luna gazes back stalwartly in the face of the out of place question. She draws Deimos, preparing for what can only be a vicious duel.

“More or less… Depends on the manner of which one wants to dance.”

Nightmare’s stance changes.

Luna braces, bringing Deimos up to guard in a flash.

Thump

Phobos lies on the ground.

Luna stares, completely baffled.

“I’m not asking to dance. I was merely curious. I always liked the waltz myself.” Nightmare states with a grin.

Luna stammers.

“… You…You seek only to deceive me. This is a trick! I won’t let my guard down!”

“That’s fine, Luna. We need your guard up anyway.”

Luna shakes her head, becoming more frustrated. She holds Deimos closer to her, gripping it tightly with both hands. Her eyes remain fixed on Nightmare, unwavering.

“Stop this talk of nonsense! Tell me what is going on here, now!”

She continues.

“With the locus found, we have no more reason to be here. To find the way back to the waking world, and your body…”

Nightmare Moon looks to Phobos.

“… Is to repeat history.”

“I…I don’t…” Deimos slowly sinks as Luna’s arms lower.

“I don’t expect you to understand now. But I expect you to do it. You have people counting on you back home, and I’ve kept you too long. I’ve helped you, Luna. Now, you must return the favor.”

Luna puts Deimos away, replacing it with Phobos as she scoops it from the ground. It hums gently within her hands as Nightmare Moon turns for the last time.

She extends her arms out, as though preparing to worship some entity above. Leaving her back exposed.

Luna looks to Phobos once more, hesitating. Unable to understand why Nightmare Moon would do all of this and just accept her own…

Perhaps it is not the time for Luna to understand. Nightmare already stated all that was needed. Others are waiting for Luna. Others that need her.

SSCHLUNK!

With a burst of force, Luna thrusts Phobos through Nightmare’s chest, piercing her heart.

She falls to her knees, trembling and choking.

“G-gah… Agh… It’s done, th-then. H-haah… Hah…”

Nightmare Moon slides off of Phobos, and falls face first onto the silver grass with an earthy thud. The cold flowers ripple outwards from her corpse.

A tiny smile stuck on her lips.

“Ghuh… Auughh…”

Her body instinctively stretching from a long night’s sleep, Luna awakes, pushing herself out of bed. She stands up and rubs her eyes.

Another day in Haven. She must have slept in again.

Luna yawns, “Odd… Sweetie Belle is usually here to wake me-,”

There are no other cots in the housing complex. Nothing remains inside the caves.

Inside the caves.

Inside Haven.

Luna jumps to her senses, her eyes blaring open.

“W-wh…What? How… How did I…”

Disbelief wracks Luna’s thoughts. She has no memory of returning from the Moon or even from the Everfree Forest. Her last memories are of the fields of silver grass. All had went black once she had ended Nightmare Moon. There was simply no way for her to have been brought…

It must be another dream, but it is almost nothing of the sort. Everything feels beyond real to Luna. The soft touch of the used sheets on her cot. The cold and flat stone on her feet. Even the droplets of water from the cave ceiling fall upon her head with tiny plops.

Yet Luna’s surroundings are very much different. There is practically nothing within the housing caves, and not a soul in sight.

Luna herself has a simple garb on, one she usually wears for sleeping. The housing cave itself seems to be laden in layers of dust and mounds of dirt. Luna’s cot is the only thing clean.

Setting out from the complex, Luna begins to explore, heading towards the main cavern.

Destroyed pieces of tables and weapons lay in the corners and nooks of the passage ways, and upon arriving in the main cavern, Luna finds its entirety to be empty, save for the remnants of a previous occupation. Tables, equipment, and other broken items cover the ground, as though the caves themselves have been abandoned for decades. Everything is in shambles, rotting and decaying from exposure to time.

Pressing onward, Luna exits the caves and appears on the slopes of Haven.

For miles and miles around her, Haven is war-torn. Scorch marks dot the landscape. Blasted craters mar open fields. Snapped trees and fragments of rock litter the terrain.

Bodies upon bodies lie among the destruction. Masses of soldiers which Luna cannot recognize, no matter how close she looks at them. As though they exist only as the blur from the edges of an old photograph.

The sky is pale and grey, blanketed in smoke. Massive shapes move as the clouds do, resembling airships. They number in the thousands, each one emitting streaks of light and columns of fire at the other. Sounds of explosions eclipse the eruption of the sky into flames.

On the earth’s level, along the edges of the mountain connected to Haven, stands an unknown and massive city. Smoke and fire billow from its many sky-scrapers, reflecting the conflict above in ferocity and violence.

On the slopes below Luna, there is something even more bewildering.

It is Luna herself, with Phobos and Deimos drawn in each hand. Standing opposite another…

…An alicorn…

The alicorn shines brilliantly with the sun’s radiance, even when appearing defeated. Luna can’t make out anything of the mare, but can only assume her identity.

As they stand apart, the ground shakes slowly, rumbling as if the world itself is suddenly cracking apart.

The vibrations pierce the air as well, followed by a massive shadow appearing, creeping its way slowly along the ground towards Luna.

Luna suspects another appearance by Nightmare Moon, even though she had only just killed her in the last dreamscape. The shadow only grows larger, and with it comes a dreadful sound of twisting and writhing metal.

As it echoes painfully across the sky, a massive airship of steel plummets from the clouds. Its shattered frame careens towards Luna.

Luna remains frozen in place as the broken ship blocks all light and blackens everything in the path of its collision course.

The ship crushes Luna. A wall of dust spreads from its impact, smothering everything in sight.

Why?...

How could you do this?

After all you’ve done for us…

This is what you want to be…

After all these years…

You want nothing…

…But Sunlight…

Her lungs are filled with dust.

“Hahh-,”

Luna coughs, bringing a hand to her chest as she clears her lungs. She hacks until her throat begins to ache.

She is back on the Moon’s craggy surface. In the same exact spot where Nightmare Moon had impaled her.

Luna’s chest feels whole again as she rubs her side.

Her strange journey at Nightmare’s hands was real.

The lined scar over her heart stands as proof.

Princess Luna stumbles to her feet, her head pounding. She gently rubs the stub of her horn and her temples, feeling as though a jackhammer was taken to her skull.

Phobos and Deimos lie nearby, placed beside one another as they were found in the core of the Moon. Luna picks them up, sheathing Deimos and keeping Phobos on hand. The blade faintly glows, pulsating in light as Luna taps its power.

It is time to head back home.

Luna’s arrival back in the Castle of the Two Sisters was met with friendly faces and sighs of relief. Derpy had informed her that she was on the Moon for roughly four days. Luna became frantic.

With urgency, Luna had departed the castle grounds and began forging her way through the Everfree once more, but not before apologizing and bidding farewell to Derpy and her family, as well as Night Wing and her noctral team. Luna promised she would return for them soon.

Now, Luna nears the end of the Everfree Forest’s length, preparing to resume a stealthy mode of travel underneath the current cover of night. She drapes over her camo tarp bef-.

“SCRAHH!!’’

“What in-…”

Luna stops, ducking as a large bird nearly collides with her head. The tropical bird stops, finding a spot to perch on a nearby tree. It faces Luna.

Luna takes a long look at the oddly colorful and… one-antlered bird. Its purple beak cracks a smile at its edges, as though it’s trying to look smug in front of an old friend. The white, bushy eyebrows above its yellow-red eyes lift up-…

This bird is bizarrely familiar. As though Luna is staring at…

“… Discord?”

The bird begins to squawk, which suddenly turns into a joyful laughter.

“Surprise! How nice of you to recognize me! I was afraid you wouldn’t be able to notice my beautiful new beak.”

“Decided to finally show your face, after all these years. It begs the question of why.” Luna says with an unfriendly snarl.

“I know, I know… you were never one to trust a trickster like myself so easily,” Says Discord, “But I think now of all times would be a wonderful time to allow myself to explain… myself.”

Luna crosses her arms.

“Very well. I’m listening.”

“I’m… Not exactly here right now. Well, not all of me. I was only able to split a part of myself off like this thanks to months of concentration. And because I couldn’t decide what kind of bird to pick. I settled on toucan.” Discord-toucan fans out his blue-feathered wings and raises his beak.

“Get to the point.” Luna snaps.

“As you may have already assumed, Dainn is quite the compulsive liar. He lied about me as he lied to Equestria about your supposed ‘lie’ of controlling the sun and moon. I wouldn’t be surprised if he even lied about his people’s ‘nomadic’ nature. My word… so much deceit!” Discord says, placing his feathers to his beak, in essence replying to his own statement.

Luna shakes her head.

“His lies do not explain why the sun and moon keep moving on their own. Unless…”

Discord points a feather to himself as Luna looks at him.

“Unless he is using me. I’m the only other near-deity in Equestria who can manipulate the sun and moon like you and Celestia can. Albeit in my own personalized fashion, that is.”

“The last time I remember, your ‘fashion’ wasn’t so orderly.” Replies Luna, looking up to the moon above.

“It most certainly isn’t! I can’t even BEGIN to tell you about my woes.”

Discord flicks his head to the side, nearly smacking Luna in the face with his long beak. He lifts off from the branch, fluttering over to a small rock on the other side of Luna.

“Have you ever felt what it was like to be called a tool, Luna? I do. Literally! I’m stuck as a hammer! A giant and oh so gaudy hammer. My inner Rarity has been screaming.”

Luna’s eyes widen. “Wait… You are Dainn’s war hammer? Is that how he is getting his power?”

“Sadly, yes. That’s where the rest of me is. How I got there to begin with is a long story.”

“Save it for another time. Is there any way to deny him your power? Or free you?” Luna queries.

“All you’d have to do is break his hammer. It isn’t any normal weapon though. I don’t think any average sword or butter knife is going to break it.”

Luna feels Phobos and Deimos in their scabbards. She smirks.

“What I have will be more than enough. Thank you for the intelligence, Discord. I’m… thankful, that your betrayal was untrue.”

“Believe me, Princess, I am too. As much as I like to have my fun… Even chaos has standards.”

Luna nods, though before she can think of anything else to ask Discord, the colorful toucan of a draconequus cuts in once again.

“My clock is ticking, Luna. Before I go… Do you know if Fluttershy is ok? I find myself thinking of her often while stuck in my hammered situation.”

Princess Luna smiles in reassurance, crouching down to toucan-Discord’s level.

“She is safe, and healing slowly. I’m sure that when things are settled, she will be delighted to see you again.”

“…Thank you. I feel better knowing that she is with friends. And not alone…”

Toucan-Discord lowers his beak to the ground, though finds it lifted back up by Luna’s hand. She smiles warmly at him.

“You won’t be alone for much longer, Discord. Stay strong. You’ll be as free as a real toucan soon enough.”

Discord chuckles. “I’ll take your word for it. Good luck then, Princess! Arrivederci!”

With an over-the-top regal bow, Discord lifts his toucan-self into the sky, disappearing into the treetops. And just as he arrived, he vanishes.

With as much haste as she could muster while remaining in the dark, Luna continues towards Haven, arriving in the familiar Whitetail Woods. The forest looks worse for wear, with many trees dead and others losing their luster.

Luna trudges on past the woods, and nears the edging forests that lie right before Haven. Though the closer and closer she gets, the more paranoid she becomes. A lot could happen in only four days, and her absence must have her allies worried sick.

The worst thoughts of all though, are the possibilities of the caribou having found Haven.

Luna hurries, picking up a jogging pace as she makes her way through the dim woods. Not soon after she breaks into a full sprint, clearing the ends of the forest and reaching the gates of Haven. They slowly draw open just as Luna passes through, not slowing down at all.

“Whoah!”

Princess Luna screeches to a halt, nearly colliding with an armored mare. Specifically, a mare of Liberty’s Guardians of the Sun.

The cherry-coated mare stands with a dozen other Guardians, recovering from the sudden surprise.

“Princess Luna!!”

Parting from between her Guardians, Liberty appears, bearing a wide grin. She and her Guardians cheer upon seeing Luna.

“Chor- er, Liberty! Is Haven alright?” Luna blurts, shaking Liberty’s hand and grasping her shoulder.

Liberty only smiles. “Haven is fine, Princess Luna, don’t worry. We’re glad to see you back. Though we’re going to have to hurry to catch up with the others.”

Luna’s ears perk upon hearing this. The entirety of the slopes lay empty. Where all of Haven’s troops had rested in rows of tents and trained in open fields is now almost as silent as a graveyard, save for the occasional resident or guard passing along. The only forces currently in Haven consist of a small detachment of troops, tasked with ensuring Haven’s safety, along with its many unarmed occupants.

Liberty continues.

“The leaders came together and decided to push on towards Canterlot, as the Thunderhead is practically there already. Mjolna and I agreed that I should stay here to wait for you. Your Sentinels are here as well. They should be inside with Elder Vigil right now.”

Luna nods in earnest.

“I am grateful that you waited for me, and I do not blame the others for pushing on. I must gather a few things. Ready yourselves to leave the moment I return!”

Receiving their acknowledgement, Luna jumps to her heels and makes her way inside Haven, through the main cavern.

Many residents greet Luna with bright eyes and thankful grins, all happy to see her return safely. Luna briskly returns their greetings, weaving in between them as she nears her destination.

Princess Luna enters into the Center Hall. There, she spies her Sentinels, all donning their blue and shaded armor and vestments. Ready with their equipment belted, weapons holstered and katars sheathed.

Upon noticing her, the Sentinels exclaim in delight and move to embrace her. Luna returns their affections for but a second.

“My friends! Thank you for waiting for me. I’m so sorry I had taken longer than expected.”

“Doesn’t matter how long. We’d always wait for you, Princess.” Replies Night Seer, as the others look on with glee.

Luna smiles, nodding quickly. As she does, Elder Vigil appears from a chair towards the back end of the room.

“Haven is safe with me, Princess Luna. You needn’t worry about it during your battle.”

“Thank you whole-heartedly, Elder Vigil. Please, if you would forward my goodbyes to Rarity, Sweetie Belle and the others staying here. We must leave as soon as possible.” Luna spouts as she stops at a nearby table to quickly gather her additional weapons and equipment. Elder Vigil bows her head in reply.

Luna’s thoughts come flying in as she scrambles to gather what she needs. She stops abruptly, turning to Star Glow.

“I found the second missing scout team in the Everfree. They would like to have your moon cake recipe.”

“Wow, really? I’m happy they enjoyed them! I’ll write them a letter when I can.” Star Glow quips excitedly.

As Luna finishes, Lantern approaches, bearing in her hands Luna’s katar.

“We were talking a bit earlier, Princess Luna, about how we never can spend more time together. We thought that maybe you would like to plan some future time off with us? High Tide actually owns a beautiful lodge in northern Umbra that we could stay in.”

“It’s a bit chilly most of the year, but there are a lot of fun things to do! We could go hiking, or sledding, or skiing.” High Tide adds with excitement in his eyes, counting off of his fingers.

“Is it up by Despina? Don’t they have hot springs in those mountains?” asks Dew Drop.

“It’s very close to Despina, yes. The town has a huge hot spring we could use.”

“That sounds relaxing.” Says Spirit, closing her eyes to imagine it.

Though her mind races with thoughts upcoming battle, Luna stops to take in her friends’ offer. She never put much thought on what to do post-war, aside from the standard ruling responsibilities. A trip with her friends would be worth everything.

“Take a mental note, everyone.” Luna interjects, garnering the attention of her Sentinels. She takes her katar from Lantern.

“…When the time comes, High Tide will host a week-long vacation, at his lodge in Despina. We’ll figure out an exact time later. But for now… We have something to look forward to.”

Luna’s noctral friends agree cheerfully, which brings a smile to Luna. A part of her wishes that they could go on vacation right now. Luna herself hasn’t been on a regular vacation for as long as she can remember. It would be a nice slowing of pace.

Their resting time will come. Now, more important things must be tended to.

Luna looks to her Sentinels once more.

“Let us be off then. We have a city to free.”

Author's Note

Thank you for reading. =]

Ch 9: Dethrone

“Stars, hide your fires; Let not light see my black and deep desires.”

The day is grey and dreary. The Sun hides behind a sheet of thick clouds, as though it is aware of the battle to come.

A careful blend of saving energy and making faster ground made up Luna’s journey to reunite with the Haven Alliance army. The upcoming battle would be the most crucial move of Luna’s entire plan. She had to make sure her friends were ready to fight. And she had to make sure she was ready too.

With how she has been feeling though, it may be easier said than done.

Ever since her return from the Moon, Luna has felt everything from chills rippling all over her body, to a lingering and persistent nausea. Though she voiced no concerns, Liberty and the Sentinels could easily see Luna’s discomfort.

They suggested it might be nerves. Alicorns have never been impervious to the common feelings of anxiety and stress. Knowing the gravity of what is to come, it wouldn’t be surprising if Luna was nervous. Either that, or perhaps it is simply the weather. A cold, relentless gale had been pestering the group the moment they arrived in the Canterlot Valley.

Luna is grateful for her friends’ reassurances. But she knows the real cause of her uneasiness.

Her strange feelings are magic in origin. A mixing and melting of her unshackled inner magic and the growing magic of Phobos and Deimos. The Blades of the Moon are kept safely in their scabbards on Luna’s person, but they have been ‘active’ during the trek. They almost seem apprehensive or impatient, occasionally humming or glowing. It is so subtle, however, that only Luna has taken notice.

It was baffling enough that the swords were so lively, but as a slight chill bounces along her spine, Luna dwells on another thought. Despite being able to feel Phobos’ and Deimos’ unrest, she has not been able to use any of her own ‘unlocked’ magic.

Nightmare Moon wasn’t very clear about instruction, as Luna recalls. Being able to use her magic in ‘arduous bursts’ can mean many things. Though it apparently meant she couldn’t use it at will. Or at least not when she is thinking clearly.

Then there was the unsettling itch in her chest. A tugging and shuffling of the scar upon her heart. Luna is thankful her armor covered it from sight, but the irritation does not rest.

Luna rubs her forehead.

I know you are there. I can feel the blades. I can feel the surging in my very heart, and in the back of my mind. But… Why can’t I use you?

“Princess Luna!”

Luna snaps out of her thoughts and looks forward, moving up to where she was called from. She stands beside Lantern and Liberty as the party stops atop a grassy hill.

Before them lies Canterlot, perched on the side of the great mountain. Even from this distance, Luna can clearly see that the city is but a shadow of its former self.

Similar to the sight of the Crystal Empire, Canterlot is surrounded by a reinforced stone wall, newly built in a design which anchors itself to the city moorings, and in turn the mountain itself. Huge red banners mark it to be the domain of the caribou. Behind the wall, the city’s once alabaster white, gold, and purple stone work is now pale and dull from maltreatment.

The most notable change lies below the city itself. The large waterfalls which once cascaded down into the forest below are gone, leaving the aqueducts completely dry. The rivers within the city must have been dammed after Luna’s escape, in a vain effort to uncover clues on her whereabouts.

Liberty lets out a sigh as she stares at the city, catching Luna’s attention.

“Are you alright, Chorus?”

Upon hearing her name, Liberty perks up, as if snapped out of hypnosis. She weakly nods at Luna’s inquiry.

“Yeah. I just… I was in the middle of the Fall, the day it happened in Canterlot. I felt like such a coward. I couldn’t do a thing to save my friends, when they had done everything to save me."

Luna places her hand on Liberty’s shoulder.

“It may have felt that way. But look at what came of it. You delivered Professor Walnut’s findings to us, and in turn, helped to free Equestria from the corruption of the Crystal Heart. If you had not endured and survived those years, we would not be here. You chose ‘Liberty’ as a name for a reason, yes?”

Liberty’s eyes find their way to Luna’s as she smiles. “Sometimes I forget that I did. Thanks, Luna. I needed to hear that. We should get a move on to the mountain. We still have a city, and a Princess, to save.”

Princess Luna and her group turn away from the city view, circling past sparse trees among the valley fields. As they grow closer to a much thicker tree line, however, bits and pieces of camouflaged metal catch their eye.

Just above them lies the barrel of the Thunderhead, sporting a new coat of forest paint to blend in with the surrounding canopies. The rest of the Thunderhead’s structure is smothered in greens and browns, along with stretched out camo tarps and mounted tree branches. Even with its sheer size, the cannon is very well hidden.

After being greeted by the cannon’s escort team of noctral scouts, Luna hops aboard with Lantern, climbing to the top deck. The crew of griffin engineers relax at their stations, waiting to spring into action once the order is given. At the rangefinder controls is Howie, the only survivor of the previous crew from Tarsus Line. He finishes making some adjustments to his rangefinder equipment before turning around.

