The Death of Equestriaby Starlight CometChaptersChapter 1Chapter 2Chapter 3Chapter 4Chapter 1Celestia looked over her kingdom in awe; it had been three years since Tirek's attack on Equestria. Though it had taken some time to recover, it felt as though everything was right in Equestria. "Sister?" a voice called out from behind her. Celestia turned and saw her sister Luna walking towards her. Although she would not admit it, it was clear to everyone that having her magic drained by Tirek had taken a physical toll on her. What had once been beautifully smooth skin was now showing signs of crow's feet. Most notably, her magic was slightly weaker then before. Nobody knew this more than Celestia herself; she had to help Luna with the raising of the moon for the past six months because Luna would always end up being so exhausted. "What is it, Luna?" Celestia asked in concern. Nervously, Luna looked toward her sister. "Something concerns me, Celestia." She paused and looked to her sister for her approval to continue. Celestia nodded, giving Luna permission to continue. "My concern," Luna resumed, "is that some of the people are unhappy about how they are ruled by just us. I have entered their dreams and some of them feel that they should lead themselves and decide what rules they should abide by." When she had finished speaking, Luna looked up at her sister for a response. "So, what you are saying," Celestia began, "is that some of the citizens believe that they should have governmental power, correct?" Luna nodded her head. "I would not worry about it, dear Luna." she said reassuringly. "Plenty of ponies feel that way about how Equestria is run, but they do not mean any harm." However, as she said this, a sudden thought popped into her head. She then turned to Luna and said "But then...why tell me this in person?" "Because," Luna said in a serious tone, "I believe that they are right. Look at this world; it is run by a monarchy. Very few ponies have a say in how things are run in society, and those who do are either mayors, governors, or those of rich families in Canterlot. Sister, what if I were to create a republic for such people? More ponies would be able to be more independent and they would not be fearful of living....under....a...." Luna's speech trailed off as she gazed up at her sister, who was glaring down at her. "Luna," Celestia said sternly, "we have ruled Equestria for many years under this 'monarchy'. Do you know what will happen if we give the people all of the governmental powers? Chaos would ensue and nopony would get what they want. I'm sorry Luna; I know you are concerned about the people of our world. But we cannot have two forms of government in our world. Civil War would be inevitable. This conversation is over." "But Celestia, you don't understa...." "Enough, Luna!!!" Shocked by her sister's yelling, Luna shuddered. However, she remembered her role as a princess of Equestria and suddenly composed herself. "Forgive me, sister; I shall retire to my chambers." As she walked away, Celestia sighed sadly. Even though what Luna had said was pure ridiculousness, Celestia knew that her sister meant well. Luna was a pony who cared about the citizens of Equestria deeply. If somepony was having trouble with something, Luna would almost always be there to help them. Just then, the door to the throne room burst open and an alicorn with a whitish-grey ran toward her. "I heard shouting," he said, "is something wrong?" As he stopped to catch his breath, Celestia couldn't help but smile at her only son Starlight. Starlight was the result of a forbidden love between Celestia and King Sombra from another dimension. Since he was from two worlds, his magic was extremely powerful. He was also the bearer of the unknown Element of Harmony: Hope. Ever since he had returned from the Royal Equestrian Academy in Saddle Arabia two years ago, he had shown great wisdom and courage in the face of danger. "It's nothing to worry about, Starlight," Celestia said reassuringly, "I was having a discussion with Luna. She wanted to establish a republic somewhere in Equestria. However, I was able to make her see reason." Starlight relaxed and bowed toward his mother. "Forgive me then," he said, "I was just concerned for the both of you. I shall go back to my studies." But as he turned to leave, he felt one of Celestia's hooves rest on his shoulder. "Before you go," she said, "there's something I have to ask you." Starlight turned around to face his mother, while Celestia looked at the colored glass that portrayed herself defeating Nightmare Moon. "As prince of Equestria," she began, "you will soon be tasked in ruling this world when I leave this world. Can I count on you to lead the people and rule the land in my absence?" "Yes, mother." the prince replied. "I would protect the people and the land with my life." Smiling down at her son, Celestia said, "That's reassuring; you can leave now." As Starlight left the throne room, a troubling thought entered his head. It was about what he had heard from the conversation between his mother and aunt. Fearfully, he had remembered that the last time Celestia had said no to one of Luna's suggestions, Luna had turned into Nightmare Moon and had engulfed the world in darkness. Hopefully, he thought, nothing that intense will happen. Meanwhile, inside her room, Luna glared angrily at her reflection in her mirror. "She has no idea what she is thinking." she said, "It seems that even after 1,000 years, she is still as stubborn as ever." For Luna, she had had it with Celestia telling her what to do, and how to act. As