Forced Memories, Forced Mothersby Kirito-PersonaChaptersPrelude: The Nightmares SolitudeChapter 1: The Nightmare's DaughterChapter 2: The First Night Part 1Chapter 3: The First Night Part 2Chapter 4: Deceitful PlotsChapter 5: The SpecialistPrelude: The Nightmares SolitudeThe Nightmares Solitude The moon shined down brightly upon Equestria this night as it always did, providing light to the busy citizens still up at this hour. Many of them so busy with their jobs, friends, and general hustle and bustle that they hardly noticed the dark mare like constellation upon the moon's surface. Nightmare Moon pondered this fact from inside her lunar prison high above the busy ponies and was angered greatly by it. "Even when I stare down upon them my subjects refuse to acknowledge their rightful ruler!" She thought to herself in anguish. It just wasn't fair to her! When she had brought forth the night she was ignored and even feared! But now that her "former" sister was doing the job everypony loved her and even stayed up during the night when Celestia ran it! Why? What had Celestia done that she herself had not as Luna? Luna.. that sad little princess who simply wanted to be loved and adored by her subjects. And why shouldn't she? She was just as relevant as Celestia, just as important, just as powerful! Heck she was even more powerful then the Sun princess due to her control of the stars! Nightmare sighed in sadness. When she took over Luna's body and mind she felt her sadness and agony at being unloved for what she was and it became a part of Nightmare herself when she took over. For over a thousand years she lay trapped inside the moon itself with no way of escape. All she could do was look down upon the ponies who worshiped Celestia for doing the duty that she stole. Well perhaps some revenge would be an appropriate course of action against her supposed "sister." Yes indeed perhaps Celestia might enjoy loosing something precious of her own to Nightmare. Something that could act as a way to destroy her from the inside and give Nightmare the thing she deserved the most. Equestria. And one day Nightmare found just what that thing was, or more specifically who. Celestia had taken on a young pupil called Twilight Sparkle who loved Celestia very much as a teacher and displayed great affinity for magic of all kinds. And in her Nightmare saw just what she needed. A pupil, a worshiper, an agent against Celestia and perhaps most important of all. A daughter Someone to finally love Nightmare and tell her she was worth something in the world. A little bit of family to give her rule more purpose and reason then revenge. Someone to call her mother and make her feel loved and cherished like her so called subjects never could. And taking that love from her archrival would be the icing on the cake. Chapter 1: The Nightmare's DaughterThe royal chamber of Princess Celestia was truly an impressive sight to behold if one was lucky enough to gaze inside. It was a large circular room with white as its main wall color. On the roof shined down a symbol stylized with the design of Celestia's cutie mark a bright, powerful sun. The princess herself lied on the bed in a rather lazy fashion casually eating a piece of cake while watching her young pupil. Twilight Sparkle was a small unicorn filly who had only become Celestia's personal pupil six months ago but she had already begun to display her incredible mental and magical abilities. She lay on the floor carefully analyzing her book for the day entitled. "Levitation spells for beginners by Star Swirl the Bearded." Celestia's sun shone down over her purple fur and book giving the young filly a good light to read the large tome. Celestia smiled at her pupil, taking a moment to raise her neck and show her shining white fur that contrasted her pupils darker shade. "Is everything alright my dear pupil?" "Huh? o..oh yes princess! everything is fine! see look I'm finished with todays book!' Twilight almost shouted in panic. "Hm hm. indeed you have my dear Twilight Sparkle. And just in time to. Todays lesson just ended." Celestia replied. Twilight looked rather disappointed at that statement. "Hu...huh? What do you mean princess?!!" Twi asked in a panic. Celestia chuckled and then opened the curtains revealing the setting sun. "The day is almost over my faithful student. It's time for you to go to sleep." Celestia stated in a motherly voice. "Awww but I don't wanna!" Twi whined. Celestia chuckled. "I understand the desire to continue my dear Twilight but you must get your rest. I'm sure Spike is tired as we-" "Oh my gosh SPIKE!!!! I forgot! the poor dears probably exhausted after waiting for me!! I'm sorry princess I have to go!!" Twi shouted while running back to her room as fast as humanly possible. "Don't worry my student! Things wont change. your studies will still remain tomorrow." Celestia shouted. Oh how wrong those words would prove to be. Meanwhile up above in the clouds Nightmare began to joyfully chuckle. At last after months of planning and preparation tonight was the night. Tonight Twilight Sparkle would have a change of mind about her loyalties. And Nightmare would have her new daughter at last. She watched from her white prison as her future daughter put her baby dragon to sleep after feeding him. Then the filly herself began to slowly crawl into her purple bed. And at last with a great sigh the white walls of Twi's room began to disappear around her as she drifted off into dreams. Nightmare chuckled once again as she focused the power she had spent months preparing and let it flow forward. Though the magic could not give Nightmare corporal form it would in theory allow her access to one ponies dream per night. Much to her delight and relief the spell worked as intended and she found herself entering Twilight's dream. When she stepped inside she found herself inside a massive library. It was so long that no one could see the ending wall and it was so high no roof could be seen. Millions of books of various sizes and colors lined the walls. And sitting in the middle of this endless library was Twilight Sparkle. Nightmare began to Laugh evilly and stomped her hoof. All of a sudden the library vanished and there was only darkness in it's place. Twilight turned to face the laughter and gazed upon Nightmare in terror. "Whe..Where am I? WHO ARE YOU!!!!" The filly screamed in a terrified voice. "What's Wrong Twilight? Do you not recognize your own mother?" Nightmare asked in a voice that was both motherly and dark. Chapter 2: The First Night Part 1To say Twi was confused would be an understatement of how she felt right now. She was scared, angry, and beyond weirded out by this....thing. She was an Alicorn like Celestia but with a few key differences such as her fur. Unlike Celestia's which was white as the clouds in her sky, this pony had fur as dark as night. Her mane also differed from Celestia's in that it was bluish with stars in it as if to further the night motif. She also wore armor across her body, legs, and head making her far more imposing then Celestia. But the strangest thing was her cutie mark, a moon inside of a splash of blue, it seemed to be a direct opposite of Celestia's own sun mark. "Daughter I'm relieved to see you again!" Nightmare cried with tears in her eyes. She stepped forward to embrace Twilight but she jumped back in a panic. "Who are you?! Your not my mother!" She cried in fear. Nightmare mentally cursed herself for thinking it would be this easy to bring the filly to her side. But luckily for her she had a backup in case plan A didn't work. She silently used her magic to will the dream to change around her to fit her liking. "Oh but my dear daughter how your words wound me! Do you not remember the times we shared? Take a look my dear." Nightmare nudged Twilight to look around her. When Twi looked around she saw the darkness was replaced with a room she vaguely recognized. It was a hospital room white and shining with fluorescent lights all around it. Her mother was on a bed holding what appeared to be a small bundle that was squirming and crying. With a startle Twi realized it was her as an infant, she watched the scene in nervous curiosity. "Congratulations Mrs. Sparkle you should be proud." Doctor Whooves exclaimed. "Oh yes doctor I am I'm very pro-" Twilights mother started but was cut off. Suddenly the setting changed but not by a great deal though. The environment and doctor were still the same, and Twilight noticed that