“Them bat ponies were supposed to stay on the perimeter! Why are they- Wha… Princess? Why are you down here? Aren’t you supposed to be with your army on the mountain?”

“I fell behind schedule due to complications. The others had to leave before I could join them. Are you and your crew prepared?”

Howie hops off of his rangefinder, his one wing still healing from the battle of Tarsus Line. He hobbles over to the loading mechanisms currently holding a huge shell in que for loading.

The griffin opens its hollow interior to reveal its innards. It is stuffed with three battery charges, all awaiting the turn of their caps to be armed.

“This shell will be used to punch a hole for you and the troops once you give the signal. I never got to thank your second-in-command here for the batteries. Good thinking back at the Line, Lanny.”

Lantern smiles. “It’s Lantern. Thank you, Howie.”

“That’s what I said,” Howie squawks, turning back to Luna, “You know well enough how tough it is to aim my cannon, though. At an angle and range from where we are now… I can’t say if the shell will hit or not.”

Luna nods. “I’m aware. I have faith in your skills, Howie.”

Howie scratches his neck. “Right… No pressure or anything like that.”

“How many shells do you have in reserve?”

“Four. We could’ve stored a dozen but we had to make the cannon lighter on its way here. We were saving them in case of misfires.”

“Roll them out,” Luna commands, “I want you to keep firing until you exhaust your ammunition.”

Howie stops to stare for a moment, as does Lantern and the other griffin engineers in earshot.

“Keep firing? At the city?”

“I’m not sure if that’s a good decision, Princess.” Lantern adds, showing as much worry as Howie.

Luna remains firm.

“I won’t have the Thunderhead sit idle when it can be used. Concentrate your additional fire on the far side of the city, opposite of our advancing. We must sow as much confusion and chaos among the enemy as possible. It is a risk, I know. But it is necessary.”

Howie once again scratches his head, unsure about the orders. Regardless, he accepts her decision.

“Well… alright. Your orders, my job. My crew and I will fire all of our shells, Princess. Then we will pack up and move to the fall back area.”

“Thank you, Howie. Best of luck to you and your crew.” Luna says, nodding before turning back to the ladders.

Lantern says goodbye to Howie before she catches up with Luna, stopping her short of the ladder.

“I’m sorry, Princess, but… Isn’t this order cutting it close? There’s no telling how much damage the Thunderhead could cause to the city. As well as the chance of friendly fire.”

“I ask you to trust me on this, Lantern. We can’t afford to give the caribou any alleviation during this battle. There will be death on both sides, with or without this cannon. This is how war works.”

Lantern remains unsure, but she accepts Luna’s explanation.

“Ok, Princess. I trust your decision. Will you tell Liberty about this?”

Luna pauses.

“She… already knows. Come. We must join the others.”

The climb up to the railways embedded into the side of the mountain didn’t take long, as Haven’s forces had left easy signs to follow when they had found their way up. Mostly in the form of cleared out rocks and rows upon rows of footprints.

Now, Luna moves with her party on one side of the railroad, passing through the train tunnels bored into the mountain’s rock. They soon arrive at a much more open side of the mountain, one which leads directly to Canterlot’s newly created gates.

Before Luna stands Haven’s forces. The combined army of allies.

In an unorthodox method, the army is not separated into blocks based on nationality. They instead have amassed into a single, huge body. Griffins, Saddle Arabians, Zebras, Noctrals, and Ponies, of all colors, sizes, and races all stand together.

At the very center lies Haven’s symbol, mounted high upon a sturdy pole. A gold and white flag emblazoned with the Sun, flowing and shimmering as though it carried rays of light. Other flags fly below it, teal-colored and bearing a symbol of a white shield, wings and star in the center. These flags were only created recently, meant as a way to give the Haven Alliance a more personal and original symbol.

The sky above remains grey and cloudy, though it begins to brighten. The cold wind from the valley gathers in strength at this height.

The army stands like a sea of colors, each speck numbering in the near thousands. All eyes focus ahead as Marshal Mjolna clambers up a small rock to raise herself above the lines, Canterlot’s spires towering behind her. She looks a bit unsteady, realizing the countless pairs of eyes gazing at her.

With a sigh, Mjolna swings her arms loose and pats her legs.

“I’m ahh… Not very good at this speech thing. My special talent is making things out of metal… Not so much public speaking. I had expected Princess Luna to be giving one instead at this time, but… here we are. Someone’s gotta do it.”

Princess Luna leads Liberty and their party forward, descending down the small hill. They begin parting their way through the rows of soldiers as Mjolna’s voice carries through the air.

“There isn’t… There isn’t a way for me to encourage you all with only one or two words. We aren’t all just ponies here. There are so many of us from so many walks of life. And we all have different reasons for being here.”

Heads begin to turn as Luna, her seven Sentinels, Liberty, and her handful of Guardians part though the crowd. Gasps of shock and smiles of relief follow her, as more and more eyes turn to her. Eyes of ponies, griffins, noctrals, zebras, and sand ponies. Though they remain silent, with Mjolna still commanding most of their attention.

“But… perhaps this… No… This IS the advantage we have over the caribou! Our diversity, and our will to come together to fight as one! The caribou have kicked us down in many different ways. But they’ve never faced all of us at once!!!”

The army roars in agreement. Princess Luna continues to make her way closer.

“The caribou have relied on swift victories. Using dirty tricks, cheap tactics, and brute force. They happily bring death and destruction to the griffins in the north, and could care less about the starving sand ponies in the south! They smiled when the noctrals looked on in horror at what surrounded them. And they laughed at how the zebras tore themselves apart.

We fell because of fear. But what the caribou don’t realize is that fear is a choice. Today, we choose to be fearless!”

The army’s combined voice crescendos once again, driven by Mjolna’s brave words.

“None of us would be here without Princess Luna. She sacrificed the most out of any of us. Though she may not be with us… I know that her courage, her conviction, and her will to fight are within all of us!”

We have her to thank for giving us this chance to make things right. And we won’t let her dow-”

Mjolna glances down, seeing the Princess of the Night standing right below her. After greeting the other leaders, Luna looks up with a smile of comradery, joining the Marshal on top of her rock.

The thousands of troops roar and cheer as she rises.

Luna raises a hand to quiet them.

“Not even I could have given a better speech.”

She turns to face Mjolna, placing a hand on her armored shoulder.

“Anything I should know, Marshal?”

“Yes. Commander Skyward sent some griffins to scout from further up the mountain. The city is heavily fortified. Plenty of caribou and enemy stallions. A few war beasts in certain sections of the city. The caribou spotted us as we arrived, and their assembling a force just behind the gate. There are many noncombatants in the city as well.”

“Any sight of Dainn and his council?”

“The scouts couldn’t get any direct confirmation. We can’t tell for sure if any of them are here. The only person of any significance who was spotted was Princess Twilight.”

Without confirmation on the caribou leadership, Luna’s plan could be in jeopardy. Regardless, if they are in the city, Luna will find them. And if they aren’t, then she will hunt them down, to the ends of the world if she must.

Luna looks out once more at the city. She turns back to address Haven’s leaders. Marshal Mjolna, Chief Zavala, Commander Skyward, General Olive, and Liberty look to her.

“I’ll keep this brief. Once we are past the walls, the army will fan out into as many sections of the city as possible. Bring the fight to each and every quarter of the city as we collectively push towards the castle grounds. Each of you should join with an army group and lead them as best you can.

Liberty, take your Guardians and join whatever section that pushes towards the castle. Your ponies are mostly former guards. They are the most qualified to help clear out the castle.

My Sentinels and I will make our way into the castle through a secondary route. We will find Dainn, and end him.”

The plan is agreed.

Luna sighs. “Now… Pray that our cannoneer’s aim is true.”

Returning to the eyes of the many troops, Luna thrusts Phobos into the air above her. It begins to shimmer a brilliant teal, even under the cloud-filled sky.

A moment of silence is followed by an echoing blast from the valley below. A feint whistling rings out in the sky, before picking up in volume as it grows nearer.

The whistling abruptly stops, and is followed by a massive crash of stone and wood. The Thunderhead’s enormous shell impacts the right side of Canterlot’s gates, instantly toppling the massive gate hinge. Chunks of rubble fall to the ground like a rock slide.

Only seconds later, the battery charges within the shell ignite.

A cascade of brick and stone is thrown into the sky as the huge explosion engulfs the point of impact. The entire gate is shredded to pieces, and the surrounding walls tumble upon themselves like dominos.

What is now left of the caribou’s wall is nothing but a cloud of dust.

Luna stares at it. Then, she turns her head to her army. Her friends.

“WITH ME!!”

With her blades drawn, Luna pushes down the hill. The thousands of soldiers behind her follow suit, flowing like a seamless wave down the barren hill and towards the shadows of the former walls. The ground begins to flatten, patted down by their charging steps.

The massive force condenses into a rolling wedge, matching the width of the entrance into the city. They penetrate the haze of dust, filling the surrounding air with cries of battle.

Jumping over debris and skirting around mounds of stone, they find what is left of the caribou force which had amassed behind the wall. The scattered occupiers stumble in the dust, completely shocked from the explosion. Their dread only grows as they see rows upon rows of ponies, noctrals, zebras, griffins, and sand-ponies charge towards them.

The caribou of the destroyed wall are overrun in minutes, cut down and slaughtered as the Haven Alliance troops continue their dash, not slowing for an instant. They emerge from the dust cloud with weapons primed and teeth bared.

As the city interior lies before them, the army immediately fans out in all directions. The already massive army splits into several huge sections, running towards buildings, marketplaces and plazas.

Here, the caribou forces inside the city respond, providing the first real opposition. Their ranks bolstered with traitor stallions.

Block after block, the roving sides clash. The fearless and tenacious Haven Alliance forces engage the determined caribou and their allies all throughout the city.

The Battle of Canterlot has begun.

This day is far from ancient times of war which Luna has witnessed. Times when opponents would do battle on great open fields in customary rituals. Where tradition overcame savagery, despite the hardships and suffering of those eras, more than a millennia ago.

This day adheres to no such civility.

Under the grey sky, Canterlot is subjected to the brutality of urban combat. The fighting transforms into a door-to-door bloodbath, spilling further out into the cluttered roads and battered squares. Clashes spread to every corner and alleyway, turning the city into a chaotic and bloodied labyrinth.

Princess Luna, with her Sentinels sticking close in a tight circle, join the army group headed towards the market quarter in the northern area of the city. Luna knows exactly where she needs to go to access the castle grounds away from the bulk of the fighting. The only issue is making it through the majority of the city. To avoid being slowed down by individual skirmishes, Luna and her Sentinels stay close to the north bound army group, spearheaded by Commander Skyward and a portion of her Red Hawk Regulars.

Most of the griffins are already ahead of Luna, following Commander Skyward’s lead, along with a smaller group of heavily armed ponies. As they progress into the market quarter, the fighting becomes more pocketed as it spreads. The urban combat remains constant, with griffins and ponies engaging caribou troops flowing out from buildings nearby. Ponies toss armed battery charges through windows and doorways, hoping to clear out unsuspecting enemies.

The army group’s push leads them to the market quarter’s commerce plaza, which was once the largest market place in all of Canterlot.

A line of Red Hawk griffins and ponies charges across the plaza, trampling over the dilapidated grass and stone. The griffins in the lead bring their serrated blades and razor hatchets down upon the caribou opposite them, falling into a vicious and bloody close-quarters brawl. Griffin fire dart pistols ring out in the air as they are fired at close range.

Though every soldier in the plaza battle displays valiance and ferocity, the Red Hawk Regulars are the epitome of combat expertise. Caribou generally rely on rune-enhanced armor and weapons, giving them a massive advantage against magic-based enemies. Yet when against more physical attackers, they do little, forcing a caribou to rely on strength alone.

The more advanced caribou legionnaires in the north have adapted to fight the griffins, but those occupying Equestria haven’t. The difference is more than obvious, as griffin steel and agility brutally outmatch their opponents in the plaza. Caribou plate armor folds and bends like tinfoil in the line of fire from griffin pistols.

Though they remain close together, Luna and her Sentinels make their way to cross the plaza, katars and crossbows drawn. They aid in picking off caribou stragglers, steadily making their way further into the plaza as the caribou are pushed back.

There is a sudden break in the battle. The ground rumbles slightly, causing Luna to stop. Her eyes widen as others feel the rumbling as well.

In a sudden crash, a huge and lumbering war beast enters the plaza, utterly demolishing a small building. Several Alliance troops are stunned from its arrival.

With a massive rearing of its head, the war beast spews forth a stream of fire from its maw, torching the open plaza. Several griffins and ponies are caught in the deadly blaze, catching fire instantly. They scream out in pain, running to safety or falling to the ground in an attempt to put themselves out. Those who can try to pat them down with tarps, some even using their bare hands. Most succumb to the flames.

Princess Luna guides her Sentinels to the side as the war beast continues its rampage. A caribou beast master sits atop the creature’s back, directing it against the brave griffins and ponies peppering the beast with fire from crossbows and pistols.

Though as the war beast nears another building, it comes under attack from a more direct source.

With a flap of her mighty wings, Commander Skyward leaps from the nearby rooftop with her serrated blades drawn. She impales them into the war beast’s hide, causing it to roar in pain. It stomps furiously to shake off the unwanted passenger, but the Red Hawk Commander stubbornly refuses to let go.

Climbing onto its back, Skyward dispatches the beast master with a slash of her swords. She tosses off the mount and drives her blades in and out of the beasts flesh, weakening it before delivering a final blow with a fire dart pistol shot to the back of its head. It topples to the ground, shaking the earth and the surrounding stone as Skyward swiftly lifts off, landing beside the beast with true griffin daring.

Her impressive feat rallies the rest of the griffins and ponies.

“Come on!! Nothing they have can stop us!!” she exclaims, as another group of ponies rushes in to support her and the Red Hawks in pushing further into the market quarter. The caribou in the area retreat, pursued by the Alliance troops.

Princess Luna and her Sentinels trail behind, continuing past the corpse of the war beast. As they move, however, a distant shot from the Thunderhead rings out, instantly followed by a shell ripping through a nearby tower and several buildings. The rubble blocks off the street ahead.

Luna veers her team to the side, finding passage in an empty alleyway.

As they cross streets and use the alleys to cut through the main quarter, Luna and the Sentinels come across more pocketed fighting. Small scale confrontations unfold in the wake of the army groups pushing deeper into the city.

One such clash occurs right in front of Luna as she and her Sentinels move past a roundabout. A small group of five ponies slide into cover while under fire from caribou bolts coming from a small inn several yards in front of them. Other groups of ponies skirt around or take up positions behind them, looking for a way to take the inn.

One of the mares in the group of five pulls out a battery charge and carefully sets its cap timer. She arms it and pops out of cover, her throwing arm ready.

Just as she reveals herself, a bolt strikes the mare in her left shoulder, causing her to go down and drop the battery charge. It rolls next to another mare beside her just as she notices, terror struck in her eyes.

In an instant, the ponies are swallowed in the resulting explosion, erasing them from existence. Ponies from surrounding groups continue to push on, but some become visibly shaken from the sight.

Luna casts the sight out of thought and pushes on with her Sentinels as the inn is cleared out. They step past the scorch marks and the charred remains that the blast left behind.

Luna and the Sentinels enter through another alley, which brings them to the fringes of Canterlot’s main street, located in the Sun quarter. The wide street leads directly to Luna’s means of accessing the castle grounds.

Alliance troops of another army group are spread out across the entire length of the street, attempting to advance. They mostly consist of zebras and ponies under the leadership of Chief Zavala.

As Luna brings her Sentinels around and into the street, a hail of bolts and shock javelins rain down from a faraway position, forcing them to dive into another alley. The projectiles assail the ponies and zebras in the street as well, causing them to frantically find cover. Right outside Luna’s alley, a zebra attempts to drag a wounded pegasus mare out of harm’s way, but is riddled with bolts and collapses.

Crowe and Spirit waste no time in reaching out, managing to pull the zebra and the mare into the safety of the alley. Crowe quickly tends to the zebra mare’s wounds with Dew Drop’s help, lying her against the alley wall. Spirit sets the pegasus down on the opposite wall, finding her already dead.

Alliance troops find themselves stuck in pockets all over the street, pinned down behind piles of rubble and overturned wagons. Some take shelter in other alleyways lining the open street, unable to risk crossing over or doubling back without coming under fire from the caribou rangers. Those that risked moving forward now litter the street, their blood soaking the tiled ground.

In the alley directly across from her, Luna spots Chief Zavala and several of her zebra warriors, their backs flat against the walls to avoid being spotted. Some of the warriors take peeks from the alley’s corner, using hardwood shields as cover. The shields are able to block a few bolts, but under constant punishment they eventually crack.

High Tide takes a peek around the alley corner as well, quickly pulling back as a crossbow bolt nearly misses his muzzle.

“There’s no way we can move under this kind of fire. The entire army group will be stuck here if we don’t do something about those rangers.”

Princess Luna collects her thoughts. They have to push down the main street to keep up with the other army groups. More importantly, if the caribou rangers aren’t dealt with, they could cause issues for the other army groups as they come around.

Luna stops thinking. Phobos and Deimos hum with a growing intensity. Her body fills with a sudden surge of energy, every reflex beginning to tune to her mind with utmost clarity.

To her Sentinels’ shock, Luna courageously bursts forward, quickly stepping out into the open street amidst a break in the caribou hail. Luna extends her arms out to her sides, the stub of her horn erratically flinging out sparks of light. They mimic ominous firecrackers as the pain in Luna’s head grows. Her eyes begin releasing feint wisps of cyan aura.

As Luna slowly and tensely raises her arms, massive blocks of stone and rubble become enveloped in a luminous teal and float into the air. They move gracefully together in front of Luna, her arms now fully outstretched. Cobbling together, the thick debris forms an expansive shield of rock which covers the entirety of the street’s width. Caribou bolts and javelins bounce off of the improvised barrier harmlessly.

“GET BEHIND ME!!” Luna commands, under duress from the use of her magic.

Chief Zavala and her warriors spring out from their alley, calling out to those behind them. Luna’s Sentinels follow closely, moving to surround Luna in a protective circle.

The ponies pinned down behind them leave their cover and fall in behind Zavala, creating a tight-knit formation as Luna slowly steps forward, holding the huge stone curtain through sheer magic. She grunts in pain from the mounting pressure in her skull, though remains dauntless.

As the stone barrier passes over more Alliance soldiers under cover, they jump out and join Chief Zavala’s formation. Soon, all of the surviving soldiers trapped in the street find their way to safety behind Luna’s barrier.

Princess Luna struggles with her steps, the pain beginning to blur out her senses. The caribou rangers are just ahead, still maintaining their position around and on top of a large building.

“Ready yourselves!” Luna calls out, the stress in her voice all too clear.

The ponies and zebras draw their weapons.

“Grrraahhh!!!”

With a huge burst in magical energy, Luna dispels the barrier forward. The flying sheet of stone splits into several pieces and slams into the building ahead, sweeping aside any caribou out in the open.

Chief Zavala leads her formation’s charge just as Luna collapses, falling to her knees as she reels from her magic usage. Her Sentinels quickly help her up and shepherd her to safety.

The zebra and ponies dash ahead, some stopping to toss javelins and fire crossbows and pistols at the caribou position. They crash upon them, spearing the enemy as they try to recover from the assault. Chief Zavala fights ferociously, working in tandem with her warriors to quickly dismantle the caribou hold on the building.

Moving away from the fighting, the Sentinels stop at an empty café and set Luna down on the sidewalk.

“Are you alright, Princess?” Star Glow asks, as the other Sentinels form a circle, keeping an eye out for trouble.

“I’m… I’m fine. I wasn’t expecting my magic to be that draining on me. But it is alright. I am feeling better.” Luna remarks as she lifts herself up. The pain was of a kind Luna could not quite put her finger on. The agony had subsided at an incredible rate, and left a strange and wanting feeling in Luna’s mind.

A feeling of pride and power.

On her feet once more, Luna leads her Sentinels onward, finally coming to the very end of the Sun quarter. Before them stands the Museum of Equestrian History. Jutting out from the museum’s second floor and arcing over the nearby buildings is Luna’s means of reaching the castle.

The museum sky bridge.

Approaching from the rear entrance to the museum, Luna notices signs of battle. Dead caribou and ponies litter the sidewalks. Inside the museum building, however, is a menagerie of Alliance activity. A battle medic frantically rushes about, dispensing her care as best she can. One griffin keeps an eye out a front window, his pistol at the ready. Two noctrals make their way to the roof to scout their surroundings.

As Princess Luna and her Sentinels enter, they are greeted by a zebra mare in charge of one of the detachments inside the building. The young zebra, a sharp lance on her back along with a hardwood shield, strikes Luna as someone familiar.