she walked outside onto her balcony, a small smile formed on Luna's face. "Very well, sister," she said quietly, "you leave me no choice." To be continued... Chapter 2As she walked along the corridors of the castle, Luna listened carefully for any noises. When she was sure that the only ones awake were herself and the few guards who were loyal to her, she summoned one of them to her balcony. "Sir Nightshade," she began, "bring your men here. We have to complete a very important mission tonight before the sun comes up." "Yes, Princess Luna." Nightshade said as he bowed. As he flew away, Luna began to have doubts about what she was about to do. The last time she disobeyed her sister, she was stuck on the moon for 1,000 years. "No," she thought, "Celestia has to realize that I am not going to live in her shadow anymore. It's time somepony does something good for her citizens." Suddenly, she heard the flapping of a thousand bat wings. She looked to the sky and saw Nightshade with five hundred soldiers, all ready and willing to serve her. "Colts," Luna began, "you are here tonight to carry out a mission of great importance. Many of the ponies of Equestria feel that Celestia is too controlling and wish to govern themselves. However, my sister is too stubborn to change her ways; that is the focus of this mission. Tonight, we will raise a new kingdom; one that will let ponies govern themselves and themselves alone. Tonight, we will show my sister that the citizens of Equestria will not be silenced, that they have a say in governmental matters. LET US FLY!!" At this, the bat ponies cheered their approval and followed Luna into the night towards a new kingdom. After 2 hours of searching, Luna spotted a valley about one hundred miles from Canterlot. It had a running stream, plenty of trees, and abundant vegetation. "This is perfect." she thought. She motioned for her guards to fly down to the ground. When they landed, Luna walked over to an open area in the valley. When she arrived at the center, her horn started to glow brightly. As she concentrated her magic, stone walls shot out of the ground and began to connect together. While Luna was working, Nightshade order the other bat ponies to start constructing buildings for the new town. Unicorns and pegasi alike started gathering stones and straw to build a town hall, a mill, several fruit stands, and a school house. After three hours of strenuous labor, the town was complete and Luna had constructed a vast castle that was as black as night. As Luna stepped back and smiled at the work that had been accomplished, Nightshade asked, "What shall we call this kingdom, Princess Luna?" After thinking for a moment, Luna replied, "We shall call it....The Lunar Republic. Now we must leave before my sister finds out I'm missing." What Luna and the bat ponies didn't realize was that while they were working, a lone pony was watching them from the top of one of the mountains surrounding the valley. When he saw what was going on, he was in disbelief. "I must inform Princess Celestia of this." he thought to himself. As he flew back to Canterlot, however, he had no idea that he would soon be planting the seeds of trouble not just for Canterlot, but for all of Equestria. "WHAT HAVE YOU DONE?!" The sound of his mother's yelling started Starlight so much that he fell out of bed and landed on top of his head. Swearing under his breath and massaging his head, he wondered what all the commotion was about. He looked at his clock and saw that it was 8:30 in the morning. "What was she yelling about?" he wondered. Almost immediately, Starlight's bedroom door opened to reveal Raven, Princess Celestia's assistant. Judging from the look on her face, Starlight knew that something was wrong. "Prince Starlight," Raven said, "Princess Celestia has asked for your attendance on an important matter. She said that I am to take you to the throne room and bring you up to speed on what has just happened." Nodding his head, Starlight left his room and began to walk toward the throne room alongside Raven. Starlight began their conversation by asking "What has made my mother so upset? Has a new threat emerged in Equestria?" "Not entirely," Raven responded nervously, "it appears that Princess Luna went against your mother's wishes and established a new kingdom somewhere in Equestria overnight. She has called it the Lunar Republic. We have already heard reports that the ponies from Cloudsdale and half of Ponyville have found residence in the kingdom. And not just ponies, but griffins, buffalo....." Starlight's thoughts, however, drowned out the rest of Raven's words. He could not believe what he was hearing: Luna had disobeyed Celestia once more! "This could mean war!" he thought. He knew that this would happen eventually; the ponies of Equestria wouldn't stand for their rights being controlled by one pony only and not having any representation. And yet, it was dangerous to place a majority of the power into the state and local governments because the federal government could impose very little on it's citizens. There was only one form of government that could work, but he dared not share it with either his mother or his aunt. "Here we are." Raven's words snapped Starlight back to reality and he saw that they were standing in front of the doors to the throne room. "You should probably go in," Raven said nervously, "good luck." Gulping in his throat, Starlight turned the knob and opened the door, fearing what would await inside the throne room. Chapter 3As Starlight walked into the throne room, he saw that he was not the only one