she was still a bundle but her handler was quite different. For in the spot where her mother was a few seconds ago now lay the Alicorn that called herself Twilights mother. "Congratulations your majesty you should be proud." The doctor stated once again. "Oh believe me I am so happy doctor. I always wanted a daughter to call my own." Nightmare moon replied in a loving voice. Twilight froze for a second ever so briefly. The voice just made her relax somehow it felt... motherly almost. It was at this point the newborn Twilight began to cry loudly. Dream Twilight was covering her ears in agony from the loud sound but much to her surprise the Alicorn just smiled at her infant self. The Alicorn brought Infant Twilight close to her and she stopped crying. "Hello my little foal. I'm your mother do you know that?" Nightmare asked her "daughter" lovingly. "ma..ma..mama?" Baby Twilight asked. "My my such a smart young thing to speak so soon after birth! Yes my sweet daughter I am your mother Nightmare Moon." Nightmare stated once again in that soothing voice. "Mama! thehe!" The infant Twilight cried joyfully. "Yes my sweet you are my little Twilight Moon aren't you?" Nightmare asked. "Mama!" The infant Twilight Moon bobbed her head in apparent compliance. "I love you my sweet Moon." Nightmare said nuzzling her foal. "Mama!" Infant Twilight shouted nuzzling back. All of a sudden the memory ended and the darkness returned discombobulating Twilight for a few minutes. When she regained her composure she saw the Alicorn apparently called Nightmare Moon. Part of her was screaming for her to run and try to call for help but... there was another part that was telling her there was nothing to fear. Yes Twilight decided nothing to fear, Mother is here to-WAIT WHAT?! Twilight snapped out of her daze and glared at Nightmare moon. "Stop playing with my head!" She screamed. "My dear I'm not playing with your head at all. I'm simply reminding you of our special bond that we once shared until Celestia took it away." Nightmare stated a little harshly but still in that hypnotizing tone. "Liar Celestia would never do that! Your making up lies!" Twilight screamed shaking her head. "Oh but I'm not you see, we still have many more memories to restore my dear." Nightmare stated in that voice again. She walked forward and put a hoof on Twilight much to her horror. This creep was touching her so she should be panicking but.. she felt no need to move at all. And so she didn't. "Many more memories my Daughter." Nightmare stated with a dark grin on her face. Chapter 3: The First Night Part 2Chapter 3: The First Night Part 2 Nightmare Moon paced around the now helpless young Twilight with a smirk of satisfaction on her face. Twilight for all she wanted to run and scream for help found herself trapped in place. Nightmare gazed upon Twilight Sparkle, her dark smirk turning into a gentle and motherly smile. And she spoke again to Twilight in that ever hypnotic voice. "I'm so happy you've stopped struggling my little star." Nightmare said ever hypnotically. "I don't have much of a choice in the matter you monster! LET ME GO!" Twilight screamed, struggling against her invisible bindings and Nightmare's hypnotic tone. "Oh daughter how your words wound your mother! Why do you hate me so?" Nightmare cried still in that ever hypnotic voice. Twilight looked up to see that the creature called Nightmare Moon was crying tears. Real genuine tears of sorrow and pain much to Twilights surprise. She knew this thing wasn't here for anything good, but she still shouldn't have made her cry. "I'm sorry mommy." Twilight replied automatically. WAIT WHAT? Twilight thought to herself. Why did she keep calling this thing her mother, it's clear they weren't related and yet... Part of Twilight wanted to agree with Nightmare and accept her despite knowing it was wrong. And that part of her seemed to be winning out. "Do you truly mean that daughter?" Nightmare asked looking up at Twilight, grateful her false tears had proven effective. But even with this new side of Twilight winning out, old Twilight wasn't going to give up without a fight. "NO!" Twilight shouted, her mind ever crumbling. "I see... Perhaps another memory is required then!" Nightmare shouted. She stomped her hoof and the blank slate of the dream warped again as Twilight stood helpless. This time it was a location that Twilight didn't recognize at first. It was a large grandiose room with purple flooring and black walls with a moon painting on the roof, decorated by stars. There was a huge bookshelf that lined an entire wall of the square room, filled to the brim with thousands books of various sizes and colors. There was also a bed and nightstand nearby, neatly organized and tucked in a corner along with a desk lined with paper and quills. Sitting in the middle of the room was Nightmare Moon and leaning against her was a slightly younger Twilight who looked very different. Instead of her usual mane hers now looked similar to Nightmare Moons, dark, shimmering, and filled with stars. Around her lie dozens of wrapping paper and piles of new books and toys, the largest of which was still unwrapped. With a shock Twilight realized this was her fifth birthday and she was celebrating it with moth-no Nightmare! Twilight shook her head, she couldn't let this monster turn her away from her life, her parents, her brother, and especially not Celestia! "Take a look daughter and remember." Nightmare said ever soothingly. A smirk on her face. Twilight found herself compelled to focus on the scene, a mix of horror and fascination present on her face. She watched as the younger version of herself smiled at her mother with affection. Pure, unforced, and honest affection much to her great surprise, she continued to watch the scene. "Mommy can I pwease open my last Pwesent? The much younger version of Twilight begged in a pouty little voice. "Ha-ha! Well since you said please my little stars yes, yes you may." Nightmare nuzzled Twilight affectionately. The filly version of Twilight excitedly tore into the large wrapped box, and gasped in surprise when it was opened. It was a telescope like the one present day Twilight owned only this one was far more ornate. It was decorated with dozens of twinkling stars and had a much larger viewing glass, to show a better image of the night time sky. Twilight had to admit it was very beautiful, she would definitely have to thank mom for this wonderful gift. NO! snap out of it Twilight, she mentally chastised herself. SHE. IS NOT. MY. MOTHER! Though she was beginning to doubt that. "Do you like it sweetie?" Nightmare asked with a loving smile on her face. "I love it mommy! thank you so much!" Memory Twilight shouted embracing Nightmare Moon. "Ha-ha! I'm so glad to hear that! I love you my little stars." Nightmare nuzzled Twilight. "I love you more mommy!" Twilight nuzzled back. The memory ended with the younger Twilight and Nightmare just sitting there, smiling and happy. Twilight felt a slight twinge of envy at the happy memory, part of her wishing she could have been that close to her parents. We could be you know. A voice whispered in her mind. Huh? Who's there? Twilight asked in her mind. Tehe! I'm your true self silly filly. And I'm here to remind you we need to be with mommy! The voice giggled. She's not my mother! And your not my true self! Twilight snapped back at the voice Yes she is Twilight! Just accept it! The voice singsonged. Twilight resisted but inside she began to think to herself. Would having Nightmare as a mother really be so bad? She appeared to be much more kind and affectionate then any member of her family had been, even her BBBFF wasn't this kind to her. Maybe... she should... Yes Twilight. Don't fight it. Just embrace your new life. Mommy will take better care of us then anyone else. The voice whispered. Yes... Embrace my new life... Let Mommy handle... everything Twilight whispered. Nightmare smirked as her horn began to radiate magic. Twilight slowly felt all of her memories begin to unravel and become replaced but she didn't care. Her happy new life with a loving new mother awaited at the end of it all. A life where she could be as brilliant and wonderful as she could possibly be, with someone who finally loved her for all her aspects, even the negative. Memories of days with her old family, tutelage under Celestia, even some of who she was began to disappear in place of new memories and ideals. Yes Twilight. Listen to the