“Princess of the Night! Do you remember me? I am Abéna. I was beside you at the Battle of Savanah Pass, under Chief Zavala.”

Luna nods, “Yes, Abéna, I recall. What is the situation here?”

“When we fell upon the city, I followed the Saddle Arabian, General Olive. We were all mixed together to begin with, so I decided to lend him my support. He is very kind.”

Abéna stops short, stepping to the side to allow two ponies carrying a wounded griffin by. She looks at them briefly before continuing.

“We have made a collection of our wounded here, in an effort to allow our healers to care for them while under some protection. Chief Zavala had just cleared the Sun quarter and has left to circle northward. Once General Olive finishes forming a guard to protect the museum, we will join him in moving to the south quarter, clearing up behind Marshal Mjolna’s army group.”

“Well done. I am impressed that the area was secured so quick-”

A commotion stirs further inside the museum.

Two ponies bring out a green coated mare, brandishing a red collar.

“Please! Listen to me! I’m not lying, I’m trying to help!!”

Luna instantly recognizes the voice.

“Meadow??”

She goes to the two soldiers, having them release Meadow, who wastes no time in going to Luna.

“Princess!! Please listen! There are caribou sneaking their way here! They saw you move the wounded into the building. They’re going to attack any minute now! Please, you have to trust me!”

Suddenly, the sound of shattering windows and breaking doors echo from within the museum, in the direction of the front entrance.

Luna briskly turns to Abéna. “We will take care of the lobby. Make sure the upper floors are secure.”

With a nod, Abéna draws her lance, gathering what troops she can as she departs to the secondary stairwells. After telling Meadow to stay put, Luna and her Sentinels draw their weapons and head directly to the central lobby of the museum.

They arrive in the middle of a hectic brawl. Within the expansive lobby, caribou soldiers fan out and spread to whatever sections of the museum they can get to, fighting Alliance troops as they go. They outnumber the lobby occupants two to one, allowing them to quickly overwhelm most of the defending troops. Save for the Saddle Arabians.

At the center of it all, General Olive braves the attacking force, challenging two caribou with a punch to one’s jaw and a slash of his scimitar to the other. His Saddle Arabian soldiers hold their ground, acting as a bulwark against the brunt of the caribou attackers. Scimitars slice and cleave through their opponents as the sand ponies fight with a graceful and calm demeanor.

Luna looks past the General, eyeing the caribou further towards the entrance to the museum. Many have snatched injured and helpless mares that were left in the lobby, dragging them out into the street as they scream in agony and terror.

With her Sentinels close behind, Luna dashes past the fighting in the lobby and makes for the entrance, intent on giving chase.

As they clear the museum and enter out into the street, Luna’s Sentinels catch several caribou, impaling some from behind with katars while they attempt to haul away the wounded mares.

Several caribou soldiers further ahead stop in the middle of the open street with their captives. With no regard to their surroundings, they shamelessly rut the vulnerable mares, further injuring them as they drive their cocks into any hole they find pleasing.

The sight rattles the Sentinels, but it spurs them to keep fighting alongside Luna. They reach the furthest caribou and eliminate them, saving the wounded mares as fast as they can. To their dismay, three mares were too gravely injured to survive the ordeal.

“These bastards are more desperate than I thought. They don’t care about anything but getting their cocks up? We’re in a battlefield for Moon’s sake!” Spirit exclaims, sheathing her katar to take a mare’s arm over her shoulder.

There is little time to dwell, as Luna spies more enemies approaching from a nearby corner. They charge in her direction, intent on assaulting the museum.

“Get them back to the museum. I’ll cover you.” Luna orders.

Lantern leads the Sentinels and their injured allies back to the building as the wave of caribou and stallions grows closer. Princess Luna draws Phobos and Deimos, their metal frames glowing brightly, ready to receive the first attackers.

Two caribou rear their shock batons, swinging them down upon Luna. Luna raises her blades, blocking both batons and quickly spinning forward, striking the left caribou in the back. She quickly thrusts Phobos into the right caribou, simultaneously withdrawing and slashing the other with Deimos to finish both attackers.

A shot from the Thunderhead tears through the sky overhead, destroying a further section of the city while the fighting continues. Princess Luna ducks to dodge a great axe, swung by a menacing caribou captain. She effortlessly swings her swords into the caribou’s side, staggering him. With another fierce strike, Luna kicks the caribou down, claiming yet another kill.

As more enemy caribou and stallions assault Luna’s position, they are met with a flurry of arrows fired from behind Luna.

General Olive, now reinforced by additional Saddle Arabians, takes command of the fight and leads the combined forces forward, pushing the caribou further away from the museum.

Princess Luna sheathes Phobos and Deimos, turning to jog back to the museum. She regroups with her Sentinels as she enters the lobby. Now cleared of enemies and safe once again.

“We got the wounded back into the lobby, Princess,” Night Seer states, “There are still some caribou in the upper levels though. Abéna is working to eliminate them.”

Luna nods, controlling her panting. “Our path lies on the upper level. We will aid Abéna on our way there.”

They gather to head towards the stairs, passing by the rows of wounded troops recuperating. Meadow is among them, helping the other battle medics with distributing what water they have.

Luna stops for a moment, catching her attention.

“Princess,” Meadow says, her voice a little hoarse, “I’ll be staying here in the museum, if you need to find me later. I promise I won’t get in the way.”

“I trust you to stay safe, Meadow. And thank you.”

With no further time to spare, Luna quickly smiles before joining her Sentinels on the flights of stairs. Meadow smiles back before returning to the wounded.

Her red collar lies broken on the floor.

Ascending to the sky bridge level, Luna and her Sentinels encounter the last pocket of caribou attackers as they battle with Abéna and her mixed squad. The entire floor is embroiled in extreme close-quarters fighting. The small space of the room and connecting halls give the larger caribou the advantage, as ponies and zebras are pummeled to the floor or thrown against walls.

The Sentinels fan out, leaping into the battle with near-instinctual movement. They lift the pressure off of the Alliance soldiers, picking off individual caribou and clearing the nearby halls.

Most of the surviving caribou concentrate around the sky bridge’s entrance, hoping to use it to escape. Both sides inflict severe damage to the other, with both caribou and ponies falling to the floor either wounded or dead. Abéna fiercely battles a caribou captain in the very center of the room.

Past the entrance of the sky bridge, a unicorn mare duels with an imposing caribou, having already taken a beating. The caribou brings his shock baton down upon her after disarming her, delivering blow after blow as she cries out.

The caribou, proud of his victory, drops his own weapon as the mare reels in pain on the floor. He tears off her shoulder plates and works his way further down, ignoring any of his own pain.

As the caribou hurriedly rapes her, the mare quickly reaches into her belt pouch with her uninjured arm. She pulls out a battery charge, and with a cry of defiance, slams the charge’s cap into the bridge floor.

The explosion rocks the museum’s entire structure, sending Luna and her Sentinels flying backwards. The fighting on the second floor comes to an abrupt end as the dust settles.

Luna and her Sentinels recover from the blast, scanning the room for any survivors.

Not too far away is Abéna, having been knocked unconscious from the sudden explosion. The only other survivor is an earth pony mare found by the Sentinels, who only received some shrapnel wounds from the battery charge’s fragments.

“Give her here. I’ll bring her down to the medics. Go on ahead, Princess.” The earth pony says, wheezing as she carries Abéna downstairs.

Turning her attention to the sky bridge, Luna finds it to be a much more hazardous crossing. The explosion left a gaping hole from the entrance to the remainder of the bridge. Pieces of scorched rubble fall from the edges of the gap.

“We’ll have to jump it.” Dew Drop states.

“Go first, my friends,” Luna advises, “You can clear that leap easily with your wings.”

Following their Princess’ orders, the Sentinels make running jumps over the gap, flapping their bat wings mid-way to give themselves a double jump. All seven of them make it with no issue, finding the rest of the bridge to be stable.

“Your turn, Princess! You can make it!” Crowe calls out.

Taking several steps back, Luna breathes slowly before bursting into a full out sprint towards the gap. She leaps into the air, her arms swinging and legs bending as she nears the other side.

Luna falls short, her chest slamming against the very brink of the bridge. She clings on for dear life, almost losing her grip if it were not for Lantern and Night Seer’s quick reflexes. They grab onto Luna’s arms, hauling her up and safely onto the bridge.

Luna pants heavily, recovering from the pain in her chest. “Thank you. I suppose that makes us even for the Crystal Empire, yes?”

Lantern chuckles, nodding. “Indeed it does!”

It is only now, upon the sky bridge, that Luna is able to see the full scope of the raging battle.

Fires burn and smoke billows. Buildings are marred from explosions. Trails of rubble and churned up street stone litter the whole city.

Bodies lie among the carnage. Fallen soldiers and unfortunate citizens alike. Luna laments the loss of so much life. But the voice in the back of her head reminds her of its necessity.

As she and her Sentinels continue across the sky bridge, Star Glow speaks up.

“Princess Luna, look down there! At the river bed!”

Luna gazes down over the bridge’s railing. Their point on the bridge sits directly over what was once the largest river in Canterlot. It is now nothing but a dried out ditch, a shadow of its former glory.

Preceding with a roar of willpower, the largest of the army groups, led by Marshal Mjolna, arrives en-masse at the edges of the riverbed. Not hesitating for a second, Mjolna leads her hundreds of armed ponies down into the hollowed-out channel, leaping onto the dirt.

All the while, stray bolts assail them, though with little effect. The riverbed acts as a massive trench for Mjolna and her troops, shielding them from most of the projectile fire as they cross.

Mjolna and her soldiers wait for no one. They clamber out the other side, finding themselves at the entryway to the castle grounds. The gateway is blocked by a significant caribou force which had only just regrouped.

Wielding a broadsword in one hand and a forging hammer modified for combat in the other, Mjolna lets out a thunderous battle cry. The hundreds of ponies behind her; pegasi, unicorns and earth ponies, echo her cry and charge with her onto the caribou lines as yet another Thunderhead shell streaks overhead.

The subsequent clash of steel and fists erupts into the biggest engagement in the battle thus far. With bravery and fearlessness not seen before, the ponies under Mjolna’s command lash out and throw themselves upon the caribou. Blinding explosions spout from the chaotic fighting, battery charges having been flung at the caribou soldiers. Swords, shields, pikes, machetes, daggers, and every weapon in between are brought down upon the enemy.

The intense fighting pushes back the caribou and shatters their lines, allowing the ferocious battle to spill out into the castle grounds.

Princess Luna and her Sentinels follow the action along the sky bridge, picking up a trot.

As they near the end of the bridge, Luna catches sight of another leader.

Using the chaos in the wake of Mjolna’s charge to burst forward, a handful of ponies clad in dull golden armor and bearing cloth of white and gold dash towards the castle steps.

At their head is Liberty, the cloak of the summer Sun flowing behind her as she holds her double-bladed sword ready. She and her Guardians of the Sun collide with a group of caribou guards on their way to the castle doors, battling them among the many steps at the front of the castle.

Luna watches Liberty expertly wielding her dual bladed sword against the caribou just before stopping at the sky bridge’s exit. She takes her eyes away from the battle below and nods to her Sentinels as they open the door and enter Canterlot castle.

Luna and her Sentinels race their way through the lower halls and rooms of Canterlot Castle. With Luna’s expansive memory of the castle’s layout room for room, they make incredible time. The caribou have been making extensive modifications to the castle itself, but most of it so far still remained in its original design. The walls and structures were in the process of being re-painted. It seems as though the caribou finally had enough of the purple and gold adorning the castle.

In short time, Luna and her team reaches the mid-levels of the castle, skirting around some rooms that were blocked off by construction projects. No enemies had shown themselves yet, the only life so far encountered being several groups of unarmed red collared mares and caribou non-combatants, trying to seek refuge from the battle outside. As the cows and collared mares cower, the stags wisely choose not to challenge Luna or any of her noctrals as they pass through. Luna ignores them.

Continuing to progress deeper inside the castle, Luna and her Sentinels enter into the ballroom, hoping to cut across and through another door. However, they are halted by a new obstacle.

“Stop right there!” a stallion calls out.

Before them stand a dozen traitor stallions, armed with swords and determined looks. Luna and her Sentinels instantly draw their weapons and face down their opponents.

At their center is Captain Shining Armor.

Both noctrals and traitor stallions grasp their weapons tightly, trading glares.

Princess Luna, her katar in one hand, takes a step forward. She leers at Shining Armor as she extends her featherless wings. The other stallion guards give mixed looks. From hesitation, to unshakable zeal.

“…It’s over, Shining Armor. You have already lost. Step aside.”

Shining Armor only stares back, tightly gripping his sword with both hands. Before he speaks, however, another stallion steps forward.

The stallion, a white pegasus donning modified royal guard armor painted in caribou colors, snarls with hatred.

“It is not your place to give orders, you CUNT! This battle changes nothing! You and your army of whores and spineless stallions can do NOTHING against us! When King Dainn claims victory over you once again, your mares will be broken and blanked. Your incurables will be rid of their stallionhood and shown the mistakes they’ve made. And you, and your precious bat ponies will be fucked over and over until you are all nothing but groveling sluts!! None of my ancestors ever stepped aside for a mare!! AND NEITHER WILL I!!!”

Shining Armor remains silent during the stallion’s outburst, though his expression speaks clear as his eyes shift from Luna to the fanatical stallion.

In a burst of strength, Shining Armor swings his sword into the pegasus stallion, slashing across his throat.

Seeing their opportunity, Luna’s Sentinels jump forward, dispatching the other guards with their katars and crossbows. Two of the stallion guards aid in bringing down their comrades. They immediately drop their weapons afterwards to signify their surrender.

Shining Armor stands above the zealous stallion as he chokes in his own blood. The captain of the guard drives his sword into the stallion’s chest, ending his suffering. Luna looks to him as he rises.

“… I should have done that a long time ago.” He says, looking down at the dead pegasus.

Luna’s Sentinels remain cautious, though Luna herself eases her guard.

“Where is Dainn?”

“The throne room,” Shining Armor mutters, exhaustion in his breath, “He’s likely waiting for you, Princess. I don’t know if he is alone or not.”

Luna nods. “… It would be best if you surrendered to the troops outside. Find Marshal Mjolna. Tell her you have spoken with me.”

Luna swiftly turns, moving briskly with her Sentinels in tow.

Shining Armor calls out.

“Princess Luna.”

She turns.

“Is… Is Cadence alive?”

Luna pauses, her memories of the Crystal Empire resurfacing.

“… The last she was seen was in the Crystal Empire. I don’t know if she escaped the city before the winter claimed it. I’m sorry.”

Shining Armor nods somberly. He gives one last look to Luna before turning to leave, the two other guards following him.

Princess Luna and her Sentinels resume their course, the throne room their destination.

“RUN!!”

The muffled blast of the Thunderhead was nothing Luna hadn’t heard before. The shell it launched ripped through the air just outside the windows of the large castle hallway, nearly striking one of the castle’s slim spires.

Luna underestimated the force produced by the shell’s speed, however, realizing far too late that the spire’s support was damaged enough to cause it to topple straight towards Luna and her Sentinels.

Sprinting through the hall for their very lives, the spire crashes into the side of the castle, shattering the windows and causing an avalanche of stone and glass to cascade into the hall.

Luna dives forward, dodging a massive piece of rubble as it tumbles into the hall, leaving a gaping hole in its wake as it crashes further down into the floors below.

More chunks of stone drop into the hallway from above before slowing to a trickle. Lifting herself up and coughing out the dust in her throat, Luna turns back to her Sentinels.

She finds nothing but lingering dust and crushed stone.

“No!”

Luna rushes towards the unsettling dust. As it clears, the massive hole where her Sentinels were but a moment ago is revealed, but it is filled to the brim with broken slabs and pummeled rock. Luna lifts some pieces out of the way, but finds no opening large enough to peer down to find her friends.

Suddenly, her ears twitch. Sounds of muffled coughing from down below barely reaches her.

“Princess Luna?! Can you hear us??”

It is Lantern’s voice. Luna drops to her knees to listen more clearly.

“Yes! Yes, I can hear you! Are you all alright? Are you injured?!” Luna asks, exclaiming as loudly as she can to be heard.

“We’re all ok, miraculously!” Lantern replies, also yelling, “There is a way for us to continue! You go on ahead, Princess!”

Luna shakes her head. “No! I’ll find a way down and regroup with you!”

“You’re the only one who can defeat Dainn! If you don’t go now you could lose him!!”

The faint voices of the other Sentinels can be heard, agreeing with Lantern and encouraging the Princess. Lantern persists.

“We will search the castle to find the caribou council members! We will meet you when the battle is won!”

Princess Luna hesitates. The faces of her Sentinels, her friends, flash in her mind. She does not want to leave them… But Lantern is right. She must find and kill Dainn. She is the only one who can.

“… When the battle is won! Be safe, my friends!”

Getting herself up and clearing out from the hallway, Luna rounds a corner and dashes through the following chambers, racing towards the throne room. The great halls leading to the throne were still several stories above.

Nearing more construction areas, Luna navigates through wooden scaffoldings and rope lifts in search of an easy way up. All she can find are half-finished walls and stairwells, cluttered with dropped equipment or debris.

One set of stairs look to be usable, but they lead in a complete opposite direction, spiraling around and off towards a nearby bridge, before rounding about again towards the center structure.

Luna curses under her breath. “There must be a quicker way!”

Luna hastily scans her surroundings. She spots a rope lift, fitted within a stone channel resembling a chimney that leads upwards. The lift is made of two thick ropes utilized in a pulley system. One rope ends with a large weight tied to it, just in front of Luna. The shaft seems to extend to the floors below as well as up.

Quickly looking up the shaft, Luna grabs hold of the left rope, opposite to the counter weight. She pulls out her katar and cuts the other rope, letting the heavy weight fall. In turn, Luna is pulled up into the shaft.

The channel was still in construction when it was left, however. On the way up, Luna bumps her shoulders on stone bricks jutting from the sides of the shaft. Though her armor helps protect her from injury, the force of the bumps take her by surprise, and causes her to lose grip of her katar.

It falls to the bottom of the shaft.

Luna reaches the very top, grabbing on to the ledge just as the rope slips through the other end of the pulley.

Seconds later, the crashing of the weight echoes from the very bottom.

Luna brushes herself off, noticing she is now just one level below the throne room.

Phobos and Deimos shudder in their scabbards. Itching for the encounter ahead.

The caribou guards at the throne room doors tried their best. Dainn clearly didn’t value their lives if he knew Luna was coming. They stalled her for mere seconds.

Brushing aside the dead guards from the doorway, Luna enters the throne room. She scans the great hall for any sign of the caribou king.

Who she finds instead only makes her frown.

The former Princess of Friendship, Twilight Sparkle, stands alone in front of the throne steps. Like most of the mares found in the capital, she is completely bare, and shivering slightly from the cool interior of the castle.

“Luna, please, stop!! Do you have any idea what you’re doing?!” Twilight pleads as Luna makes her way closer, her blades away in their scabbards.

“Where is Dainn?” Luna asks.

“So that’s it then? You don’t care that you’ve betrayed us and started an entire war that will not only be pointless, but will also annihilate Equestria as we know it?! I thought you were happy like the rest of us!!”

Luna stands right up against Twilight, looking down at her with an intimidating glare.

“You’re mistaken, Twilight Sparkle… I do care about what I’ve started. I’ve started a war that will annihilate Equestria as you know it. I don’t expect you to understand. So let me say this…”

Luna’s eyes shoot like daggers into the younger alicorn, whose ears fold down in fear. Her voice becomes a whisper, filled with spite and venom.

“I can kill you, right now. But killing you does nothing for me, or anyone really. So instead, I want you to run. Run far away from Equestria and find some pitiful, dirty hole in the ground to wallow in. And never come b-”

Luna’s words cut short as she is suddenly tackled by a huge force. Her back is slammed against a nearby column, stunning her briefly.

A voice addresses Luna as a heavy hand clamps down on her throat.

“There’s a reason why we use gags. Some mares simply talk too much.”

The grip on Luna’s throat tightens as she is dragged from the throne room and into a smaller hallway lined with four stained glass windows. One of them is completely shattered; The very same one she had leapt through as her first act of rebellion.

Heaving her off of the ground as she gasps for air, the caribou throws her at the adjacent stained glass window. She crashes through it, falling into the garden courtyard below.

Thinking quickly, Luna tucks into a roll upon landing, tumbling down the dry grass further into the garden. She comes to a stop to see her assailant jump down, unfazed by the drop.