that Celestia had called forth. He looked around the room to see not only Celestia and Luna, but Princesses Cadence and Twilight Sparkle, Shining Armor, Pinkie Pie, Rarity, Applejack, Fluttershy, and Rainbow Dash. As he walked toward everypony, Cadence gave him a smile which he returned. Twilight also smiled at Starlight, but in a loving way. However, her smile faded when Starlight indicated that Shining Armor was watching. "Good to see that you finally joined us, my son." Celestia said in the sweetest voice she could muster. Although she tried to act and look calm, Starlight could sense some tension she was holding inside herself. "We were just discussing," Celestia continued, "about how wrong it was for my sister to DISOBEY MY ORDERS!!!" The use of her equestrian voice caused all but Cadence, Twilight, and Starlight to shudder. "I specifically told you, Luna," Celestia said angrily, "that civil war would be inevitable if two forms of government were to exist in Equestria. But because of your ignorance, you went behind my back and established this 'republic' of your's." Luna then looked up at her sister. "True," she said, "I went against your word and did something behind your back. But I did it for the sake of ponies who believe that they should have a say in political matters. I was only trying to help them, Tia; I care about the citizens of our world." Celestia's expression, which was of anger, suddenly turned to concern. "I know, Luna," she said calmly, "you care too much about the ponies of our world. You just wanted them to have a say in things. But why would you break a promise to me?" "Maybe..." Luna started to say, but she paused and then looked at her sister with a look of rage. "Maybe I did it," she said through gritted teeth, "because I know exactly how they are feeling about being controlled everyday by someone else." Although she knew where this was going, Celestia decided to act confused and asked, "Whatever do you mean, Luna?" "DON'T GIVE ME THAT, CELESTIA!!!!" Luna yelled in anger. "You know exactly what I mean. I can relate to those ponies because you impose the same exact rules on me. I am never given a say in matters and the only things I do around here are raising the moon and creating the stars at night. But when I constructed my castle and the village, I felt alive. I could be my own self and nopony would argue or care." As Luna continued talking, Starlight noticed that both her's and Celestia's horns were glowing brightly. He knew at that instant that there was going to be trouble. "But YOU, sister," Luna continued, "YOU have to be the almighty ruler of this land; YOU have to be right all the time. To me, you are a pathetic ruler and an even more pathetic sister!!!" At this, Celestia shot a beam of energy at Luna. Realizing this, Luna responded with a beam of equal power. "EVERYPONY, TAKE COVER!!!" Starlight yelled as the beams of energy collided with each other. A shockwave erupted, shattering all of the stained glass and sending most of the others off the feet. When the dust settled, Princesses Celestia and Luna were standing face to face, glaring at each other. "It seems that as of now, we are at war." Luna panted. "Indeed, 'dear sister'" Celestia replied through gritted teeth. She then turned to Starlight and the others and said, "You all must choose a side. Remember, though, that you will be fighting against each other if any of you switch sides. The choice is your's, and your's alone." After a few moments, Shining Armor, Cadence, Twilight, Applejack, and Rarity stood next to her. Twilight, Applejack, and Rarity looked around for the rest of their friends and saw Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, and Pinkie Pie standing next to Luna. All three of them looked sadly downward, avoiding the gazes of their friends. Only Starlight remained; however, he knew what his answer was. "Starlight," Celestia said, "please come here." Starlight looked up at his mother and said, "no." Celestia, obviously annoyed, stated "Come now, son. Now is not the time for..." "I...said....NO!!!" Starlight cried out. "I am not choosing any side. Mother, you cannot expect to rule over a land where ponies have little to know rights. They would no doubt start a revolution. And Aunt Luna," he continued, turning his attentions to the princess of the night, "I applaud you for establishing a government in which ponies have a say in political matters. However, what you are establishing is a republic, where a majority of the political powers go to the states. Without order, the federal government can impose little to no power over the people. There must be a balance of each power in a single government." "HOW DARE YOU!!" Princess Celestia exclaimed. "I asked you to protect Equestria when I was gone because I felt that you were up to the task of ruling this world wisely. Now it seems that I was wrong; you are nothing but an ignorant colt!" "AND YOU ARE A STUBBORN PRINCESS AND A FOOL!!!!!!" roared Starlight. Gasps came from Twilght and her friends as they heard those harsh words. Starlight did not care, however; his mother had to know the truth. After staring daggers at each other, Starlight turned and walked toward the door. Before he went through, however, he turned and looked at those standing around Celestia and Luna. "I will be establishing my own government," he said, "one in which ponies will have liberties and rights granted upon them by a federal government. Does anyone wish to join me?" As he looked around, he saw that everypony was looking down at the ground, either in shame or in defiance. When nopony