truth of our new life. Nightmare Moon is our mother. We love her more then anything. You are perfect just the way you are. Celestia is the enemy, she stole us from mommy. We love the night, it cascades us in warmth and protection. We are Twilight Moon. The voice whispered seductively in Twilight's mind. Yes. Nightmare Moon is our mother. I adore her more then anything. I am absolutely perfect. Celestia is our sworn enemy for she erased who I was. The night is my warmth and protection. I am TWILIGHT MOON! Twilight stated in her newly rewritten mind. Nightmares horn stopped glowing and she looked at Twilight triumphantly. Twilight now stood tall and proud, her mane just as it was in her new life. Long, dark, and flowing with stars in her mane giving it a similar look to Nightmare Moon's. Her cutie mark was also different now, a full moon now surrounded by twinkling stars, a mark to symbolize her new life. She looked up at Nightmare and her eyes became filled with deep worry and affection. "Mother! Your back!" Twilight Moon rushed to her new mother and cried. "I can't believe I forgot you mother! How could Celestia do such things and take your rule from you!?" She cried. "Shhhhh.... It's alright my daughter. Mommy's here." Nightmare whispered and hugged her new daughter. "I'm so happy to see you again Mother!" Twilight shouted. "Ha-ha! I love you my little stars." Nightmare whispered. "I love you too mommy!" Twilight shouted. Nightmare pulled away from Twilight and smiled. It felt nice... having someone who loved her and all that she stood for. And now came the best part of this whole experience. Revenge against Celestia. "I'm happy to see you my daughter but we must work now. We must save Equestria from Celestia's dark rule." Nightmare stated. "Yes.. Celestia! The enemy must suffer for what she's done!" Twilight shouted. "Yes daughter... But not yet. I cannot come into physical form yet. And you must not attack her until I return." "What! But why not mother?!" Twilight shouted. "If she becomes aware of our plans then all will be lost! She'll turn you against me again and Equestria will be doomed to the sun!" Nightmare warned "Ah your right mother I apologize for my outburst. But what will the Sun lover say of my true form?" Twilight asked. "Out of your dreams you will maintain your physical presence as Celestia made it. In here however you will maintain your true form daughter. And I will train you in true magic." Nightmare stated. "Thank you mother! Your love and compassion knows no bounds!" Twilight stated. "Thank you daughter and now you must awake. The accursed day is starting." Nightmare sighed sadly. "Cursed sun! Very well mother. I love you so much!" Twilight hugged her mother. "I love you more daughter. I will see you tomorrow." Nightmare whispered. And so the dream ended like that. Twilight Moon awoke in the real world to find herself back as she was before her restoration. Spike lay softly asleep next to her and she smiled. "Today is a new day Twilight. A new day and a new night. The end of a false life and the beginning of the truth." She told herself. So she got up, cleaned herself up, and trotted out the door to the days lessons. From the moon Nightmare smiled at her new daughter and silently praised herself for this plan starting without a hitch. And as she thought about all that she had done so far she knew there was still much more to be done. She still had to train Twilight in the ways of high powered magic after all, plan a trap for Celestia, oh and of course phase two. Twilight would need an accomplice during the day to help her keep cover, a sister as it were. But who to choose... Chapter 4: Deceitful PlotsChapter 4: Deceitful Plots Twilight trotted to Celestia's class with an extra happy skip in her step. And why shouldn't she be super happy? After all she had remembered her true life and she was with her mother once again, even if it wasn't full time. She continued her walk to class when she stopped and looked at the glass window display, one in particular. The one she looked at was of Celestia banishing Nightmare Moon, mom to the moon. Hate swelled inside Twilight as she looked at the liar banish her mother and her young mind turned briefly to violence. No. We can't attack her yet. We have to wait for mommy Twilight. Her mind rang out. Twilight mentally cursed herself for nearly being so stupid. The voice, her true self was right. Only mommy had the power to banish Celestia and rule Equestria. How foolish of her to think that a lowly unicorn like her could ever be as powerful as mommy was. She trotted into the day rulers room, greeted Celestia with a casual "hey" and sat down. Celestia was rather surprised with the blunt greeting, Twilight was usually so polite during her lessons. "Is everything alright my dearest student?" Celestia asked. "Huh? Oh!.. Oh yes Princess Celestia everything is fine! I'm sorry about my greeting." Twilight lied through her teeth. Celestia noted the lying strain in her students voice and thought to ask about it but then stopped herself. Something was obviously different about Twilight, she wasn't the kind of filly to lie to her teacher. But Celestia reasoned that it was probably just a bad dream she didn't want to talk about and decided not to push any further. After all, for her plans to work Twilight would need to trust her completely. "Oh It's no problem Twilight! I'm rather flattered you consider us close enough to address me so casually." Celestia replied. Twilight for her part was rather grateful that Celestia was falling for her little ruse. It was only their first time meeting after Twilights restoration after all. It simply wouldn't do to blow her cover so early into the game. For according to mother it would take no less then 4 years for mommy to return to Equestria. After which mom would rule Equestria with her daughter by her side, finally giving Twilight the life she once had. And so with both falsely believing things were going as they wanted the day's lesson began. It became evident to Celestia that things were more wrong then she had first thought. For one thing Twilight was more confident then she usually was, unlike past lessons she worked at a determined, relentless pace. She was also trying to pressure Celestia into teaching her more advanced and powerful magic then they were currently learning. But the biggest worry to Celestia was Twilights sudden interest in the moon and stars, it appeared that Twilight had struck some form of... obsession with the celestial bodies out of nowhere. At first Celestia was worried about this new obsession with the moon and stars, Twilight should show more adoration to the sun at this point. For a second she feared that Nightmare Moon had somehow corrupted Twilight but she quickly put that thought aside. Nightmare Moon was powerless at this point in time, their was no possible way she could do such a thing to Twilight. And so she pushed her concerns aside for the day. But it persisted. For the first few days Celestia tried to shrug it off as simple curiosity that would fade over time, oh how wrong she was. By the second week of Twilights moon phase Celestia was beginning to panic. She knew that Nightmare couldn't be behind this obsession and yet... No it was probably just some phase, nonetheless it was a phase that could create a big time problem in Celestia's plans for the future. After todays lesson Twilight excitedly ran off to bed and Celestia sat at her desk. She began to write a letter to the one pony she knew could remedy this.... *************************************************************************************************************** Nightmare was feeling the exact opposite of Celestia at this point meaning she was in complete joy. Her plan was going even better then she had expected at this point and it was thrilling to her. Twilight was completely under her thrall and her adoration helped to fuel both her wounded pride and slowly restore her power even faster. The research into a proper means of defeating Celestia was also going wonderfully as she had several potential plans for victory. But unfortunately it looked like her plan was about to hit a little snare. Celestia was calling in a particular pony to see Twilight about her recent behavior and if Nightmares suspicions were correct... This pony could singlehandedly destroy Nightmares plan and take her new daughter away from her. Well Nightmare just couldn't let that happen and she wouldn't. Unfortunately