“I always knew you had great strength, Luna, but I never knew you were strong enough to resist for so long. Perhaps I should have decided to wake you up and challenge you, after defeating Celestia. It would have been just as amusing to watch.”

“Dainn.” Luna mutters, spitting as though his name was poison.

The King of the caribou empire stood tall before Luna as she rose to her feet, feeling her neck and cracking it. Even though his taunts would seem to benefit from a chuckle or a dastardly grin, Dainn did no such thing. His mouth remained in a permanent scowl after every word he spoke. If he had no cause to smile when he was victorious, then he certainly has no cause now.

Dainn drew his hammer in one hand, planting it head first onto the ground. The rune markings along its framework glow ominously, rattling the pole handle.

“I received your ‘treaty’, just before you decided to barge in to my capital city. Meaningless scribbles from a hopeful band of leaders. If you think a piece of paper gives you any freedom, you only prove the stupidity inherent in all mares. Now… are you going to come quietly? Or do I have to make you scream?”

Luna huffs. She stands, facing Dainn. Her eyes locking onto his, even at their distance. Her breathing slows to a calm and steady pace.

“… You are correct about one thing, Dainn. Sometimes, mares simply talk too much. Allow me to spare you my thoughts. Instead… let me show you…

…Let me show you WHO I AM.”

Reaching for the hilts of her blades, Luna harnesses the magic welling inside of her. Her horn’s stub crackles light as she unsheathes Phobos and Deimos in a display of fury, holding them at her sides as she lets out a roar to the skies. The clouds above begin to stir ever so slowly, calling forth an infant storm.

Trickling wisps of light bleed from the corners of Luna’s eyes as her pupils widen. Her body tenses with power, Phobos and Deimos melding with her senses. Her spindly wings stretch outward, imitating the days when they still bore their inspiring feathers.

The pain in Luna’s skull rises as her magic is unleashed. Though at the same time, the pain is blocked out, replaced with emotion and a mounting urge for revenge.

Dainn lifts his hammer into his hands as he and Luna exchange hardened glares.

With Phobos’ magic triggered, Luna disappears in a flash of light while dashing forward, reappearing instantly in front of Dainn. She swings Phobos and Deimos in tandem, spinning with unbridled speed.

Dainn keeps his hammer in front, broadly angling it to block each of Luna’s slashes. He shifts his weight to deliver a pommel strike, only for Luna to quickly duck and step behind him. She rapidly follows with a flurry of her blades, forcing Dainn to step backwards and deeper into the center of the garden.

Changing her approach, Luna takes a step back, preparing to bring her surging blades down upon Dainn in an overbearing strike. Seeing this, the caribou king hold his hammer horizontally above his head with one arm, confident in his strength.

Much to his surprise, Luna’s powerful slash foils Dainn’s one-arm defense, causing him to falter. Her swords release a burst of magic following the blow, sending Dainn skidding deeper into the garden center.

Still on his feet, Dainn grits his teeth, rearing his hammer upwards and slamming it into the ground as its etched runes glow. As the earth cracks and splits, a shockwave of rune energy travels with it, headed directly for Luna.

Luna drives Deimos into the ground seconds before the shockwave reaches her. The rune energy smashes into her like a tidal wave against rock, but it does no damage. The bright energy is sucked into the ground below Deimos.

Luna pulls Deimos out of the ground, its metal frame now glowing with the siphoned rune energy, and hurls it at the king with all her strength. The sword scatters its absorbed energy as it spins with incredible speed, arcing like a boomerang towards its target.

Surprised but now slowed, Dainn quickly reacts by shielding himself once again. The head of his war hammer saves him as Deimos bounces off of it with a loud clang. The blade leaves a huge gash upon the hammer’s metal as it careens off to the side, leaving Luna with only Phobos.

Seeing his opportunity, Dainn goes on the offensive, charging at Luna with his hammer primed. Luna dodges his advances, ducking and weaving as the war hammer misses her by inches.

As she tries to find an opening in Dainn’s assault, Luna spins to dodge another swing, only to leave herself vulnerable for but a second. She receives a massive blow to her back from Dainn’s hammer, sending her tumbling painfully across the ground. The air is knocked out of her lungs, leaving her gasping for breath as she skids to a stop near Deimos. She writhes from the intense pain in her spine.

As Luna tightly grasps Phobos, struggling desperately to get up, Dainn makes his way to her, himself panting. Luna’s senses begin spiraling out of control, feeling nothing and everything at the same time. The blaring pain and the numbing ease mix together.

“Enough. This ends now.”

Luna shuts her eyes. Her muscles tense.

“It ended the moment it began!”

Her unshackled magic still spewing from her being, Luna swings Phobos upwards, slicing a brutal gash into Dainn’s left leg. Just as he begins to reel from his wound, Luna sheathes Phobos and grabs onto his hammer’s pole grip with one hand, delivering a vigorous punch to his jaw with the other.

As Dainn staggers backwards, Luna latches tightly onto the war hammer between them, her teeth clenched as she sends a forceful kick straight into his stomach. The blow finally causes him to lose his grip, his hammer now in Luna’s hands.

Luna takes a wide step, gathering force in a spin with the hammer readied. In one mighty swing, Luna slams the war hammer directly into Dainn’s chest, sending him off his feet and flying across the garden, landing with a thud. Luna immediately follows through with another spin, letting go mid swing. The heavy hammer shoots through the air and collides into Dainn as he tries to get back up, knocking back to the ground.

Giving her opponent not a second of respite, Luna draws Phobos, surging with light. She runs as fast as her legs allow and leaps into the air, just as Dainn manages to raise his hammer in defense.

In an over-headed slash, and with a violent battle cry, Luna severs the war hammer in two. Instantaneously, a bright and colorful ether escapes as the runes break. The wispy cloud flees from sight. Luna ignores it for now. Her eyes, widened and strained, remain locked on the fallen king.

With her boot pressing down on his chest, she raises Phobos, and swings it at his head.

Dainn growls in pain as his antlers are coarsely sliced off, leaving nothing but two rough stubs upon his head.

Luna keeps Phobos inches away from Dainn’s throat. She stares at him, imagining the one thrust it would take to kill him. But Luna remains still.

In Luna’s plan, Dainn’s death would come. But not now.

A small group of six Alliance ponies arrive in the garden, led by Mjolna. They move to Luna’s side, their weapons drawn and trained on a defeated and now surrounded Dainn.

Luna smiles.

“Congratulations, King Dainn. You’re now Equestria’s most valuable prisoner.”

Mjolna motions to her soldiers. They move closer, three of them sheathing their weapons as they restrain Dainn and heave him onto his knees while the others keep their weapons readied.

Luna kneels down to his level, glowering at him. Her voice deadly serious.

“…Do you love your people, Dainn? I wouldn’t think you as one capable of love. Though either way, I promise you this… I will make them see their weakness. While you rot in chains, I will make their lives know nothing but war. Your kind will drown in the oceans, and burn in fields of fire. And all the while, I will make them remember… That it was all because of you.”

Deciding their time together is at an end, Luna rises, addressing the group of soldiers with her.

“The six of you. Treat his wounds and detain him in the crystal caverns beneath the castle. Do not leave him until I return. And do not speak a word of this to anyone. Marshal, stay with me for a moment.”

“You heard her, lieutenant.” Mjolna relays, handing the lieutenant a fire dart pistol. The armored mare nods compliantly.

“At once, Marshal.”

The six ponies haul the captured Dainn inside the castle, leaving Luna and Mjolna to themselves.

Luna gathers Dainn’s severed antlers, placing them together along with the two pieces of Dainn’s battered war hammer. The rune markings are devoid of any light, signifying their broken state. Discord was indeed freed the moment the runes were broken, but his whereabouts are unknown for now. Luna decides to investigate at a later time.

As she was gathering up the remains of her fated duel, Mjolna had picked up Deimos from across the garden. She gives the blade of the Moon back to Luna, who sheathes it away along with Phobos. In the thick of battle, she had all but forgotten about it.

The two move to the edge of the garden courtyard to gaze upon the city. The fighting had persisted only minutes longer, before cheering began to carry across the city air. A bell tower from the southern quarter rings out, signaling the capture of the last quarter.

Canterlot has been liberated. The caribou… defeated. For now.

Luna’s rushing thoughts catch up to her, cutting her rest short. She stands up from her seat on the courtyard railing and walks briskly to Mjolna, who has just finished murmuring with another of her soldiers.

Mjolna turns to the Princess a she speaks, doing her best to hide a grimace.

“The battle is won. Send runners to find the other leaders. Make sure they’re well.”

“Princess Lu-“

“We must be wary of a possible counter attack. No rest until we fully secure the city.”

“Princess L-“

“Mjolna, I’ll need a casualty repor-“

“PRINCESS. LUNA.”

Luna stops, attentive of Mjolna.

The Marshal’s eyes look as though she has learned a terrible truth.

“…Princess Luna… You have to come with me.”

“What is it? W-….”

Luna looks around.

“…Where is Lantern? Where are…”

Mjolna only stares at Luna. She shakes her head.

Luna runs past Mjolna, ignoring the ache in her muscles as she finds her way to the lower halls. She retraces her steps, finding the hallway where the spire collided into and making her way to the chambers below. All the while, she utters plea after plea in her mind.

The battle is won. We won. This is our victory. The first step to lead us to freedom. I did everything I could from the very beginning to reach this point. Whether from luck, fortune, destiny, whatever one would call it. We took the dare and rose above. We proved our worth. Please, please, please, let the price we have paid be enough! Let it-

Luna stops.

She enters the large room before her.

Rubble still lies about from the chaos.

An awful stench reaches her nose.

Nothing reaches her ears.

Everything… reaches her eyes.

“N-…N-no…”

Amongst the bodies of more than a dozen caribou, lie her friends. Her seven Sentinels.

Gone.

Luna chokes with her words, as though her throat suddenly clogged. Her muscles tense, her mind failing to accept what it sees.

“…Noo!”

It takes Luna every bit of strength and will to hold back the loudest scream growing in her chest. The fabric of her heart is slowly and agonizingly torn as she steps further inside.

The carnage had engulfed the entire room. Weapons litter the floor. The dead cover nearly every corner.

It is easy to spot her noctrals among them. Their grey coats and blue and purple manes, though caked with blood, stand out amongst the red and brown.

Luna moves slowly. Behind her, Mjolna appears, followed by Liberty and her surviving Guardians, who had just finished clearing out the castle. No one utters a single sound. They only look on, as their Princess stumbles in grief.

Luna sees them. Spirit, Crowe, Star Glow, High Tide, Dew Drop. Each of them had a spot. A spot which marked their demise at the hands of the caribou.

Their eyes are wide and lifeless. As if filled with realization at the very last second that none of them were leaving alive.

Sounds of struggle reach Luna’s swiveling ears from the other end of the room.

Luna rushes to the muffled cries as Mjolna, Liberty, and the Guardians behind start to walk in. They gaze at the death surrounding them. Some among them cannot stand the sight and leave.

Failing in her own words, her lips quivering and her hands shaking, Luna stops before the wall. A corpse of a caribou captain covers the source of the faint voice. A katar pierces through his stomach.

Luna shoves the dead caribou aside, revealing a near-death Lantern.

Beside her lies Night Seer, slumped against the wall with a halberd jutting from his torso. His head hangs low, katar only inches from his cold hand.

Not a single inch of Lantern’s body is clean. Her flesh is torn and mauled, tufts of fur missing and massive cuts bleeding red.

Luna’s breathing sputters and skips upon finding her friend, as if shock and sorrow are collapsing her lungs.

Lantern coughs, gurgling in pain. A gash on her cheek stems from the crease of her mouth, oozing blood and revealing bone, as though whoever inflicted such a wound did so in an attempt to make her jaw open wider. Several teeth, mostly her fangs, were forcefully knocked out. It was clear from the dead caribou’s previous position that Lantern was too late to stop him from taking her.

Her orange eyes look up. The only part of her left untouched.

“Princess…”

Luna falls to her knees beside her. She watches as her friend wells with tears, hacking and vomiting as she tries desperately to breathe.

“Its-Its all my fault! We were chasing after the council when the doorway collapsed. I tried to get us through but we were trapped and then… and then… We failed you, Princess.”

Luna consoles her, grabbing hold of Lantern’s one free hand. She grimaces in pain, but continues to look at Luna.

“No. None of you failed me. You, Night Seer, Star Glow, Dew Drop, High Tide, Crowe, and Spirit… you are all the true heroes of this war. Without you, I would never have been found, and none of what we accomplished would have ever been possible. And I will never find a way to be more grateful for your friendship.”

The gash on Lantern’s cheek prevents her from smiling for more than a second.

“W-we… There was…”

Luna nods, knowing her thoughts.

“Despina. You and the others wanted to go to Despina with me.”

“Y… Yes! The hot springs…”

What small amount of joy the thought brought to Lantern is quickly replaced by dread. She continues to cry, shaking as her eyes fill with fear.

“Oh…Oh blessed Moon. I’m scared. I’m scared, Princess. I’m so scared.” Lantern sputters, her eyes darting frantically. Her voice strains as she continues to cough up blood.

Luna hugs her.

“Don’t think about that. Think about Despina. Think about our travels together. When we found Haven. The game of tag with the foals. The singing and dancing. The time you had with Night Seer. And all of your friends. Think of nothing else…”

Luna pulls back.

She closes Lantern’s orange eyes, and lays her hand on her lap.

“…And you’ll find peace.”

Luna stands. She wipes the tears from her eyes as she looks around the room.

She stares at the mound of stone rubble blocking the nearby doorway, which trapped the Sentinels. What Luna sees in the rubble strikes her.

A heavy weight buried with the broken stone. A cut pulley rope draped on top.

And Luna’s katar. Wedged in between the stone.

The brutal reality hits Luna like a train.

…I did this…

Luna is approached by Mjolna. The Marshal’s mouth moves, but Luna hears nothing. Her head throbs and pounds, her hands shaking slightly. She keeps a calm expression.

“Marshal… Give them proper burials. With all the others killed. Tend to the wounded. Make safe the city, please…”

Nodding with grave faces, Mjolna, Liberty, and the Guardians who remained move to the fallen noctrals. They close the eyes of the Sentinels, and begin to free their bodies of their tormented and mangled states.

Luna rubs her hand along her brow, her head hanging, eyes still misty.

Luna.

Death is something you have so much experience in.

Why is this so different?

She cannot think.

Luna, as though in a trance, exits the room. She leaves and heads towards a stairwell leading to the upper halls. Liberty takes notice.

Luna climbs the steps. She arrives in the hall containing the royal chambers, her eyes bearing despair and desperation. She occasionally stumbles as she walks, but she keeps walking, all the way to the end of the great hallway.

Her ears twitch as she hears Liberty’s jogging footsteps reaching the top of the stair well, following her. Though Luna does not stop.

Her head feels as though it were splitting in two.

Nothing can stop her now. Even with the cost… Victory is assured.

There is but one more task. And she will see it through.

Liberty catches sight of Luna, spying her at the very end of the hall.

Dragging Phobos at her side, and opening Celestia’s chambers.

“Luna! Princess Luna, wait!!”

Liberty frantically dashes down the hall as fast as she can, but Luna opens and closes Celestia’s door before she can reach it.

Liberty, not stopping, charges the heavy door with her shoulder. The door does not budge, locked from the other side. Liberty quickly hits the frame again, this time budging it slightly enough to peer inside.

Equestria will be saved. This is certain. But no chances will be taken.

Luna stops. The mare she has come for lies before her. Unarmed, collared, and trembling.

She raises Phobos.

Liberty bangs on the door.

“Luna!!

NO, LUNA!!!

NOOOOOO!!!!!”

Ch 10: The Price of Liberty

“A thing may happen and be a total lie; another thing may not happen and be truer than the truth.”

One day after the battle.

The city fires have died out. All across Canterlot, salvaged loudspeakers echo Luna’s voice. Her message repeats every so often.

“… Citizens of Canterlot. The battle is over. King Dainn is dead. The caribou are no longer in control.

For many, this would be a time to celebrate. But we do not have such time. Our victory was only the beginning of a war. A war which may last for a long time.

From this day forth, Equestria is under the rule of the New Monarchy. It is a constitutional monarchy, so that the power of ruling may be shared fairly among the royalty and the people of Equestria. Your representatives of the reformed senate house, the Consulate, personify this.

Equestria needs every able body, every pair of hands to help rebuild and continue the fight against our enemies. If you are of proper age and build, you are to seek out any Haven Alliance officer to be examined and readied for combat training. If you are not fit for battle, you will be directed to the Consulate for evaluation and placed in a line of work most suited to the needs of the New Monarchy. Every pony will play their part. We are in this together.

Relief and aid will be distributed to all who require it. The areas of the city left intact and the castle grounds are open for those without homes. If you are injured or in need of shelter, make your way to Canterlot castle.

On a final note, I must confess the truth.

Celestia… is no longer with us.

Though I tried to save her, she was too far fallen. I was given no choice but to grant her a painless death. As much as it tortures my heart and my thoughts to have committed this act of mercy, I assure you, I am ready to lead. We will endure.

As the last Princess of Equestria, I promise you all… We will reclaim what was taken from us.”

Remembrance. Something all too important, yet Luna wants none of it.

After passing through the makeshift medical ward set up in the expansive castle voyeur, a conversation with one of the lead battle medics sticks in between Luna’s thoughts, refusing to leave.

…

We don’t have an in-depth report, Princess. We only tallied the dead, since there are much more wounded to be cared for. The army got lucky. We took a beating but… It could have been much worse.

I can tell you about your Sentinels in general, at least from what I saw.

Ok. I’ll be frank.

Lacerations, broken bones, limbs missing, extreme bodily trauma from electrical burns and blunt forces. Some I had to examine closer to see their damage. Others… I didn’t even need to glance to know what they went through. The only way to explain the severity of their wounds is that they were simply overpowered by numbers. Considering how many caribou they killed, that’s what I’m betting.

I… Don’t want to tell you this Princess, but… You know how caribou work. It didn’t matter to them if their victims were bleeding, bruised, or… even missing a limb. They still… did their thing.

Word of their deaths have already spread. Some are starting to use it as a rallying cry. ‘For the Seven Sentinels’, they say. It’s driving others to keep fighting through the pain. But… I’d keep the details under wraps. Ponies would rather memorialize them than picture them clawing for breath while being slaughtered alive.

I’m sorry, Princess Luna.

…

Luna should not think so selfishly. Many have lost those dear to them during the battle for the city. Yet even so, those seven faces cannot stop appearing in the back of Luna’s thoughts. Question after question follow them. What could have been done differently? What mistake caused their deaths?

Princess Luna shakes her head, placing a hand on her brow. The only cure she can think of is to put her mind to work on something. Being back in a seat of power and authority luckily provides her with a constantly-stacking list of duties to attend to. Meeting with the Alliance leaders being one of them.

Making her way to the outside of the main castle doors, Luna descends the huge steps, which only a day earlier had seen some of the fiercest fighting. Now, the homeless spend their time here, sitting on the many steps or searching the grounds for loved ones. Clusters of tents fill the edges of the castle grounds, making their way closer to the center as more and more are erected.

At the very bottom of the stairs, Luna spots General Olive, speaking with a few of his Saddle Arabian soldiers. Luna approaches him as he finishes, garnering his attention.

“Princess. Allow me to congratulate you on the victory.” The General says, holding a fist to his heart and nodding his head. Luna replies with a nod of her own.

“Thank you, General. But it was a victory earned by all who fought for it. It belongs to you and to all of our soldiers as much as it does to me.”

“Your humility knows no bounds. And it could not be more appreciated. With the losses many have suffered, we must double our efforts to keep up morale. My ponies and I will continue to maintain order in the city. We have already begun rebuilding critical defenses on the fringes of the capital.”

“That is good news. Thank you General Olive.” Luna replies, moving to leave. She is stopped by the Saddle Arabian General for one last question.

“I trust your judgement, Princess Luna, but… Had the Princess of the Sun truly fallen so far from grace? Was she truly so out of reach that nothing could have returned her to her brilliance?”

Luna bows her head solemnly. “I am afraid so. If there was anything I could have done, I would have. The only way for me to save her was to let her leave this world.”

“I understand. It is a shame. I will send a message to the Sultana of this sad news. I expect to be still stationed under your command, however. Saddle Arabia is still starving, and as my people’s representative in the Haven Alliance, I will do anything I can to give them the help they need.”

Luna reassures the General. “I promise you. Getting food and supplies to Saddle Arabia is one of our top priorities. Please tell the Sultana that aid will be coming soon.”

With a thankful nod, General Olive departs, allowing Luna to exit to the castle grounds.