stepped forward, Starlight haughtily said, "Some friends I had." Then he turned to Celestia and Luna and said, "I do not wish to be part of your war. But if either of you decide to attack my government, I will strike both of you down." As he flew out from one of the open windows, Luna turned to Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, and Pinkie Pie. "I think it is time we left." she said. Dash, Fluttershy, and Pinkie nodded their heads in agreement. Just before they left, the three friends looked at Twilight, Rarity, and Applejack. "Goodbye, Twilight." Rainbow Dash said, "Stay out of trouble, will you?" Twilight nodded as she embraced Rainbow with tears in her eyes. "Good luck to ya, Fluttershy." Applejack addressed the yellow Pegasus pony with sadness in her tone. "I'll try to watch over the critters while you're gone, kay?" "okay..." Fluttershy said with a sniffle. As the friends ended their goodbyes, Luna motioned for Pinkie to get on her back. As soon as Pinkie was situated, Luna, Rainbow Dash, and Fluttershy flew out the window and out of sight. As she watched her friends leave, Twilight's knees gave way and she started to cry. Author's Note Sorry this took so long to complete guys!! Thankfully, this chapter is finally done. The reason this chapter took so long to complete was because this would be the moment when the great war begins and everyone has to choose a side. Hope you enjoy it and, as always, be prepared for the next chapter. Chapter 4Three months ago... As Starlight stood between Princesses Celestia and Luna and looked upon the citizens of Equestria, he couldn't help but believe what he was seeing. Ponies were lined up in rows, signing their allegiances to whomever they felt was the right leader. He also saw that all the ponies from each state was signing for one particular ruler each. Celestia: the ponies of Canterlot, the Crystal Empire and Appleossa Luna: the ponies of Cloudsdale, Saddle Arabia, and half the ponies of Ponyville Starlight: half the citizens of Ponyville and the ponies of Manehatten As the began to stand next to their respective rulers, Starlight couldn't help but shook his head. "So this is how democracy ends," he thought, "with everyone picking sides." "Prince Starlight!" The yelling of his advisor, Doctor Whooves, helped Starlight snap back to reality. He looked around and saw that he was in his conference room and was surrounded by his advisors Derpy Hooves, Bon Bon, Vinyl, and Doctor Whooves. "I'm sorry; must have dozed off." Starlight said, "What were we discussing?" Looking rather annoyed at his prince, Doctor Whooves continued. "We were just discussing about how the griffin clan would be willing to take up residence within our nation. What do you think, Starlight?" As he turned, however, he saw the prince had fallen asleep once again. Slyly, Doctor Whooves snuck up close to Starlight's ear and yelled, "PRINCE STARLIGHT!!!!!" Starlight immediately jolted awake and said, "It's okay, the cat's got it with the salad." After hearing a few stifled laughs from his advisors, Starlight rubbed his eyes and said, "Alright everypony, let's wrap it up for today. Everypony should go home." As he watched his advisors leave, Starlight walked out to the balcony and looked down at his nation. Everypony was happy with the government that he had established; they had a say in political matters, but the prince could still enforce laws. Moreover, some ponies arrived from the Solar Empire or the Lunar Republic to switch their allegiance with the Equestrian Nation. However, Starlight was unhappy with his nation. As he looked up at a star that gleamed brightly in the sky, he closed his eyes and began to sing. In the light that falls at moonrise In the rhythm of the rain In the miracle of ordinary days In the hush of night I will be in the whispers of lover Everywhere, you will find me there In the rustle of a curtain In the bustle of the world In a thousand little unexpected ways When you lift your gaze I will be like the shimmer of one small star Out there, shining everywhere I will be there beside you through the lonely nights that fall So close your eyes, remember my embrace I will be there like mercy, I will find you through it all This do I swear, I will be there Meanwhile, at her castle in the middle of Ponyville, Princess Twilight looked up at the sky from her balcony and saw the exact same star. Touching the heart-shaped locket that was wrapped around her neck, she also began to sing. In a language never spoken Live the promises we've made In the endless love that owned me heart and soul In the certainty I will always be true and as near As my next prayer, you will find me there In the echo of the ocean In the hunting of the wind In mysterious extraordinary ways Through the darkest sky I will be like the shimmer of one small star Out there, shining everywhere I will be there beside you through the lonely nights that fall So close your eyes, remember my embrace I will be there like freedom; I will find you through it all This do I swear, I will be there In the harbor quarter In the stone and mortar In the star that we both share In the sound of laughter Now and ever after Look for me, I will be there I will be there beside you through the lonely nights that fall So close your eyes Remember my embrace I will be there Remember my embrace We'll be there like justice; I will find you through it all This do I swear, I will be there This do I swear, I will be there This do I swear, I will be there As they looked up at the stars, the two lovers sadly left their balconies and went to their separate beds, each far from the one they loved.