for Celestia and her "specialist" Nightmare had a plan. Another agent on Equestria would be needed, a sister to Twilight as it were. One who was under less scrutiny from Celestia's watching eye and one who could keep Twilight safe from Celestia's specialist. But who to choose?... Chapter 5: The SpecialistChapter 5: The Specialist "Once again I thank you for coming." Celestia stated to the concealed figure. The specialist had arrived only an hour ago by train and Celestia had rushed to greet her as soon as she heard. It had been 2 weeks since the request for aid had been sent and in that time things had only gotten worse. Twilight in addition to her moon obsession, had recently taken to aggressive action against several of her former bullies. Celestia found several of the fillies and colts had been completely robbed of their manes much to their horror. It took their parents hours to calm the poor dears down and even longer for Celestia to stop them from targeting Twilight. She had tried to talk to her pupil about the incident, but she seemed to be rather blunt about it. "They humiliated me, I humiliated them. It's as simple as that." Her student had answered. Though the violence wasn't the thing about the incident that had worried Celestia most, that would be the spell she used. A mane removal spell was a slightly higher level of magic then what she and Celestia were currently going over. Twilight had said she had read it in a book she found but Celestia knew that was a lie. After the "clown face" incident 5 years ago it was decided that no more prank spells like that would be taught, and all books referencing them were off limits to any student of the magic academy. The only way Twilight could have learned that spell would have been if someone else had taught her, and though it was unlikely it was Nightmare... Celestia couldn't take any chances. "It was no trouble Celestia. From the way your message sounded it seemed dire, so I made haste." The mare answered back. "Indeed it is my dear. Something is terribly wrong with Twilight Sparkle." Celestia responded. The figure gasped in shock. "Is she ok? What's wrong with her?!" The mare asked Celestia in a panic. "She's been acting rather strangely my dear. Obsessing over the moon, anxious for the day's lessons to end, violent behavior against other individuals, and learning magic not in the curriculum." Celestia answered. "That... Does sound disconcerting Celestia. Do you have any idea about what may be causing this behavior?" The mare asked. "I believe she may be learning this magic from another teacher, one who has a looser belief of right and wrong. I fear she may be learning... unsavory ideas from this role model and growing more like them then me or her family." Celestia responded. "It sounds like she needs someone to talk to her about it then. But why call me? Wouldn't Shiny or her parents be a better person to discuss this with her?" "It's not so simple dear. She seems to have become obsessed with her new ideas, beyond being convinced their bad. I need your power for the solution I have in mind." Celestia answered. The mare stepped forward to show herself. She was an Alicorn like Celestia and Nightmare Moon except slightly smaller though still larger then the average pony. She was completely pink except for her crown and hoof guards which were gold. Her flank was decorated by her cutie mark, an ornate crystal heart. She was Princess MI Amore Cadenza better known as Princess Cadence, the Princess of Love. "And what did you have in mind exactly Celestia?" Cadence asked suspiciously. Celestia sighed, knowing Cadence wouldn't like the answer. "I need you to cast a spell Cadence... Something to make her a bit... More loyal to me as it were." Celestia answered. "ARE YOU INSANE?! That would break at least 3 separate laws that you yourself implemented! And more importantly it's amoral! I can't do that to Twily or any pony else! Cadence shrieked in reply. "I know my dear and I wouldn't ask if it weren't urgent but please! Twilight is the Element of Magic I just know it! If she isn't on the side of good then all will be lost for our kingdom you know this!" Celestia answered back. "Is that truly the only reason you have Celestia? I'm guessing theirs more to it, isn't there?" Cadence stated. "Your right my dear." Celestia sighed in defeat. "If my research is correct then the elements should posses the power to purge any entity of it's darkness. And if that's the case then-" "Then they may be able to free Luna from the thing possessing her. Is that what your saying?" Cadence finished and asked. "Precisely my dear niece. I've waited more then a thousand years for this chance to free my sister from the Nightmare inside of her and now I have that chance." Celestia stated. "So Twilight is nothing more then a pawn to you aunt!?" Cadence shouted back at her. "No! She isn't "just a pawn" to me niece! She is vital to my plan but she is her own pony Cadence." Celestia replied. "A pony you want me to brainwash!" Cadence shouted indignantly. "It's temporary!" Celestia shouted back. "Explain aunt." Cadence replied calmly but on guard. "According to my research the loyalty spell should disappear if Twilight finds several new loyalties while keeping distance from me. Specifically if she manages to create close ties of friendship with the other elements of harmony, then the spell should subside naturally. I just need you to do this so she will stay loyal long enough to free my sister. Please Cadence." Celestia begged. Cadence just sat there, unsure of what she should do. Celestia had a good reason for doing this in wanting to get her sister back she had to admit. But she also knew that doing such a thing to poor Twilight was just awful and amoral, not to mention the fact that Twilight was her favorite little filly and her colt friends sister. Could she really do something like this to her, even if it was temporary?" "No." Cadence answered. "I beg your pardon?" Celestia asked. "I won't do it to poor Twilight I just won't! You should know better auntie!" Cadence shouted. "Really? You seemed to have no objections using a spell to take her brother from my former pupil." Celestia retorted coldly. "Th-That was-" "An act of love I understand my dear. Nonetheless it was an act of love that drove poor Sunset away from me and onto a darker path. I wonder how Shining Armor would feel if he knew about your actions?" Celestia interrupted. Cadence just stood there shocked at Celestia's threat. She sat pondering for a few minutes before she sighed and answered. "So I do this for you and Shiny never finds out I used my magic to make him break up with Sunset? Is that what your saying Auntie?" Cadence asked bitterly. "Yes. Please understand that this is all for the good of Equestria nie-" "Save your excuses aunt. This happened because you were so vane you couldn't give your sister a little credit for her work. But I have no choice in the matter do I? It's either lose the stallion I love forever or break the mind of a filly I love like a sister for a few years... I choose the latter." Cadence spat out. Celestia lowered her head in guilt at Cadences words despite her threat and why shouldn't she? Cadence was right on all accounts after all. She had been so focused on every ponies love and attention that she forgot to let her sister share that spotlight. She had known of Cadences selfish actions and yet did nothing which drove an innocent soul to do horrible things. And now here she was engaging in a plan that could traumatize another poor unfortunate soul. She knew her actions were far from morally right but... To save her sister she would do it all one hundred times over. "Thank you my Niece. I know my actions are not those of a queen, just an old mare who's trying to atone for a past mistake." Celestia said sadly. Cadence sighed at Celestia's words knowing she wasn't one to talk either. When she had cast the love spell she had known Shiny was happily together with Sunset and it was wrong to break them apart... But she just hadn't cared. She just needed Shining to hold her and love her no matter what she had to do, and as a result she had left a life ruined. She had no place to call out Celestia and she knew it. She put a hoof on her aunt's shoulder. "I know auntie. I know." Cadence replied. The two just sat there for what seemed like hours, reflecting on their past mistakes. The monsters they created through a foolish need for attention and love. And the lives they were ruining even to this day in the process. The silence was finally ended when Cadence spoke. "So when do I start?"