A stream of wayward clouds travel to and fro over the mountain and the valley, casting the rays of sunlight in bright patches. Though the day remains mostly cloudy, laden with the occasional drizzle of rain. It will be some time before Equestria can properly regain control of the weather, and in turn, retake the mantle of nature’s custodian.

Princess Luna makes her way through the battle-scarred capital, its rubble being sifted through by its worn and weary inhabitants. Ponies scatter about, picking up the pieces in a mix of sorrow and relief. War is something many ponies don’t want, but they know it will bring about their freedom from the caribou. As Luna had assured in her messages.

Luna passes into the Sun quarter. The streets now see much more activity, with Canterlot’s citizens scavenging for useful items or searching for lost companions. A desperate stallion asks if any pony had seen his wife, pleading that he still loves her. A mare discovers water spilling from a broken pipe upon the second floor of a shattered building. She quickly soaks herself in the frigid water, inviting others to use it before Alliance troops cordon it off for water storage. The voice in Luna’s head once again reminds her of the necessity that comes from this aftermath.

War is the solution to peace. There is no other option.

Arriving in the market quarter, Luna takes sight of the vast detainment camp set up in the center of the old commerce plaza, sectioned off with wired fence work. The camp is lined on the inside with hastily constructed tents and processing centers, and is filled with mostly caribou non-combatants. A small selection of stubbornly loyal red-collared mares are among them, along with those traitor stallions and caribou soldiers who survived their defeat.

On the roof of a nearby building, a large flagpole was erected to be seen by the entire detainment camp. The sheared-off antlers and destroyed war hammer of Dainn are dangled from the pole.

Overseeing the camp and the surrounding quarter is Commander Skyward and her Red Hawk Regulars. The griffin unit had taken the least amount of casualties by battle’s end.

Luna approaches Commander Skyward’s officer station, set up in the remains of a bookstore. Luna finds the Commander just outside.

“I gotta say… I haven’t been in a battle like that in a while.” Skyward remarks, leaning against the side of a ruined wall.

“Was it a challenge for you?” Luna asks.

“What? No way. The caribou down here have no idea how to fight griffins. Their legionnaires in the north give us a much harder time. These guys were pushovers.”

The Commander coughs, retracting her statement.

“I mean… It was tough for everybody. We lost a lot of good troops. But that’s war for you, yeah? Still, we gained a massive strategic victory, in both damage done and in what we gained. A lot of the ponies in this city who have come to the recruiting officers have made the cut. Our ranks are growing.”

Luna nods in approval. “What is the situation with the detainment camps?”

“In short; easy. We don’t have a lot of hostile prisoners. Only a few caribou and stallion soldiers attempted to escape the city. The majority of them were caught, some killed. The rest are just civilians. The mares, stallions and stags sometimes give us guff, though it’s nothing we can’t handle. The cows are terrified of us.

On a more productive note though, the caribou clerics and other mage types are being kept in a separate camp altogether to force them to remove collars. Most are being cooperative, with some… added encouragement. And don’t worry, there won’t be any ‘accidental’ deaths. I know that these prisoners are more useful alive.”

“Well done,” Luna says, “Minister Rhona will probably be expecting your Regulars and the Thunderhead back in the Griffin Kingdoms after she hears of our victory, yes?”

“I think after they hear of this victory they’ll end up sending more griffins and supplies down here, actually. My people may tend to be pricks to other nations, but they know Equestria’s survival is crucial to their own. Unless things get really dicey back home, the Red Hawks will be with you in the long run, Princess. Giant-ass cannon included.” Skyward smirks.

Luna smiles. “Thank you, Commander. I will leave you to your charges. You will hear from me soon on the next course of action.”

“Will do, Princess. Nice talking with you.”

With little else to tend to in the city itself, Luna returns to the castle grounds, arriving in the castle’s voyeur medical ward once more. Here, Chief Zavala and the zebra lieutenant Abéna have set up shop, lending what assistance they can to those recuperating. Alliance soldiers and surviving citizens alike are tended to by battle medics and zebra healers.

Luna spies Chief Zavala, making her way towards her. She stops at a distance as she sees the zebra Chief preoccupied with a group of younger foals needing attention. Alongside the other healers, Zavala gives them care and lightens their hearts, wiping away tears and reuniting what families she can.

As Luna looks on in silence and admiration, Abéna appears. A bandage is wrapped around her forehead, and her left arm rests in a sling.

“Princess of the Night. You are truly as strong as they say. To have led us and then slay the very king who deposed you. And then while suffering the loss of your Sentinels, to have to grant your sister peace to save her from herself… I would not have been able to do any of it.”

Luna forces a smile. She’d rather not speak too much of yesterday’s events.

“Thank you, Abéna. But… you and your fellow zebras deserve more recognition than I. You were forced out of your own country, with no place to call home, and yet you fight to help free another people. Chief Zavala gives her love to those foals as if they were her own.”

Abéna smiles. “We lost our civil war with the Tributes and were cast out of Zebrica, yes. But we do have a place to call home. Haven is our home. Equestria is our home, thanks to you. And that makes the ponies of Equestria our family. It wouldn’t matter to Chief Zavala, though. She is stern and stoic when she must lead us on the field. But at heart, she is a mother to all.”

The zebras had seen the very worst of the consequences of the Fall. Yet they were perhaps the strongest of all in the Alliance. Luna had never seen it so clearly until now.

She turns to Abéna.

“Do you still have family in Zebrica?”

“Yes,” Abéna nods, “My family was one of many who could not make the journey northward to Equestria. They remain in Zebrica’s southern reaches, living nomadic lives to escape the Tributes. I hope every day that they are still safe.”

Luna places a hand on her shoulder. “We may have to wait some time before we acquire the necessary strength to take back Zebrica. But I promise you that it will be done. As the caribou fall, so too will the Tributes.”

Though saddened, Abéna retains a hopeful look in her eyes. “I’m aware. All of us are. The distance from our homeland will not slow us. We know that if we follow you, Princess, we will have our freedom.”

A heartfelt smile appears on Luna’s lips.

“Thank you. Stay strong. Please inform Chief Zavala that I will speak with her later.”

“Of course.”

With an exchange of bows, Luna bids Abéna farewell, proceeding through the medical ward and further into the castle.

Marshal Mjolna is the last leader Luna needs to speak with, though she is still gathering a finalized report on the city. In the meantime, there is another loose end in the castle for Luna to visit. One which she herself has not seen in years.

“I thought I might find you here.”

Luna walks into the hedge-maze garden, finding Discord sitting atop a stone platform.

He chuckles weakly.

“You among few ponies know me so well.” He mutters.

Discord poofs into nothingness, reappearing a foot off of the ground with his face planted in the dirt. He struggles to free himself, requiring Luna to help pull him out.

Luna looks concerned. “How are you feeling? Are your powers returning?”

Discord shakes his head with a frustrated sigh. He himself looks drained, weak from years of inactivity.

“Not at a pace which I’d hoped. Don’t get me wrong, I’m overjoyed that you freed me from that sex-for-brains king. But… my chaos magic was being siphoned by that hammer for much too long. It comes back in tiny trickles, but it’s going to take an unbearably long time before I can feel like myself again.”

Discord shakes his head like a wet dog, throwing off the tiny bits of dirt and grass stuck to him. He readies a snap to conjure some of his magic again, only for Luna to stop him, lowering his bird-like claws.

“I am sorry. I must ask that you save what magic you can to aid me in controlling the Sun and Moon from now on.”

“Ah, yes. It makes sense that your hornless magic would have its limits. The dawning question, however, is how you achieved such a feat in the first place.” Discord muses, stroking his slim beard.

Luna stays silent, defensive in her expressions. She continues on her previous subject.

“I am unable to use my magic continuously without crippling pain. That is why I need your help.”

“Well, I’ve got nothing pressing on my own agendas that clashes with raising the Sun and Moon. And… it’s the least I could do to repay you for freeing me. Quite the trouncing you gave Dainn, by the way. I was cheering for you, just in case you weren’t aware.” Says Discord, finishing with a quick smirk.

Luna’s lips curl into a small smile. She is about to speak, before Discord suddenly interrupts her, changing the discussion with a sharp turn to a more serious tone.

“I don’t suppose you’d consider explaining to me what you did to Celestia. I knew she became the lowly-obedient-blissful type after a few short months, bordering on insanity, but even I know that a sword to the heart isn’t a very good healing practice.”

Though she is caught off guard by Discords prying, Luna retains her semblance, sighing.

“Actually, Discord… You are perhaps the only being I can tell the truth to.”

Discord perks up in surprise.

“That will be for another time. For now… I have a proposition for you, Discord. A place where you can apply yourself while you regain your powers.”

“Alright. I’m listening, Princess.” Discord says, his ears fluttering in peaked curiosity.

“As the New Monarchy and the Consulate are being implemented as the new governing system, I have been needing a particular position filled in. How would you like to be my Spymaster?”

“A Spymaster, you say? Goodness gracious, what an offer. Why are you so willing to give such a title to me? We hadn’t even truly warmed up to each other before all this falling nonsense.” Discord quips.

Luna crosses her arms. “A trickster such as yourself should be ashamed to have been fooled by Dainn… But, if you are willing, you can make it up to us. You’d have free reign to recruit and lead anyone willing to gather intelligence on the enemy. What do you say?”

“… Well, when you put it like that… We have a deal. I’m sure Fluttershy would want me to do something other than lie around all day anyway.”

To see Discord smile again feels much more heartening to Luna than she thought.

As Luna smiles back, Discord slinks closer to her ear, whispering.

“Also… I’ll help keep up your charade of Dainn’s death. As long as you tell me what you intend to do with him.”

Luna nods, shaking Discord’s lion paw. “I had forgotten how inquisitive you are. Very well then. I will fill you in on what I have planned. For now, get some rest. There’s an office section in the castle’s upper halls which may suit your future needs.”

“An office room? I’ll take it, but I hope you aren’t expecting me to do paperwork. Not my strong suit. In any case, Princess, ta-ta for now!”

Discord readies for a snap of his fingers, only to be stopped by Luna.

“Please, Discord! You need to save what magic you can to help me lower the Sun and raise the Moon.”

“Ah, right. Well then, I’ll… I’ll just walk. All the same though; Until we meet again!”

The daytime light slowly changes from yellow to orange in between the passing clouds. Having the life-giving light of the world finally free from the caribou’s grasp brought a great joy to Luna’s heart, as she gazed upon the coming sunset from the balcony of the castle’s west tower. Perhaps the price that was paid would be worth it all.

The west tower platform gives way to an encompassing view of most of Canterlot. At the very edge, one can see the castle grounds below, and the sprawling city surrounding it. The Canterlot Valley lies beyond, spanning out into and endless sight. Sparse clouds gather here and there, sailing along the currents of the wind as the Sun slowly descends. The castle’s flags of the Sun and of the Haven Alliance gently sway with stray breezes.

Mjolna should arrive to meet with Luna anytime now, hopefully carrying with her some good news amidst all of the reports she has been gathering. As much as winning the battle and reclaiming Canterlot was good news in itself, there will be more hardships to come.

A knock on the balcony doors shakes Luna from her thoughts.

“Yes?”

A guard, a pegasus mare fresh from the battle the day before, pushes the door ajar.

“Apologies, Princess, but it’s the Guardian, Liberty. She demands an audience with you. She is adamant.”

Luna sighs, holding her hands behind her.

“Let her in.”

Luna’s ears twitch to the sudden slam of the balcony doors as they are violently swung open, the guard having been pushed aside. Liberty appears, hastily making her way to Luna, her fists clenched in anger.

“HOW COULD YOU!?!”

Luna retains her posture, continuing to look outwards from the balcony to the horizon.

Behind her, Liberty seethes.

“You murderer!! You killed her! You killed Celestia just as we won!! I trusted you and you… you USE all of us just so you could take the throne! You… you didn’t even leave a body for us to bury!!”

Liberty’s outrage continues, her voice rasping from strain.

“You mourn for your Sentinels, yet you feel nothing for your own sister?! WHY?!?”

Luna drops her eyes to the side, still facing the sun.

“…Chorus-”

“No. Don’t you DARE call me that!! My name is Liberty! Because that’s what I believe in! That’s what I stand for! And I’ll keep fighting for liberty, in CELESTIA’S name, under CELESTIA’S Sun!!!”

Luna looks down.

“…I did what I had to do. I am sorry that I cannot explain it any other way.”

Liberty grits her teeth, venting her anger with a frustrated growl. If consequence did not exist, she would surely have tackled Luna off of the balcony’s ledge.

With effort, Liberty reigns in her emotions. She does her absolute best to compose herself, sighing.

“… I’m no coward. I won’t back down from the fight ahead… But you and I are through, Princess Luna. My Guardians and I will help in our own way. We won’t be taking orders from you.”

Liberty turns to leave, her gold and white cloak flowing briskly. She stops to glance once more at the back of Princess Luna.

“…You’ve gained a victory, and now you’ve gained a monarchy… But you’ve forever lost a friend.”

The balcony doors are swung open and slammed shut once more.

Luna, alone on the balcony, returns her eyes to the orange horizon.

Only a minute or so passes before Luna’s expected company arrives on the balcony.

“Princess Luna,” Marshal Mjolna moves to her side, “I ran into Liberty on the way here. Are you ok?”

Luna weakly nods, relaxing slightly from her stoic posture. She takes her eyes away from the orange sunset to look at Mjolna.

“Yes… I am fine. Were you successful with the reports?”

Mjolna pulls out a paper with several notes. “Yup. I have them here. Do you want to hear them now, or…?”

“Now is fine. I need to put my mind to something.”

Mjolna nods.

“I’ll start with the smaller ones. Some information on persons of interest;

Shining Armor has left the city. From what the note he left behind says, he is planning on searching for Cadence. The note expressed his guilt over everything that happened. A lot of guilt. He doesn’t feel fit to lead any one anymore. Not after all the choices he made. In my opinion, it’s kinda harsh to beat himself up like that. He was brainwashed after all.”

Luna forcefully sighs. “I would have rather he stayed. We need all of the experienced commanders we can get. It is a setback, but perhaps he may return someday.”

Nodding, Mjolna continues.

“While on the topic of royalty, we can confirm that Princess Twilight has fled as well. To where, exactly, we don’t know. No one is sure why she would flee to begin with. Unless she is still aligned with the caribou.”

“Perhaps. Hard to say. I did not encounter her during the battle. We will keep an eye out for her in the future.” Luna says, turning her head away for a moment.

“Noted. Lastly, Elder Vigil sent word from Haven that things are ok down there. She also mentions that the Bureau ponies, Tome and Scavenger Hunt, are looking to relocate to Canterlot. They might need some help with moving all of the stuff they acquired. There is another letter also stating that a noctral team successfully reached the Castle of the Two Sisters in the Everfree. Night Wing and her scouts, along with the Hooves family, have been safely taken to Haven.”

Flipping the page of her report papers, Mjolna proceeds to the longer list.

“That aside, here is our overall status;

As of the battle, the Haven Alliance is in firm control of Canterlot and the Eastern fringes of Equestria, that being Haven and its surrounding forests and mountains. We also technically control Savannah Pass in the South, but we don’t have any presence there. Chief Zavala has suggested moving a contingent there, just to make sure the zebra Tributes don’t try to use it.

The only other major city in our control is Stalliongrad and its surrounding Ursa Mountains. Commander Skyward received word from another unit under Minister Rhona’s command who arrived in Stalliongrad several weeks ago. They found that the city had liberated itself, and is sheltering some of the Crystal Empire’s population after the winter storms overcame it. They are already working with griffin forces to find a means of opening supply lines with us. Though right now, the quickest and safest way to reach the town is going around through Umbra, but that means weeks on the road. Once we begin taking more ground here in Equestria, we should be able to forge a more direct supply route.”

Luna nods. “A natural fortress and two cities, one of those cities being the capital. It is good start.”

Mjolna continues. “I’ve already began the official organizing of Equestrian troops in accordance with your guidelines. Just the general stuff, but soon we will begin forming specialized unit classes based on what we need. In order to do that though, we need more recruits. Recapturing regions and liberating ponies will bolster our ranks. The best place to start would be the Canterlot Valley. It has many small towns as well as larger ones, like Cloudsdale…”

Mjolna peers out from the edge of the balcony, scanning the valley below. She tilts her head in confusion.

“Speaking of Cloudsdale, shouldn’t we be able to see it from here? It isn’t too far from Ponyville…”

Luna shakes her head in dismay.

“When I traveled to the Everfree Forest, I passed by Ponyville and where Cloudsdale used to be. I initially thought it might have been moved, but I noticed a field of fog where it had once floated. It seems that the city was not moved… But destroyed.”

Mjolna’s ears perk up in shock. “What?! But how??”

“That I am not entirely sure. Supposedly, when we destroyed the Crystal Heart, the subsequent fighting in the city was enough to tear it down from the sky. The reports I’ve heard are varied, and it is not clear who exactly caused the city’s destruction.

It is saddening. Yet another tragedy to give ponies something to fight for…”

Mjolna dwells on Luna’s words, reminding herself of the Princess’ loss.

“…I’m sorry about your Sentinels, Princess.”

“It is alright, Mjolna.”

Luna turns away from the railing as the orange in the sky starts to dim.

“Come. Let us go for a walk.”

Princess Luna and Marshal Mjolna make their way along the castle bridges and ramparts, walking among the destruction caused by the battle. Though the evening sky begins to set in, there are still a few hours before the Sun and Moon must be tended to.

As they continue towards the lower sections of the castle, Luna speaks.

“Mjolna… Who do you see me as?”

The Marshal pauses, blinking her beige eyes. It only takes seconds for her response.

“You’re a leader, and our Princess. Our only Princess, as of now.”

Luna takes in her words.

“Do you think I made the right choice? About… About my sister.”

“Liberty won’t be the only one upset about how you dealt with Celestia. There will be plenty others voicing their worry. Me? I trust you made the right choice. You’ve fulfilled your promise to save us. And even though there is still a war to be fought… No other pony could have done any of this except for you.”

Luna finds some comfort in Mjolna’s honesty. Though deep down it only makes her feel more shameful. Her inner thoughts are cut short as Mjolna speaks again.

“I know you mentioned earlier that you will be reforming the Sentinels into a unit of its own, much like the Guardians of the Sun are now. I’m considering doing the same actually. The Wardens, as I call them, to act as a middle ground between the two sides. No doubt there will be some internal strife from the divide of those serving you, and those who would rather serve Celestia, even after her death. It would be best to have an elite group in the middle, for ponies who would rather not pick between the Sun and the Moon. My Wardens will also prioritize protection of the Heartmenders as they continue to grow. They are crucial to Equestria’s recovery.”

Luna places her hands behind her, nodding in agreement.

“I see the logic in your choice, Marshal. You have my approval to form the Wardens. We can’t afford to be slowed down by internal rivalries at a time like this.”

Luna and Mjolna continue on their walk until they arrive at the garden courtyard. The signs of Luna’s battle with Dainn have been roughly cleaned up, mostly to make the garden feel more peaceful.

In one of the corners, next to a stone railing which is flanked by empty flower patches, lies a chunk of stone taken from some of the rubble found throughout the castle.

Luna had placed it there as a memorial. A stone slab placed at the bottom contains two words etched into it.

Seven Sentinels

“Maybe we could put a statue up for them?” Mjolna suggests, “I’m sure Elder Vigil would want to make one in Umbra. The castle gardens could use some new pieces too, since all the others are long gone anyway.”

“Yes. When the time allows… That would be nice. I would have liked to bury them here, but… I wasn’t sure if they would have wanted to be separate from all the others who have perished alongside them. A lot of other noctrals were killed as well.”
Luna continues to gaze at the stone memorial. Those seven faces appear in her thoughts.

“… We were… planning to all spend some time up in Despina. An Umbran town. There are hot springs there.”

“… When did you figure you would have time for that?” Mjolna asks, curious.

“We would’ve had to wait a few more years. Until this war ended. Whenever it would.”

Luna sighs.

“I suppose they could have perished at any time on the road ahead. It is better that they died together, instead of one by one.”

Mjolna sees the discomfort in Luna’s posture. The stress in her voice is all too apparent. The deaths of the Sentinels shook her to her very core.

“With all due respect, Princess… Wouldn’t you of all ponies be used to death?”

Luna pauses. She stares at the chunk of rock she stuck in the ground.

“… I am used to it. That doesn’t mean I do not feel the pain. It has more to do with life, I suppose. I was once alone for a thousand years, with no friends. The Fall happens, and then I find seven of the best friends I could have ever asked for. To lose them so soon hurts, but… What hurts more is that I am still here.