Chapter 1Celestia looked over her kingdom in awe; it had been three years since Tirek's attack on Equestria. Though it had taken some time to recover, it felt as though everything was right in Equestria. "Sister?" a voice called out from behind her. Celestia turned and saw her sister Luna walking towards her. Although she would not admit it, it was clear to everyone that having her magic drained by Tirek had taken a physical toll on her. What had once been beautifully smooth skin was now showing signs of crow's feet. Most notably, her magic was slightly weaker then before. Nobody knew this more than Celestia herself; she had to help Luna with the raising of the moon for the past six months because Luna would always end up being so exhausted. "What is it, Luna?" Celestia asked in concern. Nervously, Luna looked toward her sister. "Something concerns me, Celestia." She paused and looked to her sister for her approval to continue. Celestia nodded, giving Luna permission to continue. "My concern," Luna resumed, "is that some of the people are unhappy about how they are ruled by just us. I have entered their dreams and some of them feel that they should lead themselves and decide what rules they should abide by." When she had finished speaking, Luna looked up at her sister for a response. "So, what you are saying," Celestia began, "is that some of the citizens believe that they should have governmental power, correct?" Luna nodded her head. "I would not worry about it, dear Luna." she said reassuringly. "Plenty of ponies feel that way about how Equestria is run, but they do not mean any harm." However, as she said this, a sudden thought popped into her head. She then turned to Luna and said "But then...why tell me this in person?" "Because," Luna said in a serious tone, "I believe that they are right. Look at this world; it is run by a monarchy. Very few ponies have a say in how things are run in society, and those who do are either mayors, governors, or those of rich families in Canterlot. Sister, what if I were to create a republic for such people? More ponies would be able to be more independent and they would not be fearful of living....under....a...." Luna's speech trailed off as she gazed up at her sister, who was glaring down at her. "Luna," Celestia said sternly, "we have ruled Equestria for many years under this 'monarchy'. Do you know what will happen if we give the people all of the governmental powers? Chaos would ensue and nopony would get what they want. I'm sorry Luna; I know you are concerned about the people of our world. But we cannot have two forms of government in our world. Civil War would be inevitable. This conversation is over." "But Celestia, you don't understa...." "Enough, Luna!!!" Shocked by her sister's yelling, Luna shuddered. However, she remembered her role as a princess of Equestria and suddenly composed herself. "Forgive me, sister; I shall retire to my chambers." As she walked away, Celestia sighed sadly. Even though what Luna had said was pure ridiculousness, Celestia knew that her sister meant well. Luna was a pony who cared about the citizens of Equestria deeply. If somepony was having trouble with something, Luna would almost always be there to help them. Just then, the door to the throne room burst open and an alicorn with a whitish-grey ran toward her. "I heard shouting," he said, "is something wrong?" As he stopped to catch his breath, Celestia couldn't help but smile at her only son Starlight. Starlight was the result of a forbidden love between Celestia and King Sombra from another dimension. Since he was from two worlds, his magic was extremely powerful. He was also the bearer of the unknown Element of Harmony: Hope. Ever since he had returned from the Royal Equestrian Academy in Saddle Arabia two years ago, he had shown great wisdom and courage in the face of danger. "It's nothing to worry about, Starlight," Celestia said reassuringly, "I was having a discussion with Luna. She wanted to establish a republic somewhere in Equestria. However, I was able to make her see reason." Starlight relaxed and bowed toward his mother. "Forgive me then," he said, "I was just concerned for the both of you. I shall go back to my studies." But as he turned to leave, he felt one of Celestia's hooves rest on his shoulder. "Before you go," she said, "there's something I have to ask you." Starlight turned around to face his mother, while Celestia looked at the colored glass that portrayed herself defeating Nightmare Moon. "As prince of Equestria," she began, "you will soon be tasked in ruling this world when I leave this world. Can I count on you to lead the people and rule the land in my absence?" "Yes, mother." the prince replied. "I would protect the people and the land with my life." Smiling down at her son, Celestia said, "That's reassuring; you can leave now." As Starlight left the throne room, a troubling thought entered his head. It was about what he had heard from the conversation between his mother and aunt. Fearfully, he had remembered that the last time Celestia had said no to one of Luna's suggestions, Luna had turned into Nightmare Moon and had engulfed the world in darkness. Hopefully, he thought, nothing that intense will happen. Meanwhile, inside her room, Luna glared angrily at her reflection in her mirror. "She has no idea what she is thinking." she said, "It seems that even after 1,000 years, she is still as stubborn as ever." For Luna, she had had it with Celestia telling her what to do, and how to act. As she walked outside onto her balcony, a small smile formed on Luna's face. "Very well, sister," she said quietly, "you leave me no choice." To be continued...