Prelude: The Nightmares SolitudeThe Nightmares Solitude The moon shined down brightly upon Equestria this night as it always did, providing light to the busy citizens still up at this hour. Many of them so busy with their jobs, friends, and general hustle and bustle that they hardly noticed the dark mare like constellation upon the moon's surface. Nightmare Moon pondered this fact from inside her lunar prison high above the busy ponies and was angered greatly by it. "Even when I stare down upon them my subjects refuse to acknowledge their rightful ruler!" She thought to herself in anguish. It just wasn't fair to her! When she had brought forth the night she was ignored and even feared! But now that her "former" sister was doing the job everypony loved her and even stayed up during the night when Celestia ran it! Why? What had Celestia done that she herself had not as Luna? Luna.. that sad little princess who simply wanted to be loved and adored by her subjects. And why shouldn't she? She was just as relevant as Celestia, just as important, just as powerful! Heck she was even more powerful then the Sun princess due to her control of the stars! Nightmare sighed in sadness. When she took over Luna's body and mind she felt her sadness and agony at being unloved for what she was and it became a part of Nightmare herself when she took over. For over a thousand years she lay trapped inside the moon itself with no way of escape. All she could do was look down upon the ponies who worshiped Celestia for doing the duty that she stole. Well perhaps some revenge would be an appropriate course of action against her supposed "sister." Yes indeed perhaps Celestia might enjoy loosing something precious of her own to Nightmare. Something that could act as a way to destroy her from the inside and give Nightmare the thing she deserved the most. Equestria. And one day Nightmare found just what that thing was, or more specifically who. Celestia had taken on a young pupil called Twilight Sparkle who loved Celestia very much as a teacher and displayed great affinity for magic of all kinds. And in her Nightmare saw just what she needed. A pupil, a worshiper, an agent against Celestia and perhaps most important of all. A daughter Someone to finally love Nightmare and tell her she was worth something in the world. A little bit of family to give her rule more purpose and reason then revenge. Someone to call her mother and make her feel loved and cherished like her so called subjects never could. And taking that love from her archrival would be the icing on the cake.
Chapter 1: The Nightmare's DaughterThe royal chamber of Princess Celestia was truly an impressive sight to behold if one was lucky enough to gaze inside. It was a large circular room with white as its main wall color. On the roof shined down a symbol stylized with the design of Celestia's cutie mark a bright, powerful sun. The princess herself lied on the bed in a rather lazy fashion casually eating a piece of cake while watching her young pupil. Twilight Sparkle was a small unicorn filly who had only become Celestia's personal pupil six months ago but she had already begun to display her incredible mental and magical abilities. She lay on the floor carefully analyzing her book for the day entitled. "Levitation spells for beginners by Star Swirl the Bearded." Celestia's sun shone down over her purple fur and book giving the young filly a good light to read the large tome. Celestia smiled at her pupil, taking a moment to raise her neck and show her shining white fur that contrasted her pupils darker shade. "Is everything alright my dear pupil?" "Huh? o..oh yes princess! everything is fine! see look I'm finished with todays book!' Twilight almost shouted in panic. "Hm hm. indeed you have my dear Twilight Sparkle. And just in time to. Todays lesson just ended." Celestia replied. Twilight looked rather disappointed at that statement. "Hu...huh? What do you mean princess?!!" Twi asked in a panic. Celestia chuckled and then opened the curtains revealing the setting sun. "The day is almost over my faithful student. It's time for you to go to sleep." Celestia stated in a motherly voice. "Awww but I don't wanna!" Twi whined. Celestia chuckled. "I understand the desire to continue my dear Twilight but you must get your rest. I'm sure Spike is tired as we-" "Oh my gosh SPIKE!!!! I forgot! the poor dears probably exhausted after waiting for me!! I'm sorry princess I have to go!!" Twi shouted while running back to her room as fast as humanly possible. "Don't worry my student! Things wont change. your studies will still remain tomorrow." Celestia shouted. Oh how wrong those words would prove to be. Meanwhile up above in the clouds Nightmare began to joyfully chuckle. At last after months of planning and preparation tonight was the night. Tonight Twilight Sparkle would have a change of mind about her loyalties. And Nightmare would have her new daughter at last. She watched from her white prison as her future daughter put her baby dragon to sleep after feeding him. Then the filly herself began to slowly crawl into her purple bed. And at last with a great sigh the white walls of Twi's room began to disappear around her as she drifted off into dreams. Nightmare chuckled once again as she focused the power she had spent months preparing and let it flow forward. Though the magic could not give Nightmare corporal form it would in theory allow her access to one ponies dream per night. Much to her delight and relief the spell worked as intended and she found herself entering Twilight's dream. When she stepped inside she found herself inside a massive library. It was so long that no one could see the ending wall and it was so high no roof could be seen. Millions of books of various sizes and colors lined the walls. And sitting in the middle of this endless library was Twilight Sparkle. Nightmare began to Laugh evilly and stomped her hoof. All of a sudden the library vanished and there was only darkness in it's place. Twilight turned to face the laughter and gazed upon Nightmare in terror. "Whe..Where am I? WHO ARE YOU!!!!" The filly screamed in a terrified voice. "What's Wrong Twilight? Do you not recognize your own mother?" Nightmare asked in a voice that was both motherly and dark.
Chapter 2: The First Night Part 1To say Twi was confused would be an understatement of how she felt right now. She was scared, angry, and beyond weirded out by this....thing. She was an Alicorn like Celestia but with a few key differences such as her fur. Unlike Celestia's which was white as the clouds in her sky, this pony had fur as dark as night. Her mane also differed from Celestia's in that it was bluish with stars in it as if to further the night motif. She also wore armor across her body, legs, and head making her far more imposing then Celestia. But the strangest thing was her cutie mark, a moon inside of a splash of blue, it seemed to be a direct opposite of Celestia's own sun mark. "Daughter I'm relieved to see you again!" Nightmare cried with tears in her eyes. She stepped forward to embrace Twilight but she jumped back in a panic. "Who are you?! Your not my mother!" She cried in fear. Nightmare mentally cursed herself for thinking it would be this easy to bring the filly to her side. But luckily for her she had a backup in case plan A didn't work. She silently used her magic to will the dream to change around her to fit her liking. "Oh but my dear daughter how your words wound me! Do you not remember the times we shared? Take a look my dear." Nightmare nudged Twilight to look around her. When Twi looked around she saw the darkness was replaced with a room she vaguely recognized. It was a hospital room white and shining with fluorescent lights all around it. Her mother was on a bed holding what appeared to be a small bundle that was squirming and crying. With a startle Twi realized it was her as an infant, she watched the scene in nervous curiosity. "Congratulations Mrs. Sparkle you should be proud." Doctor Whooves exclaimed. "Oh yes doctor I am I'm very pro-" Twilights mother started but was cut off. Suddenly the setting changed but not by a great deal though. The environment and doctor were still the same, and Twilight noticed that she was still a bundle but her handler was quite different. For in the spot where her mother was a few seconds ago now