I am immortal. Immune to time's grasp. Which means… That whatever plane of existence, whatever realm of afterlife they are in… I will never meet them there. I will never see them again.

I am grateful that I had my time with them. But now… I will be forever plagued with their memory. And thus I will never know true rest, like they do now.

Oh… How I envy them….”

Luna is approached by the clipboard-wielding unicorn mare standing outside her chamber door.

“Greetings, Princess. The healing medicines, tonics, and poultices for magic strain were just delivered to your chambers. Taken from secondary stocks and not from the medical ward, as you requested. Also, we were able to find some wood to make you that sword rack you needed. Though the carpenter we worked with was curious. Did you mean for the tweaks to the rack to make it look like an altar?”

“Thank you, and yes. It is meant to look that way. It is simply easier for me to handle them when stood upright, and not leaning against a standard rack.”

“I see then. Have a good evening, Princess.”

The courier mare departs, finishing Luna’s official agenda for the night.

With Discord’s help, Luna had a much easier time raising the Moon to its proper place. Though she still experienced some pain, it was much more manageable, especially when she stayed in close proximity to Phobos and Deimos. The Blades of the Moon have been mostly quiet following the battle.

Luna will be directing the war effort and reconstruction from the castle and away from the frontline, as having the Moon and the Sun in her – and Discord’s – care will prevent her from traveling too much. All for the better, as Luna surmises.

Luna enters into her old chambers. The room is mostly empty, save for an old bed and desk scavenged from what remained outside. Luna lost her personal effects long ago, when the entire castle was gutted and re-purposed in the days following the Fall. Luna’s room, and her memories, were not exempt from the caribou reorganizing.

With a sigh, Luna picks up the box of various potions from her desk and brings it towards a stone wall. She presses upon one of the stone bricks, relieved to find the secret door the wall contained still operational.

The secret room she had always kept was no real secret even before the Fall. Celestia new fully well of this place, as it was a common for Luna to find solitude in it when she was still recovering after her banishment. As the Fall came around, it was retrofitted for more tortuous purposes.

Having these spaces of memory and past returned to her feels strange. Like entering one’s ransacked and defiled home after fighting tooth and nail to take it back, only to remind oneself that it is one small room, in a home as large as a nation.

Within the secret room lies another bed, and before the bed, Luna’s newest addition to her living space.

The sword ‘rack’ is wide and long, made of a dark and scorched wood. Pieces from the battle the day prior. It lies on the floor before Luna’s bed, sitting with a ghostly feel, like a casket taken from its grave.

Within the piece are two slots hastily carved downward, big enough to fit one of Luna’s blades in each slot.

After placing her potions down beside the bed, Luna takes Phobos and Deimos off of her person, unsheathing them from their ancient scabbards and placing them in their altar. She sits on the edge of her bed and looks to each of them as they stand, their hilts pointed upwards. Phobos on her left, and Deimos on her right.

Luna glances back and forth between them.

Phobos.

To Deimos.

Then Phobos again.

The sight resembles the fork in a long and painful road. Which path to take? Left, or right? Phobos, or Deimos?

Time and time again, as Luna asks the question and answers it in her head over and over, she finds herself picking the more appealing option. The less humble path. The path that flies off ward into the dark. Filled with danger, death, and rashness. But at the same time, filled with want, pride, power, an endless drive to brush aside any opponent. An insatiable need for revenge, and a small inkling of jealousy.

Luna always reaches for the left path.

Luna always reaches for Phobos.

Entering into the deepest and darkest caves of Canterlot castle, Luna passes through the dungeons to find the entrance to the crystal caverns.

Awaiting her is Marshal Mjolna, accompanied by the same six guards from the day before who took Dainn into custody. They stand before a heavy metal door, barred with two thick steel beams.

“Princess. We’ve readied him for you. We will remain here for when you are finished.” Mjolna states.

Luna nods. The guards move to the door, withdrawing the beams and unlocking it. It swings open steadily, allowing Luna to slip in as it is closed behind her.

Amidst the blue and red crystal formations lies Luna’s prisoner, seated on a wooden stool. His hands are chained before him.
Luna walks up to him, pulling another wooden stool from the nearby wall and placing it in front of him. She takes a seat.

“Now… King Dainn… Let us talk.”

Dainn’s cell, though cold, barely lit and slightly hazardous from the crystal growths, is relatively comfortable. There are places to sit, plenty of natural mirrors to look into, a chamber pot installed only recently, and even a desk with paper and pencils for writing. The most comfortable piece, however, is the cotton bed.

Dainn retains his signature frown. “What makes you think I’ll tell you anything?”

“Oh no, you mistake my intentions,” Luna chuckles, “I had hoped we could talk about other things, if you’d like. What do caribou generally talk about when they are at the mercy of a mare?”

Luna’s prodding seemingly has no effect on the former king.

“Nothing.”

“Surely you have some form of small talk. Or is it always about ambition, power, sex, and lies? It seems as though those are recurring topics.”

Dainn remains silent. Luna is somewhat impressed that he isn’t running is mouth with insults. He is very composed.

“I’m actually quite curious about your people, Dainn. The mind of a caribou stag and a caribou cow are both very intriguing. I would like to learn more. Who better to ask than you?”

Silence.

Luna smiles, waiting. She moves her head to the side, keeping her eyes on her prisoner.

“No?”

Dainn turns away.

“Very well. I suppose you are not the best person to ask. A shame.”

Luna exhales, patting her knees with her hands

“Well, I enjoyed this. I look forward to our next discussion tomorrow.”

As Luna stands and the cell door begins to open, Dainn scoffs.

“Is this what you think interrogation is? A comfortable cell? Small talk? You can’t be serious.”

Luna stops halfway to the door, turning her head to Dainn.

“I assure you, King Dainn, I am being quite serious. We royals must always be civil and compassionate towards one another. The guards will bring you breakfast early tomorrow morning.

I suggest… you get some sleep.”

...\/\/\/\/\/\/

\/\/\/\/\/\/...

“…?”

Dainn awakes to darkness. A cold air seeps from around him, as though a gust of wind came to tease him.

He attempts to rise, but is unable. An unseen force keeps him afloat, hovering while laid upon his back.

Slowly, the darkness recedes, revealing the dry grass and dying plants of the castle garden. It strikes the king as familiar, realizing it to be the site of his battle with Luna.

A sudden light permeates the blackness from above, casting an ethereal glow upon Dainn like a spotlight. The white and silvery light descends from the full Moon. It’s entire being radiating with the ominous light.

From its nearly blinding center appears the tiniest of specks. A small, black dot, floating from the Moon’s smooth and cratered surface.

It grows closer, shaking the air with methodical beats.

The speck becomes larger, landing in the garden daintily only a short distance from Dainn. The black sphere unfolds into a magnificent pair of shadowy wings.

The winged shadow plants its talon into the dying grass, its blue eyes hovering above the void where its head should be. The creature of black extends its wings outward, suddenly revealing its passenger.
Princess Luna.

With a hand brushing along the wispy feathers of the winged shadow, Luna walks towards Dainn. She bears a calm and gentle demeanor, as though she carried the Moon’s blessings with her.

The winged shadow follows behind her, folding its crow-like wings. It halts as Luna looks upon Dainn before her.

“Good evening. I trust you are sleeping well.”

Dainn speaks, but cannot hear himself. Confused, he sees Luna smile.

“You do not need to speak, I can hear you. I can hear everything here.”

From beneath Dainn’s suspended state, a pool of black sludge forms. It spreads out to encompass the ground of the garden, replacing the dry grass.

Sickly shapes grow from the creeping liquid, wriggling their way up towards Dainn. They form into limbs, spewing a foul stench as their tips unfold into black hands.

The hands latch onto Dainn’s body, grabbing his arms and legs. They feel cold and coarse.

Luna looks down upon him calmly.

“You are now in Moonlight’s presence. Subject to a never ending plague. You will understand fear… And it will consume you. Every time you lay yourself to sleep. Every time you close your eyes. I, as Nightmare incarnate, will be there.”

She begins to walk around the immobile Dainn, the black tar creeping across his flesh as the winged shadow watches intently.

“You see… I can create living manifestations born of emotion. Magical beings designed to induce nightmare after nightmare upon its host. But I have no need for such a parasite.”

Luna stops behind Dainn’s head, caressing his cheeks.

“As you suffer from this lullaby’s taint, your dreams will be mine to pry open. I will uncover your secrets, and make them my own. I will craft you, change you, and turn you into the very opposite of what you hope to be. As the night wanes, you will fall.”

Dainn looks up.

A pair of teal, cat-like eyes stare back.

“Now… Let us begin.”

Silver Grass

One hundred years after the Battle of Canterlot

There is a house on a grey hill.

Princess Luna steps onto the front porch of the humble cottage after making the climb from the stone path. She stops to wipe her boots on the doormat, cleaning them of the dust and dirt from the trail. She brushes off her pants and her long coat as well.

Luna places Phobos and Deimos gently against the porch railing, safe in their scabbards. A pot of icy-blue flowers rests on the railing post above them.

With nothing on her but her courier bag, Luna enters the cottage.

\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\

“Hello, Celestia.”

“Oh! Luna! My dearest sister! It is so wonderful to see you again.”

“How have you been?”

“Fine. Though I don’t quite understand how you once used to live here. It gets much too cold!”

“That is because you are sitting on the wrong side, sister. You must sit on the warmer side. The side of the Sun!”

“… Ohhh. Oh, yes. I suppose that is true. Yes. I’ll do that now…. Ah.”

“Let me help… There... See? Much better, yes? And the view you now have is spectacular.”

“You could not be more right, Luna. Thank you… What have you brought with you this time?”

“Ah… just a few things I thought you might enjoy…”

“… Ohhh! Luna! Chocolate cake? You remembered!”

“It is not that hard to forget. But yes. I also brought you some moon cakes as well. They are of a very old and very special recipe. I hope you enjoy them!”

“How kind of you. Please sit down with me, Luna. You must be tired from your journey.”

\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\

“Hmmm… Have I ever told you how much I enjoy feeling your hand upon my heart?”

“You have. Heartmending has this effect on many.”

“It is like… I can feel more than just your hand. I can feel your soul… Just as well as I can feel mine. As though our hearts are one in the same. It feels… good.”

“As it should. Love knows no bounds, yes?”

“I could not have said it any better. I must ask you though, Luna. Wherever did I get this scar upon my heart?”

“You have asked me this before. It was a long time ago, Celestia. A time when we were in danger. The only way for me to save you was to bring you here. In the process, you were given that scar.”

“Ah, I see. I wish I could remember those times more clearly.”

“Trust me, dearest sister. As much as it is important to remember our past… You do not want to remember those times. They hold nothing but suffering.”

“Truly? What about the stories you have told me? Of your noctral friends? Would that not be a past worth remembering?”

“… I… Yes. You are right… For them, it is worth everything.”

\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\

“I must be off now sister. I’ll return soon. I will keep an eye out for those books you requested.”

“That would be delightful, thank you. Do tell me of your adventures the next time you visit. It is always a joy to hear about your travels.”

“I will. Goodbye, Celestia…”

“… Luna, wait…”

“Yes?”

“I… I don’t know what I would do without you. I am thankful every day to have a sister like you. I love you.”

“I love you too.”

“… Ohhh you were right! It got much warmer on this side.”

“That’s because I’m hugging you, sis.”

“Mhmm… I knew that.”

“Ok. I’ll be off.”

“Will I see you in my dreams tonight?”

“You might. If you lie out in the silver grass and fall asleep under the stars, you may see me.”

“I hope that I’ll see you…”

“Dream or no dream, you will see me again soon. I promise.”

“...Good morning, Luna.”

“…Good night, Celestia.”

Ch 1: Stained Glass

“Patience is bitter, but its fruit is sweet”

No hope.

No light.

Nothing good remains.

There is only obedience.

Obedience to a master.

And that is all there is.

These words, echoing in the corners of her mind, plagued Luna every day since the beginning of the Fall. They still do, in some ways. Every morning, and every night, the dreaded thoughts of spending eternity as nothing but a sex slave constantly attack her. She wanted to cry, but she dared not to. She knew what would happen if they found her crying.

Though these thoughts never leave, they rarely dominate her mind when she isn’t asleep. Luna thinks of other things as much as possible. Memories of the past. How many moon rocks she counted during her banishment. Her various adventures of her childhood. The things she did on Nightmare Night. They gave her a small comfort in between her daily punishments at the hands of the caribou.

These ‘punishments’ were somewhat less brutal than when she was still a black collar. Now, instead of brainwashing attempts, it’s more part of the usual fucking she goes through. In Luna’s perspective, it’s worth having to act like she’s enjoying it. But even though she is silently resisting in her mind, each day whittles away at her perseverance. Give it another two years, and she might actually go insane.

That won’t happen. It won’t. Luna knows patience. And her patience this time will pay off.

Part of the perks of feigning cooperation is a decrease in restriction. There’s no break in how many times Luna is groped or abused in all manner of ways, especially when the king has his way, but she isn’t always locked up in an uncomfortable position for the whole day. She is left on a leash for the times she’s not being a plaything. And during those ‘off’ hours, she is given walks by a guard, usually a lower stallion who is assigned the duty by the caribou. These walks go around the palace corridors, to and fro. It’s been like this for a year, ever since she chose to be a red collar.

Every day, when it’s time to get the blood flowing though her limbs and body, Luna is taken on her walk, to which she complies without any hesitation. The most common walking route goes by a smaller corridor that contains some of the older stained glass windows on the left side, which overlook the palace gardens. Many of these stained glass windows have been defaced with shameless drawings, so much that they can no longer be recognized. That didn’t matter to Luna though. What mattered is that they were still glass.

The second to last window would be the one. Luna had planned this carefully, going over it in her head every day. It is a very simple plan; Just as the guard is lifting a foot to step forward, Luna will latch onto his ankle and force him to fall. She’ll yank the leash away, and throw herself through the window and into the trees below. Then she will run to the river.

There are a few problems that Luna has realized. Her state of health and the tumble. Years being kept as a slave has drained her, making her physically weak. Luna will have to move quickly to make the most of her limited strength. Also, jumping out of a window isn’t a fool-proof plan. For all she knows, Luna could easily break her back on the way down. If that were to happen, hopefully it would end her misery quickly. Regardless of what could happen, however, Luna knows that this is the best chance of freedom.

Luna had thought of Celestia. She wanted to help her escape, but… She knows her sister would refuse. She has fallen too far. And so Luna will leave her. There is no other option.

Tomorrow night, Luna will enact her plan. The time has come.

“Alright cunt, it’s time for your walk again. We’re taking the regular route. There’s one of those fuck fests going on in the courtyard tonight and I’m already missing out on it.” Says the stallion guard as he grabs hold of Luna’s leash.

Luna silently follows him, walking on all fours. Tonight she has no harnesses or other clothing on. Just her wing-sleeves and her red collar. Despite being completely naked, she is able to relax a bit without any pressure on her sensitive parts. That is good. Luna needs all of her focus.

As the stallion goes on about his efforts to orgasm more frequently, they approach the corridor. Just like the average day, they pass by the stained glass. Luna begins counting down in her head.

Five…Four…Three…Two!

In the moment the stallion lifts his foot to place another step, Luna pushes forward, grabbing his ankle and pulling back as hard as she can. The stallion falls flat on his face, releasing his hold on the leash to cradle his severely bruised snout.

Luna snatches her collar, stands up, and hurls herself into the stained glass window, shattering it into hundreds of fragments. The shards fall with her into the treetops of the garden.

With a few thuds and snapping of branches, Luna hits the ground only mildly scratched. She wastes no time in getting up and running with as much speed as possible to the edge of the neglected garden. No doubt the injured guard has likely gone for help by now. There is not a second to spare.

Reaching cover at the edge of the garden, Luna crouches behind a stone guard rail, catching her breath from her sprint. Beyond the guard rail lies her escape route; one of the capital’s many rivers, which leads to the enormous waterfalls, and the aqueducts below them. Gathering her courage, Luna vaults over on to the other side of the stone railing, and dashes towards the river’s edge. She leaps over the additional stone railings and dives sloppily into the currents.

Luna remembers just how bad of a swimmer she is as the currents prove to be a challenge to ride. The river swallows Luna, pulling her underneath the surface. She continuously bobbles back up, gasping sharply for air as she struggles to direct herself. It all happens so fast that Luna doesn’t notice the roar of the waterfalls right ahead of her. The river throws her into the falls, which guide her down into the deep collection pool which connects to the aqueducts. She hits the next body of water with a loud smack, injuring her side.

Luna’s limited strength has given way, her muscles screaming at her when she tries to paddle into the aqueduct. The softer flow of the water in the stone canal carries her down like a slow water slide, until it spills off into the forest river at the base of Canterlot. Luna quickly swims to shore, bearing with the pain of her limbs and the exhaustion in her mind. Crawling up onto the grassy banks of the river, she hobbles into the pitch-black forest, completely ignoring the possible dangers that may be lurking within.

As the night continues, Luna stumbles through the hidden foliage, wincing at the scratches from prickly bushes and thorny vines. Even for the Princess of the Night, the darkness of the forest below Canterlot is near impermeable. She had already bumped into two trees in what felt like hours of wandering. Her exhaustion and pain has become too much, practically blinding her.

“N-no…No…I…I have to… leave! I have…to keep… going…”

Luna slurs her tired words as she falls limp onto the crunchy leaves which litter the forest floor. She claws at the dirt, trying to pull her body forward and back up, but to no avail. With a final reach of her arm, Luna falls unconscious, alone in the midst of the silence and darkness that encircles her.

“Hey. You need to see this.”

“Is…Is that who I think it is?”

“Yes, it is.”

“Goodness… she came a long way.”

“Quick. Gather the tarps and inform the others. We’re heading home. And we’re taking her with us…”

Author's Note

The whole idea of writing a fic like this has been in my head ever since I learned about the whole 'Fall of Equestria' universe. I personally don't mind clop, but misogyny is a major turnoff for me. Anyways, hope you enjoyed, and thank you for reading =]

Ch 4: Freedom March

"For to be free is not merely to cast off one's chains, but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others"

Princess Luna awakes to find herself in a small garden, surrounded by the white stone of Canterlot’s buildings. She looks around for her friends, or anyone, but no one is with her. Confused, Princess Luna stands up and walks around, though finds no way to leave the garden. Rotting vines and dying trees block any perceived exit.

A hushed and familiar voice permeates the eerie silence.

“What were you thinking, Luna? You never should have left. Everything was fine until you acted upon your delusions of starting a revolution.”

Luna looks for the mysterious voice, but finds nothing. Regardless, she becomes enraged at the voice.

“Fine?! There is NOTHING fine about Equestria! Our very right to decide our own lives was ripped away from us! And I’d sooner take my own life than live the life of a slave for eternity.”

The voice recedes, but returns, manifesting into a blackened figure, matching Princess Luna’s shape and height. The strange specter stands opposite of Luna, and begins to taunt her.

“Equestria has accepted its fate. We must adhere to that. The caribou are our rightful masters now.”

The manifestation casts away it’s shadowy down, revealing it to be Luna herself.

Princess Luna looks aghast at the doppelganger, noticing all of her features are the same, except for her red collar. Luna feels her own neck, and finds a black collar still clamped around it. She rigorously tugs and pulls at it like a wild animal, but cannot free herself of it.

“No,” states Luna, glaring at her red counterpart, “You’ve given up. You have fallen. But I have not! I’m still standing!! I will NOT serve THEM. I will FIGHT them until Equestria is free of their filth!!”

The red collared Luna giggles disturbingly.

“It’s a shame that you see it that way. Why can’t you accept what you are meant to be?”

“Ohh! Oh! I can answer that one!”

Another figure manifests itself before their eyes as a third Luna. This Luna, however, bears a purple collar, and has a deranged look in her eyes. She immediately turns to Princess Luna, smiling.

“It’s because things got a little too rough for you. You always liked to tease yourself and play when you could, but when you actually get all of the fun you could have ever asked for, you turn it down! I didn’t make that mistake! And now I can get all the pleasure I had ever wanted in a whole millennia. It’s amazing!”

The red collared Luna crosses her arms. “Even when you’re crazy you get the right idea, Luna. Why can’t you follow our advice and forget all of this revolution nonsense? If you returned to Dainn you’d surely be punished. Why would you not want to go back?”

The purple Luna chimes back in gleefully. “That’s because she thinks it’s against ‘freedom’ or something. I don’t know about you but I feel free as ever!”

“ENOUGH!!”

Princess Luna bellows in her Canterlot voice. With a sudden burst of strength and a scream, she tears the black collar violently from her neck, leaving behind a ring of raw and bleeding flesh. However, Princess Luna is unfazed by this, and instead of reeling from the seeping blood, she seethes with anger towards her duplicates.