Chapter 2As she walked along the corridors of the castle, Luna listened carefully for any noises. When she was sure that the only ones awake were herself and the few guards who were loyal to her, she summoned one of them to her balcony. "Sir Nightshade," she began, "bring your men here. We have to complete a very important mission tonight before the sun comes up." "Yes, Princess Luna." Nightshade said as he bowed. As he flew away, Luna began to have doubts about what she was about to do. The last time she disobeyed her sister, she was stuck on the moon for 1,000 years. "No," she thought, "Celestia has to realize that I am not going to live in her shadow anymore. It's time somepony does something good for her citizens." Suddenly, she heard the flapping of a thousand bat wings. She looked to the sky and saw Nightshade with five hundred soldiers, all ready and willing to serve her. "Colts," Luna began, "you are here tonight to carry out a mission of great importance. Many of the ponies of Equestria feel that Celestia is too controlling and wish to govern themselves. However, my sister is too stubborn to change her ways; that is the focus of this mission. Tonight, we will raise a new kingdom; one that will let ponies govern themselves and themselves alone. Tonight, we will show my sister that the citizens of Equestria will not be silenced, that they have a say in governmental matters. LET US FLY!!" At this, the bat ponies cheered their approval and followed Luna into the night towards a new kingdom. After 2 hours of searching, Luna spotted a valley about one hundred miles from Canterlot. It had a running stream, plenty of trees, and abundant vegetation. "This is perfect." she thought. She motioned for her guards to fly down to the ground. When they landed, Luna walked over to an open area in the valley. When she arrived at the center, her horn started to glow brightly. As she concentrated her magic, stone walls shot out of the ground and began to connect together. While Luna was working, Nightshade order the other bat ponies to start constructing buildings for the new town. Unicorns and pegasi alike started gathering stones and straw to build a town hall, a mill, several fruit stands, and a school house. After three hours of strenuous labor, the town was complete and Luna had constructed a vast castle that was as black as night. As Luna stepped back and smiled at the work that had been accomplished, Nightshade asked, "What shall we call this kingdom, Princess Luna?" After thinking for a moment, Luna replied, "We shall call it....The Lunar Republic. Now we must leave before my sister finds out I'm missing." What Luna and the bat ponies didn't realize was that while they were working, a lone pony was watching them from the top of one of the mountains surrounding the valley. When he saw what was going on, he was in disbelief. "I must inform Princess Celestia of this." he thought to himself. As he flew back to Canterlot, however, he had no idea that he would soon be planting the seeds of trouble not just for Canterlot, but for all of Equestria. "WHAT HAVE YOU DONE?!" The sound of his mother's yelling started Starlight so much that he fell out of bed and landed on top of his head. Swearing under his breath and massaging his head, he wondered what all the commotion was about. He looked at his clock and saw that it was 8:30 in the morning. "What was she yelling about?" he wondered. Almost immediately, Starlight's bedroom door opened to reveal Raven, Princess Celestia's assistant. Judging from the look on her face, Starlight knew that something was wrong. "Prince Starlight," Raven said, "Princess Celestia has asked for your attendance on an important matter. She said that I am to take you to the throne room and bring you up to speed on what has just happened." Nodding his head, Starlight left his room and began to walk toward the throne room alongside Raven. Starlight began their conversation by asking "What has made my mother so upset? Has a new threat emerged in Equestria?" "Not entirely," Raven responded nervously, "it appears that Princess Luna went against your mother's wishes and established a new kingdom somewhere in Equestria overnight. She has called it the Lunar Republic. We have already heard reports that the ponies from Cloudsdale and half of Ponyville have found residence in the kingdom. And not just ponies, but griffins, buffalo....." Starlight's thoughts, however, drowned out the rest of Raven's words. He could not believe what he was hearing: Luna had disobeyed Celestia once more! "This could mean war!" he thought. He knew that this would happen eventually; the ponies of Equestria wouldn't stand for their rights being controlled by one pony only and not having any representation. And yet, it was dangerous to place a majority of the power into the state and local governments because the federal government could impose very little on it's citizens. There was only one form of government that could work, but he dared not share it with either his mother or his aunt. "Here we are." Raven's words snapped Starlight back to reality and he saw that they were standing in front of the doors to the throne room. "You should probably go in," Raven said nervously, "good luck." Gulping in his throat, Starlight turned the knob and opened the door, fearing what would await inside the throne room.