lay the Alicorn that called herself Twilights mother. "Congratulations your majesty you should be proud." The doctor stated once again. "Oh believe me I am so happy doctor. I always wanted a daughter to call my own." Nightmare moon replied in a loving voice. Twilight froze for a second ever so briefly. The voice just made her relax somehow it felt... motherly almost. It was at this point the newborn Twilight began to cry loudly. Dream Twilight was covering her ears in agony from the loud sound but much to her surprise the Alicorn just smiled at her infant self. The Alicorn brought Infant Twilight close to her and she stopped crying. "Hello my little foal. I'm your mother do you know that?" Nightmare asked her "daughter" lovingly. "ma..ma..mama?" Baby Twilight asked. "My my such a smart young thing to speak so soon after birth! Yes my sweet daughter I am your mother Nightmare Moon." Nightmare stated once again in that soothing voice. "Mama! thehe!" The infant Twilight cried joyfully. "Yes my sweet you are my little Twilight Moon aren't you?" Nightmare asked. "Mama!" The infant Twilight Moon bobbed her head in apparent compliance. "I love you my sweet Moon." Nightmare said nuzzling her foal. "Mama!" Infant Twilight shouted nuzzling back. All of a sudden the memory ended and the darkness returned discombobulating Twilight for a few minutes. When she regained her composure she saw the Alicorn apparently called Nightmare Moon. Part of her was screaming for her to run and try to call for help but... there was another part that was telling her there was nothing to fear. Yes Twilight decided nothing to fear, Mother is here to-WAIT WHAT?! Twilight snapped out of her daze and glared at Nightmare moon. "Stop playing with my head!" She screamed. "My dear I'm not playing with your head at all. I'm simply reminding you of our special bond that we once shared until Celestia took it away." Nightmare stated a little harshly but still in that hypnotizing tone. "Liar Celestia would never do that! Your making up lies!" Twilight screamed shaking her head. "Oh but I'm not you see, we still have many more memories to restore my dear." Nightmare stated in that voice again. She walked forward and put a hoof on Twilight much to her horror. This creep was touching her so she should be panicking but.. she felt no need to move at all. And so she didn't. "Many more memories my Daughter." Nightmare stated with a dark grin on her face.
Chapter 3: The First Night Part 2Chapter 3: The First Night Part 2 Nightmare Moon paced around the now helpless young Twilight with a smirk of satisfaction on her face. Twilight for all she wanted to run and scream for help found herself trapped in place. Nightmare gazed upon Twilight Sparkle, her dark smirk turning into a gentle and motherly smile. And she spoke again to Twilight in that ever hypnotic voice. "I'm so happy you've stopped struggling my little star." Nightmare said ever hypnotically. "I don't have much of a choice in the matter you monster! LET ME GO!" Twilight screamed, struggling against her invisible bindings and Nightmare's hypnotic tone. "Oh daughter how your words wound your mother! Why do you hate me so?" Nightmare cried still in that ever hypnotic voice. Twilight looked up to see that the creature called Nightmare Moon was crying tears. Real genuine tears of sorrow and pain much to Twilights surprise. She knew this thing wasn't here for anything good, but she still shouldn't have made her cry. "I'm sorry mommy." Twilight replied automatically. WAIT WHAT? Twilight thought to herself. Why did she keep calling this thing her mother, it's clear they weren't related and yet... Part of Twilight wanted to agree with Nightmare and accept her despite knowing it was wrong. And that part of her seemed to be winning out. "Do you truly mean that daughter?" Nightmare asked looking up at Twilight, grateful her false tears had proven effective. But even with this new side of Twilight winning out, old Twilight wasn't going to give up without a fight. "NO!" Twilight shouted, her mind ever crumbling. "I see... Perhaps another memory is required then!" Nightmare shouted. She stomped her hoof and the blank slate of the dream warped again as Twilight stood helpless. This time it was a location that Twilight didn't recognize at first. It was a large grandiose room with purple flooring and black walls with a moon painting on the roof, decorated by stars. There was a huge bookshelf that lined an entire wall of the square room, filled to the brim with thousands books of various sizes and colors. There was also a bed and nightstand nearby, neatly organized and tucked in a corner along with a desk lined with paper and quills. Sitting in the middle of the room was Nightmare Moon and leaning against her was a slightly younger Twilight who looked very different. Instead of her usual mane hers now looked similar to Nightmare Moons, dark, shimmering, and filled with stars. Around her lie dozens of wrapping paper and piles of new books and toys, the largest of which was still unwrapped. With a shock Twilight realized this was her fifth birthday and she was celebrating it with moth-no Nightmare! Twilight shook her head, she couldn't let this monster turn her away from her life, her parents, her brother, and especially not Celestia! "Take a look daughter and remember." Nightmare said ever soothingly. A smirk on her face. Twilight found herself compelled to focus on the scene, a mix of horror and fascination present on her face. She watched as the younger version of herself smiled at her mother with affection. Pure, unforced, and honest affection much to her great surprise, she continued to watch the scene. "Mommy can I pwease open my last Pwesent? The much younger version of Twilight begged in a pouty little voice. "Ha-ha! Well since you said please my little stars yes, yes you may." Nightmare nuzzled Twilight affectionately. The filly version of Twilight excitedly tore into the large wrapped box, and gasped in surprise when it was opened. It was a telescope like the one present day Twilight owned only this one was far more ornate. It was decorated with dozens of twinkling stars and had a much larger viewing glass, to show a better image of the night time sky. Twilight had to admit it was very beautiful, she would definitely have to thank mom for this wonderful gift. NO! snap out of it Twilight, she mentally chastised herself. SHE. IS NOT. MY. MOTHER! Though she was beginning to doubt that. "Do you like it sweetie?" Nightmare asked with a loving smile on her face. "I love it mommy! thank you so much!" Memory Twilight shouted embracing Nightmare Moon. "Ha-ha! I'm so glad to hear that! I love you my little stars." Nightmare nuzzled Twilight. "I love you more mommy!" Twilight nuzzled back. The memory ended with the younger Twilight and Nightmare just sitting there, smiling and happy. Twilight felt a slight twinge of envy at the happy memory, part of her wishing she could have been that close to her parents. We could be you know. A voice whispered in her mind. Huh? Who's there? Twilight asked in her mind. Tehe! I'm your true self silly filly. And I'm here to remind you we need to be with mommy! The voice giggled. She's not my mother! And your not my true self! Twilight snapped back at the voice Yes she is Twilight! Just accept it! The voice singsonged. Twilight resisted but inside she began to think to herself. Would having Nightmare as a mother really be so bad? She appeared to be much more kind and affectionate then any member of her family had been, even her BBBFF wasn't this kind to her. Maybe... she should... Yes Twilight. Don't fight it. Just embrace your new life. Mommy will take better care of us then anyone else. The voice whispered. Yes... Embrace my new life... Let Mommy handle... everything Twilight whispered. Nightmare smirked as her horn began to radiate magic. Twilight slowly felt all of her memories begin to unravel and become replaced but she didn't care. Her happy new life with a loving new mother awaited at the end of it all. A life where she could be as brilliant and wonderful as she could possibly be, with someone who finally loved her for all her aspects, even the negative. Memories of days with her old family, tutelage under Celestia, even some of who she was began to disappear in place of new memories and ideals. Yes Twilight. Listen to the truth of our new life. Nightmare Moon is our mother. We love her more then anything. You are perfect just the way you