Behind her, a massive shadow forms, rising slowly against an invisible wall. At the heart of the shadow appears the moon, bright and full. It casts down rays of silvery light, bathing Luna in its glow.

“I will not be torn apart by my own reflections! I am Princess Luna! I am the only Luna here!!!”

The winged and menacing shadow behind Luna emanates a wave of pure black energy which ripples across the entirety of the garden. The two manifestations of Luna dissolve and melt away as the blackness overtakes them, leaving behind their collars.

Princess Luna slows down her breathing, as the massive shadow curls down to embrace her with giant wings that absorb the bright light of the moon.

It hums a soft and tender lullaby, before whispering into Luna’s ear.

“…Let…Me…Help…You…”

Silence follows, until the shadow dissipates as another voice is heard, sounding as though it comes from beyond the garden.

“Princess Luna? Princess Luna, wake up!”

The garden fades from sight, and the shadow disappears.

“Huh, wuh?”

Luna opens her eyes to see Sweetie Belle peering down at her.

“Thank goodness you’re awake! You were dreaming again.”

Dreams. Once a magnificent and enthralling power which Luna could bend and meld with her magic. She could not only transcend from her own dreams in the past, but she could also use her magic to enter the dreams of her subjects and converse with them directly, as she had done with Sweetie Belle and many other ponies.

Like most everything else in Equestria, this has also changed. Luna has been cut from her magic for so long that her dreams run rampant, and she is powerless to control them. Regardless of the centuries of experience she has of dream-walking, Princess Luna receives unnerving and confusing nightmares every time she sleeps. They make it hard to enjoy sleeping in a warm bed.

Princess Luna steadily lifts herself up, groaning as she stretches her arms and rubs her temple. She flips off the blankets of the small cot she is on.

“Good evening- er… Good morning, Sweetie Belle. Is it still morning?”

“Actually it’s noon. You’ve been sleeping for more than a day. You were really tired when you came back from your last mission.”

Princess Luna isn’t surprised she had slept for so long. She had been avoiding sleep whenever she could, due to her recurring nightmares, but also because of her responsibilities in managing the noctrals and ponies under her care.

It has been roughly a month since Luna and Mjolna’s resistance had arrived at the mountain slopes along Equestria’s Eastern border. They were met by friendly faces; A whole company of noctral soldiers was sent by Umbra to occupy the slopes and to help fortify it, thanks to Princess Luna’s request via carrier pigeon. With the resistance’s help, they were able to map the entire cave system and the surrounding area, transforming the natural formation into a safe haven for the ponies of Equestria. Since they moved in, the occupants have graced their new home Haven.

As its name aptly states, Haven has provided the fortunate ponies to have escaped their enslavement with not only shelter, but with readily-available necessities that were stripped from them long ago. Food, water, medical care, clothing and bedding are provided in sufficient quantities thanks to the support from the noctrals, who have small supply caravans go back and forth through the mountain pass which leads to Umbra.

A fierce growl comes from Luna’s stomach, prompting Sweetie Belle to giggle.

“I think Miss Star Glow was saving some breakfast for you Princess Luna. I’ll come with you!”

Princess Luna nods in agreement, getting up off of the cot and following Sweetie Belle through the large cave serving as a collective housing. Many other ponies and noctrals are also in the large room, either relaxing or sleeping on cots of their own. For the ponies, it’s a blessing to be able to sleep in a bed of their own, and to have their own clothing no less, even if said clothing is old and in need of a good wash. Or meant for a noctral.

Princess Luna and Sweetie Belle make their way further down into the cave system, arriving at another large cave, which has been fitted as a mess hall. Here, food shipments sent in through the mountain paths from Umbra are stored and then cooked for the occupants of Haven. Due to the long journey between Umbra and Equestria, most of the food arriving is non-perishable, so there isn’t much in terms of diversity.

As the two approach the main wooden counter, Star Glow greets them.

“Princess Luna! Good to see you awake and well! I see Sweetie Belle got you up.”

“Thank you, Star Glow. And yes, Sweetie Belle is looking out for me as usual.” Says Luna with a smile as she places a hand on Sweetie’s shoulder.

Star Glow makes a cute face at them. “Please take a seat! I’ll get you a bowl of oatmeal. Want anything, Sweetie Belle?”

“I’ll have a bowl of oatmeal too, please!”

Star Glow, outfitted in a stained apron, immediately gets to work on cooking the oatmeal as the two sit down at the counter. There are very few other ponies in the mess hall, as it’s already past lunch and everyone has already gone to their rounds, though it’s evident from the amount of cooking-wear and stains that Star Glow and the other cooks have had a busy morning. It was nothing out of Star Glow’s capabilities though, as the noctral is a talented cook. The residents of Haven love her cooking, mainly because she could make even the most mundane rations seem like five-star meals.

Princess Luna had assigned chief duties to her team of Sentinels within Haven whenever they were not out on a mission. Each of her noctrals would aid in specific sections of Haven in accordance with their specialties. Star Glow helps with most of the cooking and food storage needs, while the others help where they are needed.

Star Glow passes a newly cooked bowl of oatmeal to Luna, as well as a cup of coffee. Luna thanks her and sips from the cup as Star Glow hands off the second bowl to Sweetie Belle. The filly thanks her, though doesn’t eat. Princess Luna takes notice, but directs her curiosity to Star Glow instead.

“Has there been any news, Star Glow?”

Star Glow nods, taking off her apron. “Scavenger Hunt and Tome just got back from another venture of theirs. They brought back a whole cart packed to the brim with all kinds of stuff. You might want to swing by them when you’re able. Also Night Seer has updates on Haven’s progress. He should be outside by now.”

“I’ll be sure to see them, thank you.”

After quickly finishing her mid-day breakfast, Luna thanks Star Glow once again for the meal and leaves with Sweetie Belle, who has taken her bowl of un-touched oatmeal with her. While walking through the cave halls, Luna turns to Sweetie Belle.

“What will you be doing today, Sweetie Belle?”

Luna always enjoyed asking Sweetie Belle about her day when she could. It was a welcome change of conversation from the usual topics of logistics and management of Haven.

“I was thinking about finding some of my friends to play with. I might help miss Dew Drop with whatever projects she has in mind. But right now I’m going to go talk with Meadow.”

Luna raises an eyebrow at the unfamiliar name, “Meadow?”

“Yeah, Meadow, the, uh… The mare we keep prisoner.” Sweetie Belle hesitates with her words, unsure of Luna’s reaction.

Princess Luna stops for a moment, though upon looking down at the saved oatmeal between Sweetie Belle’s hands realizes her intentions. She actually feels ashamed to have forgotten about the prisoner’s existence entirely.

“If you don’t mind me asking, Sweetie Belle, how has the pris- Er, how has Meadow been feeling?”

“She’s been doing better, I guess. The guards let her have a larger cell, and they don’t mind me bringing her things like food. She hasn’t taken off her collar yet, but… She really enjoys seeing me. Not many other ponies talk to her.”

Princess Luna nods, “It’s good that you are giving her some pony to talk to. Just… be careful around her. She may be friendly, but if she is still wearing that collar then she still believes the caribou to be right.”

“Don’t worry Princess Luna. I’m sure she will see us all as friends someday. All that matters now is that she has at least one friend to talk to. I should go see her before the oatmeal gets cold. I’ll see you later, Princess Luna!”

With that, Sweetie Belle goes running off towards the opposite end of the hall, narrowly avoiding a noctral soldier before banking right to head down to the cells. Princess Luna can only smile at Sweetie Belle’s unwavering generosity and kindness. It has been an invaluable source of morale to the ponies and noctrals of Haven, and even more so for Luna herself, who has inadvertently stepped in as a mother figure for the young filly. Luna wishes that more fillies could be as fortunate to have the safety and optimism of Sweetie Belle.

After equipping herself for the day’s work, Princess Luna makes her way to her next stop; visiting the Bureau, which is situated in the main cavern. The Bureau is a movement which pledges itself to gather any items that were once a part of the old Equestria, in an effort to safeguard and possibly bring back Equestria’s culture. Despite being operated by only two ponies, the Bureau’s area takes up almost half of the entire floor of the main cavern. This area is packed with a myriad collection of all kinds of items, from books to paintings and more, each with their own kind of old cultural significance from Equestria’s brighter days.

Princess Luna stops at the old desk at the very front of the area, which is adorned with a large sign that has ‘The Bureau’ painted on it. On the opposite side there is a pony rummaging underneath the desk. The shuffling causes a book and some papers to fly off the edge. Luna picks them up and places them back on the desk, knocking on the top in order to get the pony’s attention. In a hasty fashion, the pegasus mare pops up. Her tan coat and white mane are tinted with dust and dirt, as is her worn overcoat, which is covered with pockets big and small.

“WWWELCOME! To the Equestrian Cultural and Historical Recovery and Preservation Bureau! Or just the Bureau for short! My name’s Scavenger Hunt, and- Oh! Princess Luna!!”

“Hello, Scavenger Hunt.”

Before she could speak further, Scavenger Hunt darts around the desk to vigorously shake Princess Luna’s hand and pat her shoulder. Luna returns her enthusiastic greeting in kind, being used to the unique welcoming that Scavenger Hunt gives her.

“It’s marvelous seeing you again, Princess. This past week felt so long!”

“I couldn’t agree more. Speaking of said week, how was your outing?”

Scavenger Hunt beckons Luna past the desk and to a small space among the vast groupings of items. They go beside a cart which is half unloaded.

“This week has been the most successful of them all! Tome and I found so much! We’ll… Hey! Tome! Where are you? Princess Luna is here!!”

Scavenger Hunt looks around, finding her stallion friend Tome right around the side of the cart. He scratches his aching ears from being too close to Scavenger Hunt’s loud calling. She quickly apologizes, failing to hold back a giggle.

“A pleasure to see you again, Tome.” Says Princess Luna, shaking his hand.

In contrast to Scavenger Hunt’s previous hand shake, the bronze colored unicorn gently shakes Luna’s hand while bowing his head. He points to the cart and then back to a large pile of unloaded cargo. Following that he hands Princess Luna a ledger of items which he and Scavenger Hunt had collected in the past week, and with a nod, goes back to his work. Princess Luna nods in return, and thanks him. Even though Tome was born dumb (as in being unable to speak), Luna finds it easy to communicate with him. Though she has a difficult time understanding how Scavenger Hunt can interpret his thoughts with such accuracy.

“That ledger is everything we could find. Most of it is from some of the larger cities, mainly Baltimare and Manehatten. You have to see the treasures we found! Like this!”

Scavenger Hunt picks up a whole stack of novels, placing them on a nearby table with caution. She spreads them out.

“A nearly-completed collection of Daring Do books by A.K. Yearling! And not the red collar-printed garbage! These are glorious pre-fall copies. Everything except volumes two, five and twelve. These were able to survive the book-burnings thanks to the safe they were hidden in.”

Scavenger Hunt moves on to pull out a very ornate and beautifully crafted, but broken, violin.

“This violin was crafted by the artisan Morendo Stradivarius! It would be in prime condition, if a caribou hadn’t stepped on it. Tome’s working on repairing it though, along with some other instruments we found. But there is one thing we found which you should definitely see.”

Hopping on the cart and sifting through several boxes, Scavenger Hunt is joined by Tome as she uncovers the item and brings it down. Tome lays out the large piece of cloth using his magic, which turns out to be a banner from the Summer Sun Celebration. It’s once bright yellow is tarnished due to age, and it is torn at the bottom edges. Luna is stunned to see it.

“We found this on our way back home, just along one of the roads. We think it was one of the banners used in a smaller town, maybe Ponyville. It’s probably the most significant item we have found so far, simply because of the history it carries. We, uh... Hope it will bring better memories if we refurbish it.”

“The fact that you found one that is still intact is wonderful,” Princess Luna rubs the fabric once more before letting Tome roll it neatly, “We’ve already lost so much of our culture in the past three years alone. It’s more than heartening to know ponies such as you are going to such lengths to save what we have left. I can’t thank you two enough.”

“Oh gosh… It would be nothing if it weren’t for you, Princess. Our motivation and drive is inspired by you being here and fighting for all of us! You give us a chance to reclaim pieces of our past every day. We should be thanking you!”

Princess Luna can’t help but blush and smile softly at Scavenger Hunt’s words. Being an inspirational figure was always guaranteed when Luna ruled with Celestia, and even when she was Nightmare Moon there were still those who were inspired by her. She had forgotten what it was like to see and feel just how she was able to inspire people. It brings a nice feeling to her heart.

Following shortly after, Princess Luna departs after bidding Scavenger Hunt and Tome goodbye. She makes her way outside of Haven’s caves, climbing up several ledges to a large rock which serves as one of Haven’s observation points, giving view of the entire surrounding area in front of the mountain slopes. It is a cloudy day, with no sun in sight and hardly any wind. It’s as if the day decided to stand still and rest before resuming its course.

Ducking underneath the camo tarp which covers the observation point, Luna kneels beside Night Seer, who is pointing a small mounted telescope out towards fields below.

“Good afternoon, Night Seer. How is Haven standing?” Princess Luna asks.

Night Seer removes himself from the telescope. “Princess Luna. For its first month, Haven has been doing well. We’re able to keep everyone housed in the caves, while the supplies from Umbra are keeping us going. Though as our numbers grow, we will eventually have to begin constructing housing outside along the base of the slopes. I drew up plans to build a defensive wall as a perimeter, as shown by the markers we placed.”

Night Seer scooches over to offer Luna a look through the telescope. She peers through it, noting the flags placed along the grassy earth in a wide semicircle, which reaches all the way around to the edges of the mountainside. Night Seer continues to fill her in.

“Half a circle, ending at the rocks on each side. All we have to work with now is wood, but I’m hoping to have the wall reinforced with stone at some point.”

“A sound plan, Night Seer. This should… Wait.”

Princess Luna trails off as she spies something through the telescope. Emerging from the tree line in the distance is a small group of noctrals and ponies, being led by what appears to be a pony shrouded in a dark brown cloak with a wooden staff. They slowly make their way past the markers and towards Haven’s entrance.

Princess Luna immediately pulls away from the telescope, allowing Night Seer to get a good look before the two make their way out of the camo tarp.

“Those noctrals don’t look to be from any of our recently dispatched teams. They must be one of the missing teams!” Night Seer determines. Princess Luna agrees.

“Find Nurse Redheart and tell her to be ready to receive new patients. Warn our lookouts to be alert in case they were followed.”

“Yes, Princess.”

Night Seer departs as Princess Luna hastily makes her way down back to the cave entrance into Haven. In the main cavern, the group and their mysterious guide are let in by several guards. The noctrals and ponies look as though they have been out of it for some time, bearing faces of exhaustion and trauma. Nurse Redheart and several assistants rush to their aid, assessing their conditions and guiding them back to the clinic below. The cloaked figure stays, surrounded by wary guards. Princess Luna approaches her.

Keeping one hand on her staff, the cloaked figure pulls down her hood. Much to Luna’s surprise, the pony before her is actually a zebra. Her striped mane and coat are tinted with mud and soil, most likely from hiding and traveling through many dense forests. There is no collar around her neck, though a small ring of shorter fur indicates that she used to wear one. It is also apparent that the zebra mare is wearing nothing underneath her cloak.

Judging by all of her features, Princess Luna determines the zebra to be a recent escapee. Though she remains cautious.

“Who are you?”

“I am Zecora, a zebra from the Everfree Forest. I am glad to have finally found your fortress.”

The name strikes Luna as a familiar one. She recalls that the Everfree had a single zebra resident, who was once a common visitor to Ponyville after Twilight and her friends convinced the town of the zebra’s friendliness. Luna now remembers meeting Zecora on a Nightmare Night once, noting specifically how they shared the same shade of teal in their eyes. Her unique method of speech and her accent also rings a bell.

“Yes… I had met you once before, a long time ago. I must thank you for helping my noctrals get back home safe. The group in particular have been missing for months now. How did you find them?”

Zecora accepts Luna’s gratitude, though pauses for a moment before speaking again.

“I’m afraid I cannot tell you now, as I bear news of great urgency. Information regarding my people, which might aid your insurgency.”

Princess Luna could not have asked for better news. The zebras were next on her list of potential allies to join in the fight against the caribou. She hasn’t been able to find a way to contact them, though that may very well change with Zecora’s timely intervention.

“I’ll be forever grateful if you can share it with us as soon as possible. But before that, I insist you visit Nurse Redheart in the infirmary. No doubt you’ve come a long way, and I can’t ask you to do anymore before getting some rest. I’ll send one of my lieutenants down to bring you to the Center Hall when you’re ready.”

Zecora bows gratefully as Princess Luna assigns an assistant to escort the zebra down to Nurse Redheart. As they depart, High Tide appears from the entrance, garnering Luna’s attention.

“Princess Luna, a Circle representative is with the newly arrived caravan. She’s asking for your audience.”

“I’ll see her immediately. If you could, High Tide, find Lantern and tell her to stop by the infirmary to pick up our zebra friend, Zecora, and to bring her to the Center Hall.”

“Sure thing.”

High Tide makes his way into the caves as Princess Luna stands still for a moment, breathing out a sigh of content. With her responsibilities here there is hardly a moment’s rest to be had. Though with Zecora’s arrival, Luna can once again see the path slowly forming before her. The path which leads to a chance at freedom.

A few hours later, Princess Luna enters Center Hall, which serves as the nerve center of Haven’s growing forces. Here, noctrals and resistance ponies compile intelligence from scouting missions and other sources, while organizing the deployment of additional teams of noctrals throughout Equestria. Right now the Hall is cluttered with desks full of documents, maps, and other forms of information gathered. Many bright torches spread light in the cave, and wooden scaffoldings have been erected to allow access to a second floor reaching the ceiling in an effort to grant more space.

Luna approaches Lantern and Mjolna, who are examining an old map of the southern lowlands of Equestria, one which they had procured from the Bureau.

“Princess Luna,” says Lantern, being the first to notice her entering, “We have some important news to share.”

“What have you learned?” asks Princess Luna, eager to hear what was gleaned from Zecora.

“We talked with Zecora after picking her up at the infirmary. I swear, either that zebra is a walking dictionary or she makes up her own words to rhyme with. Anyway, Zecora came from her home in the Everfree forest. She had chosen to be a red collar during the Fall, in order to cope with the change and avoid repercussions, according to herself. However, she escaped from her owner once she overheard caribou talking about the Zebra Free Tribes.”

Luna perks up upon hearing this. “What of them? What has she heard?”

Lantern continues, “The Free Tribes have lost the civil war with the Tributes. What tribes remain are heading en masse towards the southern border of Equestria. It’s the only place they can go. However, the caribou plan to intercept them along the way. Zecora’s native tribe is a part of this exodus, so she fled in an effort to make it down south. Instead, she rescued our missing team, and they convinced her to bring the information to us first. The news of the civil war’s end is already several days old, which means that the Free Tribes are nearing the border soon.”

Princess Luna scratches her chin, moving to examine the map on the board. The entire marked border has been covered with a graph outline, though the squares surrounding one point, a ravine, are highlighted. Mjolna steps in to explain.

“Zecora pointed out which route the Free Tribes will take. Savannah Pass is a large, shallow ravine which helps as a landmark of the border. There is a path through the ravine, and it’s the closest and quickest route the Free Tribes can take. However, Zecora had learned this from the caribou she eavesdropped, which means that they know where the Free Tribes will be, and are likely on their way to capture them now.”

“The zebras will not make it without our help. We will have to reach them before the caribou do.” States Princess Luna.

“It won’t be as simple as finding them first, unfortunately. We have to keep in mind the possibility of direct combat with the caribou here. A single team of noctrals won’t do the trick. No offense.” Mjolna suggests, looking to Lantern.

“None taken,” she replies, “In fact I completely agree. If we are going to help the Free Tribes, we are going to have to bring a lot of able fighters.”

“And that is exactly what we will do. Lantern, spread the word to the Sentinels and our noctral and pony units most suited for travel to ready themselves for the journey south. And ask Zecora to join us, we’ll need her guidance. Mjolna, I need you to stay in Haven and to manage operations in my stead. I will be leading our detachment down south.”

Lantern quickly makes her way to the other unit leaders currently in the Center Hall, joining them in gathering the forces they need, as Mjolna stays, conversing with other advisors in preparation to take Luna’s mantle of responsibility. With the plans set, Princess Luna leaves the Center Hall, intent on solidifying the plans and making sure Haven will be well kept during her absence. Mjolna has proved to be a capable leader, and Luna is confident in her ability to maintain their base.