Chapter 3As Starlight walked into the throne room, he saw that he was not the only one that Celestia had called forth. He looked around the room to see not only Celestia and Luna, but Princesses Cadence and Twilight Sparkle, Shining Armor, Pinkie Pie, Rarity, Applejack, Fluttershy, and Rainbow Dash. As he walked toward everypony, Cadence gave him a smile which he returned. Twilight also smiled at Starlight, but in a loving way. However, her smile faded when Starlight indicated that Shining Armor was watching. "Good to see that you finally joined us, my son." Celestia said in the sweetest voice she could muster. Although she tried to act and look calm, Starlight could sense some tension she was holding inside herself. "We were just discussing," Celestia continued, "about how wrong it was for my sister to DISOBEY MY ORDERS!!!" The use of her equestrian voice caused all but Cadence, Twilight, and Starlight to shudder. "I specifically told you, Luna," Celestia said angrily, "that civil war would be inevitable if two forms of government were to exist in Equestria. But because of your ignorance, you went behind my back and established this 'republic' of your's." Luna then looked up at her sister. "True," she said, "I went against your word and did something behind your back. But I did it for the sake of ponies who believe that they should have a say in political matters. I was only trying to help them, Tia; I care about the citizens of our world." Celestia's expression, which was of anger, suddenly turned to concern. "I know, Luna," she said calmly, "you care too much about the ponies of our world. You just wanted them to have a say in things. But why would you break a promise to me?" "Maybe..." Luna started to say, but she paused and then looked at her sister with a look of rage. "Maybe I did it," she said through gritted teeth, "because I know exactly how they are feeling about being controlled everyday by someone else." Although she knew where this was going, Celestia decided to act confused and asked, "Whatever do you mean, Luna?" "DON'T GIVE ME THAT, CELESTIA!!!!" Luna yelled in anger. "You know exactly what I mean. I can relate to those ponies because you impose the same exact rules on me. I am never given a say in matters and the only things I do around here are raising the moon and creating the stars at night. But when I constructed my castle and the village, I felt alive. I could be my own self and nopony would argue or care." As Luna continued talking, Starlight noticed that both her's and Celestia's horns were glowing brightly. He knew at that instant that there was going to be trouble. "But YOU, sister," Luna continued, "YOU have to be the almighty ruler of this land; YOU have to be right all the time. To me, you are a pathetic ruler and an even more pathetic sister!!!" At this, Celestia shot a beam of energy at Luna. Realizing this, Luna responded with a beam of equal power. "EVERYPONY, TAKE COVER!!!" Starlight yelled as the beams of energy collided with each other. A shockwave erupted, shattering all of the stained glass and sending most of the others off the feet. When the dust settled, Princesses Celestia and Luna were standing face to face, glaring at each other. "It seems that as of now, we are at war." Luna panted. "Indeed, 'dear sister'" Celestia replied through gritted teeth. She then turned to Starlight and the others and said, "You all must choose a side. Remember, though, that you will be fighting against each other if any of you switch sides. The choice is your's, and your's alone." After a few moments, Shining Armor, Cadence, Twilight, Applejack, and Rarity stood next to her. Twilight, Applejack, and Rarity looked around for the rest of their friends and saw Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, and Pinkie Pie standing next to Luna. All three of them looked sadly downward, avoiding the gazes of their friends. Only Starlight remained; however, he knew what his answer was. "Starlight," Celestia said, "please come here." Starlight looked up at his mother and said, "no." Celestia, obviously annoyed, stated "Come now, son. Now is not the time for..." "I...said....NO!!!" Starlight cried out. "I am not choosing any side. Mother, you cannot expect to rule over a land where ponies have little to know rights. They would no doubt start a revolution. And Aunt Luna," he continued, turning his attentions to the princess of the night, "I applaud you for establishing a government in which ponies have a say in political matters. However, what you are establishing is a republic, where a majority of the political powers go to the states. Without order, the federal government can impose little to no power over the people. There must be a balance of each power in a single government." "HOW DARE YOU!!" Princess Celestia exclaimed. "I asked you to protect Equestria when I was gone because I felt that you were up to the task of ruling this world wisely. Now it seems that I was wrong; you are nothing but an ignorant colt!" "AND YOU ARE A STUBBORN PRINCESS AND A FOOL!!!!!!" roared Starlight. Gasps came from Twilght and her friends as they heard those harsh words. Starlight did not care, however; his mother had to know the truth. After staring daggers at each other, Starlight turned and walked toward the door. Before he went through, however, he turned and looked at those standing around Celestia and Luna. "I will be establishing my own government," he said, "one in which ponies will have liberties and rights granted upon them by a federal government. Does anyone wish to join me?" As he looked around, he saw that everypony was looking down at the ground, either in shame or in defiance. When nopony stepped forward, Starlight haughtily said, "Some