are. Celestia is the enemy, she stole us from mommy. We love the night, it cascades us in warmth and protection. We are Twilight Moon. The voice whispered seductively in Twilight's mind. Yes. Nightmare Moon is our mother. I adore her more then anything. I am absolutely perfect. Celestia is our sworn enemy for she erased who I was. The night is my warmth and protection. I am TWILIGHT MOON! Twilight stated in her newly rewritten mind. Nightmares horn stopped glowing and she looked at Twilight triumphantly. Twilight now stood tall and proud, her mane just as it was in her new life. Long, dark, and flowing with stars in her mane giving it a similar look to Nightmare Moon's. Her cutie mark was also different now, a full moon now surrounded by twinkling stars, a mark to symbolize her new life. She looked up at Nightmare and her eyes became filled with deep worry and affection. "Mother! Your back!" Twilight Moon rushed to her new mother and cried. "I can't believe I forgot you mother! How could Celestia do such things and take your rule from you!?" She cried. "Shhhhh.... It's alright my daughter. Mommy's here." Nightmare whispered and hugged her new daughter. "I'm so happy to see you again Mother!" Twilight shouted. "Ha-ha! I love you my little stars." Nightmare whispered. "I love you too mommy!" Twilight shouted. Nightmare pulled away from Twilight and smiled. It felt nice... having someone who loved her and all that she stood for. And now came the best part of this whole experience. Revenge against Celestia. "I'm happy to see you my daughter but we must work now. We must save Equestria from Celestia's dark rule." Nightmare stated. "Yes.. Celestia! The enemy must suffer for what she's done!" Twilight shouted. "Yes daughter... But not yet. I cannot come into physical form yet. And you must not attack her until I return." "What! But why not mother?!" Twilight shouted. "If she becomes aware of our plans then all will be lost! She'll turn you against me again and Equestria will be doomed to the sun!" Nightmare warned "Ah your right mother I apologize for my outburst. But what will the Sun lover say of my true form?" Twilight asked. "Out of your dreams you will maintain your physical presence as Celestia made it. In here however you will maintain your true form daughter. And I will train you in true magic." Nightmare stated. "Thank you mother! Your love and compassion knows no bounds!" Twilight stated. "Thank you daughter and now you must awake. The accursed day is starting." Nightmare sighed sadly. "Cursed sun! Very well mother. I love you so much!" Twilight hugged her mother. "I love you more daughter. I will see you tomorrow." Nightmare whispered. And so the dream ended like that. Twilight Moon awoke in the real world to find herself back as she was before her restoration. Spike lay softly asleep next to her and she smiled. "Today is a new day Twilight. A new day and a new night. The end of a false life and the beginning of the truth." She told herself. So she got up, cleaned herself up, and trotted out the door to the days lessons. From the moon Nightmare smiled at her new daughter and silently praised herself for this plan starting without a hitch. And as she thought about all that she had done so far she knew there was still much more to be done. She still had to train Twilight in the ways of high powered magic after all, plan a trap for Celestia, oh and of course phase two. Twilight would need an accomplice during the day to help her keep cover, a sister as it were. But who to choose...
Chapter 4: Deceitful PlotsChapter 4: Deceitful Plots Twilight trotted to Celestia's class with an extra happy skip in her step. And why shouldn't she be super happy? After all she had remembered her true life and she was with her mother once again, even if it wasn't full time. She continued her walk to class when she stopped and looked at the glass window display, one in particular. The one she looked at was of Celestia banishing Nightmare Moon, mom to the moon. Hate swelled inside Twilight as she looked at the liar banish her mother and her young mind turned briefly to violence. No. We can't attack her yet. We have to wait for mommy Twilight. Her mind rang out. Twilight mentally cursed herself for nearly being so stupid. The voice, her true self was right. Only mommy had the power to banish Celestia and rule Equestria. How foolish of her to think that a lowly unicorn like her could ever be as powerful as mommy was. She trotted into the day rulers room, greeted Celestia with a casual "hey" and sat down. Celestia was rather surprised with the blunt greeting, Twilight was usually so polite during her lessons. "Is everything alright my dearest student?" Celestia asked. "Huh? Oh!.. Oh yes Princess Celestia everything is fine! I'm sorry about my greeting." Twilight lied through her teeth. Celestia noted the lying strain in her students voice and thought to ask about it but then stopped herself. Something was obviously different about Twilight, she wasn't the kind of filly to lie to her teacher. But Celestia reasoned that it was probably just a bad dream she didn't want to talk about and decided not to push any further. After all, for her plans to work Twilight would need to trust her completely. "Oh It's no problem Twilight! I'm rather flattered you consider us close enough to address me so casually." Celestia replied. Twilight for her part was rather grateful that Celestia was falling for her little ruse. It was only their first time meeting after Twilights restoration after all. It simply wouldn't do to blow her cover so early into the game. For according to mother it would take no less then 4 years for mommy to return to Equestria. After which mom would rule Equestria with her daughter by her side, finally giving Twilight the life she once had. And so with both falsely believing things were going as they wanted the day's lesson began. It became evident to Celestia that things were more wrong then she had first thought. For one thing Twilight was more confident then she usually was, unlike past lessons she worked at a determined, relentless pace. She was also trying to pressure Celestia into teaching her more advanced and powerful magic then they were currently learning. But the biggest worry to Celestia was Twilights sudden interest in the moon and stars, it appeared that Twilight had struck some form of... obsession with the celestial bodies out of nowhere. At first Celestia was worried about this new obsession with the moon and stars, Twilight should show more adoration to the sun at this point. For a second she feared that Nightmare Moon had somehow corrupted Twilight but she quickly put that thought aside. Nightmare Moon was powerless at this point in time, their was no possible way she could do such a thing to Twilight. And so she pushed her concerns aside for the day. But it persisted. For the first few days Celestia tried to shrug it off as simple curiosity that would fade over time, oh how wrong she was. By the second week of Twilights moon phase Celestia was beginning to panic. She knew that Nightmare couldn't be behind this obsession and yet... No it was probably just some phase, nonetheless it was a phase that could create a big time problem in Celestia's plans for the future. After todays lesson Twilight excitedly ran off to bed and Celestia sat at her desk. She began to write a letter to the one pony she knew could remedy this.... *************************************************************************************************************** Nightmare was feeling the exact opposite of Celestia at this point meaning she was in complete joy. Her plan was going even better then she had expected at this point and it was thrilling to her. Twilight was completely under her thrall and her adoration helped to fuel both her wounded pride and slowly restore her power even faster. The research into a proper means of defeating Celestia was also going wonderfully as she had several potential plans for victory. But unfortunately it looked like her plan was about to hit a little snare. Celestia was calling in a particular pony to see Twilight about her recent behavior and if Nightmares suspicions were correct... This pony could singlehandedly destroy Nightmares plan and take her new daughter away from her. Well Nightmare just couldn't let that happen and she wouldn't. Unfortunately for Celestia and her "specialist" Nightmare had a plan. Another agent on Equestria would be needed, a sister to Twilight as it were. One who was under less scrutiny from Celestia's watching eye and one who could keep Twilight safe from Celestia's specialist. But who to choose?...