It will take only a few hours to assemble all of the troops and supplies for the mission, giving Luna enough time to say goodbye to Sweetie Belle before she leaves. She judges by the journey’s direction that they will be away for roughly a week or two, though if they are lucky it might be less. What is assured, however, is that this undertaking will be unlike any Princess Luna has done before. There is a chance that her forces will have to fight the caribou in open combat, and that not all of her troops may return home.

Princess Luna cannot falter from her worries now. Her people need her, and the zebras need her even more. Luna is prepared to take the risks needed to ensure that the Zebra Free Tribes survive, and that they are given sanctuary in Haven.

From the mountain slopes, through grassy fields and to the patch of forest before the ravine, Princess Luna travels with her force of roughly seventy noctrals and ponies. They consist of soldiers, archers and explosives specialists. The noctrals of the detachment have more experience in the field and training from Umbra, and many of them have acted as instructors to the ponies of the detachment, whom many have had little to no experience outside of Haven. Princess Luna has confidence in their abilities despite their inexperience, though if all goes well they won’t have to worry about stacking up against the caribou.

During the voyage, Zecora stays far ahead of the detachment in a methodical pattern of movement. Using her alchemy and knowledge of the wilds, Zecora clears the way of any dangerous wildlife. She disperses them well ahead of any of the eyes of Luna’s troops, so as to minimize any unfortunate encounters. She does this for good reason too, as one of the noctral mares Zecora had brought back to Haven explains to Princess Luna.

“We were making our way somewhere towards the Everfree when we got lost. Suddenly these… things… jumped us. They were like fleshy bats or insects or something. They flew at us, one of them latching onto our leader’s face, and next thing we knew we all had one trying to stick something down our throat. I held one off long enough to see how they slithered these tendrils into your ears, putting you in a trance. I can only guess that’s what happened to me too.

“We weren’t aware of reality anymore. It was like we were kept in and out of a wet dream. It felt good at first, but… it never stopped. Zecora found us some time later, and rescued not only the team but a whole bunch of mares who were also trapped in the nest with us. It was only when we were out of it when we realized we were being used as incubators. Nasty stuff. I’m more than thankful to have Zecora here with us. If she wasn’t we might have already been swarmed by those hive things.”

Needless to say, Luna is just as thankful as the mare to have Zecora along, especially after hearing of her story. Though despite how disturbing it was, the noctrals and the ponies that were saved by Zecora all volunteered for the mission after they were cleared by Nurse Redheart, more motivated to do their part than most others. If there were more alchemists among the Zebra Free Tribes, then they could easily help rescue any mares trapped within hive nests, thus freeing many more ponies eager to help Luna’s cause. Though such plans would have to wait until the Free Tribes are safely back at Haven.

After several days of travel, Princess Luna and her detachment finally reach the patch of forest laying before the northern end of Savannah Pass. The rocky walls and path of the ravine are visible from between the trees. Though the journey was long, it was made much easier with the lightening of the weather, as being this far south has made the cold winds die down and give way to surprisingly calm sunny days.

Princess Luna gives the order for the group to stop and rest. The noctrals and ponies put down their gear and supplies, sitting down and chatting as Luna calls a meeting with her lieutenants. Night Seer and Lantern meet her beside the other Sentinels, along with Zecora.

“If the caribou are planning to capture the Free Tribes, they likely will come from behind, funnel them through the ravine, circle around and entrap them. For this reason, we will divide our forces into two groups. The larger group, consisting of our heavier soldiers and fighters, will stay hidden within the tree line of this forest, and wait for the zebras to make it through the ravine, preventing any caribou from pursuing. The smaller group, consisting of our archers and explosive experts, will position on both sides of the ravine’s walls, giving them clear line of sight on the path below and the southern entrance. We will use what batteries we have to detonate the sides of the ravine once the zebra are through, cutting off the caribou’s pursuit on the path. Any remaining caribou we will hunt down before they can escape. Spirit, you’re in charge of the archers along the ravine. Crowe, I’m charging you with our forces within the forest. The rest of the Sentinels, and Zecora, are with me. We will move ahead to make contact with the Free Tribes.”

Finishing her orders, the Sentinels and Zecora prepare to make their way through the ravine. Princess Luna stops Spirit and Crowe before they depart.

“I’ve chosen you two because you’re the most fit for the task. I have utmost confidence you won’t let us down. Stay alert, and best of luck to you.”

“You can count on us, Princess.”

“This is what we were meant to do.”

Princess Luna nods assuredly before letting Crowe and Spirit go to their respective groups of command. Luna herself rejoins her Sentinels and sets off through the ravine to find the Zebra Free Tribes approaching from the southern end.

After passing through the rocky path and making it clear of small debris, Luna and her group emerge from the southern end, and are greeted with a wide view of what seems like endless plains of yellow grass. In the far distance, they spy the Zebra Free Tribes coming towards them, like a huge wave of black and grey stripes along the amber grass. A massive exodus of hundreds upon hundreds of zebras march along the plain. It is made up of warriors, villagers and families from dozens of different tribes, all fleeing their persecution at the hands of the caribou-supporting Tribute Tribes.

At the very head of the column is a large group of warriors, accompanied by their Chief. Princess Luna and her Sentinels pick up the pace to meet them, though Zecora speeds ahead, waving and yelling out in Zebrican. The zebra warriors, who were beginning to raise their deadly spears as precaution, lower their guard as Zecora approaches. Luna and the Sentinels catch up just as the column stops, and the Chief of the Free Tribes reveals herself.

Zecora and the Chief are astonished upon seeing one another, welcoming each other in Zebrican and embracing. Princess Luna waits until they are finished before stepping in.

“I wasn’t aware you knew each other.”

“Zavala is an old friend of mine. We learned together in our traditional speech of rhyme.”

Chief Zavala bows respectfully to Princess Luna. “It is a wonderful surprise to meet you, Princess of the Night. By what force and luck have you been driven into our sight?”

Lantern chuckles for a second, looking to Night Seer. “More rhyming. How are they so good at this?”

“Practice. A lifetimes worth of it.” Night Seer replies, keeping his eyes forward.

Ignoring her party’s banter, Princess Luna expresses her courtesy to the Chief in response.

“Chief Zavala. I would regularly greet you in a much more official and regal manner. However, those times of tradition have been long lost. I come here to provide aid to you and your people. Zecora has told me of your struggles. I am here to give you a safe passage into Equestria and to a safe location, a base of operations known as Haven. We cannot defeat the caribou scattered and alone. All people of every nation must come together if we are to defend ourselves. Will you accept my aid?”

Chief Zavala laughs heartily, grinning. She calls forth her commanders.

“You are right, Princess, cooperation is key. I share with you command of my warriors, so you may lead us to safety.”

Before long, Luna and her Sentinels allow Chief Zavala and Zecora to resume leading the column into the pass as they travel up to the ravine positions taken up by the archer ponies and noctrals.

Spirit approaches Luna after reminding several ponies of their archery training.

“Princess, we have our demolitions people rappelling down the side of the ravine. They’ll be planting batteries along the rock faces on both sides, and once the tribes are through, we’ll detonate the ravine and cause a blockage. Should cover our escape. We have most of our batteries in the forest in case we need more.”

“Good, we are almost through this-,”

“PRINCESS!!!”

A yell of urgency comes from a noctral mare, sprinting towards Luna and the others. A look of absolute terror is plastered on her face as she stumbles to the ground from running all the way up. Luna sees this, and expects the worst has happened. Luna helps her up.

“Speak, quickly!”

“The caribou! They aren’t coming from the south, they are coming from the north!! They’re overrunning our troops in the forest!! All of them!”

“No…No, no, no!!”

With shock and worry upon her face, Princess Luna runs as fast as she can to the edge of the ravine’s wall that gives view of the north forest. Her Sentinels and others follow closely.

What they see horrifies them.

As the forest shakes and rattles from the sounds of clashing swords and shields from within the trees, several noctrals and ponies appear from the edge of the tree line, fleeing desperately.

In pursuit aren’t caribou, but a massive pack of timberwolves.

The ominous hunters have no trouble in running down the poor noctrals and ponies. They leap upon thier victims, their wooden claws and teeth digging into the hapless troops. However, a few of the timberwolves only wound their targets, and attempt to drag them back towards the forest on the orders of the caribou who trained them. Those still alive scream in agony.

All of the noctrals and ponies attempting to escape are killed or gravely wounded. Though those fighting in the forest aren’t finished.

In an instant, an enormous explosion occurs at the center of the forest. A huge, orange fireball ascends from the canopies, dissolving into smoke. Hunks of bark and branches fly outwards and fall into the clearing before the ravine.

“The batteries. Someone set them all off at once.” Dew Drop mutters in shock.

Without any second to spare, Princess Luna turns to her Sentinels. Never has she expressed such a look of seriousness.

“Get all of our archers facing the forest now!!”

Luna double times it to one of the ropes going down the side of the ravine. A mare finishes climbing back up, and is helped by Luna.

“Remove all of the batteries from the ravine. Save them for later.”

“B-But we just finished-“

“Remove them!!”

The mare hastily nods as Princess Luna grabs hold of the rope and rappels down the ravine wall, reaching the base in a few seconds. She brings up the pace and hightails it to the approaching Free Tribes column. She waves them off, causing Chief Zavala to halt the column.

“The caribou are upon us!!”

Terror sweeps through the zebra tribespeople, families crying out and holding each other in fear of the worst. Chief Zavala and her warriors however, stand determined. One of the commanders, a younger zebra mare, approaches Princess Luna, accompanied by Zecora and others.

“Princess of Equestria, our Chief has given us unto you. We follow your orders.”

“Gather all of your warriors, anyone who can fight. Form a line stretching across the ravine. There are caribou and timberwolves ahead, intent on attacking.”

At the mentioning of the timberwolves, Zecora moves ahead, calling in Zebrican to several other zebras to follow. The young commander explains to Luna.

“Zecora and the other shamans can take care of them. Let them go ahead of our lines.”

As the warriors bear their uniquely crafted spears and their oval shields, Princess Luna leads them through the ravine. The warriors number into the hundreds, with a few staying behind to protect the rest of the tribespeople. Chief Zavala joins her fellow zebras in the march, and brings a large and deadly spear for Princess Luna to use.

Luna gratefully accepts it, just as the massive line of warriors arrives at the northern end of the pass, facing directly at the smoldering forest. She looks back at the ravine walls, spying her noctrals and ponies in position, their bows at the ready and arrows primed. Lantern appears and points thoroughly to the left and right sides of the forest, aiming her bow in the same directions. Getting the hints, Luna now knows her archers will be covering her flanks. Should any caribou try to escape, they won’t make it far.

Returning to face down the enemy, Princess Luna is once again approached by the young zebra commander.

“I am unsure about this, Princess of Equestria. Our warriors are skilled and hardened, yet the caribou are an enemy we have seldom fought. We will not be victorious without heavy losses.”

Princess Luna wanted to find a reason to give her more hope, but the commander is right. The zebra warriors are skilled and experienced, in fighting other zebras. They have not fought the caribou before.

There is little time to think. Zecora and the other zebra shamans prepare themselves as the timberwolves from before spot them and charge with fangs and claws ready. The shamans throw a bright green powder, the same which Zecora had used on the journey, into the air around them, letting a gentle breeze carry it across the zebras behind. Just as the timberwolves near them, the powder catches them by the nose, convincing them to flee the scene despite the harsh orders of their caribou masters. Their purpose fulfilled, Zecora and the other shamans fall back behind the line of zebra warriors, who give them cheers and gracious thanks. However, they are still aware of the now approaching caribou, who are reforming themselves after clearing the fires of the massive explosion only minutes ago.

Looking plainly at each army, the odds are favored for Princess Luna and the zebras. Minus their timberwolves and those lost in the explosion, the caribou force is relatively small, giving the zebras the advantage two to one. However, these caribou aren’t average hunters. Judging by their additional armor and more deadly weapons, these caribou are veterans, and came prepared for any situation. They are completely unfazed by the fire behind them nor the opposing force of zebras in front of them.

Luna can hear the shaking of shields and the tightening grips of spears as the zebras look at their intimidating enemy with uncertainty. Though the stallions and mares are adamant, they are also afraid.

Luna cannot lead them like this. Something must be said.

She moves ahead of the zebras by a few paces, garnering their attention.

“… I know what you feel right now, each and every one of you. Fear, despair, a lacking of light at the end of the tunnel, as they say. But let me say this… You have NOTHING to fear from THEM!!”

Luna points the end of her spear at the caribou, who continue their slow advance.

“I’m sure you all know the tales of the Unity of the Tribes. When all of the tribes came together in friendship and love and created the very nation you have fought for. I saw that day, I was there. The zebras of that time were proud and strong. And when I look at the zebras before me now… I see the same pride and strength. You may have been torn apart, bloodied and bruised by your kin. But the true enemy are the caribou before you!”

Looks of astonishment and renewed hope appear on their faces.

“They are responsible for destroying your way of life!! And now they are standing between you and your right to be free! So now I say to you, Zebras of the Zebrican Free Tribes!”

Luna pauses.

“Show them who you are.”

Where one would expect a round of cheering and determined force, the opposite happens. The zebras do not cheer. But it is absolutely clear that their fear and hesitation have virtually disappeared.

With unbridled bravery, they follow Princess Luna, Chief Zavala and Zecora forward and barrel towards the caribou with their spears primed. Only seconds pass before both forces collide with one another, the sound of splintering wood and piercing steel emanating along the grassy field. Caribou axes come against zebra spears as both sides fight relentlessly.

Princess Luna had remembered enough of using a spear in the past to use it with as much efficiency and grace as the other zebra warriors do. The weapons themselves are tremendously effective, being long and sharp enough to pierce some areas of a caribou’s armor. Ducking and weaving, Luna fells caribou while working in tandem with Chief Zavala.

Though the zebras prove they are agile and swift, the caribou still win out when it comes to strength. Zebras who miss their lunges and thrusts are quickly crushed or cut down by heavy swords and round axes. Many zebras team up on individual caribou, which proves effective in downing them quickly as opposed to one on one combat. Princess Luna sees this and does similarly, distracting many caribou allowing others to dispatch them.

The fighting continues to spill out across the field as bodies start to pile on the ground. Arrows fired from the ravine positions find their marks in caribou armor and flesh, though they are very few, as the pony and noctral archers fear possible friendly fire due to the chaos below. Regardless, their efforts aid the zebra warriors. Princess Luna herself is saved from a severe blow by several well-placed arrows, which had arced over her head and into the caribou opposing her. This gives her enough time to spot a zebra mare about to be impaled by an imposing caribou soldier. Luna hurls her spear in their direction, nailing the caribou square in the chest and saving the zebra.

Princess Luna unsheathes her short sword, though is forced to quickly evade a massive swing of an axe by another caribou. This caribou, however, is larger and much more armed than the others, bearing armor adorned with red cloth. Luna can easily guess him to be the leader of the caribou force.

“What do we have here? A dethroned Princess in the middle of a battlefield. Still thinking that there is a chance to defeat the caribou. Well I can assure you, Princess, we’ve already won. Three years ago.”

The leader wastes no time in attacking with a bellowing battle cry. Luna expertly dodges the caribou leader’s following swings. She waits to strike after another dodge, finding room to lunge in for a stab at his weak points. However, the caribou manages to evade the strike, despite his heavy armor, and delivers a massive punch right across Luna’s face. The sheer power of the blow flings her off of her feet and to the ground, causing her short sword to be lost.

Luna loses her bearings, shaking her head and struggling to get to her feet. It feels as though her jaw and nose were slammed against a brick wall. With no weapon on her, Luna quickly scrapes up a damaged shield from a fallen zebra. She does so just in time to block the caribou’s axe, which manages to bury itself into the wood of the shield, barely splitting it in half.

It takes all of Luna’s strength to hold onto the shield, preventing the caribou from removing his axe. She is unable to find any other weapon nearby, and she can’t afford to reach for her katar lest the caribou manage to remove the only defense she has.

Suddenly, a spearhead emerges from the caribou’s chest, stemming from the spear of Chief Zavala. The caribou loses grip of his axe from the pain, though retains enough strength to swing around and knock the Chief to the ground with a blow of his fists, with the spear still inside him.

As he succumbs from shock, Luna tosses aside the shield and axe and pulls out her katar. She drives it into the caribou’s back, right below the spear, causing the caribou to fall to his knees.

“I can assure you. The day you stepped into Equestria was the day you lost.”

Luna withdraws her katar, giving the caribou a kick to the ground as he dies. Chief Zavala managed to get herself up, and after removing her spear from the former caribou leader, pats Luna on the shoulder. It is only a minute later that the fighting comes to an end, with the zebras victorious. All of the remaining caribou are killed, either in the fighting or from the arrows of the archers on the ravine’s edge.

While the bodies of the fallen are collected and counted, Princess Luna reunites with her Sentinels and rushes into the forest, near the site of the explosion.

Around the massive blast marks lay scorched bodies of caribou, noctrals and ponies. More than a dozen of them are Luna’s troops. Of the bodies which are still recognizable, many had their hands bound.

Night Seer surveys the carnage. “Just as they were being taken prisoner, one of ours must have reached the batteries. They sacrificed themselves to help us. It takes brave souls to do such feats.”

Silence and sadness settles in, though it is quickly broken as survivors are found. Among the few found is Crowe. Though badly burned and bleeding from cuts, he wears a smile on his face as his fellow Sentinels rush to his aid.

Luna comes to him as he is treated by Dew Drop and Star Glow.

“I’m sorry Princess. They came too quickly.”

“You aren’t to blame, Crowe. You did what you could. What matters is that we won. The zebras are safe, and we can head home now.”

Though the battle of Savannah Pass was won, there was a toll. Of the several hundred zebra warriors, one hundred and twelve were killed. The forest group of noctrals and ponies were less fortunate, as only nine of the forty five ponies and noctrals had managed to survive. The only group unscathed from the fighting was the ravine archers, who were a good distance from any threats. None of the deaths were in vain, however, as the zebra tribespeople were kept safe thanks to the defeat of the caribou force, which after a body count, had numbered roughly a hundred and fifty before the explosion caused in the forest, which was also bolstered by the domesticated pack of fourteen timberwolves. Had the desperate troops in the forest not detonated the batteries, and Zecora and the shamans not utilize their alchemy, the battle may very well have been lost.

Now, after clearing the fields and guiding the Zebra Free Tribes on the long journey north, Princess Luna has finally arrived back at Haven. Upon nearing the main entrance, Luna notices that the wooden walls Night Seer had planned to construct have been completed, and many tents have been set up within the protection of the walls. Lookouts on Haven’s high rocks spot the column and have already notified Haven. Princess Luna is soon met by Mjolna as ponies and noctrals come out to help the zebra’s into their new home.

“It’s good to have you back Princess. And it’s even better to see that things turned out.” She says with a smile, shaking Luna’s weary hand.

“I’ll tell you how it went once we get everyone settled in. Make sure the zebras get fresh food and water, please.” Luna replies.

Mjolna nods, moving to help organize the welcoming of the zebras into the walled field as Luna does so as well. Along with the noctral and pony guards, many of the pony citizens come out to help and welcome the zebras, forming friendships as Equestrians always do. The most friendly and upbeat pony, however, is none other than Sweetie Belle. She speaks to many zebras and helps them without hesitation, spreading a contagious grin to many around her.

Princess Luna makes her way over to Sweetie Belle to say hello after being away for nearly a week. However, she is cut off by Lantern, who is accompanied by another pony.

“Sorry to interrupt Princess, but this mare has news for you. She just arrived after fleeing from Canterlot.”

Hearing of a pony managing to escape from the capital is rare, which sparks Luna’s curiosity in the mare before her. The mare is an earth pony, with a snow white coat, a deep gold mane and gold eyes. She has old and worn out clothing, and looks as though she has seen a lot.

“Princess Luna, I have information of critical importance for you.”

Luna remembered not too long ago when she was receiving news from Zecora. It was strange to be hearing it again.

“And you are?”

“Call me Liberty.”

Luna looks at her oddly.

“Is that your real name?”

“In truth, no. But it’s who I am,” she says, in an effort to not sound too cryptic, “This is for you.”

Liberty hands Princess Luna a cylinder shaped parcel. She open it, finding several papers rolled inside.

“What is this?”

“Reports made by an old professor of mine, a stallion scientist and researcher who had sheltered me. He researched the Fall, and the reason why the caribou were successful.”

Princess Luna takes out the first rolled report, looking over it. Her eyes widen as she realizes what it contains.

She looks to Liberty in astonishment. The mare simply looks back.

“It’s the Crystal Heart.”

Author's Note

First update of the new year for me. Hope you all had a good 2014.

Thanks for reading. =]