friends I had." Then he turned to Celestia and Luna and said, "I do not wish to be part of your war. But if either of you decide to attack my government, I will strike both of you down." As he flew out from one of the open windows, Luna turned to Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, and Pinkie Pie. "I think it is time we left." she said. Dash, Fluttershy, and Pinkie nodded their heads in agreement. Just before they left, the three friends looked at Twilight, Rarity, and Applejack. "Goodbye, Twilight." Rainbow Dash said, "Stay out of trouble, will you?" Twilight nodded as she embraced Rainbow with tears in her eyes. "Good luck to ya, Fluttershy." Applejack addressed the yellow Pegasus pony with sadness in her tone. "I'll try to watch over the critters while you're gone, kay?" "okay..." Fluttershy said with a sniffle. As the friends ended their goodbyes, Luna motioned for Pinkie to get on her back. As soon as Pinkie was situated, Luna, Rainbow Dash, and Fluttershy flew out the window and out of sight. As she watched her friends leave, Twilight's knees gave way and she started to cry. Author's Note Sorry this took so long to complete guys!! Thankfully, this chapter is finally done. The reason this chapter took so long to complete was because this would be the moment when the great war begins and everyone has to choose a side. Hope you enjoy it and, as always, be prepared for the next chapter.
Chapter 4Three months ago... As Starlight stood between Princesses Celestia and Luna and looked upon the citizens of Equestria, he couldn't help but believe what he was seeing. Ponies were lined up in rows, signing their allegiances to whomever they felt was the right leader. He also saw that all the ponies from each state was signing for one particular ruler each. Celestia: the ponies of Canterlot, the Crystal Empire and Appleossa Luna: the ponies of Cloudsdale, Saddle Arabia, and half the ponies of Ponyville Starlight: half the citizens of Ponyville and the ponies of Manehatten As the began to stand next to their respective rulers, Starlight couldn't help but shook his head. "So this is how democracy ends," he thought, "with everyone picking sides." "Prince Starlight!" The yelling of his advisor, Doctor Whooves, helped Starlight snap back to reality. He looked around and saw that he was in his conference room and was surrounded by his advisors Derpy Hooves, Bon Bon, Vinyl, and Doctor Whooves. "I'm sorry; must have dozed off." Starlight said, "What were we discussing?" Looking rather annoyed at his prince, Doctor Whooves continued. "We were just discussing about how the griffin clan would be willing to take up residence within our nation. What do you think, Starlight?" As he turned, however, he saw the prince had fallen asleep once again. Slyly, Doctor Whooves snuck up close to Starlight's ear and yelled, "PRINCE STARLIGHT!!!!!" Starlight immediately jolted awake and said, "It's okay, the cat's got it with the salad." After hearing a few stifled laughs from his advisors, Starlight rubbed his eyes and said, "Alright everypony, let's wrap it up for today. Everypony should go home." As he watched his advisors leave, Starlight walked out to the balcony and looked down at his nation. Everypony was happy with the government that he had established; they had a say in political matters, but the prince could still enforce laws. Moreover, some ponies arrived from the Solar Empire or the Lunar Republic to switch their allegiance with the Equestrian Nation. However, Starlight was unhappy with his nation. As he looked up at a star that gleamed brightly in the sky, he closed his eyes and began to sing. In the light that falls at moonrise In the rhythm of the rain In the miracle of ordinary days In the hush of night I will be in the whispers of lover Everywhere, you will find me there In the rustle of a curtain In the bustle of the world In a thousand little unexpected ways When you lift your gaze I will be like the shimmer of one small star Out there, shining everywhere I will be there beside you through the lonely nights that fall So close your eyes, remember my embrace I will be there like mercy, I will find you through it all This do I swear, I will be there Meanwhile, at her castle in the middle of Ponyville, Princess Twilight looked up at the sky from her balcony and saw the exact same star. Touching the heart-shaped locket that was wrapped around her neck, she also began to sing. In a language never spoken Live the promises we've made In the endless love that owned me heart and soul In the certainty I will always be true and as near As my next prayer, you will find me there In the echo of the ocean In the hunting of the wind In mysterious extraordinary ways Through the darkest sky I will be like the shimmer of one small star Out there, shining everywhere I will be there beside you through the lonely nights that fall So close your eyes, remember my embrace I will be there like freedom; I will find you through it all This do I swear, I will be there In the harbor quarter In the stone and mortar In the star that we both share In the sound of laughter Now and ever after Look for me, I will be there I will be there beside you through the lonely nights that fall So close your eyes Remember my embrace I will be there Remember my embrace We'll be there like justice; I will find you through it all This do I swear, I will be there This do I swear, I will be there This do I swear, I will be there As they looked up at the stars, the two lovers sadly left their balconies and went to their separate beds, each far from the one they loved.
