“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! =]