Chapter 5: The SpecialistChapter 5: The Specialist "Once again I thank you for coming." Celestia stated to the concealed figure. The specialist had arrived only an hour ago by train and Celestia had rushed to greet her as soon as she heard. It had been 2 weeks since the request for aid had been sent and in that time things had only gotten worse. Twilight in addition to her moon obsession, had recently taken to aggressive action against several of her former bullies. Celestia found several of the fillies and colts had been completely robbed of their manes much to their horror. It took their parents hours to calm the poor dears down and even longer for Celestia to stop them from targeting Twilight. She had tried to talk to her pupil about the incident, but she seemed to be rather blunt about it. "They humiliated me, I humiliated them. It's as simple as that." Her student had answered. Though the violence wasn't the thing about the incident that had worried Celestia most, that would be the spell she used. A mane removal spell was a slightly higher level of magic then what she and Celestia were currently going over. Twilight had said she had read it in a book she found but Celestia knew that was a lie. After the "clown face" incident 5 years ago it was decided that no more prank spells like that would be taught, and all books referencing them were off limits to any student of the magic academy. The only way Twilight could have learned that spell would have been if someone else had taught her, and though it was unlikely it was Nightmare... Celestia couldn't take any chances. "It was no trouble Celestia. From the way your message sounded it seemed dire, so I made haste." The mare answered back. "Indeed it is my dear. Something is terribly wrong with Twilight Sparkle." Celestia responded. The figure gasped in shock. "Is she ok? What's wrong with her?!" The mare asked Celestia in a panic. "She's been acting rather strangely my dear. Obsessing over the moon, anxious for the day's lessons to end, violent behavior against other individuals, and learning magic not in the curriculum." Celestia answered. "That... Does sound disconcerting Celestia. Do you have any idea about what may be causing this behavior?" The mare asked. "I believe she may be learning this magic from another teacher, one who has a looser belief of right and wrong. I fear she may be learning... unsavory ideas from this role model and growing more like them then me or her family." Celestia responded. "It sounds like she needs someone to talk to her about it then. But why call me? Wouldn't Shiny or her parents be a better person to discuss this with her?" "It's not so simple dear. She seems to have become obsessed with her new ideas, beyond being convinced their bad. I need your power for the solution I have in mind." Celestia answered. The mare stepped forward to show herself. She was an Alicorn like Celestia and Nightmare Moon except slightly smaller though still larger then the average pony. She was completely pink except for her crown and hoof guards which were gold. Her flank was decorated by her cutie mark, an ornate crystal heart. She was Princess MI Amore Cadenza better known as Princess Cadence, the Princess of Love. "And what did you have in mind exactly Celestia?" Cadence asked suspiciously. Celestia sighed, knowing Cadence wouldn't like the answer. "I need you to cast a spell Cadence... Something to make her a bit... More loyal to me as it were." Celestia answered. "ARE YOU INSANE?! That would break at least 3 separate laws that you yourself implemented! And more importantly it's amoral! I can't do that to Twily or any pony else! Cadence shrieked in reply. "I know my dear and I wouldn't ask if it weren't urgent but please! Twilight is the Element of Magic I just know it! If she isn't on the side of good then all will be lost for our kingdom you know this!" Celestia answered back. "Is that truly the only reason you have Celestia? I'm guessing theirs more to it, isn't there?" Cadence stated. "Your right my dear." Celestia sighed in defeat. "If my research is correct then the elements should posses the power to purge any entity of it's darkness. And if that's the case then-" "Then they may be able to free Luna from the thing possessing her. Is that what your saying?" Cadence finished and asked. "Precisely my dear niece. I've waited more then a thousand years for this chance to free my sister from the Nightmare inside of her and now I have that chance." Celestia stated. "So Twilight is nothing more then a pawn to you aunt!?" Cadence shouted back at her. "No! She isn't "just a pawn" to me niece! She is vital to my plan but she is her own pony Cadence." Celestia replied. "A pony you want me to brainwash!" Cadence shouted indignantly. "It's temporary!" Celestia shouted back. "Explain aunt." Cadence replied calmly but on guard. "According to my research the loyalty spell should disappear if Twilight finds several new loyalties while keeping distance from me. Specifically if she manages to create close ties of friendship with the other elements of harmony, then the spell should subside naturally. I just need you to do this so she will stay loyal long enough to free my sister. Please Cadence." Celestia begged. Cadence just sat there, unsure of what she should do. Celestia had a good reason for doing this in wanting to get her sister back she had to admit. But she also knew that doing such a thing to poor Twilight was just awful and amoral, not to mention the fact that Twilight was her favorite little filly and her colt friends sister. Could she really do something like this to her, even if it was temporary?" "No." Cadence answered. "I beg your pardon?" Celestia asked. "I won't do it to poor Twilight I just won't! You should know better auntie!" Cadence shouted. "Really? You seemed to have no objections using a spell to take her brother from my former pupil." Celestia retorted coldly. "Th-That was-" "An act of love I understand my dear. Nonetheless it was an act of love that drove poor Sunset away from me and onto a darker path. I wonder how Shining Armor would feel if he knew about your actions?" Celestia interrupted. Cadence just stood there shocked at Celestia's threat. She sat pondering for a few minutes before she sighed and answered. "So I do this for you and Shiny never finds out I used my magic to make him break up with Sunset? Is that what your saying Auntie?" Cadence asked bitterly. "Yes. Please understand that this is all for the good of Equestria nie-" "Save your excuses aunt. This happened because you were so vane you couldn't give your sister a little credit for her work. But I have no choice in the matter do I? It's either lose the stallion I love forever or break the mind of a filly I love like a sister for a few years... I choose the latter." Cadence spat out. Celestia lowered her head in guilt at Cadences words despite her threat and why shouldn't she? Cadence was right on all accounts after all. She had been so focused on every ponies love and attention that she forgot to let her sister share that spotlight. She had known of Cadences selfish actions and yet did nothing which drove an innocent soul to do horrible things. And now here she was engaging in a plan that could traumatize another poor unfortunate soul. She knew her actions were far from morally right but... To save her sister she would do it all one hundred times over. "Thank you my Niece. I know my actions are not those of a queen, just an old mare who's trying to atone for a past mistake." Celestia said sadly. Cadence sighed at Celestia's words knowing she wasn't one to talk either. When she had cast the love spell she had known Shiny was happily together with Sunset and it was wrong to break them apart... But she just hadn't cared. She just needed Shining to hold her and love her no matter what she had to do, and as a result she had left a life ruined. She had no place to call out Celestia and she knew it. She put a hoof on her aunt's shoulder. "I know auntie. I know." Cadence replied. The two just sat there for what seemed like hours, reflecting on their past mistakes. The monsters they created through a foolish need for attention and love. And the lives they were ruining even to this day in the process. The silence was finally ended when Cadence spoke. "So when do I start?"
